#Sydney bathroom tile

[ausealwaterproofing]

Sydney bathroom tile installation

When it comes to Sydney bathroom tile installation, Auseal Waterproofing and Tiling offers expert services that transform your space with precision and style. Our experienced team of bathroom tiling specialists in Sydney is dedicated to delivering top-notch workmanship, whether you’re renovating or starting a new project. At Auseal, we also specialize in custom bathroom tiling in Sydney,…

[ozimagetiling]

Outdoor Tiling Service in Sydney

For high-quality Outdoor Tiling Service in Sydney, Oz Image Tiling offers unmatched expertise and craftsmanship. Their Outdoor Tiling Sydney services cover a wide range of outdoor areas, including patios, balconies, pathways, and pool surroundings. With a focus on durability and aesthetics, Oz Image Tiling ensures each project enhances the outdoor environment beautifully. Specializing in Outdoor…

[cheaptilesonline14]

Ceramica Bathroom Tiles: Discover the Art of Combining Functionality with Aesthetic

The bathroom is often regarded as a sanctuary within the home, serving as a space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Choosing the right tiles is crucial for creating a harmonious and functional environment. Ceramica bathroom tiles offer an exceptional blend of beauty and practicality, making them a popular choice for homeowners in Sydney and beyond. This article delves into the numerous benefits of using tiles in your bathroom, explores the variety of designs available, and provides tips for creating a stunning bathroom space that is both stylish and functional.

[tilessupplier]

What To Look For In A Reliable Tile Wholesaler?

Finding the right tile wholesalers in Sydney can make all the difference when transforming your space with beautiful tiles.

Imagine you’re about to embark on a home renovation journey, only to be met with an overwhelming choice of tiles and a maze of wholesalers.

Don’t worry—this guide is here to help you navigate the tiles and find the perfect partner for your project. Let’s choose a reliable tile wholesaler who will meet and exceed your expectations.

1. Quality of Products: The Cornerstone of Your Project

Before you get lost in patterns and colours, ensure that the tile wholesalers in Sydney you choose offer high-quality products.

Quality tiles are not just about aesthetics; they must be durable and withstand daily wear and tear.

Check if the wholesaler provides product samples, reads reviews, or asks for recommendations to gauge their reputation.

High-quality tiles will not only enhance the beauty of your space but also ensure longevity and less maintenance.

2. Variety and Selection: One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Tiles come in all shapes, sizes, and finishes. The best and most reliable tile wholesalers in Sydney should offer diverse options to suit different tastes and needs.

The wholesaler should have it all if you’re looking for classic ceramic tiles, luxurious marble, or trendy mosaic designs. The more extensive their inventory, the better your chances of finding the perfect tile for your project.

3. Pricing and Value: Budget Wisely

Price is often a crucial factor in choosing a wholesaler. However, don’t be tempted to choose the cheapest option without considering quality.

A trustworthy tile wholesaler in Sydney will offer competitive prices without compromising on the quality of their products.

Look for wholesalers who provide clear pricing and transparent policies regarding discounts and bulk orders. Remember, a good deal combines value and quality.

4. Customer Service: Beyond the Sale

Great customer service can be the defining factor in your wholesaler experience. The best tile wholesalers in Sydney will offer more than just tiles—they’ll provide expert advice, support, and a smooth buying process.

Look for a wholesaler who is responsive, knowledgeable, and willing to assist with any queries or concerns you might have. Excellent customer service ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

5. Delivery and Logistics: Timely and Efficient

Once you’ve made your tile selection, timely delivery is crucial. A reliable tile wholesaler will offer efficient delivery services and ensure your tiles arrive in perfect condition.

Check their delivery policies, including costs, time frames, and handling procedures. Reliable logistics are essential to keep your project on track and avoid unnecessary delays.

6. Reputation and Reviews: Trust the Experts

Finally, take the time to research and review potential wholesalers. Customer feedback and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the wholesaler’s reputation and reliability.

Look for the best and top-ranked tile wholesaler in Sydney with a strong track record of satisfied customers and successful projects. A wholesaler with positive reviews will likely provide a high-quality experience and dependable service.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right tile wholesalers in Sydney is a critical step in ensuring the success of your tiling project.

By focusing on quality, variety, pricing, customer service, delivery, and reputation, you’ll be well on your way to finding a reliable partner who can bring your vision to life.

So explore your options, and let the tiles transform your space into something extraordinary! With these tips, you’ll be equipped to find a tile wholesaler in Sydney that meets all your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Source From: What To Look For In A Reliable Tile Wholesaler?

[justtileit]

Bathroom Renovations In Sydney

Bathroom Renovations Sydney is a significant undertaking that can transform your home into a modern and luxurious space. When it comes to Bathroom Renovations in Sydney, homeowners seek quality, reliability, and a team that can bring their vision to life. Bathroom Renovations Services Sydney offer a range of options, from simple updates to complete overhauls, ensuring every aspect of the bathroom…

[tiles0]

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom in Sydney is essential for creating a functional and stylish space. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of ceramic tiles, the durability of porcelain, the luxury of natural stone, or the modern appeal of glass or mosaic tiles, there are plenty of options to suit your design aesthetic and budget. By considering factors such as material, finish, colour, and pattern, you can select the perfect bathroom tiles in sydney to elevate your bathroom and create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

[gettilesonline]

Exquisite Marble Mosaic Tiles Sydney: Transform Your Bathroom with Mosaic Elegance | Mosaic Tiles Australia

Elevate your bathroom with exquisite marble mosaic tiles in Sydney, Australia. Transform your space into a haven of luxury with our stunning collection of mosaic bathroom tiles. These intricately designed mosaic bathroom floor tiles add a touch of elegance and texture to your space. Explore the finest mosaic tiles Australia has to offer and create a bathroom that exudes timeless beauty and sophistication.

[marbleplus123]

https://www.marbleplus.com.au/product-category/pavers/

Pavers Sydney, pavers Brisbane. It’s a pavers bonanza at Marble Plus®! Check out our showrooms for a premium range of porcelain and stone pavers.

[mytilecollection]

Bathroom Floor Tiles: Their Many Benefits.

Bathroom floor tiles are the best flooring option available for showers and bathrooms. This is mainly because wooden floors and carpets cannot stand the moisture that accumulates in the bathrooms.

Bathroom floor tiles give your bathrooms an exquisite, clean look and are highly durable. The bathroom floor tiles in Sydney are affordable, long-lasting, and of excellent quality.

The latest trends in interior design and the popularity of bathroom tiles have led to the emergence of a vast range of bathroom floor tiles. Therefore, always carry out proper research before choosing bathroom floor tiles.

Why Should You Use Bathroom Floor Tiles?

Except for porous marble tiles, most tiles are stain-resistant and exceptionally durable.

Some tiles are also scratch-resistant and water-resistant.

Most tiles are made from non-toxic grout and sealants and therefore are considered best for allergy sufferers.

In addition, they are easier to maintain, although they require mopping at regular intervals.

What Should You Be Looking For in Your Bathroom Floor Tiles?

There is a range of bathroom tiles, but not all tiles are suitable for wet spots. While choosing your bathroom floor tiles, it is essential to keep some factors in mind:

One crucial factor you should always be on the lookout for is the tile’s ability to soak up water. Your bathroom tiles should work well in spots that are prone to splashing.

They should be scratch-resistant, and in addition, the bathroom floor tiles must not be slippery. They must have a high coefficient of friction.

[stonedesign-tile-store-in-sydney]

6 Reasons Why You Need to Consider Limestone Tiles

Limestone Tile is a popular natural stone tile use as flooring. The features of this natural stone will be the talking point of any home. Flexible to any design style, Limestone is a beautiful option for creating a sophisticated atmosphere that will suit a beachfront home. Its muted earth tones and dozens of styles create a comfortable and elegant touch to any room.

Here are 6 reasons why you need to use limestone:

Durability: Limestone is a hardy natural stone that can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist scratches and cracks. Aesthetic appeal: Limestone tiles come in a variety of shades and textures, giving a natural and elegant look to any room.

Versatility: Limestone can be cut into various shapes and sizes, making it suitable for flooring, wall cladding, and even outdoor surfaces

Eco-friendly: Limestone is a natural and renewable resource that requires minimal processing, making it a more sustainable choice than synthetic materials.

Low maintenance: Limestone tiles are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional sealing to protect their natural beauty.

Resale value: The beauty and durability of limestone tiles can increase the value of a home, making it a smart investment for homeowners.

[ausealwaterproofing]

Floor Tiling Services In Sydney

Are you searching for top-notch floor tiling services in Sydney? Look no further than Auseal Waterproofing and Tiling Sydney. Our expert team specializes in floor tiling services in Sydney, providing exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail for every project. Whether you’re interested in floor tiling in Sydney for your home or commercial space, we have the skills and experience to…

[ozimagetiling]

Sydney floor tiling specialists

For top-quality floor tiling service in Sydney, trust the experts at Oz Image Tiling. Whether you’re renovating your home or working on a commercial project, our team of skilled professionals is equipped to handle all your tiling needs. With years of experience in the industry, Oz Image Tiling stands out as Sydney floor tiling specialists, delivering high-quality craftsmanship and attention to…

[cheaptilesonline14]

Creating Inviting Spaces: A Complete Guide to Outdoor Stone Pavers

Introduction

Outdoor spaces are an extension of our homes, and how we choose to design them can greatly affect our enjoyment and use of those areas. One of the most popular choices for creating beautiful and functional outdoor areas is the use of outdoor stone pavers. These versatile materials not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens, patios, and walkways but also offer durability and ease of maintenance. In this guide, we will explore the various types of stone pavers available, their benefits, installation tips, and maintenance guidelines to help you create inviting spaces that reflect your style and meet your practical needs.

Understanding Outdoor Stone Pavers

These pavers are flat pieces of stone used for paving outdoor areas. They come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, making them suitable for a range of design styles.

Types of Pavers

Natural Stone Pavers: These include materials like granite, slate, limestone, and sandstone. Each type brings unique colours and textures, adding natural beauty to any space.

Concrete Pavers: Although man-made, concrete pavers can mimic the appearance of natural stone. They are available in various finishes and can be customised to fit specific design themes.

Porcelain Pavers: Known for their high durability and low porosity, porcelain pavers are perfect for outdoor settings, especially in areas that experience heavy rainfall or snow.

Benefits of Using These Pavers

Investing in these pavers can significantly enhance the functionality and appeal of your outdoor spaces.

Durability

Stone pavers are incredibly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions without cracking or fading. Their longevity makes them a cost-effective option in the long run.

Aesthetic Appeal

With a wide range of colours, shapes, and textures available, stone pavers can be used to create stunning designs that enhance the overall look of your outdoor area. Whether you prefer a rustic feel or a modern look, there’s a stone paver that can suit your style.

Installation Tips for Stone Pavers

Proper installation is crucial for the longevity and performance of your stone pavers.

Preparation

Before laying your pavers, it’s essential to prepare the area adequately. This involves:

Clearing the Site: Remove any grass, debris, or old pavement to create a clean working surface.

Laying a Base: A solid base made from gravel or sand will provide stability and drainage, preventing water from pooling on the surface.

Laying the Pavers

Once the base is ready, start laying the pavers from one corner of the area. Ensure that they are level and spaced evenly. Using a rubber mallet can help adjust them without damaging the surface.

Maintenance of Stone Pavers

While stone pavers are low maintenance, regular care is needed to keep them looking their best.

Cleaning

Regular cleaning can prevent the build-up of dirt and moss. Use a pressure washer or a stiff broom for routine cleaning, ensuring that any stains are addressed immediately to prevent permanent discolouration.

Sealing

Depending on the type of stone, applying a sealant can enhance durability and protect against stains. It is generally recommended to reseal every few years to maintain optimal protection.

Conclusion

Choosing outdoor stone pavers for your outdoor spaces is a smart decision that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. By understanding the types of pavers available, their benefits, and how to properly install and maintain them, you can create inviting spaces that elevate your home’s exterior. Whether you are designing a patio for entertaining or a serene garden pathway, stone pavers provide a timeless solution that will enhance your outdoor experience for years to come.

[tilessupplier]

Best Practices for Saving Money with Tile Wholesalers

When it comes to renovating or building, buying tiles from wholesalers can be a cost-effective way to get the materials you need without breaking the bank.

However, to truly maximise your savings, it's essential to follow some key best practices.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for saving money with tile wholesalers Sydney, mainly focusing on tile wholesalers Sydney, to help you make the most out of your tile purchasing experience.

Understand Your Needs and Plan Ahead

Before you start shopping with tile wholesalers, it's crucial to understand your project's requirements and plan accordingly.

Determine the type, quantity, and style of tiles you need. Make a detailed list of specifications, including tile dimensions, colours, and patterns.

Having a clear plan will help you communicate effectively with wholesalers and avoid unnecessary purchases and costs. Knowing precisely what you need can streamline your search and negotiate better deals.

Compare Multiple Tile Wholesalers

One of the most effective ways to save money is to compare prices and offers from multiple tile wholesalers.

Different wholesalers may offer various pricing structures, discounts, and promotions. Take the time to request quotes from several suppliers and compare them to find the best deal.

Be sure to factor in additional costs, such as shipping or handling fees. By shopping around, you can identify which wholesaler provides the best value for your budget.

Purchase in Bulk

Buying tiles in bulk is a common strategy for saving money with tile wholesalers. Most wholesalers offer significant discounts on large orders, making it an ideal option if you have a large project or are willing to stock up for future use.

Calculate your needs accurately to avoid over-purchasing, which can lead to unnecessary costs. Additionally, purchasing in bulk can reduce the cost per square meter of tile, leading to overall savings.

Negotiate with Wholesalers

Negotiation is a powerful tool when working with tile wholesalers Sydney. Many wholesalers are open to negotiating prices, especially for large orders.

Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts, bulk pricing, or additional perks like free delivery.

Building a good relationship with your wholesaler can also work to your advantage, as they may be more inclined to offer better deals or prioritise your orders.

Look for Seasonal Sales and Promotions

Tile wholesalers often offer substantial savings through seasonal sales and promotions, which are usually advertised on the wholesaler's website, email newsletters, or social media channels.

Timing your purchase to coincide with these promotions can help you secure a great deal on your tiles.

Additionally, signing up for newsletters or following wholesalers on social media can provide early access to special offers and discounts.

Consider Off-Season Purchases

Purchasing tiles during the off-season can be another effective way to save money with tile wholesalers.

Travertine look tile demand tends to be higher during peak renovation seasons, which can drive up prices.

By buying tiles during slower periods, you may benefit from lower prices and more favourable terms. Plan your projects around these off-peak times to take advantage of reduced costs.

Evaluate Quality and Warranties

While saving money is essential, ensuring you’re not compromising on quality is equally crucial. When dealing with tile wholesalers, carefully evaluate the quality of the tiles and check for any warranties or guarantees offered.

Lower-quality tiles might seem like a bargain initially but could cost more in the long run due to issues such as durability or maintenance.

To avoid future expenses, invest in high-quality tiles that offer good value for money and come with a reliable warranty.

Utilise Tile Samples

Many tile wholesalers offer samples of their products. Requesting samples allows you to see and feel the tiles before purchasing bulk.

This can prevent costly mistakes and ensure that the tiles meet your colour, texture, and quality expectations.

By choosing the suitable tiles from the beginning, you can avoid the expense of returning or replacing tiles that don’t work for your project.

Plan for Delivery and Storage Costs

When purchasing tiles from wholesalers, don’t overlook delivery and storage costs. Some tile wholesalers may offer free delivery for large orders, while others may charge extra.

Factor these costs into your budget to get an accurate picture of your total expenses. Additionally, consider where and how you will store the tiles once they arrive.

Proper storage can prevent damage and additional costs related to replacements or repairs.

Build a Relationship with Your Wholesaler

Establishing a good relationship with your tile wholesaler can yield additional savings and benefits.

Wholesalers are more likely to offer regular customers better deals, priority service, or exclusive offers.

By maintaining open communication and showing loyalty, you can create a mutually beneficial partnership that can help you save money on future projects.

Conclusion

Saving money with tile wholesalers Sydney involves planning, comparison, negotiation, and intelligent purchasing strategies.

You can maximise your savings by understanding your needs, comparing multiple suppliers, buying in bulk, and taking advantage of seasonal promotions.

Additionally, evaluating the quality of tiles, considering delivery and storage costs, and building solid relationships with wholesalers can further enhance your cost-saving efforts.

With these best practices, you can effectively manage your budget while securing high-quality tiles for renovation or construction projects.

Source From: Best Practices for Saving Money with Tile Wholesalers

[justtileit]

For superior bathroom tiling service in Sydney, Just Tile It Tiling Services is the expert you can trust. Our skilled team specializes in transforming bathrooms with high-quality tiling solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Whether you’re renovating an existing bathroom or installing tiles in a new one, we offer professional services tailored to your needs.

Why Choose Just Tile It Tiling Services?

Just Tile It Tiling Services provides comprehensive tiling services designed to meet the unique requirements of each client. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a leading choice for bathroom tiling in Sydney.

Key Services:

Bathroom Wall and Floor Tiling: Expert installation of tiles on walls and floors, ensuring a perfect finish that enhances the beauty of your bathroom.

Waterproofing: Professional waterproofing services to protect your bathroom from moisture damage and ensure long-lasting durability.

Tile Repair and Replacement: If you have damaged or outdated tiles, we offer repair and replacement services to restore the look and functionality of your Bathroom Tiling Services Sydney .

Grouting and Sealing: High-quality grouting and sealing services to maintain the appearance and integrity of your tiled surfaces.

Custom Tile Designs: Work with our design experts to create custom tile patterns and layouts that reflect your personal style and complement your bathroom décor.

[butterflybuckethat]

Stranger Places

🦋 Masterlist 🦋

I'm back at it again trying to combat writer's block. Hope you like it!

Notes: Carmen Berzatto x Fem!Reader; Carmy finds you drunk in the bathroom of The Bear. (1.8k words)

Warnings: Slow burn, toxic ex-boyfriends, drunkenness

Chef Carmen Berzatto designed the restroom of The Bear as a complement to the main dining room, extending its warm minimalism to the wide sink basin, pale wood shelves and simple fixtures, all tied together by a signature scent of jasmine and oud. Not that you noticed any of this, your head being in the toilet and all. 

“Cousin!” Richie was forming a plan, which always meant bad news for Carmy. A line started forming outside the bathroom. “I told you we should’ve put in two.”

“Would you shut the fuck up, Richard?” Today was not the day. It had barely been a week since the deep freeze incident, and Carmy still felt shaky at the helm. They were half a turn behind.

“Fuck you, Carmen. How am I the only one taking this seriously?” 

“We need to focus.”

“No, we need to get whoever’s puking in the bathroom up outta there.” Carmy took a deep breath, forcing his gaze off the tickets. Richie continued, “if people think our food makes people sick...” His eyes blew wide, head bobbing, as if this were a foregone conclusion. “Okay?” 

Carmen looked at him, practically flinching when Sydney yelled “hands.” Lately, he had seriously been considering the thought that he was a bad person. He knew that Sydney was capable—in fact, he would proudly describe her as brilliant—but, after she took over for him that night, everyone else saw it too. And yet, he was reluctant to hand her his position. 

“This is big picture shit, Carm.” Richie said, softer this time, using Sugar’s words against him: some things are more important. 

“Syd,” he could barely look at her. She moved into his spot, as if it were the easiest thing in the entire world, and began arranging the tickets, yelling commands. Carmy balled his hands, pushing the air out of his lungs. He didn’t resent her, he just hated himself. “Do we still have those water guns?”

“Fuck,” you spat into the toilet. Everything was spinning. This was a new low, touching your forehead to a public toilet just to feel the cold porcelain, and you had no idea how you got here. You were drinking wine! You never got drunk from wine. At least, not like this. You hadn’t been this obliterated since college, the night Mark joined Sigma and introduced you to jungle juice. You retched again, just thinking about it. 

You tried to stand, digging your nails into the ridges between the subway tiles. But you stumbled, knocking into little decorative objects so meticulously placed on a shelf, and sunk back the floor. “Fuck.” You wanted to cry, but everything was so out of control. You tried focusing your sight on the now headless ceramic bear by your stockinged foot when there was an urgent knock on the door. 

“Hello?” It came in all muffled.

“Mark?” you responded; voice hoarse. The doorknob jiggled.

“Are you okay? Can you unlock—” the voice was drowned out by cheers in the rest of the restaurant.

“What?”

“Can you unlock the door?” he repeated louder. You crawled over on your hands and knees and turned the lock. The knob turned and the door cracked open.

“Wait!” You pushed it shut. He tried to open the door again but you leaned against it, hastily smoothing your hair and wiping the makeup from underneath your eyes. Mark had seen you worse but that was when you were still together. It’s different now. “Okay,” you slurred, scooting out of the way and letting him in. You looked up. “You’re not Mark.”

It was a hassle getting you into the office. Carmy had you by the waist, dodging the squirt guns and confetti that came with the impromptu surprise, while you stumbled and swayed in the opposite direction.

“I’ll be right back,” he reassured once he got you settled in a chair with a big bottle Pellegrino and an uneven slice of bread. Richie and the sommelier, Ernesto, were waiting for him outside.

“Nice,” Richie pointed to the puke that rubbed off from your dress onto his shirt.

“Whatever,” Carmy responded, deciding it wasn’t worth it to mention that Richie’s suit was half soaked and covered in glitter. “What’s up Ernesto?”

He looked to Richie first which made Carmen’s palms sweat. “They only ordered two bottles.” Ernesto spoke quietly, wringing a towel in his hands.

“They?” Carmy asked, patting the kid on the shoulder to try and ease his nerves.

“She was sitting with some guy.”

“Who is this guy?”

“How should I fucking know? It’s a woman’s name on the reservation.” Carmen wondered, not for the first time, if Richie was capable of speaking at a reasonable volume.

“I don’t know, ask him?”

“He left.” Ernesto added.

“Don’t you have a receipt, credit card, something?” 

“He ran.” Richie was practically giddy. “Look at this.” He carefully unwrapped two empty wine glasses from a linen napkin.

“What’s this CSI?” Carmy scoffed.

“Just look,” Richie lifted the first glass up to the light. “What do you see?”

“There’s a lipstick st—”

“There’s a lipstick stain, right.” Carmy was very quickly losing patience. “The girl clearly drank from this glass.”

“Can you get to the fucking point, please?”

“Look at his,” he held the second one up. “Notice anything?”

He squinted, searching for something to find, “No.”

“Exactly.” The glass was pristine, not even a smudge. “Thanks, Ernesto.” Richie dismissed.

“Wait,” Carmen stopped him. “You poured him a glass?”

“Both of them, yeah.”

 “And you kept pouring hers?”

 “No, he did all the pouring.”

 You felt like shit; your head was pounding. The seltzer had settled your stomach a bit but you couldn’t bring yourself to touch the bread. And, to make matters worse, you were surrounded by strangers, with puke on your favorite dress, and where the fuck was Mark?

 “How are you feeling?”

 You peeked through your fingers. Carmen. “Horrible. How do I look?” You began to stand, tentatively.

He let out a little laugh.

“Jesus, you’re laughing?” you asked, incredulous.

“No, of course not.” But he had this fucking smile on his face.

“What the fuck?” You did a little shimmy, tugging down your dress, and flipped your hair which did little more than make you woozy. “How about now?” you asked after steadying yourself on his desk.

His eyes raked over you. You watched them land on your thighs, the curve of your waist, your clavicle. “You look great.” 

You cleared your throat, hoping to mask the shiver that ran down your spine. “Great,” you said. You took a sip of the Pellegrino, swished it around your mouth and headed for the door.

“Wait, where are you going?” Carmen outstretched his tattooed arms, blocking your path. Your eyes widened, suddenly understanding what a compromising situation you seem to have gotten yourself in. But he backed away immediately, taking a few steps out of your way. “I-I just meant…are you sure you’re feeling well enough?”

 “I’m here with someone,” you explained, shoulders relaxing.

“Yeah…”

How was he supposed to tell you? “I think you should sit,” he started.

“Did something happen to Mark?” Your eyes widened, “is he sick too?” 

Carmy felt an unexpected wave of rage. You were concerned for him? This fucking bastard “Mark?” “Please sit.”

He watched as you tugged the hem of your dress and sat primly. Carmy knelt in front of you, hands ghosting your calves. He was trying to be comforting which he had never really had to be before, being the youngest. He suddenly wished Sugar were around. “He left.”

“Left?” you repeated, crease forming between your brows.

“Ditched.” Carmy braced himself for your emotional fallout. But all that came was a bitter laugh.

“What a fucking asshole.”

He searched your face, looking for some kind of explanation. “First date?”

“That would be less embarrassing. Ex-boyfriend.” You leaned back, causing the leather to exhale.

“Did he do that often? Get you drunk and leave you with the bill?” Carmen didn’t mean for that to come out so bitter. He barely understood why he was getting so worked up over this. 

“Oh shit. I’m so sorry. Obviously, I’ll pay. I think my purse…” You just looked so helpless. You got a raw deal and Carmen just wanted to make sure you were okay. Big picture and all that. What kind of restaurant owner would he be if he just let shit like this happen at his place?

“No, that’s not- That’s not why I brought it up.” You looked at him. The color had returned to your cheeks, making your smudged makeup look less scary and more…hot. 

“Thank you,” you blushed. “I’ve caused you enough suffering, I’m sure. I should really get going.” There really wasn’t much he could offer you but he didn’t want you to leave.

“Are you hungry?”

Was this pathetic? To be letting the man whose restaurant you just violated cook you a grilled cheese? You had a distinct feeling you were engaging in behavior your mother warned you about.

“How do you want it cut?” Carmen asked, towel slung over his shoulder. 

“Triangles, please.”

“Excellent choice,” he mumbled. You couldn’t help but admire his broad shoulders and biceps that strained the material of his perfect white shirt. He set the plate in front of you. “So, what happened with you and the guy?”

“Asking the hard questions first, huh?” You grabbed half of the sandwich, licking your lips at the stretch of the cheese, and pushed the rest of it towards Carmen.

“It’s for you.”

“We can’t share?” He picked up the other half and took a bite, making you smile. But it was short lived, he pressed the question. “I don’t know. We dated.”

“How long?”

“Five years.” You shrugged, as if it were nothing. This was a practiced movement; one you’d perfected for a while now. 

“Oh.” Carmen put the sandwich down.

“It’s been two years,” you assured. “It’s not like— It’s not like I’m still in love with him or something.”

“Then why’d you meet up with him?” 

“What’s with the third degree?” You got down from where you were sitting on the counter. The Bear had long closed and you and Carmen were the only ones left in the kitchen. “You don’t even know me.”

“Your puke on my shirt feels pretty fucking personal.” His voice was soft, not a hint of anger or frustration. He looked tired all of a sudden, like he lost something.

“You don’t even know my name.” You spoke quietly and he inched closer, wanting to hear you. You could smell the candle, the jasmine and oud, faint on him.

“I know your name.”

“Yeah, what is it?” He was taller than you; not by much, but enough that you had to tilt you head to look him in the eyes. Bright blue.

“Milly.”

You were just staring at him, for a while, a mix of shock and confusion on your face. Did he do something wrong? “What did I say?” He asked, placing his palm on your waist.

“I should go.” You pulled away from him. Carmy wanted to pull you back but you were already halfway across the room. He could’ve kicked himself.

“I’m sorry,” he followed, watching you move things around the office. You were unsteady on your heels. Carmen rushed to help support you but you recoiled, like his touch burned. He apologized again. “Can I help you?”

“No, I got it.” You said, pulling your clutch out from behind a stack of bills.

“Can I at least take you home?” He offered, now standing on your far opposite.

“Uber.” You shook your phone. You weren’t unkind. He was a stranger after all, but he could’ve cried anyways. You made your way to the front of the restaurant, your Uber came quick. “Thanks for your help, Carmen. And the meal.” You pushed the door open, a burst of cold Chicago air cut through him.

“I’m sorry, Milly.”

“That’s not my name.” And you were gone.

Part II