#a stone fireplace and no tv patterned carpet

[jamesmdavisson]

Living Room Home Bar (New York)

[samblerg]

Omaha Walk Out Basement

[legendasalvatoris]

Beach Style Family Room - Enclosed

[blueskywalk]

Library Living Room in San Francisco

[sapphiccstudies]

Loft-Style Living Room in New York

[darling-cas]

Hoax (an original story)

I amaze myself sometimes. 

My therapist says I need to go back to things that bring me joy, says I need to find happiest in life again. During one specific session, I was asked to name a time when I was truly at peace, a time I felt moments of pure joy outside of my partner and friends. The first thing that came to mind was a time years ago, when I would post stories here, on this website, for you all to see.

This surprised me honestly, because if you knew me personally (*cough* hi @ilikebigbooks-and-icannotlie *cough*) you would know the amount of stress and pressure I put myself under when it came to writing We Are Young, Whatever It Takes, etc, etc, etc. But despite all the negative emotions, the moments that always stand out to me is sitting on my laptop after I clicked post, watching all the love and adoration pure in from each and every one of you.

I say this monthly but, I really do want to get back into writing. Thanks to my therapist and business major partner, I’ve been dipping my toes into editing for others as a side job. But I want to make my way back to writing my own stories and sharing them with even the smallest corner of the world. This story, Hoax, I wrote actually one year ago, when I first started therapy and after a hard heartbreak. It helped me feel like myself again and lifted me out of the darkness.

I hope, for even the smallest number of you, it does the same. I hope you can feel the same magic that I felt when I wrote it. Take this as a thank you for, years ago, bringing me such joy and happiness.

Until next time...

Cas.

--------------------

The air was midsummer sweet.

It was an Indian summer of blue sky dreams and late evening tears, with the weather shifting moods in the blink of an eye. Grey clouds would eclipse the setting sun with their mighty fists, soaking up the colour of the earth like ink drenching a cotton ball.

And with the continuous alternating weather came the busty smell of sunblock and wet grass. Summer scents combined with the salty air and pungent fish that cling to Jake’s senses from the moment he started his journey along the coastal towns.

His mountain travels started just mere days ago. The task of hiking the grand peak was something he was finally going to cross off his bucket list. Dipping into his savings and requesting a week or two off work was a small price to pay when it came to the tranquility and beauty laid bare before him.

Born and raised on the outskirts of the city, there hadn't been much nature for him to appreciate and admire growing up. But from the moment Jake entered the first small, close-knit fishing town, all he could seem to do was appreciate and stare in outright awe.

The land laid undisturbed all around; the mountains, the trees, the ocean, they had all planted their roots, dug in their heels, and refused to surrender. Cities had been conquered, the vast expansion of country fields and towering summits were placed in chains, forced to give themselves to man. But here, on the coast of fishing villages, it seems as if Land and Man came to an agreement, a compromise, an understanding, to live in peace as one. 

Roads of all kinds swerved, twisted, curled up and down along the coast, between the trees. Houses of unnaturally charming bright blues, yellows, oranges, and greens sat gracefully against the mountain rocks, climbing up the forest-speckled cliffs. Homes and buildings of sea-weathered colour rested on the broken shoreline. Boats bobbed in the water, their docks reaching out towards the horizon like fingers longing to reach and touch a disappearing lover.

In the coastal towns, driving along the sunset stained ocean, Jake swore he would never see true beauty again.

Even now, when the sky wept tears of sorrow, its beauty never vanished.

The weather came on suddenly, as he passed the welcoming sign for Higdon's Harbour. The roads became slick, a  ghostly fog settled in, and the colours were muted a few shades darker by the clouds above. Rivers trickled down the mountain side, disappearing into shallow ditches. Waves started to leap and jump to catch the increasing wind. All while the sky cried on and on.

Jake drove on through the town. Classic rock thumped softly in the background and raindrops tapped on the roof of the car. He had planned not to stop for the night until the next town over. He had driven through several rain storms since the start of his trip, and this was nothing.

But the cracks in the sky's broken heart continued to grow with exceptional pain. Tears of despair quickly turned to tears of anger. The beating on the car became more aggressive as the wind wailed daunting threats and the ocean frantically waved its arms.

It became too much, too quick. Jake was used to driving through bad weather, but not seaside storms. Not gusting winds and sideways rain. Plus, he decided, he was already making good time. So when the flashing green neon sign reading Beaumont Motel came into view, he didn’t hesitate to pull off the road, into the parking lot, and turn off his car.

A bell jingled above as Jake pushed open the door. He stepped into the warmth of the lobby, drenched through his clothes and soaking the carpet under his feet.

“Turned nasty out there real quick, didn’t it?”

Jake threw off his hood, shaking out his damp, blonde hair as he caught sight of an older woman with long grey hair smiling at him from behind a wooden desk.

She pulled her beige cardigan closer around her, brown eyes crinkling in the corners. “Looking for a room, hun?”

“If you happen to have one available,” Jake replied, walking towards the desk and setting down his backpack. Judging by the lack of cars in the parking lot, he was more than confident there were plenty of empty rooms. Still, he glanced at the woman’s name tag and flashed her a smile. “Vera.”

“Oh, hun,” Vera chuckled. Her fingers tapped away on the computer that looked too new to be in the small, tacky, lobby with flower-patterned wallpaper. A lobby that was decorated with simply a small sitting area off to the side, a dusty fireplace warming the room, a dark wooden desk, rouge carpet, and outdated lighting fixtures. “I think I have one or two available. For how long will we be seeing your handsome face around?”

“Only a night,” Jake said. “I’m just passing through.”

“Storm pushed you off the road, huh?” Vera turned around and grabbed a key off one of the hooks on the wall. “It should only last the night. Nightly storms are common for us during this time of year. Here you go, hun.”

“Thank you!” Jake took the key before picking up his bag once more, throwing it over his shoulder.

“If you’re looking to warm up a bit, Kay & Elle, the pub next door, is open for a few more hours,” Vera informed him, fixing her wool cardigan on her shoulders. “A lot of the locals inhabit the place, but we’re friendly folks here. I’m sure they’ll keep you entertained for a bit.”

“Thank you for the suggestion!” Jake pulled his hood back over his head. “Have a good night, Vera.”

She waved him off with a dazzling smile. “Enjoy your short time at Higdon’s Harbour.”

Rain beat down around Jake as the lobby door closed behind him. The sticky air promised an onslaught of thunder and lightning, but it had yet to develop. With a glance at the metal key in his hand, Jake made out a marked 9 engraved at the top. His toes were cold as he quickly made it to the door and inserted the key before pushing the door open and stepping into the musty smelling room.

It was just as drab as the lobby. The double-bed was dressed in off-white coverings. Cream walls, dark carpet, and tacky seaside pictures. Along with two side tables by the bed, a small TV on top of a mini fridge, and a bathroom door on the far wall.

It wasn’t the nicest looking room he’d ever stayed in, but he would also be lying if he said he hadn’t stayed in worse before. 

With a tired and uncomfortable sigh, Jake tossed his bag onto the bed, peeled off his wet coat, and padded off into the bathroom.

He never really thought of going to the pub Vera had mentioned. His only plans that evening consisted of taking a scalding shower before crawling into bed. Maybe watching some TV or reading the book at the bottom of his bag to spice up the night.

Yet, once the two former items on his agenda were checked off, an uneasiness fell over him. Neither the TV nor his book could hold his attention. The bedsheets itched his legs. His heart thumped in his chest, just fast enough to be noticeable. He couldn’t sit still.

Lightning flashed outside and Jake’s head whipped in the direction of the window. The pub came into view; the two porch lights twinkled in the dark and laughter sounded in time to the pounding storm. It shimmered in the lightning’s afterglow, the rain creating a silver mist of magic around the stone building.

Jake tossed off the sheets and threw on some clothes and his damp jacket. The pull in the pit of his stomach pushed him towards the front door without Jake even really realizing what he was doing. But he chalked it up to boredom and the anxiety of being knocked off his schedule.

He left the warmth of his room behind, almost crashing into a figure as he gently closed his door. An apology was on the tip of his tip tongue when a feeling of nausea washed over him. He felt dizzy, stomach turning. But it was gone between one blink and the next, along with the person. Jake got a glimpse of red hair out of the corner of his eye followed by bells and laughter as the door to room 8 snapped closed. 

The thunderous weather started to overload Jake's senses and the urge to get to the pub was greater. With his head down, the figure fading from his memory, Jake made his way across the parking lot.

A drink or two would kill some time, he thought to himself. At least it would help settle the uneasiness and put him to sleep.

The mist around the pub seemed to glow as Jake drew closer, but he was too busy keeping the rain out of his eyes to pay much mind to it. Warmth shot up his arm as he pushed the door open, a jingle filling the room.

The smell of liquor and smoke tainted with the slight scent of sweat greeted Jake as he stepped over the threshold of Kay & Elle. The low rumble of a banjo filled the space, bouncing off the wooden rafters, mixing with the low mumbles and chuckles of the clusters of people scattered around the room. It wasn’t a full house, but crowded enough given the storm outside.

With his footsteps sounding off the wood floors, Jake made his way to the dark-oak bar. He received a few stares and nods of acknowledgment as he walked by men and women alike, sitting at tables and standing by pool tables. As he walked past, he took in the stone walls, the empty stage in the back, the shimmering yellow lights, and the photos of fishermen, smiling ladies, and vast landscapes littered throughout the walls. 

He took off his jacket, his heart having settled from the moment he entered the pub. Jake wasn’t a man who believed in faith, but in his bones, deep in his marrow, he knew this was where he was meant to be, for whatever reason.

“Well ain’t you a fresh face,” the elder man behind the bar remarked as Jake sat in one of the barstools, just a few seats down from a hunched over figure nursing a glass of whiskey.

Jake placed his wet jaket on the chair beside him as he chuckled. “Hard to be a stranger in this town.”

“Small-town life, my boy. Everyone knows everyone.” The man threw a towel over his shoulder, his dark hair pulled back in a low pony-tail, causing the wrinkles on his slim, tan face to be on full display. His green eyes sparkled in welcome and his smile pulled at the faded scar on his left cheek. “Passing through?”

The dim lights jumped and danced off the many bottles lining the wall behind the bar. A muted glow hugged the bar, the music changing to the beat of a fiddle.

“I am, but the storm took me off the road for the night,” Jake explained.

“You staying at the Beaumont?”

Jake nodded. “The woman, Vera, recommended I stop by for a drink.” 

The words tasted bitter, full of half-truths and false tales. But Jake wasn’t sure why, just as he wasn’t sure how to explain his need to be sitting in the pub at that particular moment.

“That woman,” the elder man chuckled with a shake of his head. “She sends more business this way than any billboard ad ever could. Well, have a drink while you’re here…"

“Jake.”

The music skipped a beat as the fiddle played a harsh note. The air turned bitter and cold. Jake’s limbs urged him to run, screamed that he made a mistake, scolded him for giving his name so willingly. But it was a reflex; the word leaving his lips before he understood what was happening. An impulse came over him, the same one that pulled him to obey the man's demand and order a drink.

No one seemed to notice the odd behaviour, aside from the hunched over figure a few seats down. His depthless brown eyes flashed to Jake, grey hair falling across his pale, sweaty forehead. There was a look of pain and madness in those eyes. Jake opened his mouth to say something when a draft of beer appeared in front of him. And suddenly he couldn’t remember why his limbs felt tense or why there was a cold sweat on the back on his neck.

“Nice to meet ya, Jake,” the bartender smiled with a gleam in his bottle-green eyes. “Name’s Murphy.” 

“Likewise,” Jake raised his drink before bringing the glass to his lips, downing half of it in a few gulps.

The hunched man tipped back the last of his whiskey, slamming the glass hard on the bartop.

“Murphy,” he spoke in a husky voice, like the sound of asphalt and gravel.

A flash of irritation, with just a hint of sadness, came over Murphy's face. He didn’t say a word as he quickly prepared another glass, sliding it gently in front of the stranger.

“Take it easy, Harold. That’s your third now.”

Harold grunted, shooting back half the glass without a word.

Murphy sighed, every other emotion but worry washing from his face for the smallest moment, before he turned back to Jake with a smile on his lips.

“So, where were you headed before the rain knocked you off track?”

After another smaller sip of beer, Jake explained his mountain travel plans and his desire to reach the great peak that waited for him at the end.

“Good on ya. Do it all now while you’re still young and can move about,” Murphy said with a chuckle. “This a solo trip? Or are you with someone special? Perhaps they’re waiting for you back in your room?”

“No,” Jake chuckled, ignoring the grunt of clear annoyance from the man a few seats down from him. “Just me.”

A glimmer appeared in the old man's eye. “So no one speical then? No sweetheart waiting for ya?”

Glass rattled as Harold slammed his empty drink back down on the bar.

Jake cast a sideways glance at the stranger. Restlessness rushed through him as he slowly sat up straighter. Tension gripped his limbs as Harold turned to look at him. Those unnaturally dark eyes shined with intensity. They held so much knowledge, so much pain, so much fury that Jake couldn’t look away. 

“Don’t waste your time with such things, boy,” Harold grumbled, voice rough and firm. His brows were pulled together so tight they were touching, as the bar cast his face in shadows of back and grey. “Love is pointless.”

He said the word love with such hatred, Jake felt as if the stone structure surrounding them would cave in and collapse. 

Murphy, for his part, looked just as on edge. It was a fact that did little to calm Jake's sudden nervousness. 

“Harold,” he sighed. “Let’s take a moment-”

“There is one thing that is certain when it comes to love,” Harold continued, eyes gazing unblinkingly at Jake. “It is nothing but pain. Love is made up of pain and heartbreak and bitter ends. It is a useless and pointless part of the whole damn human existence.”

A hush fell over the bar, as if even the other guests could sense the mood Harold had brought about. The upbeat tone of the fiddle suddenly switched to a soulless wail. . A shiver ran up Jake’s spine and he begged his body to turn away, to dismiss the man and be done with it. But he couldn’t. His unmerciful gaze pulled him in and suddenly Jake was drowning in the scent of liquor and smoke and dead leaves and depthless seas. 

“You fight so hard." Harold gripped his glass, and a crack started to appear. “You fight with all you have and give yourself completely and it's no good. It doesn’t matter. Nothing you do is good enough. Love is about fighting a losing battle and in the end, only one person suffers the consequences. And it's usually the one who fought the hardest.”

“Harold.”

Murphy’s voice was firm, loud, booming over the music as Jake jumped back in his seat. He didn’t realize how intently he’d been listening to Harold. How he was hanging on to every word like it was air. Or how, while talking to the terrifying man, for the first time since entering the town, Higdon’s Harbour glowed with colour.

An angry, remorseless, pulsating red colour.

Harold held Jake's gaze for a moment longer, intense eyes cast in complete shadow, before turning back to the bar.

“Thanks for the advice,” Jake found himself saying, voice shaking more than he'd like to admit. He didn’t mean to speak, the words simply rushed out of him with an aftertaste of smoke. 

Clearing his throat, Jake downed the last of his beer before pushing the glass towards Murphy for a refill.

A hush fell around them for just a few moments, the tension already starting to subside. Jake felt his shoulders drop as he slowly sipped his beer and Murphy slid Harold a glass of water. After some small talk with the old bartender, Jake felt himself able to breathe once more. His body started to relax, the fog lifting from his head. He was breaking the surface and forgetting all about the darkness of the ocean and the murdered limbs of the trees on the forest floor.

While on his third drink, Murphy started to get busy with the other parties of the bar. Tables started to ask for refills, and drenched couples walked through the door, the wind roaring behind them. He drifted more and more between the bar and the tables. And it was about that time that Jake decided he would soon be calling it a night.

“You shouldn’t have stopped, boy.”

Ice crawled up Jake’s spine at the sound of that sandpaper voice. Murphy was off to some seemingly remote corner of the bar. Jake couldn’t help but notice that every new body who walked in stayed far away from the bar, from him, and from Harold.

Jake gripped the tall draft in his hand, foam and condensation running through his numb fingers. 

He turned to face Harold, those black soulless eyes dragging him into the abyss. He was in a freefall, too much rushed through him all at once. A thumping started at his left temple and his heart dropped to his stomach as he fell and fell and fell from the bowels of the sky through the open arms of the corpse-like trees.

“You shouldn’t have stopped,” Harold spat, teeth clenched and head hung low. “You should get out of this cursed town before they get you too. They know you’re here. They knew you’d be here before you knew you’d be here. They got to the rest of this damned town. They got her. Get out before they get you too, boy.”

Fear rooted Jake in place. Fear for what, he couldn’t tell. But in the back of his mind, in the depth of his soul, he knew Harold was right. He shouldn’t be here. He shouldn’t have stopped. Yet, the thought of leaving caused his heart to clench and spots to form behind his eyes. Without his control, he found his lips forming the words - 

“Who are they?”

The lights flickered with the time of the thunder clashing outside. The fiddle faded out and the haunting strings of a violin floated through the room, accompanied by a soulful woman's wail.

He knew he shouldn’t have asked. He shouldn’t provoke this man. He should just pay his tab, get up, and leave. But it was unexplainable, much like the whole night had been. He simply couldn’t help himself.

Harold completely turned to Jake. The harsh lines on his face caught the glow of the dim lights. His eyes burned with unattainable wisdom and passion. Jake's heart started to race, limbs locking into place as he noticed the music slowed. Along with, somehow, every other body and soul in the bar. A haze filled the room, a mist blurring and engulfing everything that was not Jake and was not Harold. Even the storm seemed to hush, with only the woman's cry continuing on.

“Let me tell you a story, son.” Harold’s voice turned mystical, the words floating in the air between the two. “Cause I’ve lost my friends, my family, this whole damn town, and yet no one will believe me. They think I’m a nut-case, a man full of grief. But I ain’t, you hear? And maybe you’ll believe me. Maybe you won’t. But they took my wife-”

“Your wife is missing?”

Jake’s pulse jumped as Harold leaned in close, his blood-shot eyes burning crimson red. “For years now. Cause they took her.”

“They?” Jake repeated, feeling physically ill.

Harold nodded. “The fairies.”

He should have laughed. He should have backed off. His mind should have been yelling at him that the man was senile, crazy, insane. He should have bid him goodbye, called over Murphy, and been done with this place, this man. This man who was staring at him with all the earnestness in the world.

Fairies.

The word danced around in his head, bells and whistles suddenly joining in with the escalating violin. Suddenly, the whole town made all the sense in the world and yet, none at all.

“Fairies?” Jake spoke slow and steady. “They’re just folklore. A myth.”

Even as he said it, the words turned to dust on his tongue. He wanted to wash the taste out with his beer, but found he genuinely couldn’t move. 

“The Harbour Fairies,” Harold whispered. “Nasty creatures. And if you believe they’re just a myth, you’re as foolish as the rest of them. If you believe there isn’t more to this world, that we’re the only beings here, you’re blin. These aren’t just some little buggers who pick your berries and sprinkle dust. They are savage, mischievous demons.”

Jake started to shake his head, mostly to clear the fog that had started to form. “I don’t-”

“We here grew up wearing our clothes inside out and carrying bread in our pockets to stop the little people from leading us astray,” Harold spoke with more urgency than Jake had heard all night, “But little good it did. Everyone was blinded by what was right in front of them. These creatures play tricks. Oh, they love tricks. And not the fun kind. No, the kind that leads you over a cliff or dead at the bottom of the sea. They are unpredictable forces of nature who lead you in the woods, and suddenly you're never heard of again.”

“And they got your wife.”

“They stole her,” Harold spat the words into the air. His gaze flicked towards the red-head who walked past them, beer in hand, before he spoke again. “They took her from me. Everyone here believes she ran away, but I know. I caught them you see, I saw it with my own two eyes. One day she was in the garden, the next…”

… she walked into the woods, never to be seen again. Jake knew because he saw it himself. He watched it play out in Harold’s aged eyes. And suddenly he was inserted into a story that was not his. He didn’t feel right; too tight in his skin, eyes unable to properly focus on the greys, blacks, and whites of the world. But he still watched.

A grass-stained seven year old boy cradled the arm of a pretty girl with messy blonde hair. They sat in a treehouse, feet dangling over the edge, kicking at the clouds. The girl had tear-tracks running down her cheeks and dead flowers stuck in her hair. She was biting her lip, nodding as the boy spoke.

“I told you not to make your papa mad,” he whispered sternly.

“I didn’t mean to,” her lips trembled, gaze moving to anything but the boy before her. “It wasn’t my fault.”

The boy shook his head as he ran his hand over the forming bruise. “You gotta be more careful Cathy. What if something were to happen to ya?”

“Then let's get out of this town, Harry,” a seventeen-year old girl twirled in the headlights of an old pick-up truck. The waves crashed against the shore in the distance, the sun tenderly kissing the horizon goodbye. The girl’s blonde, messy braids whipped around her shoulder, dress bunched at her ankles. She stood before a brown haired boy, grass-stains on his jeans, leaning against the red truck. “Let’s pack up and leave after graduation next week.”

“And go where, Cathy?” The boy shook his head. “I have a job lined up on the boat and you have-”

“Nothing! I have nothing!” She threw her hands in the air. “I ain’t got nothing lined up. Just my next shift at the diner. I want to go to school, you know I do. But papa-”

“Don’t worry about your father,” the boy grabbed at the girls skirts, pulling her so close their hips touched. “I told you, I’ll protect you from your papa.”

The girl bit her lips, forest green eyes glancing over the boy's shoulder. Her face was tender but the look of caution never left. As if she wanted to believe the boy holding her but her heart refused to pay heed. “Promise?”

“I do.”

Applause thundered across the crowd, the waves beating against the rocky cliffs. The man lifted the woman's veil, tucking a piece of messy blonde hair behind her ear before gripping the back of her neck. He leaned in and placed a kiss on his lips. Whistles and wails filled the air, a screaming violin starting to play as the newly-weds walked down the aisle.

She held on her husband’s arm like a life-line, biting her lip as her father clapped the bride-groom on the shoulder. Her eyes darted around the crowd, the same look of caution from five years ago still masked her face.

It was a look that never left her face, a look that was forever present in the back on her eyes. It was the only thought Jake found he was able to form; the look of a woman who was scared. The look of a woman who was holding a secret.

And maybe she was, for that look stayed with her for all the years to come, Jake noticed. He watched Harold's and Catherine’s life play out before him, just as Harold described. The twenty plus years together. The moments of tender love, the moments of bitter fights. The squealing laughter and howling sobs. The funerals and the weddings, The slamming bottles and doors leading to nights together and alone. It wasn’t the best marriage, but what marriage is, Harold said.

They never had kids, their life centred around just the two of them, their fading love and the growing tension. Every second leading up to that moment, in a garden of muted yellows, reds, and oranges.

Flowers in her messy hair, a near fifty year old Catherine knelt before a bed of dirt. Sunglasses covered her eyes, dirt stained her knees, finger nails, and cheeks. She was silent as she worked.

A door slammed in the distance. “Catherine!”

The tension became electricity in the air. Catherine’s head snapped up as footsteps made their way to the backyard.

Jake noticed it at the exact moment she did. The wind switched directions, bells jingled off the tree tops, mystical laughter floated out from the forest on the other side of the garden.

Catherine turned slowly. The flower fell out of her hair. She tossed the sunglasses onto the ground and her bruised, deep green eyes glowed against the muted world. She walked towards the tree line, footfalls light. Laughter bubbled past her own lips and, between one step and the next, she was gone.

“... the forest swallowed her up and I knew they got to her.”

Jack was back in the bar. Everything rested as it had, and he himself wasn’t even sure if what he had just witnessed was real. Surely not, but the description and details felt real, tangible. As if, for a moment, he truly stood in Harold's memories.

“The forest was the only way out,” Harold’s eyes were wide, urgent, and the brightest things in the whole bar. “It was either through the house or the forest. And she’d been acting out for years. Always in the garden, out on her own. They got her, it's the only answer. But,” a pause, eyes shifting. “I know where she is.”

Jake swallowed, throat dry as sandpaper. “You do?” 

“An island just a few miles out in sea. A rocky cliff, that's where they stay,” Harold nodded, talking more to himself than Jake. “She's there, with them. I’m taking my boat out tomorrow morning. I’m going to get her and-”

“Harold.”

Murphy’s voice was enough to make Jake jump back. He never noticed how close he had been leaning towards the old man. Just as he never realized how tightly he was holding his warm, untouched third glass of beer. He pulled his hand back, wiping it on his jeans as the pulsing in his left temple grew stronger. 

As he looked around the pub, Jake took in all the faces looking his way. Eyes bounced between him and Harold, whispers and murmurs accompanying the flute and violin pair. It was only when Murphy loudly, purposely, cleared his throat that the inhabitants of the bar started to look as if they weren’t listening. 

“Harold,” Murphy spoke softly, placing a hand on Harold’s tense shoulder. “I think it's time to head home, friend.”

There was a fight in Harold’s eyes, Jake could see it. That bloodshot, haunting, soulless gaze held a fire and life to them, ignited by the hatred for creatures that couldn’t exist. But the moment Murphy spoke, the moment Harold looked around the pub and saw all the eyes on him, the fire vashined. It was as quick as releasing a breath, there one minute and gone the next. 

Harold held Jake’s gaze. There was still so much left unsaid, unanswered, and Jake found he didn’t want him to go. His mind and soul craved to know more about fairies and their secret world.

A laughter echoed off the rafters, and Jake realized for the first time that night how terrified and exposed he truly was.

“Tomorrow morning,” Harold grunted as he stood, the invitation loud and clear. Jake didn’t understand why Harold was inviting him along but it somehow made all the sense in the world.

With no other parting words, with not so much as a glance at any other living soul in the pub, Harold walked out. Back hunched as he disappeared over the threshold, rain and wind howling as they swallowed him whole.

A hush carried on throughout the pub for a few heartbeats. Until the flute faded back into the plucking of a guitar. Someone cheered, laughter followed, and soon the lively atmosphere of the bar was back once more. As if the haunted man with an implausible story wasn’t present a few moments before.

“Is it true?” Jake found himself asking, tongue sliding across his chapped lips. He turned in his chair, facing Murphy, who now stood behind the bar. He hoped his shaking hand wasn't noticeable as he raised his beer to his lips. “About those… about the fairies.”

The word tasted like strawberries and metal on his lips.

Murphy glanced up for the glass he was cleaning, scar strained across his cheek as he pursed his lips. “They’re urban folktales. Myths passed down through all the generations of the Harbour.”

“And his wife?”

Murphy paused. He let out a sign, placed the glass under the bar before turning to Jake. Worry and concern shinned in his eyes.

“She left him,” he explained softly, mindful of the ears around. “Packed up and left, just like that.”

“Just like that?” Jake raised an eyebrow at Murphy’s hesitation.

“There were… rumours about cheating and drunken fights but…” Murphy took a breath, crossing his arms on the bartop as he leaned in close. “Look, Harry's a good guy, difficult but good. Our families know each other well. And Cathy… well she had a hard life with her father. She wasn’t all there before she left and Harold took it hard. He still won't get help and has himself convinced the Harbour Fairies are behind it. Says he’s seen things with his own eyes that explains it.”

Jake swallowed, leg bouncing restlessly. “He’s going out tomorrow morning-” 

“Yeah,” Murphy nodded solemnly. “We’ve tried to stop him, talk sense. But he won’t listen. And he’s at the age and point now where we've given up - what can ya do.”

A lot. Jake glanced around the pub, taking in the numerous people laughing, chatting, drinking. He didn’t know these people, he shouldn’t judge, but they could be doing something to help that man. He may be talking crazy but… was he? 

The more Jake studied the bar, the more it felt like a fog was lifting. The pieces were falling into place. The math was suddenly starting to make sense. And Jake refused to acknowledge the answers that were before him.

“Where is she then?” Jake asked, breathing through his nose to calm his racing heart. “His wife. Catherine.”

“No one knows,” Murphy admitted. “She got out of this town, that's for sure. And no one has heard from her since.”

“No one checks in?” Jake couldn’t hide the disbelief from his voice. “No one’s tried to find out where she is or what happened.”

Murphy watched Jake for an uncomfortable moment. His eyes looked him over, mouth twisting as if to say something. But then his lips shut, he blinked, and he shrugged before pointing to the still full glass in front of Jake. “You want another?”

Jake's breath caught in his throat. Claws bit into his spine. His skin felt too tight as a breeze brushed the back of his neck, red flashing in his vision. The room was too small and too big all at once. He didn’t know why he was feeling such a way or what had brought it on. But his gut knew it was because of this town.

And he knew he wanted to get out.

The door to the pub shut as a couple walked out, but the noise still rattled against Jake’s bones as he shook his head.

“No,” he stood up, hand shaking as he pulled out some bills and tossed them on the bar. “I think I’ll call it a night actually.”

Murphy picked up the money, either not noticing the odd behaviour or choosing to ignore it as he smiled. “Well, Mr. Jake, I hope you enjoy the rest of your short stay. Maybe someday we’ll get to see you passing through the Harbour again.”

“Who knows,” Jake gave a nervous chuckle, “It seems anything is possible.”

He left the pub in shambles. The smell of ashes and fowl fish followed Jake as he made his way to the door. Tables were knocked off centre, chairs were tipped over. The banjo played too loud and slightly off key. Men and women alike stumbled over one another, drinks spilled onto the floor. Even Murphy’s slicked back pony was a mess, falling into his dark, sweat covered face.

The illusion was breaking, the corners being pulled back to show something ugly and monstrous. Something those who inhabited Higdon’s Harbour refused to acknowledge.

Jake stepped over the threshold, blood pounding through his veins. He welcomed the rain beating down on his face, the wind biting through his damp jacket and nipping at his icy skin. The door to Kay & Elle closed with a thunderous bang. The banjo and hysterical laughter was replaced by sorrowful wind and wailing rain.

He stood there for a moment, face turned towards the sky as he tried to will air into his lungs. 

He needed to get out of this town.

Whatever force pulled Jake towards the pub earlier was controlled by a demon. He didn’t know what purpose it served him, to hear about Harold and the fairies… fairies that shouldn’t, didn’t, couldn’t exist…

Someone squealed and giggled across the parking lot. With a jump, heart in his throat, Jake started to make his way back to the safety of his room.

And he was almost there, just a mere few steps away, when his body suddenly felt as if it were stretched too thin. Nausea overcame him and his head spun. The rain pierced his skin like devilish needles and the wind sang a woman's lullaby in his ear. He could hear his blood pounding in his ears, thunder crashing as someone bumped into his shoulder.

It was an innocent tap, the woman clearly too captivated by the lady on her arm to notice him. But it did all the damage in the world.

“Oh!” She gasped, the sound like a thousand bells. She grabbed his arm, full-lips pulled back in an apologetic smile as all the air vanished from Jake's chest. “I’m sorry.”

He couldn't breath, the pulsing in his left temple was suddenly magnified by ten. The warmth of her hand on his arm spread through his whole body. He no longer felt the wind and rain beating against him, he was too allured by her auburn curls, high-cheekbones, and hazel eyes that glistened like moss coated in morning dew. 

She was the most hauntingly beautiful creature he had ever beheld. And every part of his being begged him to run.

“Are you okay, Jake?” Her partner spoke up. They were holding one another so close, arms locked tight, it was as if they were one. Gravity pulled them together; where one moved the other followed. A simple stranger such as himself could not doubt their adoration and love.

Jake ripped his gaze away from the red-headed woman and looked at her partner. He took in her slim face, the dirty dress, and messy blonde hair pinned back with a flower.

It was then that Jake noticed that both women were completely dry.

It was then that Jake realized they knew his name.

It was then that his eyes met the blonde’s green ones, and he saw it all.

“I told you not to make your papa mad,” a seven year old boy with grass stains on his knees told the six year old girl with a bruised arm.

“I didn’t mean to,” she trembled, and Jake realized she wasn’t avoiding the boys gaze. She was looking at someone else. She was looking at the young auburn haired creature standing a few feet away, invisible to the boy and eyes tense with worry. “It wasn't my fault.”

Be more careful, the boy told her at the exact moment the creature met the girl's gaze and said, I know. I’ll protect you.

“I told you,” said a seventeen year old boy as he gripped a sixteenth year old's skirts. “I’ll protect you from your papa.”

You know he can’t, Cathy, The auburn creature said, standing over the boy's shoulder as she held the girl’s green-eyed gaze. I’ll protect you from them both.

The blonde trembled. “Promise?” 

With all the power of the forest and the sea. I promise.

She was there, always there. She did all she could to keep her promise. But it seemed even she was limited in her abilities.

Jake watched Harold and Catherine's life play out once more. As the twenty plus years faded together, the moments of tender love vanished. The fights were more frequent, more aggressive than Harold let on. He stumbled home in the dark more than once, eyes bloodshot and words slurred. There were many years of fights and screams. Fists were thrown and bones were broken. And the red-head was there through it all, helping as best as she could. She cared for Cathy, tried to protect her, but it wasn’t enough.

Run away with me, Cathy. It's the only way.

And run she did.

It wasn’t a laugh that called Catherine to the forest that day in the garden as Harold’s raging voice bellowed off the walls of the house. No, it was not a laugh at all, but her name, spoken in bells and chimes, love and warmth.

Catherine stepped over the threshold of the forest, laughter on her lips, as she jumped into the arms of the beautiful red-headed fairy.

She didn’t leave, wasn’t taken. She willingly left her delusional old life for one of magic and wonder and respect.

Jake stumbled back a step, shaking off the hand of the creature before him. His head was spinning, his stomach turned and his vision blurred as he truly saw the two ladies before him. As he noticed the glow around them, the electricity that danced in their wake. 

This town, these people… how could anyone let a woman suffer as Catherine did and not do anything? How could they not see what was right in front of them?

And these creatures, the fairies, Harold painted them as the demons and yet, this fairy was Catherine’s saving grace, her lover, her protector...

They shared a look, the two lovers, before turning back to him. They didn’t say another word as the fairy smiled at Jake, white teeth flashing, and blew him a kiss. They turned to leave, Catherine giving him a wink over her shoulder, before disappearing into their hotel room. Right next door to his.

Jake stumbled as fast as he could to his room, slamming the door behind him as he tried to catch his breath and will his mind to understand what the hell was going on.

It took him a few moments to realize, for the first time all night, he was completely dry.  

----------

Light had yet to transform the morning sky when Jake sped out of the Beaumont Motel parking lot. The rain had stopped and the winds were whisked away. Grey clouds lingered in the sky, suffocating the rising sun on the horizon. 

What was once a piece of art to Jake was now the ugliest thing he had ever seen. 

The mountain reached its claws to the sky, holding all the trees and buildings in the palm of its hand. The roads swerved in and out of its fingers, weather-worn homes running up the forest-speckled hills, trying to escape. The ocean leaped for joy as it played with the rocky cliffs, trying to capture and destroy anything it could reach. The boats bobbed in the water, begging to be let free, while the docks pointed their fingers to the open sea, luring in any desperate and lonely souls to the corrupt town. 

The ocean was painted an angry blue against the grey light. The white-capped waves pounded against anything in their way. What Jake once thought was a place of harmony, he realized now, was an illusion.

The image had been shattered, broken beyond repair.

The land had won after all, he realized now. It had conquered Higdon’s Harbour and all within it. There was no agreement, no compromise to live in peace. For nothing could truly defeat nature.

The land cackled against the last remains of the raging storm winds. For it knew the game it was playing; it knew who truly ruled the town. And it was not man.

Jake made it out before the first kitchen light flickered on. Before the inhabitants of Higdon’s Harbour woke and started about their delusional lives. His heart pounded in his chest the whole way, hands shaking as they gripped his steering wheel. Even when he passed the city line, his body refused to relax. Not as the sound of chimes echoed on and on and on in his head.

By the time Jake remembered Harold, he was long gone. And he was too far out to turn back. Too far out to hear the news, or see the headline of the Higdon’s Harbour newspaper that morning. And to hear the otherworldly laugh that accompanied it.

Man Crashes Boat Off Rocky Cliffs In Desperate Search Of His Wife.

[rebelminxy]

By My Side

Pairing: Jared Padalecki x Reader

Word Count:2557

Warning: Implied smut and fluff!

A/N: Got inspired to write this by the song “By My Side” by David Choi so give it a listen if you want :) Hope you enjoy this love-filled fic! It’s written with the idea that Jared never married. By no means is this meant as a disrespect to the Padalecki family, I send them many positive vibes. Aesthetic was made by  @idreamofplaid​ if you want cool aesthetics and welcoming morning posts, go give them a follow!

A/N2: This was meant to be posted on Valentine’s Day but I got so busy, I forgot to post it before going to work. x.x

Masterlist

“I can’t believe you got us a cabin that allows dogs!”

Jared chuckled at your excitement as he drove down the snowy road. You were both headed to Carson, Washington for the first week of your honeymoon before flying out to Italy. Jared knew how much you would miss your golden retriever, Bear, so he made sure the cabin you were staying at would allow him. And after an extra amount of money, Bear was in the back seat happy, while you watched the scenery out the car window. 

You had met Jared while he was filming for Gilmore Girls through a mutual friend and stayed friends until he finally asked you out seven years ago. It was rough at first, having a long-distance relationship since you had just opened your second restaurant in LA and Jared living between Vancouver and Austin, but you both did your best to get through it. During your fourth year together, you finally moved to Austin, opening the third restaurant in the city. Once you moved in together, things became much more simple and easier. If you weren’t busy with your Austin restaurant, you were traveling between LA and Vancouver, spending as much time with Jared as possible. It was during the fifth year that Jared adopted Bear to keep you company at home when he was filming, and just last year you bought a house together. 

And now, Supernatural was ending and Jared was moving on to other projects. You were also working on opening your fourth restaurant with Danneel near the Ackles brewery. It was during a Christmas party at the brewery when Jared finally decided to pop the big question.

----

You were talking to Danneel, your mom, and Jared’s mom when you felt the nudge of a furry body against your leg. You smiled, knowing if Bear was there, then that meant Jared had just arrived. But when you looked down to give Bear attention, you gasped, noticing the small diamond ring on the top of his snout. Your eyes went wide in shock when you looked up to see Jared standing only a few feet away with a huge grin, his pearly whites showing. He walked up to you and the room went silent, every one watching what was happening. When he reached you, he took your hand in his and dropped down onto one knee. Even with his height, he was barely shorter than you when he kneeled. Your mouth quickly dropped as you realized what he was doing.

“(Y/N), you have been in my life for so many years. You are my best friend and the love of my life. You deal with my childish manners and yet still love me somehow. I know we have said that marriage isn’t all that important and that it’s enough that we know we love each other and in it for the long run. But, I want to take this next step with you. I want to be able to look at you and proudly say that you are my wife and hopefully the mother of our children in the future. So, will you marry me (Y/N) (Y/L/N)?”

Tears began to fall as you repeatedly said yes, Jared taking the ring from Bear’s snout to place on your finger. Applause erupted throughout the room, but your focus was the man before you. You pounced him, wrapping your arms tightly around his neck as he held you by the waist, twirling you. You couldn’t help the laughter that escaped you, not caring about your makeup as you cried tears of joy. 

------

Jared opened the door to your private cabin, picking you up and carrying you in bridal style, causing you to giggle. He placed you back down as Bear ran right in, finding the couch and making himself comfortable. Jared went back out to get your luggage as you examined the place. The cabin was huge, the entrance having an archway before reaching the living room. A huge flat-screen TV hung along a brick wall facing a line of sofas where Bear had taken over. The floor was covered with a soft tribal pattern carpet and a long coffee table in front of the sofa. But what took your attention was the large fireplace under the TV. The area in front of the fireplace that wasn’t covered by the carpet was decorated in stone and a red plaid blanket laid folded beside it. 

You turned the TV on for Bear to give him a bit of noise before continuing to check the place out. You reached the kitchen which not only made you miss yours but also wanted to give it an upgrade. Everything here was connected to Google Home, and when you tested it out with your phone by playing music, the kitchen had to surround sound speakers. 

“Guess we are upgrading the kitchen once we get back home,” Jared interrupted as he walked into the kitchen. “When the owner told me about this setup, I hoped you would like it so we can do it at our home.”

“This is unnecessary, but it’s so cool!” you exclaimed as you commanded Google Home to pause the music. 

“Still, out of how much time you spend in the kitchen,” Jared continued as he wrapped his arms around you from behind, placing his chin on the top of your head. “It would be nice to get you a cool kitchen like this. You can even look inside the fridge from your phone when you go out shopping so you know what you actually need.”

“Would be nice,” you muttered, pulling his arm to cover half of your face in shyness.

One thing you still weren’t used to was Jared spoiling you so much. He caught the habit during your time as friends, and it got worse once you started dating.

“You deserve the best, especially when it comes to your passion, baby.”

You both continued through the cabin, finding the guest bathroom and the guest room. But the master bedroom left you gawking. It wasn’t the huge king size bed that surprised you or the size of the room. It was the two walls lined up with top to bottom windows letting you look out at the snow-covered forest behind the cabin. In front of one set of windows were two small single sofas with a small table between them, and you could already picture you both sitting there and having a morning coffee while watching the woods. 

Jared pulled you over to the other window to stand in front of it, watching the winter wonderland before you. He turned to you and placed a hand on your cheek, guiding you to him for a soft kiss. You couldn’t help the giddy smile that grew on your lips as he kissed you, causing him to smile once he moved away. 

“One last room to look at and then we can do whatever you want,” he whispered.

You nodded in agreement as he guided you to the master bathroom, leaving you in shock at the sight. The bathroom was huge compared to the bedroom, two sinks next to each other and a door that led to a private toilet. But the shower and tub were beautiful. The shower was encased in decorative clear glass, the designs in the glass blurred out to see them clearly. Inside, the showerhead hung from the ceiling and it was a big one, probably able to encase someone in the water. There was a small bench against the corner of the wall, a bit distance between it and under the showerhead.

“I already know we will put that bench to good use,” Jared whispered in your ear, nibbling on your lobe.

“We better,” you whispered back as you wrapped an arm around his waist, giggling.

The tub was the one place you knew you wanted to try out first. It was a big stone tub with steps around it. The surrounding floor had stone decorations and at the top of those steps was a fireplace. There was a bit of space between the fireplace and the tub, and when you climbed up to sit next to the fireplace, you noticed that space was enough for you to lay down.

“At least we know we can warm up right there,” Jared said as he watched you. “Won’t even need towels.”

“Since when have we ever needed towels?” you asked with a wink, reminding him the many times he caught you walking in the nude back at home.

Jared chuckled as you climbed back down to him. He wrapped his arms around you and pulled you into a deep, passionate and lust-filled kiss. You moaned into him, your hands already searching for the zipper of his jacket. He pulled back to look down at you, those beautiful hazel eyes dark with lust for you, telling you how much he craved for you.

“Bedroom?” he asked with a groan once your hands finally found their way under his jacket.

“Bedroom,” you huffed back before he lifted you in his arms, your legs going around his waist, as he guided you back to the bedroom.

======

You watched the flames dance in the fireplace, pulling the blanket wrapped around your shoulders. You felt your attention being pulled by a soft kick at your hips, Jared standing there with two mugs in hand. You reached out for one as he sat down next to you, pulling you beside him as you both sipped at the hot chocolate he made. The silence was beautiful as you enjoyed each other’s company, Jared toying with your wedding ring on your finger. 

“Are you happy?” he asked in a whisper.

“Always with you,” you replied back, leaning against him.

“Good, because Danneel told me about how stressed you got over the wedding. I told you we didn’t have to have a big party.”

“But you’ve always wanted a big party and you deserve it.”

“I could have helped,” he chuckled as you toyed with his wedding ring.

“No, you were focused on work and I didn’t want you distracted from something so important. It’s the final season and you should give it your all.”

“Thank you for understanding baby,” he whispered as he placed his mug beside him, pulling you into a hug.

You sat there in Jared’s arms for a few minutes, enjoying the fire, when he let you go and stood up, grabbing his phone off the edge of the coffee table you both had pushed to the side earlier. He looked like he was searching for something when his smile grew. You joined him in smiling when you heard the song playing on the speakers surrounding the room. It was the song you both had your first dance to, the song that Jared had dedicated to you at the first convention you went to with him, letting the fans know of your relationship. 

“May I have this dance?” he asked, extending his hand out to you as “By My Side” by David Choi played in the background. 

You took his hand and got up, Jared twirling you away from the fireplace and to the open space behind the couch. His arms around your waist and yours barely around his neck, you both swayed along with the music, laughing in fits of giggles as you talked about the hilarious things that happened at your wedding. You didn’t let go of each other as the song changed to a slower one, looking into each other’s eyes filled with love and adoration. 

“We should have a glass of wine,” Jared pointed out, but you didn’t let him move from you, smiling up at him.

“I can’t have a glass of wine.”

“Why not? We ate already and ....”

“I mean, it’s best I don’t have a glass of wine in the next six months, maybe not even for the next year.”

Jared looked at you confused.

“Remember how last month I pushed for us to have our honeymoon right before you started filming again?”

Jared nodded in response.

“Well, it’s because I might not be able to travel in the next few months. Possibly not in the next few years unless I really need to.”

“Ok, (Y/N), spit it out because now I’m getting a bit worried.”

“I’m pregnant Jared,” you whispered, finally feeling the weight of that secret lift.

He stared at you, frozen, as the news finally hit him. A huge grin appeared on his face as he lifted you in his arms and twirled you around, causing you to scream out giggles. Jared stopped behind the couch, placing you on the edge of its back to sit.

“When…” he began.

“It was around our engagement that I was feeling a bit off. With the wedding plans and you focused on filming, I wanted to wait to tell you the news. I’m three months, Jared. We are going to be parents soon.”

“Wait, hold on, are you ready? I know you and Danneel were working on things for when we got back…”

“We’ve actually sealed that deal and I’ve named her my business partner in all the restaurants so we will both be handling the ones in Texas and California together. She’s a great business partner and someone I can trust when I can’t go.”

You placed a hand on Jared’s cheek, holding back the tears of joy.

“I want you to know that even with this baby, I don’t want you giving up your passions, just like I won’t give up mine. Danneel told me that it will be hard, but that it’s all worth it in the end. You will be a great father, even when you are working up in Vancouver for the next show. And we have your family and mine's support. My mom already is on her way to our house to help me during the pregnancy and your mom will always come by to make sure I am alright.”

“They knew?”

“I had to tell them they were going to be grandma’s before we left,” you laughed out as you started to cry, watching Jared cry with you. “We will be alright and just know that we can do this. There is no one else I would rather be the father of my children than you, babe.”

“Well, just to let you know, I won’t be working in Vancouver for Texas Ranger. I actually got the news that everything will be filmed in Austin so no traveling unless needed.”

You smiled at Jared, your heart bursting with that news. It meant he was going to be around more often than you prepared for. You had talked to Danneel about her parenting with Jensen, wanting to mentally prepare yourself to raise your kid with their father always traveling for work. But you wanted to be ready so you could support Jared, just like he supported you with expanding your restaurants. 

Jared lifted you into his arms so you were both at the same eye level. He leaned in and kissed you deeply and filled with love. When he broke the kiss, he placed his forehead against yours and smiled.

“I love you so much, (Y/N).”

“I love you too, Jared.”

[twifeordeath]

Twife or Death: Lesbian Twilight Chapter 21

Updated as of (9-23-19) (previous) (all chapters)

All rights belong to Stephenie Meyer, and this project is non-profit and fan entertainment.

Thank you to Shelley, Taya, and the project admin Alina G.

-----------------------------

21. PHONE CALL

I could feel it was too early again when I woke, and I knew I was getting the schedule of my days and nights slowly reversed. Neither my brain nor my body liked it one bit. I lay in my bed and listened to the quiet voices of Alice and Jasper in the other room. That they were loud enough for me to hear at all was strange. I rolled over until I pretty much executed a controlled fall off the bed and then staggered blearily into the living room.

The clock on the TV said it was just after two in the morning. Alice and Jasper were sitting together on the sofa, Alice sketching again while Jasper looked over her shoulder. They didn't look up when I entered, too engrossed in Alice's work.

I crept to Jasper's side to peek.

"Did she see something more?" I asked her quietly.

"Yes. Something's brought her back to the room with the VCR, but it's light now."

I watched as Alice drew a square room with dark beams across its low ceiling. The walls were paneled in wood, a little too dark, out of date. The floor had a dark carpet with a pattern in it. There was a large window against the south wall, and an opening through the west wall led to the living room. One side of that entrance was stone — a large tan stone fireplace that was open to both rooms. The focus of the room from this perspective, the TV and VCR, balanced on a too-small wooden stand, was in the southwest corner of the room. An aged sectional sofa curved around in front of the TV, a round coffee table in front of it.

"The phone goes there," I whispered, pointing.

Two pairs of unblinking eyes stared at me.

"That's my mother's house."

Alice was already off the couch, phone in hand, dialing. I stared at the precise rendering of my mother's family room. Uncharacteristically, Jasper slid closer to me. She lightly touched her hand to my shoulder, and the physical contact seemed to make her calming influence stronger. The panic stayed dull, unfocused.

Alice's lips were trembling with the speed of her words, the low buzzing impossible to decipher. I couldn't concentrate.

"Bella," Alice said. I looked at her numbly.

"Bella, Edythe is coming to get you. She and Eleanor and Carine are going to take you somewhere, to hide you for a while."

"Edythe is coming?" The words were like a life vest, keeping my head above the flood.

"Yes, she's catching the first flight out of Seattle. We'll meet her at the airport, and you'll leave with her."

"But, my mother… she came here for my mother, Alice!" Despite Jasper, the hysteria bubbled up in my voice.

"Jasper and I will stay till she's safe."

"I can't win, Alice. You can't guard everyone I know forever. Don't you see what she's doing? She's not tracking me at all. She'll find someone, she'll hurt someone I love… Alice, I can't —"

"We'll catch her, Bella," she assured me.

"And what if you get hurt, Alice? Do you think that's okay with me? Do you think it's only my human family she can hurt me with?"

Alice looked meaningfully at Jasper. A deep, heavy fog of lethargy washed over me, and my eyes closed without my permission. My mind struggled against the fog, realizing what was happening. I forced my eyes open and stood up, stepping away from Jasper's hand.

"I don't want to go back to sleep," I snapped.

I walked to my room and shut the door, slammed it really, so I could be free to go to pieces privately. This time Alice didn't follow me. For three and a half hours I stared at the wall, curled in a ball, rocking. My mind went around in circles, trying to come up with some way out of this nightmare. There was no escape, no reprieve. I could see only one possible end looming darkly in my future. The only question was how many other people would be hurt before I reached it.

At some point into the second hour Jasper crept into the room, every angle of her posture apologetic. I didn’t have the energy to be upset at her anymore, they were trying to help. It wasn’t their fault this whole situation was spiraling out of control. This time when Jasper touched me there was no influence, no subtle calming effect, nothing except her solid presence as she hugged me, then sat there rubbing comforting circles into my back as I cried. That and holding out tissues at appropriate intervals. It didn’t help but I recognized the silent apology and accepted as best I could. 

The only solace, the only hope I had left, was knowing that I would see Edythe soon. Maybe, if I could just see her face again, I would also be able to see the solution that eluded me now.

When the phone rang, I returned to the front room, Jasper having left to rejoin Alice ten or so minutes earlier. 

Alice was talking as rapidly as ever, but what caught my attention was that, for the first time, Jasper was not in the room. I looked at the clock — it was five-thirty in the morning.

"They're just boarding their plane," Alice told me. "They'll land at nine-forty-five." Just a few more hours to keep breathing until she was here.

"Where's Jasper?"

"She went to check out."

"You aren't staying here?"

"No, we're relocating closer to your mother's house."

My stomach twisted uneasily at her words.

“Bella, I’m sorry-” She started, but I interrupted her. 

“It’s okay. I honestly feel a little embarrassed, I know you’ve made sacrifices for me and I just seem to keep making trouble for you.”

“No, you’re family now.” Alice leaned forward to hug me. “I’m just not used to- having to communicate with someone who doesn’t know me intimately, who I don’t know so well we can talk without words. God knows how mad I would be if Jasper tried to force me to calm down if I was worrying about Carine or Esme.”

But then the phone rang again, distracting me. She looked surprised, but I was already walking forward, reaching hopefully for the phone.

"Hello?" Alice asked. "No, she's right here." She held the phone out to me. Your mother, she mouthed.

"Hello?"

"Bella? Bella?" It was Renée's voice, in a familiar tone I had heard a thousand times in my childhood, anytime I'd gotten too close to the edge of the sidewalk or strayed out of her sight in a crowded place. It was the sound of panic.

I sighed. I'd been expecting this, though I'd tried to make my message as unalarming as possible without lessening the urgency of it.

"Calm down, Mom," I said in my most soothing voice, walking slowly away from Alice. I wasn't sure if I could lie as convincingly with her eyes on me. "Everything is fine, okay? Just give me a minute and I'll explain everything, I promise."

I paused, surprised that she hadn't interrupted me yet.

"Mom?"

"Be very careful not to say anything until I tell you to." The voice I heard now was as unfamiliar as it was unexpected. It was a woman's mezzo voice, a very pleasant, generic voice — the kind of voice that you heard in the background of luxury car commercials. She spoke very quickly. 

"Now, I don't need to hurt your mother, so please do exactly as I say, and she'll be fine." She paused for a minute while I listened in mute horror. "That's very good," she congratulated. "Now repeat after me, and do try to sound natural. Please say, 'No, Mom, stay where you are.'"

"No, Mom, stay where you are." My voice was barely more than a whisper.

"I can see this is going to be difficult." The voice was amused, still light and friendly. "Why don't you walk into another room now so your face doesn't ruin everything? There's no reason for your mother to suffer. As you're walking, please say, 'Mom, please listen to me.' Say it now."

"Mom, please listen to me," my voice pleaded. I walked very slowly to the bedroom, feeling Alice's worried stare on my back. I shut the door behind me, trying to think clearly through the terror that gripped my brain.

"There now, are you alone? Just answer yes or no."

"Yes."

"But they can still hear you, I'm sure."

"Yes."

"All right, then," the agreeable voice continued, "say, 'Mom, trust me.' "

"Mom, trust me."

"This worked out rather better than I expected. I was prepared to wait, but your mother arrived ahead of schedule. It's easier this way, isn't it? Less suspense, less anxiety for you."

I waited.

"Now I want you to listen very carefully. I'm going to need you to get away from your friends; do you think you can do that? Answer yes or no."

"No."

"I'm sorry to hear that. I was hoping you would be a little more creative than that. Do you think you could get away from them if your mother's life depended on it? Answer yes or no."

Somehow, there had to be a way. I remembered that we were going to the airport. Sky Harbor International Airport: crowded, confusingly laid out…

"Yes."

"That's better. I'm sure it won't be easy, but if I get the slightest hint that you have any company, well, that would be very bad for your mother," the friendly voice promised. "You must know enough about us by now to realize how quickly I would know if you tried to bring anyone along with you. And how little time I would need to deal with your mother if that was the case. Do you understand? Answer yes or no."

"Yes." My voice broke.

"Very good, Bella. Now, this is what you have to do. I want you to go to your mother's house. Next, to the phone, there will be a number. Call it, and I'll tell you where to go from there." I already knew where I would go, and where this would end. But I would follow her instructions exactly. "Can you do that? Answer yes or no."

"Yes."

"Before noon, please, Bella. I haven't got all day," she said politely.

"Where's Phyllis?" I asked tersely.

"Ah, be careful now, Bella. Wait until I ask you to speak, please."

I waited.

"It's important, now, that you don't make your friends suspicious when you go back to them. Tell them that your mother called and that you talked her out of coming home for the time being. Now repeat after me, 'Thank you, Mom.' Say it now."

"Thank you, Mom." The tears were coming. I tried to fight them back.

"Say, 'I love you, Mom, I'll see you soon.' Say it now."

"I love you, Mom." My voice was thick. "I'll see you soon," I promised.

"Goodbye, Bella. I look forward to seeing you again." She hung up.

I held the phone to my ear. My joints were frozen with terror — I couldn't unbend my fingers to drop it.

I knew I had to think, but my head was filled with the sound of my mother's panic. Seconds ticked by while I fought for control.

Slowly, slowly, my thoughts started to break past that brick wall of anguish. To plan. I had no choices now but one: to go to the mirrored room and die. I had no guarantees, nothing to give to keep my mother alive. I could only hope that Jamie would be satisfied with winning the game, that beating Edythe would be enough. Despair gripped me; there was no way to bargain, nothing I could offer or withhold that could influence her. But I still had no choice. I had to try.

I pushed the terror back as well as I could. My decision was made. It did no good to waste time agonizing over the outcome. I had to think clearly, because Alice and Jasper were waiting for me, and evading them was absolutely essential, not to mention absolutely impossible.

I was suddenly grateful that Jasper was gone. If she had been here to feel my anguish in the last five minutes, how could I have kept them from being suspicious? I choked back the dread, the anxiety, tried to stifle it. I couldn't afford it now. I didn't know when she would return.

I tried to concentrate on my escape, then immediately realized that I couldn’t plan anything. I had to be undecided. No doubt Alice would see the change soon if she hadn’t already. I couldn’t let her see how it happened. If it happened. How could I get away? Especially when I couldn’t even think about it?

I wanted to go see what Alice had made of all this if she’d seen any changes yet, but I knew I had to deal with one more thing alone before Jasper got back.

I had to accept that I would never see Edythe again. Not even one last look at her face to take with me to the mirror room. I was going to hurt her, and I couldn’t say goodbye. It was like being tortured. I burned in it for a minute, let it break me. And then I had to pull my shell together to go face Alice.

The only expression I could manage was a blank, dead look, but I felt like that was understandable. I walked into the living room, my script ready to go.

Alice was bent over the desk, gripping the edge with two hands. Her face...

At first, the panic broke through my mask, and I jumped around the couch to get to her. While I was still in motion, I realized what she must be seeing. It brought me up short a few feet away from her.

“Alice,” I said dully.

She didn’t react when I called her name. Her head rocked slowly from side to side. Her expression brought the panic back again—maybe this wasn’t about me, maybe she was watching my mother.

I took another step forward, reaching out to touch her arm.

“Alice!” Jasper’s voice whipped from the door, and then she was right behind Alice, hands curling over hers, loosening them from their grip on the table. Across the room, the door swung shut with a low click.

“What is it?” she demanded. “What did you see?”

She turned her empty face away from me, looking blindly into Jasper’s eyes.

“Bella,” she said.

“I’m right here.”

Her head twisted, her eyes locked on mine, their expression still blank. I realized that she hadn’t been speaking to me—she’d been answering Jasper’s question.

[chellesbookreport]

12 Tips for living room: How to create a cosy living room?

Cosy modern living room ideas

Sometimes, to create a cosy living room, just a couple of little things are not enough, and sometimes you need to try and put into practice several design tips at once.

This article will help you learn how to create a cosy living room with a few simple tips. There are some ideas that can make your room look different and more comfortable

How to make your living room cosy?

12 Tips and tricks to help you make a cosy living room:

Hide unnecessary

Often the attractiveness of the interior is lost among the abundance of things and unnecessary furniture. Leaving clothes, toys and wires in sight, apartment owners deprive their main room of comfort.

Visual noise due to clutter can quickly tire and make the room smaller. We recommend leaving insight only what really pleases you and reflects your character: the rest should be removed behind the cabinet facades or transferred to new owners.

Look for ways to improve your storage system – use the space under the ceiling and sofa, and reorganize the cabinetry to free up as much space as possible.

Use natural materials

Plastic and laminated surfaces do not add comfort, as they seem artificial, but often you cannot do without them.

To make the living room seem more welcoming, dilute it with wood details (inexpensive furniture made of solid pine, accent wall made of lining, decor from slats ).

Brickwork and imitation of natural stone are also suitable. Do not forget about textiles and details: instead of polyester, it is better to buy products made of cotton or linen, and instead of plastic containers, baskets made of the natural vine.

Arrange plants

Home flowers will help to complete the natural look: even if you are not confident in your design.

you should not give up green space. They relieve stress, purify the air and add volume to the room.

Beginners can choose unpretentious plants for themselves that do not require special care but delight with their beauty and make the living room inhabited.

Transform furniture

While in the living room, take a look around and decide which elements do not suit you or even irritate you.

Perhaps it’s a shabby armchair, a bulky wardrobe that doesn’t fit into a light setting or an old chandelier. If an expensive furniture replacement is not planned, try remodelling it:

Pull the upholstery with a thick fabric and a stapler;

Repaint cabinet furniture, primed it with a high-quality composition and cover it with a stable paint (optimally – odourless acrylic enamel);

Transform the chandelier by painting it from an aerosol can.

Decorate the sofa with textiles

A soft blanket, which is pleasant to wrap up in, and elegant pillows that enliven a boring sofa, bring home warmth to the living room.

We advise you to purchase a blanket with a minimum of synthetic additives, otherwise, it will quickly become covered with pellets or accumulate static electricity.

Set up a reading corner

When decorating a cozy living room, it is worth using zoning: the room can be divided into sections using furniture (cabinet, shelving or sofa), colors (painting the walls in different tones), as well as lighting.

A corner with an armchair and a floor lamp equipped not far from the home library, will become a pleasant island for a relaxing holiday.

Decorate an empty wall

Family photos, postcards and children’s drawings hung on the walls of the living room will instantly make the room cozy and dear.

If you own the art of weaving macrame, decorate the wall with a panel of threads, and if you want to expand the space, collect a collection of small old mirrors and fill the free space with them.

Change curtains

New thick curtains will help transform the interior in just a few minutes. If there are a lot of small details in the living room, choose a plain fabric, and if you want to liven up a strict atmosphere, hang colored curtains with patterns.

Install fireplace

A real fireplace in a private house is a luxurious detail, as well as a guarantee of soulful evenings. But residents of apartments are not deprived of a choice, because there are several solutions for urban housing:

electric fireplace with simulated fire and sounds of a crackling fire.

bio fireplace with a safe flame.

false fireplace in the form of a portal. You can make such decor with your own hands by filling it with candles or laying a garland.

Put the carpet

A soft carpet will make the living room more inviting and warmer. Products with a long pile made of combined materials heat more and look more comfortable.

On the other hand, carpets made of artificial fibres are easier to care for: they do not absorb unpleasant odours.

Revise lighting

If there is only one chandelier hanging in the living room, you should not expect comfort from it. Distribute local luminaires according to functional zones, providing spot illumination:

the floor lamp should be placed near the sofa or in the reading corner.

hang the diode tape behind the TV.

place a table lamp on a curbstone or in a mini-cabinet.

Put candles

The final touch remains – to add candles, which will bring magic to the living room atmosphere.

Connoisseurs of hygge have long been using this recipe: on cold evenings, such simple details create a soulful and romantic atmosphere.

Choose beautiful thick candles with which you can create an interior composition and leave it in plain sight – then the desire to light them will arise more often.

As you can see, creating coziness does not require a lot of money: if a soul is invested in the living room, things and furniture causes joy, and both guests and households like to gather in the room – it can rightfully be considered the most comfortable place in the world.

http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/?p=7463

[lucian-bane]

12 Tips for living room: How to create a cosy living room?

Cosy modern living room ideas

Sometimes, to create a cosy living room, just a couple of little things are not enough, and sometimes you need to try and put into practice several design tips at once.

This article will help you learn how to create a cosy living room with a few simple tips. There are some ideas that can make your room look different and more comfortable

How to make your living room cosy?

12 Tips and tricks to help you make a cosy living room:

Hide unnecessary

Often the attractiveness of the interior is lost among the abundance of things and unnecessary furniture. Leaving clothes, toys and wires in sight, apartment owners deprive their main room of comfort.

Visual noise due to clutter can quickly tire and make the room smaller. We recommend leaving insight only what really pleases you and reflects your character: the rest should be removed behind the cabinet facades or transferred to new owners.

Look for ways to improve your storage system – use the space under the ceiling and sofa, and reorganize the cabinetry to free up as much space as possible.

Use natural materials

Plastic and laminated surfaces do not add comfort, as they seem artificial, but often you cannot do without them.

To make the living room seem more welcoming, dilute it with wood details (inexpensive furniture made of solid pine, accent wall made of lining, decor from slats ).

Brickwork and imitation of natural stone are also suitable. Do not forget about textiles and details: instead of polyester, it is better to buy products made of cotton or linen, and instead of plastic containers, baskets made of the natural vine.

Arrange plants

Home flowers will help to complete the natural look: even if you are not confident in your design.

you should not give up green space. They relieve stress, purify the air and add volume to the room.

Beginners can choose unpretentious plants for themselves that do not require special care but delight with their beauty and make the living room inhabited.

Transform furniture

While in the living room, take a look around and decide which elements do not suit you or even irritate you.

Perhaps it’s a shabby armchair, a bulky wardrobe that doesn’t fit into a light setting or an old chandelier. If an expensive furniture replacement is not planned, try remodelling it:

Pull the upholstery with a thick fabric and a stapler;

Repaint cabinet furniture, primed it with a high-quality composition and cover it with a stable paint (optimally – odourless acrylic enamel);

Transform the chandelier by painting it from an aerosol can.

Decorate the sofa with textiles

A soft blanket, which is pleasant to wrap up in, and elegant pillows that enliven a boring sofa, bring home warmth to the living room.

We advise you to purchase a blanket with a minimum of synthetic additives, otherwise, it will quickly become covered with pellets or accumulate static electricity.

Set up a reading corner

When decorating a cozy living room, it is worth using zoning: the room can be divided into sections using furniture (cabinet, shelving or sofa), colors (painting the walls in different tones), as well as lighting.

A corner with an armchair and a floor lamp equipped not far from the home library, will become a pleasant island for a relaxing holiday.

Decorate an empty wall

Family photos, postcards and children’s drawings hung on the walls of the living room will instantly make the room cozy and dear.

If you own the art of weaving macrame, decorate the wall with a panel of threads, and if you want to expand the space, collect a collection of small old mirrors and fill the free space with them.

Change curtains

New thick curtains will help transform the interior in just a few minutes. If there are a lot of small details in the living room, choose a plain fabric, and if you want to liven up a strict atmosphere, hang colored curtains with patterns.

Install fireplace

A real fireplace in a private house is a luxurious detail, as well as a guarantee of soulful evenings. But residents of apartments are not deprived of a choice, because there are several solutions for urban housing:

electric fireplace with simulated fire and sounds of a crackling fire.

bio fireplace with a safe flame.

false fireplace in the form of a portal. You can make such decor with your own hands by filling it with candles or laying a garland.

Put the carpet

A soft carpet will make the living room more inviting and warmer. Products with a long pile made of combined materials heat more and look more comfortable.

On the other hand, carpets made of artificial fibres are easier to care for: they do not absorb unpleasant odours.

Revise lighting

If there is only one chandelier hanging in the living room, you should not expect comfort from it. Distribute local luminaires according to functional zones, providing spot illumination:

the floor lamp should be placed near the sofa or in the reading corner.

hang the diode tape behind the TV.

place a table lamp on a curbstone or in a mini-cabinet.

Put candles

The final touch remains – to add candles, which will bring magic to the living room atmosphere.

Connoisseurs of hygge have long been using this recipe: on cold evenings, such simple details create a soulful and romantic atmosphere.

Choose beautiful thick candles with which you can create an interior composition and leave it in plain sight – then the desire to light them will arise more often.

As you can see, creating coziness does not require a lot of money: if a soul is invested in the living room, things and furniture causes joy, and both guests and households like to gather in the room – it can rightfully be considered the most comfortable place in the world.

http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/how-to-create-a-cosy-living-room/http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/?p=7463

[avika152]

12 Tips for living room: How to create a cosy living room?

Cosy modern living room ideas

Sometimes, to create a cosy living room, just a couple of little things are not enough, and sometimes you need to try and put into practice several design tips at once.

This article will help you learn how to create a cosy living room with a few simple tips. There are some ideas that can make your room look different and more comfortable

How to make your living room cosy?

12 Tips and tricks to help you make a cosy living room:

Hide unnecessary

Often the attractiveness of the interior is lost among the abundance of things and unnecessary furniture. Leaving clothes, toys and wires in sight, apartment owners deprive their main room of comfort.

Visual noise due to clutter can quickly tire and make the room smaller. We recommend leaving insight only what really pleases you and reflects your character: the rest should be removed behind the cabinet facades or transferred to new owners.

Look for ways to improve your storage system – use the space under the ceiling and sofa, and reorganize the cabinetry to free up as much space as possible.

Use natural materials

Plastic and laminated surfaces do not add comfort, as they seem artificial, but often you cannot do without them.

To make the living room seem more welcoming, dilute it with wood details (inexpensive furniture made of solid pine, accent wall made of lining, decor from slats ).

Brickwork and imitation of natural stone are also suitable. Do not forget about textiles and details: instead of polyester, it is better to buy products made of cotton or linen, and instead of plastic containers, baskets made of the natural vine.

Arrange plants

Home flowers will help to complete the natural look: even if you are not confident in your design.

you should not give up green space. They relieve stress, purify the air and add volume to the room.

Beginners can choose unpretentious plants for themselves that do not require special care but delight with their beauty and make the living room inhabited.

Transform furniture

While in the living room, take a look around and decide which elements do not suit you or even irritate you.

Perhaps it’s a shabby armchair, a bulky wardrobe that doesn’t fit into a light setting or an old chandelier. If an expensive furniture replacement is not planned, try remodelling it:

Pull the upholstery with a thick fabric and a stapler;

Repaint cabinet furniture, primed it with a high-quality composition and cover it with a stable paint (optimally – odourless acrylic enamel);

Transform the chandelier by painting it from an aerosol can.

Decorate the sofa with textiles

A soft blanket, which is pleasant to wrap up in, and elegant pillows that enliven a boring sofa, bring home warmth to the living room.

We advise you to purchase a blanket with a minimum of synthetic additives, otherwise, it will quickly become covered with pellets or accumulate static electricity.

Set up a reading corner

When decorating a cozy living room, it is worth using zoning: the room can be divided into sections using furniture (cabinet, shelving or sofa), colors (painting the walls in different tones), as well as lighting.

A corner with an armchair and a floor lamp equipped not far from the home library, will become a pleasant island for a relaxing holiday.

Decorate an empty wall

Family photos, postcards and children’s drawings hung on the walls of the living room will instantly make the room cozy and dear.

If you own the art of weaving macrame, decorate the wall with a panel of threads, and if you want to expand the space, collect a collection of small old mirrors and fill the free space with them.

Change curtains

New thick curtains will help transform the interior in just a few minutes. If there are a lot of small details in the living room, choose a plain fabric, and if you want to liven up a strict atmosphere, hang colored curtains with patterns.

Install fireplace

A real fireplace in a private house is a luxurious detail, as well as a guarantee of soulful evenings. But residents of apartments are not deprived of a choice, because there are several solutions for urban housing:

electric fireplace with simulated fire and sounds of a crackling fire.

bio fireplace with a safe flame.

false fireplace in the form of a portal. You can make such decor with your own hands by filling it with candles or laying a garland.

Put the carpet

A soft carpet will make the living room more inviting and warmer. Products with a long pile made of combined materials heat more and look more comfortable.

On the other hand, carpets made of artificial fibres are easier to care for: they do not absorb unpleasant odours.

Revise lighting

If there is only one chandelier hanging in the living room, you should not expect comfort from it. Distribute local luminaires according to functional zones, providing spot illumination:

the floor lamp should be placed near the sofa or in the reading corner.

hang the diode tape behind the TV.

place a table lamp on a curbstone or in a mini-cabinet.

Put candles

The final touch remains – to add candles, which will bring magic to the living room atmosphere.

Connoisseurs of hygge have long been using this recipe: on cold evenings, such simple details create a soulful and romantic atmosphere.

Choose beautiful thick candles with which you can create an interior composition and leave it in plain sight – then the desire to light them will arise more often.

As you can see, creating coziness does not require a lot of money: if a soul is invested in the living room, things and furniture causes joy, and both guests and households like to gather in the room – it can rightfully be considered the most comfortable place in the world.

http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/how-to-create-a-cosy-living-room/http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/?p=7463

[dreamleaguesoocer]

12 Tips for living room: How to create a cosy living room?

Cosy modern living room ideas

Sometimes, to create a cosy living room, just a couple of little things are not enough, and sometimes you need to try and put into practice several design tips at once.

This article will help you learn how to create a cosy living room with a few simple tips. There are some ideas that can make your room look different and more comfortable

How to make your living room cosy?

12 Tips and tricks to help you make a cosy living room:

Hide unnecessary

Often the attractiveness of the interior is lost among the abundance of things and unnecessary furniture. Leaving clothes, toys and wires in sight, apartment owners deprive their main room of comfort.

Visual noise due to clutter can quickly tire and make the room smaller. We recommend leaving insight only what really pleases you and reflects your character: the rest should be removed behind the cabinet facades or transferred to new owners.

Look for ways to improve your storage system – use the space under the ceiling and sofa, and reorganize the cabinetry to free up as much space as possible.

Use natural materials

Plastic and laminated surfaces do not add comfort, as they seem artificial, but often you cannot do without them.

To make the living room seem more welcoming, dilute it with wood details (inexpensive furniture made of solid pine, accent wall made of lining, decor from slats ).

Brickwork and imitation of natural stone are also suitable. Do not forget about textiles and details: instead of polyester, it is better to buy products made of cotton or linen, and instead of plastic containers, baskets made of the natural vine.

Arrange plants

Home flowers will help to complete the natural look: even if you are not confident in your design.

you should not give up green space. They relieve stress, purify the air and add volume to the room.

Beginners can choose unpretentious plants for themselves that do not require special care but delight with their beauty and make the living room inhabited.

Transform furniture

While in the living room, take a look around and decide which elements do not suit you or even irritate you.

Perhaps it’s a shabby armchair, a bulky wardrobe that doesn’t fit into a light setting or an old chandelier. If an expensive furniture replacement is not planned, try remodelling it:

Pull the upholstery with a thick fabric and a stapler;

Repaint cabinet furniture, primed it with a high-quality composition and cover it with a stable paint (optimally – odourless acrylic enamel);

Transform the chandelier by painting it from an aerosol can.

Decorate the sofa with textiles

A soft blanket, which is pleasant to wrap up in, and elegant pillows that enliven a boring sofa, bring home warmth to the living room.

We advise you to purchase a blanket with a minimum of synthetic additives, otherwise, it will quickly become covered with pellets or accumulate static electricity.

Set up a reading corner

When decorating a cozy living room, it is worth using zoning: the room can be divided into sections using furniture (cabinet, shelving or sofa), colors (painting the walls in different tones), as well as lighting.

A corner with an armchair and a floor lamp equipped not far from the home library, will become a pleasant island for a relaxing holiday.

Decorate an empty wall

Family photos, postcards and children’s drawings hung on the walls of the living room will instantly make the room cozy and dear.

If you own the art of weaving macrame, decorate the wall with a panel of threads, and if you want to expand the space, collect a collection of small old mirrors and fill the free space with them.

Change curtains

New thick curtains will help transform the interior in just a few minutes. If there are a lot of small details in the living room, choose a plain fabric, and if you want to liven up a strict atmosphere, hang colored curtains with patterns.

Install fireplace

A real fireplace in a private house is a luxurious detail, as well as a guarantee of soulful evenings. But residents of apartments are not deprived of a choice, because there are several solutions for urban housing:

electric fireplace with simulated fire and sounds of a crackling fire.

bio fireplace with a safe flame.

false fireplace in the form of a portal. You can make such decor with your own hands by filling it with candles or laying a garland.

Put the carpet

A soft carpet will make the living room more inviting and warmer. Products with a long pile made of combined materials heat more and look more comfortable.

On the other hand, carpets made of artificial fibres are easier to care for: they do not absorb unpleasant odours.

Revise lighting

If there is only one chandelier hanging in the living room, you should not expect comfort from it. Distribute local luminaires according to functional zones, providing spot illumination:

the floor lamp should be placed near the sofa or in the reading corner.

hang the diode tape behind the TV.

place a table lamp on a curbstone or in a mini-cabinet.

Put candles

The final touch remains – to add candles, which will bring magic to the living room atmosphere.

Connoisseurs of hygge have long been using this recipe: on cold evenings, such simple details create a soulful and romantic atmosphere.

Choose beautiful thick candles with which you can create an interior composition and leave it in plain sight – then the desire to light them will arise more often.

As you can see, creating coziness does not require a lot of money: if a soul is invested in the living room, things and furniture causes joy, and both guests and households like to gather in the room – it can rightfully be considered the most comfortable place in the world.

http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/how-to-create-a-cosy-living-room/http://www.thechairandsofa.co.uk/?p=7463

[oklahomabathprofessionals2-blog]

The Best Side Of Oklahoma Bath Professionals

Are you planning upon a bathroom remodel? If so, you may be interested to understand that master bath remodels, are reflecting a trend towards personalized luxury and individual indulgence. Formerly the location of day spas only property owners are purchasing into their own personal and peaceful retreat.

While you are planning your elegant bath consider your desired style. If you're unsure of it visit bathroom and plumbing display rooms, designer program homes, and annual bath expos. Check out publications and brand name sites. Take a look at designer books from your library. Keep a folder of photos eliminated from publications and printed copies of design elements you discover that you like.

Next, choose the materials you want. Do oklahomabathpros.com/ you wish to save cash by utilizing fiberglass sinks, showers or tubs ? Or do wish to spend lavishly for the best with granite or marble countertops, automated toilets and marble tubs? Possibly you like quartz stone or glass tiles. The choices of products are a lot of that you are restricted just by spending plan and your creativity.

Homeowners wanting to remodel often have a great deal of excellent ideas. Consider however, working with a designer for the concepts and understanding they can bring to the table. For instance, they can make recommendations to make the most of space and resale worth. The pattern today is more towards elegant showers than big tubs. Larger entrances and larger shower doors with no lip at the bottom are also chosen and are more accessible for handicapped persons. Grab bars blend perfectly now and hand held shower heads are all the rage. A designer can present you to what's offered, what's hot and what brings the very best resale value.

, if high-end is your objective think about a pass through fireplace for heat and appeal.. Warming drawers for towels and glamorous lighting over a jacuzzi are a big plus. Heat strips under ceramic tile or stone floorings are a fantastic addition, particularly in the winter when tile can be cold on the feet.

Tvs and sound systems in the bath are taking the go, with in mirror flat screen tvs being a very much preferred product. With the television only visible when it is on, it is high on a lot of wanted lists.

Think about moving them if your bath shares space with your washer and dryer. They might be brand-new in addition to high tech but they will be destructive to the glamorous excellence you wish to accomplish. If you ever prepare to offer your house, having a separate area for them is particularly a need to.

Material drapes or plush towels on open shelving if you have a tv or sound system in your bath you will need some sound softening materials such as carpets.

You desire your brand-new bath to be a peaceful and calm retreat that relieves tired muscles and minds.

Are you planning upon a bathroom remodel? If so, you might be interested to understand that master bath remodels, are showing a pattern towards tailored luxury and personal extravagance. While you are preparing your glamorous bath consider your desired style. If you're not sure of it visit bathroom and plumbing showrooms, designer show homes, and yearly bath expos. If your bath shares area with your washer and dryer, think about moving them.

[samuelmmarcus]

Florida Home with a Cottage Farmhouse Twist

  Hello, my friends! How are you doing today? I am definitely looking forward to the weekend. It’s supposed to be sunny around here (hallelujah!!!) and I am hoping to get out and go for a walk on the beach.

Talking about the beach, I am hoping you guys are enjoying my coastal-inspired posts this week. I am a big fan of modern farmhouse but if you’ve read the blog for awhile, you probably know that my heart beats a little faster for coastal interiors. This is why I was so grateful when Lisa Michael of Lisa Michael Interiors, LLC sent this stunning project to be shared with you today.

The Florida home has the best of the coastal and farmhouse worlds because its interior is a true integration of traditional and classic coastal elements with a cottage farmhouse twist. The home was renovated by the former homeowners prior to purchase by these clients in February of 2016. This was a full interior decorating project with finish changes in the kitchen, as well as a custom designed built in for the office. Finish changes were also made to the fireplace by adding Italian black Chicago brick. Beadboard was added in the guest bedroom and many other details which you will see during the post.

The home was fully decorated by Lisa Michael of Lisa Michael Interiors, LLC.

  Interior Design Ideas: Florida Home with a Cottage Farmhouse Twist

“The front door was painted a warm black, and custom copper black painted lanterns were added for a quintessential coastal feel. The back of the home features black and white striped awnings, and a pool, as well as dockage for their fishing boats. Paint color is Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron.” – Lisa Michael.

Chairs: here & here – similar

Outdoor Lighting: here – similar

Beautiful Outdoor Pillows: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Square Footage: 4157 sqft

Bedrooms: 4

Bathroms: 4

Entry

“In the entry, we added a concrete mirror with rust rivets. In order to accommodate the mirror, we cut into the bead board to be able to hang the mirror at the proper height. The result is a mirror that looks integrated and finished in the space.” – Lisa Michael

Console is by Steven Shell from Marie Antoinette – Local store in North Palm Beach, FL.

Mirror: Made Goods Stanley Mirror – concrete with rust rivets – Other Mirrors: here, here, here, here & here.

Sconces: Visual Comfort.

The floors were existing in the house – similar here.

Great Room

“The home is situated on a waterfront lot and features an expansive great room that includes a living room, dining space, and game table.” – Lisa Michael.

Wall Color: Wrought Iron by Benjamin Moore.

Sofas: Lee Industries in Charcoal Herringbone Lucas Gray (Client owned, designer has new covers made) – similar here & here.

Coffee Table: Custom Driftwood table with Glass Top (Local store) – Available through the designer –  similar here & here.

 Chairs: CR Laine Bradstreet, Fabric by Kravet – available through the designer.

China Cabinet: Client Owned, hand-refinished in Antique White with Black glazing and black interior.

Rug: Custom Braided blue jeans rug – available through the designer – Other Beautiful Rug: here, here, here, here, here & here.

Throw Pillows: Custom

Fireplace

“The fireplace at the center of the great room was originally a cream marble. To freshen it up and add a sense of history we added an Italian black Chicago brick in a herringbone pattern, and white painted Chicago brick for the surround and hearth.” – Lisa Michael

Chandelier

Chandelier: Currey & Co. – similar here.

Galvanized Olive Bucket: Antique – similar here.

Bar

The Great Room opens to a cozy bar custom bar with extensive millwork. Bar paint color is Benjamin Moore 840 Kensington Blue.

Artwork: Custom artwork by Artist Michael Kahn Photography in Sepia tones – Others: here.

Table: Tritter Feefer, custom – similar here & here.

Wicker Chairs: Local store – similar here, here & here.

Dining Room

“This home features extensive millwork. Ship lap, bead board, moldings, casings and custom built ins that add immense character and charm to this home. Sloped tongue and groove ceilings with exposed wood beams add architectural detail, warmth, and a coziness.” – Lisa Michael.

A custom built-in buffet separates the dining area from the kitchen.

Chandelier: Custom – available through the designer.

Dining Table: Somerset Bay – Other Beautiful Dining Tables: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Dining Chairs

The side chairs are Somerset Bay – Other Beautiful Dining Chairs: here, here, here & here.

Wingback Chairs: Lee Industries with custom fabric in Vervain – Charvin on Linen 02 – available through the designer – Similar: here.

Trim Paint Color

The trim and built-ins are painted in a soft white paint color, Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17, which beautifully contrasts with the dark walls, in Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron.

Kitchen

“In the kitchen, we painted the existing white island a steel blue. Cabinets are in Benjamin Moore White Dove.” – Lisa Michael

The kitchen island features a Cherry butcher block island countertop.

Kitchen Island Paint Color

The island paint color is Benjamin Moore Abyss.

Lighting: Currey & Co (Discontinued) – similar here – Others: here, here, here, here, here & here.

Counterstools: RH – Other Beautiful Counterstools: here, here, here, here, here & here.

Accent Tile

“Over the range, we added hand painted Carrara tiles with picture moldings.”

Range Tile: Stone Impressions, Sanza Collection – Other Beautiful Tiles: here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Marble

We  installed Carrara marble countertops and a 2×4 Carrara subway tile.

Backsplash: here, here & here – similar

Sink: Rohl – Others: here & here – similar

Faucet: Rohl – Others: here, here & here.

Cabinet Hardware: Existing – similar Pulls & Latches.

Beautiful Pitchers: here, here, here, here & here.

Home Office

The office features Ralph Lauren sailboat wallcovering and custom boathouse inspired built in cabinets and desk.

Wallpaper: Kravet Ralph Lauren Sailboat Wallpaper – available through the designer – similar here & here.

Lighting: Visual Comfort, Large – similar here & here (smaller).

Accessories: Lisa Michael

Paint Color

Cabinet paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Sconces: Visual Comfort Yoke Suspended Sconce – Bronze with Bronze Shade.

Desk Chair: RH (Discontinued)  – Others: here, here, here, here, here & here.

TV Room

This cozy tv room features a combination reclaimed shiplap and tongue and groove wall paneling.

Sectional: Existing from Ethan Allen – Others: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Coffee Table: Existing from Ethan Allen –  Others: here, here, here & here.

Console Table: Tritter Feefer – available through the designer.

Pillows & Decor: HomeGoods

Staircase

“In the stairwell, we designed and ordered a custom Roger Oates stair runner from London.” – Lisa Michael

Wallcoring: Phillip Jeffries Canvas Linens 8061 Marble – available trough the designer – Others: here & here.

Pendant Lighting: Currey & Co – similar here.

Country-Cottage Bedroom

I absolutely love when I see a space where creativity is evident. This cozy bedroom is unique and inviting.

Wallcovering: Phillip Jeffries Japanese Woven Jute Cream – available through the designer.

Sconces: Visual Comfort.

Duvet: Custom, Fabric by Schumacher – available through the designer.

Bed: Client owned – similar: here.

Art: WJC Design (Intaglios) – available through the designer.

Red Baseboard Paint Color

Beadboard Paint Color: Benjamin Moore 2084-20 Maple Leaf.

Bedding: Bedspread & cream shams & sheets: Annie Selke

Green Lamp: Antique

Side Tables: English Farmhouse Furniture – similar: here & here – Beautiful knobs: here & here.

Rug: Custom, sisal ABC Carpet and Home – similar here, here & here.

Boy’s Bedroom

Wall Color: Benjamin Moore 997 Baja Dunes.

Bed, Dresser, Nightstand: English Farmhouse Furniture – Similar: Bed, Nightstand & Dresser.

Butterfly Leather Chair: Wayfair

Table Lamp – Barn Light

Oars: Local store – similar here.

Lake House Pillow: Wayfair.

Bedding: Tommy Hilfiger – similar here.

Rug: Client Owned – similar here.

Fish Decor: Client’s gift to her son.

Kids Bathroom with Window-seat

This is one of my favorite kids bathrooms I have ever shared on Home Bunch! How great is the idea of having a window-seat with storage between the vanities?! This idea deserves a pin!

Bench Cushion & Pillows: Custom, available through the designer.

Cabinetry: Existing

Mirrors: Wayfair

Faucets: Rohl

Sinks: Kohler

Flooring: here – similar

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is Thibaut Wallpaper T5758 Bahamas – available through the designer – Other Fun Wallpaper Ideas: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Coastal Farmhouse Kids Bedroom

Wall Color: Benjamin Moore 1474 Cape May Cobblestone.

Bed: English Farmhouse Furniture – Others: here, here & here.

Bedding: Serena & Lily (highly recommended bedding).

Master Bedroom

The master bedroom suite is the only living space on the 2nd floor.

Bed: English Farmhouse Furniture – Similar: here.

Bench: Antique with custom cushion – Others: here. Pillows: Anne Selke.

Paint Color

Paint Color: Benjamin Moore OC-17 White Dove

Linens: Kerry Cassil from ABC Carpet & Home – Others: here, here & here.

Chandelier: Ro Sham Beaux

Rug: here – similar

Chaise

Chaise is Lee Industries in Schumacher matlesse fabric – available through the designer.

Make-up Vanity

The make-up vanity and chair are antiques, refinished in Benjamin Moore White Dove and hand-painted blue accents.

Master Bathroom

The master bathroom features white shiplap and it feels very serene. Paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Roman Shades: Custom in Kravet Ribbon Embroidered linen fabric.

Chandelier: Ro Sham Beaux – similar here, here, here & here.

Tub: here.

Stool: Pier 1

Flooring: here – similar

  Project Goals: “I was originally hired to decorate the home utilizing the existing furniture. The clients wanted a coastal farmhouse feel with a Nantucket vibe. It became apparent that in order to achieve the feel they wanted, more changes then anticipated were going to need to be made. We were able to honor their traditional side, while integrating transitional elements as well. The result is a cozy and comfortable home with character and loads of charm.” – Lisa Michael

  Many thanks to the interior designer for sharing all of the details above.

Interior Design: (Instagram – Facebook).

Photography: Jessica Glynn Photography.

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Lead me in Light and Love”.

Have a wonderful day, my friends and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”

with Love,

Luciane from HomeBunch.com

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[art-angels]

A TORONTO HOME WITH A STRIKING BRASS AND BLUE COLOUR SCHEME

HOUSE TOURS FEB 8, 2019

By:  Christy Wright

Photography: Stacey Brandford | Design: Tara Fingold | Styling: Christine Hanlon

With a lot of planning, some smart use of colour and oodles of storage, this show-stopping Toronto home proves superb style can be supremely livable.

Designer Tara Fingold likes to keep her finger on the pulse of decor innovations. She’s especially smitten with the new wave of man-made stones and technologically advanced fabrics. But her secret to successful design lies in something much more Luddite than the latest thing: good old-fashioned pen and paper. “It’s very important to know your needs and write them all down in advance,” she says. “That way, nothing’s forgotten and everything is accounted for in the planning stage.”

Tara took plenty of notes when mapping out this 4,500-square-foot Georgian-style new build in Toronto’s Forest Hill neighbourhood for a couple and their three young sons. The homeowners’ list of essentials included practical considerations, but they were also keen to factor in some decorative heft. “With three boys, I cook a lot and tend to stock up on supplies,” says one of the homeowners. “I need proper functionality, but I still want everything to look elegant.” Tara got the brief. “I envisioned a clean-lined home that would look great for years to come,” she says, “not too trendy but still with a lot of personality and the durability the family desired.”

How did she pull it off? Part of the answer lies in Tara’s stylish deployment of colour, which comes as second nature to this seasoned pro. “There’s a subtle theme of blues and greys at play on the first floor. In the family room, they’re bright and cheerful, and in the office, quiet and sophisticated. The key is that they are in every room for continuity, which creates flow so that it’s peaceful to walk through the house.”

Other factors that achieve flow in this abode include the repetition of brassy finishes and sheer drapery. Though they vary slightly in colour, the linen drapes on the main level cultivate a pulled-together look. “The common denominator is the fabric,” says the designer. “It’s the same throughout, so it works” – much like the fabrics used in the family room, which reference Tara’s love of innovative finishes and, in doing so, suit the needs of this family of five. The glam velvety sofas are anything but precious thanks to a Teflon coating, and the elegant ottoman is topped with vinyl so movie night spills can be easily wiped away. The gorgeous custom-made kitchen seating steals this idea, too, layering upscale patterned fabric backs with seats upholstered in leather-look vinyl.

All of Tara’s stylish selections crack the functionality-versus-elegance code and embody her approach to livable design. “There is balance in this home,” she says. “It’s harmonious, bright and airy but still very practical.” And that’s a result of bringing some of the latest innovative materials together with trusty notepad planning.

In the entryway, a navy Parsons-style console and burnished brass accessories encapsulate designer Tara Fingold’s tonal inspirations. Nearly every room boasts hits of brass and blue, netting a pleasing cohesive effect.

A judicious use of brass, particularly in the bold range hood framing, strikes an elegant note in the super practical kitchen and speaks to Tara’s knack for continuity among rooms. “People often see the kitchen as its own design entity, separate from the rest of the home,” she says. “While it does need its own personality, it should reflect the overall style of the rest of the house.” The countertops and backsplash are made of Geoluxe, a high-performance low-maintenance material that looks like marble.

The kitchen island stools, as well as the matching eat-in area chairs, are business in the front, party in the back: the vinyl seats require little upkeep, while the sketch-like fabric backs introduce some intriguing eye candy.

With three growing boys in the house, the homeowners tend to stock up on cooking staples, so Tara planned for ample kitchen storage – and then some. The eat-in area features built-in floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, while the drapes serve as a soft counterpoint to the hard surfaces.

Custom toss cushions introduce blues into the family room. “The tones and patterns are playful here – less serious than in the office,” says Tara. Built-ins flank the fireplace, and the bottom cabinets keep board games and books organized yet out of sight. She didn’t feel the need to hide the TV. “It’s a simple shape and functional, so it works.”

“I love the pewter patina of the front closet’s hardware but wanted to reference the office’s brass accents, which you can see from the hall, so I went with this chandelier,” says Tara. As for the high-end flooring choice? “Most people are scared to use marble in a foyer – they think it’s too precious, but it’s actually very durable. one like this, with veining, hides any scrapes or scuffs.” The luxe-meets-livable family room holds two banks of stylishly stocked built-in shelving. “Shelves are a great way to mix beautiful accessories with meaningful pieces,” says Tara of the feature.

The office has a dramatic boutique-hotel feel. “I was inspired by the J.K. Place Capri,” says one of the homeowners. The hotel’s breezy nautical blues appear here in richer tones, selected by Tara to better suit city living. Custom cabinetry keeps necessities like files and computer equipment out of sight. Artwork by Barbara Cole, Art Angels, a chandelier and sophisticated accents beautifully blur the line between functional and fabulous.

The master bedroom, a warm cocoon of pattern and soft upholstery, is a deliberate departure from the rest of the home’s cool blues (and the ensuite follows suit). “I wanted a serene bedroom with lots of taupes and a luxurious bed,” says Tara, who delivered just that with a simply stunning chenille-upholstered frame. Wallpaper creates a feature wall and furthers the textural effect, while wall-to-wall carpeting amps up the cozy feel.

The custom-made double-sink vanity is topped with white Caesarstone quartz and has storage to spare. “It’s a simple design, and its dusty, bluish-grey finish makes it pretty,” says the designer.

“The marble tile is the wow factor in the master bath, and its herringbone placement makes its contemporary veining even more dramatic,” says Tara. An unfussy vessel tub and chandelier leave the lime-light to the floor.

[nightmare-afton-cosplay]

‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ Star Tamra Judge Flipping $1.8M Mansion

Tommy Garcia/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Longtime “Real Housewives of Orange County” star Tamra Judge is selling her gorgeous home in Ladera Ranch, CA, just months after wrapping up an extensive remodel of its interior.

Listed for $1.8 million, the 3,900-square-foot, five-bedroom, five-bath house is located in the gated community of Covenant Hills.

“After a very emotional year we have decided to make a change,” Judge wrote on Instagram. “I love the process of remodeling and decorating and enjoyed [every] step of the way. I can’t wait for you to see what’s next. We are very excited about the next chapter of our life … stay tuned.”

She then went into full “Real Housewives” mode: “I LOVE THE ‘SPECULATIONS’ OF WHY WE ARE MOVING (crying-laughing emoji). KEEP THEM COMING SO YOU CAN FEEL LIKE A REAL A– WHEN YOU FIND OUT (skull emoji).”

Exterior

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Built in 2005, the home was in dire need of a refresh. Judge and her husband, Eddie, bought it in late December for $1.58 million, and immediately started remodeling. They painted the beige and gray interior a bright white, and focused their efforts on the open-concept kitchen and living room.

They replaced the kitchen’s original island with a larger, U-shaped island with white quartz countertops and bench seating. Judge documented the island’s evolution on Instagram.

Kitchen

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They installed a beverage refrigerator in a built-in nook, replaced the granite backsplash with herringbone-patterned Carrara marble, and replaced the stone floor with hardwood.

In the living room, the couple replaced the stone fireplace with a built-in media center, with room for a 75-inch TV.

Living room

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The master bedroom got a brighter paint job and new flooring, with the Judges opting for hardwood over carpeting.

Master bedroom

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Bedroom

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Office

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The home’s exterior and backyard appear largely untouched. The backyard has a pool, spa, waterfall, fireplace, and covered bar.

Backyard

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Outdoor bar

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In 2010, Judge and her then-husband, Simon, narrowly avoided foreclosure on a different house in Ladera Ranch, selling it for a loss at $1.12 million. They paid $1.3 million for the house at the height of the market in 2005, and spent an additional $200,000 on upgrades.

The post ‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ Star Tamra Judge Flipping $1.8M Mansion appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

from https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/tamra-judge-flipping-mansion/