#co working spaces

[dramioneasks]

hey, can anyone tell me the name of a fic in which D and H are investigating something (lol) and in one scene they end up interviewing/interrogating this great big ogre-looking cigar smoking guy in a boat in Camden ??

Anyone?

Edit: Thanks!

m1schiefmanag3d: Fuck, Marry, or Kill by Stargazing121 https://archiveofourown.org/works/17466992/chapters/41133659

moeder-geit: This is Fuck, Marry, or Kill by Stargazing121

[workexchangedwarka]

Unlocking Productivity: Co-working Spaces in Dwarka

In the dynamic world of modern business, flexibility and collaboration are the keys to success. As more professionals embrace remote work and startups seek cost-effective solutions, the demand for co-working spaces has skyrocketed. Nestled in the vibrant city of Delhi, Dwarka has emerged as a prime location for co-working spaces, offering a unique blend of convenience, community, and innovation.

The Rise of Co-working Spaces

The concept of co-working has revolutionized the way we work. Gone are the days of traditional office setups, replaced by flexible, open environments that foster creativity and collaboration. Co-working space in Dwarka are at the forefront of this movement, providing professionals with an inspiring and productive atmosphere to thrive.

Why Choose Co-working Spaces in Dwarka?

1. Strategic Location

Dwarka's strategic location in the heart of Delhi makes it a sought-after destination for businesses and professionals alike. With excellent connectivity to major hubs such as Gurgaon, Noida, and Central Delhi, coworking space in Dwarka offer the perfect balance between accessibility and tranquility. This prime location ensures that you can effortlessly connect with clients, partners, and collaborators, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs and startups.

2. Diverse Community

One of the standout features of co working space in Dwarka is the vibrant and diverse community they foster. Whether you're a freelancer, a startup founder, or a remote worker, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded individuals from various industries. This diversity not only enhances your networking opportunities but also encourages cross-industry collaboration, leading to innovative ideas and business growth.

3. Cost-effective Solutions

Running a traditional office can be expensive, with overhead costs such as rent, utilities, and maintenance eating into your budget. co working space in Dwarka offer a cost-effective alternative, providing flexible membership plans that cater to your specific needs. Whether you need a dedicated desk, a private office, or access to meeting rooms, you'll find a plan that suits your requirements without breaking the bank.

4. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Co-working spaces in Dwarka are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance productivity and comfort. High-speed internet, modern office furniture, fully equipped meeting rooms, and tech support are just a few of the amenities available. Many spaces also offer additional perks such as complimentary coffee, snacks, and relaxation areas, ensuring you have everything you need to stay focused and energized throughout the day.

5. Flexibility and Scalability

Businesses evolve, and so do their space requirements. Coworking space in Dwarka provide the flexibility to scale up or down as your business needs change. Whether you're expanding your team or downsizing, these spaces offer adaptable solutions that align with your goals. This scalability is particularly beneficial for startups and growing businesses, allowing them to optimize their resources without long-term commitments.

Top Co-working Spaces in Dwarka

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of some of the top co-working spaces in Dwarka, each offering unique features and benefits:

1. InnovateX

Location: Sector 10, Dwarka

Highlights: InnovateX is known for its creative ambiance and collaborative culture. With a range of seating options, including open desks, private cabins, and meeting rooms, it caters to diverse work styles. The community events and workshops organized by InnovateX foster networking and skill development, making it a favorite among freelancers and entrepreneurs.

2. Workspace Hub

Location: Sector 12, Dwarka

Highlights: Workspace Hub offers a professional and inspiring environment for businesses of all sizes. With cutting-edge infrastructure, high-speed internet, and 24/7 access, it ensures seamless operations for remote teams and startups. The dedicated support team at Workspace Hub goes the extra mile to meet your business needs, providing a hassle-free experience.

3. ConnectCo

Location: Sector 18, Dwarka

Highlights: ConnectCo is renowned for its emphasis on community building and collaboration. The space is designed to facilitate interaction among members, with networking events, mentorship programs, and skill-sharing sessions. ConnectCo's focus on creating a supportive ecosystem makes it a preferred choice for startups and solopreneurs.

4. ThriveSpace

Location: Sector 22, Dwarka

Highlights: ThriveSpace stands out for its innovative design and holistic approach to work-life balance. The space features wellness zones, meditation areas, and fitness facilities, promoting a healthy and productive work environment. ThriveSpace's commitment to fostering well-being and creativity makes it a top choice for professionals seeking a harmonious workspace.

5. Horizon Workspaces

Location: Sector 5, Dwarka

Highlights: Horizon Workspaces offers a premium co-working experience with a focus on luxury and convenience. From ergonomically designed furniture to gourmet cafeterias, every detail is crafted to enhance your work experience. The concierge services at Horizon Workspaces ensure that all your business needs are met, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most.

Maximizing Productivity in Co-working Spaces

While co-working spaces in Dwarka offer a conducive environment for productivity, it's essential to adopt certain strategies to make the most of your experience:

1. Set Clear Goals

Before you begin your workday, set clear goals and priorities. Having a well-defined plan will help you stay focused and motivated, ensuring that you make the most of your time in the co-working space.

2. Embrace Collaboration

Take advantage of the diverse community by engaging with fellow members. Collaborating with professionals from different backgrounds can lead to fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to challenges you may face.

3. Manage Distractions

Co-working spaces can be bustling with activity, so it's important to manage distractions effectively. Use noise-canceling headphones, set boundaries with colleagues, and designate specific times for focused work.

4. Leverage Technology

Utilize the technology and tools available in the co-working space to streamline your work processes. From video conferencing facilities to project management software, these resources can enhance your productivity and efficiency.

5. Take Breaks

Remember to take regular breaks to recharge your mind and body. Use the relaxation areas and wellness facilities available in the co-working space to unwind and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Conclusion

Co-working spaces in Dwarka offer a dynamic and inspiring environment for professionals seeking flexibility, community, and innovation. With their strategic location, diverse community, and cost-effective solutions, these spaces provide the perfect platform for businesses to thrive. By choosing the right co-working space and implementing effective productivity strategies, you can unlock your full potential and achieve success in your professional journey. Whether you're a freelancer, a startup founder, or a remote worker, co-working spaces in Dwarka are designed to elevate your work experience and empower you to reach new heights.

So, if you're looking to enhance your productivity and connect with a vibrant community, explore the co-working spaces in Dwarka today and discover the perfect workspace for your needs.

[nectaroffices]

Warrington's Finest Private Offices for Rent

Whether you require an office close to home or clients, a dedicated working environment for your team, or an office for remote teams, we offer the perfect Private Offices for Rent in Warrington. Explore your options today!

Explore premium private office spaces for rent in Warrington. Upgrade your workspace for success!

[aravind-techy]

Haymod Workspace: Redefining Co-working in Calicut

In the bustling city of Calicut, where innovation meets tradition, the demand for flexible and collaborative workspaces is on the rise. Enter Haymod Workspace, a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses seeking a vibrant environment to thrive. Nestled in the heart of Calicut, Haymod Workspace is more than just a co-working space – it's a community-driven ecosystem that fosters creativity, collaboration, and growth. Join us as we explore the unique offerings of Haymod Workspace and discover why it's the premier choice for co-working space in Calicut.

Modern Amenities: At Haymod Workspace, modernity meets comfort, creating an environment that inspires productivity and creativity. From ergonomic furniture and high-speed internet to state-of-the-art meeting rooms and fully equipped kitchens, every aspect of the workspace is designed to meet the diverse needs of today's professionals. Whether you're hosting client meetings, brainstorming sessions, or networking events, Haymod Workspace provides the perfect setting for success.

Community Collaboration: One of the key highlights of Haymod Workspace is its vibrant community of like-minded individuals and businesses. From tech startups and creative agencies to freelance professionals and remote workers, the diverse community at Haymod Workspace fosters collaboration, innovation, and mutual support. Whether you're seeking feedback on a project, looking for potential collaborators, or simply craving some social interaction, you'll find a welcoming and supportive community at Haymod Workspace.

Flexible Membership Options: Haymod Workspace offers flexible membership options tailored to suit the needs of different professionals and businesses. Whether you're looking for a dedicated desk, a private office, or a virtual membership, Haymod Workspace has options to accommodate your preferences. With flexible terms and competitive pricing, you can choose a membership plan that aligns with your budget and requirements, giving you the freedom to work on your own terms.

Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Calicut's business district, Haymod Workspace offers easy access to transportation, dining options, and amenities. Whether you're commuting from across town or hosting clients from out of town, the central location of Haymod Workspace ensures convenience and accessibility for all. Plus, with ample parking facilities and 24/7 access, you can work flexibly and efficiently, without worrying about logistical hassles.

In a city known for its rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, Haymod Workspace stands out as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. With its modern amenities, vibrant community, flexible membership options, and convenient location, Haymod Workspace offers everything you need to thrive in today's fast-paced business world. Whether you're a freelancer, startup, or established business, Haymod Workspace provides the ideal platform to unleash your potential and achieve your goals. Join the Haymod community today and experience the future of co-working in Calicut.

[k10group]

https://k10group.in/services/coworking-space-in-vadodara/

Top coworking space

Discover flexible co-working spaces for rent in Vadodara with K10 Group. Our shared office spaces provide a collaborative environment, fostering creativity and productivity. Whether you need a dedicated desk or a meeting room, our co-working spaces cater to diverse work needs. With modern amenities and a vibrant community, K10 Group's co-working spaces in Vadodara offer the perfect blend of flexibility and professionalism. Elevate your work experience at https://k10group.in/services/coworking-space-in-vadodara/ and join a dynamic community that inspires innovation and growth.

[designwdrash]

Work in progress !

[tomy27746]

Best Coworking Space In Alwarpet

Discover a workspace that fuels your creativity and accelerates your success. Our coworking space in alwarpet  offers a vibrant and collaborative environment where innovation thrives. With flexible membership options, high-speed internet, modern amenities, and a supportive community, you'll experience a whole new way of working. Join us today and elevate your work life to the next level.

[porfavorwork]

August 2023

[yeshaswini12s]

Some ways to show Love and respect Queer folx.

Showing love and support for the LGBTQ+ community is essential in promoting equality, inclusivity, and acceptance. Here are some ways you can demonstrate your support:

Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about LGBTQ+ history, experiences, and challenges. Understanding their struggles and triumphs can help foster empathy and awareness.

Use Inclusive Language: Be mindful of the language you use and avoid derogatory slurs or offensive remarks. Respect individuals' preferred pronouns and use gender-neutral language when appropriate.

Be an Ally: Stand up for LGBTQ+ rights and speak out against discrimination or injustice. Show your support in public and private settings, even when it might be uncomfortable or unpopular.

Attend LGBTQ+ Events: Participate in pride parades, LGBTQ+ community gatherings, and events. Your presence can help create a sense of solidarity and support.

Support LGBTQ+ Businesses: Seek out and patronize businesses owned or operated by members of the LGBTQ+ community to support their economic growth.

Volunteer and Donate: Offer your time and resources to LGBTQ+ organizations and charities that work to promote equality and provide support to the community.

Listen and Validate: Be a compassionate listener when LGBTQ+ individuals share their experiences. Validate their feelings and experiences, and avoid judgment.

Educate Others: Share your knowledge and understanding with friends, family, and colleagues. Engage in constructive conversations about LGBTQ+ issues to create awareness.

Challenge Stereotypes: Challenge harmful stereotypes and misconceptions about LGBTQ+ individuals when you encounter them.

Vote for LGBTQ+ Rights: Support political candidates and initiatives that advocate for equal rights and protections for the LGBTQ+ community.

Foster Inclusive Environments: Encourage inclusivity in your workplace, school, or social circles. Be mindful of creating spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals feel welcome and respected.

Support LGBTQ+ Youth: Be a positive role model and support LGBTQ+ youth in their journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Tell them about firstcontact.lgbt a Virtual world for Queer Folx

Remember, showing love and support for the LGBTQ+ community is an ongoing commitment. Small acts of kindness and understanding can make a significant impact in promoting a more inclusive and accepting society for everyone.

[abchitecture]

Architecture Design Studio 6 - Commercial building

Ficbox - Living, Staying, and Working in one place while vacationing

Vacationing can be a great way to take a break from the stresses of daily life and recharge your batteries. But what if you could have the best of both worlds – a relaxing vacation and the comforts of home? That's where living, staying, and working in one place while vacationing comes in.

Ficbox is a great location for those who want to be in the midst of all the action. Situated in the Central Business District, there are plenty of office towers, embassy buildings, and tourist attractions in the area. Plus, if you need to do some shopping, there's a mall conveniently located right across the site. Because of all this activity, Ficbox offers capsule hotels and co-working spaces to accommodate those who need a place to stay or work while in the area. It's a smart move for anyone who wants to be productive and stay close to all the action.

This building's concept involves dividing it into five parts and creatively playing with the forms within these boxes to create an engaging design.

More pics below

[marqeting]

 The Environment of Yesterday’s Co-working Space was Baneful

Gone are the sick days of traditional office setups featuring rigid hierarchies and employee isolation. Crammed into cramped cubicles, employees were doing tasks and having breaks in isolation. Even amid co-workers, people felt deeply disconnected and alone.

Employees no longer built connections, shared no project ideas and hampered their problem-solving skills. Even when surrounded by colleagues, professionals often felt profoundly alone. The office Dilbert satirized became an unfortunate reality for many disillusioned workers.

But fret not, people have evolved with time and so do these co-working spaces. Co-working spaces have completely changed the way we view work itself.

These modern-day shared workspaces are designed brilliantly to the demands of today’s employees who crave:

 An open, collaborative atmosphere

Flexibility and freedom to work their way

Interaction, networking and creative cross-sharing

A sense of community and professional culture

The blog explores how modern co-working spaces have revolutionized the traditional office structures, ones that impacted people’s ability to connect and flourish in an office environment. By adopting a client-centric approach, each point addresses these issues from the perspective of individuals who were unknowingly experiencing the pangs of disconnection and isolation.

Networking and Collaboration While traditional offices provided clarity and direction in terms of profession, they stifled an employee’s creativity, innovation and collaboration. This limited autonomy is counter posed by the opportunities of networking and knowledge-sharing in modern co-working spaces

F For Flexibility Rigid work schedules and structures were taking a mental toll on co-workers. The modern co-working space understood the demands and problems faced by these workers and built private offices, meeting rooms based on specific needs and requirements. Earlier employees were required to adhere to strict nine-to-five schedules, regardless of individual preferences or productivity peaks. This lack of flexibility resulted in burnout, stress, and reduced job satisfaction, particularly among employees with personal or family commitments.

Sharing Ideas Over Competition However, the co-working offices have challenged this isolating workplaces. Today’s co-working spaces are specially designed keeping in mind the problems and demands of clients. These modern workspaces promote human connection, inclusive collaboration and creativity.

Work-Life Balance Contrary to popular belief, working longer hours does not necessarily equate to higher productivity. Unlike traditional offices with strict nine-to-five schedules, co-working spaces often gives you access to flexible hours. Members can choose when to start and end their workday, allowing them to accommodate personal commitments and preferences. We all know the price of neglecting personal life in favor of work which can strain relationships with family, friends, and loved ones.

Conclusion In the words of Steve Jobs, “Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity – not a threat.” And that’s exactly what the new, modern shift in co-working represents – an innovative approach to the dead workplace models of yesterday. As we come through this new renaissance of co-working, let’s change our perception of the way we work.

Book a free tour visit at LetsBrim and see why this modern co-working space is the ideal place to work and grow.

[drowsymonkscoworking]

In today's fast-paced world, the traditional 9-to-5 office routine may not suit everyone's needs. With the rise of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, co-working spaces have become a popular choice for professionals seeking a productive and inspiring work environment. If you're in Patna and looking for a premium co-working space, look no further than #DrowsyMonks. In this blog post, we will explore the outstanding features and benefits of Drowsy Monks, a haven for professionals seeking a collaborative and flexible work environment. #CoWorkingSpace #Patna Book Now

[abstractfrog]

THE GLORIA SCOTT - part 2, and a follow up to my comic for the first half of this scene! thanks sm to @crashingmeteorz for allowing me to source validation for my whimsical cosmic approach to this moment <3

[luxaofhesperides]

For ghostlights: baby Ellie + tired Danny + Duke the baby whisperer?

He has no idea how his parents did it. 

Babies are exhausting. Toddlers more so. Any infants in the strange stage in-between? Doubly so. 

Ellie is wonderful and sweet and cute and such a terror that Danny genuinely has no idea how his parents managed to raise not one, but two kids. For all their eccentricities and absent-mindedness, he and Jazz turned out pretty well. Ignoring the whole halfa thing because that’s more his fault than theirs even if Jazz says they shouldn’t have created the dangerous environment in the first place.

That environment is exactly why Danny refuses to let Ellie go to his house in Amity Park. His parents say they’ve disabled all the weapons and ecto-sensors since he’s had to reveal himself as Phantom, but he knows that things slip their minds and if they can’t guarantee that the house is safe, then Ellie isn’t going in there. Simple as that. 

This means that they live somewhere else now. Danny had thought about it, during the hours Ellie was asleep and he was awake, exhausted and worn down to his bones, and took Jazz’s advice to accept Vlad’s offer of buying a house for him. Except he argued Vlad down to an apartment in a city of his choosing where he wouldn’t stand out too much and he would be safe, or as safe as he can be, from anyone trying to hunt down ghosts. 

So here they are. Standing in the empty living room of their new apartment in Gotham. 

Gotham may not be very safe as a city, but it’s good for two ghosts trying to pass as normal. 

Danny sighs yet again, and looks at the space he’ll need to fill. At least Vlad is footing the bill. It’s the least he can do for creating Ellie. Frostbite was the one who was able to stabilize her, though it was almost too late and resulted in her reforming as a baby, just one and a half years old. Jazz is the one who’s choosing most of the furniture, thankfully, so it’s something that Danny doesn’t need to worry about it.

It’s a new start to their lives and it feels so empty. So overwhelming. How did his parents do it? How do any parents do it?

Ellie smacks a small palm against his cheek and babbles lightly.

“I know, Ellie,” Danny says, giving her a tired smile. “Don’t worry, we’ll have this place looking good in no time.”

He adjusts her in his arms, then heads towards the bedroom. It’s the only room that has any furniture, and all that’s there is a bed, a crib, and a bookcase. There are a few boxes on the floor, labeled ‘bedroom’ and ‘clothing’ and ‘books’. Most of it came from his bedroom in Amity Park, but he’s pretty sure he caught Jazz sneaking a few things in before they closed the boxes and loaded them up into the car. 

“Can you be good for five minutes?” he asks Ellie. 

She babbles again and smacks his shoulder.

“I’m taking that as an agreement. Just let me open these boxes and start unpacking before you start causing trouble, okay?”

Ellie makes another sound, but it seems agreeable so Danny carefully lays her down in the crib and gets to peeling off the tape on the boxes. The opens the one labeled ‘bedroom’ first, finding blankets and sheets folded and stacked in vacuum sealed bags. One of them is his old childhood blanket, the one he carried around everywhere that was faded with age, barely blue, with white bunnies decorating it. 

He was so small when he had this. It makes him oddly emotional to unpack it and pass it on to Ellie, draping it over her so her pudgy little hands can grab at it. 

This is no time to cry, though! He forces himself to focus and makes his own bed, shaking out the sheets and fluffing up the pillows. He’ll worry about washing everything later; Vlad made sure to get an apartment with an in-unit washer and dryer, which means he was actually sensible while apartment hunting for Danny. 

He doesn’t mean to flop onto the bed once it’s made, but he ends up there anyways. He’s barely gotten a full six hours of uninterrupted sleep since Frostbite deemed Ellie healthy enough to leave his care. The drive up to Gotham was long and wore him down to his bones.

He doesn’t mean to fall asleep, but he does, drifting off as he wonders, distantly, when Jazz will be back from getting them dinner.

Ellie wakes him up at dawn with a loud cry. Danny jolts awake, heart pounding in his chest as he panics because Ellie isn’t here, she’s supposed to be in his arms, where is she? And then he sees the crib, where Ellie is staring at him through the bars, and he nearly collapses with relief. 

“Morning, El,” he says, voice rough from sleep, as he picks her up. She just stares up at him, then leans forward and rests her head against his shoulder.

It’s quiet moments like these that make his heart melt. Ellie’s had a hard life already; he wants to give her a better one, this time around. 

A quick check of the time on his nearly dead phone shows that it’s barely past six in the morning, and Jazz texted him a few times. All about furniture, saying that she didn’t want to wake them and that food is in the fridge. 

It’s only the mention of food that makes him realize how ravenous he’s feeling. Danny makes a beeline for the kitchen, ignoring everything else, and pulls out the boxes of take-out Jazz left stacked in the fridge. He devours it like he’s been starving for weeks, then gives Ellie her Ecto-Jello, the only food she’s allowed to eat until Frostbite gives the okay for solid, human food. 

Once he’s got her burped and cleaned up, Danny looks out of the kitchen and realizes that Jazz was very productive while he was asleep. The living room isn’t empty anymore; a dark green couch is against the wall, a low, rectangular coffee table made of dark wood in front of it. Two armchairs are on both sides of the couch, and a television has been installed, fixed into the wall. 

Jazz is asleep on the couch. Her legs hang off an armrest and she’s drooling slightly. 

Her phone is charging on the floor, so Danny takes it and snaps a picture of her for later teasing, then sends it to himself and writes a note to her that he’s going out with Ellie to explore the neighborhood.

He’s finally feeling more settled, energized from sleep and food.

In the warm dawn light spilling in through the windows, Danny looks down at Ellie and thinks that they’ll be just fine after all. 

. . .

Four months ago, Danny had hope. He was optimistic. 

Gotham was a fresh start, a new lease of life for Ellie. It is Danny’s attempt to be a single parent, sacrificing college for Ellie, and he’s planning to go out and beat the gangs black and blue if they start anymore shootouts in the next year.

He had just gotten Ellie to sleep. She was actually peacefully taking a nap.

And then a drive by shooter raced down the street, gunshots echoing down the road, and Ellie work up crying. She still hasn’t stopped, despite how Danny rocked her, soothing her as best he could.

They had been outside when Ellie fell asleep, her head on his shoulder. He had been catching up with Sam and Tucker when the car drove by, people ducking and crying out to avoid the bullets. Danny instinctively covered Ellie and made them both intangible, saving them from any stray bullets, but they ruined her nap and he needs to make them pay for that. 

“Shh,” he soothes, “You’re okay. We’re both fine. It’s okay, El, it’s okay.” 

Her little hands clutch at his back, twisting the fabric of his shirt, and she lets out a heartbreaking wail. He pats her back, hurrying down the street to get back to his apartment building, ignoring the looks people were giving them as they passed by. 

“I know it was scary, but you’re alright. You’re always safe with me, El.”

Ellie’s cries down down a little, but they don’t stop. She whimpers, burying her face against his shoulder as he finally reaches their apartment building.

The door’s locked, which wouldn’t be a problem except Danny can’t get his keys from his pocket. He knows he has them! But his pocket refuses to relinquish them and he has to stop every few seconds to pat Ellie’s back, trying in vain to calm her down. 

“We’ll be inside in a second,” he tells her, trying to keep the frustration out of his voice, “as soon as I can get these freaking keys!”

“Hey, you alright?”

Danny startles, whirling around so fast it makes Ellie go quiet, clinging to him so she doesn’t get flung into the air. There’s a guy standing before him in a gray hoodie, looking at him with clear concern. It speaks to Danny’s level of constant exhaustion that he hadn’t clocked someone sneaking up behind him. 

The guy offers an awkward smile. “Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you or anything. Um, do you need me to open to door? I live here too.”

Danny wonders for a moment if this someone dangerous, someone hoping to hurt Ellie, but she starts to cry again and he steps to the side. “Please. I can’t get my keys.”

“I’m Duke, by the way. I don’t think I’ve seen you around here before.”

“Danny,” he replies, watching as Duke pulls out a large key ring, jangling with the amount of keychains on it, and easily opens the door. “I’ve been here a few months, but I’m usually inside. Or walking around in the mornings with this little monster.”

“That would explain it,” Duke says as he holds the door open, letting Danny in first. “I’m usually in classes at GCU, but I decided to take a mental health day after my lab, so here I am.”

Danny walks in and waits for Duke to follow, making sure the door closes properly behind them. “Thanks. How is GCU? What do you study? I was thinking of going there myself once she gets a little older and can go to school.”

“Oh, I’m majoring in English and Human Services.” He goes to say more, but Ellie wails again and Danny winces.

“I’m so sorry. That drive by woke her up and it’s really rattled her.”

“Hey, no need to apologize. I get it, Gotham is rough to kids.”

Danny tries rocking her back and forth, but it doesn’t help. He resigns himself to another hour of her crying before she exhausts herself, and makes for the stairs, going up to the fourth floor. Duke holds open the door again, then follows after them. It makes Danny wonder if Duke is planning to do something to them, then decides he can beat Duke in a fight, so it’s fine.

Duke doesn’t try to hurt them or steal Ellie away. He opens the door to their floor and stops before they do. “I’m in here,” he says, “If you ever need me to open more doors.”

“Thanks. Um, actually, I might need help opening mine?”

Duke just smiles and makes his way back to them, following them farther into the hall until Danny stops in front of his apartment. 

“If I could just get my keys,” he starts.

“Here, let me hold her for a second so you can get them,” Duke offers. Danny wants to insist that it’s fine, but Ellie cries directly into his ear and Danny, at the end of his rope, passes her over. 

Like magic, Ellie settles as soon as she’s in Duke’s arms. She sniffles and hides her face away, clutching to Duke’s hoodie, but she stops crying. They both go still, surprised, and stare down at her. 

“Seriously?” Danny says as he finally pulls out his keys, “Are you trying to say that I’m the problem?”

Ellie babbles lightly, and Duke turns his head to futilely hide his grin.

He grumbles as he unlocks the door and pushes it open. Ellie is acting as if she’s never been upset before a day in her life, making herself at home in Duke’s arms. 

“I can’t believe this. Betrayed by my own blood.”

Duke laughs as he follows Danny into his apartment, lightly patting Ellie’s back. “It’s always the smallest, cutest ones that do this.”

“Yeah? Do you work with a lot of kids or something? Used to being betrayed by the little ones?”

“I don’t work with kids per se,” Duke says, “But my foster family is a hot mess and the youngest of them likes to keep us all on our toes.”

“Family,” Danny says in a tired, fond tone.

“Family,” Duke agrees.

With his door open and Ellie calm, Danny’s ready to just lay face down on the floor for the rest of the day and not deal with anything else. He moves to take Ellie back, holding his arms out, and Duke tries to pass her over.

The key word being tries. 

Ellie tightens her grip and kicks at Danny. She refuses to be taken away from Duke, making him awkwardly try to pry her off his hoodie. Danny really hopes Duke doesn’t notice how she goes slightly intangible to make his hands fall through her arms and legs. It shouldn’t be noticeable, but it’s hard to focus on anything but a kid that clings to you, so Danny holds out for Duke’s goodwill and silence.

“As nice as it is to meet you, you need to go back to your… parent?” Danny nods when Duke looks at him in askance. “You need to go back to your parent. Okay? Come on, kid, he’s waiting for you.”

Ellie shakes her head, makes a frustrated noise, and then turns and reaches out a grabby hand towards Danny. 

She still refuses to be taken from Duke when Danny tries to pick her up again, so he settles with just letting her hold two of his fingers. 

“I’m so sorry about this,” he says to Duke, face burning. This is why he hasn’t been going out and being social since he moved in; Ellie is a handful even on the best days, and Danny doesn’t want someone to judge him as unfit to parent her and have her taken away.

Duke shakes his head, stepping closer. “It’s all good, man. I don’t mind. It’s not like I had any plans today. I’m already skipping my classes, might as well spend it with you two than sleep all day.”

“Are you sure? I’d be happy to invite you in, but I know Ellie can be a lot and not everyone wants to spend their day off with a baby.”

“I’m sure. Besides, I’d just be down the hall anyways. It’s no skin off my back, man.”

“Well,” Danny says, stepping to the side to give Duke full access to his open doorway, “Come on in, then.”

Ellie keeps them connected, one hand in Duke’s hoodie and the other holding Danny’s fingers, and though her cheeks are still red from how hard she had been crying, she’s calm now with her eyes shining with mischief. 

As the door closes behind them, Danny realizes that this is the first time someone he’s not related to has been inside his apartment. Not even Vlad has come in, always choosing to invite Danny and Ellie out for lunch instead. 

It should make him nervous, but Duke is calm and easy going and kind. 

He’s making silly faces at Ellie to make her laugh, completely at ease with her in his arms, as if he’s done this a thousand times before. 

Gotham is a second chance at life for Ellie. It’s a sacrifice for Danny, to be alone and without friends or family around. He’d been ready to give up everything for Ellie, to focus solely on raising her, but with Duke filling his apartment with laughter, he thinks that he can make a life here too.

All he needs to do is take that first step, reach his hand out, ask Duke to stick around.

He can do this.