#fabric sofa cleaner

[mysteamgreencarpetcleaning]

Uncover the Hidden Benefits of Eco-Friendly Sofa Cleaning Methods by My Steam Green

Welcome to the realm of My Steam Green, where we unveil the enchanting world of eco-friendly sofa cleaning and its hidden treasures! Beyond the surface, our eco-conscious methods work their magic, banishing stains and odors, while nurturing the very fabric of your beloved sofa. Embrace the allure of a greener choice as our skilled artisans harness the power of nature to rejuvenate your living space. Delight in a fresher, healthier home, knowing that every clean is a step towards preserving the beauty of our planet. Join us on this journey of sustainability, where your sofa is not just clean, but also a testament to your commitment to a cleaner world. Choose My Steam Green for a transformative sofa cleaning experience that leaves your heart and home beaming with eco-pride!

My Steam Green Carpet Cleaning

United States

800-935-6705

[moongothic]

I have a lot of scrap materials. Scrap wood, foam, fabric, and god knows what else. Just, a lot of leftovers from previous projects.

So I figured I could try to MAKE something out of them, just to put those materials into use so they could become something instead of just sitting around uselessly, taking space and collecting dust.

I thought making a footstool could be a fun, easy-ish project for me to do this winter.

So here, come along with me on this journey of making a wonky, scrap footstool

So key thing here is that I very specifically wanted to avoid buying ANYTHING for this project. I did end up buying two things, a pullsaw (which is a general tool I can use in other projects, so I figured I could get away with it), and one itty bitty thing that ended up costing like, what, 2€?

But yes, my goal was to use things I already have and give them a purpose, not accumulate any MORE scrap materials. This is important because through out this project I ended up using many Unideal Methods For Doing Things, mainly because I didn't have enough material to do it The Ideal Way.

This is not a tutorial for efficiency, this is my journey to repurpose garbage. Just wanna be clear about that. There are better ways to build a footstool.

Anyway, I started the project from arguably the weirdest part; figuring out how much fabric I had from the chair project

The thing was that I wanted to make the footstool as big as I possibly could with the material I had, so I had to start this project by figuring out the maximum size I could do with the fabric I had.

So I figured out the dimensions I could do (even cut the fabric pieces while I was at it), and then using those dimensions as a guide, I went off to figure out the wood pieces I would need for the frame of the stool, as well as the feet. Once I had things measured out, I cut the pieces and boom

Wood pieces obtained.

Sidenote, yes, a 90 degree angle on the corners would have looked much prettier than what I did, I just figured that this would be easier to cut (I cut those pieces before I bought my new pullsaw), also, I wasn't sure how I would perma-attach the pieces if the corners were done like that. Like, with these corners, I could fortify them with dowels or nails or whatever, but clean corners at an angle? I have no idea how to pull that off, and I don't have the energy to to try anything fancy, man, I wanted this to be semi-easy

(There was no way in hell I was gonna attempt somekinda dovetail joint here, I didn't have enough wood to work with (there was a point where I was actually worried I wouldn't have enough wood to build the frame at all) and god knows I'm nowhere near good enough at wood working to pull something like that off)

Anyway, I did originally intend to attach the wood pieces with dowels, since they'd be hidden and look neat (by not being visible at all), but when I drilled the first hole for the first dowel, I realized that 1) I didn't have a drill bit large enough for the dowel to fit in, and 2) I did not have it in me to actually do it. Like, to make sure the wood pieces would allign correct I would have to make sure I was drilling Very Straight into the wood, not once, not four times, but 16 times (since I was planning on using 2 dowels at each joint). If I didn't drill the dowel holes perfectly straight and perfectly aligned, the frame wouldn't come together, and I did not want to risk fucking that up, man, no

So I took the easy way out.

Nails.

I do kinda regret picking these nails, I should've used less obvious ones OR waited until the wood was painted before nailing them together because these are kinda pretty nails, so it ended up being kind of a waste to use them (since there was no way I was gonna AVOID these nails while painting the wood). IDK I was worried the glue alone wouldn't hold the wood strong enough while I was working with the frame or something and chose poorly here. But it is what it is. (On the plus side, we seemed to have exactly 12 of these nails, which was the exact perfect amount)

Anyways, yes, I chose to paint the frame because I have leftover paint (and primer) from the previous project so I figured I might as well use it up. Even though I hate this fucking paint so much

Two or three coats of primer, a gentle sanding after them, the wood was perfectly smooth and lovely

Then came the paint and it looks like shit, just like last time

I did like. What, four coats of paint. Sanding between the coats. Dilluting it so it wouldn't be so thick. And yet. And yet it looks like shit. Just like last time, with the chair I refinished. I mean I knew it was gonna turn out like ass but I'm still kind of shocked by how bad it turned out.

Anyway. Ideally you'd probably make a cushion onto some random piece of plywood (or something similar) that you would slot into the frame of the stool. I did not have any plywood pieces, nor did I have enough wood to make a small, thinner frame to slot into the main frame. So.

To create a bottom I used this ribbon that I have an entire fuckload of (since I bought it for that fucking lamp before realizing I couldn't use it and couldn't return either, literally have nothing better to do with it so here it goes) to weave a bottom onto the frame. And a bit later I attached a piece of fabric on top of the weaving (another leftover from the lamp project), as this would be what I'd glue the cushion onto.

But first, I had to make a cushion!

As you can see, I have a lot of scrap foam

(Yes I've kept the original foam from the styrofoam chair, I did cut it down to get rid of the damaged edges (after taking this photo) but otherwise the foam is fine, shhhhhh) (Also the white foam is what I bought for the chair project, the yellow foam is something my mom had bought years ago that we've had laying around for ages)

I wanted the cushion of the stool to have some height to it, but I didn't have any thick pieces of foam, so I figured I could just make a thick foam piece from the scraps I had, with some help from the foam glue I have (the same stuff I bought for the styrofoam chair but wasn't able to use since it melted the styrofoam).

Started by figuring out the rough dimensions of the foam piece I'd need (from the biggest, cleanest piece I had)

And I got started making a Foam Sandwich

Let me tell you my hands were an absolute mess during this whole process, I was essentially washing my hands with fucking nail polish remover (I just noticed the foam glue smelled like nail polish remover and realized it would probably get rid of the residue on my hands, which it did, thank fuck), it was nasty

But yes, Big Foam Sammich. I did start lowkey cutting it WHILE I was building the cushion, since my goal here was to not waste materials so. Y'know. I tried to make sure I wouldn't waste materials.

After the cushion was formed, I let it dry for a good while before I went in to shave the edges and cut it down. After that I used this floofier scrap foam to cover the sandwich. I could have glued it on, but I figured I had killed enough of my braincells while making the foam sandwich and breathing in the glue fumes that I decided that sewing would be good enough.

Two flooffy foam pieces were enough to cover the cushion, I just sewed them together on top and sewed them to the bottom of the cushion. It was quite easy indeed.

With that all done, I could attach the finished cushion onto the frame!

Brought the glue back out so I could just glue the foam onto the fabric that was stapled onto the frame, and I allowed it to dry (upside down, with some weights)

And yes, ideally you would staple the foam down onto a separate piece of wood, but since it was going directly on top of the frame and I didn't want to staple it onto the frame, I didn't. I wanted the wood (and my shitty paint job) to be visible, and the fabric would need to be stapled onto the frame anyways, so the glue just had to do the job here.

ANYWAY, UPHOLSTERY TIME

Since the fabric pieces were long done, I could just get straight into it. I pinned the fabric pieces down and handsewed the whole thing. I do admit I regret not ironing the fabric before I started though, I forgot and by the time I realized it was too late, and there was no way I was going to lift the fabric off the stool at this point. I learned my god damn lesson with the styrofoam chair, I know there would've been no way for me to put the fabric back down as neatly as it had been before, it was not worth it.

Anyway, I sewed the fabric and to finish things off I stapled the bottom of the fabric down, onto the frame. And yes I did a wonky ass job, shush

And here comes the one thing I ended up buying for this project, the thing that cost me like 2€

Decorative ribbon to hide the staples! Since I couldn't think of any other way to hide the staples.

And y'all, I understand now why people normally just glue this shit on, it took me like FIVE FUCKING HOURS to sew the ribbon onto the stool!! Mainly because my smallest upholstery needle was WAY too big for this job, and my thinner straight needless were too hard to use for this. My fingers were hurting so bad even the next day, like I understand what thimbles are for now, holy shit

Also. I did not have black sewing thread. So I ended up using yellow thread and then gently went over it with a black (waterproof) marker so the thread wouldn't be visible over the ribbon. (I didn't take photos of it so you'll just have to take my word for it)

So yeah. Shit took forever, I wish I had a hotglue gun but I don't, so it just had to be done the hard way. All things considdered though, it worked out alright, and the ribbon is nice and secure on the stool.

Now, you might've noticed that I haven't mentioned doing anything to the feet of the stool. That's because I haven't finished them.

It's the middle of winter. It's cold. I can't be bothered to go outside to stand the cold for hours to finish the feet of the stool. I need to shape them, I need to sand them, I need to make sure they're all the same lenght etc, all this before I can even prime and paint them and attach them to the frame. But since I can't access our patio, I can't use my orbital sander to speed things up. And I can't be bothered to do all that word by sanding the wood by hand. I am far too lazy for that man, nah

So I'm going to finish this project when the weather gets nicer and our patio isn't covered in a meter of snow.

I'll finish the feet of the footstool later.

So there will probably be a follow up to this post later

But yeah, here's my unideal, imperfect footstool, made almost entirely out of scrap materials.

It looks like ass, but hey I've never tried to build a piece of furniture before, give me a break, I'm a comic artist not a furniture maker

[housekeepinginfo]

The Best Couch Cleaners - According To Our Testing

Spills and stains happen, but you can clean them up with an upholstery cleaner. These cleaners work on many things, like furniture and car interiors. We tested 23 cleaners to find the best ones for you.

We looked at how well they work, how easy they are to carry, and how quiet they are. We also checked their value and how easy they are to use.

[diamondsteamcleaning]

Revitalize Your Space with Professional Steam Cleaners in Melbourne!

Discover the epitome of cleanliness and freshness for your Melbourne home or business with Diamond's Steam Cleaning Services. Our expert steam cleaners employ cutting-edge technology and proven techniques to restore your carpets, upholstery, and floors to their pristine condition. Say goodbye to stubborn stains, odors, and allergens, and hello to a rejuvenated living or working environment. Trust Diamond's for unparalleled steam cleaning excellence in Melbourne. Visit our website to learn more!

URL: https://www.diamondsteamcleaning.com.au/steam-cleaners-in-melbourne/

Tags: #SteamCleaning #MelbourneCleaners #ProfessionalCleaning #HomeMaintenance #CleanLiving #UpholsteryCleaning #CarpetCare

[brightcouchcleaningsunshinecoast]

Expert Fabric Sofa Cleaning Secrets for Sunshine Coast Homeowners

A sofa is not just a piece of furniture; it's a focal point in your living space, providing comfort and style. However, with regular use, fabric sofas can accumulate dirt, stains, and allergens, affecting both their appearance and longevity. In this article, we'll delve into expert fabric sofa cleaning secrets for Sunshine Coast homeowners.

Importance of Regular Sofa Cleaning

Regular sofa cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing living environment. Not only does it enhance the appearance of your furniture, but it also eliminates allergens, dust mites, and bacteria that can accumulate over time. Additionally, proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your fabric sofa, saving you money in the long run.

Understanding Fabric Types

Fabric sofas come in a variety of materials, each requiring specific care and cleaning techniques. Before embarking on the cleaning process, it's crucial to identify the type of fabric used in your sofa. Common fabric types include linen, cotton, polyester, and leather, each with its own set of characteristics and cleaning requirements.

Preparing for Cleaning

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather all necessary supplies, including a vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachments, mild detergent, white vinegar, and a soft-bristled brush. It's also advisable to perform a pre-test on a small, inconspicuous area of your sofa to ensure that the cleaning solution doesn't cause any damage.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Vacuuming: Begin by thoroughly vacuuming the entire surface of your sofa to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris.

Stain removal: Treat any stains or spots on your sofa using a mild detergent or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth, being careful not to rub it further into the fabric.

Deep cleaning: For a deeper clean, use a fabric-specific upholstery cleaner or create your own solution using mild detergent and warm water. Test the solution on a small area before applying it to the entire sofa. Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the fabric in a circular motion, then wipe away excess moisture with a clean, damp cloth.

Drying: Allow your sofa to air dry completely before placing any cushions or throws back onto it. Avoid using heat sources such as hair dryers, as they can damage the fabric.

Tips for Maintenance

To keep your fabric sofa looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:

Regular vacuuming: Remove surface dirt and debris at least once a week to prevent buildup.

Addressing stains promptly: Deal with spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting into the fabric.

Professional cleaning: Consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaner annually for a thorough deep clean and stain removal.

DIY (Do it Yourself) vs. Professional Cleaning

While DIY (Do it Yourself) cleaning methods can be effective for routine maintenance, there are certain advantages to hiring a professional upholstery cleaner. Professionals have access to specialized equipment and cleaning solutions, ensuring a deeper clean and more thorough stain removal. Additionally, professional cleaning can prolong the lifespan of your sofa and maintain its appearance over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your fabric sofa. By understanding your sofa's fabric type and following expert cleaning techniques, you can keep it looking fresh and inviting for years to come.

[sofacleaningadelaide]

Revive Your Fabric Sofa in Adelaide: The Ultimate Cleaning Hacks You Need to Know

Fabric sofas are a beloved addition to any home, providing comfort and style. However, with daily use, they can accumulate dirt, stains, and odors, diminishing their appeal and longevity. Adopting professional fabric sofa cleaning service in Adelaide is essential for maintaining a fresh and inviting living space.

Understanding Fabric Sofa Cleaning

Not all fabric sofas are created equal. Understanding the type of fabric your sofa is made of is crucial for determining the appropriate cleaning methods. From delicate silk to durable polyester, each fabric requires specific care to prevent damage.

Common Sofa Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Many homeowners inadvertently make mistakes when attempting to clean their fabric sofas, leading to further damage. Avoiding these common pitfalls can help preserve the integrity of your furniture and extend its lifespan.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. From vacuum cleaners to gentle detergents, having everything on hand will streamline the cleaning process and ensure optimal results.

Spot Cleaning Techniques

Spills and stains are inevitable, but with the right techniques, they don't have to be permanent. From wine spills to pet accidents, there are effective methods for removing stubborn stains without causing damage to your fabric sofa.

Deep Cleaning Methods

For a thorough clean, deep cleaning methods are necessary to remove embedded dirt and grime. From steam cleaning to shampooing, these techniques penetrate deep into the fabric, restoring its original freshness.

DIY (Do it Yourself) Cleaning Solutions

For eco-conscious homeowners, DIY cleaning solutions offer an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to store-bought products. With simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, you can create powerful cleaning solutions that won't harm your fabric sofa or the environment.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining a clean fabric sofa. By implementing regular maintenance tips such as vacuuming and rotating cushions, you can prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and prolong the life of your furniture.

Professional Cleaning Services

In some cases, professional cleaning services may be necessary to tackle stubborn stains or deeply ingrained dirt. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to revitalize your fabric sofa, leaving it looking and smelling fresh.

Extending the Lifespan of Your Fabric Sofa

With proper care and maintenance, your fabric sofa can withstand years of use without showing signs of wear and tear. From avoiding direct sunlight to fluffing cushions regularly, there are simple steps you can take to ensure your sofa remains in pristine condition for years to come.

Dealing with Odors

Unpleasant odors can quickly ruin the ambiance of your living space. Fortunately, there are effective methods for eliminating odors from fabric sofas, including baking soda and essential oils.

Protecting Your Sofa

Preventive measures such as using slipcovers and rotating cushions can help protect your fabric sofa from spills and stains. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your furniture, you can enjoy its beauty and comfort for years to come.

Conclusion

Keeping your fabric sofa clean is essential for maintaining a fresh and inviting living space. By following the ultimate cleaning hacks outlined above, you can revive your fabric sofa and enjoy its comfort and style for years to come.

FAQs

How often should I clean my fabric sofa?

It's recommended to vacuum your fabric sofa weekly and perform a deep clean every 6-12 months, depending on usage.

Can I use bleach to clean my fabric sofa?

No, bleach can damage fabric and should be avoided. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning solutions specifically designed for upholstery.

Are professional cleaning services expensive?

The cost of professional cleaning services varies depending on the size of your sofa and the extent of cleaning required. However, many companies offer competitive rates and discounts for regular customers.

Will cleaning my fabric sofa remove its water-resistant coating?

It's possible that some cleaning methods may compromise the water-resistant coating of your sofa. However, you can reapply a water-resistant spray after cleaning to maintain its protective properties.

How can I prevent my fabric sofa from fading?

To prevent fading, avoid placing your sofa in direct sunlight and rotate cushions regularly to distribute wear evenly.

[keenupholsterycleaningcanberra]

Renew Your Fabric Sofa: Cleaning Services in Canberra

Revitalize your fabric sofa with our expert fabric sofa cleaning services in Canberra. Say goodbye to embedded dirt and stains as we refresh your upholstery, leaving it looking and feeling like new. Our meticulous approach ensures a deep clean, restoring the beauty and comfort of your sofa. Renew your fabric sofa today!

For More information:

[sheencleaning]

Revive Your Outdoor Space with the Ultimate Outdoor Fabric Cleaner

Experience the power of our premium Outdoor Fabric Cleaner. Safely and effectively remove stubborn stains, dirt, and grime from your outdoor furniture, cushions, and fabrics. Restore their original beauty and enjoy a fresh, clean outdoor space with our trusted Outdoor Fabric Cleaner.

[dwsofacleaning]

DW Sofa Cleaning Singapore

Address : 1090 Lower Delta Road #03-07R Singapore 169201

Phone : +65 6232 6613

Website : https://dwsofacleaning.com

DW Sofa Cleaning Singapore offers you a one-stop solution for your sofa cleaning needs in Singapore. Our professional and reliable services include sofa deep cleaning, sofa stain removal, and upholstery cleaning. Our professional sofa cleaning specialists will ensure to perform the cleaning services professionally. Check out our articles for an extensive view of our services and cleaning tips. Do not hesitate to call us or contact us via Whatsapp at +65 8241 0032 to solve any of your sofa cleaning needs!

[mysteamgreencarpetcleaning]

Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Sofa with The Experts of My Steam Green Cleaning

When it comes to the care and maintenance of your beloved sofa. There is no better choice than the skilled professionals at My Steam Green Carpet Cleaning. Our expertise lies in the art of sofa cleaning and our goal is straightforward: to protect and preserve the lifespan of your cherished piece of furniture. By entrusting us with your sofa you not only guarantee a clean and sanitary living environment but also extend the longevity of your sofa. Enabling you to continue relishing in its comfort for many years. Experience the transformative effects of our specialized sofa cleaning services and let us demonstrate our exceptional abilities on your furniture today.

My Steam Green Carpet Cleaning

United States

800-935-6705

https://mysteamgreencarpetcleaning.com

[bestcarpetcleaningandpestcontrol]

Keep your sofa clean and stain-removal, a fabric steam cleaner is the perfect solution by best Carpet cleaning |Brisbane

Keeping your upholstered furniture looking its best can be a challenge, especially when it comes to removing stubborn stains. Fortunately, there are now professional services available in Brisbane by beat carpet cleaning & pest control that specialize in sofa stain removal and fabric steam cleaning. With their help, you can get rid of those unsightly marks and keep your furniture looking like new. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of using a professional sofa stain removal service in Brisbane, as well as the different types of fabric steam cleaners available.

Removing stains from your sofa can be a difficult and time-consuming task. Fortunately, fabric steam cleaners in Brisbane can make the job much easier. With the help of a fabric steam cleaner, you can quickly and easily remove all kinds of stains from your sofa, including food and drink spills, pet accidents, and more.Moreover, these cleaners can also help to get rid of bacteria and germs that may be lurking in your furniture. So if you are looking for an effective way to keep your sofa clean and stain-free, a fabric steam cleaner is the perfect solution.Visit now!!!For more detail visit:

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[deepdeanvsweston]

Detective gang being ill headcannons idk what to call them

Daisy

- we've already seen what she's like ill in DITS

- Hazel thinks she doesn't realise she's ill, just keeps going until she collapses, or someone forces her into bed

- but the truth is that Daisy feels the need to keep up appearances, and also if she faints it feels drastic enough for her to be allowed to be ill

- after DSS, she succumbs to colds a lot quicker than she used to, the chill of the river never quite left her bones

- usually able to sleep anywhere but when she's ill has incredibly specific preferences or else she won't rest at all

- the window has to be exactly a quarter open, with three blankets of exact same size and fabric, with 2 pillows and a cushion from the sofa to put her head on

- often ill for a longer period than usual, simply because she gets antsy quickly, declares she's better, tries to get up, and promptly makes herself sicker than before

Hazel

- it's actually Hazel who genuinely doesn't realise she's ill

- she'll have a 39 degree temperature and be like 'its just stress!!!'

- Daisy used to get annoyed when Hazel was ill because it meant they couldn't Do Things together, so Hazel sort of learnt to keep it in the down low that she was feeling rough

- they've since talked this issue out and Daisy is now apologetic and attentive

- a little too attentive now, Hazel thinks,

("And then of course the door *atchoo* would be open, not closed *atchoo*- Daisy, where are you going?"

"You've sneezed twice in a row, Watson, I'm getting the thermometer"

- it's nice to have an attentive Daisy rather than a selfish Daisy though, especially when she yells at everyone to keep the noise down because "HAZEL is sick"

- Hazel usually can't stand plain food (hyposensitive with food autistic) but when she's ill, she'll live off plain toast for the next 3-4 days

- Hazel knows she's feeling better because there will be a 'click' moment where plain toast is instantly revolting to her again

- the ONLY time Hazel enjoys the cold English weather is when she's running a fever

George

- tries not to show he's ill for appearance's sake like Daisy, but not silly enough to keep going like she would if he knows he's a risk to others

- you can tell George is ill though because he will fall asleep. Everywhere

- was sick during a case at Weston once, and fell asleep interviewing a suspect

("they had an incredibly monotonous voice Alex, now please don't bring it up again!")

- likes being sung to when he's ill

- takes all of his father's advice for not getting sick daily (wash your hands properly, cover mouth when you cough and sneeze etc.)

- so George isn't often ill but when he is, he gets it bad

- ofc noone likes being ill, but George does enjoy being in the san, it's far cleaner than the dorms, and there's a stillness in the air that's very comforting

- George gets incredibly bothered by his hair when he's ill so pins it back with his mother's kirby grips

Alex

- everyone gets a little worried when Alex gets sick, especially in winter because he has a history of being in and out of hospital as a child

- think scarlet fever, polio, croup

- he's usually fine though, it's likely just the common cold

- this does not stop George stealing his father's stethoscope to listen to Alex's lungs and seeing if anything's amiss

- (Alex thinks he does this just to show off the latest medical term he's learnt)

- doesn't like being ill because he gets sent to the san, which while being nice and having a friendly nurse, is incredibly lonely

- he's used to hearing the other boys sleeping, or while at home his family hosting a party, and it's too quiet in the san

- acts like a woodlouse when he's sick, as in will curl up into a small ball

- Alex being sick is the only time George will lose a card game

- ("Alex, you marvel, you've won again!"

"Don't patronise me George, I know you're letting me win...")

[gudvina]

Hayffie prompt - married in secret during the whole hunger games trilogy

The things I do to keep you near.

Ship: Effie Trinket/Haymitch Abernathy

Fandom: Hunger Games

Chapter 1: Wedding Bells.

Picks up after Sour Comments but both can be read as standalones!

can be read on AO3! <3

71st Hunger Games, reaping season.

District Twelve’s sweltering heat was heavy on Effie Trinket’s skin as she made her way to the Victors’ Village, taking in the blooming fields around it. Despite the heavy coat of ashes by the city the earth there seemed cleaner, with wildflowers and ivies taking over the village’s walls, making it look almost picturesque. It didn’t resemble any of the gardens she’d seen in the Capitol, even the ones meant to replicate perfect wilderness couldn’t quite catch the restlessness of that land.

She crossed the iron gates, trying to ignore the weight she felt in her chest. Another reaping. Another set of children sent to be slaughtered. Every year it was harder and harder to stomach, and the option of leaving it all behind her was always itching in the back of her mind. But she couldn’t.

And not only because of the usual mantra “once in the Games, always in the Games”. When she arrived at the door that seemed to await her every year she took a moment to sport her brightest smile, in case anyone was watching, and knocked. Chin up!

She heard a thud and a bit of rustling behind the door, which soon opened to reveal the one reason she couldn’t leave.

“Didn’t hear the hovercraft” he said, barely awake. His hair was dishevelled, there was a huge stain on his shirt that she suspected- and smelled- to be vomit, and the hand that leaned on the door frame held a bottle of some sort of spirit. A rush of tenderness swept through her and her smile sweetened. She was ridiculous, she knew, but she couldn’t help feeling oh, so happy just at the sight of him.

“Well, that’s not the polite way to greet guests, Haymitch! Come on, let’s get you ready, we have a big, big day ahead of us” she quipped, making her way in, successfully ignoring the unpleasant smell of the house.

She set down her bags on the floor, not trusting the sofa, and turned to him with a wrinkle of her nose. “Now, how about you freshen up? We don’t have the whole day, according to my schedule in four hours the stage will be ready!”

Haymitch was visibly embarrassed by the state of the house, or maybe his state, but he just grumbled something under his breath and went upstairs. He was aware that Effie would attempt to clean around, just like she had done all those years before, but it didn’t make it easier. At best, he used to be irritated by her misplacing his things, at worst, he used to hate that a Capitol would get to see his worst.

But there was never pity in her eyes, and slowly they’d learned to work around each other.

When he was finally presentable he went back downstairs, finding his house looking a lot less like a dumpster and a lot more like a house. He found a shapely shimmery piece of fabric on his armchair and followed the smell of coffee that led him to the kitchen.

She was leaning on the counter, her eyes on the brewer. “So, sweetheart, you found us someone other than Chip and Chop?”

“Name-calling is incredibly rude, Haymitch! And no, for your information Tulsia and Tallia are still our stylists. Seneca was not willing to drop them” she answered, trying to sound unaffected by the facts. She didn’t like their stylists any more than he did, but it would not do to dwell too much on it, especially since they were much better than the ones before. She had raged after the stunt of putting naked children on blast, no matter how hiding coal could be.

“Uh, what is it, boyfriend ain’t budging?” he sneered, knowing she didn’t like to be pressed about her relationship with the young Game Maker. They’d had a relationship in the early years of her escorting career, the power couple for every little Capitol girl who dreamed of marrying a man whose destiny was killing children for fun. Pictures of them in high school were flying around, and constant rumours of an upcoming marriage made waves through Panem’s scene.

All of that stopped when they broke it off, announcing to the press that they were still friends, but their lives were taking different directions and they still supported one another. If he hadn’t fucked her throughout the entire relationship, maybe Haymitch would have been shocked by the news as well.

She’d never told him what truly happened between them, though. Not even a hint. Crane still made her puppy eyes from across the room, that was enough to know that the split wasn’t mutual, but otherwise, he had no idea of what happened, nor did she offer any explanation. And he didn’t know if he wanted her to.

“He said he couldn’t find any interesting stylist this year, but he’ll press for the next”. She sighed, ignoring him to pour two cups of their coffee.

“Uhm, maybe you’re still salty he didn’t sail the wedding boat with you”.

“Why, Haymitch, it appears you know about me more than I do! Pray, any other insight?”

“Well, if you insist, princess, I happen to know exactly what might cheer you up” he smirked, letting his hand grab the soft flesh of her ass, pressing her against the counter. The soft moan she let out should have been illegal.

“Haymitch, behave, please” she whispered, but her voice was not convinced, and she suspected he could tell as well.

“Think you like it when I misbehave, sweetheart” he whispered, letting his hands wander over her body, relishing in the fact that she was wearing a dress that was airy enough to let him touch her bare skin under it. Her moans and the way she gripped the counter spurred him on, and he soon had his hands in between her legs, pressing soft circles in the sensitive flesh of her core.

She let out a soft ‘oof’ sound when he stopped his ministration, backing away a little to unbuckle his belt and free his shaft. Effie turned towards him, coffee forgotten, and got down on her knees, making quick work of taking him in her mouth, sucking him just the way he liked it.

He usually didn’t fuck her so early into the Game, but the previous year she had disappeared for half of the edition, and he truly wanted, no, needed to feel her around him.

Before he could lose it he gripped her jaw and pulled out, bringing her to her feet again. He kissed her hard, an angry battle of tongues and teeth, before pulling her legs up around his waist and pressing her onto the kitchen, sheathing himself inside her. She moaned greedily and held him tight, kissing the crook of his neck as his thrust picked up speed. She delighted in their reunion.

He couldn’t think of anything else but the softness of her against his hardness, and when her walls tightened he rode her orgasm, chasing his own. It didn’t take long. Her whimpers drove him wild and soon he was spilling inside her. He left soft kisses on the flushed skin of her collarbone, trying very hard to avoid leaving marks on her skin.

“And now you have to take another shower, I don’t know why I bother!” she started with her little sing-song tone, and he smirked, detecting the strain in her voice. Effie looked at him, his air was all over the place again. She didn’t dare move too much or touch him too softly, especially now that he’d already found his release.

After last year’s mishap, his behaviour had changed slightly. For years they’d shared mad, violent nights, taking each other any time they needed some solace from their realities, but gradually the violence had waned down a little to leave place for a connection she couldn’t quite name. She didn’t even dare admit it to herself, what he was for her. What she felt for him.

Haymitch didn’t move, deciding to keep playing with the soft skin of her chest, his stubble tickling her a little as she relaxed against him. Her eyes took in the kitchen, the golden summer light seeping through the window exposing the freckles of dust in the air. Time seemed to have stopped and she relished in that stillness.

Suddenly she felt him start to grab again at her skin, and despite his purpose in doing so all that did was bring her back to reality. “Haymitch, we need to leave in a few hours and, tell you that, I don’t want to be late”.

“When do you ever?” he groaned, pulling out of her as she took a handkerchief from the counter to clean herself up.

“Never, we need to decide what you’ll wear for today and make sure everything is ready before the Peacekeepers come to get us,” she said, and then continued for another while as she fretted about what to do and about what was the state of the clothes she’d bought him the previous year.

It was interesting to see her transform from Effie, the girl who’d just blessed his kitchen and ears with sounds that would be shameful even in a brothel, into Effie Trinket, the escort who needed to be on top of everything. He felt a lot for Effie. He didn’t get to see her much in the light of day, and missed her until her return, when the night brought down her wigs and masks.

In that moment Effie Trinket had taken over, and there was nothing he could do but get himself a drink and follow her lead.

***

Haymitch wasn’t drunk enough to deal with Tulsia and Tallia’s mindless chatter, so he got up and took a flask of alcohol with him. The two did nothing but talk about the same three subjects in rotation, their voices overlapping because supposedly “twins have a special connection” and fuss over what might happen at whatever event. The children had retired for the night, a boy and a girl of twelve. This year, much more than the year before, it was hopeless. At the very least the girl was cute enough that some sponsors might just take pity on her, but he wasn’t even sure they’d survive the bloodbath.

He moved through the train’s carts, before finally coming to the one he was directed to. He entered and knocked on the door of the compartment he knew she was in, waiting for her to open. The soft padding of bare feet against the carpet could be heard behind the wood panel and then she appeared before him; no wigs, no makeup, just her in a nightgown.

“Haymitch, it’s incredibly late and I’m about to settle for bed. What is it?” she whispered, looking behind him in case there were waiters around. But the train had stopped for maintenance in District 7, and they were all slaving after the twins’ whims.

It took a while for him to answer, transfixed by the golden tresses crowning her visage. He knew he was about to do something stupid, but when she looked like herself being stupid didn’t sound so bad.

“I want to take a walk, come with me and bring matches” he whispered, before disappearing into another compartment where he stole a loaf of bread. Maybe last year’s absence had gotten under his skin more than he cared to let on. A part of him was screaming that it didn’t matter, that she was free to do what she wanted, and this wouldn’t change anything. But his madness for her won over any common sense.

Maybe twelve’s traditions had some meaning. Maybe it would influence something. He was mad. And drunk.

He stepped outside the train, putting on his best show by slurring to Peacekeepers that he wanted to take a walk, disappearing right outside the stations where an expanse of wood met his tired eyes. Good.

He didn’t dare step too far, just enough to be hidden by the guards, and sat down on the ground.

A bat of an eyelash and a worried mention of appearances was enough for Effie to convince the guards to let her search for him on her own. What was wrong with her, she wondered. Why did she always follow him around? But she couldn’t help it, she was curious and even though the humidity made her gown cling to her skin she stepped outside, searching for him.

Her eyes surprisingly adapted to the darkness, and soon she found him sitting on the ground, holding something between his hands.

“What are you doing?”

“Give me the matches”

Effie hesitated, but she couldn’t detect his expression, so she gave him the matches. A few minutes later he’d lit up a small fire, and her eyes took a minute to adjust to the light. When she took a better look at him his expression was unreadable, but his eyes were set on something, and now she saw that what he was holding was a small loaf of bread that he was trying to toast on the fire without burning himself.

She was stunned into silence, looking as he turned it around.

Then he held it to her.

“Can you toast it a little better for me?” he asked, slightly amused by the confusion on her face.

Her brow furrowed, but she took it and did as he asked, turning the loaf to make sure it wouldn’t toast too much. She didn’t understand, the train had a toaster that got the job done quite well; there was no need to scamper about in the cold of the night. And yet she couldn’t stop herself, concentrating her energies on the task at hand. Of his drunken acts up, this was by far the least harmless. After all, he’d been almost polite.

When she was satisfied with the golden crust she returned him the bread, enjoying the warmth of the fire, when he surprised her once more. He took the loaf and broke it into two pieces, setting his half on his lap before placing the other half in her hands with uncharacteristic gentleness.

“Cheers!” he smirked and took a bite, his eyes fixed on her.

“I’m sorry?”.

“Eat the bread and shut up, Princess”.

“But… did you put something in the bread?”

“What, you wanted butter?”

“I- no, I… is this a joke?”

“What?” he asked, worry creeping on him. Did she know? He didn’t think Escorts required knowledge of the districts they’d take on, but still, if she knew…

“You force me, a lady, outside in the middle of the night to toast some bread when there are perfectly good toasters inside the train. It sounds like a joke, doesn’t it?”

Relief. She didn’t know.

“It tastes better like this, this is why I left you the other half, to be proven right. Now eat the damn thing and shut up” he shrugged and took another bite of the delicious bread. Avoiding danger had never felt so rewarding.

She looked at him, confusion still taking over her features, but did as he asked. They both ate in silence, listening to the sounds of the night, the cackling of the fire, and the station workers doing their job.

When they were done Haymitch got up, moved closer to her, still sitting on the ground, and grabbed her waist as he let their lips meet in a chaste kiss, where he could still taste the bread. He interrupted it before any of them could turn it into something more.

“Let me put out the fire and we’ll be out of here”.

It wasn’t a fancy thing, and she didn’t know what the hell was going on, but he hoped it would do the trick. Good luck on leaving him, now that she was his wife.

They returned to the train station with much fanfare from her and incoherent slurring from him, the usual show. When inside, he waited a few minutes to join her in her compartment, curling around her small frame and holding her close. If he was lucky he might be rewarded for his troubles in the morning, but for the night he was content with just holding her, lulled to sleep by her soft breath and the faint smell of peaches on her skin.

[luveline]

Sometimes I remember that circular grease stain that a cookie left on your couch and wonder if you ever managed to get it out of the fabric.

you remember that? 😭 I forgot about that myself until you mentioned it!!! I did actually get it out with baking soda and a little bit of enzyme cleaner, but I think we have a new sofa now since that happened haha