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quantumdanger · 6 years ago

Note

“Drink Me”

Leave a “Drink Me” in my ask, and I will write a drabble about my character taking shots with yours.

@illtaketheskyanyday

🔶 “I… I have to say I’m a little surprised you invited me out for drinks.” The smaller fowl released a laugh, keeping his eyes to the train floor. Damn Ace for not allowing him take a hover cycle only because this wasn’t a ‘mission based’ outing. Falco didn’t seem to mind having to stand with him and share a handrail but Darian wasn’t the best at reading people. So long as the train rode smoothly then maybe Duck would feel less embarrassed about—

A hard jolt, the wheels striking something large on the track sent everyone flying some feet to one side, the pilot pinning the hero against the doors. On accident of course as someone else had slammed into him. Falco had taken much harder hits than this and pushed himself away from the waterfowl as much as he could. If this jackarse behind him didn’t get off his back though… Catching himself growling, Falco formed a smirk with his question. “What makes you say that?”

Knowing the guy’s temper, Duck found it shocking he hadn’t punch the other person’s lights out yet. Again, he wasn’t the best judge of character. He pressed himself as much as possible against the doors, keeping a distance as his shoulders went rigid. Heat crept up along his cheeks with every passing second but he refused to face away. “Um, you’re always busy? You have better friends to hang out with?” There must have been other reasons but his scrambled brain couldn’t function properly. Those dark blue eyes played a major part.

Once he had more room to move, Falco pried away from the doors but slung an arm around the duck’s shoulders. “Danger, I think some drinking would loosen you up. I can tell you’re always tense.” As if making a point, he squeezed one of Darian’s locked arms. “I’m surprised you said yes. I never pegged you for an alcohol type but, it was worth a shot.”

Tense… that was much better than Falco noticing why he stiffen up around him, his whole body freezing from the grab. Thank goodness for black feathers covering his cheeks. Maybe he would look less up tight if he pulled down his jacket zipper? He held the metal piece in thought and slowly pulled to half way, revealing a long necklace with an anchor pendant. “I-I said I would so long as I got to pick the place.” A place he knew very well and could order weak shots for himself and let the ace go wild with his own drink choice.

Once their stop arrived, all it took was a few steps off the platform and one block to the bar. “Yep, here we are, the Spread Eagle.” He presented with an arm waving at the sign with an eagle appearing to swoop down at any moment. “The original one was somewhere in the UK but, that was a long time ago. This one has more a Tiki theme. It shouldn’t be too busy at this time.”

Spread Eagle? Did Danger know what that meant? “Have you actually been inside?”

Thoughts quickly threw back to the rarity of the team having free time to spend the night however they wished. Even with their youngest Loonatic being 19, they snuck him into locations easily. Duck never went past his limit of three drinks but, slowly built up to four. “Course I have! How else would I know that they have a tiki theme decor? Let’s go in a grab a seat already.” Perhaps having some one on one time with his crush in a slightly more intimate environment brought out his eagerness as he took the lead through the doors.

Yep, dark lighting as ever but, he had been here often enough to remember where the seats were and guided them to a tree trunk table for two. Feeling more comfortable, the hero opened his jacket fully, draping it over the chair then passed the menu, already knowing his order. “They don’t have cocktail service here but, I don’t mind going to the bar and ordering for us.”

Holding a sly grin with eyes glancing over the waterfowl, Falco shifted his gaze and read the selections. They did not have any drinks like this back home. “So the number of skulls measures the level of intensity? Oh, says here you can buy a souvenir glass.” A few moments of reading later and the bird set the menu aside. “Let’s start with a round of the Nakalele Knockout for the both of us and see where we go from there.”

“Got it. Be right back—” Wait. Did he say for the both of them!? He snatched a menu off from another empty table, finding the drink with… five skulls? The duck never went higher than three. Was Falco trying to get him plastered drunk? Or did he think Darian could handle something like that? And did he say start? “Should… should I tell them to open up a tab?”

“Sounds good to me.”

As he settled the shots down on the table and held up the small glasses, they clinked together and threw back the drinks. Holding down a grunt and trying his damnest not to make a face, Duck swallowed hard, the hibiscus flavor not strong enough for him as the rum burned predominantly down his throat. Keep it together, you got this. “Aah~! Didn’t I tell you the Spread Eagle Bar had the strongest drinks or what?“

“Can’t determined that after one taste. Order another and let’s try something else after? Says drink two and watch your step. We can handle it.” He found it refreshing to try something new and tropical. What else would wake the senses? Not wanting anything too weak where he couldn’t taste anything, he avoided the lower levels, skimming past them. Hm. Mango and ginger sounded like a spicy blend to try. When his companion returned with the second round, he asked before drinking. “Ever had the Wai’anae Wipeout?”

Was that another five skull level? Oh no, it was. “I can’t say I’ve had the pleasure.”

“After this one, we’ll get it. Don’t worry, I’ll grab it for us.”

You got this. You had a heavy lunch and you know your limit. Falco wouldn’t think little of you if you couldn’t handle as much as he could, right? “How kind of you. Can’t wait.” The second time though, Darian waited for the other male to drink before he tossed his shot into a nearby plant, who probably had one too many based on its lopsided stance. He hoped this wasn’t going to end up being a night he would forget in a drunken haze as Falco returned with the wipeout shots.

“Sucks that they don’t serve any food here. Not even chips! Oh well, bottoms up.” Mmm! They were not kidding around with the ginger. The ace caught himself laughing and slid over another shot for Darian, having ordered two sets. Four shots in, he hadn’t felt anything hit him yet but maybe this planet’s alcohol took a while longer. It was fascinating to discover the culture and qualities of other systems as some were similar to what he was used to. “Topped with a 160 proof float.” He read off another from the list, finger tapping the edge of his beak. “What the hell is a float? I doubt it’s ice cream.” He folded the menu and stood, heading right back at the bar.

“Ice cream would be a blessing right now.” He sighed, pressing a palm over his forehead and staring at the other bird. My limit is three but I’ve never had three five skull rated drinks before. I feel light headed already, maybe I should just tell him I can’t handle anymore? The room isn’t spinning yet so maybe I can do another?

“How’s hero work been treating you?”

Falco’s voice broke the waterfowl out of his panicking thoughts as he grabbed the shot glass without even thinking. He detected the sweet scent of oranges and mangoes and assumed it safe but didn’t put it to his lips yet. “I’m grateful for these highly resistant super suits but, being tossed around, pummeled and pulverized can take its toll.” Duck threw back the shot, rum burning down his throat and settling in his stomach again as he forced a smile. The light headed sensation grew as he swayed a bit in his seat and held onto the chair’s edge. “What was that one?”

“Hey, we’re supposed to be doing these together.” He feigned a frown but drank to catch up. “I’ll let it slide since it sounds like you need it. Most of my missions involve using cannons to blast enemies out of the sky. If you ask me, you’re ready to be in the air instead of on the ground where they can reach ya.” Now he felt a small buzz but not enough to stop him. “Oh, it’s called a… let me look again. A… Wild Watusi.”

He didn’t even have to check, knowing that as another high rated beverage. This wouldn’t end well for him if he didn’t stop taking shots. For years, the hero normally looked at as a joke always told himself not to care what anyone thought of him and it worked for most of his life. The mentality helped him pursue his goals but, looking like a lightweight in front of someone he looked up to and … developed an unintentional fondness for … pushed him to impress the ace. Just get him to keep talking and not drink! “You talked about big guns, what about big ships?”

“Hm? Oh yeah, the arwings we pilot are set in the mother ship called Great Fox. It’s pretty huge.” His tongue clicked. “Let’s see what I can remember about it. Custom built by Fox’s dad. Dude took out an 80 year mortgage for it which we’re all trying to pay back.”

“He took out an 80 year what?!” Good thing Darian didn’t have a drink otherwise, he would have spat it out.

“Ships are expensive as shit! Yeah! 80 years it’s going to take!”

“I think I rather go back to getting pummeled.” His little tactic in getting the bird to chat it up seemed to have a chance in working. He wondered how well.

A few hours and many shots later…

“Oh my gods, I am so sorry!” Darian laid his head to one side of the arm rest and covered his face with his jacket. He thought he could pace himself in drinking, spacing out the shots he took, when the talking method failed. He got up a few times to order at the bar but, mostly to see if he could still walk in a straight line.

“It’s ok.” Falco found it slightly humorous when his friend wobbled a few times to and from their table, trying to hide his painfully obvious drunken state. He had to hand it to the duck though, his speech never once slurred but his legs were a dead giveaway. “Good thing you didn’t take that hover cycle, huh?”

“This is embarrassing!” If not for the fact he rather not risk using his powers when intoxicated and not leave Falco alone, Darian would have teleported himself out of there as fast as possible.

“It’s ok. You’re probably not the first person ever wheel chaired out of a bar.” It sounded funnier when he said it out loud, pushing the duck towards the exit but he knew he couldn’t take the chair to the train. “Look at the bright side, you can hold your liquor.” He scooped up the smaller bird in his arms, heading out with the help of another patron holding the door.

The drunkard immediately struggled in the hold, peeking out and heating up at their closeness again. “You don’t have to carry me.”

A brow rose. “Can you stand?” He didn’t wait for an answer while setting the duck to his feet. Darian held firmly on the pilot, his knees buckling as he didn’t even take a step before falling to his side. Luckily, Falco caught him right on time and scooped him back up. He was still amazed how he didn’t weigh a thing. “Clearly you can’t. C’mon.”

The waterfowl whined, hiding himself under his jacket again. “No one look at me!” With every step the pilot took, the hero cursed himself mentally for getting so drunk but he had at least kept his enamored feelings shut. Though, when he peeked out and noticed some ruffled blue feathers along Falco’s neck, he reached and preened at least twice before hunkering back down. He kept quiet after the slip and took in the relaxing warmth from the male, curling into his chest and resting his foggy head against him.

“Think you can sit on your own?” Falco tried shifting Darian to one seat on the train ride back but didn’t hear a response. “Danger?” He checked under the black jacket, giving the hero a shake. He only received a soft snore as his friend hardly stirred. He must have passed out fast. Eventually, when they reached the Loonatics’ home, he had to wake up but, until they got there, Falco decided to let him sleep off the multiple shots.

#illtaketheskyanyday #Daredevil Duck Thanks You 🔶 Answered Asks #This was a lot of fun #thanks star!!!!#Mun Drabbles #I know some peeps say a drabble is only 100 words but #I feel like it's a short story #Drinking Tw #Profanity Tw #Long Post #V2 🔶 Hero Now

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storytellingape · 6 years ago

Text

i've been waiting for you to come around and tell me the truth

WIP mcsackler fic about adam sackler and how he falls in and out of love with one thomas mcgregor. adam grows up, wises up, and eventually gets over himself and thomas, the new tenant who just moved into his building with whom he develops feelings. too bad that's when thomas decides to catch feelings though at that point in the story adam has no love left to give. or does he? dun dun dun... this was a fun story to write, i wish i got around to finishing it. maybe i will. who knows. (6.5k words, rated M)

INTERLUDE

Adam has a key to Thomas’ apartment. It’s nothing special; he’s only allowed to use it during emergencies. Sometimes when Thomas is out on week-long trips, he has Adam come by to water Phyllis, his house plant. Thomas’ apartment is quaint and simple, with neatly-matching furniture and spectacular views that aren’t just brick and concrete. It’s the total opposite of Adam’s living space which is precisely why Adam likes it.

Thomas doesn’t have errant socks lying everywhere or bits of accumulated junk stuffed into every nook and cranny. He puts thought into organizing his belongings, using his own complicated system Adam can make neither heads or tails of. But everything has a place for certain: all his books and his clothing, his motley collection of vintage brooches.

When Adam is bored and he knows Thomas won’t be at home for a while, he hangs around Thomas’ apartment and looks at all the nice things he keeps in his drawers. He has a pair of reading glasses that he stores in a leather case in his bedside drawer that Adam has only seen him wear once when he was squinting at something on the back of cereal box. A prescription bottle of sleeping pills lives inside the medicine cabinet while a hardbound copy of A Very British Scandal sits primly on the windowsill bookmarked to page fifty-six with the corner smudged in what appears to be soy sauce. But Adam digresses. It’s probably a misprint: a blot of ink.

This is Thomas after all and he never leaves messes.

JANUARY

Neither of them really talk about that night but Adam remembers it with startling accuracy. Ever since he stopped drinking, his memory has been sharper though his sleep pattern is still shit: that was all the alcohol was good for in the end. Drink enough and he can feel less dead inside. Drink some more and his sleep will be dreamless.

Adam doesn’t do bars but there’s one he likes to frequent on account of how Hannah and her friends will never be caught dead there. It’s a place near Barclay’s Center and though he can’t drink anymore, he still allows himself the occasional pilgrimage. Sometimes he goes for the free peanuts; other times because he needs a place to stew. He doesn’t have a lot of friends because Hannah pretty much took his when their relationship fell apart as they were hers first and only his through osmosis.

That’s where he sees Thomas for the first time, scanning the crowd of people and looking for an empty booth. Their eyes meet briefly and Thomas elbows his way through a sea of people to ask Adam whether the seat across from him is taken.

It takes one, maybe two minutes for Adam to realize that he’s seen Thomas before. Something about him that’s so familiar then it all comes together: the accent, the hair, the dress shirt and slacks. He’s met Thomas a few times; he lives in the same building.

So this is the elusive Thomas, Adam thinks, relaxing his posture to something less hostile and more open. He’s the new tenant the doorman kept mumbling about, the one who complained about the structural integrity of the fire escape. Adam nods to the empty seat in front of him. Thomas shoots him a grateful look before taking the proffered seat and sipping from a complicated-looking cocktail. It has bits of pineapple in it. A colorful striped umbrella dangles cheerfully from the rim of the glass.

“I know you,” Adam begins, watching Thomas glance at the dance floor with some degree of trepidation. “I think we might be neighbors.”

Thomas blinks. He’s cute, in an uptight, fussy sort of way. The accent does elevate his charm somewhat as does the reds threading his brown hair. Thomas offers his hand to shake. His nails are buffed to a shine, well-manicured. Adam can already tell how loud he will be in bed which is very loud indeed.

“I thought I recognized you,” Thomas says, sounding abashed. “I’m rather good with faces.”

“Are you?” Adam takes his hand and they exchange requisite introductions. It’s brief and rote. Then Adam points to Thomas’ drink. “What are you drinking tonight?”

Thomas makes a face. “Oh, this and that, I’m not quite sure what this is but I asked the bartender for the most outrageous drink on the menu and this is it apparently. It tastes like breath mints and feet.”

“Which, as everyone knows, is a great combination,” Adam adds.

“Exactly,” Thomas agrees. His grin is fleeting. Almost just as quickly, he goes back to fiddling with a corner of a paper napkin.”So, er, do you come here often?”

Adam laughs. “Are you trying to pick me up?”

“What? What, no, I am not, I beg your pardon. I was just making conversation—“

“I do,” Adam cuts him off, to spare him the misery. “They always give me free peanuts here. I think the bartender on Tuesdays has a crush on me.”

“I’d like free peanuts too,” Thomas mutters.

“Then get ready to suck some cock.”

“What?”

“I was joking,” Adam informs him, cracking a peanut shell open and dropping one into his mouth. “Relax. You seem a little tense.”

“I’m relaxed,” Thomas lies, though his posture seems to be bely that statement, a little stiff and awkward. His shirt is buttoned up all the way. He keeps rubbing the side of his neck self-consciously, throwing glances at the table, his drink, the bar, anywhere but Adam. “I’ve just — I’ve never been to bars like this before. We don’t have a lot of them in Windermere, and the few places I’ve been to in London typically don’t have bartenders exposing their midsection for tips.”

“It is something of an acquired taste,” Adam settles on, barely managing to reign in a smirk. This is true: the place is a bit kitschy, those Yelp reviews can go fuck themselves, but the men are easy and he’s almost always guaranteed someone to take home. When insomnia hits the hardest, he’d rather be somewhere else with people than marinate in his own thoughts. He’s working on being comfortable with his own company but it’s an uphill battle when he doesn’t quite like himself and prone to breaking things when left on his own for too long.

They talk all night: Thomas is a chatterbox, loosened by alcohol, and he tells Adam he’s just moved here from the UK. When Adam presses, why America, why New York, Thomas tells him it’s because he wanted a fresh start, and the biggest city he could think of was New York. He didn’t like Paris; his French was terrible and he thought Parisians were snobs. He came here to escape. Adam envied him a little. He wishes he could escape too. He may live in a different neighborhood now but his fuckups still haunt him like vengeful old ghosts, the kind that can only be put to rest if he were brave enough to confront them.

Watching Thomas talk rapid-fire, listening to the soothing cadence of his voice, Adam wondered how long before he could take him home. He knows it’s a terrible idea; the potential for fallout and subsequent awkwardness are high mainly because they happen to live in the same apartment building, but the more Thomas said, the more Adam wanted to fuck him and shut him up preferably with his cock. He’s never been with a British person before.

“Hey,” Adam interrupts, already reaching for his jacket folded across the back of the booth. “It’s getting pretty late. Do you wanna maybe head home?”

Thomas’ face falls and then brightens again when understanding dawns. “Oh! You want to — yes, of course! I still have work tomorrow. We can share a taxi, split the cost…” he trails off.

Adam helps him into his double-breasted burgundy coat. He lets his hands linger on Thomas’ shoulders, brushing off invisible lint. Thomas lets him.

MARCH

Adam gets the call at two in the morning at which point he has two options: one, let it go to voicemail so he can sink blissfully into sleep after a fourteen hour day, or two, take it like he’s always been — for the last six months. Either option will leave him feeling guilty so he just takes the call anyway, mostly because he has zero self=preservation skills and somewhat of a masochistic streak.

When he swipes the screen to answer, Thomas’ voice fills his ear almost immediately, warped by white noise and static.

He needs a ride home.

Adam doesn’t consider Thomas a friend, at least not in the strictest sense. Thomas invites him over periodically for lasagna and drinks, just like normal friends do, but Adam can’t remember ever being seen in public with him in broad daylight even though they live in the same apartment building and there’d been plenty of opportunities for Thomas to ask him to accompany him to various daytime excursions. Not that Adam is big on daytime excursions, he wouldn’t even know what those entailed, but it would have been nice. It’s the principle of the thing.

Anyway: what does it matter when Adam’s fuzzy on the notion of normal friendship. He either tries to sleep with his friends or the friends of friends, or else they’re driven away by his general demeanor and lack of tact. Hannah had been a friend to him, someone he was actually invested in because her misery mirrored his, until their lives took them both different directions and he saw her for what she was: a receptacle for all the hang-ups he shouldn’t probably have lied about to his therapist. He still sees her from time to time; it’s a small neighborhood after all.

But Thomas. Well. This thing with him is different, by virtue of the fact that Adam has never had it with anyone else before. He just sometimes wishes Thomas stopped calling him in the middle of the night to pull him out of every fucking gay club in Brooklyn whenever things get a bit too much for him to handle. It’s been a year since Thomas moved to New York to escape the trappings of his old life and at this point you’d think he’d learned how to call an UBER for himself, but apparently he still needs Adam to act like his big scary boyfriend whenever he’s hit on by strange characters.

Adam shows up at the club half an hour later after dragging himself out of bed and pulling on the same clothes he’s worn the day before. It’s one of those clubs that’s deep in the basement of some building with a staircase that’s level with the sidewalk and an erratically flickering neon sign hovering above the entrance. The packed heat hits Adam like a wall of plastic sheeting, coating every exposed inch of his body. He hates it immediately; he hates clubs and crowds. What’s more: he hates crowds in enclosed rooms as people in large groups tend to do stupid things and this is doubly true if they happen to be under the influence of alcohol and other dubious substances.

It’s just as well that Adam locates Thomas quickly, standing awkwardly at the bar and getting chatted up. Adam watches him for a few minutes: how he laughs and touches his left elbow self-consciously, how he knocks back his drink in one smooth swallow before pulling out his phone from his back pocket and texting furiously. Adam’s phone pings in his right hand but he ignores it. The man next to Thomas isn’t even all that intimidating, not like the last one had been, truth be told; in fact, he maybe even Thomas’ type: well-dressed, neat, though he looks like he’s had some work done on his teeth. His clothes look expensive.

Adam approaches them, first with his hands jammed inside his pockets then out of them. The guy glances up at him in surprise before giving him a once over, lingering on his shirt which is tight, but also on backwards because Adam threw it on in the dark. The tag curls out of his collar like a lazy tongue.

“Adam!” Thomas looks relieved to see him, as if he hadn’t been the one to summon Adam and send him half a dozen panicked text messages every ten minutes.

“You ready to go?” Adam asks, offering his arm out to him.

Thomas glances back at his — date? prospective fuck? — companion before taking Adam’s proffered arm. “It was nice to meeting you, Lucas but I’m afraid I have to go.”

“Sure,” Lucas says, quirking his mouth in don’t treat me like I’m not an idiot way.

They leave without fanfare.

This is the part where things get a little hazy: their UBER arrives, they take the stairs up to Thomas’ floor, and Thomas invites Adam in because that’s what he usually does. Thomas is tipsy, which accounts for his loose mood. He’s not caustic, or hypertense, or kicking Adam out prematurely, but shutting the door behind himself before leaning his head against it with his eyes closed. “That was a close call,” he says. Adam simply grunts in answer.

Thomas has had a number of these so-called “close calls” and Adam is not sure it means what Thomas thinks it means. He thought the whole point of going to gay clubs was for Thomas to experiment, let loose, and explore a side of himself that he has kept locked up for fear of judgment and scrutiny by his peers. But maybe he isn’t ready for that anytime soon. Because he may have left his old life behind in another continent, but he still carries his hangups around like precious luggage.

Thomas’ apartment is just two floors above Adam’s. The building is an old walk-up with creaky banisters and the original wainscoting still in tact. Thomas had the interior remodeled entirely; the windows are new, all the furniture is modern, there are no pale shapes on the walls where old photographs once hung. In the open kitchen, Thomas pours himself a glass of water which he gulps down thirstily. He forgets to offer Adam anything. Adam doesn’t mind.

When Thomas stumbles his way to the bedroom without another word, Adam takes it a s his cue to follow. The bed, like everything else in the apartment, is new and it dips under their combined weight when they lay on it, Adam flat on his back, staring at the ceiling, Thomas with his back to him. Then Thomas rolls towards him, once, then again, until his right elbow is resting against Adam’s chest and he’s peering up at him from an angle, his head tilted towards him. Neither of them budge for a while resulting in a weighty silence that simply goes on and on. But Adam has been here before; he knows what comes next.

Adam has Thomas reverse-straddling him in no time, naked from the waist down, panting up at the wall. Adam’s jeans are pushed halfway down his hips and every movement scrapes his thighs with the most pleasant burn. Thomas’ shirt is matted to his back with sweat. Meanwhile, he’s shaking, and Adam thinks he probably has the most beautiful back he has ever seen. He has no objections to fucking him like this, mostly because he has a great view of Thomas’ tight clenching hole and he likes being able to grab handfuls of Thomas’ ass each time Thomas squirms down his dick. He’s so keyed up with lust it’s almost funny; his cock drips sticky dots of precome on the bed sheets and it fills Adam with perverse glee knowing it’s gonna be hell to clean up later.

Adam grunts, kneeling up behind Thomas to splay him onto all fours. Thomas catches his weight on his elbows, his cute little ass pointing upwards. Adam has fucked his way through all five boroughs, and he’s never met anyone whose ass he could ever call cute. Until Thomas. It’s springy, and almost all of it fits in one hand. And it’s always seems to be fresh as a daisy at least whenever Thomas lets him anywhere near it.

“Yeah,” Adam groans, bumping his cock against Thomas’ rim when he pulls out all the way. “You like that, huh? Riding my big fat cock?”

Thomas moans, cock leaking harder. He used to blush furiously at Adam’s dirty talk which Adam learned by watching filthy porn throughout his teens and occasionally up to present. But now Thomas takes it just as well as he takes Adam’s cock, that is to say with as much dignity as he can muster, with his face buried in the sheets. Adam reaches up inside Thomas’ shirt to cup a hand over his stomach: the skin there is soft and the small roll of belly quivers with every breath. Adam ignores Thomas’ straining dick and slides both hands around Thomas’ hips for traction, so he can fuck him in long hard strokes that leave him gasping like a swimmer running out of air.

“You’re never gonna get dick this good,” Adam says, and he doesn’t know whether that’s a taunt or a promise, but Thomas seems to eat it all up anyway: the cake and the whole damn plate, nodding his head frantically like he agrees, screwing himself down the length of Adam’s dick. He can act coy all he wants but they both know he loves cock; he went without for his entire adult life, and now can’t seem to get enough of it. It’s like giving sugar to a starving man.

Adam gives his ass a playful swat, then another and Thomas goes crazy, his whole body convulsing as he comes hard, streaking the sheets.

Adam follows not long after, shooting his load across Thomas’ back while Thomas is still slumped on his belly and catching his breath. They say nothing again for a little while, but Adam is used to these kinds of silences as they happen so often around Thomas.

Thomas glances up at him then, and something about his expression, or maybe the light from outside softening the angles of his face, makes him seem young and vulnerable. Tricks of the environment but it lasts just a moment, and then Thomas is yawning and bumping his ass against Adam in a subtle gesture to get him to move. Adam rolls onto his back next to him, flinging an arm over his overheated face. Sex with Thomas is like getting a full body work out, both often leave him vacillating between exhausted and then energized. He should leave, he knows, as it’s late enough already and he has to be in Queens by ten o’clock for an audition. It’s probably 4 am now. Adam tells himself he’ll go in a minute, maybe five, but when he opens his eyes again, a few hours have already passed. It’s morning: sun is slicing bright and hot through the slats between the curtains. Next to him, the bed is empty, cold. Fuck, Adam thinks, palming his face awake. There’s the smell of something cooking permeating the air. Bacon, he thinks, as he slips into his t-shirt from the night before, then his jeans. He can’t find his shoes for some reason but those are negligible because Thomas will end up finding them anyway and returning them the very next day. Adam has left a few of his belongings in his apartment before: a watch, his favourite leather jacket, a bottle of lubricant which they used a good portion of the first time Thomas asked to be fucked in the ass. Thomas returned each item in a discreet paper bag, including the very large fleshy dildo Adam had left on purpose as a kind of welcome gift into the world of anal fun. Adam thought it meant the end of their arrangement; apparently Thomas had simply been under the impression that the toy was on loan.

Adam finds him in the kitchen, wearing a silk robe with his initials monogrammed on the breast pocket, which is just par for the course. He looks freshly showered though his hair is free of any kind of product, soft and fluffy-looking though combed into submission. He’s made breakfast. Adam catches him laying out matching cutlery on the table. His plates all have gold trim on the edges, matching his saucer and cups.

“Tea?” he offers when Adam looms into view, halting by the doorway.

Adam blinks himself out of his stupor: no reason to be taken aback by a sight he knows all too well so shakes himself out of it. “I don’t drink tea,” he says, still not moving from his spot by the door. He curls his toes into the carpet. Thomas doesn’t look at him.

“I forget sometimes you’re American,” Thomas says, before pouring Adam a fresh cup of coffee from one of those expensive espresso machines which he happens to have just sitting in a corner. Adam ambles over to accept it, swiping the mug neatly from his grip before their hands can touch. He doesn’t know what he’ll do if that does happen: probably something stupid like lean over and kiss Thomas. Or say: thanks, babe, appreciate it. So instead he drinks his coffee in silence while Thomas smears jam and cream over his toast and reads the morning paper which he folds and unfolds in one hand.

To anyone else, they must look like the picture of perfect domesticity with the sun filtering in through the windows and catching the threads of the curtains, highlighting the reds of Thomas’ hair.

Adam beats a hasty exit before he starts feeling comfortable. He has somewhere to be after all. Thomas doesn’t even ask him about his shoes.

MAY

Because they live in the same apartment building, it’s only inevitable that they’ll run into each other at some point in time. On Thursday, just as Adam is returning from another failed audition, he spots Thomas walking up a flight of stairs, carrying a can of paint in each hand. Adam runs up to catch up to him, palm slapping dully against the banister over and over. Before he can think about it, he calls out a “hey!” in greeting.

Thomas squints at him in surprise, then mild suspicion.

Adam wonders whether Thomas realizes that his face is so easy to read. He can usually tell what Thomas is feeling though mostly in relation to him. It’s often a combination of ambivalence and horror when Adam tries something new in bed or eats something off the floor. Some of the time, when he’s softened by an orgasm and dumb with pleasure, he looks at Adam with something resembling fondness though of course that’s completely up to interpretation; it’s easy to evoke tenderness after giving someone a phenomenal blowjob complete with a finger up their ass.

“Need help?” Adam asks, taking the can labeled eggshell white from Thomas. It’s rather hefty, which makes him look Thomas up and down with newfound admiration. “Doing some redecorating?”

“I’m expecting a guest next weekend and I thought I’d repaint the walls.” Thomas shrugs. “They’ve been looking rather dull lately.I thought I should repaint them.”

Adam snorts. Of course Thomas “Neat-freak” McGregor will think that even if his apartment is completely spotless. “Aren’t your walls already white though?” he asks, just to be difficult.

“Well,” Thomas huffs, clearly affronted. “They can still be improved.”

“By making them even whiter?” Adam deadpans.

Thomas doesn’t deign this with a response, instead maneuvering the can around so he can reach into his back pocket and fish out the key to his apartment. He has a number of keys adorning a gold plated ring which has a Harrods charm dangling from it as well, just one of the many things from the store that he’d brought home entirely by accident. He worked at Harrods for ten years before moving to the countryside and he has an accumulation of various knick knacks to show for it: pens and t-shirts and castoffs from the gift shop plus a ton of other decorative odds and ends. He even has a black and white photo of the storefront sitting on his bedside table which Adam has never asked about though there’s probably a good story behind it.

Adam hands Thomas the other can once Thomas manages to wrestle the door open. Standing in Thomas’ living room always makes him feel strange because it puts him in the mood for sex though he and Thomas never fucked anywhere but in the bedroom before 10PM.

“You could make yourself useful you know,” Thomas says conversationally, beginning to put the can on the floor. Adam turns to him so abruptly that he makes himself dizzy, until he realizes that Thomas isn’t making a pass at him; he’s being straightforward, has an earnest, almost hopeful expression on his face. This isn’t code for sucking cock. “If you’ve got nothing better to do this afternoon, you could help me paint the walls.” Thomas gestures vaguely to the entirety of the living room. There’s plastic tarp over the sofa and coffee table, and the shelves have been moved aside in preparation for the paint job.

Adam raises both his eyebrows. “I won’t help you even if you paid me fifty bucks.”

“There’s a free dinner in there for you,” Thomas says, “And I promise it won’t be bagel bites and tomato sauce.”

Adam should really say no. He’s learning how to, is making progress, but today he backslides.

“You do know a way to a man’s heart,” he says, before making a quick detour to his apartment to change into baggy shorts and an old musty shirt he won’t mind getting paint on. The sleeves have been completely sawed off with a box cutter two summers ago during a heatwave, exposing the line bisecting his upper arms into two distinct shades. When Adam comes back fifteen minutes later, Thomas is already wearing an apron, a checkered bandana over his hair and a pair of clear plastic goggles which swallow half his face.

How he can look criminally attractive while looking like that Adam will never know, but stranger things have happened.

Thomas hands him a paint roller without fanfare, stepping back from the wall before adjusting his goggles. Adam tilts his head to look at him curiously, suddenly overcome with the intense desire to slot an errant curl of hair back into place. He manages to reign in the impulse and instead gestures to the wide expanse of Nordic white wall. There’s a lot of wall to cover; Thomas’ apartment is bigger than Adam’s with the added feature of a second bedroom so his rent is a little more expensive. Old newspapers have been set out on every square inch of carpet in case there are any stray drops of paint though Thomas may have gone a little overboard by covering the entire living room floor in newspaper. It’s a quirk of his: he likes to be prepared. Adam has flashbacks of their first hookup: the only time he can recall Thomas ever doing something brazen without thinking about the consequences. It had been messy and quick, dirty just the way Adam liked his sexual encounters: getting each other off with handjobs while the two of them were still mostly clothed, then fucking off after. The next morning they bumped into each other at Trader Joe’s and Thomas gave him a tight-lipped smile, a thanks but no thanks type of expression Adam is used to seeing by now.

Adam had chalked up the entire experience as a one-off, a fever dream brought about by a solid year without alcohol, but two weeks later, he ran into Thomas again, this time at a bar in Bushwick and they ended up sharing a cab home. There is a definite upside to being neighbors with Thomas but Adam had not accounted for his situation to escalate. It is in many ways like his relationship with alcohol: one minute he has a bottle of beer in hand, and years later he can’t ever remember a time he went to bed without one. Sex with Thomas has its own addictive qualities and Adam has always had a hard time fighting off his impulses especially when they make him feel good.

“Do I get goggles and an apron too?” he asks Thomas.

“I only have one pair of each,” Thomas says defensively. “I didn’t account for you helping me.”

“Right,” Adam mutters. “You’ve done this before though, haven’t you?”

“I read a book about it once,” Thomas coughs, “It should be easy, I suppose. I mean how difficult can it be, it’s just paint.”

The answer is: very, though this is largely due to the fact neither of them have ever painted a room before. Eventually, Thomas caves and they watch a video on Youtube which instruct them to pour the rest of the paint into a large bucket and invest in a bucket screen and $20 roller sleeves. Between the two of them, they manage to repaint the whole living room an even shade of white all the while getting the least amount of paint on themselves and the floor, a feat in and of itself.

Thomas pushes all the windows open to keep them from choking on paint exhaust but the result is a barrage of noise filtering in from the street outside. It doesn’t bother Adam in the least; he’s used to the holler of traffic and industry. He’s lived in New York most of his life and the mark of a true New Yorker is managing to sleep through sirens, earthquakes, and pretty much anything. Thomas, however, wrinkles his nose at the noise and shuts the windows immediately. He’s moved here early last year from London but Adam still doesn’t know what he does for a living. All he knows is that Thomas dresses impeccably and takes good care of himself; that he had a fiancé once, and has an allergy to blueberries.

Thomas is too tired to cook dinner so they order green curry from that famous place on Myrtle Ave with the best pineapple rice. They eat standing in the kitchen, crowding the counter, Adam straight from the box, hunched and leaning on one elbow, Thomas with proper cutlery. It��s peaceful, and for once Adam doesn’t mind the silence because it’s not laden with meaning and is just is. Then he finds his thoughts veering off into dangerous territory and he’s immediately uncomfortable, compelled to break the spell mostly by asking brazenly whether he could fuck Thomas after he finishes dinner.

It was a stupid thing to say; Adam regrets opening his mouth to say it. Thomas’ eyes nearly bug out of their sockets as he drops his fork in shock. He’s never fucked Adam without some amount of alcohol in him. “I don’t, I don’t smell so good,” he says and clutches the front of his shirt like he’s suddenly the heroine of a romance novel.

“I could fuck you in the shower,” Adam offers.

“What?”

Adam shrugs. “It’s sexy,” he tries.

“But one of us could slip!”

“Hey, I like to live dangerously—”

“Or break a hip,” Thomas continues, ignoring what Adam’s just said.

Adam wisely drops it as he recognizes it for what it is: a lost cause. Too much hemming and hawing from Thomas doesn’t make it seem worthwhile anyhow. He balls his paper napkin and tosses it onto the counter. “Forget it. I was just teasing you anyway.”

“Right,” Thomas scoffs quietly, regarding him with suspicious eyes. “Sometimes I never know with you.”

“Yeah, well, I like to keep you on your toes,” Adam says breezily. “Someone around here has to.”

JUNE

Probably Adam’s biggest flaw is that he acts first and asks questions later. Which is why when he sees Thomas leaving the apartment building accompanied by a pretty brunette, he throws caution to the wind and ditches his own plans for the evening to follow them all the way to the restaurant. If he were a better person, and more well-adjusted, he probably would have left them alone. But being none of those things, he has no compunction tailing them to their destination.

It’s a nice place, a little cramped, but what part of the city isn’t. Adam has lived in spaces smaller than the one he occupies currently, in one bed-room apartments with dead leaves on the windowsill and pill-bugs for company. He seats himself in a booth across Thomas, hiding his face behind the menu card which he clutches with a white-knuckled grip. Thomas’ back is facing him; it’s an ideal position for eavesdropping.

There’s a curl of hair at the base of Thomas’ neck that Adam suddenly wants to lick just to scandalize his present company, but he’s not that person anymore, he’s seeing a therapist, so he settles in and orders a ginger ale with nothing much better to do with his time. His stomach pinches up when it becomes perfectly clear that it’s a date. He should have known, he should have fucking known, but he didn’t want to jump to any conclusions.

And she’s pretty. Her name is Bea and she’s known Thomas a while judging from their conversation. She reaches out and covers Thomas’ hand in hers on the table and Thomas smiles at her and squeezes back. She asks him how he’s doing, and Thomas launches into an overlong story about his job in a store on Fifth Avenue, how it’s just like working his old job at Harrods but not quite the same. Bea laughs appreciatively at all the right pauses and they keep their hands linked the entire time. It occurs to Adam that he’s never seen Thomas like this before, laughing full of unbridled glee, his eyes shining with happiness. He’s patient with her; he waits before speaking. This is the Thomas that Adam rarely gets to see: who doesn’t have his guard up and makes ridiculous jokes.This is him, living, breathing, outside of his apartment where their entire relationship lives. They aren’t friends; Adam realizes this now with a kind of bitter resignation that sits heavily in his stomach.

It takes a while for Adam to realize he’s still staring at the back of Thomas’ head, lost in his train of thought. He finishes off his drink and orders himself another. After topping it off, he finally fucks off home. He walks all the way there. It’s only a few blocks and the night air helps clear his head. Back in his apartment, he strips down to his boxers and throws himself onto the bed. There’s a hot flash of jealousy creeping up his chest but he tamps it down before it can boil over. His eyes hurt. He digs his knuckles into them before slamming the heel of his hand over his forehead repeatedly.

He’s not angry. It’s nothing to get worked up over. Thomas is good at compartmentalizing different slices of his life which is probably why Adam has never seen or heard about this woman before. And why, Adam thinks, he and Thomas never interact much outside of bed. Adam is great at fucking; that’s all really Thomas wants from him.

Which is fine. Absolutely fine.

Adam doesn’t sleep that night. He takes two painkillers for his headache which he drowns with a glass of water, and takes his script with him out to the fire escape where he smokes a cigarette in a crouching position and watches a man walk his dog down the street. It’s a residential neighborhood: quieter than anywhere he’s lived in the last ten years though he can still hear the muted hum of traffic from not so far away.

Thomas’ light is on. Adam glares at his window as if he’s personally offended and then wonders what Thomas is still doing up at this hour. He doesn’t check the time on his phone until he’s jumping into a pair of jeans. Some hours before 3AM. Maybe Thomas can’t sleep either. He wouldn’t be the only one. Adam takes the stairs three at a time, leaping onto the landing before pivoting straight onto Thomas’ doorstep. He hesitates for a second before rapping on the door with his knuckles. It doesn’t take long before Thomas is answering the door and Adam glances up and he looks —

He’s wearing pyjamas and a wrinkled t-shirt, his hair is slightly askew. He squints at Adam accusingly. “It’s 4 in the morning, Adam,” he says by way of greeting.

Adam realizes that. He feels only half-awake, like he’s wading through water in a space suit. Probably the painkillers.“Couldn’t sleep. Wanted to see what you were up to,” he mumbles pathetically. He eyes the tumbler of whiskey in Thomas’ hand. “Wanna fuck?”

Thomas glances around the hallway before glaring at Adam. “Can you keep it down please?” he hisses, “Someone might hear you.”

“Sure,” Adam snorts, and is surprised when Thomas lets him in anyway. Once the door is shut behind him, he relaxes visibly. “Honestly, you have no tact whatsoever…”

“How long have you been seeing her?” Adam blurts out.

“What?” Thomas blinks at him, then he rolls his eyes and shakes his head. “Oh you mean Bea? How did you—”

“Saw you guys together,” is all Adam lets on, shrugging, stuffing his hands in his pockets. He probably should have worn a shirt, but he wasn’t thinking when he left his apartment five minutes ago, and wasn’t thinking then when he asked Thomas about his date. “She seems nice. How long have you two known each other?”

“Two years, eighteen months? I don’t know,” Thomas says, a frown tugging at his lips. “I don’t see how that’s any of your business.”

“It is when I’ve been fucking you,” Adam tells him.

“Are you jealous?” Thomas’ entire face changes but it’s an expression Adam can’t quite read clearly. He turns his back to Adam and starts pouring himself another drink. “I took a lovely girl to dinner, Adam. She was visiting. That was all there is.”

“Does she know you like men too?”

“What?”

“Does she know you like men,” Adam says, slowly this time, as he stalks behind Thomas and pins him against the counter. Thomas elbows him in the ribs but there’s no real effort in it and he’s more annoyed than reluctant. “You’re an arsehole.”

“Didn’t stop you from wanting to sleep with me.”

“You think this is charming, don’t you?” Thomas scoffs, turning in Adam’s arms and shoving at his chest. “Look, whatever you’re trying to do, it’s not doing to work. ”

And how could it, Adam thinks angrily. Nothing he ever says or does changes anything. He wants to scream, to put up a fight, curl his hands into his fists and beat himself bloody, too dumb to keep making the same old mistakes, and wanting people who won’t ever give him the time of day. He’s weak, and nothing will ever change that.

#mcsackler #kylux adjacent #kylux

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jovialyouthmusic · 6 years ago

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Charlotte’s Choice

A Royal Romance AU (2)

In which Princess Charlotte of Cordonia and her friends visit Edinburgh to go out on the town before the social season starts and she has to make a choice. Enter a handsome English bartender - will he put the cat among the pigeons? In the UK we call it a Hen Party when the bride goes out with her friends before the wedding.

The Hen Party part 1

Olivia, Kiara and Penelope found a table in the dark dingy bar that didn’t seem too sticky and sat down to wait for Princess Charlotte. Drake followed in a couple of minutes later, ordered a drink and sat in a corner where he could see them all.

‘Whose idea was it to come to this dump?’ asked Olivia sharply. Penelope blushed

‘I’m sorry Livvy, the Queen’s Arms sounded just the sort of place that would suit us. It’s – cosy at least’

‘Of all the places we could have chosen… I was told Edinburgh was crawling with high end restaurants’ Olivia snapped

‘And all booked up for the night’ said Penelope dejectedly ‘I’m hungry, what is there to eat?’ Kiara picked up a dog eared laminated menu

‘Mon dieu, the most expensive item is macaroni cheese’ she said miserably. ‘What do we have to do to get served? Do we have to go to the bar or should we wait?’

‘Hold on, someone’s coming’ said Penelope, and stared ‘I thought all men in Scotland wore a kilt’

‘Only if they’re playing bagpipes for the tourists or going to a wedding from what I’ve seen’ replied Kiara. The short dark haired barman stopped at the table next to theirs to collect glasses and wipe the table. Kiara jabbed Olivia in the ribs and rolled her eyes toward him. Olivia cleared her throat

‘Ahem – do you think you could take our order?’ Kiara winced at her brusque tone. He raised his eyebrows.

‘Order? Do youse want tae eat?’ he said in a thick Scottish brogue ‘Come tae the bar when you’ve made your minds up. It’s no’ complicated’ and he turned to go back, then thought better of it. ‘All ladies, huh? Is one of youse getting married the noo?’ Penelope looked puzzled

‘What did he say? She whispered ‘I can’t understand a word’

‘He’s sussed us out’ hissed Kiara ‘We are a ‘hen’ party after all, we should play it up, maybe it will get us better service’ Penelope spoke up

‘Yes, yes, we’re a hen party, We’re all hens – cluck cluck!’ Olivia rolled her eyes. The barman looked at her strangely, then smiled broadly

‘Is that so? In that case – BRAD!’ he roared ‘HEN PARTY FOR YOUSE’ and from behind the bar another man appeared, tall with dark blonde hair and a square jaw. ‘Brad will look after you – I can tell youse are classy ladies’ and he gave them a broad grin and a leering wink. The newcomer loped over to the group smiling broadly. He was broad chested and good looking, and his accent was softer, with more of an English lilt. From his dim corner, Drake watched, scowling as usual.

‘Ladies – you’re in luck. We do a package for hen parties. Twenty a head, toasted sandwich and two drinks each, any drinks after are two pounds a go’ and he stood waiting for them to make a decision. Penelope and Kiara put their heads together with Olivia.

‘Is that expensive?’ whispered Penelope ‘We don’t want to get ripped off’

‘Hellooo, you know how much we all put in for this, we’re loaded – haven’t you got Daddy’s credit card with you?’ hissed Kiara ‘money no object for Charlotte, right?’ Olivia gave the new barman an appraising look.

‘If he comes with the package, I’ll pay double’ she smirked ‘He’s definitely Charlotte’s type too’ As usual, Olivia’s voice carried, and he went a little pale and swallowed nervously. She nodded at the others conspiratorially, then spoke louder, addressing the waiter directly.

‘If you’re serving us it’s a deal’ she winked ‘with a big tip in it for you if you pay your cards right’ Brad inclined his head politely. Olivia thought he wouldn’t look out of place at court with his accent and general manners.

‘Of course Ladies, it would be my pleasure. So that’s the three of you for the hen package then?’

‘Four’ said Kiara, and he looked puzzled. At that point Charlotte stepped into the bar, scanning the room. Penelope waved, and the barman turned to look. Olivia couldn’t see his expression, but she saw Charlotte’s. Her eyes briefly widened, and her step faltered for a fraction of a second. In turn, Brad didn’t turn straight back to the group sitting at the table, his attention taken by the slender brunette in expensive well-chosen designer clothes. Drake watched from his corner.

‘Sorry I’m late Ladies, Father rang, and I had to assure him everything was okay’ Charlotte turned her attention to the barman, her eyes questioning. ‘And you are?’ He cleared his throat.

‘I’m Brad, I’ll be looking after you ladies tonight.’ He looked a little dazed, then clicked back into work mode ‘Okay so that’s a hen package for four. If you take a look at the’ his lips formed to make the letter ‘m’ but he thought better of it and said ‘list, and decide what you’d like, I’ll be back in a minute or two to take your order.’ He handed out a cleaner printed menu and went back to the bar. Charlotte sat craning her neck to look back behind the bar before turning to the others. She leaned forward to speak to them.

‘Father’s convinced we’re going to be drugged or kidnapped. Poor Bastien is getting a real ear bashing. I’m not sure this is going to be as stressless as you intended, Livvy’

‘Turn your phone off, Lottie’ said Olivia ‘we came here to enjoy ourselves. Let Bastien and Drake deal with the fallout’

‘I wish I could go right off the radar, if only for a couple of hours, but it’s not worth the drama when I get back’ Charlotte sighed. Olivia smiled sympathetically

‘It would probably be easier to go off grid if we were guys, but we’ll have to make the most of it. At least no-one knows who you are here. Now, lets order something before I pass out’ The girls pored over the sadly limited menu and made their choices. Olivia waved Brad back over and dictated the food order.

‘Two cocktail pitchers to start with’ she said ‘I don’t suppose you stock Moet and Chandon?’ Brad smiled apologetically

‘Not this end of town, miss. We do have Prosecco though – by the bottle or by the glass? It’s not officially part of the package but I’ll slip it past my boss’ Olivia smiled slyly

‘That’s the spirit – keep going like that and you’ll get your tip. A bottle of Prosecco will do just fine – if there’s a choice, the more expensive the better’ Brad raised his eyebrows but said nothing and disappeared back toward the kitchen.

The evening progressed, the ladies tucking into their food and downing drinks, getting louder and laughing more as time went on. Brad kept an eye on them, clearing the plates away promptly and making sure the glasses weren’t empty for long. Olivia couldn’t help noticing how Charlotte looked at the waiter, like a thirsty man looking at a long drink of water. She nudged her as the other patrons started to drift away and closing time approached. Drake still sat broodingly in his corner, making sure all was well.

‘You should so chat up the barman – he’s gorgeous, isn’t he?’ Charlotte looked uncomfortable

‘Oh Livvy, I couldn’t – what would Father say?’

‘Your father isn’t here, and I won’t tell on you and neither would the others, and that includes Drake, I’ll make sure of it. Live a little – what have you got to lose? He doesn’t know you from Eve, let alone know you have noble blood. It’s your last chance before we go home tomorrow. Have another glass of bubbly and invite him for a drink after. Ask him where’s good to go clubbing’

‘I don’t know…’

‘If you don’t I will, and I think he’d rather it was you’

‘You really think so?’

‘I know so, he’s been looking at you all evening whenever he thinks no-ones watching’

‘Well… okay, wish me luck. No time like the present’ Charlotte stood and walked to the bar, her heart in her mouth. Drake glanced up, but Olivia gave him a look that told him to stay put. She approached the bar and cleared her throat, but Brad beat her to it

‘Did you want something Miss? No need to come to the bar, I’ll serve you at the table’

‘Actually, I was going to say thankyou for looking after us’ she smiled ‘We’re not done for the night and I was wondering if you knew where’s good to go? I’m sorry if we got a bit rowdy’ Brad looked slightly amused.

‘Oh really, it’s not a big deal. You’re pretty well behaved, I could tell you some tales about hen parties that would make your toes curl’

‘Really? And I thought we were being so unrestrained’

‘The mildest we usually get is the bride dancing on the table’ he grinned ‘So I’m guessing you’re not used to letting go’ He leaned closer to her, resting his elbow on the bar ‘I’m also often asked why I’m not wearing a kilt, which is when I know the party can’t tell the difference between a Scottish and an English accent, or are too drunk to care. This is a tea party, trust me’

‘Oh your accent’s easy for me, I have English cousins’ Charlotte replied, warming to him and feeling more relaxed. ‘So – do you know somewhere we could go on to? I understand if you don’t want to accompany a wild group like ours’ He smiled warmly

‘I think I’m safe’ he said. ‘I’ll be finished in ten minutes, I’ll come and join you then and we can move on’ Charlotte smiled

‘That’s very good of you, I appreciate it. You might have worked out we’re not from round here’

‘Not many are in a city like this, though we don’t often get foreigners in this bar’ There was a silence, and Charlotte realised she was gazing into his clear blue eyes and he appeared to be waiting for something. She pulled herself together.

‘Oh – of course. Perhaps we should settle the bill before we leave.’

‘Sure, I’ll see to that right now’ he tapped a few numbers and handed over a slip of paper from the card machine. Charlotte went to get her credit card, but Olivia suddenly appeared and took the bill away from her.

‘My turn to pay’ she insisted and delved into her bag for her card and some notes. Brad handed over the machine and she tapped away, then took a handful of notes and tucked it into his shirt pocket. ‘Well done handsome, you earned this’ she grinned. He coloured slightly and swallowed. Olivia winked and left Charlotte at the bar. Brad recovered, and turned back to her, tipping his head to the side and grinning.

‘See you in ten then’ She walked back to the table in a dream.

This might seem a little short, but this chapter as I wrote it is 6000 words long. This was a good place to take a break. Stay tuned!

@ao719 @agent-bossypants @andy-loves-corgis @sleepwalkingelite @boneandfur @blackcatkita @brightpinkpeppercorn @choicescommunity @darley1101 @drakewalkerrosenberg @flowerpowell @fluffy-marshmallow-heart @gardeningourmet @kinkykingliam @katurrade @livingthroughchoices @likethetailofacomet @mrs-nazario @mind-reader1 @ooo-barff-ooo@silviasutton1989 @speedyoperarascalparty @zaffrenotes @missevabean @mrsdrakewalkerblog @cora-nova @dancetothestoriesinyoursoul @tabithacarlise @missameliep @tanelle83 @endlessly-searching-for-you @jlouise88

#the royal romance #choices the royal romance #trr #choices trr #liam x mc #drake x liam x mc #fanfiction #fanfic

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oofys · 22 days ago

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Discover the Best Cocktail Bars with Food in London: A Guide by Oofys

Introduction: The Rise of Cocktail Bars with Food in London

Cocktail bars, food pairing, dining experience, London nightlife, cocktail culture

Top 5 Cocktail Bars in London Offering Delicious Food Pairings

Best cocktail bars, food and drink pairings, unique cocktails, dining options, bar menus

The Perfect Atmosphere: What to Expect from a Cocktail Bar with Food

Ambiance, interior design, social dining experience, bar vibes, music and atmosphere

Cocktail and Cuisine Trends: What’s Hot on the Menu?

Mixology trends, seasonal cocktails, gastropub influence, innovative dishes, culinary cocktails

A Guide to Happy Hours and Special Events at Cocktail Bars with Food in London

Happy hour deals, special events calendar, tasting menus, exclusive offers, food festivals at bars

User Reviews: What People Are Saying About Their Experiences at These Venues

Customer feedback, bar reviews, dining experiences, social proof, guest testimonials

Conclusion: Elevate Your Night Out by Visiting a Cocktail Bar with Food in London!

#affordable luxury dining london #best cocktails and food uk #best upscale lounges in london #high-end cocktail menu uk #indulgent dining in uk #legendary vibe bar uk #modern bar with gourmet food london #modern indulgence bars uk #trendy cocktail spots in london #sleek and stylish bars uk

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ruthandliamgoplaces · 6 years ago

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Last two weeks in Nepal!

Our last two weeks have flown by, and I am writing this in the air on flight number one to Oman. The next blog entry shall tell tales of our time in Pokhara, a yoga retreat, and then, similar to my fate in Portugal last year - the Great Malaise- I got ill for the last 5 days of our trip!

Back in Civilisation- Pokhara.

After the Annapurna Circuit we spent two nights in Pokhara, a large city located on a picturesque lake with a beautiful bustling and colourful tourist area. Pokhara, busier with tourists than Kathmandu, is the hub for most of the trekking industry and the majority of people stay here before and after their treks. It therefore has lots of amenities to please the tourists, and is awash with hostels, swanky (by Nepal standards) hotels and spa resorts. There are loads of eateries and coffee shops, some restaurants even do pretty spot on Western food and there is a KFC and a Baskin and Robbins! There are also quite a few bars. In this Westernised bubble, many tourists don’t bother to respect the local Nepali cultural customs of modest clothes, and lots of bum cheeks are falling out of short shorts, or biceps peeping out of vests.

After 40 days of the same menus (fried bread, fried rice, fried potato or fried omelette, with fried cabbage, fried onion or fried carrot), we got stuck in immediately to eating different food! Well, not immediately. As usual in Nepal, nothing quite goes to plan. The hotel we had booked had been overbooked... so we had to be moved to a different hotel... as usual in Nepal, no apology is really made for these mishaps, the proprietor just smiles your questioning face into oblivion with his magical spell of “no problem!”. It was a problem, as the hotel we were moved to was not as good as the one we booked, but we still had to pay the price of the original hotel.... ah well. We were so tired, it mattered little. On the plus, we were reunited with our bag (yay!) and spoiled ourselves by wearing some different clothes! Also, we were moved to the hotel we had actually booked the following day, and got to enjoy the luxury! The manager had at least given us the best room to compensate for the night before, and we had a beautiful balcony and amazing views.

We passed two happy days in Pokhara, drinking wine and cocktails, and browsing the many shops selling souvenirs and clothes, and replaced some of our tatty clothes. We also bought some clothes for yoga, as we had decided to go to a retreat for a week!

On the third day we moved to Begnas Tal Yoga retreat, and I took with me about 40 mosquito bites on my feet, acquired from the carefree cocktail devouring session wearing flip flops by the lake. Thank god I didn’t have to wear my walking boots again, as I am slightly allergic and the bites were hot, red, itchy and angry, and kept me unwanted company, right up until we left Begnas!

Begnas Yoga Retreat

We arrived in Begnas after a 25 minute taxi journey from Pokhara, and were greeted by a glorious lake and jungle. Begnas is a very small town, also very popular with tourists but far less developed than Pokhara. It is rural and peaceful, well... peace from traffic. On our first night I had one of the worst nights sleep I’ve had in Nepal due to a very very loud bird, whose song will forever be burned into my mind. The bird was defending its nest in a tree outside our window for the whole week we were there, by singing the same alarming song on repeat with no gaps. It was particularly loud at night, and we were glad we had ear plugs! The song always begins innocently enough, but quickly builds, increasing in volume, pitch and frequency until it sounds like a high pitched squealing menace. I honestly think the bird could be used as an instrument of torture. Everyone at the retreat joked about the bird, as we all suffered it’s pitched perils. We even prayed to it to try and ask it to move trees! Our prayers were mostly unanswered.

The retreat schedule was roughly 6.30 walking meditation, 7.00 Nasal Irrigation (!) 7.30-9.00 Yoga, 9.30 Breakfast, 11.00 Treatment, 13.00 Lunch, 15.00 Yoga Theory, 17.00 Yoga, 19.30 Dinner and 21.00 Mantra and bed. Liam and I avoided the Mantra session and opted for bed and a western media meditation such as going on our phones!

The Nasal Irrigation requires some further explanation... apparently this is commonplace in Nepal... I remain unconvinced.

First, you pour about a decent sized mug full of warm salt water through one nostril, then the other. You tilt your head so the water pours out your other nostril... or if you have a blocked nose, your mouth. Then, you use a variety of techniques to evacuate the contents of your nose, blowing snot and water noisily all over the flowers and hillsides. So much snot comes out that it’s unbelievable that you could have so much. On my first day, water kept pouring from my nose for a good hour or so afterwards! Newcomers feel embarrassed by evacuating the contents of their nose in public... but quickly this process is normalised and you begin to become excited by the contents of your nose, and share tips for removing it, admiring each other’s snot loads. Yep.

The technique is said to clear your nose.. but my nose is never blocked anyway. I embraced it whilst I was there, but secretly mourned my delicate nose mucus which I’m sure does an excellent job and I suspect that my body harbours it for a reason. I also pushed to the back of my mind thoughts of the transmission of hepatitis, as we all merrily shared nasal baths together.

The yoga was really good, and we practiced twice a day in a glorious room with 360 degree panoramic views of mountains jungle and lake. We often stopped to watch birdlife and sunsets, or views of mountains, or laugh about The Bird. The only plague was mosquitos! Oh, and the Gurus mobile phone, his 3 year old daughter, and the ladies who came to take our food orders, who often also interrupted us!

The guru at the retreat was quite the character. As with everything in Nepal, the retreat was not quite like a retreat in the UK. The guru was quite often distracted during yoga or yoga philosophy, by his daughter, or tending some business, or by wanting to tell us some tale, or speak on the phone, or manage his staff. It was a new business, and sometimes it could be slightly chaotic! Things did not really run to schedules, and you never knew what you were going to get. It really didn’t matter though, we thought it was all part of the experience. Liam and I actually quite liked the lack of structure and discipline, we were tired and happy to lay around.

Not everyone agreed though, whilst we were there, one woman left three days early, and another left on the first night, creeping away under the cover of darkness, without telling anyone! We could understand why I suppose. If you were expecting a quiet nights sleep at a retreat, then you actually got a very loud bird, and a 3 year old who screamed periodically in the night! There was also the problem of the monsoon rains which flooded all the rooms several times (we learnt to stem the tides with towels), the lack of hot water (which we didn’t mind), and one guest’s bathroom smelt very badly (ours luckily was fine!). Or maybe it could have been eating your dinner sat on the kitchen floor with the ants and gigantic spiders (again, we didn’t mind).

All that being said, we had a wonderful time. The staff were all lovely and cooked us amazing fresh food every day. Much of the food was grown in the garden or collected from local markets. We saw gangs of wild monkeys cheekily stealing the food during the day! We were treated like gods, and fed constantly!

We also had some pretty amazing treatments. I had a mud bath, which included having my boobs massaged, which was, erm, an experience. In fact, by the end of the retreat, every female member of staff had managed some close encounter with my bare boobs. And I thought Nepal was a country shy about nudity. Not when it comes to doing beauty therapies it seems! The treatments were great though, we had massages, reiki healing, a steam bath, pedicure, oil bath... and were taken out on a boat and had a lovely picnic.

After the week was up, we were given a Buddhist blessing, and I felt close to tears feeling grateful for the experience of the retreat. It wasn’t quite the retreat I expected, but I got so much more. I got to share a week with a Nepali family and some lovely staff, and live in the jungle doing yoga twice a day. We learnt so much about local culture, from arranged marriages, road financing, education, the caste system, the Nepali wars and... unfortunately I also got to learn about illness...

The Great Plague

Having managed to avoid any illness for two months, Liam and I both contracted a sickness in the last week. We were both too grateful it hadn’t happened at any point before, such as at 5000m, to be too upset. Well, emotionally upset- our tummies were very upset! Liam got ill first, and his bug lasted 24 hours. I had to go and beat him.

The day before the end of the yoga retreat, I woke up and evacuated the contents of my stomach... and did so about 60 times that day, out of both ends. It was just litres of water coming out. Of course I googled cholera and thought it sounded the same, but Liam told me I was being a bit dramatic. Which it turns out, I probably was. Probably!

The illness was with me for four days, getting slowly better. But, it caused a great deal of concern as we had a plane to catch, and I wasn’t going anywhere considering I couldn’t even make the en-suite bathroom sometimes never mind go roaming in the wilds away from a room.

Never have I been more humiliated than to poo myself whilst we had an en-suite bathroom. And not just once. Four times.

Luckily, we had travel insurance and they had a telephone GP service. I sought some advice and the GP was hopeful my symptoms suggested a virus which would clear up in time for the plane (not cholera, after all, then). And she was right. Didn’t stop me spending the last 4 days of my holiday in bed though. I moved from the bed at the yoga retreat to a very nice hotel in Pokhara, and that was all I moved.

We didn’t mind too much. We had air conditioning, room service, a very comfy bed, and a TV! Liam even got to watch the football.

The end of Nepal

So, I recovered enough and now I’m in Oman airport. Our last day was spent on a bus to Kathmandu, a bus which we paid double for to have a bus with a toilet (just in case). A bus which broke down, and then we were promptly transferred to cheap bus, with no toilet (thankfully I didn’t need it) and no refund. Futhermore, the bus dropped us off on a different part of Kathmandu, so we had to pay extra on top for a taxi. But it’s ok though, the driver said “no problem”, so there was no problem. Paying double and some more to go on a bad bus. But hey, we made it!

Next stop... driving to France in a week!

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cateringservicefan-blog · 6 years ago

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turnipsummer14-blog · 6 years ago

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Christmas gift guide: what you can order just FOUR days before December 25th

Still have presents to buy? The best Christmas gifts for last-minute shoppers that will arrive in time for December 25th - and they cost as little as £10

Vouchers are the way to go if you're sweating slightly about presents arriving in time for the big day

Online retailers are still offering presents with a guarantee of arriving at your door by the 24th December

Our picks include a day out at The Bear Grylls Adventure in Birmingham to hand-made chocolate truffles

Cost-conscious gifts include engraved perfume from £35 a bottle...and beer in the post for £29.90

By Jo Tweedy For Mailonline

Published: 07:50 GMT, 21 December 2018 | Updated: 15:21 GMT, 21 December 2018

The man in red is already packing up his sleigh...but what if, with just four days until the big December 25th, your present bag is still dismally bare?

Fear not, for online shopping truly offers last-minute Larrys a life-line, for there's a whole raft of internet purchases that can be made on December 21st...and still find their way to your loved one well in time for Christmas Day. Zero to hero in the click of a mouse!

Here, Femail rounds up the best last-gasp purchases you can still make...

UNDER £50

Nuxe Christmas cracker featuring four mini products £10.00

Ideal for travellers looking for some soothing treats in a smaller size, this Nuxe gift-set includes mini versions of luxurious products including a hand and nail cream, a honey face cream and a dry oil splash.

Order by 4pm on the 23rd (£4.95 charge) for next-day delivery

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Hand-made truffles including a Brussels sprout flavour £10.00

The sophisticated alternative to a selection box? Hand-made chocolate truffles with a Christmas theme include Raspberry Champagne, Prosecco, Milk Champagne and, wait for it, Brussel Sprouts! The box is geometric-trendy too.

Order by By 3pm on the 21st for tracked next day delivery

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Tickets to see the Nutcracker live at London's Albert Hall From £35.00

Forget Hollywood's version, the Nutcracker will play out to awe-struck crowds from the 28th to the 31st December at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The best news? You can pick tickets up straight from the box office... perfect for johnny come-latelys.

Order online and receive by post or direct at the box office

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Commemorative First World War cut-glass Tommy figure £29.99

Made by veterans, all profits from this commemorative WW1 Tommy figure go to charities across the military and mental health sector. This 10"/25cm high Perspex Tommy figure is delivered in beautiful packaging. This would be a lovely gift for many, especially to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War this year.

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas

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Tile Pro device to stop you losing keys and phones £30

This handy device is ideal for keeping track of items that easily get lost including house keys and luggage. The tile uses Bluetooth to make a loud sound that identifies the location of a lost item as well as shows positioning on a map.

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Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3080s electronic shaver £49.99

Perfect for the man on the go, the Braun Series 3 ProSkin 3080s has advanced MircoComb technology that reduces shaving time by guiding hair into the cutting element, while the two SensoFoils adapt to every contour to offer extreme shaving comfort and precision. Order with standard delivery by December 21, or next day delivery on December 23.

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Faux fur cushions £12.99

These luxury faux fur cushions are the ideal home accessory fur modern living spaces. Their plush exterior is a comfort to feel and their attractive look will compliment your room with a stylish edge.

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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Showtime Alphabet Collection Cushions £31.99

Featuring all 26 letters of the alphabet and numbers 1-9, the playful, vintage font is reminiscent of traditional circus typography combined with a modern day palette.

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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The Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whisky £40.95

A Glenrothes 12 Year Old in classic style: fruity and sweet. Aged solely in sherry-seasoned casks, this Speyside whisky has notes of vanilla, melon, banana and cinnamon.

Order by 7pm on December 21 with express delivery for Christmas Eve delivery.

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Gintuition Set £27

Created for all gin fans, this selection of 3 great gin glasses helps you to discover and enjoy the best tasting gin experience. A classic highball and on-trend copa stem are complimented by the stylish martini cocktail.

Order by 11.30am on December 21 for Christmas Eve delivery.

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Birchbox gift subscription £30 every 3 months

Treat someone to 3, 6 or 12 months of beauty discoveries and they'll receive a monthly delivery of 5 luxe beauty treats straight to their door.

It really is the gift that keep on giving - and the instantly printable certificate means it is great for last minute presents, all the way up to December 24th!

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Bruno Paillard Brut Premiere Cuvee NV Champagne £33.95

Brut Premiére Cuvée NV is Bruno Paillard’s flagship Champagne. This lively non-vintage is made exclusively from the first pressing of the grapes (the purest juice) and is a blend of wine from thirty-two villages, all vinified separately.

Delivery time in London is two hours, and one day delivery is available throughout the rest of the country.

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Mamont Vodka available to order until December 23rd £31.99

Presented in an ornate Mammoth tusk bottle, reminiscent of its Siberian roots, Mamont is the perfect gift or party pleaser this winter. Produced in limited small batches, Mamont Vodka is an ultra-premium, crystal clear spirit. Next day delivery is available so order by December 23.

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Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition £20

Jameson whiskey finished in craft stout-seasoned barrels from a local brewery, the stout-cask finish accentuates Jameson’s trademark smoothness with additional rich flavours of chocolate, coffee and butterscotch.

Order by December 21 for Christmas delivery.

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Birchbox Man Travel Bag £27

The perfect gift for the man in your life, you'll find everything he needs for on-the-go grooming inside this limited edition bag. From a cleanse-and-moisturise to a cosy pair of socks, we've got his impromptu getaways taken care of.

Order by 11.59pm on December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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£50-£100

WD 2 TB My Passport Portable Hard Drive £84.99

The My Passport portable drive is trusted to store the massive amounts of photos, videos and music you love; available in an array of vibrant, fun colors, the sleek style fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, so you can easily take your treasured content everywhere you go.

Order by December 21 for delivery by Christmas Eve.

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Bear Grylls Adventure NEC £80

Inspired by the adventurer's real-life expeditions, the Bear Grylls Adventure at Birmingham's NEC opened in September. This particular package offers a 90-minute indoor skydiving experience, an hour on the High Ropes, a go on the free fall tunnel and a zip-lining experience. Other experience packages are available.

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Learn to make bread From £75

Bread Angels specialise in making a whole variety of bread sold in the local community.

Expert teachers also offer four-hour courses across the UK, with gift vouchers for classes starting from £75, with everything from basic breads to sourdough and grissini on the menu.

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Private dance lessons £54 an hour

Know a Strictly fan who would appreciate a chance to dance? Treat them to a private lesson, learning choreography to their favourite song, with a professional teacher. Vouchers are for two people and available across the UK.

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Dry pouch £65

Newly launched, Red Original’s ‘Dry Pouch’ has been designed to keep wallets, phones and keys completely protected (throw it against a wall and all will remain safe and sound inside) and waterproof (plus it floats) with a YKK zip which will never rust, corrode or let water in. It can be attached through a belt or onto a board, boat, bike etc. Ideal for boating, swimming, skiing. This is a bum bag that a man would actually wear!

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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KODAK Mini Shot Instant Camera £84.99

Experience super high quality image processing and super-fast printing with the NEW Mini Shot Instant Camera from KODAK. Featuring powerful patented 4Pass Printing Technology, this 10-megapixel wonder enables you to aim, snap and print gorgeous credit-card-sized photos from the palm of your hand.

Order by end of play December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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Milano Velvet Armchair in teal £89.99

The ICON® Milano Armchair offers a rich depth of colour and texture that give this soft seat its soulful personality. Its elegantly supportive form and clean lines are waiting to envelope you in its shimmering velvet fabric. Lift and move this lightweight lovely wherever you wish using its matching velvet handle and its resilient fabric base to rest on.

Order on December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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House of Marley No Bounds Bluetooth Speaker £59.99

The No Bounds is our most rugged outdoor bluetooth speaker, crafted with sustainable cork to be as natural as its intended environment. The 4-colour speaker series is water and dust-proof, and each No Bounds boasts a 10-hour battery life which can be charged from flat in just 2 hours.

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Over £100

Dyson Supersonic™ Hair Dryer £299.99

The Dyson Supersonic is engineered for balance, with a motor that sits in the handle, for a new kind of drying experience. A glass bead thermistor measures the air temperature 20 times per second, guarding against extreme heat damage to protect natural shine. It’s acoustically tuned for conversation. The powerful motor is tuned to produce one inaudible frequency.

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Samsung Galaxy Watch £279

Always stay connected with the Samsung Galaxy watch. You can receive notifications and calls right on your wrist so you'll always know when your loved ones are trying to reach you. Ideal if you're prone to leaving your phone on silent or not it's not always in pocket.

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Dartington Crystal – Ships Decanter £115

This classic decanter is a stylish way to keep and present your spirits. The handmade stopper of this crystal decanter creates an airtight seal for your drink.

Order by 11.30am on December 21 for Christmas Eve delivery

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Kobo Forma £239.99

With no advertising and no interruptions, the Kobo Forma has been created to provide a great, relaxing reading experience. The device has handy page turn buttons, is bath friendly and has been created with ComfortLight PRO, which provides adjustable brightness and colour temperature to help reduce strain on your eyes.

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FLIR ONE Pro £440

The FLIR ONE Pro helps you find invisible problems faster than ever with thermal imagining, whether you're inspecting electrical panels, troubleshooting mechanical systems, looking for HVAC problems, or finding water damage.

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Sipsmith annual gin subscription £180

A bi-monthly subscription sends exclusive and delicious flavours of Sipsmith gin every other month. Each box contains 2x 20cl bottles and include flavours such as Black Maple Gin, Pomegranate Gin Liqueur and Bonfire Gin...

Order online before 24th Dec to guarantee January deliveries

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Go Pro Hero 7 £179.99

Say hello to the Go Pro Hero 7, the perfect partner on any adventure. It’s tough, tiny and totally waterproof so it can go wherever you do. An intuitive touch screen makes it simple to get great shots. Just swipe and tap. Use the photo timer to grab a sweet selfie. You can even shoot vertically then add your photos and videos right to your Instagram Story.

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Dell G3 17 £849

17" gaming laptop engineered with NVIDIA GeForce discrete graphics, 8th Gen Intel processors and thin design for the ultimate immersive gaming experience.

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Oculus Go £199

Easily enter virtual reality with no PC or wires attached. Oculus Go is a standalone VR headset made to fit you. Designed with breathable fabrics, adjustable straps and our best lenses yet.

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Bose SoundSport Free £179.95

Get clear, powerful sound from our first truly wireless in-ear headphones. They're engineered to stay in place and stay comfortable. We've packed them full of technologies so you can push your workout to the next level.

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ASUS ZenBook Pro UX580 £1,899.99

The stylish and powerful ASUS ZenBook Pro UX580 has been designed with a 15.6” Ultra HD display, an 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB RAM. It will boot up Windows 10 in no time and enable you to fly through any work projects, while the GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card provides gaming options during down time.

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Blow up paddle board £1,299

This is a revolutionary new SUP which is a full sized board yet, when deflated, is half the size of all other inflatable paddle boards on the market. The ‘Compact’ board is a real game changer in the SUP market, as it fits down into a backpack so can be transported anywhere and everywhere with complete ease.

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas

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KODAK Photo Printer Dock £189.99

This 2-in-1 printer doubles up as a cradle that also charges your mobile device. Simply plug in your Android phone via the 5-pin dock, or hook up your iOS device with the lightning charger and let the easy printing technology turn your pictures into high-quality prints in minutes.

Order by end of play December 21 for delivery before Christmas.

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Xbox One X 1TB Console – Gold Rush Special Edition Battlefield™ V Bundle £449.99

Enter mankind’s greatest conflict with Battlefield™ V as the series returns to its roots in a never-before-seen portrayal of World War 2. Take on physical, all-out multiplayer with your squad in experiences such as the vast Grand Operations and the cooperative Combined Arms, or witness human drama set against global combat in the single player War Stories. As you fight in epic, unexpected locations across the globe, enjoy the richest and most immersive yet.

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Luxury dog mattress £115

For the pet lover in your life. The Casper bed combines pressure-relieving memory foam and durable support foam to create a decent night's snoozing for Fido...the medium size sleeps dogs weighing up to 27kg

Delivered within 48 hours of ordering until 22nd December

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Filoment hoody for women £145

Filoment is designed to keep you warm and snug. An active cut, with longer back and articulated arms, makes it ideal for active use. We make our down jackets to last with Nikwax Hydrophobic down. Filoment’s durable polyester outer is DWR coated, helping to shed moisture.

Order by December 21 for delivery before Christmas

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Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-6414931/Christmas-gift-guide-order-just-FOUR-days-December-25th.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ito=1490&ns_campaign=1490

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salmiddleeast · 2 years ago

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What to expect?

#dubai

Dressed for the trip ...

Liveried chauffeur taking me to airport in black Merc limousine (included in Emirates ticket). Nice.

#Ilikeemirates

Emirates lounge is definitely a cut above the others: Moët, Veuve Cliquot, confit salmon, tasty middle eastern nibbles, super cakes, ... white gloved waiters

#IlikeEmirates

Almost a cabin to yourself, high-end noise-cancelling headphones, loads of chargers, 1900 films (of which 135 are latest), in-flight Wifi, large+iPad+iPhone screens, extensive cocktail menu (with Old Fashioned) and a top-deck bar !

#IlikeEmirates

159€ to go to the top of Burj Khalifa! No thanks ...

but people are forming large queues to pay

Crazy architecture... feels like Disneyland

Mostly it feels like a city made for robots ...

Not for families to live, eat, bring up children, grow old (you see very few elderly people) ...

But for robots (and humanoid shopping automata) it's probably lovely 😄

SHOPPING!!! (and olympic ice skating and aquarium and dental clinic and trampoline park and cinemas and driving school and hundreds of beauty treatments)

They also have Waitrose, Boots, WH Smith's, etc ... also UK plugs (but do drive on the right)

This is the only thing with the beautiful calligraphy (the only art museum is closed) ... but it is amazing

2/3 of the population are an unbanked underclass army of menial workers (drivers, cleaners, gardeners, waiters, cooks, ...) who typically come from India/Pakistan to serve all the white/local people - that's why everything is spotless

Fanastic choice in the female dress shops: black, black ... or ... black?

The men can look super sleek and elegant in their crisp white robes ... sometimes worn even by the traffic wallah

There is lush greenery and beautiful flower beds everywhere ... facilitated by water being pumped everywhere across what was desert

The ultimate show is when the Burj Khalifa (largest building in the world) flares up with an amazing light show, surrounded by a spectacle of water fountains

(best watch from terrace of TimeOut market with great barbecue and craft ale in hand)

dailymotion

See Tom Cruise doing his stunts there

The beach is a horrid commercial area full of people trying to sell you real estate ... but you do get elegant coffee

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forestraydentists · 2 years ago

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Northwood

Located on the North West outskirts of London, Northwood is an affluent suburb that straddles the border with Hertfordshire. It is a prime location for anyone who wants to enjoy the best of both worlds; a suburban setting surrounded by green and open countryside, and easy access to the capital. The area is also popular amongst young professionals and retirees alike. The city has a number of golf clubs and pubs, as well as a Waitrose supermarket next to the railway station, making it an ideal commuter destination. Luckily, the area is home to a plethora of fine dining restaurants and other swanky establishments, as well as some of the city’s best hotels. Learn more

If you’re after a more sophisticated shindig, the Curtain Hotel, located in the buzzy Shoreditch neighbourhood, is a worthy gilded cage. The lavish hotel features a number of impressive amenities including marble bathrooms, a spa, and a members’ club. The tavern is also a posh place to dine, with its own onsite bar and restaurant. Its most impressive feature is its proximity to two of the capital’s most prestigious landmarks: The Shard and the Gherkin.

In addition to its elegant design, the Curtain Hotel boasts a number of other amenities that make it stand out from its more snobby neighbours. The library is a prime spot for reading or snoozing, and the hotel has one of the best rooftop pools in town.

The Scarfes Bar is a high-end cocktail bar. It features a number of colorful motifs, as well as a menu inspired by the Michael Jackson album. The bar also offers a number of award-winning cocktails, including the aforementioned. It also serves some of the best burgers in the area. It’s probably a good idea to book in advance if you’re hoping to sample the menu’s finest.

The Mirror Room is a tavern with a storied history. In addition to being one of the oldest taverns in London, it’s also known for its excellent British cuisine, its dazzling views of the city, and its stylish occupants. Its cocktail list is extensive, with names such as “The Blueprint” and “Thirsty” on the menu. It’s also the place to go for an augmented reality experience in the form of a tea-infused cocktail. It’s not just a bar; the lounge also boasts a library, gym, and an a la carte restaurant. It’s also the city’s only gin bar, with over 100 gins on offer. It’s the only place in town that hosts an awe-inspiring one-minute video.

The Mirror Room also has the honor of being the first tavern in the UK to install a consumer-grade augmented reality experience, allowing visitors to choose the perfect blend of tea. The aforementioned tea-infused cocktail can be retrieved by using the mobile phone’s browser. It’s worth noting that the best part of the Mirror Room is the view of the nearby city’s skyline, which is particularly breathtaking at sunset. The hotel’s other notable feats include its own health club, a Cognac and Cigar Garden, and its own spa. Next article

Driving Directions From This City To Forest & Ray – Dentists, Orthodontists, Implant Surgeons

Driving Directions From This City To The Next City

Originally published here: https://forestray.dentist/london/northwood/

#Forest & Ray Feeds

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oofys · 22 days ago

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Oofys highlights spots where the ambiance is as enticing as the drinks and food, ensuring that your evening is memorable from start to finish. Discovering these hidden gems can enhance your dining experience while enjoying expertly mixed beverages in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

#affordable luxury dining london #best cocktails and food uk #best upscale lounges in london #high-end cocktail menu uk #indulgent dining in uk #legendary vibe bar uk #modern bar with gourmet food london #trendy cocktail spots in london #modern indulgence bars uk #sleek and stylish bars uk

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moutoshidotcom · 4 years ago

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EXPERT CHOICE: 10 BEST 5-STAR HOTELS IN LONDON

London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. Tourism of London according to the London Government website the statistics are:

Visitor Count: 21 million

Spending Amount by Visitors: £2,104 million

The Number of Overnight Stays: 1.3 million

Visits Per Day: 19.7 million

In Britain, tourism is the fastest growing industry. Up until 2025, it is expected to grow by 3.8% a year, creating 10% of all jobs. In 2016, overseas travelers spent £22.5 billion in the UK. Here is a listing of the 10 Best 5-star Hotels in London.

List of 10 Best Most Visited 5-star Hotels in London

1. Vintry & Mercer

2. Intercontinental London — The O2, an IHG Hotel

3. Hilton London Bankside

4. Shangri-La The Shard, London

5. The Ampersand Hotel

6. ME London by Melia

7. Kimpton — Fitzroy London, an IHG Hotel

8. Andaz London Liverpool Street — a Concept by Hyatt

9. The Langham London

10. London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf

1. Vintry & Mercer

The five-star Vintry & Mercer in London offers a fitness center and bar 700 m from St Paul’s Cathedral. Nearby points of interest include Sky Garden, Tower of London, and Borough Market. A business center and free WiFi are available at the property.

Every room and suite has a bespoke interior design and includes a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms at Vintry & Mercer feature a balcony as well as a private bathroom with free toiletries.

The property offers a continental breakfast. Restaurants on-site specialize in British and Asian cuisine. You can get advice on what to do in the area at the reception.

The accommodation is 1.7 km from London Bridge. The property is a short walk from Mansion House station. The London City Airport is 12 kilometers away.

Based on independent reviews, this is our guests’ favorite part of London. The location is especially popular with couples, who rated it 9.4 for a two-person trip.

2. Intercontinental London — The O2, an IHG Hotel

The InterContinental London — The O2, an IHG hotel, is located on the Greenwich Peninsula. Free WiFi and a spa are available onsite. It takes 5 minutes to walk to the O2 Arena from the hotel via a covered walkway.

All rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and complimentary luxury toiletries. Three restaurants and two bars are available to guests. Both Clipper Bar and Eighteen Sky Bar offer views of Canary Wharf and the River Thames.

IHG’s InterContinental London — The O2 has a 24-hour reception and a large conference center. In the UK, the Arora Ballroom is the largest pillar-free event space. 19 additional meeting rooms are available.

The InterContinental London — The O2, an IHG hotel, is 8.2 km from London City Airport. The Excel Arena is 6.4 km from the hotel. Five minutes walk from North Greenwich Tube station and ten minutes walk from Emirates Airline Greenwich is the North Greenwich Tube station. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.6.

3. Hilton London Bankside

Hilton London Bankside has an indoor pool, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a cocktail bar, as well as free WiFi. The hotel is located on London’s popular South Bank, 11 minutes from Borough Market and Waterloo Station.

There is a 42-inch flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, a radio, air-conditioning, and a Hilton Serenity Bed in each room. The room has a seating area, a work desk, and a refrigerator. There is a shower or a bath in the en suite bathroom, as well as bathrobes, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. A few of the rooms offer a view of the city. Restaurant service is available all day long as well as 24-hour room service.

Shakespeare’s Globe is a 7-minute walk from the Hilton London Bankside, and the Shard is a 14-minute walk away as well. The London Eye, Southbank Centre, and SEA LIFE London Aquarium are all nearby.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location 9.0 for a two-person trip.

4. Shangri-La The Shard, London

The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London occupies levels 34 to 52, offering breathtaking views of the capital and beyond. The highest bar in London serves cocktails until late and has an exquisite restaurant.

In addition to floor-to-ceiling windows providing views of the city, all of the hotel’s rooms maintain the theme of Oriental elegance. In addition to the body-contouring Shangri-La Bed, rooms include a TV, coffee maker, complimentary WiFi, and binoculars.

Marble-clad en suite bathrooms come with underfloor heating, separate bathtubs, and a glass-enclosed shower. There are plush bathrobes, Acqua di Parma toiletries, and mirrors with TV screens. As part of the building’s integrated sun-shielding, all rooms are equipped with climate control.

TING, a signature restaurant and lounge on level 35, and Bar 31 are two of the hotel’s dining and drinking options. GŎNG, located on level 52, is London’s highest champagne and cocktail bar.

London Bridge Station is less than one minute walk from the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard. You can walk to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge in 20 minutes. Enjoy a stroll along with the South Bank of the River Thames to The London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster, located approximately 2.4 km away.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Guests rated the location 9.5 for a two-person trip.

5. The Ampersand Hotel

In a large Victorian building, The Ampersand is a cosmopolitan hotel with a Mediterranean restaurant and is a short walk from South Kensington Underground Station. There is also a gym and a games room at the hotel.

An elegant chandelier cascades down a grand staircase in the pillared foyer. A patisserie menu is available in the hotel’s drawing rooms, while the downstairs bar area has an urban feel with exposed brick arches.

All of the rooms at The Ampersand have original Victorian features and bold contemporary wallpaper designs. There is a minibar, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and an en suite bathroom in each room.

Additionally to the hotel’s well-equipped gym, guests will have access to information about horseback riding, private trainers, and running routes.

A short walk away from the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, Harrods and Hyde Park is just 15 minutes away.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location at 9.7 for a two-person trip.

6. ME London by Melia

ME London by Melia overlooks Somerset House from its location on the Strand. This elegant hotel offers international fine dining at the STK London restaurant. The River Thames, Covent Garden, Somerset House, and Soho are all just 2 minutes away. The Radio Rooftop Bar offers panoramic views of London.

This innovative hotel features cosmopolitan interiors and contemporary music. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views, a media hub, an LCD TV, and a Bali shower in the en suite bathroom. Guests can also enjoy free WiFi, 24-hour gym access, and 24-hour room service.

The radio rooftop offers a variety of breakfast options and in smoothies, pastries, and coffees in the Marconi Lounge Bar, or guests can enjoy a cocktail on the radio rooftop bar. A Suite and breakfast rate also includes breakfast at the rooftop Radio restaurant, with views of the city.

Guests at ME London by Melia can request tailored tourist information and reserve tickets for events and attractions. Only 5 minutes walk from the bright lights of the West End is the hotel. Ten minutes by foot will take you to Trafalgar Square, and five minutes will take you to Temple Tube Station.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.6.

7. Kimpton — Fitzroy London, an IHG Hotel

The Kimpton Fitzroy London is a landmark building on the eastern flank of Russell Square in Bloomsbury. A short walk from Covent Garden, Fitzrovia, and The British Museum, this lavish property features a striking terracotta exterior and luxurious contemporary designer interiors.

The rooms and suites have been completely redesigned throughout the hotel to create a sense of modern luxury throughout the hotel. All rooms come with free WiFi, Smart TVs, minibars, and en-suite bathrooms with high-end toiletries.

On-site dining options include Burr & Co., a casual coffeehouse by day, and a wine bar by night. At Fitz’s bar, guests can relax with a drink. The Neptune Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the Palm Court serves afternoon tea.

Hotel guests have access to eight meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom that can hold up to 300 guests.

The Kimpton Fitzroy is just steps from Russel Square Tube Station and less than 1.6 km from Oxford Street and the West End’s theatres. In less than 10 minutes, you can reach King’s Cross, St. Pancras, and Euston stations by car.

According to independent reviews, this is the favorite part of London for our guests. Couples rated the location 9.4 for a two-person trip.

8. Andaz London Liverpool Street — a Concept by Hyatt

This five-star hotel is adjacent to Liverpool Street Station and has 267 stylish rooms and suites, 7 restaurants and bars, free WiFi, a 24-hour health club, and complimentary wine and canapes in the hotel’s lobby every evening.

All rooms feature a flat-screen TV, Yukata bathrobes, REN toiletries, and a free non-alcoholic minibar with juices and snacks.

At Eastway Brasserie, you can enjoy casual dining, traditional English pub food at Lady Abercorn’s Pub & Kitchen, or authentic Japanese cuisine at Miyako. Guests can also enjoy all-day dining, beverages, and live music at Rake’s Café Bar.

The Andaz London Liverpool Street has located just 1.6 km from the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as a short distance from vibrant and creative Shoreditch, with its array of boutiques, markets, and nightlife. Located in central London, Oxford Street is only a 7-minute Tube ride away.

Independent reviews indicate that this is the favorite part of London for our guests. For a two-person trip, couples rated the location 9.4.

9. The Langham London

An award-winning glamorous bar, Artesian, and a stylish restaurant, Roux at the Landau, are located at the top of Regent Street. Oxford Circus tube station is a 5-minute walk away, and there is free WiFi. In the local area, there are numerous shops, theatres, and restaurants.

Among Langham’s bars and restaurants are the award-winning Palm Court, Artesian Bar, and The Wigmore, all overseen by Michel Roux Jr. Currently, the Landau restaurant Roux is closed.

A 16-meter swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms, a fully equipped gym, and treatment rooms can be found at Chuan Body + Soul Spa and Health Club. Each room at Langham London features an en suite bathroom, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.

It was Europe’s first grand hotel when it opened in 1865, and it has hosted royalty, foreign dignitaries, and celebrities in luxury for 150 years.

Our guests’ favorite part of London, according to independent reviews. The location is particularly liked by couples — they rate it 9.7 for a two-person trip.

10. London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf

Luxury rooms and a gym are available at this 5-star landmark hotel in Canary Wharf. The O2 Arena and London City Airport are easily accessible.

The spacious rooms at London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf feature LED TVs with Google Chromecast, luxurious beds, and comfortable seating areas. Room service is available 24 hours a day, and there are USB outlets in the rooms.

In addition, many of the rooms overlook Canary Wharf and the skyline of London’s business district.

Manhattan Grill Steakhouse offers prime USDA steaks in a stylish environment. You can also relax at the G&Tea Lounge, which offers a variety of gins, cocktails, snacks, and full meals as well as afternoon tea.

The Marriott Health Club offers a wide range of fitness facilities, including a fully equipped gym and a relaxing sauna.

West India Quay Station, 200 m from the hotel, is served by the DLR. In the public areas, executive rooms, and suites, Wi-Fi is free. Couples like the location the most — they rate it 9.2 for a two-person trip.

These are our expert choices for the 10 Best 5-star Hotels in London. We hope you enjoyed this article. Please share your views through comments. We are wishing you all the best in spending your holidays in Mauritius. Thanks for being with moutoshi.com.

#hotels #hoteldesign #hotellobby #london

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architectnews · 4 years ago

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NoMad London Hotel, Covent Garden

NoMad London Hotel, Covent Garden Interior Renovation, Building Restoration, Architecture Photos

NoMad London Hotel in Covent Garden

18 May 2021

NoMad London Hotel Refurbishment

Design: Roman and Williams

Location: 4 Bow St, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 7AT, UK

New-York based hospitality company, Sydell Group, opens NoMad London, the first international property for The NoMad Hotel brand, in the historic former Magistrate’s Court in the heart of London’s West End.

Located in Covent Garden, opposite The Royal Opera House, NoMad London takes residence in the Grade II-listed building famously known as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station. This is the brand’s most intimate property at 91 rooms including 21 suites, centred around several exquisite dining and drinking spaces in the NoMad tradition.

The property is the Sydell Group’s second venture in London, following the company’s partnership with Ron Burkle and Soho House to open The Ned. Sydell Group’s Founder Andrew Zobler, has earned a reputation for his ability to transform historic buildings into meaningful hospitality experiences that preserve their historic spirit and bring them back to new life. Sydell Group has partnered with Doha-based investment firm BTC to launch the London outpost.

Bringing together the finest creative talents in architecture, design, art curation, food, beverage, and hospitality, each NoMad explores the artistic, cultural and historic interplay between its home city of New York and European culture. In London, NoMad lends its residential warmth and casual elegance to the storied building, layering it with rich interiors and a playful spirit that is decidedly NoMad.

In collaboration with New York-based interior design studio, Roman and Williams, the transformation of the historic 19th century building draws inspiration from the building’s history and its location in Covent Garden, as well as exploring the artistic and cultural connection between London and New York. Grounded in this narrative, and an ethos rooted in creating voltage by uniting complementary forces, the masculine character of the historic architecture is animated with interjections of femininity, glamour, and a cosmopolitan spirit. This is expressed through richly textured fabrics, aesthetic woodwork and ethereal murals.

The opening of the hotel comes on the heels of Roman and Williams’ most recent opening of the British Galleries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Robin Standefer, co-founder of Roman and Williams, says: “The spirit of the London NoMad is collected and fundamentally residential. It embraces a New Romanticism that has a powerful contrast with the grit and strength of the courthouse. From rich textured textiles to aesthetic inspired woodwork to ethereal murals, the space evokes a grand residence but always tempered with a bohemian spirit that Stephen and I infuse into every Roman and Williams project.”

Stephen Alesch, co-founder of Roman and Williams, says: “With all our projects we want people to feel comfortable and curious. On a journey of discovery that is familiar even if it’s from a dream they may have had. The Nomad is meant to be beautiful, bohemian and evocative all at once. The building is so powerful and remarkable that you are embraced by its strength, while the rich and textured interiors balance the bones. There is a tension between this muscularity and softness that creates a powerful narrative for the guest. There are many stories to discover and hopefully to create.”

NoMad London is also home to a world-class art programme that celebrates the influence of post-war American art and the European avant-garde. A collaboration with long-time Sydell creative partners, be-poles, the hotel accommodates a curation of over 1,600 collected and commissioned works by a variety of British and international artists that lends a deeply layered narrative to the hotel experience.

For the first time in a NoMad hotel, abstract art is featured in reference to the Abstract Expressionist movement, which represents a significant moment in New York’s influence on modern art.

Antoine Ricardou, founder of studio be-poles, says: “The art for NoMad London was carefully curated to explore the exchange of creative ideas between New York and London. The full collection is not only a unique ode to the neighborhood of Covent Garden and the Royal Opera House across the street, but to the NoMad’s American roots, creating a rich narrative that blends photographs, sculptures, ceramics, paintings, drawings and more.”

As in all NoMad properties, food and beverage plays an integral role in the experience with a host of dining and drinking experiences throughout and is overseen by Executive Chef Ashley Abodeely. The hospitality and dining room teams will be overseen by Food & Beverage Director and NoMad NYC opening alum, Chris Perone.

At the heart of the hotel, The NoMad Restaurant is housed in a lush, light-filled atrium evocative of an Edwardian greenhouse and is open five days a week (Tuesday to Saturday). Side Hustle is NoMad’s version of a British pub with a decidedly New York sensibility and a playful spirit, serving a menu of sharing plates paired with an agave-based list of spirits created by legendary mixologist Leo Robitschek and the award-winning NoMad Bar team.

The Library is the living room of the hotel where guests can enjoy light fare, coffee and tea, and cocktails amidst a thoughtful collection of books. Coming further down the line, Common Decency, is the first-ever NoMad lounge, and is nestled in a subterranean playground, offering a lively East London style craft cocktail bar complemented by elements of West End establishments.

NoMad London also offers over 9,000 square feet of elegant and adaptable space for weddings, events, meetings and private dining. The building’s original Magistrates’ Courtroom, now the Magistrates’ Ballroom, has been re-imagined as a formal space with two adjacent private dining rooms, a separate bar, and a dedicated entrance from the street using the original courtroom’s entrance.

A unique part of the hotel will also be the Bow Street Police Museum which pays homage to the building’s colourful past both as a police station for over 100 years and as a Magistrates’ Court.

Following government guidelines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, NoMad London will adhere to regulations, including the appropriate PPE for restaurant and hotel personnel.

Room rates, starting from £455 Please visit thenomadhotel.com for more information

NoMad Hotels Grounded in the idea of the hotel as a great home layered with stories and animated by the collective spirit of its inhabitants, NoMad is our vision of an artfully lived life.

NoMad’s restaurants and bars celebrate the interplay between grand and intimate, classical and colloquial, festive moments of revelry and quiet meals that nourish the spirit. The offering is a reflection of the season, the place and the gracious, creative talent of the NoMad team that brings it to life.

Hotelier Andrew Zobler founded New York-based hospitality company, Sydell Group. In London, Zobler opened The Ned in partnership with Ron Burkle and Soho House. For NoMad London, he has partnered with Doha based investment firm BTC.

Sydell Group Sydell Group is the creator and manager of unique hotels deeply rooted in their location and architecture. Sydell’s core expertise is an ability to collaborate with original talent within the world of design, food & beverage, and retail, and bring them together in the creation of compelling new hotels that engage the communities around them. Sydell Group’s diverse portfolio of award-winning properties include The NoMad, New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas; The LINE LA, DC and Austin; Park MGM Las Vegas; and The Ned, London. www.sydellgroup.com

Roman and Williams Credited with disrupting the hospitality industry by creating an alternative to the ‘boutique’ hotel Roman and Williams is known for their work on such projects as Ace Hotel New York, The Boom Boom Room at the Standard High Line, and the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. Their restaurants have received extensive praise, including Le Coucou, with Stephen Starr and Chef Daniel Rose, which was named New York City’s top restaurant of 2016 by the New York Times. In another project of cultural and civic significance, the firm is collaborating on the re-design of the British Galleries at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Roman and Williams has received numerous accolades for their approach, including the prestigious 2014 National Design Award for excellence in Interior Design and a recurring presence in Architectural Digest’s Top 100 Designers. Robin and Stephen were cited by Fast Company in 2016 as two of the most Creative People in Business.

be-poles and Portraits de Villes be-poles is a Paris and New York-based narrative design studio that breathes creative, 360-degree storytelling into hospitality and lifestyle brands. Their work encompasses architecture, interior design, branding, illustration, publishing, furniture design, amenity design and curating art collections for hotels, restaurants and retail spaces. Their clients include Sydell Group and NoMad Hotels, Four Seasons, Perseus Properties, Le Barn Hôtel, Hôtel Le Pigalle, Eleven Madison Park, Les Sources de Cheverny, Cyril Lignac, Moet Hennessy, and more. be-poles reveals the soul of a project, immersing it in graceful wabi-sabi, the Japanese philosophy that extols beauty in the impertinence of things, and the unexpectedness of happy accidents. For more information follow @bepoles on Instagram or visit www.be-poles.com. Shop be-poles-designed objects and books on www.shop.be-poles.com.

BTC Business Trading Company, also known as BTC was established in 1997 to fill the void which existed in Qatar for a retail environment offering the perfect mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. Today BTC is famous both in Qatar and the entire GCC region for its proven expertise in the development and management of premium shopping malls, entertainment, real estate, and high-end retail brands. Ever since its inception, BTC has set exemplary high standards of excellence in all its areas of expertise. With the advent of every new project, the BTC has successfully raised and exceeded the standard it set.

Photography: Simon Upton

NoMad London Hotel, Covent Garden building images / information received 180521

Location: 4 Bow St, Covent Garden, central London, England, UK

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