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bonnie-barstow-of-flag · 5 years ago

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The Not So Lonesome Knight Part 6

Parts 1 X, 2 X , 3 X , 4 X, 5 X

Where in the Devil were his employees? He can’t help but wonder. They were certainly long overdue!

When they finally arrive at the restaurant, the Foundation’s salt and pepper haired Patriarch is waiting and had apparently been doing so, for a good allotment of time. Devon Miles cast a vexed glance down at this wristwatch. His marvelous topaz eyes radiate impatience which, was tempered by a more merciful nature. His lips are pulled tight into a frown though the relief is evident upon his countenance upon catching sight of the distinctive hard-top taxiing to a stop.

“Kitt, you know the drill.” Michael cheerfully states, shifting the gears into park. They’d been through this routine more than a hundred times by now. Plus, he had every confidence that Kitt would go into surveillance mode as they discussed the case. While, it felt like overkill, Michael really didn’t want to lower his guard. Especially, if someone was preparing to strike out at the Foundation. His detective instincts knew it was a very real possibility.

He exits the cabin and skids his way over Kitt’s hood so that he can promptly open the door for Bonnie. Sure, the day hadn’t been off to the best of starts. Though, he really did enjoy the kiss. Gazing at her now, with that same embarrassed flush upon her face, made him all the more certain that he wanted to be with her or alone the rest of his life. But he can’t imagine upsetting her. He had already come dangerously close to provoking her while they were getting dressed. So it is with earnest that he feels compelled to show her how he felt without the assistance of fancy words.

Flattery and chivalry weren’t things Bonnie was fully accustomed to. So her hand instinctively had flown to the door handle but before she can grasp it, the door is swung wide open before her. She stares long at hard for a second at his proffered hand before allowing her own fingers to graciously curl around it. The grasp parts when she rises to stand upon her own two feet. “Thanks.” The gracious word is imparted, just a hint louder than a whisper. The brunette can feel the tropical scorch rising back into the curves of her cheekbones. Internally, her heart gives a petitioning thud. Tell him, tell him. Her mind chants to no avail. Her tongue was unready and unwilling to gift any such nonsense a voice.

As they walk she can feel the reassuring pressure of his palm residing over the small of her back. He’d always done that for as long as she could remember. For some reason today it felt different. Dare she consider it a loving gesture? No. It had to be a silly trick of her sentimental imagination! Besides, when Michael had learned that she was the one he had been kissing, his azure orbs had almost vacantly searched her. She had interpreted that as Michael showing a polite indifference. Who was she trying to kid by fancying that last night would have any significant impact? Michael was notoriously allergic to attachments. He moved from one girl to the next in pursuit of the next hot fling. Bonnie didn’t want that. She didn’t want meaningless relations. Even more so, she didn’t desire a lowly unimportant place in his life. Still, with his hand pressed against her, the mechanic allows herself to cling to a tiny shred of hope that she may still earn something more than his passing affections.

“My heavens,” the elder gentleman starts, the very minute Bonnie and Michael were seated. The richness of his purely English accent slipping into every syllable. “I was beginning to think you two weren’t going to show.” His gracefully veiled reproach was well deserved given they were definitely more than one hour late. Fidgeting, he readjusts the cuffs of his tailored suit jacket before he picking up the menu to give it another once over. “What in the Devil kept you? I trust you have a good explanation.”

He is met with bashful glances and two definitive apologies. Michael is the first to clear his throat. “It’s my fault, Devon. There was a mix-up at the hotel.”

“Oh?” Devon questions. His graying brow quirking just enough to show that his curiosity had been piqued.

“Well you see,” Michael commences, ready to launch into the whole spiel when Bonnie interjects.

Bonnie, never really one to slouch, allowed herself to sink lower in the comfort of the booth. “It’s a long and uninteresting story, Devon. Let’s just say the front desk made the phone call to the wrong room.” The excuse sounded plausible enough. Didn’t it? She cast a worried glance at the two from over her own menu.

Michael looked as if he had been physically struck. His tongue was ready to dispute part of her explanation when he thought the better of it. Maybe, just maybe, she was right. Undeserved shame compels his head to droop. His mind considers the potential that he wasn’t the great company he thought he was. Try as he might to focus on the menu, he couldn’t. Her words kept rolling like a bowling ball down an endless lane, over and over in his mind. What had she meant by her statement? Why did it feel like she had been speaking in some kind of code? Or was he simply too unintelligent to decipher any message she was trying to get across? Why was it so hard to communicate with her?!

Bonnie snagged a glimpse of Michael. Her heart sinks inside of her chest as his expression bordered on the precipice of offended and angry. Had it been something she said? Worry grips tightly around the slowly thrumming muscle. Each of its beats dredged up fear that he loathed her. How could she backtrack now? Swallowing sharply she feels her appetite fleeting.

Devon, who to this point is still blissfully unaware, cheerfully prompts, “so what will you to be having?” He suspects that his lovely mechanic would resort to ordering something health-conscious and wise while, his haphazard agent would opt for something bathed in grease. His topaz orbs linger with considerable interest upon them.

Bonnie and Michael both had the misfortune of locking each other in the cross-hairs of their gazes when they went to answer. Immediately, they both allow their eyes to falter downwards.

“Well? We don’t exactly have all day.” Devon prods. He was beginning to suspect that something is amiss. They had been getting along so splendidly the other day and now they could barely stand to look at each other.

“Go ahead, Michael.” Bonnie coolly states, in an effort to take some of the pressure off of herself.

Under his breath, he bitterly grumbles, “why don’t you just tell me what I’m allowed to have and what I’m not.” He thinks that it is said in a soft enough tone that it wouldn’t be audible over the other lively conversations around them but it’s not. She always criticized his choices. Particularly, when they came to food and women.

Bonnie’s menu flops down onto the table with a click. “What is that supposed to mean?!” It was her turn to have confusion and offense tattooed to her countenance. Honestly. She can’t even believe he said that!

Small sparks of repentance flicker through his gaze but are quickly snuffed out to something colder than ash. He shifts uncomfortably in his seat. “Well, its just that you...” The unfinished accusation sits like bricks in his tone. Catching a peripheral view of Devon, whose face clearly bespoke disapproval, he recants. “It’s nothing.” Like an admonished child he ducks behind the cover of his menu and he dwells there for several minutes in silence. “Guess, the double cheeseburger looks good.”

“Nothing?” Bonnie prods, not fully willing to let it go. “Michael, if it was nothing you wouldn’t have mentioned it. And now, I want to know.” Want definitely was not a strong enough term.

The curly-haired agent’s menu is dropped beside her discarded one and he leans across the table. His hands fold together like a shuffled deck of cards. “Well, you apparently know what’s best for me. What was it you said a while back, you anticipate my every need?” Every yearning but one. The most important one. The one that revolved around her. “And everythin’ I tend to order is considered junk or trash.” He doesn’t even remember where the hell he was going with his statements so he abruptly ceases. In the undercurrent of his discourse lay a deeper meaning. One he had tried to impart to her that morning. But it lodges stubbornly and quite painfully somewhere inside of him. It changes form and escapes as an unintentionally harsh rebuke that he immediately wishes he could erase.

Her words had been taken so far out of context it was hard to piece them back together. Where was all this coming from? She is so taken aback by his commentary all she can do is glower. In a low grievous tone, she quips, “it’s none of my business if you want to poison yourself.”

In that instant, Devon’s suspicions were confirmed. Something had gone on between them since they had parted ways. Whatever it was, it didn’t appear to be good. Astonished by the cruelty of their banter and wishing to save face for both of them Devon interrupts. “Yes. Well, to each their own. I’m sure you’ll both make the appropriate selections.” He only gives a pause long enough for their orders to be placed with the waitress before directing their attention back to the case. “About Kent Stevens...”

#the Not So Lonesome Knight fan fic #The Not So Lonesome Knight part 6 #my fanfic #knight rider 1982 #bonniebarstowofflag #read more just because it's super lengthy

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tiny-maus-boots · 5 years ago

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The Fool

A/N: Part 4 of The Debt Collector Series, or the many bespoke three piece suits of Aubrey Posen.

Super big thank you to my bestie and beta @chloes-yellow-cup who puts up with me when I’m annoying (which is all the time), and STILL is kind enough to read and edit for me.

AAAAAND a very special thank you to @kate-harper because omgosh look at what she made!!! It is the greatest thing I have ever seen. It’s beautiful and I love and I have it saved as my lock screen so I can stare at it all day at work.

Stacie

She held up one dress in front of her body and sighed before flinging it to the side and holding up another. They were both beautiful long gowns that were light weight enough for the season but long and form fitted enough for the type of event. Stacie flung the second dress, a pale green, to the side and stood in front of Cynthia Rose in exasperation.

“I have a closet full of evening dresses and gowns and I can’t figure out what to wear to my own event tonight. I should have planned this weeks ago.”

Of course weeks ago she’d still been planning on attending by herself. It wasn’t always that way, usually Weston pretended to humor her work and attended events with her. But for the last couple of years she’d gone to each event with excuses instead of a husband. And when Aubrey had found out she asked to be her date, which was amazing, except now she had nothing to wear at the last minute. Her best friend looked up from the deck of cards she was idly shuffling and smirked then shook her head slowly. “What difference does it make? You ain’t gonna be in it but a minute.”

Stacie huffed and walked back into her closet to look for something else to wear. White was out, gold was out, green was definitely out. This used to be so easy before, any dress would do and Weston would wear the same tuxedo he always wore. It was nice of course, with classic lines, and he wore it well enough she supposed. But no one wore a suit like Aubrey and she had a feeling that Aubrey in a tux was going to make her weak. So she wanted to up her style game. Going stag was not the same thing as arriving with an escort.

“That isn’t the point. Like at all.” There was a knock at the door to the bedroom and she poked her head out of the closet to watch Cynthia Rose take something from the housekeeper. It was a large rectangular box with a bow on it. “What’s all this?”

“Georgia said it was just delivered by a strange mute woman. So I’m guessing Lil.” She placed the box on the edge of the bed and rested her hands on her hips. “You gonna open it?”

Stacie bounded over and leapt on to the bed already imaging what kind of dress might be in it. “What do you think it is? A pony?”

“I really hope you’re playing, girl.”

They had been best friends since college and the banter had always been the same. She’d be the dumb one and CR would be the cynical wise cracking one. It was a façade they both played to even though they knew each other much better than that. She pulled the ribbon off and opened the lid then let out a breath of surprised air. She shouldn’t have been surprised, Aubrey had impeccable taste, but for some reason she was blown away. Stacie reached into the box and pulled out the long deep red silk satin spaghetti strap gown.

“Guess that solves your dress problem. Damn. You gonna look hot.”

Stacie bit her lip and reached for the card in the bottom of the box and flipped it open. Cynthia Rose tried to look over her shoulder and she closed the card quickly. There were a lot of things that Aubrey would probably not care about if she told Cynthia Rose but something this personal, this romantic, that was out of the question to share.

“Nosy.”

“And which one of us is always digging through my phone to read my texts?”

“That’s different. Your sexts with that Ashley chick are awesome. Seriously. You could sell it as lesbian erotica. I know a guy.” Cynthia Rose gave her a look like she was out of her mind but it melted into something more considering after a moment. Stacie smirked and slid off the bed so she could read the card to herself. “Think about it.”

She leaned against the wall next to the window and smiled softly at the handwriting. Of course Aubrey wrote in beautiful heavy cursive script. ‘I promise to take it off you later – A’ It sent a thrill down her spine and she inhaled deeply at the thought of what Aubrey might have planned for her. Stacie gave the dress another look, holding it in front of her body while facing the full length mirror. It was gorgeous and she would look hot in it.

“You better hurry up. It’s almost time.”

Stacie nodded glad that she had already done her hair and makeup as padded into the closet to dress. Unsurprisingly the dress fit her perfectly, the slit riding almost to her hip was sure to flash a peek of her garter if her step was too long. She had wanted to tuck a gift from Aubrey into it but despite how small the lightweight the .22 caliber pistol was it was still a little too bulky for a simple black band. At the time Aubrey had given it to her the concealer thigh holster had seemed silly but as she adjusted it on her other thigh and tucked the gun into it she realized it was the perfect accessory. It held firmly and securely without ruining the line and fall of the dress. She grabbed her shoes and stepped into them, buckling the thin straps around her ankles.

When she stepped out of the closet Cynthia Rose gave her a whistle. “Aubrey’s going to love it. You look awesome, girl.” Her brow furrowed when her gaze trailed down Stacie’s body and ended at awkward way she was standing, trying to get used to the weight and feel of the gun strapped to her thigh. It would take her a few minutes to get adjust and get used to it but it was the first time she was wearing it for practical use. The other woman raised her brows in question as she guessed the problem immediately. “Oh so you ride or die now?”

It wasn’t an idle question and she could feel the current of something underneath the words. Maybe a threat, or a warning, she wasn’t sure but she gave a slow nod after thinking it through. She knew what being with Aubrey would mean if things got bad at work. She knew exactly the type of business Aubrey had, it was how they got to the situation they found themselves in now. Stacie turned to the mirror and started to touch up her makeup and hair.

“If you’re asking if I’m totally cool with how violent Aubrey can be for work then the answer is yes. I knew who she was before we started this, remember?”

Not that she herself could ever really forget the blonde’s work. This relationship with Aubrey had been so easy and almost too normal. It became harder and harder to remember that she was married to Weston and not Aubrey with all the time they spent in each other’s company. Stacie couldn’t even remember the last time she’d gone to Weston’s office to take him to lunch, then again he was rarely even there anymore. He spent more time traveling for work than he did at home which was quite frankly a relief.

But with Aubrey it was different. She found herself planning out her days so that she’d be around The Bird near lunch or dinner. And she’d dropped in a time or two at an inopportune moment. The most recent time giving her a very vivid reminder that this life was not a game.

She had hoped that it was a slow business day when she walked in to the manager’s office in the back. It hadn’t even crossed her mind that she would be walking directly into a business meeting of sorts. But she had and she’d stood frozen in the doorway as she took in the balding man tied to the chair and Aubrey with her sleeves rolled up to almost the elbow with slap jack in hand raised and ready to break a kneecap. The other woman hid it quickly but there was a flash of panic on her face that made Stacie’s heart squeeze painfully. For a second. Just a second, Aubrey had been afraid and it showed. She didn’t know how to ease that flash of fear without undermining the blonde so she cleared her throat and glanced down at the man, quietly closing the door behind her and locking it with a click.

“What’d you do?”

He tipped his head back to stare at her as if she were insane. She couldn’t blame him, this was obviously not the time for idle chit chat. When he didn’t answer soon enough Aubrey reached up and twisted two of his fingers roughly in a direction they were never meant to bend. They snapped and her voice came out with a low growl that did things to Stacie, making her body tighten with sudden desire.

“Answer the lady.”

Heat rose to her face and she cleared her throat when the man cried out. That…should not have been hot. He was a human being and he was in pain and Aubrey was the one causing it. It should have turned her stomach. But. It didn’t. She trusted that it was for a reason, because Aubrey never did anything without a damn good reason. The man lifted his head, beads of sweat dripping from his brow.

“I skimmed off my pick-ups.”

Oh. Stacie gave him a sympathetic look and patted the top of his head. “It’s going to hurt for a while, but the good news is you won’t make that mistake again.” Because she was pretty sure he was going to wind up dead. This was something she should have found horrifying but she felt strangely calm about because she knew there would be a perfectly valid reason. You didn’t steal from Aubrey Posen, and if you had the balls to try then you were risking your life and that was really on you.

She turned back to Aubrey, dismissing the man and any deeper thoughts about what went on in the back office. She knew how she felt with Aubrey, she felt safe despite the potential for so much violence. She felt safer here with Aubrey than she did in her own home. And all that dark, raw, energy so perfectly and tightly controlled took her breath away. Stacie took a few steps to Aubrey’s desk and leaned back against the edge, placing herself between Aubrey’s knees as the other woman was reclined in her office chair, watching her with open curiosity.

“So, dinner tonight, wanna eat out?” Stacie smirked at the flicker of surprise in Aubrey’s eyes at her obvious intent and stood to give the blonde a soft kiss to the corner of her mouth. “See you in a bit.”

Cynthia Rose gave a slow nod at Stacie’s comment, weighing it for truth. “If she hurts you…”

“She won’t. Aubrey doesn’t hurt people because she likes it C, its business. She doesn’t pretend to be the good guy but she isn’t the bad guy unless someone makes her be. I can live with that.” Stacie swallowed thickly, pausing as she was about to apply her fresh lipstick. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, dimly aware of Cynthia Rose standing behind her. “I love her.”

Her friend gave a solid nod and shrugged into an indigo blue tuxedo jacket with black lapel. “She damn well better love you back.”

“She does.” Stacie smiled and finished her lipstick before turning to help Cynthia Rose fix her bowtie. That was something she believed without hesitation and not just because Aubrey had said so for the first time the night before, she just knew that the other woman did, she felt it in her bones. “Hey, thanks for letting me host this thing at The Diamond Club. It’s kind of the perfect venue for a Monte Carlo themed event. It’s going to earn a lot of money for the shelter and that will help a lot of women in need. So, thank you.”

“I got’chu Stace. It’s a good cause and it makes me look like an upstanding member of the community.” Stacie smoothed out Cynthia Rose’s lapel and linked their arms so they could look at themselves in the mirror. “Damn. We look like we’re going to prom.”

It made her laugh and she nudged her best friend with a shoulder bump. “Yeah, a big gay prom.”

“Hnghh. I look fly as hell too. Hm. I might find me a wife tonight.”

Stacie rolled her eyes playfully and tugged her friend’s arm to lead them out the door. “Okay well look fly from the car, I don’t want to keep Aubrey waiting.”

Aubrey

Aubrey walked through the tables set out for the various games and nodded approvingly. “Get this table a bit more to the back and put the high roller Baccarat and Poker upstairs in VIP.” Cynthia Rose had given her carte blanche to organize exactly how the gaming went since she was the one supplying the set up and games. Happy nudged her elbow gently and jerked her curly head toward the entrance of the club.

The light from outside was blocked out partially as the figure strode toward them with an unmistakable cocky strut. Aubrey smirked and turned to face the woman as she finally made her way to them. “Detective Mitchell, here to gamble away your check for a good cause?”

The smaller woman looked around at the club and gave a slight nod as if she was seriously considering it. But they both knew she wouldn’t be there for more than a drink or two before crawling back into whatever hole she’d crawled out of to be there. “Maybe, lots of bored rich wives come to these things right?”

Aubrey snorted softly and gestured for Happy to take over ensuring everything went the way it was supposed to until Stacie got there. Her eyes landed on the briefcase in the Detective’s hand and she gestured toward the stairs that led to Cynthia Rose’s office. “I see you visited our friend.”

Beca followed her up and into the office, shutting the door behind them. “That guy is a fucking creep.” She put the briefcase on the desk and opened it before turning it to face Aubrey. “Also, he’s missing some teeth. You know anything about that?”

She didn’t say anything as she reached for the stacks of money to make sure it was all there. It hadn’t taken much to get Detective Mitchell to agree to blackmail Weston, she had a particular prejudice against the wealthy that Aubrey used to her benefit. Besides, she was a dirty cop that would do anything if the price was right. Aubrey counted out twenty five thousand dollars and tossed the stack lightly across the desktop. “That’s unfortunate news for him, I hope he doesn’t smile for photos.”

Beca dropped into the chair across from Aubrey and picked up the cash without bothering to count it. She trusted Aubrey not to cheat her and in turn Aubrey trusted Beca not to rat on their dealings. The cop tucked the stack of bills into the inner pocket of her leather jacket and crossed her arms over her chest, watching Aubrey with a calculating gaze.

“Hm. If I didn’t know better I would say someone knocked or pulled them out. Sounds like something someone might do to teach a guy a lesson. Especially if that guy owed that someone a lot of money.” It was getting too close to the truth for her to lie outright against. So Aubrey leaned back casually, adjusting the matching tie and vest set she wore. It wasn’t an admission but it wasn’t a denial either and Beca took it as a sign to continue. “Did you have me blackmail this guy just so you could loan him back his own money?”

The corner of her mouth quirked in a predatory smile but it faded quickly and she leaned forward, hands clasped in front of her on the desk. “If someone were doing that to our associate Mr. Whitman I suspect they would be doing it for a good reason. Don’t you?”

The brunette sat there a moment turning it over in her head. “I’ll tell you what I know. Weston Whitman is grade A piece of crap. I did my own research and he’s clean as a whistle on the surface, but there’s something wrong about him. Hookers go missing or turn up dead everywhere he goes, investors get squeamish whenever his name is mentioned, corporate higher ups start hiding behind walls of attorney’s whenever anyone asks about him.”

They were toeing a line just discussing it but Aubrey hadn’t yet said anything incriminating to substantiate what the Detective was saying. “I think that sounds about right for Mr. Whitman.”

“Jesus Christ Aubrey. This guy is a legitimate bad guy, I could have investigated this shit for real. What are we doing dicking around with shadow games like this? And please for the love of God, give me a better fucking excuse than you wanting to bang his wife like a Salvation Army drum.”

She could understand Detective Mitchell’s irritation, even if she was on the take, she was a good damn investigator and letting a bad guy get away from the law when there was a good case against him bothered her. Aubrey chose her words very carefully when she spoke.

“Let’s say you make this a case Detective. And just for the sake of argument he didn’t have enough money and lawyers to bury this whole thing before word gets out. Let’s say you manage to drag this figlio di puttana through the mud and shit where he belongs.” Aubrey stood and slid her hands into the pockets of her tuxedo trousers to keep from wanting to reach for a weapon in her anger at the very thought of Weston. “Who exactly do you think suffers the most for it? Him? You think his money can’t buy him some luxuries in prison? Who do you think the press is going to hunt and hound? Him all safe in his cell or…” Stacie.

She didn’t say it. She didn’t have to. Beca deflated a little and shook her head still upset even if she were resigned to accepting it. They both knew Stacie didn’t deserve the fallout of what would happen and there was a good chance that Weston would use his leverage over Stacie to save his own ass. And that was something she couldn’t allow to happen. So she did it her way, moving people like chess pieces until she could trap him in a corner with no one to turn to for help, no money to buy his way free, and no will left to try and fight.

“You have a fucked up sense of chivalry, you know that Posen?”

Aubrey moved to the cabinet that held Cynthia Rose’s well equipped bar and pulled out two small tumblers and a bottle of grappa so strong it would put hair on a man’s chest. She poured them each and drink and handed the Detective a glass. Beca took it and raised it with her.

“Salute.”

They clinked their glasses together and tipped them back. The harsh burn of the alcohol slid down her throat and she gave an involuntary shiver that would have had Detective Mitchell laughing at her if she hadn’t been choking on a cough herself. “Oh my God, poison. Holy shit is that turpentine?”

Aubrey started to answer but her phone vibrated against her ribs. She set the glass down and reached into her jacket pocket. Her lips pulled into a smile at the text from Stacie. A sudden rush of nerves made her pull at her cuffs and straighten her tie once more and she caught Beca watching her at it. “How do I look?”

“Like a woman in love.” Beca stood and lifted Aubrey’s hand to fix the cuff she had twisted around her wrist. They weren’t on the same side of the fence, not by a long shot. They were still cop and criminal, employer and employee even. But if Aubrey were being honest she counted on Beca in her life and thought of them as friends. It was a dangerous way to think given the business she was in but there was a certain amount of mutual trust built up over years of sometimes violent encounters. “Which is super gross by the way.”

Aubrey gave the shorter woman a mild glance but she could tell Beca didn’t really mean it by the almost wistful sigh she gave when she was done fixing the cuff. “Didn’t know you were such a romantic, Detective.”

Beca made a face and shrugged. “Honestly I’m not but...” She shrugged and Aubrey waited patiently for her to continue. “Seeing you happy like this, despite the shit we muck through every day, makes a girl wonder if maybe it could be worth it. You’re in love and as much as that weirds me out, I can’t help but think that might not be the worst thing in the world. One day.”

Aubrey chuckled softly and gestured to the office door. So Detective Mitchell low key wanted to find herself a heart to call home. If she hadn’t ever met Stacie she might have mocked that sentiment. Made a joke about Beca going soft for wanting to be loved and love in return. But it was different now, she was different now and it was apparently obvious to see. She locked the office behind her and tucked the key into her vest pocket, eyes already scanning for Stacie. When she finally found her, Aubrey almost missed a step and had to catch herself before she crashed into Beca. The other woman looked over her shoulder at Aubrey and snickered. “Smooth, Posen, real smooth.”

“You shut up.” Her eyes slid back to Stacie and she watched the easy sweet smile as she greeted a few patrons. It took Aubrey’s breath away and she chose to watch from the bottom of the stairs as Stacie maneuvered through the swiftly filling room. Her eyes trailed down Stacie’s long body, appreciating the way that dress looked on her. Almost as if she felt the weight of Aubrey’s gaze Stacie raised her head and turned unerringly toward her, flashing a perfect smile.

They were caught for a moment just staring at each other across the room. It was hard not to walk over and kiss Stacie in greeting but she managed to restrain herself. It was only obvious to the few people that knew them like Detective Mitchell and Cynthia Rose or Lilly and Happy, that they were there as a couple, for everyone else Aubrey was just another benefactor and contributor. No one really to take note of and certainly not more than a passing acquaintance to Stacie. But she knew and she had dressed the part, her vest, tie and pocket square matching Stacie’s dress perfectly. Aubrey smiled when Stacie realized that they complimented each other perfectly. Maybe she was going soft for the girl, a thing she swore she’d never do, but seeing that spark of happiness in Stacie’s eyes made it all worth it.

Stacie

“Thank you for coming, it was wonderful to see you again.” She smiled and shook hands with another guest, kissing his wife on each cheek as they parted. It felt like hours had passed and she’d barely gotten to see Aubrey. It had been a long nonstop stream of people all wanting to make small talk geared toward finding out her secrets and point out her flaws with polite smiles and condescending little laughs. She hated this part of it, the part where she had to interact with people that didn’t give a damn about anything real but always threw money at the first cause to cross their paths. People like her parents.

Not that her parents were terrible people, they weren’t, they were just too concerned about appearances to really make a change in anyone’s life. Their desire to help people was only as extensive as the amount of time it took to write a check. It was why she spent so much of her time and family inheritance trying to be better than that. Because the truth was they couldn’t even be bothered to help their own daughter out of a horrible situation and she never wanted another woman to know what it felt like to be trapped and alone in an unsafe relationship. Stacie took a deep breath before yet another person got between her and the bar where she’d last seen Aubrey. A warm hand landed lightly on the small of her back and she could feel the heat of it through the dress sinking into her skin.

“I was wondering where you’d gone.” Stacie leaned back slightly so that her body bumped against Aubrey’s and the tension melted away. She turned and smiled at the blonde, taking the time to appreciate the full effect of Aubrey’s tux and perfect smoky eye. It was sexy as hell and she had to resist the urge to run her hands down the other woman’s chest and over her ribs.

“I’ve been here with you the whole time.” Stacie reached out for Aubrey’s hand, wanting to do more than give it a squeeze. She wanted to do so much more but that would have to wait until later when they were at home together. “You want a drink?”

“Yes, please.” Aubrey smiled at her and Stacie’s heart skipped a beat. She was still lost in the memory of Aubrey’s smile moments later when another much heavier hand landed on her arm. The smile she wore faded instantly because she knew the too familiar touch as one of Weston’s friend’s from work. He was always pushy and always far too drunk and so far tonight had hit on her at least five times. The last time going so far as to squeeze her ass when no one was looking. She knew why he was so aggressive, was sure that he had seen certain movies of her, a thought that sickened her almost as much as the smell of his booze tainted breath.

“You’ve been giving me the dodge Stacie, c’mon, let me buy you a drink and take care of you since Wes isn’t around.”

She tried to carefully extricate herself from his grip but he held tighter, pulling her a little closer to his body. The smell of whiskey on his breath so strong she had to turn her head to get away from it. “You’re drunk Phillip, please let me go.” Her mother’s voice rose up in a frantic roar in her head. Don’t make a scene Anastacia, it is better to suffer in silence than endure a scandal! It was so hardwired into her brain that she caught herself trying to hide his rough grip on her so no one would know.

“I thought you liked it like this.” She had suspected of course, but having that confirmation made her stomach wind in knots. If one person knew then others could and would eventually find out. People would know about her, about what Weston did to her. Bile rose up in her throat and she elbowed him hard enough in the gut to get him to let go so she could get as far away as she could.

Stacie scanned for Aubrey and headed in her direction but a hard yank to her wrist pulled her to a short stop just feet from the bar. Aubrey turned just then, sensing more than seeing movement over her shoulder and green eyes narrowed in malice as she took in Stacie’s situation. Phillip pulled her over to a smaller table that had been pushed to the side to make room for the servers coming in and out with trays champagne and hors d’oeuvres. She didn’t recognize the two men sitting at the table but she didn’t have to know them personally to know what kind of person they were.

It was obvious from the sly smiles and complete and utter lack of concern for her wellbeing. They were like Phillip, and like Weston. The type of men that preyed on women because they were rich and powerful and had been born with a sense of entitlement bigger than their trust funds.

“I don’t think the lady wants your company.” Aubrey’s soft voice came out with the echo of a threat and Stacie shivered at the sound of it. Phillip let her go and she stepped out of his reach before he could think about grabbing her again. Aubrey gestured with a small wave at a server and gave the girl a fifty dollar bill as a tip. “Bring these gentlemen a round from the top shelf.” The girl nodded and hurried off away from the darkened corner to the full light of the bar and well away from the dangerous vibe in the air.

“Excuse me, I don’t mean to be rude but who the hell do you think you are?”

Aubrey raised a brow and turned her head to take Phillip in, judging him for threat level. When she didn’t find one worth worrying about she pushed forward and rested her hands on the table top. The nearest man, reached out to grab her but Aubrey was faster that he was and far more vicious. Her hand came up to the back of his head, slamming it into the table hard. The second man started to stand but Aubrey lashed out with a quick jab to his throat that buckled his knees and had him silently gasping for breath. In one smooth motion she pulled her gun from the small of her back and placed it on the table directly in front of Phillip with a heavy thunk. She thumbed back the hammer and leaned in so her eyes were level with his and Stacie was sure he had just peed on himself.

“No. Means. No. Are we clear?”

Stacie bit her lip when Phillip nodded a little too quickly in agreement. She held his gaze a moment more before she stood up and tucked the gun away as smoothly as she’d taken it out, the server none the wiser for the for the display. Aubrey turned to Stacie and gently stroked her fingers over the already fading red mark from Phillip. Her voice was low but so much softer than when she’d spoken to the man at the table.

“Hey, you okay?”

She could only nod, afraid of what might come out of her mouth right then. Aubrey gave her a slow nod then turned back to the table to pin them each with a hard look. “Enjoy your drinks gentlemen and get the fuck out of my house.”

All three of them got up without so much as glancing at the drinks, two of them helping the third to the closest exit. Like magic Lilly appeared at Aubrey’s side and the blonde gave her a short nod, watching as her right hand man disappeared back into the shadows to follow Phillip and his friends. She turned back to Stacie, eyes soft with apology but none of that was necessary for Stacie.

There were no words to express how she felt right then. Stacie stood there staring at Aubrey wanting and needing to be anywhere but there in front of so many people. Aubrey opened her mouth to apologize and Stacie pulled her in by her lapels for a quick and hungry kiss. She honestly didn’t care if anyone was watching or had noticed anything out of the ordinary at all. She couldn’t care less if every single one of them saw. Aubrey pulled back from the kiss in confusion her breath coming out in a fast pant.

“Wha…”

“We have to go right now.”

“Wher…”

Stacie took Aubrey’s hand and pulled her along the wall to the edge of the bar. She had to wait as several servers spilled out of the door to the back area before tugging Aubrey behind her to the delivery door at the back. It was too busy with the hustle of bodies and she pushed out into the cool evening with an exasperated sigh. She spotted the other woman’s black Escalade parked next to Cynthia Rose’s Mustang. She turned and slipped a hand into Aubrey’s pants, her fingers tracing the seam of the pocket as she dug for the key. The blonde’s hips jerked once before she found what she was looking for and clicked the lock open.

She couldn’t even feel herself take the steps to the car, only the feel of the cold metal and glass against her overheated back as Aubrey pushed her up against the side and kissed her as if she could devour her right there. Stacie struggled to open the door behind her, breaking away only long enough to lift her dress and scoot into the backseat. The other woman climbed in after her and Stacie reached for her tie, tugging her closer for another kiss. Her hands scrabbled to peel the jacket from Aubrey’s shoulders, needing to get closer than the layers of clothes between them would allow.

Aubrey’s short nails grazed over her hips as they tugged her panties down the progress stopped when the blonde encountered the thigh holster. She looked down at it then at Stacie with a raised brow. “That’s so hot….”

Their lips crashed together again and Stacie swore there wasn’t enough air in the car, maybe the universe even. Aubrey tossed her underwear over her shoulder and pulled Stacie onto her lap in a straddle. Fingers grazed along her heat and she bucked wildly needing more than the tease of foreplay. Oh God she had never needed anyone as badly as she needed Aubrey right in that moment. Her fingers worked with frenzied intensity as she pulled the tie loose from its knot and worked the buttons open on Aubrey’s shirt and vest enough to reach the lace of her bra and the soft creamy skin of her chest.

One hand reached out to brace against the window when Aubrey filled her and Stacie could only think that she’d never felt this much anything in all her years of living. This much desire, need or love. She had never felt this safe in such an out of control life. This was everything for her and Aubrey was everything to her. Stacie brought their lips together in another desperate kiss, her words barely a whisper against Aubrey’s soft lips.

“I’m so yours.”

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gallusrostromegalus · 2 years ago

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Not to make this monster even longer, but I slept, and can answer a few questions:

Dog Tax:

Little Ham Man himself.

2. What was Illegal about what Officer and Mrs. Cunt Magnifique did?/If they're hosed, are you moving in?/Does Doris still have to move out?

I don't know all the details, but Officer Magnifique was going door-to-door, in uniform and armed, telling his neighbors they had to sign this paperwork or there would be legal consequences, which is pretty textbook coercion and abuse of office. Also If I understood the summary someone told me while I was dying of heat exhaustion, the actual legal setup they were trying to push was some shady land-ownership/tax evasion nonsense too.

But also. All of this happened YESTERDAY. Charges aren't files (tho they are definitely coming) let alone the trial held/conviction/payout or other consequences, so they could still be living there and involved in active litigation for like. A year. And it's an unfortunate truth that living near a cop that's having a meltdown is a great way to get shot.

So No. I'm not moving in there.

Also, Doris originally brought up the idea of moving because of them, but she is also very close to her granddaughter and they both want her to move out there.

3. You live like this/How do I get a life like that?

The process is fairly simple, but takes a lot of work. It goes like this

Go Outside. And do things. In person.

Specifically, go join a bunch of organizations that are relevant to your interests, and keep showing up to/participating in those events.

People will notice and remember you. They will notice and remember you faster if you're like 40 years younger than them and have purple hair but I digress. They will come over and say hi. You say hi back, and talk about your mutual interest. Also listen to what they have to say about your mutual interest.

GET AND SAVE THEIR CONTACT INFORMATION, THEN GIVE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION. Everyone you meet. It's actually great to print out business cards with your contact info and hand them out. When saving contact info, I make a note in my contacts about name/where I met them/who introduced us/any random fact they divulged because I have the memory of a sieve.

Introduce all your new friends to each other, and invite them to any event you think might even vaguely be within their interests. Even if they can't come, it's nice to be thought of. They will also invite YOU to things and the rule is: UNLESS YOU ARE ILL, GENUINELY BROKE OR ALREADY HAD PLANS, SAY YES. Even the "broke" bit is flexible because if you're making friends with Boomers you can say "Hm. I'd love to, but that's not within my budget" and there's a good chance one of them will pay for your ticket anyway. Go to these things, and enjoy yourself.

Eventually, you will know approximately a fucktillion people in a bazillion fields, and in an emergency, you can make 2 phone calls and a facebook post and summon the hordes. You will also be constantly invited on Adventures.

Congrats, you've made your life mad complicated and dramatic but very, very fun.

4. Are. Are you alright OP?

LMAO.

Things will probably calm down by Tuesday Afternoon, but until then I'm gonna be running on all cylinders until the wheels fall off. If you want to contribute to my "Stress Ice Cream/Herschel's Special Little Ham Boy Fund" You can Donate to my Ko-Fi, and if you want more stories, check out the #Family Lore tag on this blog, or head over to my Patreon for additional stories/to pre-order the book I'm writing about my and my ancestor's lives because this shit runs like rivers on both sides of my family.

5. Were you wearing the Cryptid Booty shorts for this?/Where did you get them?

They were a bespoke Wedding Gift from @theshitpostcalligrapher but you can always make your own with a pair of shorts and some fabric paint. My beloved Husbeast has a matching neon pink pair that say "BARD".

Today's Adventure is that I, after an unintentional 13-hour power nap,

Got woken up at 6AM by a phone call from a friend stranded in Montana because of the heat wave and almost no cell service because of their crap provider.

OhSoThat'sHowIt'sGonnaBe.jpg

Ok.

I somehow summon a week's worth of spoons and in less than 30 minutes and 5 phone calls, get them

A hotel

An appointment with a mechanic from 2 states away

A perscription refilled from 2 states away

and A Pizza

Go me.

But then it's 8AM and there are unscheduled live humans at the door and while EVERGENCY MODE is still on, I have already blown through a ton of spoons, and also probably shouldn't meet whoever it is wearing just a pair of bootyshorts that say "CRYPTID" in Gothic Font on my ass.

So I greet them in those shorts and a T-shirt that I manage to put on both inside out and backwards

#nailedit

It is, Fortunately, not the mormons.

it is, Unfortunately, two UPS guys trying to deliver my other in-house friend's new phone except the new guy doesn't know how to operate the "sign for package" device, and the old guy that's supposed to be mentoring him is like, 92, deaf as a post, and doesn't actually know how to operate the device either.

by the way

it is already

over 100 out

it takes almost 30 minutes to sign for the phone

when i get back inside, i discover that apparently the Corgi has learned how to open his kennel from the inside because he is now out of the kennel and waiting for me to come in.

he also has cat litter all over his face because while he was waiting for me he also learned how to open the baby gate to the cat's room and help himself to a cat shit breakfast.

He'll be fine

He's a cattle dog, they're legally required to have at least 1 really disgusting snack they love.

but

more to the point

i have no idea at what point he learned to open his kennel from the inside

has he been staying there out of politeness this whole time??

And

I got other shit to do today.

namely.

I'm seeing a realator

The Devils most pathetic yet effective demons

I get a reminder text that I have an appointment with her

at least

I think that's what it is because what she sends me is: "🏡⏰12:00 ❔"

With the time typed in the middle like that.

She is, according to her profile, at least 80.

so I reply "😎👍"

and then she sends me a string of GODDAMN POST-MODERN EMOJI HEIROGLYPHICS THAT TAKE UP MY ENTIRE SCREEN.

She's on an iPhone so half of them don't even translate across platforms

It takes me half an hour and three different software programs and goddamn wingdings to translate, but she has sent me the address and rules about masking and not wearing shoes inside.

in emoji

instead of like

literally any other format

I am

FASCINATED

and simply must meet the woman so if I don't come back to update I got stolen by the fairies but I'm taking the Corgi with me as protection so I'll see y'all later.

#Family Lore #Actually I could really use the tip money because the montana rescue mission was NOT in the budget #thanks guys #Going back to bed #long post

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reallystellacadente · 6 years ago

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This is Not New, It Only Feels Like It. The Screenplay

Fictober, Day 23

Modern Coffee Shop AU Where Orders Are Stolen. I have no idea how this happened, only that I saw this post here.

The Nexus Room Café, Day 1:

Mistakes are made.

Xhareen, Day 2, thinking:

Fuck dammit. There he is again. Who the fuck does he think he is, stealing my venti double whip white chocolate mocha with an extra shot and extra white chocolate? Who the fuck does he think he is, in that perfect bespoke suit with those shoes that cost more than my rent? And who the fuck does he think he is, working for Baras & Sons in the first place, the most corrupt brokerage on the block? And WHO THE FUCK HAS CHEEKBONES LIKE THAT?

Well, pal, you’re not stealing my drink again today. And why the fuck do you drink that plain shit? No whip soy latte and I bet since I fell asleep at 10:15, was probably decaf? I know, I know, I could have complained and gotten my right drink, but that barista with the blue hair and the tiara and the fancy cone earrings went missing right after she handed you my drink – WHICH YOU DIDN’T RETURN, you shit thief.

Plus, I was running late. Like I am today. But at least I got the right drink, dammit. Gotta leave a better tip than he does, just for spite.

Quinn, Day 2, thinking:

This account is troubling me. I know it was given to me by Baras himself, but I cannot rectify it without assuming mistakes were made. Common mistakes that could be mistaken for purposeful circumvention of …

Dammit. There she is again. How can a woman be so beautiful with such a scowl on her face? I’m certain she does not drink the sugar-laden swill that feisty barista gave me yesterday. I have been so distracted by this case, I did not even take a sip until I reached my office and by then, I had been spotted by that Shan fellow from Marketing, the one with terrible taste in clothing, and I could not get away.

I gave him the drink. He quaffed it in three gulps; I counted. I drank the office coffee instead. A bit distracted most of the day. It was not a good day.

I will check my order this time. Yes, perfection. Leave a better tip today. Perhaps that will help.

Vette, Day 2, thinking:

Hmmm. Better behave today. Get Mr. Tight Pants and Ms. Sugar High their correct drinks. Something’s gotta work, soon. Tomorrow is another day. Tips were nice, though.

Xhareen, Day 3:

“What do you mean, you’re out of whipped cream? And white mocha?”

Vette: Day 3:

Hands her a cup of pre-made coffee.

“Trust me, you’ll like this. This is not new, it only feels like it.”

Xhareen, drinking:

“I can taste the coffee. Is that a good thing?”

Vette:

“Trust me, okay?”

Xhareen:

“OK, but wait. How am I supposed to feel a coffee? You did put in the extra shot, right?”

Vette:

“Done and done. And whoops! I meant to say ‘tastes,’ not feel. Totally. And don’t forget to fill out the survey over by the creamers, please? Our boss withholds the tips if we don’t get a lot of positive surveys turned in. OK? Thanks, you’re a doll.”

Xhareen, after taking another sip:

“OK.”

Xhareen, not paying attention until she gets to the fixing stand:

Fuck. He’s here, too?

Quinn, Day 3:

Writing, not noticing who is with him at fixing stand: I am noticing an entirely different flavor profile with this new blend. It is superior in every way …

Notices Xhareen next to him, scowling again. She is rummaging through her large satchel, very likely for a writing implement.

To Xhareen: “Miss, do you need a pen to write? I have a spare.”

Xhareen, thinking:

Fuck. That pen costs more than my rent. Can I rip it out of his hand without touching him? Or do I want to touch him? How about I touch him, then take the pen and run?

Holds out hand, takes pen politely with just a brush of one finger. “Thanks. Hope you enjoyed my drink the other day.”

Quinn, gobsmacked:

“What … I … why yes, it was thoroughly enjoyed, though I do apologize, I did not notice until I got to my office that I had been given the wrong order.”

Xhareen:

“They must keep you busy at Ba … at wherever you work.”

Quinn:

“Baras and Sons. I’m sure you were about to guess that, yes? I am told we have a certain look, though I fail to see it.”

Xhareen, relieved:

“It’s the suits. Dead giveaway. Except there’s that one guy … I’ve seen him get off the train. Weird jacket.”

Quinn, blushing, cursing Shan internally:

“He’s the son of someone famous. Gets away with many fashion crimes. But enough about him. Please forgive me, I did not get your name, Miss … and where do you work?”

Xhareen:

“Garesh. At Manos on Main. And I forgive you.”

Quinn:

“For stealing your coffee, yes. Please, allow me to make it up to you. Perhaps a gift card?”

Xhareen, scowling, thinking he was going to say dinner:

“No, I forgive you for drinking decaf. I have to go.”

Xhareen leaves.

Vette shakes her head.

Vette, thinking:

Whelp, giving them coffee from Balmorra’s didn’t work, did it? I guess it’s time for Plan B.

#swtor #fictober18 #swtor fanfiction #malavai quinn #sith warrior #jacked up coffee shop AU #vette is always the troublemaker #manos on main #i amuse the fuck outta myself sometimes #should fire up scrivener #and write this like a proper screenplay

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astro-mario · 3 years ago

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Murder Aboard the Sagitta Verdis - Chapter 1

We meet the captain of the Sagitta Verdis, Oliver Queen and a few shady characters

Ao3

The captain of the Sagitta Verdis wasn’t new at his job. He’d been on the ship when he was born and he would be on this ship when he died. Well, hopefully.

He knew the pattern of the ship, he knew the crotchety old man who would come above deck for five minutes every day and then disappear below decks like the water had personally offended him. He knew the colourful owner of the ship, who would demand that they stop in the most absurd locations to do the most headache inducing things, who wore fashion that looked like it was the statement piece of a fashion at a runway show and smoked cigars that were definitely cutting at his life expectancy. He knew the young boy who would perch at the top of the mast and pick off his staff one by one before cackling and sprinting off. He knew the beautiful woman who sang at the jazz bar downstairs, her lilting voice carrying through the entire ship. The point being, he knew everyone on the ship, but something didn’t sit right today.

The owner of the ship suddenly appeared next to him, for such a flamboyant man, he sure could move silently.

“Mr. Queen, I hope all is well?” the captain inquired, lazily leaning against the balustrade of the ship.

“Ah yes! All is simply fabulous, I must ask you to tell the crew to prepare an extra suite,” Queen paused, a grin crossing his face, “A honeymoon suite if you will, nestled where no one can hear the moaning,”

The captain was used to his employers shenanigans, so he simply sighed and asked,

“Someone new coming on board this time?”

“Yes my friend! A dear friend of mine and his mildly dear husband. It’s their fifth wedding anniversary this year and it will not do for my friend to give his husband a hundred dollar amazon gift card this year, or a cheesy science pun balloon.”

“Does your friend know you’re doing this?” the captain asked, his employer was known to be prone to extravagance, evidenced by the Alexander Amosu Vanquish II bespoke suit being casually exposed to the salty sea spray of the Star City docks. The captain winced, he loved beautiful suits and it was killing him to watch such a bespoke suit be destroyed in such a cruel manner.

“Not yet,” Queen hummed, eyes lazily raking over the docks, watching the seagulls wheeling overhead.

“You might want to tell him soon, don’t want to give them a heart attack when your lackeys pick them up in your limo,”

“Nah, he’ll be fine, he’s seen weirder things than this,”

The captain could believe that, with the type of company that his employer kept, this was certainly possible. He distinctly remembered the serious brooding man who straight up just backflipped over the railing and continued his day as if he just did something perfectly normal, his dorky reporter boyfriend who looked like this was a mildly annoying occurrence and his swanky girlfriend who looked like this was a mildly sexy occurrence.

Anyway, the captain didn’t doubt for one minute that what his employer was saying was the truth.

“Even if your friend has seen weirder things sir, I think it would be common courtesy to inform them before you kidnap them,”

“I don’t think anyone informs the person they are going to be kidnapping that they are going to get kidnapped, that’s the entire point of a kidnapping, I would know”

“I said what I said sir, and the cabin boy and I stopped him before they could cart you across the waves like their beautiful princess captive,”

“I would make an amazing princess captive, I certainly do have the looks for it,” Queen paused to think, “and I have the innate ability to fill any interaction I have with powerful homoerotic tension, which is, in my opinion, the biggest role the captive has to play in a story.

“Very good sir, now go inform your friend that you will be kidnapping him,”

“Watch your tone old man!” Queen chuckled, a hearty grin pulling at his lips.

“I have been helping to raise you since you were waddling around in diapers on this very deck sir, I will watch my tone when you watch yours,” the captain ribbed back, lightly smirking underneath his serious visage.

“Ah you cheat! You cannot bring up the I raised you card! You have no proof!” Queen exclaimed, raising his hand in defiance to the captain’s cruel, cruel ministrations.

The captain leaned in and whispered conspiratorially, “I have pictures sir, of you in your Winx club pyjamas, it would be a shame if they were to somehow, reach the crew… “

Queen gasped, “You wouldn’t dare,”

“Go tell your friend that you are kidnapping him and I will not share those pictures,”

Queen grumbled and stalked off, presumably to complain to his girlfriend and down some whiskey before doing what the captain told him to do.

The captain frowned, he had been feeling suspicious before Queen had come up to talk to him, what had made him feel like that?

He looked around the deck, scanning it for any signs of what could have caused it, but he saw nothing unusual. He saw the cabin boys scurrying around, the guests lounging lazily on the deck of the yacht and chatting amongst themselves.

He moved to the flybridge, peeling off his gloves and pocketing them before giving a cursory look around the yacht, just to quell his nerves. Feeling satisfied, he walked down into the ballroom, ready to prepare for the large gala event which would be hosted on the yacht during the following week.

When the captain walked in, the prepping was already in full swing for the party. The young cabin boys were busy organizing the tables, yelling obscenities at each other as they scurried about the ballroom. Across the room he spotted Ms. Lance setting up the stage for her show this afternoon, checking microphones and taking the Canaries through their vocal warm up exercises.

Finally, he spotted the person he was looking for,

“Ah Donovan, I was just looking for you,”

Donovan, a short tubby looking man, did not seem particularly plussed by this statement, instead peering at the large aquarium that lined the walls.

The captain cleared his throat again, “Ahem, Donovan,”

Donovan finally seemed to snap out of his reverie,

“Ah yes captain! Sorry captain! I just couldn’t help but note that the tank seems to be molding a bit at the bottom, captain!” Donovan huffed, taking another deep breath to continue.

“I will look into that Donovan,” the captain replied kindly, making a note to ask the tank cleaners exactly what they thought they were doing. “I need your expertise on a topic Donovan,”

At this Donovan seemed to straighten up. “Is everything alright aboard the ship captain?” he enquired, taking out his notepad and pen from his lapels, clicking open the cap with his tongue.

“Not particularly, there is something… off about the ship today… “

Donovan gave the captain an amused stare, “You came to me because you felt there was something… off about the ship?”

“Yes I did, and I expect you to –”

“Captain there’s always something off about the ship, do you know who owns it?”

The captain attempted to remain calm, although Donovan’s wild gesticulations did not make this an easy task.

“I am well aware of this Donovan, I have known him since he was an infant,”

“Well then you’re aware that he is a bit… eccentric would be too light of a word,”

“It’s not like that Donovan, it feels like there is something looming over me like the Grim Reaper, I can feel it, but I cannot see it,”

“The poetry was great captain, but the concern is overall, unimportant,”

“But –”

“No buts, I will put up a rotating guard schedule but that is it, I cannot waste company resources on the mere whims of an old man,”

The captain bristled, “If anything horrible happens on my ship, I will personally make sure that you take the fall for it,” he threatened,

“And I will take full responsibility for their murders,” Donovan snarled back, striding out of the ballroom

The captain opened his mouth to respond but stopped when he fully processed what Donovan had just said. He whipped his head around to look for Donovan, but he was nowhere to be seen.

“And don’t forget to remove the mold from the aquarium!”

Ah yes, the captain forgot he had to get someone onto that. As he walked away he didn’t notice the spinning chandelier or the hand that slipped through the gap in between the mirrors of the room.

Just another normal day on the Sagitta Verdis.

#oliver queen #green arrow #murder aboard the sagitta verdis #donovan pierce (oc)#walter mosley (oc)

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dirtdiggersanddinosaurs · 4 years ago

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This year has been tough (I think we can ALL agree on that!) and getting away to the Lake District for October Half Term was just the tonic we needed. You may think that anything past September in the UK is a no go for staying in a campervan but trust me, we had the perfect home from home in the shape of Rooby Doo from Cosy Campers. It had everything we needed including a full heating system to keep us cosy and warm. Isn’t she a beaut?

The campervan of dreams!

Rooby Doo is quite rightly the pride and joy of Rich, Dani and Reuben the family behind Cosy Campers who are dedicated to making your campervan holiday one to remember. You can choose to keep it simple, or you can add in optional extras for a little luxury, tailoring your bespoke campervan experience to your needs.

We fell somewhere in the middle, it was our first time staying in a campervan with the boys (aged 2,3 and 6 years) so I desperately wanted it to go smoothly, and be a holiday to remember. I was also aware that because we were booking an October break that we’d need an outdoor but dry area. So I hired the drive away awning too, hoping that it would give the boys a bit of extra space and free up some room in the van. We were mindful of the fact that Rooby Doo is absolutely beautiful inside, so the awning actually proved to be invaluable for keeping our muddy boots outside and the van lovely and clean.

At the time of booking I had planned to pack light for this trip (which we did) but outdoor wet weather gear for the 5 of us was bulky and took up a lot of room so after a last minute phonecall to Dani I arranged to include the additional lockable storage box too.

Cosy Campers is based in our home town of Leek in the Staffordshire Moorlands, on the edge of the Peak District. After a run through of all things campervan, Ben drove Rooby Doo home and we loaded her up with small boys and luggage.

Adventure Awaits

I can’t tell you how much I was looking forward to our staycation adventure. Autumn is my favourite time of year, I love all the colours as the leaves turn and the lake district is absolutely beautiful at this time of year.

Perfect for those Autumn getaways

Ben took to driving the van with ease, helped by the automatic transmission – we cruised up the motorway until the cars became fewer and the scenery expanded before us. Two out of the three boys snoozed most of the way. Stanley was in the back with Eli, he did a great job passing him his bottle and generally entertaining him until he fell asleep. As Rooby Doo has 3 seats upfront, we had James between us, which worked well as I could keep a check on his bloods (he’s type 1 diabetic) and care for him on route, he wasn’t much company though!

You know how I mentioned loving Autumn, the crisp sunny days with misty starts…yeah, well scrap that because I came back down to earth with a bump! We arrived at our pitch to high winds and torrential rain, you’ve got to laugh! Luckily we’re not put off by bad weather.

Our first job was to put the awning up so that we had a little extra room for storage. Cosy Campers had previously sent us two YouTube video tutorials on how to erect and attach the awning to the van which we’d watched a couple of times in the run up to our holiday. Unfortunately we had little phone signal on site so we’re unable to access the videos again.

Rooby Doo with driveaway awning

I’m not going to lie, we struggled to suss the awning out at first but the cold horizontal rain hitting us square in the face didn’t help, neither did world war 3 breaking out in the van because apparently we weren’t going quick enough. We did get to grips with it eventually and not needing poles etc was a lifesaver, the inflatable structure of the awning went up quickly and with little effort. We took extra care to peg everything down securely because of the gusting wind. It didn’t end in divorce, and the boys didn’t kill each other so I’m calling it a win.

We unpacked and put the non essential items into the awning to give us a bit more space inside. We then threw the boys into the awning to play with transformers while we popped the kettle on. We had made the decision not to take any screens with us apart from our phones so there was a lot of chucking the boys into the awning throughout our stay, they even made a den in there at one point, so I definitely recommend adding it to your holiday if you have children.

One of life’s finest views, kettle on!

We saw some other campervanning pros on our site that had put up fairy lights and bunting inside their awnings, one even had a disco ball and lights! They looked so lovely in the evening it would definitely be something to think about, especially for a Summer trip.

Home From Home

The interior of Rooby Doo is just stunning. Everything from the pale blue units to the tan leather seats. The cupboards look small but were tardis like and contained everything we would ever need….from tea and coffee, to a torch and first aid kit.

The attention to detail was breath taking. From branded mugs that looked the part, to the fact that Cosy Campers just wanted us to have the very best experience possible. We were left a hamper packed with goodies, including two bottles of prosecco, luxury cookies, chocolates and jellybabies.

Our hamper and treat bags were a lovely surprise!

There were also 3 Halloween themed treat bags for the boys. One of which was completely diabetic friendly. Homemade monster crispie cakes, stickers, sweetie cones and a game of spooky snap were amongst the ghoulish goodies! There was also a lovely handwritten card wishing us the best holiday. I expect the jellybabies in our hamper were intentional too, as they are our preferred hypo treatment for James and I think I had mentioned it to Dani during one of our ‘mum’ conversations prior to the holiday. It made us feel very cared for and pampered, the planning around James’s diabetes was just so thoughtful and special. It was a very personalised experience which in turn made it feel luxurious.

The pop top roof was easily the bit the boys enjoyed most, and where two of them slept. Most of our time spent in Rooby Doo involved a view of a little head or legs dangling down from the roof. The fact they had to climb up there was everything small boys dream of. When the boys weren’t chilling ‘upstairs’ as they liked to call it, the base of the roof can be pushed up to give added head height in the living space of the van. We had one morning of lovely sunshine so we fully made the most of it and put the roof up and opened up the scenic windows. I can just imagine what it would be like in the Summer, the front of the pop top canopy can be completely removed too, it would be the best seat in the house.

We would love to experience this in the Summer too

By far the best feature in Rooby Doo for our trip anyway, was the heating system. We had horrendous weather and came back from every day trip out soaking wet, mud splattered and ruddy cheeked. Dark nights in Rooby Doo were warm and cosy however thanks to the diesel heater. We took our normal bedding, deciding against sleeping bags and we were lovely and warm at night.

Summary

When I booked our holiday with Cosy Campers I was slightly concerned that a campervan holiday with such young children would be a bit of a nightmare if I’m honest. I was proved wrong thankfully, apart from a bit of impatient bickering while we sorted out the awning the boys seemed to take to the campervan life with ease. They were happy to stay ‘upstairs’ or in the awning while we put the beds away or cooked etc. You do have to be quite organised though, and do things in a certain order when there’s so many of you in a relatively small space.

Would we do it again? Absolutely, in a heartbeat. If we had such an amazing time with the worst weather imaginable, then a Summer trip in Rooby Doo would be out of this world. We loved everything about our Half Term holiday, even the trips to the toilet block in the middle of the night gave us some great views of Mars, although you can add a porta loo to your booking if trekking across a field in a fetching wellies and pj’s combo isn’t your thing.

Autumn is so beautiful

It was an exciting adventure, and a perfect way of seeing the beautiful Lake District. I’ve decided that lying in a campervan bed, all snuggled up with my babies and listening to the wind and rain on the roof has become one of my favourite things to do, and something we WILL do again.

What sets Cosy Campers apart from other hire companies is the fact that when you book with them you feel like you are part of the family right up until you return Rooby Doo. Nothing is too much trouble and they go out of their way to create the perfect experience for you. Little touches, make a big difference fo example they included a wild guide to the area where we were staying which helped to make it a stress free experience. We could look up outdoor scenic places to visit which was especially helpful during these ‘covid-19 times’ and being a clinically vulnerable family.

Just driving around in Rooby Doo taking in the beautiful countryside was a treat in itself, and there’s nothing better than finding a quite spot to pull over and enjoy a cuppa with a view.

We are absolutely hooked on the campervan life!

Booking a Cosy Campers holiday definitely gets the thumbs up from us!

*As we are now in a second national lockdown unfortunately non essential travel is prohibited*

But, what better time to plan YOUR campervan adventure in the beautiful Rooby Doo for next year? You can get 10% off your off peak Cosy Campers booking by quoting DIRTDIGDINO when you make an enquiry. What are you waiting for?

Disclosure: we were gifted part of this holiday in return for an honest review and promotion across my social media channels. All opinions and words are my own.

Images are my own unless otherwise credited and must not be used without permission.

Our Autumn Campervan Adventure in Rooby Doo. This year has been tough (I think we can ALL agree on that!) and getting away to the…

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sesl2020 · 4 years ago

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The Details: are they God’s or the Devil’s?

I don’t care; I just love them.

Pick Stitching

Suit Linings

Interior Pockets

Flat Piping

Contrast Collars

and OMG the feel of the fabric.

In 2007 while working at Harry Rosen as Visual Coordinator for Alberta, the new spring season of Etro arrived. I almost cried. The jackets were so beautiful. Colourful mix-matched tweeds, luscious paisley satin linings and contrast lapels to die for. The guys thought I was crazy and not for the first time. (I had recently lost almost 100 lbs with Jenny Craig and was not quite sane) But…

Please excuse me while I rip off my shirt. I’m having a Chinook. This talk of menswear is making me hot. Yes ZZTop, there really is nothing sexier than a well-dressed man. Not necessarily expensive, just well. In the late 70’s/ early 80’s young men made a point of being grubby. Not even cool, like grunge, just grubby and unkempt with the absence of style. It was supposed to be Macho. Or Poetic. Hmmmm. Yes, this is the way I tell a story. Bare with me. He-Heh.

…But, the fresh new offerings reaffirmed my love of all aspects menswear. Back in the day, the mid 80’s, I remember the guys at Jack Fraser Menswear in Winnipeg where I was the Regional Display person (or Displaced Person as the called me) teasing me at my excitement over a new box of ties. Not just any ties. New Bosa silk paisley ties. Yes, it’s supposed to sound like Boss. I got so sick of polyester neats and stripes. It was like Christmas when something new came in to go with all the pink dress shirts. Oh the 80’s.

And then again yesterday evening…. André, my hunnybunny, had gotten paid in Brooks Brothers Gift Cards. $1800 worth. Go figure. Very sadly, during the apocalypse our local Brooks Brothers closed their doors and, as far as we know, permanently. So, unable to order online in Canadian Dollars, as usual I ended up calling them in the States where they manually entered my order and Gift Cards. Very Helpful, Thanks Michael!

Less than a week later and after paying $150 in taxes and duty Fed Ex delivered an oddly small box containing 5 pairs of dress pants, a windowpane suit jacket, and a $100 belt. I says to André: ‘why did you order another black belt?’ He says: ‘I’ve never owned a $100 belt before.’ Fair Enough.

Eeek! forgot to do my 500 steps this hour. Back in 3.

Pant! Pant!

As he modeled them, he has a very cute butt and he knows how to strut, I was carefully taking all the tags and labels off, the feel of the fabric and the precision of the stitching brought me back to my happiest career hours picking out coordinates for the windows and dressing bust forms. One of my weirder skills is being able to unpackage a dress shirt with all its itty bits put neatly in the shirt bag with my eyes closed in less than 5 seconds. If only there were Retail Olympics…

Anyhoo, it was the Grey Windowpane Jacket that really made me smile. The contrast red felt collar lining, the one red threaded button, the red flat piping along the interior lining and pocket. It even has a strip of lining to hold the double vents from flapping. Classic design well-executed is Nirvana. And makes me drool.

But, don’t forget to undo the Vent stitching. It makes you look…..inexperienced.

Subtlety and Restraint are two excellent ways to describe menswear in general. Well, British and North American menswear. The Europeans are much more outgoing. As I possess neither subtlety nor restraint these are things I admire and covet. Nothing makes me happier than a faint blue, red, or bronze stripe hidden in charcoal flannel. Pick it out with a blue or oxblood tie, cognac shoes and belt and it’s sublime. Step back (5 foot rule) to see if it works. If the suit is striped add a plaid Windsor Collar shirt or if it’s plaid add a yarn-dye stripe. And a pocket square if you’re feeling impish.

Ah the fabrics, and the ties, and the patterns and styles all with their unique lingo. Mmmm Lingo.

Whisper with me:

Bespoke

Epaulet

Haberdashery

Collar Roll

Sartorial

Pinstripe

Sprezzatura…..

Definitely the Devil.

I’ve bought a lot of menswear over the years. For myself. My former partner would have nothing to do with anything that wasn’t an old dirty fedora and a dusty ripped trenchcoat. God, he sounds like a Flasher. It was kind of the same thing as buying myself a present on Father Day because on Mother’s Day even after 3 children I still heard ‘you’re not my mother’. Not that I’m bitter. I gave the man Twins. What more can I do.

Having never been petite of stature or nature, sometimes menswear was my only option. 5’8, size 11 feet, and superbly curved I did not fit the skinny, big haired lollipop girl ideal of the times. Not only did they not offer any kind of fashion in a size 14-16, but all the pants were too short and all the sleeves were ¾. Ok, I had to take in all the waists in men’s stuff, but, as if being one of the only women working in menswear wasn’t enough, wearing it was my own personal rebellion against the female stereotype. That, and I loved the Jackets. Shoulder Pads reigned supreme at that time and they who had the shoulder pads had the power.

And, in any case, it was suicide to wear anything sexy or revealing. Sexual Harassment was rampant. And expected. And a man’s right. I almost stabbed a store manager to death with my wire cutters one day when he grabbed my ass and I automatically back handed him. Any job you applied for you had to have a professional answer ready for ‘How badly do you want this job?’ The things that were said to me on a daily basis even from my bosses would make your hair curl.

‘Do you know what would look good on you? Me.’

I remember a guy at the St. Vital store that kept trying to get me to go to his place for a quicky at lunch. One day I got so tired of it that I finally grabbed my tape measure and told him to whip it out ‘cause I wasn’t going to waste my time for less than 9”. He declined. And left me alone from then on.

I digress, it’s so nice to be older and wiser and not care about being taken seriously. And people go to jail now for being…. impolite. I dress like a sexy bamf on a daily basis, embrace my curves and still have more balls than most men I’ve known. And I still love menswear.

Omg! Chinooking again. Why? Why do I wear lycra pants? Oh ya, they make my butt look almost as cute as André’s, but so hoooot. And not in a good way. Excuse me as I take them off also. That’s better.

Despite the handicap of his father, I managed to raise my son to be a well-dressed individual. I think a lot of it was my Father’s influence as well. My Father came of age in the 50’s wearing khaki’s, Dack’s, golf jackets on the weekends and suits to work every day. And, of course, he taught me how to tie a tie. He was left-handed, but forced to be right-handed in school so he batted and tied his tie from the left. Which was awesome because I was right-handed so it all worked out when he showed me.

This is also the man who refused to by a new pair of jeans for the entire 70’s. He wouldn’t wear flares. He had a pair of twill demin pants in narrow white, yellow, and brown stripes that were so recognizable that my Great Aunt Vera recognized him from her moving vehicle as he was filling up at a gas station. It must have been the ’69 Biscayne*. She had just arrived in town from Winnipeg and hadn’t seen him for a few years. Those were some pants. But they weren’t flares.

The ‘80’s on were a big relief for him. He spent the rest of his life, we lost him to Cancer in 2005, in khakis and neat plaid short sleeved shirts and polo shirts. I kept his Grey Flannel Pants and Navy Blazer for years.

We also called him Sir…

And Again! Forgot to do my 500 steps this hour. Back in 3.

….When we would call him at the office, (in Grade 2, an avid reader, I called him every time I finished a chapter in Alice in Wonderland) you couldn’t just ask for Dad. Everybody was a Dad. So we asked to speak to George. When he came on the line he would say ‘That’s Sir to you, kid.’ And it stuck. Even our friends called him Sir. My sister’s kids called him Papa Sir. Kinda like Papa Smurf only more respectful. My youngest niece, Courtney, called him Papa Sewer, but that was just the way she spoke as a toddler. We found it very amuuuuusing. As did he.

Aaaaand, back to my son. I actually enlisted him to work part time at Rosen’s when he was 16. He wanted (or did he?) a part-time job and we needed a Saturday merchandiser. I’d already taught him and his twin sisters how to fold their clothes properly, iron a shirt, and do their laundry. I also taught them that when they look at clothing in a store they need to put it back exactly they way they found it. Respect for Retail. It was sooo fun to dress him and see him get measured for his first suit. Staff Discounts Rock! We never actually worked together at the same time, but it was cool to work at the same place.

I also told him, it being his first job, that ‘If you’re late, screw up, or make me look bad I will let them fire you.’ I also told him ‘Don’t forget we work this lifestyle, we don’t live it.’ Entitled is not a good look on anybody. He chose his Boss suit for Grad, slim fit with pointy shoes and put his long blonde hair in pony tail for the occasion. This was way before man-buns which he would have scoffed at anyway.

I was so proud of him at the first Christmas Party and and at the 2nd he wore his made to measure Tilford purple velvet peak lapel Jacket. As he danced with his girlfriend on the dancefloor I couldn’t help shouting ‘Shake what your mama gave you!’ He got me back when we did a company paintball tournament. The pic of us two in our guns an gear hung in the staff room for ages. But, kept he shooting me. It hurt.

‘William, we’re on the same team. Stop shooting me!’

‘Then stop being a pylon.’

If anyone has pics or memories of the things I’m describing, please feel free to share with rest of us!

*more on Dad’s Vehicles. ’64 Pontiac Stratochief ’71 Chevrolet Impala Custom and the Volaré Station Wagon Woh-oh. Volaré! Woh-oh-oh-no! Not a GM product. ‘Nuff Said. Stay Tuned.

#welldressedmen #menswear #devilinthedetails #metoo #haberdashery #merchandising #display

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ashleighjade05 · 7 years ago

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My Bridesmaids Proposal ♡

I cannot tell you how excited I am to write this blog post! I feel like i’m reliving the day all over again. When Alexander and I got engaged I got obsessed with the idea of a Bridesmaid Proposal. I spent hours on Google trying to get inspo from what other brides-to-be had done for theirs and I really wanted to create something very personal for each girl and make it into an actual event, one they couldn’t forget.

With two months out I messaged each girl individually so they didn’t know the others were going to be there and asked her to keep brunch time free on Sunday the 10th September, which also happened to be 6 months until the wedding date. The only girl who raised her suspicions with me was Lucy who constantly hounded me asking what we were doing, if I was going to ask her to be my Maid of Honour and what would we be eating for “brunch” because I can’t cook…brutal! It’s not like me to plan something so far in advance as I’m such a last minute Larry so I don’t blame her for the grilling.

I reached out to my friend Chrystal from Carnival Creations and pitched my Bridesmaid Proposal idea. Straight away our creative minds exploded and we got planning. She sorted out all the styling and I organised the gift boxes for the girls.

THE GIFTS

I found a small business on Instagram called Partie Co who make personalised boxes for special occasions. I ordered the white medium gift box with the magnetic and ribbon closure and that was a perfect size to fit all the gifts inside. You need to allow between 2-4 weeks for your order to arrive, mine arrived rather quickly though. At Spotlight I found pink shredded tissue paper which I used as the base for each box and needed 1 bag per box.

Next I did a call out to find a local business who could make ROSE GOLD custom labels. I received many recommendations for The Gifting Collective so I had the lovely Hannah make 4x candles that had “Will You Be My Bridesmaid/Maid of Honour” and 4x mini bottles of rosé with “Bride Tribe” written on them. You can also choose from several different flavour scents for the candles so I sneakily found out what flavours my girls like most and ordered vanilla/caramel and peony.

The next gift was a custom rose gold necklace from Melodee Design who specialise in Bespoke Handmade Jewellery. They each have their own initial on the flat disc with a heart added behind it. I also own one so I thought it would be special if we all had a piece that was matching. The necklaces arrive in a little pink bag but I bought tiny white gift boxes from David Jones to put them into so it really looked like a proposal. The mini bow on top of the boxes were purchased from Spotlight and are taped double sided for easy stick.

The final gift was the hardest to get because the website was constantly out of stock! I even signed up for the alert when it was restocked but never received it. Just by luck I got in quick and ordered 4x Pale Pink Tassel Keyrings from The Daily Edited. Each keyring had the girls initials on them and an emoji that represented something personal from our friendship. These arrived EXTREMELY quickly! Like, two days later quickly! I loved the gift box they arrived in and you can also choose a gift card to put with it.

THE PROPOSAL

I was nervous AF! I thought I was going to vomit and had the shakes so bad. I was so scared that the girls would say no. I had been imagining this day for MONTHS and wanted everything to go perfectly.

As each girl started arriving at my house they were all wondering why the others were there as well. They could all see how nervous I was…so nervous I made them all scull a glass of champagne with me. I then told them that I had heard about a really special event that was coming up and thought it would be nice if we could all go together, but I didn’t want them knowing where we were going so I handed them a blind fold and told them our ride had arrived.

Carnival Creations had put together the most incredible setting in my backyard. I lead the girls to the grazing table and told them to remove their blind folds. The sound of their squeals then turned to shock, followed by tears and “OH MY GOD!” being the only words that they could manage to say. It was exactly the reactions I was hoping for and that moment will be with me forever. I mean...these photos speak for themselves.... (and someone needs to award Jaleesa with an Academy Award already!!!!)

Watching the girls open their gifts was like Christmas morning. They all read their cards first which had “Will you be my bridesmaid/Maid of Honour?” written inside with a polaroid photo of us, as soon as they all read that they each jumped up again and screamed their heads off. Through tears, I asked “soooo….is that a yes?” - THEY ALL SAID YES!!!

I know it’s not always about the gifts and the fancy things, but I hadn’t seen anything like this be done before and they all joked about how I don’t do things in halves. I really wanted to celebrate them and the friendship that we share. The whole entire set up was like a dream!

ASHIIE’S BRIDE TRIBE

Each of the girls are so special to Alex and I and are such a significant part of our story. There is no way in the world that I could walk the most important runway of my life and not have them by my side.

♡ Lucy - Maid of Honour

♡ Kristy - Bridesmaid

♡ Jaleesa - Bridesmaid

♡ Ena - Bridesmaid

THE BUSINESSES

Again I can’t thank Carnival Creations enough for helping me organise and put together this Bridesmaid Proposal. Bringing our ideas to life and creating such a magical moment.

Across all of our social media profiles, we’ve been receiving messages asking where everything was from and who was involved so I thought it would be easier to put it all in one place to make it easier. Make sure you check out their work and give these talented businesses some digital love!

♡ Carnival Creations - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

♡ Kingdom Cupcakes - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡

♡ Bloss & Co - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

♡ The Little Balloonery - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

♡ Foote and Flame - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

♡ Beautiful by Design - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

With a very special mention to Jana from Billie and Peaches who photographed the priceless moment so last minute. Unfortunately Alexander has been bedridden but Jana saved the day with only 24 hours notice and had the photos back to me the very next day. I will definitely be working with Jana again in the near future and absolutely LOVED her work!

♡ Billie and Peaches - Instagram ♡ Facebook ♡ Website ♡

I had so much fun planning this for my girls and it was really special watching them all bond with one another and create new friendships. They are all such strong, smart and beautiful women who I am so lucky to have in my life. The next 6 months are going to be one hell of a ride and I can’t wait to share this with my tribe!

♡ Ashiie xx

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cynthiadshaw · 4 years ago

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Voyage Dallas Bounce Back Strong Campaign

Given the unprecedented economic impact of the Covid-19 health crisis, we think it’s more important than ever to encourage our communities to support small businesses, mom-and-pops, independent artists, creatives and makers and help them bounce back strong.

Often people want to buy from and support local entrepreneurs and makers but don’t know how. They might want to get in shape but don’t know how to learn about non-chain gym fitness options. They might want family portraits but don’t know how to find the right photographer. The Bounce Back Strong Campaign is about highlighting local businesses, creatives and makers, because learning about the local options is the first step someone can take towards supporting them.

Ashley Hence | Realtor

I am a local Realtor® in the DFW metroplex, and I work primarily with first time home buyers and sellers in residential real estate sales. I am best known for always trying to go a step above to listen to my client’s vision, understand their long term goals and delivering the results my customers are happy with. I think I am most known for how personable I am in a transaction with my clients. I care and I’m honest. I’m not your normal sales person. I do have sales goals and numbers I aim to reach, but my main goal is to have a happy client and a forever friend, after each transaction. I am easily accessible and I take the time to educate my clients so that they have the knowledge that they need to approach the home buying or selling process with confidence. In the end, my goal is to ensure that my clients are always happy and that they walk away with having a great experience.

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Amy James | Greeting Card Designer

Image Credits: JC Oliveira Photography

Hi, my name is Amy James, I am the owner and card designer of Amy’s Social Butterfly. I make custom, handmade 3D greeting cards for any occasion. My cards were given to the Oscar Nominees, they were also featured at the MTV Movie Awards and Emmy Awards Gifting Suites, as well as being featured in InStyle Magazine. My cards are unique because they are One of a Kind because they can be customized and personalized with any theme you may have in mind. This allows the card to be made specifically for the recipient and there will not be another card like it. So visit my website at www.AmysSocialButterfly.com and see my work which has made many people smile.

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Shanell Monique | Serial Entrepreneur Shanell Monique I’m an author… But I’m so much more

Image Credits: Rice photography OKC

A native of New Orleans, Shanell Monique could be appropriately described as a “serial entrepreneur

I’m a Oklahoma City-based writer also authored “Broken Silence” and “Love & Confidence Journal,” which were released in December 2017 and in April 2018, I was inspired to compose “The Wife Between Us” in the wake of my divorce. However, I am the mastermind of three books to date, most notably “The Wife Between Us,” my latest and emotionally-driven project that debuted in April 2019. An empowerment extraordinaire in her my own right, I am the proud owner of Love & Confidence and Founder of every child is a story yet to be told foundation. I’ve just released a lash line — or my newly-established eyelash business — as well as Stay Glossy, my rising lip gloss venture — a pair of newly-erected endeavors I hopes will reap a considerable amount of success now that the national economic landscape is reopening amid the COVID-19 pandemic. For what’s it worth, I don’t shy away from the notion that I’m overwhelmingly giddy in that I have a number of irons in the fire. To put it more precisely. So, connect with me. . I’ll surely hook you up with a few compelling reads, not to mention some dope lashes and lip gloss.

ShanellMonique.net

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Amy Berthelet | Designer/Maker & Small Business Owner

Image Credits: Amy S Berthelet

My name is Amy Berthelet, and I am the owner of Amy’s Handmade Gifts in Arlington TX. I handcraft beaded jewelry, tapestries, greeting cards, and other assorted gift items. Since starting in 2009, I personally create each and every piece by hand. Customer orders are 100% bespoke – I let them select absolutely every element, whether it is glue-on rhinestones or rough diamond beads! My beaded tapestries are hand-stitched one bead at a time to form unique one-of-a-kind works of art. I also offer jewelry repair, for beaded and forged jewelry. There is something in every price range, from assembled kit pieces all the way to professionally mounted and framed beaded art.

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Ashley Ram Gosnell, M. Ed. | Tutoring Agency Owner & Educator

Hey everyone! I started my company Tutor Revolution™ LLC in 2011, shortly after graduating from college (SMU); I was unsatisfied with the status quo of tutoring agencies. Nine years later, we are dealing with our most significant challenge yet! Immediately in March, we had to shift to only tutoring in our online classrooms. We use a sophisticated platform, which the students enjoy; however, it was not an easy adjustment. Unfortunately, we lost a few clients because parents lost their incomes, or the workload was suddenly too easy and students did not need our assistance anymore.

Typically our goal is for our students to stop needing our assistance, but this past semester did more harm than good. Too easy is almost as bad as too hard for development. I kept hearing how students were not completing their assignments and were missing social interactions. I knew I had to offer those parents some solutions, so I would text help those students for free. Sometimes students needed daily reminders of what to do for their assignments, and sometimes they just had quick questions. I also began tutoring one student via our online platform for free, since his parents had some setbacks. Additionally, I started an online family forum where parents can connect and collaborate authentically. Through that, I started a twice-weekly reading group for 4-6-year-olds. This is not in my normal age range (usually 4th-college), but I saw the need. Each time, I read a short picture book out loud, then we play a game to get to know each other like “Show and Tell,” and we will also play an active game like “Simon Says.” Head to our facebook page to join the Family Forum group!!

www.getmyAnow.com

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https://www.facebook.com/TutorRevolution/

Nancy Peham | I’m a Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Helping Hands Personal Services,. I’ve been creating order, relieving stress and improving the lives of my clients in the Dallas area since 2001.

Hi, I’m Nancy and I feel so lucky to be doing the work I love while changing the lives of my clients through organization. I never get tired of helping people regain a feeling of calm after organizing an area of their home. Many of my clients tell me they feel a weight has been lifted, or that finally they can breathe again! It took me a few years to realize that my skill which I took for granted, was something that others were longing for. Basically, what I do is work with my clients to de-clutter and organize any room in their home. This could be reorganizing your kitchen and pantry to be more functional, or reworking your wardrobe closet so that you see at a glance where all of your clothing categories “live” in color-coded harmony. If you have kids, we can make their playroom a place that can be put back together after a play date with a minimum of stress. Everyone seems to have issues with papers, bills, and outdated filing systems. Together we can figure out what will work for you and put a system in place. And if you’re getting ready to move we can downsize, de-clutter, and get your excess to the proper donation site. If you need help packing or unpacking at your new home I can help with that too. If you’ve wondered what it’s like to work with an organizer, don’t be shy. I offer a free consultation and would be happy to meet with you in your home to see how we can work together to transform your life.

www.helpinghandsps.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-peham-1123706/

https://www.instagram.com/nancypeham/

https://twitter.com/NancyPeham

https://www.yelp.com/biz/helping-hands-personal-services-dallas-3?osq=Professional+Organizer

https://www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsPS/

Robert Ostrander | Weightloss

We are offering a great promotion until the end of the month!! $9.95 wholesale enrollment normally $39.95. Also receive 10% off a purchase of a welcome pack to get you started on your health journey. Os get you started today!!

https://plexusworldwide.com/robertostrander67/home

http://linkedin.com/in/robert-ostrander-1ab88583

@bringuhope

@ostrander67

Desree Robinson | Artist (own cartoon ) creating a Art School for overlooked artists and give back to community on Sundays

Hey my name is Desree Robinson my product is LOST KIDS “ I was once lost now I am found” and will be In galleria mall sometime July dates may vary due to covid-19 and a LOST KIDS ART SHOW IN JULY

@Lost_kids269

Danielle Roy | Salon Professional

Hey ladies! I’m Danielle and I’m a salon professional located in Dallas! I specialize in balayage and Brazilian blowouts! Also with any color services, you receive a cbd hair treatment that is the ultimate relaxer! Take the stress away from the day and book an appointment with me!

My Instagram is @droyz_ for all of my work! Can’t wait to meet all of you!

Alexis Scott-Boster | Educator/Entrepreneur/Engineer

Alexis M. Scott-Boster is a Triple E: Educator, Entrepreneur, and Engineer. She founded AMS Academic Solutions to share her gift of numbers and education that she has possessed since an early age. She currently works at a major defense company as a Senior Principal Systems Engineer. For 3 years, she was the Section Manager in Dallas, Tx of the Systems Security Engineering Group (i.e Cyber Security). She has been teaching Mathematics for over 30 years including 18 years as a college professor. She has an undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Spelman College and a graduate degree in Mathematics from the University of North Texas. She is a 2017 NSBE Hidden Figures Awards recipient for her contributions in STEM. She also received a Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition for her contributions to STEM. She published one book in 2017 called Embracing STEM Smarts: an encouraging guide for young ladies to be bold in their intelligence. In 2019, she published volume 2 of Embracing STEM Smarts. She is featured in several books as a STEM model. She was honored by her Alma Mater, University of North Texas as a featured alumnus in their July 2017 newsletter. She was also honored by Zakat Court #133 as their Woman of the Year for her contributions in STEM. Finally, she created the blog post called Breaking the Curse of Invisibility for Herdacity.org which was also the subject of her TedX talk (https://youtu.be/mPohBFk6SV0) in February 2018.

youtube

AMS Academic Solutions is an Educational Services Company that provides tutoring in a variety of subjects. We also provide standardized test preparation. We focus on foundational understanding of materials. We want to build a strong foundation for our clients that will help them at all levels vs. one stop passing of one test. We focus on 5 C’s to success: Conversation: Each session begins with a conversation. We want to engage the students so that it is slightly more than a tutor client relationship. This conversation also gives the tutor some information on the client so that they will more adequately be able to tailor the sessions to each client. Every client has a different learning style and the conversation will allow the tutor to make that assessment. Connection: The initial conversation provides a connection between the student and the tutor. Clients are more apt to learn and become engaged when there is a connection made. Also, a connection is made between the homework and the test and quizzes. Many times with the tutors, clients understand everything but when they go on their own, things are forgotten. We want to make sure that the clients are connecting what we are doing in our sessions to what they are doing in the classroom. Comfort: This connection leads to the student becoming comfortable with the material. We are there for the students but ultimately, we want to send them out to the wild so that they can perform the material on their own. Confidence: Once comfort is there and the student can do the work, it builds their confidence. Courage: Once confidence has been built, the student has the courage to tackle and conquer the remaining material and advance toward higher level academics.

Ultimate goal for our clients is to reach the courage and confidence to be successful at all levels.

www.amsacademicsolutions.com

www.linkedin.com/in/alexismscott1

https://www.instagram.com/alexismath1/

https://twitter.com/AlexisMath22

www.alexismscott.com

https://www.facebook.com/AMathServices/

William B Harris Jr | Entertainment Manager, Publicist, Small Business Owner

Image Credits: Rodney Glenn Photography

Hloyal Management and PR is doing some serious work, implementing some of the most important, yet groundbreaking methods, resources for there clientele. Such as retirement plans, small business management because this management, pr firm makes it a point that all client’s have ownership, not only industry-standard but business-standard. No one’s brain works like William B Harris Jr.

www.hloyalpr.org

https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-harris-18464351/

www.instagram.com/hloyalpr

www.twitter.com/williamharris07

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClPUA1u1g4D0INRngF-z9_Q

https://www.hloyalpr.org/company-resume.html

https://www.facebook.com/HLoyalPR/

Tray Ivory | credit Consultant

I am Tray Ivory . I’m a Local Credit Consultant that has gain clients from all over the US. I have a service that helps other invest into fixing there name. What I mean by that is I help people fix there credit from what happen in the past . I help educate them on credit , how credit works, how to read a credit report. More important how to utilize there credit. Because I wasn’t educated on credit and I gain the passion on wanting to help people in General . This is my way of building relationships with family’s meeting new encounters to progress and sharpen my growth. You do not want to pass on what I can do for others

https://www.financialeducationservices.com/default.aspx?rid=Tivory2

Trayon_ivory

Fatima Jalloh | Donut Creator

Hi! My name is Fatima and I’m originally from West Africa (Sierra Leone). In 2003, I moved to Texas to start a new life. One of my passions since childhood is cooking, especially nutritious meals. A healthy lifestyle is top priority of mine and believe that it starts with the food we eat. Because I love what I do, I have a tremendous amount motivation that drives me to create the best. I think this motivation and self-discipline I carry has a lot to do with my African upbringing, where self-sufficiency is a must for survival. Zioso Donuts came to light when my boyfriend and I were talking about how it is difficult to find good gluten-free food options here in Dallas. One day I started experimenting in the kitchen to make the perfect gluten-free donut, and can say with confidence that Zioso Donuts are some of the most delicious in all of Dallas.

The donuts are made from scratch, using the finest ingredients and cooked in vegetable oil, and served fresh to the customer. Our signature flavors are Strawberry, Chocolate, and Original. Most recently, we have started selling Donut Kabobs that includes fresh fruit. The kabobs are a big hit with kids. After seeing success around DFW farmers markets we have expanded to offering delivery seven days a week. Due to COVID-19, we are offering free delivery through July.

People should check out Zioso if they want to eat something that tastes amazing and also is healthier. For some, gluten-free has a negative perception, I’m not really sure why that is but they won’t be disappointed.

Connect with Fatima

https://ziosodonuts.com/

@ziosodonuts

ziosodonutsGF

https://www.facebook.com/ziosodonuts-103951680960169/

The post Voyage Dallas Bounce Back Strong Campaign appeared first on Voyage Dallas Magazine | Dallas City Guide.

source http://voyagedallas.com/2020/07/26/voyage-dallas-bounce-back-strong-campaign/

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bajancopywritingunicorn-blog · 7 years ago

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Top Ten Bajan Christmas Gifts 2017

I know you’ve been sitting on the edge of your seat and I’m sure you’re gonna love the gifts on this year’s list of Bajan products. Sure, you could buy anything that’s imported but there’s something so special about getting a gift that was made right here in Barbados. Let’s get right into it then.

10. Sophisticated Centrepiece - Jalans Creations - One of the most important parts of the Christmas celebration in Barbados and around the world is having Christmas lunch with the family. Perhaps one of the most underestimated but memorable elements of this feast is the centrepiece, so why not give the gift of decor this Christmas? Whether you have a complete tablescape planned or you prefer the minimalist approach, your centrepiece will be a focal point at the dinner table. Before I go any further, you need to know that Bajans are veryyy crtitical. They will have no problem telling people that your table “had look pop down” or “stink”. Five years from now I guarantee they will still be talking about it. That’s why I was so relieved to stumble upon this Blue Bouquet by Lana Nurse, founder of Jalan’s Creations. I kind of wish I could have one in every room. It makes me feel like I was spirited away to a fairytale sprinkled with magic dust. Just gorgeous! If you want one you better hurry though because Lana tells me you have til December 21st to place your order.

9. Vegan Cork Bags - Ole Luck - Guys, cork bags are a thing now and they look so cool. I have to admit, this was the first time I ever heard of Vegan bags. Accessories can be vegan now? I couldn’t help but wonder how they taste. Now before we start chowing down, I want you to rest assured that buying a woman a bag for Christmas is always a good idea. Still, what makes these bags so special are the fact that they’re environmentally responsible. No harmful plastics and for the animal lovers among us, no leather. Don’t ask me how, but a guy by the name of Andy makes all these gorgeous bags by hand. If you’re feeling really patriotic, you can get a wristlet with 246 or the broken trident on it, but I fell in love with the Wayuu purse. The Wayuu are indigenous people living in Colombia and Northwest Venezuela, described as the people of the sun, sand and wind. Wayuu women make a specific type of woven bag with unique vibrant patterns reflected in the sash on these Ole Luck beauties. Fun fact: The Wayuu language, which is called Wayuuniki, is part of the Arawak family.

8. Crocheted Bikini - Chain Loops Crochet - My gawd! What can I say about this talented diva? Owner Jessica Martindale creates customized fashion and soft home furnishings, while crocheting her way into your heart. Now the first time I saw her crocheted bikinis I knew I had to have one of her pieces. I ordered two. Forget your grandmother’s doilies. Jessica designs one-of-a-kind crocheted jumpers, skirts, dresses, chic baby blankets, earrings and even slippers. Yes, you heard me. She crochets frikkin slippers. But back to this sexy bikini tho. I’m not even telling you to buy this for someone else. This thing will make your life ten times sexier. You worked hard all year so you best believe you deserve it. Yasss!

7. Gold glitter Barbados Throw Pillow - ChicFit Inc - This cute little cushion stopped me right in my tracks. This ain't no run-of-the-mill throw pillow. You can decorate any space with it, no matter the colour scheme. Classy level 1000! Listen to me. ChicFit is not messing around. They put a dang Barbados map on a black pillow and glitterized it in gold. What the what?! This throw cushion will change your life so you're welcome. Just gaze upon its glory. Also, can I just say how much I love ChicFit's logo? It speaks to me. It says “I love yoga times infinity”... or someting* so.

6. Deck The Halls - Classy Raggs Interiors - You have no idea what this means but you will. The brainchild of Ana Gill, Classy Raggs will leave you in stitches. If you’ve ever imagined what a home makeover should look like, then Ana should have her own TV show. Her work is phenomenal. She creates bespoke furniture, soft furnishings, you name it, she can bring your dream to life. Just look at what she did to this yacht! Yachtastic!

5. Smell My Nuts - West Indian Soap Co. - Not to be left out of the game, there’s definitely something for the guys too. As gross as it sounds, this was one of the most hilarious Christmas gifts I’ve stumbled upon thus far. There’s Man Soap, Man Wash and Man Lotion. Your man does not need another tie. Stop it. He wants you to get creative and think outside the box. Get him a gift that’s both playful and practical. Go ahead! Smell deez nuts... coconuts, that is ;)

4. A Pinterest Box - HomeMade Luxe - If you’re heavily into DIY and crafting or you’re all thumbs like me and need detailed instructions to make anything, then this is the gift for you or someone you know. Former Barbados athlete Keitha Moseley-Dendy, The Bajan Texan, as she calls herself, started this business from a simple idea to bring Pinterest into real life. Stop pinning and start crafting, folks. Take all those cute projects you love online and decorate every room in your house with them. Brilliant idea! One might wonder where the mother of twin girls could possibly find the time but she spent many nights on her living room floor packing hundreds of boxes to keep her customers happy. That type of sweat equity deserves some kind of award. Now that HomeMade Luxe is finally available in Barbados, don’t lag!* In minutes you can have the sexiest pinned projects in your home. This month’s box is a Starburst Mirror. Who doesn’t love a gift that is both fun and functional? Shoot, you could even get some friends together and throw a Pinning Party.

3. Pillowgrams - Simmone Thorpe started thinking the other day about how wasteful cards are. To be honest, I never really know what to do after I read a card someone has given me. It’s so pretty I can’t bear to throw it away but I can’t really hang it up either so it invariably gets shoved down in a drawer somewhere, only to be found months later. You can’t enjoy the beauty of a greeting card from inside a drawer. Simmone wanted to find a way to make the memory last in a way that’s visible and functional. That’s how the Say it With a Pillowgram message pillow was born. This gift can be cute, funny, inspirational, sentimental, you can even add a photo of you and your loved one to create a wonderful keepsake. Pelt* a few of these customizable throw pillows into the mix to enhance your decor. Ladies, don’t we always try to stop at two and end up buying six?

2. Galaxy Eyeshadow - Fenty Beauty - This one was tough, I put this at the top of my personal Christmas Gift List because Rihanna. Seriously, though, what girl on earth doesn’t want eyeshadow that shines like diamonds and reflects all the colours of the milky way? I want my face to sparkle like the night sky too. Basically giving any gift from the Fenty Beauty line would make any woman in the world scream, from Match Stix to lip gloss to Trophy Wife highlighter. I’m dreaming of a glitter eyeshadow Christmas.

1. But First... Prosecco - West Indian Soap Co. - Start clutching your pearls ladies because this next gift will change your life. You know that moment when you never thought something was even possible and then all of a sudden Jesus and the whole universe answered your silent, unspoken prayers? This is basically what the But First Prosecco line of decadence is all about. Drowning your sorrows takes on a whole new meaning when you can literally bathe in your favourite sparkling wine. Cleopatra bathed in milk so the mere thought of bathing in Prosecco and smelling like it just tickles me pink. I can’t wait to be drenched in Prosecco.

Stay tuned for full features of some of these wonderful Bajan businesses. Big shoutout to the members of Women Making Money Work ladies networking group.

Bonus*

Bajan Glossary

If you’re not a Bajan here’s a key to the terms you need to know.

Had look pop down/ had look stink: This means that whatever you were talking about looked terrible, not just bad. Basically pop down and stink are interchangeable.

Someting: This means something. Someting so: This means something along those lines.

Don’t lag: This means don’t get caught napping/ don’t delay.

Pelt: This means throw, but forcefully.

#Christmas Gifts TopTen Bajan Barbados marketing

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