#if you're going to be in an enclosed space for an extended time...

[aphroditesmoon]

smoke signals (part i)

lighthouse keeper!sevika x selkie!reader

summary: sevika is content with her life, the loneliness that comes with her job is inevitable. but then one day, as she reaches the peak of mundanity, almost turning towards insanity, you appeared. cold, quiet, clueless, sea-sent you, like a wish fulfilment for her.

warnings: selkie!reader, reader has selective mutism. soft!sev, sev curses a lot.

a/n: i promise the next part will be more interesting lol.

taglist: @lilredbird101 <3

PART 2 PART 3

---

Sevika must be dreaming. The air felt warmer today. Which was impossible. The air out here has always and will always be brutally cold. almost painful to the skin without a protective layer.

And yet today, she extends her arm out of the square hole carved on the rough tall walls of the tower and felt it, the slight heat coming from the outside wind, almost undetectable. But Sevika detected it. She never missed a thing.

Not a hard thing to do when you're forced to live in an isolated space on your own. Sure sometimes Vander and his daughters would make a trip in their old ragged boat with supplies or to help take her back to town to stock up, but those monthly visits move quickly. She would always regret not saying more, or looking longer once they'd bring her back after the trip.

Sevika decided she would cherish the little gift of warmth by the sun by going out to rest against the rusty railing and felt its light on her face. The wind was still incredibly chilly, but she adapted. Closing her eyes, her lids have painted her vision red as she lets out a slow somber sigh.

Most people think working here as a lighthouse keeper must be a gift. being able to stay so close to waters, the peace and tranquility that comes with it. And they aren't completely wrong.

Sevika isn't a people person, and so yes, she appreciated the silence. But sometimes it gets too much, too quiet. And when she reaches that point, she she could hear every tiny little noise the walls and the floorboards make and it drives her mad.

And it's worse when it's raining thunderstorms. The waves would lash out against the sky so strongly, she could've sworm she heard a voice calling for her from the sea.

But today, the weather is good, and the deep sinking feeling in her chest isn't as persistent as it usually is.

A loud but distant growling, lapping sound fills her eardrums. Sevika looked down and smiled at the source of the noise. The greyish, wide eyed seal from inside the water, greets her joyfull. The sight was so endearing, it had manage to warm the woman's solid heart.

Seals aren't completely a rare sight. Sevika has been working here for over a year, and has so far spotted them for about a few times now. They don't stay close or linger long, but are always an enjoyable company.

"Fancy seeing you here, little guy." Sevika yelled down, aware of the irony in referring the enlarged seal as "little."

The seal shook it's body as if agreeing before diving back unto the water, and jumping back out with a splash pulling a grin out of Sevika. "A show? All for me?" She joked with it, well entertained.

The adorable seal let out another growl-like squeal before it made its way back underneath the clear blue waters and disappeared from Sevika's line of sight.

The deep sinking feeling in her chest returned. She sighed tiredly. There goes her only friend.

Perhaps she'll spend her evening sketching again. She isn't exactly a connoisseur of art, but she was skilled enough for it to be a worthy hobby. Her bedside wall is filled with her little drawings of the seashells she had found, the lighthouse tower itself, the view of the sea from inside the window. She should add a seal to her collection, she thought.

Walking herself back into the enclosed space, Sevika decided that there wasn't really anything she could do about that hollow feeling inside of her chest. It was like a boulder that sat on top of all her other feelings. She would describe the feeling as, "it's like you're mourning all the could've beens and what have beens."

Climbing up the small staircase leading to her bedroom, she changed her mind back to the seals, letting the wide eyed creature's face dominates her thoughts.

---

It's 7:45 PM, her wristwatch read. Sevika shoved her sketches aside on her desk and gave herself a light slap on the face to wake herself up before she stood up and began walking downstairs.

She needed to cook something up for dinner. To eat and to have something warm in her arms again. If you thought the air in the afternoon is cold, then you'll never survive the air in the evening and night.

Sevika reached her small but sufficiant kitchen and began boiling herself some eggs to go with her rice. The meals here are repetitive, but you'd never catch her complaining. Almost everything she does is for survival, It wasn't necessary for her to like her routines, She simply had to live through them.

Once her boiled eggs were done, the scent of the food filled the whole tower and she felt her stomach growl in automatic response. She placed her meal on the small table and let herself take a peak outside the small window that served as a balcony.

It was already so dark out. The moonlight glowed down on her dark cheeks as she gazed up, counting on how many stars she could seek out.

Sevika dipped her head down, looking into the water and felt a small relief at stillness in tonight's waves.

She stayed for a while, simply watching the large empty space that's guarding her. And then as her eyes roam, she saw it. The long, white piece of fabric that clung to the rocks of her tower.

"What the hell." She muttered under her breath. There was something else next to it. A build. Something solid. But she wasn't able to see ot clearly in the dark, It seems to hide behind the rocks.

"Fuck me." Sevika groaned. She did not want to have to go out at this time, the blistering coldness was an ass to deal with. But then again, she had to admit, this was the most exciting her life have been. So she pushed herselff of the railing and scattered down the stairs towards the entrance.

Sevika shoved the heavy metal door as strong as she coulf until it opened and then shoved the large stone on the floor in between the space so it wouldn't close. She managed to stop herself from letting out another "fucking hell" as the wind struck her unprotected arms and moved as gastas she could.

"There you are." She mumbled to herself as she picked up the wet, soggy, white fabric up in her hands. It was heavy. The fur is thick, one of a real animal's, she figured. Slinging it over her shoulder, Sevika crouched down and used her arms as stability as she pushed her face further into the rocks in front of her to study the creauture that had landed in her space.

It's a woman. Sevika's heart dropped. This isn't good. An unknown woman appearing on her rocks, passed out, only meant one thing, death. How else would you explain being able to swim this far? Sevika placed two fingers on her neck, checking her pulse. It was beating, and that was enough for her.

Sevika kneeled on the rocks and used her long arms to pull the naked woman into her arms. One her waist is safely secured around her arms and onto her lap, Sevika forced herself up and made her way back inside, kicking the rock that held the door open with one feet, and entered inside with a loud bang from the door.

She carried her limo body to the bathroom, turning her around so she'd face the floor. With the woman's back against her front, she pushed to have her choke out the sea water that would nearly suffocate her lungs. It wasn't too late, there's a pulse, it cannot be too late. Sevika would not soend the rest of her month with a corpse.

She tried the cpr again, pushing onher chest over and over until finay, the woman jerked her head up and threw up clear water out of her lungs.

The movement was sudden and short lived, she turned limp again almost immediately. Sevika twisted her around and saw that her eyes are open, but was blurry with tears. The relief of air comes with chest pains and a headache, she's sure.

"It's alright. you're alright." She assured her, holding the woman close to her. She had gotten Sevika's long sleeved shirt completely wet, but that was the least of her priorities right now.

"Can you hear me?" Sevika asked, enunciating each word slowly. She remained dazed and confused, but Sevika saw how her eyes were following the movement of her mouth. "Blink twice if you can hear me." She tried again. No respond.

"Fucking hell." Sevika groaned. Maybe she didn't understand her. "Look." Sevika commanded. pointing towards her set of eyes. She then closed her eyes tightly and opened them widely. Again, she repeated the movements.The woman was accessing her properly, that she could tell.

Even with the confusion, she seem to be able to focus on her gaze. Sevika almost gave up completely on getting a reaction, until finally, she closed her eyes tightly. It remained closed for almost a minute, her heartbeat fastens as she waits. And then her eyes opened widely, staring right into Sevika's.

A small smile slips onto Sevika's face. "That works for me.'' She said.

---

You must be mute, Sevika thought as she sat on the edge of her bed, watching over your sleeping body.

Once she had helped clean you up and changed you into something more warm and suitable, you had fallen asleep quite easily on her soft sheets, your eyes seemed tired, and with how weak and cold ypur arms and legs seemed, Sevika could only assume that you had been swimming for god knows how long towards shore.

There's must've been a shipwreck somewhere, or maybe you fell of a boat, who knows? But there was no doubt that you had been in the water for hours.

She wished she had something stronger than the little candle on the bedside to keep you warm, but this is all she could afford to offer as of now.

You've been asleep for about 4 hours now. And she had been sat across you for exactly 4 hours too. She couldn't move. Another human to look after, she wasn't sure if its a blessing or a curse.

It isn't as if she's never seen a person before, but your presence has her feet locked on the spot for some reason. You looked so at peace in her small space, taking it up like it's her own. You had a face like no one she's met too. It was as if you've been pieced together by the goddess of beaity herself.

And even though Sevika didn't want to think of that, trying to avoid feeling perdatory or absurd, it's true. You were beautiful.

Sevika shook her head, freeing herself from further thoughts and slowly helped herself up. You would be hungry when you wake up, so she should cook something up for you.

A throaty groan escaped you, Sevika stops on her tracks and turnes hee head slowly towards you. She couldn't tell if it sounded like you were wailing or barking.

"Oh, hey." Sevika whispered out, shyly smiling at you.

You snorted loudly- very unladylike, and then sniffled. "Ah you've got the flu, don't you?" She wasn't expecting you to answer her, and you didn't.

"Well that's what happen when you go out for a swim for too long." She attempted to joke and laughed dryly. She hoped she didn't offend you, but your blank stare assured her that you were completely clueless.

She didn't wait for a response as she rushed to the kitchen to crack up some boiled eggs for you. There isn't much here but eggs, bread, jam, and boxed soup. But she figured it's not like you're in any position to complain.

Sevika walked quickly, she hadn't felt this sense of urgency for ages, the feeling of necessity pulling on her heart. She's never had company over, though she doubted her social skills would come in handy with a mute girl.

Rushing back upstairs with her neatly nade boiled eggs, Sevika was surprised to find you out of bed. She panicked when seeing that only a ruffled blanket was left in your place. She turned her head first towards the open window, as if afraid you might've jumped out.

But then she finally spotted you, huddled over her bags by the window, rummaging through it like a curious squirrel.

"You." She called out, in shock. "Back on the bed you wild creature." She placed the bowl on the bedside table and went for you swiftly, pulling you back by your arms.

You made a grunting noise, and flapped your arms strongly, trying to break free. Sevika was impressed by the sheer strength you have, she had barely left you for 5 minutes, and you're already on your feet, scavenging, or thieving, she wasn't sure.

"You sure know how to make yourself at home." She muttered loud enough for your ears as she dragged you back on the bed against your will.

You didn't fight back, though you scowled snd kept growling at her. like an angry puppy.

"You're in no condition to be whining. You should be glad I didn't leave you out to die, girl." She sternly

Once she had you sat back on the bed, she helped tuck you in safely under the blanket and picked up the bowl of food, bringinh it near to your face, you sniffed it and made a face of distaste. Sevika would be offended if she weren't already amused with your peculiarity.

"Don't knock it till you try it." She said and offered it to you again

This time, you opened her mouth as she fed a spoon to you. You winced at the texture and paused chewing for a bit before slowly continuing it. "Not bad, eh?" Sevika asks with a raised brow.

You scrunched up your nose as if you understood her and let her feed you the rest of the eggs. She knew it wasn't enough to fill you up, but she wanted to see how your stomach would reactl with a little food first. If it's been a while since you ate, then its most likely your guts would need some time to process food and get used to it again without nausea and pain.

Sevika also noticed that you were no longer as pale as when she first found you. Things went by quickly. She had expected you to still be in a weaker position as you had just woken up, but you are accepting your surroundings and condition pretty well.

There wasn't even a glimpse of panic in your eyes despite the fact that you're being fed some shitty boiled eggs by a stranger in a lighthouse. Either you were extremely calculative, or extremely naive. She was willing to bet on the latter.

"You will rest here tonight." She tells you as you kept eating, completely ignoring her.

"It'll be quite a few weeks before Vander's next trip here, and I don't have any other way to reach the outside world for now, so you'll have to accommodate." She continued. You paused your eating and looked up to her, locking gazes.

A small sign of acknowledgement in your eyes before you continued eating.

Sevika let out her 500th sigh of the day and nodded to herself. "Better than nothing." She tells herself.

Once you were finished, you slowly laid your head back on the pillow, visibly getting tired again. The irony isn't lost on Sevika. She's had you for less than 10 hours, and you were already filling up the role of a lazy housecat.

There were deep parts of her mind and heart that are pushing her to start interrogating you, figure out who you are and how'd you get here. But she didn't want to spook you, and either way, your only way out of this place isn't going to be here for a while.

Sevika stood up awkwardly and looked down and at your sleepy presence, unsure of what to do next while your eyes were already droopy. “We can talk tomorrow.” She spoke aloud, more towards herself than to you.

You gave her a smile that is so soft and subtle that she almost missed it, but she never misses anything. Giving you one last nod, she left the room to sleep by the rocking chair downstairs.

[syneilesis]

Giving a few choices for requests: 55 or 48 for Sylus, Love and Deepspace please :)

If you choose dancing: include any specific ballet or modern choreography au please :3 (how you write that is up to you!)

Emmy! Sorry for the delay, but here it is now! I chose 55 (tracing the lines on the other's hand) because I am absolutely clueless about dancing lololol I did incorporate a (very) little bit of ballet in the ficlet though! Hope this satisfies you :D

date night You’re on a date with Sylus. He is very distracting.

One late morning you wake up to a ticket to a ballet performance teetering at the side of your face (thankfully it missed the drool on your chin) and a languid Sylus lounging on the chair by the bed. He's dressed to the nines, and in that moment you feel so underdressed with your PJs. Crankily you ask him what's going on.

“You're welcome, by the way. And you may want to get up now; we still have to see if the dress I had commissioned fits on you.”

Suddenly, you're wide awake.

Fast forward to the event, in a matching outfit with Sylus. You're very much enjoying the ballet, and you relay this enthusiastically to him. There's something mesmerizing about the movements of the dancers, a hypnotic quality to the way they extend their hands, followed by their bodies, and then their legs poised to a leap in accordance with the tension of the music. The last time you've watched something like this it was from a computer screen. Tara said that it's nothing compared to the real thing. And she is absolutely right.

So rapt you are from the performance that you do not notice the hand trailing along the length of the armrest that you're gripping.

When that hand encloses on yours, you startle, but then it clamps you down, a signal, a warning not to jump from your seat. You refuse to turn around and see what Sylus's expression is—or what he's masking.

After a few moments, once you've settled back and made no further motion, the thumb over your hand begins to travel down the prominent bone of your wrist. Then the fingers: reorienting themselves so that they nestle in the seams of yours, ready to press down.

“Enjoying the performance?” Sylus asks. The lilt in his voice makes you question which subject he is talking about: the ballet or his hand. Either applies; they're both similar—except they diverge on the how.

You hum in response, because there's no other way to answer him, not with that hand that's already bearing down the spaces between your fingers.

You're still not looking at him.

He hums in return, and his fingers entwine with yours, clasping tightly.

On the stage the dancers congregate for the climax.

Your hand is turned over, palm up, exposed, and for a second Sylus's hand leaves you and then returns, middle finger tapping lightly at the base—then tracing your fate line slowly, a whisper of a caress. The sensation begets a murmur down your spine.

Then his index finger goes next: along your life line, drawing an attentive circle once it reaches the apex. It tickles, and you jerk, but Sylus immediately flattens his palm over yours, stopping you from snatching your hand back.

Then he starts over: this time, from the tips of your fingers, his own weightlessly sliding down until they stop at the center, where his thumb takes over, one firm press before tracing geometries on your now-sensitive palm.

You take a deep, heavy breath.

He does this the entire duration of the climactic scene. On your palm indecipherable shapes coalesce invisibly from the heat left by his thumb—and when the music crescendoes to its peak Sylus brings your hand to his face and mouths the remnants of sensations lingering on your palm. You can hear the wetness of his kiss and you lean back and shut your eyes.

The music bursts to a stop.

Applause thunders throughout the hall. You want to join in the adulation, but Sylus keeps a stubborn grip on your hand. When you finally direct your gaze to him and find that his is on yours, you realize that his attention has been on you all this time.

“What do you think?” he asks into your palm; you tamp down a shiver.

Biting your lip, you exhale through your nose. Sylus does not relinquish both his grip and his focus on you.

“Electrifying,” you answer. You don't specify which.

A smirk, cocky and satisfied, graces his lips. He finally lets go of your hand, and you clench it into a fist, willing your body to take back control.

“There's more of that tonight,” he says. “We are not done yet.”

He leans over and traces the outline of your lips with his ring finger. Then he gets up and offers his hand to you.

What he's said—it's a promise. And it is a promise that pulses through your flesh as you take his hand.

[lilithschosen]

Agatha and Rio going out of town on a work trip (or a pleasure one, hold on, do they ever take vacation? they’re such workaholics, anyway) and Agatha sneaks Rio’s collar into their luggage while she’s not looking.

Dealers choice whether she pulls it out in front of her, puts it on her pillow to see when she comes back to the room, or pulls it out while she’s turned around and puts it on Rio from behind

you're right, anon!!! they don't get any time off. i should fix that huh

like what do you think they'd do though? probably hike, probably be near water. i feel like they're both naturey people, so both would be realistic. hm.

let's give them some relaxation time 😌🤌

"Here's your keys!" the receptionist hands two cards to Rio, eyes shifting between the two women but the smile doesn't drop from her face. "We hope you enjoy your stay. If you and your wife have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out."

Agatha's eyes widen, head whipping around to check behind her if anyone heard what the receptionist said. She stammers, looking back to her as she waves the woman off.

Rio takes the cards, holding them between her two fingers. "Thank you so much."

She gathers up her bags and turns to Agatha, holding back her laughter as she licks at her bottom lip. "Come on, dear. Let's go unpack."

Rio steps off out of the front desk area, checking which direction the elevator was located. Agatha still stands befuddled, face red from embarrassment before she stumbles away to rub salt in the self inflicted wound.

Rio chuckles under her breath, clearing her throat and grabbing Agatha's hand to pull her along as they make their way to the elevator and search for their room.

After stepping into the elevator, Agatha exhales. Her cheeks puff out, calming herself down while Rio watches her in amusement.

"Wife, huh?" she asks, left hand extended out to examine her bare ring finger. "I guess a ring would look nice here, don't you think?"

Agatha slaps the metal wall of the elevator, other hand grabbing at her chest as she groans. "You're going to give me a fucking heart attack if you keep this shit up."

The elevator dings at the arrival of their floor. Agatha squeezes past the doors while they open, turning sideways and zipping out of the enclosed space before gasping for air. Rio steps out as if nothing happened, clicking her tongue at Agatha, and heads to their room.

"You don't have to be so dramatic, babe," Rio slips the keycard into the door and shoves the door open. "It's not like I'm immediately expecting anything."

Agatha clears her throat, shifting the collar of her plaid shirt against her neck. She drops her bags inside the room, kicking her boots off.

"That's how it starts. I've seen those romcoms you watch."

Agatha finds herself smiling, laughing at her own joke as Rio sticks her tongue out. The thought does catch her off guard, thinking of Rio as her wife.

It's not a bad thought.

"Hey what're we doing for dinner?" Rio's question pulls her out of her head. "I was thinking of showering beforehand."

Agatha shrugs. "Something simple, ideally. Though I won't think about food if you get naked right now."

"Oh?"

Rio's hand pops the top button of her shirt, arching a brow in question as her hand drops to the second button.

Agatha's eyes flick up from Rio's hands to her face and back down. Rio pops the next several buttons until the shirt can fall from her shoulders, revealing the simple, green bra underneath.

"C'mere."

Agatha holds an arm out and Rio takes it, being guided toward Agatha's body as both arms wrap around her waist. Agatha kisses her slowly, enjoying the taste of Rio's mouth against hers.

She tilts her head back, nipping at Rio's bottom lip before smirking and letting go. She soothes it with the pad of her thumb before taking her chin between her fingers. "Go shower before we're late and starving."

"Yes sir."

Rio salutes with two fingers off her forehead, quickly pecking Agatha's lips as she steps back and towards the bathroom. Agatha swipes at the corner of her mouth, shaking her head while the ache in her core has her mind racing.

Rio shuts the door behind her, flicking the light and bathroom fan on. Agatha hears it muffled behind the thick wooden door and tiptoes off toward her suitcase.

Miraculously, since she has quite literally zero ability to sneak anything past Rio, she managed to pack Rio's collar in her belongings before they left that morning. Rio was too busy double checking the flight times to even worry about whatever Agatha was wandering about their house doing.

She unzips the suitcase as quietly as she can manage. Each tooth of the zipper thunking apart, if she moves too fast she stops and waits if Rio somehow heard her. As she tosses the lid of her suitcase open, she grabs the box from between her clothes. She places it on the bed, shifting the suitcase off while trying to keep her belongings inside, and fist pumps to herself as she succeeds.

Agatha places the box on the bed, nestled just below the pillows, and steps back admiring her work and her idea.

The two never had a real, genuine vacation despite staying in hotels, motels, and various rental properties for work related circumstances. When Rio floated the idea a couple months ago that they should fly out to New England and get a hotel somewhere to explore by themselves, Agatha wasn't against it.

They opted to stay in Maine, somewhere close enough to hike through forests while also close enough to be near water. Granted they'd only be gone for a long weekend, Agatha wanted to make sure their little vacation was memorable by packing the essentials.

Pleased with herself, she rushes off toward the bathroom door. She cracks it open and is welcomed by the steamy scent of Rio's soap.

"Hey," she calls out over the sound of the water, "I'm gonna go head downstairs and check with the chick at the desk on what she recommends. I picked you something to wear for tonight, though."

Rio wipes the water from her eyes, opening the shower curtain enough to peek around it. Only seeing the door open a smidgen, she frowns.

"Okay," she responds, closing the curtain again, "Thank you, babe."

Agatha smirks, Rio none the wiser. She shuts the bathroom door and does as she said she would. She swipes a keycard from the table, stuffs her feet back into her boots, and heads out of the room.

Rio finishes her shower not too long after Agatha leaves. Humming to herself as she wraps a towel around her body, she leans her head to the side and wrings the water out of her hair.

She didn't pack anything fancy beyond sweaters and blouses, in case it got cold. As well as comfy things for bed. She opens the bathroom door, stepping out while she leaves wet footprints behind on the carpet. Rounding the corner, she scans the room for whatever Agatha laid out for her.

Instead of finding clothes, she finds a box.

The box.

Her knees buckle at the realisation, but she manages to stay upright. She climbs onto the bed, crawling toward in nothing but her towel, she reaches out to take it into her hands.

The door creaks open just as she sits on the edge of the bed, turning to see Agatha standing with the proud look on her face.

"This is what you picked out for me to wear to dinner?"

Agatha nods. She lets the door close behind her as she makes her way toward her girlfriend. Standing in front of her, she opens the box to reveal her slip collar. The smooth, metal chain looked polished and clean. Rio runs her fingers against it, tracing the loops up until she meets the green-dyed leather.

"We aren't going anywhere," Agatha's eyes drift down Rio's body, watching the lone droplets of water fall down her skin and catch on the towel. "I ordered room service to be delivered in an hour."

Rio's mind wanders, thinking about what else her girlfriend could've snuck in her luggage for their trip. Having all this time to just the two of them with no deadlines or reasons to leave the room was already making her throb.

Agatha cups Rio's cheek with a hand, rubbing her thumb against Rio's cheekbones. "Want me to help you get dressed?"

Agatha's eyes were dark, black fully encompassing the blue irises. Rio swallows, her throat bobbing as she can only mumble in agreement.

Agatha takes the collar out of the box, tossing the box to the floor before holding it out with the buckle in one hand. She drapes it around Rio's neck, letting it sit at the base before she tightens it and shifts it up higher.

"You know," Agatha says, voice thick and raspy, "I don't need a ring on your finger to prove you're mine."

She loops a finger through the o-ring at the front, watching as Rio's pupils dilate. She tugs the slip collar closed around Rio's throat, the leather pressing into the sides just enough to feel it.

"That's what this is for, isn't it?"

[burningcheese-merchant]

2 QUESTIONS.

2: short stories WHEN!? -nf

3: any more facts about them? id love to hear more about these blorbos

Short stories soon! I have several in mind already, I just want to post a few more Spice/Golden-centric ones before them. We gotta continue along Spice's accidental redemption lol. But there will be stories, I promise

Don't want to spoil everything immediately (that's for when I post the official character sheets lol), so eat these bits of trivia about both of them:

Pepper Jack:

While he's not outright claustrophobic, he does still get kind of anxious/wary in small or enclosed spaces. Rule of thumb for him is that he needs whatever room he's in to have at least one door, or one window that he can fly through (the window is more important tbh. He just... needs some sort of view of the sky). Have that and he's all good

He has a HUGE sweet tooth. He goes nuts over candy and cake and chocolate and all those things. (The best part of Aunt Hollyberry's visits is that she always bring him and his sister sweets from her kingdom. He loves Hollyberrian desserts, they sure know how to make them over there!)

He loves flying with all of his heart. Up in the air is where he feels the most free and at peace. He'll go on long solo flights when he wants to be alone or clear his head, as no one can reach him up in the clouds (besides his mom, but she tries to respect his need for space when it shows itself)

He also likes to sit/perch atop trees and just watch the world go by (he has a few "bird" habits, as you can see lol)

BONUS TO THE ABOVE: A game he likes to play with his father (and his sister, too, after she's born) is flying up and hiding in the treetops while they try to spot him from down on the ground within a certain time frame. No jumping up or climbing the trees or shaking them so he falls out, that's cheating! (Mom doesn't usually play because it's inherently unfair. She can fly just like he can, thus she'd find him instantly)

Matar Paneer:

She is OBSESSED with getting tattoos. She was drawn to her father's almost literally from the moment she opened her eyes and they registered in her mind. Whenever he held her as a baby, she'd try to reach for them and grab at them (and at the Light of Destruction, too. She was, like... hypnotized by the Soul Jam as a baby). Every single time her birthday rolls around, she tells people she wants tattoos just like her papa (the answer is "no, you're too young" for most of her life. She gets Very Big Mad every time). She's been caught drawing and painting on herself multiple times, trying to make her own (Golden scolded her if she got her clothes dirty, but otherwise, she and Spice just thought it was adorable). She WILL get her tattoos someday, there's no doubt about that. (But what they'll look like remains to be seen...)

She loves all of her "extended family" (all of her parents' friends lol), but her #1 favorite person is Mozzarella. She and Auntie Mozzarella are two peas in a pod, partners in crime. The same way Smoked Cheese mentors and indulges Pepper Jack, Mozzarella mentors and indulges Matar Paneer. When she feels like she's struggling, and like she can't turn to her brother or her parents, she goes straight to Mozzarella for comfort and advice

Her katar were gifts from Cilantro Cobra (who is alive and well in my canon don't @ me). They were a labor of love from her and the other cobras, crafted and sharpened with the utmost care and precision. She even went the extra mile and had symbols carved into them: Golden Cheese Kingdom hieroglyphs in one, Wild Spice symbols and patterns in the other. They are some of Paneer's most prized possessions

She's very particular and fussy about her hair, and would prefer that nobody touches it lol. Her dad is the only one with 100% free reign, as they have literally the exact same hair, color and texture and everything; the only difference is hers is somewhat shorter and she wears it in a low ponytail. She thinks he's the only one who "understands" her hair lol.

BONUS TO ABOVE: She and Spice have a cute little daddy/daughter bonding thing where they'll brush each other's hair. He does hers first, then he lets her do his next. He has to sit on the floor and hunch over/bow his head so she can reach properly because she's so much smaller than him, but he doesn't mind. She babbles at him about random things while she works and tries extra hard to do a good job, and it just melts his manly man heart lol

[yetanothersparrowofthedawn]

Secrets From a Girl

Extended Masterpost

Word Count: 7.6k

Pairing: Jake x Reader

Genre: Angst, slight hurt, ex!Jake

Context: Y/N, a very successful singer-songwrite has been close friends with the members of Greta Van Fleet for several years. She once had a tumultuous yet terribly passionate relationship with Jake that ended painfully (you’ll see…). They eventually figured out how to remain on good terms for everybody’s sake. Only, seeing each other move on isn’t the easiest thing.

Disclaimer: English isn’t my native language, so I apologize in advance for mistakes and awkward wordings to come. Also, I guess this fic could be triggering for some because it’s kind of sad and angsty.

Previous Track: California

Chapter soundtrack: Secrets From A Girl – Lorde

Baby girl, no one's gonna feel the pain for you. You're gonna love again, so just try staying open, And when the time comes, you'll fall. Yeah, when the time comes, you'll fall. … Your dreams and inner visions, all your mystical ambitions. They won't let you down. Do your best to trust all the rays of light. Everybody wants the best for you, But you gotta want it for yourself, My love.

(By the way, for every ‘Chapter Soundtrack’, basically the idea is that it’s a song that YN eventually wrote with that chapter of her life in mind)

Alright, let’s get into this.

________

Breathe me in, breathe me out I don't know if I could ever go without…

The dim glow of the living room greeted Jake as he stumbled in, still half-asleep. The boys huddled around Danny's iPad, their animated discussion creating a low hum in the room. An air of disagreement hung over them, their faces etched with differing opinions.

“I’m telling you there’s no way-” Josh's voice cut through the murmurs, his conviction triggering another round of mumbles from the others. Jake, now fully awake, couldn't resist the urge to join the fray.

“What are you all looking at?” he inquired, his curiosity piqued. The collective gaze shifted toward him, finally acknowledging his presence.

 “It’s this thing,” Danny turned around to face him, eyes still glued to the tablet in his hand. “There’s a music video that came out yesterday, and the press online is freaking out, saying Y/N’s in it-”

“I mean, it could be her,” Sam interjected, grabbing the iPad. “It’s not like it shows that much-”

“I've been telling you there is no way that’s her,” Josh rolled his eyes, exasperation evident in his tone.

“I mean,” Danny added, a hint of skepticism in his voice, “we see what? A waist? A neck? That could be anyone.”

“Thank you,” Josh said, his response laced with vindictiveness.

Jake grabbed the tablet from Sam, his eyes squinting as they adjusted to the bright screen. The video unfolded before him; each frame scrutinized in his quest for confirmation. Emotions stirred within him, a blend of curiosity and a hint of something he couldn't quite put into words.

The woman in the video did seem to move with an uncanny familiarity, a subtle recognition tugging at Jake's senses. A quick exchange of glances with Josh only added to the intrigue. “What’s the name of the song?” Jake asked, nonchalant.

“Uh, it’s—” Sam replied, “something- fruit salad whatever—”

“Title’s here, see?” Danny pointed out, “Watermelon Sugar.”

The words unexpectedly struck Jake like a chord. He cleared his throat, a feigned nonchalance concealing the memories creeping the back of his mind. "I don’t know,” he mumbled, “could be her." He returned the iPad and casually making his way out the door.

"Where you going?" Sam asked.

"Gotta piss," Jake replied, his footsteps echoing through the corridor.

The bathroom door clicked shut behind him, enclosing him in a small space. Resting his hands against the sides of the sink, he let out a deep breath before meeting his own gaze in the mirror.

************

The living room had been bathed in the warm glow of sunlight filtering through the curtains, that day. The faint crackling of the record player added a gentle melody to the lazy ambiance.

They were entwined on the couch, the vinyl spinning tales of bygone eras as if time had slowed down just for them. He felt the subtle weight of her against him, a comforting presence in the hushed tranquility.

Her soft hums danced in the air, a serenade that painted the room with a touch of nostalgia. It wasn't often that their hectic schedules allowed for such tranquil moments, making each second all-the-more precious.

As the last notes of the song played, the spell was momentarily broken. She stirred, a reluctant movement signaling an impending departure.

"Alright,” she announced, a practical reminder of the outside world, “I’m gonna be late." He caught her wrist, a silent plea for just a few more moments in this pocket of calm and pulled her back onto his lap. She let out a playful giggle, the sound a melody in itself.

"Five more minutes," he pleaded, a pout playing on his lips.

"Patty will be mad," she teased, rolling her eyes.

"Patty’s always mad," he retorted, nuzzling into the soft curve of her neck, losing himself in the intoxicating fragrance that was uniquely hers.

He lowered his head, and their lips met in a lingering kiss. The warmth shared between them seemed to suspend time. There was a quiet intimacy to the way their mouths moved together, a silent language only they could understand. After a moment, she gently pulled away, and he playfully protested with a melodramatic whine.

He looked up as she was grabbing her shoes. "Your lips always taste so nice," he mumbled, "How do they always taste so nice?" The question was posed with genuine curiosity, as if he were unraveling a mystery that had been haunting him.

Blushing at the compliment, she chuckled softly. "I don't know," she admitted, feigning innocence, "probably just my lip balm." Retrieving a pink stick from her pocket, she tossed it to him.

With a smooth catch, he examined the innocent-looking tube. Opening the cap, he took a moment to savor the scent.

He raised an eyebrow at the name on the label, "Watermelon sugar?" he said, "Doesn't smell like watermelon” he remarked, “or sugar, for that matter."

“Yeah?” she asked with a grin, “What does it smell like, then?”

He considered for a moment, tempted to confess what the scent truly evoked for him—her presence, her essence, everything that made her uniquely YN. However, with a sly grin, he opted for a less sentimental response.

"Strawberry," he replied, keeping his more poetic thoughts to himself. "It's nice."

Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she laced up her shoes. "Well, keep it," she suggested, a playful glint in her eyes. "I have, like, two hundred sticks hidden everywhere."

"I don't use lip balm," he stated.

“Not rock 'n roll enough for you?" she teased, slipping into her jacket. "Still,” she added, a playful glint in her eyes, “that way you can remember me when I’m gone.”

A quizzical arch of his eyebrow prompted him to play along. “Are you planning on leaving me, Y/L/N?” he inquired with a mock-serious tone, leaning into the charming act.

“Depends,” she retorted, her eyes dancing with mischief, “are you in any hurry to be rid of me, Kiszka?”

A soft chuckle escaped him. "Well, I wouldn’t say I’m in a hurry, per se, but—"

“Oh shush, you.” With a swift motion, she tossed it at him. “I’ll call you when I get out of the studio,” she declared, leaning in for a quick peck on his lips.

With a final lingering glance, she headed out, leaving him staring at her disappearing figure with a stupid smile, the sweet taste of her kiss still lingering on his lips.

If only he’d known merely two years later, they'd find themselves almost estranged, maybe, just maybe, he would’ve forced her to stay, maybe he would've held onto her a minute more.

******************

Kneeling on the cool bathroom floor, Jake opened the cabinet under the sink, his hands sifting through an assortment of Josh's hair products. His fingers finally closed around it—a small, inconspicuous pink stick.

A momentary hope flickered that perhaps his memory had failed him, but as he held it in his hands, the label staring back at him, reality set in. The words on the label mirrored those etched in his memory. Unease settled in his chest as he was reminded of the fact that, once, he’d been the one not wondering if he could ever go without Watermelon Sugar.

_____________

Jake returned to the dining room, the echoes fading away as he rejoined the ongoing conversation among the boys.

"Well, I mean, I guess we’ll find out soon enough, right?" Sam's casual tone filled the room.

"Oh yeah, when is she landing?" Danny's curiosity sparked.

"It was supposed to be at 3, but her flight’s been delayed, so she’ll have to come here straight from the airport," Josh informed, his voice carrying a mix of excitement and anticipation, "and you’d better be ready by then because we’re leaving for the venue right after."

"Sure,” Sam deadpanned, rolling his eyes at his older brother, “we’re going to take lessons in punctuality from you."

The American Music Awards were taking place in Nashville that year, providing a perfect opportunity for YN to reunite with the band. As Jake listened to the details, he couldn't help but feel a sense of strange apprehension. No matter how much time went by, how many girlfriends he went through, the prospect of YN's return always stirred up memories he had buried deep within.

The anticipation in the room grew, mirroring the excitement buzzing through the city. As they prepared for YN's arrival.

_________

A few hours later, a caravan of cars eventually rumbled down their street, an entourage of professionals descending upon the Greta headquarters. Security personnel, stylists, makeup artists, and hairstylists orchestrated a controlled chaos, transforming the residence into a bustling hive of activity.

Amidst the organized frenzy, Josh stood ready to greet YN's manager, a familiar face accustomed to the whirlwind that accompanied the life of a pop star. "Patty! It’s been too long,” Josh hugged the imposing woman. “Where’s YN?" he inquired, slightly concerned at YN’s apparent absence.

Dramatic as ever, YN's manager responded, "Pop stars, my darling, you know the drill. The airport was flooded with people."

"Is she still coming?" Josh pressed for reassurance.

"Of course she is. The show must go on!" she exclaimed with theatrical flair, "We just had to resort to... unusual methods," she added with a mysterious grin.

"Jesus,” Josh quipped, a hint of exasperation in his voice, “is she in a car trunk again?"

"A magician never reveals their tricks, sugar," she replied. "Anyway, in the meantime we can zhuzh y’all up,” she seized the boy’s face in her manicured hands before adding with a wink, “YN insisted."

The ambiance in the house shifted, embracing the essence of a backstage prelude before a grand performance. The rooms echoed with laughter, snippets of conversations, and the occasional hum of hair dryers. The scent of hairspray wafted through the air, blending with the underlying excitement that filled every corner of the space. The members of Greta Van Fleet, caught between the surreal and the routine, allowed themselves to be swept into the whirlwind.

The boys navigated the hustle and bustle of preparation with an air of practiced nonchalance. Their planned outfits, carefully curated for the grandeur of the Billboard Music Awards, exuded a sense of rock-and-roll sophistication. The expertise of YN’s staff worked wonders, transforming the brothers' already charismatic looks into something ready for the dazzling lights of the red carpet.

Suddenly, the house erupted in noise and stir as YN's arrival was announced. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as she was ushered inside, immediately surrounded by a flock of stylists and makeup artists. Their mission: to seamlessly transition her from airport-casual to red-carpet-glamour in 40 minutes time.

 Amidst the organized chaos, the brothers found themselves fighting to get close to their old friend, a playful struggle that Sam punctuated with a groan. "Hey, folks, this is still our house, you know?" he protested with a grin.

YN's eyes lit up as she looked up, her gaze finally meeting theirs. Her face broke into the brightest smile. "Hi!" she exclaimed, her voice carrying genuine warmth and excitement. The air crackled with a blend of familiarity and anticipation while they shared a collective greeting. Josh pulled YN into a tight hug.

Jake, with his trademark laid-back charm, extended a casual yet heartfelt greeting. "Hey there," he said, a lopsided grin playing on his lips.

Sam patted YN's head, "What's up, popstar?" he teased, a cheeky grin accompanying his words. As the hellos and laughter echoed in the room, it became evident that despite the divergent paths they had taken in the music industry, their connection remained unshakable.

"So sorry for the commotion, guys," YN said, an apologetic smile tugging at her lips, “I was stuck in JFK for hours.” Her eyes flickered with gratitude for their understanding, acknowledging the huge mess that had taken over the place.

"No worries," Danny chimed in with an easygoing shrug, brushing off any concern.

"Yeah," Sam nodded in agreement, “besides, it’s no more chaotic than any random Sunday morning at Josh's place.”

Josh, smiled tightly, “And guess who is not invited to my next brunch?”

YN laughed, appreciating the lighthearted banter. "I’ve missed you guys." She was suddenly called into another room for hair and makeup and disappeared into the whirlwind of her glam team.

___________

Josh made his way to what had once been his bedroom, now turned into a makeshift beauty salon. He settled into the chair beside YN, the room buzzing with the orchestrated chaos of hairstyling. She was sat, draped in nothing but a towel, her hair in the careful hands of a stylist. Amid the whirlwind of beauty products, Josh initiated their exchange.

"So…" he began, leaning closer to be heard above the loud blow-dryer, "anything new with you?"

With a radiant smile, YN responded, her voice rising to match the decibels of the styling tools. "Well, I'm excited for tonight," she shared, the anticipation of the upcoming event evident in her expressive eyes. Her words touched on the delicate balance of managing expectations in the spotlight, a window into the intricacies of fame that often lay beneath the surface. "What about you, love?" she asked, inviting him to share his own slice of life.

"Nothing much," he replied casually, though the inquisitiveness in his eyes betrayed a deeper curiosity. “Anything else?” he insisted, his probing question hanging in the air—It was a subtle dance, an attempt to delve into the unspoken realms between them.

YN eyed him with suspicion, a momentary pause of understanding passing between them before he met her gaze in return. She finally spoke, “You saw the articles, didn’t you?”

Josh grinned at her, his reply laced with a hint of playful sarcasm. "Well, I'm pretty sure a blind man could've seen the articles, babe," he quipped, drawing a light chuckle from the hairdresser immersed in her task.

 "Damnit," YN sighed, a touch of disappointment in her voice. The weight of public scrutiny and speculation was always an unwanted companion for her.

"So…?" Josh inquired, a mix of curiosity and disbelief in his voice as he awaited her confirmation or denial. YN remained silent, but a delicate smile betrayed her thoughts, a revelation that left Josh stunned. "Shit, it's true?" he uttered, the realization settling in.

“Our Y/N settling down,” Sam chimed in, entering the room, “I guess now we’ve really seen it all!” YN rolled her eyes playfully, the smile on her face still lingering.

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Josh asked, his tone a blend of confusion and mild reproach, “We were on the phone literally a week ago.”

“I don’t know,” she shook her head, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions under the bright lights of the makeup room. The soft hum of conversation around her, the subtle fragrance of cosmetics in the air. "It all went really fast. We met at a party in LA a few months ago and,” she paused, “I don’t know, we just hit it off, I guess?”

“Hit it off?” Sam remarked, glancing at his own reflection in the mirror, “I’d say it’s more than that.”

“Well,” A soft sigh escaped her lips, and she ran her fingers through her partially styled hair. “We weren’t planning on going public anytime soon,” YN explained, her gaze meeting Josh's, a sense of vulnerability lingering beneath the makeup and glamour, “but with the whole- music video thing, I guess it’s already happening.”

_________

Outside the room, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of excitement and tension. The hallway buzzed with the hurried footsteps of stylists and assistants. Jake, however, stood still, his eyes momentarily lost in thought after overhearing the conversation. The ambient light cast shadows on his face, revealing the subtle furrow of his brow.

As Danny approached, he could sense the undercurrent of unease in his bandmate's demeanor. "You, okay?" Danny asked, concern etched across his face.

"Mmh? Yeah, sure," Jake mumbled, but his voice carried a weight that contradicted his words. “I gotta go get dressed” he added, walking away.

__________

Back inside the room, the air carried a mix of emotions—joy, surprise, and a hint of playful banter. YN's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. "So, everyone knows?" she asked, nervously glancing at Josh, who nodded affirmatively.

"I still can’t believe it," Sam laughed, injecting a playful tease into the atmosphere. "Going from rockstars to boybands?” he teased, “I gotta tell you, YN, that’s- that's quite a downgrade."

Rolling her eyes, YN couldn't resist the opportunity for a retort, "Oh, shut up." With a smirk, she grabbed a hairbrush and tossed it in Sam's direction, "I'll have you know he’s doing very well with his solo career."

"Not wrong,” Danny joined the conversation, “and if I remember correctly, you were the one insisting on playing 'Sweet Creature' in the car last year, Sam."

"We've all got our flaws," the youngest retorted dramatically, drawing a collective chuckle from the room.

"Come on, now, I’m serious.” YN said, her tone lighthearted yet somewhat defensive, “Be nice."

Josh was surprised by the protective edge to YN's tone, prompting him to consider the depth of her new relationship. "We're just joking around, don’t worry," he reassured her, "I'm sure he's great."

Sam, never one to back down, continued, "now, whether he's actually cool enough for you is a different matter."

With a nonchalant air, YN replied, "Well, you'll get to find out soon enough." Her words hung in the room, creating a brief lull in the conversation. Curiosity and a touch of concern crept into Josh's expression.

"How… soon, exactly?" he eventually asked.

“Well,” she giggled nervously, “now that you mention it. How would you feel about- um," she paused, "I don’t know,” she toyed with the hem of her towel before mumbling, “tonight?”

“Tonight!?” the three boys exclaimed simultaneously, their expression registering shock.

“Well, he is nominated-” she began to explain.

“Tonight, as in, two-hours-from-now-tonight?” Sam asked, trying to process the unexpected revelation.

“Well, what’s wrong with tonight?” she asked, her voice slightly trembling as she tried to stay calm, “it’s a night—a good night, I- I would even say it’s a- a great night, right?” she looked to Josh for backup, “Right?”

“Holy shit,” Danny muttered, uncharacteristic reaction for the usually composed musician.

"Alright," YN’s manager burst into the room, punctuating her entrance with grand gestures. "Everyone who isn’t working towards turning our girl into a couture creature, out!" she declared with theatrical flair. "We are out of here in twenty minutes!"

The room quickly cleared, with only YN and her stylists remaining in their spot. YN grabbed Josh’s wrist abruptly as he got up to leave. “Can you, uh-” she hesitated, avoiding eye contact, “can you give him a heads up for me?”

Josh nodded, gently. No clarifications were needed. “Of course,” he replied, before exiting the room.

___________

Josh had the finishing touches added to his hair before approaching his twin brother, who was engrossed in the meticulous process of tying his dress shoes. He hesitated before breaking the silence, "So, I don’t know if you’ve heard, but, uh-"

“I heard,” Jake cut him off, his eyes still focused on the task at hand, hands moving with a precision that seemed almost automatic.

“And,” Josh paused, choosing his words carefully, “you alright?”

“Sure,” Jake responded with a nonchalant shrug, his gaze shifting momentarily to the mirror as he fine-tuned the arrangement of his jewelry. Josh couldn’t help but feel a sense of surprise at the lack of reaction from his brother. It left him questioning his instincts. Maybe they truly had both moved on. After all, it’s true that Jake had been the first to get into other relationships.

___________

After twenty minutes, YN finally stepped out, a vision of elegance in a custom gown that could rival the most iconic looks from the fashion archives. The dress seemed to embrace her figure like a second skin, and Jake couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he took in the sight.

 The room fell into a momentary hush as everyone's eyes were drawn to her, and even Josh found himself momentarily silenced by the sheer presence she exuded. YN's confident strides and poised demeanor demanded attention, making it clear that she was more than just a musician – she was a force to be reckoned with.

"Gucci, huh?” Sam smirked teasingly, “Someone's living the high life now."

“Well, Samuel,” YN shot back with a sly smile, "someone had to bring a touch of class to this crew."

"So, this is what happens when one sells their soul and upgrades to mainstream, huh?” Sam retorted playfully.

YN, always ready with a quick response, turned to Josh, "I’m sorry, is the person dressed like the Messiah talking to me?" she asked, gesturing toward Sam’s attire. Her comment elicited laughter from the room.

"Shots fired," Danny declared.

In the midst of the banter, YN stole a glance at Jake. His black suit complemented his rugged charm, an open shirt revealing a glimpse of his chest adorned with dangling necklaces. He looked good.

As YN hurriedly climbed into the awaiting car, a sleek black vehicle poised to transport her to the event, a flurry of stylists and assistants encircled her. In a synchronized dance, they meticulously attended to the final details of her immaculate ensemble.

 Several assistants, keen on maintaining the gown's pristine appearance, worked in harmony to ensure it cascaded flawlessly around her. Every fold and movement were handled with the precision reserved for a precious work of art. The atmosphere hummed with an undercurrent of excitement as YN gave a wave and a spirited shout, "I'll see you there!"

Meanwhile, the members of the band swiftly jumped into the back of their own designated car, the car door closing with a soft thud. The convoy of vehicles, an orchestrated ballet of anticipation, set in motion, leaving the house behind and heading towards the event that awaited them.

______________

The sleek line of black cars glided to a stop, marking the arrival of the band at the glamorous event. As the car doors opened, each member emerged into the dazzling spectacle of camera flashes and the cacophony of enthusiastic screams from fans and journalists alike. Stepping onto the red carpet, they were immediately swept up in the chaotic energy of the moment.

The band, accustomed to the electrifying rush of performing on stage, felt a subtle discomfort in the spotlight of the red carpet. The controlled chaos of a live performance was far more natural to them than the orchestrated poses and smiles demanded by the array of flashing cameras. Despite this, they maintained a polished facade, exchanging smiles, waves, and nods with the eager crowd.

Navigating the sea of journalists, each band member expertly fielded questions and posed for photos, their years of experience having honed their ability to navigate the less comfortable aspects of fame.

The sudden surge of screams reached a crescendo, capturing the band's attention as they turned to witness the arrival of YN. Her presence, ethereal and captivating, stole the spotlight. The custom gown she adorned seemed to possess a life of its own, catching the glow of the venue's lights.

 Her assistant fussed over the gown's train, making sure it trailed behind her effortlessly, as she stepped onto the red carpet, met with the undivided attention of everyone present.

YN was a natural at all this. Of course, anyone who truly knew her could see the slight tremor in her hands and the discreet heaving of her chest behind her composed appearance, but she played the part with finesse, engaging effortlessly with the cameras, flashing smiles, and striking poses.

With a radiant smile, YN gracefully walked towards the band. Deciding to seize the moment, she posed for a couple of photos with the band, creating a visual feast for the delighted fans whose cheers resonated in the background.

The intimacy was palpable as they exchanged smiles. After a brief interlude, they parted ways, the band venturing a little further to engage with journalists, while YN lingered, extending her time to pose for additional photos.

The band continued answering questions from journalists, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Suddenly, a surge of deafening screams erupted from the crowd. Heads turned, and there he was – Harry Styles. Screams and gasps spread through the onlookers, all wondering if they were about to witness the confirmation to what they had all been speculating about.

Anticipation reached its peak as Harry walked over to YN. He gently grabbed her by the waist, and together, they posed for the cameras, effectively hard launching their relationship to the public as the flashes illuminated their smiling faces.

The band members exchanged discreet glances, a mix of surprise and curiosity evident in their expressions. As they continued answering questions, their attention intermittently diverted to the unfolding scene. Fans were ecstatic, their screams echoing in the air, and journalists feverishly snapped photos of the unexpected couple.

Jake stood with a thoughtful expression on his face. The turn of events seemed to have unexpectedly caught him off guard. As he continued with the interview, his responses held a subtle undercurrent of distraction. The unfamiliarity of seeing YN in the arms of another man had stirred quiet contemplation within him.

______________

The prestigious event started with grandeur. Seated at separate tables, the band and YN navigated the star-studded gathering, each absorbed in their own conversations. The vibrant energy of the venue resonated with the collective excitement of attendees, a mix of industry luminaries, celebrities, and devoted fans. The stage, adorned with dazzling lights set the scene for a night of celebration.

As the ceremony kicked off, artists from various genres took to the stage. The evening unfolded and the band couldn't help but exchange amused glances and subtle eye rolls. Clear instances of lip-syncing from certain artists drew their collective skepticism, a sentiment seemingly shared by few others in the room.

The audience responded to each performance with cheers, applause, and sometimes even tears. Greta Van Fleet eventually took the stage with an electrifying energy that reverberated through the venue. The unmistakable sound of roaring guitars and thunderous drums filled the air as the band launched into one of their signature hits.

As Jake's fingers danced across the frets of his guitar, delivering powerful riffs that cut through the air with precision. There was a noticeable intensity in his playing, as though he’d been compensating for something unseen.

As the members of Greta Van Fleet walked through the backstage area, the exhilaration of their performance still coursing through their veins, they stumbled upon YN. Her eyes sparkled with genuine excitement and pride congratulating them enthusiastically. "You guys killed it up there, as usual," YN exclaimed, as she pulled them into a tight hug, always their number one fan. “I’m next, I have to change, but I wanted to see you all first.”

They were suddenly distracted by the sight of YN’s assistant carrying a ridiculously massive bouquet of roses into her dressing room.

 Sam to playfully inquired, "Loverboy?"

A shy smile tugged at YN's lips as she nodded, "He's- a little extra," she admitted.

Jake couldn't help but recall that YN had always preferred daisies to roses but chased the thought away immediately.

With a gentle nudge from Josh, YN snapped back to the present. "Alright, we’ll leave you to it then,” he said, “Give 'em hell," he added, maintaining a long-running tradition.

 "Sure will," YN replied as she headed off to prepare for her own performance.

As YN's name echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted into a symphony of screams, their excitement palpable. YN gracefully ascended the stage, adorned in a simple silk slip. A genuine smile played on her lips as the frenzy of the crowd intensified.

 The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as she settled behind the piano, her fingers poised above the keys. Once the audience calmed down, she started playing.

The audience fell into a collective hushed reverence, hanging onto every note and every nuance. Throughout the performance, glances exchanged among the crowd spoke volumes.

Amidst the sea of enraptured faces, Jake found himself descreetly drawn into the universe crafted by YN. From his vantage point, the stage lights framed her in a soft glow, casting an enchanting aura around her figure.

His eyes followed her every movement and the crowded venue seemed to fade away, leaving only YN and the echoes of her melody. The vulnerability in her performances always tugged at something within the guitarst, a reminder of the shared history that lingered between them.

As the final notes hung in the air, the applause thundered through the venue. Brought back to the present, Jake joined the enthusiastic ovation.

___________

The glitz and glamour continued to sweep through the venue. The stage saw a procession of artists and creators, each claiming their well-deserved accolades. Awards were handed out, speeches were delivered, and the audience reveled in the collective spirit of recognition. In this whirlwind of excitement, the moment for the most coveted award approached, adding a layer of suspense to an already dazzling night.

The atmosphere in the venue crackled with tension as Kelly Clarkson announced the nominees for the highly anticipated "Artist of the Year" award. YN's heart raced, and she fidgeted in her seat, her nerves palpable in the moments leading up to the reveal.

 As the presenter uttered YN’s name among the nominees, a surge of nervous energy gripped YN. Seeking solace, she glanced over at Josh, finding reassurance in his playful encouragement from two tables away—two thumbs up and an exaggerated, silly expression that managed to coax a smile from her. The room held its breath as Kelly Clarkson opened the envelope, unveiling the winner.

The cheers from the crowd enveloped YN as her name echoed through the venue, and she sat there, momentarily frozen, the magnitude of the recognition sinking in.

YN eventually rose from her seat, a mixture of shock and joy playing on her face. She took the first steps toward the stage. The anticipation of the crowd created a surreal ambiance, the cheers and applause merging into a harmonious melody of celebration.

However, as she reached the bottom of the stairs, a momentary panic seized her. The elegant expanse of her gown posed an unexpected challenge, leaving her unsure of how to navigate the ascent gracefully. In that heartbeat of uncertainty, a comforting touch enveloped her arm, and she turned to find someone had rushed to her side. Jake.

His presence, as reliable as ever, was a silent reassurance. Without uttering a word, he linked his arm with hers, a subtle gesture that conveyed both support and familiarity. Together, they embarked on the climb, the cheers of the crowd still in the background.

“Congrats,” he breathed with a prideful grin once they reached the stage.

She mouthed a “thank you” in response, her own smile mirroring his.

As Jake settled back into his seat, his gaze unwaveringly fixed on YN, who now stood poised at the stand, a mix of nerves and excitement dancing in her eyes. The room hushed in anticipation, the spotlight now solely on her.

As YN began her thank-you speech, all words seemed to momentarily vacate her brain, leaving a genuine vulnerability that resonated with the audience. The microphone in front of her captured the tremor in her voice as she expressed gratitude and humility.

"I-I uh, want to first extend my heartfelt appreciation to my incredible fans," she began, her eyes scanning the sea of faces before her. "I'm endlessly grateful for your unwavering support, God knows I’ve needed it lately," a chuckle erupted in the crowd.

The room hung on her every word, and Jake, from his seat, felt a surge of pride for the woman who had once shared her dreams and fears with him.

As she navigated the speech, a captivating blend of sincerity and humility. “Oh, gosh, so many people to thank, I already know I’m going to forget a bunch” she rambled nervously, and slight laughter erupted in the room.

“I’d like to thank my manager, my crew, of course, my friends, my, uh,” her gaze instinctively found the members of the band, seated proudly at their table, “my family,” she winked at them with a chuckle. The boys shared a collective moment, blowing a kiss her way, their eyes gleaming with shared triumph.

She continued expressing gratitude to key figures in her life and career, the room buzzed with a contagious energy. With a confident smile, she concluded her speech, leaving the audience with a poetic resonance that lingered in the air.

__________

The grand finale of the event unfolded like the crescendo of a spectacular symphony. YN gracefully danced through the maze of flashing cameras to reach her awaiting car, a modern-day muse amidst the paparazzi chaos.

The band, too, exuding the effortless cool of rockstars, threaded through the sea of lights in a rhythmic procession.

The engines hummed in harmony, syncing with the pulsating energy of the night as they embarked on a journey through the neon-lit streets, where every flicker tells a story of fame, music, and the allure of the after-hours. The fleet of sleek, tinted cars converged, creating a glamorous caravan destined for the city's heartbeat—the long-anticipated after-party.

____________

The club's entrance radiated a neon glow as the members of Greta Van Fleet strode through the entrance, greeted by the pulse of bass and the vibrant hum of the crowd inside.

The venue, a chic downtown club, pulsated with an electrifying energy.  

The band navigated through the throng of A-listers, the air punctuated by laughter, clinking glasses, and the occasional flash of cameras capturing candid moments.

As the animated chatter and laughter enveloped the venue, Jake engaged in a riveting conversation with none other than Jimmy Page.

They were exchanging anecdotes when suddenly, the entrance erupted with cheers, prompting Jake to glance across the lively crowd. There, making a striking entrance, was YN, adorned in a sleek black dress, accompanied by her new beau. The cheers amplified as the couple embraced the spotlight, and Jake watched from afar.

Retreating from the buzzing atmosphere of the party, Jake immersed himself back into his captivating conversation with the guitarist. The exchange of musical tales continued to flow, momentarily sweeping away any unease lingering in his mind. However, after a while, he sensed the need for a change of scenery.

Making his way to the bar, he sought solace in the company of Sam and Danny. Ordering himself a whiskey, Jake leaned against the bar, the amber liquid a familiar comfort.

In the lively chatter of the party, he appreciated the anchor provided by his bandmates. Despite the external facade of confidence, Jake had never been much of a socialite, leaving that to his twin brother.

Events like these had a tendency to leave him longing for something stronger than whiskey, an itch he'd been trying to steer clear from for over two years now. Ever-mindful of the shadows that lingered within, he found relief in the presence of Sam and Danny.

Suddenly, Josh’s voice cut through the ambient noise. “There they are!” He led YN and Harry towards his bandmates, a grin on his face. As the trio made their way through the crowd, the anticipation among the band members heightened. Jake shifted slightly, his attention now fully on the approaching trio.

"Hey!” YN announced with an infectious enthusiasm as they reached the bar, “So, this is Harry," she squeezed her boyfriend’s arm, nervously, “And, Harry, this is the band.”

The boys exchanged pleasantries, Sam and Danny offering friendly smiles while Jake, not one to be overly expressive, extended a nod of acknowledgment.

Harry, ever the charmer, reciprocated the introductions with genuine warmth. "Pleasure to meet you all. YN's told me so much about you. Big fan.".

The exchange was cordial, and as it flowed, YN ensured everyone felt included. Harry, charismatic and engaging, effortlessly integrated into the circle, which seemed to make YN ecstatic.

As the conversation meandered through various topics, Harry turned to Jake and decided to share a common experience. "Love the long hair,” he remarked with a friendly grin, trying to strike a chord of camaraderie, “I used to rock it too, miss it sometimes."

Jake, initially caught off guard, responded with a hint of indifference, "Do you, now?" His tone, unintentionally brusque, drew a subtle side-eye from Josh, who discreetly stepped on his brother's foot, a non-verbal prompt to play nice. Caught in the act, Jake quickly corrected himself. "Well, short suits you, man,” he said softening his tone, “I've just always been too lazy to bother with haircuts, I guess."

            “If only Josh was the same,” Sam joked nudging Josh playfully, “I swear that one spends more time at the salon than the studio.” The tension diffused, and the conversation continued, albeit with a newfound awareness from Jake to navigate the social waters more gracefully.

The night continued its crescendo, the pulse of the party echoing through the lively venue. As Jake continued to sip on his drink at the bar, his gaze inadvertently gravitated toward YN and Harry. The duo, wrapped in the warmth of each other's company, seemed to float through the crowd.

The sight tugged at a spectrum of emotions within Jake’s inebriated mind. Harry's hand rested casually on her waist, a gesture that spoke volumes. Laughter flowed effortlessly between the two of them, creating an aura of intimacy that eclipsed the surrounding revelry.

The party unfolded in layers, each moment a brushstroke in the canvas of the night. Yet, beneath the surface of celebration, Jake couldn't shake the complex emotions that swirled within him. The alcohol served as a temporary buffer, but the currents of his contemplation ran deep, hidden beneath the veneer of the lively gathering.

Jake felt a sense of relief wash over him as he stepped into the cool night air, the bustling sounds of the lively club gradually fading behind him. Pulling out his phone, he swiftly ordered a cab to take him back to his sanctuary of solitude. Just as he confirmed the ride, YN's voice cut through the night.

"You're leaving, already?" she asked. Surprised, he turned around to meet her figure. Her eyes reflected a mix of curiosity and disappointment.

"Yeah,” he admitted, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips, “I'm exhausted."

Her gaze lingered on him, a subtle worry lingering in her expression. "You're not driving, are you?" she inquired after a moment, her concern tethered to memories of a past filled with reckless habits.

The weight of the implication made him sigh. "I ordered a cab," he reassured her, hoping to ease the concern etched on her face. Despite her attempts to appear nonchalant, the genuine worry in her eyes didn't escape him.

"Good," she nodded, a soft exhale escaping her lips. A brief pause filled the space between them before she added, "It's a shame you can't stay longer."

As the night air embraced them in a cocoon of quiet, Jake sensed the nervous energy radiating from YN. No words were needed to decipher the unspoken thoughts swirling in her mind. With a knowing smile, he addressed the unspoken concern.

"Tell Harry bye for me,” he said, his tone light and reassuring “he's a cool guy."

YN's face immediately lit up, gratitude and relief washing over her. "I will," she responded.

In the ensuing quiet, a gentle moment lingered between them. "Alright," Jake said, breaking the silence, "you should go back inside; you'll freeze to death out here."

"I'm okay," she insisted, a subtle shiver instantly betraying her words. Without hesitation, Jake peeled off his jacket, but just as he handed it to her, Harry's voice echoed from within the club, disrupting the tranquility.

"YN, love, are you coming back in?" Harry's call prompted a sudden pause in the exchange.

Realizing the implications of his gesture, Jake hesitated before gently urging her, "You should go." She looked at him hesitantly. "I'll be fine," he insisted, his eyes holding a quiet reassurance.

As she pondered, a gust of chilly night air swept through. The glow from the club's entrance cast a soft halo around her silhouette. The distant sounds of laughter and music from the after-party lingered, creating an ethereal backdrop to their conversation.

"Alright, but-” she hesitated, looking down, “that means I won’t see you before flying back,” she confessed, her voice holding a note of longing, the unspoken yearning for more time evident in her eyes.

“You’re not staying at the house?” Jake probed gently.

Her response wavered, caught in the delicate balance of unspoken truths. “No, I- uh,” she stumbled over the words. Realization dawned on him – Of course she would be staying in a hotel with Harry. “I-”

“Gotcha,” he interjected, sparing her the need to articulate the unspoken details. The ambient sounds of the night heightened the tension, the brief pause heavy with unspoken sentiments. A distant laugh, the muted beat of music, and the cool breeze carried a collective weight.

“YN?” Harry's voice echoed once more, a reminder of the reality waiting inside.

“I’m coming!” she shouted back. She turned her attention back to Jake, “So…” she said, “I’ll see you soon?” He nodded in response and she retraced her steps toward the illuminated entrance.

She stopped in the doorframe. “Jakey?” she called once more, her hesitancy palpable as he turned to face her again, “Take care, okay?”

He smiled. “You too,” he replied as she disappeared through the door, leaving him in the embrace of the quiet night, his thoughts as contemplative as the stars overhead.

—

Next Track: Style

Extended Masterpost

Hope you liked it! Once again, I am begging you all to interact and leave comments it makes me so happy to get feedback and reactions xxx

Also, this is only the beginning lol. I have a billion drafts for other chapters so stay tuned, peaceful army.

Taglist

@aintthatapity

@sinarainbows

@vanfleeter 

[bubble-popping]

for all i've talked and answered questions about my Into the Fire au, I've yet to actually post my writing for it XD that changes today!

this isn't quite the beginning of the au but it's the beginning of if i ever write a full fic on it (do not hold me to that lmao) so yeah!

tw for mentions of torture, scars, and c!Techno being Weird about c!Dream

The admin pulled away from him, stumbling through the snow in bare feet. (It'd be a miracle if he hadn't gotten frostbite by now.) The cloak and thin prison uniform were the only things shielding him from the freezing temperatures. "No, you don't understand. I have to-I hafta go, I need to meet them-" "Meet who?" Techno questioned, a little harsher than he intended. Dream startled. A slip of the tongue then. Techno narrowed his eyes, shoulders squared as he approached. The shorter instantly shrunk.

"Um." He swallowed thickly. "F-for my armor, I-I need my armor back. I need to get it."

Chat wasn't buying it and neither was he, but he'd let it go for the moment. "I can make you new armor, Dream. You're in no condition to be going anywhere but inside that house." The piglin hybrid pointed to the cabin behind them.

"B-but, they'll find me, Techno! This is the first place they'll look! Sam and the guards and-and Quackity, oh god, Quackity-he can't find me! I can't let him find me-"

Techno abruptly grabbed him by his arms, gazing intensely into the single wide, terrified eye he could see of Dream's. "And he won't. They won't find you. I'll protect you, Dream. No one will lay a finger on you."

After a long moment of studying Techno's face, visibly struggling through an inner turmoil, Dream finally relented with a resigned sigh. "Okay... I'll, I'll stay for a little while..."

Techno softened his expression. "Good. Here, let me carry you inside. You'll get frostbite with your bare feet in the snow like this." Dream surprisingly gave no protest, he merely nodded. So, Techno lifted his malnourished body into his arms and entered the cabin, rushing to get the shivering bundle of an admin next to the fire place. It'd be utterly embarrassing if Dream died of hypothermia after he worked so hard to get him out of the prison.

Dream's skin was ice cold when Techno set him down in front of the fire. Even with Techno's warm red cloak wrapped tightly around his form, he wasn't exactly equipped for any extended time in the bitter arctic air. Techno got another blanket to wrap around him and a pillow for him to hug before closing the front door. With no chance of any coldness seeping into the home, Techno was a little slower in his movements. He slipped off his armor, hung his crown up, and pulled his boots off his feet. His gaze traveled to the shivering figure huddled by the crackling flames. Even after causing quite a bit of chaos earlier, the voices still spewed their nonsensical ideas, most of them being things he could do to Dream.

For now, he ignored them, and padded over to sit next to Dream. The blond flinched away at first, still not used to a touch that wasn't meant to harm him even after Techno had held him like he did. Perhaps the enclosed space and familiar hues of the orange fire were bringing back bad memories...

"It's okay, Dream. You're not in the prison anymore. You're safe. There's no one here but me and you," Techno cooed to him as softly as he could, putting some emotion into his usually unfeeling tone of voice.

Dream remained hesitant at first, leaning away from Techno and further curling in on himself. Techno had his hands up in surrender and kept still to let Dream decide for himself. The last thing he needed was Dream constantly cowering away from him.

Eventually, Dream's tensed shoulders dropped and he scooted closer to nuzzle against Techno's side. He still winced when Techno wrapped an arm around his shoulders, but luckily relaxed much quicker. Techno waited a few moments to let Dream settle before he began to rub his arm in slow, soothing motions. The rhythm made Dream's eyes droop and he felt an exhaustion permeate within him so deeply it made his body sag like his bones were turned to liquid.

Before unconsciousness could claim him, he murmured, voice further muffled by his barely intact mask and the layers surrounding him, "Th-thank you..." It also didn't help his voice was hoarse from screaming for hours, for days on end.

"There's no need to thank me, Dream. Not yet anyway. Not until I get my hands on those guys and-" Techno stopped himself. Probably not the best idea to scare Dream by saying all the horrid things he'd do to Quackity and Sam for harming his trophy.

Dream didn't respond, but Techno could still hear his quiet breaths so he wasn't concerned.

Only once his shivering had stopped did Techno speak again with a suggestion, "I think it'd be a good idea to look at some of those injuries and clean you up before we go to bed. Are you okay to walk?"

"'m not sure..." Dream screwed his eyes shut as Techno helped him to his feet. Moving was suddenly so much harder after having a moment of true rest.

His legs were shaking and grunts of effort left his lips during the process of just standing up. The second he tried to take a step, he immediately collapsed into against Techno. Dream whimpered at his own helplessness, a mix of shame and agony haunting his heart, but Techno shushed him placatingly.

"It's okay, I've got you. Do you want me to just carry you again?" Techno had both arms securely around the other, feeling Dream's bony hands grip at the front of his ruffle blouse.

"Please..." Techno gladly obliged. He once again lifted him into a bridal style carry, holding him close as he ascended the staircase to the second floor.

Passing his bedroom, Techno went to the bathroom to sit Dream on a small wooden stool.

"Is it alright if I help you undress? It'd make it a lot easier."

(Just the thought of Dream naked, weak and unable to fight back as Techno did what he pleased had the piglin hybrid biting back a groan.) Dream nodded, completely oblivious to the hole he was digging for himself.

Techno removed the thick blanket and red cloak from Dream's shoulders, then proceeded with much more caution to get the horrendous eyesore of a uniform off. Dream was hunched over as he sat so he didn't get much of a look at anything special, but he was quite entranced by the sprinkling of hardly noticeable freckles over his skin. He'd seen them before when Dream would roll up his sleeves or the very rare occasions Techno had seen his face without the mask and they were much darker and more numerous then. Months without sun hurt his trophy in more ways than one. He liked those freckles--not so much that he'd immediately let Dream go outside just so they'd be more obvious but still.

"Probably best we clean you up first, then tend to your wounds," Techno said. Dream just nodded again. So obedient and with such little persuasion. It was doing wonderful and dangerous things to Techno's mind.

The pinkette lit a fire under a cauldron of water and waited for it to heat up a bit before filling a bucket with the warm water. "Ready?" He asked, giving Dream a moment to mentally prepare himself, and poured the water over Dream's head. His thin body tensed and shuddered as the water cascaded over him, discolored into shades of red and brown. His mane of hair absorbed most of the water. Techno just knew that'd be a pain to deal with, already dreading the maintenance to come. Maybe Dream would let him simply lop it all off...

He repeated this process a few more times, making sure he rinsed every part of Dream's body that the other would allow. Anything more would have to wait for when he wasn't covered in cuts and bruises. Then, he got some supplies from the cabinet by the door and kneeled in front of the drenched blond.

"Where does it hurt the worst?" Techno asked as he began soaking a cloth in a potion of regeneration.

Dream unfurled his arms from around his own torso and held them out, revealing multiple slashes across his flesh. The scent of blood entered Techno's nose and it took everything in him not to spill more from the shivering man in front of him the way Chat begged him to. He took a hold of one of Dream's hands and was about to apply the potion when Dream suddenly pulled away. "P-please... Please, be g-gentle..." His voice shook like he was on the verge of tears.

"Of course, Dream. You know I would never hurt you." He left 'unless you give me a reason to' unsaid. Dream offered his arm again, letting Techno take it once more and dab the cloth to each cut, healing both old and new wounds. Dream stayed mostly still and quiet during it, only wincing occasionally.

Once his arms were done, Dream straightened his posture for the first time to expose his chest. The skin there was just as bad, if not worse, than his arms. Lacerations, bruises of varying colors, and even burn marks. Techno restrained from commenting as the only words on his tongue were promises and plans of revenge. He wet the cloth again with more of the potion and healed what he could.

An hour later saw Dream dressed in new clothing that hung off his skinny body and his hair pulled into a ponytail to be dealt with later. Techno never really thought about it before, but he certainly was now: the contrast between their respective sizes. Being part piglin had Techno nearly a foot taller than Dream, and don't even get him started on the body mass difference exacerbated by the prison. Techno could easily wrap his hands around Dream's waist and practically have his fingers touch. He could pick him up and carry him around with such ease. It gave him too many ideas to count.

Techno helped Dream to the bed and the blond was awkward as he lowered onto the mattress. As if the whole thing was foreign to him, and it probably was. Months of sleeping on hard obsidian would do that to a person, make them uncomfortable on a clearly superior place to rest.

Dream struggled to find a good position to lay in, so Techno spoke up, "Would it be better if I laid with you? I won't if you don't want me to, but it might help to-"

"Yes, please," Dream answered before Techno had even finished. Techno chuckled softly and climbed in bed beside him, feeling Dream immediately cling to him. There was still the occasional shiver that left Dream's body but other than that, he was okay. He was clean, healed, and dressed in some of Techno's old clothes which Techno absolutely loved. Oh, how he couldn't wait for his trophy to be ready for him...

[screenmobile]

Can You Enclose a Screened Porch? Here’s What You Need to Know

A screened porch is great for enjoying the outdoors without dealing with pesky bugs, but what if you want more protection from the elements? Whether you’re looking to extend your living space, create a cozy sunroom, or add value to your home, enclosing a screened porch can be a game-changer. But is it a simple weekend project, or are there more factors to consider? Let’s break it down.

Why Enclose a Screened Porch?

People decide to enclose their porches for all kinds of reasons, but here are some of the most common ones:

Weather Protection – Rain, wind, and even pollen can make a screened porch less enjoyable. Enclosing it provides shelter.

Year-Round Use – Instead of only enjoying the space in mild weather, you can use it during colder months too.

Increased Home Value – A fully enclosed porch can be a major selling point for future buyers.

Better Insulation – Whether you're keeping out the cold in winter or the heat in summer, an enclosed porch can help regulate temperatures.

More Privacy – Glass or solid enclosures offer more seclusion compared to a screened space.

Extra Living Space – It can function as an extended living room, office, or even a playroom for kids and pets.

So, if you’re tired of sweeping out leaves every morning or dodging rain showers, enclosing your porch might be exactly what you need.

What Are Your Enclosure Options?

Not all porch enclosures are the same, and your choice depends on what you’re hoping to achieve.

Glass Windows (Three-Season or Four-Season Rooms)

This is a popular choice if you want to turn your screened porch into a sunroom or all-season space. You can go with single-pane windows (great for mild climates) or double-pane insulated glass if you want to keep it cozy year-round.

Pros:

Keeps out rain, wind, and pollen

Adds insulation for better temperature control

Looks sleek and modern

Cons: 

More expensive than some other options

Requires structural adjustments if adding heavy glass

Vinyl or Acrylic Panels

If glass sounds too pricey, vinyl or acrylic panels can be a more affordable alternative. They still provide protection from the elements but aren’t as heavy-duty as glass.

Pros:

Budget-friendly

Can be removed for airflow during warmer months

More durable than screens

Cons:

Scratches more easily than glass

Not as insulating

Plexiglass or Polycarbonate Panels

These materials are somewhere between glass and vinyl—lighter than traditional glass but sturdier than vinyl panels. They offer great UV protection and won’t shatter like standard glass.

Pros:

Stronger than acrylic or vinyl

Less expensive than glass

Good UV protection

Cons:

May discolor over time

Can be more expensive than basic vinyl panels

Full-Wall Enclosures (Turning Your Porch into an Extension of Your Home)

For those who want a fully enclosed space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the house, adding full walls and insulation can transform your porch into a true home addition. This approach requires more construction but gives you a permanent new room.

Pros:

Adds the most value to your home

Completely shields from outdoor elements

Can be insulated and heated/cooled

Cons:

The most expensive option

May require building permits and contractor work

What About DIY vs. Hiring a Pro?

You might be tempted to grab some materials and tackle the project yourself, but should you? It depends on the complexity of your enclosure.

When DIY Works Well

If you're adding removable vinyl panels or simple window inserts.

If you're comfortable with minor framing adjustments.

If you're replacing old screens with sturdier materials like plexiglass.

When You Should Call a Professional

If you’re converting the space into a fully insulated room.

If you need electrical or HVAC work.

If local building codes require permits for structural changes.

If you want a high-end, polished look that increases your home’s resale value.

Hiring a professional (like Screenmobile South Bend) ensures that your enclosed porch meets safety standards, looks great, and lasts for years.

Keep in mind that labor costs, permit fees, and additional upgrades (like heating, cooling, or flooring) can push the price higher.

Key Things to Consider Before Enclosing Your Porch

Before you jump in, here are some factors to think about:

1. Local Building Codes & Permits

Some cities require permits for major modifications. If you’re in South Bend, check with your local zoning office to avoid fines or headaches down the road.

2. Insulation & Heating

If you plan to use the space year-round, you’ll need insulation and possibly a heating/cooling system. A mini-split unit or space heater might do the trick.

3. Flooring Considerations

Your current flooring might not be designed for an enclosed space. If your porch is over a crawl space, you may need to add insulation or a subfloor to prevent drafts.

4. Budget & Long-Term Plans

Think about whether this is a short-term upgrade or a long-term investment. Spending more upfront for quality materials can save you from costly repairs later.

Is Enclosing Your Screened Porch Worth It?

Absolutely—if it fits your lifestyle and budget. Whether you're creating a cozy sunroom, a bug-free retreat, or an extended living space, enclosing a screened porch can bring serious benefits. Just weigh your options, plan carefully, and consider working with professionals like Screenmobile South Bend for a smooth process.

Ready to transform your porch? Get started with a consultation and bring your vision to life!

[margridarnauds]

Super MarioLand - 1989

I've decided to be semi-productive with my Mario Marathoning to do reviews of the various games as I play them, starting with this one.

I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from this one, since I hadn't heard anything about it and never had the chance to play it before.

There is a lovely bounciness to the game -- Mario's jumps are considerably more dynamic than some of the early games (though not as polished as in slightly later games, or even in Super Mario Bros. 2, which came out a year before it), and this extends even into the fireballs from the fire flower, which can now bounce along walls to kill enemies and collect coins, which is significantly more active than they would be in later runs! It's almost like the developers want to say "Look! We have physics in this game!" It's not surprising, after doing a bit more digging into the game, that Mario creator and legend, Shigeru Miyamoto was not involved with this game, the game instead being a collab between Satoru Okada and Gunpei Yokoi (Miyamoto's mentor, who he collaborated with for Donkey Kong, Wrecking Crew, Donkey Kong Jr., and Donkey Kong 3) In some ways, it's hard to believe that we're only one year before Super Mario World, which would take things to the next level, in others, it's hard to believe we're only six years removed from the first Super Mario Bros. game. It's very clearly existing at a transitory period in-between the more arcade-style early games, where the score was more important than the story, as opposed to the more adventure driven later entries, as they're trying to figure out what Mario is going to become in the future.

As you can see, the fireball has bounced off the ground and is about to go off screen.

One downside of these physics, with regards to the fireball, is that Mario cannot fire out another fireball until his OG fireball has either returned to his hand or bounced around to the point where the game says "Okay, that's enough" -- which can take about 5 seconds if you're in one of those situations where it KEEPS hitting against corners in an enclosed space and is very annoying when you have other enemies on top of you.

If you're familiar with the OG Super Mario Bros./Lost Levels style of gameplay, then this is really an extension of that -- go through levels, try to find the princess, meet a boss, find a way to get to the other end of the screen in order to defeat it, and then find out your princess is in another castle. As opposed to the other early games which followed this formula, though, each world had its own unique castle design and bosses which fit that world's design.

The game is surprisingly short -- most "classic" Mario games have 8 worlds; this one only has four, which might have been disappointing to someone who bought a new game expecting more, but works perfectly fine for me, since that is about how many levels I actually played in the OG Mario thanks to Warp Zones. I truly expected, when Mario and Daisy were reunited at the end of the game, to have a Donkey Kong-esque twist where she was kidnapped again, but no, that was it. Also, while there are fewer levels, they are pretty much all incredibly well designed for the time, having a ton of nooks and crannies to explore, interesting enemy designs (including pionpi, who is based on the Chinese jiangshi, or "hopping vampire") that often have not shown up in any Mario games since, and some very good art for the time. The thing that consistently killed me, as in the case of the poisonous mushrooms in Secret Levels, was the koopas' shells exploding, since it's a habit for me, at this point, to linger around them so I can flick their shells towards other enemies...which consistently caused me to either die or lose my power-up.

Looking online, I see a lot of mixed feelings (at best) for it, I know that I might be alone in liking the physics, but after playing some very stiff older Mario games (...they know who they are), I actually found it a nice change of pace. The size of the enemies is also something that's cited as a problem, but I honestly didn't find it much of a problem when playing it -- I found Super Mario Bros U to be much worse in that respect, with much less of an excuse.

One thing that is consistently highlighted is two stages that take place in either a submarine (stage 2) or an airplane (stage 4), which allows for a fun change of space. You can fire much more rapidly at enemies as they come along, with your final objective being to shoot the boss of that stage (and, at the end of stage 4, the true boss of the game, Tatanga, who I have to assume is actually Mario Satan for how many fire attacks he lobs in his final boss battle.)

Overall, if you have access to it and an hour to burn, I recommend giving it a shot. It might have been a bit of a side project for the Mario title as a whole, but I do think that it's a worthy entry in the Mario canon and a good beginning for the Mario on Gameboy, which would pave the way for many more classic games that would canonize how we view Mario.

[kariachi]

Kineceleran homes are, as a general rule, open floorplan. Not always- in the coldest regions of Kinet you'll see places were rooms are more closed off and there's one region where places get downright mazelike and can hold whole extended family groups- but most of the time, where ever you go on Kinet, the floorplan will be open. They are always round in design though. It makes the whole superspeed thing easier, between the two, having curves instead of corners and few walls means less chances of rolling an ankle or accidentally running into something. When you do have enclosed rooms, they're often within larger spaces, so you may have a bathroom that's functionally sort've a hollow pillar or dome set several feet back from the outside wall.

You'll also in some areas find that the walls are partially padded. This is more common in the colder regions where things are more enclosed- in which case the padding can reach as high as shoulder level and also helps to keep the temperatures nice and cozy- but having this padding up all the time has also become popular in some more temperate and tropical regions. Every Kineceleran culture has wall padding however, generally up to about waist height, as a form of child-proofing. There's a period between hatchlings learning how to run and learning to how to turn or how to stop, so having padded walls and furniture is very handy to keep them from seriously harming themselves during this stage of toddlerness.

You generally will see less padding around cooking areas, it depends on the area and the materials being used, and depending on the region this might be one of the few areas sectioned off from the rest of the home. In some it's actually a separate, walled-off room, in some there's a half-wall, in some netting to catch anybody who may run in and get somebody hurt, and in others netting only goes up as childproofing. Again, it depends on several factors.

Again due to the superspeed, Kinecelerans don't use stairs. You're more likely to see long ramps being used, either strait or curving along an outer wall depending on where it is and what its purpose is.

Kineceleran beds most often take the form of a raised, cup-like structure loaded to the gills with soft mattresses and/or blankets to form a nest and in which most individuals essentially bury themselves. Whether or not one shares their bed varies from region to region, though most often they don't, but room sharing is common, normally between people of the same age range or generation, or only between relatives.

Proper nests, for eggs and such, are similar to beds but placed higher off the ground and using more easily cleaned materials such as leather, or easily discarded such as straw. A bed may be two feet off the ground at most, but a nest can be up to five feet depending. There's many techniques to ensure babies don't fall out of the nest, from enclosing the nest in its own mini room within the room, to giving the nest higher walls than a normal bed, but in the last century or so an equatorial technique of using a net to form a rim around the nest that's easy for parents to bypass but near impossible for babies has become popular.

[visage-of-hell]

Munday About Me

Name: Yeen

Age: 38

Pronouns: She/Her

Sexuality: Bi

Single Or Taken: Married as FUCK!

Hobbies: Art, writing, gaming/streaming, painting/customizing figures and tabletop minis, lots of other nerdy craft shit you should totally ask me about if you never want me to shut up. LOL

Favorite Color: Electric Blue

Fandoms: Hazbin/Hellaverse (obviously) but SOOOOOO many others I would be here all day. The main ones right now (and most frequent ones to flare up again) are Warcraft, Overwatch, Baldur's Gate 3, Vampire the Masquerade, Warhammer, DETROIT: Become Human, Mass Effect/Dragon Age, The Walking Dead, The Quarry

Other Blogs: The full list of these would have us here til tomorrow--trust me, you're better off not knowing. XD The only time I ever really use Tumblr is for RP, I haven't had an OOC/personal account in YEARS!

Favorite TV Show: As far as actual Ye Olde "TV Shows" back when I used to actually sit in front of a television for entertainment, my go-to's were Law & Order SVU, CSI: Miami, Forensic Files, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and a literal FUCKTON of different Saturday morning cartoons. Other series, if they count, would be Hazbin and Helluva Boss (duh), Beastars, Attack on Titan, Nightwatch, and probably a bunch of others I'm not remembering at the moment. LOL

Do You Cosplay: Back when I used to dabble in LARPing, I did lots of costume work, so I GUESS you could count that as cosplay? Also have fursuited a few times back when I was still active in the fandom. I'd like to tell myself that someday I'll get back into making cool character costumes when I have the perfect combination of time/money/space ... buuuut we'll see. X3

Favorite Media: Oooo this is hard to pick, I'm into so many. XD UHHHH ... Warcraft!

Favorite Book: The entire Redwall novel series (though I definitely have my individual favs)

Favorite Band: Am I dating myself if I say "Evanescence"?

Favorite Movie: WAY too many to just pick one, so here are my top 5 that I has watched over and over for a loooooong time: Lost World: Jurassic Park, Lion King, The Matrix, Beetlejuice, Dragonheart

Do You Have Pets: That are mine? Two--my dog-daughter Blondie and my cat-daughter Velcro. Extended animal family that belong to my folks? 11 kitties (they all live either in specially-designed indoor rooms just for them or in custom-built kitty condos that are outside in the back yard but are safely enclosed) and 4 doggos (all indoor, though they also go out in the yard a lot).

Favorite Animal: As an extreme animal nerd, I have a TON of favs but the Number One Winner right now are hyenas! Mostly spotted hyenas, but I loved striped and brown yeens, too!

Do You Play Any Instruments: Do my vocal cords count? LOL

Favorite Hellaverse Character(s): Hazbins Favs: Alastor, Angel, Husk. Helluva Boss Favs: Blitz, Loona, Ozzie

Tagged By: @radioiaci (Thank youuuuuu ilu <333)

Tagging: @sanguineradio, @angie-long-legs, @top-shelf-tender & aaaanyone else! <3

[canthermdistributors]

Powerful Heat, No Compromise: Arcotherm Jumbo Series Commercial Indirect Fuel Fired Heaters

When the temperature drops and the work can’t stop, industrial and commercial sites need reliable, heavy-duty heating systems that can handle even the harshest conditions. That’s where Cantherm Distributors comes in with cutting-edge heating solutions like the Arcotherm Jumbo Seriescommercial indirect fuel fired heaters.

Engineered for performance, safety, and efficiency, the Arcotherm Jumbo Series delivers consistent heat without exposing your space to harmful fumes or moisture. Whether you're heating a construction site, warehouse, event space, or agricultural facility, this powerful indirect fired burner system gets the job done cleanly and efficiently.

What Are Indirect Fired Heaters?

Unlike direct-fired heaters, which release combustion byproducts into the air, indirect fired burners use a heat exchanger to separate the flame and exhaust from the warm air being circulated. The result? Safe, clean, and dry heat ideal for enclosed or occupied spaces.

This makes commercial indirect fuel fired heaters the go-to choice for:

Construction sites with sensitive materials

Temporary heating during renovations

Warehouses and logistics centers

Emergency heating and disaster response

Tent events and large venues

If air quality and moisture control matter on your job site, the Arcotherm Jumbo Series is the professional-grade solution you can count on.

Arcotherm Jumbo Series: Built for Demanding Applications

At Cantherm Distributors, we’re proud to supply the Arcotherm Jumbo Series a top-tier line of commercial indirect fuel fired heaters built for serious performance in large-scale applications.

Key features of the Jumbo Series include:

High BTU output ranging from 250,000 to over 1,000,000 BTUs

Heavy-duty galvanized steel construction for rugged durability

100% clean, fume-free heat through a stainless steel heat exchanger

Multifuel compatibility, including diesel and kerosene

Remote thermostat compatibility for precision control

Large fuel tanks for extended run times

Forklift pockets and lifting eyes for job site mobility

These units are designed to perform in the most extreme conditions making them perfect for Canadian winters and industrial-scale heating needs.

Why Choose Commercial Indirect Fuel Fired Heaters?

If you’ve ever dealt with condensation, unsafe fumes, or inconsistent heat from other systems, you’ll immediately notice the difference with the Arcotherm Jumbo Series. These commercial indirect fuel fired heaters provide:

✅ Safe, breathable air – no carbon monoxide or diesel odors inside your space ✅ Dry heat – prevents moisture buildup, mold, and material damage ✅ Quiet operation – ideal for occupied spaces or event settings ✅ Highly efficient combustion – saves on fuel costs ✅ Easy ducting – delivers heat exactly where you need it, even over long distances

Whether you're heating temporary shelters or industrial operations, these indirect fired burners are trusted across construction, oil & gas, agriculture, and emergency response sectors.

Expert Support and Supply from Cantherm Distributors

At Cantherm Distributors, we’re more than just a supplier we’re your heating solutions partner. We provide expert consultation, fast delivery, and full post-sale support on all Arcotherm heaters.

Here’s what sets us apart:

🛠 Technical expertise – Our team understands job site heating challenges

🚚 Canada-wide distribution – Fast, reliable delivery coast-to-coast

🔧 Parts and accessories in stock – Keep your systems running smoothly

💬 Responsive support – From selection to service, we’re just a call away

From one heater to fleet-scale heating systems, we help contractors, municipalities, and commercial operations keep moving even in sub-zero conditions.

Ready to Heat Smarter?

If you're looking for dependable, large-scale heating that protects air quality and delivers performance, it's time to upgrade to the Arcotherm Jumbo Series from Cantherm Distributors.

[nateriver7373]

How Shade Tarps Improve Privacy and Comfort at the Beach

A day at the beach is one of summer’s greatest pleasures—sunshine, surf, and the soothing rhythm of the waves. But if you’ve ever struggled to find a quiet spot, battled harsh sunlight, or felt exposed in the crowd, you know that a little extra comfort and privacy can go a long way. That’s where shade tarps become a beachgoer’s best friend.

Compact, lightweight, and incredibly versatile, shade tarps can dramatically enhance your beach experience. Whether you're planning a family outing, solo retreat, or group hangout, they provide vital protection and personal space in a public setting. In this blog, we’ll explore the many ways shade tarps elevate comfort and privacy at the beach—and why they should be part of your summer essentials.

1. Sun Protection You Can Rely On

While sunshine is part of the beach’s appeal, overexposure to UV rays can quickly turn dangerous. Long hours in the sun without shade increase the risk of sunburn, dehydration, and heatstroke—especially for kids, seniors, and anyone with sensitive skin.

Shade tarps offer a reliable barrier against harmful UV rays, helping to create a safe space to cool down, apply sunscreen, or take a break from the sun. High-quality tarps made from UV-resistant materials block up to 95% of ultraviolet radiation, making them far more effective than flimsy umbrellas or towels stretched between chairs.

Set one up over your blanket or beach chairs to enjoy extended time outdoors without sacrificing safety or comfort.

2. Enhanced Privacy in Crowded Areas

Beaches, particularly popular ones, can get crowded fast. If you’re seeking peace and privacy among the chaos, a shade tarp can create a designated personal zone that feels separate from the crowd—even in open spaces.

By anchoring a tarp in a semi-enclosed shape or low angle, you can create visual barriers that deter others from encroaching on your space. This is especially helpful for:

Families with young children who need a place to nap or change clothes

Couples looking for a secluded spot to relax

Individuals wanting to read or meditate in quiet

Some tarps even feature side flaps or zippered walls, giving you additional coverage and discretion. Compared to traditional beach umbrellas or pop-up tents, tarps offer more customizable configurations that let you control both sunlight and visibility.

3. A Cool, Comfortable Base Camp

The sand might feel great between your toes, but it also gets hot—fast. Tarps help you create a cool, shaded retreat where you can escape the burning sand and rest in comfort. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids or hosting a beach picnic, a tarp provides a stable foundation that shields you from the elements.

Many beachgoers use shade tarps to define a “base camp” complete with:

Folding chairs and coolers

Picnic blankets and snacks

Toys and gear for kids

Surfboards, paddleboards, or water equipment

This centralized setup makes your beach day more organized and enjoyable. No more searching for lost sunscreen or sitting on an overheated towel. Everything you need stays cool, shaded, and easy to find.

4. Easy Setup and Portability

One of the biggest advantages of using shade tarps at the beach is their lightweight and portable design. Most modern tarps are made from breathable, UV-resistant materials like HDPE mesh or ripstop nylon. They fold down small, weigh very little, and can be packed into a beach bag or backpack without taking up much space.

Setup is also simple. Using sandbags, stakes, or anchor cords tied to beach-friendly poles, you can create a variety of shelter shapes in minutes. Whether you prefer an open canopy for airflow or a low-angled tarp for wind protection, the versatility of setup allows you to adapt to changing sun angles or shifting breezes.

Ideal for beach vacations, day trips, or impromptu outings, tarps are a smart solution for anyone looking to stay mobile while enjoying better comfort and protection.

5. Wind, Rain, and Sand Control

While the beach is often associated with clear skies, sudden weather changes can catch even seasoned beachgoers off guard. Shade tarps help shield against light rain, strong winds, and blowing sand, keeping your beach gear dry and your relaxation uninterrupted.

For windy days, securing a tarp close to the ground or on the windward side creates a much-needed buffer. It helps protect your towels, food, and electronics from blowing sand while minimizing the chill from strong ocean breezes. If an unexpected shower hits, tarps with waterproof or water-resistant coatings can keep you dry until it passes.

With a well-anchored tarp, you’re not just building shade—you’re building resilience against the elements, ensuring your beach day doesn’t end with the first gust of wind or raincloud overhead.

Conclusion: Bring Shade, Bring Comfort

From sun protection to privacy and wind control, shade tarps are a beach must-have for anyone who values comfort, convenience, and preparedness. Unlike bulky tents or limited-use umbrellas, tarps offer customizable coverage and year-round utility in one compact package.

Whether you're lounging solo, wrangling toddlers, or hosting a sandy seaside picnic, a shade tarp transforms your beach setup from basic to brilliant. It’s a small investment with major payoff—letting you enjoy the sun, surf, and sea with the comfort and peace of mind you deserve.

[capitalrvboat]

Tips for Finding Affordable Motorhome Storage Near You 

If you own a motorhome, you know how important it is to find the right place to store it. Motorhomes are huge investments. You want them to remain protected when they are not on the road. Storing them at home is not always a solution. They occupy space. Most neighborhoods will not permit large vehicles to be parked for extended periods of time. 

This is where dedicated storage facility comes in the scene. A quality motorhome storage facility can provide you with best option for storage vehicles. It safeguards your vehicle until the next trip. But all storage facilities are not budget-friendly or convenient. So how do you find something that works for you and your budget? 

Here are some tips to help you find the right spot without overspending. 

1. Know Your Storage Needs 

Prior to searching, first learn and understand what your actual needs are. 

Do you need covered, enclosed, or uncovered storage? 

How frequently will you use your motorhome? 

What is the size of your vehicle? 

Understanding your needs will help you settle on your options. If you’re going to store the vehicle for a long time, you might not require 24/7 access. However, if you are frequently taking weekend vacations, easy access could be a priority. 

Start your search by searching online for motorhome storage near you. That will give you a sense of local options relative to where you live. 

2. Compare Prices Based on Amenities 

All storage facilities are not created equal. Some have plain uncovered lots, while others have secure, covered spaces with electricity availability. The more amenities a facility has, the more expensive it may be. 

But more isn’t always better. Select amenities you will use. 

For instance: 

Enclosed units are a good choice if you reside in an area with bad weather. 

Covered parking protects from sun and rain at a lower cost. 

Uncovered parking is the cheapest but offers the least protection. 

By comparing these options, you’ll get a better sense of value—not just cost. 

3. Inquire About Discounts and Flexible Contracts 

Some storage facilities provide discounts if you agree to long-term storage options. Others have special offers for new clients or seasonal storage. 

It's also a good idea to find out whether the facility provides month-to-month contracts. That way, you only pay for what you need. Steer clear of sites that attempt to bind you into long-term contracts unless you know you need it. 

When phoning a motorhome storage facility, ask: 

Are there first-time or seasonal discounts? 

Is covered vs. uncovered parking priced differently? 

Do they provide flexible payment terms? 

These are questions that can save you money without compromising on the service you require. 

4. Location Matters 

It can be tempting to go with the lowest-cost facility even if it’s miles from home. But over time, this might cost more in gas and time. 

Find places that are convenient to your home or on your typical routes. An online search for motorhome parking near me is a fast solution for finding nearby places. 

The convenience of local storage will make it easier to: 

Check on your RV 

Perform maintenance 

Load up before trips 

And if you're short on time to get on the road for a weekend retreat, local storage saves you time. 

5. Don’t Ignore Security and Access 

A low price is great—but only if it does not compromise safety. Ensure that the building features basic security components such as: 

Gated entry 

CCTV cameras 

Adequate lighting 

Fenced grounds 

Also, check access hours. Some have limited access hours, while others permit 24/7 entry. The greater the flexibility in access, the better—particularly for spontaneous travel plans. 

Affordable storage should keep your motorhome safe. A secure facility ensures you return to a vehicle in the same condition you left it. 

6. Check Reviews and Visit Before Booking 

Web reviews have a lot to reveal about a facility. Check Google, Yelp, or local communities and forums for what other RV owners have to say. Pay attention to remarks regarding cleanliness, staff professionalism and storage maintenance. 

If possible, visit the facility before deciding. Walk around. See the condition of the lot. Talk to the staff. A short visit can reveal things that online listings don’t show. 

What Capital RV & Boat Storage Provides 

At Capital RV & Boat Storage, we know what RV owners need. We provide functional solutions without the added expenses. Whether you need enclosed units or basic covered parking, we have options that fit various budgets and vehicle sizes. 

Here’s how we simplify storage: 

Multiple Locations – We are strategically placed throughout Katy, Cinco Ranch, Tomball, Cypress, and Richmond. 

Wide Driveways – Convenient entrance for all sizes of motorhomes. 

Covered & Enclosed Spaces – Keep your RV safe from weather and sun damage. 

24-Hour Access – Arrive and depart at your convenience. 

Month-to-Month Leasing Flexibility – Only pay for the time you're using. 

Safe Facilities – Gated access, video monitoring, and night lighting. 

If you need trustworthy, cost-effective motorhome storage in your area, Capital RV & Boat Storage is here to serve your purpose—without the inconvenience. We're committed to merging security, convenience, and value to provide RV owners with peace of mind throughout the year. 

[screenmobile]

What is the Alternative to Screening in a Porch?

A screened-in porch is great—until it’s not. Maybe the upkeep is too much, or the screens don’t block enough wind. Maybe you’re just ready for something different. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of alternatives that give you all the benefits of an outdoor living space without the drawbacks of traditional screens.

From retractable enclosures to full-blown sunrooms, let's walk through some of the best options, so you can create the perfect space for relaxing, entertaining, or just soaking in a South Bend sunset without fighting off mosquitoes.

Why Consider an Alternative to Screening?

Screened porches are popular, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some of the common complaints include:

Maintenance headaches – Screens tear, collect dirt, and need replacing.

Limited protection – They block bugs but don’t help much against wind, pollen, or extreme temperatures.

Lack of flexibility – Once it's screened in, that's it. There’s no easy way to open it up fully.

Obstructed views – Mesh screens distort sightlines, which can be frustrating if you have a great backyard or lakefront property.

So, what can you do instead? Let’s take a look.

1. Retractable Vinyl Panels: The All-Season Solution

Want an outdoor space that adjusts to the weather? Retractable vinyl panels might be the way to go. These are clear or tinted panels that roll up or slide open, giving you complete control over airflow, visibility, and insulation.

Block wind, rain, and pollen when closed

Open up fully on warm days for fresh air

Keep heat in during cooler months

No permanent barriers – you choose how enclosed you want it

This setup is especially useful in South Bend, where temperatures swing from snowy winters to humid summers. Imagine sitting outside in January with the vinyl closed, sipping coffee while watching the snow—without freezing.

2. Three-Season or Four-Season Rooms: A Year-Round Escape

If you want something more solid than screens but still want that "outdoor" feel, a three-season room (or even better, a four-season room) is worth considering.

Three-season rooms have walls of glass or acrylic panels but no insulation, so they’re best for spring through fall.

Four-season rooms are fully insulated and have heating/cooling, meaning you can enjoy the space even in the dead of winter.

These rooms are essentially sunrooms, offering:

A bug-free and weatherproof outdoor experience

A boost in home value and curb appeal

Extra living space for dining, relaxing, or even a home office

A perfect space for plants—like a mini greenhouse!

If you’re looking for a way to create a true extension of your home, this is one of the best choices.

3. Motorized Screens: The Best of Both Worlds

Okay, so maybe you don’t want to ditch screens entirely. That’s fair. Motorized retractable screens let you enjoy the best of both worlds:

Screens when you need them, open space when you don’t

Controlled with a remote – no manual pulling or sliding required

Blocks bugs and sun glare without permanent enclosures

Customizable transparency – some are nearly invisible when extended

This option works well if you love having an open-air porch but still want to keep mosquitoes out when you're eating dinner outside.

4. Louvered Roofs: A Pergola with a Twist

Want a space that feels open but still offers protection? Louvered roofs—also called adjustable pergolas—are a modern and stylish solution.

The angled slats tilt open or closed, letting in light and air when you want it and blocking rain when you don’t.

They give a sleek, high-end look to any porch or patio.

They allow maximum airflow without the confinement of screens or walls.

Some models come with built-in lighting, fans, or even heaters for all-season use.

Louvered roofs are a solid option if you love spending time outside but hate being completely enclosed.

5. Enclosed Glass Walls: The Ultimate Upgrade

For a more high-end alternative, glass enclosures transform your porch into a stunning, climate-controlled space that feels like an extension of your home.

Frameless glass walls create a seamless look, making it feel like you’re sitting outside—without the wind, bugs, or extreme temperatures.

Sliding or folding panels allow full or partial enclosure, depending on the weather.

Customizable tints can reduce glare and increase privacy.

Increases property value with a polished, luxury addition.

This choice is particularly appealing for real estate investors, Airbnb owners, and retirees looking to create a stylish, functional outdoor space that requires little maintenance.

6. Outdoor Curtains or Shade Blinds: Budget-Friendly Flexibility

If you just want a simple, low-cost solution, outdoor curtains or roll-up shade blinds might be all you need.

Provides privacy and sun protection

Can be opened or closed based on preference

Easy to install and remove—no construction required

Available in weather-resistant fabrics to withstand rain and wind

This is a great DIY-friendly option for those who want more flexibility without committing to permanent enclosures.

Which Option is Right for You?

With so many alternatives, the right choice depends on how you want to use your space.

Want a versatile, all-season space? → Go for retractable vinyl panels or a sunroom.

Prefer an open feel but want control? → Try motorized screens or louvered roofs.

Looking for a luxury, low-maintenance upgrade? → Glass walls are your best bet.

Need a budget-friendly option? → Outdoor curtains or shade blinds do the trick.

At the end of the day (oops, scratch that—no clichés!), your porch should fit your lifestyle. Whether you're sipping coffee on a crisp fall morning, hosting summer barbecues, or just enjoying a quiet evening, there's an option that’s perfect for your space.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the South Bend area, Screenmobile can help you find the perfect alternative to a screened-in porch. Whether it’s retractable enclosures, motorized screens, or full sunroom conversions, we’ve got solutions tailored to your home, style, and budget.

Why settle for a space that doesn’t work for you? Let’s make your porch something you actually use and love.

Call Screenmobile South Bend today to explore your options!

[dghjyrpoolenclosurespoolcovers]

Transform Your Backyard Experience with an Enclosed Outdoor Pool and Retractable Roofs

Imagine enjoying a refreshing swim in your pool while being shielded from the unpredictable elements of New Zealand’s weather. Whether it’s intense sun, strong winds, or sudden rain, an enclosed outdoor pool provides the ultimate solution for homeowners who want year-round pool access without compromising on comfort or aesthetics. Coupled with innovative retractable roofs, this modern approach to pool design is transforming how people experience their backyard space.

An enclosed outdoor pool is more than just a functional upgrade; it’s a lifestyle enhancement. The enclosure offers protection from debris, reduces maintenance, and enhances safety for children and pets. Beyond practicality, it adds a luxurious feel to your home. When paired with retractable roofs, the enclosure transforms into a versatile environment. With the touch of a button, you can open the roof on sunny days to let the fresh air in, or close it during rain to keep the fun going. The flexibility it offers is unmatched.

This innovation has become increasingly popular among New Zealand homeowners who want the best of both indoor and outdoor experiences. With retractable roofs, you're not just investing in convenience but in extending the usability of your pool through all seasons. You can bask in the sun during summer and still enjoy a swim during winter without the biting cold. It also allows for better temperature control, helping you save on energy costs associated with pool heating systems.

One of the standout features of an enclosed outdoor pool is the increase in property value. A well-designed enclosure adds architectural interest and provides a practical benefit that appeals to potential buyers. Whether you plan to sell or stay in your home long-term, this upgrade is a smart investment. Moreover, it offers privacy — a quality many homeowners prioritize, especially in densely populated areas or homes located near neighbors.

Another underrated advantage of using retractable roofs is the improved cleanliness of the pool area. Since leaves, dirt, and insects are kept at bay, the water stays clearer for longer, reducing your reliance on chemicals and filtration. It also means less time spent cleaning and more time enjoying your pool.

For those who value sustainability, this setup is an environmentally conscious choice. It contributes to reduced water evaporation, better heat retention, and less reliance on electric heaters or cleaning equipment. All these factors help reduce your carbon footprint while still enjoying modern comforts.

When it comes to trusted solutions in New Zealand, poolenclosures-poolcovers.co.nz offers top-quality enclosures and roofing systems tailored to suit your home’s aesthetic and your personal needs. Their products are known for durability and sleek design, making them a preferred choice for homeowners looking for both functionality and style.

The combination of an enclosed outdoor pool and retractable roofs is truly the future of backyard living. It bridges the gap between indoor luxury and outdoor freedom, making every swim a comfortable and safe experience. Whether it’s hosting a gathering, enjoying a quiet evening swim, or simply spending quality time with family, this addition transforms your pool into a year-round haven.

If you’re considering this upgrade, poolenclosures-poolcovers.co.nz can help you bring the vision to life. With a wide range of customizable designs and expert installation services, your dream of a protected, stylish, and flexible pool space can become a reality.

Ultimately, adding an enclosure and retractable roof isn’t just about shielding your pool — it’s about enhancing your entire lifestyle. A space that was once limited by weather and time of year can now become a permanent retreat, offering relaxation, recreation, and beauty whenever you desire.

[thomsangarrett]

Cost to Ship a Car from Georgia to California: What You Need to Know

Shipping Car from Georgia to California can save time, effort, and unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Whether you're relocating for work, school, military service, or an extended stay, understanding the cost of car shipping is essential. At Rapid Auto Shipping, we specialize in long-distance auto transport and aim to make the process as transparent and stress-free as possible.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the cost of shipping a car from Georgia to California and the factors that affect it.

Why Choose Car Shipping from Georgia to California?

The distance between Georgia and California can range from 2,200 to 2,600 miles, depending on your pickup and delivery locations. Driving this far involves multiple days on the road, high gas costs, overnight stays, and significant vehicle wear.

Auto transport is a smart solution, especially when handled by a reputable company like Rapid Auto Shipping. We offer affordable, reliable, and fully insured transportation options tailored to your schedule.

Average Cost to Ship a Car from Georgia to California

The average cost to ship a car from Georgia to California typically ranges between $1,100 and $1,500 for standard vehicles using open transport. This estimate can vary based on several key factors:

Vehicle type and size

Transport method (open or enclosed)

Distance between cities

Pickup and delivery locations (urban vs. rural)

Time of year (seasonal demand)

Fuel prices

Carrier availability and urgency

Let’s break these down in more detail.

Key Factors That Affect the Shipping Cost

1. Vehicle Size and Weight

Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans take up more space on a carrier and weigh more, which increases fuel consumption and impacts total pricing. Shipping a compact car will cost less than transporting a large pickup.

2. Transport Type

There are two main options for shipping your car:

Open Transport: The most common and affordable method. Your car is transported on an open-air carrier with multiple vehicles.

Enclosed Transport: Offers full protection from weather and road debris. This option is ideal for luxury, antique, or high-value vehicles—but costs 30–40% more than open transport.

3. Pickup and Drop-Off Locations

Door-to-door service is more convenient but can be more expensive, especially if either address is in a remote or hard-to-reach area. Terminal-to-terminal shipping, while cheaper, requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at a designated location.

4. Shipping Distance and Route

While the Georgia to California route is well-traveled, exact mileage still impacts pricing. For example, shipping from Atlanta, GA to Los Angeles, CA may cost less than shipping from Savannah, GA to San Diego, CA, simply due to distance and route accessibility.

5. Seasonal Demand

Peak seasons like summer, holidays, and January (post-holiday moves) often see higher prices due to increased demand. Booking your transport during slower months may help you secure a better rate.

6. Expedited vs. Standard Shipping

Need your vehicle moved quickly? Expedited shipping gets your car picked up and delivered faster, but it comes with a premium price tag. If you’re flexible on timing, you can save by going with standard delivery.

Estimated Cost by Transport Type

Transport Type Price Range (Sedan) Price Range (SUV/Truck) Open Transport $1,100 - $1,300 $1,200 - $1,500 Enclosed Transport $1,400 - $1,700 $1,600 - $2,000

Prices are estimates and may vary depending on your specific route and vehicle.

How Long Does Shipping Take from Georgia to California?

Typically, shipping a car from Georgia to California takes between 7 to 10 days. Factors that affect this include:

Distance and route traffic

Weather conditions

Time of year

Carrier schedule and route optimization

At Rapid Auto Shipping, we provide real-time tracking and clear communication throughout the journey so you know where your vehicle is at every step.

How to Save Money on Car Shipping

Here are a few tips to get the best deal when shipping your car from Georgia to California:

Book early: Advance reservations usually offer better rates.

Be flexible with dates: A flexible pickup window helps carriers optimize routes and reduce costs.

Choose open transport: Unless you have a high-end vehicle, open transport is more affordable.

Compare quotes: Get multiple quotes, but beware of extremely low prices—they may mean poor service or hidden fees.

Why Choose Rapid Auto Shipping?

We understand that shipping your vehicle is a big decision. Here’s why Rapid Auto Shipping is the best choice for your Georgia to California car shipping needs:

✅ Free Instant Quotes ✅ Fully Licensed, Bonded & Insured ✅ Experienced Coast-to-Coast Shipping Network ✅ Real-Time Tracking & Updates ✅ Professional Drivers & Modern Carriers ✅ Flexible Pickup & Delivery Options

Our team is dedicated to providing safe, affordable, and stress-free auto transport, no matter the distance.