#inflatable tent event

[pagoda-inflatable-tents]

Inflatable Tent Event | Branded Event Tents

Inflatable Tent Event | Branded Event Tents

In the dynamic world of event planning and branding, the inflatable tent event has emerged as a versatile and eye-catching solution. These innovative tents are not only practical for a wide range of events but also offer unique branding opportunities that traditional tents cannot match. From corporate gatherings and trade shows to festivals and promotional events, inflatable tent events provide a unique and memorable experience for attendees. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various benefits, applications, and features of Inflatable tent event | Branded Event Tents, as well as tips for selecting the perfect tent for your needs.

The Concept of Inflatable Tent Events

Inflatable tent events are designed to provide a flexible, durable, and visually appealing shelter for various types of events. These tents are constructed from high-quality, durable materials and can be inflated quickly and easily, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The unique design of inflatable tent events allows for extensive customization, enabling event organizers to create branded environments that captivate and engage audiences.

Key Features of Inflatable Tent Events

Quick Setup: One of the most significant advantages of inflatable tent events is the ease and speed of setup. These tents can be inflated and ready for use in a matter of minutes, saving valuable time during event preparations.

Portability: When deflated, inflatable tent events are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store. This portability is especially beneficial for event organizers who need to move equipment between multiple locations.

Customization Options: Inflatable tent events can be fully customized with logos, colors, and graphics to create a branded environment that reflects the identity of the event or the sponsor. This customization enhances brand visibility and leaves a lasting impression on attendees.

Durability: Constructed from robust materials, inflatable tent events are designed to withstand various weather conditions and heavy use. This durability ensures that the tents remain functional and visually appealing throughout the event.

Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, inflatable tent events can be used for corporate events, trade shows, festivals, sports events, and more. Their versatility makes them a valuable addition to any event planner's toolkit.

Applications of Inflatable Tent Events

The versatility and visual appeal of Inflatable tent event | Branded Event Tents make them suitable for numerous applications. Here are some of the most popular uses:

Corporate Events

For corporate events such as product launches, company retreats, and business meetings, inflatable tent events provide a professional and branded environment that enhances the overall experience. The ability to customize the tents with company logos and branding helps reinforce the corporate identity and create a cohesive atmosphere.

Trade Shows and Expos

Inflatable tent events are perfect for trade shows and expos, where attracting attention and standing out from the competition is crucial. The striking appearance and customizable features of these tents draw visitors to your booth, providing an excellent platform for showcasing products and services.

Festivals and Concerts

At festivals and concerts, inflatable tent events serve as eye-catching shelters for merchandise booths, information kiosks, and VIP lounges. Their vibrant designs and branding capabilities enhance the festive atmosphere and provide memorable experiences for attendees.

Promotional Events

For promotional events and marketing campaigns, inflatable tent events offer an engaging and interactive space that captures the audience's attention. Whether it's a pop-up store, a product sampling station, or a promotional giveaway, these tents create a dynamic environment that encourages participation and brand interaction.

Sports Events

Inflatable tent events are also ideal for sports events, providing shelters for registration areas, refreshment stations, and team meeting points. Their durability and ease of setup make them a practical choice for outdoor sports events.

Benefits of Using Inflatable Tent Events

Adopting Inflatable tent event | Branded Event Tents for your events offers several significant benefits:

Enhanced Brand Visibility

The ability to customize inflatable tent events with logos, colors, and graphics ensures that your brand stands out and is easily recognizable. This enhanced visibility helps create a strong brand presence and leaves a lasting impression on attendees.

Increased Engagement

The unique and visually appealing design of inflatable tent events attracts attention and encourages engagement. Whether it's drawing visitors to a trade show booth or creating an inviting space at a festival, these tents help foster interaction and participation.

Cost-Effective Solution

Compared to traditional event structures, inflatable tent events are often more cost-effective due to their quick setup, portability, and durability. This cost efficiency allows event organizers to allocate resources more effectively and maximize their budget.

Versatile and Adaptable

The versatility of inflatable tent events makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from corporate events to festivals. Their adaptability allows event planners to use them in various settings and for different purposes, enhancing the overall event experience.

Choosing the Right Inflatable Tent Event

When selecting an inflatable tent event, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose the best option for your specific needs:

Size and Capacity

Determine the size and capacity needed based on the type of event and the number of attendees. Inflatable tent events come in various sizes, from small tents for intimate gatherings to large structures for significant events.

Customization Options

Consider the level of customization required to reflect your brand and event identity. Look for tents that offer extensive branding options, such as printing logos, graphics, and colors on the tent fabric.

Material and Construction

Ensure that the tent is made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions and heavy use. Check for features such as reinforced seams, UV protection, and waterproofing to ensure long-lasting performance.

Setup and Maintenance

Select a tent that is easy to set up and maintain. Ensure that it comes with a reliable air pump and clear instructions for inflation and deflation. Consider tents that offer easy repair options in case of punctures or other damage.

Maintenance Tips for Inflatable Tent Events

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your inflatable tent event, proper maintenance is essential. Here are some tips to keep your tent in excellent condition:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your tent after each use to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. Use a mild soap and water solution, and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric.

Proper Storage: Store your tent in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Make sure it is completely dry before packing it away to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Check for Damage: Inspect your tent regularly for any signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or leaks. Repair any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Avoid Overinflation: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for inflating the tent. Overinflation can cause stress on the seams and reduce the tent's durability.

Case Studies: Successful Inflatable Tent Events

Corporate Product Launch

A leading tech company used a customized inflatable tent event for the launch of its latest gadget. The tent, branded with the company's logo and colors, served as a dynamic and engaging venue for product demonstrations and media interactions. The striking appearance and quick setup of the tent helped create a buzz around the product, resulting in extensive media coverage and positive feedback from attendees.

Music Festival VIP Lounge

At a popular music festival, organizers set up a series of inflatable tent events as VIP lounges. These tents provided an exclusive and comfortable space for VIP guests to relax and enjoy the festival. The branded tents added a touch of luxury and exclusivity to the event, enhancing the overall experience for VIP attendees.

Trade Show Booth

A health and wellness company used an inflatable tent event as its trade show booth at a major industry expo. The tent's unique design and vibrant branding attracted a steady stream of visitors, providing an excellent platform for showcasing the company's products and services. The success of the booth led to increased brand recognition and valuable business leads.

Conclusion

Inflatable tent event | Branded Event Tents represent an innovative and effective solution for event planning and branding. Their quick setup, portability, and extensive customization options make them an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from corporate events and trade shows to festivals and promotional events. By adopting inflatable tent events, event organizers can enhance brand visibility, increase engagement, and create memorable experiences for attendees.

For more information and to explore a wide range of inflatable tent event options, visit https://popup-booth.com/. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us at info@popup-booth.com. With the right inflatable tent event, your next event is sure to be a success.

[bouncehouserentaltampa]

Make Your Event Unforgettable with Bounce Genie: Premier Bounce House, Water Slide, and Party Rentals

Bounce Genie: Premier Bounce House, Water Slide, and Party Rentals

Welcome to Bounce Genie

Are you looking for excitement at your next event? Bounce Genie is here for you. We specialize in bounce house and water slide rentals. We also offer complete party solutions.

Reasons to Hire Bounce Genie 🤹

Diverse Collection of Bounce Houses and Water Slides

Bounce Genie offers a rich selection of bounce houses and water slides. Our collection fits any party theme and space requirement. From vibrant bounce houses to exhilarating water slides, we provide well-maintained and safe options for every type of gathering, ensuring your event is a hit.

Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Our services are priced competitively to provide maximum value. When you rent from Bounce Genie, the cost includes delivery, setup, and removal. There are no unexpected fees. You get premium service that fits your budget.

Outstanding Customer Support

We prioritize your satisfaction. Our team is helpful and knowledgeable. They guide you in selecting the perfect rentals for your occasion. We guarantee on-time delivery and efficient setup. Your hassle-free experience is our goal.

Simplify Your Party Planning with Bounce Genie 🎈

Comprehensive Party Rentals

Beyond inflatables, Bounce Genie offers everything needed for a successful event. Whether you need seating, shelter, or fun food machines, we have it all. From chairs and tents to popcorn and snow cone machines, we are your all-in-one party rental service.

Commitment to Safety and Hygiene

We ensure every rental item is spotless and safe. Our products are thoroughly cleaned and inspected regularly. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your guests are safe while they have fun.

Flexible Rental Durations

Your party's needs are unique. Bounce Genie offers versatile rental durations to accommodate any schedule. Whether it's for a short gathering or an all-day event, we adapt to your time requirements for maximum convenience.

Reserve Now with Bounce Genie 🎠

Streamlined Booking System

Renting with Bounce Genie is straightforward. Visit our website to view our inventory, select your rentals, and book online. You can also contact us directly for personal assistance. Our friendly staff is eager to help you.

Coverage Across Various Locations

Bounce Genie services numerous areas. Visit our website to see if we are available in your location. We are ready to deliver fun right to your event.

Ideal for Every Occasion

Bounce Genie is the perfect choice for any celebration. From birthday parties and school functions to community events and corporate gatherings, we add excitement and joy to your special occasions. Trust Bounce Genie to elevate your event.

Conclusion: Trust Bounce Genie for Memorable Events 🌟

Ready to create lasting memories? Choose Bounce Genie for your next event. We offer a vast selection of bounce houses, water slides, and party rentals, backed by our dedication to your complete satisfaction.

Book your event with Bounce Genie today. Let us make your celebration a resounding success.

[mountainshade]

What Marquee Should a Business Choose?

When it comes to selecting the right marquee for your business, there are several factors to consider. A marquee gazebo offers a versatile and customizable solution for various corporate events, trade shows, outdoor promotions, and more. With options such as heavy-duty marquees and custom printed marquees available, choosing the ideal marquee can significantly impact your brand visibility and event success. In this article, we will explore the key considerations when selecting a marquee for your business.

Marquee Gazebo: A Versatile Option A marquee gazebo provides a flexible and adaptable space for your business events. It offers a sheltered environment that can be set up in different locations, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor events. Marquee gazebos are available in various sizes and designs, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your specific needs. Whether you require a small marquee for a promotional booth or a larger one for a corporate event, a marquee gazebo can cater to your requirements effectively.

Heavy-Duty Marquee for Durability If you anticipate frequent use or challenging weather conditions, opting for a heavy-duty marquee is crucial. These marquees are constructed with robust materials and sturdy frames to ensure durability and stability. Heavy-duty marquees can withstand wind, rain, and other elements, providing a reliable shelter for your events. Investing in a high-quality marquee ensures that it will last for multiple occasions, saving you the expense of frequent replacements.

Custom Printed Marquee: Enhancing Brand Visibility A custom printed marquee offers a valuable opportunity to showcase your brand and attract attention. By incorporating your company’s logo, colors, and artwork onto the marquee fabric, you can create a visually striking display that reinforces your brand identity. Custom printed marquees act as mobile billboards, effectively promoting your business and capturing the interest of event attendees. With a custom marquee, you can make a memorable impression and differentiate your brand from competitors.

Consider the Size and Space Requirements Before selecting a marquee, carefully assess your event’s size and space requirements. Consider factors such as the number of attendees, the nature of your event, and the available venue space. If you anticipate larger gatherings or require ample space for product displays or demonstrations, a larger marquee will be more suitable. On the other hand, if you anticipate smaller, intimate events, a compact marquee may be sufficient. Choosing the right size ensures optimal utilization of space and enhances the overall attendee experience.

Ease of Assembly and Portability Another essential consideration is the ease of assembly and portability of the marquee. Look for marquees that are designed for quick and hassle-free setup. Features such as a pop-up mechanism or a straightforward assembly process can save you time and effort during event preparation. Additionally, consider the portability of the marquee, especially if you need to transport it to different locations. Lightweight materials and a convenient carrying bag can make transportation more manageable and efficient. In conclusion, selecting the right marquee for your business is crucial for creating a professional and visually appealing event space. Whether you opt for a heavy-duty marquee, a custom printed marquee, or a combination of both, ensure that it aligns with your specific needs and brand identity. Consider factors such as versatility, durability, size, and ease of assembly when making your decision. With a well-chosen marquee, you can enhance your brand visibility, engage attendees, and create a memorable experience for your business events.

[popupparties01]

Your ultimate guide for wedding marquee decoration

Marquee weddings are becoming quite popular in present times and there are many good reasons to choose them. Tents or marquees are highly affordable, and they can be customized as per the events. With inflatable marquee hires, you can also plan your wedding without being harsh on your wallet. Read on and find out about ideas that can add to your wedding marquee decoration. Also, if you want to hire a marquee, you can get it from Popup Parties, a trusted name among those who offer tents for rent.   

Wedding marquee decoration ideas  

Let's have a close look at some of the ideas that you can consider for wedding marquee decoration:  

Decoration covering most of the space  

Most wedding marquees are large and have a lot of space to accommodate guests. Small decoration setups cannot work because empty spaces will affect the overall look of the venue. The smaller ones can affect your budget too. To avoid it, you can get large-size decoration items including vases, jars, large balloon garlands, and lanterns. They are affordable and can easily cover large spaces.  

Using lighting to create an impact  

Another decoration idea that can be an affordable game-changer for you is your lighting setup. You can experiment with festoon, fairy, and Christmas lights to decorate your wedding marquee. Some lenders have a pre-designed lighting setup, and you can also make additional changes as per your wedding theme.  Popup Parties have marquees that have an in-built lighting setup, and you don’t need to spend any additional amount for lights.  

Consider foliage instead of expensive flowers  

Gifting an expensive flower bouquet to a loved one is good but decorating a large wedding marquee with such flowers is a tough-on-pocket deal. Using foliage instead of expensive flowers can make your setup look beautiful.  You can also add a few flower arrangements if your budget allows you. For foliage decors, you can get help from DIY tutorials that give affordable decoration ideas.  

Arrange a photo display setup  

The precious life moments caught on camera are worth cherishing and sharing. You can implement this by having a stall displaying all those memorable pictures of you and your partner. Also, you can add pictures of family and friends who are there for you on your special day.  

Choosing the right marquee for hire  

With many inflatable marquees hire options, you can easily plan your wedding. It is important to choose a marquee that is large enough to cooperate with your guest list and is made of weatherproof material. Marquees from Popup Parties have all the right marquees which are easy to set up and can be a perfect choice for affordable weddings. They also offer lighting setup, dancing stages, and VIP areas to ensure that your special day becomes memorable. Visit their website now and enquire about durable, affordable, and appealing marquees. You can also customize it according to your occasion.  

[brandedcanopytents1]

Make Your Event Extraordinary with a Custom 10x10 Tent

Canopy tents are temporary structures that provide comfort and adaptability for outdoor events such as weddings, tailgating parties, and trade exhibits. They are available in several sizes, including 10x10 and 10x15, and can be customised with logos or artwork for marketing purposes. Inflatable event tents, tailgate tents and bespoke pop-up tents are just a few of the many options that can be adapted to meet specific needs. Other heavy-duty models are available for use in more demanding applications. Canopy tents are a popular choice for any outdoor event since they are simple to set up and provide reliable weather protection.

Package Includes & Features

10 X 10 Inflatable Event Tent With Awning Banner

4 Walls Single Side Fully Printed

Unlimited colour and graphics printed

1 Wall with zip

Highest Quality Dye-Sublimation Printing

Water Resistant, UV Coated and Fire Retardant

600 Denier Polyester

Electric Pump Included

Carrying Case Included

1 Year Limited Hardware Warranty

Contact Us:

Address:- 125 townpark, dr #300 Kennesaw, Georgia 30144

Phone : 888 414 7340

E-mail: sales@brandedcanopytents.com

Website: https://www.brandedcanopytents.com/ 

[zodiacdisplays05]

Inflatable tents are extremely portable tent systems that are very easy to install. Zodiac Event Displays offers unique, custom Printed inflatable tents. Attractive & fully customizable, our X-Gloo Event tents will give you great brand exposure. For more info, visit www.zodiacdisplays.com

[sashi-ya]

𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐊𝐓𝐎𝐁𝐄𝐑 𝟐𝟑 DAY 8: SEX MACHINE Vinsmoke Brothers 𝘹 𝘍! 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳

Requested by: @shogunfura ➡ Hi hi Sashi 😊 I saw your kinktober Event and you know how much I love the vinsmokes, soooo I neeeed to request something. I was thinking about day 8 sex machine if it's not already taken. So as an extra kink I would say foursome, cause I would like all three of them 🤤 Gender should be female with she/her pronouns please 😊 I hope you feel better these days. I know that you had a hard time and I just want to let you know that I'm rooting for you, even though I'm not that active. I always appreciate the time and effort you put into your fics. Keep up the good work, I love to read your entrys 🙈😊 ➡ thank u so much sweetheart, please enjoy! 💖💖 tw: mdni. usage of a "sex machine". tubes, inflation, suction and filling with liquids (heavily inspired on those echhi comics with tubes and tentacles :P). oral. vag. nipple play. depravity. could be considered dark content, so read it under your own risk. 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

“Prince Ichiji… what- what is this?” “Our new invention, do you like it (Name)?” “I- yes… ngh…”

You were used to have fun with the Germa princes. They don’t treat you like a slave like they do to other women; you could say are one of them. Being the princess of another reign aligned to the Germa 66 one, you are free to visit them as they are to visit you. And those visits include rough, savage, violent sexual encounters. Sometimes together, sometimes with one of the sibling. But all of them based in pure lust and depravity that fill your hollow hearts.

That Sunday afternoon, after getting tea with the guys, they invited to meet their new “toy”.

You should have at least suspected. It should have been clear to you that what were you gonna fid inside that sterile lab looking room was machinery for… pleasure.

A table, similar to a hospital bed, lies in the middle of the room. Around several computers with a variety of tentacle like tubes.

“Would you like to be the first one to try, Princess (Name)?” Vinsmoke Niji asks, placing his hands on your shoulders.

You don’t think much, you have no choice but to cooperate. The one asking is the least comprehensive than the three of them.

“Mh… yes” you murmur, as your royal attire gets already untied by those irreverent hands.

And soon, completely nude, you are invited to sit on the cold surface of that “bed”.

Ichiji Vinsmoke comes closer to you, as he is the one entitled to operate the main computer.

“There… get comfortable for me, ok?” he says, pushing the button ON on a wide keyboard on what looks like the main console of the machine.

You wait in silence, smiling uncomfortably to the two brothers looking at you with their pants already tenting. If they were animals, they be frothing at the mouth. The reflex of your nudity over the metallic bed gives them a beautiful, mirrored image of your already wetting sex.

A few sounds catch your attention, and soon you notice Ichiji holding the first tube in his hands.

“So, the first one should be connected to… your right nipple” he murmurs, as if he was a doctor ready to perform surgery on a patient. Except that you are able to listen, and completely awake for that matter.

The tube instantly attaches to your nipple with negative pressure, imitating the sucking motions of their lips.

Then, with no words but a side smirk, Ichiji connects yet another tube to your other nipple.

You are already trying to stop yourself from squirming, as the sucking intensifies, and it feels absolutely amazing.

“You are liking it already, (Name). Aren’t you?” Yonji asks, coming closer to you by the other side of the bed.

You nod, biting your lips but never taking all of the attention away from Ichiji. He is the one controlling the mysterious sex machine, and you wonder what else will be attached to -or inserted in- your body at any moment.

And indeed, in his hand he takes yet another tube but this time with no attachment by the end of it.

He shows it to you with that smirking that never fades away from his lips. Your already desperate façade reflects on his cherry red glasses.

“Now, we have already played with vibrators. But I believe never with a suction toy, right?” he asks you, pondering something.

“I- no- no. we ne-ngh-ver” you barely answer as the sucking in your nipples become stronger every second it passes, with different patterns that you are mostly sure will be imitated in your sex.

“Good, suction it is then. Don’t worry, though. There will be vibration either way” he says, laughing at Niji who apparently enjoys that last part most than the rest.

An attachment, that reminds you of an oxygen mask, gets fixed into the tube and such tube gets directed towards your sex.

Immediately after, the suction begins. Pumping air can be felt, and your clit feels like exploding in a matter of seconds. This time it is almost impossible for you to rest still.

As you squirm, receiving a pleasure ever taken by your body, you notice Yonji’s desperate erection coming closer to your lips.

You wonder if that’s all, but you are surely wrong. And even if you wish to be sucking his dick right now, your squirming motions aren’t making it easy.

“Ichiji, she won’t stop moving” Yonji grunts, protesting as your lips can’t surround his shaft comfortably as he wishes.

“That’s why you should wait, but if you can’t let me hold her still for you” he says, typing a couple of unknown words on the computer.

You widen your eyes, not knowing exactly what’s about to happen but soon you learn cold metallic straps have trapped you against the bed.

“There, beast. Fuck her mouth” Ichiji says, while your mouth receives the impertinent sex of the youngest of them all.

You aren’t mad as the salty flavour of his precum fills your tongue, but you aren’t definitely comfortable either. The shackles are hurting your wrists and ankles, but pleasure is stronger to notice such pain.

As you gag and tear up from the deep rams of Yonji’s dick against your throat, you feel an explosive climax reaching you. You let it happen, you don’t need to hold back, you really needed relief.

But a single orgasm won’t be enough, and nor you are having a time off after it. In fact, Niji, who is standing by your feet is ready to play with your body too.

“Ichiji, let go one of her feet” he asks, in between your muffled moaning and the sound of your skin slapping against the bed.

The red-haired brother surely turns his eyes white but allows your right leg to be freed. Niji, traps it and takes your toe into his mouth. Who knew the blue demon liked feet that much.

He gets your toe completely dampened and then continues with the rest of the feet, only to take it to his freed sex.

“Move it up and down, bitch” he moans, while you feel the wetness of his sprouting precum on his tip, mixing with his saliva.

And to his grunts, Yonji add his. Filling, with no shame, your mouth of his cum. You choke with it, giving them the imagery of white sticky product running through the commissure of your lips.

“That’s good, bitch” Yonji celebrates, cleaning -smearing- your face off his own cum.  

You blink repeatedly, with your head in the clouds and probably unaware of what’s coming for you next.

And it is, indeed, the second brother who’s already crawling on top of the bed. He is not willing to wait, and apparently your foot against his shaft isn’t satisfying him no more.

Ichiji laughs at your reaction when seeing Niji topping you all of a sudden. He pulls the suction cup on your sex, making you mewl. It didn’t hurt, indeed, it felt amazing.

“Look at how inflamed you are… so pretty” Niji laughs, playing with your swollen labia and squirting liquids.

You swallow the left overs of Yonji’s cum, it is hard to do so as it sticks down the walls of your throats. But you don’t mind, you will drink plenty of water after -that if, you survive this-.

The sudden intrusion makes you whine, but it does not surprise you. Niji’s dick has been several times inside you, and this is yet another one of those. However, as you are swollen, a lot more sensitive and needy, the ramming motions of his hips are better than ever.

Ichiji has release your other foot so that your legs are now resting on Niji’s shoulder. But still, you wonder what is his gonna do next.

By the side of your eye, you take a swift look at what he holds in his hands, and it is yet another tube he seems to be preparing.

Several are the minutes of uncontrollable and merciless fucking Niji blesses you with, and several are also the times you come with him and the sucking cups on your nipples still attached to you.

And right after he finishes filling you up, it’s time for the first born to have fun. Him whose king qualities always shine the brightest, moves his brother to the side before kissing your lips with a soft peck.

But don’t let it fool you. He might be more delicate, and maybe even more put together… but the red haired one, is the cruellest of them all.

“See this, (Name)? Do you know what this is?” he asks, showing the tube in his hand. It is different from the rest, it looks to be dripping with some kind of lubrication liquid.

“N- no… wha- what is it?” you ask, this time for real scared.

He smirks, taking off his glasses and flashing his blue irises to you. “Ah… this is my special one. My creation” he scoffs, walking slowly to your feet.

“See… you have just experienced suction and penetration separately. But, now I want you to experience everything and more at the same time”

A couple of shackles are now holding your legs spread apart to almost feeling like breaking your body in half. You understand that in case pleasure gets too high, you won’t be able to even close them as a natural response.

“Now, allow me to insert this… you will feel your womb a little… full” Ichiji says, sticking that cold tube into you.

A soon warm and cold mix of some liquid begins to fill you up; you feel a bulge forming in your lower belly.

“Wh- what is it?” you ask, with widen eyes but still squirming because it feels unexpectedly good.

“It’s a bio liquid I developed, it will enhance your sensations” he informs you, violently pressing down your belly. “Try to hold it…” he jokes, knowing too well it would be almost impossible to do so.

Yet, your walls work hard not to let a single drop scape your womb. And it makes you tremble, as the pressure plays against your G spot like nothing before.

“Ichi-Ichiji… this- is amazing…” you huff. No amount of air is enough.

“I know, right… but what if I add a little bit of this? will you be able to hold it in?” he murmurs, while the tube inside of you begins to vibrate.

You close your eyes. Painfully trying to stop the contents inside of you to come out… this time, losing the battle, dripping down the liquids all over the bed, having yet another orgasm…

“Honey… you are ready for me now” “Fuck her rough, brother!”

taglist: @stephisokay @henrioo @shuzuiikoii @bullbonez @fengxinwifutobecalled @i-started-reading-fanfics-at12 @crimsonlikeshellsing @weebare808 @thestarwasborn @bookandyarndragon @cyberdazetragedy @uzxotic and @kwnblack because come on, vinsmokes are our guilty pleasure 💖🤭

[verdemoun]

one of the many RDR2 time travel fics but instead of John or Arthur returning to Colter, someone like Sean, Lenny or Kieran. Not sure how it would work but its a fun idea.

Since Sean would have such limited knowledge of the events of the game, being one of the first to die, and even if Kieran knew he wouldn't have the power to do anything to change it, I think it would be cool if Lenny got time travelled.

Lenny stops Sean from being shot by asking him to come on a robbery with him when Bill starts talking about the 'security job'. This results in Bill being shot instead (rip Bill).

He also stops Jack from being kidnapped, but the gang still retaliate against the Braithwaites for even attempting it. Kieran feels indebted to Lenny for realising the Braithwaite boys weren't meant to know where camp is.

Lenny takes full advantage of this to guilt Kieran into actually being part of the gang. Forcing him to sit with him at campfires, taking him out on jobs, taking Bill's spot in the tent with him and Hosea.

Kieran is actually being treated like part of the gang means Lenny is no longer the newest gun. Despite being a decade older than him, it's obvious Kieran now looks up to Lenny and Lenny's ego is inflated because of it. But more importantly, his opinion as slightly more weight. Only more than Kieran's, but to the right ear, a lot more.

Convincing himself it's the only way to make sure Sean and Kieran stay safe, Lenny regularly finds jobs and forces them both to go with him. They end up bringing in a pretty good amount of money, and Lenny thinks they're going to be okay because the gang haven't encountered Bronte at all in this timeline. Spirits are high in camp!

He gets to see Sean and Kieran become friends!! Having missed their conversations in canon, he was shocked to hear Sean actually remember stuff Kieran had said about his life and Kieran make jokes about calling Colm 'Colom'.

However, the O'Driscolls still attack Shady Belle, minus a headless horseman. This confirms to Lenny that Kieran was most likely taken directly from camp in the original canon, and didn't go willingly like some members of the gang suspected. This leads to the urgency to find a new location, which brings up the Saint Denis Bank job.

Since they have extra guns in the form of Sean and Kieran still being around (though no Bill), Lenny offers to go with Hosea and Abigail pretending he wants to learn about the conning side of outlawing instead of the shooting. Hosea is delighted.

This is where things start to go wrong. Abigail is captured instead of Hosea. John immediately loses his mind and shoots Milton, which means Abigail lives but the shootout is chaos. Kieran is shot in the shoulder in the place where Lenny was meant to die, which means they are officially off script and Lenny has no idea what is happening next.

Kieran buys them time to get to the hiding spot, because bless his heart the only thing that boy is good for is running. Dutch is unravelling because he didn't see what happened to Hosea. Sean and Lenny, having done similar schemes on their heists, are the ones to distract the guards.

Charles, John, Arthur, Micah, Javier and Dutch are the ones who end up on the boat, which still wrecks in the storm. John drowns. Charles gets emotionally invested in helping Hercule, and considers staying in Guarma to help if not for the fact he's realised Arthur is sick. Micah almost talks Dutch into leaving Javier behind when he's captured, playing on Dutch's guilt that he already lost one son - would he risk another for Javier?

Hosea leads the gang to Moonstone Pond instead of Lakay, which is much comfier. Despite having lost so many, with no idea where the Guarma gang are, there is the slowly dawning revelation they can survive without Dutch or depending so much on Arthur.

Lenny, Sean, and a begrudging Sadie, go rescue Kieran from Sisika. Due to lackluster medical care that wasn't exactly a priority for prisoners, Kieran's arm has been amputated, ending his usefulness to the gang.

Instead of the celebration cut short by Milton's appearance, the Guarma gang's return is nothing but misery. The camp gang learn John is dead, and Arthur is sick (with Charles having forced him to go to a hospital the second they reached shore - slightly earlier than canon). Javier, having had to fend for himself despite healing (without Bill playing caretaker), has a noticeable limp in the leg he was shot in.

John's place in the gang was completely understated in canon. Dutch has lost his protege. John was the prodigal son, the one who's return meant everything would be right again, and he is gone. Abigail is completely catatonic in mourning. Hosea has lost one son, and now knows he may need to bury another before his time is up.

And Dutch is still talking about one last, big score.

Hosea puts his foot down. They're done, it's over. The time of outlaws is up. He is taking Abigail, Jack, Arthur and anyone else who wants to come with him, out west: where they were meant to be in the first place, where the air is warm and dry, where no one is looking for them anymore thanks to Dutch's distractions.

Dutch gives one of his chapter 6 'there ain't no freedom for no one in this country no more' speeches that reveals how unhinged he has become over John's death.

There's simply no one left to stand beside him, except for Micah. Javier, the only one as deeply affected by John's death as Abigail, wants to go with Hosea's gang: for Jack, to be there for the poor young boy who doesn't understand his pa isn't coming back this time.

Miss Grimshaw takes Tilly, and a drunken Molly (who has given up on Dutch loving her and lost herself to alcohol) to make proper women of them. She offers the same governance to Karen and Mary-Beth who, while appreciative, refuse. Some bridges were burned long before Dutch's downfall.

Mary-Beth wants to go back to the city, and make a name for herself writing novels. She coaxes Kieran to come with her with the promise of stables, of horses he can care for despite his newfound disability, and whatever peace they can find together.

Strauss would rather fend for himself than stay with only Dutch and Micah. Reverend had given up on the gang the second he heard Dutch's speech: he lost his faith in their leader and refound his faith in religion. Sadie had realised she can fend for herself, and would rather die trying on her own than die for the gang.

Lenny takes off with Karen and Sean, the brains to their reckless charm. He reads Micah and Dutch were shot dead trying to rob a train. 1899 finishes, 1900 begins. He falls into the same state of perpetual drunkeness as Karen and Sean, trying to forget everything and everyone they lost. And when it's dark, when Karen and Sean have retired for the evening or already passed out, he wonders if he dies again, will he have a chance to find a better ending for them all.

[pagoda-inflatable-tents]

How to Choose the Ideal Inflatable Tent for a Party

How to Choose the Ideal Inflatable Tent for a Party Inflatable tents, a stylish choice for the modern party scene, are quickly becoming the center of attention at outdoor events due to their convenience, unique design and practical features. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, corporate event, wedding, or holiday celebration, inflatable tents can add creativity and comfort to your party. At pagoda-tent.com, you can find a wide range of inflatable tents for every event need. In this article, we will delve into how to choose and use inflatable tents to create the perfect party scene.

Advantages of inflatable tents Quick setup and easy to use Inflatable tents are known for their quick set up and take down. Compared to traditional frame tents, inflatable tents do not require complicated steel frames or support structures. With a built-in air pump, you can inflate the tent in just a few minutes, making it ideal for temporary event venues or parties that need to set up quickly. In addition, inflatable tents are lightweight and easy to transport, making them particularly suitable for events that take place in a variety of venues.

Diverse design and theme options Inflatable tents come in a wide variety of designs to suit different types of party scenes. From the classic dome shape to funky cartoon or themed tents, all can be chosen according to the needs of the event. More than just a practical shelter, these tents can be the visual highlight of a party and a centerpiece to attract guests. For example, for children's birthday parties, you can choose cartoon inflatable tents with unique shapes and bright colors, while for corporate events or weddings, you can choose more high-end and elegant designs.

Environmentally Friendly and Safe Inflatable tents are made from environmentally friendly materials that are durable and safe. They are usually made of thickened PVC or TPU material, which is wind and water resistant. In addition, there are no sharp structures inside the inflatable tent, making it especially suitable for party environments with small children. The tent can be freely ventilated around the perimeter and has a good air circulation design to ensure a comfortable experience for guests inside the tent.

How to choose the right inflatable tent on pagoda-tent.com Browse a wide range of styles and types On pagoda-tent.com, you'll find a wide variety of inflatable tent styles and options, whether you're looking for a tent for a birthday party, wedding, corporate event, or holiday celebration. Common styles include:

Dome inflatable tents: modern and stylish in appearance, perfect for large parties or corporate events, offering enough interior space for a stage, catering area and performance space. Cartoon themed inflatable tents: suitable for children's parties or fun events, with a unique look that can surprise the little ones. Transparent Inflatable Tent: With its simple and stylish design, this type of tent is especially suitable for weddings or romantic outdoor dinners. The transparent material allows guests to enjoy the beautiful scenery outside while enjoying the cozy atmosphere inside the tent. Choose the right size and capacity One of the most important considerations when choosing an inflatable tent is the size and capacity of the tent. Depending on the size of the event, you need to make sure that the tent will be able to accommodate all of your guests and provide enough space to move around. On pagoda-tent.com, you can find different sizes of tents depending on the number of guests. Here are some common suggestions:

Small parties: for small parties of 20-50 people, you can opt for small inflatable tents. These tents have a small footprint, are easy to set up quickly and are perfect for garden parties or small family gatherings. MEDIUM-SIZED EVENT: If your event has 50-100 people, it is recommended to choose a medium-sized inflatable tent. These tents offer more interior space for tables, chairs, catering areas and entertainment, perfect for birthday parties, corporate events or holiday gatherings. Large Events: For large celebrations or outdoor events with more than 100 people, you can opt for a large inflatable tent. Often equipped with higher ceilings and expansive interiors, these tents are suitable for staging, lighting and sound equipment and can create a true party centerpiece. Customization Options and Accessories At pagoda-tent.com, many tent rental services offer personalization options. You can customize your tent's colors, graphics, and even add your company or party logo based on the theme of your party. In addition, you can also choose complementary amenities such as LED lighting, built-in sound system, floor mats, or air conditioning system to enhance the overall experience of your event.

Tips for setting up and using the inflatable tent Quick inflation and fixing Inflatable tents are very easy to set up and are usually equipped with an electric air pump. All you need to do is to connect the pump to the power source and the tent will be inflated within minutes. In order to ensure the stability of the tent, it is recommended to

[deathmetalunicorn1]

I was just watching a video on s YouTube channel called World Friends about word differences between how Americans and British use the same words and OMG! This made me think of a hilarious scenario lol.

I would like to request an American gets transported to ror in Hlokk’s and Jacks waiting room,she was gonna go visit a relative a few states away or maybe go camping in her RV or something so she already has all her necessities like clothes,meds,pads,phone,iPod,iPad,movies,portable DVD player,tea,books,all the good stuff. She’s allowed to stay with Hlokk and Jack and she shares her tea collection with Jack offering some of her Twinnings Lady Grey tea. She spills something on her pant leg at some point be it food or tea I’ll let you pick, so she says she has to go wash it off, while in the bathroom she realizes it’s stained so she hollers to jack, “Hey Jack my pants are stained! I have a spare pare in my bag could you get them out and bring ‘em to me please?!”

https://youtu.be/n3lgSobnvSw

-When Jack told you that he and Glokk wanted to give camping a try, he knew that he wanted to come to you, since you were always camping and knew all the ins and outs of camping.

-Plus you had an RV that meant they didn’t have to sleep outside if they didn’t want to.

-You were a new addition to Valhalla, having been transported there by accident, RV and all, but you were welcomed warmly and found good friends in the Valkyries.

-That’s why you were surprised that Hlokk asked you to take her and Jack camping, as she was one of the more ‘indoor’ type of Valkyrie, but you welcomed them warmly and told them what to pack.

-Riding in the RV was definitely an adventure, it was like a house on wheels, and since you were a good driver, the ride was very smooth and Hlokk was able to explore, seeing all of the snacks and goods you had stocked while Jack sat next to you up front, enjoying the journey.

-Once at your camping spot you set up a large tent and started the battery powered electric pump for the inflatable mattresses, since the weather was nice and warm, perfect for camping.

-Jack enjoyed being outdoors, inhaling deeply as he was relaxing in one of your lounge chairs while you and Hlokk were gathering good to make a campfire with.

-Jack was concerned when Hlokk screeched loudly and ran back to the camp, running immediately into the RV and shutting the door.

-Your laughter was heard next as you came into the campground with the sticks you collected, “It wasn’t going to hurt you! Chipmunks are skittish with humans.” Hlokk was bright red when she peaked out, pouting that you were teasing her.

-Jack found fishing to be very…eventful, as he had slipped after walking into the river after you, wearing a spare set of waders, drenching himself, but since it was warm he wasn’t overly bothered and he caught the biggest fish of the three of you.

-Hlokk gagged when you prepped the fish for dinner, gutting them and removing the bones and scales, something Jack teased her lightly for. However, you were able to appease her afterwards when you pulled out the goodies to make s’mores.

-Jack was only able to eat one, finding it too sweet and offered to make tea, which you and Hlokk both agreed for and he went into your RV to get your electric kettle and tea bags.

-Jack prepared the tea and when he stood to hand you your mug, he slipped and dumped the hot tea onto your lap.

-You instantly squealed in pain as he panicked and you quickly headed into your RV to your bathroom to deal with it and change.

-Jack felt terrible, apologizing through the door while the two sat inside the RV on the sofa, wanting to make sure that you were alright.

-You assured them you were okay, just a little hot now, as you were able to deal with it before it burned you too badly before you called out, “Jack, in my bag is a spare pair of pants, can you grab those for me?”

-You heard no response before Hlokk was laughing loudly and you popped your head out, seeing Jack bright red, holding his cheeks, “Y/N that’s- that’s not proper! I’m a gentlemen and shouldn’t be handling a lady’s unmentionables!!”

-You were confused, “My unmentionables? What are you talking about?” you held out the dirty pants, showing him, “I just wanted my other pair of pants I packed.”

-He immediately exhaled in relief, still red but did as you asked.

-Once back outside you inquired with him why he got so flustered, “Why would pants be unmentionables?” Jack flushed again, trying not to look at you before Hlokk giggled, “I forgot! Y/N you’re from America right, well Jack is from England. Pants are what we call panties in England!”

-Your eyes went wide before you sent a sheepish grin over to Jack, immediately apologizing for putting him in a situation like that, but he was quick to brush it off, as he didn’t know that Americans called them something different.

-Your evening was spent around the fire, discussing the difference in words on either side of the pond, “Wait you call fries chips? Then what do you call chips?” as you held up a bag of potato chips, “Oh those are crisps, now going back to these sausages- is that what you called them? We call them bangers.”

-Hlokk was enjoying seeing the difference as you roasted her another marshmallow, wanting just the marshmallow this time as the three of you had fun, enjoying your mini camping trip.

[ihhfhonao3]

ace attorney fic request: Maya starts taking clown training from Moe and gets her own clown uniform with the red nose and everything

OH MY GOD IM SORRY THAT THIS TOOK FORTY YEARS TO FINISH. All my motivation just DISAPPEARED like the beginning of May so I hope this scratches at least a bit of a (VERY LATE) itch. Thanks for requesting, fic is under the cut!

Lawrence Curls- better known as Moe the clown- wasn’t typically the type of man to be surprised by too much. If he was forced to pinpoint a moment in his life where he became so desensitized to practically everything, the last straw would likely be being a firsthand witness to murder. Not to mention that the person who was murdered was his own late boss.

There were many other events in his life that started to slowly etch away at his ability to care about most things. Practically losing all ability to ever talk to his wife or daughter was pretty up there in terms of life events that started to wear down the camel’s back. It was quite ironic when he thought about it- women always say that they love humorous men when it comes to relationships. But that wasn’t something that Moe was thinking about in this current moment. No, instead he was thinking about what to do with Maya Fey.

The girl had barged into the circus tent early that morning, startling Moe and almost making him lose his balance on a big inflatable ball. On accident, this time. But once he was sure that he wasn’t going to topple over, Moe hopped off the ball and asked what Maya needed. He remembered her being the assistant to that lawyer who defended Max Galactica not too long ago- Wright was his name.

Nothing could prepare Moe for the shock that came with hearing that Maya wanted to become a circus clown.

“I think it’d be fun!” She said. “And you’re one of the best clowns around I know!”

Moe almost corrected her by saying that he was likely the only clown around she knew, but he kept quiet. 

Maya continued to blabber on and on about how she admired Moe and his sense of humor, gushing about how classy and hilarious his jokes were. Moe thought she was simply being patronizing, but if that was the case, she sure as hell was convincing. Moe let Maya finish speaking before he talked himself.

“I just don’t really understand,” Moe said, eyeing Maya up and down. “WHY do you want to be a clown? Of all the careers there are, you choose… this?”

“Didn’t I make it clear? I admire you so much!” Maya said cheerily. “What you do is super awesome- I wanna be like you!”

“Yeah, well, I think you’re choosing the wrong role model here. This job made my wife leave me! HAHAHAHAHA!” Moe laughed.

Maya just stared at him.

“God, I miss her…” Moe mumbled. “I mean uh, this job doesn’t pay that well. Are you sure? I could teach you something way better, like business management!”

Maya made a face. “No thank you. I appreciate your offer, and congratulations on your promotion, but I’ve made up my mind.”

Moe sighed. “Whatever floats your boat, I suppose. Are you sure that this is what you wanna do? You’re completely and totally up for the task?”

Maya nodded vigorously. “Of course! I am but your pupil, sir.”

Maya made an exaggerated bow, and Moe laughed. He then told Maya to come back to the circus at the same time tomorrow, to begin her training.

So now Moe was here, sitting in his office, thinking about what he should do with this situation. He truly didn’t want to turn down such a sweet girl and crush all of her dreams, but she had such a bright future ahead of her doing what she was currently doing. Moe couldn’t exactly remember what it was specifically, but he was sure that whatever it was, it was miles better than being a circus clown. Looking back, Moe sometimes couldn’t even remember what it was that initially motivated him to become a part of the circus. He always thought himself to be quite funny, so surely the logical conclusion after that was to disappoint his family and become a clown. 

Of course, they hadn’t been disappointed at the beginning, but that wasn’t the point.

The point was, this Fey girl had so much life to live- and part of Moe worried that she was actively throwing her life away by choosing this career path. But another thing tugged at him- if she truly was passionate about this, who was he to stop her from following her dreams? Moe could remember a time when he himself was like that. Zealous and passionate, full of piss and vinegar.

Moe laughed at the phrase inside his head. What a dumb saying. Maybe he’ll make a joke out of that one at the next performance that was to come.

Eventually, Moe found his answer, after several minutes of deep thought.

He was going to accept the request and teach Maya how to be an amazing clown.

He quickly got to work writing down tips and ideas for routines that she could perform, depending on what area of clownhood Maya wanted to focus on. What she had to learn in order to tell jokes was very different from what she had to learn in order to dance on an inflatable ball. Moe made sure to take note of this, as well as write down rough outlines of ideas for routines that Maya could perform. At around two in the morning, he decided to call it a night and go to bed. 

Kicking himself for going to sleep so late, Moe dragged himself out of bed at the crack of dawn so he could practice a bit before Maya arrived. Sure enough, as Moe was reciting some jokes he had freshly come up with, the girl returned and tapped him on the shoulder.

“Ah! Maya!” Moe said as cheerfully as physically possible as he turned around. “Glad to see you again. You really are committed, huh?”

Maya nodded rigorously. “Totally! I’m dedicated to this clown thing! What’s my first lesson?”

“Well, have you thought about what kind of clown you want to be?” Moe asked.

Maya stared at him. “I didn’t know that there’s different types of clowns.”

Moe chuckled. “Oh yeah, there’s lots! …Well, actually, there’s only about four I could think of, and one of them is a scary clown, which we’re not doing. So you can choose between a joke clown, a stunt clown, or a prank clown.”

“What do each of them do?” Maya asked.

“Jokes clowns tell jokes like I do,” Moe said. “Stunt clowns do stuff like balancing on a big inflatable ball while juggling. And prank clowns suffer pain for the enjoyment of others. HAHAHAHA! I’m kidding. Well, not really. They do stuff like falling over on purpose and throwing pie in each other’s faces. Technically, I dabble between all three, but since you’re a beginner, let’s choose just one for now.”

Maya closed her eyes and thought. Within a few moments, she opened them back up again and said “Okay, I choose prank clown.”

“Excellent choice!” Moe said excitedly. “Now, let’s get to your training. Follow me to my office.”

Maya trailed after Moe as he headed to his office. Once he went inside, he opened a closet that had a bunch of clown gear. He pulled out a purple suit with yellow stripes on it and big plastic buttons that looked like pink flowers, then handed it to Maya.

“This will be your suit. Wear it well, it is a symbol of honor.” Moe almost burst out laughing at the absurdity of what he was saying, but he really wanted to sell Maya on this. He didn’t want to crush her dreams.

Just as Moe expected, Maya lit up and thanked him, then grabbed the suit and ran to the bathroom to immediately put it on. Moe waited for a couple minutes before Maya came back out, wearing the suit and a gigantic smile.

“Can I get funny shoes too?” Maya asked.

“Sure thing,” Moe replied, digging through his closet. “How does blue sound?”

“Perfect!” Maya said.

Moe handed the gigantic clown shoes to Maya. “Anything else you’d like?”

Maya tapped her chin, thinking. “OH! Could I have a big nose like yours?”

Moe stared at Maya. “This is my real nose.”

Maya went quiet. A moment passed before she said, “Oh… I am so sorry…”

“Ha! It’s totally fine,” Moe laughed. He was trying his hardest to not lose his patience, but he hated thinking about his nose. Far too many people thought it was fake for his liking.

Maya quietly took off her current shoes and replaced them with the big, broad blue clown shoes. She walked around the office a bit, trying out how they felt.

“They’re way too big, but that’s the point, isn’t it?” Maya said. 

“It is indeed,” Moe said. “Now you seem to be all set. Follow me down to the main tent and we can begin your training.”

Maya did a silent cheer as she started to stumble her way back to the tent with Moe. Moe walked extra slowly so as to not leave Maya behind, but she got a hang of the shoes quicker than he expected. Maybe she is meant to have this job, Moe thought to himself. Hey, I’d be crazy if I were to judge!

By the time the two had returned to the main tent, there were some other performers with the circus who were already there practicing. Maya watched as three women made a human pyramid together in one corner of the tent. It was extremely intriguing to her. 

Moe turned around to face Maya for a moment. “Stay here for a bit, will you?”

“I’ll be right here!” Maya beamed.

Moe strained a smile and then hurried to the front of the tent to meet Max Galactica at the entrance, who was just walking in. Maya couldn’t hear their conversation, but from the looks of it, Moe was telling him something important. After a couple of minutes, Moe returned to Maya.

“So, where do we start?” Maya asked eagerly.

“First off, I’m going to teach you what could be one of the most important things to know when being a prank clown,” Moe said. “And that is… the humorous fall.”

Maya seemed confused, so Moe stepped back to demonstrate. He walked a few paces before stepping on his own shoes on purpose, thus tripping and falling over. As he fell, Moe kicked his back foot slightly to propel him forwards and exaggerate the fall, and stuck his arms out to break it so he didn’t get too seriously hurt. Moe then stood up and took a bow as Maya clapped for him.

“What you’re gonna want to do is force yourself to fall,” Moe said. “After you do that, push off of the leg that still has a bit of traction. That emphasizes your fall and makes it funnier.”

“Okay, let me try!” Maya said.

Maya then followed suit in a similar fashion, tripping over her huge shoes and then falling over.

“Not bad, not bad,” Moe critiqued. “But you aren’t pushing forwards enough. Pushing off and forwards really gives the fall that oomph that audiences want. Practice again.”

Maya did as she was told, with her form only being slightly better this time.

“All right, practice your falls when you get the chance,” said Moe.

“I don’t get it…” Maya stated as she got up and dusted herself off. “Why do we want to break our fall? Wouldn't actually getting hurt be more funny?”

Moe snorted slightly. “You’re right, it would. But healthcare is too damn expensive in this country for us to be able to fall like you normally would. HAHAHAHAHAHA!”

Maya looked a little bit disdained by that comment, so Moe coughed curtly and changed the subject.

“Ahem. Um, there’s different ways you can fall too, to switch things up so as to not be too repetitive in your routine,” Moe told Maya.

Moe then proceeded to show Maya how to fall to her side and how to fall backwards, as well as showcased the many different ways that one can slip on a banana peel. Moe explained the use of the banana peel and its significance to the clown act in a circus. Needless to say, Maya was truly enjoying her time learning how to perform in the circus. The magical glow in her eyes that was present when she was investigating the circus with Phoenix all that time ago had since returned, livening her attitude and keeping her cheery. Maybe Moe was disillusioned, but for the life of him he couldn’t figure out why Maya was so happy about this. He guessed that she was going to quit the whole ordeal sometime within the week.

Moe watched as Maya practiced her falls, mesmerized by her determination. Eventually, he snapped back to his senses.

“Um, I think that’s enough for now,” Moe said eventually. “Here, follow me. You can learn how to throw pies next.”

Maya beamed and wiped her hands on her pants, then followed Moe outside the tent. Directly outside of it stood three targets and a small stack of tin pie pans.

“Here is where I practice throwing pies,” Moe said. He picked up one of the tin pans, lifted it to his shoulder, and chucked it right at the target. It hit right in the center.

“That was awesome!” Maya cried. “How’d you do it?”

“Practice, of course,” said Moe. “And look-” Moe picked up one of the pie pans from the stack.

“We don’t have actual pies in them so we don’t waste resources, but we do have dirt packaged inside of them sealed with cling wrap and tape,” Moe said. He titled the pan to show Maya. Sure enough, there was a layer of cling wrap on the top of the pan, secured in place with duct-tape. Below the plastic wrap, inside the pan was a layer of dirt that filled the pan to about halfway. Moe handed the pan to Maya.

“Wow, it weighs almost like a real pie!” she said. “That’s super smart.”

Moe grinned. “Thanks, I came up with it myself. Now, throw that pan at the target, following my lead.”

Maya nodded and did as Moe did- raising the pan to her shoulder and chucking it as hard as she could. It landed near the left of the target.

“Almost,” Moe said encouragingly. “A little more to the right. Focus your eyes on the center of the target, at the bullseye.”

Maya retrieved her pan and tried again, getting closer to the center this time.

“Good!” Moe said. “Practice this and your falls for a little bit. Can I trust you to not burn down the establishment while I go work out some finances?”

“You can count on me, boss!” Maya said, straightening up and saluting at Moe, before proceeding to almost hit a nearby animal trainer in the head with a bad throw.

Moe grimaced. Part of him didn’t know how much he could count on Maya. She had ambition, but she was excitable at times. And new.

Moe headed inside the tent and eventually found Benjamin Woodman, who was aimlessly watching Max practice his magic tricks. Moe could’ve sworn he saw some scorn in his eyes.

“Ben,” Moe called. Ben looked up.

“Would you mind watching over the girl practicing pie-throws outside? She’s a newbie, I don’t really trust her to not knock someone unconscious,” Moe said.

Ben nodded and got up from his spot on the floor, exiting the tent without a word.

“Sometimes I wonder why I don’t fire these airheads,” Moe muttered to himself as he headed to his office. 

~~~

Maya picked up another pie pan and lobbed it at the target. It was slightly above the bullseye.

“So close!” she said to herself. She went to grab the three pans that she had just thrown, retrieving them from the grass. She then stacked them on top of the other pans that sat on the ground beside her.

Truth be told, Maya was having the time of her life. She was learning so much in such a short period of time, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she was learning about something that she actually cared about and wanted to learn. This wasn’t at all like her spirit medium lessons back in Khura’in. 

Maya threw another pie pan at one of the targets as a man in a white coat holding a ventriloquist dummy walked outside and started watching her.

“Oh, hello!” Maya said cheerily as she lobbed another pan. The man simply nodded at her.

Maybe he’s scared of my good arm! Maya thought confidently. She tossed another pan and then went to retrieve it.

The man watched her every move wordlessly, his expression unchanged and static.

“So, uh, what’s your name?” Maya asked, becoming increasingly nervous from being watched.

The man avoided eye contact, but in turn the puppet placed its wooden hand on its hip and spoke.

“The name is Trilo Quist,” the puppet said. “And this big oaf is Ben. Who’s asking?”

“M-Maya Fey…” Maya muttered. The man didn’t seem to move his mouth at all when the puppet spoke for him. Maya was impressed- the man must have lots of skill.

“Tell me Maya, why are you doing this… pan-throwing thingy? Don’t you have something better to do?” asked Trilo.

Gee, what a character! Maya thought to herself. “Eh, no, I was told to practice my pie throws. Mr. Moe said I should, actually.”

“Mr. Moe? Ha! A fool like that doesn’t need a respective title,” Trilo joked. 

Maya looked at him as she threw another pie pan. For some reason, that statement made her angry. “I’ll have you know that Mr. Moe has been nothing but kind and respectful of my goals here, not to mention very supportive and eager to teach me what it means to be a clown.”

“Whatever floats your boat, I suppose,” Trilo shrugged. Ben still refused to make eye contact. 

Maya threw another pie pan. “Why are you here anyways? I mean this in the nicest way possible, but if you’re just going to be here to insult my teacher, I’d rather you leave me be.”

“Your teacher, who is also my boss, I’ll have you know, instructed me to watch over you here,” Trilo said matter-of-factly. “He doesn’t trust you to not burn something down.”

“Har har,” Maya muttered. She wasn’t sure how much she liked this Trilo fellow. Surely the Ben guy was far nicer anyways.

“Why do you talk so much and Ben doesn’t?” Maya inquired as she retrieved her pie pans once more.

“That’s because Ben doesn’t have anything interesting to say,” Trilo said confidently.

Maya rolled her eyes as she stacked the pie pans once more and started to head back into the tent.

“Hey, where are you headed?” Trilo cried. “I’m not supposed to let you out of my sight!”

Probably because your regular job isn’t that important, Maya thought. “I’m just going inside so I can practice falling now.”

Maya could’ve sworn she heard snickering coming from the dummy, but she decided to ignore it. She found herself an empty section of the tent to practice in, wedged between some animal trainers and a magician. Maya cleared some of the sharp rocks and dirt from the ground and started to practice as Ben and Trilo watched her again.

As she practiced her falls, she wondered if Moe was going to come back. And she wondered how Phoenix was doing. And She wondered if Moe was proud of her. And she wondered if this was all a stupid idea.

“���Are ya sure you’re not getting hurt?” Trilo asked suddenly. “Because I’m pretty sure Moe will be a little more than ticked if he found that I was complacent in hurting a newbie. Even though you getting hurt should be your fault.”

“I promise, I’m okay,” Maya strained. Something about this Trilo guy made her irrationally irritated. Not to mention, if she remembered correctly, he was kind of a creep anyways. Maya wondered if it was the puppeteer or the puppet itself that was a creep. She settled on the idea of it being both of them.

“Alright, alright, I was just checking…” Trilo said. He sounded offended.

Maya was becoming increasingly irked by Trilo, but she tried her hardest not to let it bother her. She breathed deep in between her trips and falls, grounding herself before each time. After a little while, Maya was getting a tad bored.

“I’m sure you wouldn’t mind if I looked around the circus a bit, would you?” Maya asked Trilo more than Ben.

“I would mind, actually,” Trilo proclaimed. “You can’t walk around unattended.”

“So escort me,” Maya said, putting a hand on her hip.

Ben looked increasingly uncomfortable. After a long pause, Trilo eventually muttered “Fine.”

The pair that was more of a trio started to walk around the circus. Maya watched the magician Max Galactica, Phoenix’s old client, practice his magic tricks. She watched as he cut a box in half and fiddled with some pieces of cloth that were tied together into one long string. Maya didn’t really understand how any of that related to being a magician, but he seemed to know what he was doing. 

Maya then went to look at the animal tamers. Ben and Trilo stayed around thirty feet away from the animals, much to Maya’s suspicion. She assumed it had something to do with the lion scandal that happened all that time ago. Maya watched as a tiger jumped through hoops and a woman rode on an elephant. Regina Berry, the lead animal trainer, was cheering the creatures on as they performed their tricks. Maya smiled. Regina looked like she was having so much fun.

Maya eventually lost track of time and realized that she had been on too long of a break when she found that Ben and Trilo were nowhere to be found and Moe was approaching her.

“Maya!” Moe called. “Maya, come out to the front of the tent please. I need to talk with you.”

Maya hesitated. She was a little nervous. Had she done something wrong? Did Trilo and Ben tell on her? Did they say that she hadn’t been practicing? Maya swallowed nervously and went to the entrance of the tent.

“Maya, I just wanted to thank you for your dedication,” Moe said. “Not too many people stick around this long, believe it or not. So I admire you for keeping with it.”

“Oh, uh, thanks!” Maya grinned. “I’m actually having a lot of fun.”

Moe reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box. “Here. I wanted to give you this. As a reward- and since you did want to have one of your own.”

Maya opened the box and inside was a classic red rubber clown nose. She gasped and immediately popped it on her face, laughing at how it felt on her.

“How do I look?” Maya asked, spinning in a circle.

“Like an absolute fool,” Moe smiled. “So, I trust you’ll come back here at the same time tomorrow?”

“Yes sir!” Maya said, saluting Moe. “You can count on me!”

Moe laughed. “Get out of here. Go home, have some dinner, say hi to that Wright guy for me.”

“I will!” Maya said as she started to run home.

She had oh so conveniently forgotten about the clown shoes that were still on her feet, tripping over them when she had gotten no more than thirty feet from the circus tent.

[theculturedmarxist]

On Friday, the US Chamber of Commerce issued an open letter to President Joe Biden imploring him to appoint a “mediator” and force through a tentative agreement between the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the over 22,000 dockworkers in the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU).

In the letter addressed to Biden and acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, Suzanne P. Clark, the CEO and president of the Chamber, wrote that the group was “very concerned by the premeditated and disruptive service actions that are slowing operations at several major ports along the West Coast.”

Beginning last week, and continuing through this writing, dockworkers at several West Coast ports have refused to show up to work after it was revealed that the PMA was proposing an across-the-board $1.56 “raise” for dockworkers, well below the rate of inflation. The fury of rank-and-file workers across all three tiers, A, B, and casual, prompted the ILWU, worried that workers would take matters into their own hands, to unofficially authorize job actions that led to the near-shutdown of major ports and terminals.

Dockworkers have been laboring on 29 ports, from Washington to California, without a contract since last July, while the PMA and ILWU have been negotiating in secret for 13 months. These secret negotiations, Andy, a Los Angeles-area dockworker told the WSWS, have left him and his coworkers “frustrated...we don’t know what is going on. We have no say in anything, it is outrageous.”

Commenting on the long hours that dockworkers put in during the pandemic, and the “thanks” they have received so far from the PMA, Andy said, “Me and a lot of other people got over 2,000 hours. We didn’t step out of line, we did everything they asked. The PMA are talking about not giving us enough retroactive pay, that insulting $1.56 pay increase.”

On Friday, June 9, the PMA issued another statement confirming that while job actions had lessened at the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland, the “Ports of Seattle and Tacoma continue to suffer significant slowdowns as a result of targeted ILWU actions.”

The PMA asserted that the ILWU was refusing to dispatch lashers, leaving ships idle and resulting in “a backup of incoming vessels.”

Terrified at the prospect that these limited actions could spiral into a “serious work stoppage at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach” that “would be devastating to...businesses,” Chamber Commerce CEO Clark, on behalf of Wall Street, urged Biden “to appoint an independent mediator to help the parties reach a voluntary agreement.” Clarke wrote that this “step is necessary to avoid potentially billions of dollars in economic damage to the American economy.”

Raising the prospect of invoking the anti-union Taft-Hartley law against dockworkers, and possibly deploying soldiers in the case of a strike, Clarke added that Biden should “consider additional steps that may be necessary in the event of a widespread work stoppage.”

This is the third statement issued by a major big business lobby over the last week calling on Biden to intervene in the dockworker negotiations, on the side of capital. On Monday, representatives from the National Association of Manufacturers and the National Retail Federation also called on the White House to impose a contract on dockworkers.

While Biden himself has not directly commented, his actions last year show that the self-declared most “pro-union” president is more than willing to run roughshod over workers’ democratic rights in order to satiate Wall Street’s unquenchable hunger for profits. Furthermore, high-level officials, in his administration and outside of it, have made clear that the White House has been actively involved in the dockworker negotiations from the outset.

In an interview on CNBC on Thursday, Gene Seroka, the executive director at the Port of Los Angeles, confirmed that the same labor officials who blocked a railroad strike last year, and subsequently dictatorially forced through a rotten pro-company agreement rail workers had already rejected, were again intervening in the contract talks.

“Here’s what’s been happening,” Seroka said. “Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su has been working with both sides, individually and collectively, trying to keep these talks moving.” Su was the deputy labor secretary under Marty Walsh last year during the railroad betrayal.

“Julie and her staff have been working tirelessly, not putting out press releases or coming on TV. They are talking with both sides to keep this progress moving,” Seroka continued, adding, “From the secretary of labor’s seat, this continues to be a top priority.”

While he claimed not to know the exact details, Seroka confirmed that the major conflicts in the contract remain pay and “robotics.” Seroka noted that during the pandemic, “Dockworkers were out on the job six days a week.” The ILWU has confirmed that at least 43 members died of COVID-19, no doubt a significant undercount.

While dockworkers were risking infection and death to move cargo, the companies have pulled in record profits. Shipping giant Maersk, one of several companies represented by the PMA, posted $30.9 billion in profit in 2022. And while shipping rates have declined from their 2021 highs, last month Maesrk still reported a first-quarter profit just under $4 billion.

In interviews with WSWS reporters on Thursday, Los Angeles area dockworkers reflected on the precarious and dangerous character of their work, the hated tier system, which was negotiated in by former ILWU President Harry Bridges in the 1960 Mechanization and Modernization agreement, and the need for dockworkers to unite as a class against the major corporations.

A casual worker said that she has been “a casual for 19 years. I need four more years to make it to Class A. It’s been a long, long time, and we don’t have any rights. My brother is an A man, we were always taught in our family to get union jobs, but things are very tough these days. It’s stressful. I had an accident last month because I had a seizure, which was caused because I was so angry with my boss.”

Commenting on the anti-Asian sentiment that has been whipped up by both big business parties as part of the war drive against China, the dockworker said she was “against all this anti-Asian violence and hate. They are trying to blame Asian people for all the problems, trying to pit worker against worker. We are all facing the same problems.”

A longshoreman who has been a Class A man for 15 years noted that the ILWU along the West Coast had yet to conduct a strike authorization vote nearly a year after the contract expired. “The Canadian longshoremen are having strike authorization votes [Thursday] and Friday. That’s important because the PMA was trying to use the Canadian access from their ports to railways to Chicago and back East to reroute shipping since West Coast longshore have been carrying out job actions here.”

Commenting on the miserly $1.56 raise, a pay cut in real terms, given that inflation in California is over 7 percent, he said, “For us here, I wasn’t happy about that tiny raise the PMA is offering us.”

In a message to other dockworkers, Andy warned about the ongoing conspiracy between Biden, the ILWU and the PMA. “They are all just oligarchs. Biden is doing the same thing Trump would do. The same thing George Bush would do.”

“It really is an international struggle,” he added, “That’s why the internationalism is so important. I mean if me, and all the other dockworkers in the world, got together and decided we weren’t going to move cargo until our demands were met? That would be amazing.”

The fight to link up workers in a joint struggle against the major international carriers requires the development of rank-and-file committees, controlled by the workers and independent of the ILWU union bureaucracy.

Workers cannot let the initiative remain in the hands of the ruling class and its state! It is urgent that workers begin communicating among themselves and coordinating actions to counter the conspiracy between the companies and the Biden administration, assisted by the union apparatus.

[andromedism]

top 5 macden moments?

Thank you for allowing me to think about this even more than usual. ❤️

1. It will always be the RPG handoff in “Tends Bar.” That look on Dennis’ face when he realizes Mac got him a gift, that rare moment of openness and vulnerability. Watched this as it aired back in 2017, and during this part, I jumped out a window and was killed instantly and I’m actually a ghost telling this to you now.

2. Their blowout fight in “Mac Bangs Dennis’ Mom.” Imagine me sitting on my couch tenting my hands together like Mr. Burns from The Simpsons and saying “mm yesss yesss good good” when I watch this scene.

3. I am a sucker for Hugh Honey and Vic Vinager. If I’m reading a fic where they come up, I yell and rip my shirt off like the hulk. I have no shirts anymore. I’ve had to cut holes in reusable grocery bags and wear them. I just got a corner office at work, and immediately bought this art print of them to put up because it’s a canon event in my life to do this.

4. We do have an American hero in the house tonight. A strong man, a brave man. He's the kind of man who knows exactly who he is. He doesn't hide under a toupee. He faces his challenges, instead of just retreating to the sewers...nude to forage for rings and coins. Or to the toilets. Or to a life filled with rats. He's the kind of man who gives me the courage to do an amazing double jackknife twist, which I did. Most of you people wouldn't even attempt that. I did it. And to go down on Chrissy Orlando on the trampoline later, on the very same night, which I also did. And I licked her assh*le a little bit. It was pretty good. It was all right. It wasn't great. But it was fine. And I knew that it was gonna be fine because this guy would be here to catch me if I faltered. Yeah. The world is a safer place when he's around. ♪ Did you ever know that you're my hero? Cause you are the wind Beneath my wings. ♪ Thank you. Thanks.

5. Thought about the “Dennis Gets Divorced” boy toy scene for too long and now mascara is dripping down my face (I’m not wearing mascara).

Honorable Mentions:

The little shrug and smile they exchange at the end of MADBU gets me every time. It’s like a scene from a Nora Ephron film. Why would they do that to me, personally?

This should probably be in the top five, and it’s still fresh so I haven’t figured out where to rank it yet, but they shared a bed in “Inflates.” They did that. Them. Woof.

DDL’s “Um...there's really no easy way to say this, but, um, Mac and I aren't just friends. He's actually my, uh...” “Lover.” “Partner” still goes hard. That’s ao3 dialogue right there.

[mountainshade]

Wedding Event Marquees: Planning Guide

Wedding event marquees are becoming increasingly popular for couples who want to have a unique and memorable wedding day. A marquee offers a blank canvas to create a wedding that reflects the couple’s personality and style. It also provides flexibility in terms of size and location, allowing you to have your dream wedding in a location that may not have been possible with a traditional wedding venue. In this article, we’ll explore the different uses of wedding marquees, how to buy or rent one, and the costs associated with them.

Wedding Event Marquee Uses & Buy

Wedding marquees can be used for various parts of the wedding day, including the ceremony, wedding breakfast, and reception. You can also have different marquees for each part of the day or have one large marquee for everything. It’s important to consider your guest list when choosing the size of your marquee, as you’ll need to ensure there is enough space for everyone. Wedding marquees are available to buy or rent, depending on your budget and preferences.

For The Wedding Ceremony

A Wedding Event Marquees can provide a beautiful setting for your ceremony. You can decorate it to match your wedding theme and create an intimate atmosphere for you and your guests. You can also choose to have the sides of the marquee open, allowing for an outdoor feel while still providing shelter from any weather.

For The Wedding Breakfast

The wedding breakfast is a special part of the day where you can sit down with your guests and enjoy a meal together. A marquee provides a stunning backdrop for this, and you can choose to have long banquet tables or round tables with centerpieces. You can also have a dance floor and a band or DJ to provide entertainment.

For The Wedding Reception

The wedding reception is the perfect opportunity to celebrate with your guests and dance the night away. A marquee provides an excellent space for this, with plenty of room for a dance floor, bar, and seating areas. You can choose to have different lighting options to create the perfect ambiance for your celebration.

Wedding Event Marquee Prices

The cost of a Wedding Event Marquee will depend on various factors, such as the size of the marquee, location, and any additional features you require. As a general guide, a basic marquee for a small wedding can cost around $1,500 to $2,500. A larger marquee with more features, such as heating, flooring, and lighting, can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. It’s essential to get a quote from a reputable marquee company and discuss any additional costs, such as delivery and setup fees.

In conclusion, a Wedding Event Marquee can provide a unique and memorable setting for your special day. It offers flexibility in terms of size and location and provides a blank canvas for you to create a wedding that reflects your personality and style. When considering a wedding Heavy Duty Marquee, it’s essential to consider the different uses for it and choose a size that accommodates your guest list. With careful planning and consideration, a Wedding Event Marquee can provide the perfect setting for your dream wedding.

[lovelylogans]

the parent trap

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: i said a boom GO TO YOUR ROOM

The twins' plots bear oh-so-satisfying fruit.

⁂

Remus is the one who shakes him awake in the dead of night, pressing a finger to his lips.

The plan comes back to Roman in a flash, and he nods, mirroring Remus; finger to the mouth, slippers pulled on.

Remus nods and slides to unzip the entrance to their tent as quietly as possible, turning his head back and forth.

“Coast is clear,” he whispers, and he slips out of the tent, beginning to tip-toe across the campground, Roman quiet as a mouse on his heels.

“I hope that one large sleeping pill worked,” Remus whispers in a particularly cutting impersonation into Roman’s ear, and Roman grins, approaching the tent in question.

They pull aside the cloth of the old tent; as Papa had said, a separate inflatable mattress for Maddox, Papa curled up in his sleeping bag, snoring and dead to the world.

“You take that side,” Roman whispers, gesturing.

“All right,” Remus says, circling around. 

They each take a corner of the mattress and, slowly, slowly, begin to pull.

“Gosh, he’s heavy,” Remus whispers.

“Probably the fluid ton of hair product he hasn’t washed out,” Roman whispers back, and Remus barely manages to stifle his snort in his shoulder.

They manage to tug him onto the bank before Maddox stirs.

They both leap away from the bed, hands on the air.

“Mmm… Patty,” Maddox sighs out, and he flops his head to one side, mouth opening in a great snorting snore.

They snigger together.

“Mmh,” Maddox mumbles, head turning to one side, his hand searching for something, before he settles again. 

Roman nods; they begin to pull again, wading up to their ankles in the water before they splash back onto shore.

“Ready?” Remus whispers, crouching to push the mattress out to proverbial sea.

“In three—two—one!”

With a great push, away sails the S.S. Gold-Digger, seeming to float directly in the line of light of the full moon shimmering down on them, as if from some kind of heavenly benediction of their actions.

“Sweet dreams, stepdaddy dearest!” Remus says, sotto voce, and Roman about doubles over from the effort of keeping his laughter quiet.

⁂

Remus can barely manage to get back to sleep in the aftermath of their event, he’s so excited.

But he’s somehow managed it, because Maddox’s ever-distant screaming breaks over the camp in a reveille much more effective than some teenage boy’s trumpeting.

Remus just about tears open the tent in his excitement of unzipping, Roman bumping into him as they lean their heads out to see.

Maddox’s distant yelping form on the distant mattress, his thrashing visible even from here, is a sight that Remus will cherish his entire life.

“PATTY!!!!”

The scream seems to pierce through all the wilderness. 

That, at last, seems to rouse their father, who pulls up the tent to peer out at things, bemusedly rubbing his eyes and putting his glasses on.

Just in time to see the visibly struggling Maddox attempt to stand on the mattress and promptly, accidentally bellyflop into the lake.

Remus buries his face into Roman’s back, shoulders shaking with laughter, to avoid any semblance of Look their father might be giving them.

He hears his father shuffle to exit the tent, presumably to go help, and Remus chances a peek to see Maddox paddling clumsily back to shore.

“Oh, he’s pissed,” Remus whispers gleefully to Roman, Maddox’s face gone fire-engine red.

“We’ll see if that does it,” Roman murmurs.

“Oh, I’ve got plenty of ideas if it doesn’t,” Remus says, as Maddox finally manages to get to the shore.

There’s the plop, plop, plop of Maddox’s wet slippers as he storms up the bank, hands balled into fists, a vein popping out on his neck. He angrily kicks at Pa’s coffee pot, set up beside the campfire that hasn’t yet been lit, sending it flying off a not-quite-impressive distance.

Remember the beauty of this, Remus thinks to himself. This is some of the most excellent chaos I’ll ever wreak in my entire life.

“What’s going on?” Pa asks in genuine concern.

That seems to be all it takes to make Maddox really lose it.

“Here’s what’s going on, buddy,” he yells. “The day we get married is the day I ship those brats off to Switzerland! 

Pa’s expression drops. And then, the longer Maddox yells, it solidifies into some blank, almost eerie resolve that he’s never seen on Pa’s face before.

“Get the picture?! It’s me or them. Take your pick.”

Pa looks over to see the twins, and, with zero hesitation, turns to face Maddox again.

“Them.”

That seems to pull Maddox up short.

“Excuse me?!” He splutters.

“My kids,” Pa says, overcome with some kind of preternatural calm. “T-h-e-m, them.”

Then, he tilts his head down to look Maddox face-to-face, eye-to-eye, and, in a move that makes Remus wonder about where he’s picked up the mischievous streak, adds:

“Get the picture?”

⁂

“So,” Virgil says. “Resounding success on the date front, I think.”

“Yes,” Logan agrees faintly, from where he is in the other bed of the hotel they’d managed to book for their impromptu kiss. “Yes, I think I quite agree.”

“I’d like to propose moving forward that whole mutually beneficial agreement you mentioned yesterday.” Virgil says, rolling onto his side and propping himself up on his elbow.

“I think that can be arranged,” Logan says, and he leans in for another kiss.

Their eventual departure is even more delayed, but Logan can’t bring himself to fret about it too much.

⁂

Janus looks up from his design, puzzled, as he hears a hoking of a horn that is probably meant to sound like some kind of song.

Logan and Virgil, surely; the boys and Patton aren’t due to be back for another day.

But even as Janus crosses through the front door to stand on the balcony, he spies that sapphire blue truck. He pulls his flannel around him as the doors open and his identical sons—one in green, one in red, seeming to have finally given up this matchy-matchy facade—spill out of the car.

“Hello,” Janus calls down, distinctly puzzled. “Back so soon—did you have fun?”

“I wouldn’t jump right to fun,” Remus grumbles, untying the bags and grabbing Roman’s pack for him, handing it over.

“You wouldn’t?” Janus says.

“We’ve been punished to the end of the century,” Roman says glumly, pulling his pack over his shoulders.

“Starting now,” Patton says, taking Remus’s pack off the truckbed and setting it into his arms. “Go.”

The boys begin to scuttle up the stairs to meet him as Patton picks up his own pack, leaving the rest.

“Where’s Maddox?” Janus says, still bemused. Please, please, please…

“We played a couple of harmless tricks on him,” Remus says. “He kinda freaked out a little.”

“A little?!” Patton says incredulously, catching up to all of them on the balcony. He presents the emerald-cut engagement ring in his hand for Janus to see.

“He threw this at my head.”

Janus’s hand goes over his mouth. Not in time, Janus thinks, to completely obscure the fact that his smile widened when Patton broke the news.

“At least it’s smaller than a hair-dryer,” Patton tells him ruefully.

“Oh, Patton,” Janus says, barely managing to quash the delight in his voice. “This is all my fault, if I hadn’t suggested he go…”

“Oh, tricked,” Patton says, jabbing a finger at Janus good-naturedly. “Tricked would be more like it.”

He levels a stern expression down at their children. “Like father, like sons.”

“We really are sorry, Papa,” Roman says anxiously. Janus puts a fatherly hand on his shoulder, using the other to smooth Roman’s hair over his forehead.

“Yeah,” Remus says, not at all disguising that he absolutely does not mean it. “Really.”

“Up to your room,” Patton says. “Now.”

The boys shamble along inside.

Patton cranes his neck to watch them go. And, when they’re out of earshot and eyeshot:

“I’ll have to remember to thank them for that one day.”

Janus gives him a surprised look. “I thought you were mad at them.”

“I am, a little,” Patton confesses. “They weren’t being particularly kind.”

“Maddox wasn’t being particularly kind to you,” Janus says.

Patton is quiet.

“I don’t think kindness is owed to anyone being unkind to someone you love,” Janus continues softly, then catches himself and how that might sound. “At least—I’m sure that’s what the boys’ logic is. Was.”

“...you think he was being unkind?”

Janus once again remembers that he’s speaking to one of the most benevolent, trusting people to ever walk the Earth.

“I think,” Janus says carefully, “that you have certainly raised Remus, and I know I’ve raised Roman, in a way that makes them fairly good judges of character. And—I’m not that certain how much Virgil’s disclosed to you—”

“They never got along that well,” Patton says gloomily. “I was hoping that it was introduction jitters. Virgil gets nervous around new people sometimes.”

“—well… right. Virgil didn’t like him particularly much either. And I think that… when all of your loved ones don’t particularly enjoy the new person that you’ve brought into their lives…”

Janus trails off; Patton’s face has been dropping and dropping the longer he’s talked.

“I’m sorry,” is all he can say, and that seems to do it.

Patton’s face screws up, and he quickly turns away, but the way his shoulders are hunching and his hands balling up are dead giveaways; Roman does the same thing.

“I’m so stupid,” Patton says, and his voice cracks, and a hand comes up to cover his face.

“Oh, Patton.” Janus says, cautiously stepping closer, cautiously putting a sympathetic hand on his shoulder, the other wrapping around his bicep.

“I can’t believe I didn’t see it,” Patton says. He blinks tears out of his big, brown eyes. “When you put it like that—God, how could I be so dumb?!”

“You’re not—”

“Virgil hates him, and he has a stronger gut feeling than anyone I know,” Patton says. “The boys hate him, and I have their best interests at heart, always, of course I should have recognized they’d do the same for me—God, even Maddox told me outright that the twins thought he’d be the wicked step-father, like out of some kind of fairytale, and I still didn’t see it!”

“Take it from someone working in the wedding industry: you are not the first groom to ever be led down the aisle without key, crucial context about the person he’s marrying.” Janus says. “And, I mean, hey. You didn’t even get to the led down the aisle part. You got the information, you broke it off, it’s perfectly normal to be upset about that.”

This is the wrong move. Patton dissolves into even more tears; Janus results to helpless shh-shh-shh-ing. He, floundering in these sorts of situations as he always does, simply rubs small circles into his back and makes soothing noises the best he can and resolves to try to not put his foot in his mouth like that again.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t—you shouldn’t have to—” Patton chokes out, but he doesn’t step away. 

“Do you want to be alone?” Janus asks. He almost says, and don’t lie, but that’s what he’d do in this situation. Not Patton. Never Patton.

“No,” Patton says miserably. “That’s what’s gotten me into this whole mess. I don’t want to be alone. I just—”

His voice cracks again; Janus, floundering in these sorts of situations as he always does, simply rubs small circles into his back.

“I want it so bad,” Patton cries.

“It?” Janus can’t help but ask.

“It,” Patton says mournfully. “I’m so close. I have the house of my dreams, and I job I love with my best friend, and a kid I adore, and I’m in contact with the other one now and I love him just as much, I just want—”

Janus swallows. “Someone to share it all with.”

Janus does not say it. But of course, he wants It too.

“Yes,” Patton says. 

Then, quieter: “Yes. Of course I want that.”

Janus clears his throat, rubbing Patton’s back one last time before he steps back.

“Would you like dinner?” He says. “I know it may not fix all of your problems, but at least you’ll have a full stomach.”

Patton, rubbing at his eyes, smiles; a little, feeble thing, but a smile all the same.

“You cook now?”

“Of course I know how to cook,” Janus says. “I can make pasta. And… spaghetti. And—”

“Pasta,” Patton interrupts him, smiling. “Pasta sounds good.”

“Good,” Janus says. “How about you go splash some cold water on your face, and I’ll go about ransacking your pantry for materials.”

“Okay,” Patton says, and he turns to go into the house.

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