#like basking in the sun and riding your bike to the beach and enjoying times with friends

[galaxychaos78]

Saw people on TikTok hating on TV Girl's new album and I was suddenly reminded of when Paramore dropped After Laughter and everyone was losing their shits saying how bad it was

[emmie-writes-stuff]

I was tagged in the writers game by @boinin, thank you for the tag!!!

So let’s share some writing

I haven’t done as much work as I should be doing because of school but here’s some of the Hiorin fic that I write in my spare time

[The wind felt nice on Rin’s face, brisk and very present on the bike ride. It took more effort than necessary to not just close his eyes and bask in the outdoors. Blue Lock was so isolating, so one minded. The only focus was growing your ego and being the one to survive.

This slight escape, however fleeting and short lived it was, Rin needed it. A reminder of what awaited him after he won Blue Lock. He’d be able to play, to outshine all the competition, in the outdoors. He’d forgotten how much he enjoyed nature.

The familiar sound of waves crashing on the shoreline filled his ears as Rin got closer to the beach. An overwhelming sense of calmness and nostalgia hit Rin as he pressed down on the hand brakes. He locked his bike, double locked it actually, and placed his hands in his jacket pockets before slowly walking to the edge of where the land met the sea.

Salt and moisture drifted up with each lap of water against concrete, and Rin allowed his eyes to close. He let the scene wash over him, as if he was in the waves himself. Memories flooded back, of him and Sae when they were kids, sharing ice cream and walking hand in hand along this same path.

Rin used to stutter step to keep up. He copied every expression that nii-chan made, copied every motion. Back then, he had to look up to see Sae’s face. Now, Rin had to glance down in order to not be staring at his brother’s forehead.

Rin pulled his phone out of his pocket and opened the camera. He didn’t usually take photos of the sea, he hadn’t had to in the past. If Rin wanted to look at the ocean, he’d simply go to the sea. But in Blue Lock, this would be the only way to see the ocean.

Rin took a few pictures, making sure the light properly reflected off the water to capture the full effect of the moment. The dock was around fifty metres away, and Rin took his time getting there, meandering down the pavement.

A few other people were around, taking bike rides or walking dogs. A couple rode skateboards down the path and a few jogged just barely in the street. This was life. The town was alive, with everyone going about their own lives with no connection to the strangers around them.

The sound of his footsteps changed as Rin turned onto the dock. An old man was about halfway down, fishing tackle piled up next to him as his line waited in the water. Rin paused and took another photo.

When he reached the edge of the dock, Rin knelt to the floor and swung his legs over the edge. The waves seemed to reach out for him, begging for Rin to lower himself into the water and drift around at their will. Instead, Rin focused the camera and took multiple photos, like a panoramic shot.

He turned off his phone and returned it to his pocket, zipping it up just to be safe. He pressed his fingers into the old familiar wood and leaned forward, out towards the sea. Rin always felt calmed by the water, it was constant and ever changing at the same time. Always there but never the same. Changing, growing, but still being the same ocean.

Rin sat there for a while, just watching the waves roll across the horizon and splash against the pillars. His shoes got just a little wet, but it was nice. As the sun rose high in the sky, Rin pulled his legs back over the edge and pushed himself up. Time to go back.]

I like writing melancholy and reflection stuff, it’s fun for me, so hope y’all liked this

Im gonna be honest, I don’t really know many people who write on here that haven’t already done this, so if ya see this on my page and wanna do the tag, be my guest

Open tagging for folks :3

[goldencoastriders]

Conquering the California Coast - A Motorcycle Road Trip Itinerary

Sun, sand, and endless highways await! Embark on an epic California coast motorcycle adventure. Imagine this: You, your motorcycle, and the open road. The Pacific Ocean stretches out beside you, the sun warms your face, and the wind whispers through your helmet. This is the California coast calling, and we've got the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable motorcycle journey.

Why Choose Golden Coast Riders for Your Coastal Adventure?

Before you hit the road, here's why you should choose us for your Motorcycle Rentals San Diego needs:

Killer Bikes: We've got a rad selection of motorcycles from top brands like Harley-Davidson, BMW, and Triumph, perfect for cruising the coast.

Gnarly Gear: We provide DOT-approved helmets with every rental and offer other gear for rent or purchase, so you can ride safely and in style.

Route Recommendations: Our team knows the California coast like the back of their hand. We can suggest awesome routes, hidden gems, and biker-friendly stops.

Easy Booking: Our online reservation system makes it super easy to book your dream ride. No hassle, just pure riding joy.

Support on the Road: We offer 24/7 roadside assistance because sometimes things go sideways on an adventure. We're here to help you get back on track.

Unforgettable Experiences: We're all about providing excellent service and helping you create an epic motorcycle adventure on the California coast.

Your California Coast Motorcycle Itinerary

This itinerary covers some of the most iconic stretches of the California coast, from San Diego to San Francisco. Feel free to adjust it based on your time and interests.

Day 1:

Start your journey in San Diego. Pick up your motorcycle rental from Golden Coast Riders in Escondido.

Cruise north on the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

Stop for lunch in La Jolla and admire the seals basking in the sun.

Continue north and spend the night in Oceanside.

Day 2:

Enjoy a morning ride through Camp Pendleton and marvel at the rugged coastline.

Stop in San Clemente for some surf vibes and delicious fish tacos.

Continue north on the PCH, passing through Laguna Beach and Newport Beach.

Spend the night in Huntington Beach, known as "Surf City USA."

Day 3:

Explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Visit Hollywood, Santa Monica, or Venice Beach.

Take a detour inland to experience the iconic Mulholland Drive with its stunning views.

Head north on the PCH, passing through Malibu and Santa Barbara.

Enjoy a relaxing evening in the charming town of Solvang, known for its Danish heritage.

Day 4:

Continue north on the PCH, hugging the dramatic Big Sur coastline.

Stop at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a hike among redwood trees and breathtaking views.

Visit the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and capture some Instagram-worthy photos.

Spend the night in Monterey, a historic town with a vibrant waterfront.

Day 5:

Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the world's best aquariums.

Ride along the scenic 17-Mile Drive, passing Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress.

Continue north to Santa Cruz, a lively beach town with a classic boardwalk.

Spend the night in Santa Cruz and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere.

Day 6:

Head north towards San Francisco, passing through Half Moon Bay and Pacifica.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge, a truly iconic landmark.

Explore the vibrant city of San Francisco, with its diverse neighborhoods and attractions.

Spend the night in San Francisco and soak up its unique charm.

Day 7:

Enjoy a final morning ride through San Francisco, perhaps exploring Golden Gate Park or the Presidio.

Return your motorcycle rental and reflect on your epic California coast adventure.

FAQs About a California Coast Motorcycle Trip

Q: Where can I rent a motorcycle in San Diego for my coastal road trip?

A: Golden Coast Riders in Escondido has you covered! We offer a wide variety of motorcycles perfect for cruising the coast. Check out our website or give us a call at +1 (858) 780-6008 to book your ride.

Q: Can I rent a Kawasaki Z900 in San Diego for this trip?

A: Absolutely! We have a variety of Kawasaki Z900 models available for rent, from classic cruisers to modern touring bikes. Live your California dream on a Harley!

Q: Are there any motorcycle rentals near me in Los Angeles if I want to start my trip there?

A: While we're located in San Diego, there are several reputable motorcycle rental companies in Los Angeles. EagleRider, Rent A Harley, and Hertz Ride are a few options to consider.

Q: What are some must-see stops on a California coast motorcycle trip?

A: Besides the places mentioned in our itinerary, consider visiting Morro Bay, Hearst Castle, Point Reyes National Seashore, and the Avenue of the Giants.

Q: I'm a new rider. Is this itinerary suitable for me?

A: The California coast offers a mix of easy and challenging riding. If you're a new rider, focus on the more relaxed stretches of the PCH and avoid areas with heavy traffic or tight curves.

Q: What kind of gear should I pack for a California coast motorcycle trip?

A: Pack layers for varying weather conditions, including a jacket, gloves, and rain gear. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a comfortable helmet.

Hit the Road and Embrace the Journey!

A motorcycle road trip along the California coast is an experience you won't soon forget. With stunning scenery, charming towns, and the freedom of the open road, it's an adventure that will stay with you long after you return home. So, what are you waiting for? Book your motorcycle rental, pack your bags, and get ready to conquer the California coast!

Contact Details:

Golden Coast Riders Motorcycle Rentals 

Address: 2120 W Mission Rd STE 250, Escondido, CA 92029, United States Phone: +1 (858) 780-6008

[lookategypttrips]

Uncover the Magic of the Red Sea: Sharm El Sheikh Excursions

Explore the Wonders of Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, located on the southern tip of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, is a renowned resort town famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious resorts. It is a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax by the sea. With a variety of Sharm El Sheikh excursions, you can explore the best that this beautiful region has to offer. Here’s your guide to the most exciting excursions in Sharm El Sheikh.

Why Choose Sharm El Sheikh Excursions?

Sharm El Sheikh excursions offer a wide range of activities that cater to every type of traveler. Here’s why these excursions are an excellent addition to your travel plans:

Diverse Activities: From diving and snorkeling to desert safaris and cultural tours, there is something for everyone.

Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of the Red Sea, the Sinai desert, and majestic mountain landscapes.

Convenience: Organized excursions take care of all the details, allowing you to relax and enjoy your adventure.

Top Sharm El Sheikh Excursions

Snorkeling and Diving in the Red Sea

Sharm El Sheikh is world-famous for its diving and snorkeling spots. The Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a diver’s paradise. Excursions to famous dive sites like Ras Mohammed National Park and the SS Thistlegorm wreck offer unforgettable underwater experiences. Whether you are a novice or an experienced diver, Sharm El Sheikh has diving and snorkeling adventures for every level.

Ras Mohammed National Park

A day trip to Ras Mohammed National Park is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This protected area is home to some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world, as well as diverse marine life. Snorkel among colorful corals, enjoy a relaxing swim, or simply bask in the sun on the pristine beaches. The park also offers excellent bird-watching opportunities and scenic hiking trails.

Desert Safari and Bedouin Experience

Experience the rugged beauty of the Sinai desert with a thrilling desert safari. Ride a quad bike or a 4x4 vehicle over the dunes, or enjoy a more traditional camel ride. Many desert excursions include a visit to a Bedouin camp, where you can learn about Bedouin culture, enjoy a traditional meal, and watch the sunset over the desert landscape. Some tours also offer the opportunity to stargaze in the clear desert skies.

Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery

For a spiritual and historical adventure, take a trip to Mount Sinai, where according to tradition, Moses received the Ten Commandments. The hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. At the base of the mountain, visit St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world. This ancient site houses a rich collection of religious artifacts and manuscripts.

Tiran Island

Tiran Island is another top destination for snorkeling and diving excursions. Located at the entrance of the Gulf of Aqaba, the island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Enjoy a day of snorkeling in the clear waters, relax on the sandy beaches, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding sea and mountains.

Planning Your Sharm El Sheikh Excursions

Best Time to Visit

The best time to enjoy Sharm El Sheikh excursions is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. During these months, you can comfortably participate in outdoor activities without the intense heat of the summer.

Practical Tips

Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the activities you plan to participate in. For water excursions, bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.

Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during desert excursions and outdoor activities.

Book in Advance: Popular excursions can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to book your activities in advance to secure your spot.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Selecting a reliable tour operator is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Look for operators with positive reviews, experienced guides, and well-organized itineraries. A good tour operator will ensure that your excursions are memorable and stress-free, providing valuable insights and assistance throughout your journey.

Conclusion

Sharm El Sheikh excursions offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re diving into the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea, embarking on a thrilling desert safari, or hiking up Mount Sinai, these excursions provide unforgettable experiences for every traveler. For more information and to start planning your adventures, visit our guide on Sharm El Sheikh Excursions. Dive into the beauty and excitement of Sharm El Sheikh and make the most of your Red Sea getaway.

[binicarsmenorca]

Best Boat Tours and Cruises in Menorca

You are going to love Menorca if you like less crowded beaches, super fine sand, warm weather, and crystal-clear waters. With more than 100 spectacular beaches and a 216 km coastline, this Mediterranean Island is perfect for beach lovers who prefer a more laid-back destination than Ibiza or Mallorca.Laid back or not, this island has very good infrastructure and facilities for tourists. Right from great accommodation options to amazing boat tours and water sports to cheap car rental, Menorca has quite a lot to offer. In this blog, we will talk about the five best cruises and boat scooter Menorcatrips in Menorca (P.S. all are our personal favourites).Natural Coves and Beaches Boat TripThe 7-hour trip is offered by Menorca Blava, one of Menorca’s top boat trip companies. Explore the Island’s southern coast, sail to Menorca’s most natural beaches, such as Son Saura and Cala Turquela, discover Macarella and Macarelleta coves, and enjoy scrumptious Mediterranean cuisines. You will get a live tour guide fluent in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian languages.The trip starts from the old port of Ciutadella. It doesn’t include hotel pick-up and drop-off, water activities, or car hire service in Menorca.

Visit Up to 8 South Beaches in Half a DayWant to cover the best of Menorca’s south beaches? Choose this boat trip offered by Marenostrum Charter. All you have to do is sit back and relax while the cruise takes you to six to eight most stunning beaches of Menorca that are less crowded. You will also be provided with snorkelling gear and a stand-up paddle in case you wish to snorkel and explore the undersea world.The trip is 3 – 4 rent a car Menorcahours long with stops at the following beaches: Cala Turqueta, Cala Escorxada, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Macarella, Cala Trebaluger, Playa Arenal De Son Saura, Cala Galdana, and Cala Fusta.

Catamaran Trip and SnorkellingA perfect way to discover the northern coast of Menorca in an exclusive Catamaran. The catamaran is the fastest sailing vessel in Menorca, ideal for small groups not exceeding 10 people. This is a 3 hours tour offered by Katayak Menorca, includes a visit to one or two beaches, coves, or virgin bays depending upon the weather, and guided snorkelling.You can snorkel in the clear blue waters of Menorca. A certified guide will accompany you, and all equipment will be provided for the guests. This wholesome boat ride will help you disconnect from city life with your family and friends. Get unlimited drinks and snacks to devour and breath-taking landscapes to view. rent a bike Menorca

Full-Day Boat Trip with Authentic LunchUnwind and refresh in the calmness of the sea and freshness of the air. The full-day Menorca boat tour offered by Excursions Menorca takes you to the best beaches around, swimming in unspoiled bays, and a hearty paella lunch on the board.You will stop at virgin beaches like Son Saura, Cala en Turquela, and Cala Macarella-Macarelleta, bask in the sun, go swimming or snorkelling, or simply relax on the boat.At lunchtime, you will be served an authentic paella lunch with a glass of Sangria. Get tourist guides in several languages. Note that snorkelling equipment or an instructor is not included in the trip package.While the company offers pick-up and drop-off service at an additional cost, you can rent a car in Menorca at a much more affordable price for your entire tour from Binicars.

Kayaking and Snorkelling in Menorca’s Marine ReserveEnjoy Kayaking? This is the perfect opportunity to paddle through the most beautiful marine reserve in Fornells, Minorca. Kayak through the northern coast of Menorca and snorkel in two different areas of a marine reserve. You will have plenty of time to sunbathe and rest on the beach of s’Arenelet before paddling back to the starting point.The 3.5 hour-trip includes a paddle and life vest, drum for personal belongings, guide in three languages, insurance, double or single kayak, and snorkelling gear.

Hope this blog helps you choose the right boat trip in Menorca for you and your family. For cheap car hire in Menorca, you can book our cars online.

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[cyborg-franky]

One Piece Characters Ideal First Dates

Just wanted to do something fluffy and silly, sorry if anyone has done these before <3

Ace

Shows up in a panic, maybe a little late or too early but never on time.

Would go for food, probably something like pizza or other junk type food.

Games arcade to play lots of games together.

Maybe a concert or a gig, something loud and high energy.

Will rock up in baggy jeans and band shirts.

Marco

Often late but will at least text ahead of he is.

Loves going on a coffee dates.

Or a cocktail date.

He’s fond of meeting late afternoon so he can take you for a walk along the beach as the sun sets and then takes you for some nice fruity cocktails.

Maybe another walk on the beach under the stars.

Sandals, capri pants, loose-fitting shirts, or bright tye dyes.

Thatch

On time, no worries there.

Takes you to a nice restaurant on the seafront.

Likes to go somewhere with live music but not too loud.

Maybe a spot of dancing in the evening.

Another man who’d like to walk with you on the beach.

Wears nice pants or smart jeans, form-fitting shirts

Izou

On time, expects the same, you have a window of ten minutes before he leaves.

He would take you to a fancy meal or perhaps a cute tea garden with a traditional performance.

Or he takes you to a fashion show and you go on a really nice shopping trip.

The kinda shopping trip that had fancy drinks and pricey food.

He would wear beautiful dresses or a skirt and blouse combo.

Be prepared to bask in his splendor.

Deuce

On time, maybe even early, and sits around with nervous pacing if you are even a minute late yourself.

He would take you to a nice cafe where you would get something to eat and drink and he would get to know you.

The first date would be short because he’s still getting used to you but it’s nice.

Maybe go see a play or something.

Sabo

He will be late, 100%

But he’ll be sorry and make it worth your while.

He will either be nice and fancy and take you for a nice afternoon tea in a fancy tea place or a garden or he will be a grubby gremlin and drag you around underground bars where people look a little sus and like you couldn’t leave your bag unattended.

He won't take you to chain places, they all have to be independent.

Law

Will be on time.

He likes a nice easy coffee date, something simple and casual so he can work you out and decide if he wants to spend more time with you or not.

If he does like you he’s happy to take you to a movie later, something that's nice and peaceful and he can judge you on how quiet you are during the movie, he doesn’t like a talker or someone annoying.

Corazon

He would be on time until something messed up and you’d end up having to wait for him for a while but he will be super sorry about it!

Dinner somewhere nice, maybe somewhere with a garden you guys could sit and eat, have a drink and so he could have a smoke.

Maybe riverside, something romantic.

Then he’d walk you home through a nice park.

Kid

Believe it or not but this fucker would be on time because he would hate it if someone wasted his time.

A loud concert would be his ideal first date, and some drinks, and food in a bar that plays live music is also ideal for him.

Maybe just sitting together outside on the steps as the band plays inside as he offers you another drink.

Something chill so he can get to know you but also shows you a taste of what he’s like as a person.

Killer

Similar to Kid on the being on time but also enjoying something with live bands or performances.

On the flip side, if he knows you aren’t the loud places kina person he’s happy to come to your place and cook for you and you guys could watch a movie.

He might even take you for a ride on his bike and sit under the stars.

Buggy

On-time [Yes, wow I know]

He loves a good drinking session and getting to know someone, he’s his most honest after a few drinks.

But he also loves a good game.

Bowling is something he adores.

It's silly and fun he could use his power to cheat at it and he’s pretty good at it.

Let him win though.

Roger

He’s late, but you didn’t expect anything else.

Gives you a bone-crushing hug as a sorry though so it’s all good.

He takes you to mini/crazy golf and a few beers.

He fucking loves silly things like this.

The drinks flow, and the banter and compliments also.

You will have a wild time playing golf with this man.

He doesn’t know his own strength and will knock the ball into space once or twice.

[hunflowers]

The Aftermath

Word Count: 3.7k

Requested? Yes, and you can too, here :)

A/N: here she is, the little piece of the puzzle y’all have been waiting for. it’s a small part two of 1964, and it’ll take place just after their reunion at the end of the story!! i hope you enjoy it, because i missed writing my babies a lot and i hope you love them just as much as me.

pls, reblog the fics you read or heck even if you see it on your dash; it means a lot <3

good luck and have fun, in that order *nose boops*

“Happy Birthday, Rose.”

No one can explain the phenomenon of joy processed through the body and soul as Harry spoke those simple words into the air to Y/N.

It can only be described as a chill shooting down her spine, flaring goosebumps on her skin, her mouth running dry at the sight of him, or maybe the way her eyes glossed over with a glistening sheen. Pure joy.

As if she didn't already feel transported back to 1964 when sharing her many stories with her eager to learn granddaughter, she certainly did now. Seeing Harry's face, the same features that made her swoon all those years ago - though a little mature now - made her feel like she was her twenty-one year old self all over again.

It felt like a movie, as if the two of them shaped back into their younger statures, adorned in the style from way back when, embodying a world of black and white that would explode into color. Hannah and Eleanor disappeared into the future, and all there was, was Harry and Y/N like how they once were.

Before she could process what she was doing, Y/N was scurrying across the wood floor, walking the fast she has in a while, throwing her arms around Harry’s shoulders and burying her face into the crook of his neck. She could feel the rumble of his chest as he laughed, easily reciprocating the love by engulfing her in a hug, pulling her impossibly closer.

The smell of the roses swarmed Y/N’s nose, tingling her senses in the best way possible. Her brain was overpowering as it continued to be overwhelmed by the events happening, still trying to understand how Harry, her H, was in front of her.

Pulling away a few moments later - but not completely unraveling herself from his hold - she looked up at him, looking at her favorite shade of green that she tried so hard to recreate yet always failed. “Are you really here?”

“Yes! He is, Nona!” Ellie cheered from behind her, causing everyone to gape at her while also laughing. He’s really here, in her arms, breathing the same air as her.

Maybe he wasn’t a dream, after all.

Looking back up at him, Y/N smiled softly, bringing her hands up under his jaw, using her thumbs to caress the soft skin that was lined with a little bit of stubble. “I missed you,” she whispered, almost like it was meant to be a secret.

With his own little grin, Harry placed his own free hand on her cheek, using his thumb to swipe the tear that managed to escape her eye without her noticing. Instinctively, Y/N leaned her head to rest in his palm, a reflex she never seemed to have shake.

Harry didn’t have to say anything back for her to know that he felt the same way, if not more. His actions always spoke a lot louder than his words, and it also seemed that old habits hardly seem to die, even so many years later.

“Okay,” Hannah cleared her throat, trying to gain the attention of the two older folk for the first time in the last couple of minutes. “We’re meeting Aunt Carmella and Uncle Frank in twenty minutes.”

The duo separated, heat rising to their cheeks as they realized just how close they had been for those moments. Harry offered her her bouquet of roses, to which she took gratefully and scurried off to find a vase, uttering a quick, “I’ll be right back.”

In reality, yes she went to find a vase, but Y/N also needed a second to recuperate, inhaling deeply to get her heart to start slowing its rapid pace. Fifty-five years since she’s seen him.

Fifty-five.

It was a lot to comprehend. She was convinced she’d never look at him, hold him, appreciate his existence ever again. One thing is for sure, she never did stop loving him.

Y/N placed her hands down on the counter she placed her roses on, leaning her weight onto her hands as she felt the emotions roll over her like waves crashing on a beach. Her insides felt like mush. She was experiencing the come down after getting off a rowdy rollercoaster, like those she used to go on on Coney Island whenever she visited New York. Electricity shot through her veins as if she had been succumbed to the consequences of the electric chair - yet it wasn’t painful. In fact, she felt alive.

“Mom,” Hannah spoke from behind her, causing her to nearly jump out of her skin. Y/N didn’t realize she had been so lost in her own thoughts for a few moments there. Raising her hand to her chest, she turned around and let out a breath, before smacking her daughter in the shoulder.

“You can’t do that to me, Han. I’m old, I could die from a heart attack.”

“Don’t even joke about something like that,” Hannah rolled her eyes. But quickly the annoyance dissipated as she remembered why she came into the kitchen in the first place. “Are you okay?”

Y/N pursed her lips, giving her a simple shrug. “Yes and no. It’s not easy being reminded of... the love and pain I felt. How did you even find him, anyway?”

Hannah sheepishly smiled, “Aunt Carmella...”

Y/N scoffed, knowing it was exactly like her friend to be secretive about something so monumental like knowing where Harry is and how to contact him. She couldn’t determine if it was a good thing that Carmella kept this information from her, but deep down she knew it was.

As soon as Y/N gathered her wits, the foursome were out the door and on their way to lunch. They had decided to drive two separate cars, and after a bit of begging, Y/N let Harry drive them in his rental. Though, along the way it was a bit of rocky journey. “First time driving on the right side of the road,” was his excuse.

In the car ride, Y/N took the time to truly admire the man she once laid beside at night, trying to wrap her head around the fact that he was next to her again. She wondered if in his old age he would turn wrinkled and decrepit, maybe using a cane or having a hunch back. It only seemed fitting that he beat all of those stereotypes and looked like he had the health of his younger self rather than a seventy-six year old man. He’s timeless; just like their love.

When they finally met up with Carmella, it didn’t take Y/N long to scold her friend for keeping such a humongous secret from her, and working in tandem with her own daughter and granddaughter. All the Italian woman did was shrug before latching her arms around both Harry and Y/N’s frames, pulling the three of them close for a long-awaited, reuniting hug that felt like home.

“Il trio è tornato e meglio che mai. questo merita un brindisi,” [The trio is back and better than ever. This deserves a toast] Carmella cheered, clapping her hands in giddiness as she waved the waitress back over to order the most extravagant wine.

Leaning down to whisper in Y/N’s ear, Harry muttered, “And I still have no idea what she’s saying.” Y/N bumped his shoulder with hers, shaking her head gently as a small smile snuck up onto her lips.

Lunch was shared with many laughs and old stories - all per the request of Ellie. She was eager to keep learning and eager to see her nona so happy.

When lunch was over and they were all saying goodbye, Ellie practically all but pushed Y/N to go with Harry so they could go somewhere private. Hannah of course condoned her daughter’s behavior, but also told her mom it was for the best they catch up without either of them around. They needed to be alone.

That’s how they ended up at the park downtown, where Y/N used to frequent often when she used to run in the mornings or whenever she needed a spark of creativity for her next painting. 

Once Harry placed the car in park, the stagnant tension between them only rose as neither of them jumped to get out of the vehicle. They simmered, absorbed, melted into the atmosphere, basking in it before they flipped it on its head to talk about what they both had been avoiding.

It was an unspoken truce to get out of the car at the same time. The sun was winking at them through the clouds, luring them to venture deeper into the park, just like it used to. Almost as if the star was just as excited as them to be back in each other’s lives. The saying is if walls could talk, but what about the sun? Or the moon? Both kept Harry and Y/N’s moments inside of them, stored deep in their cores right next to all the other love that happened in their line of vision.

Out of instinct, the two locked hands. And they didn’t seem to mind. It felt like a magnet pulled them together, and it would take a lot of force to break them apart.

As they walked along the paved path, being passed by those on bikes or joggers, or really even anyone that walked faster. They weren’t in any sort of rush, because moments like these aren’t meant to be fast paced. They needed to simmer, absorb, and melt.

Harry decided to be the first to speak up, surprising both of them considering, well, his past. “I see the artist life treated you well.”

Slightly turning her head to face him, she laughed softly, shrugging her shoulders. “I guess it did. You predicted it.”

I can’t wait to buy your art one day.

Harry gazed down at his feet, humming a response. He didn’t have the proper words to respond to her allusion to his letter. Hearing the twinge of spite sitting on top of her words was enough for him to gauge that his letter was a sore topic for her. And rightfully so, because even he hasn’t completely forgiven himself for not giving her a proper goodbye.

Coming up on a patch of grass that was half hidden beneath a large oak tree and half in the glory of the sunlight, Harry and Y/N decided to take a seat. If they were going to throw themselves into the past, might as well go all the way and lay in the grass like they did in Florence. Albeit, they wouldn’t actually lay down because it would’ve been impossible for either of them to properly get up.

They rested their backs against the large trunk, looking out into the field and watching little kids play around as their parents kept their distance off to the side with other parents. Y/N found it near impossible to not snap a mental picture of what was in front of her, cursing herself for not bringing her camera with her. It was a beautiful day, and one she wished to remember. Not because of the dreadful conversation that was bound to swallow her whole or the man sitting beside her, but because of the landscape.

What a waste of a beautiful day.

Now, it was her turn to break the silence, because she knew he wouldn’t. He may have once, but that was all he could probably handle. “Tell me about your life, Harry. Please.”

Letting out a breath of air he didn’t realize he had been holding in, Harry twiddled with his thumbs in his lap. “Got two kids. Ben and, uh, Rose.”

Ouch.

“Five beautiful grandchildren.” He spoke shortly and to the point, finding it very difficult to open up the can of worms that is his life.

Once Harry got the call from Carmella that he was going to surprise Y/N for her birthday, he couldn’t get on a plane any faster. The idea of being face-to-face with her again after so many years was daunting and normally he found it difficult to escape his confined box of reality. But that was the thing about Y/N, she always made things seem less terrible to him.

England is his origin and where his family resides, but it hardly felt like home anymore.

His marriage with Nancy balanced on its very thin, tight rope for thirty years, but they both knew it was bound to fall off. Once he returned from Italy, it was like he was a soldier returning from war, because he in no way was the same man who left for Italy when coming home. But, they pushed on, because it was what they were meant to do.

They had two wonderful kids and they seemed like the picturesque family they were planned to be. Behind closed doors, they were anything but. He and Nancy fought a lot and their kids seemed to loathe him for reasons still unbeknownst to him. He supported them and loved them like any parent would, yet it felt like they joined everyone else in his life that wanted to keep him silent. Everyone except one person.

Once his and Nancy’s divorce was finalized, the kids couldn’t be more thrilled. All they needed was a solid reason to drop their father out of their lives. As the years went on they slowly worked him back into their day-to-day routine, but not really. Only for the sake of his grandkids was he in their lives.

It was especially hard living his life knowing his own creations couldn’t stand him just like everyone else, and that was exactly why he couldn’t agree faster to get on a plane to America.

“I officially retired last year, so m’not really doing much these days. Actually, I picked up drawing again if y’could believe it. Haven’t touched a pencil for artistic purposes since... well, since then.” Their heads remained forward, not a single glance made towards one another because it felt easier this way. 

Y/N listened intently to the drawl of his voice, engraving the words he spoke deep into her mind, right next to the dusty ones he spoke fifty-five years prior. Everything and anything he’s ever said rests idly on little bookshelves in her brain, collecting dust the longer she takes to go back and hear them over. It was nice to add new additions to her collection. “That sounds lovely, H.”

His heartstrings pulled at the use of his nickname, something only she would call him. He was only Harry to any one, both by his choice and because every one else was too prim to call him something else.

Y/N took notice to how he mentioned nothing of Nancy, and paired that with the fact he wasn’t wearing a wedding band on his most intimate finger. She thinks maybe he did it out of courtesy to not beckon any unwarranted anguish and pain for her sake - because that’s exactly why she didn’t wear hers.

When she went to put her flowers in a vase in the kitchen, she slid her engagement and wedding rings off her finger and set them down gently on the counter, not wanting to clash her two separate lives.

That’s why she had to ask about her. She couldn’t keep going if she didn’t have any sort of answer to her wondering questions that she’s had for the past five decades. “How’s Nancy?” Y/N didn’t care to actually know how she is, she just wanted to know their story.

The leaves above them blew in the suddenly apparent wind, threatening them that what they were about to indulge in was like a storm on the horizon. It was bound to come and impossible to avoid. “Dunno. Haven’t spoken to her in a couple of weeks.”

This opened the door to many unanswered questions in Y/N’s mind, sending her down on spiral of want and need for an explanation that he didn’t seem keen on giving. This closed the most important door, flooding her with relief she didn’t realize she needed to feel just a little less pain sitting next to him.

Not knowing just how to pose her next question, Harry beat her to the punch, halting her thoughts in her tracks. “We’re divorced.”

Divorced. A strange concept. Y/N never imagined divorcing her husband in all of the years they were married. It seemed trivial and time-consuming and led to no greater purpose in her mind. She could either be miserably alone, or miserable with a man by her side. The latter seemed the most comforting.

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“I’m not. We weren’t meant to be,” he chuckled, laughing not because it’s actually funny, but because Y/N knew they weren’t meant to be. It was obvious. “Just meaningless pieces in my parents puzzle.”

Hearing his broken words that he used to rant about all those years ago resurface, Y/N couldn’t help reaching for his hand again, clasping it between both of hers and holding it in her lap. It didn’t matter how many years had passed, because it was certain his parents were still a sore subject. She wanted him to know that she never forgot the hurt they put him through, and that she will always be on his side. Always.

Diverting the attention away from himself, it was Harry’s turn to pour salt into a wound he knew would sting harshly. “Did you uh, ever get married, Rose?”

When Carmella had managed to get his number a couple years after Italy, they kept in contact nearly every week. A lot of the time their topic of conversation would revolve around Y/N, and what ever new information Carmella could relay. One thing he refused to know however, was if she ever got married. He didn’t need to know, nor did he want to. But now, he supposes he does. 

“I did. He passed in February.” The 1st. Coincidental, maybe ironic. “He was a good man.”

Silence. It was nice Y/N was able to settle herself with someone deemed to be good. It’s what she deserved. But Harry didn’t want to know anymore.

Silence. They kept their heads forward, but over time Y/N’s head slowly ended up resting on Harry’s shoulder. Their hands stayed latched and their bodies radiated each other’s warmth. Y/N felt cold though. Rehashing their pasts slowly brought them closure, but it in no way healed the pain that rested heavy on her heart. “I wish things could’ve been different for us, Harry.” They deserved different than what they were given. Why do soulmates exist if they can’t be together? 

A love like theirs is folklore; unsure if it ever existed, but meant to be told for generations. “We were special don’t you think?”

“We were everything,” Harry murmured, squeezing her hands, then planting a gentle kiss to the crown of her head.

Y/N laughed again at his allusion, but she wasn’t laughing because it was funny, but because it stung like a wasp. Over and over again. “I’ve still got that stupid piece of paper, y’know. Your letter. Saved it all these years because it was all I had.”

The little anger she had left inside of her began to bubble up. Though it didn’t last very long as tears welled in her eyes, just like when she picked up the stupid paper for the first time. Grief stampeded her stomach like a herd of frightened elephants, bruising her deeply as the pain she felt from that day made itself known in the present.

“You didn’t say goodbye. Why didn’t you say goodbye?”

The wind picked up as the clouds in the sky completely covered the sun in forecast, hovering over Harry as a reminder, just in case he didn’t already know the pain he caused.

Pulling Y/N close to his chest, he let her cry, knowing it was best to not say anything at all. She wasn’t legitimately asking why he didn’t, but it felt good to get the question off her chest. So he let her cry, his own tears pricking his waterline, balancing on the edge before tumbling over and down onto his cheeks.

Just when the sun began to come out from its hiding spot, the two subsided their emotions, calming down just like the leaves above their heads. The storm had passed. All that’s left now is the aftermath.

“We don’t get forever, Rose. But we have each other now.”

Something tells them though that despite how many physical years they may have left with one another, they’ll always have forever. The thought rests easy on their minds.

With just a few more minutes of sitting in the grass and simmering, absorbing, melting, the duo decided it was time to get up. They were going to put the past behind them, starting with the fact that maybe they were too old to be sitting in the grass like they used to.

Laughs and giggles were exchanged as they both tried to get to their feet as gracefully as possible without drawing any attention to themselves. They were a heap of giggles and optimism as they retraced their steps back onto the pathway, heading back to his car.

It almost seemed like déjà vu the moment a speedy bicyclist zoomed past Y/N, nearly grazing her left side. She moved out of his way just in the nick of time, but haphazardly fell into Harry’s arms, who always seemed ready to catch her even in the most abrupt of times.

It all happened so fast yet also so slow, running parallel to the moment this exact occurrence happened fifty-five years ago. Their whole day ran parallel to their pasts, so it was only inevitable that that same electricity sparked through their bodies again.

They gazed into each other’s eyes the moment her body felt safe, that same magnet pulling them close enough that their mouths were only a few inches apart. Not a single word was exchanged as their breaths mingled together and their fingers gripped each other forcefully.

Remembering when she told Ellie about their first electric moment, Ellie immediately questioned if the two of them had kissed because it seemed like the perfect moment. Disappointingly, they didn’t.

She would hate to disappoint her granddaughter again.

So, this time they did.

It was the perfect moment, after all.

[aforrestofstuff]

Just wondering, what's OPM characters' favorite season or the kind of weather they enjoy the most? And why?

Thanks for your ask, anon! It’s been a hot minute since I did one of these. :] ❤️

Tornado of Terror: Stormy days or nights of any kind because she’s a bit of a workaholic and the rampant downpour gives her a good reason to stay inside and relax for once. She’s mildly scared of thunder so she likes to drown out the noise by blasting romcoms on her TV.

Silverfang: Hot, humid days because it eases his arthritis pain and the humidity makes for good character-building when training his disciples! Ain’t nothing like running laps on a hot day after rainfall; it’s guaranteed to make anyone wish they were dead.

Atomic Samurai: Windy days because, and he would never admit this, but the wind makes his hair look marvelous. He’ll only ever wear his hair down in public when there’s a breeze outside. Nobody has noticed he does this, everyone just thinks he picks random days to do it.

Child Emperor: Literally wtf is the outside world. I hc that he has some sort of white noise machine to emulate rainfall and other sounds of nature, because he’s always cooped up in the lab and if he didn’t hear a frog croak or a breeze rustle through the trees every once and a while, he would go absolutely insane. His favorite setting is a hot summer day by the beach, where he listens to the waves lap against the shore.

Metal Knight: same as Child Emperor except he couldn’t give a rat’s ass about going insane or not, so minus the sound machine. His favorite weather is probably violent storms because it’s the perfect brooding atmosphere and it makes him feel like a tacky-ass supervillain.

King: He’s not really an outdoorsy person so he doesn’t care too much about the weather, but he does like it overcast. Mainly because he doesn’t have to put so much effort into blocking out the sunlight so he can play videogames without that annoying glare on his TV screen.

Zombieman: I’ve said this in a previous hc, but his pale/blue-ish skin indicates that his blood flow is absolute ass, which means he’s got to get cold easily. He’s got to be cold all the time. Which I why I propose that his favorite weather is when it’s unbearably hot for the average person (around room temperature for him). He doesn’t even sweat under the heat, only when he exercises. So, while everyone seeks solace in indoor air conditioning and ice packets in 100-degree weather, he’ll be outside in a sweater saying “Hm, it’s a little chilly. Good for a jog.”

Drive Knight: Cold. Unbearably cold. The reason being that he has a lot of firepower, right? And I doubt he’s got a ton of wiggle room for any cooling mechanisms (it’s not like Drive Knight [Señor Robocop] is out here carrying a giant canister of water), so he mostly relies on the temperature of the air around him to cool down. When it’s super cold, he doesn’t have to worry about overheating. It’s not like he can really feel the temperature anyway, it’s strictly for practical purposes.

Pig God: Cold. Super duper cold the way Drive Knight likes it because my boy Pig God is perpetually on the brink of heat stroke 24/7. The reason: he is morbidly obese. Fat acts as insulation to keep heat inside our bodies, and he’s got so much of it that his body is always working overtime to make sure he doesn’t fucking die. So, on cold days, he likes to rest and give his body a break. Below zero like room temperature for him, because room temperature for the average person makes him feel as if he’s standing on the sun.

Superalloy Darkshine: Bright and sunny, baby! Perfect weather, not a single cloud in the sky and not a one raindrop. He’s super outdoorsy. He practically lives outside. His favorite activity is, of course, exercising, and he much prefers when the weather is nice so he can better focus on getting those gains.

Watchdog Man: He prefers the weather to be nice and warm with absolutely 0 wind and 0 rain. His suit soaks up liquid like a goddamned sponge and gets a hell of a lot heavier, so he absolutely HATES the rain for that reason. Wind messes up his “fur” and he ends up looking like a cumulonimbus cloud after a long day of patrol, so that’s out of the question as well.

Flashy Flash: Hail. His training regime is brutal and he prefers to do it whenever it hails, because he believes being battered by falling ice makes him grow stronger. A large portion of the scars on his body were caused by the golf ball-sized pebbles of hail that fell on one particular storm.

Genos: Bitter cold, same as Drive Knight and with a similar reason as well. I imagine Kuseno had mercy when programming how Genos’ cybernetic body would react to things like temperature and pain, so he doesn’t really mind the weather no matter it’s highs or lows. He likes the cold because, like I said previously with Señor Robocop, it aides his weaponry when cooling down and he doesn’t need to waste time worrying if he’s gonna overheat or not because he has faith that air around him will take care of it.

Metal Bat: Snow days! He and Zenko used to love to play together in the snow as kids and they still fucking do it every year because time is an illusion and fun is eternal. His favorite thing to do is build very gruesome and horrific snowmen. Like, snowmen without heads, snowmen that look like they’ve been run over, snowmen that have purposefully been built to look like they’re melting and they’re in pain. That sort of stuff. He and Zenko also have snowball fights (because of COURSE) and Badd has to try his best to not hurl the ball too hard and accidentally give her a concussion.

Tanktop Master: Same as Superalloy. He prefers the weather to be picturesque perfect. I hardcore hc that they’re workout buds and that they often go on outdoor rendezvous together, whatever that may be. His favorite thing to do (besides hanging out with the homies, obviously) is to go on long hikes. He’s actually a pretty big nature lover and WILL shed manly tears if he ever sees a deer. God forbid a baby one.

Puri-Puri Prisoner: Well, he doesn’t get as much outdoor time as he would like on account of being in literal prison and whatnot but he REALLY loves a very specific time of year just at the beginning of summer when all the bugs come out and the air is breezy but still warm. His loves to look at those bigass yellow butterflies and have picnics on the green tallgrass just before it’s been dried out by the summer heat. Oh yeah, and he’ll totally be doing this with his boyfriend. That’s the dream, baby.

Amai Mask: Clear nights just after rainfall. He loves the way streetlights reflect on the wet asphalt. This is also the weather he prefers to hold concerts in because the air is humid and cool and he doesn’t get as sweaty when he’s dancing or singing. The petrichor is nice too. If someone managed to bottle and sell it as perfume, he would be the first buyer.

Iaian: Overcast. When the sun is blocked out, he doesn’t have to worry too much about getting a heat stroke while wearing his armor during training. He also appreciates how dim it is. It’s easy for him to get lost in thought and he often finds himself standing still just to look up to at the clouds. He and Kama sometimes find shapes in them for fun between training sessions.

Okamaitachi: They really love quiet rainstorms. No thunder, no lightning, just the steady pattern of rainfall. This is the perfect time for them to relax, curl up with a good book, maybe knit a sweater, and just forget about everything that’s going on. They usually use this time to update their self care regime, like doing their hair or tidying up their nails. Overall, just a great time to chill out and keep up to date with loving themselves.

Bushidrill: He loves violent rainstorms. I hc that he’s had a pretty tumultuous life, so the havoc of loud thunder doesn’t faze him at all. He actually finds it quite nice. He’s the type of old guy that keeps a door open during rainfall just to let the smell in, or walk outside with no umbrella just for the fuck of it. He’s not terribly old, but he’s old enough to not give a rat’s ass about what other people (especially Kama or Iaian) think about his weird habits. He also likes all the nature that comes out after rainfall, too. Frogs and dragonflies are some of his favorite animals.

Fubuki: Barking hot. Unbearable. Like her sister, she’s a bit of a workaholic and finds it difficult to take a day off every once and while; but once that temperature hits the nineties? Oh shit. Fubuki Gang, pack your shit because it’s beach time baby. She absolutely LOVES the beach and actively anticipates the time of year when it becomes hot enough to bask in the sun. Going to the beach with her family was one of the few enjoyable things that came from her childhood, and she still finds comfort in it.

Saitama: He doesn’t really give too much of a shit about the weather as long as no roads are closed. The reason for this is: if there’s a sale, he wants to get there ASAFP. But, like I said, he really doesn’t give a shit either way because he can be both an outdoorsy and indoors kind of person without making any major changes to his life.

Mumen Rider: Sunny and clear! He loves to have picnics and watch the fluffy clouds! It’s also the perfect weather to go on long, recreational bike rides, which he almost never gets to do anymore. He’s also a bit of a nature lover and, like Tanktop Master, WILL cry if he sees a cute animal. Rainy and overcast days make him a little sad because he doesn’t like the gloomy feel, even if it is calming at times.

Sonic: Hail. Same as Flashy Flash, since they basically grew up on the same bullshit training regime together. The Ninja Village and everything connected to it is overall a total shitstorm, but he can’t argue with the results that made him a killer speed demon. So yeah, the breakneck training persists. And he does it while enduring the incessant pummeling of some fucking ice cubes falling from the sky. Like a weirdo.

Garou: Anything extreme. From blizzards to sandstorms, he’ll take it all, baby. Bang used to train him when the weather was especially bad to strengthen his spirit, and now that same violent weather has become sort of a comfort place. He things violent thunderstorms are calming and blizzards are like a warm blanket that take him back to the few rays of sunshine that came from his absolute clusterfuck of a childhood. He also likes to train during this sort of weather for the same reason Sonic and Flashy Flash like to train during hail: he believes it makes him stronger.

[justmaxirons]

One year on: The water gremlin experiment || Max & Ashley

Summary: It’s the one year anniversary of an unusual proposal, and where would the fun be, if it was just a conventional celebration? Time: Sunday, June 16th, 2019 Location: South West France | @rylbenzo

It was a year to the date since Max had taken her aboard the Willing Lass armed with a picnic basket and a conversation that had been playing on his mind, that had concluded in them deciding that maybe they ought to get married - or elope to be exact before they had camped under the stars, tucked away in a cove on the Cork coast. It was by pure coincidence that Max had chosen this weekend to take a spontaneous trip to the south of France, where they had rented their own private villa. It was so beautiful here that maybe, just maybe, she would think about forgiving him for almost forgetting the anniversary of their engagement. A picnic on one of the quieter beaches felt like one of the most Max and Ashley ways to celebrate. They could sit back and watch the sunset while relaxing on the sand, or go for the ocean if they felt like it. “This is perfect,” She hummed happily and stretched out on the blanket - as silly as it may have sounded, she felt at home when she was by the water with her husband. “Here do you want a grape?” Poor Max didn’t get a say in the matter before she was waving it under his nose with a grin.

---

For a moment, right after he had realised that this weekend held a special significance for their relationship - a real turning point, in fact - he had worried that Ashley would never let him live it down that he had not made the connection. Instead, she had happily handed over their puppies to his parents and boarded a flight to Paris with him, and from there to Biarritz. Two days in, and he wasn’t sure he ever really wanted to return - the villa they had rented had bikes in its shed, and they had taken them out for a ride, blanket, towels and picnic basket included. They had found a small secluded beach surrounded by pine woods, and had set up their picnic there. Max has to have dosed off, because he woke to the sound of her voice and just cracked open one eye to look at his wife through his sunglasses. Having the juicy fruit dangled in front of his face had him look at it, then Ashley, incredulously for a Monet, but then he complied and closed his lips over it, pressing a light kiss to her fingertips at the end. “Perfect indeed,” his voice rumbled in his chest, “are you going to keep feeding me? Because I could get used to this.” It had been one year to the day where his thoughts had turned into a mutual decision and a proposal, which in turn had turned into a marriage that had given him the best year of his life. Actually no, Ashley being in his life had given him the best two years of his life, and he could understand his dad’s comment of “one day you’ll know what it feels like” all too well by now.

—

After almost two years of being together, she was knew Max would sometimes would need a little nudge in the right direction to be reminded of something, especially when it came to dates. She was willing to let him off for this on instance, if it had been their wedding anniversary that he had forgotten then she would have been in a less forgiving mood over it. She’d been amused at his surprised face this morning when she had agreed to go on a bide ride with him, where they had ended up exploring the trail up towards the mountains, and had manage to find themselves the smallest, most secluded beach to enjoy their picnic basket without being disturbed. She sighed happily, being able to bask in the sun and the heat was a change from a year previously, when they had been in a cold and crisp Ireland instead.  Ashley grinned, chuckling as his lips tickled over her fingertips, she could hear the slight hint of sleepiness in his voice and instantly felt bad for waking him up from his nap. “If that’s what you really want-” She paused to pop a grape into her mouth and gave him a grin, “Then it can be arranged, but can’t you feed yourself?” She teased him with a chuckle. Leaning down, she brushed her lips over his temple before drawing back to look at him. “How was your nap? Did you dream about me?”  

---

A satisfied grin spread over his lips, but he shook his head. “I think I might have forgotten how to,” he told her cheekily, “and it’s all down to you pampering me.” Indeed, he loved these moments - when Ashley got excited about food, she wanted him to try it, too, and more often than not shoved a piece of something in his direction, on a fork, spoon or between her fingers, like now. And he would always gladly accept it, because she had incredible taste, when it came to anything edible. Closing his eyes at the light touch, he turned his head in her direction, and caught her retreating by placing his hand at the back of her head and pulling her back down to kiss him. “I know I didn’t remember, but can you imagine that it’s been a year since I had asked you to marry me?” Max could remember it, as if it had been yesterday, the feeling of certainty that had overcome him at the sudden realisation that this was truly what he wanted to do, and the feeling of elation and pure joy at the sound of her saying “yes”. From that point on, he had known that they would, for better or worse, continue to live their lives together - and simply knowing that had made him feel on top of the world. “My nap?” Opening his eyes, he looked at her from behind tinted glasses. “What nap?” Snaking his arms around her, he pulled her down until she was stretched out next to him. “You’re a bit hot, should we cool you off?” he asked cheekily.

---

Her eyes rolled at him affectionately, as he came out with the most standard, slightly cheeky, but incredibly flirty Max-like reply. “I’m feeling romantic and am in the pampering kind of mood,” She nudged him gently, “Strawberry?” They weren’t the sort of couple to go around feeding each other all that often, but there were times where she couldn’t resist, he must have liked it too since he always went in for the bite. She giggled, as she felt his hand cupping the back of her head to bring her back down so that he could steal a kiss from her. “You’re sneaky,” She mumbled against his lips and rested her fingers against his jaw while he spoke. She could hardly believe it had been a year since she had told him yes - or rather, they agreed that getting married was something that they would want to do because they wanted to do it, and only on their own terms which they had certainly managed to accomplish in the end. “I really can’t, it feels as if it was only yesterday,” She looked down to her ring finger with a smile, she was so used to having it on her finger by now that it felt strange whenever she had to go without it, “It must mean that we’re happy.” She, for one, could say for certainty that she was, and that he had changed her life for the better. “Mhmm, you sound sleepy,” Plus, behind his glasses it was hard to tell whether his eyes were open or shut. “You should take them off, I can’t see your eyes.” She sighed happily as his arms wrapped around her, and pulled her down to rest beside him. “Only a bit hot?” She teased, “You just want an excuse to see my bikini,”

----

“Is that a euphemism, or really an offer for a strawberry?” Grinning at her, he graciously accepted the fruit, and bit into it, until it was gone from her fingers’ hold. It had probably started as a joke, her dangling the grape in front of his face, but she kept feeding him, and he simply enjoyed what she had to offer. “Always.” The word was lost against her skin, against her lips, but he found he didn’t mind one bit, not when he could kiss her so freely. They were lucky, the beach was deserted apart from them, and he took full advantage of being alone by sneaking his hands under her shirt to tease her with light caresses. “Time flies, when you’re having fun. And tequila. And work together. And a new home and three dogs who love us and crave our attention. And when we can get so easily lost in each other… like now.” Max undermined his point by pressing light kisses to her lips, he cheeks, the line of her jaw and right below her ear, murmuring, “Best year of my life… well, the best two years, since I met you almost two years ago...” At her comment, he smiled and nodded - happy was one word for what he felt, complete was another. Ashley completed him, she let him into her life the way he let her, and she enhanced his life in ways he couldn’t have possibly imagined. Raising his sunglasses off his face to complete her request, he set them on the blanket next to them, before going back to caressing the skin hidden from his view by her oversized shirt. “When you’re around, how can I be sleepy?” She was so close, it was intoxicating, and he almost missed her cheeky comment, only catching the last part, which he couldn’t quite disagree with. “I do, you didn’t want to show me which one you had picked. Or did you forego it all together?” Now his curiosity was really peaked, and he raised his head to look at her more closely, and perhaps get a glimpse down her shirt.

---

“It’s a real offer for a real strawberry,” She laughed and shook her head at him. What had started off has a joke had turned into him offering him more fruit which Max, of course, wasn’t going to show any sort of protest to. Ashley closed her eyes as his fingers slipped up her shirt and started to slide up her skin in a gentle, slightly teasing caress.  His words rang so true, time flew, because they were having fun and because they were so happy together. “I think that we have it pretty made,” She mumbled,  sighing happily at each soft, light kiss that he pressed to her lips. Then, he moved across to her cheek, her jaw, and to her ear where his words sent a pleasant shudder down her spine. “I can’t believe that either.” A conversation about how investing in a coffee machine would be a good idea turned into something so amazing. “Best two years of my life,” And the first two years of spending a happy lifetime together. Now that she had him, she didn’t want to go without him and found it hard to remember what things had been  like without him. It one of the most amazing and fulfilling things to have. She smiled at him taking the broad hint to take his glasses off so that his eyes came to view to meet hers. “Isn’t that better?” She reached to cup his cheek, and smoothed her thumb across his skin. “I’m not sure I’m convinced, you did sound it..” She leaned up and pecked his lips before pulling back. “I suppose that you’re just going to need to wait and find out.” She teased him and  giggled at him looking at her, trying to get a look down her shirt. “Without looking down my top, you know, my face is up here!” She placed her thumb under his chin to lift his head up so that he was looking at her. “Hi.” She grinned.

---

Max grinned up at her. “I’m almost disappointed it’s just the fruit.” It had been a year to the day, where they had started by talking about their future and ended by getting engaged, and he could still remember his exact words, the ones her breathy, somewhat still slightly incredulous yes had made his heart burst from joy. “Ashley, would you elope with me, and have our families never let us hear the end of it?” - just thinking about it now made him laugh. “I still can’t quite believe that my proposal was me asking you to elope with me,” he remarked between bites from a strawberry, “I’m happy we didn’t do it, the look on our parents’ faces on our wedding day was so worth it.” Looking up at her he took in her smile, which reached her eyes so easily, and her dimples, which he loved to kiss, and the look on her face, which told him she was absolutely, madly in love with him. And for the last part alone he considered himself the luckiest man alive. “Now that I know what it feels like, I feel like I should have asked you way earlier - but the way it went was perfect for us. Dad’s happy his Willing Lass is important to us now, too.” Her hands were cupping his cheeks, gently caressing the skin, and he closed his eyes and sighed happily. His life, with her in it, was filled with love, happiness, joy, fun, amusement, and so many other great feelings that it was difficult for him to pick a time before meeting Ashley, where he had felt so complete. “A certain insatiable someone might have kept me up for most of the night,” he teased her, raising his head enough to meet her lips in a loving kiss, and another and another until they blended together into one longing smooch. “I love your face, but I happen to like the view, too. A lot.” No doubt that Ashley’s breasts were some of her best assets, and to have them literally dangling in front of his face was just too much temptation. Still, he followed her lead and looked her in the eye - instead his hands wandered up her body and settled right on the underside of her bikini-clad breasts, thumbs and forefingers cupping them just so. “You didn’t say I wasn’t allowed to touch.” Sometimes, he was incorrigible, but - he hoped - Ashley loved that about him. “But really, are you up for a swim?”

—

He wasn’t allowed to diss his proposal a year forward. It had been the most romantic, surprising, and unconventional way to have asked her to marry him. “I liked it better than if you were to go down the traditional route, got down on one knee and asked me to marry you. I think I would have laughed and needed to check you were all right.” Ashley teased him with a chuckle. She was glad that they hadn’t gone with their original plan too, having their families there had been part of what had made it all so memorable. And the diversity of reactions, from her mother who was just about crying, to Jeremy and his ‘I knew all along’ smile. “We should have gotten Sam to take pictures and gotten them framed,” She gazed up at him and bit down on her lip as she took in the way that he was looking at her, as if they were the only two people left on this earth. She shook her head at him, “It happened at a time that was perfect for us, and we were just as happy and in love with each other then. Getting married just heightened it.” She told him with a happy sigh, she would have been content spending the rest of her life with him married or not, being able to call him her husband and wear a ring on her finger made it all that more real. “Hey,” She smacked his arm playfully and shot him a mocking glare, “Even if that was the truth, it would be down to you being irresistible to me,”  She leaned into his touch and caress, letting their lips meet in a long, loving kiss, that she was happy to lose herself in - he tasted of the strawberry that she had fed him moments ago. “The view from here is a pretty one, I’m not complaining.”  She told him with a smile, she could look at him like this all day if she was given the chance. He was looking at her, like she had asked, but had other ideas and let his hands wander up her shirt to cup at her breasts. She didn’t want to say it, but he made a valid point. “You’re impossible sometimes,” But, it was one of the things that she had fallen for. “I don’t see why not, bikinis are meant to get wet." She stood up, and reached out for his hand "Come on, you"

---

Her reply was so Ashley-like that he had to laugh at the mental image of it. “You certainly would have asked me that, and probably said yes anyway,” he grinned at her, and cupped her cheek lovingly. Such was the dynamic between them, there was banter and squabbling and puns and amusing comments, but underneath it all ran a deep, infinite love for the other, which fuelled their relationship. “I’m happy we eloped the way we did, it was a really special day… actually a really special time between the proposal and us getting married under the stars.” Having their families there, as well as Tom and Sienna as witnesses, had turned out to be the icing on top of their carefully planned, intimate wedding ceremony, and he couldn’t have imagined it any other way. “I think he caught them all - and especially my dad, who, God knows how, knew about our plans beforehand.” Sam had made them a wedding album with a lot of pictures as well as some from the year leading up to their wedding, and had included the little wedding announcement their father had posted in The Times a day before the wedding. Up to this day Jeremy had not revealed how he had known, when they hadn’t told anyone but Tom and Sienna a few days beforehand. “I think he’ll surprise us with another album “outtakes of an Irons wedding” someday, and it’ll include all the photographs we didn’t get to see until now.” Ashley spoke the truth - it had absolutely been the right moment for them - but instead of replying, he leaned up and kissed her with a smile. There was something magical about knowing that they were alone on the anniversary of their engagement, and he found himself unable to tear his eyes away from her - his cute tiny gremlin that had turned his life upside down and became his gremlin queen almost a year go. Others might find it peculiar that he referred to her as such, but he thought there was no better way to describe her. His wandering hands got her attention and the only thing left for him to do was shrug. “Impossible and irresistible to you, as you just said,” he quipped, and drew himself up and away from her, only to find her hands and help her stand, too. “The question is whether the gremlin in the bikini is meant to get wet, too.” Waggling his eyebrows, he ran ahead towards the ocean, “come on, you! There’s fun to be had.”

---

A yes was guaranteed, however or wherever he had chosen to do it. “I would have, or I could have shaken things up and asked you to marry me.” She chuckled, it was something that she wouldn’t have put past herself. She had been the one to so boldly tell him that she thought she might have loved him right at the very start of their relationship.. And luckily for her, he had laughed and told her that he thought he might have loved her too. It had worked out extremely well for the two of them. “I think that’s going to be one that he’ll keep to himself and never tell us,” It had amused, and stunned them to no end when they had found the newspaper clipping attached to a cheeky email a few days after the wedding, but with the paper being dated the day before. Her father-in-law was certainly one of a kind. “You don’t know how much I would love to see that album of outtakes, but god knows what he got of us…” It felt nice reminiscing over their special day, and it wouldn’t be all that long until they’d be celebrating the year anniversary of that too - time flew when you were spending your life with somebody that you loved. Her words, about it being the right time for them, were met with a kiss that she returned with every ounce of love and affection as he gave her, silent replies where he would kiss her were her favourite. And she always found herself sighing and pouting at him when he would pull away, always wanting more. Impossible and irresistable were two of the most accurate words that he could use to describe himself.  He would do something to provoke a reaction, that would sometimes irritate her, and then she would end up forgiving him because he would pull her a sad face or find another way to soften her up, and she would always end up giving in. “And sometimes extremely impossible because I find you irresistible.” She remarked with a chuckle and tilted her head to look up at him as he towered over her. “I guess that we’re going to find out and see what happens, will we call it an experiment?” She laughed and shook her head, knowing fine well what that suggestive eyebrow waggle meant, it was usually trouble. “I need to strip first!” She lifted her - rather his shirt - over her head and put it on top of their blanket and unfastened her shorts before running to catch up with him. “Ready? Let’s go.”

---

Max smiled up at her. “You know I would have said “yes”, because I wanted, and want, to spend the rest of my life with you, by your side. It would have been that kind of “yes”.” For some reason, he could imagine that she would have made him tear up with all the emotion she would bring into that moment, and he was silently glad that he had beat her to it, in some way. “Perhaps he’ll tell us one day, over wine or scotch, and it’ll be something incredibly mundane like him overhearing us,” he laughed with her, and nudged her gently. His father had truly surprised them, and he had just heard the roaring laughter, when he had called him after he had received the email with the announcement attached. “I think there are a lot of us sneaking kisses, which was why he was sighing so much, when he tried to take pictures of us.” And there had been a ton of wonderful photographs sent to them by his elder brother, which portrayed that evening wonderfully. And now that evening’s first anniversary was only a few weeks away. They were bantering between kisses, and it was a little difficult to keep up with it, because he rather liked getting lost in the kisses, the touches and the caresses and in trying to coax out the cutest reactions from Ashley. “Best of both worlds then, luv’,” he grinned at her and kissed her cheek, then her nose, and tilted her head back to kiss her lips. Ashley had the cutest look on his face, and he stared at her for a moment, before cupping her cheek gently and stealing another kiss. “And since you love me,” he sing-songed amusedly, “you will forgive me for being impossible.” Again, he was reminded how tiny she was compared to him, when she stood, and started shedding her clothes. “The gremlin experiment? I’m in -” He had her hand in his already, but had to let go, so she could leave the shirt behind, too. A low whistle passed his lips, when the bikini she was wearing came into his line of sight, and he looked her over appreciatively. “Wow. I mean - wow.” Catching her, when she caught up with him, Max twirled her around, and then set both of his hands on her waist. “Yes, definitely wow. You’re stunning, luv’.” At her request, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders and walked into the water until the gentle waves were up to her chest. “Hm, the water really didn’t change you, you’re still my gremlin queen.” His voice was soft, when he leaned in and stopped short of her alluring mouth. A smile played on her lips. “I’m happy you didn’t - I love you exactly the way you are.”

---

“It’s a shame that you beat me to it, I could have wooed you.” She wouldn’t have changed the way that they had done things for the world, but the thought of the roles being reversed and her being the one to propose to him made her smile. “I like thinking that he has a sixth sense and that he just knew.” Jeremy overhearing a conversation, or spotting a ring before she’d had the chance to hide it were the most likely o options, but it felt like a little bit of a letdown to think about when it had been such an amazing stunt that he had pulled. “Sneaking kisses, like -” She then brushed her lips over his and chuckle. Sam had taken a lot of pictures of them wrapped up in each other that day, the candid ones, that he had taken without either one of them knowing were her favourite ones. It was funny, going back and forth between kissing, bickering with each other, and then going back in for even more kisses. “If that’s what you want to call it,” She teased, pressing another kiss to his mouth as if to tell him that she didn’t mean it. She giggled with each tickling kiss that he left against her skin. “I do love you,” She hummed, mocking his sing song. “Every part of you. Even when you are impossible.” She admitted with an easy smile. She could feel his eyes on her as she stripped down to her bikini and raking over her curves. “Wow… As in a good wow?” She teased him,  although going by the face he was pulling with his jaw almost on the ground, gawping at her, she definitely knew the answer.  “Hi,” She murmured as his hands fell to her hips and pulled her close to him. Being called stunning by him never failed to have her blush, wherever they were. Arm wrapped around her shoulder, she leaned into him and they waded into the water until they were in deep enough to lie back and relax. “All of this feels a little anti-climatic. I’m disappointed that nothing happened.” She chuckled, “So now we know, bikinis and gremlin queens can get wet together.” She sighed and closed her eyes. He was so close to her, that he could feel his breath tickling against her face. That was the best way that he could have told her that he loved her, without saying those exact words. She pulled him close to her and in for another passionate kiss.

----

Max smiled at her amusedly. “And how would you have wooed me, luv’? I’m curious now.” The way they had gone about it had been mutual, and while he had asked her, it had been after they had talked about it, hypothetically perhaps, but still… and he wouldn’t change it for the world. “Perhaps he does, I wouldn’t put it past him.” His father was very fond of his daughter-in-law, and seeing them together always brought a smile to his face, because he was sure that they had a bond that went beyond becoming family - his mother thought so, too, and indulged Ashley wherever she could. Before returning the kiss only all too happily, Max smiled, when she called them “sneaky kisses” - because they were specialists in stealing those, although his brother and their friends might try and say otherwise. There was something in their kisses that was entirely too magical, and even two years on, he couldn’t get enough of them, and never enough of Ashley - she was his sun, moon and stars, and he loved her so deeply that he couldn’t put it into words sometimes. Instead, he liked to show her, which was how some of the best moments between them started. Just like now. “You’re impossibly in love with me,” he teased her gently, as he raised his gaze to her smiling face, only to have it drop back to her incredible body, when she shifted closer. He knew that she was amused about his reaction to her in a bikini, and he indulged her by keeping his eyes on her, even when she started talking. “As in a perfect wow - you’re incredible to look at, to touch, to be close to… I’m really lucky.” Drifting in the water with him, he smiled, and looked at the sky, closed his eyes and relaxed, until he felt his hand knock against hers, and then turned his head to look at her. “I’m glad nothing happened,” Max argued against her gently, a fond smile playing on his lips. “I rather like you being my cute tiny gremlin queen - I don’t need any other kind but you.” Setting both feet in the sand underneath, he pulled her close and kissed her, showed her his appreciation through his kiss, his touch, his caress until he was sure that she knew that he loved her, and would love her forever.

[mikewillfly]

Bask under the glorious Palawan sun with the first of its kind Avara Nature Yacht Club.

Imagine this: The sound of waves crashing on the shore and the sunlight peeking through the window wake you up on a lazy Saturday morning. You slowly open your eyes, afraid that you’re just in the middle of a dream. But you’re not. You stand up as you feel the gentle sea breeze touch your face. You go out of the porch and look at the horizon. You take your time to enjoy the beauty of the blue skies and the deep sea. The yacht will be waiting for you whenever you’re ready, anyway. That’s the promise of Avara Nature Yacht Club—the easy life of the seaside.

Established by the Seaside Premier Development Corporation, Avara is the first of its kind nature and yacht club located at Calauag Bay in Taytay, which was Palawan’s first capital.

The plan for the exclusive resort was formally unveiled at the Grand Hyatt Manila led by its President and CEO Ms. Veronica C. Young.

“After many months of sailing and voyaging aboard bangkas and riding waves, we found the perfect island in Taytay, Palawan to be the home of our pioneering project. It is with a great pleasure to present to you tonight, Avara Nature and Yacht Club - the first of its kind in the Philippines, bridging the middle class to the lifestyle of the rich and famous. As Seaside Premier Development Corporation’s flagship project, we aim to redefine seaside living, where nature meets luxury,” 

she said in her opening remarks.

Avara, which means Sunshine Island, is an eco-luxurious resort that use solar panels as a source of renewable energy, utilize a recycled water treatment system, maximize a hydroponic garden, and take advantage of other eco-materials available.

Its accommodation is inspired by the Maldivian architecture. Members can choose to stay in a one-bedroom Water Villa with jacuzzi, two-bedroom Water Villa with private infinity pool, or one-or two-bedroom Beach Casitas. Aside from the villas and casitas, Avara members will also have an exclusive access to a two-bedroom yacht with crew for an overnight stay or for cruising around the island and nearby areas. Avara’s yacht features two cabins and a family room in the lower deck; a living room, a kitchen and dining area, and a plunge pool in the main deck; and an open dining space and a sun deck in the fly bridge.

The Avara Island has nothing but the best facilities for its members. Guests will first experience the Avara service upon their arrival at the dock or the harbor. But the ultra-luxurious resort also has a helipad for those who will be coming in by air. VIPs also have the option to skip the reception and go straight to their accommodation. There will also be a boardwalk open for development to entrepreneurial Avara member. Meaning, Avara members can also be concessionaires to open their own business—it could be a coffee shop, a grocery store, a bakery, a souvenir stop, and similar ventures. As support to the member-concessionaires, Avara will ensure that the business will be the island’s lone supplier for the specific product. The island can also accommodate as many as 100 guests at their main dining area and at the grill restaurant. But guests will have more dining options since Avara includes a poolside bar, a seaside bar and lounge, picnic areas, and private dining venues. Avara is fully equipped with a gym, a water sports center, a tennis court, and a golf course to those who want to keep up with their fitness routine. The island also has a playroom and nursery, spa and massage cabanas, a bonfire area, a clinic with an in-house doctor and nurse, and a gaming area for the enjoyment of the Avara members. At any given time, Avara will host up to 300 members to ensure quality service.

As a promised paradise for those who love the beach, Avara offers a myriad of water action such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet-skiing, banana boat riding, stand-up paddle boarding, wind surfing, scuba diving, island hopping, and fishing in coordination with neighbor islands. The resort also provides options for on land activities like trekking, biking, and vegetable picking. There are also a lot of activities that Avara members can enjoy outside its vicinity. After all, Taytay, Palawan boasts of picturesque sites like the Canique Waterfalls, the Lake Manguao, the Irrawaddy Dolphins in Malampaya Sound, the Fuerza de Santa Isabel, and the Church of Santa Monica. Taytay is also hope to a paradise-like hidden valley that gives tourists a bird’s eye view of the pristine, idyllic coastal areas of the municipality.

mikewillfly

[orionwhispers]

Devil Like Me (Part VI)

(A/N- What can I say other than I am so sorry this took forever, this is the juiciest chapter yet and I loved writing it! I can't wait for you all to see where their relationship progresses and thank you so much for the love! Enjoy this late Christmas present! Thank you for being so patient xoxo) 

Then

The sky was dark as you traced your fingertips over the rim of your mug. You lifted the cup to your lips and took a small sip, grimacing as the cool milky texture hit your tongue. You gently rubbed the delicate area by your eyes, now red and swollen from lack of sleep. This had become a yearly tradition, curling up in a blanket by the bay windows and taking solace in your own silence.

The alarm clock changed numbers alerting you to how early it was, the red digits intruding in the comfort of your small bedroom. You gently fingered the fragrant needles of the small Christmas tree to your left and smiled inwardly. Aunt Jean always tried to make the house as festive as possible. Determined not to allow either of you to be dragged into the gloom that surrounded you both this time of year. You traced the gold ornament placed on the branches, in the centre a dog-eared photo of your parents. Your mother clutching your toddler frame, bare-faced and smiling widely, your father's tattooed arm swung around her neck, lips pressed against her cheek.

You rose to your feet, pulling thick sweatpants and a jumper over your mismatched pyjamas. Slipping your feet into a pair of worn converse, you gave Maple a kiss and reached for the doorknob. Lying directly behind your door was a little red stocking stuffed with presents and your heart tugged. When you were younger you were green with envy at the other children who spent Christmas with their families, picture perfect with bundles of expensive gifts and gadgets. But as soon as you came home and saw Aunt Jean with her frail hands attempting to roast a turkey - then giving up and you both munching on frozen pizza-, you realised you had so much to be grateful for.

You tried your best to be quiet, purposefully darting across the floorboards you knew were the least creaky as you passed your great Aunts bedroom. You paused momentarily and listened for her steady breathing. Earlier, when you had passed her bedroom, you had heard tearful sniffles and you were glad that they were now replaced with snores.

The bitter air slammed against your face as soon as you opened the front door, you shivered further into yourself as you began trudging through the thin layer of sleet lining the pavements. It was still dark, barely past 5 am and the only light was the dim yellow glow of the street lamps. Rain was pattering around you and a gust of winter wind sent a slew of raindrops down your face and neck. You paced the familiar route you could have done in your slumber, passing sleepy houses strewn with Christmas lights and decorations, filled with children giddily excited about what Santa will have brought them in the night.

The wind started to pick up as you clambered the final slope towards the beach. You could already hear the roar of the ocean and hurried towards the wooden deck above the coast, pulling your jacket over your shoulders as you walked towards the edge of the water. The waves were violent, rising and rumbling before crashing into the grey sand at your feet. You let out a gasp you didn't know you had been holding and allowed a few tears to slip out of the corner of your eyes.

It had been 14 years.

You mother was called Judith, petite, beautiful and immensely kind. Aunt Jean said she warmed the hearts of everyone she met. She grew up in the south of Florida and was an only child to a devout Catholic family. Only in the past few years had you been able to coax the truth out of Aunt Jean, with the help of a bottle of aged whiskey and a box of chocolate liquors. In a drunken haze she spilt her guts when you pressed her for answers, she told you of how her older sister- your grandmother, Eden, had been fair when she was a child but as she grew older she became bitter. She married young to someone Aunt Jean described as "A mean, violent man who used his faith as a cover for his hateful acts."

They were approaching 50 when Eden fell pregnant and when Judith was born she was never really allowed a childhood, she was beaten if she disobeyed orders and rarely allowed to leave the house. Aunt Jean tearfully told you how she tried to look after your mother and would try her best to sneak her gifts of chocolate and toys. But when Eden found out she cut all contact with her, furious at the thought that Jean didn't think of her as a good mother. By the time she was 15 Judith rebelled, and often snuck out of her house, which was where she met your father, Kurt.

Kurt was 17, with long hair and an abundance of piercings, he worked at his uncle's tattoo parlour having dropped out of school the previous year. The two met and fell helplessly in love, and soon your mother fell pregnant. Aunt Jean told you that Judith called her from a payphone when she found out, crying with happiness at the chance of a new life, but terrified of what her parents would think.

As expected, they were furious, angry and violent, and immediately disowned her. Telling her that she was never allowed back in their house as long as she lived. Kurt was good, he was overjoyed at becoming a father, and saved up for a small apartment where you spent your early childhood. You can hardly recall much of that part of your life, but you know it was full of love and happiness and you cherished it entirely.

When you were three, everything changed.

Your parents were driving late on Christmas Eve, their old rusty car filled with presents and food for the next day, whilst you were left at home with a babysitter. Whilst driving down a small street, a drunk driver slammed into their vehicle and killed them both. Just like that, your entire world was tipped over by someone else's careless decision.

When the police turned up at their door, your grandparents were indifferent, as if they were being told a stranger had been killed, rather than the girl they had raised. When told they had left a daughter behind, they closed the door and refused to even know what you had been called. Telling the police you should go into foster care, that they would have nothing to do with you.

That's where Aunt Jean came in, she took you under her wing immediately, filed the paperwork to make her your legal guardian and treated you like you were her own. She attended every school play, taught you how to ride a bike and tie your shoelaces, and gave you everything she possibly could. She was the only family you had, but you loved each other fiercely.

The sky was brightening slightly, and you knew soon the sun would start to trickle through the clouds. You steadied your feet on the sand, watching the water lap at the rubber soles of your shoes. You felt a movement behind you, but you didn't need to turn around, you knew who it was. He approached cautiously from behind, trudging on the gritty earth, he stood at your side, his shoulder almost brushing yours. He turned to face you but you kept staring out into the distance, watching a flock of seagulls in the sky. You could feel his glance on your face, focusing on the tear stains reflecting on your cheeks, his eyes flitting to yours, brows slightly furrowed. You stayed put, too tired and emotional to react, and he must have sensed that, drawing a cold breath and turning towards the ocean. You both stayed like that, comfortable in silence, watching the sunrise over the shores, basking you both in its warmth.  

Now

You paced along the mahogany floor, bare feet squeaking on the panels as you traced your fingers along the row of dusty books. When you had awoken, to your surprise, the door was hanging wide open. You almost tripped over your own feet as you raced down the hallway and onto the second floor, it was only when you reached the staircase to the ground level that you smacked into an invisible barrier sending you flying backwards. But, hey, at least you were no longer stuck in the single room.

You had spent the majority of the morning exploring the rooms you had access to, so far you had examined two extravagant additional quarters adjacent to yours and now, the library. And you were only on the top floor.

You would be lying if you said you weren't absentmindedly searching for signs of him, maybe a book he had once read lying on its side, the ring from an old mug of tea on the expensive furniture. But there was nothing, it was entirely bland. You knew that the families rooms were on the floor below, but you were too nervous and admittedly, to full of pride, to go and scour them.

Deep in your thoughts, a commotion from downstairs sprung you out of your own head. Slowly, you paced below, tuning into your heightened hearing to listen to the voices. You followed them down a hallway, to another grand staircase you didn't even know existed and took residence on the top step, gaping in awe at the beautiful ballroom it towered over. Underneath, a group of who you gathered to be event organisers were coating the impressive room with decorations and tables of food. Stretching out your toes, cringing as they slightly pushed against the slab of air, you knew that this was a party you wouldn't have the privilege of attending.

Your eyes immediately caught his frame entering the room, messy hair and a glass of whisky in his hand. You rolled your eyes, it was barely 10 am.

"What's the occasion?" You asked, quirking your brows and alerting him to your position.

He turned to you, his lips upturning into a small smirk as his eyes flicked to yours, before he shifted back, seemingly unbothered by your presence. Neither of you acting like last nights incident had occurred.

“Business meeting.”

“Awfully extravagant for a business meeting, don’t you think?” You quipped.

He faced you again, leaning on one arm and taking a confident swig of his drink, “Well, you know me,” he traced the marble above the fireplace behind him, eyes locking to yours. “I’ve always had a  touch for the finer things.”

You bit back a smile and crossed your arms, watching the people down below as they uncomfortably continued work, pretending they weren't engrossed in your strange conversation.

“I'm guessing I’m not on the invite list?”

He let out a snort and waved you off, “I think your stunt proved that I can hardly trust you, doesn’t it?”

“Well, it seems to have worked considering I’m no longer locked away.” You gestured to the grand hall before you and the distance between you both.

“Don’t mistake my kindness for weakness.” He muttered and you snorted, Klaus was hardly running for person of the year.

“What’s wrong? Don’t want me to meet your friends? Afraid I’ll embarrass you? ” You joked, but it seemed to hit a sore spot in him, whatever tiny crack you had manage to chip away at was being built straight back up again.

“I doubt they’d be impressed if I went to introduce you only to find you had run away again.” His tone was cold and it hit right through you, he wasn't being fair but he didn't care. Without another word he gestured something to the workers and left, not bothering to look back at you.

An hour or so later you were back in bed sulking, flipping through the pages of a women’s magazine you weren't interested in. You hadn't seen Sebastian since the previous day, your food delivered by a gruff man who made it clear he didn't care for you. You really wished you could apologise to him, he was nice and didn't deserve to be used as a scapegoat.

“Not feeling sorry for yourself are you?”

Immediately recognising the voice, you leapt up and ran into the arms of the blonde beauty who kissed you on both cheeks and squeezed you tight.

“Bekah!”

“Y/N!”

You giggled as you took her in, she was as stunning as ever, tall and confident and she smiled at you, eyes shining.

“I missed you so much, you have no idea what it’s like being surrounded by men.”

“I can imagine.”

She pulled away slowly, eyes taking in your body and then glancing around the room.

“I had no idea he was up to this.” She sighed, rubbing her forehead as if the thought alone was giving her a migraine. “But, you know Klaus. In fact, you know him better than anyone. Even Elijah.”

You looked at the floor, suddenly feeling hot and embarrassed. She paced over again, deep red heels clicking on the wood floor, “Klaus can be intolerable, and even though I loathe him sometimes, you know I’m very protective.”

“Rebekah-“ You began, desperate to explain yourself.

She gave you a small smile, “Don’t. You know I love you like a sister, and I missed you terribly so. I don’t blame you for wanting to leave, it must have been so hard, I know how much you love him.”

She clapped her hands as if to shoo away the tension and linked your arm with hers, “We must catch up! I have so much to tell you!” She dragged you away, the both of you giggling like kids.

Rebekah’s room was decorated similar to her old one, the furniture was tawny and cream and the bed was thick and inviting. Bundles of expensive gowns and slips were thrown on the floor like a tornado had hit and she was stood in the centre, her blonde hair in pink rollers.

“I’m thinking this one.” She reached for an emerald green number and held it against her body, studying your reaction.

“Bekah, how many times? You’ll look amazing no matter what you wear.” You said leaning back into the pillows, head in your hands. This was the 20th dress she had shown you.

Kol chuckled next to you and nudged you with his arm “But I’ll be the most attractive one there right?”

“You wish.” You whacked him lightly and he pretended to wince,

“Ouch!” He muttered rubbing his arm exaggeratedly “Now I know why my brother has to keep you locked up.”

You gave him the finger and settled deeper into the bed, tuning out the sound of the siblings bickering about who was more attractive. You had seriously missed these two.

“So,” You started, twirling your hair around your finger, “What’s the deal with this whole ball anyway?”

Rebekah shrugged as she motioned Kol over to clasp her necklace around her throat, “Since when did we need an occasion to throw a ball?”

“Please. It’s not a Mikaelson party without an ulterior motive. Usually involving torture.”

“We just want to get to know the locals.” Kol stated, checking himself out in the full-length mirror, “Really sink our teeth into them.”

Rebekah swatted him and turned to you, watching as you rolled your eyes, you didn't believe their ploy but you couldn't be bothered to pry anymore.

“You’re not wearing that are you?” Rebekah asked lip curled up in disgust as she gestured to your slightly moth bitten pyjamas.

“I think you’re forgetting I'm not invited. On the account of the whole running away and then starving myself thing.”

“Doesn’t mean you can’t look your best? Besides, I have so many gowns, it would be a shame for them to waste away in my wardrobe.”

You snorted at her attempt and frowned, “Thanks, B, but-”

She immediately cut you off, “I’m not taking no for an answer, even if you sit and sulk in your room all night at least do it in Versace! You used to be so fun, remember those nights in Paris?”

“Oh god, I can hardly remember that entire trip,” Kol muttered from the corner and Rebekah gave raised her brows at you, before smirking and dragging you into her boudoir.

You stared at yourself in front of the mirror. Running your hands over the soft burgundy lace of your dress, you swayed from side to side, observing from every angle. You could hear the distant roar of the party from downstairs, people laughing and glasses clinking. Rebekah had done well, choosing a dress she knew you couldn't refuse, a gorgeous maroon ballgown with a sweetheart neckline. But you couldn't help feeling like a child playing dress up. It had been so long since you had attended a party like this and you felt entirely overwhelmed.

You chewed your lip as you pattered along the floor, running your fingers over your collarbones absentmindedly. Half of your body was begging you to rip off the dress and climb into bed but a part of you wanted to delve back into the past. You stumbled across a small hollow in the decking of the second floor, with a perfect view of the hall. You were almost out of sight from down below, and you could comfortably rest and observe without the witch's curse stopping you.

You recognised nobody of course, but the party was filled with jubilant people. The room was bright against the black outside, lit with golden chandeliers and flickering candles. Your eyes travelled to the Mikaelson siblings, easily the most charming and eye-catching people in the room, everyone they spoke to completely enamoured by them, yourself included. You felt eyes watching you, and tried to follow them, landing on a pair of men you hadn't seen before. One was dark haired, and the other blonde, both watching you with curious eyes, whispering to one another. You felt sheepish and turned your head, embarrassed to be spotted. The sound of a spoon tapping against a glass made you look back up trying to trace the noise. Klaus was smiling, one that you knew was forced, and facing the crowd. Your heart leapt at him in his formal suit, eyes bright and hair tousled.

“Thank you all for coming tonight.” He started with a laugh “Mystic Falls is a truly wonderful town and I want to thank you all for making myself and my siblings feel so welcome.”

There was something strange about his tone and his eyes darkened slightly, focusing on something on the other side of the room. Nobody seemed to notice, but you followed his gaze back to the two men from earlier, now stood with a pretty brunette girl, all of them with a sour look on their features.

“Well I don’t want to keep you much longer, I hope you all have a wonderful night and will join us for a dance.”

The crowd all clapped and smiled, returning to mingling among themselves, some older women gushing over Klaus congratulating him on his beautiful home and party. Something inside you sparked, watching him glide across the room, laughing and joking made you miss him with your entire being. You didn’t regret leaving but my god did you miss having him on your side. You had thought about him every day since you had gone, you knew it may never get back to normal but you wanted to talk to him, to explain. You got to your feet, hitching up your dress and walking over to the staircase slowly, you couldn't go down, but maybe you could catch his attention and get him alone.

And then the lights dimmed.

Everyone in the room parted as a familiar Ed Sheeran song rang through the speakers. You watched confused as men and women linked hands and pulled one another onto the floor. The lights were hot against your bare skin as you stood at the top of the stairs staring down, the music was loud and you felt dizzy. You saw Kol and Elijah both courting women, both gliding across the floor and you lifted your hands trying to focus. You saw Rebekah with a guy and the dark haired man and woman from earlier both swaying to the beat.

Then you saw him, hands intertwined with a beautiful blonde girl. He was pulling her across the floor, telling her something, mouth by her ear, smiling and whispering. You felt like you were going to be sick. His arms were against her back and she was pressed into him, she said something and he laughed, head thrown back. You couldn’t watch anymore, not able to stop the tears flowing down your cheeks you turned and fled.

Your entire body was shaking as you choked back tears. You felt so fucking stupid. You stared up at the moon, your entire body was freezing out here on the balcony, but the cold made you feel numb. You wiped your sore eyes, grimacing at the black stains on the pads of your hands, you probably looked a mess.

“Ah, here you are. I couldn’t find you in your room, was worried you ran off again.”

“Don’t Klaus.” You snapped, still facing the sky, refusing to see him.

You heard him approaching you cautiously, fingers tracing the bare skin of your arm trying to pull you to face him but you shrugged him off.

“What on earth is the matter?” He asked before placing something on the table behind you “I thought you might like some cake.”

You spun around and watched his face contort as he took in the sight of your puffy eyes and the redness of your chest.

“How long do you plan on doing this Klaus?” You asked loudly not in control of how hysterical you sounded “This was your plan hm? To punish me? Well, congratulations you got it!”

He looked genuinely confused, “Y/N, what-” he began, reaching to wipe the tears off of your face but you slapped his hand away.

“Don’t. You don’t get to do that anymore Klaus.” You stated, sniffing and rubbing your eyes, “Ever since you got me here you never planned on us making up, you wanted me to be in pain. You don’t think leaving was the hardest thing I have ever done?”

His face changed, eyes darkening and teeth clenching. “You left, in the night. Like a coward. You should have fought for us.”

“I spent far too long fighting Klaus.”

He gave you an exasperated look and rubbed his head, “I loved you! I would have done anything for you. Was I not enough?”

“That’s hardly fair.” You snapped, “ I left everything I have ever known for you, you were my first love,” your voice cracked  “My only love.”

You both were out of breath, exhausted and emotional. Tears were flowing freely now, hot and blinding, you could see he was uncomfortable and unsure of what to do. There was a time where you would both embrace and it felt like the world couldn't come between you, but now neither of you knew where you stood.

“Leave me alone Klaus. I mean it. I'm so fucking tired.” You groaned, holding your head in your hands and stumbling into a seat, sniffling into your palms. He stared at you, so badly wanting to comfort you, to talk to you, to fight for you. But his pride was too strong, and he wiped his eyes with the back of his sleeve and spun out of the room, choosing to find comfort in a bottle of whisky. Leaving you in tears and alone.

[spellucci]

Millie, the 4-Ton Dune Buggy

Saturday, April 3, 2021 (yes, 4/3/21)

We started the day with a scrumptious breakfast of blueberry pancakes and bacon washed down with fresh-brewed coffee. Then Jeanne broke out the maps. The topic is where to go off-roading on the beach, and when, as some beaches are impassable at high tide.

The tide turns out to be right for the beach adjacent to our campground. We have all the required gear, so we treat ourselves to a 10-day ORV (off-road vehicle) pass.

The roads that cross the dunes and give access to the beach are called ramps. The one we looked at yesterday had intimidatingly deep sand on the beach side of the ramp. Even if we could get down on the beach, getting back up to the ramp was an iffy-looking situation.

Ramp 49 at the Frisco Campground is different. It is wide and firm and gives access to very navigable sand. Before we leave the asphalt, we engage the four wheel drive and air down (lower the tire pressure for better traction) to 20 PSI in the front and 25 in the rear. For those following along at home, that's a big drop from the usual 45/70 tire pressures.

Driving on the beach is a blast. The shore is lined with scores of fishermen and women in their 4WD vehicles accompanied by kids and dogs and kites. We head east along the southern shore of Hatteras Island toward Cape Point at the elbow of the island.

We stop and take pictures and bask in the windy sunshine. It isn't anything close to warm, but with our long coats, we are protected from the breeze.

We meet a couple from Pennsylvania who are collecting shells. We exchange pleasantries. The husband stays chatting with us, and warns us about the "red sand." This is the course wet sand down near the water line. Sure enough, it is soft enough to swallow a heavy RV like ours. We make a note to keep clear of it.

A driver switch, and we continue down to where the route ends. It is time to turn back and head to Ramp 44 which gives access to Cape Point. Making the turn back up the beach, we get stuck in the sand.

Did we mention Millie Ryder weighs four tons? This is not just a rock your tires situation. We pull out the shovel and floor mats and get to work extricating ourselves.

A couple in a tricked out 4WD stops to check on us and offers to help. We accept. The driver, Jason, takes out a synthetic rope tow line and connects our two vehicles with soft shackles on each end.

Synthetic rope and soft shackles are wonderful inventions in the world of recovery gear. Sure you can use steel cable and steel shackles. They're inexpensive and perfectly serviceable. But when something breaks, which does happen, the kinetic energy of a cable stretched between two multi-ton vehicles is enough to ruin your day. Synthetic rope can take a tremendous load, but dissapates all it's energy as soon as the load is released.

Our rig is halfway through the 180° turn, and Jason is heading in the direction we eventually want to go, so the rope between us is about 45° to each vehicle. He fires up his rig and pulls while we try to drive, but we don't move. He backs up and tries again, moving us a few inches, but the spinning of his wheels winds up burying his vehicle up to the axles. He's now stuck worse than we are. His lady friend is wearing dress boots. She has been cooperating in the recovery, but this is clearly not turning out to be the romantic drive along the beach it could have been.

Jason jacks up his vehicle, first one end, then the other. He clears enough sand from underneath his vehicle that he soon is no longer bottomed out. He places special-purpose friction boards under his wheels. He brings out his tire deflator manifold system. Jeanne remarks that she has gear envy. This brings out a huge grin from Jason. He soon drives free from his stuck position.

He backs up to form a direct line from his rig to ours, no 45° this time. While Jason had been airing down, we did, too. With his rig giving us a direct forward pull and all the tires at maximum traction, we drive right out of the sand, easy as you please. He keeps the tow line tight until we clear the ramp. We decouple our vehicles, and extend the most sincere thanks. He and his friend depart, and we gingerly make our way east toward Cape Hatteras lighthouse for lunch.

We sit and eat in the sun at a picnic area right near the lighthouse. Thus fortified, we drive to the lighthouse itself and enjoy playing tourist for a while. Throughout the 1900s the Cape Hatteras lighthouse was was threatened by erosion as the shifting sands left its foundation more and more exposed. In 1999 the lighthouse was moved half a mile from its original position to mitigate the erosion threat.

Then, just like when learning to ride a bike, when a mishap requires getting right back on and riding again, we took Millie right back onto the sand and relished in the noticibly improved ride of our further deflated tires. "Silky," as Jeanne described it.

We arrive back at camp and air back up again, Jeanne kvelling at the speed of the air compressor and Tim enjoying the performance of well-designed tools.

We chillax outside in our folding chairs for the first time this trip. With the accent on the chill. It is too cool to remain stationary outside for long.

Back inside, we bookend the deliciousness of the day with a dinner of Shrimp Pad Thai. After sunset, we take the boardwalk to the beach. Overlooking the shore from the heights, we see silhouettes of children playing with flashlights on the sand. We turn for home. Perhaps in the dark the flashlights are learning to dance on their own.

[flyingcarpettours]

Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada Package

Experience amazing Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada Package, which will make you get excited by watching amazing monuments of ancient Egyptian kings, which are located at the amazing landmarks of Cairo and Luxor, as Cairo includes the most famous Pharaonic attractions all over the world, for it was the land of Pahaonic people, therefore when you decide to come to Egypt,  you shouldn’t miss our Cairo Tours, which contain tours to the Pyramids of Giza, the massive statue of Sphinx, Valley Temple and many other places and museums that will make you be amazed by the glory of the Paharonic civilization and art.

Go on a bundle of pleasure by visiting Cairo`s best pharaonic spots: The Great Pyramids of Giza or The Seven Wonders of the ancient world: Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. Besides the breathtaking view of the Sphinx, which is a body and a head of a king or god that symbolize strength and wisdom. Additionally, you will be entertained to attend our one-hour Sound and Light Show which is a great show that will take you back to the time of Ancient Egypt where the kings narrate their aesthetic pharaonic stories along with the Pyramids and the Sphinx being illuminated in multi-colored lasers and visual projections. Don`t miss our Camel Riding or Horse Riding at Giza Pyramids, we promise you an amazing and unique experience like no other! You will also feast your eyes with the gorgeous Egyptian Museum and its artifacts and learn about the mummification in Ancient Egypt. Moreover, the museum contains many tombs filled with amazing statues and paintings of Egyptian Gods that would help the mummy in the afterlife, protect them against tomb robbers, and pay homage to their religious symbols. They also contain messages and magic spells to ward off evil and furniture to use in the afterlife as they thought.

We give you an amazing historical trip to Luxor where you can see the old capital for almost all of the pharaonic period and explore the monuments of Luxor which contains about a third of the most valuable monuments in the whole world such as Karnak and Luxor Temples and Colossi of Memnon it was belonging to a Greek king who named “Memnon” and was killed by the famous character in the Greek mythology who was called “Achilles”. Then exploring Karnak Temple which is considered the biggest temple in the world, The temple was dedicated to god Amun. It developed over a period of 1500 years. and you will get amazed with our Valley of The Kings Tour which has many buried kings, it was used for burial, and it includes 3 tombs to visit and it is considered one of the most characteristic temples in all of Egypt was dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut who was a rare female Pharaoh as she was the fifth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Ancient Egypt.

Moreover, you can enjoy a trip to Luxor West Bank Tour and you will get amazed with our Valley of The Kings Tour which has many buried kings, it was used for burial, and it includes 3 tombs to visit and it is considered one of the most characteristic temples in all of Egypt was dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut who was a rare female Pharaoh as she was the fifth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Ancient Egypt. or experience our Karnak Sound and Light Show  at night with a multimedia show in front of the beautiful view of the Sacred lake, or experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor, it is the greatest way to explore the world’s largest open air museum over Luxor in the beautiful morning light while flying all over Luxor and more.

If you are a sea-lover, Hurghada would be the best! Explore Hurghada: a beautiful place which is suitable for relaxation away from your stressed life. Escape from the stress of life and feel relaxed on the mesmerizing beaches, get your tan under the warm shiny sun while enjoying your fresh drinks and watching the beautiful nature, as Hurghada contains spectacular sea, sky and mountains. Explore many hot spots in Hurghada such as Sahl Hashish, Makadi Bay and Soma Bay. Hurghada also has a plenty of luxury restaurants, exciting activities and trips such as safari tour through the mountains, sailing over the fabulous Red Sea, clubbing and golfing besides exploring the mysteries nature of under-water world. With our Hurghada Submarine Tour and our Hurghada Semi Submarine Tour, you will be amazed by the two-hour underwater-submarine trip under the striking Red Sea: a unique underwater-experience where you can spot the marine life clearly and the mesmerizing colorful coral reef through a large glass. If you are the adventurous type, our Hurghada Quad Biking and Hurghada Desert Safari are the best

Book Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada Package

Day 01: Arrive Cairo

At the time your flight touching Cairo Land, one delegate from Flying Carpet Tours will be holding a sign with your name, transfer to hotel, relax from the inconvenience of your travel, overnight in Cairo.

Day 02: Cairo Tours, Pyramids and Egyptian Museum

Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then Flying Carpet Tours guide will lead you to a ravishing tour to Pyramids of Giza, feast your eyes by visiting Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinus, then your guide will take you to panoramic view of the pyramids, memorable photos available to the three pyramids together, next move to the Sphinx, scout the valley temple, relax by having lunch at local restaurant, after Lunch your tour guide will escort you to the Egyptian Museum which contains amazing treasures of King Tut Ankh Amun, finally back to hotel, night at leisure, or choose from variety of optional tours, Either to try Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Folklore show, Belly Dancer, surprises are waiting for you, or try optional to the sound & light show at the pyramids, overnight in Cairo.

Day 03: Luxor Tours, Karnak & Luxor Temple

Enjoy the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then one delegate from Flying Carpet Tours will lead you to Cairo domestic airport, fly to Luxor, arrive Luxor, beguile your eyes by visiting Karnak Temple, be witness for the glory of the Pillars hall, then move towards Luxor temple, finally transfer to your hotel to relax, at night optional to Karnak sound and Light show, overnight in Luxor

Day 04: Luxor Tours, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon

Taste the flavor of your breakfast on hotel, beguile your eyes between Valley of the Kings ( visit 03 Tombs Only ), Next visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, known now with the name of El-Deir El-Bahary, your last visit will be to Colossi of Memnon, Watch the glory of the two huge statues, finally Flying Carpet Tours Delegate will escort you by air-conditioned van to Hurghada, arrive Hurghada, check into your hotel, overnight in Hurghada,

Day 05: Hurghada at leisure

Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, it is your leisure day in Hurghada, try a lot of Water sports, Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, bask under the gleaming Sun, beguile your eyes with the awesome Red Sea, Or choose between the splendid Excursions in Hurghada, overnight in Hurghada,

Day 06: Hurghada at leisure

Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, it is your leisure day in Hurghada, try a lot of Water sports, Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, bask under the gleaming Sun, beguile your eyes with the awesome Red Sea, Or choose between the splendid Excursions in Hurghada, overnight in Hurghada,

Day 07: Hurghada to Cairo by Flight

Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then Flying Carpet Tours delegate will transfer you to Hurghada Airport, fly to Cairo, at the time your flight touching Cairo land, one of Flying Carpet Tours representatives will be holding a sign with your name, transfer to hotel, relax from the inconvenience of travel, overnight in Cairo.

Day 08: Final departure from Cairo

Today is the valediction day, taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then one of Flying Carpet Tours delegates will lead you to Cairo International airport, for the final departure.

For more info about Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada Package

E-mail: Sales@flyingcarpettours.com

Website: www.flyingcarpettours.com

Tel.: +201099906242

[e-biketips-blog]

Why You Should Go To Miami For E-bike Riding?

Basically, one could define a bicycle as a vehicle running on two tyres, made to move my stepping and pushing its two pedals.  It is true that this definition is incomplete today due to the fact that the primary bicycle as it was formerly known has undergone quite a number of changes since its invention by German inventor: Baron Von Drais.  Despite the fact that we now have faster means of transport such as cars, the bicycle industry has still survived. This is because of the health conveniences that come with cycling on top of the ecological friendliness of bikes.  According to medical practitioners, it is advisable to go bike riding in order to reduce fat and lower the risk of contracting cardiovascular infections. Expand the information about e-bike in here!

Since the introduction of e-bikes into the market late in the 19th century, more people have moved away from regular bicycles.  They are bicycles with all the features of a regular one except for the electric motor that they possess.  Many people have taken to electronic bikes because they do not take as much effort to pedal but still fulfill the whole idea of a bicycle. Electronic bikes also come with an added feature where you can jump start them by pushing a button on them.  Just like regular bikes’ electronic bikes increase their speed as you pedal faster except with the aid of the motor it is possible to attain higher speeds until the optimum is attained. Enhance the important knowledge that you can get about e-bike, view more info.

You might be interested in going on a fun bike riding spree and for this, it’s best to find a good place like Miami for instance.  Miami is relatively hot compared to other parts of North America, thus being a favorite destination of many who wish to go on holiday travel.  The warmth it offers makes it the best place for you to carry your electronic bike. The beach is a beautiful place to go sightseeing and taking your e-bike with you would be an incredible idea. The place offers beautiful scenery for riders to enjoy so that, other than just lying under the sun to bask, one could pedal away and enjoy the thrill of biking on the shores. Pick out the most interesting info about e-bike at https://www.huffpost.com/entry/electric-bike-ebike-commu_b_12340980.

Miami isn’t an exception when it comes to traffic and not many people like this.  An e-bike comes in handy at such times because you can almost effortlessly get through traffic in no time. While beating traffic in the rush hours, you will also be burning a few calories, which is a health upside.  Between 2016 and 2017, 91% more e-bikes were sold.  We have e-bike riding tournaments in many places nowadays, proof that the technology is widely embraced today.

[treasuresoftraveling]

Treasures of Traveling in Nice

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10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

The south of France is known for its many beaches along the French Riviera, also known as le Cote d’Azur and Nice is just one of the many cities that stand out. It’s a great place to visit because of the beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the blue water of the Mediterranean Sea. It also has many cultural attractions like Nice’s Carnival as it’s one of the largest Carnival celebrations in the world. Since Nice is located along the Mediterranean sea, it has a mild climate year round and perfect for relaxing on the beach from May to October. The boulevards are lined with palm trees and tropical flowers giving visitors the perspective of being in paradise. Nice has beaches, delicious restaurants, amazing views and a wonderful culture. Nice is just one of the many treasures of traveling throughout the French Riviera. 

Sporting Beach along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice

Beautiful Weather

Nice has a wonderful climate most of the year. On average they have 300 days of sunshine a year! If you like sunny weather, Nice is a great place to visit during any of the seasons. If your main goal is to enjoy the beach, then Spring and Fall will be the best times to go since it is generally warm and sunny, but not extremely hot! July and August, the summer months are generally the hottest months and therefore also the busiest times of the year as tons of tourists flock to Nice to vacation. 

One of the many beaches in Nice

Nice’s Carnival

Nice’s Carnival is one of the largest carnival celebrations in the world and if you are an individual who loves to explore the different types of carnival celebrations around the world from Rio to New Orleans, you definitely won’t want to miss Carnival in Nice. Check out the official website for up to date information if you plan on adding this event as something you must experience. View this video of the Best of Nice’s Carnival from 2017. 

The Promenade des Anglais

This world famous Promenade des Anglais (English Promenade) has been a famous resort area for English people vacationing away from England during winter months. It is easily the most famous tourist attraction of Nice today as so many people come to bask in the Mediterranean sun. The promenade is seven kilometers long and runs from the Nice airport to Castle Hill (La colline du Château). A beach boardwalk runs alongside the Promenade des Anglais, where you can see many locals jogging or walking their dogs and just hanging out with friends on the benches underneath the palm trees. There are many upscale and expensive boutiques along the boulevard that you might find interesting if shopping is one of your hobbies. The promenade is ideal for people to take their time and enjoy from either walking, running or riding their bike or even skating. 

The Promenade des Anglais in Nice

Beaches of Nice

There seems to be an endless amount of white pebble beaches along the Promenade des Anglais because it stretches for seven kilometers. It is made up of many different beaches from public beaches to others that are owned by hotels or restaurants and provide services for locals and tourists from drinks and food to tables, sun chairs and umbrellas. If you decide to use those beaches be prepared to spend extra money on all the different amenities. Some people won’t want to pay the extra money for the amenities and that is fine because there are public beaches you can visit for free. The beaches of Nice aren’t the best beaches to swim at because the water gets very deep very quickly. Just be warned that the beaches of Nice aren’t the most comfortable because they are so rocky. You will want shoes or sandals if you plan on walking along the beaches as they are covered in jagged rocks and pebbles, which can become hot in the sun and it might feel like you are walking on fire and coals. If you don’t like sandy beaches or at least feeling like you have sand all over your body, you will probably love Nice beaches, but if you want sandy beaches you will have to venture to other nearby towns that have sandy beaches. Because the beaches have so many rocks on them, most people like to rent chairs because it isn’t the most comfortable laying a towel on top of the rocks, although many people do that. Just think of it as a free rock massage! 

Blue Beach along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice

Old Town of Nice

Nice Old Town (le Vieux Nice) is well known for its beautiful cobbled streets, colorful buildings and small alleyways. The majority of it is pedestrian only and it’s packed with restaurants, cafes, open markets and cafes. You might easily bump into locals or other travelers because there are many narrow winding streets. There are some small hotels in this area of Nice as well, but many people just come to this area of Nice to explore. The famous market and flower market (Cours Saleya) is held almost every morning, except Monday when it transforms into a large open air flea market. 

A street in Old Town Nice (le Vieux Nice)

Enjoy some Gelato or Italian Ice Cream

While visiting the Old Town of Nice you can easily enjoy some of the traditional Italian ice cream called Gelato in the summer heat. You might be wondering why there is so much gelato, a famous Italian ice cream, in France and that is because this part of France was under Italy’s rule until the Treaty of Turin in 1860. 

  Delicious Food

Nice is located very close to the Italian border and once upon a time was actually part of Italy so there is a lot of good Italian food as well as good French food. There is a tasty local dish that you definitely should try when you visit. One is called Socca and is made from chickpea flour, olive oil and water. These ingredients are poured together into a large pan and when cooked make it look like a gigantic crispy pancake. Socca shouldn’t be completely dry, but just a little creamy inside. Socca is famous in this region of France so it is a must try when you visit and it’s easy to find because it is an excellent type of street food. You can easily find Socca and other local favorites in the old town of Nice. 

Restaurants and stores along Rue de France in Nice

Castle Hill Park

Castle Hill Park (le parc de la Colline du Château) is located on the hill overlooking Nice Old Town. The name of the park comes from the military fortress that overlooked the bay of Nice for centuries. The views from Castle Rock Hill are beautiful and definitely are a must visit as the views of the Angel Bay, the beach, the promenade, the Old Town of Nice and the Port of Nice are fantastic. At the top of the hill is also a nice park with a waterfall and a cemetery full of trees and places to relax and enjoy an escape from the city. To get to the top you can either take the free elevator to the top (this is especially helpful for many people during the summer heat) or you can walk to the top climbing the stairs along the Bellanda Tower. You can also walk through the cemetery back down to the city. One of the easiest ways to get to the top of Castle Hill is to take the Nice miniature train. You can catch this train at the Promenade des Anglais all the way to the Castle Hill Gardens. 

Castle Hill and Bellanda Tower

Visit a Park in Nice

There are many public parks throughout Nice that can be a wonderful place to visit and just relax while visiting Nice. From small neighborhood parks like the Square Alziari de Malaussena to large city parks like Albert the 1st Garden which flows into the Promenade du Paillon park. The interesting thing about these parks is that they have been built on top of the Paillon River, which began to dry as most of the water was used before it reached the Meditteranean Sea. They have made a wonderful green space throughout the city where the river used to be and actually still runs underneath it. It just doesn’t have the flow it once did. They have also built the National Theater of Nice, the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum of Nice, along with the Palace of Congresses and Exhibition Center of Nice (basically the city’s Convention Center) and a number of other open parks to explore and exercise in. 

Square Alziari de Malaussena. One of the many parks in Nice.

The Port of Nice

The Port of Nice might be on the smaller side, but it has been the city’s port since the mid 18th century. It is located on the eastern side of the city, on the other side of Castle Hill Park. From the park there are nice overhead views of the port, but it is nice to view the port up close and see all the boats, yachts, ships and other water vessels next to very colorful buildings. 

The port of Nice

Visiting Neighboring Cannes

There are many neighboring cities and small villages to visit that are close to Nice and very easy to visit as they are accessible by using public transportation. The city of Cannes is a great city to visit along the French Riviera as well. It’s just a short train or bus ride away from Nice. Take a look at the 15 places to visit on a walking tour of Cannes. 

15 Places to Visit on a Walking Tour of Cannes, France!

Treasures of Traveling in Nice

There are many treasures of traveling to visit in the city of Nice, along the French Riviera from the open air markets, the Old Town, the beaches and Castle Hill Park. Cannes has many things to offer any tourist and is filled with a few of the interesting treasures that France has to offer. There are many other wonderful French cities to discover along the Mediterranean coastline like Cannes that you also don’t want to miss while exploring the French Riviera. 

— Luke Keeler

One of the many beaches in Nice

Check out the map below to see where Nice is located!

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10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

10 Things to Experience in Nice, France!

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Nice is a French city along the Mediterranean coast well known for its fantastic weather, beautiful white pebble beaches and delicious food. Nice is just one of the many treasures of traveling throughout the French Riviera so check out these 10 things to experience in Nice. Treasures of Traveling in Nice The south of France is known for its many beaches along the French Riviera, also known as le Cote d’Azur and Nice is just one of the many cities that stand out.

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13 Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway

overview

Looking to unwind after a grueling week? Here we have listed of Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway t. Rejuvenate yourself so that you can take life by the horns once again.

Note: There are a lot of ways to reach all these properties but we have mentioned the ones we think will be the most convenient.

List

1. U Tropicana Beach Resort, Alibaug

Why ?

Spread over 12 acres and just three kilometers from picturesque Kihim Beach. Tropically landscaped gardens and greenery allowing guests to forget about the worldly worries and bask in an atmosphere of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

2. Anandvan Resort, Bhandardara

Why ?

High in the hills at 2800 ft., surrounded by wilderness and spectacular mountain scenery where guest can enjoy luxurious private cottages & villas, relish natural food & experience

3. Fort Jadhavgadh

Why ?

High in the hills at 2800 ft., surrounded by wilderness and spectacular mountain scenery where guest can enjoy luxurious private cottages & villas, relish natural food & experience.

- One of the best heritage getaways in Maharashtra Fort Jadhavgadh provides a glimpse into the Shivaji era.

- The resort is equipped with a poolside spa (definitely worth brownie points if you want to destress)

- Accommodation ranging from the Maharaja suite to Royal tents

- Unique activities like bullock cart rides, treks round the fort, martial art show to delight the traveller . Defiantly unmissable to the list of Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway.

4. Upper Deck, Lonavala

Why ?

Away from the madding crowd, perched atop Lonavala’s highest point level on Tungarli Hills, it is a haven for the routine-weary.

5. Della Resorts and Villas, Lonavala

Why ?

- This one is for the adventure junkies. This one of a kind resort in the area and has amazing adventure sports ranging from bungee jumping, zorbing, dirt biking to horse rides and more and that is why you can’t afford to miss this one.

- We would rate it at #1 for families.

6. Amanzi Resort, Pavana Dam

Why ?

- Overlooking the sparkling waters of Pavana Dam, a luxury resort, AMANZI is a sanctuary of hushed repose.

- Located in Tikona , it’s the best place for trekking, kayaking and paragliding near Mumbai.

7. Dune Barr House – Verandah In The Forest, Matheran

Why ?

- This is one of the best heritage properties in Maharashtra. Everything from the architecture to the tasteful interiors of the rooms reminds us of the vintage era.

- Matheran is a no vehicle zone so it basically a peaceful paradise.

- The famous Charlotte Lake is just some steps away and is perfect for an evening walk.

8. Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa

Why ?

- Set amidst 27-acres of pristine evergreen forests in Western Ghats, this five-star hotel offers a world of luxury unlike any other resort in Mahabaleshwar.

- This resort has private balconies in every room with incredible views, deep soaking tubs, sumptuous linens and impeccable amenities.

- Infinity pool overlooking the valley had to make it to the list of the Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway.

9. Amby valley city

Why ?

A fusion of nature and human creation, designed to offer superior living spaces, this gated and secured destination is nestled amidst scenic surroundings of the mighty Sahyadris, and spans over 10,000 acres. A meticulously planned city with world-class infrastructure and facilities, Aamby Valley City offers everything one needs for premium living.

10. Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa

Why ?

- The best thing about this property is its location! It’s surrounded by mountains and valleys.

- This all villa property only serves organic food and has a variety of wellness indulgences related to spa treatments, yoga naturopathy, Ayurveda classes, Tai Chi, Vedanta and meditation.

- Wellness focused activities ranging from birdwatching, stargazing, pilates,cooking and much more

11. Beyond by Sula Vineyards, Nashik

Why ?

- The best winery in the area. Though there are others wineries in the area I will still suggest Sula because it has the best wine tasting tours and accommodation

- Enjoy the winemaking and tasting experience exclusively arranged just for you which it is complementary with your stay.

- Rooms are wine-themed with infinity pools overlooking the winyards. Imagine sipping wine in your infinity pool which gazing at the sun set over the Vineyards.

12. Atmantan Wellness Retreat, Mulshi

Why ?

- An award winning resort near Mumbai, the Atmantan Wellness Retreat is all about luxury for mind and soul.

- From meditation to yoga to amazing spa treatments, this resort is perfect for all those looking for an escape from the daily hustle.

- They offer lake facing guest rooms for those looking for tranquility.

- Special wellness focused Spa cuisine.

- Wellness focused packages including accommodation, food and treatments for specific concerns.

13. The Machan, Lonavala

Why ?

- A luxury eco-resort, perfect getaway to spend quality time with our loved ones in the purest of surroundings

- A range of unique tree houses, each with a different experience to choose from.

- Special ground based cabins are available for couples

- Plethora of outdoor activities like trekking, bird spotting, stargazing, cycling, visiting historical sites or “just be-ing”

- A great place to get off the grid and unwind in nature’s lap.

- This is my personal favourite, saved the Best Resort near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway for the last.