#modern look. Tiles are perfect for kitchens

[damned-punk]

Small Moments (Kidd x Reader x Killer)

@gratefulcheeses Kidd Pirate’s Month 2025 🏴‍☠️

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Content Warning: nsfw, afab!reader

Content Description: modern!AU where you and Killer spend the day planning for a relaxing evening while Kidd works overtime ♡

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You stood in the kitchen alongside Killer, finishing up the sides that would accompany his pasta dish for dinner. The two of you had the day off, Kidd was due home from the body shop at any second. Just as you had set out the plate and silverware, the front door swung open to reveal your favorite red-headed mechanic. His hair was a bit tousled, his hands covered in grease and his clothes just as tattered as ever. You strutted yourself over to him, greeting him with a kiss as soon as his boots were off and kicked to the side.

“Miss me?”, he asked teasingly, squeezing your bottom as he returned the affection.

“Dinner is almost done, hurry and shower.”, you urged him so that the food wouldn’t get cold.

This was all part of your usual routine. Kidd would shower as soon as he was home, all the sweat and grime from work creating such a mess otherwise. He and Killer typically worked the same shifts but Kidd had put in some overtime today, consequentially allowing you and Killer to scheme at home in preparation for the perfect evening. As you listened to the water of the shower patter against the tiled walls, you plated Kidd’s dinner and arranged everything on the coffee table in the living room.

As you returned to gather drinks for everyone, Killer caged you in his arms and showered a barrage of kisses across your face. You squirmed and giggled against him, a smile cracking across his features. He traced his lips along your jaw, nipping at the soft skin of your neck. You relaxed against him, far happier and satisfied than you could’ve ever imagined. These small moments meant the world to you and you hoped that it felt the same for them.

“I’m about to say to hell with this food if you two keep it up.”, Kidd said jokingly, lightly swatting and gripping your bottom as he caged you in from behind.

It was certainly temping, being pressed between them in bed was always a good time but the more rational part of you urged them to wait. It somewhat added to the allure of the evening, knowing that impending explicit activities were just on the horizon. There was little conversation as the three of you indulged in the meal, the flavors meshing perfectly with your’s and Killer’s combined efforts. Kidd’s hand wandered to your thigh as you sat back, discarding your empty plate alongside their own.

Killer noticed and followed Kidd’s lead almost immediately. Something about the way their large, rough hands gripped at you made your entire body feel warm and fuzzy. You stood from the couch and shuffled your way toward the bedroom, picking up speed as Kidd began chasing you down the hall. You yelped when he caught up to you, tackling you onto the bed and unleashing an attack of tickles than had left you pleading with him to stop.

Killer leant against the door frame and shook his head at your shenanigans. Despite Kidd’s intimidating stature, he could be so unserious which always made for a good time. You could say the same for Killer, Kidd might’ve been the one to start things but Killer never failed to finish them. The two men were so content and happy to be with you, there had been a time in their lives when they never could’ve imagined a life like the three of you had built together.

“EUSTASS! STOP!”, you yelled in defiance, your words coming out a bit wheezy due to the inability to catch your breath between laughs, “Help me, Killer!”

“You sure you want me to help?”, Killer took a few steps toward the bed, “You look like you’re handling things pretty well on your own.”

Kidd relented and let you breathe for a moment upon hearing Killer’s words. They were far too sultry for him to continue playing with you like this. Visions of you handling him in other ways crossed his mind, prompting him discard your bottoms. He was rather swift with his motions, the sudden loss of modesty causing you to become a bit shy. You trusted them whole heartedly but things could be unexpected at times. One moment you’re playing with them and the next, you’re playing with them.

Killer assumed position behind you, coaxing you to lean back as Kidd positioned himself in front of you. He hooked his arms underneath your legs and peppered sloppy kisses along the plush of your thighs. He considered teasing you, but he was far too impatient at this point. He worked his tongue through your folds, thoroughly enjoying the way that your fingers gripped his hair.

“Kidd…”, you whimpered out to him, “Feels good…”

“I know, I know.”, he cooed back, not nearly as sarcastic as usual.

He’d typically take his time working you up, sometimes even trading off with Killer to extend the build up to the main event. Things would typically move fast at that point, the anticipation making the sensations feel so much more intense. Tonight was still just as pleasurable, but Kidd wanted to indulge in you for a change of pace. His day had been filled with hard work and little excitement, he needed this time to be as close to you as possible.

Killer understood immediately from the pace that Kidd had set, working himself up to the view before him. He’d enjoyed having the opportunity to decompress with you, the only thing that could’ve enhanced his experience would’ve been Kidd also getting to spend the day the same way with the two of you. That would be saved for another time, the three of you were connected in this moment and that was enough.

Your legs trembled, a signal that Kidd was bringing you to climax. Killer whispered filthy praises in your ear as your back arched, your chest heaving with deep breaths as Kidd helped you ride out your orgasm. He kissed his way back up to your lips, giving you the opportunity to taste yourself. You took a few seconds to calm down, eventually moving to rest on your hands and knees before the two men.

“Good girl.”, Kidd praised you, landing a firm smack on your ass, “Killer’s looking a little lonely, don’t you think (Y/N)?”

You focused on Killer’s hands which were currently freeing his cock from his boxers. You carefully brought your lips to rest around the tip, waiting to move until Kidd assumed his position behind you. He aligned himself at your entrance, initially moving with gentle thrusts as you adjusted to his size. You did what you could to take as much of Killer into your mouth as possible.

Killer was not fond of pushing your head and allowed you to pleasure him at your own pace. Kidd’s thrusts had become sharp and unrelenting, it was evident that he was not far from his own climax. Not that you were complaining, but Kidd was not as simple to pleasure at times. Killer was truly just happy to be there, he seemed to take all his pleasure from being any level of intimate with the two of you. It was a great dichotomy to have, the best of both worlds in your humble opinion.

Kidd’s thrusts became unrhythmic and Killer seemed to be holding himself back to wait for Kidd. If you could manage, you might’ve even giggled at the pair of them. They didn’t always engage in acts of intimacy alone, but this was one of those small moments that they shared together. This was a true connection between them and you as one unit, a three pointed set of soulmates.

“I love you, (Y/N).”, Killer muttered out as he met his own end, unable to hold back any longer.

The sudden admission from Killer combined with how you were working so hard to not spill him from your mouth summoned Kidd right over the edge. He was not as graceful with his own verbalization, uttering a string of curses as he collapsed against you. Killer readjusted his position to help you be more comfortable, reaching to fix the blanket over the three of you as best as he could manage.

“I can’t believe this.”, you deadpanned after a few moments.

“What?”, the two men asked in unison.

“Killer said he loves me and all you did was lay there.”, you teased Kidd relentlessly, “I don’t want cuddles from you anymore.”

You made a playful and feeble attempt to squirm out of his embrace, obviously putting up no real fight to get away from him.

“All I did was lay here?”, Kidd barked back, “I’m about to fuckin’ show you what laying here really looks like.”

“Yeah, I hear ya.”, you remarked, “Killer will protect me.”

“I will not.”, Killer teased back, “You’ve gotta fight your own battles at some point, (Y/N).”

“That’s it, I don’t want cuddles from either of you.”, you pouted and turned away from the two of them.

You smiled to yourself upon hearing Killer’s laughter in tandem to Kidd’s huffing and puffing. These moments meant everything you, it would always be the three of you against the world.

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[ctyhomeptyltd]

The Best Flooring Options in Allambie Heights for Every Home

The Best Flooring Options in Allambie Heights for Every Home When it comes to transforming your home, few things have a greater impact than choosing the right flooring. From durability to aesthetics, your choice can set the tone for the entire space. If you’re in Allambie Heights and in need of flooring solutions, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re renovating an existing space or…

[sunflowerwinds]

sugar, sugar | v.a

summary: vi has crept up into your mind and is keeping put so to try to relieve some of that bubbling crush energy, you bake her some protein muffins. after delivering them to her, she invites you to isha’s birthday party. meeting her entire family is nerve wracking but you’re welcome with open arms.

pairing: fem!reader x vi arcane

contains: modern!au, kick-boxer!vi, reader is an actual sweetheart, MY family (vander, isha, ekko, jinx, & sevika mentions), fluff and flirty tension, kind of slowburn but not really.

word count: 5.5K

a/n: what do y’all think of my new pfp?😝 i’m so glad everyone has enjoyed that first part of this little series. the overwhelming amount of support has touched my heart, i’m so sorry this took two weeks to come out i will try and be faster with the next part <3 & would 3 parts be too short? lmk in the replies!

— TWO

Making protein muffins was harder than you thought.

You had tried out multiple recipes with different flavors within the span of two days and it was driving your grandmother and your sister up the wall. Her kitchen now smelled like a mixture of all the different scents that were giving her a headache.

They were either dry, not enough flavor, too dense, not fluffy, too strong, etc. The list went on. But finally, on the third day of anxiously cooking, you perfected a beautiful and delicious batch of pumpkin muffins with a few blots of chocolate chips.

Ever since you found out that Vi worked at a kickboxing studio, it sparked an idea in your brain. You could bake some protein muffins to give her. Worried she wouldn’t like them, you double checked with her. You open your text thread with Vi, grinning at the last message she had sent you of the actual address of the studio so that you wouldn’t get lost.

Anxiously tapping your fingers on the steering wheel, you stare at the sign above the studio with hesitation. You had done yourself up a bit; just a tad. Okay, a little more than a tad.

This was Vi’s first time seeing you outside of work and you wanted to make a better impression than messily tossed up hair and bundled up layered outfits. You sported a mini black skirt with a pair of opaque tights with an over the shoulder cherry red sweater, your hair left in its natural state. You stare at the black marker writing of Vi’s name on the box in the passenger's seat of your car.

Would she think you were trying too hard?

No, no, no overthinking, you scold yourself. You tug down your sun visor on your driver’s side to double check your makeup before grabbing your purse and the box of muffins for Vi. You open your driver's side to step out onto the gravel parking lot, sucking in a deep breath to calm your nerves as you tug on the cold handle to the door of the studio.

The moment you stepped into the dim lit area, you spotted Vi almost immediately. A black compression athletic tank hugged her upper body, showing off her muscular upper body. Her bandaged hands were landing blows to a punching bag hanging from the ceiling. The sound of her soft grunts and the clinking of the chain holding it up the heavy vinyl bag echoed within the space.

You stand at the edge of the large mat covering the area, unknowingly frozen in place at the sight of Vi’s veins popping out of her biceps with each punch she was throwing. You snap out of it when you realize how long you might’ve been standing there for, clearing your throat and shaking your head at how embarrassing that was.

“Vi, hi!” You wave from across the rubber gym tiles at her panting figure, a bright smile on your face.

Vi lowers her balled up wrapped fists that had been previously punching the bag to wave back at you, a smile creeping onto her lips at the sight of you holding the little tray of homemade treats. You looked like a doll out of place in this sweat-ridden studio in your adorably cozy outfit.

Vi made her way over to where you stood at the edge of the mat, eyes panning up and down as subtly as possible. Seeing her outfit up close caused a heat to tickle the tips of your ears. You swore you could see her abs through the material.

“Hey, cupcake. Those for me?”

“Yep! Thought I’d drop them off before I… head out.” You cleared your throat, nervously smiling at her as you fiddled with the cardboard of the box you had bought for this.

Vi grabs a small towel from a foldable chair where parents would sit through classes to wipe over the back of her sweat-ridden neck. She was so close to you that you could feel the heat radiating from her skin. You couldn’t tell if you were staring at her as obviously as you thought. Worried you were going to seem like an absolute creep, your eyes blink as they focus on her face.

“Yeah? You have plans today?” Vi hangs the towel around her neck, crossing her arms over her chest.

The movement caused your eyes to flicker down to the protruding muscle. You were sure this time you were staring as her dark tattoos were glistening underneath the thin layer of moisture from her workout. God, you could hear your grandma now teasing you for getting distracted by muscles of all things.

“I mean I’m just going to the grocery store. Need a few more things for Isha’s cake.” You nod to confirm, flickering your eyes back up to hers.

They were somehow even more captivating than her biceps. Her lips twitch into a small grin, nodding slowly.

“The people at the store are very lucky.”

You couldn’t fight the smile that crept onto your lips.

“Shut up,” you look around at the equipment and trophies around the room to try and hide the heat that was undoubtedly forming on your cheeks. “Were you just working out here? Or did you have a class?”

“Yeah, I had a class earlier but it was for mostly 6 to 8 year olds so they didn’t beat me up too bad this time,” Vi jokes as she reminds you of her injuries from the last time you saw her.

You chuckle as you can only imagine seeing Vi with a whole group of children, gently encouraging them to take hits at her. Oh, your heart skipped at the thought.

“Yeah, I mean you look good now.” You blurt out without thinking.

Taking way too long to realize what had stumbled out of your mouth, Vi’s brows raise at your words as the faintest of smirks forms on her lips.

“Yeah?”

Your eyes flicker up to hers, self-consciousness washing over you once that realization sets in. Your mouth opens as you grip the box as some sort of comfort to ease the humiliation creeping up your neck.

“Not that you don’t look good all the time because you–you do! I mean, I don’t see you everyday but I’m sure you do,” you try and recover, voice becoming softer as you trail off.

Vi unfolded her arms from her chest to reach forward to rest them on your shoulders, faintly chuckling at your panic. “Cupcake, relax. I knew what you meant.”

You suck in a deep breath at her touch but you mask it as attempting to calm down from your frantic words.

“Okay, yeah. I’ll just leave these with you now,” you pat the top of the box, looking into her eyes. “I’ll see you soon so you can pick up the cake at the shop?”

Vi nodded in agreement with the set plan, taking the box of muffins from your hands. You nearly frown at the loss of touch that was somehow burning onto your skin even though you were wearing a thicker sweater.

“Yeah, I’ll see you soon but,” she clears her throat, moving the box to rest on one of her forearms as she brushes her front pieces of hair to the side. “Did you want to come to Isha’s birthday party?”

“Seriously?” Your smile widens.

Vi nods, eyes crinkling a bit from her smile matching your own.

“Are you sure?” You question, fiddling with the sleeves of your sweater. “It won’t be awkward not being family or anything?”

“No, I mean. It’s a small party but I think you’d have fun,” Vi shrugs her shoulders, suddenly becoming more sheepish. “Isha wants you there. Couldn’t stop talking about the nice bakery lady.”

“Just Isha?” You tilt your head, hopeful that she would give you the answer that you craved.

Vi taps on the box with a small smile. “I want you there, too.”

Oh, your gram would be jumping with glee seeing this interaction. Your face ignites a flame at her honesty, nodding with a beaming smile.

“I’ll be there. I’ll just bring the cake then.” You nod, pushing back flyways from your hair.

“Okay, good. I’ll text you the address, cupcake.”

You nod for what felt like the millionth time at the pink haired girl, taking a step back to try to force yourself to leave her warm presence.

“Okay and if you like those, uh, muffins, let me know if you want any other protein snacks. I like a good baking challenge.” You motion to the muffins.

Please say yes, you internally begged.

“I will. Though, I doubt I won’t like them if you’re the one baking them,” Vi assures your frantic mind.

You grin at her awkwardly, not knowing how to take these little flirty gestures she would throw at you. At least, you thought they were supposed to be flirty.

“Okay, okay,” you wave your hands, chuckling sheepishly to yourself as you realize you’ve probably overstayed your welcome. “I’ll leave you to… your boxing stuff.”

Vi chuckles at your wording, pointing to the clear door.

“Have fun shopping. I’ll see you soon.”

“See you, Vi.”

You felt like throwing up from your nerves.

You had texted Vi later that day after dropping off the muffins what you should wear so that you wouldn’t be either too overdressed or underdressed. It was a child's birthday party, for God’s sake but you still didn’t want to be too out of place especially around her family.

from vi ♥︎ | Do you have any options?

to vi ♥︎ | kind of? i have ideas of what i could wear but i’m stuck :/

from vi ♥︎ | Let me see and I’ll tell you what looks best!

You nearly dropped your phone on your face at the message. Standing up from your bed, you scurried to your closet to pick out two options as you didn’t want to bombard her with photos of yourself. You quickly change in your planned outfits minus the shoes, sending both of them to her. You were panting from how you switched from one to the next.

from vi ♥︎ | Fuck, you look good in both

from vi ♥︎ | I was expecting this to be an easier decision but you really just look good in either.

to vi ♥︎ | violet :(

Could she tell how flustered you were from behind the screen?

from vi ♥︎| I’m serious

from vi ♥︎ | But if you want me to choose, I’ll say the first one!

to vi ♥︎ | thank youuu! i was stressed about that lol

from vi ♥︎ | You’re going to be fine. I promise :)

to vi ♥︎ | really?

from vi ♥︎ | Yes. You’re the lady bringing the cake. No one can hate the lady bringing the cake, duh.

to vi ♥︎ | yeah, yeah, okay. i’ll relax now.

Now you were standing at the front door of the small suburban home in that very outfit that Vi had chosen; a white tee with an espresso brown cardigan over it and a pair of your favorite baggy dark wash jeans. Your hair was half-up, half-down and your cleanest pair of Docs. You rang the doorbell just a few seconds ago, patiently waiting for someone to answer the door.

If you held your breath, you could hear muffled footsteps approaching the wooden door. The sound of the locks unlatching signals you to straighten your back, preparing yourself for whoever was going to answer the door. The hinges creak as it swings open to reveal Vi, sporting a welcoming smile.

Similar to you, she was wearing a brown cut off sleeve top, a white tank top underneath the open torso portion and a pair of black jeans. You try not to read into the matching colors too much.

“Hi! I was so scared I got the wrong house,” you chuckle as you stare into her eyes.

“Nope, you got it. Everyone is in the back. Come on,” Vi reaches for your hand, tugging you through the small house halls.

You nearly drop the cake as you urge her to slow down, releasing soft chuckles at her eagerness. You glance around at the cozy walls of the home, catching a few glances at a few family photos hanging and set up on shelfs. You made a mental note to try and sneak inside to get a closer look at those.

You step through a white chipping back door, Vi guiding you to the birthday party set-up for the precious child. Green streamers hung on the wooden fence to appear as vines as a photo op and a foldable table that was filled with wrapped and bagged presents with Isha’s name in balloons with a few animal print ones surrounding the inflatable letters as music played from a speaker. It wasn’t the coldest day as it was nearing the end of November but there was a slight breeze and the sun was shining beautifully to really wrap up the sight of this unknown family.

You hold up the cake underneath the white box, subconsciously gripping onto Vi’s hand due to the anxiety swimming through your veins.

“Come on. I want you to meet everyone,” Vi insists, a charming smile on her face as she walks up to a group of people that were sitting at a round table that had a jungle leaf tablecloth over it.

The whole table had cups of drinks in front of them, talking amongst each other with animated features.

“Hey guys,” Vi speaks up, her hand still holding yours gently.

A chorus of greetings overwhelms you in a good way as she goes around the table to name them off one by one.

“Okay, this is Jinx, my other sister,” she points to a pale skinned girl with two electric blue hip length braids, a few strands coming from the front to frame her face.

The girl smiles at you with kindness, eyes widening as she seems to realize who you are.

“You’re the bakery girl? That donut was delicious. I have full trust that the cake will be amazing,” Jinx nodded with a wink, leaning into the darker skinned boy next to her.

“That’s Ekko,” Vi chuckles as she points at white haired boy.

“Hi. Nice to meet you,” he grins at you, nodding his head at you to show his acknowledgement of you.

“Hi!” You reciprocate the gesture, looking at the more broad woman on the other side of him.

“And Sevika. Don’t let that mean face scare you. Just wait until Isha comes down from the bouncy house.” Vi gave your hand a squeeze, a teasing grin on her face.

Sevika huffs at the pink haired girl's words but manages to press a semi-warm smile on her face in your direction. You nod with a more timid ‘hi’ leaving your lips. You didn’t want to say it out loud but she scared you a bit.

Okay, she scared you a lot.

“I think my dad’s inside but I’ll go let Isha know you’re here. Be right back.” Vi, after what felt like ages, released your hand to walk over to the bouncy house that was filled with a few more kids around Isha’s age.

The second her warm palm left your own, a wave of alarm washed over your features now being left alone with people that were closest to her. You turn to the group with the calmest expression you could muster to attempt to hide how nerve-wracking this was for you.

“You can relax, you know,” Jinx was the first to speak, tilting her head at your tense figure. “Here. I can take the cake. I’ll put it in the fridge.”

She stood up, reaching her pale hands out to you to take the cardboard box from you. You thank her quietly as you allow her to relieve you of that worry, leaving you alone with Ekko and Sevika.

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be awkward,” you shake your head, taking the seat opposite to Sevika to leave Jinx’s spot still open.

“Vi told us how nervous you were so we were kind of expecting it,” Ekko admits which makes you wince a bit. “But, hey, we could do some ice breakers? Tell us something that’ll ease the tension.”

You nod at Ekko’s offer, pondering for a moment as you pick out a random fact from the depths of your brain’s memory log.

“Oh, I went to the hospital when I was 7 because I swallowed my Polly Pocket’s purse because my grandma said I had ‘wanted to know what it tasted like’.” You offer, glancing between the two strangers in front of you.

Sevika raised one of her palms to cover her mouth like she was trying to hide her amusement from your sentence. Ekko’s eyes widened as he snorted back a laugh, causing you to proudly smile at yourself on succeeding on breaking the ice just a bit.

“Jinx nearly burned my hair off when we were kids. She was obsessed with making homemade bombs,” Ekko shared with you, pointing to a mark in his eyebrows. “I still can’t grow hair in this spot on my eyebrow because of it.”

“I got this scar from her kicking me in the face when she wouldn’t go to the dentist when she was 9,” Sevika pointed at her half an inch scar on her top lip with a shake of her head.

“Okay so what I’m hearing is to stay clear of Jinx,” you joke.

This seemed to ease the tension between you and the two completely, them nodding to confirm. Slowly but surely, everyone started sharing stories of their childhood as did you. You learned alot about Vi and her little family through these two, feeling more connected to them already. As you shared what your jobs were like, you feel a smaller frame tackle you from the side. You look down to see a head of wild bronze waves cling onto your arm.

It was undoubtedly Isha. Vi stood behind her with a sweet smile, folding her arms over her chest before she pats Ekko on the back as she sits herself down on the other side of you. You send her a quick glance, her brows raising as if to check up on you and you nod to assure her.

“Hey birthday girl,” you look down at her, golden eyes staring into yours.

She makes a delighted sound, snuggling more into you. You rub a hand over her back for a moment before raising your hands to sign that she looked cute, motioning to her adorable birthday sash and bunny ears over her black and white striped tee.

Signing right back to you with an elated smile, she says; ‘you look beautiful.’

Your heart tightens at her kind words, signing a ‘thank you’ before tugging her into a gentle embrace. Her back was a bit damp from what you assume is the sweat from jumping around in the bouncy castle.

“She’s excited for her cake,” Vi hums as she stares down at her sister with a teasing grin.

Isha nods enthusiastically at her words to confirm said excitement, looking over to Ekko and Sevika and signing something that you didn’t pick up due to her turning away from you. They both nod, eyes following over to Vi’s figure next to you with raised brows. You turn to look at Vi in confusion at the silent communication but choose to mind your own business as Vi’s cheeks seem to match her hair now. You didn’t want to embarrass her further.

“Alright, who’s hungry? The pizza’s here!” A deep English accent comes from behind the group, a burly yet kind looking man comes from the back door which you came from carrying five pizza boxes.

Jinx trails behind him with two bags of ice stacked on her own arms.

“You hungry, cupcake?” Vi places a hand on your shoulder, jerking her head over to the man.

You suck in a deep breath at her words, feeling Isha’s fingers wrap around your own that were resting in your lap. You were unbelievably hungry but knowing that this was going to be your first impression of Vi's father made your stomach churn, attempting to suppress your hunger.

But you push through.

“Yeah, I could eat,” you nod to confirm, turning your head to the side to give her a composed smile.

Sevika and Ekko followed you and Vi’s lead as you both stood up from your seats again to walk across the slightly overgrown grass, nearly tripping as a few more children passed by your hips and legs to run towards the table full of cardboard boxes of pizza.

“Hey, hey, slow down. One at a time,” the man told the group of kids, pointing at them to grab the disposable plates.

“Dad,” Vi called, taking your right hand once again while Isha still clung to your other.

“And who is this, Violet?” He questions his daughter as he places a slice on a child's plate in the line they formed.

“Hi!” You speak up before Vi could as you introduce yourself.

The man nods at your introduction, a friendly smile on his face as he plates another child’s plate. His eyes flicker to his eldest daughter with a raise of his brows before focusing his attention on you.

“Vander. Vi’s told me alot about you,” he states as he points to the pink haired girl standing next to you. “You’re the sweet lady who made Isha’s birthday cake. Got to say, I saw it in the fridge and it’s absolutely perfect. Thank you for doing that for her.”

You felt overwhelmed by the compliments from the man, strangely having the urge to hug him but only tighten your grip on Vi and Isha’s hands.

“Oh, it really was so much fun to make too. I don’t get a lot of cake orders so I was excited to test myself, I guess,” you assure the man of your adoration with the job.

“You work up an appetite baking? We’ve got some fine cuisine here,” his voice was playful as he motions to the greasy boxes.

You nod to confirm which resulted in a strong Dad-like laugh to leave Vanders’ throat before he raised a hand to clap on your shoulder, tugging you towards the boxes now that all of the children had gotten their own pizza slices. You release the two sister’s hands before looking up at the man.

The entirety of the birthday party quickly became a party game frenzy after everyone hounded down their greasy food. There was cup stacking; Vi won that one, pin the tail on the donkey; Isha won that, limbo; you almost broke your back trying to do that, etc. You saw a more eccentric and playful side of Vi, cursing her for being such a bright person around her family.

It made her all the more attractive.

When you ended up being her partner for the wheelbarrow race, you felt like a freak for those good few seconds where you were holding her legs up by her ankles so she could use her hands to ‘run’ across the grass. You kept your eyes straight forward for as long as possible.

They lingered a bit downward because why the hell did her ass look good in black jeans? You nearly won but Isha and one of their little cousins who had come to the party won that round due to you being… well, distracted for a moment. She stuck the middle finger up and stuck her tongue out at Vi quickly before Vander could see, causing you and Vi to gasp before she celebrated with her cousin again with a cheeky grin.

Your real enemy ended up being the three legged race. You and Vi’s hips were touching, arms interlocked as a bandana was being tied around your thighs to keep you from separating. You suck in a deep breath as Sevika tightens the fabric, patting the area to tell you two it was good.

“Good luck,” Sevika tells the two of you, standing back up to move on to Ekko and Jinx who were next in the lineup.

Vi grins at the elder, looking over at you as she brushes her hair out of face.

“Who do you think is going to win, huh?”

“I know you want me to say us but I have high hopes for Ekko and Jinx. She’s very scrappy,” you admit with a soft laugh, your hand twiddling with a loose fabric on your cardigan.

Vi nods slowly in agreement at your words.

“And Ekko?” She hums.

“He matches that,” you lean in closer before pulling back as the wind blows your hair a bit.

This Vi chuckles at, not denying that accusation. Vander moves to the front very end of the fence of the backyard, cupping his large hands around his mouth to shout the countdown.

“On your marks,” he yells, “get set.”

He pauses dramatically before raising his left hand upwards to mimic a flag and slam it back down before yelling out: “Go!”

You and Vi immediately start to move yourselves forward, Jinx whining that you two were cheating already. Vi’s hard bicep tug into your own as she tried to keep you two from tripping.

Isha and one of her cousins were catching up to you quickly, their little legs beating you. Some force was on your side that day as you had stepped forward with your free leg and rolled your ankle a bit on what felt like a toy.

It happened too fast for you to comprehend but you fell to the ground. You turned to your back side without thinking and nearly twisted your ankle doing so.

Vi’s hand attempts to grab your forearm but in doing so, falls over with you. Her body covers your own, her weight laying on top of your own. You groan at the impact hitting your stomach and chest, looking down at your legs to see that the fabric of the bandana had ripped which was what caused Vi’s body to be on you and not next. Her body shifts to lift her upper body up to relieve that ache in your chest.

Vi lifts her head to stare down at you with a concerned expression, hands on either side of your head.

“Shit, are you okay?”

You tilt your head down to how Vi’s hips were pressed into yours and look back up to stare into her twisted expression.

“Yeah, I’m… good,” you lied through your teeth as the back of your head was now throbbing.

Vi’s eyes were searching your own for any sort of discomfort. Your chests were centimeters apart as you breathed heavily to try and catch your breath, eyes boring into one another's. Suddenly, your head and backache were forgotten about. You swore for just a moment Vi’s eyes flickered down to your lips before pushing up off of you, grunting as she stood to her feet.

She brushed off her jeans before leaning forward to wrap her hand around your forearm to help you up and off the grass. You allow her to tug you upwards to your feet, avoiding her glaze like the plague.

“Ekko and Jinx take the cake!” You hear Vander start to clap, wincing out loud. “You two alright? Kind of got caught up in the competition for a moment there.”

“Fine, Dad,” Vi replies as she watches you brush off your own legs, sucking in a deep breath. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“A little headache but I’ll survive, Vi.” You shake your head, brushing your hair out of your face with a lighthearted chuckle.

You two sadly couldn’t speak for longer as Vander announced it was time for cake. Vi’s hand lingered on your arm as she ushered the two of you to the set-up, watching as Jinx carefully came out with the lit birthday cake. Your eyes round with admiration at Isha scrambling to sit still in her chair as her big golden eyes widen as everyone starts to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to her.

Watching the scene unfold sent a bittersweet sense of comfort, remembering how you were once that small with a family like this. You hoped Isha could have this forever, security and love wrapped into one. If a tear left your eye, you’d disguise it as it being from the impact just a few moments ago.

The party died down slowly as adults and other family members came to pick up the other children that were at the function, getting pieces of the cake shoved into their palms that Vi had been praising since she took her first bite. Feeling like you had overstayed your welcome as the family was now gathered in the kitchen area to clean up, you quietly tell Vi that you should probably head home.

“Oh, yeah, I’ll walk you out,” Vi holds her finger up to Jinx, Ekko, Sevika, and Vander who were in the middle of a conversation.

“Aw, what? You have to go home already?” Jinx furrows her brows, huffing out a breath. “I didn’t even get to embarrass Vi in front of you yet.”

You chuckle at her words while Vi grumbles a sound of annoyance at her sister.

“I’m sure you’ll do it soon enough. And yeah, I got baking duties to tend to.”

“Well, I hope we get to see you more often and not just so you can bring us cake,” Jinx stepped forward to give you a quick hug.

You pat her back with a new sense of welcoming into Vi’s family, nodding in agreement with that statement. You say goodbye to everyone, making sure to sign Isha one more ‘Happy Birthday’ to which she signs back what you think is ‘Bye, pretty cake lady.’

As you walk down the halls to the front door, Vi questions: “What are you baking next?”

Catching you off guard, you ponder for a moment.

“Well, I’ve been dying to make some cinnamon rolls but kneading the dough can be tiring.” You huff as you watch Vi open the door for you, allowing you to step onto the gray concrete walkway that leads to the driveway. “Why?”

“Just… wondering.”

Then an idea sparks in your head as you lean against your car, turning to face Vi with a hesitant smile.

“Did you want to come over to mine to help me bake them?” You offer quickly before you could fumble and retract the statement.

Vi’s dark brows raise into her hairline at your invitation.

“You just want me to knead the dough, don’t you?” She teases.

You blow out a breath of air as you shrug your shoulders as if it wasn’t the first thing you thought of. “I mean, if you really want to. I wouldn’t mind it.”

Vi purses her lips as she nods, trying to repress her beaming smile. “Yes, I do want to.”

A sense of accomplishment washes over you at how you successfully made it through today without having any major screw-ups.

“I really had a good time today. I forgot how much fun birthday parties can be,” you grin sheepishly as you stand by your car, the sunset lighting up the side of your face beautifully.

Vi’s smile only grew at how stunning you looked.

“I told you that you would. You should come over more,” Vi shrugged her shoulders, tilting her head at you.

You hum with a playful smile as you bump your shoulder with hers. “So I can get multiple concussions? I don’t think so.”

“Well, I can promise I can try to prevent as many of those as possible.”

You chuckle out an ‘okay’ at her words, fiddling with your cardigan sleeve. There was a beat of silence between the two of you, the soft breeze sending shivers down your spine. Your bad habit of admiring her silently; nearly creepily hit you when you made eye contact with her, her brows raising at you challengingly.

“Right, yeah, so I’ll let you know when I have everything to make the cinnamon rolls,” you stated as your hand hovered your driver's side door handle, snapping out of your temporary trance.

Vi’s arms folded over the front of her chest, scuffing her shoes on the concrete of their driveway as she rocked her on her heels.

You find her eyes once again, taking in a confidence wielding breath as taking a step forward to wrap your arms around her neck. Vi was taken aback for half a second, breath hitching before she let her arms drop from their spot to hold you up your torso with one arm as the other raised to cradle the back of your head with her hand. You bury your head into her neck to cling onto the warmth for as long as you could.

“Thank you again for coming, cupcake. I’ll see you soon, alright?” Vi says gently into your temple, sliding her hand off of your head.

“Yeah,” you suck in a deep breath, “I’ll see you.”

Achingly doing so, you detach yourself from her embrace to finally get into your car. Vi stood in the driveway as you reversed and drive off, waving at you until you were down the road.

previous part -> next part

TAG-LIST: @strawberrykidneystone @lovinglynny @kylorey25 @loserbaby66 @eddiesdrummergf @jokermoonie @ranxiaolong @morphids @gayandcurious @oatmatchalatte @iamastar @saviourcomplexgf @vihxh7 @jinxjinxjinx12 @krilara @unear7hly @magical-rush

[hometoursandotherstuff]

This 1905 home sold in Sioux City, IA, but I love it so much and I'm not surprised that it sold fast b/c the 6bd, 5ba, 5,427 sq ft home was only $374,999, but it was listed for $499,999, so the buyers got a deal.

The historical home was remodeled, but I don't mind it, b/c it's Dark Academia, and you don't see it that much. Isn't this an attractive sitting room?

Simple, beautiful dining room.

They've got a little bar in the hall, and look at the unique little rounded door.

Elegant kitchen remodel. I love the floor, the gold hardware, and the ceiling.

There's an original stone wall that they painted white.

And such a pretty built-in hutch.

And, here's a lovely desk. I was thinking that if you were into polymer clay, this would be the perfect craft area b/c of the little oven.

This is beautiful. Look at the moldings and the colors of the mural that give it the perfect moody look.

Beautifully rounded walls with a built-in are original architectural details.

The soft gray hall doors with gold accents are so pretty.

The home has such lovely children's rooms.

They're all so cute.

This home is great for a big family.

Look at this one with the fireplace and shelving.

This colorfully restored bath looks Art Deco.

This must've been where the original tub was.

Isn't the primary bedroom gorgeous?

Looks like a bath that was remodeled in the midcentury modern era.

An enclosed porch. Very nice.

The finished attic has a secret room.

Look at the huge bath up here.

An art studio. Isn't this amazing? I can't believe the price they paid for this home.

Tile floored porch wraps around the house.

Plus, there's a new deck.

Large fenced in yard, plus a carriage house. 0.4 acre lot.

https://www.captivatinghouses.com/2024/05/28/1905-historic-house-for-sale-in-sioux-city-iowa/

[penvisions]

services requested {chapter two}

Pairing: Older! Joel Miller x F! Reader

Summary: With the flourish of a contract that contains a section titled 'Intimacy Clause' and a quirk of your lips, you turn Joel Miller's life upside down.

Word Count: 7.3k

Warnings: no outbreak au, modern au, age gap (joel is mid 50's, reader is late 20's / early 30's), reader is more of an oc written in the x reader style, reader is described to have a scar and tattoos, mommy vibes, reader see's joel and knows she wants to provide for him, joel is older and tired, his life beginning to slow as his body aches, power dynamics, sexual undertones, instant connection, mutual pining, flirting, casual touches, mutual attraction, angst, family drama, strained family dynamics, mention of pregnancy (not reader or joel), verbal threat, argumentative language, joel and tommy y'all good god, think that's it!

Fic Notes: please, if you have any qualms about the setting of this fic, do not reblog or comment with hate. my dms are open for discussion if you feel like you need to say anything. let's be respectful going into a new year, there are ample warnings and you are in charge of the content you consume

A/N: hi, i'm back with chapter two for y'all! ♡

ao3 link || series masterlist || navigation || ko-fi

You can’t help but feel a bit shy around him, with a contract being looked over by one of your friends who works in the more…lucrative business of strip clubs and the party scene. She’s around the same age, working alongside the owner of one of the classier and legitimate night clubs, where she acts as a legal representative for the girls that work there as well as others who come through the doors looking for a little adult fun.

She had arrived just as Joel was leaving for the day, her eyes widening as she watched him toss a out a bag of garbage into the outside bin on his way out of the door and off the job for the day. He had nodded politely at her, though his lips didn’t lift quite as much at the corners as they did for you. Her squeal the second the front door was loud, and you immediately shushed her and clamped your hands over her mouth while peering through the blinds to see if he heard it. Thankfully he hadn’t turned at the rather alarming sound as he loaded up into his truck and took off down the street.

“That’s the Mr. Miller I keep hearing about?!”

That was days ago, and the renovation is in the last stages. New walls are up, drywall and mudding complete. All that was left was the kitchen downstairs and the tiling in the bathroom. Painting was tomorrow, once the colors were picked out too.

Today you were going to tag along with the older man to the supply store to look over tiles, none of the ones in the catalogue he had left on your desk in the study popped out at you. He’s been working hard, to get everything done on schedule. Your parent’s return is in two weeks and he’s determined to have it all polished and shining by the time you head out to get them from the airport.

Professionality and friendship seem to be a good mix for you. Calling him Mr. Miller when he reminds you to call him Joel, him lingering at the end of each day to make sure he gives you a run down of what got done and what will be on the agenda of tasks for the next one. He playfully calls you ma’am in return, though he uses your name sometimes too.

A running joke of sorts, between the two of you. But also, it’s not really a joke at all. But a way to draw an invisible line- no physical contact has happened since that day your composure cracked and fell into tiny pieces around you alongside your hot tears. But you swear you can feel his eyes trailing after you when you’re working around the house.

You’re both jokingly picking out the most garish colors and saying they would look perfect in the living room, the bathroom, the upstairs bedrooms. His own thick fingers brushing yours as you both huff laughter and reach for new swatches. The attendant behind you is smiling at the scene, younger than you and stuck at such a boring job of mixing colors for people that seem too focused to have fine like you two are. But the bubble of easy going fun is broken by a man donned in a grey sweat pants and a plain tee.

He calls your name, in question. As if he doesn’t quite want to bother you if you don’t hear him. But you do, and so does Joel. With laughter still on your tongue, you turn with a wide smile in the man’s direction.

“Micheal! Oh my gosh, it’s so good to see you.” You don’t move to shake his hand, something Joel’s stomach flips over noticing. You keep the tight curl of your fingers over the swatch of blinding yellow he had jokingly suggested for the kitchen that you had pried from his own grip. Your long nails, done up in a soft pink this time had scraped against his skin and nearly short circuited his thoughts. But they’re back now as he watches you interact with this random man.

“I just wanted to say hi and thank you again for the session. It was such a dream, honestly.” The man’s words are genuine, his expression one of open awe. It has Joel stiffening behind you, aware that this may be awkward for him.

“I’m so glad, it’s always a fun challenge when someone comes to me with an idea like that. But I’m glad we could execute it perfectly for you.” Behind you, you can feel Joel stiffen. His entire body goes rigid and you sneak a look at him over your shoulder, but he’s seemingly fascinated by the color samples in his hands…

The rest of the trip around the store is strained, Joel won’t look you in the eye and you feel like he’s avoiding brushing up against you. He assures you he can load everything up into the back of the truck so you’re stewing in the passenger seat waiting for him to finish. The ride back isn’t nearly as happy and easy-going as the ride there and you can’t get the words out to ask if everything is okay, your fight or flight triggered and flight is your go to nowadays. It didn’t used to be…

He gets to unloading as you hide yourself away in the office, sketching app open and stylus in your immobile hand as your back twinges painfully. The scar dug into the skin there feeling like it was just carved your mind replays the event on a loop. You can faintly hear the soft squelch of the paint rollers working, an easy day of work all in all.

But he doesn’t come to bid you a good afternoon, nor does he seem to stop for lunch.

Too caught up in your memories, you sit in the locked office until well after the sun goes down. Reaching out to your assistant to reschedule your consultations booked for that afternoon and evening with a quick text the second you got back from the store…

Two weeks fly by, your little spell invigorating you after wallowing.

It wasn’t productive and it hadn’t helped anything, but it was necessary. Processing and resting, giving your mind and body the chance to work through something is important. Realistically you know that, but it doesn’t make it any easier. Anxiety and trauma are always something you will have to struggle with, no matter how big of a name you make for yourself.

The walkthrough in the morning goes okay, almost back to the comfortable and borderline flirtatious camaraderie you and Joel had established early on. Everything was perfect, the colors, the tiling, the patterns, all of it amazing and beyond what you had expected. Even if you actively watched Joel create the cabinets with his hands, seen the sketches of what he envisioned for the space based on your words and description.

“I really appreciate all the work you put into the renovation, it came out so amazing.” You shuffle the papers in your hand, knocking them against the top of the desk to straighten them out before stapling the bunch of them together. Reaching for an envelope, you place the card you had taken out in his name- attached to your expenses account that you used for your own supplies. That was secured to the top of the stack with a binder clip. “And I was wondering if I could hire you.”

"What do you mean, you want to hire me? I'm already workin' a job for you." His confusion is clear, brows furrowed and lips slightly pursed. His hands are secure on the arms of the chair he occupies. He only needs one or two more days of cleaning and wiping everything down, ensuring no dust from the construction work lingers, no nails or screws are prominent, sand down a few edges here and there. And then of course he offered to help put away what appeared to be a whole new kitchen in the form of pots and pans, cutlery and serve wear, fancy glasses and a set of ceramic mugs that looked hand painted. Everything had come in boxes throughout his workdays, piling up in the garage that contained most of your stuff from when you moved back.  

"For your...services, Mr. Miller. To be called upon at any time." You try to keep your excitement from showing too much, not wanting to weird him out or make him feel any more awkward with what you are just about to do. You’ve never offered someone such a thing before….to be their sole provider and essentially a sugar momma. Though you did explicitly claim there was no pressure or obligation to be intimate in exchange for the funds you wanted to provide him. He’s just a handsome man whose lived a full, busy life and you wanted to offer him a much deserved break.

But as soothing as you keep your voice and even as you keep your tone, based on the way his face falls from a small grin to a frown and his demeanor shifts from friendly curiosity to irritated, you see that you’ve already failed.  

“Listen, I don’t know what kinda man you think I am but I don’t run in the same circles as you. And as flattered as I am that you think-“ He looks a little flustered, obviously upset enough for his face to contort into something you would call grumpy. Would normally tease him about if you walked into a room and saw him making the same expression as he looked down at something or over some blueprints.

“What kind of circles do you think I run in?” You cut him off, unwilling to let his mind run away and taint the professional friendship you two have been cultivating over the last month. The incident at the hardware store crops up in your mind and suddenly everything clicks into place. He most likely thinks you work in the same business as your friend.

“You uh- well, you dress kinda fancy all the time and you’re off during the daytime. Always got your hair and nails lookin’ nice….kinda figured you-“

“I’m not a stripper or dancer. Nor do I do porn or escort services.” Your brows furrow, it should be funny- the mistaken identity, but the truth is that it hurts a little.

You lean back, unable to quell the unease of even entertaining the idea of offering him a contract if he felt so strongly about what he thought you were asking of him- of his assumption of who you were.

There was nothing wrong with anyone who chose that lifestyle and employment, but you had made a name for yourself doing what you did best. The constant under the breath and snide comments about how you carry yourself is the only reason for your success still stings. The notion that you use your looks to get clients, that it’s the only reason they seek you out; it completely diminished the passion and love you pour into every single job you take on for a long while. And Joel is voicing it right alongside the countless others that have before him. “My services are in the art industry. I’m a tattoo artist.”

You know that your eyes are focused, not quite on him but on the curls that still frame his temples. Too long, as you very well know from one of your casual conversations. It’s…not a good feeling to hear the words so many have said before coming from him. He’s been a constant in your life since the beginning of the renovation and he’s seen parts of you that no one has in a long time. For him to openly share his thoughts causes a tightening in your chest. A twinge in your back along the sensitive skin of the scar that sits there as a constant reminder to be careful.

“Mr. Miller, I can assure you that I’m not trying to get you to do anything untoward, there might be a little paragraph in there but you dictate the parameters of the contract. Completely. Everything is up to you and you certainly don’t have to accept it or even entertain the thought if you’re uncomfortable.”

“I’m sorry, I just…” Joel feels like a fool, a damned fool for letting his mind run away from him and his tongue for blurting out probably one of the most insensitive things he could’ve said in response to a new job offer from you. He can see the way you withdraw slightly, probably offended but trying to keep your composure. You’re too good for him and this just proves it even further.

“Assumed. Yes, I can see that now. How things look, maybe this was a bad idea.”

Fuck. No, no, no- he doesn’t think it’s a bad idea to offer him another job but…his mental calendar is full for the next six weeks. One job scheduled after this one, his expenses a little tied up after that with his birthday coming up soon- he had told Sarah he would come visit with Ellie, he hasn’t seen where she’s settled with her boyfriend. It…it’s a lot to handle on his own. Keeping track of one rotating crew with him and then two others working on other jobs around the county.

“No, I- sweetheart, I’m sorry. I’m old okay? I don’t know what I’m talking about but the only services I offer are contracting and repair work." He brings a hand up to run a thumb underneath his bottom lip, eyes taking in the flutter of your lashes as his apology soaks into your skin. The almost...yearning look about your soft features. Younger than he is, in full control of those should you choose to lay that look upon. He's sure the boys your age would fall over themselves to see it again, to see more. Hell, he's ready to fall over himself and he's surely twice your age. “I’m not sure how useful I’d be if-“

“I’m in the process of obtaining permits to build on an empty city block. Two buildings. Two shop fronts. I figured you would be able to help out, but I understand if it’s not something you’re interested in. Really.”

And now you’re backpedaling, he feels like such an asshole for what he said. You…you’re an artist. A tattoo artist and really, he doesn’t know how he hadn’t picked up on that. You’ve decorated your skin with beautiful pieces, the sketchbook and tablet you’re always scribbling away on. The mention of clients, long hours, charges, the constant ink stains he sees on your clothes when you get home from work…

He doesn’t want to turn you down, can’t really turn you down. You hadn’t batted an eye at the quote he had given you for the work on your parent’s house. Nor had you argued anytime something needed an extra cushion to get the better quality option of supplies. When he had offered a discount, you had waved him off but he planned to do it anyway. You were sweet, you were considerate and he knows he wouldn’t hear the end of it if his brother found out he had a soft spot for you. But honestly? With the way his brother had been pulling away, taking on less jobs- answering less calls and responding with messages at odd hours or even the summary and final check stapled to paperwork of the rare job he takes on is the only form of communication he’s been getting from the man. So, who cares what he thinks about a discount, when it was Joel’s company.

One he had been fully prepared to hand over to his brother once upon a time. To help straighten him out, give him a hand in a world that demanded so much from him as a soldier and then turned its back on him as an honorably discharged veteran.

You take it all in stride, keeping your composure as best as you can, shoving all the negative feelings down. He’s a good man, he just…he just assumed like he said. Blinking away the unease and slightly awkward tinge to the air you tell him that you understand what he’s saying. He would be perfect for the job you want to offer him, even still. Joel’s ears turn pink at the top, his throat bobbing as he sits there and takes in all the kind words you have for him- even after he basically called you an adult entertainer asking after him to partake in…. something he wasn’t even sure he had a clear idea of.

All so he could see that smile grace your lips and see a flash of teeth he can't help but stop picturing what they would look like holding tight over your own bottom lip, depraved sounds slipping between them as he pressed tight and heavy over you. As his hips slam into yours, his co-

Jesus, he needs a minute to get a handle on himself. Everything is all consuming with you, feelings bubble up, urges strike him strong enough to wear down any thought of resistance. You make him feel like he’s seen, like he’s important, like he matters. It’s no wonder his little crush on you has manifested.

He shakes his head, aware of the watching gaze you don't let up from him as you sit serenely at your desk. The top of your shirt dipped low as you lean forward to rest your chin in the cup of your hands, taunting him. What little power he feels from his larger frame, his years over you, his skills he knows you don't share- they diminish as he glances down to the new skin before meeting your eyes again. You’re too enamoring, too ingrained into his mental space to feel like he’s got any sort of control- even if the working relationship is good, not awkward and even friendly like he wanted it to be.

Small conversations, coffee some mornings as you hang around and watch him place tiles into designs that you request, take out boxes with either your name or his scribbled on them and scattered around the coffee table in the living room. The guys never stay for lunch, opting to go out and get some fresh air.

You tilt your head just a bit, and like a match catching, friction igniting it- his stomach jolts as he pictures that same look aimed up at him as you sit on your knees in front of him. Good god, his mind needs a good rinse. Especially if he’s going to consider accepting the more than generous offer on guaranteed continued work.

"I have a company to run, can't exactly turn down an offer for a job."

"This would be more of an... open-ended contract. I would reach out for any repairs your capable hands are able to work on. From mechanics of vehicles, to construction work, to repairs on established properties. New properties that waiting on permits, like I mentioned. I’m also finalizing the sale on a personal property, so I would need help with getting that up to code as well.  I would pay you a going rate of..."

Joel's mind goes blank, the amount offered per week is astronomical. As much a single job he’s taking one at a time with how he’s got to schedule everything. The same amount he would earn from weeks, if not months of working day in and day out. The way you go on about how even if you didn't have any jobs for him during a week, he would still be compensated. His meals provided and a company card with his name plastered on it in silver on a slick black is flashed at him atop a neat stack of papers with bold print.

"For you to look over, Mr. Miller. There is no rush, nor does the offer expire. Please get back to me at your convenience."

"Uh, well-" He isn't sure what to think, how to feel at the moment. The offer too good to be true, the amount of money would allow him to only work for you. His own clients are willing to pay for his work but not to wait for the time frames he's been giving lately. It's only him in command of three crews, they can only work so fast, and he's seeing them get poached by other companies with better hours, more pay.

Joel's made a name for himself with 'Miller Contracting'. But as the years go on, his hopes to pass it on to his younger brother become a more silly notion than something that could happen. A person who has begun to see his life toward a different path, one of less hours and more focus on his wife and unborn baby.  He sighs, knowing that the thoughts would circle endlessly in his mind should he let them begin. The whole reason he has the job for you now is because his brother bailed…

"There is absolutely no pressure, just wanted to extend the offer. I have found that...other men have embellished their skill sets in order to receive the same offer. Jokingly claim they don’t care but then become petulant when it’s obvious it’s not going to happen. But you have the skills, you are competent."

"I'll-I'll get back to you, ma'am."

"The number at the top of the contract, it's an all hours one. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns, any stipulations or changes you'd like to make. I hope you have a very good rest of the day, Mr. Miller." You smile at him, eyes bright as you watch the way his throat bobbed with a harsh swallow.

Later that evening, two drinks deep and another poured into his cup, he settles into the worn leather of his couch with the contract in his hand. He's flipping through the many pages, preparing to read through it when a certain word catches his eye, making him choke on the drink swallow he had just taken.

Intimacy Clause

His skin is suddenly hot, fueled by the liquor he's already ingested, his thoughts turning to filth as a flash of pleasure flares brightly in his belly. Oh....he's certainly in over his head. He's heard of this- what was it called? Sugar daddy dynamic, but if he's the one getting the benefits and wages in exchange that would make him- no, he doesn't want to think about it that way. It's a job offer, a working contract.

He's got half a mind to deny the contract outright, but he can't help the way his eyes devour the words in front of him, from the first page to the last. It’s the perfect opportunity to keep you in his life, a way to keep you as close as his heart begs him too. Friendship something he wants, but the appearance of what it looks like on the outside bothering him still as he realizes how much older he is. Sure, he could run into you when around your parents and at neighborhood gatherings…but if he were to be your personal contractor. Your go-to man for construction and repair work, for…anything really- now that would really make him feel like he was worth the attention you seem to want to dot on him.

His phone is in his hand, thick fingers dialing the number you had provided, no regard for the late hour of the night. He's downing the last bit of his drink, grunting around the sting of it as he hears the ringing loud in his ear.

His heart is beating heavy, slowly, anticipation making him feel like there are far too many rings for there to be an answer on the other side of the line. He's about to cancel it when there's a click and your melodic voice greets him, pleasure flaring up in his belly again.

"Been thinking about me, Mr. Miller?" The coy tone causes a shiver to run down his spine.

Oh shit, he's definitely in over his head.

He looks good, but he doesn’t feel good. You can tell by the grimace marring his plush lips into a frown and the tension he holds in his entire body. Joel is casually walking across the street to where you’re sitting on the porch with a cup of steaming coffee. The house is being cleaned by the company you hired to detail everything. Not that it was particularly dirty, the crew had helped you to dust and wipe everything down as well as possible. It was more of an extra step for your parents to know that you want them to come back from a well-deserved vacation with no worries to even think of. Groceries are stocked in the fridge and pantry, bottles smoothies and juices at the ready for them to slip back into their lives.

It would be your last morning here, fresh from a late night at work and then doing inventory of all your supplies. A huge order loaded up on your phone that you needed to place once you settled into the home you had just finalized the sale on last week. It was finally ready for you to move in, though you suspected the work you wanted to enlist Joel’s help with would take some time.

But you both had it now, in spades. To be with each other, to work alongside each other.

He’s in a pullover sweatshirt that allows for the collar and hem of his shirt underneath to peak out. A little large on him, but not slouchy. He looks like he’s trying to not put too much pressure on his joints and you quickly set a reminder on your phone to schedule a massage for him sometime in the next week. A little gift to help ease some stress. You could use one too, you think as you see the barrage of missed calls from a blocked number. The area code for the city you had just moved from…

“Hey there, rough morning?” His voice is coarse, filling in the humid morning air with a little more warmth as he approaches and stands at the bottom of the porch steps. He’s got on a pair of glasses…and you’re thoughts are swirling in the gutter as you imagine him staring down through the lenses at you as you kneel before him…

Swallowing the sip you just took, you tilt your head toward the other side of the patio lounge you’re on, legs curled up beneath you. Large cardigan keeping you comfortable over a pair of jeans and a tank top. There’s ink stained on the front, the collar dipping low as you had moved around to finish a giant custom piece for most of the evening.

“It’s been alright, can’t really call it ‘morning’ if I haven’t been to sleep yet,” You feel a thrill down your spine as he sits, his thigh brushing up against your bare knee where a hole in the denim exposes it. You don’t move and he doesn’t shy away either. He’s got the thick stack of papers in his hand, but the envelope with the check for his renovation and the card with his name on it are gone.

“We can make this quick, then, if you want to get to bed.”

“No need, I’m moving today and then work later.” You offer him your mug and he gingerly takes it from you to slurp the sweetened and creamed coffee inside. His thick moustache catches a few droplets and as your eyes linger, his tongue sneaks out to capture them. “I’ll catch a nap in the afternoon, no need to worry, Mr. Miller.”

“Sweetheart, told you to call me Joel.” He hands you back the mug. His brown eyes catch yours and you feel your entire body go still, worry igniting you that he’s about to tell you he’s thought the contract over and wants nothing to do with it…

“Especially if I’m gonna hand this back over with my signature scrawled on it.”

“Really?” Your eyes widen as you turn to face him completely.

“You seem surprised.” He’s laughing as he flips to the last page to show you and it releases all the tension in your chest. He’s got such a good laugh, hearty and full. You want to do everything you can to hear it more, to give him a reason to laugh more. More time to focus on what he wants, not worried about keeping up with big projects that take so much time to complete. Not that he minds, like he’s assured you, he loves the work and wants to do it. But it’s getting to be a lot to handle, his brother is finding himself a different path- something he mentioned when you had asked after the other Miller brother and why he hadn’t been the one to take on your job.

“I was a little worried, it’s not exactly a normal thing to be offered. But like I said, everything is up to you, the jobs are the jobs, the work is still work, everything else is completely up to you.”

“Don’t think anything can be considered normal these days, but,” He’s reaching to place his palm on your knee in a comforting gesture. “I could honestly really use the break you’re lending me. Gives me the chance to be more present in the girls’ lives. I’ve got one last job I’ve already taken a deposit on, a small trip out to see Sarah and then I’m all yours. It’s a generous offer and I’d be a fool to turn it down.”

“What’s the last job?”

“An above ground pool and deck, shouldn’t take more than two weeks. Give me until next month, then we can get everything settled. If that’s okay?”

“I don’t mind how long it takes, I was going to pay you the first month upfront, even if you didn’t want to do this. As a bonus of sorts, for the amazing job you did here.” You wave your hand behind you toward the house. The cleaning crew is already busy, their chatter and light music filling the home with life.

“You really are somethin’, you know that?” He’s tipping his head down, looking at his scuffed and paint stained boots. Pink tinging his ears as he does so, the fingers over your knee digging in and then releasing in move you aren’t sure he’s aware of.

“You’re a good man, Joel Miller. And I want you to see that, you deserve the chance for a slower life, for a life you want. Now let’s go.” You gulp down the last of the coffee and set it down on the patio table to your right. The contract slides into the bag at your feet and you’re standing.

“Where we goin’?” He’s sill got those damn thick rimmed glasses on and he looks good enough to eat as he looks up at you from his spot still on the whicker couch. He hasn’t gotten up alongside you, unsure what’s going to happen now that the paperwork is officially signed and accepted- a date for the next month picked out for him to officially be on your payroll. As a sugar baby. Well, a contracted workman but the reality of the situation isn’t just that.

But you do, you’re going to take care of him. Exactly like you promised.

“To the salon. You said you’ve been putting off a trim.”

“We don’t have-“

“Joel. You said you don’t much like your hair as long as it is, it’s an easy fix.”

“I don’t…got a meeting with my brother this afternoon.” He shuffles on his feet, boots scuffing the new coat of sealant on the porch he put on with his own two hands. “Gonna tell him about the business.”

“It’s only ten, we’ll be done by then.” You go to grip his shoulder with a light hand. Your nails grazing his arm on the way up. The reassuring smile you give him melts him, you can see it. “I promise.”

A short drive later and a more than enthusiastic interaction in the industrial and modern looking salon, Joel sits with a grimace into a chair and lets the hairdresser fasten the cape securely over his throat. The place is so fancy, certainly not the master bathroom or the corner barbershop tucked into the end of a strip mall that he normally frequents. He’s tense and you feel bad so you hold up a finger to motion for the woman to pause for a moment. She smiles at you, noticing his unease as well.

“Hey,” You whisper as you come to stand behind him. He’s watching you with his dark eyes through the mirror, noticing the grays that make up most of his facial hair, steel tone that gives away how dark his hair had been once upon a time. His curls too, are the same dark gray intermixed with ash strands. Thick and erring on the side of ringlets if they should grow any longer. Your fingers gently scratch at the back of his head as you dig them into his hair, thumbs massaging up the back of his neck in a soothing gesture.

His hair is as soft as you imagined, like silk against your skin and you hum a little as you notice his eyes flutter at your ministrations. His shoulders drop and he let’s out a deep breath he must’ve been holding in.

“It’s just a trim, okay? Whatever you want, however you like it. You deserve it and you’ll feel so much better, I promise.”

And goddamn, if it’s not hard to keep promising things to one Joel Miller.

He’s so flighty, so nervous when he doesn’t know what to expect in a situation like this. Out of his depth and a little uncomfortable with the first outing as you go-to guy for all things. A paid companion of sorts. A strong contrast to the confidence he struts around with and moves through a space he’s working on, through the hardware store, as he drives his truck expertly throughout the suburban and city streets.

And when his eyes open back up, he’s returning your gentle smile with one of his own. Completely as ease. It makes your heart speed up and warmth pool in your middle.

Joel’s not nervous, but he’s not exactly thrilled to share the news of his company becoming an- contracted one he guesses would be the right term. One that has the sole purpose of fulfilling your every need, no matter now small or large a scale the project or task is. A way to provide for you and be a friend to you, to keep you close like he can’t seem to resist. He’s made peace with the decision, he’s comfortable in his decision. But his brother is…

“Why didn't you come to me, brother? I would've- I would've done anything to help, hell, I would've jumped back into working jobs everyday with you if that's what it took to save the company.” Tommy is certainly playing the part of the concerned younger sibling, professing empty words that Joel knows he wants to mean. But he doesn’t. He’s been struggling since coming back from his last tour and Joel’s done just about all he could to help in that department. Up to and including helping him with financial stuff and hiring a district attorney to help him when it had gone too far…

“Tommy, c'mon.” Joel tries to keep his tone in check, but Tommy is more than a little upset that he hadn’t known how stressed his brother was. How could Joel have told him? When could he have even told him, this is the first time to two of them have actually sat down and not just traded half conversations over the phone or even at the sad excuse of an office rented for the business. It was easier for them to work out of a trailer they would park at job sites, more secure for them to have eyes on the space that helped them to operate, well Joel to operate.

“Don't you do that, act like I don't care.” Wide brown eyes are turned toward him, the same ones that worked to get him to take the blame for too many eaten cookies before dinner, a broken lamp when they were too reckless running around the house, or when paired with a wobbling lip and tears that Joel would take make sure no one but him got into trouble. The big brother, always looking out for his younger one.

“I couldn't get you to even answer the damn phone, let alone work anymore 'n you wanted to.” A harsh scrub of his palm against his chin rustles the stubble there. Honest and reality checking words simmer in his belly, heating him up from the inside out and he realizes that there’s no stopping them from bubbling up.

He’s hurt, dammit. By the fact that after everything he’s done, his brother still decides to be selfish in a way he wished he could be proud of. Family is important, but the woman that Tommy is choosing over everything else…It just doesn’t sit well with him. “The business is good, just getting a little back logged and people aren’t willing to wait that long for certain work. It’s tough with just me and the crews, really expected to have a little more help.”

“That's not fair, I got...I got things I'm taking care of, Maria she-“

“This isn't about her, Tommy! This is about you doin' whatever the hell you wanna do, just like fucking always. your whole damn life, you've been like this.” He feels the words surge through him, spurred on by the sheer contrast of interacting with you and then his brother. One was family and yet…you treated him with more respect, you seemed to care enough to offer him a way to support himself better, to provide for him, to help him.

And the man across from him is doing nothing but making excuses as to why he hasn’t offered more.

“Joel, if I had known-“

“But you didn't! Didn’t even bother to ask how all the jobs you kept bailing on got done, how they got managed into my already full schedule. You know Ellie is thinkin’ of moving out because she thinks she’s too loud in a house that’s quiet when I’m not there and even more so when I am? She feels like a burden on me because I’m workin’ so damn hard and I pass out the second I get home.”

“Ellie’s an adult, but I’m sorry the work has you feeling like an absent father. Maybe you shouldn’t have-“

“Don’t you dare finish that sentence, Tommy. I love that girl with my whole fucking heart. I made the decision to transition to contracted work, to help out a friend with her business and personal projects. She’s supplin’ me with enough cash flow to make it worth my while and give me more down time.”

“Yeah and what, you think some pretty, successful woman is gonna be the key to keeping your company. You sold out, man, she's gonna be changing things, controlling things, you don't even know the half of it. You should've-“

“You weren't there!” Joel hollers, his patience gone and his head pounding. He realizes that the table next to them looked up from their menus at his outburst but he doesn’t care. “You weren't there, mentally, physically, you were gone off in your own little world, Tommy! She was....she saw me struggling and she treated me with kindness and respect- she was there to help! She was fucking there, Tommy!”

“You really think she gives a shit about you? Cause she don’t! She just sees an old man to buy out and take over a company because she’s bored, needs something to play with. The girls are going to flip when they find out how weak you were when a pretty little thing flashed a smile at you. All cause you think she cares about you, but she ain’t your family, Joel. Stop lookin’ for it in all the wrong places.”

“You ain’t been much of family lately, Tommy. But go ahead and judge me all you want, this is something I want to do.” He slips the envelope from his back pocket, the logo for his company branded in the top corner, your name beside his above the contact number. It was something you had mocked up for him to look over once the visit to the salon finished. He had liked it, maybe a little too much- to see your names beside each other.

Joel takes the check out from it, so the amount written out is visible. “This is for you and Maria, for my nephew, once he’s born. It’s the severance amount everyone is getting and then some. Cause I take care of my own.”

Joel is shoving up from his seat, jaw muscles twitching. Tommy’s eyes roll up from the check to his older brother looming over him. “You’re no better ‘n me, Tommy. You chased after Maria the second your case was settled.”

He’s not even in his truck for a second before he’s pulling out his new phone and hitting the call button.

All the tension leaves him from the heated interaction the second your voice filters through the line.

“Hey, hey! I’m a little tied up at the moment so you’re on speaker, I hope you don’t mind?” It’s then that he notices the background noise: soft music, the sound of something liquid being shaken up in plastic, and the tacky stretch of cling wrap being unraveled.

“Tha’s alright, sweetheart. Was thinkin’ of coming by, check out those permit applications for you and make sure they’re getting processed okay.”  

“Oh! That would be lovely. And you could check out the space I’m renting. So you know where to find me if I’m with a client. I’ll text you the address, yeah?”

“Want anything from the coffee shop?” Joel’s eyes glance across the street. His brother is gone from the table they had shared outside the café. The truck he had seen him pull up in gone as well. He should probably do the right thing and apologize to the server for taking up a table and then not ordering anything. Might as well get the coffee he had intended to as well.

“Mr. Miller, you are too sweet. I’ll text you my order. See ya in a bit!”

The line doesn’t hang up right away and he catches the soft words you speak next.

“He sounds handsome, was that your husband?”

“Oh! No, no, that was my friend. He’s my personal contractor and go to maintenance man.”

“I’m so sorry, I just assumed because I was looking back at your profile before the appointment and noticed the wedding photos on your feed.”

And then the line goes dead, the call ending as his thumb punches the red circle on the screen.

Joel’s heart thuds harshly against his ribs, his insides all twisted up. The way you sounded when you talked about him had been so warm.

My friend.

But then the person sitting in the studio with you had said the very last things he had ever anticipated.

Your husband. Wedding photos.

Were you married and neglected to tell him? Was this all some sort of game you were playing? Did you even have a need for him if you had a man who you called your own already? Where the hell did your husband fall in all of this? Was Tommy right and he was being played like a giant fool?

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[seancekitsch]

Can’t Stand Me Now; a modern Aegon x Stark! reader fic

CHAPTER ONE: The Party's Crashing Us

Y/N Stark and Aegon Targaryen. Aegon Targaryen and Y/N Stark. Inseparable since both eldest children met at Kings Landing University, until they weren’t. One night of drunken passion ruins it all.

Five years later, Aegon is coming off a broken engagement to Larissa Lannister and sends a risky Instagram DM to none other than Y/n Stark.

series masterlist here

warnings for the series: smut, smoking, drinking, friends to strangers to lovers, angst, fluff, vomit, more to come as needed

It’s not that one dance club you like that Sara brings you to, but this one just might be better. It’s a theme bar, a little too influencer friendly in its decor, but it’s endearing. The whole thing is themed like a house from your grandsires’s day and age. Floral couches with ugly plastic covering line the walls as people sit and chatter or flirt, the bathroom has sickeningly pink tile and floral wallpaper, the bar is legitimately a gutted vintage kitchen with bottles stored in cabinets and a vintage stove and formica drink counter. The DJ booth is a second gutted bathroom with the walls knocked out, with the DJ standing on a platform that looks like a huge teal toilet and partitioned away with a cheap shower curtain with a weird squiggly pattern on it. There’s even a little kneeler and altar to the Seven stashed in the corner that people like to take ironic photos at while they take shots. Sara brought you here because it’s synth pop night, her absolute favorite genre, and she does not miss a chance to dance to this over club beats. You don’t mind that this isn’t a wild club, mostly because of the cheap cover fee and eclectic vibe of the whole place. Sara also was considerate enough to tell you to dress the part before you got on the train, congratulating you on a night out sans stilettos with a guarantee of letting absolutely loose.

“Cregan would hate this place,” Sara snorts, bringing you a cup of something that absolutely doesn’t look like the whiskey sour you asked her to get you on this round. She hands it to you, and the smell of rum hits you. You don’t drink rum, you don’t get along with rum.

“As if we could drag him off Dragonstone with his little boytoy,” you shout over the music, and point at the drink, “Didn’t have Whiskey?”

She just shrugs.

“This is what the guy gave me!” she shouts back and you don’t argue further, instead interlocking your arm with hers and knocking the drink back with her in unison. 

The moment the rim of the cup leaves your lips, youre dragging her to the tiny dance floor, ready to mingle into the crowd with the beat. 

“Someone’s eager,” she teases, her face close to yours so youre not screaming. You dance close, a habit you’ve still not broken, made out of a big sister need to protect her when she became of age right as you were graduating from University. You tried to shield her if at all possible from scuzzy men when out drinking with her. Men like… well, not unlike yours and Aegon’s group of school friends. KLU doesn’t have fraternities, but tight knit groups of men still formed on their own; Aegon, Arryk, Erryk, Martyn, Leon, Eddard all fell within that category. You’d perfected the evasion of walking in on their countless hookups, and knowing exactly how to navigate a party with the men that even they didn’t trust. Even though Sara is grown in her own right, and towers over you, you always protect her as your baby sister. 

“Hard day,” you respond, not at all wanting to explain yourself further, but as if on cue your phone illuminates in your claw-like grasp in the same hand as your cup to expose you. You switch hands to drink the remainder of your drink while you scroll, and Sara being Sara, of course snoops. 

“Aegon?” she practically shouts, and yes, there’s at least three more messages from Aegon on your instagram. Fuck. You throw your head back dramatically after you fully read everything. 

Message:

@ eggtarg: im soz

@ eggtarg: i do miss u

@ eggtarg: can i call ?

(1) missed voice call from @ eggtarg

You break away from Sara, not even telling her, but you’re going to buy the next round. In fact, you’re buying double right now. You shove a bunch of bills towards the bartender, a little guilty but too anxious to actually care that the gesture was rude. Four more of the cups of the strong rum drink, which you learn is a theme drink for the night with an annoying name, and you maneuver them in your hands back to the dance floor with minimal spillage. She doesnt thank you, but she doesn’t have to. You cover each other, or convince men to buy you drinks on these nights. There’s no one party paying more or less, no reason to get anyone back. The two of you dance, and drink, and dance, and drink. Two rounds becomes three. For a moment, Aegon is actually forgotten. 

Sara, at any point in time, has your free hand in hers; the two of you twirl each other like you did when you were girls, like you did when Cregan refused his middle child duties to play pretend with you. You take her photo sitting backwards at the kneeler, knowing she’ll make a snarky caption about nothing honoring the Old Gods like this in the city, you fix each other’s lipstick in the bathroom. 

It’s the fourth round that has you a little unwise. 

Rum is something you avoid for a reason. In college, there was always a point where you felt almost trapped within yourself with rum. You acted on an accord completely disconnected from your mind, the whole time your thoughts shouting on you to do or say something different. For that reason, for the fact that it usually made you upset, Aegon banned rum at any gathering. No tiki drinks in the summer, all because of your comfort and preferences. 

You push off from Sara, a brief check in that she’ll be okay (she will be, she’s decided to talk the bartender’s ear off), and go outside with the intent of a smoke break. 

As you walk down steps, you feel your stomach turn. Nothing a cigarette cannot fix, a tried and true trick for you. 

The bouncer helps open the heavy door, a big smile on your face as you thank him and step out into the brisk air. It feels lovely, compared to the stale and sticky air and vape clouds of the bar. You move to sit on a chair from the little coffee shop that operates there during the day, fishing your pack and your lighter out from the tiny trendy purse you had shoved your ID and money in before you left your flat tonight. 

Sighing, you immediately give in to temptation, finding Aegon’s messages to read and read and read them over. He misses you, he’s said as much twice now. But does he?

You click on his profile, and scroll back down to that picture of you. It looks practically deep-fried, the way that Instagram as a platform has changed so much since you were in University.  You light the cigarette and take a hefty drag of it before you start a dissection, zooming in and pulling and prodding at the image.

In the photo, you’re half hanging off of Aegon’s lap, sat on his dorm bed. His parents, Viserys and Alicent, insisted he always live on campus in dry dorms to attempt to curbs the habits they did not approve of, but also ensured he got an entire dorm to himself for space. Despite this, it never stopped his room from being where you all met up before you headed out, or being the spot where you crashed at the end of the night. Your mouth is wide open, clearly mid laugh as your hair cascades down across both of you, Aegon’s arms holding you tightly against him. And although the camera is on both of you, Aegon’s eyes are on you, his wide smile and gaze trained directly on the side of your face. In the picture, you’re even in his clothes, his favorite emerald green sweatshirt embroidered with his family crest in gold thread. Falling off his shoulders is the blanket your mother had made for you as a child, crocheted with your own family crest in it, your most prized possession.

From the picture alone, if you didn’t know the people in it, you’d assume they’d be married by now. The two people on the screen look so happy, so care free, so in love. You were still only friends at that point, had never even kissed.

Bile rises in your throat, and you pull harder on the cigarette. 

Both drunk and sober, clear headed and uninhibited, you go back to the message and press the little call button next to his contact. 

Aegon picks up immediately, as if he was waiting for it.

“Stark!” he breathes on the other end, like a sigh of relief, as if this is a raft in the open ocean. 

“Targ,” you greet, very much less enthusiastic, but you cannot deny it that hearing his voice ignites something familiar and comfortable in your bones as if your being had been missing him. 

“I- I- I’m so sorry, really, I have so much to-“

“S’been five years,” you slur, not hiding the indigence or disgust in your voice, “Y’too late.”

“Your accent is stronger, are you drinking?” He asks, and it burns you how he still remembers your tells. 

“What’s it matter?” You ask, because it doesn’t. Although, you think for a moment, he doesn’t sound drunk. 

“Where are you?” 

Genuine concern laces his voice, and despite your better judgement, you tell him exactly where you are. The moment the words leave your mouth, you know you should not have said them.

“I’ll be there in twenty,” he says, and hangs up the phone. 

By the time he arrives, you’ve grabbed another drink, this time with enough sense to order a pint of cider instead of rum and you’ve already lit and half smoked another cigarette. You slink down into the chair as the black car pulls up, one that you instantly recognize as one of the family cars. Aegon had a car when you knew him, but he only ever drove it on his birthday, taking the train or getting a driver any other time. You pull the lipstick stained cigarette from your lips to take a hefty gulp from the glass, your eyes immediately settling into a glare as the car door opens.

Aegon looks exactly the same as he did the day he left, his hair still the same length, the light dusting of a mustache. He’s got himself wrapped in both a hoodie and a cardigan, completely unable to cope with any cooler shift in the weather. You always joked that he’d die if he ever came home to Winterfell with you. 

“There you are,” he says, his tone incredibly and unfairly soft as he grabs another one of the chairs and pulls it up next to you.

“If I grab something do you promise not to run?” he asks, and you nod if not begrudgingly. You called him here, you should at least let him get a drink out of the ordeal. 

You swallow thickly, staring at the toe of your boots and the absent patterns of the concrete. If you focus hard enough, you could trick your brain into thinking there was some divine structure there. 

He returns quickly, but your eyes don’t peel away from the absent patterns; They can’t. 

“I know it’s shit how I reached out to you,” he starts, and from your peripherals you watch him take a big gulp from his own pint. You stick the cigarette into your mouth and fumble to pass him the pack, your body working on autopilot and muscle memory long since past. His fingers brush yours as the transfer or the carton occurs, a traitorous warmth blooming in its wake. You will not ask for the pack returned. 

“You’re hard to find these days,” He mentions, as if that was not your goal.

“I don’t meddle where I’m not wanted, Aegon,” you mumble, cigarette bobbing between your lips and threatening to fall.

“That’s not…” Aegon almost growls in frustration, and slams the rest of his drink back, “It was never me not wanting you. I meant it.”

If you were to look up, you don’t know what you’d see. Would he have tears in his eyes? Would they be dark with anger? Is he mocking you?

Instead of a response, your body jerks forward, bile threatening. You pull the cigarette from your lips as he swears and pulls out his phone. 

“Don’t say shit like that,” You laugh, but there’s no real humor in your voice. 

“I still mean it,” he assures you, and then begins a conversation with the person on the other line. 

You stand, taking another small sip of the cider before placing what’s left on the ledge, allowing yourself to take the loss for whatever money that half a cider cost. 

“What a fucking joke,” you mumble, more to yourself than anything. 

You try to hide the lurching jerk of your body as bile rises again in your throat. You will not puke, you will not hurl; Especially not in front of Aegon. 

You have so many things you want to say: questions you’ve had for half a decade, insults that you’ve held onto like a poison in a wound, weeping confessions that would make you weak and pathetic. 

“Cole, can you please send someone,” Aegon asks, a hushed tone while he presses the phone to his ear, “Yeah, yeah I’m fine, I need to make sure a friend gets home safe.”

A friend. You bark out a laugh. 

Only thats not the right move at the moment, and you spill your last two drinks on the curb, enough sense in you to miss your shoes. Immediately you feel better, both physically and mentally. Clearly, much like Aegon, rum is not your friend despite its sudden reappearance in your night. 

“Oh, holy shit!” Aegon swears, immediately fussing over you and trying to pull a tissue out of his pocket, trying to press it to the corner of your lip as you shove him away. In the distance, you can see the train stop. This particular line goes directly back to your stop and if you can make a run for it, you can escape him. Only you don’t move, as if you’re rooted to the pavement, your boots stuck in the concrete as the person you’ve been trying to evade in this city closes in on you. You push away every attempt for him to fret over and help you, refusing to let him help push your hair back, refusing the cup of water he requests from the bouncer, your hands shooing away every attempt of his to help. 

Eventually the car pulls up, and to your own surprise you let Aegon lead you into the car and close the door for you. He slides in the other side,  and urges the driver to head home. His home. Aegon’s home. You don’t protest, you don’t scream, you don’t open the door and tuck and roll even though you think it would be an effective way to escape if not at least a little funny. Despite in your mind feeling incredibly sober, you freeze up, absolutely letting all of it happen. Despite your mind screaming at you, despite the urge to cry, you relax into the leather of the car seat. You instead text Sara that you’re heading home, and to text you when she decides to do the same. 

“Why now?” you ask, cutting through the uncomfortable silence as the car turns the block. 

“Now?” Aegon parrots, as if he doesn’t understand the question.

“Why now when I’m just this? Why come back after all this time?” You choke back a sob, wanting to refuse to let Aegon see weakness.

He sighs, and wipes his hand down his face. Now that you look at him closely, he looks exhausted, even in the dark. Aegon looks like a man who hasn’t slept in a week. 

“It’s complicated,” he says, barely above a whisper. Like fuck it is. 

Either way, you remain quiet, anger growing as you watch the traffic lights go by, as you traverse neighborhoods. The car is headed south, and eventually stops not far from your stop at Fleabottom. If you were to flee, you’re only four stops away from home. But just like before, maybe its morbid curiosity, you don’t bail as the car parks and Aegon hops out, half jogging to the other side of the car to open the door for you. He holds out a hand, a hand that you refuse as you push yourself up and out of the car seat. If the driver knows you, if the driver knows what’s going on, they don’t say. The driver doesn’t even look back before driving off. 

When he lets you into his flat, he immediately heads to the fridge. Sunfyre runs up to you, greeting you as if no time had passed. The big orange fur ball is all purring as he rubs up against you, and you bend down to scratch behind his ears where he loves it most. This is, easily, the most heartbreaking part of all of this. 

“Aww, Sunfyre, did you miss her?” he coos, and then looks at you, “Thats amazing, he remembered you. He always ran from Lar-"

He stops himself before he finishes that sentence, but the damage is done. You were wrong, that right there was the worst part. 

He hands you a glass of water, and you don’t deny it this time, eagerly gulping it down and placing it on the kitchen counter the moment you’re done. 

“Right, so what did you expect?” you ask, shrugging at him.

“I wanted to make sure you were okay,” he responds, and reaches forward. He cringes as you flinch away from his touch.

“Bullshit,” you exclaim, and then start to walk towards his couch, bigger and more plush than the campus apartment you’d last know him having.

“Guess I’m sleeping here?” you ask, pointing at it.

Aegon agrees, although you can tell there’s words that die in his mouth. His mouth opens and shuts, lips purse contemplatively. Good, you don’t want to hear those thoughts right now, even though you’ve needed them for half a decade. He grabs a pillow and blankets from a hall closet, and sets them like a bed for you. You half expected him to just dump everything on the couch, but then again, sleepovers with Aegon used to mean sharing a bed and you’ve never seen how he would do this.

“Do you need clothes?” he asks, already half turned and surely ready to grab some sweats from a drawer.

You shake your head no, and then start to get yourself settled under the blankets. It feels like the more of you covered, the safer from all of the anxiety bubbling under your skin you are. The more a physical barrier from Aegon exists, the more you can pretend this is a drunken nightmare, and tomorrow you can just sweat it out at dance class.

He leaves the room, and you only shake off your boots and jacket onto the floor next to your discarded purse, opting to keep your phone under your pillow and your person bundled up despite the fact that his apartment is warm.

When he returns he’s in that green sweatshirt from the picture, and a pair of grey sweatpants. He turns his head towards you, but ultimately decides against trying again, instead going to the fridge to pull out two water bottles. Even in the dark of the apartment, you don’t miss the fact that he also pulls out a bottle and takes two shots before walking away from the area. Your eyes feel heavy, wet, as you try in vain to blink away the emotions rising to the surface. Here, there is no concrete to focus on, here, you’re surrounded by Aegon in the dark. You opt to shut your eyes all together.

He traverses the main room, around the island to the living room, his bare feet against the flooring; depositing one of the water bottles on the coffee table directly in front of the couch you’re on. You keep your eyes closed, not daring look at him. However, you don’t miss the warmth of his hand ghosting over the blankets, almost touching, almost that reassuring weight of his hand that had gotten you through so much.

“Why wasn’t I enough when we were friends?” you ask, not hiding the watery tone of someone failing to conceal crying, still not daring to look at him. Your voice sounds so small to your ears, so vulnerable.

“You were,” he tells you, his voice betraying similar emotion. Aegon is probably crying, you realize, or at least close to it.

But before you can open your eyes, you hear him walk away, and you feel like any moment of honesty is over now. The sliding door to his balcony opens, and the clinking of a bottle signifies he’s staying up.

He keeps the door open, a silent invitation that you feel like you can’t accept. Many a night you’d stayed up talking and drinking with Aegon; a bottle, two glasses, and a heart to heart were common. But that seems wrong now, tainted what has transpired. Now it's silence as you hear the bottle clink against a glass, and then again a few minutes later.

Sleep is slow to find you, the space between the two of you both cavernous and claustrophobic, and the blanket smells like him.

[hopefulidiocy]

Sunset

Modern!Aemond x Modern!Y/N

Warnings: soft smut, smoking, drinking

MINORS DNI 🔞

🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅

🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅

The Uber driver chatted brightly to you as he drove you through the snowy forest of the countryside, you rested your forehead against the cold window as you ummed and ahhed over his words. You weren’t listening as well as you should’ve been considering he was really kind, but you wanted him to cease talking immediately. Everything in silence was better for you, in your job you were always talking and trying to bribe people to take what you were pitching, to agree to your ideas but recently it hadn’t been successful and you deserved a sabbatical. So it was time for your winter holiday, spending Christmas alone could be considered sad or lonely but you truly couldn’t give less of a shit about it. Your family wasn’t exactly welcoming and there was nothing fun about a holiday where everyone is going at each other’s throats. The car pulled up to a selection of dark wood log cabins, desolate and dark, with the snow pattering upon the roofs in such a delicate way you had never seen before: this type of view wouldn’t be seen in the city. You thanked the driver, pulled out your heavy suitcase and logged it towards Cabin Nine, the only cabin set far away from the others and it was the most beautiful spot you had ever witnessed.

The door was light when you unlocked it, opening into a warmth that enveloped your entire being as you shook the snow off your wellies and propped your suitcase against the fragile wall to the side of the door. The space opened up into a wide living room with a flat screen and under the screen was an oak table with four strong chairs that were tucked tightly underneath; you looked towards the open plan kitchen where there was enough surfaces for you to cook and, most importantly, you looked for the wine glasses, score there was three of them, two more than you actually needed; there was two bedrooms, one significantly smaller than the master room with a king sized bed and towels, rolled upon the end, where your feet would be and a small bathroom off to the side which matched the rest of the cabin with its swollen wood panels and a white tiled floor. The first port of call was to fetch your red wine bottle you received from Secret Santa at work, you uncorked it and watched as the beautiful liquid filled the glass halfway. The taste coming to your lips was the real moment your perfect holiday began, alone and isolated in the middle of nowhere.

The sun began to set and behind your log cabin there was a clear view of the horizon and you, cotton headed, walked out with your cardigan wrapped around your shoulders and a glass of fresh red wine in your hand. You sipped at the liquid, chewing your nails as the sun began to deepen to a beautiful, calming orange that struck pink and purple lights throughout the sky. For a moment you were transfixed at the sight, until you weren’t alone anymore. No one spoke about it, but there was a man beside you, sucking on his cigarette, pulling in toxic chemicals and pushing them out with pursed lips. He wasn’t standing close to you, probably about a couple of steps away and he leaned on the wooden fence that separated the log cabins and the field ahead. He was deep in thought, his eyebrows furrowed as his elbows held his strong body up. You stepped to the side, trying to get away from the smoke that was bellowing from his lungs.

“Sorry,” he said, he didn’t look at you but you knew he had noticed you step away from him, you smiled tightly, not wanting to respond to him because he was a stranger and simply because you were a bit too drunk to say anything coherent. You watched as the sky darkened and the stars began appearing, twinkling and almost saying hello to the two people in awe of them.

“Have a good night,” he flicked his cigarette over the fence was crunched as he walked away, you took a glance of him, his long white hair wrapped up in a ponytail with strides that were bigger than any step you had ever made,

“Night.” You whispered.

The morning sun broke through the bedroom, coming in through the small gap between your curtains, your mouth dry as a dog in the desert and your head slightly whirling once you planted your feet on the cold carpet. The shiver ran through your spine as you splashed freezing water on your face and decided it was time to shower because being hungover and smelly was not something you wished to tackle today. The water jets cleared your skin, reopening pores and steaming them as you exfoliated with your coffee scrub you bought randomly on Amazon one night when you felt bad about yourself. Wrapping your hair in a towel, toothbrush in, you sauntered towards the kitchen cabinet to see what kind of breakfast items they had in. Bacon, eggs and some bread was everything they had that could constitute towards a fulfilling breakfast so you spat out your toothpaste, dressing from head to toe in a baby pink tracksuit and fluffy socks. The smell of bacon filled the air, your hungry stomach growling at you and demanding food NOW! So you munched down on your sandwich, ready for a day slaving in front of the TV.

A new glass of wine, despite how cotton mouthed you were this morning, was in your hand when you crunched over the slushy snow towards the fence at the back of your cabin. You leaned over, sipping on your wine watching as the sky deepened into an orange and, just like yesterday, that man appeared with his stinking cigarette so you moved away just a few steps.

“Do you not like the smell?” He asked, not turning to you, keeping his face towards the sky,

“No it’s not that. It makes me want one,” you admitted, itching for the cigarette pack that was poking out of his coat pocket,

“Ah.” He said, not seeming the least bit interested in your admission.

Slowly, he walked away, back to his own cabin with this mystical aura surrounding him like he hadn’t been there in the first place. You scoffed.

The next sunset was taking place alone, you drank warmly at your wine as the sun disappeared below the horizon. You sank into a dreamy state, watching the stars welcome you to the night when the mysterious man made an entrance. You looked over at him, he was shrouded by a large oak tree, only a flicker of orange light when he cupped the lighter, lighting his cigarette. With his lit cigarette, he approached the fence, you took him in, noticing the eyepatch over his right eye, intrigued you asked.

“Why do you have an eye patch?” He seemed very slightly amused by your question, looking directly at you, his icy blue eye struck you through the body so much you had to look away,

“You’re not interested in my name, my age or my height. Instead you’re interested in my eye patch,” he replied, sucking on his cigarette,

“I was only asking,” you pouted, turning away from him,

“I got into a fight when I was younger, my eye was sliced out,” he said, a bit disinterested in his own voice,

“Oh.” Was all you could reply with, slightly amused by his stoic face,

“Why do you have two eyes?” He turned to you fully then, one elbow leaning against the fence, his cigarette hanging out of his mouth,

“Because I was born with it,” you shrugged, taking another sip of wine,

“So was I but now I have one, things happen,” he was strangely defensive about it,

“They do,” you said, becoming a bit heated at this whole interaction,

“Do you want a cigarette?” He asked, holding out a pack and your senses peaked up, you instinctively went out to pick one but you stopped yourself,

“I shouldn’t,” you waved your hand,

“Why?” He questioned, still holding out the packet,

“New Years Resolution, I shouldn’t smoke anymore,” you said, drinking,

“But you’ll continue drinking alcohol?” He smirked, “you’ll get rid of one wicked habit for another, I don’t believe it works that way,” the packet was still out for the taking, you gave him an annoyed look but just believed he was right and pulled out a cigarette,

“Lighter, please,” you held out your hand, the cigarette hanging out the side of your mouth, he smirked and gave you it. It was bright pink. You cupped your hand over the lighter as the breeze picked up, you clicked it and lighted the cigarette, dragging the toxins back into your lungs and it was like your veins peaked up, screaming happily at the cigarette, “thank you.” You nodded towards him, handing him the lighter.

“Where are you from?” He asked, pocketing the lighter,

“*where you are from*” you sucked in the cigarette,

“Ah, that makes sense, your accent is different,” he said,

“Not that different to yours,” you rolled your eyes,

“True,” silence hung over the both of you, only owls filling it in, “anyway, good night.” He strode off, disappearing behind the oak tree.

🌅

After days of staying in, enjoying the silence of nature, it became clear that you needed some time to walk amongst the forest, feeling the crisp air poke at your skin so you shoved on your wellies and made away into the forest. The trees around you were whispering as the breeze struck through them, the grass now completely white and crunching as you landed each of your feet. Ahead of you was the tall man you’ve been seeing every night, a cigarette almost burnt out in his hand as his free hand stuck his phone against his ear. From what you could hear, slightly far away from him, he seemed annoyed. You managed to squeeze past him just as he ended his call.

“Hello again,” he said, catching up to you, “I don’t think I’ve seen you outside during the day,”

“Probably not, I’ve taken into my own company, it’s been needed but now I’m starting to feel some cabin fever,” you admitted, hugging your arms around your middle to combat the cold,

“I feel that, I’ve been trying to have a small daily walk every day since I’ve been here,” he flicked the cigarette away, landing it in the snow,

“When did you come here?” You asked, looking at him. He was taller than you thought, his skin almost as white as the snow only making his blue eye more striking, he was about two heads taller than you; his hair was a beautiful shade of blonde, something you hadn’t seen before and it was pulled back into a small ponytail but the rest of his hair was strung over his shoulder, his body lean and a slightly curved spine.

“About a month ago,” he said, reaching for another cigarette and offering you one, you took it,

“A month ago?” You exclaimed after you shared a lighter, he hummed in agreement,

“Why are you here?” He asked, puffing the smoke above him,

“I just wanted to be by myself, my family is complicated and my work life is even worse these days so I needed to spend this holiday by myself,” you admitted, swallowing the fresh air,

“Gods, tell me about it,” he chuckled very slightly, “families are all complicated,”

“Is yours?” You asked,

“More than you can imagine, my mother is the second wife of my dead father and my father’s first born child hates us and we hate her. It was her son who took my eye,” he huffed through his nose,

“Your own nephew?” You exclaimed, turning towards him seeing a smirk play on his lips,

“Yeah, my own nephew, it’s crazy isn’t it?” You hummed in agreement and a silence fell over you. It was comfortable walking beside each other, throwing the cigarettes in front of you and continuing this nice walk with a stranger. Just yards away from your own cabin you didn’t notice that huge tree trunk that was sticking out from the ground and you went absolutely flying over it, landing on all fours and a searing pain shocking through your leg. The man was quick to come onto his knees beside you, hooking his arms around your middle and pulling you up to stand but your ankle gave in and you went tumbling again.

“You can’t stand?” He asked, some form of expression in his face, you shook your head, sighing out the pain as his arms hugged around you, picking you up bridal style. You strung your arms around his neck, your face screwing in pain, your legs hanging over his elbow, “don’t panic, I’m first aid trained,” he said, making a slight joke that gave him a twinkle in his eye, sending a smile travelling over your lips. He basically kicked down his cabin door, setting you carefully on his sofa, striding towards the fridge. You held tightly onto your ankle, praying it wasn’t broken when it returned with a bag of frozen peas.

“Might hurt a bit,” he said, gently placing the freezing bag that sent your entire body into an almost shock, he placed a strong hand on your shoulder trying to calm you down as tears leaked from your eyes, “wine?”

“Yes.” You squeaked, blubbering over a twisted ankle. You were never great with pain and in front of a handsome man, you were incredibly embarrassed and that was the reason for the tears. He came to you with a clean glass of white wine, not your favourite, but you had to have something in you so you sipped on it delicately as the pain started to slip away. He looked at you, intriguingly as you sipped on your wine.

“I don’t even know your name,” he said, “and you’re in my cabin, drinking my wine and using my peas,”

“You gave them to me,” you furrowed your eyebrows as a smile danced on his lips,

“What’s your name?” He asked,

“Y/N,” you admitted, “what’s yours?”

“Aemond,” he took in a mouthful of wine and smiled knowing you were about to ask what the fuck that name is, “my parents chose it, and no it’s no Edmund,”

“That’s such an interesting name, I’ve never met anyone with such a unique name before,” you smiled, finishing off your wine and setting it on the coffee table beside you. He opened his arms as if to say yep that’s me!

“How’s your ankle?” He asked, nodding towards it,

“It feels fine now, thank you,” you removed the frozen bag, giving them back to him and getting onto your feet, you felt slightly weak.

“Let me walk you to the door,” he held your elbow softly as he led you towards the door, but there was something… a kind of connection that you couldn’t put your finger on started buzzing within you, igniting your blood vessels as his large hand found itself on the small of your back as you walked out the door, “see you later, y/n.” He said, smiling. You waved to him and walked back to your cabin.

🌅

The next night, your ankle healed apart from the little twinge that carried through your leg every time you walked but it was bearable. You stood at the fence, no wine this time, leaning over the fence watching as the sun fled from the sky. Aemond’s delicate footsteps sounded behind you, he leaned right next to you so your elbows were touching and came again that buzzing.

“Hello,” he said, “how’s your ankle?”

“Fine, thank you,” you smiled, turning to him surprised to find that he had been looking at you, a smirk dancing on his lips but his eye deep within your core that it sent a shudder down your spine. His eye caught something just to the side of you, and his hand came forward, batting a fly away as it was softly landing on your fringe. You smiled shyly, turning away from him but he pulled your cheek, making you turn to him softly with his fingers. Both of you gazed at each other, a slight murmur of wildlife whispering around you, he tucked your hair behind your ear and gently moved his lips to yours. For a moment, you are taken aback, slightly pulling away from his lips but you calm into him, placing your hands on his chest as he squeezed you further in his body, your kisses light and almost loving as you count the beats of his heart through your hand. His hands journeyed towards the small of your back as the kiss deepened, the buzzing sensation piling up from your core until slowly he began turning towards you neck, slight and butterfly kisses down the length of your neck, opening up your shirt to kitten lick your collarbones before your jellied core began to drop. With no one else around, you agonisingly unbuttoned his black shirt, pulling it off and holding onto his goose-pimpled skin as your own shirt was shifted over the top of your head. He kissed you, lovingly, until he reached your nipples, nipping at them sweetly before he reached the zipper of your jeans, your own hand rubbing over the tent in his own slacks, playing with the zipper before getting the confidence to pull it down and feel his length in your hand. He groaned into your mouth as you pulled gently up his shaft, smiling in the kiss. Whilst this was not on your radar to happen, this moment became so magical and fluid that even when he softly bent you over the fence, his hand stroking up and down your spine with such softness it had you shivering. The sun before you had disappeared, leaving a dark purple hue in its shadow as he lined himself up against your folds, slowly entering you and hissing as the warmth enveloped his most sensitive area. He was big, you knew that by the handjob you gave him earlier, but his length stretching your walls ignited the fireworks in your veins. Gripping the fence harshly with weak fingers, he thrusted into you hard enough to have you whine out into the desolate field. Despite his stoic and almost cruel face, his touches were enlightening and soft that your heat began clenching around him, he moaned under his breath, pulling on your shoulder to give himself more leverage to thrust into you. You whined into the cold night, not caring who heard you but also finding it riveting having sex in a lonely world. He grunted as his thrusts began slowing knowing that he was near his end and his last thrust before he pulled out had you rolling your eyes back, shuddering under his hot touch before he spilled all over your back and chuckling.

“I never expected that to happen,” he whispered, out of breath, before he cradled you against the fence, your back against his naked body, his elbow hung loosely around your neck as he pressed his cheek into your temple,

“Neither did I.” He placed a soft kiss on your cheek, continuing his loving attitudes towards you,

“But I’m glad it did,” he whispered, “I’ve grown fond of you.” You laughed, leaning into him as the stars winked at the sordid moment they saw, knowing that whatever was around was only the two of you and the stars who were cheering you on.

🌅

[in-a-nook-with-a-notebook]

Life Could Be A Dream

Franchise: Star Wars (but modern AU)

Pairing: Poe Dameron x male reader (reader's pronouns are he/him/his)

Word Count: 1.3k

Warnings: fluff, modern!AU, implied smut (scratch marks on Poe’s back, hickeys, mentions of nudity if you squint), fluff, established relationship, mentions of Poe being an F1 driver, no plot really just a sweet morning with Poe, did I mention fluff?

Summary: Poe always gets cuddly after a race; the more intense the race, the more he wants to be glued to your side. Yesterday's race was pretty crazy, but you’re not complaining.

A/N: This is ridiculously self indulgent, especially with the breakfast foods (I am a slut for a good serving of pancakes) also the inspiration and the song mentioned is Sh-Boom (Life Could Be A Dream) by The Sh-Booms, highly recommend listening while reading; for some reason I imagine Poe being a Formula One racer in a modern AU so voila

You blink your tired eyes open with the sun peering through the curtains of the hotel room. It’s warm and welcome on your skin. A lazy smile drifts over your face. You stretch a little before curling up under the thick blanket again; it’s smooth against your bare skin, perfect for a morning like this.

You slowly roll onto your side, turning your back to the window. Your eyes land on your boyfriend’s sleeping form. Poe is snoring softly, his dark curls tousled and unkempt. He looks so peaceful. His broad back glows in the morning light, the duvet haphazardly covering the lower half of his body. There are faint red marks near his shoulders, reminders of last night. Even after the longest, most intense races, he still has some… pent up energy.

Careful not to wake him, you lean forward and press a gentle kiss between his shoulder blades. You then silently slip out of the bed, tugging on a clean pair of boxers. You’re grateful for the carpeting under your bare feet until you reach the cold tile of the bathroom. You brush your teeth, considering you can taste how bad your morning breath is, but you don’t bother fixing your messy hair. You wash your face with cold water to wake yourself up a little more, padding it dry with a facecloth. You look at yourself in the mirror, your eyes sliding over the hickeys on your neck and chest from Poe last night. Your fingers ghost over them.

After leaving the bathroom, you grab a shirt from last night. It’s either yours or Poe’s. You’re not sure, but you don’t really care all that much - it’s a shirt either way.

You wander to the kitchen, thankful the two of you had booked at an extended stay hotel; full kitchen with a big fridge, living space separate from the bed area; lots of space for you and him to stay for a while. You dig through the fridge in search of ingredients for breakfast. The two of you went out for groceries a couple days before his big race in Melbourne, so you had everything you needed to make a filling breakfast; Poe’s always hungry after a night like last night. You are too, quite frankly. You grab bacon, eggs and milk and put them on the counter, lightly kicking the fridge closed behind you. From the cabinets behind you, you collect salt, baking powder, white sugar, and a small bag of flour.

As much as you don’t like packing heavy when you travel for Poe’s races, you’ve brought it upon yourself to have some essentials so you aren’t eating out all the time. After the first few races, you pretty much put together a travel kit of cooking/baking supplies and other things you guys would usually have at home.

You grab a mixing bowl and a wooden spoon and begin mixing the dry ingredients together. You snag a normal bowl from the cupboard to mix the wet ingredients with a whisk. You then combine them together and leave it on the counter with a dishcloth over it, letting it rise. From the cabinets underneath the counter, you grab two pans; one for the pancakes when they’re ready and one for the bacon. As you set the pan on the stove to heat up, you hear shuffling from the bedroom area; Poe’s awake.

The pan warms quickly and you start laying bacon on it to fry. The sizzling meets your ears just as Poe appears out of the corner of his eye. You focus mostly on the bacon, but you can sense his presence. His arm snakes around your waist and he pulls your back against his warm, bare chest. He rests his chin on your shoulder.

“Good morning,” you say with a smile.

Poe hums, pressing a gentle kiss to your neck. “Morning, baby.”

“How’d you sleep?”

“Like a log, but last night was amazing…” He nibbles on your neck a little, tightening his grip around you. You chuckle, bringing your hand down to squeeze his. “Bacon?” Poe inquires, changing the subject and looking down at the pan in front of you. His chin rests on your shoulder, leaning his head against yours.

“And pancakes,” you add, gesturing lazily to the mixing bowl.

“Mmm, I love your breakfasts.”

“You love all my cooking. And baking, for that matter.”

“Because you, mi amor, are an absolute god in the kitchen.”

“You flatter me, darling.” You reach for the tongs to flip the bacon strips. “I’m assuming you’re hungry. You’re always hungry.”

“For your food, always.”

“Flirt.”

“I’m just speaking the truth here.” He presses a kiss to your cheek. “Want help?”

“I love you, but you can just sit there and look pretty for now.” You turn your head to fully kiss him. “I wanna cook for you.”

“You always cook for me.”

“Yeah, because, no offence, but you can’t cook for shit.”

“I’m a Formula One driver, not a chef.”

“I’m not even technically a chef.”

“You might as well be,” Poe replies, untangling himself from you. “You are probably one of the best cooks I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. And eating with. And, you know, everything else.” He kisses the back of your neck before stepping away to sit at the island, watching you fondly. “You sure you don’t want help?”

“Well, how about you set out the fruit from the fridge?”

“That I can do.”

As you get a plate out for the bacon, as well as a couple pieces of paper towel to catch the leftover grease, while Poe goes to the fridge. You feel Poe’s finger drag down your spine, sending a shiver through your body.

“Tease,” you murmur, looking at him over your shoulder. He smirks at you, blowing a kiss to you. “You wanna put some music on?”

“Absolutely.”

You transfer the cooked bacon onto the plate, then put more bacon on the pan. Poe shuffles around behind you, connecting his phone to the speaker.

Life could be a dream, life could be a dream

Do, do, do, do, sh-boom

A smile crosses your face with you hear the song and you turn to look at Poe. He puts his phone down on the counter. You both begin to murmur the lyrics under your breath.

“Life could be a dream. If I could take you up in paradise up above. If you would tell me I’m the only one that you love, life could be a dream, sweetheart, hello, hello again, sh-boom, and hopin’ we’ll meet again…”

“You look so good in my shirt,” he murmurs, coming up behind you again. He kisses your cheek, resting his hand on your hip. “I ever tell you that?”

“You’ve mentioned…” you reply, relaxing under his touch.

“I love when you travel with me,” Poe says. “Thank you for coming.”

“There’s nowhere I’d rather be, my love.”

Poe gently takes your chin in his hand to turn your head towards him. He presses a deep kiss to your lips. When he pulls away, he has a piece of bacon in his hand.

“Impatient?” You tease.

“It’s bacon. I’m hungry.”

You laugh when he takes a bite and his face lights up. “You’re cute,” you remark. His face goes red and he dips his head.

“Shut up.”

“No.” You tilt his chin up with your finger, pressing your lips to his. “You’re downright adorable, Poe Dameron.”

“You’re relentless.”

“You love me.”

“I adore you.”

You smirk. “I know.”

Some mornings, the two of you have to rush around, packing for another plane or prepping for another race, but not today. Poe’s got a free day, and he intends to spend every minute of it with you. Even if it’s just swaying in the kitchen, teasing each other. As long as he’s with you, he’s happy.

A/N: I just wanted a soft morning with Poe and the song had me in a fluffy mood so I hope y'all enjoy this because I know I did! Feedback is encouraged and appreciated! Have a lovely day y'all <3

[patriunicornio]

Modern New York Apartment

Have you ever dreamed of having a cozy apartment where contemporary art and jazz come together? Then this is your apartment.

This apartment with a color palette dominated by red, black, blue, beige and brown, is a perfect choice for any single man or woman living in Manhattan.

Name: Modern New York Apartment

Price: $ 196,537

Lot type: Room

Furnished

WITH CC

World: San Myshuno (121 Hakim House)

DLC used: City Living and Movie Hangout.

ORIGIN ID: MEDIAGRAMA

My inspiration for this apartment:

This apartment is inspired by abstract art, especially the works of Mark Rothko.

This apartment is also inspired by MY FAVORITE SHOW, Sx and the city. I created this apartment while watching it and it reminds me of the first seasons of the show, Charlotte's art gallery, Mr Big, Carrie and Big, the girls going out for dinner and to have fun, New York, etc.

🩷🎶 (LOVE this edit)

List of the cc that I used:

Harrie @harrie-cc: The Coastal Collection 3,4, 6 and 8, Stockholm, Spoons part 2, Octave 3 and 4, Brutalism bathroom, The Country Collection 3

Felixandre @felixandresims: Gatsby set, Florence 1 and 4, Berlin part 1 and 3, Shop the look season, Grove part 3, Fayun part 2, Chateau part 4 and 5, Soho part 3

House of Harlix: Jardane, The Kichen 1 and 2, Livin' Rum, Orjánic part 2, Harluxe, Baysic Bathroom

Pierisim @pierisim: Pantry Party, Combles, Woodland 1 and 3, Unfold, Tilable, David's Apartment 1 and 2, Auntie Vera's Bathroom, Domaine 1, 2, 3 and 4, MCM House part 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, Winter Garden part 1, The Living-Room, Calderone, The office, Oak house 4 and 5, Tidying up, Teeny Weeny

Max20 @maxsus: Kitchen Appliances Pack, Kitchen Appliances Pack, Mini pack "Home atmosphere"

SIXAM @imfromsixam: Boho Bath, Work from home

My cup of CC: Teenage Dream - Part 01, The Modernist

Carabiner Sims @carabinersims: Computer Lab

Syboulette @syboubou: Contemporary Haven, Country Kitchen, Jules Bedroom

The Clutter Cat @thecluttercat: Bubble Gum, Sunny Sundae 1, 2 and 3, Dandy Diary, Dandy Diary 1, Busy Bee 2 and 1

KKB @kkbsmm: My Cherish Things, Core Subway tile, JOMO Laundry

Bbygyal123 @bbygyal123: Calendar 23

Myshunosun @myshunosun: The Art Room Redux, Thrifted TV, Gale Dining, Simmify Instant Camera, Daria Bedroom

Charlypancakes @charlypancakes: Chalk, Soak, Modish

Littledica @littledica: Bathroom

Tuds @tudtuds: Cross Bed and Bath Set

Lilac Creative @lilaccreative: The Classic Collection

Taurus Design @taurusdesign: Fiona Bathroom

(For more specific information about the cc used in this buid ask in the comments and I will be delighted to respond to you)

*Please use bb.moveobjects on before download*

[marmolesegypt2132]

Melly Grey Dark

Melly Grey Dark: A Premium Choice in Egyptian Limestone

Melly Grey Dark is a remarkable variety of Egyptian limestone that has gained recognition for its elegant appearance and exceptional durability. This natural stone offers a sophisticated, modern aesthetic that makes it a top choice for a wide range of architectural and design applications. From outdoor landscaping to interior flooring, Melly Grey Dark blends beauty and functionality seamlessly.

The Versatility of Egyptian Limestone

Egyptian limestone has long been celebrated for its versatility and timeless appeal. Among its varieties, Melly Grey Dark stands out with its darker hues, adding a unique charm to projects. Whether you're designing contemporary interiors or classic outdoor spaces, Egyptian limestone tiles and Egyptian limestone slabs crafted from Melly Grey Dark can elevate the aesthetics of any space.

Applications of Melly Grey Dark

Egyptian Limestone Paving Melly Grey Dark is an ideal material for Egyptian limestone paving, offering durability and style for outdoor pathways, patios, and courtyards. Its robust nature ensures it withstands harsh weather conditions, while its refined finish adds a luxurious touch.

Egyptian Stone Paving For those seeking a more natural look, Egyptian stone paving with Melly Grey Dark delivers unparalleled elegance. It harmonizes with various outdoor elements, creating cohesive and inviting spaces.

Sinai Pearl Egyptian Limestone Paving When paired with lighter tones like Sinai Pearl Egyptian limestone paving, Melly Grey Dark creates striking contrasts that enhance outdoor designs. This combination is perfect for adding depth and texture to landscapes.

Interior Flooring with Egyptian Limestone Tiles For interior projects, Melly Grey Dark Egyptian limestone tiles bring sophistication and warmth. Its subtle yet bold appearance suits modern living spaces, offices, and commercial environments alike.

Why Choose Egyptian Limestone?

Durability: Egyptian limestone, including Melly Grey Dark, is highly durable, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.

Aesthetic Appeal: Its natural patterns and unique shades bring a timeless elegance to both interiors and exteriors.

Affordability: Despite its premium quality, the Egyptian limestone price remains competitive, offering exceptional value for money.

Sustainability: As a natural material, it’s environmentally friendly and aligns with sustainable design practices.

Egyptian Beige Limestone as a Complement

For those who prefer softer tones, Egyptian beige limestone provides a complementary option. It pairs beautifully with Melly Grey Dark, offering versatility for mixed-design projects that require balance and harmony.

Investing in Quality

Choosing Melly Grey Dark or any other variety of Egyptian limestone ensures your project benefits from the rich heritage and superior craftsmanship of Egyptian stone. Whether it’s for Egyptian limestone slabs in kitchen countertops or Egyptian limestone tiles in bathroom floors, this stone guarantees lasting beauty and performance.

Conclusion

Melly Grey Dark embodies the best of Egyptian limestone, offering an exquisite combination of style, durability, and affordability. Whether you're working on a grand outdoor landscape or a refined interior design, this stone is a versatile solution that meets diverse needs. With its ability to pair seamlessly with other varieties like Egyptian beige limestone and Sinai Pearl Egyptian limestone paving, Melly Grey Dark ensures every project is a masterpiece.

Explore the world of Egyptian limestone paving, tiles, and slabs with Melly Grey Dark to bring your vision to life with timeless elegance and enduring quality.

[seobacklinks4all]

How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Countertop for Your Home

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and countertops serve as the centerpiece of this vital space. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a kitchen remodel or a builder designing a dream kitchen for clients, choosing the right countertop is critical. For those in Oklahoma City, exploring the options for kitchen countertops can help create kitchens that are functional, stylish, and enduring. This guide walks you through the key considerations to help you make the perfect choice.

1. Assess Your Needs: Form Meets Function

When selecting a kitchen countertop, it’s essential to think about how the kitchen will be used. High-traffic kitchens require durable materials that resist stains and scratches, while aesthetically-driven designs might focus more on visual appeal.

For Families: Materials like quartz or laminate are excellent options due to their durability and low maintenance.

For Entertainers: Elegant options like granite or marble add sophistication while withstanding spills and heavy use.

For Chefs: Stainless steel or butcher block countertops provide functionality and cleanliness.

If you’re researching durable and stylish options for kitchen countertops in OKC, prioritize materials that align with your lifestyle and the kitchen’s purpose.

2. Explore Popular Materials: Style and Performance

Each countertop material brings unique benefits and aesthetics. Here’s a closer look at some of the top options:

Quartz CountertopsQuartz is a top choice for many kitchens due to its non-porous surface, which resists stains, scratches, and bacteria growth. It’s available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it versatile for any design style. Oklahoma City homeowners love quartz for its ability to mimic natural stone without the high maintenance.

Granite CountertopsGranite remains a classic favorite. Known for its durability and natural beauty, each slab of granite is unique, offering a one-of-a-kind aesthetic. Granite countertops are heat-resistant, making them a practical choice for busy kitchens.

Marble CountertopsMarble adds timeless elegance to any kitchen. However, it requires regular sealing to prevent staining and is best suited for kitchens where maintenance isn’t an issue.

Butcher Block CountertopsFor a warm and rustic look, butcher block countertops provide charm and functionality. They’re ideal for prep work but require regular sealing and maintenance to avoid damage.

3. Match Your Countertop to Your Design Aesthetic

Countertops are a significant design element that can make or break the overall kitchen aesthetic. Consider the following styles:

Modern Kitchens: Opt for quartz or stainless steel with sleek, clean lines.

Farmhouse Kitchens: Butcher block or granite with natural patterns enhances a cozy, rustic vibe.

Luxury Kitchens: Marble or high-end quartz with bold veining makes a statement.

Oklahoma City’s leading suppliers of kitchen countertops offer a wide selection to complement these design preferences.

4. Consider Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance is a crucial factor when choosing countertops. Some materials, like quartz, are virtually maintenance-free, while others, like marble or wood, require consistent care.

Low-Maintenance Options: Quartz, laminate, and stainless steel are excellent for homeowners looking for hassle-free surfaces.

High-Maintenance Options: Marble and butcher block add elegance and warmth but require sealing and upkeep to maintain their appearance.

Discussing these needs with local experts in kitchen countertops can help you strike the right balance between style and practicality.

5. Budget Smartly: Find Value Without Compromise

Budget is often the biggest consideration when selecting kitchen countertops. Fortunately, there are excellent options for every price range.

Affordable Options: Laminate or tile countertops offer cost-effective solutions without sacrificing style.

Mid-Range Options: Granite and quartz fall into this category, providing durability and elegance at a reasonable price.

Luxury Options: Marble and custom concrete countertops deliver premium quality and aesthetics but come with a higher price tag.

When shopping for kitchen countertops in OKC, be sure to request quotes from multiple providers to find the best value.

6. Look for Local Expertise

Choosing countertops isn’t just about picking the right material; installation quality matters just as much. Local suppliers and installers in Oklahoma City understand the climate, home styles, and unique needs of the region. They can guide you to the best options for kitchen countertops in OKC, ensuring both beauty and longevity.

7. Trending Colors and Finishes for 2024

The latest trends can inspire your countertop choices. For 2024, these styles are leading the way:

Neutral Tones: Shades of gray, beige, and off-white remain versatile and timeless.

Bold Patterns: Quartz with dramatic veining adds luxury and visual interest.

Textured Finishes: Matte or leathered finishes offer a modern, tactile experience.

Oklahoma City builders and homeowners can incorporate these trends into their kitchens with the help of kitchen countertop experts.

8. Incorporate Sustainability

Eco-conscious homeowners are prioritizing sustainable materials in their kitchen designs. Options like recycled glass or concrete countertops combine beauty with environmental responsibility. Partner with local suppliers to find green solutions for kitchen countertops that meet your sustainability goals.

Selecting the right kitchen countertops is a vital step in creating a functional and stylish kitchen, whether you're a homeowner or builder. By considering factors like durability, maintenance, budget, and design, you can find a material that fits your needs perfectly. From the timeless appeal of granite and marble to the practicality of quartz and butcher block, Oklahoma City offers a wide range of countertop options to suit every taste and lifestyle. Partnering with local experts ensures a seamless selection and installation process, helping you craft a kitchen that’s both beautiful and built to last. For more information, click here.

[posthue001]

Elegant Grandeur for Your Spaces: Azul Cielo Rectified Large Format Polished Stone Effect Porcelain Tiles

Why Choose Azul Cielo Porcelain Tiles?

When redefining elegance, Azul Cielo tiles offer a seamless blend of luxury and functionality. These large-format tiles, with their rectified edges and polished stone-effect finish, transform interiors into sophisticated spaces, exuding timeless charm.

Introduction

The Azul Cielo Rectified Polished Stone Effect Porcelain Tiles measure an impressive 1200x2400mm, ideal for creating an expansive and refined aesthetic. Manufactured for durability and visual appeal, they are perfect for both residential and commercial projects. Their versatility and style make them an outstanding choice for modern interior design.

Key Features

Premium Quality Material: High-grade porcelain ensures durability and resistance to wear.

Rectified Finish: Perfectly aligned edges for precise, seamless installation.

Polished Stone Effect: Combines the beauty of natural stone with modern finesse.

Large Format: Minimal grout lines for a clean, cohesive look.

Water and Stain Resistant: Ideal for high-moisture or heavy-use areas.

Benefits

Timeless Elegance: Achieve a sophisticated design effortlessly.

Enhanced Durability: Withstand heavy foot traffic and daily wear.

Low Maintenance: Simple cleaning keeps them looking immaculate.

Eco-Friendly Choice: Manufactured with sustainable processes.

Perfect Applications

Whether you’re envisioning luxurious living rooms, contemporary bathrooms, or professional office settings, Azul Cielo tiles seamlessly adapt to various applications. Their water-resistant properties make them especially suitable for kitchens and wet rooms, while the large format enhances open-plan areas.

How to Purchase

Decoridea makes it simple to upgrade your interiors with Azul Cielo tiles. Visit the product page to explore more details and place your order online: Azul Cielo Rectified Porcelain Tiles. Ensure you consult the provided installation guidelines for optimal results.

Customer Stories

Many homeowners and professionals have redefined their spaces with Azul Cielo tiles. A satisfied customer shares: “Installing Azul Cielo tiles transformed our living room into a gallery-like space. The polished finish and minimal joints gave it an ultra-modern vibe!”

Discover the Azul Cielo tiles today: Azul Cielo Rectified Porcelain Tiles. Elevate your design vision with this premium selection.

[avivakeeoniterio]

KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN- Avivakeeon Interio

Creating the Ultimate Kitchen Space with AvivakeeonInterio

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Avivakeeon Interio, where creating the ultimate kitchen space is not just a dream but a delightful reality. Imagine a kitchen that's not only modern and stylish but also functional and inviting. With Avivakeeon Interio’s expertise, you can transform your kitchen into a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle. From sleek cabinetry designs to innovative storage solutions, here’s your guide to the best kitchen interiordesign that will captivate both heart and home.

Understanding the Essentials of Kitchen Design

 Creating the perfect kitchen space is like crafting a masterpiece. With so many elements to consider, it can feel overwhelming. But fear not! With the guidance of Avivakeeon Interio, you'll learn how to transform your kitchen into a haven of style and functionality. Let's explore some foundational aspects of kitchen design.

Importance of Layout Optimization

When it comes to design, the layout is king! A well-optimized kitchen layout is the backbone of any efficient cooking space. It defines how you move around, where everything is stored, and ultimately, how well you enjoy your daily culinary adventures. Think about the classic work triangle: the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Ideally, these three crucial areas should form a triangle, allowing for smooth navigation and an enjoyable cooking experience.

A neat tip is to aim for an equilateral triangle, where each side is between four and nine feet. This ensures that you're not running a marathon when preparing meals but also have enough space to avoid bumping into things. By optimizing your kitchen layout, you free up both your movements and your mind, creating a more organized space.

Choosing the Right Materials

The materials you select for your kitchen not only define its visual appeal but also its durability and maintenance needs. Choosing the right materials is about balancing style with practicality. Countertops, for example, are fundamental to the kitchen's performance. Options like granite and quartz are not only stunning but also incredibly reliable and easy to maintain.

For cabinets, consider using materials that offer durability and a sleek appearance, such as hardwood or laminate finish. Don't forget about the backsplash, which is a fabulous forte for creativity. Glass tiles, stainless steel, or classic subway tiles can add that perfect splash of personality. By choosing materials that align with your lifestyle and design preferences, you'll create a kitchen that stands the test of time.

Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

In the quest to create the ultimate kitchen space, balancing aesthetics with functionality is key. It's all about creating a space that inspires creativity and ease. Aesthetic elements like color schemes, lighting, and decor pieces should complement the kitchen's functional needs.

Think about storage solutions that look great while also hiding your clutter. Open shelving can showcase beautiful dishware, whereas pull-out organizers keep pots and pans neatly tucked away. Lighting is another crucial component; ambient lighting for general purposes, task lighting for work areas, and accent lighting to highlight unique features.

Remember, true beauty lies in a kitchen that serves its purpose well while effortlessly radiating style.

Avivakeeon Interio's Approach to Modern Kitchen Decor

Avivakeeon Interio is revolutionizing the way we look atkitchen decor. With innovative solutions and keen attention to contemporary trends, they make achieving your dream kitchen a tangible goal. Here's how Avivakeeon Interio emphasizes modern kitchen aesthetics without sacrificing functionality.

Contemporary Styles and Trends

When it comes to style, staying updated with current trends can be tricky. Yet, Avivakeeon Interio keeps you ahead of the curve with timeless and trendy designs that step beyond fleeting fads. Modern kitchen styles embrace minimalism, clean lines, and neutral palettes. Think matte black finishes, natural wood tones, and bursts of geometric patterns.

One popular trend is the industrial look — a mix of rustic and modern elements like exposed brick, metal accents, and open spaces. Alternatively, the Scandinavian style offers simplicity with its emphasis on natural light, soft color schemes, and natural materials. By incorporating these styles, you're setting your kitchen up to be not only functional but exceptionally chic.

Innovative Storage Solutions

At Avivakeeon Interio, creative storage solutions are at the heart of modern kitchen design. Clever storage means utilizing every nook and cranny to its fullest potential. We're talking about everything from drawer organizers that make sorting utensils a breeze, to custom-built cabinetry that fits seamlessly into tricky spaces.

Consider options like tall pull-out pantries for easy access to dry goods or corner carousel cabinets that make good use of otherwise awkward spaces. Integrating vertical storage can further maximize compact areas. For smaller kitchens, hanging racks for pots and pans and magnetic strips for knives free up precious counter space. With these innovative storage solutions, clutter doesn’t stand a chance!

Incorporating Cutting-edge Technology

Today’s kitchens are smart more than ever! AvivakeeonInterio embraces the wave of cutting-edge technology, bringing futuristic features into your cooking domain. Imagine voice-activated appliances that make multi-tasking a breeze or smart fridges that scan expiration dates and suggest shopping lists.

Wireless charging stations embedded into countertops ensure your devices are always powered up, while smart lighting systems adjust the mood with just a tap or voice command. And let's not forget induction cooktops which provide faster, safer, and more energy-efficient cooking. Incorporating these technologies transforms your kitchen into a hub of efficiency and ease.

With Avivakeeon Interio's modern approach, your kitchen will not only look stunning but will become a space where style meets innovation. Creating an ultimate kitchen space isn't just a pipe dream — it's a modern reality! Whether it's the layout, material choices, or the integration of smart tech, each component works harmoniously to ensure your kitchen is a place of joy and creativity. So, roll up those sleeves, let Avivakeeon Interio guide you, and take that step toward crafting your culinary sanctuary.

Expert Tips from Avivakeeon Interio

Designing the ultimate kitchen space is not just about picking out pretty cabinets or trendy gadgets. It's about turning the heart of your home into a harmonious space that blends functionality with style. Avivakeeon Interio, a frontrunner in modern kitchen decor, offers expert tips to help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

Selecting the Perfect Color Palette

Let's begin with colors! Selecting the perfect color palette is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire kitchen. Avivakeeon Interio recommends:

- Soft Neutrals: Whites, creams, and gentle greys are classic choices that create an airy and expansive feel, making them ideal for any kitchen size.

- Bold Accents: Introduce pops of color through backsplashes, dishware, or an accent wall. Consider vibrant hues like teal, mustard, or burnt orange to add zest without overwhelming the space.

- Timeless Combinations: If you're aiming for elegance, consider combining navy blue with brass or pairing black cabinets with marble countertops.

The key is to create a balance between enduring colors and trendy accents, ensuring that your kitchen remains stylish for years to come.

Lighting and Ambiance Enhancement

Lighting can make or break the ambiance of a kitchen. Avivakeeon Interio emphasizes the importance of a well-thought-out lighting plan:

- Layered Lighting: Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting provides general illumination, task lighting focuses on high-use areas like the countertops, and accent lighting adds depth and highlights features.

- Under-Cabinet Lights: These subtle lights not only illuminate countertops but also enhance the mood, providing a cozy, inviting glow perfect for late-night snacking or intimate evenings.

- Statement Fixtures: Chandeliers or pendant lights above a kitchen island or dining area can serve as focal points, adding a touch of sophistication and flair to your kitchen.

- Dimmable Options: Install dimmer switches to adjust the lighting according to the occasion, from bright morning energizer to a soft dinner ambiance.

A thoughtful mix of lighting options can significantly elevate your kitchen's atmosphere and functionality.

Maximizing Space in Compact Kitchens

Living with a compact kitchen? No problem! AvivakeeonInterio has optimization strategies that ensure you make the most of every inch:

- Vertical Storage: Take advantage of wall space by incorporating tall cabinets or open shelving. This approach not only saves floor space but also keeps essentials within arm's reach.

- Multi-Functional Furniture: Invest in kitchen islands with built-in storage or fold-away tables that can double as prep surfaces when needed.

- Declutter and Organize: Utilize drawer dividers, pull-out shelves, and lazy Susans to keep your kitchen neat and organized, making it more efficient and enjoyable to use.

- Smart Appliances: Consider compact or multi-purpose appliances that offer the same functionality without consuming excess space.

By applying these clever strategies, you can transform even the tightest kitchens into efficient, welcoming spaces. Ultimately, no matter the size of your kitchen, with Avivakeeon Interio's expert insights, you can craft a space that's both stunningly modern and perfectly functional.

Conclusion

Transforming your kitchen with Avivakeeon Interio’s expertise can truly redefine your cooking and dining experiences. By incorporating modern kitchen décor elements and ingenious space-utilization tips, you can create a stylish yet functional kitchen that meets your needs. Remember to focus on these key elements:

- Efficiency: Create a layout that allows seamless movement.

- Style: Choose contemporary designs that reflect your personality.

- Functionality: Ensure practicality with smart storage solutions.

With Avivakeeon Interio, the kitchen of your dreams is just a design away!

[hometoursandotherstuff]

What a good price for this 1890 pink quartz home in Sioux City, IA. 5bds, 4ba, 4,636 sq ft, $575k.

They decorated for Xmas and it looks so pretty. Beautiful foyer. Look at the wood- perfection.

Stunning entrance hall. Notice the intricate carving on the newel post.

The keeping room is so lovely. That fireplace is a beauty. Stained glass windows and gorgeous molding complete the look.

The sitting room is so beautiful, and I actually love the draperies. Lovely corner fireplace.

Adorable 1/2 bath. That little pedestal sink is so cute and doesn't overwhelm the room.

Beautiful formal dining room is right outside the kitchen.

The kitchen remodel is spot on. The wood cabinetry matches the house perfectly and I like their choice of counters.

I love this library. Look at the wonderful ladder.

The bedrooms are nice, but nothing special. They would be nicer with more decor.

I like the size of the rooms.

Nice linen closet in the hallway.

Large half bath has another beautiful sink.

This is a large 2 room suite, so it must be the primary bedroom.

Very nice bath reno. Love the shower room, vintage tile and tub.

It looks like the bedroom in the finished attic may either be used as the primary or a guest room.

Beautifully finished family room with a kitchenette.

There's an additional bedroom up here, also.

Plus, a modern shower room.

Look at the great workroom/garage.

The porch is so beautiful

What a gorgeous home for less than $600k. Lot measures .72 acre.

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/1631-S-Paxton-St-Sioux-City-IA-51106/87105674_zpid/?

[lufykun]

Which tile size is best for flooring?

The best size of the tile for flooring will depend on the space, design preference, and functionality. For big open spaces such as a living room or a commercial space, large tiles with a dimension of 60x60 cm or 80x80 cm present a seamless modern look. Smaller tiles of 30x30 cm or mosaics are suitable for use in bathrooms or kitchens for detailed designs.

If you are in Qatar, getting in touch with the best flooring contractors in Qatar will be able to provide the right selection and installation of perfect tiles for your home or commercial use.

For sports facilities, for example, squash courts, specialized flooring is actually quite crucial. Squash Court Flooring in Doha offers customized solutions using material such as maple wood in the right mix of performance and durability. Such a floor is constructed according to international standards for sports surface to provide good play as well as safety.

Whether you require installation in your house, office, or sporting facility, dealing with the best flooring contractors ensures results of high quality. From advising on the size of your tiles to high-quality, precise installation that includes durability and elegance, the outcome is a high value that your space may attain in the presence of the correct flooring solution especially when from leading contractors in Qatar.

[hommiesweet]

Using Mosaic Tiles to Add Value to Your Property: A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine walking into a home where the first thing that catches your eye is a stunning mosaic tile entryway, its intricate patterns telling a story of craftsmanship and elegance. This is the power of mosaic tiles - small pieces of art that can transform a space and significantly boost a property's value. Let's embark on a journey to discover how these tiny treasures can make a big impact on your home's worth and appeal.

The Timeless Appeal of Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles have been adorning homes for thousands of years, from ancient Roman villas to Byzantine churches. Today, they're experiencing a renaissance in modern homes, bringing a touch of timeless beauty to contemporary spaces. A trip to your local ceramic tile shop will reveal an astounding array of options, from classic designs to cutting-edge patterns.

According to a recent National Association of Realtors report, homes with high-quality tile work can see up to a 5-7% increase in value. That's a significant return on investment for a relatively simple upgrade. But how do you choose the right mosaic tiles for your home?

Choosing the Right Mosaic Tiles for Your Home

When you step into a ceramic tile shop, the choices can be overwhelming. But fear not - choosing the perfect mosaic tiles for your home is an adventure in creativity. Consider the material - ceramic, glass, stone, or metal - each brings its own unique character to your space. Think about size too; while all mosaic tiles are small, they can range from tiny 1/4 inch pieces to larger 2 inch squares, each creating a different effect.

Color is another crucial factor. Light-colored mosaic tiles can make a room feel more spacious and airy, perfect for small bathrooms or kitchens. Darker tones, on the other hand, can add depth and coziness to larger spaces. And don't forget about patterns - from simple geometric designs to complex pictorial scenes, the pattern of your mosaic tiles can set the tone for the entire room.

Lastly, consider the grout. It's not just the glue that holds your tiles together; it's an design element in its own right. A contrasting grout color can make your mosaic tiles pop, while a matching color can create a more subtle, unified look.

Where to Use Mosaic Tiles for Maximum Impact

Now that you've chosen your perfect mosaic tiles, where should you use them to add the most value to your property? Let's take a tour through a home and explore the possibilities.

We'll start in the kitchen, where a mosaic tile backsplash can be the star of the show. It not only protects your walls from splashes and spills but also adds a pop of color and personality. According to a study by Houzz, 87% of homeowners upgrading their kitchens chose to install new backsplashes, with mosaic tiles being a popular choice.

Moving to the bathroom, mosaic tiles reign supreme. They're water-resistant, easy to clean, and can add a spa-like luxury to your space. Picture a shower enclosure with shimmering glass mosaic tiles, or a vanity backsplash that catches the light just so.

In the entryway, mosaic tiles can make a lasting first impression. A beautiful mosaic floor or accent wall sets the tone for your entire home, welcoming guests with a touch of artistry.

Don't forget about outdoor spaces! A plain patio can be transformed into a Mediterranean-inspired retreat with the right mosaic tiles. They're durable enough to withstand the elements and can add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor living areas.

Finally, consider giving your fireplace a facelift with mosaic tiles. A tiled surround can turn a boring fireplace into a stunning centerpiece, making a big impact in your living room with a relatively small investment.

The DIY Route vs. The Professional Touch

For the handy homeowner, installing mosaic tiles can be a rewarding DIY project. Many ceramic tile shops offer DIY-friendly options, such as mosaic sheets that make installation easier. The process involves preparing the surface, planning your layout, applying adhesive, placing the tiles, grouting, and finally cleaning and sealing.

However, if you're not confident in your DIY skills or you're dealing with a large or complex project, hiring a professional can ensure a flawless finish. Many ceramic tile shops can recommend reputable installers in your area. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install mosaic tiles ranges from $10 to $30 per square foot, including materials and labor. While this might seem steep, remember that quality installation can significantly impact the value added to your home.

Maintaining Your Mosaic Masterpiece

To keep your mosaic tiles looking their best and maintain your property's value, regular maintenance is key. Think of it as caring for a work of art - which, in essence, it is. Clean your tiles regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the tiles or grout. Reseal grout lines annually to prevent staining and moisture penetration. And if you notice any loose or damaged tiles, address them promptly to prevent further issues.

The ROI of Mosaic Tiles

While the upfront cost of mosaic tiles might be higher than some alternatives, the return on investment can be substantial. A study by Remodeling Magazine found that minor kitchen remodels, which often include new tile work, can recoup up to 80% of their cost at resale.

Moreover, homes with unique, high-quality features like custom mosaic tile work tend to sell faster. In a competitive real estate market, these distinctive touches can give your property a significant edge. It's not just about the monetary value - it's about creating a home that stands out in potential buyers' minds.

Eco-Friendly Options and Current Trends

For the environmentally conscious homeowner, many ceramic tile shops now offer eco-friendly mosaic tile options. These can include recycled glass tiles, tiles made from sustainable materials like bamboo or cork, or locally sourced stone tiles to reduce transportation emissions. Using sustainable materials not only adds value to your home but also appeals to the growing market of eco-conscious buyers.

As for current trends, geometric patterns are having a moment, as are neutral color palettes with pops of bold color. Large-format mosaic designs are gaining popularity, and metallic and iridescent finishes are adding a touch of glamour to many homes. Staying current with these trends can help ensure your home feels modern and appealing to potential buyers.

Conclusion: Small Tiles, Big Value

From ancient art form to modern design staple, mosaic tiles have stood the test of time. Their versatility, durability, and sheer beauty make them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add value to their property.

Whether you're planning a major renovation or just want to update a small area, mosaic tiles offer endless possibilities. With careful selection from your ceramic tile shop and proper installation, these tiny pieces of art can have a big impact on your home's value and appeal.

Remember, the key to success with mosaic tiles is quality - in materials, design, and installation. So take your time, plan carefully, and don't be afraid to seek professional help if needed. The result will be a beautiful, valuable addition to your home that you'll enjoy for years to come. After all, in the world of home improvement, sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference.