#party bus for atlanta

[drivelux]

Celebrate in Style with the Best Atlanta Party Bus Rentals

Enjoy your special occasion with party bus rentals in Atlanta by DriveLuxCo. Several sizes and styles are available to fit any size group, so everyone can party together. The rides provide plush seating and a fully stocked bar while offering a professional chauffeur for an unforgettable experience designed according to your needs. Whether you are going to a concert or wedding, or just want to paint the town red for the night, let us take your celebration to a higher level.

[atlantapartyride]

Are you ready to make your celebration unique and amazing? Then, here we come in the picture with our best and super luxurious party bus atlanta ga. Party buses are launched for celebrations. You can book a party bus for all your occasions. It adds more fun and excitement to the party. Moreover, party buses are one of the stunning ideas for celebrations. Whether you want to book a party bus for corporate parties or kids’ birthdays, we are right here to provide the best party bus atlanta ga.

[almahills]

Book Party Bus Rental in Atlanta

We offer Luxury party bus services for all ages in Atlanta, perfect for birthdays, weddings and corporate events. Our buses are equipped with modern facilities including sound systems and LED lights. Our spacious indoor and professional drivers put safety first. We offer event-tailored packages. Book now to experience a unique journey through the vibrant city of Atlanta. Visit us : https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/pjmwkp6c2mlqtvwfq5i5i/Party-Bus-Rental-Atlanta.pdf?rlkey=wok6ys7h4209hw2ss5kbq8ky0&st=6ujms6u4&dl=0

[busrentaldc]

Explore Northern VA in Style with Party Bus Rentals DC

Are you planning a special event or celebration in Northern Virginia and looking to add a touch of luxury and excitement? Consider renting a party bus from Party Bus Rental DC! Whether you're celebrating a birthday, bachelor or bachelorette party, prom night, or simply want to tour the sights of Washington, DC in style. Our party bus is the perfect choice to elevate your experience.

Why Choose a Party Bus in DC?

Renting a party bus in DC offers several advantages over other modes of transportation. Firstly, it's all about the experience. Imagine cruising through the streets of Northern VA or the iconic landmarks of DC with your friends, enjoying music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere without worrying about traffic or parking. It's not just a ride; it's an unforgettable journey tailored to your group's preferences.

Luxury and Comfort

Our fleet of party buses in DC is designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind. Featuring plush leather seating, state-of-the-art sound systems, LED lighting, and even dance floors, these buses create a nightclub-like ambiance on wheels. Whether you're dancing with friends or relaxing with a drink, every moment aboard is an experience to cherish.

Affordable and Convenient

Contrary to common misconception, renting a party bus in DC or rent party bus Atlanta doesn't have to break the bank. We offer competitive rates and flexible packages to suit different budgets and needs. It's a cost-effective way to transport your group in style while ensuring everyone stays safe and together throughout the event.

Ideal for Any Occasion

From weddings to corporate events, and from sporting events to wine tours, our party buses are versatile and can be customized for any occasion. We understand that each event is unique, which is why we work closely with you to tailor the experience to your specific requirements.

Professional Service

We prioritize customer satisfaction and safety above all else. Our drivers are experienced professionals who prioritize punctuality, courtesy, and safe driving practices. You can relax and enjoy your event knowing that you're in good hands.

Contact Us Today

Ready to elevate your next event in Northern Virginia or Washington, DC? Contact our Party Bus Rental DC company at (202) 765-2352 to book your party bus today. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a scenic tour of the nation's capital, we're here to make your experience unforgettable. Don't settle for ordinary – choose extraordinary with our Party Bus Rental DC!

In conclusion, renting a party bus in DC is not just about transportation; it's about creating lasting memories with friends and loved ones. Discover the convenience, luxury, and excitement of traveling in style with our Party Bus Rental DC. Book your cheap party bus rentals Los Angeles today and let the adventure begin!

SOURCE: https://cheapdcbusrental.blogspot.com/2024/06/Explore-Northern-VA-in-Style-with-Party-Bus-Rentals-DC.html

[atllimousineservice]

Wedding Limo Service to Corporate Limo  in Atlanta :  Call us 

Are you searching for a premium and certified transportation company in Atlanta? Then choose our company. We provide luxury car and bus rental services, offering the best and most comfortable ride to all our clients. You can book our premium car and bus for all your rides. Our company is reputed and providing the best travel solutions. Whether you need a ride to attend your friend’s party or sports event, we are here to provide the best and most comfortable transportation option. Choose our company if you are searching for a luxury, safe ride in Atlanta. Book our Wedding Limo Service Atlanta if you are searching for wedding transportation. 

If you want seamless wedding transportation, then make sure to hire a professional transportation service. Professional transportation service will offer you a seamless and comfortable ride. Moreover, a professional transportation service provider offers you timely service and a seamless and luxurious ride. Suppose you are searching for the best and certified company for the Wedding Limo Service Atlanta. Then do not look for here and there when our organization is right here to provide the best service to all our clients. 

Hire our company to experience the best and most comfortable ride in Atlanta. We are offering the best wedding transportation service. All our fleets are equipped with all the best amenities and offer a luxurious experience. Our entire fleet is spacious, and we provide the best travel solutions. Our focus is to provide the best travel solutions to all our clients. We are here to make every ride of our customers super comfortable and luxurious. If you are searching for a Corporate Limo Atlanta, contact us again. 

Our organization offers luxurious corporate travel, airport transfers, event travel, etc. Book our premium car for a comfortable and luxurious ride. Choose our company whenever you want the best and most luxurious transportation service. If you want to know more about our premium car rental service, navigate our site. Our company is legitimate and offers everyone the best, safest, comfortable, and timely ride.  We offer a secure and comfortable ride to all our clients. If you need a luxurious ride to the office, then book our Corporate Limo Atlanta. 

[oliviasmith5341]

Celebrate in the City of Atlanta: Planning an Unforgettable Party Bus Rental Event

When it comes to planning a group celebration in the vibrant city of Atlanta, the options can be overwhelming. From lively nightlife to delectable dining experiences, there's no shortage of ways to create an unforgettable event. However, one option that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the party bus rental.

Party bus rentals in Atlanta offer a unique and exciting way to elevate your group gathering, whether it's a birthday bash, a bachelorette party, or a corporate outing. By combining the convenience of transportation with the luxury of a mobile celebration venue, you can create an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

The Allure of Atlanta's Party Bus Rentals

Atlanta's vibrant and dynamic atmosphere lends itself perfectly to the party bus experience. The city's rich cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and bustling nightlife provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable group getaway.

One of the primary appeals of renting a party bus in Atlanta is the convenience it offers. Navigating the city's streets and finding suitable parking can be a challenge, especially when you're dealing with a large group. With a party bus, you can leave the driving to a professional and focus on enjoying the ride with your friends, family, or colleagues.

Moreover, party bus rentals in Atlanta come equipped with a range of amenities that cater to the needs of modern-day celebrants. From plush seating and state-of-the-art sound systems to mood lighting and bar setups, these vehicles are designed to provide a comfortable and lively atmosphere that sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Customizing Your Party Bus Experience

One of the key advantages of renting a party bus in Atlanta is the ability to personalize the experience to suit your specific needs and preferences. Many rental companies offer a wide range of bus sizes and styles, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your group size and event.

Whether you're looking for an intimate limo-style bus or a larger, more spacious model that can accommodate a larger group, the customization options are endless. You can even work with the rental company to tailor the interior decor, select the music playlist, and arrange for catering and other services to be provided on board.

This level of customization not only ensures that the party bus reflects your personal style and preferences but also creates a truly unique and memorable experience for your guests. From sleek and sophisticated vibes to lively and energetic atmospheres, the party bus rental options in Atlanta can cater to your every need.

Enhancing the Group Dynamic

One of the most significant benefits of renting a party bus in Atlanta is the way it can enhance the group dynamic and foster a sense of unity among your guests.

When you're all traveling together in a confined space, it creates an opportunity for deeper connections, shared experiences, and lasting memories. The party bus environment encourages conversation, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that can be difficult to replicate in a more traditional setting.

Additionally, the party bus experience can help break down social barriers and encourage guests to mingle and interact in ways they might not typically do. The lively atmosphere and shared excitement can create a sense of camaraderie and bonding that can last long after the event has ended.

Versatile Celebration Venues

In addition to the convenience and customization factors, renting a party bus in Atlanta offers a versatile celebration venue that can accommodate a wide range of events and occasions.

For birthday celebrations, a party bus provides a mobile and dynamic setting that allows you to create a truly unforgettable experience for the birthday honoree and their guests. The bus can serve as a backdrop for music, dancing, and lively conversation, all while you explore the city's vibrant nightlife.

Bachelorette and bachelor parties also thrive in the party bus environment, as the lively and energetic atmosphere lends itself perfectly to pre-wedding festivities. The mobile nature of the bus allows you to hop between different hotspots and bars, creating a personalized itinerary that caters to the interests and preferences of the bridal or groom's party.

But the versatility of the party bus extends beyond traditional celebrations. It can also serve as a unique and memorable venue for corporate events, such as team-building activities, client outings, or holiday celebrations. The customizable amenities and luxurious ambiance can help foster a sense of camaraderie and create a memorable experience for your colleagues or clients.

Conclusion

Renting a party bus in atlanta party bus rentals is not just a practical transportation solution – it's a way to elevate your group celebration and create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. From the convenience of having a professional driver to the customizable luxury and versatile celebration venue, the party bus offers a unique and compelling option for anyone looking to make their event truly special.

Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a bachelorette party, or a corporate outing, the party bus rental in Atlanta can help you celebrate in style. By embracing the convenience, customization, and group dynamic-enhancing benefits of this unique transportation option, you can ensure that your event is a resounding success and a cherished memory for all who attend.

[dcpartyandcharterbusrental]

Atlanta Car Services - Get ready for a lavish travel experience with Party Bus DC Rental's Atlanta Car Service! Whether you're heading to a special event, corporate meeting, or just exploring the vibrant city of Atlanta, our chauffeured car service ensures a luxurious journey. Elevate your Atlanta visit with Party Bus DC Rental's impeccable service – where every ride is a celebration of luxury. Book now and arrive in style! 🚗🌆🥂 Call Us Today : (202) 830-0479

[atlantalimoandcarservice]

Atlanta GA Limo Rental for your Perfect Wedding Ride

For your nuptials, the Limo Rental Atlanta, GA should mirror the status and features that you seek for the wedding.

While making arrangements for your nuptials, include the status and transportation elements that your wedding day needs with a limo service near me. This significant occasion should mirror your status, including luxury and practicality that the day needs to have a successful outcome.

Notice the Details While Making Reservations

While making reservations for Car Service Atlanta to the chapel, reception hall, or airport, notice the process details. As important as the day is, don’t allow fine print to interfere with the outcome. Most importantly, make sure that the chauffeur is prepared and professional. We require that all drivers who work in our company are considerate, always, timely, and safe. We also evaluate to ensure that they’re drug free and have clean criminal background checks as well as professionally instructed and tested for driving skill and experience. You don’t have to worry that the driver’s lack of professionalism will interfere with the positivity of your day.

Notice and Choose the Driver Best Able to Help

The day that you marry should mirror the luxury and status of the occasion. If you are planning a wedding, it might range anywhere from casual to elaborate, and your ride should reflect that well. With Car Service Near Me, you’ll find a range of options available. Our limo service Atlanta fleet includes many different models in many different sizes and styles, and these vehicles in our fleet all include fully bonding, licensing, and insurance coverage. The day’s transport will be reliable, appropriate, and ideal for a wedding occasion.

Notice the Versatility of Customer Service

Regardless of the machine booked, you’ll find a remarkable example of that vehicle’s style. Provided driving and customer support serve to accommodate all manner of wedding plans. You simply have to make requests, and we’ll see to them accordingly. You rule this day, even down to your transportation. Our customer service staff is available at all times to take your call and deal accordingly. Your schedule and anticipated events will guide the day, and we’ll implement your plan with a positive wedding day as the priority.

As you plan for your nuptials, observe this moment of life in a manner that benefits your day with a limo or Cheap Party Bus Rental Atlanta. Your day is due suitable and ready professional transportation. Bookings are simple to make online even white short notice, so arrangements will be simple to make. The rates that we have are reasonable, and quick bills are available to prevent unwelcome surprises. The ultimate goal of our company is to satisfy for your wedding by personalizing the accommodations and approaching all aspects through professional lenses. Call us Now at (470)-400-9889

Source: https://atlantalimoandcarservice.blogspot.com/2023/07/Atlanta-GA-Limo-Rental-for-your-Perfect-Wedding-Ride.html

[hatlantapartyride]

For a Thrilling and Amazing Party, Choose our Party Bus in Atlanta

You want to amaze your guests with an amazing and thrilling party celebration. Then why not try party bus rentals atlanta? Book our party bus for an exciting party. Our team arranges everything, and you will get the best décor inside the bus. We use a balloon and all the best things so that all the space looks like a party. Apart from this, we provide fresh and delicious refreshments. 

 You will get all under our roof, from balloons to the dance floor with flashing strobe lights. We are excellent in the arrangement of the party. Apart from decoration and arrangement, you will get professional chauffeur assistance who knows all the best routes and venues that make your party more exciting and tremendous. Book our party bus atlanta and experience the best journey. We are one of the foremost service providers of luxury cars in Atlanta. In our luxury car service, you will get the maximum comfort throughout the journey. You can book our luxury fleet to catch your flight or to attend a wedding. We have the best fleet that makes your journey exceptional. 

 Are you ready to make your journey exceptional? Then our luxury cars are the best option to make your journey safe and amazing. We provide a top-class fleet with lots of luxury items. In our fleet, you will attain the cold drink, magazines and 24*7-wifi facility, and so on. Our professionally trained chauffeur will offer a meet, greet, and enable the best and safe drive. You will not face any hassle with us, and our highly maintained fleet caters to the best travel solutions. If you are ready to make your journey amazing, choose us and book our party bus rentals in Atlanta. Explore our wide collection of the top-brand fleet that makes your journey exceptional. 

 Hurry, visit our site, and know more about our services. We are a popular service provider of luxury cars. One click and you will attain the best travel solutions. Using our luxury cars, you will experience the best journey with us in Atlanta. 

[in-my-feels-probably]

Scott Street: Prologue - The Road to Atlanta (OC x TWD)

Daisy Grimes was only sixteen years old. She shouldn’t have had any more to worry about than — at least in her opinion — what was soon to be her parents' impending divorce. She was supposed to be drinking too much at parties her friends made her sneak out to, or being endlessly annoyed by her endearing yet infuriating little brother who had apparently made it his life’s mission to irritate his big sister to death. She was supposed to be worrying about college, or if she’d be asked to the dances, and whether or not she was going to beg her parents to finally get the family a cat for the sixteenth year in a row. Slowly but surely, Daisy was cracking away at their resolve, and she was sure this time that it finally was her year.

But then Daisy came home to the news that her Dad had been shot. And, as if that wasn’t enough to bring her world to a halt, an outbreak of a rapidly spreading virus took over the world while he was still in the hospital. Along with her family, Daisy was uprooted from her home and forced on the run where she had to fight to survive and keep her family safe every day, while still desperately grasping for some form of normalcy and domesticity.

Even after being reunited with her Dad and meeting new people who might not have been blood but certainly were still family, she realized her world would never be the same. As the days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months, months turned into years….Daisy changed. 

And she wasn’t so sure that was a good thing anymore.

—

Walking Scott Street, feeling like a stranger

With an open heart, open container

I've got a stack of mail and a tall can

It's a shower beer, it's a payment plan

There's helicopters over my head

Every night when I go to bed

Spending money and I earned it

When I'm lonely, that's when I'll burn it

Do you feel ashamed

When you hear my name?

Anyway, don't be a stranger

Anyway, don't be a stranger

Don't be a stranger

—

Daisy couldn’t make it out the front door fast enough. She made the mistake of snoozing her alarm, which led to her missing the bus, and that led to her having to confront her already pissed off Mom to ask her for a ride to school. 

On a normal day, Lori would have been happy to do so. It was rare that her daughter asked her for something, and even rarer that she actually volunteered to spend time with her. Lori could count the days on her fingers in the past few months that Daisy had actually stepped out of her room long enough to spend time with her. But at the end of the day, Lori couldn’t blame her. If she’d had to wake up to her parents bickering every morning, she’d have spent a lot more time hiding in her room listening to music too. She even considered it some mornings when her mind was still reeling from a petty argument with Rick the night before, but then she’d feel guilty and get up to make everyone pancakes before they started their day. She was determined that they were going to be the kind of family that got up to eat pancakes together, and she’d be damned if anything got in the way of that – even if it was her lack of cooking skills. 

But today was not a normal day. 

There were no pancakes on the table, or a family happily sitting down to eat them. Carl had already left, carpooling with the neighbor’s kid. Rick was running late for work too, fumbling around for his keys while Lori stood in the kitchen, still in her pajamas. 

They had argued the night before – it was getting to be a regular occurrence at this point. 

And, while they often shielded Carl from it, Daisy more often than not got an unwanted earful. This time, Daisy couldn’t even tell what they were arguing about. She had just woken up to the sound of bickering muffled through the wall. She’d managed to get herself dressed and ready for school in record time, and now she was standing by the front door waiting for the passive aggressive comments to stop so that she could actually make it to class on time. Her parents apparently were determined to make that quite the feat for her. She was debating swiping the keys to her Mom’s car and driving herself when she heard Lori mutter under her breath.

“I wish you would just say it.”

Daisy could hear Rick let out an impatient sigh from down the hall. “Say what, Lori?”

Lori scoffed, and Daisy could practically feel her eyes roll. “Whatever the hell it is you’re not saying. Just say it! Speak!”

“There’s nothing to say–”

“Oh, for the love of God,” Daisy whined for the third time that morning, pausing her parents' bickering. “Can you do this later? I’m gonna be late, and I have a test in first period.”

There was a pause, and she could hear the sound of Rick’s keys as he made his way to the kitchen. He and Lori spoke in a hushed whisper for a while, until that whisper was on the verge of shouting. After she got tired of tapping her foot on the floor for an eternity, Daisy finally marched into the kitchen to see what the argument was about for herself. Her cheeks flushed as she caught the tail end of her parent’s conversation, which came to an abrupt halt as Lori spoke in anger without thinking.

“Sometimes I wonder if you even care about us at all.”

Daisy backed out of the room and headed for the front door before she could even see the shared look of guilt on their faces. Lori sighed as the sound of Rick’s hurried footsteps followed Daisy out into the living room.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured, an awkward silence passing between him and his daughter. “You know she didn’t mean that. She’s just pissed at me, you know how she gets. It was my fault really.”

“It’s fine, Dad,” Daisy replied, her gaze set on the floor. 

Another awkward silence passed as Daisy traced over the pattern on the rug with her eyes. Rick shifted back and forth uncomfortably, before placing a hand on Daisy’s shoulder. She reluctantly met his gaze, shrugging her shoulders. 

“It’s fine,” she muttered, speaking under her breath. “Nothing I haven’t heard before.”

Rick’s face fell, and Daisy quickly headed for the kitchen before the guilt could settle into the pit in her stomach. She stuck her head around the corner, stopping in her tracks when she saw her Mom hastily wiping away tears from under her eyes. Lori’s lashes were still wet when Daisy backtracked to the front door where Rick was still waiting.

“I’m just gonna walk today,” she announced.

“Honey, no,” Lori tried to reason, fumbling around in the kitchen for her keys. “I’ll drive you. Just let me grab my purse.”

“It’s only a few blocks, I’ll be fine.”

Rick shook his head, agreeing with Lori. “Daisy, let your Mom take you. You’ll drive her insane if you don’t let her take care of you. It’s her way or the highway.”

Daisy could hear the attempt at humor in his voice. He was trying to make light of the situation, and Daisy could appreciate that. Her parents were trying to be civil and rational. She could see the effort they were putting in every day to try and work on how they spoke to each other, if not for themselves then for their kids. But something in his voice rubbed Daisy the wrong way, and she already had too much on her mind to add her parents fighting like children to the list. 

Daisy snapped, spitting out poison. “You’d know all about that, wouldn’t you? You’d think you would have learned by now, Dad. I guess you can always try your luck next time.”

“Days–”

“What?” she spat, unlocking the front door as quickly as she could. 

“Look at me.”

Daisy begrudgingly turned around, meeting her Dad’s stern gaze. His jaw was clenched, but he took a deep breath to calm himself down. He always did this – stared at her in silence until he was sure the next words either of them spoke wouldn’t be shouted. He’d used her nickname that only he got the free pass to use, knowing no one else had called her Days since she was little when she decided it sounded too childish. For whatever reason, Daisy could never bring herself to ask her Dad to stop using it. So he saved it for moments like these, when he wanted his little girl to take a breath and listen to him. It was his way of silently saying sorry for whatever it was that was happening between the two of them, and it worked almost every time. 

Almost every time. Rick couldn’t even get a hand on her shoulder before Daisy was recoiling, pulling away from him.

“Just stop, Dad!” Daisy shouted, untangling her earbuds as she rambled. “I don’t need this shit today, alright? I’m already late. Please, just save the caring act for Carl. I’m sure he’s the only one in this house that still believes it. God knows I’ve seen it enough times to know that it’s bullshit, so just stop, okay? Go to work and play hero to strangers, Dad. I don’t need you. It's not like you've been much of one to me lately."

She regretted her words as soon as she said them. He was trying to be nice and make the start of her day better, but all she could do was make the situation worse in her anger. She quickly turned around and headed out the door before she could dig herself into an even bigger hole, shoving her earbuds in her ears. She was out the door before he could come up with something to say.

Rick didn’t follow after her this time.

—

Daisy couldn’t focus the whole day. Her parents fighting always put her in a sour mood, and it ruined any potential she had at staying on task. She was almost positive she had bombed her test in first period, or maybe by some miracle she’d managed to scrape by with a C. It was all so hazy in her mind, she couldn’t really tell. Either way, she wasn’t happy. But despite her best efforts, all she could focus on was the conversation she had with her parents that morning.

She didn’t know why she acted the way she did. 

When her parents first started fighting, she was always quick to step in and try to diffuse the situation. But she was sixteen now, and the fights that her parents had were beginning to happen more and more often. It had gotten very old, and so she couldn’t help but snap on mornings like this. She’d spend the rest of the day regretting it, and the guilt Lori and Rick also felt from fighting with each other – especially in front of their kid – would postpone their next argument to at least another day out. 

At least they all agreed on something – feeling guilty.

Daisy took the bus on the way home. The bus was the place Daisy did her very best thinking. All the ideas about different ways she could apologize or get her parents to apologize to each other filled her head. By the time the bus made it to her stop, she had plenty of methods stocked up. Daisy was about to stand up and grab her backpack when a sudden feeling washed over her. Reluctantly, she let go of her bag. She couldn’t bring herself to get off the bus. Instead, she waited until the doors closed to settle back into her seat, letting the driver continue on down the road. 

After a few stops, the bus stopped at the end of Scott Street.

Scott Street was Daisy’s very first home. Her parents married young, barely out of their own parents' houses when they found out Lori was pregnant. They were eighteen and stupid, but Lori was determined to create the little family she had always dreamed of. Naive and in love, Rick did everything he could to give it to her. 

He started in the police academy, quickly becoming an officer, while Lori took night classes to get a business degree. She never really did end up using it, but at the time she figured it would come in handy one day. It didn’t hurt to get it, and they still could get by on the combined little bit of money their parents gave them to start their own lives. Their first home together was a little apartment by the community college. Slowly, they saved and saved. By the third trimester, they had enough saved to put a down payment on a little house on the edge of the suburbs. It wasn’t much to look at, and it was too cramped for a family of four – they had moved into their current home by the time Carl was around. But their little house on Scott Street was their first home. And, although Daisy hadn’t lived there for quite some time, she still had good memories there. On days like this when her family was fighting, she’d long for her first home.

Before the bus could pull away, Daisy quickly shot out of her seat and stepped off the bus. She gave the driver a friendly wave, taking out her earbuds to roll them up and shove them in her jacket pocket as she stepped out of the street and onto the sidewalk. She watched the bus pull away, leaving her alone on the quiet street.

Daisy slowly walked to the third house down on the left. It had been repurchased since her time there. The new owners had painted over the quaint shade of yellow with a dull gray, and the pretty white trim was now a dirty charcoal color. The red door Daisy had toddled through so many times with her parents hot on her heels was now painted a dusty looking brown. The flower beds Lori could never seem to keep alive had been ripped up and replaced with a layer of mulch. Even the car parked in the driveway was a sad and dreary little thing, reflective of the sad and dreary little people that were living inside of Daisy’s house who had painted over and ruined all of its charm and comforting qualities. 

Daisy hadn’t even realized she was crying until the tear rolling down her cheek fell onto her shirt. She quickly wiped under her eyes, clearing her throat as she shoved her earbuds back in. Daisy didn’t know why she was crying. 

It was just a house. 

It wasn’t her home anymore. It wasn’t the house she saw her little brother grow up in. It wasn’t the house her Mom let her keep the stray cat she found in for all of an afternoon before she discovered it was actually the neighbor's cat, and it was then promptly placed back outside next door. It wasn’t the house where she watched her Dad come home with a tired smile on his face, raving about the promotion he had gotten that day. 

And yet, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was left behind here. A part of herself, or a part of her family – something that was keeping them together, and now that it was missing, they were finally starting to unravel.

Daisy quickly shook her head, taking one last look at the house before turning around and marching back down the street. She wiped under her eyes as she walked, humming along to the music in her ears as she found her way back home. The apology she had spent the entire bus ride working on was now on the tip of her tongue, and she was ready to get home and wait at the dining room table until both her parents were home so she could deliver it to them. But then she turned the corner in her neighborhood to her street.

A squad car was waiting in the driveway, and her Dad’s partner, Shane, was at the front door, frantically pounding on it. 

Daisy could feel her stomach drop, a sick and twisted feeling in her gut stopping her in her tracks. She ripped her earbuds out for a final time, this time shoving them into her backpack out of her reach. After a minute, she finally got her feet to move. She slowly made her way down the sidewalk, stopping next to her mailbox. She couldn’t force her feet to take her any further.

She placed a hand on the mailbox, bracing herself as she called out to the man at her front door. “Shane?”

Her voice was quiet and cracked, but it was loud enough that Shane heard it. He whipped around, his eyes landing on her at the end of the driveway. Daisy couldn’t help but instantly notice the dried blood caked on his t-shirt under his uniform. He had clearly tried to scrub it off sometime earlier in the day, but he was too frantic or distracted to notice that he’d missed some. Daisy had to force herself to pry her eyes away from the stain, finally looking up to meet his gaze. Even if there wasn’t any blood, the ghostly white look on Shane’s face would have been enough to tell her that something was seriously wrong. 

“Shane?” she asked again. 

It was all she could bring herself to say.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he muttered, trying to mask the fear in his voice with calmness. 

It was a tactic he had mastered when having to talk to the families of criminals and victims when something in a case went awry. He had gotten used to it by now – he was good at it, even. But at this moment, he couldn’t mask the shakiness in his voice. His eyes were soft on Daisy as he motioned to the squad car.

“Why don’t you come with me, alright?” he asked, opening up the passenger side door. “Your Dad wanted me to come tell you something.”

—

It was like her body was on autopilot. 

She knew what was happening the moment she sat down in the car, but it was a shock to her system anyway. Shane told her about the call they responded to. Two armed and dangerous men being chased up and down backroads, firing at the officers any chance they got. They eventually were pinned down and in a shootout with responding officers. In the process, her Dad was shot. Once in the ribs, although the bulletproof vest caught the brunt of it. The worst he would have had from it was a nasty bruise. But the second time, he wasn’t so lucky. An unknown third man crawled out of the car and shot him through the shoulder. He was picked up in an ambulance and rushed to the hospital, passed out by the time surgeons got to him. Before he passed out, he told Shane to go to Lori and his kids. He wanted Shane to tell them that he loved him, and that he’d be okay.

Daisy had checked out of the conversation by the time Shane got to that part, her ears ringing and muffling his words. She didn’t even realize they had stopped until Shane put the car in park. She looked up to see Carl’s school, her Mom standing in the parking lot with the mother of one of Carl’s friends.

Daisy let out a shaky breath as Shane cleared his throat, wringing his hands together. “Why don’t you wait here, alright? I’ll handle this.”

Shane got out of the car before Daisy could even register what he said. He stepped a few feet from the car, waiting for Lori to approach him. Daisy watched as her Mom’s face fell, but she put on a brave face and walked over anyway. They had a muffled conversation before the sound of a school bell interrupted them.

Daisy perked up when kids began filing out of the school, happy smiles on their faces as they found their parents. She unbuckled and quickly scrambled out of the car once Carl came into view. She was halfway to him when she felt a hand in hers, turning her around.

“What are you doing?” Lori asked gently, bringing her free hand up to hold hers. “Shane said you haven’t spoken since he picked you up. Let me do this, baby girl. Everything is going to be alright, just go wait with Shane.”

Carl had stopped in the street now, a confused look on his face. Daisy glanced at him over her shoulder before quickly turning back to her Mom.

“Let me do it.”

Lori’s face fell as she shook her head. “Honey, no–”

“Mom…please,” she pleaded, squeezing Lori’s hand. “He can’t hear it the way I just heard it. I’ll be gentle, I won’t let him worry. He’ll know it’s bad if you do it.”

Daisy’s voice cracked halfway through her sentence, and she could see her Mom’s eyes fill with tears. It was silent for a moment before Lori nodded, pressing a kiss to the back of her hand. She squeezed it one more time before letting her go.

“I’ll be right here.”

Daisy nodded, turning back to face Carl. She quickly headed across the street, stopping in front of him. She sat down on the curb, patting the spot next to her for him to sit. He obliged, plopping down next to her with a goofy smile on his face.

“What are you doing here?”

“Not happy to see me?” Daisy scoffed, feigning offense. “It was a half day for the high school, remember?”

Carl nodded. Daisy smiled, slinging her arm around his shoulder. In her peripheral vision, she could see her Mom standing by the squad car. Her hands were shaking, and Shane had a comforting hand on her shoulder. Daisy took a deep breath, opening her mouth to speak.

Carl beat her to the punch. “What’s Shane doing here?”

“I need you to listen to me, okay?” Daisy spluttered out, hesitating for a moment. “Don’t make a big deal out of this, everything is fine. I promise. Just…let me say this.”

For once, Carl didn’t fight her on this or do any of the things little brothers do to endlessly annoy their big sisters. He just nodded, letting her take his hand. She gave it a squeeze, giving him a halfhearted smile.

“It’s Dad…there was an accident at work.”

Carl’s eyes widened and filled with fear. “What? Wh…What do you mean? What happened? Is he okay? Is he de–”

“No!” Daisy quickly answered, squeezing his hand. “No. Something happened at work today. He’s been shot, but an ambulance came right away to get him. He’s in the hospital right now. He’s having surgery to fix him. They’re gonna fix him.”

Tears immediately spilled over his cheeks, and Daisy was quick to pull him into a tight hug. Carl hid his face in her shoulder, letting her gently rock them back and forth. She gave him a moment to breathe before gently pulling him back by his shoulders.

“Have I ever lied to you?” Daisy asked, wiping the tears from his cheeks with her thumbs.

Carl shook his head, his voice watery. “No. You said lying was only for kids to use against their parents, and you promised to never lie to me.”

“Exactly,” she chuckled. “I’ve lied to Mom and Dad plenty of times. More times than I care to share, really…but never to you. I’ve always told you the truth, even if I knew it would make you mad at me. I told you when I accidentally backed over your skateboard with Mom’s car, didn’t I?”

“You still haven’t made that up to me, by the way.”

“You little asshole,” Daisy grinned, pulling him in for another hug. “Don’t tell Mom I said that in front of you. Now’s the perfect time for you to practice lying. Or better yet…withholding the truth. That’s a skill a bit harder to master, but I’m sure you’ve got what it takes.”

Carl nodded, a small grin on his face as he slowly calmed down. Daisy stood up, helping him up from the curb. She took his backpack from him, shouldering it herself as she looked down at him. Although he was smiling too, she could still see the fear on his face, so she quickly held him in place and ruffled her fingers all through his hair. It stuck straight up in about eight different places, and Daisy laughed while he fought against her to try and push her back. She finally let him go with a smile, reaching down to smooth his hair down.

“Dad’s going to be alright, Carl. I’m not lying…I’m promising you. I don’t want you to worry, okay? Let’s just save the worrying for Mom. It’s her who’s gonna have to endure Dad’s whining all day at home until he’s well enough to go back to work. Remember the last time he got a cold? You would have thought he had the plague with how much he griped and complained.”

Carl laughed, nodding. Daisy put her hands on his shoulders, pushing him out in front of her in the direction of where Lori and Shane were still standing. Lori had a grateful smile on her face. Shane was still chuckling as he watched Carl continue to smooth his hair down.

“Come on,” Daisy said, leading him to the car. “We’ll ask Mom if we can go to the hospital now.”

—

Rick spent a few hours in surgery. When he was stable, the doctors came out into the waiting room to update everyone on his condition. They explained that, while his condition wasn’t critical, he had lost a lot of blood. He had to be placed into a medically induced coma so his body could recover without overworking itself. In the days following, they’d reduce the medication and let him wake up on his own.

When Daisy asked for a time frame they’d all have to wait, she was given a very vague answer by a clearly overworked and tired nurse. It was obvious this wasn’t her first time dealing with a family like this, and the repetitive questions were wearing her down.

“We can’t give you an exact time or date. It all depends on the rate at which his body heals itself. We’re doing everything we can on our end, all that can be done now is giving him time. Feel free to sit with him now if you want. It’s not entirely proven, but it’s said that patients in comas are actually sometimes cognisant of what’s going on around them. If you talk to him and let him know you’re there, it might encourage him to wake up faster. Understand my use of the word “might,” please.”

“But he will wake up?” Lori asked with an expectant look on her face.

The nurse hesitated, glancing over at Daisy who had Carl asleep on her shoulder. “Like I said, ma’am. Give it time. We’re working at your husband’s pace now.”

“He’s a fighter,’ Shane said impotently, pacing around the waiting room with a cup of coffee in his hand like he’d been doing for the last few hours. “He’ll be up and at it in no time.”

The nurse said nothing more, just nodding as she returned to her work.

—

Daisy spent the following several days in and out of the hospital. Between school and making sure her brother and Mom were doing alright, she felt like she had less and less time to sit in a hospital room. After all, Rick still hadn’t woken up yet. It was possible he had no idea they were there, and it wasn’t making much of a difference sitting and worrying at the hospital instead of sitting and worrying at home.

One evening, Daisy stayed at the hospital late. Carl needed to go to bed, and Lori only had her car to take him home. Daisy wanted to stay, so Shane offered to stay as well and drop her off on his way home. 

The two sat alone in the hospital for another hour before Shane stood up, stretching. “I’m gonna go get a cup of coffee. You want anything?” Daisy just shook her head. Shane nodded, leaving her alone in the room. After a few minutes of staring, she shuffled her chair closer until she was sitting right at Rick’s bedside. Carefully, she took his hand in hers. He was cold to the touch. She absentmindedly pulled his blanket up over him higher, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in her stomach that this cold lifeless hand was not the hand of the warm father she always knew. She took a breath, squeezing his hand in hers.

“Dad?” she whispered, getting no response.

Rick lied still in the hospital bed, his hand limp and heavy in hers. Daisy sniffled, trying and failing to fight back tears. She gave his hand a squeeze, her voice low as she spoke.

“I went back to the old house again. Mom drove us by on the way to the hospital. She finally got to see what they did to the paint. She called it a monstrosity. Said she could never picture a family growing up in a house like that. We made bets on what the inside looks like. Carl said he bets their couch still has the cover on it, like the one Grandma put over her furniture last Christmas. He thinks whoever lives there keeps it on year round. Mom said she's thankful you got us all a nice house so that Carl could know a home like the one we had before he was born.”

The words caught in her throat. Daisy looked down at their joined hands, hers beginning to shake.

“Dad,” she tried again, silent tears rolling down her cheeks as she got no response. “I’m so sorry.”

Her last words she said to him came rushing back to her, and she felt like the guilt would swallow her whole. She looked at her Dad’s face, his eyes closed and his skin pale. She could see the outline of his bandages from the surgery under his gown. There was a nagging thought in the back of her mind that maybe he wouldn’t wake up again, and the thought alone was enough to pull a muffled sob from her. She squeezed his hand, her voice raw.

“Why’d you have to be a hero, Dad? Why you? Why’d you let yourself get shot?”

Daisy let out a shaky breath, clutching his hand tighter. “I didn’t mean it. I know you care, we all know you care. I know what I said was cruel, but…I need you. I really need you to be the bigger person right now and wake up. Mom’s worried sick, Carl is following me around like a lost puppy. I had to lie to him and promise you’d be okay, when I don’t know a fucking thing!”

A low sob catching in her chest prevented her from continuing. 

Suddenly, the door opened once more, and Shane peeked his head in. One look at Daisy’s tear stained face, and he was grabbing his things from the chair. He bent down and placed a kiss on top of her head, then a hand on Rick’s shoulder. His voice was tired, but soft.

“I’ll be in the car. Five minutes, you hear me? I gotta get you home, Days.”

The use of her nickname only made her cry more. She just nodded, and Shane was quick to leave the room. Once she was sure he was gone, Daisy turned back to look at her Dad. She wiped at her cheeks with her free hand, letting out a long sigh.

“I’m gonna take care of them, okay?” she promised, nodding. “Until you come home, I’ll watch out for everyone. I’m gonna make it up to you as soon as you’re awake, I promise. And I’m sorry for swearing…I know you don’t like when I do that. Mom lets me swear, you know — just in front of her anyway, not in front of Carl. You can argue about that with her sooner if you would just wake up.”

Daisy chuckled at her own joke, fresh tears spilling from tired eyes down her cheeks. She shook her head, standing up to gather her things. She reached for his hand one last time, giving it three rapid squeezes. 

It meant, I love you. 

It was something they did in their family when it needed to be said, but for whatever reason they just couldn’t get the words out. Usually after arguments, or when someone was crying, but during the happy moments too when someone was laughing so hard that they couldn’t get any words out at all. Daisy was longing for one of those moments right about now.

Just as she was about to let go, she felt the faintest of squeezes to her own hand. It was so light, she almost missed it. She nearly convinced herself it was just in her imagination, when she felt another light squeeze. Daisy leaned down and pressed a kiss to the back of Rick’s hand, gently pulling hers away as she headed for the door.

“You can give me that last one when I come back to visit after school tomorrow,” she said excitedly, opening the door. “I’ll be here, Dad. I promise.”

—

Daisy didn’t go back to the hospital the next day – she never got the chance to.

For the first week that Rick was in the hospital, there had been reports of some kind of virus spreading out west and in highly populated cities. While it wasn’t close to Daisy or anyone in her town, the news coverage of it was still making people uneasy. They began locking themselves in their houses, calling out of work and pulling their children out of school. 

The night she got home from the hospital, Lori told her she wanted to wait a few days before any of them went back to visit. Apparently, there had been some sort of riot downtown at a grocery store, and a few people were shot and injured. It all seemed dramatic to Daisy, but she could hear the stress in her Mom’s voice when she asked, so she agreed not to go anywhere for a few days until things started to calm down.

As the days progressed, the news coverage of the virus got worse and worse. It was making people violent and deranged. Civilians were being shot dead in the streets by police, people were eating other people, and there were reports that entire villages in other countries had been wiped out by the virus. There was riots and looting and chaos – mass panic was beginning to ensue. Eventually, the virus spread into Daisy’s state, then her county, then her town. The military began sending troops down to manage the situation, and they advised all civilians within a fifty mile radius to evacuate to Atlanta for a while where a quarantine and refugee camp was set up.

Daisy barely had time to wrap her head around it before Shane was showing up to their door, his car packed and ready to go. 

“I’m going to the hospital to get Rick,” he whispered to Lori at the front door.

Daisy overheard, making sure Carl wasn’t around before she butted into the conversation. “What? He’s not awake yet, he needs the doctors. You can’t just go get him.”

“Daisy’s right,” Lori tried to reason. “Isn’t a hospital the safest place for him? They know how to handle sickness and contamination, we don’t. They have protocols to follow. They said if it came down to it, they’d medevac patients to Atlanta without notice. Who says they’ll even discharge him?”

Shane lifted the hem of his shirt to show his gun holstered to his side. “They’ll release him.”

Lori’s eyes widened in shock. “Shane…I–”

“Look,” he spoke quickly. “I promised Rick I’d look after y’all while he was gone, and that’s what I’m gonna do. Now, the station has been getting reports from all over the county. The sheriff has been talking to the ones from neighboring counties, and it sounds like this is all gonna get a lot worse before it gets better.”

“Shane,” Daisy tried to interrupt, but he was quick to silence her.

“Damn it, just listen! I promised your Dad I would do this, I promised him I’d look after you and do what’s best for you. And right now, this is what’s best for you. Now I’m gonna do what’s best for him and go to the hospital, I don’t think it’s the safest place for him to be anymore. The news is right, they’re sending damn platoons in every day by the tankload. They’re saying Atlanta is safer, so we have to go. Pack the essentials and be ready to go by the time I get back, alright? Please, Days. We’re all outta here as soon as I get Rick.”

The tone of his voice was something neither Daisy or Lori had ever heard before. There was a sense of such desperation and urgency that Lori listened immediately. She had Daisy going back inside to help Carl pack within seconds, coming up with the next steps of the plan with Shane before he left for the hospital. 

—

According to him, Shane barely made it alive out of the hospital. 

He came back to the house in a hurry, practically strapping everyone into the car himself and speeding off before he explained what happened. Daisy only heard bits and pieces after Carl started crying and she pulled herself together long enough to comfort him, but the things that she did hear shook her to her core. The hospital was overrun. The military was already there, and they were shooting uninfected doctors and nurses alike. Half the hospital had already been evacuated, and the other half had fallen. Despite doing absolutely everything he could, Shane couldn’t save Rick. He could only save himself and fulfill his promise to Rick by making sure his family made it out safe.

The next few days were a blur. 

Eventually, they made it to the highway that led into Atlanta. Cars were at a standstill, stopped for hours at a time. By nightfall, the line had been stalled for so long that everyone had turned off their cars to save gas. Families had gotten out and were talking to the families in the cars next to theirs, sharing food and radios, trying to see if anyone had any clue what was going on. Then, the radios went out. Eventually, Shane decided it was safe enough for everyone to get out of the car and stretch their legs. 

That was when Daisy met the Peletier’s – a brutish and seemingly chronically upset father named Ed, a nice but skittish and reserved mother and housewife named Carol, and their quiet little girl called Sophia.

Sophia was right around Carl’s age. Once the two families got to talking, Carol set up a travel size board game of checkers in the trunk of her car for the kids to play with. They were getting bored and antsy, and it was a good way to entertain them. Daisy sat behind Carl on the tailgate silently watching over his shoulder, snickering every time Sophia made a move and took one of his pieces. It was enough to keep everyone calm and distracted for a while, but the helicopters circling overhead eventually uneased everyone enough that they just forgot about the game all together. 

After a while, Lori and Shane decided to scout ahead and see if they could figure out what was going on.

“Stay with your brother and Carol, okay?” Lori asked Daisy, reaching up to brush the stray hairs out of her face. “Promise me.”

Daisy nodded, glancing over at Shane. “The broadcasts stopped, didn’t they? The ones telling people about the refugee center in Atlanta. I saw what station it was being broadcasted over on the way here, we must have heard it fifty times over the last few days. I checked in Carol’s car…it’s all static now.”

Shane sighed, knowing he couldn’t lie to her. Daisy was too smart for her own good, and there was no point in trying to hide the truth from her. The highway was a glue trap. It was likely that the refugee center was turning people away, or it had already been overrun. The broadcasts stopped because whoever was broadcasting them decided that there’s no people left and nothing worth broadcasting to. Shane nodded, tilting his head towards Carl.

“Just stay here. We’ll be right back.”

Shane and Lori headed off before Daisy could protest. She just huffed, sitting back down on the tailgate with Carl and Sophia. She reached over Carl’s shoulder to move a checker, giving Sophia a reassuring smile.

“Your dad’s nice,” Sophia commented.

Carl tensed up next to Daisy. “Shane’s not my Dad. My Dad’s dead.”

An awkward silence fell over the group. Daisy could feel a stinging behind her eyes, her chest tightening. She could feel Carol’s pitying eyes on her, making her look up at Sophia. There was nowhere she could look to get away from this feeling though, despite how hard she was trying to. Then Daisy noticed a little doll tucked into Sophia’s lap, clearly a well loved toy.

“I like your doll,” she said, making Sophia’s face light up. “I had one like that when I was your age.”

Sophia smiled, moving another piece. “Where’s yours?”

“I gave her away to the neighbor's daughter. I hadn’t played with her in years, and I figured she’d get better use out of it than I would letting it collect dust on my dresser. I bet it’s buckled into the backseat of that little girl’s car right now. On a roadtrip – sounds cool, right?”

Before Sophia could reply, a distant explosion sounded from somewhere down the highway. The sounds of an argument could be heard, and Daisy craned her neck to see a fight breaking out a few cars ahead of hers. Suddenly, more helicopters circled overhead. This time, they headed into the city. Everyone on the road paused what they were doing to watch, stepping over the guardrail to see past the trees on the hill. The city was dark, only the light from the helicopters illuminating the skyline. The helicopters hovered over the skyline as onlookers watched from the highway. Faint murmurs from people inside the city could be heard alongside the whirring blades of the helicopters.

Sudden flashes of light could be seen in the night sky. Just as Daisy squinted to try and get a better look at their source, multiple fiery mushroom clouds of heat and smoke billowed over the skyline. The city lit up ghastly tones of yellow, orange, and red.

Then it dawned on Daisy – they were dropping napalm in the streets.

“Oh my god,” she muttered, quickly standing up to help Carl and Sophia down from the tailgate. “Don’t watch, okay? Eyes on me.”

To her side, Carol let out a gasp and then a short sob, looking to Ed for answers. He just watched with a far away look in his eye, glancing around to see how everyone else was reacting. Daisy could feel Carl clinging to her waist, and she looked down to see a wild look in his eye as he watched the skyline light up.

“Get in the car, now!” Ed ordered, hastily yanking on Carol’s arm to get her in the passenger seat.

“We can’t just leave Carl and Daisy!” Sophia cried, tears running down her cheeks in fear.

Daisy was quick to reassure her, pulling Carl closer. “Go with your Mom, okay? We’ll be fine, we’ll catch up.”

Sophia was pushed into the car by Ed before she could get another word out. He quickly got back in his car, cranking it and stepping on the gas. He rammed into the car in front of him, smashing the bumper into pieces. Daisy gasped as he gunned it until he pushed the car out of the way, tearing up the shoulder of the road. The car scraped against the guard rail making an awful sound till Ed finally drove right through it, turning in the opposite direction the cars were parked to head back the way they came. The tires burned patches into the grass below, leaving tracks in their wake.

Daisy felt like she was going to puke. She looked around frantically for Lori and Shane, but they were nowhere in sight. People were screaming and crying, mass panic blanketing the highway. The smell of the burning city began wafting up the hill, the smoke stinging her eyes. She clutched Carl tighter to her.

“Hold my hand and don’t let go,” she ordered, gripping Carl tight. “We have to find Mom.”

Daisy took off in the direction her Mom had left earlier, turning around to make sure she remembered where their car was left. She pulled Carl over the guard rail, keeping him out of the way of people running and trying to drive on the shoulder of the road. She led him into the patch of trees at the top of the hill, scanning the area as best she could. By some miracle, she spotted Lori and Shane in the midst of the chaos a few yards away. Lori was clinging to Shane from behind as he led her through the sea of people, one hand wrapped around her wrist, the other on his gun. His eyes were wide and calculated, like an animal that had been cornered on a hunt.

“Shane!” Daisy screamed, running to him with Carl in tow. “Mom!”

“Daisy!” Lori cried, immediately breaking from Shane to pull her kids into a hug. “I told you to stay put, what were you thinking?”

“I had to move! We nearly got mowed over just standing there, and Ed already pulled Carol and Sophia into the car, they’re leaving. It’s getting bad, people are fighting and panicking–”

Shane interrupted her, quickly pulling everyone into a tighter huddle. “What do you mean they’re leaving? The grid is locked, there’s nowhere to go!”

Daisy frantically pointed up the hill. “Ed busted through the guard rail. Practically knocked a tire off turning to drive back the way we came. He left tracks as far as I could see.”

Shane looked up the hill for a second before finally nodding. “Come on, we’re following.”

“Shane,” Carl finally managed to spit out, still clinging to Daisy. “I’m scared!”

Lori took ahold of Carl in one hand, Daisy in the other. “Listen to me. I know you’re scared, but we’re going to be fine. We’re going to be brave, and we’re going to get out of this. I want you two to listen to everything Shane says, and you don’t let go. No matter what happens, you listen and never let go.”

Daisy could feel her Mom’s hand shaking in hers, but she was putting on a voice so brave that her words almost convinced Daisy that they’d be okay. They’d get off this highway and make it to somewhere safe, and this living nightmare they were stuck in would all go away. It’s what Daisy kept telling herself as Shane cleared a path for them to get back to the car. Everyone piled in as quickly as possible, and Shane didn’t waste a second before gunning it past the downed guard rail, following Carol’s tire tracks.

As the skyline faded from view, Daisy watched out the back window. Before they rounded a corner, she watched in horror as a group of the undead suddenly emerged from the trees. They descended onto the highway, grabbing and attacking stragglers who were too panicked to run or fight back. Gunfire rang throughout the streets from stray hunting rifles stashed in the backs of cars, but the dead weren’t dropping. They took shot after shot, only finally going down when someone managed to get a headshot in. 

Daisy promptly turned back around to face forward and look away just as she watched brain matter splatter across the pavement, the sound of gunfire, groans, and desperate screams fading into the background.

—

A/N - Hi! Finally caved and started a TWD fic! I’ve had this fic idea in my head for a while now, and with The Ones Who Live coming out, I figured now would be a good time to start it while I’m getting back into TWD. This is a lot different than the past fics I’ve written, because unlike my other fics, I’m not disclosing any planned relationships between my OC and any of the other characters until I write up until certain parts of the show. This is gonna be a long fic, so bear with me while I plan, write, and update it. This is a new kind of writing for me, so please be patient! I’m still not entirely sure where I’m going with it, but I wanted to go ahead and get some of it out. I hope you like it, thank you to anyone who reads and supports my work! Any questions, feedback, comments, suggestions, and critiques are all welcome :)

[antigonenikk]

Find the Word

got tagged by the elite mutual @chirpybirdy

Rules: Share snippets of your work containing each of the words the previous poster selected for you (optional addition: if you can't find the word in your WIPs, or you simply don't have any WIPs, you can just write a sentence around the word).

Words: letter, add, lung, bus, lead.

letter:

(from liebgott x f!oc fic)

They stopped after letter 60. In the Spring of 1945 they stopped. One month before V-E Day. Birdie held the last letter in her hands, tearing at the edges. Four months ago now. 

The last one read:

Dove. 

I don’t know how to tell you. Don’t wait for me. I won’t be coming home. The world we live in is beyond cruelty. 

There was no sign off. But she could read his handwriting in the dark. Still. Like a fool she took the train from Atlanta to New York and waited at the docks for him on the day of his expected arrival. She has no idea how he did it. But he never showed. She saw the rest of his company. She even saw Margie’s Ron. But no Joe.

add:

(no snippet for this one. random on the fly poem instead)

I add, and add, and stack.

Her soft tread, and small feet

make indents in the sodden earth.

The shadow presses back.

lung:

(from f!Eugene/Leckie au fic)

Sid, as the night wore on, kept shooting them very ugly looks, which Genie did not appreciate.

In his defense, he had a right to be jealous for her attention, since it was their first shared birthday party away from home. Hoping to appease him, she tried to include him in the conversation. But every time she turned to ask Sidney something Leckie somehow drew her attention back into his orbit. His wide blue eyes, so much like her old babydoll's that Sid had broken when they were children, sparkling with glee.

Soon talking had turned to dancing, and Genie, four beers in, had forgotten why she was out in the first place. Leckie whirled her about the room. He wasn’t a great dancer, but he made up for his lack of technique with enthusiasm. And anyways, she was a real dead hoofer herself, so she had no room to complain.

Sweaty and giggling, unable to catch her breath, lungs aching, they left the makeshift dance floor, only to find that their friends had all abandoned them.

bus:

(from the modern!au eugene/snafu fent addict fic)

Gene is sorting through his textbooks. He can’t see out of his left eye. It’s completely swollen shut. A smaller body sidles up to him, leaning against the cool, worn blue rows of lockers. 

He looks over and sees that it’s Shelton. Snafu. Situation-Normal-All-Fucked-Up. He got the name from Burgie. Back in eighth grade when he snorted a line of coke in the back of the school bus on the way to the annual DC field trip and then immediately puked up bile onto the seat in front of him. Back then Burgie and Snafu had still been childhood best friends, so he had been in the splash zone so to speak. This was before he started running track with Gene and Bill and fell in with them instead. 

He had shouted with disgust, and declared his friend was acting completely and utterly fucked in the head. Robert Leckie, pretentious asshole extraordinaire, sitting a row in front, had turned in his seat and with his dumbass smirk had said, “So, then, he’s acting like his normal self?” 

Burgie, still livid about the whole thing, turned to Shelton and told him, “Yeah. A real fucking Snafu.”

After that it just sort of stuck.

lead:

(from me and @guarnerepdf 's lovingly deranged french partisan BoB fic)

Friedrich had tried to insist that as lead for the mission, he should hold all the papers himself. But Isabella had argued incessantly that it would be odd for a man to be holding his brother-in-law’s identification. He could not find a reasonable rebuttal to her and had given up trying to express the deep dread he was feeling about this entire thing. No one was listening to him anyhow. Not the Commander, not Isabella, and frustratingly, not Pleun. Pleun was meant to always be on his side. But somehow, they all had been convinced that it was possible to get Andrews back to England. That they would be able to get away with it. 

[kiddphel]

Cybereyes Include an Eye Recording Unit (for no extra cost)

Word count: 2,481

Characters: Blessed, F1N4L1T¥ (Mentioned)

Summary: Blessed kills time on a roadtrip by rewatching some of the memories caught by his cybereyes. What kind of memories? Well, literally only the gay ones.

My name is…. Ren Kanim….. Ren Kanim…. Ren….. Ren…..

Blessed sunk deeper into the plush bus seat as he sighed, replaying the memory over and over again. It was times like this he was happy his cybereyes came with that free recording software. It was always things related to F1N4L1T¥ that made Blessed happy he was recording every going on that he saw. F1N4L1T¥- no, Ren. They were the memories he rewatched over and over lately. Before, he would just watch bittersweet memories. But now, as of late, he had memories that genuinely lit a fire inside of his chest. An ache between his ribs. Why did they make him feel this way? What exactly is it that these memories stir inside of him? Sure, he liked F1N4L1T¥. He'll admit that (to no one but himself and King). But this felt… Strange. More than just a simple crush. An infatuation. Was it just that Blessed had never truly felt an attraction to someone before on a level that wasn't purely a fleeting appeal to their physical appearance? Sure, Blessed was inexperienced. He was aware of this. Everyone was. Even King had mentioned how he had never gone on a date before. And, well… That led to another memory Blessed watched back fondly. The time F1N4L1T¥ and him went to the mall food court together.

A "fake date", F1N4L1T¥ had called it. Two people spending time together and talking, loudly, in public. That's what they said. A fake date… Blessed wished it could have been real. Alas, there was that "real" date they went on in Vegas. Well, more like Dread and M00nshine went on a date together. It was a real date though, right? It felt like one, Blessed thought. And sure, maybe it was just "M00nshine" and not "F1N4L1T¥". Maybe they were on a date with "Dread" and not "Blessed".

Damn it. Being a Shadowrunner was a mess when you have all these fake names to keep up with.

Blessed didn't care who went on a date with who. He just knew that nothing would be right until he could go on a date with them. With Ren.

Whoever "F1N4L1T¥" is, I want to get to know them. That person. Blessed always thought. Whoever that may be, I want to get to know them better.

And now, Blessed had a better idea who he wanted to get to know better. Ren. Ren Kanim. That's who he wanted to get to know better. F1N4L1T¥. M00nshine. Whatever names and aliases they had. Blessed wouldn't mind getting to know all of them. But he knew, deep down, that the one he wants to know the best is Ren.

The satyr leaned his head back as he listened to the chatter inside of the bus. Casual, idle chit chat amongst the party as they continued the journey to Atlanta.

Ren Kanim…

Blessed smiled as he played back the memory once more. If anyone looked at him, could they tell he was up to something? Or would they just chalk it up to ol' Blessed being his usual, weird self. The smile faded from his face. Yeah, Blessed was weird. Unusual was his usual. Impulsive, naive, immature, gullible, stubborn, bull-headed Blessed. If he asked the party, there are probably a few more choice words they would have to describe him. Nothing positive, he thought. No, he was bizarre. He knew this. And he sighed again. Not the same sigh as before. That was light, whimsical. Happy. This was a dejected sigh. Defeated.

He knew he was difficult to like.

He hoped it was fixable.

He wanted F1N4L1T¥ to like him.

He wanted Ren to like him.

Blessed shook his head. It was quick, sharp. A sudden shake like his body had a shiver run through it. He just wanted to clear his head. Crossing his arms, he leaned his head back against the seat as he crossed a hoof over the opposite leg. He couldn't let himself spiral down that mental path. It's been bad enough since they left Detroit, he didn't want to spoil another day's mood with his own mental flagellation. It's what he was best at. Knocking himself down and kicking himself while down there in the dirt. It's how most of his thoughts ended up when he started thinking about his feelings for F1N4L1T¥.

He was no hero. No genius. No prince charming. He was just… Blessed. A weird freak from Detroit. And then there was F1N4L1T¥… They had so much experience. A colorful life. They were handsome and gorgeous at the same time. They talked so smoothly, sometimes so sweet.

Are my goat legs weird? Blessed had asked.

I've known people who have exclusively been attracted to guys with goat legs. F1N4L1T¥ had responded.

But that wasn't the answer he wanted to hear. Not the question he was really asking.

Do you think my goat legs are weird? Do you think I'm weird? I want you to like me the way I like you. But I'm nothing like them. The ones you like. I never will be. Is it over before I've even had my chance to begin? Can I ever have a beginning with you, or am I doomed to run a race I was never really a participant in?

Damn it. There he went again with the downward spiral.

He played it back again.

My name is…. Ren Kanim…..

Would they hate it if they knew the things Blessed had saved- The things he played back to feel that ember in his chest burn again? Blessed cycled through all of them again.

The first meeting. When Blessed and King were given that first job with the group. A gunner and medic duo meeting up with some other ragtag Shadowrunners. Back then, Blessed wasn't sure what to think of the others, F1N4L1T¥ included. A hacker, a face. Some well dressed, smooth talking human. Depending on the job, could be important. Could be nothing. But nowadays, that meeting has a whole new meaning. Blessed would rewatch the memory, taking it in with a new perspective. The way F1N4L1T¥ introduced themself. The way they smiled. The way they talked to Blessed, then a stranger.

Another memory. A few months after that first meeting. They had all gone out to Dante's Inferno after scoring big with that Kirin rescue. Truth or dare had been nice, but everyone still too unfamiliar with each other to ask anything big. Anything deep. It was all fun, though. A good time. Blessed always got a chuckle out of watching F1N4L1T¥ give someone a nasty drink of Vodka and Milk. But that's not what he was watching for. No, it was when F1N4L1T¥ had gone out to the dance floor and found someone. Some random person. The memory watches them closely for a moment. At the time, Blessed wasn't sure why he was so interested in watching F1N4L1T¥ and some stranger get together and dance. Oh, but now he knows. And this moment in particular, every time he plays it back, makes the knots in his stomach twist more. It's the first moment he felt it. Whatever it was. But it was the seedling of the emotion he holds for F1N4L1T¥ now. Whatever it is in his chest, this was the start.

He wishes that stranger could have been him. Escorting F1N4L1T¥ out on to the dance floor. Spending that moment with them. Maybe they would laugh as they had a good time. Maybe they would have smiled at Blessed as they danced close together.

Next memory.

Ah, right. This one.

F1N4L1T¥ was so demure, so shy, as they talked to the gnome shop keep. A gift for Kevin. They talked so sweet, like a schoolgirl with a crush.

Do you have a crush on Kevin? Blessed had asked. His tone exaggerated to not come off as suspicious. F1N4L1T¥ gave a dismissive answer. One that could be taken as a yes, but I'm too shy to say it or a no, it's for the mission. Blessed's chest tightened as he rewatched the memory. Back then, he hadn't realized why he was wishing for F1N4L1T¥ to say it was the latter. He knew better now.

He wanted them to like him. He didn't like the idea of F1N4L1T¥ liking someone else. It was the ugly seeds of jealousy trying to plant themselves in Blessed's head.

Would you do this for me? Would you put so much thought and effort into a gift for me, like you are for Kevin?

The knots in his stomach continue to tighten as he continues.

Between the last memory and this, Blessed had realized it. He liked F1N4L1T¥. He had a crush on them.

And then, that early morning. When they confronted Kevin's dad and the cult leader, Erin.

Love.

The word felt like a thousand nails piercing into Blessed's very core. F1N4L1T¥ liked Kevin. They confessed it, thinking Kevin was unconscious. Blessed stood there, staring. The memory was only visuals, but Blessed still remembered the emotions he had back then.

You like guys who are ex-cultists? Blessed had asked. It sounded like a joke. It wasn't.

Another question where Blessed wasn't truly asking what he meant.

Could you like someone like me, then?

No. Of course not. That's not what F1N4L1T¥ had meant. Kevin was sweet, pure. He had potential, F1N4L1T¥ had said. Blessed knew what they meant. Kevin was everything Blessed was not.

Blessed scowled as he flipped to another memory. He wanted to watch the things that made him happy. This was the exact opposite of that. And yet, it still sparked something in him. A twisted sense of determination. He didn't want to give up hope. He wanted to think that there was still a chance that he could be the kind of person F1N4L1T¥ could like. He smiled, catching what the next memory was.

It was simple. One Blessed wasn't even involved in. But he had caught it nonetheless. And he's glad he did.

Bloshi, when they had first joined the group. Cleansing and cleaning everything and everyone they could touch. No one expected that their magical disinfectant wipe of a spell would clean the makeup right off F1N4L1T¥'s face. It caught Blessed by surprise. How angular their features were underneath all that work. They were breathtaking. Sure, they ran off to the bathroom and came back out several long minutes later looking their usual done up self- and they were still just as gorgeous as always. But something about seeing them so… Naturally. It made Blessed's chest swell again. He wondered why F1N4L1T¥ changed their features like that with makeup. It seemed important to them with how hastily they had sped off to fix what Bloshi had ruined, but Blessed didn't get it. He knew he never would. It was F1N4L1T¥'s own personal reasons. But Blessed still couldn't help but think that they were stunning. He felt selfish. He wanted to see them like that again. Was he a bad person? A selfish person, surely. But did that make him bad? He wasn't sure.

I'm proud of you.

The next memory. Blessed had been shaked up after dealing with the Sidhe inside of Dr. Andrea Payne. It wasn't enough that he lost sleep over the first time he had "killed" her, but now he had to live with the fact that he had killed her twice. But when he returned to the warehouse, hands shaking as they held on too tightly to the dart rifle he had used, there was F1N4L1T¥. Smiling, so warmly. They were staring right into the camera of the recording. Staring at Blessed. This was for him. A banner that congratulated him, and a snack sitting on the table behind waiting for him. It all felt so over the top. It was so very F1N4L1T¥. Blessed liked that about them. This moment was made by them, for him.

Blessed grew embarrassed and frustrated as the recording grew hazy and the POV unstable. Right, he had started crying back then. He wasn't expecting anyone to tell him he had done a good job, let alone F1N4L1T¥. No one ever told him that. And now, here was the person he desired attention from, giving him all the attention he could ever hope for. He wished he had held it together, had a better recording of F1N4L1T¥'s happy smile as they welcomed everyone back from a job well done. The base had been a disaster then, Blessed remembered. But still, there was F1N4L1T¥ going around with an excited gleam in their eyes from the success.

Blessed closed his eyes as he let himself remember things naturally. No more of the recordings from his cybereyes. They couldn't give him what he really wanted to remember now. Not a visual, but a feeling.

In Las Vegas. F1N4L1T¥, clinging to his arm. They were "M00nshine" then, and Blessed knew that was a different act than F1N4L1T¥. They made it clear it was two very different characters they were playing on this stage. But still, it felt like F1N4L1T¥. The way their arms wrapped around Blessed's own as they walked down the street together as they left the restaurant. The way F1N4L1T¥ clung to him so tightly it felt like circulation was being cut off. The way the warmth from their body seeped into his own- heating him up on the inside. It was a feeling Blessed would never forget.

Please don't fall. I don't want to have to carry you.

It's ok… You can carry me, if you want.

… Please don't fall.

Blessed would never forgive himself for that. But he knew just as well that he did the right thing. But oh, what he wouldn't give to pick F1N4L1T¥ up. To hold them in his arms in a princess carry perhaps. It didn't feel right back then. Not the right time. But given the opportunity again, Blessed fears he would not be strong enough to resist. He wanted to hold them. To feel them in his arms. Would they put their arms around his neck for stability? Would they be flustered by the way Blessed could pick them up so easily?

When they had gotten back to the condo. When they said good night… Blessed wished he could have joined them in bed. For nothing scandalous or inappropriate, he simply wanted to exist in the same space as them. To feel their warmth, their company. He wanted to burn the image into his mind of how peaceful they looked while they slept. Something so intimate that no cybereye recording could ever truly capture what it meant. He wishes he could have laid there beside them. How very selfish.

Blessed was a very selfish goat.

And yet, part of him didn't care.

He smiled, closed his eyes. He played it back once more.

My name is…. Ren Kanim…..

[readingsquotes]

..... the rising generation understands that the occupation of and assault on Palestine is inseparable from other crises, including systemic racism and police violence, unchecked corporate power and public austerity, fascism and climate disaster. In response, new bonds of solidarity are being forged across racial, ethnic, religious, and generational divides to fight for Palestinian liberation ....

But far more than the 2020 protests for racial justice, this movement has sparked ferocious resistance. Nearly everywhere, transformative solidarity is not only spreading — it is also being undermined and criminalized. For exercising their First Amendment rights, students have been slandered, beaten, arrested, suspended, expelled, doxxed, and blacklisted, including some of those interviewed and photographed for this issue. Educators have been reprimanded or fired or had their hiring frozen. New York Democrats responded to the protests against genocide in Gaza by proposing legislation that would turn blocking public streets or bridges into acts of domestic terrorism. At the federal level, Republican lawmakers from other states have proposed similar bills in Congress.

This is a continuation of a longstanding trend that intensified after the Standing Rock protests and then again after the 2020 uprisings, when multiple states passed laws imposing harsh penalties on protesters who obstruct traffic on roads or even sidewalks. The state is setting dangerous new precedents, something Priscilla Grim chillingly illustrates in an essay in this issue; she was indicted on racketeering and domestic terrorism charges simply for joining a protest against Atlanta’s Cop City. (Let’s not forget that the Atlanta metro police routinely train and swap tactics with the Israel Defense Forces, providing further proof our issues really are connected.) In every case, the goal is the same: to splinter fragile coalitions, isolate the left, scare off potential allies, and foster reactionary solidarity to quell dissent.

Whenever ordinary people begin to come together across their myriad differences to challenge oppression, wherever fragile shoots of trust begin to grow, the powerful seek to mow them down and plant a more mean-spirited and lethal crop in their place. Last fall, influential Democratic Party adviser Ruy Teixeira published a piece connecting the progressive response to Gaza to the George Floyd uprisings. In it, he encouraged his fellow Democrats to “throw the intersectional left under the bus.”

[roadtogracelandx45]

10 Days| 1| Band of Brothers x Masters of the Air crossover

*So I went back and forth about posting this but I figured since I liked it so much that I may as well post it. I know its not likely that this happened but for the sake of fan fiction, it will work out. *

Summary: Most of the men of first and second platoons of Easy Company heads to the Stewart household at the head of the family, Franklin’s urging. And for the first time since August they were from the constraints of having Sobel around watching their every move and they were able to fully be themselves and explore those building feelings that weren’t able to explore under his watchful gaze. 

@marycorleone

One: 10 Glorious Days. 

East Company.

January 1943

10 days. 10 glorious days without Hebert Sobel and Amber Scott sounded like an absolute dream and to be able to go home and celebrate Christmas late and Marla's sweet 16. 

Made it all seem so much better. This was the first time since June that Bobby and Edward would be home since June and the first time that Olivia would have seen any family since July.  

The whole thought made being stuck on a hot sticky rickety bus with a handful of the smelly men from 1st and 2nd platoon and Dog company worth it. 

"Look at that smile.' Bull Randleman teased as he reached forward and poked a fat finger in the dimple that appeared on Olivia's cheek when she smiled brightly, like she was then. 

"What? I can't help it." She returned, pushing his hand away from her face. 

 "10 Sobel and Amber free days? It's a dream."

 "Not to mention," Bobby commented from his seat across the aisle from his sister and Liebgott, "Our grandparents are throwing a party for Marla. And that means that Olivia gets to get all prettied up." 

"Your point?" She shrugged, "After wearing uniforms for 6 months straight, I would even wear a damn corset again. If it meant being free of this."  

Bobby pulled a face, he went to Atlanta with Olivia and their aunts for the premiere of Gone With The Wind and Cissy insisted that the girls wear the corset and Bobby had to cut her out of hers at the end of the night. 

"I personally," Liebgott started turning his head to talk directly into her ear, "Can't wait for you to wear dresses again. Easier access for me.' 

Olivia flushed and slapped his shoulder, since they had started sleeping together, he was more open to teasing her and finding ways to get her into his bed or him into his bed.

There was just one rule, don't flaunt it around the boys. They didn't need any fights breaking out, again. The one fight between Joe and Bill was enough.  And honestly, Olivia didn't want to deal, there was only so much that she could handle and she was nearing her limit of bullshit and they all knew it. 

They had all hoped that the 10 days away from Amber and Sobel and the extra stresses that she had piled on with being the first Lieutenant would help reset her.

"Did Amber go with Sobel back to Chicago?" Lily asked peering around Pat Christenson to look at Olivia who shrugged her shoulders again. When it came to Amber and Sobel, she tried in vain to not know anything about them  

"They went to Brooklyn.' Lewis's voice carried from the front of the bus where he was sitting with Dick, Edward, and Ronald Speirs; they had been listening to their conversation mostly for amusement. They all became more animated and alive, the further away from Sobel they got. 

"Why do you know that sir?" Mike Ranney asked surprised, no one ever cared enough about Sobel or Amber to know these things. 

"I have my ways." 

"And this is exactly the reason why most of the girls are scared of you Lew." Edward Stewart groaned. 

"There is only one girl that matters and that is your sister.' Lewis returned, there was only one person that knew what he knew about Amber and her family and her relationship with Sobel and that was Dick and he was keeping his mouth shut. 

Especially since it was tied to Olivia's safety.  The oldest Stewart sibling dropped his chin down to his chest and groaned, his sister's personal relationships were so complicated and he hated that he knew anything about it.

Her fake marriage to Lewis, he knew about and backed up because he was there when the fight happened and Lewis claimed that they were married. 

But her relationship with Bill, Dick Winters, Joe Liebgott, and Floyd Talbert, he didn't need to know about. As far as he knew and wanted to claim that his sister was innocent and only slept in the same bed with Lewis to upkeep the charade.

The rumor mills had been running rampant that Olivia and Dick had hooked up when she had left Liebgott behind in town after a fight and spent the rest of the 48-hour pass in her shared barracks with Dick. It had gotten to the point where both Olivia and Dick had been brought into Sink's office and questioned about it. He had even pulled aside afterward and asked her about it. She had been so embarrassed that he asked her about it that she shut down on him completely. 

He shook his head to rid himself of his thoughts and looked out of the window in time to see the generational Stewart family home come into view and his 3-year-old son standing on the front porch holding onto Marla's hand, their youngest brother Steven was standing next to him, his big brown eyes dancing in excitement much like Olivia's had been since they got up that morning and boarded the bus, their nephews and lone niece surrounding them. 

"Bobby, Liv, look out of the window.' He called back, causing Bobby to get out of his seat and cross the aisle into the seat that Olivia and Liebgott shared.

"The only kiddo that I don't see is Katie." Bobby commented.

 "She is probably sick again." Olivia frowned, their youngest sister Katie had been sick on and off her entire life and none of the doctors or specialists that they took her to couldn't figure it out.

"She will be fine." Bill threw out, he had seen the worry from all of the Stewarts when they had to take her to the hospital when she was just shy of a year old.  He had even taken turns sitting with the girl himself after school some days to give Andie a well-deserved break. "All she needs is a visit from her older siblings." 

Joe's hand found Olivia's and squeezed it, she had told him and Talbert one night about her youngest sister's health issues and how they had been told to prepare for her to pass before her time. 

The bus driver threw open the door and Edward was off the bus and scooping up his son who was squealing in excitement. The rest of the boys stayed in their seats letting Olivia and Bobby exit the bus to go up to their siblings and the littles to greet them first. Two older gentlemen, one in uniform and the other not along with an older lady stepped onto the porch to greet them. 

Liebgott's eyes were glued to Olivia who took her youngest brother Steven from Marla and pressed kisses on his face leaving behind red lipstick stains behind causing the little boy to complain and wipe his cheeks off. 

The pull he had felt towards Olivia tugged again, this time stronger. They all knew that Olivia was going to be a good mom with how she acted with them when they were hurting but seeing her with a kid just made it more true. 

The night before, she and the nurses were in the barracks with them and she had snuck into his bunk and curled into him, making him want to make the dream of her being his wife true. At first, the thought scared him, he didn't want to get married right away or have a baby and it wasn't because of the war, it was because of his mother and how she left him and his five younger siblings alone. He didn't want to do that to happen again or to be the one who left. It wouldn't be fair to his partner or the children. 

"Joe.' Her soft voice shook him out of his thoughts, he was the only one left on the bus, "Come on, Nana and Papa want to meet you." She held her hand out to him, which he took instead of letting her lead him off of the bus, he pulled her into him and pressed a needy kiss to her mouth. 

She whined and pressed against him.

"Stay with me tonight." He muttered against her mouth. 

"My room. You will be with Tab and Chuck.' How she knew that he didn't know but he was okay with sneaking into her room to be with her.

"Alone?" He nudged his nose against hers not ready to get off of the bus and put on a show that they were nothing more than friends. "Mhm, perks of being a Stewart."

"Olivia Franklin! If you don't get off of that bus right now young lady."  The older woman ordered, causing her to laugh and pull away from him.

"Coming Nana.' She returned pulling him off of the bus behind her. Ellen Stewart was standing alone on the porch, a slender hand on her hip, the rest of the group had already moved into the house, and she had wanted to meet the man that her granddaughter was writing home about. 

See if he was worthy like she had hours before when John Egan showed up with her step-granddaughter Isabelle. All they wanted was for them to be happy and if they were happy with men in uniform then they weren't going to stand in the way.

"Nana, this is Joe Liebgott." Olivia started hiding their clasped hands behind her back, "Joe this is my nana, Ellen."

"It's nice to meet you ma'am. Livia has told us a lot about you." He took the older woman's hand in his and was surprised when she tightened the grasp and stepped in closer to him, her blue eyes much like his Olivia's studied him closely, "She has told us a lot about you too. All of you boys in fact." Ellen said before releasing his hand. 

A wild fleeting moment, he was worried that Olivia told her grandmother about their romps in the shower and in the alleyways. The two normal places for them to hook up. If they had the chance tonight to be together it would be their first night in a bed and he was planning on taking full advantage of it. 

"All good things I hope." He started as Olivia squeezed his hand and stepped in closer to him. An instance that never happened before. 

Not even with Lewis. Sure, Lewis gave her confidence and loved her but just by looking at the two, Liebgott was head over heels for Olivia and she was head over heels for him. 

She could tell that they were ready to admit to each other and he wasn't ready to settle but the moment it happened was the moment that everything was going to fall into place for them.  

"All very good things." She returned as a little voice called for Olivia causing her to smile and step away from him. 

"Come 'ere Katie girl." She squatted down and held her arms out to the little girl who rushed into them. Dark blue eyes peeked over her sister's shoulder to Joe who offered her a smile and wink.

 "Who's that?" Katie asked, fisting her hand in the dark green material of her sister's uniform.

"I am Joe." He started going over to the older Stewart girl's side and squatting down next to her, 

"I am friends with Livvy and Bobby." 

"Like Lew and Billy?"

"Exactly." His mouth quirked at the corners hearing how easily the little girl called Bill, the wild one of the bunch, Billy.  

"He is cute sissy." She tore her eyes away from Joe to look at her sister.

 "Yes, he is."

 "You gonna marry him?"

 "Katie." Olivia groaned, causing her to laugh, every time Olivia brought a boy home who wasn't Bill, she asked her the same thing.

 "We will see Katie." Joe started after clearing his throat, surprised that she asked that. 

"Don't lie like Bucky."

"Who the hell is Bucky?"

"Oh, Izzy is here with a couple of the boys for the 100th bombers" Ellen explained, skipping over the language, she had figured that both Izzy and Olivia learned it from being in uniform and around young men who didn't have to follow social norms.  

"Izzy is here?" Izzy was Andie's oldest daughter who had gone to England 4 years before with her father and they had only ever exchanged letters since and the lack of return letters made sense. 

The worry that Olivia had held at bay came back tenfold and sensing it Joe put his hand on her lower back rubbing it. 

"Yes, it's a long story Liv. She got hurt at the airbase and while she was recovering she came here, she has been here for about 6 months." 

"How did she get hurt? How did she get involved with the 100th then?" 

"That you will have to ask her. She is mum about it." She returned, "We set her up in Maureen's old room.' 

Maureen was Franklin's younger sister who was killed in 1864 along with his twin sister Lydia, their mother, and youngest brother, and her room was attached to Olivia's by a bathroom. 

 "Go on up and talk to her, I will show Joe to his room."  She nodded her head before turning and pressing a kiss to Joe's cheek. Katie pulled away from her sister to stay with her grandmother and Joe. 

"I will come find you when I am done."  She muttered, pressing a kiss against his cheek and slipping into the house to find her sister. “Do me a favor Joe.” Ellen started as Katie took his hand and to lead him into the house. “Just don’t hurt her. She has already been hurt enough by Bill.”  

The words I promise felt heavy on his tongue for the reason that he hadn’t been able to let go of Mary and fully be with Olivia like she had asked him to do nor had he been honest about his previous relationships. He had made up a story that at the time sounded good but now that he had gotten to know Olivia, he had realized that the story was a stupid one and he shouldn’t have blurted it out. And Ellen seemed to know what was going through his head, instead of forcing him to say anything, she just patted his shoulder and turned to go into the house. 

[atllimousineservice]

How to Plan an Unforgettable Party Bus Experience in Atlanta?

Atlanta, the vibrant heart of Georgia, offers an array of entertainment and nightlife options, and what better way to experience it all than on a party bus? Whether you're celebrating a birthday, bachelor or bachelorette party, or just looking for a memorable night out, a party bus adds an extra layer of excitement. In this guide, we'll delve into the essential steps to plan an unforgettable Party Bus Rental Atlanta GA experience, ensuring that you and your guests have a night to remember in this bustling city.

Choose the Right Party Bus Company:

Selecting the right party bus company is crucial for a successful event. Look for companies with a good reputation, reliable vehicles, and positive reviews from past customers. Make sure to inquire about their available amenities, such as sound systems, lighting, and seating capacity, to ensure they meet your needs. Make sure to rely on one of the best Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour services to get a full tour in hassle free manner and without worrying about the location.

Determine Your Itinerary:

Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time on the party bus. Consider the places you want to visit, whether it's trendy bars, clubs, or scenic spots around Atlanta. Coordinate with the party bus company to map out the route and schedule, allowing enough time at each location to enjoy the experience fully. Plan your event or part to go with the limo services for a better experience.

Customize the Experience:

Personalize your party bus experience to suit your preferences and occasion. Many companies offer customizable packages that include add-ons like decorations, refreshments, and entertainment options such as karaoke or a DJ. Discuss your ideas with the company to create a tailored experience that reflects your unique style and vision.

Safety always comes first:

Prioritize safety when planning your party bus experience. Ensure that the company adheres to all safety regulations and carries proper insurance. Verify that the driver is licensed and experienced in operating party buses. Encourage responsible behavior among your guests, including adhering to seat belt rules and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.

Confirm Details in Advance:

Double-check all details with the party bus company in advance of your event. Confirm the reservation, itinerary, and any special requests to avoid last-minute issues. Provide clear directions and contact information to the driver and communicate any changes promptly.

Conclusion:

Planning an unforgettable party bus experience in Atlanta requires careful consideration of several factors, from choosing the right company to customizing the itinerary and ensuring safety. By following these steps, you can create a memorable and enjoyable outing for you and your guests, exploring the vibrant city of Atlanta in style.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Marijuana use is more acceptable than ever in Georgia, with a majority of residents saying it should be made legal for both medical and recreational purposes, according to respondents in a poll by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

About 53% of Georgians surveyed said marijuana should be legal for adults, a high point from previous AJC polls. By comparison, 46% of poll respondents in 2017 said marijuana should be legalized for any purpose.

The poll indicates that attitudes about marijuana have changed eight years after Georgia passed a law allowing patients with an approved medical condition to consume it. Dispensaries could finally open in Georgia as soon as this spring.

Medicinal marijuana is even more popular than recreational use, according to the poll. An additional 23% of respondents said medical marijuana should be legal.

“Make it legal. People are doing it anyway, so why have a penalty attached to it?” said Patricia Harris of Newnan, a retiree from the health care industry who took part in the AJC poll. “In so many states now it’s legal, not just for medical purposes.”

The AJC conducted the survey to find out the preferences of Georgia voters on a variety of issues as legislators are meeting at the state Capitol to consider new laws.

The AJC’s poll included 860 registered Georgia voters and was conducted Jan. 9-20 by the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs. The margin of error is 3.3 percentage points.

Some poll respondents such as Jon Lippold of Marietta were more reluctant to embrace full marijuana legalization.

Lippold, who works in information technology management, said he supports allowing marijuana consumption for people with legitimate medical issues, but it could be abused if anyone were allowed to use it.

“My concern is if you legalize it, where does it go? If it’s fully legal, how are they going to control and monitor it among bus drivers or if pilots start using marijuana?” Lippold asked.

Georgia lawmakers in the majority-Republican General Assembly have shown little appetite to expand marijuana beyond medicinal use. No bills for recreational marijuana have been introduced by legislators from either political party so far this year, and previous proposals didn’t advance.

Meanwhile, registered patients are closer than ever to being able to buy the drug that state law has permitted them to consume since 2015.

Two companies have been awarded licenses to produce and sell low THC oil to the state’s 25,000-plus patients and 18,000 caregivers. Low THC oil is allowed for patients suffering from several approved illnesses including severe seizures, Parkinson’s disease and terminal cancers.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to approve rules for inspections and distribution, a key step before the product can go on the market.

The AJC poll showed just 7% of Georgians surveyed said marijuana should be entirely illegal. About 15% of respondents said marijuana should be decriminalized and treated like a traffic ticket, but not legalized outright.

Conservatives were less likely to embrace marijuana than liberals and moderates.

The poll showed that 37% of conservatives back legalizing marijuana for recreational or medical use, compared with 77% of people who identified themselves as liberals and 58% of moderates.

Substantial majorities of Georgians support President Joe Biden’s pardons of people convicted on federal charges of simple marijuana possession. About 79% of poll respondents either strongly or somewhat approved of the marijuana pardons, while 15% opposed it. The rest said they didn’t know.