#plus the floor is wooden so it's not the same as the antique shop

[andrevascreencaps]

Nowhere / Gillespie house

[one-boring-person]

Only Traitors Consort With The Damned (Part Eight)

The Lost Boys x reader

Warnings: mentions of death

Context: (y/n) has to stay entertained at the cave, and so goes about setting up defences.

A/N: I think this chapter is a bit dull, but I promise it gets better soon!

Masterlist

Unsurprisingly, no light filters into my room when I wake again the next morning, my eyes having to swiftly adjust to the shadowy sight before them as I sit up, rubbing at my scalp. A pounding headache has set in, thanks to the lack of sleep and the sheer amount of over thinking I did last night, my skull feeling as if it's about to explode as I swing my legs out from under the covers, knowing that I have even more planning and preparing to do if I want to survive long enough to see the end of the year. Stretching out the dull ache in my muscles, I check the watch on my wrist briefly to get an idea of the time: 4:23. Whether that is AM or PM, I have no idea yet, but I aim to find out, quickly grabbing my rucksack and jacket as I stand and leave the room, heading out into the main hall where the boys usually spend their nights.

Bright light streams in from the outside, indicating that it is 4:23 PM, illuminating the decrepit lobby in a new clarity I've not seen it in before, every piece of scattered rubbish given a new appearance. In the daylight, the whole place looks less sinister, and more like an abandoned antiques shop, the dusty bits and pieces casting odd shaped shadows onto the floor as the sunlight hits them from a certain angle, every dull colour suddenly highlighted more than usual. I have to blink a few times to allow my eyes to adjust, but they quickly do so, my gaze swiftly flicking around the looming room so that I can take it all in, a plan springing to my mind as I observe it all.

Silently, I get to work, dropping my bag on the fountain ledge and rummaging around in it, pulling everything out to lay it out in front of me so that I can properly see what I have. It's not much, but it's enough to satisfy what needs doing. Picking up the lightweight chains we are required to own, I grab some dirty old cans lying a little way away, the litter most likely the remains of a meal from sometime before, their rusted forms almost perfect for what I need them for.

Eyeing the brightly lit entrance, I take up a ball of string, too, and go over to it, stepping out onto the rickety walkway, examining the rugged wood with a critical eye as I walk out a little way, putting some weight in my step. Under each step, the wood moves slightly, the material having a light spring to it thanks to its age and exposure to the elements, which makes me frown slightly, hoping my plan will still work even though this is the case. Kneeling down, I measure out a length of string that runs the width of the walkway and use my knife to cut it to size. Setting it aside, I get to work on the chains, making six separate lengths with cans attached to them, each one of them rattling loudly as I shake them out experimentally. Smiling to myself, I connect one chain to the end of the piece if string, doubling it over itself for a better result, quickly doing the same on the other end of the string, weighting it down perfectly. I find a pair of small rocks lodged into the cliffside beside me and place them at opposing ends of the walkway, but not before I've scraped a small groove into their surfaces, where the string rests once I've set it up, hanging the chains over the sides of the walkway. The string sits an inch or so above the surface of the walkway, meaning it is easily tripped over, setting off the rudimentary alarm.

I repeat this twice more, leaving them at alternating distances from each other to provide a crude trap to alert anyone inside the cave of approaching intruders: when someone trips the string, the cans and chains will rattle loudly, signifying their approach. Absentmindedly, I hear a small voice in my head telling me that any SRS soldiers will be expecting this, and won't fall for such an amateur trap, quickly deciding that I need to work on something inside the cave, too, something more hidden.

Going back inside, I wipe some sweat from my upper lip, surprised at the heat of the day despite it being mid-October, my clothes sticking to me as I go back to my rucksack, trying to figure something else out. My eyes are quickly drawn to the grenades I have left. They won't work very well on humans, but the loud noise and subsequent explosion of mist will throw anyone off if caught up in it, meaning they are somewhat effective for this purpose.

Grabbing them, I take the string again and go to the entrance, making sure to set up two of the conveniently placed barrels of charcoal the boys use as braziers, setting them up a little way apart around the front of the cave. Going a little way ahead of them again, I place a seemingly random cardboard box face down on the floor, checking the layout once more, before measuring pieces of string again. Cutting them all to size, I tie one end of each of the length to the ring of a grenade, which I carefully loosen, hiding the two explosives under the cardboard box as I loop the string around the two barrels, pulling it tightly enough that it creates another tripwire across the entrance.

Sitting back, I look at my handiwork, noting that the string isn't too obvious and that the overall look isn't too bad. Cautiously, I pull the string taut again, knowing how tense it needs to be for this trap to actually work. Aware that this is now a near-fatal hazard for the four original residents of the cave, I make a mental note to warn them of the new trap before one of them accidentally trips it and gets a face-full of burning holy water.

Sighing, I go back to my rucksack and pick up the gun, checking the clip for rounds, annoyed to find it only about half-full, most of them having been used over the last few days, meaning it needs reloading. I check over the rest if my stuff, growling when I realise that I haven't got anymore bullets with me, leaving me with a pretty much useless weapon which will need reloading very quickly. Setting it down again, I quickly make a decision, going back out into the daylight and up to the cliff top, where I grab some of the random pieces of driftwood lying around, returning to the cave with an armfull of them. Tiredly, I drop them to the floor and sit down, pull in out my knife so I can start whittling them down - a skill every Hunter is taught is how to make wooden bullets, seeing as they are effective against both supernatural and natural creatures.

A small pile of bullets has steadily grown by the time the boys finally emerge from their sleep, the last rays of sunlight having dissipated an hour or so ago, my fingers sore from scratching the knife over the dry wood for so long, though it has paid off: I have enough to fill four or five clips, now. As they enter the room, I look up at them with a tired smile, glad to have some company now.

"Hey guys. Sleep well?" I greet them, waving slightly with the knife, my tone light despite the tension in my body.

"Mostly, yeah." Marko responds, coming over to me with the others, their brows furrowed as they see what I'm doing.

"What're you up to?" Dwayne questions, eyeing the bullets apprehensively.

"Making some more rounds for my gun. I didn't bring enough ammo, so I'm making my own." I explain, gesturing to the pile dismissively.

"Out of wood?" Paul interjects, looking genuinely curious.

"Yep. It's the only available material."

"That's...kinda cool, but also pretty worrying." The blonde vampire muses, dropping down beside me as he goes to pick one up.

"I'm not planning to use them in you guys, don't worry." I reassure them, rolling my eyes.

"Why do you need so many?" David asks, blue eyes appearing much darker in this light.

I shrug casually, finishing up the one I'm currently working on.

"In case the SRS comes knocking. Speaking of which, I've set up some traps by the entrance, so just be careful of them." I make eye contact with David, "One of them will be very painful if it's tripped."

He frowns a little, but nods in any case.

"Duly noted." The vampire licks his lips carefully, "I'm hungry, so I'm gonna head out and get something to eat. You boys coming?"

Marko and Paul eagerly agree, though Dwayne politely declines.

"I think it's a good idea if someone stays here with (Y/n), and I'm not that hungry so I'm happy to do that." The dark haired vampire explains, watching me for a reaction as I give him a confused look, surprised at the offer.

"You don't need to, Dwayne. I'm grateful for the offer, but I don't want to ruin your night..." I start, only to be cut off by him sitting down beside me.

"Don't worry about it, I'd rather stay here. Plus, maybe you can show me how to do that. It'd get the job done quicker with two people doing it."

"I guess. Thank you." I murmur, still surprised, trying to ignore the blush rising to my cheeks.

"No problem."

"Right, well, we'll be back in a few hours. Want us to bring you something back, Dwayne?" David cuts in, eyeing the two of us carefully.

"No, it's alright. I'll go out when you guys get back."

"Ok. See you two later." Without another word, the three vampires leave the room, the surrounding quickly lapsing into silence as Dwayne and I sit there.

"So, how do you carve these?" He finally asks, pulling a knife from the pocket of his jacket, his thumb running swiftly over the blade to test it's sharpness.

"Oh, it's pretty easy. Just copy me..." I run through the basic premise of what needs doing, the vampire easily picking it up, the two of us starting to produce a good amount of them between us.

Part Nine

[bethagain]

I saw a post the other day lamenting that Din probably hasn’t felt the sun on his skin in years, and it reminded me that I never did share a tumblr version of this fic.

So, here's part III of my series On From Here. In which Din moves some rocks, eats some cake, and sits in a sunbeam.

Honest Work

The inn has a mechanical lift. It’s a small square box that lowers on a pulley. A thin cable rises from its roof and disappears into darkness above. Din looks at it skeptically and then takes the stairs. They’re narrow and dark, the treads shallow.  

“Leave the key!” the innkeeper calls after him, as he strides across the dimly lit lobby toward the exit. 

Making an enemy of his host here is not a good idea. 

He pauses to lay the key on the counter. The dull brass shank of it clinks against its worn metal fob. There’s nothing in the room to steal, anyway. 

-

The town center consists of a handful of low-slung buildings, all with the same tile roofs. Din pauses at the window of a repair shop. Everything inside looks old, mechanical, un-streamlined. They’d probably know exactly how to fix up the Razor Crest, with its pre-Imperial control system and antique wiring. If there were still a Razor Crest to fix.

Next is a general store, with bolts of fabric, tools, and fresh produce all for sale together. There’s a four-legged riding beast tied outside, a simple saddle on its back. A woman is choosing meemfruit from a bin near the door. She turns to watch him walk by. 

There doesn’t seem to be a proper drinking establishment. At the end of the row is a small cafe, with a handful of tables and a bar at the back. Several of the tables are occupied. Some people on their own, some groups of adults, a couple of families. Most have plates of food in front of them. A shelf above the bar holds an assortment of liquor bottles. 

This place will have to do. 

He orders a glass of whiskey, for the sake of manners, and settles in at the bar to wait. The armor serves as its own advertisement. 

"You're not going to find what you’re looking for here."

He turns toward the voice. The words are from a grizzled man seated at a corner table. 

Din doesn’t bother answering, just squares his shoulders back toward the bar again. Every place has someone who’s hiding. And someone else who wants them found.

The man has come over to the bar, now, and is sliding onto the stool beside him. 

Great.

"This is not that kind of town."

"Every town is that kind of town." 

"Not here." The man signals to the waiter, who pours something from a spigot and sets it down. Tiny bubbles break its surface, making a faint sound of static. He takes a drink. "We didn't hold with the Empire. We don't hold with the New Republic. We live and let live, around here."

"Fine." Maybe if Din agrees, this man will go away.

"You try to bring somebody in, the whole town's going to stop you."

"Look," says Din, "I have no quarrel with anyone here. I'm just looking to earn a few credits."

The helmet’s interface lets him know that someone’s taken the barstool on his other side. The screen fills the gaps in his peripheral vision. It’s a woman, long hair in a braid, sleeveless top and arms of solid muscle.

“Not here,” she says.

The other tables are emptying, more townspeople coming to form a semicircle behind him. Even the children are glaring at him.

Damn.

“All right.” He knows better than to move his hands without a warning. “Let me pay for my drink, and I’ll be on my way.” He reaches slowly for the pouch at his waist, keeping his hand well clear of his blaster. “What do I owe you?”

The bartender names a figure. Din doubles it, setting down the small stack of credits before rising to leave. 

The bartender tries to give the extra back. “That’s too much.”

“You keep it,” Din says. “Payment for the trouble.”

“Hold on.” It’s the man on the barstool beside him again. “You really just looking for work?”

Din waits, standing there by the bar. The townspeople stay there in their circle, but hands are starting to drift away from holsters. The weapons here seem to be mostly slugthrowers. Mechanical things, not blasters with their circuitry and electrics. Interesting.

“Any kind of work?” the man asks.

There are limits, even for someone like Din. “Honest work.”

The man grins at him, white teeth flashing through his unruly beard. “You look strong enough,” he says. “If it’s not beneath you, in your fancy armor there. I need somebody to move some rocks."

-

The job is not at all what Din had in mind, but it does, indeed, sound like honest work. And he’s not in a place to be picky. 

He’s sitting next to the bearded man on a plank across the front of a high-wheeled wooden cart. The cart is pulled by two solid-looking beasts, four-legged and shaggy. Their pace is sedate and steady, the cart rolling easily over grassland. They’re headed toward a row of trees in a valley, between rolling hills. 

The trees mark a stream, the man says, and on that stream is an old stone dam that diverts the water. “We’re opening up new farmland. Need to get that water back in its proper course. Get it down to the right place on the land. My regular crew could do it, but it’s heavy work. They’re not itching to volunteer.”

“Why not use an antigrav lifter?” Why pay a man for a whole day’s work, when a simple machine would cut that down to a couple of hours. 

“We’re not big believers in tech around here. Parts have to be imported. Electric’s complicated to repair. We don’t care to be dependent on anyone, any more than we have to.”

That explains the shop in town, then, with its antique machinery in the window. And the hotel lift, and the drying jets that don’t work anymore.

“That’s why the slugthrowers?"

-

“You noticed. That’s right.” The man chuckles. “Keeps things calmer, too. If you have to forge a new bullet every time you use one, you’re a little less likely to draw.”

The cart trundles along. The sky overhead is a clear blue, the sun warm. Din nudges up the cooling system in his armor. 

They go along a little way among the trees, until they’re beside a narrow stream of clear water. It emerges from a low pile of stones at the edge of a pond. 

From his seat on the cart, the man points to a smaller valley that runs off to the right. “The pond drains over that way, now. Pull the dam out, and it’ll run the way it should again.”

Din takes in the clear stream, the small oval pond, the branching valley. “Who’s using that water now?”

“The folks over yonder were a little too friendly with the Empire,” the man says. “Town asked them to leave.”

“Did they leave?”

“I thought you bounty hunters had a rule about asking questions.”

“This isn’t a Guild job,” Din says.

“Suppose not." The man turns to reach toward the back of the cart, and Din tenses. But he’s just picking up a wooden box by its leather handle. He hands it to Din. "Here's lunch. We're not fancy but our crew eats well. Water in the stream's safe to drink. And don’t worry, there’s no one left to come bother you.”

He waits while Din climbs down from the cart. “You could walk out when you’re done, but it's a long way after a day's work. I'll be back to get you at sundown."

Din watches the cart make its sedate way back through the trees, the shaggy beasts pulling at their traces, the man humming off-key as he goes.

He finds a flat rock to put the lunch box on. It contains a dented metal cup, a stack of wrapped sandwiches, some pieces of a fruit he doesn’t recognize, and a generous slice of cake that smells of ginger and dark sugar.

He closes the box back up again and goes over to inspect the dam.

This certainly isn’t his usual kind of work. But a ship needs fuel and a man needs food, and pushing on to the next port with just the credits he has on hand feels reckless. Unwise. Plus, being in debt to Boba Fett is like a deep itch under his skin. It’s not comfortable. He wants it gone. 

Din is no engineer, but piloting a ship means he’s used to thinking in three dimensions. He considers the shape of the dam, the way the rocks are stacked atop one another, the chinks where the water flows through. The thing looks like it was hand-built, the stones large enough not to move with the water but small enough to be picked up. The original stream cut a gully into the soil, but it’s shallow, the dam itself only a bit over knee-high. 

The forest floor here is carpeted with broad, leathery leaves. Wide-trunked trees are spaced far apart, with little undergrowth between them. Their canopies cast shade across the ground. Here and there, a few sunbeams find their way through. 

If he starts at the far side, removing the rocks in vertical columns, the stream should come slowly back to life. His gloves will protect his hands from the roughness of the stone. His boots are already sticking in the mud at the edge of the water. They’re water-resistant, good for a while in a rainstorm, but they’re going to be soaked through by the time he’s done. 

At first, muscles complain at being asked to move in ways they’re not used to. This steady pattern of bend, lift, bend is very different from the sudden, sharp quickness of a fight. His daily workouts are rigorous but they’re precise, prescribed patterns. Each of these stones has a different shape, a different weight. Keeping his feet out of the water, keeping his balance on the slight slope makes each one its own physics problem, its own little challenge.

Soon enough, though, he’s settled into the rhythm of it. He remembers to use his legs when lifting, to save strain on his back. He kicks up the cooling system again, as sweat begins to gather under the armor. 

The armor’s physiological monitors are simple, but they register heartbeat, breathing, temperature. Normally, he ignores the ping that says it might be time to take a break, to drink some water and catch his breath. Because normally, when that ping goes off, taking a break would either be desperately stupid--in the middle of a firefight?--or stupidly desperate, like during the hours walking the Tatooine desert back to Mos Eisley, carrying the wreckage of a speeder bike, no water at all on board.

This time, he gets the dented cup from the wooden box and carries it over to the stream. It’s already flowing faster, but his work has kicked up sediment. Din goes back to the box, grabs one of the wrapped sandwiches, and sets out to find the pond’s other outlet. 

It’s not far. The other stream burbles over a few rocks at the edge of the pond, then curves through another shallow gully and off down a gentle slope and away. One of the great trees rises nearby, a couple of its wide roots undercut by the water. 

He’s starting to feel chilled as the cooling system interacts with sweat-dampened clothing, so he switches the cooling circuits off. The helmet’s interface tells him the air outside is still warm. 

Din considers, sandwich in one hand, cup in the other. There is a sunbeam crossing over the tree roots, making the water sparkle.

The forest around him is quiet. 

Decision made, he dips the cup in the stream, then chooses a spot to sit on one of the wide tree roots, back against the trunk. He balances the cup on the leaf-covered ground, sets the sandwich down beside it. Then he lifts the helmet from his head, setting it in his lap as he rests his head on the tree’s rough bark, eyes closed against the brightness of the sun.

When did he last feel sunlight on his skin? It’s been a while. Before he picked up the child, surely. It hasn’t been safe to let his guard down. How long before that, though? He thinks back, but it’s a blur of work, the halls of the Nevarro covert, the streets of strange towns. 

Din knows better than to stay in the sun for long. Skin that’s always covered has no defense against UV rays. After a few minutes he shifts to the shade, sitting crosslegged on the forest floor. The water from the stream is sweet, with a slight mineral taste underneath. The sandwich isn’t bad either, fresh bread dotted with different kinds of grain, slices of some kind of tender meat and crisp green leaves with just a hint of bitter.

He makes his way back around the pond to continue the work. Wiggle each stone free. Lift, carry. He’s building a sort of stone cairn, setting each one down neatly, just because it feels good to see the thing take shape. 

His gloves are soaked by now, as he has to reach into the water to get at the lowest rows of stones. The water can’t be good for the circuits in the vambraces so he sheds those, too, setting them down on the flat rock beside the wooden lunch box, where his helmet already sits. 

He could keep the cooling system running, but it’s not designed for this kind of exertion. The constant movement will keep the power cell charged, but he’s sweating in spite of it, and the chill from the beskar is a distraction instead of a comfort. 

He’s already vulnerable without the helmet and the vambraces. He lays out cuirass, pauldrons, hip and thigh plates on that flat stone. His hand pauses on the blaster, but if it’s waterlogged it’s not going to work at all. 

He looks down at the thick fabric of the flightsuit, already wet at wrists and ankles. He's got another layer underneath it. May as well leave that too. 

He makes a detour through another sunbeam on the way back to the dam. 

Without the armor to filter the outside world, he’s aware of the warmth of the sun on his back. Of the change in temperature between sun and shadow. 

Without the helmet’s interface, he marks time by how the patches of sun creep slowly across the forest floor. 

When a rush of water takes him by surprise, soaking him from elbow to wrist and chest to hip, he sheds his shirt, laying it out on the stone cairn to dry. 

The air is still warm. The water that splashes his wrists is cool. He pauses again for food, then sets back to work. At one point he cups his hands in the running stream and drinks, then runs wet hands through his sweat-soaked hair. 

Clearing the last few stones means sinking his hands into mud to wrest them free. When he’s carried them over and set them atop the neat pile, he looks down and finds he’s covered in mud from chest to waistband. 

His employer said he’d be back at sunset. Din looks up, judging the height of the sun in the sky. Late afternoon, he guesses, edging into evening. It’s unpleasant fitting the helmet back on over wet hair, his face still damp with sweat, but he does it. The chrono built into the interface tells him there’s a good two hours until sundown. 

He turns a slow circle, heat and motion sensors overlaying his vision, sound turned up high. There’s birdsong high above him, but otherwise the forest is still. 

He fetches his shirt, piles the armor and flightsuit into his arms and carries it all to the edge of the pond. Then, thinking what the hell, he shucks boots, socks, and leggings and wades on in. 

Din doesn’t know how to swim. It’s not a skill he normally needs in his work. It’s not a skill he particularly needs now, either. But the mud is pleasantly soft against his feet, the water soothing to tired muscles. He ducks his head under, scrubs at the dirt on his chest, rinses away sweat. 

For the second time today, he uses his shirt to dry off. The approach of evening is bringing a slight chill to the air, so he pulls his other clothes back on, fastening the flightsuit over his bare chest this time before setting the pieces of his armor in place. 

Back at the flat stone he considers another sandwich, decides on the cake instead, and then sits there a while, licking sugar from his fingers and watching the stream at its full strength now as it sparkles its way down the valley. 

True to his word, the man is back with the wagon just as the sunbeams finish fading. He takes note of the neat cairn, and of the unfettered stream. “I wasn’t sure you’d really do it,” he says. “Guy like you. Work like this.”

Din just looks at him, impassive behind the helmet. He’s pretty much done with dignity these days, but this man doesn’t need to know it. 

“Well,” the man says. “We’re clearing more land tomorrow. If you want another day’s work.”

“I’ll take my pay for this one.”

“Of course.” He counts out the amount they agreed on and drops it into Din’s hand. “I mean it. We can always use a strong set of hands.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Where are you staying?”

Din names the inn. 

The man nods. “I’ll drop you there?”

“That would be fine.”

-

The first stars are out by the time Din steps down from the wagon, credits in his pocket and the last two sandwiches in his hand. He picks up the key from the innkeeper, climbs the narrow stairs, locks the door of the room behind him. He hangs his wet shirt in the shower room, lays out his wet gloves and socks to dry, strips off the armor and sets it carefully on the floor. His skin smells faintly of mud and minerals, but he can’t be bothered to shower. He sits by the window to eat, watching more stars emerge from the clear, dark sky. 

The money in his pocket won’t buy much. It’s a little more fuel, another day or two of getting by. 

He’ll leave in the morning. Probably. 

He still has no idea where to go.

[ryik-the-writer]

Laughter in the Walls: The Basement

A03

It was sometimes easy for Belle to forget that her new home was haunted.

There were days when Rumplestiltskin—the self-proclaimed “residential haunter” of the salmon-colored mansion—would be jumping off the walls, moving things, bringing chaos and excitement into Belle and her son’s life.

Then there were days like today when he’d go oddly quiet. Belle had woken up that morning to no Rumplestiltskin. None at breakfast, none when she saw Gideon off, and none now with her having more free time than she’d had in weeks.

Though she cared for Rumple very much, she took immediate advantage of his absence.

She went through the budget for the town library that was set to open in another week, unpacked her last box in the living room, and got the kitchen cleaned…all in less than thirty minutes.

She leaned back on her couch, listening to the clock hanging over the fireplace.

“Wow,” she muttered aloud. After being a mother for nearly 18 years and living in a haunted house, she’d grown completely unaccustomed to quiet time.

“Um…” she hesitated, double guessing when she’d ever get a moment like this again, a moment just to sit back and breath.

But that novelty quickly wore off.

“Rumple?” she called out, preparing for him to suddenly appear behind her or jump onto her coffee table…something!

But Rumplestiltskin did not appear or attempt to scare her.

Belle hummed, worrying her lip. Where was he?

With a determined hum, she began her search, going up the bedrooms and even checking the closets, on the way down she did the same until finally she stepped out into the garden.

Belle addressed the area, scrunching her nose at the dead vines on the fence. She hadn’t touched it since she moved in being that it was far too cold to begin cleaning up, and she was certain that Rumple would give her grief when she began.

She walked around the small space, mulling over her ghostly housemate’s antics.

The last few weeks had certainly been an adventure, truly the most interesting few weeks of both her and Gideon’s life so far.

Knowing Rumple’s life before his unfortunate death had softened her to him, and him to them in return it would seem.

Sure he still played his little tricks but he was finally allowing them to settle in and get comfortable.

But Belle had also noticed that he seemed to keep them at arm’s length as well.

He never officially joined them for meals, and the first time Belle asked him he looked shocked enough to die all over again. Instead he’d levitate peas or shuffle around silverware, hiding his true feelings behind harmless chaos.

She moved a stone with the toe of her shoe, mulling over where her residential haunter could be.

Her eyes landed on the dusty basement windows—the one room in the house she hadn’t touched yet.

Snapping her fingers, she ran back inside to find the key Mary Margaret Nolan had given her the day she moved in. It fit in the lock perfectly but Belle grunted a bit to turn it.

She had to force her weight onto the door to get the thing open and nearly tumbled down the stairs when it finally swung open.

She spat when she walked into a cobweb, waiving away dust and the smell of age as she carefully made her way down the skeptical wooden steps.

“Rumple?” Belle called down, her voice echoing off the gritty walls as she felt for a light.

She found the end of the steps—thankfully without falling down them—and squinted into the dark, just able to make out a few objects.

She stepped around carefully, hands reaching out to graze along what felt like furniture until blessedly she felt the coolness of a glass lamp shade. She eagerly groped the lamp until she felt pull string, and with a tough the room was illuminated in a gentle but useful light.

She blinked, letting her eyes adjust, and after a moment she gasped at the objects before her.

It was like she was in a dusty museum full of treasures. Furniture and lamps, and so much more that Belle just could not see from the lack of light.

She looked around and spotted the windows. They were caked in a thick layer of dust and dirt, the thinnest slithers of light struggling to escape.

Belle sidestepped a few crates and removed her cardigan, using a table against the wall to lift herself up so that she could clean the glass.

After a great deal of effort, the glass was clean enough so that she could see better. As she eased herself off the table, she felt paper crumple under her palms. She looked down and to her delight, the table she was on was overflowing with an old tea set and…books!

She brushed off her hands, eagerly examining the piles before her. Dickens, Hugo and even an older copy of Shakespeare poems! Some were unbound, as if someone were trying to prepare them?

One book towards the end seemed to be in the roughest state of all. It’s spine a strip of cloth and Belle couldn’t even make out the title on the overly worn cover, though she noticed that the spine was held together by some new thread.

She carefully picked the book up to look at the pages, hoping to gain some sort of insight of what the book was about when a cold presence suddenly washed over her.

“Careful dearie!”

Belle jumped back, knocking into the table behind her and causing the porcelain on it to clatter. She visibly paled when she heard one of the pieces hit the dusty floor.

Rumplestiltskin stepped to her side, taking the crumbling book from her hands much more gently than she thought he would.

“You’re holding one the first copies of La Belle et la Bête!”Rumplestiltskin growled. “It took me months just to stitch the pages back together.”

“I’m…I’m sorry,” Belle gasped, overcoming her shock quickly to address the damage she did to the porcelain tea set.

A lump formed in the throat when she found the cup she caused to fall on the ground, a very small but noticeable chip in its rim.

“I’m so sorry,” Belle said, cursing her unyielding curiosity. “I chipped it…”

She tensed when Rumple squatted down to her level, addressing the cup in her hands with a blank expression.

“You…you can hardly see it.” She offered with a strained smile.

Rumplestiltskin met her eyes and caught the fresh terror there. Though it pleased him he could make her feel such fear despite their month-long acquaintance, it did concern him just a bit. Did she really think he’d rage over a cheap tea set? Sure, it was bothersome that she stumbled into his sanctuary…but it wasn’t all his now anymore…

“It’s just a cup,” he assured, taking the thing out of her hands and avoiding how he almost…almost…felt the heat from her skin. “Worth nothing really. I don’t even have the full set any more.”

Belle visibly sagged in relief, picking herself up as Rumplestiltskin placed the cup on the table.

“What is all this?”

Rumplestiltskin turned to acknowledge the relics of his past, years of toil gathering dust or rotting right in front of his eyes.

“What’s left of my shop.” He answered, leaving her side to flick a cobweb from an old spinning wheel.

“Shop?” Belle gasped. “You had a shop here?”

“No,” he laughed wetly. “In town. They moved all this here after I…”

Belle worried her lip, know his next words.

“You…fixed things?” she said, rushing to change the subject.

“Fixed, appraised, some might even stole,” he giggled, though the humor wasn’t in his voice. “It was an antique shop with a pawning theme. When people couldn’t pay back what they borrowed for their items, I sold them. Some would call that theft.”

Belle shrugged, not wanting to comment on how a bit unfair that seemed.

“Is that why you came down here?” she inquired. “To remember?”

Rumplestiltskin blinked, a flash of who he used to be running before his yes.

Mr. Gold, the pawnbroker who owned everything in Storybrooke from the properties to everyone’s first born. The monster. The friendless fiend who’d watch parties and get-togethers at the diner from his car. Who had all the wealth in the world but no one to share it with.

Someone his own flesh and blood tried to forget.

“Rumple?”

He glanced back at her, those soulful blue eyes easing away his less savory thought.

“Not much to remember,” he sighed, walking past her.

Belle’s mouth went dry as she tried to find the right words to comfort him, however it was painfully obvious that their experiences with loneliness were painfully diverse.

The loneliest time in her life was during her pregnancy with Gideon and right after he was born. Will’s paternal instincts just wouldn’t turn on and her parents, thought accepting of her new role, were silently disappointed.

By the time Will left for good and Belle began online classes and a part-time job to support her new baby, she’d been able to accept her new role as a teenage mother.

And she’d never truly been alone, but judging by Rumple’s demeanor and the Nolan’s insight on his previously life, he had been.

She looked around at the objects that had filled his life, that brought him company when people could not.

She smiled fondly at the books, wondering how many hours he spent caring for them, if the words from the words managed to tame some of his time.

Her eyes scanned to the spinning wheel, wondering what he created from the antique.

 “What do you think about bringing this upstairs?”

He stared at the old spinning wheel, disgusted.

“Why?”

“It’s beautiful. It’d look great in my library,” She shrugged. “Plus, it was yours, and … this is your home too.

Rumplestiltskin scoffed, his gaze softening when his back was to her. “Do what you wish.”

Belle smiled, noticing the change in his tone. She got him this time.

She looked around the basement, noticing several other pieces that would fit in other parts of her – their home.

She’d volunteer Gideon to help her fish them out later, but for now she’d start small.

She turned to make work on the spinning wheel but noticed it had vanished. A moment later, a loud thump above sent a shower of dirt and dust on her.

“Wouldn’t want you to say something, dearie!” he called from upstairs—her library.

[mwcowan]

Mark & Georgia’s Big Trip

Chapter Seven – Miscellaneous Ramblings II

Another busy week, but that’s become the norm. At least this week we saw good progress towards getting everything together that we’ve been trying to get together. But not much of a theme so just some thoughts on the important events of the week.

Caretakers

The biggest milestone this week was that we selected and hired our housekeeper and caretaker. Plus their two boys – we will soon have a new family in our home, and we’re very excited. You’ll soon meet Ranny and Pina, and their boys Prince Denver and Ethan, who will take up residence in our caretaker’s apartment.

Ranny (pronounced “Ronny” – remember that the vowels AEIOU are pronounced here, without exception, Ah, Eh, Ee, Oh, Oo) for the previous seven years has worked as a groundskeeper for Kawayan Cove so he comes with excellent gardening and tree maintenance chops. Pina has been a homemaker, is a great cleaner and a good cook; Georgia says she’s a good student and will quickly learn our favorite dishes. She already knows that I like fresh fruit every morning – half the battle’s won already! Prince Denver (8 yrs) and Ethan (4 yrs) are just normal boys, though very polite. I think it’s going to be fun having them around.

Capiz

Capiz is both a province in the Philippines, on Panay Island, as well as an oyster from the area known for its special shell. A capiz oyster is on the left, the harvested and cleaned shell on the right. One shell of the oyster is flat, growing to 3-5 inches in diameter, and importantly, translucent.

You find all sorts of items here made from capiz – Christmas ornaments, outdoor lights, ashtrays, you name it. When we lived in the Bay Area, Georgia always said you could tell a Filipino’s house because of the capiz lights in the trees. Harvesting and producing craft items from the shells is today the principal livelihood of the people of Capiz. Historically, capiz is important in Philippines heritage and culture, one that’s given away by the Capiz oyster’s Western name: windowpane oyster. For thousands of years the shell served as the “glass” in Filipino windows; many older homes still feature these windows today.

So why this story about capiz? On this week’s trip to Manila, we were wandering around a mall and walked into an antique store. Stacked against the back wall we found a number of dusty old capiz windows. The shop owner had no hard information about their provenance but said they were likely from the 1800’s. They looked it; the Narra and Molave wood was weathered but the craftsmanship was still evident and not of this century. No nails or screws, the window frames are joined with hand-made mortise and tenons, held with wooden pegs. The capiz was dirty, but almost 100% intact – it looks fragile but is actually pretty sturdy stuff. We’re not sure yet what we’ll do with them, but we now have three panels. After an afternoon spent cleaning them we have a treasure we’ll proudly display.

Calamansi

I don’t think Calamansi has been featured in my Strange Fruit of the Day series; it’s really not that strange anyway. Calamansi is the citrus fruit of the Philippines. About ¾ to one inch in size, they look a lot like a key lime but aren’t limes. The insides and juice are orange, but they’re not oranges. They aren’t lemons either, they’re just Calamansi. They flavor many Filipino dishes: you’ll typically squeeze one onto your Pancit before eating, or onto your grilled fish, and they’re often an ingredient in the dipping sauces served with many dishes.

There are no limes here, so I had a dilemma: how to make a proper Gin and Tonic. Finding decent gin was easy (S&R/Costco), and after searching a few stores I found tonic water. But no limes. Calamansi to the rescue! I’m now able to enjoy my favorite summer cocktail. And it’s always summer here! Cheers!

The Massage Table

Massage is a way of life in the Philippines. Go to almost any beach and there will be massage tents set up, in the city there are plenty of establishments, or just call for home service. My only complaint, actually my neck’s complaint, is that the traditional Filipino massage is performed on a flat bed, not a massage table. You’ll sometimes find a real massage table but it’s rare. Fast forward to our weekly trip to S&R, and there it was! My neck had a sudden seizure as I tried to walk past, so into the cart it went! We set it up on the “meditation deck” and brought in a masseuse that Hervé and Lett turned us on to. She’s expensive, about $12 an hour, but good. Very good. Ahhhhhhhh, heaven!

Friends with Furniture

Our friends from Manila, Noel and Michelle Tanada, who have been mentioned before in my blogs (they’re the members at the Balesin Island Club with whom we’ve had some memorable trips) visited us yesterday. I don’t think I’ve ever said much about them. Michelle is a former local TV star/singer; after that career a serial entrepreneur, starting and running businesses in the advertising field. Noel was originally headed for a career in law, but left that world for his art, which encompasses traditional forms such as painting and sculpture, but his real passion lies with interior design and furniture design. In all they do they only use native and sustainable materials, or recycled materials, and always local labor. You can learn more and view some of their products at www.ecohomeart.com. They are also both active environmentalists, deeply involved with coral rehabilitation (www.coralmovement.org). This shot is with them at Balesin Island last year.

Today’s visit was more than a social call as they delivered a van full of furniture, some of the last items for our living room. We’d asked Noel to create some custom bar chairs, a breakfast table and chairs, and a credenza. Since we live in Kawayan Cove he chose a bamboo theme (kawayan is the Tagalog word for bamboo). He also brought a special floor lamp for us. All beautiful and unique pieces we’re proud to have.

House Tour

Finally all the major furniture is here and the house is feeling pretty livable (though we did fine with just a plastic card table and a mattress on the floor for the first 2 weeks…). So, I’ll wrap this up with a photo tour of our newly furnished rooms.

First up is the living room. The coffee and end tables from the acacia slab have arrived, we’re very happy with them and like the way they go with the sofa and love seat. The turtle on the coffee table is from Puerto Vallarta and has a special connection with Kawayan Cove – every fall Olive Ridley sea turtles arrive at Kawayan Cove to lay their eggs.

These are two of the barstools Noel designed for us. Using 100% native and sustainable materials, the backs feature split bamboo and the upholstery is hand-woven Tikog grass from Leyte. Besides a warm an inviting look, Tikog is durable and has a very nice, soft feel. It’s woven into many items here, historically the Banig which is the traditional Filipno sleeping mat.

Also in the same style and materials are this breakfast table and chairs. Noel feels the table design is sexy, resembling a woman’s curves. You decide!

One of Noel’s more creative pieces is this dramatic floor lamp, reflected in our corner windows. The lamp is made of water hyacinth reeds. Beyond being a sustainable material, the use of water hyacinth has an additional benefit as it’s a nuisance here, growing quickly and clogging rivers and harbors.

New in our master bedroom is this computer desk, made of mahogany from our design by Boyet, one of the construction foremen for our contractor. Boyet also made all of the cabinets in the house.

Our small guest bedroom, the one with the great view, has two new side tables of acacia, which we picked up pre-made at the same place where we got our slab. Note the baskets on the wall, which made their way here from the White Sulphur Springs Ranch rummage sale!

Last up is our second guest bedroom. In trade for the lack of a view you get a larger room, with a sofa and coffee table, which is the final piece of our acacia slab. Any of you who visited the Mokawk Community Resource Center last fall will recognize two paintings by Tyler Jacobsen, and a woven wall hanging by Salli Wise. Sorry the bed’s not made, we’ll make sure that’s done before you arrive!

[elishebe]

Sasuhina Secret Santa-Vampire AU

A/N: God I’m atrociously late, and excuses are trash, but I literally didn’t save my work when I damn near finished this last week, and I just...had to recover from that trauma and try to write it again lol. It’s honestly not as great as it would be if I weren’t so upset with myself for losing all the work and trying emulate it again, but I tried my best! Super sore again, Hope you like @fher43

-btw Hinata’s slighty ooc just because...i feel like six hundred plus years of vampirism does that to a person lol.

:: There’s something about the ripeness of age... ::

Unoriginal. Cheap. Cliche.

A birthday gift for his mother absolutely had to be authentic and well-thought out. She might appreciate anything she received, but she could smell things like cheap and overdone.

But Sasuke’d be lying if he said he didn’t feel any hope this antique shop he stumbled upon. It was dingy in all the right ways, and he was the only customer in. A turn around each corner and something ancient and beautiful would appear eclipising the last item he’d seen.

And then he turned another corner, the shopkeeper standing right before him.

Mismatched, Sasuke thought. Completely and utterly.

From the deep, velvet maroon of her lip, to the smokey obsidian modeling the edges of her eye with a blackish cardinal pigment dusting from eyelid to brow bone--well--Sasuke was no stranger to heuristics or falling prey to stereotypes himself. Thus he was good of watching himself, and looking at her darkly themed makeup, which he was indeed a fan of, decided it was just her interest and mood, not her personality entirely.

Even the hair he could reconcile as just...another thing, he supposed. Blue, though dark. Smalt, even. It fell down around her--bone straight, obedient--like a stream, and her long bangs acting as a curtain parted along the sides of her trim face for the main act as pearlescent orbs descended upon his shirt.

But that small bat tattoo right below the eye...well it was hard to think her anything other than what he believed upon seeing it.

So-

That angelically soft smile had caught him off his guard.

“Theatre of Tragedy?” She asked with a glance at his shirt, cup in hand, looking away as she pulled at spine backs of books.

Sasuke stared at the woman from down the aisle, mindlessly approaching her. She sorted through some large books, and with one hand, before picking one up with a graceful ease.

“Venus is my favorite song right now.” She remarked, pleasantry on her lips, as she turned to him; glassy lavender eyes were like white against her eyeshadow. “What about you?”

Sasuke blinked. “Uh...And When He Falleth.”

Her visage warped with a thoughtfulness, nodding. “Yeah, I like that one too.” Her eyes were trained on the book, trying to place it properly. “They’re a bit old school. I’m surprised to see such a young fan.”

He tilted his head slightly. Young? He wanted to ask. She didn’t look much older than him, if at all. He could pin her three years older than him at most, and the band would still be considered ahead of her time too.

Sasuke poked his head in an victorian-themed wardrobe. “Yeah I’m...into old shit...I guess.”

He didn’t miss the way her lips twitched at that. Without looking up the woman replied,”That explains why you’re here I guess.”

The raven haired man nodded. “That explains why I’m here-well, uh-”He paused. That wasn’t true, well it was true, but-

“I’m looking for a present.” He elaborated. She took a sip from her cup and gave him her full attention.

“You work here?” Sasuke asked, lamely, might he add as if it weren’t obvious.

The woman peaked at him through long bangs, a smile at her lips, and something wistful behind i

“I own here.” She answered, “But my apologies. I should’ve introduced myself. My name is Hinata. I’m the owner and dealer of this shop.”

She was sort of...very pretty, he quickly noted, maybe too quickly. But further than that, although she looked no older than him, something about her did rightfully belong in this small antiques store. He just...couldn’t name it.

“What’s the present for?” She asked.

After explaining his predicament, Sasuke found himself following behind a magical creature. The store was somewhat cramped, and he had to shift and duck a few times making for some disjointed steps, but the woman before him was like...a floating gothic sheet of clouds hung low to the ground. Her movements were subtle and graceful. Her black lace cover up flowed behind her in an intriguing and dramatic way.

As he trailed behind her, he put his hands on some knives for the sake of it, and called ahead of her, “How did you get into Theatre of Tragedy?”

“I’ve been around.” She answered.

Sasuke glanced down at her. “So what?”

She looked him up and down once before turning around a counter to open a cupboard. “Means I’m an old soul. So I guess I also...am into ‘old shit’.” She mocked.

Sasuke smirked at her mockery leaning against the counter. “Old soul...” He mumbled. “how old?”

She hefted a large box onto the counter. “686 years to be exact.”

The dark haired male belted a low chuckle.

“Here,” She said to him opening the box with an assortment of jewelry. “It’s a 19th century French and Japanese collection. I especially like the brooches; they’re designs are more reflective of the era. See anything your mother might like?”

“You, probably.” He responded ignorant of the subtext behind it. Though it was very true his mother loved individuals with a fascination and knowledge of things she knew little about. And considering the expanse of this shop, there was much this woman could talk his mother’s ear off about.

He looked up at her to find her fighting a laugh, with a shake of the head. He felt a warmth rise to his face.

“Oh, I...I didn’t-I wasn’t trying to...”

“Flirt.” She finished for him, understanding look in her eyes, but teasing smile about her lips.

“Yeah...not that I wouldn’t. I mean-” He said opting to look at the brooches rather than her amused face. “I just, like...these are really nice.”

Hinata had surrendered to her giggles, and Sasuke tried to brush it off as he rubbed his neck, sighing at his own failing.

“I’m so sorry for laughing,” Hinata apologized holding her stomach in between fits of laughter.

Sasuke smirked. “It’s fine.” He peeled the black and red one from the box. “I think I’ll take this one.”

::

A Week Later

::

“Witch?”

“Nope.”

“Sorcerer, wizard, warlock?”

“Those aren’t all the same as witch?”

“I don’t know I’m asking you, Not-Witch.”

“I don’t know. But, still wrong.” Hinata replied dusting the wooden, creaky floor.

Sasuke sat in her chair at the counter, playing with an old toy staring at her all the while. He’d came back the day after he got the present. Though it was simply because he didn’t get a good look at the whole shop, and that was it, he supposed. While the shop itself was tiny, there was much to see, and in the meanwhile, he had a wildly likable  and likely magical witch (or rather not-witch) for a personal tour guide. Extremely personal, he hardly ever saw anyone in here but himself.

In the midst of it their proximity, Sasuke had become more and more certain of her magical not-witchery. She moved like water, didn’t have a door bell to know when people come in, but somehow always knew he had arrived, and

she knew everything.

“Mmm, nymph? Fairy?”

She shook her head, but then wore a pondering look. “I do know a nymph actually. You have one more try. I’ll even give you a hint: remember how old I told you my soul is?” Hinata looked at him with amusement; she was sure he was being funny.

“No.” He deadpanned.

Hinata turned around chuckle jostling her shoulders.“Be careful with this next one or I win.”

Sasuke squinted at her, and leaned over the counter.

“Werewolf.”

Hinata cocked her head in laughter. “You must be teasing me now. I told you I have a cat, right?”

“Nah, I definitely told you I have a cat.” Sasuke retorted slumping his chin into his arms. “I’m a bad remembererrer-er.”

“Without a doubt.”

Sasuke folded his arms together. “So what are you, Hyuga?”

“An antiques dealer,” replied she. She stopped sweeping to look at him. “And what are you, Uchiha?”

He looked thoughtful a second.

“Charming.”

She leaned into her broomstick as she heaved an amused sigh. Sasuke stared intently. He liked making her smile.

“You sure you’re not a witch? Got the whole broom stick thing-”

“No.”

::

Two Weeks after first walk in

::

“So why do you persist to congest my store further?”

Sasuke scoffed lightly. “Congest?” He asked looking around the store, devoid of other customers. “I’m practically keeping you business.”

“I believe the key word is ‘practically’. In order for that to be remotely true, Sasuke, you’d have to buy something; not loiter all day. You must find me very entreating if you insist on continuing to come without purchasing a single thing,” She ended with a smirk. 

Sasuke rejected the rather obvious notion. “It’s not because of you,” He grumbled, sliding a long spined book out of its place to open it. “I’m here for the books, I’m here for..” He squinted. “Paradise Lost.”He held up the book in hand at her. “A true classic,” He urged.

Hinata stood staring, unconvinced, but always in the mood to entertain him. “You sound very familiar.”

“That’s what happens when you read books, I guess. You know them...” He trailed off as his eyes caught sight of another title, one he actually knew.

Hinata huffed. “You’re starting to sound like....” She trailed off as she saw him towering over the glass encasement of another one of her rare editions of old literature. 

“See a read you like? One you actually know?” She teased.

Sasuke crossed his arms. “In addition to, actually,” He said, evoking a defeated sigh from her. 

“I know this one--The Witch’s Hammer. It was hard to get my hands on a hardcover copy of it. But this one looks...extremely old. Like something of a museum.”

“That’s because it’s a first edition. An original copy.”

She observed him quietly, watching as his eyes wanted over the glass, seemingly entranced by the ancientness about it. It was a grey brown old thing, but she learned how to preserve it, to a point that she could even pick it up to read herself from time to time. 

“Hn,” He grunted before unlatching himself from the glass. “Guess you are a grandma.”

Hinata gave him a pointed look. “Nice,” She said, sardonic taste about her reply.

“How much?”

“Not for sale. You’re welcome to look always. That’s not a privilege I give to all customers.”

Sasuke looked around himself. “Do you have like...ghosts for customers? Because who...else..is here besides me.”

The pleasantry in her eyes didn’t fade. “That’s for me to know.”

Sasuke’s lips parted, and closed, as he struggled to decipher the seriousness of that statement. He settled with a defeated nod, and “Okay.”, before pressing on. 

“But...can I look at it?”

Her eyebrows furrowed. “You are.”

“With my hands.”

“Didn’t know that was possible,” She admitted, as she rounded the corner to the encasement. 

“You know what I mean.”

“Your faith in my understanding of you is impressive,” She remarked unlocking the glass door. She grabbed the book carefully from its closure. “I wouldn’t usually do this, but for such a loyal ‘customer’--and I use that term loosely-- I’ll make an exception.”

She laid it out in her arms for him to take. “It’s still pretty sturdy, I’ve done well to maintain it--it might even be in better condition than some of the non-encased books here; that’s how much I like it. But, I’ll lend it to you.”

Sasuke grabbed the large heavy book from her arms and examined its exterior before tucking it away under his arm. 

“Thank you.”

She nodded to him. “Glad something here genuinely grabs your interest.”

Though of course, for him, something already had.

::

A month after first walk in

::

“Walk in front of it. I wanna see.”

She smirked. “See what?”

“Just...go. I wanna see.”

Hinata put down her coffee cup, and walked in front of the mirror.

“I can see you,” Sasuke noted.

Hint nodded slowly. “Nothing gets past you, Sasuke,” She said with a straight face walking back to her stool.

Sasuke scoffed. “You know what I meant. How come I can see a vampire in a mirror?”

“Because. This is a mirror. It reflects things. Images.”

Hinata smiled. He was all but pouting now-it was cute.

“So that old rumor is just wrong, plainly.” Sasuke said folding his arms.

Hinata smiled looking at him through the mirror. He was significantly taller, though somewhat lanky, and she did appear, at least, to be his age. His attire was black and ripped from the denim jacket to the jeans. The fine contrast of jet black hair to his skin was impossible to miss.

The young Uchiha might’ve caught her eye half a millennium ago, but the wafting charm that seemed irresistable to everyone around fell flat on the ageless woman. Though this did nothing to diminish her fondness for the boy; however,

to her, he was just that: a boy.

Crash!

She turned to find Sasuke quickly but gracelessly trying to pick up the metallic vase up off the floor, which he’d clearly dropped. She watched him with quiet humor about her eyes.

He must’ve been staring too hard again...

::

Three months After first walk in

::

“How much blood do you drink?”

Hinata paused at that question. She knew he’d come to ask about the blood eventually. Although, it was rarely how much, rather than what, how, or how often. 

“Enough.” She answered.

“where do you get it from?”

Hinata flipped another page to her book. “I have a friend at the blood bank, but occasionally animals.”

“Can I see your fangs?”

“Absolutely not.”

Sasuke looked at her strangely. “Is it like...offensive?”

She looked over to him. “Imagine I asked you to pull your pants down.”

Sasuke blinked a moment, uncertain before looking back to her. “I mean...I’d do it.”

Oh brother.

::

Five years after first walk in

::

“So, how was she?”

Sasuke stretched himself out on the chair as Hinata paused her sweeping. She looked over at him excitedly.

“She’s nice. Cute too.”

Hinata turned to him with optimism glint about her eyes. “So your date was...”

“Insufferable,” He answered.

Hinata looked to him, pitiful smile. “How so?”

“i don’t like her.”

Hinata put her broom down to refill her tea. “You just met her. Never took you for a ‘love-at-first-sight type’.”

“Yeah, don’t have much patience for anything less I guess.”

He saw her shaking her head as she poured her tea. “I’m just kidding.”

“I’d hope.” She encouraged, a smile in her voice.

“...give me five years. I’ll know.”

::

Twenty years after first walk in

::

She heard the door open and close from the back of the store, pleasantly surprised at the smell of her “customer”, whom had bought only one thing in all these years of dropping by.

He’d been visiting a lot less frequently. In fact it’d been a handful of years, if not more, since he last had come, but before then, he’d come at least biweekly, and before then, multiple times a week, if not even everyday.

Maybe she was exaggerating.

She didn’t usually keep such close track of time.

Even still, he did visit less often these days, and by a sweet twist of irony, she wanted to see him more often these days, much more often.

Though, maybe she just missed him.

She figured maybe he’d grown busy, other parts of her even thought bored. The former would make more sense though, considering his current presence. Whatever the case, she thought, setting down her broomstick to twirl around to him, she was glad he found his way-

Well.

She cleared her throat, trying to rid of her face the contorted expression she knew she might be wearing.

But she just...forgot what time could do to a person. 

When she thought or remembered Sasuke, she remembered him young. Not thirty-five. certainly not forty-some odd years either. She’d forgotten, that he was no longer twenty. That he’d grown in the span of their friendship, and that he was human, and that time was an arguably real thing for him.

His face was exactly the same, only, not quite. He wore a more...eloquent expression. Eyebrows just slightly pinched, that she remembered, but with an adult concern that she couldn’t. There, just the slightest wrinkle at the side of his pitiless black eyes and his mouth had creases beside it, and his cheeks were slightly sunken. His hair had grown, thrown back with a few black threads rebelling onto his face against the rest with whiskered greys at the side. His build had widened in muscle, but his posture carried that common burden of adulthood. And...gone was the rebellious  aesthetic: he wore a black button down shirt with some grey office slacks and dress shoes.

He wasn’t so different from last she saw him, but twenty years prior kept breaking her thoughts, and she thought maybe this was a different person. It couldn’t be helped, a younger Sasuke had came around more, spoken to her more, annoyed her more, was more familiar.

This older Sasuke was infrequent and inconsistent...and adult.

Looking around playfully, the man then turned back to her,”I’m here for the books...’Lost in paradise’, in particular.”

Hinata smiled. “I have no books of that name here, but Paradise Lost, yes, that I can do.”

“Damn.” Sasuke’s lips had twitched. “It’s been a while since I’ve picked it up for a reread.”

“Maybe if you had bothered to buy it, you’d know its name.” She responded.

He chuckled with heaviness about his voice, she wasn’t familiar. “But then I’d have no excuse to come back here, and look at other things I won’t buy.”

She observed him quietly as he rounded the corners of the store, attention captured by the subtle differences that age had committed against his mannerisms. 

“So that’s the reason.”

“Hn,” He huffed before returning his attention to her with a small smile. “It’s been some time.”

The vampire offered a light shrug. “It’s been about a month, on my timeline. No worries.”

Sasuke carefully pulled at the straight of his pant legs before settling himself slowly in his regular old stool. “It’s been too long on mine.”

How strange, a troublesome thought had perverted her mind. Her heart only beat a couple times per day, and when it did, rather mundanely so. This time, however...it was like a ricochet, and strong like...it was alive.

She inhaled deeply, sweeping her store as she routinely had been for the past century.

“I’ll assume I’m still welcome to overstay it.” His face was placid like usual, but that wink was new. 

Hinata watched him with her back turned, more mindful of his movements, evaluating the similarity of then and now. even six years ago when he’d last been, Hinata had begun to take note of the waves of adulthood ushering over him. A little less awkward, slightly more tense, equally as charismatic, which netted to zero. Maybe even richer, too. Though, that she had no interest in.

“How old are you now?” she asked.

The raven haired male paused in between flipping through Paradise Lost--he picked up the same exact copy every time. Black orbs darted to her, they seemed more intense than before.

“That’s the first time you’ve asked me that,” He remarked.

 “Now can be your first time to answer.”

“It’s offensive to ask we human adults things like that you know?” He said, a mischievous glint about his eyes. 

“Really? I hear it’s only rude if you’re old.”

“I’m forty-two,” He replied, with a quickness about it that made her laugh. He went to looking back to the book. “For some reason I assumed you’d always known. But why do you ask?”

Hinata resumed her sweeping with a joke on her lips, “And you were a mere, what? Seventeen, sixteen--when you first walked in here?”

Sasuke’s eyes found her. “I was about to be twenty. Jesus. That’s how annoying I was?”

She laughed at his bewilderment. “It was endearing.”

“God, save your pity.”

Pausing her chore, she looked to him. “So how’s life? How is Sakura?”

A coldness befell him, that she wasn’t expecting. 

“Our wedding was beautiful,” He started. She blinked; he’d gotten married to her? “But our divorce really takes the cake I’d say.”

Hinata dusted the inside of a wardrobe. “I...I’m sorry to hear that,” She was, but her mind was skidding a little. He’d gotten married? And she knew nothing of it? She was almost sure ten plus years of friendship just might earn one a wedding invitation. Though she withheld any selfish thoughts or ideas--they’d been estranged for some time, after all.

“I’m not. Christ, I’m never marrying anyone for my mother’s sake again.”

She chuckled lightly as she retreated to her side of the counter, to finish her cup of tea, and watched him quietly. She couldn’t help but study this new Sasuke. It really did feel like such short time ago when he was full faced and somewhat cheeky and quick to retort. 

“You got married...when?”

He sighed. “About a year and half after I stopped coming here. Finalized that divorce a couple months ago.”

Sasuke never missed those eyes when they were trained on him. Mainly because it wasn’t often that she actually did look at him. She’d usually be in her duties or already know what he was doing without turning to him; he supposed he never had a good excuse to be seen by her. Though now, she was being rather overt.

“I must look extremely odd to you, if time flies the way it does for you.”

He watched her take a sip from her tea, lavender eyes--starkly illuminated by that dark eye makeup--still glued to him even from behind her cup, and an imperceivable emotion behind them.

“Mhm,” She agreed setting her mug down. “You’ve grown, Sasuke.”

He blinked slowly down at the counter, unsure of how to respond to that--he felt like it’s something his relatives would say to him twenty some odd years ago, not an antiques dealer he can’t seem to leave alone. 

He huffed. “Tryna call me old now?”

She joked, “Aren’t you?” 

“Nah.”

Her face was telling, and she was, in a word, unconvinced. 

His eyes challenged hers, before moving his leg out from under the counter. “I’m gonna extend my knee. If you don’t hear anything, I’m young as can be.”

“Is that a fair risk for your joints?”

She saw his leg twitch, but his eyes didn’t waiver. 

He hesitated.“No,” He replied breaking into a smile. “Yeah it’s true. I’m old as shit.”

“Welcome to the club, my friend.”

::

A week later

::

Infatuated...She didn’t quite like that word. No, it wasn’t fitting. Maybe she was just being particular about the whole thing...she hadn’t felt like this for a long time. She’d never been so...

smitten--that’s the word.

She didn’t remember the last time she’d been so smitten on a human.

More conversely, she didn’t remember the last time she’d been this smitten without an ounce of reciprocation. 

The new Sasuke had grown to be a stone wall, save for the occasional sarcastic comments; but with respect to her affection, everything seemed to be falling flat. He was ignorant of everything she threw to him.

She reached behind the counter, embarrassed almost, but mostly proud. Though still, she’s never had to...be so obvious.

She subtly turned from her book, to see his nose trapped in one as well--he was a bit quieter than he used to be.

“Sasuke, I have something for you.”

He looked away from his book to meet her gaze. Hinata plopped the plant on the counter. 

“It’s a piece of my garden--my tomato garden. I remember you’ve always liked when I brought them, so you can have some of it for yourself. If you want, of course. I don’t mind taking it back home,” Hinata explained.

His smile was ear to ear. “I...thought I smelled something earthy, but I was not expecting this.” He got up out his chair. “This is kind of-wow. Thank you.” 

She crossed her arms satisifed at his reaction. “So, do you think you’ll need any help planting it?”

He shook his head, looking it over. “Nah...but if worse comes to worse, I’ll look up a video. And if worse actually comes to worse, I’ll...probably call my mother for a tip or two.”

Hinata nodded at him. “Okay, well I’m free to help as well.”

Sasuke huffed, amused. “Even my back can handle a simple planting job like this one on my own.”

Smiling softly, she concede with a nod of the head, ignoring her growing plight. This may be more cause for trouble than she hoped.

::

Two weeks later

::

She had always seemed older to him. Even now, when she looked how she did, she gave off an air of wisdom and certainty that could rival the physical laws of nature. But it was extra weird now because he looked older than her, and sort of did feel like it, but things were still uncertain to him. He honestly just didn’t like how it felt being attracted to someone who looked, that young...maybe even just a couple years short of being his kid, but was simultaneously old enough to make his own intellect cower.

Sasuke glanced over at her, balancing his weight on the back legs of the chair.

“What is that?” He asked, referring to the book which seemingly captured all of her attention.

She hardly looked up. “Conjuring ways to seduce you.”

Shock. Then confusion, crashed onto his eyebrows.

 And fixed his seat, slamming it to the floor. “Wh...I...that’s not even wha-”

“I know.” Hinata muttered. He might’ve thought she were kidding if not the dejected look she wore on her face as she browsed the contents of her book.

“Seduce me?”

“Mhm.”

He was silent a moment. “Hn...” He grunted, thoughtful, but then a thought came to mind. “Why are you....why am I suddenly something worth being ‘seduced’?”

Hinata removed her hand from under her chin, to turn a page in her book. “I do recall saying sometime ago...I’m into, well how you put it: ‘old shit’. But really, I’m just an antiques dealer. Things, to me, become more beautiful with time; when they have a nice layer of dust, or wrinkles coating them in life.”

Sasuke faced her from around the counter, looking seriously at her. “Is this you’re way...of calling my wrinkles sexy?”

Hinata shook her head, amused at his ability to make humor of anything. She also wanted to tell him, that he had hardly any wrinkles to look twice at. And also that forty-two, realistically, was somewhat far from old.

But she also watched the way he was watching her, and it was tentative but fond, but not akin to how it used to be. She released a low huff of dismay.

“What a pity,” She started with a sad smile. “You don’t like me anymore.” She said crossing her arms.

She wanted to roll her eyes at the onset of denseness as he looked at her confused. He was getting ready to dispute it, she knew, on the basis that her friendship meant a lot to him, and absolutely nothing meaningful to her in the moment.

Sasuke’s brows pinched. “That’s insane,” he said.

Hinata met his challenge. “Not entirely.”

“No. You’re-” His expression made a weird change she couldn’t pin point before   relaxing.

“I more than liked you, Hinata,” he stated making an obvious face, like she were dense. “I didn’t come by because I more than liked you, and thought maybe I should give these emotions to someone else. I mean that didn’t...work, but-” He cleared his throat. “i’m here again. And I still...more than like you.”

::

A/N: Yeah that ending...will be edited lol, but hope you somewhat enjoyed. Through it all, I honestly enjoyed writing this AU and I absolutely loved exploring those little pieces of art and literature you threw to give the AU some more richness. It was extremely fun to do, and I added some books on my to-read list lol, anyway it’s super late but Happy Holidays ! @fher43

[miraclejune]

HERO’S SOUP: Chapter 4

Bonded

The suffocating silence bothered Jeongin. The rest of the pack rushed at the doorstep, including Jisung, bombarding him with questions he couldn’t quite understand. Amidst the chaos, Seungmin stood in front of the boy, blocking him away from Chan whose eyes have been gazing at him intently.

A firm grasp on Woojin’s left wrist made him look up, “Woojin.” Jeongin’s voice was desperate. Woojin knew he wanted answers as well.

He pulled the boy to his side, earning the long-awaited silence. Seungmin was about to speak up when his eyes found Jeongin’s, they were practically begging him to just stay quiet.

The witch’s furrowed eyebrows relaxed as he sighed in defeat, pushing the rest inside the house. Seungmin went back and dragged Felix and Minho by their ears, both breaking into a fit of whines. The alpha turned to Jeongin, giving the boy a small smile before leading him inside the house. Woojin’s hand was big and warm, Jeongin felt reassured with just that.

His eyes wandered around the wide hallway, his muddy shoes leaving stains on the carpeted floor. Jeongin reminded himself to apologize to Woojin later. The hallway was decorated with simple paintings on the walls and a few vases on top of stools. The pack probably didn’t want to redecorate the place in honor of the previous owner.

With that, he started coming up with questions regarding the wolves and Chan's lives. Plus, the mansion.

The hallway leads to an open space. Jeongin, who was whisked away from his thoughts, saw the rest of the boys gathered at the circular sofa, their heads were on the same level as his and Woojin’s feet. “Careful of the steps, Hyunjin usually slips.” the mentioned wolf whimpers, receiving a loud cackle from Changbin. 

“He trips at least twice a week.” the sunken living room thing wasn't Hyunjin style, he tends to forget about the level difference.

Felix giggled uncontrollably, “What?” His deep voice was cut off with the sudden stares from everyone in the room. For the first time in a while, the tension was broken. Chan huffed out air, he too was tired of the heavy air around them. He smiled, “Felix is easily amused, pay him no mind.” The first playful words coming from him swept the suffocating air away.

Felix pouted, shouting a loud ‘Hey!’ afterward. While the others laughed, Woojin pulled Jeongin, settling him in between Jisung and Hyunjin. “Are you okay now, Jisung?” the wolf nodded, giving the boy a smile as they opened up a small talk. Hyunjin leaned over, gingerly placing his head on the boy’s shoulder.

Jeongin flinched and grew stiff at the sudden contact but loosened up at the sight of Hyunjin. “Jinnie, don’t make the boy uncomfortable.” Hyunjin whined and attached himself to Jeongin, earning a soft giggle from Woojin. The alpha eventually gave up, he can’t change the fact that Hyunjin is a cuddle bug.

The laughter died down, it was silent. But not the same silence as earlier. Woojin beams as he faces Chan. “Oh, why don’t your friends introduce themselves, huh, Chan?” Felix and Minho spares Chan a glance, finally speaking up when the older nods. They don’t usually get permission from someone higher than them, they were free spirits, usually messing with people back in Japan. But after meeting Chan, they pay so much respect for the vampire.

Felix’s meeting wasn’t the best one, but it was pretty memorable.

Chan was on a trip to Japan; he was importing vases from a very famous antique shop in Okinawa. It was a hard gamble as the owner of the shop didn’t want anyone to re-sell his products. Chan was a very patient person, he tried to talk as calmly and casual as possible. But the old man was not having any of it. He was close to just hypnotizing him, but it bothered his conscience, not that he has one anyways.

On his way out, he was bothered by an eerie presence, it was subtle but he can tell the sheer amount of power being suppressed. His head snapped towards the rooftop of a candy shop. There, he saw a small white fox watching him intently with his doe eyes, his speck-littered face standing out in the open.

The fox was sure his presence was hidden. As he made eye contact with the man, his small body shivered in fear. Chan’s deep and dark orbs flashed red; he smiles at the fox. Nodding at him before going his merry way.

Felix was a bit... well, arrogant. The town where his shrine was located was somewhat peaceful. The bad spirits were nothing more than deranged souls who strayed from their paths. And he wasn’t the only God/Guardian in that huge town. There were lots of them. Ranging from powerful to mediocre ones. Felix was one of the most influential and known Gods. His personality in most cases is pretty normal. He was a nice God, a bit playful, nonetheless. But the residents don’t have complaints against the fox.

They admired him the most whenever they got to see a glimpse of his full form. His huge figure partially hidden in the depths of the woods as the moon reflected against his glimmering white fur, littered with black specs focused on his face. Felix was beautiful indeed.

The fox had no particular reason for staying. But he had a reason for leaving. It was Chan.

“I’m Felix. I am uh, a 9 tailed fox, Minho and I are both from Japan.” Chan snickered as Felix began unveiling his tails one by one. The room broke into gasps. Minho turned to Chan, on cue, they both laughed underneath their breath as they shook their heads simultaneously.

Lix was a bit of a show-off. It wasn’t the worst, but you can’t help but scoff whenever he does so.

Chan glances at Jeongin who was busy admiring Felix’s tails. He can’t help but break into a smile when the boy stood up and asked Felix, politely, if he could touch them. Felix gave the boy a big smile, telling him it was fine. 

“Wow, so fluffy!” The rest literally melted when the boy jumped up and down with a silly smile on his face. His braces are on full view for everyone to see. And when most of them have moved on by the majestic scene, Jeongin couldn’t stop admiring the fox. Felix forced him to sit down between him and Seungmin.

Felix has always been nice. Sure, he was a bit playful with the townspeople near his shrine but in general, he was just a quiet God. Looking over his people. His specialty was love so inevitably everyone in his village is always oozing with love. Not only romantic but all kinds of love!

Minho was a different case. He was stubborn and naive. He liked playing with the locals, The schoolgirls who visit his shrine, he usually blows wind gusts towards the girls, their skirts riding up as the harsh wind hits them. He would throw rocks at the roofs of some elderly people, just for the heck of it. They know it was him. The god of their village. His shrine was atop a small hill, with a perfect view of the whole village. The elderly would curse at him, using mantras to make the God go back to its shrine.

You would really expect him to have a bad reputation within the town. With his usual childish acts and pranks, he should’ve been a stray god by now. But he wasn’t. Minho is weird and arrogant and obnoxious. But the village was thankful for him, Minho has done a lot of stupid things but none of them are gravely bad. He has done better than any god that has set foot in their small town. Minho always gave them a good harvest, plenty of fish, and nature was always bountiful and vibrant. And his petty pranks made the village livelier.

That’s why when Chan stumbled upon his shrine, he couldn’t help but admire the size of it. It was vibrant and clean. Offerings piled neatly on the shiny wooden floor. People from all around the village visit back and forth. Chan was impressed, despite the bad reviews of the God, the locals still respect and admire him.

But, up to this date. He never really knew why the cat left Japan. He never knew why Chan snuck into his hotel room on his last day there.

“I’m Minho. I’m a ‘Bakeneko’.”

“What’s that?”

“It means ‘Ghost Cat’. I came from Japan.”

Changbin nodded, somewhat satisfied with the answer given to him. It was a pretty straightforward description.

After the pleasantries were exchanged, they all engaged in conversations. It wasn’t just a small, casual talk to fill in the gaps. They talked about stuff close friends normally drabble in. Woojin can’t help but smile as he admires the people around him going along just fine, despite the multiple feuds they had within the span of a day.

Seungmin who was wandering his eyes around finally decided to ask the question that has been sitting in his head. “How did you guys get ahold of this place?” his tone directed to Woojin. With a weary look, the rest of the pack turned their heads to their alpha. “Yeah, how did you find this place?” Seungmin followed Jeongin’s gaze towards Woojin, thankful because he backed him up.

Woojin can’t help but break into a smile with the boy’s gesture. Jeongin’s head was tilted to the side as he playfully wrapped one of Felix’s tails around his wrist.

“Well, to make things short. There was this soldier who stumbled upon our small den during World War I. He was miles away from his battalion. He was a wise guy to say the least.” A few pairs of eyes followed Woojin’s finger, pointing at a huge portrait on the cream-colored walls. 

Woojin lowered his hand, proceeding with his story.

"Jisung,” the said wolf lets out a small whine, lowering his head. Hyunjin threw a hand around the wolf, nuzzling him closer. “Was still very sensitive back then–” his next words fell to the floor, unsaid, as he saw Jisung shaking a bit in the arms of Hyunjin. He cleared his throat and decided to choose his words wisely. “Changbin was very territorial. While Hyunjin was the most rational between all of us. It was hard not to trust the man; he was very clever for his age. He didn’t like war. Wished he could stop it, but instead he was forced to join the army in the name of his family’s honor.”

Jeongin was compelled by the story. His eyes glistened in curiosity as he listened to the alpha’s soothing voice. He felt like a kid again, listening to his teacher’s stories during kindergarten and preschool. Woojin continues his history class. Changbin left 5 minutes ago, telling them he was gonna go get some snacks since everyone didn’t have the appetite to eat a heavy meal. The story about the mansion was finished, and the rest of them started telling their own stories.

Minho, bullshiting everyone into believing he created Japan. He earned a smack on the head from Chan because of it. And the rest earned a very disgusting look that screams ‘why the fuck did you believe him?’

As they continue to munch on their chips, Jeongin gazes at Felix who was fast asleep on his lap. Jeongin’s fingers running through the fox’s strawberry tinted locks. The boy tried to reach out for his bag on the side of the couch. He was also trying hard not to wake the fox. He mumbled a silent thanks to Jisung who made his task easier.

The current state of his bag made his frown, his mom is definitely gonna question him about it. He sighed and carefully opened it. Rummaging through his notes and a few personal necessities, his hand found what he was trying to retrieve. Jeongin placed his bag between his knees and continued to unlock his phone.

There were only 2 missed calls from his mom, he sighed. Thankful that it wasn’t his dad. He buried his face in front of the screen as he typed in a message for his mom, telling her he was okay and was only at his friend’s house.

His thumbs stopped moving, Jeongin eyed the last word he typed in, “Friend” he really didn’t have any. His mom pushed him further to make friends, but he really didn’t know who was at fault. Jeongin doesn’t really claim that he’s the nicest person. Sure, he was naive and a bit of a cast-off, but he wasn’t rude to anyone. He greeted his classmates on his first day but none of them really stuck to him. They only talk when it’s related to school. You can’t even tell if it was a ‘casual’ relationship. He was sometimes invisible in class, only getting recognized when the teacher calls him out for spacing out.

But he doesn’t mind. He wasn’t really the social butterfly type. He’d rather spend most of his time alone. The best company he could have is himself. It didn’t affect him that much. Aside from the fact that he has zero social skills which is something really useful.

“Hey, Jeongin. Do you need to get home?” he pressed send before looking up to Hyunjin. The wolf gave him a worried look and proceeded to walk to his position. The wolf plopped down in front of him and put his hand on Jeongin’s knee. The room went silent, they waited for the boy’s answer. It was really late, and the boy’s family was probably worried.

“Hey. It’s okay. I texted my mom that I was at a..” a lump in his throat caught his next words.

“F-friend’s house. And that I’ll be home by midnight at least.” Woojin stood up and peered over at the closest window. It was dark, his eyes traveled to the moon, shining brighter than normal. He hummed in thought before turning back to the rest of the pack.

He gave them his biggest smile.

“How about a sleepover?”

-

For the last 30 minutes, Hyunjin and Jisung who was now acting normal according to Changbin were both chanting “Sleepover!” while jumping up and down the couch. Felix was woken up by the commotion and after processing what was happening, he joined the two idiots. “The couch, you fucking cunts!” the three of them scurried away from a fuming Changbin. 

Jeongin looked in awe. Obviously, culture-shocked. 

Jeongin had called his mom after Hyunjin insisted on him sleeping over. The sound of his mom crying over the phone telling him she was proud of him finally making friends, was definitely alarming. Hyunjin had snatched his phone and told his mom that they would take care of her baby. Jeongin was embarrassed, but he couldn't help but smile. It was his first ever sleepover.

“I’m going home.” Jeongin whipped his head towards Seungmin’s direction, the witch walked past him, heading towards the door. Jeongin gripped his wrist, making the older turn to him. “Don’t go?” His tone was vague; he didn’t know if he was asking him or telling him. 

Seungmin didn’t know what took over him when he nodded his head and sat beside the boy. Just like Jeongin, he didn’t have any friends, the only difference is that he didn’t want to make such connections. He always thought that the need to socialize was a pain in the ass. The student council was already a big burden to bear. He had to put up a strict but reliable facade in front of the students and the teachers. Having friends was just a distraction. Well, aside for Chan.

“How about you two wash up upstairs. Hyunjin’s clothes might fit both of you, I’ll call you guys when,” Woojin looked at the clock on the wall. “Super late dinner is ready. Alright?” he chuckled midway and turned his back after getting a nod from both. There was something about Woojin that made Seungmin follow his every command. Oh maybe because he’s the fucking alpha and is scary as hell. 

Jeongin turned to Seungmin when he felt him shiver. The witch was reminded of the alpha almost losing his temper earlier. Woojin was patient no matter how grave the moment was, but today was different. Jisung had been kidnapped and they had to protect an innocent human boy. He had to step up and show his authority or else they wouldn’t get things done.

Seungmin doesn’t want to admit it but he respects the alpha. Maybe even more than Chan. He’s not looking forward to seeing who’s the scariest amongst the two. He’d rather not go there.

“Let’s go!” they were both pulled off from their seats. Hyunjin dragged them upstairs as he giggled. 

“Hyunjin! Jeongin doesn’t heal like you! Be careful!” Chan’s voice boomed around the mansion as he warned Hyunjin.

Jeongin tried to look back while keeping up with the wolf, he saw a laughing Felix being chased by a grinning Changbin. He can’t help but break into a smile, reaching out his hand to the fox who gladly accepted it. “Hey! That’s not fair!” Seungmin almost broke into a fit of laughter because of Changbin’s last remarks before they disappeared around the corner.

The wooden door smacked shut right in front of Changbin. Hyunjin fell down the carpeted floor, almost losing his sanity as he laughed. Felix fell on top of him, his face was red, and tears were on the verge of falling from his eyes.

Jeongin giggled as he sat on the bed, pulling Seungmin beside him. The boy was ecstatic when he saw the glow on Seungmin’s eyes as he smiled at him. He knew the witch was having fun despite what had happened earlier. The door opened and a grim-looking Changbin stared down at the two figures squirming on the floor.

The three of them trashed around the room, Changbin holding a death grip on Hyunjin’s neck while both Jeongin and Seungmin rushed to his aid. Seungmin gave up halfway, no longer being able to hold back his laughter and collapsed beside Felix who was barely breathing. “Hyunjin. I will fucking end you. You fucking cunt, you broke my nose!” Jeongin was barely even putting effort into trying to pry them away from each other. He was wheezing so hard he couldn't even stand up. His chest hit Changbin’s back, letting the wolf carry his weight while he chokes Hyunjin. The wolf underneath tried his best to explain his side, telling Changbin that his nose healed within a second.

“What is happe–” Jisung’s question hung in the air when he looked at the chaos. Choking on his saliva he rushed towards Hyunjin, pulling Changbin off Hyunjin. Jisung had a hard time getting a grip on him because Changbin was on the burly side. 

Changbin proceeded trashing his fists towards Hyunjin who was hoisted up from the floor by Seungmin. Hyunjin leaned half of his weight on Seungmin, the witch momentarily stumbled but anchored his foot on the ground to hold up the almost dying wolf.

Changbin calmed down after a while as they all slumped on the king-sized bed in the center of the room. They started small talk with each other. Hyunjin was convinced Seungmin had at least 2 personalities. He observed how the witch transitioned from almost dying from laughter to his usual stoic face just nodding and responding with short comments.

Shaking his head, he paid attention to Jisung who was telling a funny story. A soft knock on the door made them turn their heads. Minho enters the room quietly; the sudden lack of voices amplifies the sound of the cat’s footsteps.

He stopped on the foot of the bed. Staring languidly at the people who were atop it. Felix suddenly realized the situation and scrambled to his feet, “LUCAS, NO—GUYS OFF THE BED NOW!” loud moans and groans filled the air. Minho purred, full form crushing the contents of the bed. Felix, who was the only one who got out, tried to push the giant cat off the rest of the guys. He wasn’t honestly putting all his weight on them; Minho was just being playful and was jealous of all the action he wasn’t getting.

After successfully removing Minho from them, the boys continued to talk. With the additional presence, the room was much louder. Filled with their laughter and voices.

 “Oh, right! Go wash up!” Hyunjin pushed Jeongin towards the full bathroom, he told the boy he’s gonna bring him some clothes in a few minutes. Jeongin wanted to refuse, his debt was already so big, but his clothes sticking to his skin wasn’t a good sign. Smelly is a valid reason for him to take up the offer. So he let himself in the bathroom, closing the frosted glass door behind him.

It was indeed the most beautiful bathroom he has ever been in, and it wasn't a huge compliment because he has only been in two.

The full-sized bathtub reminded him of a jacuzzi which, in his case, was very luxurious. Jeongin was tempted to use the tub, but he knew he didn’t have time to do so. And it was kinda embarrassing. He proceeded on showering, discarding his clothes and piling them neatly atop the sink. Hyunjin came back with fresh clothes. Earning a blush from the boy when he complimented his upper body. Jeongin was thankful he was able to wrap a towel around his torso. Seungmin washed up also and they all went back to the bed. The witch was getting used to all the ruckus and he can’t deny that he enjoyed it.

“Boys! Dinner!” Woojin’s amplified voice resonated around the house. The boys went downstairs, drooling over the feast on the table. Without delay, they all sat down and began to chow down. “For fuck’s sake Hyunjin, your spitting pasta all over the goddamn table.” Jeongin chuckled, placing his glass back down.

His eyes caught Chan. The vampire was just sitting beside Woojin, both engrossed in a conversation. Jeongin was bothered by the lack of food on the man’s plate. There was absolutely nothing in it, Seungmin tapped the boy's thigh under the table. “Chan doesn’t need to eat.” Jeongin nodded, he was still not satisfied with it but he didn’t ponder on it too much.

Dinner ended with Minho shoving ice cream down Changbin’s throat. He enjoyed the look on the wolf’s face as he did so. 

After that ‘filling’ desert, they went back to the living room. Playing 4 rounds of UNO before Woojin called it a night. He proceeded on showing Jeongin the guest room, Seungmin demanded to stay with the boy even though they had another room prepared for him.

Woojin didn’t want to argue, so he let him be. He knew the witch was still wary of Chan, even though he was worried. This is not the best outcome he had hoped for.

Sleep didn’t come easy to Jeongin. The whistling of the wind outside was not a lullaby for him tonight. Jeongin let out a deep sigh, carefully removing himself underneath the blanket. He glanced at the witch sleeping peacefully beside him. He stood up and ambled towards the door. As he descended the dimly lit stairs, he saw light coming from the kitchen. “Chan?” the vampire turned to him with a soft smile. He smiled back, he sat on top of the counter, head turned towards Chan.

“Can’t sleep?” it was a dumb question. But Jeongin wasn’t sure what to say to Chan. The vampire smiled at him and nodded. Chan walked to the fridge, fishing out a box of chocolate milk. He handed it to the boy, earning a small thanks from him. “Sorry about um, everything.” Chan was the best when it comes to this, he always chooses the right words and his advice is mostly logical and helpful.

But this is different, he suddenly ran out of words to say. The boy was his bond mate. Now that he had room for it inside his head, he was curious. On why he didn’t realize it in the first place. It was fate, indeed. A vampire’s bond-mate is bound to arrive no matter what, but no one knows when. Chan was centuries old when he stopped hoping for his bond to come. It was a pain in the ass, he had to take care of them and if they died, he would also die. It doesn’t make sense at all. Why would he risk his life for someone who’s the key to his death? That’s stupid. And it was such a cheesy thing. Having a person destined to be yours. Loving wasn’t his forte.

“It’s okay.” Ah, that’s why. The empty feeling in his heart vanished, his eyes focused on Jeongin’s face. This was it. This is the reason. He snickered; it was a petty reason. But why does it fit the puzzle pieces?

“What’s wrong?” Jeongin tilted his head and took a sip of his drink. Chan shakes his head and moves closer to the boy.

Unlike earlier, Jeongin didn’t want to run. He wasn’t scared of him anymore. He didn’t have that disgusting feeling in his stomach whenever he remembers the blood spilling on the antique shop floor.

With the last step, Chan stood between Jeongin’s legs. The boy places his now empty drink on his right side. He looks up to the vampire. Sure, he admired Chan. But he really didn’t get the chance to look at him closely. And for him, Chan was beautiful. His blonde curly locks fell perfectly above his soft eyes. His thick lips formed into a smile, dimples on full display as well.

Chan was breathtaking.

With that, Jeongin slowly opened his arms, his smile growing larger as he did so. And for the first time, Chan didn’t hesitate to wrap his arms around the boy’s petite figure. Burying his face on this boy’s neck.

“Thank you.”

After a few moments, they both let go. 

“What’s a bond mate?” Jeongin asked quietly. Chan smiled. He pulled him off the counter. “Let’s talk in the living room.” They walked silently and sat on the sofa. Shoulders touching as they talked.

“How do I put this…” Chan collected his thoughts. He tried his best to come up with a concept that the boy understands. “You humans have this belief of meeting your ‘destiny’ or your one true love, right?”

Jeongin nodded. He blushed at the idea. “Well, it’s basically like that. A bond mate is someone a vampire is destined to meet. Although the time span is unpredictable. Some vampires even live up to thousands but still haven’t met their bond mate.”

Jeongin tilted his head to the side, a habit of his that he does when he’s thinking about something. “So they’re either dead or not yet born?” Chan nodded, smiling at the boy as he ruffled his hair. “Exactly. Once you find your bond mate. It’s hard to let go. Physically and mentally you’d feel drained if they move away. It’s like missing a part of yourself.”

Chan chuckled at what he said. Jeongin probably doesn’t know how that feels. He was surprised to see him nod. 

“And if they die?” Chan thinned his lips and looked at him. His eyes are full of genuine curiosity and maybe just a little hint of worry. The vampire looked down to his feet. The thought of Jeongin disappearing from his world made him furious. Not because he’s eventually going to die, but because Jeongin was just a teenager. A normal human being, a person capable of having emotions and feelings. 

And now he’s stuck with him. An old vampire who grew to hate the idea of being tied to a being. Jeongin didn’t deserve him. He doesn’t deserve this life.

“Chan?” He looked up and tried his best to smile. “Eventually, the vampire will die.”

Jeongin’s mouth hung open. “Because they’re connected right?” Chan nodded.

“Kinda.”

“How.. how do they die?”

“Of a broken heart.” Chan smiled sadly.

Jeongin bit the inside of his cheek. He stared at the vampire’s muddled expression. 

“Can I say something? I don’t know if you’ll like it though.” Chan glanced at him and smiled.

“Go ahead.”

“It’s kinda cheesy and twisted at the same time.”

Chan snorted. Trying his best to muffle his laughter with his hand.

“That’s exactly what Seungmin said. And don’t worry, I feel the same way. The whole destiny thing sounds too cheesy for me too.”

Jeongin chuckled. His face suddenly fell as he looked at Chan. “What’s wrong?” the vampire asked with worry.

“Chan, I’m not gay.” That was the last straw. He cackled, loud enough to echo around the living room. Upon noticing that Jeongin was serious, he composed himself. Chan held Jeongin’s hands in his, caressing the top of them with his thumb. Their eyes met. The vampire’s dimples appearing.

“Being a bond mate isn’t only about romantic love, Jeongin.” Chan touched Jeongin’s left cheek. The boy was blushing under his touch. His smile grew.

“It’s about love in general. It’s about this unbreakable connection with another being, no matter what they are, who they are or where they’re from.”

“I don’t have to be sexually in love with you to prove that you’re my bond mate. The connection we have is more than that. And I want you to know that I’m not pushing for that idea right now. Take your time to process everything. Take as much time as you need. We will always be here. And, well...”

“You can’t really get rid of us that easily anymore.” he patted Jeongin’s back.

“You’re now part of this annoying ass family.”

[therainroguefanfiction]

⚜️ Change the Face of History (Skyrim); #1 Prologue

📑 Table of Contents & Information

☁ Genre: Slice of Life, Magic, AU

☁ Pairing: First Person OC x ??

☁ World: Game, Skyrim

I stifled a yawn with my hand as I made my way home, regretting the decision to leave the house in the first place, but the fridge was pretty empty and I kind of need food to survive. Plus, soda. Need I say more? I made it about halfway when the sky, which had been steadily darkening, opened up, allowing rain to pour down on the city. I cursed, ducking into the closest shop to me. It’s not that I hate the rain or don’t like getting wet – in fact, rain is one of my favorite things in life. My mood always increases when it rains, but putting away soggy groceries is not fun, a lesson I learned a couple months back.

Thankfully, though, I had reacted quick enough and made it into the shop with my clothes only slightly damp.

I set the plastic bags on the floor near the door, making sure that they weren’t in the way, before turning to inspect the store I had entered. Wooden shelves lined the floor in aisles, standing about four feet, five inches in height. The items on display looked quite old, but not in the sense that they were grungy or used. Each item was in incredible shape, but they didn’t look as if they belonged in this time period.

‘This must be some kind of antique store,’ I concluded, carefully navigating through the displays. I did not want to accidentally break anything – I’m sure this stuff is hella expensive.

As I made my way to the back of the room, a table stood out to the right. It was lined with red velvet and featured a locked glass lid. Inside were various types of jewelry and even a feathered pen with an inkwell. I scanned the items with wonder before my eyes stopped on a ring in the center of the table. I’m not sure why, but… I just couldn’t pull my attention away from it, no matter how hard I tried. It was as if the thing was calling out to me, trying to get my attention. I carefully rested my hand on the glass, just above the item.

“You have good taste, miss.”

I nearly jumped out of my skin, whipping around with a hand over my racing heart. Standing a couple feet away was an elder man, barely at the same height as the shelves, with thinning snow-white hair and a face full of wrinkles. His hands were clasped behind his back as he smiled kindly at me.

“Sorry, dear, I didn’t mean to startle you.” The amusement was clear in his dark brown eyes.

“It’s okay,” I breathed out, willing my heart to calm down as I turned back to the case. “How much is it for that ring there?” I pointed it out, despite believing that he already knew which piece I was referring to.

He hummed, thoughtfully as he dug into his pocket, pulling out a ring of five different keys. His hands shook slightly as he inserted the key and twisted to unlock the case, carefully lifting the lid. His slim fingers picked up the ring, holding it out in the palm of his hand. “It costs fifty dollars,”

I nearly winced at the information. This ring is absolutely beautiful and I honestly feel like I need to have it in my life, but… I just can’t justify spending so much money on a piece of jewelry. I feel like this is one of those lose-lose situations – if I buy it, I’ll spend the next week cursing myself for wasting fifty bucks, but if I don’t buy it, I’ll spend the same amount of time cursing myself for not buying it.

“There is a legend attached to this ring,” he stated, his eyes twinkling. “It is said to harbor unparalleled magic power within, which had lain dormant for many centuries now. The legend states that only those of pure intent may harness its power. The ring chooses its owner.”

I scoffed at his words because there ain’t nothin’ pure about my ass. He raised a brow and I realized my mistake and cursed. “Ah, no, I didn’t mean to -“

“It’s quite alright,” he chuckled, “There are very few who believe in such things. Here,” Before I could protest, he took my wrist and gently transferred the ring to the palm of my hand.

The metal was… weird. One moment it felt unbelievably cold like a block of ice, but the next it was hot like a roaring flame. Goosebumps rose across my body as I brought it closer to my face to further inspect the detail. The metal itself was an onyx black with a thin, silver trim. A deep gray dragon was engraved in a repeating pattern across the circumference of the ring. As I turned it over, admiring the way the soft light glinted off it, I realized that I had never felt such a want, a need, quite like I do in this moment.

The man’s smile grew, the corners of his eyes crinkling with crows feet. “For you, though, I will let this ring go for twenty-five dollars.”

My eyes widened in surprise, jumping to meet his own. “Are you sure? That’s one hell of a discount…”

He nodded, holding his hand out. I gently set the ring on his palm and he said, “I’m positive, dear, now come. Let us get you rung up before the rain starts up again.”

I glanced to the front of the room, which consisted of a line of windows. Sure enough, the rain had stopped, the sun shining brightly on the land. I knew it wouldn’t last long, though, because Florida weather is far too bi-polar to stick to just one weather pattern. Rather than debate his kindness and give him a chance to renege on his offer, I followed him to the counter, digging into my pocket for two tens and a five.

After carefully placing the money into the cash register, he pulled out an ornately carved wooden box. Inside was a piece of soft, black foam with a slit in the middle, which he slid the ring into. He then wrapped the box in some blue tissue paper before placing it in a small, thick plastic bag. “Here you are, my dear. May magic always light up your life and guide your path.”

“Thank you very much, sir. Have a good day.” I offered him a thankful smile before carefully picking up the bag and returning to the front of the store, where I retrieved my groceries. I pulled open the door and glanced up at the sky before exiting the store.

The clouds above were a medium gray, spread out enough to allow the sun to shine down in strips of light. Off in the distance, the sky was nearly black and the clouds were quickly moving in my direction. Thankfully, the storm was rolling in from behind me, so I should be able to keep ahead of it.

I picked up my pace, boots slapping the wet pavement as I tightly clutched the bags in my hands. Honestly, I just wanted to hurry up and get home so I could put the ring on. I really don’t understand why I’m feeling so excited about this. I mean, sure, I appreciate a nice wring, a cool leather bracelet, a long chain necklace, but I’ve never felt this happy about a piece of jewelry before. Maybe because it has a dragon on it? I do love dragons, but I’ve gotten dragon-themed merchandise plenty of times in the past.

I feel like a little kid at Christmas.

When I finally reached the third floor of my apartment complex, I had to set the bags down in order to get the door unlocked and open. As badly as I wanted to just leave the groceries on the counter to be put away later, I knew that there were several items that needed to be put in the refrigerator, and a couple that needed to be kept frozen. Shaking my head, I put away the cold items as quickly as I could before moving to the adjoining living room and sinking down onto the old, brown couch. It had seen better days, and it squeaked quite loudly as if protesting my weight.

I carefully pulled out the box, letting my fingers trace the carving of a large tree – possibly an oak or cherry -, before lifting the lid. Just as before, the metal was ice cold when I first picked it up but quickly grew hot. Maybe the metal reacts to skin or sweat?

‘It is said to harbor unparalleled magic power within,’ The man’s words echoed in my mind. For a moment, I considered the possibility before shaking my head. Nah, that’s far too ridiculous.

As my thumb rubbed over the carving of the dragons, I couldn’t help but think about how cool it would be to see a dragon in real life. If only they were real… though, if they did exist, I doubt they’d be willing to co-exist with human beings.

I slid the ring on the middle finger of my right hand and smiled before glancing at the clock. It was getting late and I’m starting to feel like I’m starving. The rest of my night passed by without incident. I watched some anime, heated up leftover pizza from three nights ago which I do not recommend doing, watched some more anime, questioned my life choices while sitting in the bathroom, and then I finally retired to bed just after midnight.

As I curled up under the comforter, I inspected the ring until sleep finally claimed me.

──────── ∘° Third 🐲 Person°∘ ────────

The hour hand slowly ticked over, striking three in the morning. Rae Winchester turned over in her sleep, right hand slipping out from under the comforter and hanging over the side of the bed. A small stream of light from the full moon outside shined in through the crack in the curtains, falling directly onto the ring. It started to radiate with an ethereal, white light that slowly started to crawl up her arm. It wasn’t long before her entire body was bathed in this light, filling your body with a strange sensation of warmth.

It penetrated her dreams, morphing them from a zany adventure with her favorite anime characters to a void of navy blue as far as the eye could see. She found herself hovering in this void, hearing a faint chanting somewhere in the distance.

The light around her began to pulse in tune with her heartbeat. A cloud rolled across the moon, cutting off the stream of light and she stirred, tossing and turning. The light grew to a degree so bright, it was impossible to see before it exploded outward without a sound. It slowly faded, plunging the room into pure darkness.

The wheels of fate shifted direction that day as a new path was written out before her. Little did you know, the purchase of that ring was about to change her life forever, forcing her onto a path she has no say in.

I tell you, I tell you, the Dragonborn comes.

⤞ Forward

📜 Read more by checking out my masterlist 📜

[owensrhodes]

10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home

Whether you’ve just moved or you’re looking for a quick home pick-me-up, we have some genius interior design tricks straight from the professionals. These tips are so easy, you can do them with little effort and cost.

Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest impact. It could be the addition of a mirror, a painting, a lamp or even a plant. Maybe you want to soften your walls, brighten a room, or add some warmth to your living space. Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!

1. Paint small rooms in soft, light colors

The living room above is a great example of how to maximize a small living space. A room this size has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows, light colored walls and strategic use of mirrors reflects the natural light pouring in from the doors and the windows. 

Here’s another classic interior decorating secret. Using mirrors gives the optical illusion of extra space, making a small room seem larger than it actually is. On the opposite end of the spectrum, painting a room with darker colors will make it feel smaller. Even with the abundance of natural light and the savvy placement of the mirrors, this room in a darker shade would have a more boxed-in feel to it.

2. Use decorative mirrors to add light

As you’ve seen, mirrors are great for making a small space feel larger. For larger rooms or a room with less natural light, placing mirrors directly across from the windows adds instant brightness. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.

3. Mix patterns and textures, old and new, expensive and inexpensive

Don’t be afraid to mix it up! There’s nothing wrong with placing family heirlooms alongside your modern couch. All good interior decorators will tell you that the key goal for decorating your home is to create a design that reflects who you are, your personality and your style.

The antique Chippendale desk that was your grandfather’s tells a story. It tells the story of your past. The modern couch you fell in love with and simply had to purchase also tells a story, your present story, and there is no reason why the present and past can’t co-exist beautifully together.

The same can be said for art. Now you might not want to place a painting by Salvador Dali on the same wall next to a Monet, but there’s no reason why they can’t be in the same room together. A unique blend of furniture, rugs or pillows paired with varied colors and patterns can bring warmth and texture into your living space.

4. Try slipcovers to refresh your living room design

Need interior design ideas for your living room? Slipcovers often get a bad rap, but they’re a great way to change your furniture’s look to reflect the seasons. These easily removed coverings allow you to have a sophisticated look without constantly worrying about people and pets getting your living room furniture dirty. Slipcovers actually work great in any room, especially ones where your kids spend a lot of time! The white slip-covered couches shown above give the air of a casual, comfortable, easy and sophisticated elegance.

5. Add wicker baskets for extra storage

Wicker baskets, or baskets made from any material, are an economical and elegant way to add storage to any room. Baskets can be used to store and display books, architectural and decor magazines, toys, towels and blankets to name a few. Placing small wicker baskets filled with fruits and veggies on your countertop is a smart interior design trick for your kitchen. It doubles as storage and an eye-catching focal point.

6. Use what you have to decorate on a budget

Do you have any treasures tucked away that you’ve forgotten about? When your interior design needs accessories, take a good look at what you already have, instead of running to the home decor store. Here are some ideas to repurpose items you already have at home.

Place wooden, acrylic, metal or silver trays on top of carts, trunks, and bedside tables

Arrange candles with greenery on countertops and coffee tables

Hang your favorite plates to create custom wall art.

Frame art from children’s books for nurseries and children’s rooms

Stack your most beloved books to add a vertical design element

7. Hang a pot rack in your kitchen

We spend a lot of time in our kitchen preparing meals and entertaining, so it seems fitting that kitchen spaces deserve some interior design love. One of the best kitchen design tricks that’s functional and beautiful is to add a hanging pot rack.  

A hanging pot rack lets you display your cookware and frees up cabinet space. They come in many sizes and styles, so measure your kitchen space before you go shopping. Be sure to set aside a little extra money for those new pots and pans you’ll want to buy!

8. Go green with houseplants

Adding plants to your living space is an inexpensive way to accessorize by adding color and texture. Not only are plants beautiful, they can help clean the air in your house and control humidity. House plants keep your home healthy by absorbing pollutants and removing harmful gases from the air. Plus, they make your home feel more alive!

9. Paint or wallpaper your bookcases

When it comes to interior design ideas, adding a pop of color is a quick way to brighten and re-energize any room! A simple DIY project like painting a wall can instantly energize and transform your space. 

This built-in bookcase is basic and functional, but the bright blue interior brings it to life. One of the most affordable room design ideas that will transform a ho-hum space is to apply a coat of paint somewhere unexpected. Bookcases are an easy place to start, because you don’t need to paint a large area. Other fun places to add a pop of color include painting fireplace mantels, the insides of closets, hallways and ceilings.

10. Add area rugs to soften hardwood floors

Hardwood floors are easy to maintain, but they lack the comfort of carpeted floors, especially in the cooler months. A cozy home design trick is to add area rugs to your living space for extra warmth, texture, color and personality. 

Use throw rugs of varying patterns and fabrics to showcase your personal style. Or add several rugs of the same pattern and fabric, or different textures but the same color. The possibilities are endless. 

You can change your area rugs to reflect the seasons, using warmer tones and fabrics for winter and lighter ones for summertime. There are family-friendly washable area rugs that are ideal for homes with children. 

What inspired you? Personally, I adore these animal-hide rugs as an unexpected interior design element.

The post 10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home appeared first on Freshome.com.

[jovialsoulinfluencer]

10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home

Whether you’ve just moved or you’re looking for a quick home pick-me-up, we have some genius interior design tricks straight from the professionals. These tips are so easy, you can do them with little effort and cost.

Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest impact. It could be the addition of a mirror, a painting, a lamp or even a plant. Maybe you want to soften your walls, brighten a room, or add some warmth to your living space. Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!

1. Paint small rooms in soft, light colors

The living room above is a great example of how to maximize a small living space. A room this size has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows, light colored walls and strategic use of mirrors reflects the natural light pouring in from the doors and the windows. 

Here’s another classic interior decorating secret. Using mirrors gives the optical illusion of extra space, making a small room seem larger than it actually is. On the opposite end of the spectrum, painting a room with darker colors will make it feel smaller. Even with the abundance of natural light and the savvy placement of the mirrors, this room in a darker shade would have a more boxed-in feel to it.

2. Use decorative mirrors to add light

As you’ve seen, mirrors are great for making a small space feel larger. For larger rooms or a room with less natural light, placing mirrors directly across from the windows adds instant brightness. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.

3. Mix patterns and textures, old and new, expensive and inexpensive

Don’t be afraid to mix it up! There’s nothing wrong with placing family heirlooms alongside your modern couch. All good interior decorators will tell you that the key goal for decorating your home is to create a design that reflects who you are, your personality and your style.

The antique Chippendale desk that was your grandfather’s tells a story. It tells the story of your past. The modern couch you fell in love with and simply had to purchase also tells a story, your present story, and there is no reason why the present and past can’t co-exist beautifully together.

The same can be said for art. Now you might not want to place a painting by Salvador Dali on the same wall next to a Monet, but there’s no reason why they can’t be in the same room together. A unique blend of furniture, rugs or pillows paired with varied colors and patterns can bring warmth and texture into your living space.

4. Try slipcovers to refresh your living room design

Need interior design ideas for your living room? Slipcovers often get a bad rap, but they’re a great way to change your furniture’s look to reflect the seasons. These easily removed coverings allow you to have a sophisticated look without constantly worrying about people and pets getting your living room furniture dirty. Slipcovers actually work great in any room, especially ones where your kids spend a lot of time! The white slip-covered couches shown above give the air of a casual, comfortable, easy and sophisticated elegance.

5. Add wicker baskets for extra storage

Wicker baskets, or baskets made from any material, are an economical and elegant way to add storage to any room. Baskets can be used to store and display books, architectural and decor magazines, toys, towels and blankets to name a few. Placing small wicker baskets filled with fruits and veggies on your countertop is a smart interior design trick for your kitchen. It doubles as storage and an eye-catching focal point.

6. Use what you have to decorate on a budget

Do you have any treasures tucked away that you’ve forgotten about? When your interior design needs accessories, take a good look at what you already have, instead of running to the home decor store. Here are some ideas to repurpose items you already have at home.

Place wooden, acrylic, metal or silver trays on top of carts, trunks, and bedside tables

Arrange candles with greenery on countertops and coffee tables

Hang your favorite plates to create custom wall art.

Frame art from children’s books for nurseries and children’s rooms

Stack your most beloved books to add a vertical design element

7. Hang a pot rack in your kitchen

We spend a lot of time in our kitchen preparing meals and entertaining, so it seems fitting that kitchen spaces deserve some interior design love. One of the best kitchen design tricks that’s functional and beautiful is to add a hanging pot rack.  

A hanging pot rack lets you display your cookware and frees up cabinet space. They come in many sizes and styles, so measure your kitchen space before you go shopping. Be sure to set aside a little extra money for those new pots and pans you’ll want to buy!

8. Go green with houseplants

Adding plants to your living space is an inexpensive way to accessorize by adding color and texture. Not only are plants beautiful, they can help clean the air in your house and control humidity. House plants keep your home healthy by absorbing pollutants and removing harmful gases from the air. Plus, they make your home feel more alive!

9. Paint or wallpaper your bookcases

When it comes to interior design ideas, adding a pop of color is a quick way to brighten and re-energize any room! A simple DIY project like painting a wall can instantly energize and transform your space. 

This built-in bookcase is basic and functional, but the bright blue interior brings it to life. One of the most affordable room design ideas that will transform a ho-hum space is to apply a coat of paint somewhere unexpected. Bookcases are an easy place to start, because you don’t need to paint a large area. Other fun places to add a pop of color include painting fireplace mantels, the insides of closets, hallways and ceilings.

10. Add area rugs to soften hardwood floors

Hardwood floors are easy to maintain, but they lack the comfort of carpeted floors, especially in the cooler months. A cozy home design trick is to add area rugs to your living space for extra warmth, texture, color and personality. 

Use throw rugs of varying patterns and fabrics to showcase your personal style. Or add several rugs of the same pattern and fabric, or different textures but the same color. The possibilities are endless. 

You can change your area rugs to reflect the seasons, using warmer tones and fabrics for winter and lighter ones for summertime. There are family-friendly washable area rugs that are ideal for homes with children. 

What inspired you? Personally, I adore these animal-hide rugs as an unexpected interior design element.

The post 10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home appeared first on Freshome.com.

from https://freshome.com/10-clever-interior-design-tricks-to-transform-your-home/ via 10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home

[cessanderson]

10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home https://ift.tt/36eAezi

Whether you’ve just moved or you’re looking for a quick home pick-me-up, we have some genius interior design tricks straight from the professionals. These tips are so easy, you can do them with little effort and cost.

Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest impact. It could be the addition of a mirror, a painting, a lamp or even a plant. Maybe you want to soften your walls, brighten a room, or add some warmth to your living space. Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!

1. Paint small rooms in soft, light colors

The living room above is a great example of how to maximize a small living space. A room this size has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows, light colored walls and strategic use of mirrors reflects the natural light pouring in from the doors and the windows. 

Here’s another classic interior decorating secret. Using mirrors gives the optical illusion of extra space, making a small room seem larger than it actually is. On the opposite end of the spectrum, painting a room with darker colors will make it feel smaller. Even with the abundance of natural light and the savvy placement of the mirrors, this room in a darker shade would have a more boxed-in feel to it.

2. Use decorative mirrors to add light

As you’ve seen, mirrors are great for making a small space feel larger. For larger rooms or a room with less natural light, placing mirrors directly across from the windows adds instant brightness. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.

3. Mix patterns and textures, old and new, expensive and inexpensive

Don’t be afraid to mix it up! There’s nothing wrong with placing family heirlooms alongside your modern couch. All good interior decorators will tell you that the key goal for decorating your home is to create a design that reflects who you are, your personality and your style.

The antique Chippendale desk that was your grandfather’s tells a story. It tells the story of your past. The modern couch you fell in love with and simply had to purchase also tells a story, your present story, and there is no reason why the present and past can’t co-exist beautifully together.

The same can be said for art. Now you might not want to place a painting by Salvador Dali on the same wall next to a Monet, but there’s no reason why they can’t be in the same room together. A unique blend of furniture, rugs or pillows paired with varied colors and patterns can bring warmth and texture into your living space.

4. Try slipcovers to refresh your living room design

Need interior design ideas for your living room? Slipcovers often get a bad rap, but they’re a great way to change your furniture’s look to reflect the seasons. These easily removed coverings allow you to have a sophisticated look without constantly worrying about people and pets getting your living room furniture dirty. Slipcovers actually work great in any room, especially ones where your kids spend a lot of time! The white slip-covered couches shown above give the air of a casual, comfortable, easy and sophisticated elegance.

5. Add wicker baskets for extra storage

Wicker baskets, or baskets made from any material, are an economical and elegant way to add storage to any room. Baskets can be used to store and display books, architectural and decor magazines, toys, towels and blankets to name a few. Placing small wicker baskets filled with fruits and veggies on your countertop is a smart interior design trick for your kitchen. It doubles as storage and an eye-catching focal point.

6. Use what you have to decorate on a budget

Do you have any treasures tucked away that you’ve forgotten about? When your interior design needs accessories, take a good look at what you already have, instead of running to the home decor store. Here are some ideas to repurpose items you already have at home.

Place wooden, acrylic, metal or silver trays on top of carts, trunks, and bedside tables

Arrange candles with greenery on countertops and coffee tables

Hang your favorite plates to create custom wall art.

Frame art from children’s books for nurseries and children’s rooms

Stack your most beloved books to add a vertical design element

7. Hang a pot rack in your kitchen

We spend a lot of time in our kitchen preparing meals and entertaining, so it seems fitting that kitchen spaces deserve some interior design love. One of the best kitchen design tricks that’s functional and beautiful is to add a hanging pot rack.  

A hanging pot rack lets you display your cookware and frees up cabinet space. They come in many sizes and styles, so measure your kitchen space before you go shopping. Be sure to set aside a little extra money for those new pots and pans you’ll want to buy!

8. Go green with houseplants

Adding plants to your living space is an inexpensive way to accessorize by adding color and texture. Not only are plants beautiful, they can help clean the air in your house and control humidity. House plants keep your home healthy by absorbing pollutants and removing harmful gases from the air. Plus, they make your home feel more alive!

9. Paint or wallpaper your bookcases

When it comes to interior design ideas, adding a pop of color is a quick way to brighten and re-energize any room! A simple DIY project like painting a wall can instantly energize and transform your space. 

This built-in bookcase is basic and functional, but the bright blue interior brings it to life. One of the most affordable room design ideas that will transform a ho-hum space is to apply a coat of paint somewhere unexpected. Bookcases are an easy place to start, because you don’t need to paint a large area. Other fun places to add a pop of color include painting fireplace mantels, the insides of closets, hallways and ceilings.

10. Add area rugs to soften hardwood floors

Hardwood floors are easy to maintain, but they lack the comfort of carpeted floors, especially in the cooler months. A cozy home design trick is to add area rugs to your living space for extra warmth, texture, color and personality. 

Use throw rugs of varying patterns and fabrics to showcase your personal style. Or add several rugs of the same pattern and fabric, or different textures but the same color. The possibilities are endless. 

You can change your area rugs to reflect the seasons, using warmer tones and fabrics for winter and lighter ones for summertime. There are family-friendly washable area rugs that are ideal for homes with children. 

What inspired you? Personally, I adore these animal-hide rugs as an unexpected interior design element.

The post 10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home appeared first on Freshome.com.

Jessica

[samuelmmarcus]

Neutral Home Interior Ideas

  Beautifully designed by two very talented interior designers, Mitzi Maynard and Clare Kennedy, this neutral home has 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (6 including pool house), and a total of 6,500 square feet.

The homeowners began building this neutral home in the fall of 2015, and it was completed in the Spring of 2017. This home combines a few different architectural styles. The exterior is a fresh take on a traditional home, which works well in their established neighborhood in Nashville. The interior of the home has a more Modern/Mediterranean style with a neutral color scheme that is easy on the eyes and soothing to the soul.

All photos by Aimée Mazzenga.

  Neutral Home Interior Ideas

The homeowners are minimalists in style but are full of energy and playfulness.We had to strike a balance between comfort and livability for their family (pets included) while carefully curating a beautiful minimalist space.

Similar Pendants: here.

With Family in Mind

We designed this space to be the perfect multi-functional space for a family that loves to entertain.

Coffee Table – Four Hands – Cruz Coffee Table

Rug: Here.

Chairs

The four chairs in the center of the room and the huge fabric pendants make the room feel cozy enough for intimate gatherings.

Lanterns – Custom Made at Redo Home + Design

Beautiful Lumbar Pillows: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Chairs – Cisco Brothers – similar here & here.

Paint Color

Paint color is Benjamin Moore OC-17 White Dove.

Modern Lighting

(Always check dimensions before ordering)

!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? 'http' : 'https';if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + '://' + 'widgets.rewardstyle.com' + '/js/shopthepost.js';d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === 'object') if(d.readyState === 'complete') {window.__stp.init();}}(document, 'script', 'shopthepost-script');

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

Built-in Bench

The built in reading bench is their favorite place to read a book or take a nap in the sunshine. And, when they host large-scale events they simply clear out the chairs and the room transitions to a caterers dream.

Bench Mattress – Anthropologie

Pillows – Anthropologie

Table Lamp: Discontinued. Other Beautiful Table Lamps: here, here, here & here.

Kitchen

The kitchen is defined by its clean lines, concrete countertops and hand forged hardware.  The rattan stools and vintage Oushak rug add texture and age to the space.

Cabinetry & Paint Color

The European hardware added architecture and substance to the modern custom cabinetry. The paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Similar Hardware: here, here, here & here.

Runner –  Vintage Runner (one-of- a-kind) – similar here, here & here.

Range: Wolf – similar here.

Island Pendant

Our client really pushed for the single-pendant over their custom concrete island. She wanted something minimalist, large scale, that added a modern glam element to the room.

Oversized Island Pendant: RH Modern – Beautiful Pendant Lights (many styles for every budget): here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Counterstools

Counterstools – Palecek.

Countertop

Countertop is concrete. Concrete was also used on the both sides of the kitchen island.

Decor

Minimalist decor keeps this kitchen feeling airy and uncluttered.

Cabinetry

Cabinets – Wood Tones Cabinetry.

Dining Room

The dining room carries the same clean-lined feel. Metal and leather dining chairs complement a black dining table with chunky legs.

Dining Chairs: here.

Similar Dining Table: here, here, here & here.

Similar Antique Dough Bowl: here & here.

Great Room

At the center of the home is the warm and inviting living space. With its relaxed West- Coast style, it captures the feeling of true indoor/outdoor living. The towering steel doors give the perfect view to the pristinely landscaped backyard and pool.

Hidden Push Panel Doors – Jamie Beckwith

Danish Chairs – Borge Mogense – similar here.

Sectional – RH – similar here.

Color Scheme

Neutral Color Scheme: We were trying to leave the colorful palette of their previous home behind us. They were ready to go neutral so we used natural elements, texture, and mixed metals to bring lay- ers and warmth to the space.

While antiquing in Michigan we found an African Carved Wood Senofu stool that is one of the homeowners favorite pieces in their living room.

Fireplace

The modern concrete fireplace wall is the centerpiece of the room and features custom designed wood push-paneled doors (that cleverly hide clutter).

Pillows – Custom-made – similar here, here, here, here & here.

Similar Floor Pillows: here.

Similar Rug: here.

Similar Coffee Table: here & here.

Hardwood Flooring

Hand-Scraped Wood Flooring – Hitson & Co – similar here, here & here.

Architectural Elements

Great Finds: The homeowner found some gorgeous arched vintage doors from an antique dealer in England, and she knew she had to have them. The doors are now one of the defining architectural elements in the house.

Paint Color

The paint color is White Dove Oc-17 by Benjamin Moore.

Similar Throw: here.

Similar Ladder: here.

Daybed

The interiors feel collected, traveled, relaxed, Layered and yet modern.

Pillows – Pehuen Pillows – similar here.

Chandelier – Made Goods – similar style: here, here & here.

Home Office

I absolutely love this small home office. Notice the smartly-designed built-ins!

Similar Wallpaper: here.

Office Chair

Chair is from RH – similar here, here & here.

Powder Room

The powder room feels neutral and feminine without being too over-the-top.

Mirror

Similar Brass Round Mirror: here & here.

Faucet: Kohler.

Transitional

This transitional bathroom features a vintage wooden console table used as vanity, vessel sinks and a pair of Moroccan embellished hampers.

Similar Console Table (better if made of solid hardwood – it would make a great DIY! :): here, here & here.

Curbless Shower

This bathroom also features a simple curbless shower and a freestanding tub.

Similar Floor Tile: here.

Girl’s Bathroom

Beautiful choices bring a timeless yet current feel to this bathroom. Vanity is wrapped in a white quartz.

Similar Arabesque Wall Tile: here & here (in marble).

Mirror

Bathroom also features a long vanity, antique mirrored pendant lights and an arched mirror.

Similar Arched Mirror: here, here & here.

Similar Faucet: here.

Pendants: Worlds Away.

Paint Color & Flooring

Paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Flooring is a marble mosaic tile – similar here.

Runner is vintage – similar here.

Master Bedroom

The homeowners wanted their master suite to be defined by comfort.

Oversized Art – Original Addie Chapin Art – Other beautiful artwork: here.

Gifted

Stools – Gifted to homeowners parents – Faux Mongolian Fur Stools: here.

Paint Color

The paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Elements

From the plush upholstered bed, shag rug, and layered knitted textures, the room is indulgently cozy.

Nightstands & Pendants

Nightstands – RH – similar here, here & here.

The Beehive Pendant Lights are Marmoset Found, from Australia – similar here (in black).

Knitted Throw – Etsy – Similar Knit Throw: here.

Inviting

Our goal was to make the minimalist architecture feel livable, inviting and collected.

Bathroom Paint Color

The paint color continuous to be Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Organic Feel

The master bathroom features an unique concrete and wood vanity.

Mirror

Mirror – Noir – similar here & here.

Sconces – Restoration Hardware.

Black & White

Tub Side Table – Custom-made.

Creating a Beautiful Home

The house is nestled in a well established Nashville neighborhood. But when you walk in you feel as if you have been transported to villa in the Mediterranean. The wall of windows connect the beautiful outdoor space with the interior, creating an invitation to relax and enjoy.

Outdoor Furniture – RH

Swing

A porch swing comes to complete the relaxed feel of this gorgeous home.

  Many thanks to the designers for sharing all of the details above.

Interior Designer: Designers: Mitzi Maynard (@mitzimaynard) and Clare Kennedy (@clarann). Make sure to follow them!

Photography: Aimée Mazzenga (@aimeemazzenga)

  End of Summer Best Deals!

Thank you for shopping through Home Bunch. I would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or are looking for something in particular. Feel free to contact me and always make sure to check dimensions before ordering. Happy shopping!

Wayfair: Up to 70% OFF – Huge Sales on Decor, Furniture & Rugs!!!

Joss & Main: Surprise Sale! Up to 70% Off!!!

Serena & Lily: Huge Sale! Up to 60% Off!!!

Pottery Barn: New Arrivals!!! Up to 70% Off!

West Elm: Mega Sale – 70% Off sales!

Caitlin Wilson: Beautiful Rugs & Pillows.

Anthropologie: Extra 40% Off Sale Plus 20% Off Furniture + Decor.

Urban Outfitters: Hip & Affordable Home Decor – Big Summer Sales!!!

Horchow: Flash Sale: Up to 55% Off!!!

One Kings Lane: Save Up to 70% OFF! Free Standard Shipping on Orders over $99!

Williams & Sonoma: Spring Clearance: Up to 75% OFF!.

Nordstrom: Up to 40% OFF!

Neiman Marcus: Designer Sale: Up to 40% OFF.

Pier 1: Biggest Memorial Day Sale: Up to 50% Off!

JCPenny: Final Hours of Huge Sale.

  Posts of the Week:

Interior Design Ideas: California Modern Farmhouse.

Interior Design Ideas: Colorful Interiors.

Interior Design Ideas New Home Inspiration.

Palm Beach, Florida Home Design.

New-Construction Modern Farmhouse Inspiration.

Painted Brick Exterior Home Renovation.

Classic Home with Blue and White Interiors.

Spanish Colonial Home Renovation.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram.

Kitchen and Mudroom Gut Renovation Ideas.

Before & After: Small Farmhouse-Style Home Renovation.

Custom Home with Artisan Craftsmanship Interiors.

Santa Barbara Beach Home Design.

Interior Design Ideas Coastal Florida Home.

Georgian Home Design Ideas.

Interior Design Ideas: California Coastal Home.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Andrea McQueen Design.

Texas Gulf Coast Beach House.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: California Beach House.

New-Construction Home for First-time Home Buyer.

California Beach House with Beautiful Coastal Interiors.

Grey Kitchen Paint Colors.

  You can follow my pins here: Pinterest/HomeBunch

See more Inspiring Interior Design Ideas in my Archives.

Popular Paint Color Posts: The Best Benjamin Moore Paint Colors

2016 Paint Color Ideas for your Home

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette Pictures

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette Ideas

Inspiring Interior Paint Color Ideas

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette

New 2015 Paint Color Ideas

Interior Paint Color Ideas

Interior Design Ideas: Paint Color

Interior Ideas: Paint Color

More Paint Color Ideas

  “Dear God,

If I am wrong, right me. If I am lost, guide me. If I start to give-up, keep me going.

Lead me in Light and Love”.

Have a wonderful day, my friends and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”

with Love,

Luciane from HomeBunch.com

Interior Design Services within Your Budget

Come Follow me on

Come Follow me on

Get Home Bunch Posts Via Email

Contact Luciane

“For your shopping convenience, this post might contain links to retailers where you can purchase the products (or similar) featured. I make a small commission if you use these links to make your purchase so thank you for your support!”

from Home http://www.homebunch.com/neutral-home-interior-ideas-2/ via http://www.rssmix.com/

[dawnjeman]

Neutral Home Interior Ideas

  Beautifully designed by two very talented interior designers, Mitzi Maynard and Clare Kennedy, this neutral home has 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (6 including pool house), and a total of 6,500 square feet.

The homeowners began building this neutral home in the fall of 2015, and it was completed in the Spring of 2017. This home combines a few different architectural styles. The exterior is a fresh take on a traditional home, which works well in their established neighborhood in Nashville. The interior of the home has a more Modern/Mediterranean style with a neutral color scheme that is easy on the eyes and soothing to the soul.

All photos by Aimée Mazzenga.

  Neutral Home Interior Ideas

The homeowners are minimalists in style but are full of energy and playfulness.We had to strike a balance between comfort and livability for their family (pets included) while carefully curating a beautiful minimalist space.

Similar Pendants: here.

With Family in Mind

We designed this space to be the perfect multi-functional space for a family that loves to entertain.

Coffee Table – Four Hands – Cruz Coffee Table

Rug: Here.

Chairs

The four chairs in the center of the room and the huge fabric pendants make the room feel cozy enough for intimate gatherings.

Lanterns – Custom Made at Redo Home + Design

Beautiful Lumbar Pillows: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Chairs – Cisco Brothers – similar here & here.

Paint Color

Paint color is Benjamin Moore OC-17 White Dove.

Modern Lighting

(Always check dimensions before ordering)

!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? 'http' : 'https';if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + '://' + 'widgets.rewardstyle.com' + '/js/shopthepost.js';d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === 'object') if(d.readyState === 'complete') {window.__stp.init();}}(document, 'script', 'shopthepost-script');

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

Built-in Bench

The built in reading bench is their favorite place to read a book or take a nap in the sunshine. And, when they host large-scale events they simply clear out the chairs and the room transitions to a caterers dream.

Bench Mattress – Anthropologie

Pillows – Anthropologie

Table Lamp: Discontinued. Other Beautiful Table Lamps: here, here, here & here.

Kitchen

The kitchen is defined by its clean lines, concrete countertops and hand forged hardware.  The rattan stools and vintage Oushak rug add texture and age to the space.

Cabinetry & Paint Color

The European hardware added architecture and substance to the modern custom cabinetry. The paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Similar Hardware: here, here, here & here.

Runner –  Vintage Runner (one-of- a-kind) – similar here, here & here.

Range: Wolf – similar here.

Island Pendant

Our client really pushed for the single-pendant over their custom concrete island. She wanted something minimalist, large scale, that added a modern glam element to the room.

Oversized Island Pendant: RH Modern – Beautiful Pendant Lights (many styles for every budget): here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Counterstools

Counterstools – Palecek.

Countertop

Countertop is concrete. Concrete was also used on the both sides of the kitchen island.

Decor

Minimalist decor keeps this kitchen feeling airy and uncluttered.

Cabinetry

Cabinets – Wood Tones Cabinetry.

Dining Room

The dining room carries the same clean-lined feel. Metal and leather dining chairs complement a black dining table with chunky legs.

Dining Chairs: here.

Similar Dining Table: here, here, here & here.

Similar Antique Dough Bowl: here & here.

Great Room

At the center of the home is the warm and inviting living space. With its relaxed West- Coast style, it captures the feeling of true indoor/outdoor living. The towering steel doors give the perfect view to the pristinely landscaped backyard and pool.

Hidden Push Panel Doors – Jamie Beckwith

Danish Chairs – Borge Mogense – similar here.

Sectional – RH – similar here.

Color Scheme

Neutral Color Scheme: We were trying to leave the colorful palette of their previous home behind us. They were ready to go neutral so we used natural elements, texture, and mixed metals to bring lay- ers and warmth to the space.

While antiquing in Michigan we found an African Carved Wood Senofu stool that is one of the homeowners favorite pieces in their living room.

Fireplace

The modern concrete fireplace wall is the centerpiece of the room and features custom designed wood push-paneled doors (that cleverly hide clutter).

Pillows – Custom-made – similar here, here, here, here & here.

Similar Floor Pillows: here.

Similar Rug: here.

Similar Coffee Table: here & here.

Hardwood Flooring

Hand-Scraped Wood Flooring – Hitson & Co – similar here, here & here.

Architectural Elements

Great Finds: The homeowner found some gorgeous arched vintage doors from an antique dealer in England, and she knew she had to have them. The doors are now one of the defining architectural elements in the house.

Paint Color

The paint color is White Dove Oc-17 by Benjamin Moore.

Similar Throw: here.

Similar Ladder: here.

Daybed

The interiors feel collected, traveled, relaxed, Layered and yet modern.

Pillows – Pehuen Pillows – similar here.

Chandelier – Made Goods – similar style: here, here & here.

Home Office

I absolutely love this small home office. Notice the smartly-designed built-ins!

Similar Wallpaper: here.

Office Chair

Chair is from RH – similar here, here & here.

Powder Room

The powder room feels neutral and feminine without being too over-the-top.

Mirror

Similar Brass Round Mirror: here & here.

Faucet: Kohler.

Transitional

This transitional bathroom features a vintage wooden console table used as vanity, vessel sinks and a pair of Moroccan embellished hampers.

Similar Console Table (better if made of solid hardwood – it would make a great DIY! :): here, here & here.

Curbless Shower

This bathroom also features a simple curbless shower and a freestanding tub.

Similar Floor Tile: here.

Girl’s Bathroom

Beautiful choices bring a timeless yet current feel to this bathroom. Vanity is wrapped in a white quartz.

Similar Arabesque Wall Tile: here & here (in marble).

Mirror

Bathroom also features a long vanity, antique mirrored pendant lights and an arched mirror.

Similar Arched Mirror: here, here & here.

Similar Faucet: here.

Pendants: Worlds Away.

Paint Color & Flooring

Paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Flooring is a marble mosaic tile – similar here.

Runner is vintage – similar here.

Master Bedroom

The homeowners wanted their master suite to be defined by comfort.

Oversized Art – Original Addie Chapin Art – Other beautiful artwork: here.

Gifted

Stools – Gifted to homeowners parents – Faux Mongolian Fur Stools: here.

Paint Color

The paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Elements

From the plush upholstered bed, shag rug, and layered knitted textures, the room is indulgently cozy.

Nightstands & Pendants

Nightstands – RH – similar here, here & here.

The Beehive Pendant Lights are Marmoset Found, from Australia – similar here (in black).

Knitted Throw – Etsy – Similar Knit Throw: here.

Inviting

Our goal was to make the minimalist architecture feel livable, inviting and collected.

Bathroom Paint Color

The paint color continuous to be Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Organic Feel

The master bathroom features an unique concrete and wood vanity.

Mirror

Mirror – Noir – similar here & here.

Sconces – Restoration Hardware.

Black & White

Tub Side Table – Custom-made.

Creating a Beautiful Home

The house is nestled in a well established Nashville neighborhood. But when you walk in you feel as if you have been transported to villa in the Mediterranean. The wall of windows connect the beautiful outdoor space with the interior, creating an invitation to relax and enjoy.

Outdoor Furniture – RH

Swing

A porch swing comes to complete the relaxed feel of this gorgeous home.

  Many thanks to the designers for sharing all of the details above.

Interior Designer: Designers: Mitzi Maynard (@mitzimaynard) and Clare Kennedy (@clarann). Make sure to follow them!

Photography: Aimée Mazzenga (@aimeemazzenga)

  End of Summer Best Deals!

Thank you for shopping through Home Bunch. I would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or are looking for something in particular. Feel free to contact me and always make sure to check dimensions before ordering. Happy shopping!

Wayfair: Up to 70% OFF – Huge Sales on Decor, Furniture & Rugs!!!

Joss & Main: Surprise Sale! Up to 70% Off!!!

Serena & Lily: Huge Sale! Up to 60% Off!!!

Pottery Barn: New Arrivals!!! Up to 70% Off!

West Elm: Mega Sale – 70% Off sales!

Caitlin Wilson: Beautiful Rugs & Pillows.

Anthropologie: Extra 40% Off Sale Plus 20% Off Furniture + Decor.

Urban Outfitters: Hip & Affordable Home Decor – Big Summer Sales!!!

Horchow: Flash Sale: Up to 55% Off!!!

One Kings Lane: Save Up to 70% OFF! Free Standard Shipping on Orders over $99!

Williams & Sonoma: Spring Clearance: Up to 75% OFF!.

Nordstrom: Up to 40% OFF!

Neiman Marcus: Designer Sale: Up to 40% OFF.

Pier 1: Biggest Memorial Day Sale: Up to 50% Off!

JCPenny: Final Hours of Huge Sale.

  Posts of the Week:

Interior Design Ideas: California Modern Farmhouse.

Interior Design Ideas: Colorful Interiors.

Interior Design Ideas New Home Inspiration.

Palm Beach, Florida Home Design.

New-Construction Modern Farmhouse Inspiration.

Painted Brick Exterior Home Renovation.

Classic Home with Blue and White Interiors.

Spanish Colonial Home Renovation.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram.

Kitchen and Mudroom Gut Renovation Ideas.

Before & After: Small Farmhouse-Style Home Renovation.

Custom Home with Artisan Craftsmanship Interiors.

Santa Barbara Beach Home Design.

Interior Design Ideas Coastal Florida Home.

Georgian Home Design Ideas.

Interior Design Ideas: California Coastal Home.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Andrea McQueen Design.

Texas Gulf Coast Beach House.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: California Beach House.

New-Construction Home for First-time Home Buyer.

California Beach House with Beautiful Coastal Interiors.

Grey Kitchen Paint Colors.

  You can follow my pins here: Pinterest/HomeBunch

See more Inspiring Interior Design Ideas in my Archives.

Popular Paint Color Posts: The Best Benjamin Moore Paint Colors

2016 Paint Color Ideas for your Home

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette Pictures

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette Ideas

Inspiring Interior Paint Color Ideas

Interior Paint Color and Color Palette

New 2015 Paint Color Ideas

Interior Paint Color Ideas

Interior Design Ideas: Paint Color

Interior Ideas: Paint Color

More Paint Color Ideas

  “Dear God,

If I am wrong, right me. If I am lost, guide me. If I start to give-up, keep me going.

Lead me in Light and Love”.

Have a wonderful day, my friends and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”

with Love,

Luciane from HomeBunch.com

Interior Design Services within Your Budget

Come Follow me on

Come Follow me on

Get Home Bunch Posts Via Email

Contact Luciane

“For your shopping convenience, this post might contain links to retailers where you can purchase the products (or similar) featured. I make a small commission if you use these links to make your purchase so thank you for your support!”

from Home http://www.homebunch.com/neutral-home-interior-ideas-2/ via http://www.rssmix.com/

[tamboradventure]

Best Neighborhoods in Stockholm: Where to Stay During Your Visit

Posted: 6/2/2019 | June 2nd, 2019

Stockholm is one of my favorite cities in the world. I’ve been there more times than I can count, and I even tried to move there many years ago (spoiler alert: it didn’t work out the way I planned).

Made up of over 14 islands, Stockholm is home to incredible architecture, boasts a vibrant history, and has a nightlife that’s hard to beat.

To help you make the most out of your next trip there, here’s a breakdown of its best neighborhoods as well as some suggested places to stay — no matter your budget!  

Table of Contents

Best neighborhood for history: Gamla Stan

Best neighborhood for convenience: Norrmalm

Best neighborhood for a quiet stay: Vasastan

Best neighborhood for partying: Östermalm

Best neighborhood for relaxing: Kungsholmen

Best neighborhood for summer fun: Djurgården

Best neighborhood for cafes and shopping: Södermalm

The 7 Best Neighborhoods in Stockholm

Best Neighborhood #1: Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan is Stockholm’s Old Town. It dates back to the 13th century and is the heart of the city. It’s where you’ll find many of the best tourist activities, such as the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace, as well as all sorts of little shops tucked away down narrow alleys between medieval buildings. It’s touristy, but you can’t visit Stockholm without exploring this part of town. Staying here is a great option for anyone looking to be right in the center of the action.

The Best Places to Stay in Gamla Stan

BUDGET: Archipelago Hostel Old Town – This hostel is centrally located in a 17th-century building. Though it’s very small, with only a few rooms and a small common area, this place is perfect if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.

MID-RANGE: Castle House Inn – Many of the rooms here have hardwood floors and large and classic wooden furniture, giving the inn a cozy and rustic feel. It’s in a wonderful central location for anyone planning to visit the popular sites nearby.

LUXURY: Collectors Victory Hotel – This four-star hotel has a classic ambience inspired by its own antique maritime collection. Think antique shop meets bed-and-breakfast and you’ll get a sense of its atmosphere and design. Its restaurant sources local and organic ingredients, and it has a bar on-site, as well as a sauna and pool.

Best Neighborhood #2: Norrmalm

Norrmalm is the modern heart of Stockholm, home to its central station as well as the massive shopping street, Drottninggatan. You’ll find everything here, from restaurants and shops to the Royal Opera to several lovely city parks. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of town, and it has more affordable options than Gamla Stan.

The Best Places to Stay in Norrmalm

BUDGET: City Backpackers – This is my favorite hostel in Stockholm. Its mattresses and pillows are super cozy, and it has a huge kitchen, tons of common space, a free sauna, free pasta, and laundry facilities. It’s a very popular hostel, so book in advance!

MID-RANGE: Hotel Terminus – This is located right across from the central station, from which you can make it to the airport in as little as 20 minutes. You’re also just a short walk from Drottninggatan. The rooms here are soundproofed, so you don’t need to worry about all that city noise either.

LUXURY: Scandic Grand Central – This charming hotel is located in a building from the 1880s but boasts a fitness center, sauna, and also bike rentals.

Best Neighborhood #3: Vasastan

You’ll find plenty of green space in this part of town, and it’s much quieter and less touristy than neighboring Norrmalm. While there isn’t a whole lot to see or do nearby, it’s easy to get around from here, and accommodations are still quite affordable.

The Best Places to Stay in Vasastan

BUDGET: 2Kronor Hostel Vasastan – This hostel is located in a historic brick house built in 1865. It’s a good option if you want something more upscale, as the rooms are quite spacious (many also have regular beds as well as bunk beds). The interior design has that classic Nordic minimalist feel, balancing rustic touches (like exposed stone and brick) with modern amenities. It’s a bit quieter too, making it a great place for anyone not looking to party late into the night.

MID-RANGE: August Strindberg Hotell – With a cozy dining hall complete with a fireplace, as well as an outdoor garden area, this hotel is a great option for anyone looking to shop or explore the downtown area. Located in a charming building from the 1880s, it’s is located right near the major shopping street of Drottninggatan. It also serves a great buffet breakfast.

LUXURY: Best Western Plus Time Hotel – This is the perfect option for anyone looking for unparalleled luxury in the heart of the city. Located on a quiet residential street, almost every room boasts a sauna, a relaxation room, a heated bathroom floor, and a balcony.

Best Neighborhood #4: Östermalm

This is one of the more posh areas of town, known for its high-class shopping district and affluent residents. It’s also the place to party as well, with tons of great bars and nightclubs calling the neighborhood home. If you plan on indulging during your stay, this is probably the neighborhood for you!

The Best Places to Stay in Ostermalm

BUDGET: STF Gärdet Hotel & Hostel – This budget-friendly hotel has more of a hostel feel, with a fully equipped kitchen and common areas. There is free Wi-Fi and breakfast as well. It’s not right in the center of Stockholm, but that just means you’ll be away from the crowds and have more space to explore.

MID-RANGE: Pärlan Hotel – This family-owned, three-star hotel has a classic feel with a modern twist. With wooden floors, fireplaces, and quaint balconies, it really does emulate the charm of Stockholm. And it’s just a couple metro stops from Gamla Stan too.

LUXURY: Elite Eden Park Hotel – Boasting a gym, a sauna, free Wi-Fi, and an Asian-inspired restaurant run by Swedish chef Melker Andersson, this hotel is a great option for anyone looking to indulge. The breakfast buffet is incredible, and the staff are helpful and incredibly professional.

Best Neighborhood #5: Kungsholmen

Located across the water from Norrmalm, this is more of a laid-back area. It’s growing in popularity and offers plenty of restaurants and cozy cafés. It has a lot of green space, including some walking trails. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for something a bit quieter away from the busy city center (yet still convenient enough to get anywhere with ease).

The Best Places to Stay in Kungsholmen

BUDGET: Lodge32 Hostel – This is a simple, eco-friendly hostel with a no-frills atmosphere. It’s a short walk to the central station and great for anyone on a tight budget who doesn’t need anything fancy.

MID-RANGE: Hotell M/S Monika – This is no average hotel, as it’s located on a refurbished ship from 1908. It may be cozy, but it’s absolutely charming and one of the most unique accommodations in town. There’s a huge breakfast each morning too!

LUXURY: Courtyard by Marriott Stockholm Kungsholmen – Next door to Rålambshovsparken, a spacious park, the Courtyard is a stylish choice for anyone looking for luxury but also some peace and quiet. The rooms are spacious, and there’s free Wi-Fi and a fitness center to help you relax and enjoy your stay.

Best Neighborhood #6: Djurgården

After Gamla Stan, this island is probably the most popular area of the city for visitors. It’s home to the Vasa Museum, the ABBA museum, and Skansen (an open-air historical museum), where there are live concerts throughout the summer. There is even an amusement park on Djurgården too (Gröna Lund).

The Best Places to Stay in Djurgården

BUDGET: There aren’t too many budget options on Djurgården. Your best bet is to try Airbnb or stay in a nearby neighborhood like Gamla Stan or Östermalm.

MID-RANGE: Pop House Hotel – This hotel is actually located in the same building as the ABBA Musuem (hence the name). It has a chic modern design and is just a five-minute ride from Stockholm’s center.

LUXURY: Hotel Hasselbacken – This beautiful hotel is right beside Skansen and Gröna Lund. It has a spa and fitness center, as well as a great restaurant with both traditional Swedish cuisine and international fare. It also has a kids’ playroom with toys and movies if you happen to be traveling with children.

Best Neighborhood #7: Södermalm

Södermalm (usually just referred to as Söder) is the artistic heart of Stockholm. You’ll find all sorts of shops and boutiques here, as well as some great cafés. It’s generally a bit more affordable and is a favorite district of locals. It’s also the area of Stockholm made popular by the Millennium Series (which includes The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo).

The Best Places to Stay in Södermalm

BUDGET: Skanstull Hostel – Skanstull is my second-favorite hostel in Stockholm. It was remodeled a few years back and has a brand-new, larger common area and kitchen (one of the nicest I’ve seen in a hostel in a long, long time).

MID-RANGE: Hotel Söder – This hotel doesn’t look like much from the outside, but you’ll be surprised once you arrive. It’s modern and cozy, with comfortable beds and tons of great restaurants nearby. The Swedish breakfast here is delicious too.

LUXURY: Clarion Hotel Stockholm – With a spa, fitness center, and some great views of the islands, you’ll be able to kick back and indulge at the Clarion. It has a top-notch restaurant that boasts an impressive menu of Central and South America cuisine, and there’s a terrace where you can eat and relax in the summer.

***

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or looking to indulge in a little Scandinavian luxury, Stockholm will have something to keep you entertained.

While it’s not the most budget-friendly city in the world, it has a lot to offer. No matter what your interest or travel style, you’ll be able to find a neighborhood that suits your needs — as well as an amazing place to stay to help you make the most of your time in one of Scandinavia’s best cities.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Stockholm!

For more in-depth coverage of Stockholm, my 80-page guidebook is perfect for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You’ll find suggested itineraries; budgets; ways to save money; on- and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do; non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars; and much more! Click here to learn more and get started.

Book Your Trip to Stockholm: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone has been left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com, as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use it all the time. It’s my favorite website!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Stockholm? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Stockholm with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credit: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

The post Best Neighborhoods in Stockholm: Where to Stay During Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

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[miraclejunewrites]

Chapter 4

Bonded

The suffocating silence bothered Jaemy. The rest of the pack rushed at the doorstep, including Han, bombarding him with questions he couldn’t quite understand. Amidst the chaos, Samuel stood in front of the boy, blocking him away from Chris whose eyes have been gazing at him intently. A firm grasp on Wisdom’s left wrist made him look up, “Wisdom” his voice was desperate. Wisdom knew the boy wanted answers.

He pulled the boy to his side, earning the long-awaited silence. Samuel was about to speak up when his eyes found Jaemy’s, they were practically begging him to just stay quiet. The witch’s furrowed eyebrows relaxed as he sighed in defeat, pushing the rest inside the house. Samuel went back and dragged Felix and Marco by their ears, both breaking into a fit of whines. The alpha turned to Jaemy, giving the boy a small smile before leading him inside the house. Wisdom’s hand was big and warm, Jaemy felt reassured with just that.

His eyes wandered around the wide hallway, his muddy shoes leaving stain on the carpeted floor. Jaemy reminded himself to apologize to Wisdom later. The hallway was decorated with simple paintings on the walls and a few vases on top of stools. The pack probably didn’t want to redecorate the place in honor of the previous owner. With that, he started coming up with questions regarding the wolves and Chris’s lives. Plus, the mansion.

The hallway leads to an open space. Jaemy who was whisked away from his thoughts, saw the rest of the boys gathered at the circular sofa, their heads were on the same level as his and Wisdom’s feet. “Careful of the steps, Sam usually slips.” the mentioned wolf whimpers, receiving a loud cackle from Calvin. “Sam trips at least twice a week.”

Felix giggled, “What?” his deep voice was cut off with the sudden stares from everyone in the room. For the first time in a while, the tension was broken. Chris huffed out air, he too was tired of the heavy air around them. He smiled, “Felix is easily amused, pay him no mind.” the first playful words coming from him swept the suffocating air away. Felix pouted, shouting a loud ‘Hey!’ afterwards. While the others laughed, Wisdom pulled Jaemy, settling him in between Han and Sam. “Are you okay now, Han?” the wolf nodded, giving the boy a smile as they open up a small talk. Sam leaned over, gingerly placing his head on the boy’s shoulder. Jaemy flinched at the sudden contact but loosened up at the sight of Sam. “Sam, don’t make the boy uncomfortable.” Sam whined and attached himself to Jaemy, earning a soft giggle from Wisdom. The alpha eventually gave up, he can’t change about the fact that Sam is a cuddle bug.

The laughter dies down, it was silent. But not the same silence as earlier. Wisdom beams as he faces Chris. “Oh, why don’t your friends introduce themselves, huh, Chris?” Felix and Marco spares Chris a glance, finally speaking up when the older nods. They don’t usually get permission from someone higher than them, they were free spirits, usually messing with people back in Japan. But after meeting Chris, they pay so much respect for the vampire.

Felix’s meeting wasn’t the best one, but it was memorable.

Chris was on a trip to Japan; he was importing vases from a very famous antique shop in Okinawa. It was a hard gamble as the owner of the shop didn’t want anyone to re-sell his products. Chris was a very patient person, he tried to talk as calm and casual as possible. But the old man was not having any of it. He was close to just hypnotizing him, but it bothered his conscience, not that he has one anyways.

On his way out, he was bothered by a eerie presence, it was subtle but he can tell the sheer amount of power being suppressed. His head snapped towards the rooftop of a candy shop. There, he saw a small fox watching him intently with his doe eyes, his speck-littered face standing out in the open. The fox was sure his presence was hidden. As he made eye contact with the man, his small body shivered in fear. Chris’s deep and dark orbs flashed red; he smiles at the fox. Nodding at him before going his merry way.

Felix was a bit, arrogant. The town his shrine was located was somewhat, peaceful. The bad spirits were nothing more than deranged souls who strayed from their paths. And he wasn’t the only God/Guardian in that huge town. There were lots of them. Ranging from powerful to mediocre ones. Felix was one of the most influential and known God. His personality in most cases, is normal. He was a nice God, a bit playful, nonetheless. But the residents don’t have complaints against the fox.

They admired him the most whenever they get to see a glimpse of his full form. His huge figure partially hidden in the depths of the woods as the moon reflected against his glimmering white fur, littered with black specs focused on his face. Felix was beautiful indeed.

The fox had no reason for staying. But he had a reason for leaving, it was Chris.

“I’m Felix. I am uh, a 9 tailed fox, Marco and I are both from Japan.” Chris snickered as Felix began unveiling his tails one by one. The room broke into gasps. Marco turned to Chris, in cue, they both laughed underneath their breath as they shake their heads simultaneously. Lix was a bit of a show-off. It wasn’t the worst, but you can’t help but scoff whenever he does so.

Chris glances at Jaemy who busy admiring Felix’s tails was. He can’t help but break into a smile when the boy stood up and asked Felix, politely, if he could touch them. Felix gave the boy a big smile, telling him it was fine. “Wow, so fluffy!” the rest literally melted when the boy jumped up and down with a silly smile on his face. His braces on full view for everyone to see. And when most of them have moved on by the majestic scene, Jaemy couldn’t stop admiring the fox. Felix forced him to sit down between him and Samuel.

Felix has always been nice. Sure, he was a bit playful with the townspeople near his shrine but in general, he was just a quiet God. Looking over his people

Marco was a different case. He was stubborn and naive. He liked playing with the locals, especially the school girls who visit his shrine. Marco usually blows towards the girls, their skirts riding up as the harsh wind hits them. He would throw rocks at the roofs of some elderly people, just for the heck of it. They know it was him. The God of their village. His shrine was atop a small hill, with the perfect view of the whole village. The elderly would curse at him, using mantras to make the Bakeneko go back to its shrine.

You would really expect for him to have a bad reputation within the town. With his usual childish acts and pranks, he should’ve been a stray God by now. But he wasn’t. Marco is weird and arrogant and obnoxious. But the village was thankful for him, Marco has done a lot of stupid things but none of them are gravely bad. He has done better than any God that has set foot at their small town. Marco always gave them a good harvest, plenty of fish, nature was always bountiful and vibrant. And his petty pranks made the village livelier.

That’s why when Chris stumbled upon his shrine, he couldn’t help but admire the size of it. It was vibrant and clean. Offerings piled neatly on the shiny wooden floor. People from all around the village visiting back and forth. Chris was impressed, despite the bad reviews of the God, the locals still respect and admire him.

But, up to this date. He never really knew why the cat left Japan. He never knew why Marco snuck into his hotel room on his last day there.

“I’m Marco. I’m a bakeneko from Japan.”

“What’s a bakeneko?”

“It’s like a ghost cat.”

Calvin nodded, somewhat satisfied with the answer given to him.

After the pleasantries were exchanged, they all engaged in conversations. It wasn’t just a small, casual talk to fill in the gaps. They talked about stuff close friends normally dabble in. Wisdom can’t help but smile as he admires the people around him going along just fine, despite the multiple feuds they had within the span of a day.

Samuel who was wandering his eyes around the finally decided to ask the question that has been sitting in his head. “How did you guys get ahold of this place?” his tone directed to Wisdom. With a weary look, the rest of the pack turned their heads to their alpha. “Yeah, how did you find this place?” Samuel followed Jaemy’s gaze towards Wisdom, thankful because he backed him up. Wisdom can’t help but break into a smile with the boy’s gesture. Jaemy’s head was tilted to the side as he playfully wraps one of Felix’s tail around wrist.

“Well, to make things short. There was this soldier who stumbled upon our small den during the World War I. He was miles away from his battalion. He was a wise guy to say at least.” a few pair of eyes followed Wisdom’s finger, pointing at a huge portrait on the cream-colored walls. Wisdom lowered his hand, proceeding with his story. “Han,” the said wolf let out a small whine, lowering his head. Sam threw a hand around the wolf, nuzzling him closer. “Was still very sensitive back then–” his next words fell to the floor, unsaid, as he sees Han shaking a bit in the arms of Sam. He cleared his throat and decided to choose his words wisely. “Calvin was very territorial. While, Sam was the most rational between all of us. It was hard not to trust the man; he was very clever for his age. He didn’t like war. Wished he could stop it, but instead he was forced to join the army in the name of his family’s honor.”

Jaemy was compelled by the story. His eyes glistened in curiosity as he listened to the alpha’s soothing voice. He felt like a kid again, listening to his teacher’s stories during kindergarten and preschool. Wisdom continues his history class. Calvin left 5 minutes ago, telling them he was gonna go get some snacks since everyone didn’t have the appetite to eat a heavy meal. The story about the mansion finished, and the rest of them started telling their own. Marco, bullshiting everyone into believing he created Japan. He earned a smack on the head from Chris because of it.

As they continue to munch on their chips, Jaemy gazes at Felix who was fast asleep on his lap. Jaemy’s fingers running through the fox’s strawberry tinted locks. The boy tried to reach out for his bag on the side of the couch. He was also trying hard not to wake the fox. Jaemy mumbled a silent thanks to Han who made his task easier. The current state of his bag made his frown, his mom is gonna question him about it. He sighed and carefully opening it. Rummaging through his notes and a few personal necessities, his hand found what he was trying to retrieve. Jaemy placed his bag between his knees and continued to unlock his phone.

There were only 2 missed calls from his mom, he sighed. Thankful that it wasn’t his dad. He buried his face in front of the screen as he types in a message for his mom, telling her he was okay and was only at a friend’s house. His thumbs stopped moving, Jaemy eyed the last word he typed in, “Friends” he really didn’t have any. His mom pushed him further to make friends, but he really didn’t know who was at fault. Jaemy doesn’t really claim that he’s the nicest person. Sure, he was naive and a bit of a cast off, but he wasn’t rude to anyone. He greeted his classmates on his first day but none of them really stuck to him. They only talk when it’s related to school. You can’t even tell if it was a ‘casual’ relationship. He was sometimes invisible in class, only getting recognized when the teacher calls him out for spacing out.

“Hey, Jaemy. Do you need to get home?” he pressed send before looking up to Sam. The wolf gave him a worried look and proceeded to walk to his position. The wolf plopped down in front of him and put his hand on Jaemy’s knee. The room went silent, they waited for the boy’s answer. It was really late, and the boy’s family is probably worried. “Sam, it’s okay. I texted my mom that I was at a..” a lump in his throat caught his next words. “F-friends. And that I’ll be home by midnight at least.” Wisdom stood up and peered over at the closest window. It was dark, his eyes traveled to the moon, shining brightly than normal. He hummed in thought before turning back to the rest of the pack.

He gave them his most fatherly smile.

“How about a sleepover?”

-

For the last 30 minutes, Sam and Han who was now acting normal according to Calvin, were both chanting “Sleepover!” while jumping up and down the couch. Felix was woken up by the commotion and after processing what was happening, he joined the two idiots. “The couch, you fucking cunts!” the three of them scurried away from a fuming Calvin. Jaemy looked in awe. Obviously, culture shocked. Jaemy had called his mom after Sam insisted on him sleeping over. The sound of his mom crying over the phone telling him she was proud of him finally making friends, was definitely alarming. Sam had snatched his phone and told his mom that they will take care of her baby. Jaemy was embarrassed, but he can’t help but smile. It was his first ever sleepover.

“I’m going home.” Jaemy whipped his head towards Samuel’s direction, the witch walked past him, heading towards the door. Jaemy gripped his wrist, making the older turn to him. “Don’t go?” his tone was vague; he didn’t know if he was asking him or telling him. Samuel didn’t know what took over him when he nodded his head and sat beside the boy. Just like Jaemy, he didn’t have any friends, the only difference is that he didn’t want to make such connections. He always thought that the need to socialize was a pain in the ass. The Student Council was already a big burden to bear. He had to put up a strict but reliable facade in front of the students and the teachers. Having friends was just a distraction. Well, aside for Chris.

“How about you two wash up upstairs. Sam’s clothes might fit both of you, I’ll call you guys when,” Wisdom looked at the clock on the wall. “Super late dinner is ready. Alright?” he chuckled midway and turned his back after getting a nod from both. There was something about Wisdom that made Samuel follow his every command. Jaemy turned to Samuel when he felt him shiver. The witch was reminded of the alpha almost losing his temper earlier. Wisdom was patient no matter how grave the moment is, but today was different. Han has been kidnapped and they had to protect an innocent human boy. He had to step up and show his authority or else they wouldn’t get things done.

Samuel doesn’t want to admit it but, he respects the alpha. Maybe even more than Chris.

“Let’s go!” they were both pulled off from their seats. Sam dragging them upstairs as he giggled. Jaemy tried to look back while keeping up with the wolf, he saw a laughing Felix being chased by a grinning Calvin. He can’t help but break into a smile, reaching out his hand to the fox who greatly accepted it. “Hey! That’s not fair!” Samuel almost breaking into a fit of laughter because of Calvin’s last remarks before they disappeared around the corner.

The wooden door smacked shut right in front of Calvin. Sam fell down the carpeted floor, almost losing his sanity as he laughed. Felix fell on top of him, his face was red, and tears were on the verge of falling from his eyes. Jaemy giggled as he sat on the bed, pulling Samuel beside him. The boy was a ecstatic when he saw the glow on Samuel’s eyes as he smiled at him. He knew the witch was having fun despite what had happened earlier. The door opened and a grim looking Calvin stared down on the two figures squirming on the floor.

The three of them trashed around the room, Calvin holding a death grip on Sam’s neck while both Jaemy and Samuel rushed to his aid. Samuel gave up halfway no longer being able to hold back his laughter and collapsed beside Felix who was barely breathing. “Sam. I will be fucking end you. You fucking cunt, you broke my nose!” Jaemy was barely even putting effort on trying to pry them away from each other. He was cackling so hard he can’t even stand up. His chest hit Calvin’s back, letting the wolf carry his weight while he chokes Sam. The wolf underneath tried his best to explain his side, telling Calvin that his nose healed within a second.

“What is happe–” Han’s question hung in the air when he looked at the chaos. Choking on his saliva he rushed towards Sam, easily pulling off Calvin from Sam. Calvin proceeded trashing his fists towards Sam who was hoisted up from the floor by Samuel. Sam leaned half of his weight on Samuel, the witch momentarily stumbled but anchored his foot on the ground to hold up the almost dying wolf.

Calvin calmed down after a while as they all slumped on the king-sized bed in the center of the room. They started small talk with each other. Sam was convinced Samuel has at least 2 personalities. He observed how the witch transitioned from almost dying from laughter to his usual stoic face just nodding and responding with short comments. Shaking his head, he paid attention to Han who was telling a funny story. A soft knock on the door made them turn their heads. Marco enters the room quietly; the sudden lack of voices amplified the sound of the cat’s footsteps.

He stopped on the foot of the bed. Staring languidly at the people who were atop it. Felix suddenly realized the situation and scrambled to his feet, “Marco NO—GUYS OFF THE BED NOW!!” loud moans and groans filled the air. Marco purred, full form crushing the contents of the bed. Felix who was the only one who got out, tried to push the giant cat off the rest of the guys. He wasn’t honestly putting all his weight on them; Marco was just being playful and was jealous of all the action he wasn’t getting.

After successfully removing Marco from them, the boys continued to talk. With the additional presence, the room was much louder. Filled with their laughter and voices.

“Oh, right! Go wash up!” Sam pushed Jaemy towards the full bathroom, he told the boy he’s gonna bring him some clothes in a few minutes. Jaemy wanted to refuse, his debt was already so big, but his clothes sticking to his skin wasn’t a good sign. Smelly, is a valid reason for him to take up the offer. So, he let himself in the bathroom, closing the frosted glass door behind him.

It was indeed the most beautiful bathroom he has ever been in, and it was a huge compliment because he has only been in two. The full-sized bathtub reminded him of a Jacuzzi which, in his case, was very luxurious. Jaemy was tempted on using the tub, but he knew he didn’t have time to do so. And it was kinda embarrassing. He proceeded on showering, discarding his clothes and piling them neatly atop the sink. Sam came back with fresh clothes. Earning a blush from the boy when he complimented his upper body. Jaemy was thankful he was able to wrap a towel on his torso. Samuel washed up also and they all went back to the bed. The witch was getting used to all the ruckus and he can’t deny that he enjoyed it.

“Boys! Dinner!” Wisdom’s amplified voice resonated around the house. The boys went downstairs, drooling over the feast on the table. Without delay, they all sat down and began to chow down. “For fuck’s sake Sam, your spitting pasta all over the goddamn table.” Jaemy chuckled, placing his glass back down. His eye caught Chris. The vampire was just sitting beside Wisdom, both engrossed in a conversation. But that wasn’t the case. Jaemy was bothered by the lack of food on the man’s plate. There was absolutely nothing in it, Samuel tapped the boy’s thigh under the table. “Chris doesn’t need to eat.” Jaemy nodded, he was still not satisfied with it, but he didn’t ponder on it too much.

Dinner ended with Marco shoving ice cream down Calvin’s throat, he enjoyed the look on the wolf’s face as he does so. After that ‘fulfilling’ desert, they went back to the living room. Playing 4 rounds of UNO before Wisdom called it a night. He proceeded on showing Jaemy the guest room, Samuel demanded to stay with the boy even though they had another room prepared for him. Wisdom doesn’t want to argue, so he let him be. He knew the witch was still weary of Chris, even he was worried. This is not the best outcome he had hoped for.

Sleep didn’t come easy to Jaemy. The whistling of the wind outside was not a lullaby for him tonight. Jaemy let out a deep sigh, carefully removing himself underneath the blanket. He glanced at the witch sleeping peacefully beside him. He stood up and ambled towards the door. As he descended down the dim lighted stairs, he saw light coming from the kitchen. “Chris?” the vampire turned to him with a soft smile. He smiled back, he sat on top of the counter, head turned towards Chris.

“Can’t sleep?” it was a dumb question. But Jaemy wasn’t sure on what to say to Chris. The vampire smiled at him and nodded. Chris walked to the fridge, fishing out a box of chocolate milk. He handed it to the boy, earning a small thanks from him. “Sorry about um, everything” Chris was the best when it comes to this, he always chooses the right words and his advice are mostly logical and helpful.

But this is different, he suddenly ran out of words to say. The boy was his bond mate. Now that he had room for it inside his head, he was curious. On why he didn’t realize it in the first place. It was fate, indeed. A vampire’s bond mate is bound to arrive no matter what, but no one knows when. Chris was centuries old when he stopped hoping for his bond to come. It was a pain in the ass, he had to take care of them and if they die, he would also die. It doesn’t make sense at all. Why would he risk his life for someone who’s the key to his death? That’s stupid.

“It’s okay, Chris!” ah, that’s why. The empty feeling on his heart vanished, his eyes focused on Jaemy’s face. This was it. This is the reason. He snickered; it was a petty reason. But why does it fit the puzzle pieces? “What’s wrong, Chris?” Jaemy tilted his head and took a sip on his drink. Chris shakes his head and moves closer to the boy.

Unlike earlier, Jaemy didn’t want to run. He wasn’t scared of him anymore. He didn’t have that disgusting feeling in his stomach whenever he remembers the blood spilling on the antique shop floor.

With the last step, Chris stood between Jaemy’s legs. The boy places his, now empty drink on his right side. He looks up to the vampire. Sure, he admired Chris. But he really didn’t get the chance to look at him closely. And for him, Chris was beautiful. His blonde curly locks fell perfectly above his soft eyes. His thick lips formed into a smile, dimples on full display as well.

Chris was breathtaking.

With that, Jaemy slowly opened his arms, his smile growing larger as he do so. And for the first time, Chris didn’t hesitate wrapping his arms around the boy’s petite figure. Burying his face on Jaemy’s neck.

“Thanks, Jaemy.”

[davidoespailla]

Haute Homes: The Diverse Luxury Digs of America’s Priciest Neighborhoods

realtor.com

Think you know how the 1% lives? Blinged-out mansions with gold errythang, elaborate custom pool grotto, and maids and butlers scurrying down long, marble-tiled hallways? Sure, places like that exist, but the reality is, what’s considered the crème de la crème of real estate varies from state to state.

Recently, the realtor.com® data team crunched the numbers and pinpointed the most expensive ZIP codes in every state in America. Some were neighborhoods in big cities, some were entire towns in themselves. The list also took us on a fascinating tour of the best that each state in the nation has to offer: mansions set on rolling, emerald lawns in Greenwich, CT; historic brownstones in Boston; and picturesque horse farms in the suburbs of Louisville, KY.

We wanted to take a closer look at what’s on the market in those swanky areas, so we sifted through our listings. Whether you’re lucky enough to have deep pockets you can turn out to buy, or you just want to check out what luxury means in your state—and others—here are 12 homes for sale right now in America’s most expensive neighborhoods.

California: 90210 67 Beverly Park Ct., Beverly Hills

Price: $165 million Palazzo perfection: This estate on 9 acres took seven years to build and, according to the listing, is one of the “finest estates ever offered in Beverly Hills.” Completed in 1998, the main house has 20 bedrooms, 16 baths, and five half-bathrooms, and measures over 20,000 square feet.

There’s also a 30-car courtyard, pool and pool house, two two-story guesthouses, a tennis court, and jogging trail that circles the entire property. If that’s not enough room for you and the fam, there’s another lot available to expand.

Beverly Hills, CA

realtor.com

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Colorado: 81654 1220 Watson Divide Rd., Snowmass

Price: $50 million Rockies retreat: It would be hard to conjure up a more thoroughly luxe mountain sanctuary than this nearly 900-acre property tucked into the Rocky Mountains. Built in 2007, the main house is 18,000 square feet of style and comfort with every imaginable upgrade, including an indoor pool. But outdoors is where this dream home really stands out.

The pristine acreage offers a stocked pond, private beach with cabana, and 15 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, or whatever else strikes your fancy. Plus, there’s a labyrinth!

Snowmass, CO

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Delaware: 19807 10 Pyles Ford Rd., Greenville

Price: $9.8 million Old-world wonder: It might look like it’s been there for centuries, but don’t be fooled. This stately stone home was built in 2009 to take advantage of commanding views of what’s locally known as “Chateau Country.” It sits on nearly 9 fenced acres bordered by the Winterthur Museum’s 1,000 acres and conserved land, which means no noisy neighbors! At the same time, it’s just minutes from downtown Wilmington and Philadelphia.

The four-bedroom main house with five baths and four half-baths features a Joanne Hudson–designed kitchen, seven-zone geothermal heating, whole-home humidification system, elevator, wine cellar, and bowling alley.

The property also comes with a pool, pool house with kitchen and bath, one-bedroom apartment over the detached three-car garage, and three-bedroom, two-bathroom gatehouse.

Greenville, DE

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Georgia: 31561 319 W. Fifty Fifth St., Sea Island

Price: $13.5 million Island idyll: This estate occupies a particularly pretty piece of Sea Island, and makes the most of its lush gardens and water views. Built with reclaimed “Savannah Grey” bricks and completed in 1987, the home includes a theater room, grand living and dining rooms for entertaining, and a large veranda for those afternoon siestas. Outdoors, the property has a teak-trimmed pool, spa, dining area, and fire pit.

Sea Island, GA

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Kansas: 66211 11513 Pawnee Cir, Leawood

Price: $4.9 million Gorgeous Georgian: This home might be located in the Midwest, but its inspiration was East Coast Georgian. The 11,000-square-foot home with five bedrooms, six baths, and three half-baths was completed in 2003.

The interior features Old World touches like silver and crystal antique features, antique fireplaces, intricate millwork, and sweeping staircase, which are paired with 21st-century must-haves like an exercise room, two media rooms, three laundry rooms, and a pool room. Fitting into neither category is the home’s quirky, working phone booth.

Outdoors, the 1-acre lot features upper and lower patios and a pool lined with spouting frog fountains.

Leawood, KS

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Massachusetts: 02108 77 Chestnut St., Boston

Price: $8,995,000 Historic heavyweight: This elegant residence has it all. The location on Chestnut Street is one of the best in the city, about a block away from the Charles River promenade, shopping, and the Public Garden.

Built in 1899 but virtually new inside, the sunny, four-bedroom home with three baths and three half-baths has more than 6,500 square feet of living space, including oodles of coveted closet space. The second floor has grand entertainment rooms with high ceilings and the main bedroom suite has five closets and an adjacent nursery.

On the home’s garden level, there’s a home theater and gallery, and the top level includes a family room with views and a terrace. As if all that weren’t enticing enough for a potential buyer, it also comes with parking for five cars.

Boston, MA

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Minnesota: 55391 3770 Northome Rd., Deephaven

Price: $14,895,000 Lakefront living: Nestled on the shores of Lake Minnetonka and just 15 miles from Minneapolis, this home sits on the highest point of the lake area. It’s easy to see why the listing boasts this is the “most admired home on Lake Minnetonka,” with its luxurious main suite, chef’s kitchen, pool house including a viewing terrace, sport court, bowling alley, golf simulator, gym, home theater, rooftop deck, and music club.

The nearly 2-acre lot also includes 195 feet of lakeshore.

Deephaven, MN

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New Mexico: 87506 12 Avenida De Rey, Santa Fe

Price: $9,850,000 Adobe abode: This 220-acre ranch is a 20-minute drive from downtown Santa Fe, with views of both the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountains. The adobe home was built in 2002 and designed to look like a chapel from the outside. The 19,000-square-foot home has five bedrooms, six baths, and two half-baths. Interior details include handcarved doors, corbels, inlaid detailing, stitched leather ceilings, hewn wooden beams, and 10 fireplaces.

The property also comes with a guesthouse, TV production studio, and gymnasium with attached bowling alley and shooting range. There’s also a stable with 12 stalls and living quarters; heated, three-car garage; workshop; bus garage; greenhouse; and caretaker’s office.

Santa Fe, NM

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Oregon: 97034 1527 Lake Front Rd., Lake Oswego

Price: $5,295,000 Luxe lake living: This 7,000-square-foot home on Lake Oswego has five bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms. Built in 1939, the home has been updated throughout with elevator access from the garage to each level, a spectacular main suite, full bar, wine bar, exercise room, indoor spa, pool with lake view, outdoor kitchen, and boathouse.

Lake Oswego, OR

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Pennsylvania: 19085 770 Godfrey Rd., Villanova

Price: $14,650,000 Main Line majesty: Built in 1933, this estate sits on 17 acres just 30 minutes from Philadelphia and 90 minutes from New York City. It was once a piece of Ardossan, the most famous—and fanciest—Main Line property, according to the listing. (The Main Line is a historically prestigious area of suburban Philadelphia.)

Now known as Albermarle, the gated estate includes a collection of English stone buildings, including the main house, guesthouse, and entertainment barn. The tennis court has been converted into a clock tower and family gathering spot that can also serve as a high-tech business headquarters. In the main residence, an expansive kitchen is ready to cater a large-scale event. Outdoors, there’s a pool and extensive patios for taking in the views.

Villanova, PA

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West Virginia: 24986 564 Wilson Rdg., Unit RGM099, White Sulphur Springs

Price: $5.6 million Mountain marvel: This mountain home was built in 2009 and sits on more than 7.5 acres with expansive views of the valley and mountains. Outside, the home boasts reclaimed oak and hemlock board-and-batten siding and Cushwa brick walls. Indoors, the home features reclaimed heart pine and brick paver flooring, custom cabinetry, and more.

White Sulphur Springs, WV

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Wyoming: 83014 3355 Fall Creek Rd. S., Wilson

Price: $16.5 million Wildlife wonderland: Known as Singing Trees, this 33-acre property sits on a lake just 20 minutes from Jackson, and has views of the Grand Tetons. Bordered on the west by national forest, the property is teeming with wildlife, including elk, moose, deer, bears, birds, and more.

The main home was built in 1992 and inspired by the great lodges built in the national parks in the 1920s. It measures 12,000 square feet and includes eight bedrooms, seven baths, and five half-baths.

Wilson, WY

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Haute Homes: The Diverse Luxury Digs of America’s Priciest Neighborhoods