#to their everyday Australia attire

[softquietsteadylove]

Hi! Hello! Could you write something where Thena is panicking because Gil did not return from his trip to the market? He promised to be back in one day but he is gone for three days already and Thena starts to panic.

But Gil returns, of course. You can decide what kept him away so long!

He had been gone far too long.

Thena paced the floor of the kitchen. She had done so endlessly. It was an attempt to keep herself engaged--keep her mind focused on something active. But every step seemed to drive her closer to insanity.

What was taking him so long? Why wasn't he back yet? Had something happened?

There were only so many forces on the planet even capable of slowing down the Strongest Eternal. And they had come all the way out here in an attempt to escape most - if not all - of them.

So where was her Gilgamesh?

Thena sank to the ground, staring at the dead air in front of her. She could see the flecks of dust in the sun coming in through the window, she could see the grains of sand they had dragged in and out with them--she had dragged in and out with her.

Gil was always very diligent about sweeping.

She knew it was far. It took him about a day's walk just to get there and he would be lucky to make it back within the nightfall of the same 24 hours.

But he had been gone three days, now. It was too long--far too long. It was too long for her to not worry, let alone assume the worst. She always felt antsy when Gilgamesh had to leave for any reason.

She just...missed him. She always missed him--as if every time she gave him her well wishes on the way out the door she was handing over her heart to him to take on the journey.

It wasn't as if they had to be connected every minute of the day. But they had never been apart for long. They never had to be. They had chosen to come out here, chosen to spend their endless days with just each other and the endless desert around them. She had given him the opportunity to leave, and he had chosen her.

Thena rose from the floor and braved stepping outside the house. She squinted. Even without the remains of an episode in her system, the sun was merciless, the wind seemed to whisper things in her ears. She inhaled, closing her eyes.

Any trace of him. His scent on the wind, the pull of his Cosmic Energy to hers, the sound of him--she would take absolutely anything.

Thena looked into the distance, feeling the faintest pinch in her mind as the air bent around a much stronger source of energy. There. Thena took off, propelling herself forward stronger and faster than any human could. Not that they ever ran into any so far out here.

She still didn't venture out of the house much. It was too soon for that. Even though Gil had every faith in her growing control, she preferred to keep herself away, barely leaving the house they'd built together unless necessary.

She could imagine it already--the big smile on his face and the declaration 'you're out of the house!' on his lips. Yes, that was what would greet her. It would not be a terrible sight of him hurt and alone.

"Thena!"

Thena pushed both her bare feet into the sand and stone and grit beneath her, impacting the ground so she could launch herself at him. He caught her, of course, his feet sliding back and kicking up dust around them as she latched onto him.

"You're out of the house!"

Thena buried her face in his chest, breathing in his scent as if she'd been underwater the whole time he was gone. Her arms tightened around him, and he liberally let her legs wind around his back, holding her like one of those funny grey marsupials that clung to the wild eucalyptus.

"Hey," he greeted much softer this time, running a hand over her hair and kissing the top of her head. "I'm sorry I was gone so long. I must have really scared you for you to come all the way out here."

Thena dropped to the ground, although she kept her arms around his ribs and her face in his shirt. When she was ready, she glared up at him. "What kept you?"

"Sorry, Sweetheart," he whispered, tucking some hair behind her ear. "Along the way there were some settlers. They set up camp and I was trying to persuade them not to come out here because it was dangerous."

Thena just nodded, accepting the explanation for what it was. They still had a duty to protect humans, and for them - now - that meant keeping them away. She let him continue to fuss over her, secretly enjoying his whispered sweet nothings and gentle hands running over her.

It was easy to see, though. She relished in his affection the way a bird would preen or a cat would purr. Gil was happy to oblige for as long as she would allow it. "I convinced them that I'd seen far too many search parties wander out here and never return."

"How did you get away?" she finally asked, and her words prompted him to take her hand and begin leading them back home.

He beamed at her, far outshining the harsh burn of the Australian sun. "I told 'em I had to get back to my wife, of course."

Thena looked ahead of them again. It might seem to the untrained eye that she was unmoved by the reason given. But Gilgamesh had only honesty in his fiercely loyal heart. And she was happy with whatever reason brought him home to her.

"I got some good stuff," he brought up. It wasn't to demand an answer from her, but he liked chatting sometimes. And if he got an answer from her, then even better.

"Hm?"

"Your favourites, some new clothes, some ink and paper," he listed off, easily carrying the rucksack as large and heavy as a 50 kilo potato sack.

Thena looked at him, sensing him waiting for her full attention.

"I missed you too," he promised, his thumb running against hers as they walked back into the depths of nowhere, in no hurry.

Thena smiled, drifting closer until she could lean against his arm. He didn't need her to say anything, because he knew her far, far better than that. "I'll go with you, next time."

[chickensarentcheap]

Lost and Found- Chapter 5

Fandom: Extraction

Pairing: Tyler Rake and Esme Drummond  (established OFC. Although you can just read this one and know what’s going on)

Warnings: profanity, smut, NSFW (you’ve been warned)

Tagging: @tragiclyhip @muchadoaboutcj @youflickedtooharddamnit @secretaryunpaid @residentdormouse @starryeyes2000 @asirensrage @munstysmind @themaradaniels @arrthurpendragon @ocappreciationtag​ @occommunity​

My tag list is OPEN. Please just ask to be added if you want :D

Link to Ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/43179357/chapters/113863714

THREE MONTHS LATER

“You sure you don’t want to tag along?” Tyler asks, as he emerges from the bathroom;  scrubbing aggressively at his hair with the towel slung around his neck.   “There’s bound to be something at the new place you can tackle.”

“As much as I’d love to go and get a jump on plotting out my gardens, I really need to stay behind.  We move in a week!  Seven days! And I feel like I’ve barely put a dent in the packing.  Like…”  Settling her hands on her hips,  Esme blows her bangs out of her eyes and stares down the mess of cardboard boxes littering the shack.  “...it’s only been ten months! Since we moved in together.  How did two people who came into this relationship with nothing end up with so much…stuff?”

They’d stumbled upon the place online during a late-night search when sleeplessness had gotten the better of them. A small, two bedroom, plus den starter home on a half acre of land in Broome; freshly painted slate gray clapboard with crisp white trim around the windows and mustard yellow front and garage doors.  A spacious backyard in dire need of landscaping;  spacious enough for a couple of gardens, a small pond, and a section that could eventually be used as a play area for children.  The inside proudly boasting some of its original woodwork and charm;  crown moulding decorating every ceiling and wainscotting taking up residence on the living room and dining room walls.  A quaint, comfortable place that still needed a few essential updates; a new roof, central air, and some minor foundation work.

 When approached about a cash advance needed for a healthy downpayment, Nik had graciously offered the money- no strings attached- instead. Declaring it was what Tyler was rightfully owed; Mahajan had short-changed them in Dhaka after all, and Tyler had more than earned the full sum of his fees.  And perhaps she’d been spurred on by lingering guilt of her own; haunted by the choice to leave him and Esme behind on the bridge and the decision to not return for them.  It had been her own brother that had gone against her ruling;  deciding on his own -after retrieving Ovi and ensuring his safety- that he was going back for them.  Even if it meant losing his own life in the process.

“I’m not being blamed for it.”  Tyler tosses the damp towel in the direction that takes up residence on the couch. “ You’re the one that owns twenty pairs of Uggs and only wears the same two all the time.”

“They’re my favourites,” she reasons, and tosses a roll of packing tape in his direction.  “And I refuse to take criticism from a man that owns nearly thirty pairs of board shorts, yet lives nowhere near the water.”

“Hey, we’re in Australia. Board shorts are perfectly acceptable everyday attire. And besides…”   Wrapping his arms around her from behind, he presses a kiss to the side of her head. .  “...in a week, we’ll be a lot closer to the beach.  All those board shorts will come in handy.”

“Guess I’m going to step up my game, huh?  Get a few new bathing suits.  Cute. But sexy at the same time.”

“Only if I get to come along on this shopping spree.  You know, so I can get invited into the dressing room.”

She casts a scowl over her shoulder.

“So I can put my two cents in, Esme. Get your mind out of the gutter. What is it with you?  Sex, sex, sex. That’s all you think about.”

“Pot meet kettle! You’re like a perpetually horny teenager!  I can’t even bend over to scrub the bathtub without giving you a woody.  That is not normal. Not at your age.”

“Well maybe if you didn’t bend over to scrub the bathtub in just one of my t-shirts…”

“Your t-shirts are huge on me. They cover everything. Like wearing a dress.”

“They WOULD be huge on you. If you didn’t tie them in a knot around your waist. And then you’ve got the nerve to walk around here like that.  With your bare ass hanging out.”

“I like to clean in minimal attire.  If things are really dirty, I don’t want  all these extra clothes getting  grubby.”

“Yeah… sure…”  Playfully tugging on her ponytail, he plants a noisy kiss on her cheek. “Likely story. We both know you’re full of shit. That you do it just to get me riled up.”

“I will neither admit nor deny that claim.  I can’t help it that you’ve got hair-trigger hormones.  That you just have to get the tiniest peek of a butt cheek and you’re ready to go.   Hell, half the time, even a stiff breeze in the room is enough to awaken the beast.”

“The beast, huh?”  Grinning, he rubs the scruff of his beard against her cheek;  his hold on her tightening when she squeals and squirms against him. Meeting no resistance when he slips a hand up the front of her tank top; feeling her entire body shudder when calloused fingertips glide across her stomach.   “You realize calling him names doesn’t upset him, yeah?  That all it does is feed his ego?”

“His ego or yours?”

“Well,  it IS a confidence boost when your dick is called ‘the beast’.”

“Would you rather I call it Mini Tyler? Tiny Tyler? Baby…OW!” She jabs her elbow into his stomach when he pinches one of her nipples.  “Fucker! That hurt!” 

“Normally you can take more than that.  Much more. Normally you’re ASKING for it.”

“They’re sore,” she pouts. “I swear I’m stuck in some endless loop of PMS.   It’s been five weeks!  Headaches and crazy mood swings and night sweats and now my poor boobs!  But nothing. Absolutely nothing.  It still hasn’t come.  No period in sight.”

“Maybe…”  His palm slides down to her stomach.  “....the test you took was wrong.”

“I took three of them.  Two were quite clearly negative, one was on the fence.  More a ‘no’ than a ‘yes’.  And you heard what the doctor said.  It’s likely stress. Anxiety.  We’re taking a  big step.  Owning a house…together… is huge.  We’re starting a whole new life.    I’d worry if it didn’t cause some kind of emotional upset.”

“Maybe just take one more.  Can’t hurt, right?”

“It’s only going to say the same thing, Tyler. There is no baby Rake on board.  Not yet, anyway. And it’s not like we’re trying.  We’re not planning on being parents, right? Not this soon. It would have had to have been an ‘ooops’.  I mean, we’ve been careful.”

“There’s been a few times we weren’t as careful as we could have been. But things happen, yeah?”  Affectionately patting her stomach, he heads for the kitchen and snags a clean mug from the drainboard by the sink. Pouring himself a cup of coffee before leaning back against the stove.  “It’s not like it would be a horrible thing.  If we had an ‘oops’.”

“Can we even afford an ‘oops’?”

“We’re not exactly poor.  I’ll be going back to work soon.  Bringing in a somewhat steady income.  And I’ve got that interview with the fire department next month.  If that goes well and I pass all the physical stuff…”

“You shouldn’t have a problem there. Doctor says you’re ‘good to go’.   In better shape than you were before Dhaka. Even with your wonky lung.  It’s kinda hot, you know.”

“My wonky lung?”

“You as a firefighter.  Women love men in uniform.  The thought of you in all that gear and all hot and sweaty?  It paints a very nice picture in my mind.  And does funny things to my insides. Fireman Tyler.  You’re going to have to bring all your stuff home  and do a strip tease for me. Really get the blood flowing in my nether regions.”

“I have to go to all that work?  Whatever happened to just looking at you a certain way?  That much has changed in just eight months?”

Rolling her eyes,  Esme folds down the flaps on the cardboard box in front of her;  frowning as she pats down the pockets of her jeans and fails to find the marker she’d been previously using.

“You’re losing it,” he teases, and snags the object in question off the kitchen table.  “You put it there. Ten minutes ago.”

“My brain is mush!”  she  laments, and catches the marker as it’s tossed toward her.  “And you’re not helping by walking around like that.”  

“Like….”

“Like that!” She waves a hand in his direction; gesturing toward his lack of attire; his long, athletic frame clad in nothing but a pair of faded and tattered jeans that sit  -still unbuttoned- extremely low on his hips.  The hair at his temples and the nape of his neck still damp from his shower;  a mixture of both sweat and water droplets glistening on smooth tanned skin. “All buff and beautiful and hot and shit.”

Grinning, he takes a swallow of coffee. “And you say I get worked up easily.”

Sighing, she hastily scribbles both contents, and what room they belong in on the cardboard box. “My hormones are totally out of control.  More so than usual.  Which is another reason it’s better if I stay behind. You’ll get your shit done, I’ll get my shit done.  We spend the weekend in the same house? No one is getting a damn thing accomplished.”

“So pretty much like every other weekend we spend together.  Or weekday, for that matter.”

“Well if you weren’t so hot…”

“Maybe you should have hooked up with someone uglier.”

“Maybe you shouldn’t have seduced me,” she counters, and playfully sticks her tongue out at him.

“Still playing that game, huh? Are you still going to be lying about that when we’re in our eighties and the great-grandkids are asking how we met?”

“Who are you trying to kid? By the time we reach that age, neither of us will remember that shit.”

“Speak for yourself. I’m not the one whose brain is already mush.”

With a dramatic grunt, she sets the box on the floor by the couch and then grabs her empty tea mug from the coffee table and joins him in the kitchen. Filling and plugging in the kettle before journeying towards him.  “You’re a shithead, you know that?”

“I do. But like you always say, I’m YOUR shithead.”

“Yeah, I supposed I’ve laid my claim to you. And momma didn’t raise a quitter so…”   Standing in front of him, she places her hands on his hips; concern furrowing her brow as she looks up at him.  “What’s going on?”

“Nothing. I’m just hanging out, saying dumb shit to see what kind of reaction I can get from ya. You’re predictable.   It’s like taking candy from a baby.”

“You just seem a little…I don’t know…off.   You haven’t really been yourself the last couple of days. You’ve been quiet and…”

“I’m ALWAYS quiet.”

“More than usual.   And you’ve just seemed kind of…I don’t know…disconnected.   Is everything alright? Are you feeling okay?  I know you’ve been sleeping a lot better, but I can’t exactly read minds so I don’t know what’s going on in yours and…”

“I’m fine.  I feel good.  Better than I have in a long time.  Why are you…?”

“Is it us?  Is there something not quite right?  Did I say something wrong? DO something wrong? Did I…?”

“There’s nothing wrong.  Not with me, not with us. Everything is fine.  Believe me, I’d tell you if it wasn’t. If there was something wrong, you’d be the first to know. Why are you being so paranoid?”

“Hello? Have we met?  It’s who I am.  It’s what I specialize in.  Paranoia.”

He knows it’s much more than that;  yet another side effect from the years she’d spent with Mark. The constant walking on eggshells; plagued by the worry of doing or saying something wrong that would incur his wrath.  And while she knows he’s nothing like that and would never, ever, raise a hand to her, the fear still very much lives very much inside of her.

If her trauma has taught him anything, it’s the true meaning of love and acceptance and patience.   The abuse that she’d been put through filling him with the need to prove that not all men are the same;  ready, willing, and able to be in the leg work that will not only help her heal,  but strengthen the bond that already exists between them.   And he’s determined to right the wrongs of another man;   wanting nothing more than to erase those bad memories with happy and beautiful ones of their own. 

“Esme…”  Laying his hands on her shoulders, he gives them a light, reassuring squeeze.  “... there is nothing wrong.  Things are good. Things are VERY  good.   I’ve just got a lot of shit going on in my head.  And none of it’s bad, I promise.”

“Things like…”

“Like how much I’m looking forward to getting this part of our lives over and done with.   Starting  fresh.  This is the REAL start to things.  To a life together.  Guess  I’m just anxious to get it going.   I’m excited. Maybe even a little spooked.”

“There’s some pretty big changes happening all at once.  We bought a house, I’m going back to school in the New Year,  you’re totally changing careers…”

“Not totally.  I’m still gonna catch jobs here and there from Nik  And this firefighter gig isn’t a sure thing. If I don’t pass the intake interview and the physical stuff…”

“You’ll pass.  With flying colours.  And then I’ll be able to brag about my hot ass firefighter boyfriend.”

“Yeah, I imagine it’s not easy to brag about a hot ass MERCENARY boyfriend.”

“For your information, I happily brag about you regardless of your line of work.”

“I know for a fact you don’t tell people I’m a hired killer.  And I don’t blame you. That’s not exactly the kind of guy you bring home to mum.”

“Eventually the whole truth will come out.  It’s going to have to at some point.  It’s getting harder and harder to lie to them; they’re starting to ask more and more questions and I’m starting to have a rough time keeping my stories straight.”

“Well, maybe when we go there in the new year, we’ll tell them how things really went down.  IF that’s what you want to do.”

“It’s a hard thing to bring up, you know? It’s not like I was truthful about the work I was doing in New York City.  They don’t know what kind of world I was caught up in.   I had convinced them that I was in business.  Handling difficult clients from all parts of the globe.  When they find out what I was doing and how we really met…”

“Is it really going to matter? How they react?   It’s not like you’re tight with them. And we don’t live close by; they can’t just show up on our doorstep and cause all kinds of shit.   We tell them and however they take it? That’s on them. Not on us.”

“I just want to go there and drop the bomb and that’s it.  And I want to tell them about the house and us starting a new life here.  I just want them to get their thick heads that I am NOT coming back.  That’s not my home anymore.  It hasn’t been in a long time.”

“They’ll deal, Esme.  They’re all adults.  If they can’t handle what you’re doing with your life and who you’re doing it with, that’s their problem. Not yours.”

Sighing, she curls both arms around his waist and settles her head against his chest. “You’re always so wise and diplomatic.”

“I don’t know about that.”  Rubbing affectionately at her shoulders, he drops a kiss on the top of her head and then wraps both arms around her tiny frame; hands locking together at the middle of her back.  “What I do know is that if they start their shit, I’m squaring up. Your mother so as much looks at you in the wrong way…”

“My knight in slightly tarnished armour,” she gushes, and reaches down to squeeze his butt.  “If anything, Christmas dinner will be very interesting this year.  Just promise me that if you get the urge to throw someone through a table, it’ll be after dessert. Because if I don’t get at least one slice of nonna’s pecan pie…”

“I can’t make any promises.”

“Party pooper.” Her eyes close as she leans her entire body against his;  enjoying the  familiar scent and the warmth of soft, tanned skin, and the way a calloused palm repeatedly moves in circles against her back. 

“I should stay home.  Move things to next weekend. I don’t like the idea of you being all alone, out in the middle of nowhere, when you’re feeling this rough.”

She glances up at him, pouting dramatically. “I’m not feeling rough. I’m feeling needy.”

“Good enough reason to stick around, if you ask me. It’s not that big of a deal; putting things off for another few days.  Won’t hurt to stay home and wait on you hand and foot until you’re better.”

“The only thing that will make me feel better is getting everything done.   Once all the packaging is finished and the house is totally move-in ready and we actually get in there?  I’ll be back to normal in no time.  It’s stress.  I’m just anxious to close this chapter and start on a new one.  That’s all.”

He stares down at her pointedly.

“I’ll tell you what. IF I’m still feeling out of sorts after we move,  I’ll take another test. As many as you want me to.   But I am telling you, it’s NOT what you think.  I am NOT pregnant.  I know my body, Tyler. I know how screwed up things get when I’m anxious or stressed.  This isn’t the first time this has happened;  skipping periods and feeling like shit.”

“I still think I should stay home.  Just to be on the safe side.  The thought of being a few hours away while you’re here by yourself…”

“You’re just being paranoid.  I’ll be fine.   I am more than capable of taking care of myself. And besides, I won’t be totally alone.  Lucy’s here.  She’s great company.  And a pretty damn good snuggler.  In a pinch.”

“I just don’t feel right.  Leaving you here.  By yourself. If something happens…”

“Tyler…”  She squeezes his hips.  “...we talked about this.  With the therapist.  The first time you went away with Koen. For that fishing weekend. When you were practically making yourself sick with worry.  You started getting nauseous and dizzy and panicky…”

“ It’s not like we’re living someplace where help is right around the corner.  Or even half an hour away. If I’m not here and something goes wrong…”

“I know you worry about me.   And you know that I appreciate it and love that about you; the fact you want to keep me safe and sound.  But remember what we talked about? At counselling? About how sometimes you go a little overboard?  Get a little overbearing?”

“This isn’t the PTSD.   I’m not in the middle of a flare-up.  Or whatever the hell the doctor likes to call it.  I just got a bad feeling. That I can’t shake. If there’s one thing I’ve always been able to rely on, it’s my gut.  And my gut is telling me that something is NOT right.”

“I think you’re just nervous.  There’s so much going on. We bought a house and we’re getting ready to move soon,  you’ve got your intake interview and your physical coming up for the fire department. Not to mention you’ve got this whole baby thing stuck in your brain.  You’ve got a lot going on in that beautiful head of yours.”

“If you’re going to fight me about staying home, then at least come to Broome.  So I can keep an eye on you. Just in case.”

“In case of what?  Babe, I’m fine.  There’s nothing wrong with me.  It’s just the stress and being anxious to get things finished.  I’m just a little battle of nerves. Mostly good ones. Excited ones.  There is nothing for you to be worried about, I promise.”

He nods slowly, considering her words. Fully aware of his propensity to be overprotective and suffocating; driven by a powerful need to protect her against anyone and anything.  Even in Dhaka, he’d been prepared to sacrifice his safety—his life—for hers; a woman who’d wandered unexpectedly into his life and immediately made a huge impact upon it. Months later,  that desire to keep her safe and sound still exists; more powerful and consuming than ever.   And it HAS  been talked about in therapy;  twice monthly sessions together at a trauma counsellor in Broome.  His experience in Bangladesh coupled with his second chance at life and love…REAL LOVE…causing his worry and paranoia to constantly simmer.  

Perhaps she’s right.  Maybe his concerns over leaving her alone are nothing more than a byproduct of his trauma.  His near death experience and the scar on his neck both serving as constant reminders of how close they’d come to never getting a chance to take things further than that dirty hotel room.

 “You’ll call me?  If anything goes wrong? Or if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary?”

“Of course I will.   But what’s going to go wrong? I’ve been alone here before.  For a couple of days at a  time. This is just one day extra.  I’ve got a lot to keep me busy, you’re leaving me the truck I need to get into town or just want to leave the house.  I’ll be fine, Tae.  You have nothing to worry about.”

A smirk tugs at the corners of his mouth.  “Tae?”

“Well, you came up with a really cute nickname for me and turn around IS fair play.  What? You don’t like it? It’s stupid?”

“Not stupid at all. It’s just…I don’t know…different. It's the first time…in a hell of a long time….that anyone’s called me anything but my full name.”

“Your ex never used sappy terms of endearment for you?  You were never ‘babe’ or ‘baby’ or ‘honey’ or anything like that?”

“You’re the first to ever utter those words.”

“Now that’s just not right.  It’s all part of being a couple.  Part of being in love.  Indulging in cute shit like that.”

“In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not exactly the ‘cute’ type.”

“Oh please, I know you’re Mister Big, Bad, Mercenary Man, but you have your moments. Where you’re damn cute.”

Smirking, he pushes a hand through her hair; long, dark tresses slipping through his fingers.  “You know, if that secret ever gets out…”

“Don’t worry. It’s safe with me.  I’ll take it to the grave.  So you’re okay? Me calling you that? Tae?  I was going to go with Ty, but…”

“That would not have been a good move.” His father called him that. Mostly to mock him while he cried over the death of his mother and how much he missed her. Sometimes even while  he was beating him senseless before  locking him in the shed for days on end as punishment; left with nothing more than cardboard to sleep and a bucket to piss and shit in.

“So Tae it is.  And it suits you.  It’s cute but it’s got a bit of an edge and…”

“A BIT of an edge, huh? Man the insults are just rolling out today.”

Rolling her eyes, she smiles up at him.  “I’m going to be okay.  While you’re gone.”

“I know.   I just worry.  I can’t help it.  It’s just who I am. Just the thought of leaving you here…out in the middle of nowhere….”

“As much as I love you for always protecting me, I can take care of myself.  And it’ll give us both a chance to get shit done.  Sooner all of this is taken care of? Sooner we can start on our new life.  And it’s going to be amazing.”

Cradling her face in his palms, he leans down to kiss her..  Long and languid; the slow movements of closed mouth upon closed mouth.  “You know…”  Leaning back against the countertop, his hands find her hips and pull her into him “...I was thinking.  About this whole you going to nursing school thing.”

“What about it? You changed your mind?  You don’t think it’s a good idea?”

“You kidding? I think it's a great idea. You’ll make an amazing nurse. What I was thinking about is how you’ll be wearing those scrubs all the time whenever you’re not home.  So maybe….”  His hands slip from her hips and down onto her ass;  palming it gently before tightly squeezing.  “...I should get you something to wear behind closed doors. You know, some kind of sexy little nurse’s outfit.”

“So that’s why you were so agreeable when it came to me going back to school,” she chides.  “Why you were so excited I picked nursing.  You’ve got some freaky little fetish.”

“I didn’t say that. Did I say that?”

“ Admit it, you’ve got a thing for pretty little nurses.  You love the idea of them waiting on you hand and foot,  poking and prodding at you, giving you sponge baths.”

“No. I love the idea of you being a pretty little nurse and doing all of that for me.  Especially the sponge baths.”

“Yeah, I seem to recall those being quite popular. Weird how you never enjoyed getting them from the nurses or PSWs in the hospital. How you didn’t even want them touching you. How it always had to be me.”

“That’s because your sponge baths were the best. You were really good at giving them.”

She arches a brow.

“And because yours usually came with ‘extras’.  And happy endings. Very happy endings.”

Scowling, she attempts to wriggle out of his embrace; laughing when his hands clamp down on her ass and pull her even tighter against him. “You’re a pig.”

“Maybe. But you enable me, so what does that say about you?”

“That I have sketchy taste in men?” She lets loose a squeal when he pinches her butt. “If I’m totally honest, it is because I have absolutely no self-control.  Not when it comes to tall, ripped, tatted up Australian men.” 

“That is a much better answer.”  

He kisses her once more and she eagerly responds;  their lips and tongues hungry and forceful   despite the activities that had kept them busy and in bed for the better part of the morning.  A beautiful mixture of desperate and aggressive sex and attentive and languid lovemaking; a testament to the intense sexual attraction that has always existed between them and she hoped always would. And she shivers when calloused fingertips glide across the small of her back; his large, strong hands disappearing under her shirt and sliding up her sides.

She giggles when he pulls out of the kiss and his teeth nip at her bottom lip,  then tries to step away when his fingertips brush against the underside of one her breasts.  “Alright…enough. There is no time for that.”

“There is always time for that.”

“Keon will be here soon! You’re not even dressed. You’re barely HALF dressed!”

“Why put on clothes when I was just planning on taking them off again?”

“I knew it.  You had planned to seduce from the second you got out of the shower.”

“Way before that.” (Hands on her hips as he pushes her backwards across the kitchen, meeting no resistance) “Before I even stepped in the shower.”

“You really are a six foot three, two hundred pound ball of walking hormones.” 

“I know that’s not a complaint coming out of your mouth.  And it definitely wasn’t complaints coming out of you earlier.”

“Far from complaining.” Her ass collides with the edge of the table, and she laughs when uses an arm to sweep everything off the top. A mixture of old newspapers and magazines and  dirty breakfast dishes all tumbling to the floor. “Eager, are we?”

“Like you said, Koen will be showing up.”  Effortlessly hoisting her up onto the table,  he kisses her; his mouth devouring her own as he uses his body weight to push her down onto her back. “Better to get things started sooner than later, yeah?”

“What if he gets here while we’re in the middle of things?  He won’t think twice about just walking in.  What if he sees me? In all my naked glory?”

“Who says you’re going to be totally naked?”

“You are so fucking dirty, you know that.”

“In all the ways you like the best, baby.”  

Aggressively pushing her legs apart, he stands between them; lifting the bottom of her shirt and pushing down the waist of her pants to reveal a bare stretch of skin.   Lowering his head, he presses soft, moist kisses just above her pubic bone; slowly travelling from hip to hip.   Her entire body shuddering when the tip of his tongue traces a circle around her navel;  her hands burrowing in his hair when he pulls the piercing between his teeth.  Her  back arching off the table when he laps at the intent of her belly button; gasping loudly when he pulls back to blow a stream of cool, steady air on the moistened area.

“We’re really taking a risk,” she muses, lifting her hips off the table in order to aid him in removing her pants;  his lips feasting on every inch of bare skin he uncovers.  

“That’s what makes it so fucking hot.  Or, hotter than usual.”

“Is it possible to even get any hotter?” she chides,  as he yanks her pants down her legs and tosses them onto the nearest chair. “ I think our sex life is already pretty damn hot.  And extremely healthy.”

“I’d normally say you can’t improve on greatness.  But we can try, yeah?”

“I guess there’s always some room for improvement. But…fuck….”  Her eyes flutter closed as he sucks and nibbles at the inside of one thigh.  “....you and that mouth.”

“If it’s not the accent coming out of it, it’s what it can do.”

“Mix the two together and I practically self-combust.  Jesus…”   She bites down on her bottom lip as his teeth nip at some of her flesh.   

“Not even he can help you now.”

“Speaking of that mouth…”  Reaching down, she aggressively yanks at his hair. “...you’re running it an awful lot for someone working on borrowed time.”

“No foreplay?”

She shakes.

 “That’s a first.”

“Sometimes a girl just wants to get railed.  Fuck everyone else.  Sometimes you just gotta get right to it.  So let’s go. Pitter-patter, let’s get at ‘er.”

Smirking, he stands and hurriedly drops his jeans, impatiently kicking them aside.  “Baby, you really know to set the mood,”

“What would you rather I say? Bust out something from a cheesy smut novel?  Something from one of those granny favourite bodice ripper books? About your big cock and wanting it in my love tunnel and…”  

The remaining words are cut off when he grabs hold of her hips and flips her onto her stomach; fingers biting into the flesh as he pulls her towards him.   Not giving her a chance to react as he pushes inside of her;  groaning when he buries himself to the hilt.  And she whimpers when he pulls out completely and then slams back in; the brutality of the thrust causing her to cry out and her nails to claw at the tabletop.   

It’s hard and fast from there on out. His thrusts punishing as one hand tightly grips her hair and keeps her head pressed against the table; the other slipping between her and the wood in order to find her clit.   Rubbing vigorously at the sensitive, aching nub until he feels her tighten around him;  screaming his name as her orgasm hits strong and fast.   The clenching of those inner muscles sending him hurtling towards the edge;eyes closing, chin dropping to his chest, and fingers biting into the flesh of her hip as he cums deep inside of her.   Waiting until their trembling bodies settle before pulling out and stepping away; pressing kisses across the small of her back before running his palms over the curves of her hips and ass.  And he bends down to pull up his jeans; the denim at the back of his knees when he hears the telltale creak of the shack’s loose floorboards, followed by Koen’s deep voice.

“Jesus Christ! My eyes! My fucking eyes!”

Esme gives a startled, embarrassed shriek and reaches over the edge of the table; frantically searching for her pants.

Smirking Tyler continues pulling up his jeans; turning to his friend as he buttons and zips them).  “We used to piss standing beside each other in Afghanistan.  You’ve seen my bare ass before.”

“And I wish I never had! No one needs to see that! At least not sober! Of all the times to walk in, why couldn’t have been her bare ass hanging out?”

“Because I’d have to kill you, that’s why. Turn around, you drongo. So the lady can get dressed.  There’s nothing here for you to see.”

“Why didn’t you knock?!” Esme accepts Tyler’s hand as he helps her off the table,  then snatches her pants out of his hand.

Koen gestures towards the exit. “The door was wide open!”

“ We live in the middle of nowhere,” she reminds him. “We always leave the door open!”

“That sounds like a you problem, not a me problem!”

“You must have heard what was going on! We weren’t exactly being quiet! Why didn’t you just wait on the porch?  Or text us and tell us you were out there?!”

“I wasn’t expecting the two of you to be going at it!  I didn’t think I’d wander in and get greeted by his bare ass!  I’m traumatized.  I’m going to have nightmares!  You’re going to have to pay for my therapy!”

“Like seeing Tyler’s ass is the most horrible thing in the world.  He happens to have a very nice ass.  You should consider yourself lucky.  Blessed, even.   You’re privileged to see it in its natural state.”

“You’re disturbing!”  Koen tugs at her ponytail as she leaves the kitchen; straightening her pants and smoothing down the front of her t-shirt as she goes.   “You know what would make me feel better? What would make everything right in the world again? If you dropped your pants and showed me your ass.”

“You wish! In your wildest and wettest!”

“I won’t lie, I’ve had a couple of those.”  He shoots her a flirty wink, then chuckles and jumps out of the way when Tyler scowls and attempts to slap him upside the head. “Wait a minute…wait a minute…hold on a second…”  Snatching her by the neck of her t-shirt, he pulls her into him and then slings an arm across her slender shoulders.   “I need to ask you a very serious question. One that’s been keeping me at night. For quite a while.”

“And that would be?”

“Why the hell does such a pretty,  sweet thing like you hang around with the likes of this guy?  What has the world come to?  A cute little Sheila willingly putting up with a drongo like him?”

“It’s simple.  He knows how to find the clit.  Each and every time.  Even that first night.” 

“So do I!”

“Unfortunately, I guess I’ll never know if you’re telling the truth or not.   I’ll never be able to find out firsthand.”

“I mean, if you want to find out, I’m game. I’m sure the big man wouldn’t mind if I stepped in just once.”

“Actually…”  Snagging a belt that’s draped across the back of the couch, Tyler slips it through the loops of his jeans. “...the big man DOES mind. He minds very much.”

“He never learned the golden rule,” Esme chides. “That sharing is caring.”

“I’ll share my food and my money.  My girl? Off limits.”

“You’re a fucking asshole,” Koen grumbles. “I thought you loved me.”

“I do.  In some warped and twisted brotherly kind of way.  But her? I love her more.”

“He loves me,”  Esme singsongs as she wanders towards the sleeping area;  grabbing the t-shirt he’d laid out earlier off the top of the dresser.   “He thinks I’m pretty. He wants to kiss me.  He wants to put his babies in me. Grow old and grey and miserable with me.”

Smirking, Tyler catches the garment she tosses in his direction. “Don’t push it, Munchkin.”

“Don’t listen to him,” she addresses Koen, as she smacks a palm against Tyler’s ass.  “It’s all true.  He does think I’m pretty. He does like kissing me. And he most certainly wants to put his babies in me. He has a breeding kink.”

Koen grimaces. “There are some things I do not need to know.  And that’s at the top of the list! What is wrong with you two?!  Always smiling at one another, touching each other, making out and shit. One day I’m going to find you out front and I’m going to have to turn the hose on you.”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time,” Esme scoffs, then steps back as the two men begin gathering the necessities for the four days in Broome;  various sizes of tool kits and duffle bags and two of the extra pillows from the bed. 

She follows as they leave the shack;  the wood of the front porch and then the sand blazing hot against the bottom of her bare feet.   It remains a struggle;  getting used to the suffocating heat of the summer months. Still underestimating the power of the sun’s rays;  dehydrating quickly and routinely burning herself on the metal of her seat belt  Yet not once has she missed the cooler temperatures that growing up in Colorado had provided her with;  the fresh, crisp breezes that would roll in from the snow-capped mountains.   It had stopped being home a long time ago; her father’s death in her late teens robbing her of a safe and secure life under the watchful eye of someone who loved her.   

And though her time in New York City had been wonderful and she’d once vowed to make it her forever home,  she doesn’t find herself reminiscing about those days.   The old Esme dying on the bridge in Bangladesh that day ten months ago;  replaced by someone much more confident and courageous who hadn’t thought twice about making a  brand new life for herself.  Far away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple and even further removed from her family. Somehow -in the midst of chaos, danger and fear- finding that companionship and love that others had always waxed poetic about.  Yet she questioned the true validity of.  

“You’re sure you don’t want to tag along?” Tyler asks,  as he drops the last of the duffle bags in the bed of Koen’s pickup truck and turns to face her.  “Still time to change your mind.”

“I think it’s better if I stay behind.   Just go balls to the wall and put a real dent in the packing. Maybe even get it done. THAT would be nice.”

“Don’t kill yourself trying to finish up. We’ve still got a few days once I get back.   No sense making yourself feel worse trying to look like Superwoman.”

“That’s Wonderwoman to you,” she chides, and flexes her biceps.  

“I was thinking more Mighty Mouse, but okay…”

“Jerk,” Esme grumbles,  and playfully swats at his chest.  “Always with the short people jokes.”

“Everything I say, I say with love.”  Smoothing wayward strands of hair away from her face, he cradles her cheeks in his palms.  “You sure you’ll be alright?”

“I’ll be just fine.  I’ve got lots to keep me busy. And Lucy to keep me company.   Try not to worry too much, okay?”

“Isn’t that what I usually  say to you?”

“Usually. I’ll be alright, Tyler. I’m a big girl. I can take care of myself.  I was doing it long before you came along. Although I have to admit, I’m glad you did. Come around.”

“Things didn’t turn out so bad, huh?  I think we’ve done pretty good.”

Smiling, she affectionately pats his butt. “We’ve done very good.  You guys drive safe.”

“I’ll call when I get there.” 

When he presses a long, soft, slow kiss to her lips and pulls her into a hug, she melts into the embrace;  her eyes closing as her arms circle his waist, and her cheek rests against his chest. And she holds on for longer than usual;  hands gripping the back of his t-shirt as she relishes the feeling of hard muscle and the warmth that radiates from his body and his familiar scent. Smiling when his lips meet her temple and  he whispers:  “I love you.”

“I love you, too.   Be good. I don’t want to have to come and bail you out of jail.”

“My drunken bar brawl days are long behind me.” Running a fingertip down her nose,  he lightly taps the tip. “I’ll see you when I see you.”

“Yeah, you will.” 

She reaches for his hand when he steps away;  briefly squeezing before their fingers glide along each other and eventually lose all contact.  And she steps back and offers a wave as he slides into the passenger seat; her arms crossing over her chest as she stands in the dirt,  watching them pull away.

*****

He’s been gone for three days and she’s been miserable the entire time;  feeling empty and lonely despite the mountains of work that she submerses herself in.   Filling the void by randomly texting throughout the day; keeping each other updated on the progress at both houses, and then always speaking before settling down for the night. And it hasn’t been an easy adjustment for either of them; sleeping in separate beds and being under separate roofs when they’ve been practically inseparable for ten months.  

Things at the new house are going smoothly;  the two men busying themselves with laying down the new flooring,  painting the kitchen and master bedroom,  and expanding the front porch and the back deck.   Even plotting out areas for her to turn into gardens in the rear yard;  Esme determined to nurture her ‘green thumb’ by growing various fruits and vegetables and brightening the landscape with colourful flowers.

After their morning ‘check-in’ with one other, she takes Lucy into town with her.  The border collie happily riding alongside of her in the passenger seat of Tyler’s old beat truck,  then treated to breakfast at the only restaurant in town. Esme spoiling the dog with her own plate of bacon and scrapes from her breakfast;   routinely dropping pieces of toast and eggs onto the concrete floor of the patio.  Afterwards, they pick up more plastic tote boxes and cleaning supplies and then wander the small downtown core;  gazing through shop windows and pausing for each child that requests to give Lucy a ‘pat and a cuddle’.

It feels good to return home; still plagued by the health issues that have been nagging at her for weeks.   Random bouts of nausea and persistent headaches;  near crippling fatigue accompanied by horrible cramps, but no actual period.   Instead of returning to work, she elects to nap instead;  slipping into one of Tyler’s hoodies and a pair of warm, comfy sweats before curling up with Lucy in the middle of the bed.  

She’s disoriented when she wakes;  her limbs feeling impossibly heavy and her head swimming as she makes herself a cup of tea before tackling more of the packing.  And she stands at the kitchen sink and looks out into the backyard;  repeatedly dipping a tea bag into a mug of boiling water as her eyes survey the land.  The parched earth and the withered bushes,  the barren trees and the range of mountains that loom in the distance.  While not a  picturesque view by any stretch of the imagination it had still become familiar and welcoming; the sights and the sounds that accompanied not only the beginning of their life together, but the modest and simple home they’d manage to create together.   Not much by society standards;  a little shack that had seen better days. But it had been under that rusted tin roof that they’d truly come to know and understand and know one another. And grow together.   

It’s when she goes to turn away from the window that she hears it; the crunching of tires upon dirt and gravel.  And her movement stills as she listens;  feeling the hair on her arms and the nape of her neck pricking at the sound of a car door slamming.   And she reaches for the handle on the drawer closest to the sink when she hears footfalls -light and rhythmical- on the front porch; Lucy lifting her head from her afternoon meal and letting loose a low, concerned growl.  Visitors are extremely  uncommon in the middle of the outback and usually a cause for concern;  there are no other houses for miles,  and no mail and package delivery to the door.  And no one in their circle of friends and colleagues would ever show up unannounced.  

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”   

The voice from the doorway commands attention.  And respect.  Calm and collected.  Dripping with the confidence that comes with power;  the ability to control every person and every situation without even so much as a flicker or fear. 

“Believe me when I say it isn’t in your best interest to react badly to my visit.  It won’t end well. It never does. For anyone.”

 Fingertips brush against the handle of the loaded Glock kept for safety in the drawer, Esme bites back a defeated sigh as she slides it closed and turns to face her company.  Tall and slender and dressed inappropriately for the sweltering Australian weather;  a sleek,  black pantsuit and silk blouse covered by a charcoal gray trench coat;  balanced upon their shoulders like a cape.  Their dark hair cropped close to their scalp and a tattoo -done in cursive- decorating the left side of their neck; expression emotionless as chestnut eyes scan the humble accommodations. 

“Esme Drummond.   It wasn’t easy.  Finding you.  One of the harder challenges I’ve faced. When you ran away,  you certainly ran as far as you possibly could.”

She fights to control the emotions threatening to overwhelm her.  Nervousness. Fear.  Forcing herself to remain calm, cool and collected;  recalling those days she’d come face to face with evil and had lived to tell about it. “I never ran away.  I had no reason to.  I was spared.  Given a second chance.  And I took it.  This is just where it led me to.”

“A second chance you didn’t earn or deserve.  A grand injustice occurred. And I’m here to fix it.  I’m an adjudicator.  Sent by the High Table. I…”

“I know who you are.”

“Then I assume you know why I’m here.”

“I was cut loose.  Excommunicated.  I haven’t been back to The Continental,  I haven’t done any work for anyone associated with them.  I’ve kept my distance. Like I was told to.  I found other employment. I never…”

“I’m not here because of something you did or didn’t do. I’m here because you never deserved the second chance you were given.”

“I went before the High Table.  I defended my case.  I had people speak on my behalf. John Wick and Winston…”

“Never should have been allowed their time before the High Table in the first place. It was an erroneous decision. Allowing them to come to your defence. Many others have broken High Table rules and have paid the price. They weren’t given the same treatment you were.   It is a stain on the High Table. One they are desperate to wipe out.”

“It’s been three years.  Why…?”

“We had a lot of seats open up.  Meaning we have many new members.  Powerful ones.   Who aren’t as understanding or forgiving as their predecessors.   And with new faces comes new business.”

“And that has to do with me because…?

“One of the first orders of business was to review prior decisions. Regarding those who had broken High Table rules.   People who had been given reprieve instead of punishment.  And your file just happened to be on the list.  Although to be honest, you likely would have continued to fly under the radar. Had you not resurfaced…quite spectacularly…in Dhaka.”

Esme frowns) “Dhaka? What does Dhaka have to do with this? What…?” 

“Word gets around. Especially in our circle.  The defeat of someone like Amir Asif is something to be praised.  Celebrated,  even.  And it wasn’t exactly subdued was it?  The way everything went down.  It certainly was an attention grabber.”

“Admittedly, things didn’t go exactly as planned. They got a little…messy.”

“To say the least.  You practically shot up and  burned the entire city down.”

“To be fair, I had help.  And I didn’t really do the dirty work.”

“That’s right. You had a partner.  An accomplice.   Someone watching over you.  Keeping you safe.   That means you were, what?  Aiding and abetting?  You can take the girl out of the criminal underworld but you can’t…”

“Do we really have to take a trip down memory lane? It’s not exactly my favourite thing to relive.  Dhaka isn’t going to be on any highlight reel of mine.”

“It really wasn’t ALL bad, was it?  Those stories have been passed around as well.  About you and the mercenary.  You were never known as someone who mixed business with pleasure.  All part of ‘turning over a new leaf’, I presume?  Unless…”

Her eyes narrow.  “Unless WHAT?”

“Unless it was part of the game. Maybe you knew latching onto him would be the only way you’d get out of there alive.  You had to find a way to guarantee safe passage out of Dhaka, so you decided to do whatever it took.  Even if it meant keeping his body AND his bed warm.   It’s clever.  You’re even more devious than I originally thought.  I admire it.”

“That’s not what happened.  Not even close.”

“I highly doubt that your behaviour was genuine.  That it was love at first sight.  You knew the danger you were going into and you knew you had to do whatever it took to secure your survival.  Isn’t that what you do? Con people?  Have them believe everything you say is true? For your own benefit?”

“It’s what I DID,” she stresses.  “I’m not in that life anymore.  I gave it up.   Back on that bridge.  I left the old Esme behind. I’m not her anymore.”

“So you’re admitting it. You used him.  Fooled him. In the same way you did so many others.”

“What happened between Tyler and I was real.  Everything I felt, everything I said, everything I did, was genuine.  There was no pretending. No lying. No manipulating.  It was all real.   And I don’t care what you or anyone thinks.”

“You do realize that Dhaka was a mess for many reasons, don’t you?  You killed one of ours.  Someone that was in very good standing with the High Table.  Who had made allegiances with the likes of Amir Asi in order to benefit everyone involved.  And things were going so smoothly until you showed up there.  And stuck your nose where it didn’t belong.”

It suddenly makes so much sense. Nik’s reluctance to call Gaspar;  arguing with Tyler that it wasn’t a good idea that they call his old friend and colleague for help.  “Gaspar was in the circle?  I thought he retired. Walked away from the game.  I thought…”

“He walked away from the private sector.  Got into something more lucrative.   And then you came along and put a few bullets into him.  You just can’t keep out of trouble when it comes to us, can you?”

“I didn’t kill him. I didn’t pull the trigger.”

“So the mercenary did.”

“I never said that.”

“Well considering there were only two of you capable of pulling off such a feat….”  The adjudicator’s eyes widen; a smirk tugging at their lips. “Unless it was the boy.”

“What happened that night has no bearing on what’s going on right now.  I’m not telling you a thing. Not about what went down at Gaspar’s house. Not about Dhaka in general. I know what happened. WHY it happened. In the same way I know that everything that I felt for Tyler…everything we talked about and experienced together…was real. You can’t take that away from me. No matter how hard you try. No one can.”

“While Gaspar’s untimely and bloody demise may not play a direct part in why I’m here, it holds relevance.   You were there when it happened, you did nothing to stop it, and you refuse to say who was directly responsible.  Therefore, it adds to the reasons you should be punished. And you will be. Punished.”

“And you came all the way here to tell me this?  It couldn’t have been handled through a phone call? An email even?”

Their face hardens.  Eyes darkening. “Believe me when I tell you that when it comes to this matter, snark is not in your best interest.”

“And what is?  What are my options?”

“You have none.   At least none that will save you from your punishment.  You have forty-eight hours. To get your affairs in order.  I highly suggest you use that time wisely.  If you fail to check in to The Continental in New York City by noon Monday, I will return.  And I won’t be alone.  If you run, we will follow.   There is no place you can hide where we won’t find you.   Am I making myself clear?”

“And if I don’t show up? In New York City?”

“You will be physically escorted there.  Or you will be handled right where you stand.”

“Eliminated, you mean.”

“Along with anyone that dares to help you.  If anyone gets in our way, they will be handled as well.  So if you know what’s good for you and for HIM, I suggest you tell the mercenary that he stands down.  If he even tries to challenge us or stop us,  we will ensure his ending is as horrific as possible.  And I’m sure that’s the last thing you want.   You have the blood of many men on your hands. I’m certain you don’t want to add his to it.”

“You’re right. That’s the last thing I want.”

“Forty-eight hours,”  The Adjudicator stresses.   “Don’t be foolish enough to think we won’t follow through.  That if you don’t comply,  we won’t come back here.   I suggest you get your affairs in order.  And do exactly as you're told.”

“If I show up, I want a guarantee.  That nothing will happen to Tyler.  If I do as I’m told, you have to promise me that nothing will happen to him.   He doesn’t deserve it; to suffer because of my mistakes. He’s a good person.  A good MAN.  And he doesn’t need to pay the price for something I did.”

“I underestimated you.  Perhaps you weren’t just doing a job.   There’s something in your eyes.  In your voice. When you talk about him.   And I can tell you’re scared;  terrified of the thought of something happening to him.  Love?  Is that what it is?”

Esme nods.  “Do we have a deal? That if I turn myself in, he’ll be left alone?”

“I will handle that end of things when I report to the High Table.  But you have my word;  you show up, he remains safe.   But if he even tries to defend you or get in our way…”

“He won’t.   He won’t be an issue. I’ll make sure of it.”

“Fair enough.”  The Adjudicator turns on their heel and strides across the kitchen. “Forty-eight hours.  Or we WILL come for you.”

“Is that a threat or a warning?”

They pause in the doorway. “Neither. It’s a promise.”

[b2bbusiness]

Australia Sportswear Market: Growth, Trends, and Future Prospects

The Australian sportswear market has seen steady growth over recent years, fueled by a rising interest in fitness, health, and overall well-being. The country's sports culture and active lifestyle have contributed significantly to this sector's expansion, drawing in both global and local brands eager to meet demand. In this article, we will explore the current state of the Australian sportswear market, major factors influencing its growth, key trends, and future outlook.

1. Market Overview

The sportswear market in Australia has expanded due to increasing consumer spending on health and wellness activities. Valued at over AUD 5 billion, the market covers a range of apparel, footwear, and accessories for fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and those who prioritize casual, comfortable attire. Sportswear's dual purpose—functionality and fashion—has positioned it as a mainstream clothing category, allowing it to gain traction with a broad demographic.

2. Factors Driving Growth in the Sportswear Market

Several key drivers have contributed to the rise in sportswear popularity in Australia:

a. Health and Fitness Awareness

A growing awareness of the benefits of regular exercise and physical activity is pushing Australians toward active lifestyles. Government initiatives and social media fitness trends have encouraged consumers to prioritize health, which has, in turn, led to higher demand for sportswear.

b. Athleisure Trend

The athleisure trend, where sportswear is worn as everyday casual attire, has gained immense popularity. Consumers increasingly choose sportswear for its comfort, versatility, and style, making it suitable for various occasions beyond workouts. This trend has broadened the consumer base for sportswear brands, pushing them to design products that align with both performance and fashion needs.

c. E-commerce and Digital Sales Channels

Online shopping has transformed the sportswear market, enabling brands to reach a wider audience across Australia. E-commerce platforms offer convenience, variety, and promotions, making it easier for consumers to shop for sportswear from home. Digital channels, including social media, have also become crucial for brand visibility, marketing, and customer engagement.

d. Increased Sports Participation

Australia’s deep-rooted sports culture, with popular sports like cricket, rugby, and swimming, has significantly influenced the demand for sportswear. This trend is bolstered by an increase in gym memberships, outdoor recreational activities, and community-based sports leagues, all of which contribute to sportswear sales.

3. Key Trends in the Australian Sportswear Market

As the market continues to grow, several trends are shaping the future of sportswear in Australia:

a. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Sportswear

With environmental consciousness rising among consumers, many brands are shifting towards sustainable practices, using recycled materials and eco-friendly processes. This trend is driven by consumers’ demand for ethical production methods and green alternatives, influencing brands to prioritize sustainability in their supply chains.

b. Customization and Personalization

Consumers today seek unique and personalized products, a trend seen in the sportswear sector. Brands are offering customization options—such as selecting colors, adding initials, or choosing preferred fabrics—to allow customers to express their style. This personalized approach helps brands build stronger customer loyalty.

c. Technological Integration

Sportswear companies are incorporating advanced fabrics and technologies to enhance performance. Moisture-wicking fabrics, anti-odor materials, and smart sportswear that tracks performance metrics are gaining popularity. These innovations appeal to consumers looking for practical benefits, enhancing sportswear's appeal beyond aesthetics.

d. Collaboration with Influencers and Athletes

Collaborations with social media influencers and athletes are becoming key marketing strategies for sportswear brands in Australia. These partnerships help brands connect with niche audiences and boost brand credibility, as influencers and athletes lend an aspirational quality to the products.

4. Competitive Landscape

The Australian sportswear market is competitive, with major global brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma dominating. However, there is also a growing presence of local brands such as Lorna Jane and Nimble Activewear, which cater to the unique preferences of the Australian consumer. These local brands often emphasize sustainability and target the growing female market segment, differentiating themselves from international players.

Global brands leverage their extensive resources and brand recognition to capture a substantial market share, while local brands focus on innovative design, cultural relevance, and eco-conscious practices to remain competitive.

5. Future Outlook of the Sportswear Market in Australia

The Australian sportswear market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with industry analysts projecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 6% in the coming years. This growth is likely to be driven by continued health and wellness awareness, the rise of athleisure, and an increasing emphasis on sustainability.

Brands that prioritize digital marketing, expand their e-commerce capabilities, and integrate sustainability in their products will likely thrive. Moreover, innovations in product functionality and customization will play a significant role in attracting consumers who prioritize both style and performance.

For more insights on this report, download a free report sample

[satyugisaree]

Explore the Timeless Elegance of Sarees with Satyugi

When it comes to traditional Indian attire, nothing captures grace and elegance quite like a saree. At Satyugi, we take pride in offering a vast collection of sarees that blend tradition with contemporary styles, making it your go-to destination for all saree lovers. Whether you are looking for something grand for a wedding, a festive celebration, or an everyday ethnic look, our diverse collection has something for every occasion.Satyugi is a distinguished brand offering a stunning range of traditional and contemporary sarees, including Mul Cotton, Linen Saree, Tissue Saree, Ajrakh Saree, Silk Saree, and Cotton Saree. With a commitment to preserving the essence of Indian craftsmanship, Satyugi's sarees are meticulously handcrafted to blend comfort, elegance, and timeless beauty. Catering to customers in India, the USA, and Australia, Satyugi ensures that the grace of Indian sarees transcends borders, delivering a unique shopping experience worldwide. Explore their exquisite collection at Satyugi.in

[premiumjewels]

Discover the Perfect Diamond Stud Earrings – Shop Online at Premium Jewels

When it comes to timeless elegance and understated luxury, diamond stud earrings are the quintessential accessory. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or adding a touch of sophistication to your everyday look, diamond studs offer a perfect blend of class and versatility. At Premium Jewels, Australia’s leading destination for exquisite jewelry, you can find the perfect pair of diamond stud earrings to suit your style and elevate your wardrobe.

Why Choose Diamond Stud Earrings?

Timeless Elegance

Diamond stud earrings are more than just jewelry; they’re a symbol of enduring elegance. Their classic design ensures they never go out of style, making them a staple in any jewelry collection. The simplicity of the stud design highlights the brilliance of the diamonds, allowing their natural sparkle to take center stage.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the most appealing aspects of diamond stud earrings is their versatility. They seamlessly complement both casual and formal attire, making them suitable for any occasion. From a day at the office to a night out on the town, diamond studs add a touch of sophistication without being overpowering.

A Lasting Investment

Diamonds are known for their durability and lasting value. Investing in a pair of high-quality diamond studs is not just about purchasing a piece of jewelry; it’s about acquiring a lasting asset. With proper care, diamond earrings can be enjoyed for a lifetime and even passed down through generations.

Shop Online at Premium Jewels

At Premium Jewels, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional selection of diamond jewelry that combines exquisite craftsmanship with contemporary design. Our online store features a range of diamond stud earrings, each piece crafted to the highest standards of quality and elegance.

Featured Product: Halo Stud with Round Diamond

One of our standout offerings is the Halo Stud with Round Diamond. This stunning pair showcases a round diamond encircled by a halo of smaller stones, amplifying its brilliance and creating a captivating sparkle. The halo setting not only enhances the central diamond but also adds a touch of modern flair to a classic design.

Why Buy from Premium Jewels?

Unmatched Quality: Each piece in our collection is meticulously crafted using the finest materials and the highest standards of workmanship.

Exceptional Value: We offer competitive prices without compromising on quality, ensuring that you receive the best value for your investment.

Convenience: Shopping online with Premium Jewels allows you to explore our collection from the comfort of your home and enjoy a seamless purchasing experience.

Customer Satisfaction: Our dedicated customer service team is here to assist you with any questions and ensure your shopping experience is as smooth as possible.

How to Choose the Perfect Pair

When selecting diamond stud earrings, consider the following factors to find a pair that perfectly complements your style:

Diamond Cut: The cut of the diamond affects its brilliance. Round cuts are classic, while other shapes like princess or cushion can offer a unique twist.

Carat Weight: Choose a carat weight that suits your preference and budget. Larger stones offer more impact, while smaller stones can be just as stunning with a more delicate look.

Setting Style: The setting can influence the overall appearance of the earrings. A halo setting, like the one featured in our Halo Stud with Round Diamond, adds extra sparkle and sophistication.

Final Thoughts

Diamond stud earrings are a versatile and timeless addition to any jewelry collection. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply treating yourself, Premium Jewels offers a curated selection of stunning diamond studs that cater to all tastes and preferences. Explore our collection online today and find the perfect pair to enhance your elegance and sparkle.

Discover the beauty of diamond stud earrings at Premium Jewels and experience luxury like never before. Visit us at Premium Jewels and let your style shine!

[insurgeclothing]

Shopping for Women's Tops Online in Australia

In today’s digital age, the convenience of shopping online has revolutionized the way we purchase clothing, particularly women's tops. Whether you're looking for casual wear, office attire, or something special for a night out, the options are endless. For those in Australia, shopping online offers access to a wide variety of styles, sizes, and brands without ever leaving the comfort of your home.

Why Shop for Women's Tops Online in Australia?

Shopping for women's tops online in Australia comes with several advantages. First and foremost, online stores provide a broader selection of styles than most brick-and-mortar stores. From classic blouses to trendy crop tops, there's something for every fashion preference. Online shopping also makes it easier to find specific items, such as sustainable or ethically produced clothing, which might be limited in physical stores.

Another significant advantage is the ability to compare prices across multiple websites. This means you can find the best deals without having to visit several stores in person. Plus, many online retailers offer exclusive discounts and promotions that you might not find in stores.

Tips for Shopping Online

When shopping for women's tops online in Australia, it's essential to keep a few tips in mind to ensure a smooth experience. First, know your measurements. Sizes can vary between brands, so having your measurements handy will help you select the correct size. Most online stores provide size guides that can be very helpful.

Another important tip is to read customer reviews. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the fit, quality, and true color of the tops you're interested in. They can also alert you to any potential issues with the product or the seller.

It's also wise to check the return policy before making a purchase. While shopping online is convenient, it can be challenging to determine if an item will fit or look as expected. A flexible return policy will give you peace of mind, knowing that you can return or exchange the item if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

Top Australian Online Stores for Women's Tops

Australia is home to several fantastic online stores offering an extensive range of women's tops. Websites like The Iconic, Princess Polly, and Insurge Clothing are popular among fashion enthusiasts for their wide selection and high-quality offerings. These stores frequently update their collections to reflect the latest fashion trends, ensuring that you can always find something new and stylish.

Insurge Clothing, in particular, stands out for its focus on contemporary designs and sustainable practices. Their collection of women's tops online in Australia offers everything from basic tees to statement pieces that can elevate any outfit. Whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or something unique, Insurge Clothing provides a diverse range of options to suit various tastes and preferences.

Conclusion

Shopping for women's tops online in Australia offers unparalleled convenience, variety, and the opportunity to stay ahead of fashion trends. By following some simple tips, you can enjoy a seamless shopping experience and find the perfect tops to suit your style. With reputable online stores like Insurge Clothing, finding quality women's tops has never been easier.

[thescarfcompany]

Enliven Your Look with an Extensive Range of Scarves

These women's scarves are the perfect accent for any outfit and occasion. Each piece is designed to mix and match everything from the perfect dress to versatile denim to a classic tee. The dress or top adorned with their unique digital print scarves sets off any ordinary look with a distinct flair.

Exclusive Collection of Scarves

The Scarf Company offers proudly designed scarves from Melbourne that appeal to the modern woman with individuality and premium materials. These scarves can be worn around the neck, head, waist, or hair and are a stylish addition to a hat or handbag. The collection comprises wardrobe essentials that are effortlessly cool and unique.

Digital Print Scarf For The Beautiful You

Explore the exclusive and unique range of online silk scarves and add a touch of elegance to any wardrobe. Designed with contemporary trends, these scarves complement casual and formal looks. Whether dressing up for a special occasion or adding a chic touch to everyday attire, these women's scarves offer unmatched versatility.

Why Choose Us?

Individually designed with premium materials

Responsibly and ethically sourced fashion

Versatile accessory for any outfit

Effortlessly blends with both casual and formal looks

Adds a distinct flair to any style

Discover the perfect scarf to elevate your wardrobe. Browse The Scarf Company's collection today and find the ideal piece that speaks to your style and values.

[rbdiamond232]

Exploring Nepali Jewellery in Sydney: A Cultural Odyssey

Nepali jewellery is not just about adornment; it's a reflection of centuries-old traditions, intricate craftsmanship, and rich cultural heritage. In Sydney, Australia, where diversity thrives, discovering authentic Nepali jewellery is an experience that transcends mere shopping. From the iconic Tilhari necklace to the exquisite Hatti Ko Puchar bracelet, let's embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Nepali jewellery in Sydney.

Tilhari: A Symbol of Tradition and Love

The Tilhari necklace holds a special place in Nepali culture, particularly among married women. Consisting of three strands of gold beads adorned with pearls or gemstones, the Tilhari is more than just an accessory; it symbolizes marital bliss, prosperity, and enduring love. In Sydney's Nepali jewellery shops, you'll find Tilhari necklaces that capture the essence of this cherished tradition, offering a glimpse into Nepal's cultural tapestry.

Hatti Ko Puchar Bracelet: An Ode to Nepali Craftsmanship

The Hatti Ko Puchar bracelet is a testament to Nepali craftsmanship and attention to detail. Characterized by intricate metalwork and inspired designs, this bracelet is a true work of art. Crafted from sterling silver or gold, each Hatti Ko Puchar bracelet tells a story, blending contemporary elegance with traditional aesthetics. In Sydney's Nepali jewellery shops, you'll discover a stunning array of Hatti Ko Puchar bracelets that exemplify the beauty and craftsmanship of Nepali jewellery-making.

Hasuli: Adorning Gracefully

The Hasuli necklace, a traditional Nepali choker-style necklace, exudes grace and elegance. Adorned with elaborate designs and embellishments, the Hasuli adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Whether worn for special occasions or as everyday attire, the Hasuli is a timeless piece that celebrates Nepali heritage with style and grace. In Sydney's Nepali jewelry shops, you'll find Hasuli necklaces that captivate with their intricate craftsmanship and timeless appeal.

Nepali Bracelets: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Nepali bracelets come in a myriad of styles, each a blend of tradition and modernity. From delicate silver cuffs to bold statement pieces, Nepali bracelets reflect the diversity and creativity of Nepali jewellery-making. Adorned with intricate patterns and symbolic motifs, Nepali bracelets are more than just accessories; they're expressions of identity and culture. In Sydney's Nepali jewellery shops, you'll find a diverse selection of bracelets that cater to every taste and preference, showcasing the beauty and versatility of Nepali jewellery.

Nepali Gold Bangles: Timeless Elegance

Gold bangles hold a special place in Nepali culture, symbolising prosperity, auspiciousness, and feminine grace. Whether worn individually or stacked together, Nepali gold bangles are timeless accessories that elevate any look. In Sydney's Nepali jewellery shops, you'll discover an exquisite collection of gold bangles that celebrate Nepali craftsmanship and heritage, offering a glimpse into the opulent world of Nepali jewellery.

In conclusion, exploring Nepali jewellery Shop in Sydney is more than just a shopping excursion; it's a cultural odyssey that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. From the iconic Tilhari necklace to the exquisite Hatti Ko Puchar bracelet, each piece tells a story of heritage and legacy, inviting you to embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Nepali jewellery. So, next time you're in Sydney, be sure to visit a Nepali jewellery shop and immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Nepali craftsmanship.

[earchapparel]

Exploring Men’s Apparel in Australia: A Shopper's Paradise

Australia has carved a niche in the fashion industry with its vibrant culture, diverse influences, and unique styles. For those seeking to elevate their wardrobe, men's apparel in Australia offers a blend of high-quality materials, innovative designs, and a wide array of options that cater to every taste and occasion. From chic city wear to rugged outback attire, the variety found in men's apparel stores across the country ensures that every man can find his perfect style.

The Diversity of Men’s Apparel in Australia

Mens Apparel Australia is as varied as the country's landscapes. Whether you're in the bustling streets of Sydney, the artistic lanes of Melbourne, or the sun-soaked coastlines of Brisbane, you’ll find clothing that matches the local vibe and caters to different lifestyles.

Urban Sophistication:

Tailored Suits and Blazers: Australian cities are known for their business districts and sophisticated nightlife, making tailored suits a staple in men’s wardrobes. Brands like MJ Bale and Calibre offer finely crafted suits and blazers that provide a polished look for any formal occasion.

Smart Casual: For those who prefer a blend of comfort and style, smart casual wear from stores like R.M. Williams and Politix is ideal. These brands combine classic and contemporary elements, ensuring you stay fashionable without sacrificing comfort.

Casual Comfort:

Everyday Essentials: Men’s apparel stores such as Country Road and Witchery provide a range of everyday essentials, from comfortable jeans and chinos to versatile t-shirts and polos. These items are perfect for laid-back weekends or casual work environments.

Streetwear: The influence of urban culture is evident in the streetwear options available in Australia. Brands like Stussy and Culture Kings offer trendy hoodies, graphic tees, and sneakers that appeal to the younger, fashion-forward crowd.

Outdoor and Activewear:

Adventure Ready: With Australia’s diverse outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking, having the right gear is crucial. Stores like Kathmandu and The North Face offer durable and functional activewear designed to withstand the elements while keeping you comfortable.

Sportswear: For fitness enthusiasts, brands such as Lululemon and Adidas provide high-performance sportswear that supports various physical activities, ensuring you stay stylish even during your workouts.

Shopping for Men’s Apparel: The Australian Experience

The shopping experience in Australia is unparalleled, thanks to the plethora of men's apparel stores that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer browsing through boutiques or shopping online, there are plenty of options to explore.

Boutique Shopping:

Personalized Service: Many men’s apparel stores in Australia offer personalized shopping experiences. Boutiques like Harrolds and Incu provide tailored advice and styling tips, helping you find pieces that suit your individual style.

Exclusive Collections: Shopping at boutiques often means access to exclusive collections and limited-edition pieces. This exclusivity ensures that your wardrobe remains unique and stands out from the crowd.

Online Shopping:

Convenience: Online shopping for men's apparel in Australia has become increasingly popular due to its convenience. Stores like The Iconic and ASOS offer a wide range of clothing options, easy navigation, and quick delivery services, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your home.

Wide Range: Online platforms often have a broader range of products compared to physical stores. This extensive selection ensures that you can find everything from everyday basics to statement pieces, all in one place.

Sustainability in Men’s Apparel

Sustainability is a growing trend in the fashion industry, and men's apparel in Australia is no exception. Many brands are adopting eco-friendly practices, ensuring that fashion-conscious consumers can make environmentally responsible choices.

Ethical Sourcing:

Materials: Brands like Patagonia and Outland Denim prioritize using sustainable materials, such as organic cotton and recycled fabrics, in their collections. This focus on ethical sourcing helps reduce the environmental impact of clothing production.

Fair Trade Practices: Ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers is another crucial aspect of ethical fashion. Stores like Nudie Jeans are committed to fair trade practices, providing transparency about their supply chains.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives:

Recycling Programs: Many men’s apparel stores in Australia have introduced recycling programs that encourage customers to return old clothing for recycling. This initiative helps minimize textile waste and promotes a circular economy.

Sustainable Packaging: Brands are also shifting towards sustainable packaging solutions. Biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials are becoming more common, reducing the environmental footprint of fashion purchases.

Conclusion

Men’s apparel in Australia is a dynamic and evolving sector that offers something for everyone. Whether you are seeking urban sophistication, casual comfort, or adventure-ready gear, the wide variety of men’s apparel stores across the country ensures you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, you can also make eco-friendly choices without compromising on style. So, whether you're updating your wardrobe or looking for the latest trends, exploring men's apparel in Australia promises a rewarding and stylish shopping experience.

[hijab-living]

Embrace Spiritual Elegance: The Essence of Prayer Jilbabs by Hijab Living

In the vibrant mosaic of cultures that enrich Australia, the quest for modest attire stands as a testament to the diverse expressions of faith and tradition. For Muslim women, the journey towards spiritual fulfillment often intertwines with the desire for clothing that seamlessly combines modesty, comfort, and style. In this pursuit, the timeless elegance of prayer jilbabs emerges as a beacon of grace, offering a harmonious blend of faith and fashion.

Amidst this quest for quality and tradition, Hijab Living emerges as a trusted name, resonating with those seeking prayer jilbabs that honor both religious values and contemporary aesthetics. Rooted in a commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity, Hijab Living has carved a niche for itself as a purveyor of high-quality, modest attire that speaks to the heart and soul of Muslim women.

Unveiling the Essence of Prayer Jilbabs

At the core of the prayer jilbab lies a profound symbolism—a symbol of devotion, humility, and reverence. It embodies the essence of modesty, serving as a sacred garment that encapsulates the spiritual journey of the wearer. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the prayer jilbabs by Hijab Living transcend mere fabric and stitches, offering a tangible expression of faith and identity.

The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Style

In a world where fashion often seems at odds with modesty, Hijab Living defies conventions by seamlessly blending comfort with style. Each prayer jilbab is thoughtfully designed to provide maximum comfort during prayers, allowing the wearer to immerse herself fully in the spiritual experience. From breathable fabrics to tailored cuts, every aspect is carefully curated to ensure both modesty and elegance.

Bridging Tradition and Modernity

In embracing the rich tapestry of Islamic tradition, Hijab Living celebrates the timeless allure of prayer jilbabs while infusing them with a contemporary flair. The designs reflect a harmonious fusion of heritage and innovation, catering to the evolving tastes of modern Muslim women. Whether adorned with intricate embroidery or minimalist accents, each prayer jilbab pays homage to the rich cultural heritage while embracing the spirit of the times.

Elevating Your Spiritual Journey

Beyond being mere garments, prayer jilbabs serve as companions in the spiritual odyssey of every Muslim woman. With Hijab Living's exquisite collection, this journey takes on a new dimension—one where faith and fashion converge to elevate the soul. Whether worn in the solitude of prayer or as a statement of identity in everyday life, each jilbab becomes a testament to one's devotion and reverence.

Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Unity

In a world marked by diversity, Hijab Living's prayer jilbabs stand as a symbol of inclusivity and unity. Embracing women of all backgrounds, cultures, and styles, the brand fosters a sense of belonging within the global Muslim community. Through its diverse range of designs and sizes, Hijab Living ensures that every woman can find her perfect prayer companion, regardless of her unique preferences or body type.

Conclusion: Embodying Grace, Inspiring Confidence

In the pursuit of modest attire that transcends boundaries and embraces tradition, Hijab Living emerges as a beacon of grace and inspiration. With its meticulously crafted prayer jilbabs, the brand not only offers a tangible expression of faith but also empowers women to embrace their identity with confidence and dignity. As we embark on our spiritual journeys, let us adorn ourselves with the timeless elegance of prayer jilbabs by Hijab Living, and let our souls soar to new heights of enlightenment and inner peace.

In summary, the prayer jilbabs by Hijab Living epitomize the perfect marriage of tradition and modernity, offering Muslim women in Australia and beyond a sanctuary of elegance, comfort, and spirituality. Let us embrace these sacred garments as not just pieces of clothing but as symbols of devotion, unity, and empowerment.

[chickensarentcheap]

Ever feel your own heart breaking more and more with each sentence...word...you type? Because you know that by the end of the chapter,  everything is going to be complete and utter shit in fan fic land?

Yeah...I’m there right now.

It’s very rough. Just dialogue for now.  But it’s the beginning of the end for these two.  For four years, anyway :(

@munstysmind, @themaradaniels, @mrsmungus, @residentdormouse, @thesirenrealm, @muchadoaboutcj, @tragiclyhip, @secretaryunpaid, @asirensrage, @starryeyes2000, @youflickedtooharddamnit

“As much as I’d love to go and get a jump on plotting out my gardens, I really need to stay behind.  We move in a week!  Seven days! And I feel like I’ve barely put a dent in the packing.  Like…”  Settling her hands on her hips, she blows her bangs out of her eyes and stares down the mess of cardboard boxes littering the shack.  “...it’s only been ten months! Since we moved in together.  How did two people who came into this relationship with nothing end up with so much…stuff?”

“I’m not being blamed for it.  You’re the one that owns twenty pairs of Uggs and only wears the same two all the time.”

“They’re my favourites,” she reasons, and tosses a roll of packing tape in his direction.  “And I refuse to take criticism from a man that owns nearly thirty pairs of board shorts, yet lives nowhere near the water.”

“Hey, we’re in Australia. Board shorts are perfectly acceptable everyday attire. And besides…”   (wraps his arms around her from behind and presses a kiss to the side of her head).  “...in a week, we’ll be a lot closer to the beach.  All those board shorts will come in handy.”

[developerwith1]

The Ultimate Guide to Yukata Tops: Style, Comfort, and Versatility for Every Occasion

In the realm of fashion, where trends come and go, the Yukata top remains a timeless choice that marries style with comfort and versatility. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or looking for something unique for everyday wear, Yukata tops provide a stylish solution. Explore the world of Yukata tops with us at Yukata Australia, where tradition meets contemporary fashion in the most elegant way.

What is a Yukata Top?

A Yukata top is a casual version of the traditional Japanese kimono, typically made from cotton, which is light and breathable. It's perfect for those who want to inject a bit of international flair into their wardrobe without sacrificing comfort.

The Unique Appeal of Yukata Tops

Yukata tops offer a unique blend of comfort and style that is hard to find in typical Western attire. Wearing one is like carrying a piece of art; each pattern tells a story, each fold a tradition.

Choosing the Right Yukata for Your Style

When selecting a Yukata, consider the color, pattern, and fabric. Each element should resonate with your personal style and the settings in which you plan to wear it.

How to Style Yukata Tops for Different Occasions

Yukata tops are incredibly versatile. Dress them down with jeans for a casual outing, or pair them with a high-waisted skirt for more formal events. They adapt as easily as water shapes to its container.

Pairing Accessories with Your Yukata

Accessories can elevate your Yukata look. A simple obi belt can enhance the traditional aspect, while a modern necklace or earrings can keep it contemporary.

Care and Maintenance of Yukata Tops

Caring for your Yukata is crucial for maintaining its beauty. Gentle hand washing and air drying are best to keep the fabrics vibrant and fresh.

The Best Fabrics for Your Yukata

While cotton is most common for its breathability and comfort, silk Yukatas are an option for those seeking a bit more luxury and formality.

Yukata Tops Across the Seasons

Think of Yukata tops as a year-round wardrobe staple. In summer, wear them as they are; in cooler months, layer them with a stylish jacket or cardigan.

Where to Buy Quality Yukata Tops

Visit Yukata Australia for a wide selection of high-quality Yukata tops, where authenticity and style meet to match every fashion need.

How to Customize Your Yukata Look

Add personal touches to make your Yukata unique: stitch on some patches, adjust the length, or even add some lace for a personal twist.

Yukata Tops in the Workplace

In creative or casual workplaces, Yukata tops can be a stylish and comfortable alternative to traditional business attire, bringing a splash of creativity to the office.

Cultural Significance of Yukata Tops

Yukata tops are more than just clothing; they are a bridge to Japanese culture, each wear bringing you closer to understanding the depth and beauty of Japanese traditions.

Testimonials: What Customers Are Saying

Hear from delighted customers who’ve made Yukata tops a part of their fashion repertoire and how it has transformed their style and comfort.

Upcoming Yukata Trends for 2024

Stay ahead of the fashion curve with insights into the latest Yukata trends. Bold patterns, eco-friendly fabrics, and innovative designs are on the rise.

Your Questions Answered: FAQs

Have questions? We have detailed FAQs to help you choose, wear, and care for your Yukata with ease.

Embracing a Yukata top is not just about adopting a piece of clothing; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that appreciates simplicity, elegance, and versatility. Whether for a special occasion, daily wear, or anything in between, Yukata tops offer a perfect blend of all these qualities. Dive into the beautiful, comfortable world of Yukata tops at Yukata Australia and discover why they should be a staple in your wardrobe.

[hikmahboutique12]

Discover Your Style at Australia’s Premier Modest Clothing Store

Welcome to Hikmah Boutique, the ultimate Modest Clothing Store in Australia where fashion meets modesty. Our collection is thoughtfully curated to provide stylish options that align with your values and personal style.

Why Choose Hikmah Boutique?

At Hikmah Boutique, we understand the importance of feeling comfortable and confident in your clothing. Our modest clothing not only adheres to your modesty standards but also keeps you on-trend. From elegant dresses to chic tops and versatile skirts, our offerings cater to women of all ages seeking stylish, modest attire.

Explore Our Exclusive Collection

Our collection features a range of garments perfect for any occasion:

Casual Wear: Discover everyday pieces that are both stylish and comfortable.

Formal Attire: Find elegant dresses and outfits ideal for special occasions.

Activewear: Stay active while looking fabulous with our modest activewear options.

Shop with Confidence

Shopping at our Modest Clothing Store in Australia is a seamless experience. We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, easy returns, and secure online shopping. Plus, enjoy fast shipping across Australia, ensuring you receive your items quickly.

Join Our Community

Be part of a growing community that values modest fashion. Follow us on social media for the latest trends, style tips, and exclusive offers. Your modest fashion journey starts here!

Visit Us Today!

Ready to refresh your wardrobe? Explore our collection at Hikmah Boutique and discover why we’re the top choice for modest clothing in Australia. Shop now and embrace your unique style!

[fromzion]

Dress for Success, Sustainably: Explore our Range of Bamboo Dresses

Looking for work attire or an outfit for a special occasion that's both stylish and eco-friendly? Look no further than the bamboo dress! At From Zion (a leading provider of bamboo clothing in Australia), we believe in empowering women with comfortable and versatile clothing options that don't compromise sustainability. This blog delves into the world of bamboo dresses and explores how they can elevate your wardrobe while positively impacting the environment.

Why Bamboo Dresses are the Perfect Choice for the Modern Woman

Gone are the days of sacrificing comfort for style. Bamboo dresses offer the ideal blend of both:

Unmatched Softness: Bamboo boasts naturally round and smooth fibres, unlike traditional fabrics that can be stiff or irritating. This creates a luxurious and soft feel against the skin, ensuring you stay comfortable all day.

Effortless Drape: Bamboo fabric's natural drape allows for a flattering silhouette that complements all body types. Whether you prefer a form-fitting or flowy style, you'll find a bamboo dress that accentuates your curves.

Breathable Bliss: Bamboo fibres are naturally hollow, allowing exceptional air circulation. This keeps you cool and comfortable, even on hot Australian days.

Wrinkle Resistance: Bamboo fabric is naturally wrinkle-resistant, minimizing the need for constant ironing. This makes it a perfect choice for busy women on the go.

Sustainable Style: Bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource that requires less water than cotton. By choosing a bamboo drape dress, you're making a conscious decision for a greener future.

From Zion: Unveiling the Magic of Bamboo Dresses

Here at From Zion, we take pride in offering a curated collection of bamboo dresses designed for the modern woman:

Variety of Styles: From flowy and feminine to figure-hugging and chic, we offer a diverse range of bamboo dresses to suit your taste and occasion.

Luxuriously Soft Fabric: We use only the finest bamboo fabric, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious feel throughout your day.

Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials and construction, our bamboo dresses are built to last. They can withstand regular wear and tear while maintaining their shape and style.

Easy Care: Bamboo clothing Australia is generally machine washable and dries quickly, making it a low-maintenance choice for everyday wear.

From Zion: FAQs About Bamboo Dresses

We understand you might have questions about bamboo dresses:

Are bamboo dresses suitable for all seasons?

Absolutely! The breathability and versatility of bamboo make it a great choice for warm and cool weather. Layer your dress with a cardigan or jacket for warmth in cooler months.

How can I accessorize a bamboo dress?

The beauty of bamboo dresses lies in their versatility. For a formal look, wear them with heels and statement jewellery, or keep them casual with sandals and a scarf.

What are the care instructions for a bamboo dress?

Most bamboo dresses are machine washable with cold water and mild detergent on a gentle cycle. Always check the care label on your specific garment for detailed instructions.

Embrace Sustainability and Style with From Zion

Choosing bamboo clothing in Australia is not just about fashion; it's about making an eco-conscious decision. From Zion is committed to responsible practices throughout the production process. Please explore our website today and discover the world of bamboo dresses. Find the perfect dress to express your unique style while embracing comfort and sustainability with From Zion.

[kakaduaustraliaaus]

Elevate Your Style with Kakadu's Antique Silver Cowboy Belt Buckles

Are you tired of low-quality cowboy belt buckles that fail to secure your belt properly, causing discomfort and constant adjustments throughout the day? Say goodbye to those frustrations with Kakadu Traders Australia's exquisite antique silver cowboy belt buckles. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these buckles not only add a touch of elegance to any outfit but also ensure your trousers stay firmly in place. The intricate designs and premium materials make Kakadu's belt buckles stand out from the rest. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or looking to add a stylish flair to your everyday attire, these buckles are the perfect accessories. Upgrade your belt collection with Kakadu's antique silver cowboy belt buckles and experience the perfect blend of style and functionality. Visit our website or stores today to explore our collection and find the perfect buckle to complement your unique style.

[southeastfashions]

South East Fashions is your premier destination for exquisite silver jewellery in Australia. Our extensive collection showcases an array of meticulously crafted pieces, perfect for any occasion and style preference. From timeless classics to contemporary designs, we offer a variety of silver jewellery sets that reflect both elegance and sophistication.

Our silver jewellery australia  are designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a stunning necklace and earring set for a special event or a unique bracelet to complement your everyday attire, South East Fashions has something to suit your needs. Each piece in our collection is crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring you receive jewellery that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time.

At South East Fashions, we understand that jewellery is more than just an accessory; it is a statement of personal style and individuality. That’s why we offer a wide range of designs, from minimalist pieces that exude understated elegance to bold, statement-making sets that draw attention and admiration. Our silver jewellery sets in Australia are perfect for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and distinctive design.

In addition to our stunning silver jewellery, we also provide exceptional customer service. Our knowledgeable team is always available to assist you in finding the perfect piece, whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a special gift. We pride ourselves on ensuring that every customer has a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience.

Explore South East Fashions today and discover the finest silver jewellery sets australia. With our commitment to quality, style, and customer satisfaction, you’re sure to find the perfect addition to your jewellery collection. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, our silver jewellery sets will make you shine. Visit us online or in-store to experience the best in Australian silver jewellery.

Visit us : https://southeastfashions.com.au/