#windows properties using command line

[cinnamongorll]

a fragile line - epilogue

read on ao3! (179k words) | previous chapter | masterlist

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female OC 

Series tags: extreme slow burn, age gap, older man/younger woman, protective joel, jealous joel, hurt/comfort, pov third person, mutual pining, angst, sexual tension, friends to lovers, canon-typical violence, feral joel, parental abuse, eventual smut.

Series synopsis: three years ago, Juliet escaped her father's religious survivor camp, ending up in the Boston QZ. Juliet created a life for herself in Boston, desperate to forget the trauma of her upbringing. One day, Juliet arrives home to find a mysterious letter which forces her to return to her home town. Juliet can't travel the harsh post-apocalyptic landscape alone, so she enlists the help of the grumpy and, at times, frightening man she works alongside: Joel Miller.

Chapter warnings: smut

Word count: 6k

Epilogue

Juliet's POV:

Juliet burned down her father’s house. 

It didn’t take long, there was some gas in the basement that Matt dragged up the stairs and the five of them got to work, drowning most surfaces in the thick liquid. Juliet watched as it covered the bookshelves full of religious texts, dampening the words Elijah had used to justify his treatment of her. She locked eyes with Ethan when Joel handed her his lighter, her blood roared in her ears as Juliet silently asked him if this was the right decision, if she was thinking clearly.

They stood at the edge of the property, bags already strapped onto the horses, ready to flee at a moment's notice. Joel had assured her that the flames would die out before they reached any nearing properties, but a part of Juliet hoped that the fire would surround the town, erasing every part of it. 

After a long moment, Ethan had nodded and Juliet flicked the lighter with a surprisingly steady hand. The flame was strong when she threw it towards the house and they watched with stunted breaths as the worn porch steps illuminated in red and orange. The fire was quick to lick up the side of the building, through the door, and into the hall. 

Juliet released a slow, staggered breath when the windows exploded and Joel shielded her body with his own, gripping her shoulders and pushing her towards the horses with sharp, muffled commands in her ear.

Juliet stumbled over her own feet but she struggled to tear her eyes from the flames. Joel boosted her onto the horse they shared before joining her, gripping the reins as he turned the creature in the direction of Ethan, Charlotte, and Matt who had already begun riding down the street, away from the haunted house that was finally being destroyed.

As their horse gained speed, and Juliet’s old home became a speck of red and black in the distance, she imagined that same fire coating her skin, burning away every scar that was birthed in that house, erasing every echo of a scream from her mind, and making room for new memories.

No one emerged from their hiding spots as they rode through town. The people who were left were scared and tired. Juliet had gutted this town of its monsters. 

When they made it through the town’s gate, Juliet’s body finally slumped into Joel’s back as she slid her arms around him. Even through his coat, she could feel the waves of heat pouring off of him, holding the cold at bay. Juliet’s cheek nuzzled into the thick leather of his jacket and she felt him release a heavy sigh. 

She didn’t have to look to know that his mouth had curved into that reluctant smile he used to fight so hard against and Juliet’s eyes fell closed, a feeling of peace flowing through her despite the harsh journey ahead. 

Behind her eyelids, Juliet pictured her father’s house falling apart piece by piece as his empire blackened and burned, crumbling to the ground, and her shoulders relaxed as she tightened her grip on Joel. 

Elijah’s house would never hurt anyone again, she’d made sure of it.  

……………….

With a combination of severe weather, groups of raiders and hoards of infected, the journey back to Jackson took a lot longer than any of them had expected. 

It was mid-February before they returned, arriving at Jackson’s gates worn and malnourished. The snow still stuck to the ground and, from the gates, Juliet could spot some Christmas lights that still hung from the sides of buildings, reminding her of the day they left. 

Tommy was the first to greet them, pulling Joel into a hug that nearly knocked the two of them over. Joel gripped his brother tight, murmuring words that she couldn’t hear as Tommy nodded and slapped him on the back.

Juliet watched politely, smiling as the brothers reunited, yet she couldn’t help but feel that festering reminder of her guilt begin to curl around her stomach, and her eyes darted away, ashamed of her part in their separation. 

When they broke apart, Juliet was surprised to find that Tommy’s arms wrapped around her, pulling her in with a gentle force as his chin rested on her head. 

“Careful,” Joel warned from beside them, his arms crossed as he watched Juliet for any hint of pain or discomfort. 

Juliet felt Tommy’s laugh reverberate through her body as he brushed off his brother’s concern, smiling against the top of her head. She leaned into the hug, her eyes burning as she felt the weight of his worry and accepted the offer of his renewed friendship. 

When they pulled apart, Joel’s feet crunched through the snow to stand behind Juliet and Tommy looked between the two of them with a hint of surprise in his brown eyes, then he shook his head and his mouth broke into a crooked smile.

Juliet looked between the brothers, watching a silent conversation pass between them as her eyebrows furrowed. After a moment, Joel’s hand landed on her shoulder and he nodded at Tommy. 

Something passed over Tommy’s face that she couldn’t quite identify at first, but as Joel’s hand slid around her waist and he turned them in the direction of the town, she realised that there was something resembling acceptance in his expression. 

Juliet brushed it off and focused only on the warm feeling of Joel’s hand as it settled on her waist and the realisation that he didn’t care who saw the evidence of his affection towards her.

………………………… 

No one questioned it when, that evening, Joel packed up Juliet’s stuff from her house and moved it into his. 

She sat on his bed, her legs crossed under her as she watched Joel carefully unpack the small collection of items and clothing she had gathered during her time in Jackson. Neither of them said a word as he pushed his things aside to make room for hers. There was no discussion, no hint of doubt. Joel moved as though his actions were the most natural thing in the world, as though Juliet sitting on his bed watching every motion of his hand was a usual occurrence. 

When he closed the last drawer, he turned to her, straightening his spine and reaching a hand up to rub along his jaw and the scuff of a beard he’d managed to grow on their journey. It reminded her of the days before they reached Jackson, when Juliet would try to imagine what it would feel like to touch his face and not feel like she’d been scorched. 

When his eyes met hers in the low lighting of the room, Juliet struggled to decipher his expression. She shifted under his gaze and her tongue escaped her mouth to wet her dry lips. 

Joel didn’t miss the movement and he began to walk over, with slow, careful steps, almost as though he didn’t want to spook her, like knew how dangerous he was and what might happen if he got too close.

When he stopped, Joel stood with his legs touching the edge of the mattress and his chin tilted down to tower over Juliet’s cross-legged form as she gazed up at him with inquisitive eyes. Even after all this time, Joel’s movements still remained unpredictable and she liked the feeling that sparked over her skin as she attempted to guess what he might do next. There was no fear in waiting, no apprehension that Joel might do something to hurt her, there was just a buzzing anticipation of his touch and a sharp focus in response to his full, undivided attention. 

Juliet’s eyes shuttered closed when his rough palm met her cheek, grazing upwards against her flushed skin until he met her hair. His fingers dug in, scratching her scalp until a soft moan flew from Juliet’s mouth as her chin lifted towards him. 

He groaned in approval, using his other hand to untangle her hair from its braid as the pressure from his touch increased. Juliet forced her eyes open as she felt the heat from his gaze begin to burn her skin. 

Her lips parted as she blinked up at him, a moan caught in her throat as his fingers kneaded into the back of her neck, rubbing away the tension that wrapped around her. 

Joel was doing it on purpose, she decided, when a whimper trembled from her lips and his whole body shuddered in response. He was enjoying the way she came undone under his touch as she demonstrated just how much his towering presence affected her.

Juliet watched as his jaw moved and his gaze flickered to the door across the room. Through the haze of his touch, Juliet’s eyes narrowed and she begged her mouth to work, to ask him what he was thinking… but Joel held her tongue in his dark, heavy look and she was stunned into silence.

“Come with me,” he commanded in a low growl, and dropped his hands to curve around her elbows, helping her off the bed with tenderness that warred with the promise of something so brutal and savage in his eyes.

Juliet’s heart pounded as her feet met the cold hardwood floor and she allowed herself to be led across the room to what she now recognised as Joel’s bathroom. Her eyes narrowed as she contemplated where this was going until Joel let go of her arm to flick on the light and then reach across the bathtub to turn on the shower.

Juliet’s tense shoulders dropped instantly. The thought of a warm shower had kept her going for the past several weeks, imagining herself standing below the stream and washing off everything that had happened to her. A smile found her lips at Joel’s thoughtfulness. 

“Thanks,” she murmured as she moved over to the tub and turned, waiting for Joel to step out the bathroom as her skin itched to move under the water that was currently creating a cloud of steam between them. 

But he didn’t leave. 

Instead, Joel closed the door and began to move closer, and closer until he had backed her against the tub. Juliet watched him with widening eyes as his hand moved to the top button of her flannel.

“Joel,” she said in a trembling voice. “What are you doing?”

His eyes found hers, and his eyebrows raised in an amused gesture as his finger grazed the button again. Surely he could hear how fast her heart was beating. 

“I’m gonna help you outta these clothes, then we’re gonna get cleaned up,” he explained, before he paused and searched her face as the corner of his mouth twitched up. “That okay?”

Juliet’s skin began to flush. “We?” she repeated.

Amusement danced in Joel’s eyes as he nodded and his fingers continued to play with the button. 

The hot steam coated her skin and Juliet couldn’t help but feel exposed. She’d been with Joel before, but it was too quick and rushed and unexpected for her to feel nervous. But now… he would see all of her and her heart seized at the thought of his eyes trailing along the scars that marked her skin.

Her head turned towards the wall, escaping his attention for a moment as she tried to calm her breathing.

“Hey,” he said, concern entering his tone. “What’s wrong?”

Juliet found his searching gaze and she swallowed at the sight of his confusion. 

“I don’t want you to see me like this,” she whispered, hoping her words would just fade with the hot steam and they wouldn’t actually reach his ears.

“Like what, baby?” he murmured as his palm found her cheek again. He stared down at her as the lines on his forehead grew deeper. 

Juliet huffed out a breath. “Hurt, scarred,” she stopped, shrugging, then lifted her hand, ignoring the dull pain produced from the sudden movement. “Butchered.”

Joel’s eyebrows pulled together, his eyes narrowed and his mouth transformed into a thin line, all amusement gone, as he processed her words. 

Juliet looked away as the flush rose in her cheeks, beneath his careful touch. 

Suddenly Joel pulled away, and Juliet squeezed her eyes shut, worried that her nightmare of Joel’s rejection had come true. But only seconds later, his voice interrupted her spiralling thoughts.

“Look at me,” he ordered.

Juliet’s eyes blinked open to find Joel rapidly unbuttoning his own shirt. Her mouth dried as she watched his fingers move, exposing his tanned chest. With each button gone, Juliet’s breaths came faster and faster.

“Joel, what -” 

“Look,” he repeated, releasing the final button and pulling his shirt open as his chest rose and fell in sharp, heavy breaths.

Juliet’s eyes were already tracing his skin, roaming over his shoulders and following the path of hair down his chest, committing every inch of it to memory. After the sudden shock of his exposure faded, Juliet looked closer and noticed the white lines that lightened his flesh, and the circular shapes that sent a blade of fear through her heart. Then, slowly her eyes dropped to the scar low on his stomach that her own fingers had a hand in creating. 

She tore her gaze away before the memory of that day consumed her, when his blood stained her skin and he had begged her to leave him.

When her eyes found his, Joel looked down at Juliet with a vulnerability she had never seen. 

On instinct, she stepped forward and her hand reached out until her fingers met his soft flesh. Joel flinched and sucked in a breath, scanning Juliet’s face as she began to trace the marks on his skin. 

A fierce flame of anger built in her chest as she thought of how these marks were formed, and she realised the pain he must have endured. Juliet’s eyebrows furrowed deeply when she thought about how she hadn’t been there, how she wasn’t able to help him. 

Then, Juliet thought about why he had shown her this, and her breath caught in her throat. 

They were the same. He had survived, just as she had.

This was just another piece of evidence to prove how alike they truly were. Joel’s scars matched hers, how could she be embarrassed by them?

Juliet removed her hand from his skin and, before her nerves could stop her, she reached for the buttons on her own flannel and started to release them. Joel’s breath shuddered out of him when he realised what she was doing and, when her lost finger made it difficult, he replaced her hands with his own as he slowly, carefully removed the shirt from her body, leaving her shivering in just her bra. 

Her flannel fell from his hand, creating a puddle of fabric at their feet. 

“So beautiful,” Joel drawled as his eyes traced her chest.

Juliet felt the sincerity in his words and she glanced down at his hands to distract herself from the heat in his expression. She watched as his hand twitched towards her then stopped suddenly and curled into a fist.

Feeling a sudden sense of confidence at his reaction, Juliet reached around and managed to unhook her bra. For a long moment, she held the cups over her breasts as her heartbeat roared in her ears, then she dared to look up at Joel. 

Juliet’s mouth dropped open. He stared down at her with what looked like anger burning in his gaze and Juliet felt a sudden pulse of fear fire through her as her hands began to tremble. She forgot, sometimes, how dangerous Joel was, and what power he truly held in his body. He could break her if he wanted, she might even let him.

Slowly, her hands dropped and the bra joined her flannel on the bathroom floor. 

Joel moved and Juliet realised how right she was to be frightened of him. His lips met her neck with a force that would have knocked her backwards if his hand hadn’t slid around her naked back, holding her in place. Juliet’s neck was pushed upwards by Joel’s other hand, exposing more of her throat as he feverishly scanned her flesh with his lips, kissing, tasting, tempting her with the edges of his teeth, like they might bite into her neck at any moment. 

Juliet couldn’t keep track of the noises she was making, they were blending in with Joel’s groans and the sound of the water that continued to stream from the showerhead behind them. The steam in the bathroom was becoming unbearable, stealing away any breaths that she could take in between Joel’s attack. 

Soon, his lips moved downwards as his hand cupped her beast, pushing against the flesh until his thumb grazed her hardened nipple and Juliet’s entire body shook with the force of her moan.

She swore she felt Joel’s mouth stretch into a smile against the bottom of her neck as his hand moved to her other breast, grazing her nipple in the same maddening way. Juliet was losing her thoughts, they were floating away and she couldn’t catch them. The only thing that consumed her mind was where Joel’s lips would go next.

Juliet didn’t have to wonder for long. Without any warning, Joel’s thumb was replaced by his mouth as it captured her nipple in the warm heat of his tongue. Juliet felt his groan against her skin and the sound shot a pulse of heat down her entire body. 

Juliet began to writhe against him, her hands reaching out, trying to grab a hold of anything to keep her weakening legs from giving out. Her good hand quickly caught a hold of his jeans and started to scramble to unhook his belt, needing to feel the hardness she felt against her stomach. 

She whimpered in frustration when her efforts failed. Juliet couldn’t concentrate when Joel’s teeth grazed against her skin, sending a shiver of heat straight down her spine.

“Hold on, baby,” he murmured when his mouth left her and his black eyes locked with hers. 

Juliet straightened, gasping for breath as she watched him effortlessly release the hold on his belt, unpop the top button and slowly bring the zipper down. She was pretty sure she stopped breathing when his thumbs tucked under the material and pushed his boxers and jeans down in one single movement, his eyes never leaving hers.

Juliet’s eyes dropped immediately to Joel’s cock. Her mouth dried when she was reminded of its length and size, and she watched it twitch in response to her close attention. 

Her legs squeezed together. Joel didn’t miss the movement. 

Reluctantly, Juliet’s eyes made their way back up to Joel’s face and she saw that vulnerability shine back at her again. Juliet was struck by an overpowering need to touch him, the boiling in her blood was reaching a breaking point, but he was always at least one step ahead of her. His hands were at her trousers before she could inhale another shuddering breath.

“You want this?” he demanded in a low growl.

Juliet nodded without a single ounce of hesitation. Her need for him was wrapping itself around her throat, strangling her, restricting her oxygen.

Her trousers and underwear were on the floor. Juliet’s mind was in a daze. Everything was in slow motion. She watched as Joel bent to unhook her trousers from her ankles then used his position to tuck his arm under her legs and lift her to his chest. 

Juliet gasped but didn’t protest when Joel stepped into the bathtub and settled her down under the heat of the water. 

Her head tilted back in pleasure and a low moan unleashed from her mouth, before it was swallowed by Joel. His lips consumed hers as his hands found her hair, tangling his fist in the soaking wet strands. 

With both of his hands distracted, Juliet reached down and wrapped her hand around his cock, squeezing gently. Joel’s lips ripped from hers as his head dropped to her shoulder. 

“Fuck,” he shuddered out.

Juliet’s other hand grazed over his hair as she began to move her hand up and down his length until her thumb brushed over his tip and a strangled groan escaped Joel’s throat. 

She could feel the thick dampness forming between her thighs despite being under the stream of the showerhead, and Juliet used her grip on his cock to position him at her clit, pushing her body forward until the head of his cock made contact with the nerves that forced her mouth to open in a silent scream and her head to fall back. 

Joel snarled and broke away, pushing her against the wall of the shower, cradling her head with his hand. 

“You tryin’ to kill me?” he scolded, wiping away the droplets of water that clung to Juliet’s eyelashes in an act so gentle in comparison to the anger that pulsed in his eyes.

Juliet liked the sensation of fear that sparked across her body as she quickly shook her head.

Joel huffed out a frustrated groan as his searing hot gaze followed the path of the water down her body, then his eyes flashes back up to hers. 

His finger began to trace her lips, tempting her to open them, to let him in. Eventually, she caved and Joel’s finger slid into her mouth. On pure instinct, Juliet’s lips wrapped around his finger and she felt his cock twitch against her. 

Surprise darted in Joel’s widened eyes, and he looked down at her mouth. 

“Suck.”

Juliet obeyed immediately, wrapping her lips tighter around his finger. She swore her legs were about to give out as she watched Joel’s eyes fall closed in response. 

When he pulled the finger from her mouth, it was dripping and Joel’s eyes darkened even further before his gaze dipped to where she was clenching with need, and his lips transformed into something between a smile and a snarl before his wet finger found her clit. 

Juliet’s head swung backwards as he began to circle the bundle of nerves, pulling whimpers and moans from her throat. He didn’t let up, not once, Joel was not a man who responded to cries for mercy - he took what he wanted without remorse. 

“Please, Joel,” Juliet cried when he picked up speed.

Instead of an answer, Joel’s lips met her neck again, sucking and tasting her damp skin as his traitorous finger left her clit and sunk deep inside her.

Juliet jumped and writhed against him at the intrusion. It was too much, the heat from the shower, the feeling of his tongue on her neck, his finger moving in and out, over and over, killing her each time.

“Think you can handle more?” he asked in between heavy breaths.

Juliet nodded vigorously, confirming her death wish. 

Joel made a dismissive noise with his tongue and ceased all movement. “Need to hear you say it, baby.”

Juliet groaned in annoyance. “Yes, I can handle it,” she confirmed in a sharp whine.

Joel breathed a laugh against her neck. “Good girl.”

Juliet was still processing those two words when a second finger sunk inside her, curling to meet a spot she barely knew about. 

“Joel,” she whimpered against his chest, feeling overwhelmed. 

The sound of his name caused Joel to nip at her neck with his teeth and Juliet began moving against his fingers, losing control.

A third finger joined in and Juliet lost it. Her cries echoed in the bathroom as Joel’s name fell from her lips more times than she could ever count. She was getting so close, it was actually painful.

Joel’s lips captured hers, his tongue forcing itself inside, before he made his final attack. 

With three fingers pumping inside her, Joel moved his thumb and grazed it against her clit. Juliet cried out at the sensation, the sound getting lost in his mouth, and then he pressured harder, circling her with an edge of absolute cruelty. 

That did it. 

Juliet came with a scream trapped in her throat and her lip caught between Joel’s teeth.

“That’s it, baby,” he soothed as he released her lip and her body slumped against him. His hands moved around her back, rubbing her skin, pulling her closer. “Shhhh.” 

When her body stopped shuddering, she pulled away and blinked up at Joel. He was watching her with an expression Juliet had never witnessed before. At first glance, it looked like anger… but she knew better.

Joel was breathing heavily, panting almost, as he stared down at her. A muscle jumped in his jaw and Juliet reached up to press a kiss to it, enjoying the sight of Joel’s surprise.

When her lips left his skin, Juliet’s eyes dropped to his cock, still hard and twitching against her stomach and she swallowed, wanting desperately to know what it would feel like pushing inside her.

Her eyes must have betrayed her thoughts because Joel captured her face with his hands and demanded her attention.

“Not fuckin’ you in a shower either,” he grunted out, referencing that night in the cabin when he was so close to giving in on the decaying couch. 

Frustration and bitter disappointment flooded Juliet. She was sick of waiting, she wanted him, needed to feel him as close to her as possible.

Juliet covered his hand with her own. “Then take me to bed,” she whispered. 

Joel’s eyes widened, and she watched as he considered her proposition, his cock still rock hard against her skin. She ached to reach down and wrap her fingers around him, to make him feel the way she had felt only moments ago. 

Suddenly, Joel’s hands left her face and reached down to the back of her thighs, lifting her up until she was wrapped around his middle. She yelped and buried her face in his neck. 

When she lifted her head, Joel had turned the shower off, grabbed a towel and placed her on the bed. She was soaked and the water from her hair flooded the bed despite the towel underneath her. But the way Joel stood over her, watching her, told her that he couldn’t care less. 

His hand found his cock and began to move up and down his shaft as his eyes trailed over her damp skin, over her breasts, down her stomach…

“I’ll never get tired of lookin’ at you,” he choked out as his body reacted to his quick movements. Juliet was jealous, she wanted to be the one touching him, making him feel that way.

“Come here,” Juliet begged as she slowly dropped her legs open. 

Joel’s eyes immediately fell between her thighs as he began to move his hand faster. 

“Please,” she whined, spreading her legs even wider. 

“Goddammit,” he cursed before he released his cock and climbed onto the bed, moving until he caged her with his body. 

Juliet couldn’t help it, she gripped his face and pulled him towards her, kissing him slowly, exploring his mouth, memorising the taste of him on her tongue. 

“Joel, I need you,” she breathed against his lips. 

He released a strangled groan, and pulled himself back until he captured her gaze as he explored the look in her eyes.

“You sure you want this?” he asked cautiously, his voice deadly serious. “Don’t wanna hurt you.”

Juliet nodded her head, her heart ached at his words. Joel was always so protective of her, even from himself. She didn’t know how to express to him how badly she wanted this, how he could never hurt her. 

“I love you, Joel,” she whispered. 

Joel froze, his face was stunned as though she had landed a blow on his skin. She hadn’t said those words since that night in Elijah’s house, and from the look on Joel’s face it was as though he thought he imagined it all those weeks ago. 

Finally, he broke out of his trance and he reached down, pushing her thighs further apart before gripping his cock and guiding the head into her tight heat. Juliet gasped, stunned by the feeling of him pushing into her.

Joel’s jaw clenched as he grit his teeth, and Juliet knew that he was waiting for her to adjust before he kept going. She dropped her head back and tilted her chin down in a sharp nod.

Joel released a heavy breath as she took more of him in, enveloping his cock a little at a time until his body began to shake and Juliet pushed her hips forward until he slid into her all the way to the hilt.

“Fuck, Juliet,” he ground out, as though he was pained. 

Juliet’s mouth was open in another silent scream as she attempted to adjust to the feeling of him inside her, stretching her, hitting that impossible place inside her. 

After a long moment, Joel pressed his hands against the sides of her hips as he pulled out, then rocked back into her so carefully. 

The whine she released was utterly pornagraphic. 

Joel lost control, she could feel it in the way his hips jerked towards her and his hand left her hip and buried itself in her hair as his lips captured hers, inhaling the moan that was working its way up her throat.

Kissing her harder, Joel pulled out again and pressed into her, experimenting with the sounds she made against his mouth.

“I love you,” he groaned against her lips as he rocked into her again, pulling out, holding himself like some endurance test, then jerking his cock back inside her, over and over again.

Juliet felt tears slipping down her face, mixing on their tongues. She wasn’t sure if it was in response to his words or the feeling of their bodies clashing against each other and the primal growls Joel was releasing every time he pushed back inside her. 

Soon, he picked up the pace and he decided to torture her even more as his thumb reached down to play with her clit, cirling it as his cock pounded against the spongy spot inside her.

Her cries verged on delirious, she was sobbing, screaming, gripping him, clawing at him.

Joel joined in on the delirium as his groans faded into snarled words against her skin that she could barely make out each time he slammed into her. 

“Fuck, baby.”

“I don’t deserve you.”

“You feel so good.”

“I’ve thought bout’ this too many times.”

“I’m so fuckin’ in love with you.” 

He was going so fast now, Juliet couldn’t breathe.

“Joel,” she gasped out. “I think I'm gonna come again.”

His finger moved quicker, tempting her sanity until she tipped on the edge.

“Do it,” he commanded. “Come for me.” 

White hot brightness exploded behind her eyes as pleasure wracked her body. Somewhere far away Juliet could hear Joel groaning as she tightened around his cock.

“Shit,” he breathed and the pressure on her hip increased as Joel pulled his cock out with a strangled groan. 

“I’m gonna,” he choked out and Juliet stiffened as she felt heat explode over her stomach before Joel dropped his head, coated in sweat, in the space between her neck and shoulder. 

Juliet instantly pushed her fingers into his damp hair, soothing him, whispering to him how good he made her feel. When his breathing slowed, Joel reached up and gingerly captured the wrist of  her butchered hand before pulling it to his mouth and pressing his lips against her palm.

Juliet bit her lip to stop more tears from falling. 

He pulled back until their eyes met, blinking slowly as their breaths found the same rhythm. 

As she watched a wave of emotions ripple in Joel’s eyes, Juliet was struck by a sudden, fierce terror and realisation that, despite how perfect this moment was, it couldn’t last forever.

“I - I can’t ever lose you, Joel,” Juliet confessed as she sliced a hole in her soul and spilled its contents in front of him. 

Joel shook his head as that signature line between his eyebrows deepened, and Juliet wanted to reach between them and run her finger over it, to learn everything that had caused it to form.

“You won’t lose me,” he assured her as he tilted her head towards him and his trembling lips found her forehead. “I’m yours.” 

Juliet wrapped her arms around him, pulling him tight, not willing to ever let go. 

…………………

The following year passed quickly.

After a few weeks, the dust settled and Jackson’s community stopped questioning their strange disappearance. The looks thrown at Joel and Juliet when they walked through town, with Joel’s hand on the small of her back, died down after a while. 

When early spring arrived, Joel convinced Tommy to let them back out on patrol, this time as partners. Juliet refused to let Joel go out without her, and vice versa, so it was really the only option. They were most at peace out on patrol; it reminded them of the months they’d travelled across the country, learning each other’s habits, realising they couldn’t be apart. 

They watched each other’s back out in the open, then went home to the same house, and the same bed. Joel learned how to cook, more than just eggs, and made sure that Juliet never went without a meal. He cooked for others too, they invited Ethan and Charlotte over often for dinner, drinks, and board games. Sometimes Matt joined them too, making sure to sit as far away from Joel as possible.

A few months after they returned, Maria had her baby…

Juliet watched Joel become an uncle. She smiled with him as they played with Tommy’s daughter, then held him close at night when the memories grew too heavy for him to carry alone. 

Jackson became a home for the both of them. Juliet had a place to fill with the books she collected on patrol, and Joel found a talent in wood carving. He surprised her with little carvings of things only the two of them would understand: like the monkey that sat on their kitchen windowsill, reminding them of Juliet’s shock at the university. And Juliet surprised Joel with a guitar, which he’d been attempting to teach her how to play. Juliet wasn’t very good but she liked the way Joel kissed her when she got a chord right, so she kept the lessons up. 

The nightmares still found Juliet, some worse than others, but she didn’t wake up alone anymore. Joel was there to brush a hand over her hair and kiss her forehead, anchoring her to the present. 

They got married the following year, in August when the grass was green and the sun warmed the air. 

They stood in the field of an old farmhouse that was to be their new home, under a willow tree where wildflowers grazed their legs and snagged at Juliet’s dress. Joel had told her that back before the world ended, weddings were supposed to be officiated, but laws didn’t exist anymore so they just decided to do it themselves, not willing to share any part of the day with others. 

Joel and Juliet exchanged rings at sunset, when the soft shades of orange and pink painted the sky. They whispered promises to each other in the ruins of a world where happy endings didn’t exist anymore, and yet they found one anyway. 

When Joel pushed the ring onto Juliet’s finger, he wasn’t surprised when the heavens opened up and rain descended upon them. Juliet just tipped her head back and laughed, and Joel watched, mesmerised by the sight of her joy. 

They kissed as the light faded, and Joel found that his own eyes burned as he reached to capture the tear that rolled down Juliet’s cheek before the rain stole it from him.

.......................................

@amyispxnk @casa-boiardi @http-paprika @shotgun-shelby @weeping-werewolf @mysaviorjoelmiller @chlojoceycom @joelmillersblog @socialistmary @orcasoul @ashhlsstuff @caitlynsixxx @elli3williams

[phil-gravey-but-not-daily]

Cat!Graves and Dog!Shadow Company Thoughts🐈🐕‍🦺🐕🦮🐩

Cat hybrid!Graves who purrs softly as he rubs against his Dog Hybrid!Shadows after a successful mission, both congratulating his boys, but also making sure that his property/territory is properly marked and scented. He’d rather d!e than let another hybrid try and claim HIS dog pack. Back off Shepherd >:(

Cat!Graves who stays up super late doing work until the early hours of the morning. He gets a little bit louder when he’s working in the late hours and especially when he’s tired. This causes some of the shadows to wake up and they don’t like that. So when woken up, they will often drag Graves back with them to a dog pile, where they will keep him till he falls asleep or the morning arrives

Cat!Graves who’s more touchy and affectionate than before, rubbing against people he likes and is comfortable around, hugs more often and takes an extended hand as invite for a hug, stands closer to others while swinging his tail slowly. 

Cat!Graves who picks up habits from his dog pack. Like perking up at the smell of peanut butter, having an unreasonable hatred for squirrels, yowling whenever a howl is started, or hissing at people behind closed doors and windows, but being sweet as sugar when the door or window is opened

Dog!Shadow Company who discovers that laser pointers work on Graves in the middle of a meeting. They were using the pointer to discuss a mission, when Graves suddenly walks over to the screen with his tail lashing and puts his hands over the dot. After a few moments of silence the Shadow using the pointer moves it to the side to put it away, but Graves follows the pointer, batting at the wall. The room promptly erupts into chaos, the mission forgotten. Shadows are trying to grab the pointer, and Graves is chasing the pointer around the room, occasionally wiggling before he pounces on the dot. Papers are flying, Shadows are barking and yelling, some are trying to grab Graves, others are trying to get the pointer to mess with Graves, and Graves is bouncing off the walls trying to catch the dot which is moving erratically around the room. The chaos eventually stops when the pointer gets dropped during the confusion and breaks. :( 

Cat!Graves who has to make sure that no other shadows are in the room besides the ones he training with before he starts :( Dog!Shadow Company cannot be trusted as a pack around Cat!Graves when he’s training. Their prey drive kicks in when they see such a small pretty kitty like Graves fighting and tangling against larger dogs :(( Of course, Graves can handle 1-2 Shadows who are exponentially larger than him, but an entire pack? The poor commander is instantly covered and surrounded by large hybrids who can’t help but snap their maws at his body :( And all the while all poor Phillip can do is whimper and whine while try and wriggle out of the pile hybrids :((

Cat!Grave who has a bad habit of pushing tall things off tables. Specifically if its on his 

Cat!Graves who HATES being cornered.(physically) He needs space to move around and feel free and he can’t do that in a corner. He will hiss and snarl if someone he doesn’t know corners or traps him. The only people he lets into his space is his dog pack, and most shadows treat that honor with all the respect that they can give. If someone starts to toe the line too much, and Graves starts to get uncomfortable, all it takes is a few air bites in the perpetrator’s direction for them to back off. No one makes their boss uncomfortable on their watch. Of course Graves can take care of himself, but he takes a little longer to voice his concerns, especially after being shut down a lot by shepherd on missions

Cat!Graves who left the Marines because the bigger, ‘badder’ species thought it was funny to grab his ears and tail and pull as hard as they could just to get him yowling and hissing. They would berate him afterwards, scolding him for being so loud and being weak. His superiors didn’t even care. They thought a species as lazy as a cat didn’t belong in the military so, they let it happen and even went out of their way to taunt him theirselves. All of this built up until Graves had had enough, and left the marines to start Shadow company. He overworks himself sometimes just to prove that he isn’t lazy, and he does belong in the military, even though he isn’t around them now

Dog!Shadow Company who has a group chat dedicated to Cat!Graves moments, whether it be a video of him quickly scaling a wall, a photo of him eating those cat food pouches, or a video taken from behind a corner, showing a Shadow petting Graves between the ears and him purring happily. Every new shadow is introduced to it, sworn in secrecy. Graves does not know about it, and never will know about it as long as the Shadows have any say in it. 

Dog!Shadow Company who secretly knows where Cat!Graves is at all times, they have trackers hidden pretty much in all of his gear. It’s not for nefarious purposes or possessiveness (well, maybe a little bit of possessiveness for certain shadows) but instead for emergencies. Bring the leader of a well known PMC makes him a target for organizations trying to make quick money, or to get revenge for missions he’s overseen. So they keep trackers hidden on him in case someone’s looking to take him hostage. (This one has nothing to do with dog or cat hybrids but it feels important)

Dog!Shadow Company who gets EXTREMELY overprotective of Cat!Graves whenever he’s had a rough day. They’re already pretty protective of him in general, but someone outside the company is causing their beloved Commander to feel uncomfortable?? OhhhhhhohoHO! Grab your guns and your tracking skills, cause that bastard is going to DIE tonight if Graves doesn’t find out in time. They feel like they owe it to him to protect him, as he gave them all a place to call home and people to call family. He’s pretty much their father figure at this point, and as such they will protect him at ALL costs

Dog!Shadow Company who is easy for Cat!Graves to distract, either it be with bones or treats, if the pack needs a pick me up after a mission gone wrong, Graves is there to help cheer them up/distract them

[lazyduchess]

The Sims 1 Edith Leak

Hey!

Some of y'all probably seen this already, but recently a debug build of TS1 with Edith included was released:

Edith is a program that runs alongside the game, allows you to modify and create objects and behaviors during runtime. Any changes you make to interactions, scripts, etc. Will take effect and save in realtime.

Tips under the cut.

Here are some tips, if you wish to check it out:

Set your PC registry to English (US) for Sims if you run into any issues like crashes. The game complains (crashes) sometimes with other languages due to the weirdness of the build. -Always run the game in windowed mode (-w) or Edith won’t work. Shortcuts are already included with command line arguments for window mode. -No CD patch required, this version of the game comes with no disc or SecuROM requirements. Only objects made for v1.0 will probably work (or at least anything that doesn't use newer SimAntics functions), so no EP items or mods made for later versions (unless you know if they’re compatible with v1.0 generally). You’ll need to load a lot to get started. Press “E” to launch Edith, press “M” for $1000 (hurray, no more rosebud!;!;!; required). You can try seeing what other keys work - "L" launches the lighting editor, for example. There's a lot of developer cheats which are enabled in this build that don't work (or don't exist) in the release version of the game. You can find a list of these cheats at https://tcrf.net/The_Sims_(Windows)/Developer_Tools or by using the help cheat. The most useful cheats are "debug_social on" (lets you decide whether an interaction is accepted or denied by another sim), "all_menus on" (lets you use all the interactions on an object, including debug options - similar to the console cheats), "money [amount]" (lets you set your household balance), and "visitor_control on" (lets you control visitor sims including NPCs using the spacebar to switch characters). Edith can be finicky and has lot of knobs/dials, so best not to fiddle too much with anything that seems mysterious or unintentional. Generally avoid the "default" menu options like New/Open/Save/Print/etc. Your best bets are the object browser and module inspector. All changes made to an object’s tree or properties are saved in real time (for the most part), there’s no undo button. Try to stick to running the regular Sims.exe, not the Sims_Debug.exe, since the latter throws C++ errors regularly and can crash.

[xenodile]

While I still haven't gotten Elegg, by an unbelievable stroke of luck I've gotten Maxwell, Laplace, and Drake among my starting roster, and I love this fucking goon squad. This trio are Syuen's personal minions, whom she markets as the "heroes" and protectors of the Ark.

First up, the face of the squad is Drake, a scary, demon-looking lady in black and red armor, whose personality of what I can only call "a gijinka of those flaming, gun-toting, motorcycle-driving skeleton memes that say corny wholesome things, with the moral sensibilities of a Disgaea demon." She wants to form a "Villain Union" because being part of the most popular squad in the entire Ark isn't enough, so she'll surpass her reputation as a hero as a villain. Except her idea of villainy is the most harmless petty stuff possible, like walking in the bike line, buying out the entire stock at a food stall so no one else can get any, or paying for a meal at a restaurant with her autograph. These actions all ultimately cause more good than any harm, which only makes her more beloved as a hero, much to her frustration. She's kind of hilarious, being an effortlessly intimidating and charismatic figure that cackles like a supervillain while also being a goody twoshoes that needs help ordering a pizza because she gets nervous when talking on the phone.

Then we've got Laplace, who are respectively a hyperactive idiot that screams about justice and being a superhero while causing massive amounts of property damage with every "heroic" action she takes. She's got gold and blue armor, and embodies the "Good Is Dumb" trope, lacking any and all common sense. She jumps through windows rather than use doors, sees every situation as a chance for her to be a hero, and uses breaking things as her go to solution to any problem. Building on fire? Blow up the surrounding buildings so the fire can't spread! Naturally her popularity is mixed as while she means well, she ends up causing more problems with her rampant collateral damage and lack of sense, but having her status as a "hero" called into question is so emotionally damaging it physically paralyzes her.

And backing them up is Maxwell, an utterly deranged mad scientist that is openly manipulating you for the sake of testing her dangerous inventions and completely defies the ideas that Nikkes need to carry out normal human activities to maintain their mental health by having fully robotic legs and a railgun directly integrated into her spine. Uncommon for many, Maxwell freely talks about her life before she volunteered to become a Nikke and how convenient it is to be free from biological processes of being human. So she can spend more time working. She has no hobbies, no friends, and doesn't even think about things like food or drink, because all her time is dedicated to squeezing more power out of gun she refers to with the same affectionate nickname as the Commander. At this point I think she's trying to trick herself into falling in love to see if that will get an extra 1% energy output in her railcannon.

[astonishinglegends]

Ep 287: The Abduction of Betty and Barney Hill Part 1

"Oh my God. They’re not what I expected. They don’t look like I expected them to look. They look like people, but they’re sort of grotesque."  -- Betty Hill, recounting a nightmare she had in a note to Dr. Benjamin Simon; late spring 1964 from Stanton Friedman and Kathleen Marden’s book, Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience

Description:

On the night of September 19, 1961, around 10:30 p.m., Betty and Barney Hill drove back to their home in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, after a vacation in Niagara Falls and Montreal. As they passed the town of Lancaster along U.S. Route 3, Betty saw a bright light in the sky just below the Moon that she initially thought was a falling star, except this light was moving upward and erratically, growing larger and more brilliant. The Hills pulled over for a closer look through binoculars. Betty said she saw an oddly shaped craft with multicolored lights that flashed as it traveled across the face of the Moon. Barney saw what he first reasoned was a commercial jetliner, but when the craft silently descended rapidly in their direction without turning, he realized it was not a plane. They resumed driving as the object continued its quick descent toward their car until it hovered above the highway about 80 to 100 feet off the ground, causing Barney to stop in the middle of the road. Using the binoculars again, Barney could now see what he described as eight to eleven humanoid beings staring at him through one of the craft's windows. Then they all turned away from the window except for one that continued to glare and seemingly sent a telepathic message to Barney, commanding him to "stay where you are and keep looking." After making further observations about the craft and its occupants, whom Barney described as "somehow not human," the only thing the Hills could recall next from that moment was hearing a buzzing sound, then continuing on their drive. The Hills arrived home in the early morning the following day, and somehow, the trip took about two hours longer than it should have. Initially feeling at ease upon arrival, Betty and Barney would soon be troubled by puzzling evidence and unexplainable feelings and urges. Their watches were permanently stopped. Betty's dress was ripped around the zipper and lining and dusted with traces of a pinkish powder. The leather strap for the binoculars was torn, and the tops of the toes of Barney's shoes were scuffed as if he was dragged. He also developed inexplicable growths. They felt compelled to take long showers to remove any contamination without fully knowing what had happened to them. They noticed concentric circular marks on the trunk of their car that had strange magnetic properties. All of these baffling clues were traces of the extraordinarily terrifying and traumatic experience they endured that night, which scarred them for years, pieced together from their conscious memories, hypnotic regression sessions, and Betty's vividly recurring dreams. Taken all together, the story of Betty and Barney Hill became one of the most classic and seminal in ufology and is considered the first widely publicized case of alien abduction in the United States.

Reference Links:

Barney and Betty Hill incident on Wikipedia

Kathleen Marden, Betty Hill’s niece, from her website: www.kathleen-marden.com

The Betty and Barney Hill New Hampshire historical roadside marker

The Hill case from the Mad Scientist Podcast

Niagara Falls

Once again, the motion picture Rashomon

Project Blue Book

Walter N. Webb, from nicap.org

Donald Keyhoe

Location: The Betty and Barney Hill historical roadside marker in New Hampshire

Related Books:

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CREDITS:

Episode 287: The Abduction of Betty and Barney Hill Part 1. Produced by Scott Philbrook & Forrest Burgess. Audio Editing by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound. Music and Sound Design by Allen Carrescia. Tess Pfeifle, Producer and Lead Researcher. Ed Voccola, Technical Producer. Research Support from The Astonishing Research Corps, or "A.R.C." for short. Copyright 2024 Astonishing Legends Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

[koukouture]

Trying to make sense of Babylonia bc I’m insane

So… I’m actually curious as to how many people are living on Babylonia and how the hell it’s structures since it’s shaped like a giant nail. And so I took some screenshots to help me make sense of it.

So this is another angle of Babylonia, a full image of it as opposed to the loading screen. This angle lets us see that there’s a sort of structure at the top, I assume this is where the bridge and central command is. And as we can see, it’s pretty fucking massive.

Here is a more zoomed out version of the loading screen image.

I’m not exactly going to fault Kuro for consistency but the top part seems significantly larger in the first picture. Anyways that’s all well and good but where the fuck are these areas???

Now, I used this part of Haicma’s story bc it lets you kind of travel around this map. And As we can see, there’s a sort of shopping district up here. There’s an elevator nearby, and it’s a pretty big elevator mind you. It’s like a whole tube thingy. And also, this shopping district or whatever is above parliament

See that structure in the distance? Yeah that’s parliament

That is the shopping area thingy from in front of parliament.

So Babylonia is built up on a lot of layers, probably to conserve space. And as we can all see, there’s an artificial sky, I believe Chrome’s interlude confirms this basically. And in any case there’s something of a city in Babylonia too.

So far, this background has been exclusively used when we’re on Babylonia so I am assuming it’s on Babylonia also because it’s too perfect and you know, it’s not in ruins. Also, outside of the preparation room??? Idk just look.

You can see the silhouettes of buildings outside the window, and I do believe in the Panini shorts the constructs walk around something resembling a city but I’m not abt to take that show as canon, goofy and cute as it is.

So like… how big is Babylonia to be able to house an entire ass city inside??? Also, what’s the situation because as we’ve established, Babylonia is like a nail so I’m not quite sure where to place all these buildings??? A friend suggested it was centrifugal force, that is the city is built in like a ring?? Like lining the walls of a cylinder? Idk how to explain it. But we just see the artificial sky so I don’t think so, but that would be most likely since it saves on space but still I just don’t know.

Since we’ve established that the little top part is probably central command or whatever and maybe where military operations are planned as in the two above pictures we can see that they’re above the city to some degree so uh… yeah idk what’s going on you guys.

Not to mention that leaves us with the giant ring around the nail part.

Now, I want to say that the ring is actually where the city is, and it’s built around that but that would require Babylonia to be fucking MASSIVE like bigger than it already is in order for their to be an artificial atmosphere and thus an artificial sky.

This is a screenshot from the movie Elysium where’s there’s this mega structure in space housing all the rich people and it looks like Earth from on the structure but it actually looks like this

As you can see it is fucking huge and Babylonia is not that big. Not by a long shot. But I think it holds a similar populations so at this point idk anymore.

My logic is that if the ultra rich are 1% of the world and in this movie they all moved to this… uh, thing in space in this movie then Babylonia houses at most mayyyyybe 1% of humanity since I’m sure there was probably some overcrowding and the properties aren’t all as spread out since I believe Babylonia is built on a bunch of verticality bc where the fuck else are you going to put people on a fucking nail???

BUT WAIT, 1% of our current population is 79 million people (according to google) and Babylonia is big, but it’s not that fucking big. If I’m being generous I’ll give it the population of a megacity (about 10 million people) but I think that about it since Babylonia is already fucking huge like anything bigger and humanity can probably just call it their new planet.

I was about to wonder why Babylonia looks the way it does but then I remember that it’s actually supposed to be mobile, that is it’s supposed to not just orbit around Earth. Like it’s described as originally being built for interstellar travel.

That tells us some stuff, like that Babylonia is very much self sufficient and doesn’t really need resources from Earth, since this bad baby is supposed to be traveling light years but I fucking digress because WHERE DO ALL THE PEOPLE GO???

Like originally I thought that maybe command and operations or whatever are all on this outer ring since you can see the stars though the windows in the backgrounds sometimes but i don’t know anymore.

At most I can probably give a floor plan of Parliament’s surrounding area and I can probably give you a rough estimate of how many people live there (as you can see above what I just told you) but I cannot actually map everything out. Like I cannot make sense of this.

Sure I can use Herta’s space station for reference but it’s population is much smaller (I think some hundred or so and most of em are researchers and whatnot) thus the space station is much smaller naturally and though the shape is similar I don’t see whole ass cities on Herta Space station.

I can’t use the Luofu from the same game either because it’s MUCH bigger than Babylonia just based off the maps and it’s population isn’t you know, fragments of a civilization. Like it is massive oh my god you can see that there are clouds below the areas. CLOUDS. It is a LONG way down. Also the Luofu isn’t shaped similarly and it’s not a fucking post apocalyptic situation as I mentioned earlier so their population is huge. I could base it off China’s current population (1.412 billion once again according to google) and that would means it’s massive and also yeah, I think that would check out actually. Since I think March remarks that the Luofu is almost the size of a planet or smth.

But point is I’m insane and I definitely look too far into the weirdest fucking things. Anyways the most I can tell you about Babylonia is that’s mostly vertical, there’s gonna be lots of elevators and tubes (almost like a hamster cage lmao) and I think military operations n shit are at that top part. Idk what the ring around it is. Good day it is midnight and I must update my insane Pgr x Hsr fanfic which actually prompted me going down this rabbit hole funny enough.

[andrigyn]

Dominus Daemonium ?

I was hoping someone would ask for this bc it's actually the closest to getting posted !!

Tom’s long legs carried him forward, his steps settling into a steady rhythm that echoed in the crunch of his shoes against the gravel below. His destination, Riddle Manor, loomed ahead, hidden just beyond the winding uphill path. The days travel had left him weary, but the last portion of his journey was pleasant enough to make on foot. Apparition would have been quicker, but would not have provided him with the time to decompress after riding the Hogwarts Express, which was so loud that it was miraculous anyone could hear themselves think, let alone carry on a conversation. 

Hoof prints still marked the path, even after all these months, the wind had not blown enough to mask them completely. He imagined that many horses had pulled carriages as well as single riders along this path before, the house was, of course, older than the invention of cars. There were horses in the stables the last time he was here, the Riddles being the sort of rich folk who were still keen on riding for sport. They owned a car as well, an old maroon Mercedes. Tom would enjoy taking it out for a ride later, once the weather allowed for it. 

The peaceful English countryside surrounded him, its gently rolling hills concealed by a blanket of fresh snow. Trees that once hung with blazing autumn leaves were now bare. Pastures marked by wooden fences, and the darkened line of trees where the forest began stood in contrast to the pure white backdrop. The landscape was wrapped in a reverent silence, interrupted only by the distant call of birds, or the infrequent creaking of a branch. He breathed in the crisp, clean air, that carried the scent of pine and earth, tinged with notes of burning wood. 

Delicate snowflakes landed on Tom’s dark hair and eyelashes, dampening them as they were melted by the warming charm he cast earlier. He turned behind him to take in the view. Off in the distance, he spotted the familiar cluster of buildings, where smoke spiraled lazily from each chimney before diffusing into the dark grey sky. Little Hangleton. Such an unremarkable little town, full of unremarkable people.

Soon enough, he came to the wrought iron gates that shielded the property, its intricate black spirals dusted on top with snow, with icicles dangling from the bottom that sparkled in the sunlight. “Alohomora.” The gate creaked open at his command. 

Tom marched through the gate’s entrance, shutting it behind him, vowing to return and ward these grounds properly after a good night’s sleep. He had no reason to believe that anyone knew his whereabouts, or even wished him ill in the first place, but he always erred on the side of caution. Although he was prepared, eager even, to deal with intruders, the prospect of spending his holiday disposing of muggles’ bodies was not an enticing one. All it would take was one bystander, made curious by the glow of lights in an abandoned house.

Perched atop a hill overlooking the village, the great stone manor stood proudly. A turret rose on one side, its conical roof reaching towards the dreary sky. Countless tall, narrow windows speckled its facade. The house was imposing, and objectively beautiful, but the most important thing was that it was now his. 

Once he came to the large, red front door, Tom used an unlocking charm to one it. He strode into the dark foyer, his wet shoes squeaking against the pristine marble floors. With a flick of his wand, he turned the lights on and surveyed the grand space. It was large, too large for any one muggle family, with blindingly white floors. 

[annaphoenix1994]

Ch.115 - Enemies by Monday

Previous Chapter - Masterlist 1; Masterlist 2 - Next Chapter

Kiera uses her intimidation and negotiation skills at her new job; Kiera's older brother throws ideas to put the family's ranch.

"Dennis, how are you?" His assistant smiled as she entered Dennis Dutton's office. Dennis is Kiera's older brother, who is also a lawyer and a real estate broker who works with different agencies across the states of Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Colorado. Since he had graduated college, he had always referred to himself as the "black sheep" of the Dutton family. Of course, he always blamed himself for always finding an excuse to come around unless he was needed. 

"I'm doing well. You?" 

"I'm okay. Here's that file you asked for," She smiled. "Are you aware of the recent update that was done several months ago to your family trust?" 

Dennis furrowed his brows, "No?" 

"Oh, well I hate to be the bearer of bad news..." 

He huffed as he took the file from her hand, opening it up to see the official land deed for his family's ranch now forwarded to Simon and Kiera Riley. "Who the hell is that?" 

"Simon Riley? That's your sister's husband, sir." 

"Now that is shocking," He scoffed, looking through the files and pausing once his breath haltered. "M-My father passed away?" 

"I'm so sorry, Dennis. I-I thought you knew-"

"-I do now. What baffles me is that he didn't leave the ranch in my name like he promised and instead just hands it over to some guy Kiera married." 

His assistant cleared her throat, "Do I need to get you anything?" 

"Now that you mention it, can you get me the number for Phillip Jenkins? He's the capital developer for Teton Valley." 

"Yes, sir. Be right back." She nodded, leaving Dennis to tend to his thoughts. 

That fucking bitch, he grumbled to himself as he pinched the bridge of his nose. I'll be damned if you can keep the ranch to yourself.

"Sir, Phillip is on line three for you." His assistant chimed in, opening the door slightly to inform him of the news.

"Thanks," He mouthed at her before picking up the phone. "Thank you for your time."

"Thank you, Dennis," Phillip assured over the phone. "What can I do for you?" 

"Are you still planning to build a subdivision close to the Teton Valley?" 

"Yes, I have big plans for it," Dennis could hear Phillip smiling on the other end of the phone. "I've been meaning to call you over the past year regarding your family's ranch. With a property as big as Rhode Island, by chance are you looking to sell?" 

"Well, that was the idea, but I've got a few bumps in the road on my end regarding that." 

"It was implied that you were the new owner of the land since your father passed away?" 

"As much as I wish it were true, it's not. My sister and her husband own it now." 

"Is that right? Well, can you direct me into contact with her?" 

As much as I'm not too fond of my sister, that's a bad idea, Dennis sighed to himself. "Actually, I have a better idea. Are you available for a meeting this Friday?" 

"Of course. I'm in Colorado until Thursday and I will fly into Wyoming Friday morning. Does three o'clock sound fair?" 

"Sure. Do you know where my office is in Cody?" 

"Who doesn't know where your office is, Dennis?" Phillip chuckled. "I'll see you then." 

Dennis nodded before ending the call, resting his elbows on his desk after loosening the collar of his shirt. That ranch won't be just yours, Kiera. 

He knew he was going to have a feud on his hands. 

That same day, Kiera was in the office of her own as she had finally felt comfortable in her new position as head of mergers and acquisitions at for a company called Jasper Collins Equities, a second-in-command to a man named Phillip Collins - who was good friends with her father as well as going to college with Laswell's wife, Kiera had great odds with getting on quick with the company in only two months. "He sure is building something..." Kiera grumbled through the phone as she gazed through her office window, looking at the rugged mountain landscape towards the west. "Of course, he didn't, he's so full of shit that he could cough and his ass would talk." 

"Well, I wouldn't worry too much about it, love." 

"I'm not. That's why I'm degrading their stock and buying it for cheap." She breathed a chuckle. 

"Have the kids been giving you any trouble?" 

"Nope. They quite prefer being watched by their mother instead of some girl that works at the station." She huffed. 

"Love, I thought we crossed this bridge already," He sighed, frowning, hating that she kept bringing it up after another heated argument the following evening after she had confronted him about it, but he understood. Especially with getting the cold shoulder from his wife since she had found out two months prior, refusing to let the twins go with Simon to the office when he wasn't on patrol, to making him petty lunches, and not letting him touch her. It wasn't that she hated him - of course she couldn't - but she was still hurt that he had chosen to lie to her when she simply wanted reassurance. 

That hurt her more than anything. 

Even with that, they never went another day without telling each other I love you. 

"You know I've had them for my entire day unless I had a meeting. I only asked her to because she mentioned she was a babysitter and I would've rather trusted her than the other lass up front," He explained. "I thought you forgave me about that." 

"Oh, I did forgive you, but that doesn't change the fact that you still lied, Simon." She huffed, the memory still fresh in her mind. 

"I know. I told you I was sorry and it wasn't done with bad intentions - I just didn't want you to worry." 

"Okay." 

She heard him sigh deeply on the other end of the phone. "What time will you be home?" 

"Whenever I feel like it. I'm picking up Baler today-"

"No, I can do it. My shift is over at two thirty and I pass by the school anyway on my way home. That's why I was asking." 

"Okay." 

"Mrs. Riley?" Her assistant, Suzanne, chimed in quietly, opening the door softly to avoid disturbing the children who were calming down for the afternoon. Thank God Robert lets me bring them to work with me, she sighed to herself. I definitely don't want to send them to a daycare or risk having some woman who's up Simon's ass at the station to offer watching them. "Rob needs you." 

"Give me a minute." 

"I-I don't think he has a minute..." 

"Alright. I have to go, Simon. I'll see you when I get home." 

"Okay. I love you." 

"Love you too." 

"Where's the fire?" She scoffed at her. 

"Frankly, I'm afraid if Mr. Collins gets any more fed up with that investor, I think his pants will catch fire..." 

"I'll be right back, then. Keep an eye on the kids, okay?" 

"Sure thing, Mrs. Riley." The old woman smiled warmly at her. 

"Goddammit, Robert, I didn't come here to do business with these people!" Frank shouted from the conference room, which was too close for comfort to Kiera's office, angering her even more that someone of a professional outfit was risking waking them up when she had many troubles with them being restless that morning. 

"I can hear you screaming halfway down the hall, Frank," Kiera scoffed, entering the conference room. "I suggest that you stop screaming before you wake up my children." 

"What is this? A daycare now?" Frank scoffed, looking at Kiera as if he were degrading her with his gaze. "I thought we were trying to work this out, Rob?" 

"We've been trying to work it out for two hours now," Rob sighed. "She is the alternative." 

Frank sighed, flipping his pen between his fingers, "We don't want to merge-"

"Nobody wants to merge with you," Kiera answered. "You have a three-to-one debt ratio. It would be easier to sell newspapers." 

"I'm not going to sit here and be bullied by your apprentice, Rob," 

The old man chuckled, "Oh, she's not my apprentice, she's my second-in-command." 

"Whatever she is, we will still pull our funds and we will take our business a town over to Wells Fargo!" Frank threatened. 

"We're just asking you to suspend the dividend-"

"-Yeah, and kill the stock!" He shouted. 

"What do you think is going to happen when I dump our fifteen percent share tomorrow morning?" Kiera asked. "I'll tell you what, just in case you were wondering: the stock will drop below ten, SEC will suspend trading, and every creditor you have will file on you, your company will be on chapter eleven by Monday and since we're your largest creditors, I can promise that there will be no form of negotiating then. I will be the CEO of WY Energy by Tuesday and I will lay off every employee and sell your equipment and leases to someone else for fifty cents on the dollar and you will have the only distinction of being the only drilling company to go bankrupt. Wouldn't that look good on a resume?" 

"My father and I started this company in our basement..." 

"That's where it's going to end up if you don't suspend the dividend and allow us to assume supervision," She assured, watching the old man glare at Robert. "Don't look at him. Look at me. Are we going to restructure your company or destroy it? You tell me." 

He frowned, taking a deep breath before sighing heavily through his nose to nod hesitantly. 

"That's what I like to hear," Robert smiled before standing up to shake his hand. "Everything will be alright." 

"I'll be in my office." Kiera whispered before taking the first step to walk towards the door before immediately stopping in her tracks. Did this man say what I think he said?! 

Oh, she was right. As she walked by, she heard Frank mumble 'arrogant girl' under his breath. 

She walked up behind him before putting her hands on either side of him to press her palms against the oak table, "I just saved your house, which is the last thing in your name that you have to worry about considering your wife left you for fornicating with a woman my age, saved your reputation, and saved you from draining out of your retirement fund. So how about you try something more appropriate?" 

The old man was furious, but a part of him knew that he had it coming sometime or another. "Thank you." 

"You're welcome," She spoke lowly. "Oh, and by the way, if I hear you cursing loudly in my office floor again when my children are around, I'll stab you with this fucking fork." She whispered, grasping the fork in question that was resting next to the small plate that was used to serve morning muffins. 

"I see your goal is to make enemies by Monday, huh Mrs. Riley?" Suzanne snickered. "Little Jacob coughed up on himself. I got some napkins-"

"Enemies by Monday is my slogan, Suzanne," Kiera smiled. "Don't worry about it. I have it all under control from here. Get yourself home. You've got grandkids of your own needing spoilt!" 

"Is it already time for me to go?" The old woman gasped, looking at her watch. "Don't forget to tell your mother that she and I have a brunch date tomorrow!" 

"I really need to get you a phone," She giggled. "I'll tell her." 

"Thank you, sweetie. I'll see you in the morning!" 

"I'll see you in the morning." 

*

"I got scared for a minute," Baler snickered, opening the passenger side door and getting into the car. "I thought it was Johnny coming to pick me up." 

"As long as me and your mum are back, you won't have to worry about that." Simon grumbled. 

"Great, so my ego can take time to heal until after Christmas break," He smirked. "Are you and mom still fighting?" 

"Who said we were fighting?" 

"You must think I'm as stupid as the day you met me. I can tell you two are fighting. Barely speakin' at dinner, you sleeping on the couch every so often, that scary tone in mom's voice-"

"We're not fighting, lad. We just had a disagreement and she resents me for it right now." 

"Well, let's get her to change her mind." 

"Yeah, how you figure?" 

"Make her do something with you. Let's take her fishing or something." 

"You know, as much as I don't agree with you on most things, I do agree with you on that." 

"What was your first thought? Buy her flowers?" He scoffed. 

"...No." 

[dm-blogs]

Smart and Stylish Home Renovation Solutions for Modern Living in the UAE

Home renovation is more than just a way to upgrade the aesthetic appeal of your living space; it’s an opportunity to enhance functionality, improve energy efficiency, and create a home that truly reflects your personal style. In the UAE, where luxury and innovation are key, homeowners are constantly seeking smart and stylish home renovation solutions that align with modern living standards. In this article, we will explore the benefits of choosing smart renovation options, how style and functionality can be merged, and why Shellncore is your best partner for creating a stunning, future-ready home.

Why Opt for Smart and Stylish Home Renovation Solutions?

Renovating your home can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can transform your living experience. Smart and stylish home renovation solutions combine innovative technology with cutting-edge design, allowing you to upgrade your home in a way that is both practical and visually appealing.

Boost Property ValueSmart home features and stylish designs are not just trendy—they add significant value to your property. In a competitive real estate market like the UAE, a well-renovated home with smart technology can make all the difference in attracting buyers or tenants. Upgrading your home’s aesthetics with modern finishes while integrating technology like smart lighting, thermostats, and home security can create a long-term return on investment.

Energy EfficiencyOne of the most significant benefits of incorporating smart technology into your renovation is the ability to reduce energy consumption. Automated systems such as lighting, HVAC, and smart appliances help lower your utility bills while reducing your environmental footprint. A well-planned renovation can include energy-efficient materials, such as insulated windows, LED lighting, and water-saving fixtures, making your home both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Enhanced Comfort and ConvenienceA stylish renovation goes beyond looks—it’s about creating a living space that feels intuitive and comfortable. Smart homes allow you to control lighting, temperature, security systems, and even entertainment with a touch of a button or voice command. These features not only enhance your lifestyle but also create a sense of luxury, making your home a more enjoyable place to live.

Stylish Design Trends for Modern Home Renovations

1. Minimalist and Open Concept Designs

Minimalism is a leading trend in modern home renovation, especially in the UAE, where sleek, open spaces are highly desirable. Clean lines, neutral tones, and clutter-free rooms create a sophisticated yet relaxed environment. An open-concept design can make smaller spaces appear larger, while also fostering better flow and communication between rooms.

With smart and stylish home renovation solutions, you can enhance minimalist spaces by integrating hidden smart technology. For instance, installing smart lighting systems that adjust based on the time of day can eliminate the need for excessive fixtures and switches, maintaining the clean, streamlined look.

2. Integration of Natural Elements

Bringing the outdoors inside is a growing trend in home renovations, and for good reason. Natural materials like wood, stone, and plants not only add warmth and texture but also promote a sense of well-being. Biophilic design is all about reconnecting with nature, and it’s a trend that is gaining traction in stylish home renovations.

By working with Shellncore, you can seamlessly integrate natural elements into your smart and stylish home renovation solutions. Whether it's installing large windows for more natural light or using eco-friendly materials, Shellncore ensures that your renovation blends beauty and sustainability.

3. Smart Storage Solutions

Stylish homes need to be as functional as they are beautiful. Clutter-free living is essential for maintaining a modern, sleek appearance, and smart storage solutions can help you achieve that. Built-in cabinets, pull-out shelves, and hidden storage areas not only maximize space but also contribute to the overall clean look of the home.

Smart storage solutions can be paired with technology to enhance functionality. For example, automated closet lighting, smart kitchen organization systems, and hidden charging stations for electronic devices add both style and convenience to your home.

Why Choose Shellncore for Your Smart and Stylish Home Renovation?

When it comes to implementing smart and stylish home renovation solutions in the UAE, Shellncore is a trusted name. With years of experience in designing and executing home renovations, we bring a blend of modern innovation and timeless style to every project.

1. Expertise in Smart Technology

At Shellncore, we understand the growing demand for smart home systems. Our team is skilled in integrating the latest smart technology, ensuring that your home is both cutting-edge and easy to manage. Whether it’s installing a home automation system or upgrading your security with smart locks and cameras, we provide tailored solutions that meet your needs.

2. Tailored Design Solutions

No two homes are the same, and Shellncore prides itself on offering personalized design solutions that cater to the unique preferences of our clients. Whether you want a modern minimalist home or prefer a luxurious and classic aesthetic, our team of designers works closely with you to ensure that your renovation aligns with your vision.

3. Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Options

In the UAE, where environmental sustainability is a growing concern, we prioritize the use of energy-efficient materials and smart technology. From LED lighting to energy-efficient windows, Shellncore offers eco-friendly renovation solutions that help you reduce your carbon footprint while saving on energy costs.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to increase your property value, improve energy efficiency, or simply enhance the comfort and style of your home, smart and stylish home renovation solutions offer a perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics. With Shellncore as your trusted partner, you can transform your home into a modern, efficient, and beautiful living space that meets the demands of today’s lifestyle. Contact Shellncore today to start your renovation journey and discover how our expertise in smart home technology and stylish design can elevate your home to new heights.

[nectoy7]

Setting Up the Java Environment: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Java is a powerful, widely-used programming language known for its platform independence, object-oriented principles, and robustness. One of the key reasons for its popularity is the fact that it can run on any machine equipped with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), making it truly “write once, run anywhere.” However, before you can start writing and executing Java code, you need to properly set up the Java development environment on your system.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of setting up the Java environment, including downloading and installing the necessary tools, configuring environment variables, and writing your first Java program. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll be ready to start coding in Java.

Step 1: Understanding the Components of the Java Environment

Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to understand the core components involved in the Java ecosystem. These include:

1. JDK (Java Development Kit): This is the complete suite needed to develop and run Java applications. It includes the Java compiler (javac), standard libraries, and other tools required to build and execute Java programs.

2. JRE (Java Runtime Environment): The JRE provides the libraries and the JVM necessary to run Java applications. It’s a part of the JDK but can also be installed separately if you’re only running (not developing) Java programs.

3. JVM (Java Virtual Machine): This is the heart of Java’s platform independence. It interprets the compiled Java bytecode and allows it to run on any operating system that has a compatible JVM.

For development, you’ll primarily need the JDK, which includes the JRE and JVM.

Step 2: Downloading and Installing the Java Development Kit (JDK)

To begin coding in Java, you need to download the JDK. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to the Official Oracle Website:

Visit the official Oracle Java SE Downloads page.

You’ll see multiple versions of Java. For most use cases, it’s best to download the latest Long-Term Support (LTS) version, which is currently Java SE 17.

2. Choose the Right Version for Your Operating System:

Select the appropriate version based on your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

Download the installer (.exe for Windows, .dmg for macOS, or a compressed package for Linux).

3. Run the Installer:

For Windows:

Double-click the .exe file and follow the installation prompts. The default installation directory is usually C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-<version>.

For macOS:

Open the .dmg file, and drag the JDK into your Applications folder.

For Linux:

Extract the downloaded .tar.gz file into a directory, and follow the system-specific instructions for installation.

Step 3: Configuring Environment Variables

Once the JDK is installed, you need to configure the PATH and JAVA_HOME environment variables on your system. This allows your terminal or command prompt to access Java’s tools from any directory.

Windows

1. Open Environment Variables:

Right-click on This PC or My Computer and choose Properties.

Click on Advanced System Settings, then click Environment Variables.

2. Set JAVA_HOME:

In the System Variables section, click New.

Set the variable name as JAVA_HOME and the variable value as the path to your JDK installation (e.g., C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-17).

3. Update PATH Variable:

In the System Variables section, find the Path variable, select it, and click Edit.

Click New and add %JAVA_HOME%\bin.

Click OK to close all dialogs.

macOS

1. Open the Terminal and edit your shell profile (e.g., .bash_profile or .zshrc for Zsh) by typing:

nano ~/.bash_profile

2. Set JAVA_HOME and Update PATH: Add the following lines:

export JAVA_HOME=$(/usr/libexec/java_home) export PATH=$JAVA_HOME/bin:$PATH

3. Save and Exit:

Press Ctrl+X to exit, then Y to save changes.

Apply the changes with:

source ~/.bash_profile

Linux

1. Open Terminal and edit your shell profile (e.g., .bashrc or .zshrc) by typing:

nano ~/.bashrc

2. Set JAVA_HOME and Update PATH: Add the following lines:

export JAVA_HOME=/usr/lib/jvm/jdk-17 export PATH=$JAVA_HOME/bin:$PATH

3. Save and Exit:

Press Ctrl+X to exit, then Y to save.

Apply the changes:

source ~/.bashrc

Step 4: Verifying the Installation

Once you’ve installed the JDK and configured the environment variables, verify that everything is set up correctly.

1. Open a Terminal or Command Prompt:

On Windows, press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

On macOS and Linux, open the Terminal from your applications or press Ctrl+Alt+T (for Linux).

2. Check the Java Version: Type the following command:

java -version

You should see output similar to:

java version “17.0.2” 2022-01-18 LTS Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment (build 17.0.2+8-86) Java HotSpot(TM) 64-Bit Server VM (build 17.0.2+8-86, mixed mode)

3. Check the Java Compiler: Similarly, check if the Java compiler (javac) is working by typing:

javac -version

The output should be something like:

javac 17.0.2

Step 5: Writing and Running Your First Java Program

With the Java environment properly set up, it’s time to write your first Java program. Follow these steps:

1. Open a Text Editor: You can use any text editor like Notepad (Windows), TextEdit (macOS), or Vim/Nano (Linux). Alternatively, you can use an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, or NetBeans for a more user-friendly experience.

2. Write the Program: Here’s a simple “Hello, World!” program:

public class HelloWorld {     public static void main(String[] args) {         System.out.println(“Hello, World!”);     } }

3. Save the File: Save the file as HelloWorld.java in a directory of your choice.

4. Compile the Program: Open the terminal or command prompt and navigate to the directory where you saved the file. Use the following command to compile the program:

javac HelloWorld.java

If there are no errors, this will generate a file called HelloWorld.class.

5. Run the Program: Now, run the compiled program by typing:

java HelloWorld

You should see the following output:

Hello, World!

Step 6: Installing an IDE (Optional)

While it’s possible to write and run Java programs using just a text editor and the terminal, using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) can make the process much easier, especially as your programs become more complex.

Some popular IDEs for Java development are:

Eclipse: A widely-used IDE with many plugins to enhance functionality.

IntelliJ IDEA: A powerful IDE with smart coding assistance, refactoring tools, and an intuitive interface.

NetBeans: A free and open-source IDE with support for various programming languages, including Java.

You can download these IDEs from their official websites and install them by following the provided instructions.

Conclusion

Setting up the Java environment may seem complicated at first, but once you’ve gone through these steps, you’ll be ready to dive into Java development. From here, you can start writing basic programs, experimenting with object-oriented concepts, and eventually tackling larger projects. Whether you’re developing desktop applications, web services, or Android apps, learning Java will give you a solid foundation in programming.

[orionrealtor]

Luxury Residential Projects in Gurgaon: A New Standard of Living

Gurgaon, now known as Gurugram, has rapidly emerged as one of India’s most vibrant real estate markets. The city, often dubbed as the Millennium City, boasts a skyline dotted with gleaming high-rises, plush office spaces, and world-class retail hubs. However, what truly sets Gurgaon apart is its burgeoning portfolio of luxury residential projects. For those seeking an elevated lifestyle, 3/4 BHK luxury apartments in Gurgaon offer an unparalleled living experience.

The Appeal of 3/4 BHK Luxury Apartments in Gurgaon

Space and Comfort

One of the primary attractions of 3 and 4 BHK luxury apartments is the generous space they offer. These homes are designed to provide ample room for families to live, work, and play comfortably. Large bedrooms, expansive living areas, and often multiple balconies allow residents to enjoy a sense of openness and freedom that smaller units simply cannot offer.

World-Class Amenities

Luxury apartments in Gurgaon come equipped with a plethora of amenities that cater to every need. Residents can enjoy state-of-the-art fitness centers, swimming pools, landscaped gardens, children’s play areas, and clubhouses. Many developments also feature concierge services, spas, and even private theaters. These amenities not only enhance the living experience but also foster a sense of community among residents.

Prime Locations

Gurgaon’s luxury residential projects are strategically located to offer easy access to the city’s key areas. Whether it’s the proximity to major business hubs, top educational institutions, or premier shopping destinations, living in a luxury apartment in Gurgaon ensures that everything is within reach. Additionally, many of these projects are situated in serene environments, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Modern Design and Architecture

The architectural brilliance of luxury apartments in Gurgaon is another factor that draws buyers. Renowned architects and designers are often commissioned to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living spaces. From high ceilings and large windows that flood rooms with natural light to the use of premium materials and finishes, every detail is meticulously planned to create a luxurious ambiance.

Why Invest in Luxury Residential Projects in Gurgaon?

Strong Economic Growth

Gurgaon has established itself as a major economic hub, attracting both national and international businesses. The city’s robust economy, driven by sectors such as IT, finance, and real estate, ensures a steady demand for high-quality housing. Investing in a luxury residential project in Gurgaon means tapping into a market with strong growth potential.

High Rental Yields

For investors, luxury apartments in Gurgaon offer the promise of high rental yields. The influx of professionals and expatriates working in the city creates a substantial demand for premium rental properties. This demand ensures that investors can command higher rents and enjoy attractive returns on their investments.

Appreciation Potential

The real estate market in Gurgaon has shown consistent appreciation over the years. With ongoing infrastructural developments, such as the expansion of metro lines, new expressways, and improved civic amenities, property values are expected to rise further. Investing in a luxury residential project today can lead to significant capital appreciation in the future.

Lifestyle Benefit

Beyond the financial gains, investing in a Luxury Apartment in Gurgaon brings numerous lifestyle benefits. The modern amenities, security features, and the overall quality of life offered by these projects make them an attractive option for end-users. Families can enjoy a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, surrounded by like-minded individuals and within close proximity to essential services.

Conclusion

Gurgaon’s luxury residential projects epitomize modern living at its finest. With their spacious layouts, top-notch amenities, prime locations, and stunning designs, 3/4 BHK luxury apartments in Gurgaon are the perfect choice for those seeking an upscale lifestyle. Moreover, the strong economic growth, high rental yields, and appreciation potential make these properties a smart investment choice. Whether you are looking to buy a home for your family or to invest in a promising real estate market, Gurgaon’s luxury residential projects offer the best of both worlds.

Call: +91 7620470000 Or Site Visit

https://www.orionrealtors.com/residential.html

[citynewsglobe]

[ad_1] Dreaming of a life in paradise? Myrtle Seashore, with its beautiful shoreline and vibrant way of life, affords simply that. However should you’re in search of greater than only a lovely view, luxurious new building myrtle seaside are the head of coastal dwelling. This information is your final useful resource, detailing what you may anticipate when investing in these high-end properties. Why Select Luxurious New Building in Myrtle Seashore? Myrtle Seashore is famend for its sandy shores and full of life environment. However what makes it a main location for luxurious new building? The reply lies within the mix of recent facilities, bespoke design, and a way of life tailor-made to the discerning house owner. Right here’s why you need to think about it: Prime Location: Myrtle Seashore affords quick access to world-class golf programs, upscale eating, and unique purchasing facilities. Trendy Facilities: New constructions come geared up with state-of-the-art services that improve consolation and comfort. Funding Worth: Properties on this space usually see vital appreciation, making them a sound funding. Trendy Architectural Designs One of the crucial interesting points of luxurious new building is the revolutionary architectural designs. Anticipate open ground plans that maximize pure gentle, making a seamless indoor-outdoor dwelling expertise. Giant home windows, excessive ceilings, and stylish finishes are normal options. Architects in Myrtle Seashore additionally think about the native atmosphere. Many houses incorporate sustainable supplies and energy-efficient methods. This not solely reduces your carbon footprint but additionally lowers utility payments. Customizable Interiors Whenever you go for luxurious new building, personalization is essential. Builders provide a spread of customization choices to make sure your house displays your private model. From gourmand kitchens with top-of-the-line home equipment to spa-like loos, each element is designed to your specs. Moreover, sensible residence know-how is more and more well-liked. Think about controlling your lighting, safety, and leisure methods with a easy voice command or smartphone app. These options improve each comfort and safety. Premier Places and Views Location is every thing, and luxurious houses in Myrtle Seashore are sometimes located in essentially the most sought-after areas. Whether or not you like a beachfront property with panoramic ocean views or a secluded property surrounded by lush greenery, there’s one thing for everybody. These premier places additionally provide quick access to non-public seashores, marinas, and unique golf programs. You’ll get pleasure from one of the best that Myrtle Seashore has to supply, proper at the doorstep. Excessive-Finish Group Facilities Residing in a luxurious neighborhood means accessing unique facilities. Clubhouses, health facilities, and resort-style swimming pools are only the start. Many communities additionally function tennis courts, non-public parks, and strolling trails. For individuals who get pleasure from socializing, frequent neighborhood occasions present alternatives to satisfy like-minded neighbors. From wine tastings to ebook golf equipment, there’s at all times one thing taking place. Enhanced Safety Options Security is a prime precedence in luxurious communities. Gated entrances, 24/7 safety patrols, and superior surveillance methods offer you peace of thoughts. Houses are additionally geared up with fashionable security measures resembling sensible locks and alarm methods. As well as, some communities provide concierge companies that may help with every thing from reserving reservations to arranging transportation. This degree of service ensures a worry-free dwelling expertise. Superior Craftsmanship and Supplies High quality is paramount in luxurious new building. Builders use the best supplies, from hardwood flooring to marble counter tops, guaranteeing your house shouldn't be solely lovely but additionally sturdy.

Consideration to element is clear in each facet, from customized cabinetry to intricate tile work. Native artisans usually contribute to the distinctive design components, including a contact of regional allure. This mix of high-end supplies and native craftsmanship creates a house that’s each luxurious and distinctive. Sustainable and Vitality-Environment friendly Options Sustainability is a rising pattern in luxurious building. Many new houses in Myrtle Seashore are constructed with eco-friendly supplies and have energy-efficient methods. Photo voltaic panels, high-efficiency HVAC methods, and water-saving fixtures are widespread. These sustainable options not solely cut back your environmental influence but additionally provide long-term financial savings on utility payments. Residing in a luxurious residence doesn’t imply sacrificing sustainability. Financing and Funding Potential Investing in luxurious new building could be financially rewarding. Property values in Myrtle Seashore have proven constant progress, making it a profitable market. Moreover, there are numerous financing choices accessible to swimsuit totally different budgets. Many builders provide versatile fee plans and incentives for early patrons. Consulting with an area actual property agent can present insights into one of the best funding alternatives. Working with Prime Builders and Designers Selecting the best builder is essential in realizing your dream residence. Myrtle Seashore is residence to a number of famend builders identified for his or her experience in luxurious building. Working with these professionals ensures that your imaginative and prescient is delivered to life with precision and care. From preliminary design consultations to the ultimate walkthrough, prime builders present personalised service all through the development course of. Their expertise and a focus to element end in a house that meets the best requirements of high quality and class. Group and Way of life Advantages Residing in a luxurious neighborhood in Myrtle Seashore affords greater than only a lovely residence. The approach to life advantages are unparalleled. Get pleasure from entry to elite golf programs, tremendous eating, and a vibrant arts scene. The world’s delicate local weather permits for year-round outside actions, from boating to seaside volleyball. The sense of neighborhood can also be a major benefit. Participating with neighbors who share comparable pursuits and values fosters a welcoming and pleasurable dwelling atmosphere. Common social occasions and neighborhood actions improve this sense of belonging. The Shopping for Course of Simplified Navigating the acquisition of a luxurious new building can appear daunting, however it doesn’t need to be. Working with skilled actual property brokers simplifies the method. They will information you thru each step, from choosing the proper location to finalizing the acquisition. Brokers additionally present beneficial insights into the native market, serving to you make knowledgeable selections. Their experience ensures a clean and stress-free shopping for expertise. Future-Proofing Your Funding Luxurious new building houses are designed with the long run in thoughts. Superior know-how and fashionable design rules make sure that your house stays trendy and practical for years to come back. Options like versatile ground plans and adaptable areas enable your house to evolve together with your wants. Investing in a luxurious residence in Myrtle Seashore isn't just about having fun with the current; it’s about securing a beneficial asset for the long run. With cautious planning and a focus to element, these houses provide long-term advantages and satisfaction. Begin Your Journey Right now Are you able to discover the chances of luxurious new building in Myrtle Seashore? Start your journey as we speak by connecting with native specialists. Schedule a session, go to mannequin houses, and uncover the unparalleled way of life that awaits.

Your dream house is inside attain. Expertise one of the best of coastal dwelling with a luxurious new building residence in Myrtle Seashore. [ad_2] Supply hyperlink

[cathyjane]

How To Acquire Your Microsoft Windows 11 Activation Key: A Full Walkthrough

If you've ever pondered just how to get your Microsoft Windows 11 activation key, there are a number of techniques at hand. From accessing System Characteristics to utilizing PowerShell, each method has its very own collection of steps to adhere to. Nonetheless, there's a crucial facet that a lot of customers usually tend to forget when it concerns obtaining this key. Understanding the implication of this variable could be the key to uncovering a soft and also easy activation process. Break tuned to uncover this vital particular that might make all the distinction in your Windows 11 knowledge.

Examine System Properties

To recover your Windows 11 activation key, start by accessing the System Characteristics on your personal computer. First, right-click on the 'Beginning' menu and pick 'System'. Within the System Home window, scroll down until you find the 'Windows activation' section. Here, you'll find your Windows 11 key listed under the 'Product key' area.

Take down this key or take a screenshot for safekeeping. If you ever require to revive Microsoft Windows 11 in the future, possessing this key convenient are going to be critical. Always remember to maintain your Windows 11 key secure as well as not discuss it along with others to avoid any type of unauthorized usage of your Windows operating system.

Use Command Prompt

Accessing your Windows 11 activation key can likewise be attained through making use of Command Prompt on your computer system. To begin, push the Windows key + S, style 'Command Prompt' in the search bar, at that point right-click on the Command Prompt application and select 'Run as supervisor.' When Command Cue levels, kind 'wmic road softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey' and also reached Get in.

Your Windows 11 key ought to presently be actually featured on the monitor. See to it to take note down this key or take a screenshot for potential endorsement. Utilizing Command Prompt delivers a fast and efficient means to access your activation key without the requirement for 3rd party software program or intricate processes.

Get Access To Pc Registry Publisher

You can easily access Pc registry Publisher on your Windows 11 personal computer through complying with these steps. Press the Microsoft Windows key + R to open up the Run dialog container. Type 'regedit' in the business and hit Enter. If triggered by Individual Profile Command, pick Yes to go ahead. The Microsoft Windows registry Publisher home window are going to open, presenting numerous files and keys. Be actually mindful when helping make changes listed here, as incorrect alterations can easily hurt your system.

Browse via the registry by increasing directories using the arrowhead symbols. To hunt for specific keys, use the Locate feature under the Edit food selection. Always remember to make a backup of your registry prior to helping make any modifications to guarantee you can restore it if needed.

Take Advantage Of PowerShell

When seeking to further explore system settings and also orders on your Windows 11 computer system, take into consideration using PowerShell for enhanced tasks and functionalities. PowerShell is actually a highly effective command-line tool that permits you to automate tasks, manage arrangements, and accessibility comprehensive system info. To open PowerShell, merely hunt for it in the Windows hunt bar as well as pick 'Windows PowerShell' from the outcomes. For purchasing an activation key for Microsoft Windows 11, explore https://www.reddit.com/r/cheapwindowskeys/comments/1d5jz9b/getting_a_windows_11_key_cheap/ site to get a smooth experience, reliable service, and customer support.

As soon as available, you can easily carry out several demands to recover system information, examination activation condition, or execute troubleshooting actions. For instance, you can make use of orders like 'Get-WmiObject' to compile system information or 'Get-WindowsEdition' to inspect your Microsoft Windows version. PowerShell offers a functional atmosphere for engaging along with your system on a much deeper level, producing it a useful resource for Windows individuals.

Verdict

To conclude, securing your Microsoft Windows 11 key is actually important for unlocking all the components and also benefits of the os. Through following the measures detailed in this particular walkthrough, consisting of examining System Characteristic, making use of Command Prompt, and also checking out various other options like contacting Microsoft Help or even utilizing key finder software application, you may simply fetch your activation key and also ensure your Microsoft Windows 11 is completely triggered as well as ready to make use of.

[artofpaintingllc]

Transform Your Home's Curb Appeal: Expert Exterior Home Painting Services

Elevate the beauty and value of your home with our professional exterior home painting services. At Art of Painting and Custom Restoration, we understand that the exterior of your home is the first impression visitors and passersby have of your property. That's why we're dedicated to delivering flawless finishes, vibrant colors, and lasting durability that enhance your home's curb appeal and leave a lasting impression. Trust us to transform your home into a masterpiece that stands out in the neighborhood.

Services:

Color Consultation: Our expert color consultants work closely with you to select the perfect paint colors and finishes that complement your home's architecture, landscaping, and surroundings, ensuring a harmonious and visually appealing exterior.

Surface Preparation: We meticulously prepare the exterior surfaces of your home, including cleaning, sanding, scraping, and priming, to ensure proper adhesion and long-lasting paint durability.

Professional Painting: Our skilled painters utilize high-quality paints, tools, and techniques to apply smooth, even coats of paint to your home's exterior, achieving flawless results that withstand the elements and maintain their beauty for years to come.

Trim and Detail Work:  We pay attention to every detail, including trim, doors, windows, shutters, and accents, applying precise brushwork and attention to detail to enhance architectural features and add character and charm to your home.

Cleanup and Inspection:  We complete the painting process with thorough cleanup of the work area and a final inspection to ensure that every aspect of the job meets our high standards of quality and craftsmanship, leaving your home looking pristine and polished.

Key Features of Exterior Home Painting:

Enhanced Curb Appeal:  A fresh coat of paint can dramatically enhance the curb appeal of your home, making it more attractive and inviting to visitors, potential buyers, and neighbors alike.

Protection and Durability:  Exterior paint not only enhances the appearance of your home but also provides essential protection against the elements, including UV rays, moisture, mold, mildew, and temperature fluctuations, helping to prolong the life of your siding and trim.

Increased Property Value:  Investing in professional exterior home painting can increase the value of your home and improve its marketability, making it more attractive to potential buyers and commanding higher resale prices.

Personalization and Expression: Exterior home painting allows you to express your personal style and taste, whether you prefer classic neutrals, bold accents, or trendy color palettes, transforming your home into a reflection of your personality and lifestyle.

Long-Term Savings:  By maintaining the exterior of your home with regular painting and maintenance, you can prevent costly repairs and replacements down the line, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Transform your home with expert exterior painting from Art of Painting and Custom Restoration Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can enhance the beauty and value of your home with our professional painting services.

   Contact Us 

Art of Painting and Custom Restoration

📍Business Address : 1807 74th st se Everett WA  98203

📞 Phone:  14252212751

🌐 Website: https://artofpaintingllc.com

💼E-mail: byron@aopcr.com

🕘 Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday : 7 am to 5 pm

 And don't forget to follow us on social media for the latest updates:

👍 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Artofpaintingandcustomrestoration

[jashuamuthers]

Enhancing to Meet the Basic Needs that Contribute to Building a Quality Life

The renovations can greatly improve the day-to-day life at home as renovation can significantly increase the resale value of home like upgrading key areas like the kitchen, bathrooms or adding additional living space. It can attract potential buyers and command a higher price when it comes time to sell as renovations focused on improving energy efficiency. It can not only save money on utility bills but also reduce the home's environmental impact as upgrading insulation, windows and appliances can lead to long-term savings and a smaller carbon footprint. Providing a potential return on investment in addition to the immediate comfort benefits and should to decide to sell the home in the future as the increased space can make it more attractive to potential buyers. While also adding value to property as enhancing the energy efficiency of home through renovations is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the comfort and finances. The space of home through house renovations Brisbane can greatly enhance comfort by providing more room for living, working and relaxing.

Renovations can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of living space making it more comfortable and enjoyable for family whether it's updating outdated fixtures, expanding living areas or adding modern conveniences. Renovations allows to customise the home to better suits for needs and lifestyle creating a home office, building a deck for outdoor entertaining or adding a playroom for the kids as house renovations can help in tailoring the home to reflect the personality and preferences. It can significantly enhance comfort in several ways as additional space allows for better organisation and functionality within home as adding a larger kitchen for easier meal preparation. Expanding a living room for more comfortable gatherings or creating a dedicated home office space with extra square footage can make daily activities more convenient and enjoyable. Ignoring these issues can lead to more significant problems down the line, so addressing them during renovations can save time and money in the future. The importance of house renovations can vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences as renovations provides an opportunity to address any maintenance issues or structural problems.

To further enhance the comfort in adding space offers flexibility in how to use the flexibility of home whether the family is growing, having a guest staying over or simply want more room for hobbies and activities. The house renovations that add separate living areas such as a guest suite or basement apartment can provide additional privacy for both guests and family members and having a designated spaces for different activities can also reduce noise and distractions. Extra space allows to adapt the living environment to suit the changing needs over time as adding square footage to home can significantly increase its resale value. With more space, it can have room to properly store belongings, reducing clutter and creating an organised living environment can contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation in home promoting overall comfort and well-being. While renovating home can require a significant investment of time and money as they can offer a wide range of benefits that make them an important consideration for many homeowners as increasing the space of house renovations.

[kingscars24]

How to Download Videos, GIFs, and Images from Pinterest in 2024?

Sometimes, while using Pinterest, you may find the need to download images, videos, or GIFs for later use. But how can you download videos and GIFs from this image-based social media platform?

Pinterest is a social media platform and online search tool for images and videos. It allows users to discover, search, and save images, videos, and other content onto personal themed boards.

On Pinterest, users can create personal boards and store, organize images, videos, and other online materials into these boards. Images and videos on Pinterest are often tagged with keywords and categorized into specific topics.

Currently, Pinterest does not provide a direct function to download videos from their app or website. Despite being a platform for sharing images and videos, it does not allow users to download content from their website.

However, there are several methods you can use to download videos from Pinterest through third-party tools or websites. Some popular online websites and tools such as KeepVid, Downvids, or DotSave.app allow you to download videos from Pinterest by copying the video link and pasting it into their website or video download tool.

Method 1: Step 1: Open Pinterest and find the video you want to download.

Step 2: Copy the video link from the address bar in your browser or click on the link icon. Step 3: Open a third-party website or video download tool in another web browser tab. For example: DotSave.app, Downvids, SaveFrom.net, etc. Step 4: Paste the copied video link into the text box on the website or video download tool. Step 5: Choose the format and quality of the video you want to download (if available). Step 6: Click on the download button or similar to start the download process. Step 7: Wait for the download process to complete and save the video to your computer or device.

Method 2: If you have some basic computer knowledge, you can follow the steps below without the need for third-party website support. Step 1: Open the video you want to download on Pinterest. Step 2: Press Ctrl + U (Windows) or right-click and select View Source (Macbook). Step 3: Press Ctrl + F (Windows) or Command + F (Mac) to open the search box. Enter '.mp4' to find the line containing the video download link

Step 4: Copy the link and paste it into your browser. Step 5: Right-click and select Save Video as to download the video.

Please note that downloading videos from Pinterest may violate intellectual property rights or Pinterest's usage policies. Always adhere to regulations and only download content that you have the right to use or share. If you have not been able to do it, you can also refer to the detailed instructions in the video here

Wishing you success!