#wood gain wallpaper

[raininginthenight]

Bathroom - Contemporary Powder Room Inspiration for a small contemporary powder room remodel with shaker cabinets and dark wood cabinets

[missroxelot]

Bathroom - Contemporary Powder Room

[ghoularaki]

baby's breath | 2

↠  summary: Merely by coincidence, Erwin, your father's former friend had crossed paths with you again after nearly a decade. He offered solace once finding out you were struggling with not just school, but your home life as well. His home he shared with another one of your father's friends, Levi, became a sanctuary. Though, the more you came over for study sessions, the more they wiggled themselves into your private life. And like baby's breath, they weeded themselves in so deep you couldn't uproot them.

↠ word count: 4,395

↠ pairing: levi ackerman x reader x erwin smith

↠ genre/warnings: angst, smut, modern au, DARK CONTENT, yandere, noncon/dubcon, daddy kink, forced infantilism, pet play, age gap, death threats, human trafficking, bdsm

An overwhelming urge to vomit awoke you. Pain shot from behind your eyes and encompassed your head. Pressure built up like someone was crushing your skull between their palms. Clenching your eyes, you attempted to blink the hurt away. Light streamed in from the blinds, tinted pink from the curtains. 

Your brows furrowed as you tried to whisk away the blurriness clouding your vision. As the kaleidoscope room morphed into one, you were more perplexed. You were placed on the floor that was a soft carpet under your fingers. The appendages went to dig your nails into the wool only to be met with resistance.

You couldn’t move.

Not even an inch. You were completely paralyzed besides your eyes. Tears clouded your vision more as panic built up in your chest. With every bit of will power, you forced your mouth open to scream, but a mere squeak came out. Breathing heavily, your eyes bounced around what you could. The more your brain cleared, the more you realized, you had no clue where you were. 

The room was that of a little girl’s. Wallpaper decorated with butterflies ranging the rainbow with a light pink background spanned the whole room. There was a bureau—a light colored wood—with trinkets of fairies and bunnies on top of it. You gained a little more mobility in your neck to turn deeper in the room to see a crate built for a great dane with a bed inside along with a multitude of stuffed animals. A blushing canopy hung over the crate along with twinkling fairy lights. 

Peering upwards, you see an open closet filled with frilly clothes of whites, pinks, purples and baby blues. The most jarring part was the leashes and collars lining the inside of the door. As you gained a little more mobility and feeling, you realized you weren’t in the same clothes as before. Down to the underwear and lack of a bra. A sob broke out from your chest. 

Attempting to still your breathing, you shakingly inhale and exhale to gain some clarity. Closing your eyes, you focused on your whole body. Envisioning your own nervous system, you willed at least your fingers to move. Nostrils flared, you were able to get your toes to wiggle with great concentration. The headache was worsening.  

A door creaking open pulled you away from your stupor. Instinctively, you turned your head towards the door to see the very door Erwin kept you from. Within the frame stood Levi. From your place on the ground, the man towered over you, peering down at you from his nose. 

Fear clutched and squeezed your esophagus as you attempted to wiggle away. You barely moved a centimeter as Levi gracefully walked to you. Unable to look away, you kept eye contact as he crouched down, hovering over you. A whimper crept up your throat.

He tilted his head at your pathetic form, drinking it up. Levi brought a hand to your face to clutch your cheeks, squishing them in between his calloused finger pads. He turned your face left to right, inspecting it. 

“The toxin should wear off in a couple hours.”

You could only whine in response, not able to move your jaw up and down just yet. The way he was clutching your mandible was no help either. 

Delirious and terrified, what happened before you passed out came rushing back tenfold. Your eyes scanned the room again for a hint of where your old clothes were in hopes to find your phone. As if reading your mind, Levi drops your face to reach into his back pocket. You flinch considering last time he reached behind him, he jabbed you in the neck with a syringe. 

In his hand was your phone. Your fingers twitched, begging to snatch it from his grip. He dangled it in front of your face, taunting you. “Looking for this?”

You softly nod your head, eyebrows pinched. His hands grip both ends and snap it in half like flimsy wood. The audible crack haunted your ears. Tiny glass shards crumbled into the carpet while Levi dropped the broken phone. Your chances of escaping were depleting rapidly. 

He goes to stroke your hair as you sobbed, scared of what was going to happen to you. Were they going to kill you? 

“Don’t worry your daddy will be home soon.”

The words offered no solace and only confused you more. You prayed he didn’t mean Erwin. Your chest heaved more as you grew more hysterical. This can’t be happening. You wanted to go home.

“Hey brat, you need to calm down,” His words were cold and apathetic.

You only cried more as your fingers dug into the rug and your feet barely kicked. You needed to get up. You had to run, escape, scream, do something. If you didn’t, they were going to kill you and no one would find your body. No one would care anyway. You would be just another missing person case filed away in a cold, metal cabinet serving as your casket. 

At this point, you were hyperventilating. Your body had gone into full blown panic mode and even Levi lightly slapping your face did little to pull you out. You didn’t want to die. There was so much more you wanted to do in life. 

You choked on your own tears as warm liquid spilled from your crotch and pooled around your bum. How pathetic were you to piss yourself out of fear? Your body begged to curl into the fetal position and wallow in self pity, but whatever Levi injected you with wouldn’t leave for a while. 

“What is going on?” A new voice sliced through your cries. 

Erwin stepped into the room along with Levi. The short man’s knees cracked as he nimbly stood back at his full height. Both men swallowed you whole as you laid in your own filth. 

“She started to lose her shit.”

He nodded and his blue eyes spied the darkened spot on your skirt and on the carpet. “This is the exact reason I said to lay down the puppy pads,” Erwin scolded Levi.

Puppy pads?

“I didn’t know she was going to piss herself like a shitty toddler.”

Levi really did know how to rub salt further into the wound. You were embarrassed enough as is, his degrading words offered no solace. The smell of ammonia permeated in the air.

“I will take her to get cleaned up, I can tell you’re already itching to bleach the carpet.”

Levi clicked his tongue at that, but didn’t refute his command. As Levi walked out the room to get his supplies, Erwin crouched down beside you. Gently, he tucked one arm under your back and the other under your knees. He pulled your weight up with ease. 

With you cradled close to his chest, he walked out the door and down a familiar hallway. You attempted to struggle, but he squeezed you tighter. Your breath got caught in your throat from his rope-like arms. The drugs were heavy in your system so all you could really do was lightly kick your feet. Even that had you out of breath. At the far end, on the right, Erwin nudged the door with his toe and went through to the bathroom. He set you down on the counter.

The lights above you hissed and hummed while they stung your eyes. In the other room, it was illuminated by a soft, orangey glow while the ones in the bathroom were a harsh almost blue tinge. From the hallway, the smell of bleach wafting in made your nose crinkle. Levi wasted no time. 

Seeing your pinched face, Erwin departed from you and closed the door, locking it as well. Panic built up again. The older man filled up the room, swallowing you whole. There wasn’t much you could do as you had to be leaned up against the wall like a doll. Lifeless and frail. The most strength was in your legs, you could feel how the muscle begged to move. 

Like a magnet, his body gravitated towards yours once more. Lacking any politeness, Erwin started immediately stripping you. His fingers hooked around the babydoll dress you were forced into while sleeping. Latched onto the hem he tugged it up until it reached under your armpits. 

“S-stop,” You gained your voice. It was meant to be a scream, but what came out was a pathetic whimper. 

He ignored you as he gripped your arm to slide it out one sleeve and the same with the other. His hand went to the middle of your shoulder blades to sit you up for a moment to pull the clothing over your head. Neatly he folded the dress back up and set it on the other counter next to the sink. Oh how your arms screamed to hide your exposed breasts. 

“Don’t t-touch me,” The command was futile, but you refused to let him think you were going to take this lying down. 

The man let out a dismissive hum and moved to the bathtub, twisting the knobs. His hand went under the water to find the perfect temperature. Satisfied, he plugged the drain up. Erwin went into the cabinet parallel to you and grabbed a clear, honey-tinted bottle. It was baby soap. What he grabbed was soap made for infants. Your fists balled up. Despair filled you like how the water morphed into the shape of the tub.

What the fuck is going on?

Squirting some of the liquid soap into the tub, you watched as the bubbles boiled up. A soft, clean scent encompassed the room. The smell filled your head of childhood memories long forgotten of sharing baths with your cousins. If you thought hard enough the smell of washable crayons would soon follow. But you weren’t in the safety of your aunt’s home, you were locked in a house with two men with strange, perplexing intentions. 

He put the bottle back and turned to you. Trembling, you knew what was about to happen. Erwin slotted himself between your parted legs. A little more bold, he placed his large palms on your knees. Your thighs quivered as his fingers danced up the skin towards your last bit of protection. 

You could do it, Your tendons told you, Don’t let this fucker think you’re weak.

Just as his fingers wrapped around the band of your underwear, you reared your knee back and shot the heel of your foot straight into his nose. 

“Fuck!” He grunted as blood poured out.

Some of the red splashed onto your shin and onto the white tiles. Your shoulders bounced as you laughed at his misery. The toxin heavy in your system was making you delirious. 

Erwin clutched his nose as he shoved a finger in your face, "We don't do that."

His condescending tone tempted you to kick him again. He muttered under his breath as he went into the cabinet to grab a hand towel to wipe off the blood. Unfortunately, you didn’t break his nose and the blood stopped after the initial blow. Throwing the towel down onto the counter, he tugged your underwear off with fervor. Barely contained aggressiveness caused his forearms to quake. 

"You're lucky I don't call Levi in. He won't be as tolerant as me."

He picked you back up and you attempted to wiggle, but the kick had left you limp. Erwin shoved you into the bathtub, the warm water embracing you. Despite the exhaustion gripping your bones, you go to hit him in the face again. More sluggish and Erwin expecting it this time, he gripped your ankle and tugged. 

You yelped as your body slid down and collapsed into the bubbly solution. Water squirmed into whatever orifice it could. Choking on the soapy liquid, you panicked as it shot up into your nose and lungs. Your arms were no better than cooked noodles so there was no way to pull yourself back up. You were drowning. 

Erwin gripped your upper arm and hauled you out of the water. You sputtered as you came back up. Coughing roughly, you threw back up all the liquid flooding your system. Your eyes stung and were bloodshot. As you hiccuped, you glared up at Erwin from under your furrowed brow. 

He clutched your cheeks and leaned himself over the rim, “Don’t make this anymore unpleasant for the both of us.”

Knowing it was a losing battle, you nodded your head. You couldn’t fight anymore, not until the drugs wore off. You had to be smart about this.

Erwin petted your wet hair and maneuvered your body into a more comfortable position. He took a washcloth and dipped into the soapy water and started to clean you. His movements were purely clinical and didn’t linger anywhere unwanted. Your teeth almost cracked from your tensed jaw as he dragged the cloth across your inner thighs and your pussy.  

The knob jiggled open. From the doorway, Levi made his way into the bathroom and shut the door behind him. In his hand was a key he shoved deep in his pockets. Your eyes drank up the information, filing it away for later. 

Erwin turned to Levi and the shorter man’s permanent scowl deepened. His light feet crossed over to his friend and bent down to examine the darkening bruise on his nose. 

“What happened,” It was meant to be a question, but he phrased it like a statement. 

Erwin shook him off. Levi was having none of it and gripped his face. His grey eyes pierced into Erwin’s, likened to how a stormy sky meets a calm sea. 

“We had an accident. Don’t be too concerned over it.”

Levi sent one last glare at him, nodded his head and extracted himself from the taller man. You drank up the whole interaction, nitpicking their whole relationship and how to abuse it for later. Back to his full height, Levi looked at your limp form. Luckily, besides your collarbones, everything was shielded by the extensive bubbles. 

“How is she holding up?”

Erwin’s shoulders tensed a little before relaxing and going back to stroking the cloth over your skin. He was scrubbing the same spot on your thigh over and over again. If he kept going, the skin would be rubbed raw. 

“I haven’t said anything yet.”

You despised how they talked like you weren’t in the room with them. Erwin gripped your right arm and lifted it out of the water to now clean that area. You shivered as you were exposed more to the cold air. 

Levi sighed, agitated. “Well you better because if I do she might just piss herself again.”

“Fuck you,” You seethed.

Erwin shushed you, “The adults are talking.” 

“Are you fucking-” Levi stomped over to the rim of the bathtub and shoved his fingers deep into your mouth. You choked on the makeshift gag, your esophagus spasming around the appendages. 

“Watch your tone.”

Your feet weakly kicked as you continuously swallowed around his fingers. You were tempted to bite down, but how Levi glared down at you, you kept your teeth to yourself. 

“Am I understood?” Whines tickled your throat as you stared up at him with teary eyes. He shoved his fingers deeper. “I said, am I understood?”

You rapidly nodded your head as much as you could and tumbled out, “Yeth, Thevi.” 

He ripped his fingers away and rubbed your spit on your face. “Filthy brat.” 

“There is no need to be so rough.”

“Apparently I do. Come, you can explain to her over dinner.” And with that, Levi walked out the bathroom, leaving you alone with Erwin once more. 

How was it dinner time already? What time is it? How long had you been knocked out for? The questions swirled and swarmed your head. 

Heeding Levi’s words, Erwin switched the flip to drain the bath. You watched as the tiny hole swallowed the water along with the bubbles, sucking it up with an audible, clanky slurp. The tall man came back with lilac hued towels splattered with woven butterflies. He helped you up once more and patted you down dry. Next came a pair of pajamas, a silky pink. The panties were a soft cotton with a white bow in the center. It angered you how cute they were. He slid them up and patted your hips when the band rested comfortably. 

Efficiently dressed, Erwin picked you up but this time like how you would a child. He rested your weight on his hip and a firm forearm under your bum. His other hand cradled the back of your neck so your head sat on his shoulder. You put no effort into helping him carry you, having your arms hang by your sides.

Erwin carried you out of the bathroom and down the hall until you reached where the living room was. Turning right, he went into the dining room adjacent to the kitchen. You noticed there was a metal plate on the floor that wasn’t there last time. Welded into the sleek steel was a small arch. The plate sat under the kitchen table. A bad, foreboding feeling sat in your stomach. 

At the kitchen table were three plates of food, but only two chairs. Levi was already situated at the head of the table, waiting for the both of you. Your laptop also sat on the table. Erwin walked to his chair to the right of Levi with you in tow. 

No wonder there was no third chair as Erwin sat you on his lap. He twisted your body so your back leaned against his chest. Oh, how you wanted to struggle, but decided against it as your butt was mere centimeters from his crotch. 

You stared at the delicious smelling food in front of you. Was there anything Levi wasn’t good at? 

“Eat,” Levi commanded before taking a bite of his own.

“I’m not a dog,” You snided.

“Could have fooled me with all your shitty yapping. Eat.”

You looked down in shame. You had barely gained any mobility in your arms. Sure you could flex your fingers, but you had no idea if you could bring the fork to your mouth. 

Sensing your troubled thoughts, Erwin turned you so you sat sideways. He took your fork, dipped into the food and brought it to your lips.

“Open.”

Already learning your lesson from Levi shoving his fingers down your throat, you clamped your mouth shut and glowered at him. 

Fatigued from your constant refusal, Erwin raked his fingers through your hair and yanked backwards. Stinging pain coursed through your taunt follicles as he shoved the fork into your mouth. He placed the fork back down and slapped his palm over your mouth. His whole hand encased your lower face. Unable to spit the food out or bite him, you chewed and swallowed. 

“Good girl,” He cooed. 

You were going to vomit, hopefully on him. 

Levi was a spectator to how Erwin repeated the process over and over until you were done with your food. His own plate was left untouched. The tall man took joy in babying you. 

Erwin grabbed a napkin and wiped away the nonexistent traces of you eating from your face. He was delicate like he was handling a porcelain doll. The way his eyes never strayed had your back tingle. His stare was almost uncanny. Deep, deep blue threatened to gobble you whole. 

“You’re going to drop out,” Levi cut in. 

“What? No.”

“I don’t remember asking,” He grabbed the laptop forgotten in the middle of the table. His nimble fingers rubbed against the mousepad. The laptop illuminated his face with a soft white. He clicked a few buttons and then turned it back around to you. Displayed on the screen was the form to dropout. 

“People will grow suspicious if I randomly drop out,” You tried to reason.

“We already know you are barely passing all your classes. No one would care or think twice.”

Your eyes caught onto the weather app at the bottom of the screen. The laptop was tracing the location, it must be. 

“They will be able to find me.”

“With the laptop? We already have that sorted, don’t get your hopes up.”

A tight ache settled in your chest. You were so confused why they were doing this to you. The life Erwin helped you build back up he was tearing right from under you.

“Why?” You begged. 

Erwin shifted you higher on his lap, cradling you as you started to cry again. “Because you can’t take care of yourself.”

“That’s not true.”

“Hush, Daddy will take care of everything.”

Cold washed over you. What did he just say?

“Erwin,” Levi bit, exasperation on his face.

“She was going to figure it out sooner or later.”

Anger started to swell in the air. Panic built further in your ribcage as you were left even more confused. Why did Erwin call himself such a crude name? 

“That’s enough for tonight. Finish the form and we can head to bed.”

Levi got up from his seat and walked over to you. This time he was the one to lift you. He showed no signs of struggle as he left Erwin to fill out the paperwork. When he walked back to the bathroom, alarm bells rang in your head. You refused to be put in such a vulnerable position again. 

“No.”

“Quiet.”

The door was left open from before and he set you down on the counter. He opened the cabinet mirror and pulled out a new tube of toothpaste. It was strawberry flavored with childish, cartoon berries decorating the aluminum. Plastic clinked against porcelain as he took a pink toothbrush from the stand with two other ones. One was green and the other blue. 

Levi squirted the paste onto the bristles and ran it under the water for a couple seconds. He tapped the brush against the sink. His hand tugged your legs apart and made a home between them. Cupping your jaw, he brought the toothbrush up.

“Open.”

A very, very stupid thought crossed your mind. What if you bit him hard enough to draw blood? He would have to visit a doctor if you did otherwise he could get sick from an infection. How would he explain an adult human bite without raising suspicions? He couldn’t. 

Open your mouth you did. As he brought the brush to scrub your teeth, you tilted your head and latched onto the meat of his hand. On the side of his hand where his pinky is, you bit down so hard your teeth scraped against bone. 

“Shit!” He grunted out. 

He was able to rip his hand from your grasp and hit your face so hard you collapsed hard into the sink. 

“You fucking bitch,” Levi seethed as he shook out his hand.

You smiled up at him with bloody teeth, “You should get that checked out by a professional. I heard human bites are worse than a dog's if left unchecked."

“You’re fucking done for, Mutt.”

With his uninjured hand he ripped you from the counter and clamped down on the back of your shirt. Your legs still like jelly so you had to half crawl to keep up with his pace. He dragged you back to the bedroom by the collar like a misbehaving puppy. 

By now, Erwin had heard the commotion. His heavy steps marched over. Levi threw you into the room you first awoke in. He muttered under his breath as he ripped different restraints from the closet. Blood ran down his forearm and onto the carpet. 

“What is going on?” Erwin’s voice thundered.

“Your little princess bit me.”

Erwin turned his attention to you, sat in the middle of the room, red coated your chin and lips. You smiled up at him, too, no remorse in your stance. Your posture screamed you weren’t going to make this easy for them.

Metal clicking together brought your attention to Levi who came over with various black leather restraints. He also had a pink bone gag. 

“Hold her mouth open. I don’t want to be bit, again,” Levi scowled.

Erwin walked to stand behind you. His hand cupped your forehead and slammed your skull into his upper thigh. His other hand pinched your cheeks so hard you had to unhinge your jaw. Levi shoved the gag into your mouth and you sputtered at the taste of oddly sweet plastic on your tongue. 

The shorter man’s crotch was right in your view as he went around to secure the belt loops. If Erwin wasn’t holding you down, you would have headbutted him. Your jaw creaked at being forced open. 

Levi stood back up. Erwin let go of you, but your freedom didn’t last long. A foot shoved your head down until your forehead hit the carpet. You grunted as said foot stood on your temple as you twisted your head to a more comfortable position. 

“You don’t get to complain,” Levi was furious. 

“Levi, I can handle it from here. You should get that checked out.”

There was a long pause. “Fine, just throw her in the crate. I will deal with her later.” 

“I got her handled.”

Levi clicked his tongue and let up on the pressure on your head. You collapsed further into the ground in relief. You listened as his socked feet pattered away until it was just you and Erwin. 

Erwin showed no mercy as he gripped you by the hair and forced you up. He tugged you to the crate you saw earlier. Despite the stuffed animals and pink covers, you were left unsettled by the daunting cage. You were tossed in with little care. Luckily you landed on the plushies and not the metal bars. He slammed the door closed and locked it. The same key from earlier was in his fingers. Were there multiple copies?

“I don’t want to be mean, but if you want to act like a dog then you will be treated like one.”

“You are past the point of mean, Erwin,” You glared between the bars. The words were muffled, but he got the point.

The man looked so tired, “Good night, Princess.”

With that he left the room and shut off the lights. What the fuck were you going to do now?

[twistedmindtales]

The Stench

She found herself standing at the threshold of what she had hoped would be a new beginning. Kate’s new apartment, nestled in an older part of town, was a bit rundown but held a quaint charm. When she stepped inside, she first noticed the dull peeling paint. The wooden floors creaked with every step, and the windows let in more draft than light, but to Kate, it was a blank canvas, a chance to build something anew and start over. 

As she moved in, the apartment's peculiar familiarity offered her a flicker of hope, a feeling she hadn't felt in a long time. She had become depressed over the past few years due to her recent failed relationship and began pouring her energy into fixing up her home, channeling her emotions into every stroke of paint and every nail she hammered. The living room, once draped in faded wallpaper, came alive with warm hues of yellow and cream. She polished the wooden floors until they shined, reflecting the newfound light in her life.  

Amidst the apartment’s renewal, a subtle, peculiar smell began to make its presence known. At first, it was barely noticeable, a fleeting whiff that Kate would catch as she moved from room to room. She thought little of it, assuming it was just a quirk of the old building. Maybe it was the mustiness of aged wood or a lingering scent from a previous tenant. It was easy to dismiss, lost in the aroma of fresh paint and cleaning products. 

As days passed, the smell began to evolve. It was no longer a mere background note; it became a persistent, underlying stench that seemed to grow stronger with each passing day. Sometimes it was a faint, putrid scent in the morning, like a whisper of something rotten hidden beneath the surface. Other times, it would catch her off guard in the evening, a sudden gust of foul air when she opened a closet or passed through the living area. 

Kate tried to combat it with scented candles and air fresheners, but they only masked the odor temporarily. She cleaned obsessively, scrubbing every inch of the apartment, hoping to eradicate the source. But the smell persisted, growing bolder, more oppressive. It started seeping into her newly hung curtains and the upholstery of her refurbished furniture, an unwelcome intruder in her sanctuary. 

The stench became a constant companion, a reminder that not all was well in her idyllic retreat. It hung heavy in the air, a tangible presence that seemed to watch her as she moved through her daily routines. What once were sporadic whiffs had now become a suffocating cloak. 

Determined to uncover the source of the smell, Kate examined each room, starting with the living room where she had first noticed the smell. She moved furniture, looking for any hidden mold or forgotten trash that might be causing the odor. She cleaned the carpets and drapes, hoping to wash away the scent, but it clung stubbornly to the fabric. 

In the kitchen, she scoured every cabinet and appliance, checking for spoiled food or a dead rodent perhaps trapped behind the refrigerator. She poured bleach down all of the drains and kept all of the windows open, even at night, but her efforts yielded nothing. With each unsuccessful attempt the stench seemed to mock her, growing stronger, more pervasive.  

Her search eventually led her to a small, unnoticed storage area above the furnace. It was a cramped, shadowy space, easily overlooked. With a sense of foreboding, she pried open the locked door, steeling herself for what she might find. 

The sight that greeted her was something out of a nightmare. In the dim light, she could make out the form of a human body, grotesquely decomposed. The shock of the discovery sent a jolt through her. Once she caught her breath and gained her composure, Kate leaned in closer to take a look at the body which revealed features twisted in an expression of horror, and eerily reminiscent of her own. 

Her eyes began adjusting to the dim light and a horrifying realization dawned on her. The body, though decayed, bore an uncanny resemblance to her. The face that stared back at her was her own. It was a ghastly version of herself, but unmistakably hers. The eyes, though lifeless, seemed to hold a mirror to her soul. In that moment, time stood still, and a chilling silence enveloped the room. 

The air held a heavy sense of solemnity as the building superintendent led a group of police officers into Kate's apartment. The visit was a grim affair, precipitated by a harrowing confession that had recently come to light.  In a moment of conscience-stricken turmoil, Kate's ex-boyfriend had confessed to her murder, revealing details that had eluded everyone until now. 

With measured movements, the officers opened the small storage area. There, amidst the darkness and the now-overpowering stench, lay Kate's mortal remains. The sight was a stark reminder of the brutality she had faced, a jarring contrast to the memories of the vibrant, hopeful woman she once was. 

[bbyquokka]

9:25 pm (lfx)

→ GENRE: timestamp | drabble | angst

→ WARNINGS: gn!reader | mentions of taking sleeping pills | alcohol consumption | just a lot of feels and angst rly ;-;

→ WORDS: 0.6k ~ (662)

→ A/N: inspired by deep end from the skz-replay album. did i listen to it on repeat whilst writing this? yup. Am i a sobbing mess rn? yuppp

→ m.list – → ao3

He cannot sleep. He wanders around his apartment night after night, swallowing sleeping pill after sleeping pill, but the memories still haunt him.

Your sweet, angelic laugh. The soft slaps of your bare feet on the wood floor, the soft hums of a tune you adore, dead and gone.

His apartment has never felt so lifeless.

Every room he enters holds a memory of you, a memory he holds so dear to his heart he cannot let go. He can see you, see you making brownies, lounging on the sofa. 

Your smirk as you seduce him. Fingertips dancing ever so lightly on his soft skin, like tiny pixie feet. Your warmth suffocating him, surrounding his body in a blanket of pleasure. Your moans like music to his ears.

He was addicted to you, in more ways than one. You were the cause of his high sex drive. The second his eyes fall upon you, he's caught under your spell, blood rushing south in an instant.

He doesn't have the energy for it. Sex is meaningless to him if it's not with you. You made him feel alive and now that you're gone, he's nothing but a shell of nothingness.

The picture frames remain on the tables, holding special and precious memories of you both. Now all they hold is a thick layer of dust and dirt. Your belongings are still scattered around the apartment; he hasn't gained the courage to sort through them and box them up.

Time stood still. Felix found himself in an endless cycle, spinning around and around. The world carried on around him but for him, time stood still. His body stuck in an endless loop. 

You kept him grounded, advising him and soothing him of his worries. Now they swim around and around in his head, tormenting him, laughing at him until he finds himself screaming into the night. 

Only, no one heard his screams, his cries for help. 

Alone. 

Awake for x amount of hours. swallowing x amount of pills and drinking x amount of cheap vodka, nothing works.

Frustrated. Because nothing works. Nothing seems to soothe him, nothing seems to drown out his thoughts. His own head became his worst enemy. 

How foolish of him to think a walk in the cold, winter air would make him feel alive. It just made it worse. Every store he walked past, every corner he turned was a new memory of you.

“Please make it stop.” Teary eyes looking at the night sky, his usual bottle of vodka in one hand, the other clutching the material of his t-shirt where his broken heart aches. “I can't do this without you.”

Silent sobs shake his thin frame. He's cried so much that he has nothing left.

“You promised.” He'd whisper harshly at his phone screen, his wallpaper still of you after all these months. Violent sobs shake his frame, and there it is. 

A tear. It lands on his screen, the watery texture mixing the pixels together in a range of colours. His vision blurred, a pounding headache approaching from the pressure.

“I want to feel alive again. Please give me a sign. I'll do anything for a glimpse of hope. Just make this pain stop! it's unbearable.”

“Why is the world so cruel to me?” He leans back, sniffing whilst bringing the rim of the vodka bottle to his lips. He hisses, feeling the burn travel down his throat and settling in his empty stomach.

It burns, but it's a sigh he can still feel. Even if he doesn't want to.

“Now I'm truly all alone in this world.” He whispers, eyes closing slowly. He's tired, exhausted body slowly shutting down. He doesn't fight it.

He allows it.

So consumed with his own thoughts, he doesn't hear the soft crunch of the snow approach him. It wasn't until he smelt that all too familiar scent he opened his eyes slowly, a coat wrapped around his shoulders.

“Y/N?”

→ TAGS [open]: @chaneomma | @sstarryoong | @laylasbunbunny | @meltheninja13

[remadra]

The Powers That Be

HC's and bragging under the cut

All the paintings were referenced from the game but I did them myself, I made the wallpaper design, yes I did the wood grain line by line because I'm insane and I taught myself to mimic the VHS/static effect manually. I'm incredibly proud of all the work I put into learning new techniques and improving my skills! Okay!!!

It's all canon to my Pale City teens AU but it's also my HC for the series in general.

Each power manifests as a warped version of its respective child. Hunger doesn't quite look like Six though. I HC'd the shadow in LN2 after Six gets taken as the Hunger manifesting, displaced because the Broadcast overpowered and kicked it out as Six was taken into the TV, and that it originally was RCG's power. Six and RCG have the same silhouette with their hoods up, or at least close enough to fool people into mixing them up. It attached to Six after RCG fell in order to save itself, because it needs a body to feed off or it'll fade away. That's why it seemingly encourages Mono forward when he falls from the train- it can't take Mono, he already has the Broadcast, but it can follow him back to Six, like a ship following an ice breaker. Hunger requires feeding (whether it be gaining control/power over something or feeding Six's ego in a pinch) but unlike any other power, it isn't bound to a location. It's a splinter of the Maw's power that clung to RCG, the daughter of The Lady, when she ran away, seeking to gain a foothold somewhere away from the ship to grow itself. In a way, both were running from their mothers. Hunger, as a non-location bound power, can also feed off other powers, slowly gaining abilities similar to or derived from others. Originally it couldn't transform it's kid into any monstrous forms, but close contact with the Broadcast's Tuning gave it an edge so Six can warp herself at will. Hunger can only grow, but so will the cost of feedings. This is why it only has one concrete ability for its current child unlike the other's having two.

The Broadcast is Mono's power, and rarely shows itself to others. It can be glimpsed lagging behind Mono as he runs through the tower or TV hops if one looked closely, but its shy for an all-powerful being. It prefers to watch. Its granted abilities are the TV connection and Tuning the world, though its restricted to the Pale City to stay at its most powerful. Mono can Tune things from their warped to normal forms, like clearing static from a screen, but it doesn't work on living things, or he can Tune something Out like The Thin Man into simply... not existing anymore. He can Tune his powers to be more precise but it's exhausting. The TV connection allows him to hop around via the screens, both through space and time as long as a TV is connected to the Signal Tower. It's easier to hop short distances because the toll is exponential. Mono could move a mile with one hop, but it takes less energy to make a series of short hops to move the same mile. It's also much easier to only move through time or space, so he'll often look for close by TV's to use before heading to a specific moment. To avoid paradox problems in the time loop, interacting with himself in a way he doesn't remember causes extreme migraines as the Broadcast patches in the new memories. He tries not to use it too much, and avoids spoilers for the future. They only cause problems.

The Pretender's power is called the Command. Strongest at the Nest, but weakest in its own personality, it allows her to direct or control adults in her domain- The Butler and The Craftsman would still do their jobs as adults are incredibly focused on purposes, but a little direction with a Demand helps remind them who's in charge. The vocal ability also has an effect on children. Though she can't Demand them to do anything, it can paralyze them momentarily. This ability gets stronger the older the target until they're compelled to follow orders. Her second ability is the Dismissal Touch, wiping the victim from the world and only leaving their possessions behind. It only works on the living, so her Touch wouldn't have any effect on the Bullies or something already dead. It's not that her gloves would stop the Dismissal either, it works on anyone through clothing as long as they connect, but because Pretty's powers are closely linked to her emotions it helps to have a tangible cover so she doesn't slip up and Dismiss a friend by accident. That is a hassle for Mono to fix via time hopping and restarting the day. Checking her gloves gives her a sense of security. Anything that startles or frightens her can cause her power to flare in defense.

That's what I have to share so far!!!

[demonfox38]

Completed - House Flipper 2

All houses are living creatures of chaos, when you get down to it.

There are many arts I'm not great at. Most fiber crafts for one. Watercolor painting, two. Interior design, big time. Like, I'm not going to let my house get filthy, and I'm going to keep everything running to the best of my ability. (Hell, there's something empowering about replacing a toilet's float!) But, by nature? I'm just about keeping things picked up and in general functional order. If you're gonna ask me about what's fashionable when it comes to interior decorating, you're going to get a response that looks like something out of a 1970s Sears catalog. I'm about being functional, economical, and comfy when it comes to my house. Not cool or trendy.

Cool people don't have a wood-paneled basement, oak-laminate particleboard cabinets, or CRT television sets.

Since I'm an aficionado for mid-to-late century American interiors (and the weird vibes they can produce), I tend to follow blogs online that showcase such rooms that still exist in the modern era. Two such blogs include Unteriors and Roomhole. As a response to Unteriors, another blog called Unteriors-In-House-Flipper-2 has crossed my dashboard from time to time. Their skill in rendering such locations is shockingly good. Like, I think you could trick people into thinking these were real-world images. As someone who has dinked around with a few 3D editors, I was fascinated about the tool they were using. What was "House Flipper 2"? How could its users make something that looked so good so fast?

Well, practice is an obvious answer. Familiarity with the tools. A good understanding of lighting, too. But, having the tool be pretty good to begin with also helps!

As the name implies, "House Flipper 2" is a design tool/game that simulates the reconstruction (or straight up construction) of various spaces. You can do this either to your own whims or to those of various clients in the game's story mode. While a person can just dive right into a sandbox and mess around with tools as they see fit, the story mode does give structure and context to how each tool works. The plot there is nothing to write home about, but the houses themselves…man. No shit "Crime Scene Cleaner" is a game that exists. Garbage-based jump scares abound, and I'm not just talking about the awful wallpaper your character's parents keep putting up.

Hmm. Both "House Flipper 2" and "Crime Scene Cleaner" are under the Playway publisher page in Steam. The games have different developers, but I do wonder if their staff members were talking to each other. Perhaps even sharing employees…

If a player is hoping to get something a little deeper than an HGTV television show in terms of plot, they may come away disappointed from "House Flipper 2." I'm not saying that a person can't draw their own conclusions from the details they find around the house they are cleaning. (I'm pretty sure a couple was copulating in the bathroom at one house concert, for one.) You're just not going to deal with anything more complicated than cleaning up a house post-flood. Which, trust me. At the risk of beating a dead horse, I have a lot of empathy for that. But, it's not exactly navigating the factional relationships between Pinnacove town citizens and designer corporation Accenzo, like being in some kind of housing-based "Shin Megami Tensei" RPG. It's just generally trying to make people happier.

I mean, if we're being super honest, most of them pissed me off via jealousy over familial/economic stability and being able to pursue their own dreams. But, I did think it was pretty cool that one of my clients had vitiligo. I mean, I guess all video games with Michael Jackson in them also star someone with vitiligo, but that's a unique and thoughtful design choice.

To complete your jobs, you get (or gain access to) the following options:

Hands (for moving objects around)

Flipper Tool (responsible for selling or duplicating items, as well as changing their appearance post-purchase or copying their style)

Collecting Trash

Cleaning (for stains and windows)

Vacuuming

Demolishing (for wrecking walls)

Building (for building walls)

Edit Wiring (to hook your electronics up to switches)

Surface Finishes (for tiling, wood, and wallpaper)

Painting

Most are intuitive, once you get access to them. The more you use them, the more perks and abilities you can unlock for them. Since there's not a great real-world equivalent for the Flipper Tool, that one may take a little more time to get used to. Just remember that it has a submenu for selecting its various features, and you should be good to go.

Client demands are highlighted on your tool wheel with yellow exclamation points. Getting into your quest menu will also show you an itemized list of tasks to perform. When you have a tool selected, you can hit a Flipper Sense button to have what needs to be acted on highlighted in yellow. Very handy, especially when you can't see what to destroy or clean up.

Usually, you'll have the best luck doing the following in order:

Sell off unwanted stuff.

Bag trash.

Vacuum.

Clean stains.

Clean windows.

Paint.

Resurface walls and floors.

Buy wanted stuff (and arrange as desired.)

Unpack boxes (for stuff the client has already purchased.)

Some of your objectives get hidden behind furniture, so be sure to fling that aside if you get stumped. Might as well spam the Flipper Sense, too. You do get points for it, after all!

The only "threat" you have is your budget. I put that in quotes because, assuming you are following the client's requests, you should never go anywhere near running out of money. Even in your own projects, you can repeat previous jobs to get more cash, should you get in a pinch. Just put in enough attention and elbow grease to max out your job to three stars, then cash out.

You do get into a lull, working through those jobs. At a certain point, you may hit a level of brain fatigue with redesigning whatever items your customers want you to purchase and just give into their requests, regardless of how you feel about the style of the products you are purchasing. The game's just checking that you made the right purchases, not that you placed them well or used a certain style. Perhaps this brain fatigue is what makes coming across a junked-up room all the more shocking. You're just trying your best with making an efficient, pleasant space, and wham! Thirteen pizza boxes chucked across an attic space, complete with grease stains sinking into the hard wood floors. Like, there's worse things to find in a house. I've seen worse in real life. But, it doesn't mean that it didn't make me curse or shudder.

Man, though. I get where real-life house flippers just keep doing the same crap over and over again. White walls and gray laminate floors aren't just the results of creative bankruptcy and penny pinching. It's also mental fatigue and executive dysfunction.

Additionally, the game will occasionally treat you with a furniture assembling mini-game. Successfully getting at least 2 stars on your assembled product will grant you a small discount to purchased items of that class in game (somewhere between 2-6%, depending on the difficulty of the item in question.) They work well enough, despite some arguments I had with the game's camera. Whoever made the time limits to beat on those mini-missions needs to have some kind of intervention for whatever stimulants they are abusing, though. Like hell I'm repeating something that took me 20 minutes to put together just because they think it can be done in 15.

You can also platform across "Floor is Lava" maps, but man. I'm just here to fix up houses.

If you did want to cut out the story and get right to the point, a sandbox mode is available for you. The tools aren't an exact 1 to 1 with the tools you get in the story mode, but there's enough overlap that playing the story mode will help you out here. Additionally, there are tools for assigning quests, jobs, etc. in the event that you want to upload your map to mod.io and have other players play your map. You can also control the lawn growth and punch holes in the map, which man! Would have I liked those options in the main game.

When you are allowed to take full control over a house and exercise your skills, you will likely be happy with the variety of colors, textures, and items to play with. The furniture is somewhat restricted to modern creations akin to something you'd find in IKEA or on Wayfair, with only select deviations made for the occasional appliance to look mid-century modern. (Which, for someone who has a fair amount of CRT television sets around the house, is a bit of a bummer. The one CRT they have in game is just not the vibe I'm going for, either.) Each furniture item and texture set can be dyed in at least three sets of color styles separated by vibrance, sometimes also coming with different pattern, wood, or metal types. In the right circumstances, you can also use photos off your own computer for additional artwork! For someone that remembers the more static days of the original Sims release, it's particularly impressive! Significantly fewer dead people around, too.

I'm always amused when guys discover exactly what gals did in "The Sims" games. Those games were pool-based slaughterhouses. Girls had to get their cool graveyards somehow.

When I had hiccups with the game, I could get around most obstacles by figuring out how to talk to the game in its own logic. Like, once I removed a timber log to paint behind it, then had to resize said log into a sliver to get it back into place, then resize it once more to its original size. Hooking up electrical wiring also wasn't explicitly taught, but I figured it out after messing around with light settings in a ranch house. The only problems I had that couldn't be fixed were being unable to cut triangular shapes out of bricks or placing bricks down in spots where the game arbitrarily said no. Annoying? Sure. But, that's a surprisingly low limitation.

Although, it would have been nice to be able to manually freeze items into a single group. Or, just have a bunch of items for purchase as a group. (Like, I'm talking having a block of books instead of having to arrange one at a time. I suppose you could put them onto a tray, move them, then delete the tray, but man. That feels weird.) Also, it's kind of weird that there are so many toys, but not a generic teddy bear or doll. Like, there's action figures for fake games, but not much in the way for dolls or stuffed animals. I don't know. Just seems like a thing kids would have.

Another weird thing—I ended up having this intermittent input issue with a Nintendo Switch controller that I was using from time to time. For whatever reason, right stick input would lock into a counter-clockwise circle, and I'd have to shake it out of that bad behavior. I doubt many people are using Switch controllers for PC gaming, but hey. Guess I’m weird like that. (I didn't have any issues with an Xbox 360 controller or the standard keyboard and mouse, for what that's worth.)

"House Flipper 2" is an awesome tool that happens to have a decent game mode attached to it. I am wondering how this could be used more as a partner tool or competitor to something like Sketchup more than expanding the boundaries and lore of Pinnacove. I imagine an average interior designer could get a lot of use out of something like "House Flipper 2," even if that's not the exact purpose of it. A person is never going to get exact furniture matches with it, but I imagine you could at least mock up a room relatively quickly with it. To those in the right industry, that might be pretty neat.

The base price for "House Flipper 2" is around $39.99 with a bonus DLC Starter Pack for $9.99. I suspect this price may change depending on how many people they want/need to pull in for co-op playtesting, so watch for any potential sales. I'm not exactly certain how many of my readers would be into building homes and decorating them, so for them, this may be too expensive. But, hey. It's important to engage in non-violent, constructive play, from time to time. This is a good way to do just that.

Although, if an option opens up to smash some digital NIMBY or HOA president's car in with a sledgehammer, I'm all for that, too. Gotta make this housing market more affordable somehow.

[dlifesworld]

Top 7 Living Room Design Trends for 2024

If you’re an interior design enthusiast or a homeowner looking to revamp your living space, 2024 is bringing some exciting changes to living room design. The living room, often the heart of the home, deserves a stylish and functional design. Let's explore the top seven living room design trends our interior designers in Pune compiled to help transform your space into a haven of comfort and elegance.

1. Sustainable Materials

In 2024, sustainability continues to be a key focus in interior design. Homeowners are increasingly opting for eco-friendly materials that are not only beautiful but also kind to the planet.

Recycled Fabrics: Upholstery made from recycled materials is on the rise. Think sofas covered in fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles.

Bamboo and Cork: These materials are not only sustainable but also add a touch of natural beauty to your living space.

Reclaimed Wood: Floors, coffee tables, and shelves made from reclaimed wood bring a rustic charm while promoting sustainability.

2. Bold Colors and Patterns

Say goodbye to neutral tones; 2024 is all about making a statement with bold colors and patterns. This trend is perfect for those who want to inject personality into their living room design.

Vibrant Hues: Deep blues, rich greens, and bold reds are making a comeback.

Geometric Patterns: From wallpaper to rugs, geometric patterns add a modern touch to any living room.

Mixed Prints: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different prints. The key is to balance them with solid colors to avoid overwhelming the space.

3. Multifunctional Furniture

With the rise of smaller living spaces, multifunctional furniture is becoming increasingly popular. Pieces that serve multiple purposes are not only practical but also stylish.

Sofa Beds: Perfect for guests and small apartments.

Storage Ottomans: These provide extra seating and storage space.

Foldable Tables: Ideal for those who need a dining table that can be tucked away when not in use.

4. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, which focuses on incorporating natural elements into the home, is gaining traction in 2024. This trend is all about creating a connection between the indoors and the outdoors.

Indoor Plants: Adding greenery not only beautifies your space but also improves air quality.

Natural Light: Maximizing natural light with large windows and skylights.

Water Features: Small indoor fountains or aquariums add a calming effect.

5. Smart Home Integration

Technology continues to influence living room design, with smart home integration becoming more accessible and user-friendly.

Smart Lighting: Control the ambiance with smart bulbs and lighting systems.

Voice-Activated Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home make managing your home easier.

Automated Blinds and Curtains: Adjust your window treatments with the touch of a button.

6. Minimalist Aesthetic

The minimalist aesthetic remains strong in 2024, focusing on simplicity and functionality. This trend is all about “less is more.”

Clean Lines: Furniture with sleek, clean lines.

Neutral Palette: Whites, grays, and muted tones create a calming environment.

Decluttered Spaces: Keeping only essential items on display to maintain a tidy look.

7. Vintage and Retro Accents

Adding a touch of nostalgia, vintage and retro accents are making a comeback. These elements bring character and charm to modern interiors.

Mid-Century Modern Furniture: Pieces inspired by the 1950s and 60s.

Retro Lighting: Statement light fixtures that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Vintage Decor: Incorporating antique pieces like mirrors, clocks, and artwork.

2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for living room design. Whether you’re drawn to bold colors, sustainable materials, or smart home technology, there’s a trend for everyone. By incorporating these top seven living room design trends into your home with the guidance of a reliable team of interior designers in India, you can create a space that is both stylish and functional.

[aith-art]

Falloutober 2023 - Day 26

"Ink Spots"

Prompt by @falloutober

Word Count - 473

The living room was quiet, bar MacCready sat on the sofa, cleaning his gun while he listened to the radio. Shaun had settled down for the night. 

Calling the space a living room never felt strange to Phea, it had been her living room two hundred years ago and it felt wrong to change it. The wallpaper might have faded and peeled off, and the walls might be patched up with wood and the guts of the old neighbourhood. But the building was still standing and despite everything it was still her home. 

From her perch at the old kitchen island, she watched as MacCready meticulously checked over his gun. He was checking for any unseen damages that might cause a risk to the mechanism. It was the same way he’d looked over her when she’d gotten into a fight with a deathclaw. Careful and gentle. Phea didn’t know how to feel about her mental comparison to a gun. 

Striding round to the sofa, confident MacCready had finished his inspection of the gun, she turned the main lights off. The soft glow from the small light in the corner allowed for a gentle atmosphere to fall over the room. 

Travis stuttered something over the radio, introducing the next song. Phea hadn’t really been paying attention to the radio, too consumed by her own thoughts. 

“I don't want to set the world on fire

I just want to start

A flame in your heart” 

MacCready noticeably grimaced at the song. A lifetime in the wasteland with such a small collection of music available must steadily remove any joy that could be gained from those songs. Phea, cuddling up beside MacCready, started to sing along. 

“In my heart, I have but one desire

And that one is you

No other will do” 

MacCready looked down at her, confused, “You like this stuff?” 

She smiled at him, “Yeah, Nate used to have this album on holotape. He used to play it all the time.” 

MacCready smiled back at her, her eyes brimming with tears.

“Believe me

I don't want to set the world on fire

I just want to start

A flame in your heart” Phea kept singing. She pushed herself up, her cheeks damp. 

MacCready watched her as she began to sway to the music. Slowly, he stood with her, wrapping his hands around her waist. Her back to his chest. Together they swayed, Phea continued to sing along. She turned to face him. A gentle smile filled her face. 

The song began to draw to its close. 

“I don't want to set the world on fire

I just want to start

A flame in your heart.” 

As Phea sang the last lyric, MacCready drew her in till their noses met. She closed the last few centimetres between them, closed her eyes and kissed him.

[realtorjamier]

Home Decor in 2024. What’s Hot & What’s Not?

Pink’s out. Peach is in.

Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2024 is soft and subtle “Peach Fuzz,” replacing last year’s vibrant “Viva Magenta.” Pantone is recognized globally as a leading source of color expertise. 

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute™. 

If you’re looking to revamp your space, consider PANTONE 13-1023 and its complementary colors: everything from creamy, brown and tan neutrals to shades of teal, lavender and mint green. Note: gray is not listed. For those who went wild with gray or greige tones during that trend, you might want to roll up your sleeves and buy a new paint roller.

What’s out?

Say goodbye to Barbiecore (think pink). What else is losing favor? Here’s a quick rundown of trends that seem to be going by the wayside in home decor:

Sliding barn doors (Let’s face it – they don’t even do a great job of blocking light, smells, and sounds.)

White-on-white kitchens

Extremes – whether that means bare minimalism or over-the-top Grand Millennial

Heavy industrial style

What’s in?

Back kitchens

AKA butler’s pantry or scullery, this separate space keeps secondary or backup items hidden from site, tidying up the more public area. Here you can house additional refrigeration and freezing, warming drawers, wine storage, lesser-used mechanical devices, formal entertaining dishes and cutlery, etc. Appliance garages have been around for a while, but they seem to be gaining popularity as another way to streamline kitchens.

Bespoke bedrooms and bathrooms

Behind the scenes, highly personalized spaces offer homeowners comfort and creative freedom. Feel free to layer these rooms with your favorite monogrammed fabrics, artwork, family photos, and heirlooms. Make it meaningful.

Casual luxury

It may sound like an oxymoron, but  luxury doesn’t have to mean formal. Rather than opulent and imposing, choose comfortable, lived-in furniture that is still beautiful and lavish.

Bold wall treatments

Add depth and personality to walls by treating them as large canvases. Incorporate wallpaper, paneling, 3D wall coverings, stone or wood features, decorative molding. This is a take on dopamine decor – which continues to be popular – creative touches that make you feel good when you walk into a room. 

Separated spaces

Demolishing interior walls to create all-in-one living/working/playing areas is seeing a bit of a reversal. Delineating spaces by incorporating walls that still have good flow through the use of doorways and openings allows for rooms with purpose and intention.

Mixed metals

This may come as a relief. Chrome, brass, black, copper, bronze – all can be used when harmoniously paired. Trying to keep up with what’s in shouldn’t mean having to change out plumbing fixtures annually!

Mixed materials

Kitchen countertops don’t have to be one solid matchy-matchy mass. Add interest and dimension to this horizontal space. Consider a mix of materials for visual, tactile and utilitarian variety – natural wood with granite, or quartz with sleek stainless steel. 

Outdoors in

Windows seem to be taking center stage – becoming bigger and bigger. The view outside is more of a focal point than an after-thought. Biophilic design is also a way to get the feeling of nature inside your dwelling by adding large indoor plants and natural wood and stone finishes.

Mud-laundry rooms

Combining a laundry with a mudroom is a space-efficient idea. Storage components can serve double-duty: hooks, cabinets, cubbies and drawers.

Sustainability

Cheap, mass-produced furniture is becoming increasingly unpopular. People are gravitating toward quality pieces that are higher end and/or repurposed for a lesser environmental footprint.

A word of caution

Before you revamp your space with all the latest trends, carefully consider which ones truly work for you. If you’re thinking about selling your home soon, reach out to me and let's talk about what changes will give you the biggest bang for your buck.

[spacecasewriter13]

When the Lights Go On Again by @spacecasewriter13

Story Summary:

It is May of 1946, over a year after his fall from the Hydra train and losing his left arm, and James "Bucky" Barnes is struggling to adjust. Working as an analyst at the New York City SSR branch, Bucky tries to put the war and all of its sorted memories behind him. However, try as he might he is plagued by thoughts of Magdalene "Maggie" Ramirez, a Women's Army Corps (WAC) Corporal he met in London and hasn't spoken to since before his fall in January of 1945. Little does he know that Maggie, in her struggle to put the war behind her, has moved to the city and looking for a job with the New York Bell Telephone Company as a switchboard operator. Now, by sheer dumb luck, they are reunited as they both fight come to terms with what they were to one another during the war, and work to figure out how to move forward in a world that was unprepared to deal with the consequences of war in the unsteady peace.’

Chapter 21: Missed Connections

After missing Bucky at the library thanks to a nightmare, Maggie goes home to visit family which leaves her with even more mixed feelings about herself and her situation than before.

Excerpt:

A baby was crying, screaming so loudly it drowned out the pounding of her heart and nearly obscured the sound of the air raid sirens.

“Where the hell is everyone?” She muttered before calling out. “Nelly? Teddy? Ingrid? Pai? Daniel? Anyone? Hello?”

Her voice echoed and died away without a response.

Maggie continued down the long hall. She was in the barracks, the blacked-out windows making it nearly pitch black, the murky light giving everything a blueish tint.

No…no, that wasn’t right. She was in the long hallway of Pai’s house on Grant street, only it seemed the beaten floorboards and the yellow wallpaper and dark wood paneling seemed to stretch on forever. Dozens of doors lined the hallway. Whispering echos distorted her hearing like static on the line, keeping her from hearing clearly.

Her vision swirled, the floor twisting and warping like a funhouse mirror, and she staggered, hand out, trying to find the wall to support herself again.

She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to identify where the baby’s cries were coming from. She could hear the scream of the air raid sirens, but now the whistle of bombs was closer.

Opening her eyes again, she found her vision tunneling, and she could only see a few feet in front of her. Hands out at arm’s length, she groped for a door knob or something she could latch onto.

“Someone grab the baby! Get the baby to the shelter!” She tried to scream, but it came out choked, muted.

Maggie tried to start running, but her feet moved as though she was moving through quicksand, sluggish and uncoordinated. Each movement was harder than the one before until she was only moving inch by inch. Tripping over an object she couldn’t see, she scrabbled on hands and knees, fighting hand over hand to gain territory.

The whole time she was screaming. She knew she was screaming. She could feel it in her chest and coiled in her throat, but no sound came forth.

The bombs were practically on top of her now. She could hear them and hear the screams and shouts from the streets over, which mingled with the screech of buckling steel, the cracking of timbers, and the clatter of falling bricks and stones.

“I have to find the baby. I have to get the baby. I have to protect the baby!” There were tears now, her throat raw and ragged even as no sound came out. “Please! Please!” She pleaded.

Silence.

Loud and horrible silence filled the air, and she took a deep breath, her hands going over her head, her body tensing, bracing for the explosion and the rubble that would come down around her.

And then—and then she was on the floor?

Maggie blinked, aware she was in a prone position on her side. Her body was covered with her heavy quilt, which had been draped over the end of the bed. Her head, which pounded, was propped up on…on….

To Continue Reading Please Visit Ao3

[discordapples]

PT. 19 Severance

Word count: 1.5k (7 mins read)

Characters: Ominis Gaunt, Sebastian Sallow.

Summary

Ominis searches the Room of Requirement for clues about the Collector and finds a strange book. When Sebastian confesses to his friend that he kissed Livia, the two Slytherin boys have an altercation that threatens their friendship's solidity.

Read the next chapter below.

Song list: We Are, by Hollywood Undead.

Ominis | Hogwarts, Early October, 1893.

The Room of Requirement has many seams, all of which Ominis spoors with the tip of his wand first, then with the pad of his fingers.

Aside from the standing mirror—that he is careful not to touch, for he knows this is how the entity gathers precious information on his marks—the room harbors a timeworn mahogany wainscoting, curls of flaking wallpaper and a kingdom of cobwebs lorded over by broods of scuttling spiders.

Cleaving through the stringy meshwork with his wand, Ominis searches and prods and pricks for a loose stitch in the Collector's cunning tapestry.

Soon, Sebastian and Livia will return from their trip to Hogsmeade and Ominis isn't eager to confess his solitary visits to the Room of Requirement.

Three he has made so far. Not only to poke holes in the veil of ignorance, but also to find a way to prevent entry to the Collector's twisted realm altogether.

If the entity can spin a nightmare on the loom of bliss, what can it weave with more sinister emotions?

For an hour, the Slytherin follows knots in the wood to inevitable dead ends; presses against the weathered paneling in search of a hidden contraption that could shift the walls; gropes his way along barbed edges and errant splinters, sighing in annoyance at his lack of success.

And when he is ready to surrender and plod back to the dungeons, his wand pierces through a crumbling plank and hits something with a thud.

Ripping chunks of decaying wood from the wall by the handful, Ominis digs until his fingers land on the spine of a book. His heart caroming in his chest, he pulls it from its improvised shelf, then sits on the floor, peeling it open onto his lap, his wand roving about the page.

Nothing.

His wand pulses feebly against the virgin surface, revealing no etches in the pulp, no pen grooves.

The book is misplaced. Has it been planted there by the Collector to toy with them?

Dragging a thumb along the leather, Ominis quests his mind in search of an explanation, but his conclusions are scant.

Livia described the drove of fingerprints staining the mirror's surface, and it is obvious other students brushed with the Collector the same way they did, which tells Ominis the sundry might belong to one of them.

But it also begs the question: who else at Hogwarts—or beyond—knows about this entity?

Ominis uproots himself from the dusted floor, then ambles out of the room, making for the dungeons with the strange book in tow.

He will stuff it under his pillow and, when the time is right, will interrogate the Mimic at length about it.

But for now, he walks back to the dungeons, his thoughts astir, scrolling by clumps of students and meandering ghosts and flocks of birds as they settle in the eaves for the night.

Outside, the storm is hollering, lapping at the sashed windows, and when Ominis makes it back to the shelter of his dorm, he settles before his desk, then scrounges through his drawer for a curl of virgin paper he endeavors to smooth before filling with letters.

Dear Mr. Dovetail,

My name is Ominis Gaunt. I am an eighth-year student at Hogwarts.

My friends and I gained access to the Room of Requirement through the method you described in your book. Within, we have encountered a sinister entity that branded itself as the Collector.

The presence asked to feed on our emotions in exchange for granting us an object we covet. Once, it has fed on our bliss, leaving us relatively unscathed, but despite the outcome of this first trial, I doubt the entity's motives are benevolent. My friends consider partaking in the leechings, but I know dabbling with this Collector is perilous.

I do not know what I expect from you, Mr. Dovetail, but if you have any information on this Collector, I would be indebted to you if you could share them with me.

With my sincerest regards,

Ominis Gaunt.

* * *

The storm has long thinned into a mizzle when Sebastian makes it back to their dorm. He brings with him the smell of sodden wool, the funk of soot, and a scud of bitterness that fogs over the room.

"How was your jaunt?" Ominis asks him, aware of Sebastian's festering mood.

A cloak puddles onto the floor; a sigh strangle out of a cinched throat. "You invited Livia to the ball."

Not a question. A statement. The kind meant to bludgeon.

"She said yes," is all Ominis offers as an explanation. "If she was yours, she wouldn't have accepted."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"It means she can make her own decisions," Ominis points out, his mood putrefying likewise. "She doesn't belong to me—or to you, for that matter—if she asks me to release her from her promise, I will, but if she won't, I'll go to the ball with her."

"I knew something happened during the leeching," Sebastian says, releasing, at last, the chimeras he gave shape to in his mind from their bony prison. "She was part of your bliss, wasn't she? Why?"

How Ominis aches to tell Sebastian what it was like to hold her in his arms, or share a slice of peace with her under the celestial canopy of the forsaken garden, or feel the silk of her skin against his palm, but instead he shakes his head, a gossamer line running across his forehead. "Why was she part of yours, Sebastian?"

"Don't deflect the question back to me. You always wiggle out of confrontation because you can't stand the fucking heat."

"What is this truly about, then?" Ominis snarls, the delivery resolutely sharp. "Let me paint the picture for you, Sebastian." He tilts his head, contempt bleeding through his features. "You're scared I have a chance with her, so you show some teeth the minute you feel her slipping away from your grasp. Am I getting hot?" He doesn't wait for an answer before notching another arrow and letting it loose. "You saw us at the lake when she peeled the shirt off my back. You heard her joke around with me in the Undercroft. You're angry I got closer to her than you ever did and now you pathetically ask me to back down. Well I won't."

Sebastian gives an arrogant scoff. "You're wrong on that account, Ominis. I kissed her today, and she reciprocated in full."

The blow lands.

It isn't the hurt that knifes right through Ominis' heart, it's watching the handful of elated memories rot and fall away from his clutch.

Was their time at the lake a lie?

Livia's touch on his skin felt real enough.

Was their moment in the derelict garden a ploy?

Her smile did blossom under this touch.

Was her answer to his request just another falsehood?

Her consent was eager enough.

His jaw tightening, Ominis shakes his head. "You're petty, Sebastian. Imelda was right about that."

"Then join the fucking club," Sebastian bites out, before setting to rummaging through his sundries.

There is the sound of mistreated leather as Sebastian yawns his trunk open, then the hiss of clothes being wrested from a dresser. Books are piled. Drawers are plundered. Hangers are stripped.

He is packing.

"Where are you going?" Ominis asks.

"Why does it fucking matter?" Sebastian shoots back.

Ominis knows he should be pleading with his friend.

But he is spent; smoked to cinders.

For once, he doesn't want to bend to the Slytherin's juvenile impulses.

For once, he'll let him go.

Sebastian lugs his trunk to the door, then yanks it open.

Before he can exit, Ominis angles his face to him, his anger still smoldering behind his cheeks. "I won't be participating in the Collector's other leechings."

He has toyed with the notion for many nights now, laying awake in his bed, tearing scenarios asunder.

If he is ensnarled in the Collector's schemes, he won't be able to pull his friends from its skein.

No.

He will hunt for answers in Hogwarts' murkiest corners.

Sebastian stops under the threshold. The words he serves Ominis are sharp with disdain. "Not even to protect your new flame?"

"I can protect her through other means," Ominis retorts. "Sometimes it's not about indulging someone, Sebastian. Sometimes it's about making the right decision for them."

"How chivalrous of you," Sebastian derides. "But I think you misunderstand her, Ominis."

"Enlighten me."

"She isn't the fragile little thing you think her to be."

Ominis wants to tell him Livia isn't the one he thinks fragile, but something keeps him from adding another score of blemishes on their bruised friendship.

Yet, the next words that leave him—even though intended to make Sebastian snap out of his delusion—only draw more strychnine from the injured Slytherin. "You're on your own, Sebastian."

"I've been from the start, Ominis," Sebastian spits back. "Your friendship was always conditional."

"And yours dependent on assent."

The trunk hisses out of the room and the knob squeaks softly in its socket. Sebastian lingers for another moment, then parts with two words that feel like a severance. "Goodbye, Ominis."

A period, not a comma.

A cut, not a bruise.

"Goodbye, Sebastian."

A candle snuffed out in their darkest hour.

Author's notes

I'm going out of town for 3 days on a little escapade with my mom, which means I'll be either drunk in a ditch or capering along, so I will most likely not have time to write. I'm coming back on Thursday, however, and I intend on making it up to you by posting our next leeching. 👀

If you haven't joined already, we have a charming little discord server that is growing like weeds. Don't hesitate to join on the fun. By the way, we have a roleplaying section that allows you to roleplay with Sebastian and Ominis in a scenario strangely reminiscent of this little fanfiction, so if you're interested it's happening over here: https://discord.gg/FCt7dp77

[discoidal]

Top five places you like to go, top five of your own work, top five of others work? hope u are doing well

omg thats a lot of lists! ok first one

places

1. my own room (after being downstairs)

2. downstairs living room (after being in my room too long)

3. Any Park (with greenery!)

4. kanto freestyle breakfast (restaurant)

5. thin shady woods

my own work

1. this is how we get through this (weird fiction, tw child pregnancy & implied cannibalism: wrongdoing mag, bodyfluids newsletter, kofi, gumroad)

2. she's gone! (surreal short story: kofi, gumroad, origami review)

3. i am gaining nothing from online dating (poem, tumblr)

4. your novel and you (some silly flash, tw animal death, implied cannibalism: jake litmag, kofi, gumroad)

5. pill reviews 2 (autofiction: gumroad, kofi)

honorable mention: elsewhere (poem, aurora magazine, tumblr)

other people's work (it changes all the time, honestly! and im sticking to poetry for this one)

1. sonnet 57 by kim addonizio

2. that poem by jasmine @/candiedspit that i forgot the title of and will add later— edit: title is green taxi and it was published in bodega mag :))

3. that poem by zack @/beautifulminduglythings that i also need to find first— edit: found it! on a defunct blog tho

4. the little softness poem by sam hensley

5. self portrait against red wallpaper by richard siken (sorry for being basic)

thats it! this took forever but i had so much fun ty for the ask<33 ill edit the necessary stuff in a bit gimme a sec

[hinagamoizaf]

Ishida-Yagami House Tour (Part 6) The house already has their personality in it, they’re the adults who picked out the furniture & added different coats of paint. So now with their bedroom, I wanted it to be a relaxing space. There’s a softly lit section for you to walk in & admire some artwork, and then there’s the main bedroom; this theme of dividing sections will follow in the kids’ rooms. This dawn/dusk wallpaper, I thought it was a beautiful blend of not only Yamato’s blue and Hikari’s pink colour palettes, but also gives his cool demeanour and her ethereal energy. Most of the hallways and other rooms have wood floors,the bedrooms have carpet because that’s more comfortable. You might notice there’s a shelf & dresser that were also there at the entrance (even in the exact same position), and I am here to say I liked these items so much, it was like ‘okay we’ll copy it from top to bottom, but we’ll change the swatches’. I avoided using tall wardrobes because dressers allow you put down knick-knacks & they’re not as blocky. Originally none of the windows had curtains,for like the entire house. But coming around to this era of my gameplay, I was like okay we can afford a few. For parts & items in the house to represent the couple Yakari typically I gave Hikari & Yamato white-black-silver, cool tones. As opposed to the whole Ishida-Yagami family, it was browns and warmer tones. Even the colour of the frames from the wall of memories vs the pictures in Yakari’s master bedroom, they’re specifically colour-coded & mirror each other. You’ll see it again in the upstairs office, but like the rose in the corner & bottle bucket, those are items that you gain originally from achievements. So I thought that was another nice memory to add to Yamato and Hikari’s bedroom from their dates. They’ve got a big old ensuite bathroom,and I had this cute vision of both Hikari and Yamato giving the many twin toddlers a bath at the same time.

[oyeturtleinteriors]

Ceiling Decor Ideas for Modern Homes

In modern interior design, ceilings are no longer just an ignored wall. Transform your ceiling into a prime focus can upgrade your space, adding character and depth to any room. With innovative ceiling décor ideas, you can turn that neglected area of your home into a stylish statement. Whether you’re considering textured finishes or intricate moldings, statement ceilings have gained popularity in modern home décor. Today, homeowners are embracing innovative ceiling designs to add warmth and unique style. Dive into these unique ceiling décor ideas and discover how to make your ceilings as stylish as the rest of your home.

Wooden Beams: Wooden beams on ceilings bring warmth, charm and a touch of rustic elegance to modern interiors. As a most popular choice in ceiling décor, these statement ceiling makes a remarkable impact by adding both texture and depth to the room. Whether your style bend towards contemporary or modern, wooden beams creates a cozy yet smart ambience that compliments any interior theme. By infusing natural wood or painted wooden beams, you can transform your ceiling into a bold design piece.

Textured Ceilings: Textured ceilings brings a whole new dimension to interior design. As a fresh addition to ceiling décor ideas, textured ceilings varying from subtle patterns to intricate design – make statement ceilings an eye-catching piece. To their advantages; its bumpy texture helps in hiding imperfections by masking up cracks, poor drywall and other flaws, protecting ceiling from wear and tear. Also, it is cost-efficient and affordable option. It enhances a room’s style and ambience. If it’s affordable, it doesn’t mean that we can’t use it for a luxury purpose. Textured ceilings are most ideal design to give your space a touch of luxury.

Wallpaper for Ceiling: Wallpapering your ceiling is a creative and most common idea to infuse color and pattern into any room. As an unusual choice for statement ceiling, wallpapers can transform the ceiling into an elegant design feature enhancing overall look of the room. From the floral prints, metallic sheets to keeping it subtle with a light geometric pattern, there are endless options to match your aesthetics. These ceiling design ideas can go in living rooms, bedrooms adding a unique flair to them.

Mirror Ceiling: Mirror Ceilings are not so common choice but can be prove as one of the best and bold change to make in your home. As a standout option for statement ceiling, mirrored ceiling creates an illusion of height and openness, making room feels larger and brighter. Whether you opt for a full mirrored ceiling or a mosaic pattern, this unique design choice reflects lights beautifully, enhancing the natural beauty of the room. Perfect for modern and luxurious interiors, mirror ceilings add a glamorous and eye-catching element.

Coffered Ceiling: Coffered ceilings are a timeless design feature that brings elegance and charm to any room. This statement ceiling creates a stunning effect, visual decency and a sense of luxury with their gridding. These available in various shapes and finishes, from wood to contemporary painted designs, coffered ceilings are a classic and yet another versatile way to elevate your home décor.

Concrete Ceiling: Concrete ceilings bring a raw charm to interiors, making them standout in modern ceiling décor ideas. Concrete adds texture and minimalist aesthetic look to the home. The natural grey tones of concrete ceilings blend effortlessly with glass elements, wooden furniture while creating a balanced contrast in the room. Concrete ceilings are perfect for those who want modern, and not so chic ceiling design that showcases simplicity and grace.

Layered ceiling: Layered ceiling also known as tray ceiling are one of the best ceiling design ideas to have in your home. It uses multiple layers and heights to add plot to ceiling designs.  Paired with the right lighting, layered ceiling can create a magical ambience and a center of focus that enhances the entire room’s décor. Infusing ceiling décor such as moldings or textures can further highlights the layers more beautifully. These designs can go in any type of room and hall. It adds appealing visuals and more creative space in the room.

Skylight Ceiling: An innovative ceiling décor idea that brings in natural light while creating a stunning visual for the center focus of the home. Skylights are perfect for statement ceiling, adding an airy feel to the spaces like living rooms, kitchens and even in bathrooms. Décor elements like: Downlights, wooden beams and framings around the skylight can enhance the skylight making the ceiling décor both beautiful and functional. This design not only elevates the design look and ambience but also adds value to the space blending style with the magic of natural light.

Paint a Bold Color on your Ceiling: Painting your ceiling a bold color is another exciting yet simple ceiling décor idea that turns this often-overlooked wall into a striking statement-ceiling piece. A pop of color overhead can transform the mood of any room, adding warmth and elegance. Pairing bold ceiling colors with textured home décor elements – like patterned walls, textured furniture – creates a layered and dynamic look that feels stylish and unified. This décor approach not only draws the attention, but also gives your space the bold look with customized personality.

Ceilings are the unsung heroes of every home design, offering an empty canvas to add unique style and personality to any room. Integrating ceiling décor ideas into modern homes is like adding final creative touches to the masterpiece. Often plain ignored ceilings can look beautiful yet a piece of art by converting them into statement ceilings with textures, lighting etc.  Whether it’s layered textures, wallpapers, intricate moldings, or lightings, Modern ceiling décor ideas can transform your space from simple to breathtaking. By decorating this fifth ignored wall and giving it a unique personality making your home complete in every sense. So, look up and rethink your ceiling as a blank canvas that can complete your modern home design.

[uniqueinteriordesignbd]

Transform Your Space: Top Trends in Interior Design for 2024

As we step into 2024, the world of interior design is buzzing with fresh ideas and innovative styles that promise to transform our living spaces. Whether you’re planning a complete overhaul or just looking to refresh a room, here are the top trends to watch this year.

Check this page: best interior design company in bangladesh

1. Sustainable Design

Sustainability continues to be a significant focus in interior design. Homeowners are increasingly opting for eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and natural fibers. Expect to see a rise in furniture made from sustainable resources, as well as an emphasis on energy-efficient appliances and fixtures. Incorporating plants and biophilic design elements also helps bring a touch of nature indoors.

2. Bold Colors and Patterns

In 2024, we’re seeing a departure from minimalistic neutral palettes. Vibrant colors and bold patterns are making a statement. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep burgundy are popular choices for accent walls or larger furniture pieces. Layering patterns through textiles, wallpapers, and art will add depth and personality to spaces.

3. Multi-Functional Spaces

As remote work becomes more common, the need for versatile spaces is paramount. Home offices that double as guest rooms, or living areas that can transform into exercise zones, are in high demand. Look for furniture that offers storage solutions or can be easily reconfigured to suit different activities, ensuring every square foot is utilized effectively.

4. Textured Surfaces

Texture is key in 2024. Mixing materials—such as velvet cushions, knitted throws, and rattan furniture—adds a tactile dimension to interiors. Textured walls, whether through wallpaper or plaster finishes, can create visual interest and warmth. This trend encourages homeowners to explore and experiment with different textures for a more dynamic environment.

5. Vintage and Retro Revival

Nostalgia plays a big role in this year’s trends. Vintage and retro designs are making a comeback, with pieces from the mid-century modern era and even the 70s gaining popularity. Thrifted finds and vintage-inspired furniture can add character to any room, while also promoting sustainable practices by giving new life to old items.

Checkout this page: interior design company in bangladesh

6. Personalized Spaces

2024 is all about individuality. Homeowners are encouraged to create spaces that reflect their personal stories and tastes. Gallery walls showcasing personal art collections, family photos, or even travel mementos are a great way to add a unique touch. Mixing different styles and eras in a single space will create an eclectic vibe that tells your story.

7. Smart Home Integration

Technology continues to reshape our living spaces. Smart home devices—like lighting systems, security cameras, and smart speakers—are becoming more integrated into design. Expect to see stylish solutions that blend seamlessly into your décor, enhancing both convenience and aesthetic appeal.

8. Wellness-Focused Design

Wellness is a priority in 2024, influencing everything from layout to materials. Spaces designed for relaxation and mindfulness, such as meditation corners or wellness nooks with natural light, are increasingly popular. Choosing calming color schemes and incorporating elements like aromatherapy or sound therapy can create a sanctuary within your home.

Conclusion

As we embrace these trends in 2024, remember that the best design is one that reflects your personality and meets your needs. Whether you choose to go bold with colors or prioritize sustainability, the key is to create a space that feels uniquely yours. Happy decorating!

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