#I know the garden party and pub scene are too short in this one

[owlsie-hoot]

Slowly realisation hits that there is something more...but it seems out of reach.

[liw-the-melancholic-apple]

The First One - Bonus scenes in traditional written word

This is a smau and a zukoXreader, although i haven't decided how this ends yet.

Y/n has recently transferred to Ba Sing Se from Omashu university and meets the gaang through a schoolproject they do with sokka and suki.

Masterlist

Bonus 4: Good Morning

The sound of a machine of some sorts woke you up. A look out the window confirmed two things: It was still rather early and Haru’s parents’ neighbours had no idea what an appropriate time for high-pressure-cleaning patios was. Sighing you sat up and looked around. You found your shoes and thought you remembered where the bathroom was.

The short night definitely left its traces on you: Your clothes and hair looked deschevelled, you didn’t smell as fresh as you would like, you had dark circles under your eyes and your voice was rather hoarse. You did what you could without rummaging through the drawers of the bathroom, then you wandered through the house.

There were fotos everywhere. Most of them were of Haru, who you guessed didn’t have any siblings, but some had a very kind-looking couple on them. A wedding picture in which they both laughed at something happening out of frame. It seemed genuine, a true candid shot. He had his hand around her waist and her hand was in mid-air, presumably on its way to fix his tie for the actual wedding picture, but something must have had happened. They both were bending over laughing pointing out of frame looking at each other.

You studied the picture. I made you like the couple. It made you believe in their love and their relationship. It made you want to get to know them. Be a part of that happiness and trust and joy. There was no question why they chose to display this picture. It was amazing!

You watched the couple become parents, buy a house, get older and go through the decades that saw Haru grow from a baby into a smiley toddler, distracted child, unimpressed teenager and openhearted twenty-something. They seemed a happy family. Truly.

The journey through Haru’s life had left you at the front door and wanting some coffee. You found the kitchen empty but quickly discovered a coffee machine. While it was entirely too sophisticated for the broke student you were, you did manage to get it to spew out some dark and caffeinated goodness into a cup you found in the second cupboard you opened. With it you kept on strolling through the house until the living room introduced you to the French doors that lead into the garden. And boy, the garden!

You sat in that little paradise when your phone buzzed and Zuko begged you to talk to him. Apparently, he was at his uncle’s shop working the early shift and there was not a lot to do as it was Sunday. You texted back and forth for a good while.

Yesterday you hadn’t talked to him a lot, outside of him apologising for his uncle and the Sokka-rum-discussion. You know learned that he was a good nephew and studied International Business and International Relations. When you called him out as ambitious, though, he was quick to bring up the words pressure and expectations. You didn’t know him. And whatever those expectations and that pressure were about it seemed you weren’t competent to comment on it or them. Zuko struck you as a private person. You contemplated telling him exactly that. You didn’t. You conveyed the message, though. He seemed relieved. And he liked politics and diplomacy which told you a number of things: 

Be wary of any promises he makes. He might be doing that politician thing where he doesn’t keep them

If you ever want to ruin somebody’s life or career, ask him how to do it, he will have learned about it and remembered

If you ever don’t know how to handle a conflict ask him, he’s into figuring out compromises and status-quo-situation

He probably gives good advice. The kind that will be good for you and not too offensive to others

He is smart

He is into reading

He can find the good in the bad.

After all it sounded like his parents made him study those subjects and if he had had a true choice he would have gone for something else. Yet, he found aspects that he enjoyed, that he could use in his life and that he could be passionate about.

He liked travelling

All in all he was intriguing. A lot of layers to peel back. Whether it be the interest in politics – which were a lot of smoothtalking, manipulation, using popular opinions AND ideologies, the fate and future of countries and people and so many struggles or the family history. You could probably have real conversations with him. And you decided you would like to as well.

Another thing you learned about Zuko was that he was Sokka’s secret source for his part of the Worldhistory project. In the past couple weeks Sokka had gone on and on about how much information he had gotten form an anonymous sponsor.

“Sokka made it sound like you were the discovery of a century!”

“Am I not?” No, for all you knew he wasn’t.

Yes, he was intriguing and most likely multi-layered; yes he was tall and dark and handsome and that scar on his face added several facets to that handsomeness; yes, he had that tea-loving angel of an uncle, but he was no discovery of a century. He was some good-looking guy with an interesting background.

“To be determined” Better not alienate him by telling him he wasn’t all that special. You still wanted to be his friend.

Could you have gone on for two more hours talking to Zuko? Yes. Yes. You could have. But you didn’t because there were footsteps in the house. And it sounded like they were coming from the kitchen. You got up to investigate. Hoping you’d find Sokka, Suki, Toph, Aang or Katara in the kitchen, you would have been okay with Haru, but instead you found an agile white haired gentleman. From the fotos you recognised him as Haru’s father. He was doing something to the sophisticated coffeemachine and congratulated himself. Then he turned around, saw you, got scared and nearly let his cup fall and crash on the kitchen tiles. Instead he just made a weird move with his arm that resulted in a wave of hot liquid jumping into the air and splashing on the floor.

“Ouch!”, the man screamed. “Who the hell are you?”

“Sorry, Sir. Y/n. I’m friends with… I know your son. Haru. We helped him pack up the party yesterday and he told us we could stay here. I assumed you knew…Excuse the intrusion, please.”

“Tyro”, he extended his hand. You shook it.

“You’re not intruding. Haru told us that some of his friends might stay over. I just didn’t expect anybody to be awake yet. And we don’t know each other.”

“Again, sir, sorry.”

“That cup empty?” Tyro pointed at the mug you had brought with you.

“Nearly. I took the liberty of drinking your coffee.”

“Do you want more? I can offer you black coffee and black coffee with milk from the fridge. The thing is supposed to be able to come up with all kinds of fancy drinks, but that’s more my wife’s department. I didn’t bother learning about that.”

“Black coffee would make me really happy, Sir.”

Tyro filled your cup and gestured for you to follow him back into the garden. So, you did. He asked about who you were and how you knew his son.

“To be honest, Sir, there isn’t a lot to tell. I moved to the city for this semester. Transferred from Omashu University. I’m studying anthropology. One of the classes I take together with Sokka and Suki, who are friends with Zuko who used to be Haru’s roommate. Aaaaaaand they brought me to the party yesterday. There I met Haru. The end.”

“You helped him tidy up the speakers and all that jazz after having only met him that night?” You nodded your head yes.

“Commendable.”

You carried on talking to Haru’s dad, brushing on the subjects of family, education and music. The band Haru played in was called “Grounded”. According to Tyro they were “just having fun” but they also “sounded like actual musicians”. This band needed to be inspected.

You told him about Gray Sky and Tiff on the Rocks, the pub you used to play. It turned out that Haru inherited his passion for music from his father. Dad all but interrogated you on you average guitar playing and experience with piano lessons, when his wife walked through the French doors.

She introduced herself to you and asked if you wanted more coffee. As she was the coffee-maker-whisperer, you now were offered the entire range of coffee-drinks and gladly accepted a Cappuccino the size of your head. After she mad you happy with that, she sent you back out, with the intention of preparing breakfast. You offered to help but were quickly shut down.

The moment you sat down in the lounge chair by big tree, Haru entered the kitchen, got a cup of coffee from his mum and was surprised to find you in musical discussion with his father. Thankfully, he did remember you and was delighted to hear that you were a fellow guitarist, even though he was likely a lot more skilled than you were. In fact, you said this multiple times, resulting in Haru running inside and grabbing one of his dad’s guitars.

You  started by playing some of the 90's hits that Sokka had massacred the night before, proving that Haru was better than you. You handed the instrument back to him. 

"How about You Oughta Know?", he suggested. You looked at him, blinking. 

"You said you used to sing in Omashu. Let's hear it."

"Uhm…", you hesitated.

"I'm with stupid", Tyro chuckled. "I'm curious."

"Fine."  You let Haru play a few tacts before you started the verse. He harmonised with you in the chorus, during which Tyro got another guitar.

From Alanis you moved to the Verve; from "Nothing compares 2 u", to "Loser". Haru and his dad loved the 90's. Nirvana, Take That, TLC, Blur, Oasis, Britney, Beasty Boys, you named it they had it. Aang, Katara, Suki, Sokka and Toph joined you three out on the patio, all carrying cups of various coffees and plates full of food. While harmonising to Tyro's lead you remembered that his wife had talked about preparing breakfast. From what you saw on your friend's - yeah friends! - plates, she had not held back. There were eggs and bacon, pancakes, bread, cinnaminrolls and meats, cheeses, jams, butter and honey.

When she herself came out to join the table, she carried a  bowl of yoghurt and nuts, that she assured everyone was an option for everyone. Tyro got his own plate and dat down next to Sokka. He motioned for Haru and you to come eat but you two were determined to finish the decade. So, you did. And then you entered the 2000s. Every now and again you'd pick up the second guitar, while alternating with Haru singing lead and harmonising. You had the time of your life!

Haru's mum topped off your coffees and although your stomach was screaming at you to give it some of the wonderful smelling food, you played and sang for more than two hours. The others enjoyed your efforts and sang along when they were done eating. Tyro relieved his son of guitar duties and jammed with you while Haru diminished the pancakes. 

He then took your spot and you praised the eggs, bacon and cinnamonrolls.

"If you're ever desperate  for something to do, you're welcome to my appartment and put on breakfast!",  you said, all but crying, after noon when you had finished. Haru's mum blushed. But die didn't say no.

After you had finished your breakfast, everyone helped clear the table and load the dishwasher. Tyro insisted you all had another round of coffee, during which there was more music and Sokka got the recipe for the hangover cure smoothie that Mrs Haru  had made him as soon as he entered the kitchen.

You left around 2:30 with many "thank yous" and "you're the bests" and "we can help some mores". Although you hadn't slept much you decided to hit up the Jasmin Dragon to see if Zuko had  died from boredom already. 

[thegryffindorprincess]

Save His Soul (Chapter One)//Draco Malfoy x OC reader Fan Fiction

A/N: Hi Loves! This chapter is pretty much setting a bit of the scene, though we finally get some Draco Malfoy action! I hope you enjoy this part, i’ve got a lot of cool things coming up!

PLAYLIST

Set: post war

Word count: 1,342

Warnings: swearing, drug refrences, light sex refrences. 

Tuesday Fawley shot up in bed and flung the covers off of her body. The knocking on the door persisted, and became louder. She grabbed her dressing gown off of her door and wrapped it around her body while running towards the door of her flat. She flung it open. She was met with Pansy Parkison’s slightly pissed off face, and a girl she’d never seen before.

“Finally!” The black haired girl huffed. The other girl elbowed her side. “Sorry. Can we come in?” Tuesday shrugged and moved out of the way of the door, allowing them to enter. 

“Nice place.” Pansy said flatly. The girl beside her coughed lightly. “Oh yeah, this is Daphne,” Tuesday raised her brow, “my girlfriend.” Daphne and Tuesday politely shook hands. “So, you may uh be wondering why i’m here.” Tuesday had a bit of an idea of what was coming, but patiently waited for it to come from her mouth. Pansy scanned the room and fixed her gaze on the folded over front page of yesterdays Wizard Weekly magazine that was sitting on the coffee table. “You’ve seen then?” Pansy motioned towards the paper. The front page read: ‘Exclusive: I slept with Draco Malfoy, and here’s what I learnt.’ 

“Yeah.” Tuesday replied bluntly, running a hand through her brown hair. “I don’t really know what that has to do with me though.” Pansy let out a slight scoff. Daphne shot her a glance. 

“It has everything to do with you.” Pansy retorted. She suddenly stood up and grabbed the magazine. “This,” she said unfolding the paper, “has everything,” she thrust it at Tuesday, it landing on her lap, “to do with you.” Tuesday sat silently, watching Draco’s face move on the front page. “And that’s why we’re here.” Pansy leant back on the sofa with her legs crossed watching Tuesday carefully. 

“Whatever you’re going to suggest,” Tuesday shot a glance at her, “the answer will be no.” She stood up then and, magazine in hand, dropped it emotionally into the recycling bin. “I have worked long and hard to forget about that boy, and I don’t need that progress to be fucked up by his actions.” She then almost pulled Pansy out of her chair, and ushered the two towards the door. “So, I think we’re done here.” 

Pansy looked at her again, sadly this time. “I get it.” She whispered as she opened the front door. “But please consider it. Getting back in touch with him. He needs you.” With that, the two women left, leaving Tuesday alone again in her flat. 

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Her day at work had been appalling. Even worse than usual. Tuesday’s heels clattered along the pavement as she headed towards the Leaky Cauldron. It was raining heavily, and her umbrella was taking the strain. She made it though and walked into the pub with a sigh. She shuffled in and placed her umbrella and coat onto the rack.

“Tuesday!” She heard a beaming voice call out, “What’re you after?” She smiled as she walked to the bar. The voice of course belonging to Hannah Abbott, the land lady. 

“Fire whisky please Hannah.” Hannah poured her the drink and slid it across the bar. 

“Long day?” She asked cleaning some glasses while eyeing Tuesday’s tired body language. 

“Something like that.” Hannah knew that was as much conversation she’d get out of her today, and smiling sympathetically, moved along to take someone else’s order. Tuesday grabbed today’s issue of Wizard Weekly from her bag and began to read the front page. It read ‘EXCLUSIVE: Leaked photos of Draco Malfoy with suspicious white powder! Sex and drug addict?’ She grabbed the paper from the table and moved to the garden outside with her drink. She slipped onto one of the gazebo-covered benches and lit a cigarette, smoking and reading the front page.

“You know,” a familiar voice said gently, “you really shouldn’t read the shit they put out there.” In a little bit of shock, Tuesday looked up through her big, brown eyes to be met with steely grey ones. Him. “I didn’t know places like this were your scene.” The owner of the voice slid in opposite her. Draco smirked at her silence and sipped his drink, not breaking eye contact once. Her voice was stuck in her throat and Tuesday simply stared at him with wide eyes. He looked amazing. He was taller than before, his platinum blonde hair flopping a little on his face and he was wearing a black turtle neck and suit. 

“Hi...” Tuesday eventually pushed out, a little cautiously. She closed the paper, and turned it around so the front cover was now face down on the table.

“How’re you love?” He asked quietly, smiling a little while studying her face. She crinkled her nose up and shrugged. He laughed a little. “Bad?” God she was cute. 

“Bad day, that’s all.” Really she wanted to scream. She wanted to hit him and yell at him for what he did to her. She also wanted to jump at him and kiss him until he had no choice but to stay there forever. She wanted to tell him it wasn’t a bad day, it had been a bad four and a half years without him. But she didn’t. 

“We all have those.” He answered so calmly it almost annoyed her. “So, has your day been improved or made worse by my sudden appearance.” Draco raised an eyebrow and although he was attempting to hold up a calm composure, he was secretly anything but. 

“We’ll have to see won’t we.” Tuesday looked in his eyes again. And then, despite doing everything she could, she began to cry. Gentle translucent tears rolled from her eyes and she quickly lifted her pale hands to wipe them away. ‘Typical’ she thought. 

“Hey hey hey.” Draco stood up and slid onto her side of the bench, placing his arms around her. “What’s all this?” Tuesday sniffled a little and tried to ignore the glowing feeling in her tummy. 

“I’m just...” she unhooked herself from his grip and placed her head between her hands, “honestly Draco i’m still angry at you.” He looked at her carefully and screwed up his face. 

“You should be.” He gently shuffled forward so their faces were closer together. “I was a coward. In fact, I still am. Addicted to a culture of me, me, me. I protected myself and not my morals. I gave into temptation. I still do.” She turned a little to face him. “Actually, I’m angry at me too.”  Tuesday nodded a little. Draco once more turned to look at her.

“But...” he said breathing out gently, “I’d really like to be friends.” She looked down a little awkwardly. “Only if thats what you want.” She mentally contemplated what he’d said, a million things running through her head. 

“Okay.” She nodded. “I would like to be friends.” Draco grinned and pulled her into a gentle hug. Just then, she heard a phone ringing. He pulled it from his pocked motioning that he had to take it. She politely nodded, attempting to hide her bemusement at the mighty Draco Malfoy owning a muggle phone. 

“No Astoria. In fact, I don’t wish to sleep with you again. I’m too busy.” He snapped this to the girl on the other side. “Don’t phone this number again, okay?” He slammed the phone on the table huffing a little. Tuesday sat quietly. but a little smugly waiting for him to talk again. 

“Listen,” Draco turned to her smiling, “To pay hommage to our new friendship, would you like to come to a ministry party on Friday?” He shifted a little to get closer. “I know it’s short notice but all of your other friends will be there too so,” Draco sighed nervously, “I’d like you to come.” Tuesday smiled at him, and before placing a quick kiss to his cheek replied: “I’d love to.” 

[killer-benhardy]

Say It - Part 7

Ben!Roger Taylor x Reader

A/N: I really suck at writing sad sappy stuff. so get ready to cringe your heads off ;) but i’m so sorry that i like died for a while. but writing this actually broke my heart into pieces. hope you enjoy this x 

“Say it?” Roger questioned. It was the first time that Roger didn’t know what ‘say it’ meant. For the time since you’ve been dating him, he was unsure of what he had to say. And it made you feel even worse.

“Why aren’t you saying it?” You cried out. It brought the attention of others around you. Of course, since it was just outside the pub. You weren’t usually one to make a scene in public.

“I think you just need to relax for a bit Y/N. You need to breathe the fresh air,” he held your hand.

His touch meant everything to you. Until you saw him lay hand on another woman, probably not even thinking of you.

You wanted it to always be like this. Roger would be by your side, you’d watch him as Queen’s success would grow, you’d marry each other, you’d grow old together, see your children grow up.

To live in a house that would have enough rooms for the two of you, and for the parties that Freddie would throw. Maybe have a garden full of the most beautiful roses and a water fountain that you’d dance around with Roger till midnight. That was what you’d always dream of. But that’s all it was.

A dream.

“You know that I love you so much, right?” Roger smiled weakly. It’s what you wanted to believe. But you know that is wasn’t the truth. All you could think about was him with another woman backstage.

“I don’t know what to believe anymore, Roger.” You pulled your hands away from him.

All you wanted to do was hold in your embrace forever. You wanted to remember all the times you’d spend dancing around in the living room while having a drink or two, listening to Queen’s records.

Those memories had now become blurry. You kept imagining all the times he’d go on tour and how many girls he’d hook up with. You don’t know how many that would be, but you know that it would be at least half a dozen.

“How was your time away from me? Did you have fun performing not in London?” Your eyes could stop getting watery.

“Why would you ever think of that, babe?” He kept trying to reach out to you. You wanted to, but you couldn’t.

“Just say it, Roger!”

“I can’t say it to you Y/N! It’ll make me feel worse.”

“I know. That you’re fucking another woman while your girlfriend is in the same building,” you said surprisingly very calm.

But he knew that meant that you were more than angry. It was something that Roger had learn after being in a relationship with you since you weren’t one to get angry often.

“I-I- it isn’t what it looks like baby, believe me.”

“What. Was it just a one-off thing?” You questioned, trying to figure out if it really was or not.

He kept silent for a while. For a bit too long. “N-n-not exactly, but-” Roger was close to admitting it.

“But what? You just accidentally go into a bathroom and shove your dick in her?” Every word you said broke your heart. Why did you have to say these things to him?

“Okay, but I haven’t seen or spoken to Amy for weeks and-”

“Just weeks? How long have you been seeing her? Weeks? Months?”

“I can’t answer that Y/N. I feel so guilty and I’m sorry,” he shoved his hands into the back pockets of his pants. He was clearly uncomfortable and genuinely sorry.

‘I’m sorry.’ The words you deeply didn’t want to hear. But he finally said it to you. You didn’t realise how much it would hurt you.

More tears. And it felt like your breath began to shorten more and more. It was like you were drowning in the sea or as if you’ve been spinning for hours and hours.

“Do you remember when you were a child and always wanted to hold onto a balloon?” You put on a weak smile.

“Yes,” he croaked. He was confused.

“And you’d let go. And watch it float up, up, up, up into the air. You’d hope it would come back down. But it never did. It kept going.”

“What do you mean, Y/N?”

“That’s what I’ve been feeling inside ever since you’ve been acting like I’m just one of your fucking groupies! And it’s cause you’ve been cheating on me!” You’ve never seen Roger look so vulnerable, with tears forming in his eyes.

You hadn’t noticed it, but he had a small black jewellery box in his pocket. “I-I was going to pro-” He held it and tried to reach for your hands.

“Don’t fucking touch me, Roger Meddows Taylor,” you broke down even more. The thought of Roger proposing to you was something you didn’t want to imagine anymore. He was going to propose to you with the secret of him cheating on you.

“Don’t you fucking dare try to call me.”

“Don’t speak to me.”

“Don’t even look at me,” you choked on every word. You didn’t expect yourself to ever say that to the person you love.

Once loved.

“Y/N, where are you going?” He knew that trying to follow you would make things worse, so he just stood where he was.

“Anywhere but here,” you stated while walking away from Roger. As you tried to wipe away the tears, all you could think of was Roger chasing after you.

But for the first time, he didn’t. And this saddened you even more. You didn’t expect yourself to experience something so heartbreaking.

You’ve been in other relationships and had other breakups, but for some reason this breakup really hit you.

Maybe it was the fact you gave everything to him. All your love, devotion and time. All the time you gave to him which now seems like has gone to waste.

“That jerk,” you sniffled.

“Um, where’s Y/N and Roger?” Brian asked a very drunk Freddie and John. Everyone was completely shitfaced, so there was really no point of trying to ask them questions.

“Why are you wondering darling? They’re a couple so they’re probably shagging somewhere,” Freddie slurred with a glass of champagne.

And that’s when a familiar blonde came towards the three boys. “Fancy seeing you here, how have you boys been?”

Amy. Her hair was at waist length, had the same colour as Roger’s and her blue eyes were like the ocean. Along with her perfect body proportions, and symmetrical face, she was obviously a model.

“Oh my dear, Amy! It’s been only a few weeks since we’ve seen you!” Freddie spoke raising his glass towards her.

“What brings you to London?” John asked with a drunken smile. Brian wasn’t trying to acknowledge her being there, but that would just be just plain rude if he were to do so.

She was wearing a plain black dress that just cut off around her thigh, and it was quite short with some simplistic makeup.

She sat down in the seat where you were sitting before you left, and that bothered Brian. “Uh, sorry Amy, but that’s Y/N’s seat.”

A smirk came upon her face, “Who’s this Y/N? Oh, Roger’s Y/N? I’ve heard lots of things about her.”

“You have? Y/N is the best, she’s the sweetest to all of us,” John smiled slouching into his seat.

“Where is our darling Y/N?” Freddie asked, moving his head around the place to try and find you. But none of the boys knew that you already left.

“Well I bumped into Roger when I came in, he looked a bit off. Maybe you should check on him, Brian?” Amy stated, fluttering her eyelashes with a huge grin. So he walked around the pub again and walked into the bathroom, to find Roger curled up on the floor.

“Roger, what are you doing mate?” He was crying, something that none of the boys has seen before.

The only time that they’ve seen Roger cry was when his drumkit broke, but those were tears of frustration and not sadness. But this was the first time Brian has seen Roger so heartbroken.

“It’s Y/N. I fucked up Bri. Fucked up real bad.” He sniffed on nearly every word. He was breaking. And the ring he was going to give you was now on the floor along with the box that looked like it was thrown around the place.

“Maybe we should call it a night. Go home and Y/N will be there,” Brian recommended but he knew that you wouldn’t do that. You were hurting.

“Yeah that sounds good,” Roger stood up and headed towards the bathroom door. He wasn’t walking the way he usually would, instead of walking with his shoulders back and high, he wasn’t caring about his posture.

“No, I need another drink, Bri.” And Roger decided to stay in the pub, drinking his sorrows away.

Walking around past midnight wasn’t the best idea, especially since there weren’t many people around. And you didn’t know where else to go since you couldn’t really go back to yours and Roger’s apartment.

You couldn’t bear to see his face after you shouted at him how much you didn’t want to see him. Even though you really did.

You didn’t know where to go until you found a phone box and called the only number you knew that would pick up at this time. “Let’s hope you pick up the phone.” You slot in a few coins and dial in the number and wait.

“Hey, can you please pick me up? I have no idea where I am. I’ve been walking for ages and I just don’t know where to go. I just got too angry and I regret everything that I said. I just don’t know what to do. It’s cold and I want to go home but I know that it wouldn’t be the best thing to do. I’m sorry to bother you for this,” you spoke while you were shivering from the cold.

Your feet were aching and it would be best to think that you’ve caught a cold from walking for so long.

“There’s a few shops around, lots of streetlights and a pub-”

“Y/N, are you outside the pub we were at?”

“Yes…”

“I’m coming.”

Not even fifteen minutes passed by and Queen’s band van came by. And all you could think about was the first time you met Roger. But that memory went away when you saw John open the door.

“John? I-”

“Don’t worry, he answered the phone while he was in the bath. His place isn’t far away so don’t worry.” John explained while you sat down. And he wasn’t kidding, you were outside the apartment in ten minutes.

You knocked on the door, just twice, very lightly. A few seconds later, it opened.

“Y/N.”

“Brian.”

--

Taglist: @roger-taylor-stole-my-heart @ilyjules @cosmiclunas @lilliekrs @mrsmazzello @mercurys-bike@jemcairrstairs @wolverinesbeer@anamcg317@wingardiumlevidonewithlife @a3lizale @lelifesaver @jennycidesstuff @killerqueenbucky @benhardyjones @bookish-oreo@obsessedwithrogertaylor @cloveofmylife @yourealegendroger @florenceivy @marvellouspengwing

[veridium]

A Wedding At Skyhold (P. 1/2)

I had this head canon in my daydreams for the last week, ever since I started conceptualizing some relationship and friendship arcs with the introduction of Veronica, Naomi, and Olivia to Skyhold. Also, #OLIVANDRA.

Word Count: 3,808

Summary: Two Scouts get married in Skyhold, prompting Theia to take advantage of a happy occasion to host a fortress celebration. The romance and happiness in the air soften up a few of the Inquisitions’ allies, and lead to some heartfelt mischief. A lot of Gay shit(tm) happens.

--

Very few types of occasions inspired glee in the Skyhold fortress -- winning battles, getting new uniforms and weapons, the birth of children, and weddings. Tonight, it was the last one. A pair of Scouts, having long-traveled together before enlisting in the Inquisition’s forces, found they had one-too-many near-death experiences to warrant remaining unwed. So, when they came to Mother Giselle for assistance, she in turn went to the Inquisitor with the news and for some sort of approval. Theia, not one to hold back romance, gave her wholehearted blessing one one condition: they could have a proper celebration, using the fortress grounds as the space.

Josephine was jubilant when her Love brought the issue to her attention, and found some spare coinage here and there to send for some tasteful decorative fabrics, tables, and of course food and drink befitting such an occasion. Their efforts were encouraged by the Spymaster who had supervised the couple in their work -- they were two of her best people, and she believed they deserved the reward of one happy and carefree evening.

As the sun went down, the Fortress’s population of professionals across a myriad of race and class lines came together to celebrate the couple. They had elected to marry in private, secluded from the energetic crowd in order to honor just how long they had traversed the world with only the other as back-up to their misadventures. But, as they exited from the Fortress Gardens, generous applause erupted through the crowd. There couldn’t have been any less than a hundred people present for their reception and party.

Everyone had, indeed, taken the chance to dust off their formal wear from their own respective backgrounds: gowns, coats, fur trim, embellishments, with every kind of origin from Tevinter to the Free Marches. It was a relief to feel comfortable in your own skin, not tightened up in Winter Palace regalia, or cinched in armor.

The long, rectangular banquet tables were designed as a square frame around the dance floor, which was grass and dirt instead of marble, but it would do. Strings of paper lanterns had been leveraged between rooftops -- special appreciation was in order for Cole and Sera, who had the dexterity and rooftop access to do so -- which illuminated the grounds in the evening darkness quite well. The night was rich and romantic, and you could almost forget that everyone there had been calloused and effected by such an ugly time of war. Such a seductive atmosphere might prove fruitful for those who sought out its pleasures.

--

Watching the couple dance in between a flurry of other swinging and spinning couples, Theia held her chalice to her smiling lips. She stood beside her Lover and Chief Ambassador, and both women looked like visions ready to be encapsulated in portraits: Theia, wearing a heather grey gown with off-shoulder long sleeves, trimmed with a lighter grey fur, with beautiful embroidery on the bodice in light blue and white colors. Josephine had managed to find a spare gown from her trunk sent from her home offices, one customary to wear for such occasions: gold, billowy in shape, but beautifully tailored to show off her figure.

Also at their side of the table, Lady Olivia was poised in her seat, dressed in a simple but refined black gown with a wide, blue-grey sash wrapped around her waist. The skirt was short, tea-length, and perfect for dancing. Beside was Sera, who had managed to borrow a dress from one of the well-meaning pub girls: the country dress fit her well for a lended outfit, the puffy short-sleeves and corset bodice making her look more carefree and dainty than she had ever been.

Somewhere, Vivienne was amusing herself, too, with the visuals of the celebration. She had done much to inspire intimidation amongst Inquisition personnel, but even she had a weakness for romantic affairs. Losing the Duke only recently, she found solace in the distraction, if temporarily. Sometimes, a memory would resurface and inspire melancholy, but, those moments became fewer and farther in-between as the days went on.

Her drinking and sneering companion, Dorian, also provided a sufficient distraction from her sadness. He had hardly stopped laughing, joking, and teasing all evening. At one point, he even made Cullen blush -- Cullen, of all people -- with a backhanded compliment referring to the fit of his overcoat in proportion to his shoes. Vivienne didn’t pay enough attention to know any further details than that.

--

Veronica, having danced two rounds of songs which sent her into a jubilant sweat, swayed herself over to Theia who was holding back laughter at such a sight.

“Friend, you really must join in, we all know you have the guts!” Veronica teased, grabbing Theia’s hand and pulling her around in a circle that was dizzy before it even started. Theia went along with it, giggling with affection before pulling herself back down to Earth.

“Not yet, I’m afraid!” she replied, stepping back to Josephine’s side, “I am trying to let the wine sink in before I open myself up to embarrassment.”

“My Love, if you can dance in the den of Halamshiral’s intrigues, you can manage a quaint country dance,” Josephine critiqued, a sly grin on her lips. It turned into a smile when Theia’s eyes were on her, humorously betrayed by her Lover’s disagreement.

“Why don’t you dance with the Ambassador, then, Veronica? I’m sure you both could spend the song gossiping about me and my shortcomings.”

Veronica grabbed a chalice she surely didn’t know belonged to her for sure or not, and took a swig. Swallowing roughly and with vigor, she scoffed. “Theia, we do that all hours of the day, it’s hardly sacrosant. Fine then, I suppose I can go make Cullen trip all over his words again when I ask him,”

“Veronica, don’t eat my Commander alive,” Theia’s eyes narrowed as she tried to keep herself from looking to mischievous.

“Surely not, I haven’t the room for so much...fiber,” she winked as she retreated to the crowd in search of her surefire entertainment. Theia shook her head, more amused than she wanted to admit. Cullen had always been so stiff and unrelenting in his stoicism, and Veronica was a hitch in his confidence. She only hoped that he didn’t feel it to be a serious thing, and that he could tell she was playful and not sincere.

Such a conflict would be rather awkward to unpack around the Council table.

Theia turned to her Lover and wrapped a hand around her waist, pulling her in closer as she felt the butterflies in her stomach that this woman still gave her after months of ups and downs.

“Thank you for putting this all together. I am sure it came at no small cost,” Theia cooed, her face close to Josephine’s to the point where their noses could touch. The Ambassador, smiling smugly amongst her handiwork, was nothing but satisfied.

“It is good to keep in practice for such events. It is also incredibly romantic,” she admitted, resting a hand on Theia’s chest. Feeling that no one was staring at them too much, they exchanged a sweet and lingering kiss. They dreamt of such experiences where no war loomed, no battle was being recovered from, and they could enjoy each other in the glowing nature of an evening.

--

A bit later on, Cole had proven a more surprising guest. His first greeting was with the Seeker of all people, who hung back, leaning on one of the wood beams that had been dug into the ground to support the lanterns’ strings. She held her wine chalice to her chest, a subtle grin on her lips as she observed all of the lighthearted happiness in the scene around her. Her own romantic heart was blooming underneath her taciturn shell, and she felt bashful for even allowing it to happen, but, sometimes it was unavoidable.

Feeling his presence, and having become less disturbed by the way it materialized out of thin air, she feigned ambivalence.

“You are humming along even when you do not know the song,” Cole greeted in his own way.

“Hello, Cole,” she sighed, knowing what was to ensue if she were to engage with him. More deciphering of intimate thoughts, more battling with mortification.

“Seeker. Seeking relief, seeking something real. Seeking sense of it all. You turn and turn and turn, pacing, in and out of the truth. Your title is irony.”

“Cole, please,” she protested half-heartedly, knowing such efforts were futile. “Now is not...the time, Cole.”

“Now is always time, Cassandra. She smells of oils and flowers. People tried to drown you in them before, but now you find you like them more.”

“I haven’t the slightest idea of what you--”

From yards away, there was an enunciated giggling from a warm and light voice. Both of them turned to look, and saw a fair maiden wearing a black dancing dress. She had her hair braided and tucked in a bun similar in style to Josephine’s signature look, but now, it was being improved upon by several children’s hands sticking flowers in it. Olivia, charmed beyond all comprehension, was giggling in reaction to the ticklish sensation their hands evoked, clamoring for her hair and skin like she was a doll come to life.

Little girls, hair braided like hers, but more frizzy and youthful. More wild. Crouched between them all on the ground, her skirt spread around her, Olivia looked like a benevolent Princess from somewhere far away, in both space and time. Her smile lighting the space like the lanterns did.

“She is calcified butterfly wings. Graceful grief. The sour taste of silver jewelry on the tongue. She spreads joy to cloak her pain.”

Cassandra heard his narration for the most endearing scene, and a pang of melancholy hit her chest. She had meant to ask Theia for more background on this woman, but hadn’t gathered the courage to do so without feeling that she was letting onto something she didn’t quite understand within herself. Watching her act as if the world was endlessly beautiful, and there was boundless hope, even if what Cole had said was true and she was hurting on the inside. It was rather special.

Cole had disappeared, leaving Cassandra to her own devices. Ushering some courage, or maybe just foolishness, she made her approach to the scene. The children one-by-one turned and looked at her with intimidated concern as the tall, dark, and angry person they had seen training approached their person.

“You can’t have her, she’s ours!” one of them exclaimed, before rushing and hiding behind Olivia’s back. The girl with the brown pigtails, spunky, but shoddy on the follow-through. Olivia grew concerned and looked up to see her conversation companion, standing and looking like she didn’t know what to do with herself.

Cassandra stuttered a bit, before clearing her throat. The child hiding behind Olivia clamped onto her shoulders with protectiveness.

“Lady Olivia, I…” her false start made the children more nervous as to what her intentions were, exactly.

Olivia watched her for a moment, and the awkward silence was endearing to her. Assuming she knew what the Seeker sought out, she giggled warmly.

“Lilly,” she said, guiding the child who was using her as a shield back around to face her, holding her hand, “She is my friend, and I am in no danger. Run along, we have top secret Inquisition business to attend to,” her dramatic enunciation of “top secret” made her sound like a theatrical school teacher, and not a refined Lady of Court.

Lilly pouted, but when her friends started to retreat back into the crowd, she nodded in obedience and skipped away. Olivia watched her go, remaining crouched on the ground for a moment more before rising to her feet. The flowers in her hair were enough to make her notice a heaviness in her hairdo. Dusting off her hands, she turned her attention back to Cassandra, who looked relieved not to have to deal with the wrath of a herd of tiny humans.

“Yes, Seeker? Have I misfiled a report again, or perhaps failed to put away tools?” she teased, referencing Cassandra’s acute need to nit-pick the way Olivia took care of her tools and resources.

“No, those were accounted for,” Cassandra didn’t exactly catch onto the point of the joke; her sincere answer made Olivia smirk, which in turn confused her as to why she found a serious answer so comical.

“Then?”

“I...wondered if you were perhaps in need of a conversational partner, this evening.” This was a rough learning curve for the Seeker, who wasn’t used to being masterful in technique.

Olivia’s head flinched backward in surprise, her eyes blinking so as to make sure she wasn’t hallucinating. “You, propositioning me for company?”

“I...would not say ‘proposition’ is the right word, but, yes. After all, these events do call for it.”

“You look like you’ve seen a ghost, Seeker. Maybe you need some water, or wine?”

“No, I am quite fine. I just…” Cassandra exhaled, turning and eyeing the dancing and laughing bodies around them. Feeling the warm ebb and flow all of this gave off was a sharp contrast to the unfamiliar nervousness she felt internally.

“Seeker?” Olivia broke her escapism.

Cassandra’s face snapped back to the present moment, and her eyes made contact with Olivia’s. The warm hazel in her irises were beautifully illuminated in the latern light.

“Let’s...go for a stroll to truly appreciate the party’s aesthetics, then?” Olivia suggested something that wouldn’t mean a heavy amount of talking. It seemed like Cassandra was struggling with words tonight. Maybe she would ask Theia later if perhaps the Seeker was drunk all along and this was simply her personality when intoxicated.

“Yes, that sounds...wonderful, actually,” Cassandra released the tension in her chest, and she turned so as to begin their turn around the party’s perimeter.

Her relief was curbed by the sight of Olivia’s broad and genuine smile. She never had a woman’s smile be this interruptive before. As she felt Olivia’s arm wrap around the crook of her elbow, so as to be escorted by the Seeker’s taller frame, she felt even more warmth tingle under her skin.

As they began to walk, Cassandra caught a look of Olivia’s bare feet out of the corner of her eye. It was such a perfect touch to this woman’s presentation: her flowy dress, dark-colored but charming, and her hair tousled up with flowers dangling and nestled in its twists. All of that, and then her bare feet.

Maker, help her.

“Do you like weddings, Seeker?”

“You may call me Cassandra, since you have already done so once.”

“Oh, splendid! I do like your name. It reminds me of some far and away heroine who crushes mountains with her bare hands and then strings a mandolin by the river in her down time.”

Cassandra smirked. “Do you always have such colorful imaginations about things that are otherwise benign in nature?”

“Nothing is benign in nature, Cassandra, except for maybe men.”

Their walking was uneven at first as both women adjusted to the pace and gate of the other: Cassandra carried a good deal of weight in her chest and shoulders, almost as if she were marching or patrolling somewhere. Then, there was Olivia, who’s hips swayed to hold her dancer’s frame.

“You still haven’t answered my question: do you find weddings entertaining to you?”

“At times, yes. Although in Orlais, they usually involve a nauseating amount of opulence and superficial people.”

“Ah, yes, blasted Orlais with our feckless adoration for trivial riches and rivalries. It is a wonder how we get anything done, let alone fuel the flames of an Empire.”

“Such a natural disaster would suggest actual productivity,” Cassandra retorted.

Olivia chuckled, habitually leaning into Cassandra’s soldier as if she were a swarthy officer or chevalier. It made Cassandra uneasy, but not in a negative way.

“Even you, Lady Pentaghast, cannot cast all of Orlais’s ingredients into the fire. Some of your closest allies are Orlesian in heritage, do they yet prove exceptions to your rules?”

“Taking issue with an institution and not its people is the wiser course, naturally.”

“Have you extended such principles to Mages, then? Or are we the great caveat?”

A pause, wherein Cassandra had to admit she was rhetorically cornered. Her self-consciousness of opinion wasn’t a familiar sensation to her: in fact, she was known for defending with her mouth when engaging in discourse. Theia of all people understood just how acute and definitive she could be.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Olivia’s continued chuckling. “You treat every conversation as if it is hand-to-hand combat, don’t you?”

“Only when I have an adversary worthy of such concern.”

“Which is all the day long, then?”

“Here, perhaps yes.”

“Then, we should spar literally some time. When you feel like giving that straw man of yours the day off, to be sure.”

Cassandra grinned on one side of her mouth. “You actually think that to be a good idea? Would the Inquisitor approve?”

Olivia gasped humorously. “Theia is not my keeper. I am no man’s captive and no woman’s caged pet. I am able to pull a weapon and make a challenge just as Veronica is, or Theia, or anyone here. Especially you.”

“Fine. I will accept, on one condition,”

Olivia felt them come to a stop, having made one full loop around the party and returning the area where they had initially greeted. She pulled away and turned to front-face her, eyes curious and mouth parted slightly.

“Yes?”

“That you continue to remain open to these conversations, even if I outsmart you in combat.”

At that, Olivia placed her hand on her chest demurely and laughed, even going so far as to lean her head back. Cassandra’s eyes narrowed, but she couldn’t help but grin, the competitiveness in her character unavoidable.

“Oh, Seeker,” Olivia employed the woman’s title, “women like you don’t do well with the tactics I utilize. We shall see who’s knocked on their back breathless first.”

--

From the other side of the yard, Theia was going for another chalice of wine. She ran into her ally and friend, Varric, taking in the scene. Theia assumed it was for the writing he would do later on; she would enjoy reading this part of the story, if that was what his plans were.

“Varric, so glad to see you,” she greeted, coming to stand at his side to people watch alongside him.

“Inquisitor, in rare form,” he greeted, folding his arms with his own glass in hand, “how are you enjoying yourself?”

“Quite well. Though, I don’t think this party’s for me, this time.”

“Touche. Though, I would hate to see a party where you were having a horrible time.”

“Those usually provide outlets for my anger via slaying demons and fending off time magic.”

Varric chuckled, before reaching his glass over to hers and clinking the two together. Cheers to that, his actions said.

A minute of silent observation ensued, both of them having pleasant faces in doing so. Everyone seemed so unbound by the perils of their jobs here, finding the sweetest kind of reprieve from the Inquisition’s titular role. It was a grand sight to remember, and still sort of surreal. Theia had to remind herself that these moments counted, too, and were no less real or important than her days spent out in the field, or in the Council room negotiating.

“I heard a rumor that Leliana will try to coerce Josephine into a Bard’s duet for the entertainment portion of this reception,” Varric said over his shoulder, “is that true?”

Theia bit back a surprised laugh. “Leliana would be the one to convince Josephine of anything. Still, I have doubts Maryden will want the accompaniment.”

“That’s true. Perhaps next time, when there’s more options for the hard stuff to be drunk.”

The Inquisitor winked his way, seeming to say oh of course, because I will ensure it myself. They both smiled fiendishly at one another. When Dorian approached, they were all the more ready for some more gleeful talk.

“My friend, I am afraid your keen eyes are starting to fail you,” Dorian jested, crossing his arms as he, too, joined the ensemble of people-watchers.

“I’m sorry, Dorian?” Theia’s brow furrowed. Both her and Varric started to take generous gulps of their wine. Dorian watched them carefully, waiting for his response to come at just the right time.

“Oh, surely you have seen. Just over there, past the table with the frilly flowers and the couple necking like they’re in a dank Denerim back alley?”

Theia’s left eye opened to peer quickly, her head tilted mid-gulp. Blurry at first, but then, she saw what looked like a familiar head of short, raven black hair. Was it the Seeker? Yes, and then next to her, a more petite woman, blonde and golden in complexion. Only one woman she knew looked like a walking piece of ornamental jewelry.

A brief few seconds, and then, splash.

Both the Inquisitor and Varric spat and choked on their wine, a shallow spray of red liquid coming from Theia’s lips as she tried to avoid her gown skirts. Varric got some in his nose, the poor bastard, and was coughing and choking for mercy.

Dorian, smug in his success at making them look like fools, made one last dig.

“Ah, yes, now you’ve seen it. Quite unnatural, of course. Since when do Inquisition personnel dip their toes in sexual misadventures?”

Theia had regained enough composure to narrow her gaze in on him, feeling the slight ironic sting of that comment which implicated both of them. But Cassandra? That seemed far too unrealistic.

She whipped her head back to see that they, were, in fact, walking together. Olivia, her dear and most alluring friend, and Cassandra, who was joked about being the human personification of granite. How was that factoring?

Varric, now recovering as well, wiped his mouth on his shirt sleeve.

“Maker, I never thought this would actually happen. Dammit, I owe Hawke fifty sovereigns.”

From a few yards away, a shrill voice corrected the rogue: “And you owe me ten, Varry!” Sera, having also had her eyes on the developments, was giddy in her victory.

Theia raised her brows as she looked at Varric, an expression of wanting an explanation.

“What?” Varric shrugged his shoulders, “That’s your friend, too. Both of them, actually.”

He was right. They were both some of her closest companions, allies, and confidants. And they were getting cozy. Feeling hypocritical for being concerned, she bit her lip.

“Dorian, remind me to find the next opportunity possible for me to make you choke wine through your nose.”

[tamboradventure]

My 5 Favorite Hostels in Melbourne

Posted: 1/5/2020 | January 5th, 2020

Melbourne is the backpacker hub of Australia. It’s laid-back vibe, awesome live music scene, and rowdy nightlife make it a favorite for backpackers and budget travelers alike.

Whereas many cities Down Under are worth visiting for a few days, you could easily spend weeks here without getting bored.

Since it’s a popular spot for budget travelers, the city boasts dozens of hostels to cater to the growing tourist numbers. In my decade-plus of visiting Melbourne, the hostel scene here has changed drastically. There are tons more hostels here than there used to be — and there are lots of upscale and boutique options too. These days, you have so many choices it can be overwhelming.

To help save you time, here are my top five hostels in Melbourne. If you stay at any of these, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing experience!  

1. United Backpackers

United Backpackers has everything I Iike in a hostel: it’s affordable, has comfortable dorms and private rooms, is secured by key-card entry, has a kitchen and dining room, includes free breakfast (with pancakes), and has tons of places to relax and hang out.

Its basement bar hosts events throughout the week and there’s also a TV room and a common area with a pool table. The hostel also offers a free walking tour of the Central Business District (CBD) which is packed with street art, restaurants, bars and clubs.

This hostel is large so it’s easy to meet people as well. However, since it’s so large there are occasional lines for the bathroom and the hot water can run out in the morning (so wake up early or shower at night). If you’re staying in a dorm, choose one of the smaller ones — the 12-bed dorm can get crowded.

Located across from Flinders Street Station, it’s easy to get anywhere in the city. It’s also just a seven-minute walk to Eureka Skydeck which provides amazing views of the city.

Beds from $35 USD, rooms from $126 USD a night.

—> Book your stay at United Backpackers!  

2. Flinders Backpackers

Another hostel next to Flinders Street Station, Flinders Backpackers offers massive 16-bed dorms — a popular choice for budget backpackers traveling on a shoestring. For those looking for privacy, there are also private rooms here but they are rather small.

Free breakfast, which includes a make-your-own pancake station, is included. The hostel also has a large common room, TV room with movie nights and free popcorn, and a kitchen for cooking your own food. Every week, they make a family-style dinner for the guests to enjoy (a nice way to save some money if you’re on a budget).

If you’re staying in the dorms, bring earplugs (especially if you are on the lower floors) as there is a club nearby that can be loud.

They also have a bar and restaurant on-site which has events almost every night. On Fridays, they make a huge batch of Goon Punch, an Aussie cocktail, so things get lively. Not surprisingly, this hostel is quite social so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, you probably won’t find it here.

Beds from $25 USD, rooms from $81 USD a night.

—> Book your stay at Flinders Backpackers!  

3. Base St Kilda

THE ABOVE PHOTO WAS TAKEN FROM ANOTHER POST BUT IS TECHNICALLY NOT LEGAL TO USE Base St Kilda is far from the center of Melbourne, but it’s in a perfect location if you want to stay near the water. Like most hostels in the city, it has a free pancake breakfast, a free walking tour, and is own bar. The hostel is definitely a party hostel so don’t stay here if you’re looking for quiet.

They host regular activities like karaoke and foam parties and the huge common room here has pool, foosball, and board games. As for the rooms, they’re a bit cramped but still comfortable enough. Every dorm has en-suite bathrooms and the private rooms here all have their own balcony.

There is also a kitchen but it isn’t huge (there are no ovens so you just have basic options when it comes to cooking your own meals). The Wi-Fi works best in the common room, but it’s not great in the dorms. If you need decent Wi-Fi, head out to one of the cafes to use theirs instead.

This hostel is great if you want to hang out and party by the beach. You can take public transit into the CBD, which is easy to do and takes around 30 minutes.

Beds from $26 USD, rooms from $79 USD a night.

—> Book your stay at Base St Kilda!  

4. Tramstop 14 Backpackers

If you want a chill place to stay that caters to long-term stays, Tramstop 14 is the place for you (they even offer discounts for guests staying longer than a week). If you’re passing through, it may feel a little bit like you’re crashing someone’s house because so many people are staying long term — but don’t let that deter you! With dorms that sleep up to 10, as well as single and double rooms, it’s quite affordable and a lot smaller than most of the other hostels on this list.

As with many hostels in the city, there aren’t enough bathroom facilities so plan on a wait in the morning if you’re not up early.

The hostel has a small kitchen and a comfy lounge with Netflix and is much calmer and quieter than most other hostels in the city. It’s a good choice for anyone looking to relax and get a decent sleep.

The hostel is close to the Rod Laver Arena and Melbourne Cricket Ground, as well as the Melbourne Museum. It’s also a short tram ride to the CBD. Located in the more bohemian Fitzroy neighborhood, there’s plenty to do nearby, such as checking out the art and live music scene or relaxing at one of the local cafes.

Beds from $27 USD, privates from $68 USD a night.

—> Book your stay at Tram Stop 14 Backpackers!  

5. fa

The history of The Nunnery is one of the things that makes this Melbourne hostel so interesting. Built in the late 1880s, it was an actual nunnery for over six decades. The hostel has both dorms and private rooms, and also offers some extras like hair dryers and hair straighteners if you ask for them. They also offer free bike rentals too.

The rooms aren’t always super clean and depending on what you book, they vary from spacious and nice to basic and cramped. They have a small kitchen so if you want to cook make sure you get there early or there won’t be any space. There’s also a lounge, balcony, and courtyard for hanging out with other travelers.

They host free events every day, such as pub crawls and movie nights so there is always something to do. Free breakfast is included too.

It’s Fitzroy location is close to Brunswick Street, the Melbourne Museum and Carlton Gardens, and it’s only a 10-minute walk to the city center.

Beds from $28 USD, rooms from $89 USD a night.

—> Book your stay at The Nunnery!

*** While there are now over 30 hostels in Melbourne, these hostels are the best the city has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a long-term stay as you sort out a working holiday or just visiting for a few nights, a stay at these hostels will ensure you have a fun, safe, and social experience.

After ten years of traveling the world, I still love to stay in hostels. They add character to your experience and make it easy to meet other travelers. If you want to make the most out of your time in Melbourne, be sure to stay at any of the hostels above. You won’t be disappointed.

Book Your Trip to Melbourne: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Those are your two best resources.

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

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

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

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

Photo credit 2 – Ashton 29, 4,

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[dorsetti]

It’s All Greek To Me - Ch. 1

I’ve had the idea for this Robron Fraternity A/U for a while now. Feedback much appreciated.

He felt like a bit of a prat, to be honest. He was sporting baby blue cotton jacket & trousers, a crisp, white dress shirt, and a salmon - “It’s fucking pink, Adam” – bowtie. The whole outfit made felt unnatural on him. He was scanning the large reception hall for Adam, and found him by the fireplace. He was sat on the large armrest of a mock Regency couch and in the middle of a group of somewhat well dressed & fit blokes. They seemed to be captured by whatever ridiculous story he was embellishing.  It had been Adam’s idea to do this in the first place.

It was a much different event than the ones they’d been to when term started.

Aaron was the first in his clan to go to university. His mum had been so proud when his acceptance letter came, and even more so when they were informed that he’d gotten a full scholarship. Tuition, room, board, the works. They lived a decent life, definitely not skint. But they also weren’t driving around in Range Rovers and going on Regent Street shopping sprees, either.

“It’s a changing world, love, you’ve got to get an education to make sure you can take care of me when I’m old.” She had said to him when he was younger.

He hadn’t allowed himself to feel excited until the letter came; what place was going to accept a rough & gruff ex-chav from the North? He didn’t dare let himself believe that his dream was within his grasp. He wanted more than anything to be an architect.

When he had been trying to run away from the fact that men with toned legs and broad shoulders on the rugby pitch sent his stomach aflutter, he found the steadfast rules & logic of architecture to be a welcomed escape. The rules of it made sense; they followed patterns and when combined, created beautiful structures. He’d dragged Paddy along to visit stately homes, admiring them not for the ostentatious decorations, but for the beauty of the structures themselves.  Men had imagined and created them from their own minds, and he wanted to be one of them. More than one caretaker had been perplexed to see a bloke like him there.

Adam had been accepted to the same university, which proved to the residents of Emmerdale that there were such things as miracles.  It was a forgone conclusion that they would be roommates there.

They viewed this next stage of their lives differently. Aaron had come to study and have a little bit of fun. Adam had come to have lots of fun and possibly study. When they moved into their co-ed dorm, Adam was mesmerized by how little the girls wore, and that they would be living on the same floor.

“Mate, I think I’ve died and gone to heaven.” he said while slapping Aaron on the back. “Don’t go getting grumpy, I’m sure there are plenty of fit guys ‘round ‘ere for ya. We’re gonna have the best time here.”

Adam had been right. At the end of their first week, a lad from their orientation group invited them to a party at one of the fraternity houses just off campus. Aaron had hesitated, not sure that the classist-macho-sexist-&-alcohol-fueled fête would be his scene. Though to be fair, all he knew about them came from films & telly. Of the people from home that had gone to university, none of them had been Greek. Adam was overly enthusiastic about the whole affair.

“Bro, these parties are a girl magnet and the houses are full of fit lads, it’s a win/win for both of us. We HAVE to go!” It was their first Friday night as university students. After some more nagging from Adam and a few cheap shots, Aaron agreed.

Fraternity Row was on a dead-end road on the other side of the campus from their dormitory. As they walked, a soft September breeze cooled Aaron’s booze-warmed skin. He wasn’t sure if it was the drink or the fact that he’d never pictured himself in this situation, but Aaron was happy. Happy that he’d get a real chance to become the man he’d always wanted to be, happy to be making his mum & Paddy proud, happy to be spending this part of his life with his best mate, and happy to be young and carefree.

They pathway they were on sloped down a gentle hill. Aaron loved the campus; it had that Tudor & Baronial revival feel he loved. It may not be Oxbridge, but it was perfect for him. When they reached the hill’s drop, they took in the view of Fraternity Row below. Ten large mansions on even larger plots surrounded the dead end street. They were an eclectic, yet imposing, lot. Some were Queen Anne, others Jacobethan, a few Palladian and Baronial, and one was Neoclassical.  Some had beautifully kept gardens, others simple, manicured lawns. Each one was blaring music and had throngs of students milling both outside and indoors, just like in the films. When they reached the Row proper, Aaron stopped to admire the first house.

Adam shoved him along playfully, “You can appreciate the architecture later, Sir” he said in a mock RP accent. “Tonight, let’s have fun!”

Aaron noticed that each house seemed to have two or three letters above their main entrances. Some of them didn’t seem to be letters at all.

“It’s Greek, mate. That’s why they call them Greek houses.” Adam offered.

“Since when did you get smart?”

“Hey, I do have something up ‘ere. How do you think I got in?” Adam laughed as he pointed to his temple.

“You just keep telling yourself that” he laughed back at him.

They stopped in front of the sole Neoclassical house. It had the letters/symbols ΒΔΠ above the ornate entrance.

“This is it!” Adam exclaimed as he clapped Aaron on the shoulders, “Now mate, whichever one of us pulls first needs to give the signal. Don’t wanna accidentally ruin the mood if you get busy with someone back in the room.”

“You’ve really thought this out, haven’t you?”

“Just looking out for us, that’s all! Also, don’t leave your drink alone, you never know if some sick poncy tosser’s gonna try it on with ya that way.”

“Alright mum, let’s go inside and get more booze before I change my mind and go back to the room.”

They had arrived well after the start of this party. There were people everywhere; crowding the entryway, spilling into the two large rooms just off the main corridor, up the ornate grand staircase, and well into the next floor. It was like a scene directly out of a film: scantily clad girls and blokes dancing, drinking god-knows-what out of disposable cups, high on youth and hormones, and lubricated by alcohol that just seemed to appear from thin air. The party was an odd contrast with the beauty of the house itself.

A dance party had formed in one of the main rooms; Aaron spotted the long booze table just beyond it. He tapped Adam on the shoulder and cocked his head in the direction of the table, and they made their way through the throngs of drunk & merry dancers. Aaron felt someone slap his arse as he pushed through and snapped his head around immediately. But there were too many people to be able to tell who had done it. Once on the other side, he searched for Adam, but saw no sign of him. He turned back to the crowd and spotted him, dancing with a blonde lass with a cute smile and a barely-there top.

That hadn’t taken long at all. Aaron continued to the table, which was really more of a smorgasbord of liquor. There was so much here he couldn’t decide on what to pour himself. He wasn’t a big drinker, growing up in a pub would do that to a bloke.

As he pondered his drink, he felt a hand on his shoulder and started “Oh you finally made it, mate” and turned around to ask Adam what he should get. But it wasn’t Adam.

“Didn’t know you were expecting me” said Definitely Not Adam.

Aaron felt his jaw drop like a cartoon character. This bloke was tall, brunette, with sea foam green eyes, the face of an angel, and the body of a rugby playing man. He wore a loose fitting neon pink vest and shorts that came up to his mid thigh. The armholes of his vest ran from the shoulder to just above his hipbone, leaving very little to the imagination. His skin was the colour of copper; he’d clearly spent the summer somewhere sunnier. Definitely Not Adam dropped his hand from Aaron’s shoulder and extended it to him.

“Hi, I’m Jake.”

Aaron shook himself out of his trance.

“Um, hey, Aaron” he said as he offered out his own hand. Jake flashed him a smile that could like up a room, it made Aaron’s heart speed up and his groin twitch.

“Nice to meet you. I’m bartending this hour. What can I get you?”

“I’m not much of a liquor drinker, prefer beer, me.”

“No more of that, I’m afraid, ran out ages ago. Here, try this” Jake mixed tonic water and vodka. “It’s almost tasteless, so it’ll do the job without the bite.” He flashed Aaron another bright smile as he handed him the drink. Their hands brushed for a second longer than necessary. Aaron could feel the blood going into his cheeks & then, further south.

“Cheers, mate”

“My pleasure. You a First Year?”

“Yeah, what gave it away?”

“I’d of known about a fit little morsel like you by now if you weren’t new.”

Aaron chuckled, the cheesy line should’ve killed the vibe, but it pulled him in more toward Jake.

“Has that line ever actually worked for ya?”

“I guess we’ll find out soon enough.”

“So, you a professional bartender in your free time?”

“I drew a short stick at the chapter meeting this morning.”

“You what?”

“I live here, I’m in Beta. House Vice President, in fact.”

Aaron tilted his head and furrowed his brows slightly “Congrats? Am I supposed to know what that even means?”

Jake laughed, a deep one from his belly that annoyed Aaron.

“You really are new aren’t you? I’m a member of this fraternity, you’re drinking our booze.”

“Oh well now it’s crystal clear then, innit?”

Jake smirked at him & signalled to a bloke wearing a similar outfit. Come to think of it, a lot of blokes wore the exact same outfit. As Jake talked to the other lad, Aaron read the front of their identical vests; it said Beta Delta Pi in block letters. The name meant nothing to Aaron.

Jake turned back to him, “I’m free for the rest of the night. Let’s down these, get new ones and I can tell you just how important I am around here.”

Aaron felt like he should be put off by how cocky this bloke was. But he wasn’t, and as they downed their drinks & Jake got them new ones, he didn’t care. Adam was right; they were going to have a blast here.

The next morning, Aaron had woken up in a room that wasn’t his. There was a strong arm around his waist and a delicious ache between his arse cheeks. Memories from the night before flooded back to him.

He’d spent the entire party with Jake, whom was actually a laugh, not the total posh twat Aaron feared he’d be. They’d danced like idiots to the loud techno music for hours, playing banter tennis and giggling like kids. As the night wore on, Jake had taken Aaron upstairs to his room by the hand, and snogged him in a way that made Aaron melt and his member rise. They’d stripped each other quickly, before Jake had asked Aaron if he was sure this is what he wanted. Aaron snogged him back in response before pushing him down on the bed and straddling his waist. Jake raised his three middle fingers to Aaron’s mouth. He took them with gusto and he purred as he bobbed his head up and down, coating them with his tongue. Eventually Jake pulled them out and reached behind Aaron, using his free hand to grab one of his meaty globes to expose his wanting entrance. He teased it with his wet fingers before pushing in. Aaron mewed softly as Jake’s large hands opened him, the sensation was driving him wild and he started pushing his arse back on them. He paused to lean on Jakes chest with his arms, and then clenched his walls on the long, silky digits. Jake sat up and scooted up against the headboard, Aaron pliantly following, ensuring that his fingers stayed in him.

Once he felt stretched enough, Aaron grabbed Jake’s wrist and pulled his digits out. He then grabbed his large member and lined it up with his entrance and slid down, taking it all in one go. Jake was big enough that the slightest movement caused him to hit Aaron’s spot and had him seeing stars. He felt Jake’s strong hands grab his hips to steady him; the sensation helping Aaron come down slightly from his high. He took a few deep breaths before smiling down at Jake and riding him for all he was worth. The house was so loud that Aaron didn’t feel the need to hold back his moans.

Aaron felt like he shouldn’t stay. Yes they had had a great night, but this was university. You saw your way out before the other person woke up, no hard feelings. He slowly worked his way out from under Jakes arm and stood up slowly as he scanned the room for his clothes. He found his shorts and t-shirt just fine, but couldn’t find his pants. He made a split second decision to just leave them behind. He grabbed his shoes and tip toed out of the room, taking care to close the doors as quietly as possible. He’d then made his way down the corridor and then the grand staircase and out the main entrance. The house was a total mess.

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Adam’s night hadn’t gone the way of Aaron’s. Not five minutes after they started dancing together, the blonde girl puked on his shoes and was escorted out by her friends. One of the guys that lived in the house helped him clean up the mess and let him borrow his runners. They started talking and made quick friends over jack and cokes. It turned out that the guy was in one of Adam’s classes.

A few weeks into his friendship with this bloke, Adam came back with a pamphlet from the Student Life Office and declared that him and Aaron were going to Rush.

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The whole process had been a bit perplexing to Aaron, but Adam would not let him out of taking part. It turned out that the whole reason for the massive party, the one where he’d let Jake fuck him for the first time, was because the fraternities were going dry the next day.

Jake explained the whole process to him one night after he’d spent the better part of an hour inside of Aaron.

“Officially it’s “Formal Fraternity Recruitment” though we all call it Rush. The whole point is for the First Years interested in Greek Life to participate in pre-planned events with the houses over 4 days. No alcohol allowed; the Student Life Office doesn’t want us to bribe impressionable young minds with promises of booze and wild parties. Not sure that helps though, each house’s reputation is common knowledge on campus. Usually, some 300-400 blokes show up at the student centre on Day One. They’re then divided into smaller groups, ones in which they’ll remain for the duration of the week. On the first day, they must visit all the fraternities in your assigned group. Four fraternity members lead each group; they’re called Rho Gammas. Not sure what that stands for, to be honest. Each Rho Gamma comes from a different house. They’re supposed to be like your camp counselors during Rush. It’s all supposed to be a way of giving each house a fair shot for PNMs”.

Aaron lifted up his right eyebrow.

“And that is what exactly?”

“You. Well any first year going through Rush. Stands for Potential New Member. They’re a lot of acronyms in Greek Life”

“Sounds like a lot of work”

“It can be, sometimes. But it’s worth it.”

“Why?”

“It gives you a place to belong, doesn’t it? Think about it, there are literally tens of thousands of students at this university, most away from home for the first time. It makes the campus a little smaller. But more then that, you build solid friendships that last your life in a fraternity. You spend so much time together and agree to try and get along. It’s not always perfect mind, but fraternity brothers look out for one another, they always have your back. Imagine, having a hundred blokes ready to back you up, no questions asked. It helps that we have fun together, too”.

“Look at you, waxing poetic and all”.

“Shut up, or I’ll be forced to teach you a lesson”, Jake laughed as he rolled on top of Aaron. He nuzzled at his neck before sucking hard at a spot just above his Adam’s apple, marking him. Aaron felt like he should’ve minded, but he didn’t. Instead, he wrapped his legs around Jake’s waist, making sure he knew he was welcomed to stay there. They were both seeing stars in no time.

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Adam had filled him in on rest a few days later, over tea.

“Oi, stop messaging your boyfriend and pay attention. It’s a lot to explain,” he said as he lightly smacked Aaron on the head.

“It lasts four nights, Rush. Basically, you start out with a list, and all the fraternities are on it, yeah? After Night One, you pick which houses you want to visit on Night Two. It can be all of them or just a couple, up to you. But the houses have to pick you back as well. If they don’t, then that’s it, you’re finished with that house. That happens every night until the last night.

Events on the last night end at 8 o’clock at night, then the Rho Gammas heard us all back up to our rooms. And then we wait. The brothers of each house get together and go through the lists of finalists. Then they decide whom they want to give a formal bid to join. The bid itself is a physical invite, like the ones your Nan sends for her bingo nights. The Rho Gammas drop off an envelope with all your bids around 10:00. You have until 11:00 to chose which bid you’re gonna accept. Most blokes get at least 4 bids, some get more, and a few unlucky bastards get just one or none at all. We have to be back at the pathway leading to the Row by 11:15. When the Rho Gammas yell “Go!”  you run to the house you chose, and then it’s a party till the morning, mate!”

“Some lads get no bids? Bit brutal, innit?”

“They must be right tosser if they get no bids. It’s the way the system works, mate.”

Aaron’s phone pinged.

Jake: Passed my first exam of the year. Come sit on my face since I’ve been such a good boy? xx

Aaron D: First exam, ey? Cheers, mate. I may even let you tie me up ;) x

Jake: You’ve got 15 minutes to be in my bed or there will be consequences!

Aaron D: I like the sound of that :) x

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It was the final night of Rush and he was exhausted. He wasn’t the best socialiser at the best of times and four nights of it were driving him mad. He also hadn’t seen Jake all week. One of the many rules Adam had forgotten to mention was that contact between PNMs and fraternity members, outside of the pre-planned events, was strictly prohibited during Rush. He had been on his way to the Beta house after Night 1 when one of his Rho Gammas saw him coming down the pathway and sent him back to his dorm.

He ended up breaking the rule anyway, sending Jake some very risqué Snaps.

He’d followed Adam’s lead as to which houses to choose and which to cut. To his great relief, they were invited back to the same ones. Neither of them had expected there to be so many members in each house, the smallest had 72, the largest, 129. Picking their favourite houses had been easy. In some, it was plainly obvious that Aaron & Adam had nothing in common with the brothers. Like the Theta Lambdas & their quests to be stoned 24/7, or the Phi Gamma Upsilons and their overt disdain for anyone not from the Home Counties, or the Tau Omega Alpha’s and their banter-veiled misogyny.

Aaron had been presently surprised that some of the houses weren’t only party machines. Over the course of Rush, he’d learned which houses required high academic marks of their members, which ones were heavily involved on campus & the community, which ones had alumni in positions of influence, and which ones accepted you for you, and not your parents’ bank balance. He felt a real connection with some of the blokes at some of the houses, and even started to entertain the idea of joining.

By the final night, they had narrowed down their list to 3 houses: Zeta Epsilon, Kappa Kappa Alpha and Beta Delta Pi.

Aaron had been excited about Beta, mostly because of a certain tall & muscular someone. The first night at the Beta house consisted of a grounds tour that he, admittedly, didn’t need. He’d spent the majority of the past month in Jake’s room and knew the layout of the house like the back of his hand. He’d be hanging toward the back of the tour group when Jake had pulled him into a random bedroom. Next thing Aaron knew, he was bent over a bed, his shorts and pants at his ankles, Jake’s lube-slicked fingers playing with his entrance.

“Hey little boy, are you lost?” he’d cooed into Aaron’s ear before ploughing into him. It’d been Aaron’s favourite night of Rush.

The high he’d been riding, pun intended, for the last month didn’t last. Aside from their quick romp during the house tour, Jake had been distant. It was an open secret around the Beta house that him & Aaron were a thing; most guys tend to notice if the same bloke spends the night with a brother or eats in their dining room constantly. Not to mention that Aaron couldn’t be quiet during when they fucked to save his life. Jake seemed to forget that he was even there and would mingle with the other blokes in Aaron’s group. Though they hadn’t defined their relationship, it lit a fire of jealousy in Aaron to see him chatting with other lads. When they had been ushered out of the Beta house on the final night of Rush, he was relieved that his emotions didn’t lead to physical altercations.

That’s how he came to be stood alone in the crowded reception hall of the Kappa Kappa Alpha house; blocking out the outside world whilst mentally cursing his not-boyfriend. He’d picked these ridiculous trousers to get Jake’s attention; the light cotton material hugged his arse snuggly in all the right places. But they’d done nothing to focus Jake’s attention solely on him. Adam had given up trying to cheer him up and went to mingle with the KKA brothers.

Aaron was surprised that he’d been invited back to this fraternity. These blokes carried themselves with an air of confidence that only those raised with everything naturally have. Even their house, a perfectly pristine Jacobethan masterpiece, was both imposing, yet welcoming. Aaron had made it a point to ask a lot of questions during the tour. Bar that, he had let Adam speak for the two of them. These brothers intimidated him, they were posh but also friendly; a combination he didn’t know how to deal with. It didn’t help that he felt physically & emotionally neglected after only 3 days apart.

He was lost in his thoughts when a deep, Northern voice came from behind him.

“Hello there, don’t believe we’ve been formally introduced”

Aaron turned around and, for the second time that term, was speechless.

Deep Northern Voice was gorgeous in the classical sense. He was tall, with a chiselled jaw, broad shoulders, and aquamarine eyes. He had the kind of eyes that seemed to look directly into Aaron. His blonde hair was styled in a way that managed to say both refined and dangerous. His smile was ridiculously beautiful, toothy & bright. His pink lips looked very kissable.

Aaron willed himself to snap out of his trance.

“Yeah, no we haven’t. Aaron Dingle.”

“Pleasure, Aaron Dingle, I’m Robert Sugden.”

The way this Robert smiled at Aaron made him forget their surroundings.

“I’ve seen you here the last few nights, man of few words, eh?”

“Yeah, I’m here with my best mate” he gestured towards Adam.

“Him? Yeah, I noticed that he’s a chatter. Doesn’t say a lot, but talks plenty.”

Robert shot him another beautiful smile. Aaron felt his cheeks flush immediately.

“That’s Adam, yeah. Has been that way since we were kids.”

“Childhood friends, then? Or are you close?”

Something about the way he said this sent a flash of anger through Aaron.

“What’s it to you if we are close?” he made an air quotes gesture with his hands.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. God, here I am trying to impress you and instead I’m putting my foot in it. Shocker.”

The confession cooled Aaron’s anger and it was gone almost as fast as it came.

“Nah, you’re alright, mate. Just that we’ve been through a lot together. We’re from the same village. He’s like my brother.”

“I see. Well now you’re here looking for another 96.”

“96 lads can fit in this house!?”

“96 currently live here, we have room for 135. Thought you’d know that, heard you were quite keen on the tour a few nights ago.”

“Must’ve missed that part.” Aaron furrowed his brows when it dawned on him “How’d you know about that? ‘Bout house tour, I mean.”

“House Vice President, me. It’s my job to know who’s coming through here during Rush.”

“Bit creepy that, mate”

“Call me a stickler for tradition. We only take the best here. And you, Aaron, are quite the man. Full scholarship, no? They just don’t hand those out to anyone.”

“Do you know my NI & mobile numbers too then?”

“I’m sure I can make a few calls to figure it out.” Robert’s mouth tugged up as he looked down at Aaron through his beautiful lashes. What right did this smug git have to look so good? Aaron hadn’t noticed that said git had moved into his personal space.

“Are you flirting with me?” Aaron managed to ask, with more confidence than he felt.

“Most definitely.”

“You’re supposed to be wooing me to join your house, not get into your bed.”

Robert bent down and put his mouth up to Aaron’s ear

“Who says I can’t do both?”

Aaron’s breathing quickened and he felt himself getting hard.

“You’re a smooth talker, but is your bite as good as your bark?”

“Only one way to find out” Robert winked at him and Aaron couldn’t help but laugh.

“You really think highly of yourself, don’t you?”

“What can I say, I’m the best? Remind me what you’re studying. Architecture, isn’t it?”

“What’s the point? You seem to know everything already.”

“I know some, but I’d love to get the full rundown from you.”

Robert smirked as he made Aaron blush again.

“Nothing special, really. Grew up in the Dales, me dad’s a vet & me mum owns a pub. Was a bit of a chav growing up, ran with some rough blokes for a bit. Found that I had a knack for maths and loved buildings, and now I’m ‘ere. But I’m sure you knew that already, mate”.

“Sounds like the Yorkshire version of Good Will Hunting. Though you’re definitely more fit than Matt Damon.”

“Oh I don’t know, he’s dead sexy now that he’s got a Dad bod.”

Robert crooked up an eyebrow. “Like them older then? I like my chances.”

They held each other’s gaze for what felt like hours. It then crossed Aaron’s mind that he shouldn’t be doing this; he had Jake. But after the last few days, he wasn’t so sure that was even true.

Robert was the first to break their staring contest, Aaron felt disappointed, unsure why.

“I’ve noticed you’ve not talked to many lads, not without your gobby friend. I may be a bit of an idiot, but surely some of my lads have charmed you.”

“They’re alright, but not sure it’s my scene, if I’m being honest.”

“You’re not bright, handsome and hardworking? You really fooled me, then.”

“Have you been this much of a prat with all the First Years or is it just my lucky day?”

“I could make it your lucky day very quickly”, Robert whispered to him. He was like a wolf narrowing in on his prey. “I could do this all day, but should really get you talking with some of the other lads.” Robert signalled over to a bloke on the other side of the room who started heading their way. He placed one hand on the bloke’s shoulder, the other on the small of Aaron’s back. He felt like he was on fire.

“Paul, I’d like you to meet Aaron Dingle. Aaron, Paul van der Hove. Paul is a final year architecture student. Aaron is a First Year in your department.”

Aaron managed to come out of his Robert-induced daze and extended his hand to Paul, who shook it enthusiastically.

“Ah, yes. I thought your face looked familiar. I hope Rob here hasn’t been boring you to death with his awful jokes. We have to pretend to like them because he’s Vice President.”

“Nah, he’s alright.”

“If that’s not a ringing endorsement, I don’t know what is”, Robert cut in.

“You may not be the best judge of character then, mate.” Paul joked back.

They fell into an easy conversation about anything and everything. Both Robert and Paul were easy to talk to; Robert even reigned in the flirting. He hadn’t removed his hand from Aaron’s back, however. If Paul noticed, he didn’t mention it. Aaron felt that he should mind, that he shouldn’t let Robert touch him like he was. He’d known him for all of 30 minutes, but the electricity between them was hard to ignore.

Eventually his Rho Chi announced the end to their visit, and Robert’s hand finally dropped away, making the smaller man feel disappointed.

“Well it was nice getting to know you, Aaron Dingle. I’ll be seeing you around for sure.”  Robert said, along with a cheesy wink that made Aaron laugh.

He bounded out of the KKA house, trying to look back at Robert like a smitten teenager. He spotted Adam waiting for him a few steps away and caught up.

“What was all that, mate? You spoke to the VP for like 45 minutes straight.”

“Just a bit of banter, mate. Robert’s a funny bloke, a bit stuck up though.”

“Robert is it? Glad you two hit it off. When’s the wedding?” Adam laughed as he poked Aaron’s side.

Aaron jumped away, trying to escape Adam’s assault and giggled back. “Who says you’re invited?”

They joined the crowd of First Years heading back to their dorms. When they arrived back in their room, they changed out of their dressy attire. Aaron could’ve sworn he still felt the heat from Robert’s hand imprinted on his lower back. Adam began to pace the room.

“Bro, that was a brillian! Some of the lads we met were top and throw the sickest parties. How many bids do you think we’re gonna get?”

“Dunno, mate. Not sure I’m too bothered either way.”

“Don’t lie! You want to get into Beta so you can basically move in with Jakey and make sweet sweet love whenever you want”.

Aaron threw his pillow at Adam that he caught & threw back with a laugh.

“Or maybe Blondie Robbie’s got your eye now. Mate, I know you. The way you were looking at him was like he hung the stars.”

“No I wasn’t!”

“Mate you were! It’s alright though, your secret’s safe with me. I’m gonna go out of my mind. Wanna lose to me at Playstation while we wait?”

“As if, mate”.

They had been so engrossed in their game that they didn’t hear several knocks on their door a few hours later. Aaron’s focus on the telly was broken when he noticed the two large manila envelopes in their entryway.

“Oi” he tapped Adam on the shoulder and pointed towards the door.

“Yes! Finally”

They ran to the front of their room and sat on the floor, the envelopes face up between them.

“Who goes first?”

“You can mate, this was all your idea.”

“Hey now, I know I had to drag you into this kickin’ and screamin’ but you’ve enjoyed it, I know it.”

“Yeah, ok. Still, go on.”

Adam picked up the envelope with his name on it and ripped it open like it was Christmas. He pulled out 5 smaller and fancy stationary envelopes, his bids.

“Yes! Let’s see, I’ve got ones from Sigma Delta, Zeta Epsilon, Kappa Kappa Alpha, Delta Mu, and Beta Delta Pi!”

The smile on Adam’s face was of pure joy. Aaron hadn’t seen him this happy in a while. This clearly meant a lot to him. If he was being honest, it had grown to mean a lot to Aaron too. For most of his life, Aaron hadn’t felt like he belonged. Not that that feeling was novel in his age group, but he’d always felt like an outsider. He wasn’t sure he’d be alive today if it wasn’t for Adam. He had gone into Rush with no intention of joining a house, but now, he wanted it as badly as his mate. He wanted somewhere where he could belong, just as he was.

He looked down at his envelope and picked it up. It was light, which made him nervous. He opened it and his stomach fell. He pulled out a single bid and looked into the manila one again; it was empty. He turned the small envelope over; gold cursive letters spelt out Kappa Kappa Alpha.

[tgr489]

Mystery girl

I’d had minimal contact with my ex all week but I found myself going past her hotel a little too often, was trying to see if I’d catch a glimpse of her with a guy. What for? To prove what I’d seen was correct? Probably. I decided I would ask her anyway face to face when I saw her, but that never happened, meeting her I mean, I would ask her when I saw her next. The night before I was due to catch up with her I couldn’t sleep, too many thoughts running through my head as usual so took a couple of sleeping pills, 3 to be exact. They seemed to do the trick, knocking me out like a tranquilzer and offering up one of the most vivid dreams I’ve had for a while which scared the fucking shit out of me. Not because it was anything on the horror front, it was far from it, but it’s realism had me wake up in a pool of sweat with my heart beating like a jack hammer trying to get out of bed. Pacing around the room trying to make sense of what I’d experienced and whether it had been a dream or actually happened worried me even more, but I couldn’t. It felt like the weekend I took Ayahausca, the real, merging with the imaginary, some of what I had seen had actually happened but in a different way, like I was reliving that moment and got to decide an alternative outcome. I tried to call Lily to explain to her to see if she could help me make sense of it, but she didn’t answer, which is when I realised it was still only 6am-ish. I stripped from my cold wet t-shirt and shorts and had a shower then went to try Lily again but it was still early. I was still fraught so had a banger to try calm me down. I needed to speak to her desperately but didn’t want to wait so a rash decision was made to go see her. I grabbed my helmet and ran the few blocks to get my bike, hoping it’d give me no troubles, which thankfully it didn’t, and I was off.

I didn’t have much gas so took it easy through the city and tunnel and peeled off the expressway to find a gas station in Newark. Fuck that place is depressing. Sorry if anyone reading this lives there. While I was filling up I couldn’t get a parody of Empire State of Mind I’d once heard out my head. Must look that up again on YouTube. With the tank full I was off, taking it easy again, getting to grips with myself and the road. In the end I put the fear of my dream behind me, a bit, and concentrated on the road opening the bike up more and by the time I’d hit Springfield I was totally focussed and cruising at a nifty 200kph eating up the distance, pushing it to over 250 at one point which that was a bit hairy. I took the last stretch of the journey pretty sedate, arriving in Mt Union in just over 2.5 hrs, epic. I was flush with adrenaline, feeling a little overwhelmed. I knocked on the door and there was no answer, had my jaunt out her been in vain and she was away? I sat down on the porch and thought for a moment and I could feel the panic in me start to rise wondering why I’d bothered to come and maybe I should’ve just tried to see my shrink. I rolled a banger for want if something to do and as I smoked I looked around her yard seeing various kids toys dotted about. No one leave with all the stuff about I thought. I called her again and as it started ringing a car pulled into the driveway, it was Lily, I almost started crying as the feeling of relief washed over me. I walked to her car as she was getting out, staring out me with a quizzical look on her face and as she was saying ‘hey Rye what are you doing here?’ I gave her a big hug and said ‘thanks for being here, I need to talk’. She’d figured that out by my early calls but had been running errands and apologised for not calling back and said I should’ve messaged her, which hadn’t even crossed my mind. Stupid, but no substitute for speaking in person. I helped her in with some things and put stuff away, with some general friendly small talk. She gave me a hard time for riding so fast. We made coffee then we sat down in her garden on the terrace and got down to why I was there, my dream.

It went as follows - I walking down a street busy with people, it was familiar, maybe a street in the village but the feeling it gave me was of a time i lived in Sydney, but it was more European with the streets a little narrower. I was wandering fairly aimlessly, people watching as one does, checking out the eye candy, when a girl walked past me and we made eye contact for the briefest of moments. She had a clarity around her that the others didn’t, her eyes, large and dark lashed, like that iconic photo of Twiggy, no other make-up visible, gave me the slightest of smiles. As she passed I turned to check her out from behind, as I do, because she looked familiar, too familiar like I knew her, but she was further away in the crowd than should’ve been possible. Something compelled me to follow her, so I did. It was like that scene in the matrix, Neo following Morpheus, I was getting bumped by those coming towards me while the girl seemed to slip through unscathed. Every now again she would turn her head as if knowing I was following, teasing me with the ease of her passage, until all I could see was her blonde pony tail bobbing in the distance. Frustration was mounting so I stepped into the street as there were no cars, but as soon as I did there was one coming towards me, so I ducked into the other side of the street where there were none, but then one was following me so I had to run to keep ahead of it. I looked for a break in the oncoming cars and darted between them, made the sidewalk, tripped and knocked a load of people over. They never got up, just lay there like mannequins. I was picking myself up as quickly as possible to engage again with the onward run and the girl was standing in front of me offering me her hand. I took those delicate, slender fingers in mine mand stood facing her, unable to speak because I wasn’t sure what to finally say. We stared at each other for minutes but seconds, then she said ‘come and find me then.’ She raised her eyebrows ever so suggestively, turned and walked away. Immediately the crowd surrounded me and she was gone. I tried to pursue her but the crowd was like a mosh pit and I couldn’t escape. At that point I woke up.

All Lily could say was ‘interesting’, then disappeared to make coffee. I rolled a banger. Lily wouldn’t have any at first but it didn’t take much persuasion, she was one of the biggest party mongers I know in her 20s. ‘So what was so scary about the dream? Everyone has those type of dreams at some point, not being able to run away or reach something.’ This I know, I’ve had them, not for ages but I did when I was younger. ‘Because I know the girl, of sorts’ when I say I know her, I don’t, but I’ve seen her a few times in my life, randomly in different places. I explained. The first time I saw her was in San Francisco when I was staying at the Fairmont, it was in the restaurant and she was a few tables away with some friends and I was more captivated by her than the people I was with. Long blonde hair tied in a bun, slim with long slender legs in tight ripped jeans. I saw her again a year or so later in LA, at some party in Hollywood that I got dragged to by Will (Araya’s husband). I recognised her immediately as we passed each other. Same blonde hair, worn down this time with sunnies keeping it back. Blue eyes the colour if forget-me-nots (ironically). I looked behind to confirm, but got pulled away by Will intent on having me speak to someone irrelevant. I saw her again a little later across the terrace. Same figure in shorty shorts, but I couldn’t get away from the knob I was talking to, which I deemed important at the time, and when I did we were leaving for the airport. The last time I saw her was in London about 3 years ago on Leather Lane. I was working at Grey and we were in a breakfast strategy meeting with a client. I was absentmindedly staring out of the window onto the street at the back of the office when there she was, walking past in a white mini dress. I couldn’t mistake that figure and flowing hair. Thinking there was some sort of fate behind me seeing her again I excused myself from the meeting, ran out of the office round to the back hoping to head her off but she was nowhere. I spent the best part of an hour looking around with no luck. Figuring she may have been in her way to work, it was before 9, I looked out for her every morning for a week on the off chance I’d see her again. Sad I know but I was convinced there was something in it, obviously not because I turned up a blank. A few days later I was in New York and forgot all about it.

Lily asked me if I was sure it was the same girl but knew this was a redundant question because she’s aware I never forget faces, so was curious.

She asked me what I thought it meant. All I could say is that maybe I’m supposed to meet that girl, or was supposed to meet her and that’s why I’ve consciously noticed her. I’m a believer in these things, it’s happened to me previous. Once meeting a guy in Bangkok, Eddie, when I first went travelling. We spent a drunken night together, him showing me the ‘sights’ and giving me some pointers for my journey. I saw him again a year later in Darwin as I was getting off a boat from Indonesia, he had been living there for a few months, saving cash to travel on. We spent a couple of hours in the pub together. We then bumped into each other in my local pub in Redfern, Sydney, nearly a year ater. He had just arrived and taken a room in a house 2 doors down from where I was living. We ended up becoming best friends and business partners in a venture there. I have also wondered if the mystery girl had ever noticed me and has had the same dream, or one where she is asking me to find her. Lots of questions. Lily said I was in tune with ‘the signs’ that surround each of us, or more so than most. She gave me a book to read ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle, said I can learn a little more from it about living more in the present. She said that people generally have the hang ups of living in the past or worrying about the future and that stops them noticing and focusing on the present. This is true and i recognise in some respects I’m like a kid like that, not really dwelling on the past and planning for the future very little. Will give it a read and see what it throws up.

I went with Lily to pick her kids up from their friends rather than hang around the house, and was tasked with entertaining them when we returned so Lily could sort out dinner. It certainly was a challenge to mediate between each of their demands. Raiden just wanting to play footie and run around the garden, Yasmin with her dolls and a strange game of schools. Was glad when Josh came home to give me a break. Kids require an energy exertion on a while other level, something I’m not remotely prepared for. Dinner was an amazing squash risotto which didn’t last long and there were clean plates all round. I cleaned up while the parents out there kids to bed and I was just about to sneak out to the garden for a banger when I was told I had to read bedtime stories, demands from the kids. Was easy, Dr Seuss for both, ‘Oh the Places You’ll Go’ and my fave ‘Fox in Socks’. Was tired at the end and supremely grateful when I came to the kitchen to find my friends chatting with a bottle of wine open. ‘You’re good with the kids,’ Lily said ‘you’ll make a good dad one day.’ I could only come back with the fact I’m not ready to give up my current life. Josh just said that a nice balance is always found when it comes to kids. It’s a toughie because there’s only one real way to find out, and there’s no turning back once you do. Josh was beat by 10 so he crashed leaving Lily and me to stay up a little longer, reminiscing over days long since past until she turned in leaving me to finally have that banger and crash.

Next morning was a shocker. Woken by Yasmin climbing into bed with me at 6 along with so many cuddly toys. Tried to ignore her but it was a big fat fail, her persistence was admirable. I got up and asked if she wanted pancakes, of course she did, and went to get her brother. Josh came in at 7 to a peaceful kitchen with his kids well fed. ‘You’re a natural’ he stated. ‘Once is fine. Every day would be a different story’ I said. Lily followed shortly after and simply said ‘you’re going to work with Josh today, I have things to do’ I was gonna bail back home but with some arm twisting I was convinced to stay, until Sunday.

I got some work gear from Josh and we went to the project he was mid-way through. He owns his own joinery business and is currently building and installing a bespoke kitchen for some huge house not far from theirs. His work is good and the team he has follow the same perfectionist mantra. I spent the day being a lackey and humping things back and forwards which had me pretty shattered and aching by clocking off time. Post slog beers were very well received. As soon as we got home we were attacked by his kids and their demands for attention. He got off Scott free as I, being the newbie, was the main focus. I managed an hour before I was done and went for a shower, totally fucked. Josh took over parental responsibilities and said that Lily and me should go out to catch up, so kind. We went to a pretty good bar and had too many beers, for her not me. Was hilarious seeing someone who used to be able to outpace me 2-1 on all fronts in such a stupor by the end of the night. I had to wonder if Josh knew how crazy she’d been in her past and whether she’d told that we’d once had a brief thing. The walk home cured most of her wobbles so she was ripe for a smoke when we got back. She shouldn’t have done but did. Sitting together on her terrace brought back old times, post club/party, when we’d shoot the shit and ramble on about everything and nothing. How things have changed, more for her than me. Rain came so we took it inside and settled on the sofa in the den. She was asleep in no time sprawled out with her legs over me. It was bedtime but I felt selfish, wanting to hang on to something buried in the past. I sat there for about 30 mins stroking her legs and staring at her, thinking how bearing twins had been kind on her body, that motherhood suited her and could it have been different between us. I came to the conclusion that what we had was special and I wouldn’t‘ve changed it any way because we had always been great friends and anything else may have soiled that. I needed to sleep, so flipped the other way so we were top and tail and passed out.

Not quite so brutal a wake up on Saturday but it was still fairly early. My alarm clock was kids in the kitchen having breakfast. Listening to them chattering away was fairly entertaining. It was a pretty nice day so we went for a drive into the forest and had a picnic. I spent most of my time talking to Josh as I got the feeling he was put up to it by Lily to have a man to man talk. I’m sure she’s given him lots to go on following our Ayahausca weekend us guys open up differently to each other. His advice - if it were me I’d have nothing to do with the woman from LA and I’d move on. Sounds like you have a few options. Easier said than done when you’re dealing with it at the front line. With the day dead and the kids in bed is grown ups cracked a bottle another bottle of wine and sick of talking about me I settled on asking and finding out even more about their going’s on. They have a solid plan for the next 5 and 10 years, by which time their kids will almost be adults. I’m lucky if I can think 10weeks into the future with any degree of clarity. Is that bad, or living in the moment good? I went to bed on the question of what do I wanna be doing at 40?

I left around mid-morning, much to the disappointment of the kids, so I promised to come back. ‘Lily’s parting words - ‘don’t get involved with Elise, she’s bad news, and I think deep down you know it, but don’t want it to be true.’ It made me sad to hear it but I trust her so much and it’s the truth. ‘There’s a girl out there who you obviously want, subconsciously, you just have to find her.’ ‘How do you find someone when you don’t even know their name?’ ‘Look for the signs Riley. Besides you’re a smart and resourceful chap.’ She gave me a kiss on the check and said ‘promise me you’ll ride safe.’ I did, but only after I did a wheelie away from the house and up the street.

Later gators

[samanthasroberts]

21 People Reveal The *Very* NSFW Scene They’ve Run Into In Broad Daylight

1.

Saw a lady accidentally drop her baby face-first in the street.

The baby was not pleased.

2.

So, lived in New Orleans for a while. Worked as a bartender on Bourbon St. I was leaving work around 6:30 am. The sun was coming up and there was a fairly decent mix of people either just starting their day, or going home. One of the strip clubs closer to Canal St. has pictures of scantily clad women on the outside of the building.

There was a homeless guy, pants around his ankles like some little kids do at urinals, straight up dick in his hand jerking it in broad daylight in the middle of the sidewalk to some of the pictures on the building. Did not make eye contact and quickly went to the other side of the street. In hindsight, the sidewalk was probably his bedroom, so…

3.

Homeless lady spraying liquid shit all over a wall.I was walking down the street, rounded a corner, and there she was.

4.

Mine was a Chinese tourist who didn’t want to wait in line for the bathroom, not even in the washroom but right across the hall from it.

5.

I used to live in a second floor flat with an ex girlfriend and the flat overlooked the back garden of the pub next door. One evening I’m in our bedroom and hear a load of noise coming from the pub garden.

I peer out of the window half expecting there to be a fight or at least something of an aggressive nature happening since it was a pretty dire pub. Instead I see a semicircle of people cheering on some stripper who is in the midst of losing her clothes for some guy who’s sat in the middle of this semi circle and on one of the pub benches. Once she’s lost all her clothes she then bends over, arse to the crowd, unzips this guy’s trousers and gives him a blow job right there in the garden.

This was not the most surprising thing. What surprised me the most was while she was bent over, one of the guys watching turns to his mate with a big grin (I can’t hear what anyone is saying, only the cheering)…he then walks up behind the stripper and proceeds to slide the neck of his beer bottle into her pussy and bottle fucks her with no warning whatsoever…

I expected her to immediately back up, slap him and leave. Instead she writhes around and takes it with pleasure, a lot of pleasure! At some point during this show, I’d called the ex into the room and when we proceeded to have a good ten minute show from our bedroom window. That was an entertaining evening!

6.

This was in NJ. I remember before I got my car I would have to take the bus to work. One day it was as usual, I was just sitting about midway in the bus on the right side, next thing you know some guy comes on, pays his fare and sits down.

He proceeded to take his hat off and dry shave his head (he had a hair length of what you’d expect after no shaving for a week, not long) with a razor that looked like an old disposable. I look at him in awe as he’s shaving his head bare like that and I begin to see blood just coming off the parts he shaved with the other parts just being spotted patches of hair.

By the time his stop came, he was bleeding quite a bit, and he just put his hat back on and got off. After that day I never sat down on any public transportation and have also stood up since. Never again.

7.

When I was 11 I saw a junkie get beat to death by two guys with clubs outside of my dad’s apartment.

8.

While on a business trip to Brazil I saw two homeless guys fucking while doing crack in the middle of the sidewalk in a very busy street.

9.

Man vomiting in a bag, grabbing the chunks of food from the vomit and eating it back again.

10.

Another client in the long term adolescent rehab facility I was in went defiant for a few months. Lots of crazy things during this time, but the best (worst?) was out in the parking lot one day.

We’ll refer to him as “D.” D intentionally let wild diarrhea loose which promptly vacated the legs of his shorts and soaked the ass area. D then starts pulling it out of his pants, off of the pavement and back of his leg, and starts throwing it at us, occasionally applying a streak here and there to his own face. Staff of course came after him to subdue and sedate him, and their pursuit was met with spicy molten shitsquirts. There was something really poetic about watching social workers in christmas sweaters tackle and restrain a young man covered in his own shit. You could’ve put “Yakety Sax” behind the whole thing.

D later (like, 2 months later) apologized to the group. He gave weird details in his apology, including the amount of Hot Sauce he intentionally consumed with his breakfast in his cereal that day for the desired effect. The fuck.

11.

Watched a seemingly normal older man walking his medium sized dog, dog stops, takes a dump on the sidewalk and he bends down and picks it up with a napkin and takes a big ole bite out of the turd and continues walking and eating his fresh dog log. I shit you not.

12.

Guy was high on something and came to the factory totally out of it. Too fucked up to work the assembly line, so they had him breaking down boxes with a box knife. He put one box on his thigh, and proceeded to cut a 2 foot long cut through the box and into his inner thigh without noticing it. Well, unless you consider passing out to be noticing.

13.

After school one day (which is close to work I guess ) which was 7th grade I saw a kid stab another kid in the stomach 3 or 4 times with a butcher knife

14.

No nudity involved, but on an NYC subway, very crouded, rush hour, a man clearly had his hand down a womans skirt, and she was biting her lip.

15.

Worked on a court case of a guy who’s was filling syringes (presumably, no needle) with his semen, and squirting them on the legs of young women as they were using the escalator during rush hour.

He would just stand behind them, shoot it up their skirt, and walk off. They wouldn’t necessarily know but he was caught on CCTV because he did this multiple times a day. Before that he had a record for exhibitionism (flashing) and then progressed on to this.

16.

Not sure if it’s nsfw but it was definitely weird and unexpected. A homeless man flipped me off and then put out his cigarette in his eye.

17.

Homeless dude squatting in an alleyway having a dump so bad that he was screaming at the top of his lungs every time he pushed.

18.

I saw this lady on the train making sexual noises into her cellphone on the train the other day.. it was disturbing. then she dared all the passengers to say something to her about it.. someone did. it was entertaining. gotta love DC.

19.

Well, I was once swimming at Wreck Beach in BC and there was a gay couple float-fucking in the water a few hundred yards off the shore (that’s NSFW but not the point of the story) pretending like the whole beach wasn’t seeing them.

Well, the whole beach continued not to see them as they floated directly into a floating wastewater slick from a passing Chinese oceanliner.

20.

I was at a college party in my dorm my freshman year. I was drinking with a few friends in the courtyard, which was packed with people. I walked around the corner with a buddy and there was a girl eating another girl out. There was quite a crowd forming around them.

21.

Downtown Seattle – you see bums shitting in the street fairly often. Well one bum was mid shit, stopped, and proceeded to pop the largest syst or zit or whatever the hell this ungodly thing was, resulting in the most puss I’ve ever seen come out of another human.

Source: http://allofbeer.com/21-people-reveal-the-very-nsfw-scene-theyve-run-into-in-broad-daylight/

from All of Beer https://allofbeer.wordpress.com/2017/12/27/21-people-reveal-the-very-nsfw-scene-theyve-run-into-in-broad-daylight/

[adambstingus]

21 People Reveal The *Very* NSFW Scene They’ve Run Into In Broad Daylight

1.

Saw a lady accidentally drop her baby face-first in the street.

The baby was not pleased.

2.

So, lived in New Orleans for a while. Worked as a bartender on Bourbon St. I was leaving work around 6:30 am. The sun was coming up and there was a fairly decent mix of people either just starting their day, or going home. One of the strip clubs closer to Canal St. has pictures of scantily clad women on the outside of the building.

There was a homeless guy, pants around his ankles like some little kids do at urinals, straight up dick in his hand jerking it in broad daylight in the middle of the sidewalk to some of the pictures on the building. Did not make eye contact and quickly went to the other side of the street. In hindsight, the sidewalk was probably his bedroom, so…

3.

Homeless lady spraying liquid shit all over a wall.I was walking down the street, rounded a corner, and there she was.

4.

Mine was a Chinese tourist who didn’t want to wait in line for the bathroom, not even in the washroom but right across the hall from it.

5.

I used to live in a second floor flat with an ex girlfriend and the flat overlooked the back garden of the pub next door. One evening I’m in our bedroom and hear a load of noise coming from the pub garden.

I peer out of the window half expecting there to be a fight or at least something of an aggressive nature happening since it was a pretty dire pub. Instead I see a semicircle of people cheering on some stripper who is in the midst of losing her clothes for some guy who’s sat in the middle of this semi circle and on one of the pub benches. Once she’s lost all her clothes she then bends over, arse to the crowd, unzips this guy’s trousers and gives him a blow job right there in the garden.

This was not the most surprising thing. What surprised me the most was while she was bent over, one of the guys watching turns to his mate with a big grin (I can’t hear what anyone is saying, only the cheering)…he then walks up behind the stripper and proceeds to slide the neck of his beer bottle into her pussy and bottle fucks her with no warning whatsoever…

I expected her to immediately back up, slap him and leave. Instead she writhes around and takes it with pleasure, a lot of pleasure! At some point during this show, I’d called the ex into the room and when we proceeded to have a good ten minute show from our bedroom window. That was an entertaining evening!

6.

This was in NJ. I remember before I got my car I would have to take the bus to work. One day it was as usual, I was just sitting about midway in the bus on the right side, next thing you know some guy comes on, pays his fare and sits down.

He proceeded to take his hat off and dry shave his head (he had a hair length of what you’d expect after no shaving for a week, not long) with a razor that looked like an old disposable. I look at him in awe as he’s shaving his head bare like that and I begin to see blood just coming off the parts he shaved with the other parts just being spotted patches of hair.

By the time his stop came, he was bleeding quite a bit, and he just put his hat back on and got off. After that day I never sat down on any public transportation and have also stood up since. Never again.

7.

When I was 11 I saw a junkie get beat to death by two guys with clubs outside of my dad’s apartment.

8.

While on a business trip to Brazil I saw two homeless guys fucking while doing crack in the middle of the sidewalk in a very busy street.

9.

Man vomiting in a bag, grabbing the chunks of food from the vomit and eating it back again.

10.

Another client in the long term adolescent rehab facility I was in went defiant for a few months. Lots of crazy things during this time, but the best (worst?) was out in the parking lot one day.

We’ll refer to him as “D.” D intentionally let wild diarrhea loose which promptly vacated the legs of his shorts and soaked the ass area. D then starts pulling it out of his pants, off of the pavement and back of his leg, and starts throwing it at us, occasionally applying a streak here and there to his own face. Staff of course came after him to subdue and sedate him, and their pursuit was met with spicy molten shitsquirts. There was something really poetic about watching social workers in christmas sweaters tackle and restrain a young man covered in his own shit. You could’ve put “Yakety Sax” behind the whole thing.

D later (like, 2 months later) apologized to the group. He gave weird details in his apology, including the amount of Hot Sauce he intentionally consumed with his breakfast in his cereal that day for the desired effect. The fuck.

11.

Watched a seemingly normal older man walking his medium sized dog, dog stops, takes a dump on the sidewalk and he bends down and picks it up with a napkin and takes a big ole bite out of the turd and continues walking and eating his fresh dog log. I shit you not.

12.

Guy was high on something and came to the factory totally out of it. Too fucked up to work the assembly line, so they had him breaking down boxes with a box knife. He put one box on his thigh, and proceeded to cut a 2 foot long cut through the box and into his inner thigh without noticing it. Well, unless you consider passing out to be noticing.

13.

After school one day (which is close to work I guess ) which was 7th grade I saw a kid stab another kid in the stomach 3 or 4 times with a butcher knife

14.

No nudity involved, but on an NYC subway, very crouded, rush hour, a man clearly had his hand down a womans skirt, and she was biting her lip.

15.

Worked on a court case of a guy who’s was filling syringes (presumably, no needle) with his semen, and squirting them on the legs of young women as they were using the escalator during rush hour.

He would just stand behind them, shoot it up their skirt, and walk off. They wouldn’t necessarily know but he was caught on CCTV because he did this multiple times a day. Before that he had a record for exhibitionism (flashing) and then progressed on to this.

16.

Not sure if it’s nsfw but it was definitely weird and unexpected. A homeless man flipped me off and then put out his cigarette in his eye.

17.

Homeless dude squatting in an alleyway having a dump so bad that he was screaming at the top of his lungs every time he pushed.

18.

I saw this lady on the train making sexual noises into her cellphone on the train the other day.. it was disturbing. then she dared all the passengers to say something to her about it.. someone did. it was entertaining. gotta love DC.

19.

Well, I was once swimming at Wreck Beach in BC and there was a gay couple float-fucking in the water a few hundred yards off the shore (that’s NSFW but not the point of the story) pretending like the whole beach wasn’t seeing them.

Well, the whole beach continued not to see them as they floated directly into a floating wastewater slick from a passing Chinese oceanliner.

20.

I was at a college party in my dorm my freshman year. I was drinking with a few friends in the courtyard, which was packed with people. I walked around the corner with a buddy and there was a girl eating another girl out. There was quite a crowd forming around them.

21.

Downtown Seattle – you see bums shitting in the street fairly often. Well one bum was mid shit, stopped, and proceeded to pop the largest syst or zit or whatever the hell this ungodly thing was, resulting in the most puss I’ve ever seen come out of another human.

from All Of Beer http://allofbeer.com/21-people-reveal-the-very-nsfw-scene-theyve-run-into-in-broad-daylight/ from All of Beer https://allofbeercom.tumblr.com/post/169013267742

[markwatkinsconsumerguide]

Consumer Guide / No.49 / Entrepreneur Tarba Gill with Mark Watkins.

MW : You live in Cambridge(shire) , what's best about the area in terms of work, rest and play?

TG : I live in a small village just outside Cambridge, which is perfect for our family. Thank goodness for good broadband, otherwise work would be more challenging. I have two small children who enjoy the countryside and it's lovely to see fields at the bottom of the garden, which is also home to some sheep. The children are really lucky to see various farm animals and it's perfect for family walks. There's easily access to the A14 and commuting to London isn't too painful. The only downside is there's no pub...

MW : Your new project, 'Tarba's House', is webcam based and social media interactive. What’s it all about? Your hopes for?

TG: I've always been interested in broadcast and technology, having left my job in London with a major broadcaster in 2016. I started missing that element of my life. It's in my blood. I explored the idea of trying a 'TV-style' format on the Facebook platform. So, along came the idea for Tarba's House, which is streamed live from my kitchen. Currently, I interview guests either at home or use Skype/Face Time. We interview a wide range of guests, from business through to music. Initially it was going to just be focused on music, but with copyright and licence issues it's very complicated. The sound for live music is also very important and we are still very much learning how to get it perfect. All of which is something we will have to get our heads around eventually.

TV viewing behaviour is changing, even more so with the younger generation and I really believe LIVE broadcast across social media platforms will take off. America are already ahead. Currently, we are only one of three people in the UK using the software...in America it's in the thousands...

Apart from wanting to learn and play with new technology, I wanted to start pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I was looking for someone to present it, whilst I worked behind the scenes, but no one stepped forward. I haven't presented in a long time. I'm pretty rusty but I'll keep going even when I really feel like I'm out of my depth. I'd rather be criticised for doing something rather than being someone that doesn't do anything.

My hopes for Tarba's House is carry on tinkering around with the content of the show until we are happy. It's been great seeing the number of 'likes' grow and the support has taken me by surprise. I do have a brilliant 'fairy god man' who I've never met, he believes in what we are trying to do and has helped so much. A few people have got in touch about re-introducing the comical stuff but that's likely to end up on a You Tube channel. More likely to be a 'mock-doc' but not until 2018.

MW : You founded, Buzzella, tell me about that...

TG : My very new website! It's a listing site, hopefully to help parents like myself.

Every birthday, my children always seem to have ambitious ideas for their parties. My daughter wanted a film party for her 6th birthday. So we googled to see if we could find a cost effective option - locally. Nope. She gave us her film storyboard and wanted all her friends to star in it. Our jaws dropped. Borrowing some equipment, we managed to shoot the film in our garden with around 30 children.

The next bit was to show her film, so we got in touch with the local cinema. We hadn't realised that they actually hire the screens out, and at an affordable rate. That's when I thought it would be really good to have a site that helped parents find out what is available locally. Also, hoping that it does inspire people to have fun doing something different. Slowly businesses are finding us and traffic seems to be increasing, which is great :-)

MW: You've over 21 years experience at all levels in the broadcasting industry, including radio and television. Tell me about your Radio Avalon days and your different adventures with Red TV and Cambridge Presents community TV...

TG : Radio Avalon (Glastonbury Festival's radio station) played such an important part in my life. I learnt so much and it really did drive my love for radio. It was really hard work, especially walking from one field to another. The site is so huge. I really enjoyed doing the live shows. I have some brilliant and fun memories from that time. Most of the interviews were set up before going on site, and catching them before or after their performances. I've had to do interviews while the bands are being driven across to stages and even one in someone's tent, whilst it rained heavily, with their girlfriend's knickers and clothes everywhere.

I wanted to see and understand how the television production side worked, lucky to spend time with a local television station called Red TV. The only way I could get through the door was to offer to produce a show. I had no idea what I was doing. Eventually I found myself running the TV station, with little experience. But, for me it was a dream come true. Red TV lead me to working for a major broadcast company in London, where I was for nearly 11 years until 2016.

A former boss of mine got in touch after the local TV licence for Cambridge was advertised, and asked if I was interested in helping with the application for Cambridge Presents. Putting the application together wasn't straight forward and getting the right people on board was equally challenging. Staring at spreadsheets trying to get the financials less daunting. We did try to find additional backers and people that really believed in producing local television but Cambridge is better known for tech rather than broadcasting. Earlier this year the station was sold due to the main stakeholder running for local mayor.

MW : Who have you most enjoyed interviewing, and why? Who would you like to chat to, but have yet too, and your reasons?

TG : It's got to be the small bands, they are so fresh and excited to do interviews. They haven't had the same questions fired at them over and over again. On the other hand, the more famous are the more challenging trying to come up with interesting questions. There are quite a few famous names, but probably Muse - when they were supporting Skunk Anansie. Years ago. They were completely exhausted, and I remember they just wanted to watch the band and then do the interview. I ended up on their tour bus, doing an interview whilst they were almost nodding off!

Who would I like to chat to? Mmmm... that's a hard question! When I was younger it was all about bands and music, now I find myself wanting to chat with anyone who has gone through the tough times and come out the other end through a good fight, with a successful story to tell. They don't necessary have to be famous. Those are the people that inspire me - and others.

If I had to go for someone famous, it would have to be Stephen King. Brilliant novelist who kept going despite hardship and rejection. I'd love to know what he's like as a person. I have been bold enough to email his agent to see if I could get an interview. I wasn't surprised when I got a 'no, but thank you' response.

MW : Tell me about the last gig you went to, and the biggest/best you've attended to date...

TG : The last gig was Beth Orton in Cambridge as I was curious to hear her new music. Beth was one of the first interviews I did at Glastonbury... years ago! I don't get the chance to go out to gigs as much since becoming a parent! Now that the children are a bit older I'll be making up for lost time!

Nothing will ever beat seeing 'The Prodigy' at Glastonbury Festival. I was totally blown away by the atmosphere. Watching Keith walking on people's shoulders in the audience. The lighting. The crowd going wild.

MW : Why is creating so important to you, and where does this unique talent from do you think?

TG : My dad. He was very knowledgeable, creative, and above all eccentric. My childhood wasn't a conventional one - Hippy parents - and living most of my childhood in different parts of Africa. It was normal for me to catch fire flies, spy on lizards laying eggs through to seeing puffer fish on beaches. My childhood wasn't a fairy tale either and imagination is certainly a way of escapism. As a coping mechanism as a child I use to write lots of short stories, full of fairies and unicorns! I also watched my dad try to run his business, whilst looking after 4 young children when my parents split up. He always seem to have the ability to survive but do it in a way that was far from straightforward, especially when he had to give up his business to look after us as a single parent.

I don't remember hearing him moan about money, that would be a waste of his time, instead he would find ways of making money. He seem to have a constant flow of ideas from wood craft kits to sell one week. By the next, we would find ourselves on a boat at Henley selling strawberries and cream to surprised passersby.

He was also a great storyteller and always seem to have a captive audience. Some of his stories were greatly exaggerated, which made them more interesting and funny. So, yes,definitely my dad.

MW : What are your book and music recommendations?

TG : I tend to read biographies and 'helpful' books. We were given a brilliant book called ‘Good Night Stories For Rebel Girls’ by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo, which centres on a 100 real heroic women. I've been working my way through this.

My fiction fix is reading bedtime stories to my children. ‘Paper Dolls’ by Julia Donaldson always leaves a lump in my throat. It's such a beautiful story. It's also a reminder that children grow up quickly and that time is precious.

I've been listening to a local indie-rock band called History & Lore, really think they are the next big thing. Heard them on the radio and have been listening ever since.

MW : Tell me about your record collection...

TG : Please don't remind me... my collection use to be around 20,000 CDs until I managed to get it down to around 10,000. Recently, I'm having to start going through the process of clearing it down again. Find the whole process pretty awful. Just don't have the space. I have CD collections all around the house ; I even have boxes under the bed.

My collection is very mixed. You'll find Jeff Buckley next to DeeJay Punk-Roc, Tchaikovsky next to Metallica, and so on. Somewhere I even have a Sam Mendes CD!

MW : What's your favorite pizza topping and favorite fizzy drink to go with?

TG : Veggie Supreme! Usually with an orange juice or water. If I'm lucky, a small beer! I don't tend to drink fizzy drinks.

MW : Plans for the rest of 2017?

TG : At the moment it will be about growing www.buzzella.co.uk and Tarba's House by means of cross-promotional marketing with a few other companies that we are talking to.

I will probably be armed with lots of books learning more about SEO too. An area that I'm not familiar with, but extremely important in terms of helping develop any brand or company.

We are also having to look at new ways to engage and book guests. In an ideal world I will have guests booked well in advance for Tarba's House!

Feel free to get in touch at tarba@buzzella.co.uk

© Mark Watkins / September 2017

[miamibeerscene]

Your Walkable Guide to Breweries in Olde Town Arvada, Colorado

Kline’s Beer Hall has more than 50 draft beer offerings and house-cured sausages. (Credit: Andy Sparhawk)

June 15, 2017

As the sign says, Welcome to Colorful Colorado! Whether you’re on a beercation or are one of the more than 100,000 new residents to the Centennial State, let me tell you one thing right off the bat: We take our beer very seriously. More than 300 small and independent craft brewers call Colorado home, and a savvy beer lover knows that there are craft beer experiences outside of the perennial beer powerhouses of Denver, Boulder, Ft. Collins, The Springs and so on. With Colorado hoppin’ both economically and beerwise, you should seek out Olde Town Arvada breweries. The town is one of the state’s easily overlooked craft beer gems.

Arvada’s Roots in the Gold Rush

Full disclosure, I happen to call Arvada my town. (I like to freak out my co-workers by telling them about life outside the Boulder bubble.)

Pronunciation: are-vad-uh. Don’t be throwing a lazy “a” in there. “Vad” like dad or rad, like Colorado.

Located seven miles from Denver and a half-hour from Boulder, Arvada is central to some of the state’s most vaunted craft beer strongholds. You’ll also find plenty of Old West history to boot.

(LEARN: CraftBeer.com’s Big List of Beer Schools)

What is now the city of Arvada is near the site of the first documented gold discovery in the Rocky Mountain region. In June 1850, a gold prospector by the name of Lewis Ralston found a quarter ounce gold nugget in what would later be known as Ralston Creek. The next day, he and his pals packed up and headed to California.

Eight years later Ralston and his group returned and many decided to stay near the creek Ralston originally found gold, sparking the widely-held ritual of the Californian pilgrimage to Colorado which we all know is still followed to this day.

Today I’d argue the gold comes in the form of our breweries, all within view of the water tower. Here’s your walkable guide to Olde Town Arvada breweries and craft beer destinations.

A Guide to Olde Town Arvada Breweries

Dusk falls in Olde Town Arvada, a growing hub for craft beer. (Credit Andy Sparhawk)

Yak & Yeti Brewpub

Ralston Creek’s connection to Clear Creek and the town west of Arvada, Golden, made it very much a Coors town when I moved to Arvada. At the time, Arvada had one brewery, Yak & Yeti, formerly the Cheshire Cat. It’s located across on Ralston Rd., just a smidge outside of the Olde Town district.

The Yak is a picturesque (and many believe haunted) house turned Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese restaurant. The brew system, leftover from the Cheshire Cat, is crammed into the basement forcing brewers over the years to navigate steep stairs. Brewing is a challenge. An expansion is impossible.

(LEARN: CraftBeer.com’s Big Beer Glossary)

Recently, Yak & Yeti announced that it had spun off brewing operations into Spice Trade Brewing. The hope is that beer lovers will have access to their award-winning beer, now under the direction of Jeff Tyler, around town. (I’ll still look for the authentic experience: trudging to Yak & Yeti during a snow storm for the buffet and a few pints of their Chai Milk Stout.)

“Arvada definitely has a much more vibrant beer and food scene than most people realize,” says Tyler. “We’re excited to be part of such a great beer scene in Arvada along with Odyssey Beerwerks, New Image, Someplace Else and now Denver Beer Co. More than just beer, Olde Town Arvada has morphed into an awesome food and drink hub that gives Denver a run for its money.”

If amazing Indian food isn’t your thing, you can hop across the street to 4 Barrel BBQ for some Meleguta Wings, a giant tray of pork rinds, or the Arvada Hash, which is a pile of grilled smashed tater tots smothered in green chili and pulled pork. Grab an Upslope Craft Lager to wash it down — especially the wings; you should probably ask to test the heat level of the Meleguta sauce before you commit.

The Route from New Image Brewing to Kline’s Beer Hall

If you follow Yukon Street south, New Image Brewing sits a block and a half away. There you will find some of the most exciting beers in Colorado right now. The brewery has been making waves with kombucha blended saison, complex high gravity sippers and an increasing array of hazy pales, notably East Coast Transplant, a reminder of the state’s current influx.

More sopapillas, please. New Image Brewing beer garden is the perfect place to unwind in Olde Town. (Credit: Andy Sparhawk)

In a short time, New Image has worked to put the brewery and the town on the beer map. Head Brewer Brandon Capps recognizes the Olde Town area has evolved: “When I first starting coming to Olde Town it didn’t have a ton going on,” writes Capps. “I’ve always likened Arvada to a small town in metro Atlanta called Decatur. It has a really cool historic downtown area that hosts some of the best food and drink in the state including several breweries.”

(VISIT: 2017’s Great American Beer Bars)

Despite the increase in breweries and bars, Capps likes that the town has remained true to its historical district demeanor.

“The demographic is not so much the party scene like you get downtown, but the slightly more eclectic foodie and drink enthusiasts,” he says. “We’re already seeing the transformation and that demographic is perfect for us as a craft brewery that also specializes in innovative cocktails and food.”

Kline’s Beer Hall on Grandview in Olde Town Arvada. (Credit: Andy Sparhawk)

New Image’s aforementioned cocktail program and menu fits nicely with a Flora or Dyad at their communal tables. Once settled up, you can depart through their beer garden in the back into the alley and continue on your conquest of Olde Town Arvada.

Reaching Olde Wadsworth, you’d likely be drawn to the flickering torch lights or live music from the upstairs of Arvada Tavern, which is another great place for food, craft beer and to marvel at the highly-trained bartenders. Their sister pub, Kline’s Beer Hall, in the old D-Note, is a more beer focused experience with an impressive long draw system serving up local and regional craft beers to go with house-cured sausages. You’ll find Kline’s off of Grandview, but keep your eye on the prize because you could get distracted by Homegrown Tap & Dough‘s equally impressive draft selection or Scrumptious candy shop for ice cream.

Denver Beer Co. Olde Town

If you weren’t certain of Arvada’s rising beer stock, the grand opening of Denver Beer Co. in the former Chevrolet dealership on Olde Wadsworth is a defining boon to the beerscape. Co-owners Charlie Berger and Patrick Crawford came upon the building when they were walking through Olde Town after scouting equipment from the defunct Arvada Beer Co. They didn’t end up purchasing ABC’s equipment, but the two came upon the old building and saw the potential.

“It felt kinda perfect,” explained Berger. “It felt homie.”

Crawford and Berger promise Denver Beer Co. fans can expect DBC’s core favorites like Raspberry Princess Yum Yum and Graham Cracker Porter, but recognize that Arvada will be different from their Denver location. They anticipate adventurous palates in Olde Town and are excited to showcase a new strawberry kettle sour at their grand opening in mid-June.

“It’s an exciting step for us,” said Berger, “We’re still a small business, but we’re hiring and contributing to the community.”

Denver Beer Co. Olde Town is fitted with a seven-barrel brewhouse to craft tasty ales and lagers by DBC newcomer, Paul Papantonio, and under the leadership of Denver Beer Co.’s Head Brewer Jason Buehler, who continues to oversee brewing operations.

Denver Beer Co. opens in an old car dealership in Olde Town Arvada. (Credit: Patrick Crawford)

More Beer In and Around Olde Town Arvada

If this seems like a lot of walking, I’ll point out that from The Yak to Kline’s you would have only travel by foot no more than .4 miles! Olde Town Arvada is dripping with fantastic beer and food destinations, and we haven’t even mentioned the amazing breakfast options like the best donut shop that no one knows about — OMG’s Donuts — or the Bluegrass which serves coffee and breakfast burritos in the morning and then turns into a craft beer/bourbon/pizza joint with live bluegrass. It’s just a few more steps from Kline’s.

I’d suggest experiencing Olde Town Arvada before everyone finds out about it, but you might be too late. (No, not because of the G-Line Light Rail stop — that’s still delayed.) Denver Beer Co.’s Arvada new location means there’s no stopping the Olde Town craft beer hype.

(LEARN: 75+ Popular Craft Beer Styles)

If it gets too crazy you can ride your bike to Odyssey Beerwerks and then down to SomePlace Else Brewing. Grab a ride share to Wheat Ridge for Colorado Plus or Brewery Rickoli’s. You can jump on I-70 East to head to Bruz Beers and then back to all that Denver has to offer. Or you can go west on I-70 to Golden for the likes of Cannonball Creek, Barrels and Bottles and even more Golden breweries (six) all within 10 miles of Olde Town Arvada.

Even with the sheer number of opportunities of places to find a craft beer in and around Olde Town, the area has retained its charm. As the great white blob of the Highlands envelops Wheat Ridge and sets its sights on Arvada, the hope is that the district will keep some semblance of that feel. Colorado is known for its craft beer and lots of it, but just like selecting your next pint, being discerning about where you go yields a memorable beer experience.

The next time you’re prospecting for new breweries to check out, set a course for the Olde Town Arvada water tower, the waypoint of one of the Centennial State’s hidden craft beer nuggets.

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Andy Sparhawk

Andy Sparhawk, the Brewers Association’s craft beer web manager, is a Certified Cicerone® and BJCP Beer Judge. He lives in Arvada, Colorado where he is a homebrewer and avid craft beer enthusiast. On occasion, Andy is inspired to write on his experiences with craft beer, and if they are not too ridiculous, you might see the results here on CraftBeer.com. Read more by this author

The post Your Walkable Guide to Breweries in Olde Town Arvada, Colorado appeared first on Miami Beer Scene.

from Your Walkable Guide to Breweries in Olde Town Arvada, Colorado

[lizzielambwriter]

Castle Stalker, Argyll © Lizzie Lamb

July saw us taking a month long research trip to Scotland. We started at Edinburgh, visited Rosslyn Chapel and Britannia . We called in at Whitburn to visit my family and discovered that Uncle Archie is a great fan of caravaning, too – I guess the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Here he is with Auntie Nellie; they are my dad’s last remaining siblings. When I was talking to them, I lapsed into an East Lothian patois I hadn’t spoken in many a year. Good to know I haven’t lost it, ye ken?

In August we visited Bletchley Park and found a connection there to WHITBURN, Winkie the carrier pigeon  who saved the lives of a WWII Bomber crew. They even had Winkie’s ‘parachute on display.Here’s Dave sitting at Alan Turing’s desk . . . 

Bongo Man sitting at Alan Turing’s desk

Winkie the Pigeon

While we were at Edinburgh we visited Doune Castle where many scenes from OUTLANDER (Castle Leoch), and MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL were filmed.

I drew inspiration for the Samhain feast in GIRL IN THE CASTLE here.

We then camped at Culloden  and travelled as far north as Balnakeil, Cape Wrath, (research for romance #5). We popped into Balmoral but Herself wasn’t in, so I met up with fellow writer Rae Cowie at Banchory for a coffee and presented her with a copy of Scotch on the Rocks. (thanks for reviewing, Rae)

You can’t visit Inverness without going Nessie hunting, so we called in at Urquhart Castle, but Nessie was taking a coffee break. You can see why, inspired by the mist, romantic landscape and mysterious wakes on the loch, how the legend of the monster first arose.

Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle

My two SCOTTISH novels

Loch Ness from Drumnadrochit

Urquhart Castle

We moved on to Ullapool and, although it rained (a lot!), at least we weren’t bothered by midges. It has long been an ambition of mine to visit the Craft Village at Balnakeil , and we did just that – calling in at the fabulous Cocoa Mountain Cafe for the BEST hot chocolate EVER. If you visit nearby Durness, you’ll see the John Lennon memorial garden; John, Yoko and the kids used to holiday there in the late sixties.

The road from Ullapool to Durness was stunning as we passed through North-West Highlands Geo-Park on a twisting one track road with passing places. Castles, white sand beaches, mountains, mist and small lochs (lochans)  covered in water lilies. Can’t wait to return.

During that month New Romantics Press  published a tapas selection of our novels for reading on Kindle. At the end of each extract a link takes the reader direct to Amazon to download the novel and ‘read on’. Take a Chance on Us. 

Once I returned home, it was straight to East Midlands Airport to pick up Isabella Tartaruga. Isabella and I met through Facebook and have become firm friends ever since. I named a character in Scotch on the Rocks after her. We took Isa to our local pub for a cider and I organised a tea party in her honour – with a little help from my friends.

Talking of friends . . . In August we travelled to Brighton and had a super lunch with writer  June Tate, and exchanged books. Later in the autumn, we met up with lovely Carole Matthews; I received her latest book later on in the year and am looking forward to reading and reviewing both. I learn so much talking to such brilliant writers – I hope some of the fairy dust rubbed off. 

To ring the changes, New Romantics Press attended the Historical Novel Society‘s annual conference. I like to include lots of history in my contemporary novels – if that makes sense. One sad footnote: the conference was the last time I spoke to agent Carole Blake, who died unexpectedly in October. A great loss to readers and writers alike.

Adrienne, Margaret and Cathy

Carole Blake – extreme right

Jean Fullerton & Kelvin Wolmer

October saw me giving a four hour talk How to Self Publish your novel, at Stamford Arts. Thanks to Rachel Henry of WriteStars for inviting me. Dave was my wing man and worked the pc while I blathered on.

  The highlight of November has to be the author event which Adrienne Vaughan and I presented at Aspinall, St Pancras, London. We sold books, talked to customers about writing – and met Tom Parker Bowles (name dropper!) in Fortnum’s, across the way! We’re hoping to be invited back again this spring to give author readings and to talk about the art of writing – watch this space.

It was a great November for Adrienne as she launched Fur Coat and No Knickers, a collection of short stories and poems.

December went by in a whirl, the highlight was meeting Book Blogger, Rosie Amber and her team of reviewers and writers at the Belmont Hotel with the Leicester Chapter.Thanks to Rosie, Scotch on the Rocks was read by her review team and short listed for the contemporary fiction award (silver). It was also one of Book Blogger Cathy Ryan‘s TOP READS OF 2016.

And finally . . . deep breath. I finished my latest novel – GIRL IN THE CASTLE and it is currently with beta readers. I have booked my proofreader and formatter and, with good luck and a following wind, it should be ready for pre-order by the end of March.

Cover reveal and blurb, coming soon.

My Review of 2016 #2 July – December July saw us taking a month long research trip to Scotland. We started at Edinburgh, visited…

[lizzielambwriter]

Castle Stalker, Argyll © Lizzie Lamb

July saw us taking a month long research trip to Scotland. We started at Edinburgh, visited Rosslyn Chapel and Britannia . We called in at Whitburn to visit my family and discovered that Uncle Archie is a great fan of caravaning, too – I guess the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Here he is with Auntie Nellie; they are my dad’s last remaining siblings. When I was talking to them, I lapsed into an East Lothian patois I hadn’t spoken in many a year. Good to know I haven’t lost it, ye ken?

In August we visited Bletchley Park and found a connection there to WHITBURN, Winkie the carrier pigeon  who saved the lives of a WWII Bomber crew. They even had Winkie’s ‘parachute on display.Here’s Dave sitting at Alan Turing’s desk . . . 

Bongo Man sitting at Alan Turing’s desk

Winkie the Pigeon

While we were at Edinburgh we visited Doune Castle where many scenes from OUTLANDER (Castle Leoch), and MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL were filmed.

I drew inspiration for the Samhain feast in GIRL IN THE CASTLE here.

We then camped at Culloden  and travelled as far north as Balnakeil, Cape Wrath, (research for romance #5). We popped into Balmoral but Herself wasn’t in, so I met up with fellow writer Rae Cowie at Banchory for a coffee and presented her with a copy of Scotch on the Rocks. (thanks for reviewing, Rae)

You can’t visit Inverness without going Nessie hunting, so we called in at Urquhart Castle, but Nessie was taking a coffee break. You can see why, inspired by the mist, romantic landscape and mysterious wakes on the loch, how the legend of the monster first arose.

Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle

My two SCOTTISH novels

Loch Ness from Drumnadrochit

Urquhart Castle

We moved on to Ullapool and, although it rained (a lot!), at least we weren’t bothered by midges. It has long been an ambition of mine to visit the Craft Village at Balnakeil , and we did just that – calling in at the fabulous Cocoa Mountain Cafe for the BEST hot chocolate EVER. If you visit nearby Durness, you’ll see the John Lennon memorial garden; John, Yoko and the kids used to holiday there in the late sixties.

The road from Ullapool to Durness was stunning as we passed through North-West Highlands Geo-Park on a twisting one track road with passing places. Castles, white sand beaches, mountains, mist and small lochs (lochans)  covered in water lilies. Can’t wait to return.

During that month New Romantics Press  published a tapas selection of our novels for reading on Kindle. At the end of each extract a link takes the reader direct to Amazon to download the novel and ‘read on’. Take a Chance on Us. 

Once I returned home, it was straight to East Midlands Airport to pick up Isabella Tartaruga. Isabella and I met through Facebook and have become firm friends ever since. I named a character in Scotch on the Rocks after her. We took Isa to our local pub for a cider and I organised a tea party in her honour – with a little help from my friends.

Talking of friends . . . In August we travelled to Brighton and had a super lunch with writer  June Tate, and exchanged books. Later in the autumn, we met up with lovely Carole Matthews; I received her latest book later on in the year and am looking forward to reading and reviewing both. I learn so much talking to such brilliant writers – I hope some of the fairy dust rubbed off. 

To ring the changes, New Romantics Press attended the Historical Novel Society‘s annual conference. I like to include lots of history in my contemporary novels – if that makes sense. One sad footnote: the conference was the last time I spoke to agent Carole Blake, who died unexpectedly in October. A great loss to readers and writers alike.

Adrienne, Margaret and Cathy

Carole Blake – extreme right

Jean Fullerton & Kelvin Wolmer

October saw me giving a four hour talk How to Self Publish your novel, at Stamford Arts. Thanks to Rachel Henry of WriteStars for inviting me. Dave was my wing man and worked the pc while I blathered on.

  The highlight of November has to be the author event which Adrienne Vaughan and I presented at Aspinall, St Pancras, London. We sold books, talked to customers about writing – and met Tom Parker Bowles (name dropper!) in Fortnum’s, across the way! We’re hoping to be invited back again this spring to give author readings and to talk about the art of writing – watch this space.

It was a great November for Adrienne as she launched Fur Coat and No Knickers, a collection of short stories and poems.

December went by in a whirl, the highlight was meeting Book Blogger, Rosie Amber and her team of reviewers and writers at the Belmont Hotel with the Leicester Chapter.Thanks to Rosie, Scotch on the Rocks was read by her review team and short listed for the contemporary fiction award (silver). It was also one of Book Blogger Cathy Ryan‘s TOP READS OF 2016.

And finally . . . deep breath. I finished my latest novel – GIRL IN THE CASTLE and it is currently with beta readers. I have booked my proofreader and formatter and, with good luck and a following wind, it should be ready for pre-order by the end of March.

Cover reveal and blurb, coming soon.

My Review of 2016 #2 July – December July saw us taking a month long research trip to Scotland. We started at Edinburgh, visited…