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sibillascribbles08 · 5 months

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Babysitting

Morning, I actually wrote a HypnoWarren fic, sort of. They're already married by this point so

Note the fic also established Jasonnie so if you can't stand that uuuuh sorry bye

Hypno let out a sigh as he sunk into the giant, plush sofa in the living room. He had half a mind to turn on the TV, but after a morning filled with the joyful screams of children at the nearby kindergarten, he preferred the silence. Besides, the light was on over Warren’s door which meant he was currently recording. The less noise the better.

The silence kind of made him want to nap. Maybe just a quick one. He did have to wake up early to get ready, after all.

But just then he heard the faint creak of a door. Hypno glanced down the hall to see one of Warren’s doors open, the light up top going off.

One of his doors, because two smaller ones were built into the main door.

When Donatello built this apartment complex, he took great care to renovate all the flats to accommodate whatever mutants wanted to move in. So for the worm’s bedroom—in which all the furniture was designed for his small size to the point it was practically a house—had a door up top for him to hover out of, and a door on bottom for him to crawl out of.

The upper door opened this time, and Warren hovered into the hall on the little hover scooter that Donatello also built. The worm mainly just used it to get around the building. Otherwise he just sat on Hypno’s shoulder.

Warren looked like he was going to head to the bathroom, but then his gaze met Hypno’s and he smiled.

“You’re home earlier than I thought.” The scooter shot across the room and stopped next to the sofa. “How were the kids?”

“Eh, could have been worse.” Hypno didn’t hesitate to pick his husband up and put him on his shoulder. The hover scooter gently drifted down onto an empty cushion. “Got the new episode recorded?”

“You bet.” Warren beamed, hands on where his hips would be if he still had them. “I was excited to get to work on it this week. Breaking news, famous chef making a comeback with a new restaurant for mutants and yōkai alike.”

Hypno’s ears perked up. “Oh gosh, is the opening next week? We gotta go down and tell Rupert congrats.”

Warren waved a hand. “Way ahead of you. We can tell him on opening night, I got us a reservation. A romantic date and a chance to do a follow up report with a review. The listeners are gonna love it.”

‘Listeners’ referred to the hundreds of mutants and yōkai who tuned into Warren’s weekly news podcast. Not the same as being an anchorman, he often insisted, but it was familiar enough that he enjoyed it. He had fans again, and a means to earn them some extra income.

Plus, mutants and yōkai in the city had been complaining for a while about their lack of personal news outlets. It’s where Warren got the idea in the first place.

“I’m just proud of Rupert.” Hypno leaned back against the sofa. “Took him so long to give up all that crime stuff.”

“Yeah, well, even if Orange Boy hadn’t enticed him with that deal, I’m pretty sure the power houses those turtles turned into would have changed his mind.”

No kidding. Hypno was glad he and Warren started going on the mend years ago. After ruining Leo’s first magic show and having to work at a bagel shop to pay it off, the slider actually did something nice by giving Hypno some work recommendations. With a far more reliable and legal source of income, he and Warren didn’t have to stress too much about a living space.

And when Donnie built this first apartment complex, well, that just sweetened the deal. No insane rent costs. As long as you paid your portion of the utilities and for any damages you caused, the rent was rather low.

He supposed the owner of a very successful tech company didn’t really need the extra money.

“So, what’s the plan for the rest of the day?” Warren knocked Hypno’s top hat off and climbed up on his head. His tiny fingers played with the hippo’s hair. “I need to get to editing that audio, but I can do it tonight. Should we go to the park or something?”

Hypno thought about it for a bit, and was going to fire back a reply, when someone knocked on the door. He immediately turned his head to the right, forcing Warren to look that way as well.

“Who could that be?” The worm muttered. His tone obviously frustrated that they were interrupted.

Hypno got up. “Possibly just a neighbor who ran out of something in their spice cabinet.” It happened more than once. Especially considering that while mutant sightings were common these days, going to the grocery store was still an ordeal.

Hypno didn’t even peek outside before opening the door. He was a bit surprised to see Donatello standing there, but not by much. The turtle lived just a few doors down.

“Oh thank goodness you’re home.” Donnie's eyes looked absolutely exhausted as he closed them and clasped his hands together.

“Sure are, Flapjack,” Warren said. “Need a favor?”

“I know this is extremely short notice. But could the two of you watch Holly this afternoon?”

Now that did surprise Hypno. He knew Holly, of course. He’d seen the infant turtle more than once—mainly because her dads could not stop showing her off—but baby sitting?

“You sure you want us to do that?” Hypno pointed to himself.

Donnie groaned. “Look, Draxum is at work. Holly Blue and Jason are also at work and stuff has gone absolutely off the walls there. They need my help. The sooner I get over there the better so trying to drag one of my siblings over to watch her isn’t an easy option. You guys live right over here.”

Hypno didn’t know if it was worth bringing up their history considering they hadn’t fought in, what, a decade at least.

Still, “I don’t know all that much about infant care.”

Donnie kept running his hands over his face. “Not a problem. She doesn’t act like a typical infant. It’s super easy, I promise, if you guys are free at least.”

“Well—”

“We’re not doing it for free.” Warren mumbled.

“Warren.”

“What?”

“No, it’s fine.” Donnie waved a hand. “If you do this, I’ll waive your water bill for the month.”

The hippo balked at that. Not having to pay for water? That meant he could take as many long soaks in the tub as he wanted. He usually tried to limit it—despite how badly his skin needed it—due to, well, how much water he had to use per bath.

Warren must know exactly what he was thinking, because the worm snapped his fingers. “Deal. Show us what we’ve gotta do.”

“Sure.” The turtle nodded. “Grab anything you think you might need and meet me over there.” He turned and left.

Hypno wasn’t sure they’d need much, and they could always just hop back over here if they did, but Warren insisted they grab a couple of those canned coffee drinks just in case. He also insisted Hypno change out of his work clothes.

Yeah, that was fair.

Now with a much more casual button up, Hypno carried Warren and the coffees over to Donnie’s apartment. The door was propped open so they let themselves in.

Always so surreal how different it looked despite the similar floor layout. Where Hypno and Warren’s apartment was decorated wall to wall with posters and had silly nicknacks and props in every corner, Donnie and Jase’s apartment looked far more sleek. The fancy TV and speaker system, the massive massage recliner chair, and all the purples made it feel like something on a sci-fi themed cruise ship.

But as they followed Donnie to Holly’s room, the entire vibe shifted. At present, the tiny turtle baby mostly stayed in a personalized tank. Not that it was small by any stretch of the word. The tank was custom built, taking up half the room. The entire thing was built in a U shape—likely so you could reach her from anywhere while giving her plenty of space to move around. While some areas looked like a traditional tank, with sand, plants and water, the other half looked like a tiny bedroom. Blankets, pillows, and toys were scattered all over it.

Hypno wondered where the child even was, but the smallest squeak alerted him. He finally spotted her pressing her hands against the glass wall as Donnie reached in and picked her up.

She was definitely bigger than the last time Hypno saw her, but still tiny enough to fit in the turtle’s hand, and therefore Hypno’s as well.

“Okay,” Donnie began, eyes unfocused. “You guys know Holly. Holly, this is Hypno and Warren.”

The baby turtle didn’t even look in their direction. Her attention was completely fixed on her father.

“Good news, you don’t have to bottle feed her. She knows how to drink water and eat solid food, though I recommend you chop it up small for her. There’s a number of containers in the fridge labeled for her, just pick what you like.” Donnie pointed to a pair of bowls in one part of the tank, then a bottle that hung from the glass. “She has water in more than one location, food goes in that bowl.”

“Kinda sounding more like pet sitting than babysitting,” Warren mumbled.

Hypno gave his shoulder a sharp shrug to jostle his husband.

“What?”

“No, you’re right,” Donatello sighed. “But truthfully, even if the mechanics are different it’s not that far removed from raising a human baby. Moving on.” He pointed at Holly, more specifically at the cloth wrapped around her bottom half. “Diapers. We have to custom make them and they’re all cloth. We keep clean ones in that drawer.” He pointed to the dresser that was barely visible over the array of fabrics. Were those just the ones not yet cut up? “Used ones go in that hamper.” He pointed to what looked more like a trashcan than an actual laundry hamper. Probably for smell reduction. “Any questions so far?”

Warren asked, “Do we just leave her in the tank?”

“Pretty much. She’s allowed to wander around this room but only this room. We haven’t baby proofed the rest of the apartment.”

“So why call us?”

“Because she eats. A lot. And she can also get bored pretty easily. And also I just worry a lot about something going incredibly wrong if one of us aren’t around.” His eyes went so wide they looked like they might fall out. Then one of them twitched.

Hypno would suggest the guy take a nap, but that would probably be rejected immediately.

“It’s just the afternoon.” Donnie lowered Holly back into the tank. She let out a few high pitched squeaks of protest. “Jason and I should be back at six at the latest.”

Six? That was more like the whole day considering lunch hadn’t even passed.

But this did seem like a fairly low stress task. Make sure she didn’t hurt herself, toss around some magic to keep her entertained, order some delivery for them to eat?

And also, no water bill for the month.

“We’ve got it.” Warren answered. “Go do what you need to do.”

“Right.” Donatello nodded and went for the door. “You have my number if you have any questions or there’s an emergency or—”

“We’ve got it.” Warren insisted. “Go help your husband out.”

Another nod. Hypno peeked out into the hallway to watch Donnie leave. The turtle gave him a few looks, one more curious and the final one deathly serious. As if to give a brief warning of, “Nothing better happen to my daughter or else.”

And yeah, Hypno knew that. In fact, what worried him the most about this was if something did go wrong, Donatello could blast him and Warren into the next country.

It’d be fine. Low stress.

Hypno went back into the room and sat on the floor. At least there were plenty of cushions around here to use. Holly was already moving about her tank. She went straight for the big pool of water and dove right in.

“Yeesh, four-month old is already swimming.” Warren slid off Hypno’s shoulder and onto his lap. “I bet she’ll be walking in another month.”

Quite possible given that the turtle was already crawling.

“Did you put those coffees in the fridge when you came in?”

Hypno shook his head and got up. “Nah, let me go do that. I’ll locate the food too while I’m at it. Make sure I know where to find it.”

He found the cans still sitting on the small table in front of the sofa where he left them. Hypno picked them up and went to open the fridge. The frigid space was far more organized than his, but not to the point it looked unnatural. Donnie wasn’t kidding either, multiple containers had Holly’s name tapped on the top. Hypno picked up a couple to glance at the contents from the bottom. Looked like sardines, ham slices, and even peeled shrimp.

Hypno put them back and returned to the bedroom. Warren managed to pile some of the cushions together for him to climb up to look into the glass of the tank. Holly pressed herself against it as well, staring at him with her tiny eyes.

“Keeping her entertained, Love?” Hypno stood behind him.

Warren smiled when he looked back. “She seems to be enjoying the silly faces, at least. Why don’t you see how she reacts to some magic?”

Well, why not? Hypno leaned over the top of the tank. Holly almost fell over when she tried to look at him, appearing a bit more nervous.

Then Hypno reached into his sleeve and plucked a flower out of nowhere. The child didn’t laugh or clap, like most children did, but those small eyes widened. Hypno lowered the flower into the tank and she instantly reached for it. Her little fingers wrapped around one of the petals and then she tried to bite it.

Only to quickly reel back and stick out her tongue.

Hypno and Warren both chuckled and he pulled the flower back out. Just in case eating it wouldn’t be good for her.

“Man, this is gonna be the easiest job of our lives.” Warren snapped his fingers.

Hypno shook his head. “Don’t count your rabbits, Love.”

—-------------------------

Well, at least so far it was going well.

The kid really did get bored easily. She needed as much stimulation as some of the toddlers Hypno would do tricks for. And he mainly took the charge for that, on account of the fact he could summon tons of colorful flowers, sashes, and even balloons. He did make the mistake of popping one, however, which resulted in Holly hiding under a few pillows for a solid ten minutes.

Warren lured her out with a snack. She seemed to really enjoy the peeled shrimp.

The biggest problem came from diaper changing, but that was mainly because Warren had to do it with his smaller hands and he had to complain about it the entire time.

Hypno could see right through him, however. Especially after the anchorman washed his hands and picked the kid up to return her to the tank. Her little hands touched his face and she squeaked and the worm melted in an instant.

Maybe it was just due to the rare occurrence that Warren met anyone smaller than him these days. Even human babies were typically larger.

“News flash.” Warren posed as he held her. “The most handsome man in the world spotted with the most adorable child in the world. Ron, take a picture.” He waved his free arm.

Hypno chuckled and took a few shots. “Let’s not turn her into a photo op, Love.”

“Are you kidding, she was built for the camera.” Warren held her up and she giggled.

But not long after that, the kid got wiped out. Hypno placed her in the tank where she immediately curled up in a nest of blankets. The sight of it was so cute, Hypno took another photo. He sent that one to Donnie, just in case the guy needed some reassurance. A miracle the turtle wasn’t spamming them with texts asking if she was safe.

Donnie replied with a heart emoji, then a thanks, and then a message saying that Jase appreciated it too.

Hypno added some details about how well it was all going.

“Well, with her asleep we should take a break.” Warren scooted toward the door. “How about a snack and those coffees?”

“I’d feel bad taking their food.” Hypno stood. “I think I’ll hop back over to our place to grab something. You good with getting to the kitchen?”

Warren rolled his eyes. “Oh I can get to the kitchen just fine. Getting to the coffees… might be tricker.”

Hypno chuckled and opened the door. “I won’t be long.”

And he wasn’t. They hardly locked their doors in this building so it was simple to grab a couple of apples for himself and a bag of Warren’s favorite chips.

He returned to Donnie’s apartment and got the coffees out of the fridge before placing them and his husband all on the table. They ate and drank and chatted about weekend plans.

Only about thirty minutes later, when they finished up, Hypno went back to the bedroom to see the door open.

“Warren, did you not shut this?” He glanced at the worm on his shoulder.

His husband crossed his arms. “Why should I? Kid is fast asleep and she can’t get out of that tank anyway.”

Hypno’s ears went back as he went inside. “Better safe than sorry, you know?”

“Come on, Babe. The kid is right—” Warren pointed down to the blanket nest, but it was empty. “Er…”

Despite the stab of panic, Hypno didn’t let it consume him. The tank was huge. The kid could have gotten up and wandered somewhere else in it. But after searching back and forth in there—and turning over every pillow or other large object she could hide under—they found nothing. Hypno even dug into the sand at the bottom of the pool.

“Did she get out?” Warren shouted. “How?”

Hypno darted over to the door to shut it. Just in case the kid was still in here. “It doesn’t matter. Start looking. If Donnie finds out we lost his daughter we are going to get launched to the next state.”

“Donnie?” Warren raised his voice even higher. “Are you kidding? You think Donnie is the threat here?”

For a second Hypno wasn’t even sure what his husband meant.

Then he immediately recalled the short lived mess where Donnie got kidnapped by some business rivals. He recalled the look on Jason’s face when he left the building that day. And he recalled the news report less than an hour later of a massive dragon tearing a warehouse down to nothing but scrap.

Hypno put his hands on his head. “Jase is gonna have his dragon rip us to shreds.”

“Just start looking!”

Hypno did. He let his husband focus on the floor while he checked everything else. He didn’t rule out the shelves, cabinets or even the drawers. He tossed aside every piece of clothing, every box, and even tipped over the empty water pitcher just in case.

They still found nothing.

“I’m going to start looking outside.” Hypno tossed the door open and went into the hall.

On the bright side, all the other room doors were closed, including the bathroom. So that meant Holly had to have crawled into some place in the living room or the kitchen.

Hypno crawled around on the floor, looking under the sofa, the chairs, and even peeking under the rugs. Then he checked the TV stand, every shelf and behind any of the blocks of machinery. Still nothing.

Eventually Warren came out to help. Hypno hoped that his much smaller husband would have an easier time checking out the more cramped areas, but it still didn’t work. Damn it, Holly was so small. Could she have fit into the ventilation. Oh no! They’d never be able to get her out of there.

“What do we do?” The panic was definitely getting to him now. “Warren, what do we do?”

“I don’t know.” The worm snapped back, just about as good at dealing with stress as he was. “Wait. Wait! Newsflash!”

“What?”

“The shrimp.” He pointed to the fridge. “She loves that stuff. Pull some out, maybe we can lure her.”

A brilliant plan as any right now. Hypno got out the container and gave a piece of the shellfish to Warren who sneered at the smell of it. Still, he began to crawl around, waving it.

Hypno did the same, though in the kitchen this time. He was still on the floor, praying that the tiny child hadn’t found a way to climb up on the counters or something. There were knives up there!

As he moved closer to the fridge, he heard a squeak.

Hypno’s ear and then his face turned toward the noise in an instant. “Holly? Is that you, Love? Come here.” He waved the piece of shrimp closer, hoping the smell was strong enough.

Another squeak, a bit louder. Then finally the tiny turtle wiggled her way out from underneath the fridge.

Just how did she get under there? When?

Hypno snatched her up in an instant. Holly squeaked in surprise and even struggled for a second.

“Warren, I got her.”

“Oh thank goodness.” The worm shouted. “Let’s get her back.”

Hypno headed in that direction, but then realized just how much dust and grime Holly had picked up on her little adventure. “Maybe we should give her a quick wash first.”

“Fine, but make it quick.” Warren reached up. “We need it so her dads have no idea this happened by the time they get home.”

Hypno agreed. He handed Holly the shrimp—that she kept reaching for—and then put his husband on his shoulder. He carried them both to the bathroom where he plopped Holly in the sink. Donnie didn’t give them any bath instructions, but there was a tiny basket on the counter with some light soap and a soft brush.

Warren handed her the other shrimp and turned the sink on. “I hope she doesn’t splash a lot.”

Hypno chuckled. “Don’t count your rabbits.”

—----------------------------

One messy bath later and a lengthy dry off—which was mostly Warren trying to fix his soaked shirt—the pair returned Holly to the tank.

Upon which her method of escape soon became clear. As soon as they left her in there, Holly stepped away from the glass only to take a running leap at it. She tried to grab the edge, but missed it, smacking into the glass instead.

“Hm, Donnie’s going to have to make the walls higher.” Warren pointed to one of the pillows. “Kid is too smart. Prop one of those up so she doesn’t bruise herself.”

Hypno did. And it sort of worked, with Holly crashing into the plush material instead.

“How does she still have energy?” The hippo sighed. “No wonder Donnie looks so wiped out.” Even he was feeling it at this point.

Thankfully, after a few more failed jumps, Holly gave up. With a tiny yawn she fell back asleep on the blankets, and this time Hypno kept watching her to make sure she stayed there. Warren climbed onto his lap as he sat, also flopping over like he’d take a nap.

Hypno began to doze himself, but then he heard the front door open.

The hippo sat up straight, jostling his husband in the process. Warren complained, but didn’t protest as he got picked up and placed on Hypno’s shoulder.

He opened the door right when Donnie got to it.

“Hey,” the turtle didn’t look any less tired. “Everything good?”

“Yeah,” Hypno gave a nervous laugh. He waved at Jase who came up behind Donnie, then stepped aside as the guy came into the room to kneel next to the tank. “You guys might want to raise the walls a bit though. Seems she’s learning how to jump out.”

“What?” Donnie groaned. “She’s barely grown two inches since she’s hatched but she’s doing this?”

“Are you really surprised?” Jase carefully lifted his sleeping daughter out of the tank, cradling her in his hands. “Your dad did say you guys were escaping into all kinds of places as babies.”

“Yeah, but he didn’t have a custom built tank.”

“We’ll just put a few extra inches of cushioning to block her.” Jase shook his head. “Thanks for babysitting, guys.”

“Yeah, of course.” Hypno smiled and glanced at the two of them. They both looked beyond exhausted. “Anytime, actually. You guys look like you could use the break.”

“Probably,” Donnie admitted. “But we knew what we signed up for.”

“Still,” Jase added. “We could probably allow someone else to watch her for a bit by this point.”

“After I adjust the tank.”

“Of course.”

Hypno chuckled at their usual banter.

“Well, this was fun.” Warren snapped a finger. “But I’m hungry. Have you guys eaten?”

“Nah,” Jase sighed. “Came here right after work.”

“Oh, let us go get Chinese then.” Hypno slipped past Donnie. “Our treat.”

“Our treat?” Warren scoffed.

“Well, they are paying our water bill this month.”

“Fine, fair enough.” He waved a hand.

Hypno looked back at his neighbors. “Is that good with you guys?”

“Well I definitely don’t want to cook,” Jase said. “So yeah. Just get our usuals.”

Hypno gave them a thumbs up and headed out of their apartment and toward the stairs.

Warren was oddly quiet on the way down the steps. Usually he loved to ramble after such a chaotic event.

Hypno shrugged his shoulders to nudge him a bit. “Something on your mind?”

“Hm?” His husband blinked. “Well, no, maybe. Mostly tired. Just made me think um…” He kept looking up as he tapped his chin. “Did you uh… ever want to have kids?”

Hypno’s ears went up. “What brought this up?”

“We just babysat one.”

“I know but… did you want to have them?”

“Not really?” The worm cringed when he said that. “I mean, I guess I wouldn’t hate it, but it’s not something I really want to do either. But we still haven’t talked about it even though we got married years ago so…”

“Ah, I guess that makes sense.” Hypno opened the side door and stepped out onto the street. “Can’t say it’s something I really want to do either. Sides, I think helping look after that little one will be more than enough.”

Warren chuckled, a genuine smile on his face as he leaned against Hypno’s head. “Yeah, you’re telling me.”

#rottmnt #scribbly fics #hypnowarren #hope that's the right tag F #they end up baby sitting Holly often enough they become her unofficial uncles #A while back I saw a clip from an article about #how some softshell turtles will do running leaps to escape their tanks #so you have to make sure they're tall enough lmao #posting this early idc

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sprinterbuzz · 6 days

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Conclusion

Renting a van from DFW Airport is a practical and convenient solution for families, groups, or business travelers needing extra space and flexibility. With a range of van options available—from minivans to luxury passenger vans—travelers can easily find a vehicle that suits their specific needs. Whether you're visiting Dallas for business or pleasure, a van rental will enhance your travel experience, providing comfort, convenience, and cost savings throughout your trip. By considering the type of van, rental terms, and the best rental companies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey from the moment you arrive at DFW.

#Van Rental DFW Airport #15 passenger van rental dfw airport #dallas sprinter van rental

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philiproy1 · 10 days

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Top Commercial Moving Services Near Me with Capital Moving and Storage

When it comes to relocating a business, finding a reliable moving company that understands the unique challenges of commercial moves is essential. Whether you’re moving to a larger office, downsizing, or relocating across town, the efficiency and expertise of your moving company can make all the difference. Capital Moving and Storage stands out as a premier provider of commercial moving services, ensuring your business relocation is seamless and stress-free.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why Capital Moving and Storage is your top choice for commercial moving services near you and how our approach can benefit your business relocation.

Understanding the Importance of Commercial Moving Services

1. Specialized Expertise for Business Moves

Commercial moving involves more complexity than a typical residential move. Businesses often require specialized handling of office equipment, IT infrastructure, and sensitive documents. At Capital Moving and Storage, our team has the expertise needed to manage these unique challenges. We understand the importance of minimizing downtime and ensuring a smooth transition, which is why we offer tailored solutions for every aspect of your commercial move.

2. Efficient Project Management

A successful commercial move requires meticulous planning and project management. From initial consultations to the final setup in your new location, Capital Moving and Storage provides comprehensive project management services. We create a detailed moving plan, coordinate logistics, and ensure that every step of the process is executed with precision. Our goal is to minimize disruptions to your business operations and ensure that your move is completed on time.

3. Secure Handling of Sensitive Equipment

Businesses often have valuable and sensitive equipment that requires careful handling. Whether it’s computer systems, office furniture, or confidential documents, Capital Moving and Storage employs specialized techniques and high-quality packing materials to protect your assets during the move. Our team is trained to handle a variety of commercial equipment, ensuring that everything arrives at your new location in excellent condition.

4. Minimal Downtime and Disruption

One of the primary concerns for businesses during a move is minimizing downtime. Capital Moving and Storage understands the need to keep your business running smoothly. We work closely with you to schedule the move during off-peak hours or weekends to reduce disruptions. Our efficient moving processes and experienced team members ensure that your business can resume operations as quickly as possible.

5. Comprehensive Moving Services

Capital Moving and Storage offers a full range of commercial moving services to cover every aspect of your relocation. Our services include:

Office Relocation: Whether you’re moving a small office or a large corporate facility, we handle every detail to ensure a smooth transition.

IT Equipment Moving: We specialize in safely moving sensitive IT equipment, including servers, computers, and telecommunications systems.

Furniture and Fixtures: From desks and chairs to filing cabinets and conference tables, we ensure that your office furniture is packed, transported, and set up with care.

Packing and Unpacking: Our team uses high-quality packing materials to protect your belongings and ensures that everything is unpacked and organized in your new space.

Storage Solutions: If you need temporary storage for your office items, we offer secure storage solutions to keep your belongings safe until you’re ready to move them.

The Commercial Moving Process with Capital Moving and Storage

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

The first step in the commercial moving process is an initial consultation with our team. We assess your needs, discuss your requirements, and develop a customized moving plan. This includes evaluating the size of your move, the type of equipment and furniture involved, and any special considerations or concerns you may have.

2. Detailed Moving Plan

Once we have a clear understanding of your needs, we create a detailed moving plan. This plan outlines the timeline, logistics, and responsibilities of each party involved. We coordinate with your team to schedule the move, ensuring that it aligns with your business operations and minimizes disruption.

3. Packing and Preparation

Our team begins the packing process well in advance of the move date. We use high-quality packing materials to ensure that all items are securely packed and protected. Special attention is given to sensitive equipment and documents, which are packed with extra care to prevent damage.

4. Transportation and Delivery

On the day of the move, our team handles the transportation of your items to the new location. We use well-maintained vehicles and employ efficient loading and unloading techniques to ensure that everything arrives safely. Our team follows the most efficient routes to minimize transit time and ensure timely delivery.

5. Unpacking and Setup

Once your items arrive at the new location, we handle the unpacking and setup process. We work with you to arrange furniture and equipment according to your preferences and ensure that everything is in its proper place. Our goal is to help you get settled into your new space quickly and efficiently.

6. Post-Move Support

Our commitment to service extends beyond the completion of the move. Capital Moving and Storage provides post-move support to address any issues or concerns that may arise. We are available to assist with any additional needs and ensure that you are fully satisfied with our services.

Why Capital Moving and Storage is the Best Choice for Commercial Moves

1. Proven Track Record

Capital Moving and Storage has a proven track record of successfully managing commercial moves for a wide range of businesses. Our team’s extensive experience and positive feedback from clients reflect our dedication to delivering high-quality moving services.

2. Personalized Service

We understand that every business has unique needs and requirements. At Capital Moving and Storage, we offer personalized service to ensure that your specific needs are met. Our team works closely with you to develop a moving plan that addresses your unique requirements and ensures a smooth transition.

3. Commitment to Excellence

Our commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of our service. From the initial consultation to the final delivery, Capital Moving and Storage is dedicated to providing top-notch service and ensuring that your move is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

4. Reliable and Transparent Pricing

Capital Moving and Storage offers reliable and transparent pricing for our commercial moving services. We provide clear and upfront estimates with no hidden fees, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect. Our pricing model is designed to offer value for money while maintaining the highest standards of service quality.

If you’re looking for top commercial moving services near you, Capital Moving and Storage is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing reliable and efficient moving solutions for businesses of all sizes. We understand the complexities of commercial relocations and are committed to delivering the quality service you need to ensure a successful move.

To learn more about our commercial moving services or to schedule a consultation, contact Capital Moving and Storage at (919) 887-1721. We look forward to assisting you with your business relocation and delivering the exceptional service you deserve.

Capital Moving and Storage

1230 Kirkland Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States

(919) 887-1721

#United States #Commercial Moving Services Near Me #Commercial Moving Companies Near Me #Residential Moving Companies

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ramya10 · 1 month

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The Hidden Costs of Moving: What to Watch Out For

Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it often comes with hidden costs that can catch you off guard. Understanding these potential expenses and planning for them can help you manage your moving budget more effectively. Here’s a guide to the hidden costs of moving and how to keep them under control.

1. Packing Supplies

While many people think of packing as a straightforward task, the costs of packing supplies can add up quickly. Boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and other materials are essential for protecting your belongings during transit. If you’re moving a large household, these costs can be significant. To save money, consider sourcing used boxes from local businesses or friends, and opt for reusable packing materials.

2. Professional Packing Services

If you decide to hire professional packers, this service can add a considerable amount to your moving budget. Packing services often include a range of tasks, from carefully wrapping fragile items to disassembling furniture. Be sure to get a detailed quote and understand what’s included in the service to avoid unexpected charges. For a reliable and comprehensive packing service, consider referral moving companies like Assureshift, MoveMyGhar, which can help you manage these costs effectively.

3. Moving Insurance

While most moving companies offer basic coverage for your belongings, it’s often limited. If you have valuable or sentimental items, you may need to purchase additional moving insurance to ensure they are fully protected. This extra layer of coverage can prevent you from facing significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of damage or loss.

4. Temporary Housing Costs

In some cases, you might need to stay in temporary housing if there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates. These costs can include renting a short-term apartment or staying in a hotel, which can add to your moving expenses. Plan ahead to avoid these costs or find ways to minimize them.

6. Unforeseen Costs

During a relocation, unforeseen expenses may occur, including sudden changes of plans, unexpected delays, or additional charges for weighty or oversized items. It is advisable to establish an emergency fund to mitigate financial tension and address these unexpected expenses.

7. Storage Costs

If you need to store your belongings temporarily before your new home is ready, storage fees can add up. Storage costs vary depending on the size of the unit and the length of time you need it. Plan for these costs in advance and look for cost-effective storage solutions.

8. Professional Moving Services

While hiring a moving company can streamline the process, the cost can vary widely depending on the company and the services provided. Companies like MoveMyGhar offer comprehensive moving solutions that can help manage and minimize these hidden costs. Be sure to get multiple quotes and understand what’s included to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

By being aware of these hidden costs and planning accordingly, you can better manage your moving budget and avoid any financial surprises. Moving can be a complex process, but with careful preparation and a clear understanding of potential expenses, you can make your transition to a new home smoother and more cost-effective.

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shifting-guide-360 · 1 month

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How to Choose Professional Movers: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting a professional moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth, stress-free moving experience. With so many options available, finding the right movers can seem daunting. This guide will help you navigate the process and choose a moving company that meets your needs.

1. Start with Research

Begin by researching moving companies in your area. Look for companies with strong reputations, good customer reviews, and a track record of reliable service. Use platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to gather information and assess the credibility of various movers.

2. Check Licensing and Insurance

Verify that the moving company is properly licensed and insured. In the U.S., interstate movers should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. For local moves, ensure the company is licensed by your state’s regulatory agency. Insurance coverage is essential to protect your belongings from potential damage or loss during the move.

3. Obtain Multiple Estimates

Get written estimates from several moving companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of quotes that seem unusually low, as they may indicate hidden fees or subpar service. A reputable moving company will provide a detailed estimate based on an in-home survey or a thorough virtual assessment.

4. Evaluate Experience and Specialization

Experience is a key factor in choosing a moving company. Inquire about how long the company has been in business and their expertise in handling different types of moves. Whether you need assistance with moving fragile items, large furniture, or specialty items like pianos, selecting a company with relevant experience ensures your belongings are handled with care.

5. Assess Professionalism and Customer Service

The professionalism of the movers is a reflection of their service quality. Evaluate their customer service by observing their communication skills and responsiveness. A professional moving company will address your questions and concerns thoroughly, offer clear information about their services, and maintain a courteous demeanor throughout the process.

6. Understand the Range of Services Offered

Different moving companies offer various levels of service. Some provide full-service moving solutions, including packing, loading, transportation, and unpacking, while others may offer only transportation services. Choose a company that offers the services you need and inquire about any additional costs for extra services.

7. Review the Contract in Detail

Before committing to a moving company, carefully review the contract. Ensure that all terms and conditions are clear, including payment details, insurance coverage, and any potential additional charges. Understand the company’s policies on delays, damages, and claims to avoid surprises.

8. Request and Check References

Ask the moving company for references from previous clients. Contact these references to gain insight into the company’s reliability and quality of service. A reputable moving company should be willing to provide references and testimonials to verify their track record.

9. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts when selecting a moving company. If something feels off or if you encounter any red flags during your research or interactions, consider exploring other options. A trustworthy and professional moving company will offer transparency, reliability, and a commitment to ensuring a smooth moving experience.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose a professional moving company that meets your needs and provides a high-quality service. Whether you are looking for a basic move or a comprehensive professional moving shifting service, taking the time to evaluate your options carefully will help ensure a successful and stress-free move.

#moving-shifting #professional-movers

#commercial

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packers-movers-in-hyd · 2 months

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How to Relocate Efficiently During the Monsoon Season.

Relocating during the monsoon season can be tough, but with good planning, you can have a smooth and stress-free move. The key is to expect the challenges of the rainy season and take steps to deal with them. Here are ten useful tips to help you move successfully during the monsoon.

Toskie Packers and Movers is a well-known relocation service provider in Hyderabad. We offer efficient and reliable moving services in and around the city. Whether you need to move your home, office, or industrial equipment, our expert team is here to help, even during the monsoon season.

Plan Ahead and Stay Informed

Begin your relocation planning well in advance of your moving date. During the monsoon season, weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it's crucial to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts. Monitor weather reports closely in the days leading up to your move and be prepared to adjust your plans if severe weather is expected. Toskie Packers and Movers can provide valuable advice on timing and planning, ensuring that your move is as smooth as possible.

Choose the Right Packing Materials

During the monsoon, protecting your belongings from moisture is paramount. Invest in high-quality, waterproof packing materials such as plastic bins, zip-lock bags, and moisture-resistant packing tape. Use bubble wrap and plastic sheets to cover and seal items that are particularly vulnerable to water damage, such as electronics, documents, and wooden furniture. Toskie Packers and Movers offer premium packing materials as part of their packers and mover services in Hyderabad, ensuring your items are well-protected.

Schedule Your Move Wisely

When planning your moving day, consider scheduling your move during the early part of the day. Rain showers are often less frequent in the morning, giving you a better chance of avoiding heavy downpours. Additionally, plan your route to avoid flood-prone areas and heavy traffic, which can be exacerbated by rainy conditions. Toskie Packers and Movers can assist with route planning and provide local insights to avoid problematic areas.

Protect Your Floors and Entryways

Rain and mud can easily be tracked into your home during the move, potentially causing damage to floors and carpets. To prevent this, lay down plastic sheets, old towels, or tarps on the floors and entryways. This will help keep your home clean and protect your flooring from moisture and dirt. The team from Toskie Packers and Movers will take extra care to minimize any mess, ensuring a clean move.

Keep Essentials Accessible

Pack a separate bag or box with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This can include dry clothes, toiletries, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Having these items easily accessible will save you from rummaging through boxes in wet conditions. Toskie Packers and Movers can help organize and label your essentials to make the unpacking process smoother.

Waterproof Important Items

Items such as electronics, important documents, and photographs should be given extra protection. Place these items in waterproof plastic bags or containers to safeguard them from any potential water exposure. For added security, label these containers clearly so that movers handle them with care. Toskie Packers and Movers provide waterproof packing solutions to ensure your valuable items remain safe and dry.

Communicate with Your Movers

Maintain clear communication with your moving company throughout the relocation process. Discuss contingency plans for bad weather and ensure that the movers have the necessary equipment to handle wet conditions. Reliable movers like Toskie Packers and Movers have experience with monsoon relocations and can provide valuable advice and assistance.

Ensure Vehicle Readiness

If you’re driving to your new home, make sure your vehicle is in good condition to handle wet and slippery roads. Check the tires for adequate tread, ensure that your windshield wipers are functioning properly, and verify that your headlights and brake lights are working. Carry emergency supplies such as a spare tire, jack, flashlight, and first-aid kit. Toskie Packers and Movers can also provide vehicle transportation services as part of their packers and mover services in Hyderabad.

Unpack Strategically

Once you arrive at your new home, prioritize unpacking essential items first. Set up your kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms to make your home functional as quickly as possible. This will allow you to settle in and address any unforeseen issues without feeling overwhelmed. The professional team from Toskie Packers and Movers can help you unpack and organize your new home efficiently.

Take Extra Care of Your Health

Moving can be physically and mentally exhausting, and the added stress of monsoon weather can take a toll on your health. Stay hydrated, take breaks as needed, and avoid overexerting yourself. Be mindful of slippery surfaces and use proper lifting techniques to prevent injuries. If possible, enlist the help of friends or family members to share the workload. Toskie Packers and Movers provide comprehensive moving services, allowing you to focus on your well-being.

Conclusion

Relocating during the monsoon season requires extra attention to detail and proactive planning. By following these ten useful tips and leveraging the expertise of Toskie Packers and Movers, you can minimize the challenges associated with monsoon relocations and ensure a smoother transition to your new home. Remember, the key to a successful move is preparation and adaptability. With the right approach and the support of professional packers and mover services in Hyderabad, you can overcome the obstacles posed by the rainy season and enjoy a fresh start in your new home.

#packers and movers #packers for moving near me #best packers #packers and movers in hyderabad #moversandpackers

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chamberlainsremovals · 15 days

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Efficient Furniture Removals in Chesterfield: We Do Your Move

When it comes to moving homes or offices, the process can often seem overwhelming. From packing and loading to transportation and unpacking, every step requires careful planning and execution. In Chesterfield, efficient furniture removals are crucial to ensure a smooth transition. We specialize in providing top-notch Chesterfield moving services that simplify the moving process, making it hassle-free and efficient.

#packing and unpacking services dronfield #eco-friendly moving company chesterfield #movers near me #residential movers dronfield #office removals sheffield #affordable removals sheffield #packers and movers #affordable and reliable movers sheffield #dronfield house movers #Furniture Removals in Chesterfield

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mtcremovalsposts · 4 months

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Local Removals Company in Wimbledon SW19

0800 294 0566 - 079 0824 7249 - 020 3811 8380 - [email protected]

Find Domestic Removals & Storage Near Me in Wimbledon

Planning a move in Wimbledon SW19? Look no further than MTC Removals, your trusted partner for a seamless and stress-free relocation experience. Our expert team specializes in providing top-notch removal services tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re moving your home or office, we offer comprehensive solutions including professional packing, secure storage, and efficient transportation. Serving the vibrant community of Wimbledon and surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on our reliability, affordability, and exceptional customer service. Trust MTC Removals to handle every aspect of your move with care and efficiency. Contact us today for a free instant quote and discover why we are the preferred choice for removals in Wimbledon SW19.

Get started today and make your move with confidence!

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torturingpeople · 3 months

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Of A Small Cottage

Wordcount: 2.6k words Featuring: "The Tender Pathologist", Atlas (@staring-at-my-keyboard) Other info: from the Tender Pathologist's POV in first person, the MC and Atlas are silly cutesy best friends and i love them so much, the MC has a happy place because God knows he needs it

The Skin of The Sun never really had the shine that Atlas yearned for. It was uncanny -- the cosmogone glow felt familiar enough to satiate him, sure, but seeing the sun from a dream fresh from the surface? Now, that was enticing. And being allowed to visit it often? That was an offer Atlas couldn't refuse.

I gave a few, slow blinks before recognising where I had ended up. I stood, with wind blowing up my cowlick, on the cobbled steps to my little dreamy cottage, watching it through the hazy sunrise’s glow and managing a small smile to myself as the hot rays cascaded down my face. I had long discarded my lab coat some seven dreams ago — I hated being tethered to it, to my profession, to all of my crimes — so I didn’t have to think about what horrors I had to live through in somewhere so calm and peaceful.

Making my way up the half-desire-path and half-paved way to the door, I clasped my hand around the familiar brass handle and pushed it open. Ah, yes… just as I left it. With all the creams and warm greens and vintage wooden furniture and pleasant record of general pop music of its time echoing through the hall, I pushed my Oxford-shoes off and slowly traipsed through my home toward the kitchen with a soft smile. I hummed a tune in synchronisation with the vinyl playing as I set the kettle on, waiting for the water to boil as I mused on a mug to choose for myself.

I had some particularly cute patterns on some. I was fond of the simple red plaid mug, with all its chips and cracks and wear and tear, but there was another I had procured recently; a simple white mug, with a simplistic picture of a rather fluffy duckling painted beneath the glaze. A hard choice… plaid or duckling… plaid or duckling… I chose plaid. Old and reliable. Then I selected for myself an English Breakfast teabag, poured the now boiling water over it, and let it brew for a few moments before withdrawing it and placing it on a small saucer by the kettle. Then I spooned in some sugar (not too much, for I have both sensitive teeth and no desire to rot them away) and poured in a healthy dosing of milk. I smiled at the tawny colour in the mug, just as I liked it, taking a slow sip to draw enough liquid out so that I would not spill it when migrating to my garden.

Unfortunately, I nearly spilled the entire cup (and was lucky to maintain ninety percent of the liquid in it) when I heard a slightly hesitant knock on my door. Placing the mug down and mopping up the spillage with a rag, I tossed it into the sink before moving toward the triadic sound. I fidgeted with the turntable on the small shelf by the open kitchen door to turn the volume to a low lull, then proceeded to turn the handle to my front door again and open it a second time.

‘Ah.’ I let out the soft sound of acknowledgment before a fond smile weaved across my lips. ‘I did not expect to see you here.’

‘Truthfully,’ started Atlas in a kind voice, pushing back a loc of dark hair, ‘I myself did not expect to be here, let alone be in your company, but — unless I am mistaken — your cottage is lone in this valley.’

‘Yes, I prefer it that way,’ I clarified, more than overjoyed that my close friend had joined me in this wondrous dream of mine. Refusing to question how, I gently cradled his cane away from him and welcomed him in with an arm. ‘Come, I’ll make you tea.’

He gave his own soft smile and followed me inside, observing the interior curiously. He made a loose comment about the colours under his breath, one I wasn’t particularly intended to hear, but I could tell he was happy with my choices, and I couldn’t keep back the small grin on my face.

He noticed, and it prompted him to speak. ‘Are you alright?’ he asked, tilting his head up partly in concern and partly in curiosity as to what had made me smile so wide.

My eyes creased a little more as I turned to him, stood by the cupboard, no longer rifling through it. ‘I’m fine,’ I said, sincerely, ‘and I’m glad to see you.’

‘Ah — hence the smile,’ he clarified, likely to himself. He smiled back.

Atlas has the sort of smile that makes you, inherently, wish to smile back. His comportment is contagious and I wonder often where he had gotten such an understanding, such a kind smile from. It was something so genuine and honest, something that made you feel as if he saw every facet of your life from the day that you were born up until the very moment you were living in, and then, disregarding it with some mutually understood wave of his gloved hand, traded all of that, all the flaws and sins and mistakes, for a simple smile. A simple, honest smile. And after that, you cannot help but smile back. I certainly can’t. It’s a great comfort to me, to have the opportunity to witness a smile so lovely so often.

I returned to looking through my mug cupboard, and pulled out the mug with the fluffy duckling painted on it. ‘I was deciding between this mug and the plaid one, when I got in.’

‘How exquisite,’ he commented, leaning down to observe it with a hand on his chin. ‘It is certainly a very charming picture.’

I placed my hands on my hips with brief pride. ‘It’s new.’ Then, I began to brew a second cup of tea, leaning against the countertop as I waited for the kettle to boil. Then, a thought struck me. ‘I’m sorry to be so forward, but… do you know where you are?’

Atlas, who had been scrutinising my duckling mug and comparing its merit to the plaid mug on the nearby table, lifted his head from its bowed position. ‘Well. An exact location would be hard to pinpoint, as I was under the pretence that we were previously reading together, in your—… In Dr. Hanna’s hotel.’

I gave another light smile, focusing on pouring hot water over the teabag, the steam tickling the tip of my nose with dewy warmth. ‘Perhaps we got lucky and fell asleep.’ I mumbled offhandedly, then finished crafting his tea before handing the cup to him. He accepted gratefully, and I took my own cup before leading him to my garden.

All sorts of flowers in wonderful and fantastical hues leapt out at us as we made it out of the door. I frowned upon realising the grass would need to be trimmed sooner or later, but I gained another grin as I, firstly, looked at Atlas soaking it all in and excitedly passing his hands over one another and, secondly, realised my daffodils and foxgloves were looking particularly healthy. The bluebell patch was also looking well-to-do with cool violet and periwinkle tones colouring the flowers. I also decided to check up briefly on my small bush of strawberries, but some pesky and fat doves have been consistently nicking them mercilessly from my garden. They would not be given the time of day until my guest left — I had procured a mesh to lay over the plant and protect my harvest.

‘Come, follow me. We can sit here,’ I gestured to the two metal chairs settled in front of a metal table painted white, with a glass top showcasing the many swirling patterns welded underneath. I took my seat in the left chair, and Atlas settled in the right. We watched the stream by my house pass idly together.

He took a long sip of his tea before mumbling his thoughts aloud to me again. ‘It is... a rather pleasant morning.’ He seemed entranced by the sun, hovering at a low level, casting orange beams onto his besotted features.

‘Every morning is,’ I responded, watching the sun make no effort to curl around Earth, hovering rightfully in its place and casting its orange light onto me and my friend all the same. ‘I prefer the dawn’s light. Dusk is too grey and washed-out for me. Midday is way too harsh.’

‘I... I don’t quite recall the last time I saw the sun,’ Atlas shifted his body to sit sideways on the chair, looking at the sunrise in mild awe. I wondered what had him so enthralled, what about the sun had drawn him in so deeply like a love-struck teenager. I could only imagine, after not seeing the sun for long enough to forget when the last time viewing it was, he had a right to be in love with it.

I admired his desire to watch the sun briefly. ‘I like its warmth. And the way it reflects on the stream.’ I pointed more obviously to the running water, which caught Atlas’ attention as he stood to peer over my picket-fence, watching the fish jump and skip briefly out of the water to dive back in with a grin.

‘Marvellous…’ he mumbled with an enamoured expression, twisting his head back to me and hurriedly returning to the table again. ‘Apologies,’ he cleared his throat, fidgeting with his gloves, ‘I find that my attention tends to divert easily.’

‘I don’t mind,’ I scooped up my plaid mug into my fragile fingers, savouring the warmth that emanated from it, letting it bleed through the porcelain to my fingertips. ‘Please, feel free to explore. There is lots to find here.’ He noticed my eyes changing to a more wistful, sentimental gaze. ‘I spend a lot of time constructing this… alternate world to rest my head in.’

Then we spent a lot of time in comfortable silence. Occasionally, one of us would make a brief statement about what we saw (maybe a bird flying a little lower than normal or a fish leaping exceptionally high), or what we were up to in the waking world. (Atlas asked me about a recent penny-dreadful I had been meaning to read that he was rather insistent on, and I felt a little guilty for having so little to do in my life yet still not completing the simple task.) He liked often to point out the pink and yellow hues of the budding morning, and how much he loved the sun I had conceived in my dream, though for a moment, by how he omitted that crucial information of this being a dream, I thought that he might have imagined this was real. I could forgive him for this, though — I found myself more often than not longing that my cottage was not a mere figment of my slumbering mind.

‘Atlas,’ I asked in a gentle voice, my expression turning more concerned. Our mugs of tea were empty, and I was not fussed so much about waking him in fear of wasting them. ‘As pleasant as spending this time with you is… you do realise we are in a dream, right?’

‘A dream?’

We both woke pleasantly on the leather Chesterfield couch in the parlour of Hilbert’s Grand Hotel once, Atlas’ penny-dreadful gently propped open in a loose hand while mine had been bookmarked accordingly, resting closed and on top of my knees. I must have fallen asleep first. ‘Good morning,’ I murmured jokingly in a hoarse voice, lifting my head to allow him to pry his own from my shoulder.

‘Good…’ Atlas took a brief glance at the large window, giving us a tinted view of the glittering false-stars, ‘evening, I suppose.’ He then turned to me with a rather animated grin, his hands twitching on his knees with excitement. ‘I had a most wondrous dream, you know. We were in a small cottage together — your cottage, you seemed to know your way about it — and… well, we were someplace on the Surface. There was a pleasant morning overhead, and we took tea in your garden, by a stream…’

I gave a downward smile. ‘Yes, I gave you my duckling mug.’ My eyes flicked away from him as I dove into the wistful, transient memory myself. ‘I had been eyeing it—’

‘Before you arrived!’ Atlas completed my sentence, his jaw a little slack with shock. ‘It’s new! Isn’t it?’

I startled at his sudden enthusiasm, feeling my eyebrows raise against my forehead, but I managed to calm myself nonetheless, a soft chuckle escaping me. ‘Yes, it was either that or the plaid mug. I chose plaid. It’s my favourite. I quite like the red on it. I always drink out of it… really, it’s pointless to have more than one if I—’

‘How could our dreams have synchronised so perfectly…?’ His voice began to trail off into deep thought, stroking his chin and fighting a smile. ‘Exactly identical dreams; the same dream; how is it possible…? This doesn’t seem akin to recurring dreams… Perchance it is some latent effect of your hotel’s fantastical appearance in the Neath, or your longing for the world outside of this hotel manifesting itself in your sleep…’ He continued rattling off theories as I watched, confused and amused, trying to think myself on what could have caused our dreams to collide in such a specific way.

Then Atlas lifted his head from its bowed position, his index finger pointed upward decisively, an undoubtedly excited grin on his lips. ‘I must investigate more!’ he announced aloud, but realised exactly how he would have to go about “investigating more”, and gave me a more shy smile, his hands finding each other to intertwine in a nervous tangle. ‘If you would oblige me…’

‘I would be more than happy to, Atlas,’ my soft voice went as tender as it could, trying to keep back the tears of emotion gently pricking my lower eyelashes. ‘You know,’ I had to turn away, bringing my thumb to my eyes, ‘that place is of… significant value to me. It’s something I constructed, alone, solely to… let’s say, indulge in happiness. It isn’t somewhere I see often, so when I do find myself outside of a nightmare and in my cottage, I try to work on it a little more — and these damned pigeons keep pecking at my strawberries so I must get that sorted next time…’ I managed a slight laugh, yet Atlas’ stare of unabating curiosity prompted me to keep speaking.

‘What I mean to say is, whenever I felt troubled, I would find myself with somewhere to go. Whether it is real is doubtable, but… I’m glad I could share my happy-place with you. And, again, I would be more than happy to share my dreams with you.’

Now, as sweet as this moment was, I think I may have overdone it with my sentiment, as poor Atlas found himself so moved that tears spilled almost instantly from his eyes, dripping down his cheeks in a steady stream.

Immediately, I sprung into mortified panic, my hands clawing up as I tried to think of what to do or say to calm him. (I have always been rather inept with my own emotions, let alone someone else’s.) ‘Ah, um — please, it really isn’t anything particularly — uh — special — I just like to imagine myself there and it was — well, I was fond of seeing you there and I believe we are friends and… I am glad to share that with you — but please, if it affects you so much, I — I would rather you—’

‘Fret not, I — I merely need a… a moment to compose myself,’ Atlas placated me, somehow, but only choked on his tears more, clasping a hand around his lips to try and subdue his tears. I wanted to provide some comfort by holding him, or perhaps even placing a hand on his shoulder, but I reserved my hands to my lap, watching him with nervous caution. After a few moments, he lifted his eyes to look up at me, his eyes wide and wet, having given up on wiping the tears away.

‘It’s an honour that you believe I belong in such a… such a beautiful emulation of happiness.’ His voice wavered as he spoke, ‘I… I would be eternally grateful to spend any amount of time in… in someplace so…’

With no words left in his heart to say, he could only give me one of those brilliant smiles, if a little more coy, his head tilted downward to avoid what he imagined would be a scrutinising stare. Obviously, I was inclined to smile back. Next time, I would give him the plaid mug.

AUTHOR'S COMMENTS:

my first atlas mc fic... teehee

i looooveeed writing this so much they are so cute together... this was my first time writing them together and i loved it so much. and to think this kickstarted all of the salad spinner au writing. before i even knew about parabola too so call it Neathly Fuckery if there are any egregious discrepancies between what dreams should be and whatever this is

#ahhh atlas and mc... my favourite best friends #the tender pathologist #the esoteric correspondent #salad spinner au #tposts #tprose #writing #tp ocs

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