#and a sink. brass stool

[nail-it-in]

Transitional Kitchen - Kitchen

[design-and-html]

Kitchen Salt Lake City A large cottage-style l-shaped eat-in kitchen with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, a white backsplash, a ceramic backsplash, black countertops, granite countertops, white cabinets, paneled appliances, and an island is shown.

[sundays-sims]

P O O L H A U S . (early access, patreon)

Happy June everyone!

This month's content is a little special; I worked in collaboration with PXL to create the perfect set to furnish your pool house, lounge, or living room. You will also be able to download @pixelplayground very own pool house build on her patreon here: [X] It's free & absolutely beautiful, make sure to check it out. The Pool Haus set itself contains 18 new meshes, including bar & bar stools, different surfaces (not kitchen counters, but still could be used as), deco wine fridge, tall cabinet, ceiling glass & brass shelves, some cute deco cocktails & cozy sofas. The swatches are neutrals but also include dusty blue, navy blue, olive & dark grey. I hope you enjoy!

↓ details & download link under the cut ↓

D O W N L O A D  L I N K : [X] (patreon, early access)

S E T   D E T A I L S :

sofa - 12 swatches

armchair - 12 swatches

ottoman - 12 swatches

bar stool - 24 swatches

bar - 23 swatches

ceiling shelves - 2 swatches (3 heights)

counter w. tall cabinet - 23 swatches

counter  - 23 swatches

counter w. deco wine fridge - 23 swatches

counter w. prep sink - 23 swatches (functional)

stone coffee table - 4 swatches

elderflower cocktail - 2 swatches

tequila shot - 1 swatch

wine bottle - 2 swatches (3 different versions; vertical, horizontal, angled for deco fridge)

** pool haus will be released (free) on June 29th**

→ terms of use / TOU ← / / → instagram ←

[cohibacubancigars]

Contemporary Kitchen (Los Angeles)

[aftmartwork]

Modern Kitchen - Kitchen

[planetbabel]

Master Bath - Contemporary Bathroom

[thesinofthree]

Great Room - Kitchen

[aidenoconnell]

summer lovin'.

The passing afternoon rain cloud brings in the warm sun presenting the English countryside in sparkling raindrops. It's the normal, timid end of summer weather that Aiden loves a little too much with the humidity gone from the air and replaces with a tender warm that curls when the cool breeze comes through the open windows of the cottage, gently swaying the floral patterned white curtains. He's been sitting at this wooden table for the last three hours; fingers cramped, coffee cup empty and crumbles of a lemon loaf on his lap and the small green plate.

He stretches, arching his back forward then backwards with his long arms lifting above his head and there's a soft groan that comes from his throat. Aiden's nearly seeing double at this point as he takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes, getting up from the table and takes his dishes to the sink. It's half after five and he's not sure where the day has gone, but it was raining for most of it.

Aiden closes his laptop and carries it up the old distressed stairs to one of the two bedrooms that sits on the second level of the cottage. He sets it on the small pine desk and removes his shirt, his shorts before squeezes himself into the too small shower but he's grown to know that he'd have been a giant when this cottage was build eons ago. It doesn't bother him, somehow it makes him appreciate this place more. Only two more weeks until his reality sets back in, but Aiden's not frightened by it.

Soaped up and rinsed, Aiden dresses in some trousers and a button up short sleeve shirt as he finds some shoes and looks around for his wallet and ducks his head back down the stairs. Pitter patter of paws on the hardwood follow him like a shadow as he gets out a bowl and some leftover chicken and some kibble, setting it down on the ground as he kisses his German Shepherd's head as before she can dive into her dinner.

"Won't be long," he tells Bee and tops up her water too, leaving a few treats around the cottage for her to find later. Aiden steps up and locks up the home, the flowers and vines still bright and beautiful as he walks down the path to the town about ten minutes away.

The small lake town is warm with locals and summer travellers like himself, taking in the last of their days. Aiden nods to a few people as he walks along, grabbing the brass door handle to a small pub he frequents and lets himself inside. He takes himself up to the bar, pulling out a stool and sticks.

"Lovely day, innit?" Kaleigh greets Aiden with a menu. Aiden smiles and nods, a lovely day it was.

[pwlanier]

ADOLF HITLER'S 'WORLD' BAR FROM HIS YACHT 'AVISO GRILLE'

Offered here is probably one of the most fascinating Hitler relics ever offered - the complete bar and five bar stools removed from Adolf Hitler's yacht 'Aviso Grille' at the time the vessel was scrapped. The bar and stools have remained untouched in a home and barn in rural Maryland for seventy years, kept by the son of the original purchaser who had installed the bar in his home's basement as a curiosity. The bar, fittingly, resembles the 'world' which Hitler hoped to conquer! Actual parts removed from the 'Grille' include the aluminum bar surface with integral sink and Art Deco brass faucet. The bar surface is hemispherically-shaped, 61 in. wide and 33 in. deep (widest measurements).

Alexander Historical

[hometoursandotherstuff]

Fairy tale like house in Visalia, California was built in 1931, has 3bds. 4ba. and is listed for $639K. Apparently, it’s been used in many photo shoots and videos, also.

Since it looks like a gingerbread cottage from the outside, I didn’t expect it to look this fancy inside. Apparently, the house was built as a Tudor style home, but the owner that bought it in 1960 turned it into a Victorian Estate.

Look at this gorgeous bar. I wonder if the stools come with it. The architecture in this home is amazing, and look at the floor.

Even the sink under the bar is amazing.

Look at the opening for the spiral stairs. Notice that on the way down, you also have the option of sliding down a brass pole.

Greek columns line a small sunken seating area.

Well, this is a cozy little area before the fire- built-in benches, stained glass, and for some reason, a cute fire hydrant acting as a newel post.

Here’s another sitting room. 

You can also enter the house from this side door- notice the vintage doorbell.

This home is full of surprises, b/c this is the kitchen.

Love the pitched ceiling, leaded glass and the banquette. 

Aren’t the cabinets spectacular?

And, that stove.

What a lovely sunny dining room.

I can’t believe this glorious home is $639K. I would expect it to be over $1M. Look at the size of this gorgeous bath.

Can you believe how beautiful it is?

Here we are upstairs on the landing. Look at all the room up here.

One of the bedrooms has a window seat with a pretty stained window. And, look at that coffered ceiling.

Up to the 3rd level. Look at those windows.

There’s a lovely family room with a fireplace up here.

And another amazing bath. 

Such a pretty home.

Isn’t the garden stunning?

And, here’s the garage and carport. 

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/1015-S-Giddings-St-Visalia-CA-93277/16239524_zpid/

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Rain or Snow, Sleet or Shine

Rollo time? 😇 Rollo time. Now featuring 100% more Gargoyle-kun (I think he, Rollo, and the NBC mob students should all be one big happy found family to mirror Diasomnia 😌). I took a lot of writing inspiration from this collection of illustrations; please check out the artist!

IT MAKES ME MAD SAD THAT WE DON'T GET TO SEE ROLLO GROW LONG TERM LIKE THE OB BOYS DO BECAUSE HE'S JUST AN EVENT CHARACTER 🤡 SO LET ME HAVE THIS, LET MY FIRST PROPER FIC OF 2023 BE THIS.......... . . ....... .. ..... . .... . . . . .. . ....

“No matter what the weather, Flamme-kun has always diligently ascended the tower to polish the Bell of Salvation to a fine shine.”

***This fic contains massive Glorious Masquerade spoilers!!***

Imagine this…

Twelve o’clock on the dot.

Like clockwork, the familiar footsteps sounded--a soft, concise pitter-patter upon a rickety stairwell. A hatch somewhere creaked open, and a human cloaked in fluttering fabric appeared at the top of the bell tower. His fingers were carefully folded together, a diamond-cut crimson gem crowning his left middle finger.

A passing breeze raked its fingers along the strip of red that trailed out from his voluminous hat as he made his way toward a great brass bell--the crowning jewel of his school and the city. He came to a halt a foot before it and, with a respectful incline of his head, he let his words resound off of the magical tool.

“Good afternoon. Do pardon the intrusion. I have come to tend to you once again.”

“... Right on time, Flamme-kun.”

The deep, gravelly voice came from one of the many stone statues flanking the perimeter of the bell. It boasted the broad, muscular torso of a human, yet the horns, wide nose, and wings of something decidedly animalistic. Eyes the color of concrete twinkled with life.

Rollo smiled dryly at the gargoyle. “You are up early today, sir.”

“Ah, the others like to sleep late in their old age.” The gargoyle waved a hand. “Me though, I’m fit as a fiddle!”

There was a pause as the gargoyle picked out a few strands of residual bird’s nest from between his teeth. “Shouldn’t have slept with my mouth open,” he grumbled. “Those darn things set up shop wherever they please. No respect for their elders!”

“Yes.” Rollo gave a brisk nod to pair with his polite affirmation. “Then, if you will excuse me…”

He turned away, presenting his back to the gargoyle. Producing a small container of paste and a cloth, he went about his work.

Rollo had gotten the routine down by now; slathering a mixture of equal parts vinegar, salt, and flour over brass and letting it sit would eat away at the accumulated grime. He'd rinse the bell clean with soapy water and dry it with a cloth. All of this, he did by hand, using only a stepping stool to reach the crevices and the highest points.

With the bell refreshed for the day, its afternoon toll would reverberate ever clearer throughout the city. The air swelling with magic, the people roused from their rituals.

He would do the very same tomorrow, and the day after that, and the following day, and for every day until the end of time. Through rain and sleet, sleet or shine.

And then...

His hand stilled as the truth of monotony finally set in.

Then what?

Rollo’s fingers curled, sinking into the fabric of his dishcloth. His expression was a cold, slight grimace reflected back to him in the brass. Half of his face was sharp and clear, the other half clouded by his cleaning paste.

It wasn’t supposed to be like this.

Memories tinted in crimson flared up in his head. Petals ablaze, like live embers, dancing against a midnight sky. Flowers scorched to an untimely, ashen end.

Light suddenly snuffed out.

A dream dying before his very eyes, punctuated by the solemn toll of a bell. His most heartfelt wish burning to a crisp in a dark fire. The crushing devastation and despair that followed.

Him, crumpling to his knees. A desperate cry ringing out, falling upon deaf ears and the ignorant masses.

In seeking that salvation, I failed.

Flames lit beneath Rollo’s skin. Blood became molten fire in his veins. A great storm of emotions, both highwater and hellfire, raged inside of him, fighting for dominance.

His frown deepened into a scowl, his reflection in the bell mimicking the look.

“... Flamme-kun.”

A figure emerged beside him.

“We’ve been blessed with such beautiful weather today,” the gargoyle chirped, resting a clawed hand on Rollo’s back. He indicated the sky--cerulean, lightly peppered with puffy white clouds. “Don’t you think?”

Rollo eyed the gargoyle suspiciously, not deigning to turn to properly face him. He met the images cast in the Bell of Salvation. “... What are you doing?”

“What? Can’t an old man keep you company for a while?” the gargoyle joked, digging an elbow into Rollo’s side. He didn't earn a grin.

"I can assure you that I am need of no such company. I am perfectly capable of fulfilling this task without a self-appointed assistant."

"Just as you always have. I believe you. You're a very diligent and thoughtful young man."

Eyes carved out of rock bore into Rollo. They were sturdy, resolute--and where there should have been no heart instead bled into a pool of sadness.

Rollo stiffened, as though his own flesh was turning into stone, and his veins like the ones that threaded marble. A flash fire tore through the cracks, letting hated memories slip.

A horned man with a noble visage rose from clouds of swirling, dark smoke. Everything about him was lethal, piercing. Like a demon come to claim lost souls.

The demon's lip curled, suddenly both man and monster. Emerald flames coiled at his teeth.

Rollo's stomach dropped.

"Lie, if you must. It will make it easy for you to deceive others, perhaps even deceive yourself."

Stop.

"However, you cannot fool the Bell of Salvation. You cannot run, nor hide, from the eyes which see the entire city."

Don't look at me.

"It has always been watching over you, judging your every action."

Not with those damnable eyes...!!

Rollo brought his cloth across the gargoyle's reflection, smearing him beyond recognition. Out of his sight, but not out of his mind.

“If you truly believed that, you wouldn’t shower me with such pity.” Rollo’s tone was a harsh, glacial whisper, his stare burning as cold as ice.

“Pity? No, it’s not anything like that.”

He scoffed bitterly. "As though stone could possibly understand sentiment."

"This 'stone' understands much more than you give it credit for," the gargoyle tutted. "I may not know the entire story of what happened the night fire swallowed the city--"

Rollo didn't look at him. Couldn't.

He wrested his gaze away, focusing on his view of the City of Flowers.

It was busy at this time of day, bustling with townspeople and their indistinctive chatter, which rose high above the rooftops and flying buttresses. The pointed arches, spires, and angular stained glass windows of Noble Bell appeared distinctly harsh next to the soft, welcoming homes and shops laid beside it, lined in the silver of sunlight catching in the rivers.

Delicious smells of lunchtime--baking bread, rich butter, cheeses and fruits and nuts--tempted adults and children alike to part with their coin for a morsel. The streets were vivid with flowers in full bloom, all colors and shapes, as though they, too, were delicacies to be brought to waiting lips. Tantalizing and intoxicating.

A blue sky blanketed the picturesque afternoon, the few clouds within it now stretched thin, like pieces of sugar melting upon the tongue.

Rollo cursed them. How dare they plague him.

My conscience is clear, he insisted. I've committed no sin.

"--but surely it could be sorted out? I'm happy to lend an ear, or a horn." The gargoyle tapped at his noggin. "Whatever you need."

Rollo's face hardened. "The world is cruel and wicked, full of fools that are easily tempted, gorging themselves on vice. That I was not able to correct it... Tsk. Truly, reprehensible. Yet you would have me confess to no real fault?"

He clasped himself, bracing against the wind. This high up, it reached only him, chilling him down to the bone.

He had witnessed it firsthand; how magic enticed others with its warmth, its brilliance--before spiraling, consuming everything in its path. A heavenly light turned into hellfire, a blessing revealed to be a curse.

That was the truth... Wasn't it?

“... You always do these things by your lonesome," the gargoyle said at last. "I wish you would rely on us a little more--that you would let us save you."

"Hmph. You said the very same thing that night."

"Oh?" The gargoyle perked up at that. "You remembered."

"Not fondly, mind you. Just the nonsense words of a stone statue."

"You're surprisingly blunt," the gargoyle remarked, his kindly, wizened smile still firmly in place. "But... I know you're a good boy deep down. You wouldn't dedicate yourself to looking after the Bell if you weren't. No matter what the weather, you never missed a single day.”

He raised his head, looking up at the magical artifact looming over them. The curve to its body, its dullened shine.

The sheer magnitude of it.

A twinge--fear? Guilt?--struck Rollo's soul. He hurried to brush it off.

"It is my sincerest hope that, someday, whatever is ailing you lifts away, just like the clouds parting after a storm. You'll be able to face the sun, and life will be fairer then."

Fairer...

And yet it hadn't been quite so far for him. It would never be.

He was no longer here.

“To this day, many pray and offer their desires up to the Bell of Salvation—but never did I think that I would hear a wish from a gargoyle. Your only purpose is to ward off rainwater."

"Even gargoyles can dream in the night and soak up sun in the daytime. You're capable of it too."

“The coming days will be dark and bitter. Storms are an inevitable part of life," Rollo countered icily.

"Ah, but there are more sunny days than there are stormy ones. We weather those storms to see the sun again. The Bell of Salvation shall see us through it all.”

In spite of himself, Rollo grimaced. He covered his mouth with a handkerchief. Its pattern of moons and stars quieted him, brought him temporary peace.

“The Bell…”

It sees all.

Rollo startled at the thought, like a chill had dragged itself across the coals in his heart. He hastily tucked his handkerchief away and shook his head.

I'm losing myself.

Such was the danger of being bewitched.

Magic worked like that. It had a way of promising youths their hopes and dreams, wishes and potential. Then its iron jaws would clamp shut, snagging an arm, a leg, a heart. Fresh fuel for the entangling flames.

The child caged within, calling out for help as the fire constricted, consuming him. A curtain of smoke, the smell of burning flesh.

Standing there, powerless, as the child became cinders.

It would be late to turn back time.

Visceral fear churned his stomach. Wave after wave, aligned with each haunting toll of the bells.

“Enough of this drivel," Rollo snapped. "I have a schedule to keep. I shouldn’t be wasting my lunch hour making conversation.”

"You're right," the gargoyle laughed. Perhaps a little too easily for Rollo's liking. How can he afford to be so lackadaisical? "Here I am, talking your ear off when you're hard at work. You should finish up your chores and have a hearty meal with your friends. Your vice president and aide, was it?"

His friends?

He had never thought of them in that way. Colleagues, at best.

And yet when he closed his eyes, he could so clearly picture their faces. The vice president with his wavy, tawny tresses. The aide with long, deep green locks that tumbled down his back.

Their eyes rapt and adoring as they regarded him.

"You sensed the danger and came running up the bell tower too?!"

"That's our President...! You worked with the NRC boys saved the whole city!"

"You're so amazing, sir! You always know the right thing to do. It's like you're our very own Just Judge from the legends."

"I'm so honored that you're at the helm at Noble Bell College, President Rollo--and that we have the opportunity to work with someone of your caliber!"

"We're all so proud of you."

Rollo said nothing, forcefully shunting them out of his mind.

He silently wiped at the Bell of Salvation, restoring its beautiful shine one stroke at a time. Before long, it was glistening in the midday sun, as bright as any star.

In the beginning, his muscles had ached by the time the task was complete. But the burn in his blood came no longer.

Now there was only emptiness, and the doubt that rang within it.

Rollo expelled a sigh, his hand reaching for the nearby Sally--the rope which sounded the bells. One tug with considerable strength, and familiar tolls would resound in the town.

Big bells as loud as thunder. Small bells as soft as a psalm. But the sound of the Bell of Salvation...

Cleansing.

His fingers closed around the rope.

"Say, Rollo."

He froze at his name.

The gargoyle beamed at him, clear as day, in the brass of the bell. "We can always talk some other time, whenever you're ready to. That offer's always on the table."

"... If you'll excuse me."

He tugged.

And a myriad of colors and moods, magic and sound, flooded the city. It was as though the sky had been split open, raining music upon the world, washing everything away and birthing new miracle in its place.

There was laughter from below, the atmosphere lifting with levity. Townspeople and students swelling with joy. A warm tingle of some enchantment filled their lungs took to their breath.

Look at them, Rollo sneered, his expression twisting in disgust. Practically drunk on magic, ignorant to the perils posed by their overindulgence.

His brows creased.

So many eyes that fixated on the bell that overlooked their city, entrusting it, and its magic, to pave the way forward. From up on high, they appeared like ants, they eyes mere dots. But up close, he’d seen that they were wide and sparkling, brimming with hope.

If such eyes were directed at him…

The hero and savior from the night of the crimson flowers. The man as virtuous and fair as the Just Judge.

All the things they said he was.

Am I truly deserving of that praise?

Rollo harshly clasped his hands together, his forehead creasing further. To his dismay, the swirling storm clouds of uncertainty stayed.

The tolls called out to him in their wordless song, reverberating off the rooftops. Their echoes, almost taunts.

“This is the punishment that is best suited for you, Flamme. To tell your truth, or to continue to live a lie… The decision is yours. You will suffer regardless.”

“You… You’re skilled in tormenting others, are you? I should have expected nothing less of you villains, wicked to the very core."

"Perhaps, if you were to properly glimpse into a mirror, you would come to see the wickedness within yourself, rather than that of the world."

He set his jaw firmly. His blood, boiling. His hands curled into clenched fists.

Curse him. Curse that Malleus Draconia. Curse them all, every last one of the charlatans of Night Raven College…!

Thunder rumbled, a sharp crack against the dull bells. Dampness—the aroma of ozone—hit his nose.

A plip of rain coloring the ground at his feet with a spot of darkness.

This is...

Rollo stared into the sky.

It had noticeably darkened, and the clouds had come back with reinforcements, looming menacingly in the distance. A chill picked up, and the sun wavered.

What…? It was so clear not a moment ago. He shivered, wrapping himself up in the excessive cloth of his uniform. Such a sudden storm. I’d best get back inside before I’m caught in it.

Rollo hurried to the stairwell, casting a glance at the gargoyles as he passed. The one that had spoken to him had wedged himself back among the others, safe and comfortable among friends. He snagged in Rollo's sight and waved.

“Until tomorrow.”

"... Until then.”

The door closed, obscuring Rollo behind it.

The cold and the wind and the dreary light were shut out. The wooden floorboards groaned in protest as he slipped inside. Away from the elements, and, more importantly, away from prying eyes.

Yet he felt the heat of them upon his back and crawling across his skin. Someone, something watching him in that dimly lit room.

From beyond the windows? Or…

From within?

He jerked away from the sunlight trickling in. Gaze averted, he focused his eyes on the creaking, worn stairs as he descended.

The walls were suffocating, squeezing him tight. The air, too thin.

There, in that rickety and narrow little space, he was trapped between heaven above and the waiting hell below.

Denied his sun and salvation, unable to escape from the tempest raging within himself.

[agonzovi]

[3] Dawn in the rest

Previous:

our girl flusters so hard she becomes nonverbal. and also, White:)

(---)

Whitney settles in her velvet stool for her daily ritual.

(Daily? It was 3:20 AM. The sun doesn't rise until it's 7:23.)

The vanity mirror she was facing revealed a bare face free of dark cosmetics. Tracing over the lipstick's intricate design with her thumb, as she always did— she feels the embezzled jewels—shining enticingly in her peripheral vision, but even so, her eyes remain glued to its reflection.

She twists the cap with care, and pops it open to reveal glossy obsidian. Putting it to her lips, she slides the wax tip on her upper lip first starting from the left side. And then repeats the motion making certain to emphasize her cupid's bow. Her lower lip only gets one solid swipe until rose pink becomes charcoal black.

She ends this mechanical process with its signature pop, satisfied with her work, Before she moves on to the next step.

Perfect, Methodical, and Flawless.

This was her routine, done everyday as her first milestone from waking.

She opens her vanity desk in habit, Being able to immediately pull out an eyeshadow pan whilst looking straight into her own irises.

There's no hesitation as her hands manuever it open and reach for the brush on her stand, dusting it against the first pan on its left side— coating the fur in the same powder ink the rest of the pallette is uniform in.

Focusing mordantly on her eye make-up, she starts with her left eye, relying on several past routines of muscle memory and earned skill.

She finishes this sacred routine with precise swipes of translucent powder, each stroke controlled and memorized, sinking into the familiarity as the powder brush glides across her fa—

knock knock

The brush darts down her cheek with such force it runs off her face fully. Wrist tensed in place beside her, her head does not move, but her stare breaks and is placated to the door.

“Am I right on time?”

Teeth gritting, she glares into the carved oak like it's wronged her. She places the brush back into its place in vanity, her throat burning at the unsolicited interruption. Fucking bitch.

“You were 23 seconds too early.”

“Apologies, I'll add 23 seconds to the 30 minute wait.”

The bass voice behind the door speaks with a monotone nonchalance— and yet she can still hear the snark behind it.

“Nevertheless. Come inside.”

The brass knob clicks and twists, the door-hinges silently creaking in the person’s entrance.

She twists in her seat to face him, making sure he sees her face full of black intimidation.

Clad in a black suit with an Indigo Bowtie, Whitney guesses there is another meeting Vorsano has to attend, And her face scrunches with dissaproval already laced with irritation.

“Agnesius has invited us to an event, it would be unwise to go without you.”

“So you’d like me to accompany you?”

“Obviously.”

“Fine,” she rolls her eyes, hands clasped together in her lap as she narrowly stares at him. “When is the event?”

“Today. Before Noon.”

Her schedule feels completely violated now. How was she going to prepare herself for an event so sudden?

“Today!? Sano. You know I am strict to adhere to my schedule, I have 3 things planned today!”

“97 less than you usually have planned. Of course.”

“Un—fucking—believable.”

Whitney hears Vorsano scoff in amusement, “Look at you, even dropping the accent to get your point across.”

‘You'd be suprised the things you could get away with if you sounded nice.’

“You couldn't inform me of this event yesterday? God, there must be an invoice before you drastically alter my day like this!”

She's aware she sounds more infuriated than her usual theatrics, and hopes Vorsano doesn't pick up on it.

“It is not my fault you have to make your brain chemistry completely redo itself before an occasion. But this event is important, we've skipped too much and they are tailing us.”

“Sure. Vorsano.”

She cuts eye contact, and stares back at herself in the mirror.

“I am sorry for disrupting, I'm aware it means alot to you.” His voice is lowered this time, he's absolutely noticed that she's upset.

“You make it sound like a sentimental thing, I simply do not wish to be disturbed unless I'm finished.” Huff.

“..You gave me 30 minutes. I was very precise with those 30 minutes.”

“30 minutes and 25 seconds then.”, There's a sharp sass to her words. The apology did not fully redeem Vorsano yet, it seems.

“I recieved Agnesius’ invitation around midnight. I was also startled to see that a letter this important would be sent at such ungodly hours.”

She rips her eyes off herself, and looks at him with her head this time, lips in a short frown. “Fine. Damn Agnesius and his stupid invitation.”

Marital issues.

(---)

From what Yannick remembers in her drunken state, Bonnie said this town was called Serma. Pretty big place, famous for it's trade import system with fruits. People come here for smaller jobs, or use it as a place to stay for a bit while on a journey— Apparently, it's a landmark when you're on your way to large cities with way more opportunities (if you're rich enough.)

Ribs still sore and bruised, Yannick makes sure to be careful with her motions. And by careful— she had just crashed into the dirt after climbing up someone's roof and then getting chased off by some burglar rat critter she did not want to be dealing with. She doesn't know what they're called.

So now her elbows are skinned, along with her knuckles. That's fine.

It's still dim, shades of blue coat everything in a navy overlay and the only illumination she's getting is the ambient light from the town and the moon.

Without her bandana, cold air bites her neck like the sun hasn't tamed it. Yannick settles for a logical solution, opening her leather sling to illuminate it's contents with the moonlight to search for an item.

She found it. The rusty lamp she used the other night, she dives for the cigarettes right beside it and selects one from the paper roll she's wrapped them in. Nice.

The cigarette's end glows wistfully, and she places it in-between her lips. Currently, she's in an empty dirt lot that's situated at the back of some buildings, and it's fairly desolate here. (if you count the masked rodents burglarizing the trash.)

The pain in her abdominals are numbed by the chilliness around her. There's a gust of wind that entertains her cigarette-end as it blows by and her smoke trails the direction of the wind. She observes the stars and how they are eerily defined in the full moon.

She reaches for flask she's situated in her pockets— filled with the content’s of the alcohol she snagged from the bar. She takes one big gulp and brings the cigarette to her lips again.

“Yani.”

The speed she whipped her head at the direction of that voice could only be fueled by homosexuality and alcohol.

Oh shit.

“Bonnie?”, that came out sounding very pathetic.

Yannick collects herself and tries to use a composure that doesn’t make her seem like a pathetic barmaid-pleasing gal.

Bonnie is hooded, a dark blue shawl coating her shoulders. Yannick can barely make out Bonnie’s face from the provided shadow; but she can make out a very faint ‘o’ on her lips.

they stare in silence for a moment and now Yannick's not cold anymore—she just feels uncomfortably warm and awkward.

Her eyes divert from Bonnie's face as she takes another smoke of her half-cigarette. ‘Is it me or did this burn away too fast?’. She's sweating in the cold.

As she turns her head away, socially unsure of what to do and selecting to just freeze up and hope the assumed threat goes away, Bonnie is facing her back and she can feel her gaze staring at her every detail. For Some Reason.

Then she feels a familiar coarse fabric wrap around her neck delicately.

Bonnie ties the motion up with her cold fingers feathering the bare of Yannick's neck.

“They ripped this off you, correct?”

Yannick is too scared to make eye contact, she can practically feel the warmth radiating off Bonnie's body from behind, SHE'S SO CLOSE—

she inhales, deeply. “Yes.”

Bonnie hums.

She's not sure what Bonnie thinks, because technically she just beat up some guys infront of her at her job and she might yell at her or or she's upset and going to insult her to her facs but she's not and that's even scarier and woman why are you so hard to read—

“That was attractive.”

oh.

Bonnie settles closer, half behind her and half beside Yannick and Yannick can barely make out her unhooded face staring at her in her peripherals and oh god she hasn't made a sound yet Bonnie probably doesn't think she's attractive anymore because Yannick doesn't know how to talk to people and fuck—

Bonnie's fingers are lightly tracing Yannick's injured cheekbone.

And then fully settles on cupping her jawline.

“I saw them manage to land a few hits on you.” Bonnie said deeply. So close to her she can feel warm breath on her ear.

Yannick musters up enough courage to face Bonnie, they're centimeters apart and Bonnie looks absolutely stunning under the moon. She realizes she's abit taller than Bonnie and her frazzled homosexual mind makes a distinction between the stars and the freckles on Bonnie's face. Fuck.

“I'm alright.” Yannick states, trying to distract herself from Bonnie's pretty face. Bonnie does a slight head tilt, eyes narrowing at Yannick as if she was observing every facial muscle to see if there was a lie. And no, Yannick was not alright.

Bonnie's other hand is flat against underneath her ribs. And Yannick's breath hitches when cold palms and a hot body meet. The hand traces up weightlessly, caressing. Bonnie looks at her unreadably with half-lidded eyes.

And then her hand travels a particular spot and Yannick jolts in pain.

“You have no self preservation, do you know that? Your braveness is alluring but very stupid.”

Well, atleast she thinks her impulsivity is braveness. Yannick supposes that's one way to interpret it.

Bonnie's hand travels down her waist and rests on her hips. Yannick's breathing had gotten all shaky from all this holding. Touch-starved much?

Yannick is embarrassed, flustered, and gay. And decides to face away from Bonnie again because she might explode if she stares at those eyes for too long and so she places the cigarette inbetween her lips. The hand on her jawline falls to the broad of her shoulder.

“So adorable when you're timid.”

The hand on her shoulder is absent. Bonnie removes the cigarette from Yannick's mouth as she stares with her brows furrowed. And then she watches as Bonnie places them inbetween her own lips and takes a long drawl of her own.

Yannick is absolutely destroyed.

“I didn't take you for the smoking type.”

It took her all her willpower to not stutter.

The cigarette sits betweens Bonnie's two fingers, and to her suprise— Bonnie laughs.

absolutely divine.

“Nobody does.” Bonnie smiles at her, before returning the cigarette back into Yannick's mouth. Yannick's going to die like this.

[indigowallbreaker]

M!Byleth x Leonie with 92 from the Heart Breaking Prompts ("It was always you. No matter how many times I disagreed, it was always you.")

I tweaked the dialogue a tiny bit to fit the character better and because I’ve convinced myself there is no Prompt Police to yell at me for making tweaks. Hope you approve!

(Currently accepting rare ships! Click here for the info post!)

--

The newly-formed Jeralt Company of mercenaries had an internal reputation for always being short on gold. While it was true that Leonie and Byleth spent most of the group’s money on weapon upkeep-- and more than a few bar tabs-- there was a small amount set aside for emergencies.

Medical expenses, for instance.

Leonie bit her lip against a laugh as she helped her husband through the tavern doors. Whatever herbs that healer had given them for Byleth’s cold had apparently been as potent as they were pricey.

“You should let me do the walking,” Byleth said as Leonie readjusted his arm over her shoulders. “It doesn’t set a good example for the others if I can’t walking on my own. Walk. Walk on my own.”

A chuckle slipped out of Leonie. “It’s just you and me tonight. Don’t worry, you don’t have anyone to set an example for.” 

The emergency fund was big enough to follow the healer’s orders and get Byleth a warm, comfortable room to stay in for a few nights. The emergency fund was not big enough for every person in the Jeralt Company to join in. Felix had agreed to watch over the other mercenaries until Byleth was better, which meant there was no one to watch Byleth stumble over nothing as they crossed the tavern.

After a brief conversation, the tavern keeper handed over the key to their room, and Leonie began leading Byleth upstairs. “I can pick it,” Byleth said when they reached the right door.

“You don’t have to. We got this, remember?” Leonie held up the brass door key.

Byleth blinked slowly at it. “When?”

Leonie snorted. “Come on, you. Time for bed.”

The room was just as extravagant as Leonie expected of a room above a tavern. Bed, sink, dresser with several knobs missing, wooden stool with knife marks. Still, better place for a patient than a tent in the middle of the woods. 

Leonie sat Byleth on the stool. “Get undressed. I’ll get the bed ready.”

Byleth sniffed. Then he sniffed again. “I can get it ready,” he said through his congestion.

Leonie merely kissed the top of his head and set about making the bed. From her pack, Leonie pulled more blankets, an extra pillow, a packet of her and Byleth’s favorite tea, and more of the medical herbs from the healer. These last two she placed on the dresser, making a mental note to get some hot water from downstairs later.

When she turned back around, Leonie couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her. Byleth had evidently leaned over to undo his boot laces-- but now just sat slumped forward on the stool. Some part of Leonie knew it was cruel to find the sight of her sickly husband struggling so funny, but honestly, watching him recover from a cold was a lot less stressful than watching him recover from an axe wound or stray arrow. 

“Here, let me.” Leonie knelt before Byleth and began taking off his boots. With a bit of effort, she got the rest of his clothes off, convinced him into a fresh pair of pants, and sat him on the bed. 

Leonie’s amusement was tempered somewhat when she placed a hand to his forehead. “You’re still warm. The healer said your fever should break tonight but let me get you a wet towel.”

Before she could move far, Byleth caught her wrist. “Why’re you with me?” He slurred.

Leonie looked at him. “Because that’s what we do? We watch each other’s backs. It was in our wedding vows. Remember those?” She teased.

Byleth’s eyebrows furrowed. It was adorable. Leonie smiled to herself as she slipped her hand free and made for the sink. When she returned to the bed, cold towel folded and ready to go, it was to find Byleth still looking puzzled. “What is it?” She asked, pushing gently on his shoulder to get him to lay down.

“Why are you with me?” He repeated. “That’s.. what I meant...” His voice lowered when she placed the towel over his forehead. “That feels nice...” He added, closing his eyes.

“Glad to hear it.” Leonie pushed his bangs out of the way, trailing her fingers down his jaw to his chin. His skin felt so warm. “Just get some rest, okay? I want my partner back as soon as possible.”

Byleth’s eyes cracked open again. “Why am I your partner?”

Leonie frowned. “Because I love you? Why are you asking these things?”

“You got along with so many Deer,” Byleth said, glassy eyes now fixed on Leonie. “You could’ve been with Claude. You could’ve been a queen. Or been with Raphael, or Ignatz, or Hilda...” He swallowed. “But you’re with me. Sometimes I wonder how that happened.”

It was probably the medicine talking. Actually it was definitely the medicine talking. An unmedicated Byleth never asked this kind of thing-- he and Leonie had known where they stood with one another since that sunrise at the Goddess Tower. If Byleth harbored any uncertainties, he kept them well hidden, even from Leonie.

With a sigh, Leonie ran her fingers down Byleth’s face again. “I was never going to end up with anyone else. It was always you, Byleth. No matter how many times I denied it to myself, it was always going to be you.” Her cheeks grew hot as the words left her mouth. It wasn’t often she said such things. She loved Byleth with her whole heart but saying stuff like this outloud was downright embarrassing.

It seemed to be exactly what Byleth needed to hear, however. He smiled and closed his eyes once more. “I think I get it now.”

“Good, because I’m not repeating myself.”

“No need. I love you too.”

Leonie picked up the towel. “I’ll cool this off again. Sleep, Byleth. That’s an order.” Nodding weakly against his pillow, Byleth’s face slackened. 

His breathing was even and deep by the time Leonie came back with a freshened towel. Leonie placed it over Byleth’s forehead once more, and did a mental recount of their finances. They could probably spring for an extra night in this room on their own-- just in case Byleth had any more concerns Leonie could lay to rest.

[laplusrenting]

TEXT OR CALL MANAGER FOR INFORMATION. Do not email. MONTH TO MONTH LEASE RENTAL FOR ONE LARGE SHEIK PRIVATE BEDROOM WITH PRIVATE BATHROOM IN GORGEOUS MANSION in the hills for $1, 700 PLUS 1/6 of the utilities. Deposit $1, 700. Very classy upscale black tie home with: Wi-Fi, full home gym, waterfall pool, TV, view, and free street parking for you and guests! . FACETIME OR IN PERSON TOURS AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK. SEE ONLINE VIDEO TOUR OF HOME AND ROOM AT: THIS IS A SHARED 6 PERSON 3 STORY MANSION IN THE HILLS WITH 6 SECLUDED PRIVATE BEDROOMS AND 6 PRIVATE BATHROOMS SIMILAR TO A RITZ CARLTON HOTEL: 6 total people will be living in home that are professionals and work a lot. You have the privacy of an apartment due to well spaced out bedrooms for social distancing, yet the luxury of a spacious classy mansion. All six peoples' bedrooms have different keys and locked doors. LARGE KITCHEN HAS 6 SEPARATE REFRIGERATORS, CABINETS, SHELVES, AND DRAWS DESIGNATED FOR EACH OF THE 6 PEOPLE. SAVE ON GYM, PARKING, AND ENERGY COSTS! Free full home gym included. Plenty of FREE street parking for you and guests (no parking passes required unlike most of Los Angeles). Energy saving home because: Prorate utilities to 1/6. Water conserving top of the line washer/dryer. Many large double pane windows throughout the home with great lighting and air flow that keeps the heat, cool, and sound in. Ceiling fans in each bedroom. Two separate central air conditioners / heaters / fan for upstairs and downstairs. Tankless water heater that conserves gas and does not run out of hot water. Robot floor cleaner/sweeper available for use. THE LARGE SHEIK PRIVATE BEDROOM BATHROOM RENTAL FOR $1, 700 HAS: a spectacular view, two large double pane windows for great ventilation and lighting, custom wood floor, ceiling fan with lights, great lighting with dimmer, large walk-in mirrored closet, Venetian marble painted walls, and a beautiful Large PRIVATE BATHROOM with contemporary marble sink, bathtub Jacuzzi, travertine walls and flooring. Room is not furnished. EXTRA STORAGE SPACE AVAILABLE for extra charge. HUGE ADDITIONAL FURNISHED COMMON SPACE INCLUDED: living room, family room, dining room, laundry room with 6 separate shelves for each person, large private back yard, full home gym, and large open kitchen (i.e., granite counter tops, sheik modern hart shaped table/chairs, island bar with stools, island stove/oven, sink, overhead fan, microwave, Viking appliances, 5 separate refrigerators, shelves and drawers for each person ). ELEGANTLY DESIGNED MEDITERRANEAN MANSION HAS: spectacular views of downtown LA, pool with city view and slide- waterfall Jacuzzi- sheik modern aesthetics, large private outdoor balcony- wrap around private indoor balcony overlooking living room that has a large skylight- beautiful glass blue light stair case and brass banister- 30 foot high living room ceiling with chandelier, museum like artistic living room, front outdoor water fountain with palm tree and fern landscaping, front and back elegant garden landscaping, Greek and midivil armored statutes, floors (travertine stone- hardwood), granite counter tops, custom artistically painted mock marble walls and ceilings, and gorgeous custom crown molding, baseboard, and custom wood work. CENTRALLY LOCATED IN WEST LA: in an estate community with a nice quiet neighborhood in the hills not far from: Beverly Hills, Hollywood, LA Airport, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo, Playa Del Rey, Marina Del Ray, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Culver City, Westwood, Downtown LA, UCLA, USC, Loyola University, West LA college, Forum Concert Arena, New Sofi Charger Football Stadium, LA Convention Center, Crypto.com Arena (former Staples Stadium), and the 10, 90, 405 freeways. NO SMOKING OR VAPING. NO PETS._______________4266 Hillcrest Dr Bedroom Cor_______________Los Angeles______________________________1700$

[javierspaintinghandyman]

Vintage Bathroom Remodeling in Hollywood, Miramar, Davie, Hallandale Beach, and Dania Beach, FL

Vintage bathroom remodeling can add charm and character to one’s home in Hollywood, Miramar, Davie, Hallandale Beach, or Dania Beach, FL, while maintaining a modern and functional space. By incorporating vintage elements into the bathroom design, any homeowner can create a unique and timeless look that blends old-world charm with contemporary style. Following are some tips on how to incorporate vintage elements into one’s  bathroom remodeling in Hollywood, Miramar, Davie, Hallandale Beach, and Dania Beach, FL, while maintaining a modern aesthetic:   Vintage-Inspired Fixtures: Replace the modern fixtures with vintage-inspired ones to add a touch of old-world elegance to the bathroom. Look for clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, and vintage-style faucets in antique brass or oil-rubbed bronze finishes.   Vintage Tile: Use vintage-style tile to add texture and pattern to the bathroom walls and floors. Subway tile, hexagonal tile, and penny tile are all classic options that can give the bathroom a vintage look.   Vintage Lighting: Incorporate vintage lighting fixtures into the bathroom design to add warmth and character. Look for sconces, chandeliers, or pendant lights with a vintage-inspired design.   Vintage Mirrors: Replace the modern mirror with a vintage-style mirror to add a touch of old-world charm to the bathroom. Look for ornate frames or antique finishes to enhance the vintage look.   Vintage Accessories: Add vintage accessories such as glass jars, apothecary bottles, and antique hardware to the bathroom to enhance the vintage aesthetic. These small touches can add character and charm to the space.   Modern Touches: Balance the vintage elements in the bathroom with modern touches to create a harmonious design. Incorporate modern fixtures, such as sleek faucets and minimalist hardware, to balance the vintage look and create a more contemporary feel.   Neutral Color Palette: Stick to a neutral color palette for the bathroom walls and floors to allow the vintage elements to stand out. Creams, whites, and soft grays are all great options that can help create a cohesive and timeless look. Take advice from commercial painting contractors in Hollywood, Miramar, Davie, Hallandale Beach, and Dania Beach, FL, regarding the choice of colors.   Vintage-Inspired Artwork: Add vintage-inspired artwork to the bathroom walls to enhance the vintage aesthetic. Look for prints or paintings of vintage advertisements, botanical prints, or antique maps to add a touch of nostalgia to the space.   Vintage Furniture: Incorporate vintage furniture pieces into the bathroom design to add character and warmth. A vintage vanity, storage cabinet, or stool can add a unique and charming element to the bathroom.   Vintage Accents: Finally, add vintage accents such as antique mirrors, vintage textiles, and vintage-inspired accessories to complete the look. These small touches can add a sense of history and charm to the bathroom remodeling project in Hollywood, Miramar, Davie, Hallandale Beach, or Dania Beach, FL, while maintaining a modern aesthetic. 

[knebelblacktown]

5 Kitchen Designs That Will Turn Your Kitchen Into a Workhorse

Kitchen designs come and go, but the basics remain the same. If your budget allows, consider a galley layout to optimize the classic work triangle of fridge, sink and stove.

Use a gridded pattern on countertops to add texture and visual interest, as designer Lauren Liess did in this mountain-inspired 2020 Idea House kitchen. She also added slipcovered counter benches and a wood-and-iron table.

Open Shelves

Many homeowners rule out open shelving because they think it's visually chaotic and dusty, but it can be a beautiful design element. Choose a shelf finish that matches the wall color for an integrated look, or add visual interest with contrasting colors and finishes.

For example, shelves painted white with dark iron brackets pair nicely with a wood Kitchen designs island and dark cabinetry. Here, @homeofwhimsy displays a curated collection of keepsakes to enhance a modern-industrial kitchen with herringbone subway tile and Shaker base cabinets. A brass double sconce provides the final elegant touch.

When it comes to functional items, keep the tops of your open shelves reserved for cookbooks and other everyday crockery that can easily be reached. Also, think twice about storing heavy pots and casserole dishes on your upper shelving because lifting and lowering these pieces from such a high spot can be dangerous. Keep it practical and family-friendly by stowing less-used items in attractive wicker baskets or metal tins to help eliminate cluttered appearances.

Blue & White

The classic duo of blue and white has stood the test of time. Whether it's used sparingly or incorporated throughout the entire kitchen, this color scheme offers a timeless elegance that's sure to stand out.

Bright shades of blue create a crisp, energized atmosphere. They pair beautifully with a variety of different materials, from natural wood to marble and polished concrete. Blue accents can also offer a hint of retro style, blending well with both classic and modern kitchen trends.

In this kitchen, a blue island and cabinets take center stage against an airy background of sky-blue walls and white surfaces. The neutral palette also includes white countertops, backsplashes, and a wood range hood. Metallics can also add a contemporary touch, and copper or brass accessories mesh well with blue kitchen decor. This kitchen design from Rita Chan Interiors(opens in new tab) uses coordinating hardware to connect the lower navy blue cabinets and upper white ones.

Industrial-Chic Seating

Industrial kitchens work well in rooms with high ceilings, open spaces and rough materials. Exposed brick walls, concrete surfaces and unplastered ceilings all create a raw, industrial look in your home.

You can also get the same style by painting walls a shade like gray, which is ontrend and looks smart with natural-looking tile or wood countertops. Bold shades of yellow or blue also keep in line with the rustic, industrial theme and look striking against a dark backdrop.

For those with a little more design commitment fear, try mixing metals in your industrial kitchen by adding stainless steel bar stools or painted furniture. Mixing metallics also adds a cool, modern touch to the design and looks stylish against dark walls or cabinetry. Add a little kitsch flair with eye-catching pendant lighting and a splash of kitchen wall art to finish off the style. This style of kitchen is perfect for those who love to entertain and host friends and family.

Bold Colors

Bold colors in kitchen design ideas are a great way to create eye-catching focal points and visually stunning design elements. However, it’s important to choose a color that will complement the rest of the room and fit your design vision. It’s also important to consider how the color will interact with natural and artificial lighting.

For example, bold blue hues can create a calming effect while contrasting well with white cabinets and countertops. On the other hand, bold reds can evoke energy and excitement. If you’re not sure what color to choose, try painting a small patch on your wall or cabinet and observe how it looks at different times of the day.

Additionally, bold countertop materials are a great way to add character and personality to your kitchen. Choose a unique material that complements your bold color scheme while still maintaining functionality. Incorporate open shelving or display areas to showcase your favorite dishes and glassware for a curated look that’s uniquely yours.