#best truck booking service in jodhpur

[dih1]

Thing to add in your bucket list when visiting rajasthan

Rajasthan is not just a beautiful region with beautiful palaces and mud dwellings, but it is also an archeologist's dream. Touring with the Best Travel Agency in Rajasthan you will be able to see some very historic locations, like Pushkar Lake and the Ranthambore Fort, among others. You will also be able to see the iconic Jaisalmer Fort as well as the desert oasis of Bikaner and Jaipur. 

Things to do in Rajasthan:

1. Desert Camping in Jaisalmer: Enjoy the delight of camping in the middle of a freezing desert and spending the night gazing at the beautiful night sky. While planning a Rajasthan vacation, make sure to book a Car Travel Agency in Jaisalmer including a stop in Jaisalmer, the heart of the Thar Desert.

2. Food tour in Jodhpur: Jodhpur is one of the places in Rajasthan that is famous for its street food. This city is home to a number of exquisite foods, ranging from mirchi bada to kadi kachori, which can be savored by booking Rajasthan packages. For the greatest local cuisine experiences, go to the old city center or the famed Shastri Circle, where you can easily locate eateries and food trucks.

3. Shopping in Jaipur: If the local Rajasthan apparel and jewelry piques your interest, schedule at least one day out of your Rajasthan Tour services packages to go shopping in Jaipur. Locations like Bapu Bazar, GT Mall, Johari Bazaar, and many more are well-known for providing a diverse selection of stores for a shopping spree.

4. Hot Air Ballooning in Jaipur: Go to the sky with a hot air balloon ride in Jaipur. Take a safe and sound basket to the heights from where you may observe the calm and beauty of this lovely city. This adventure will allow you to take in some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Pink City.

Read More: -  Nearby places to explore in Jaisalmer

5. Ziplining at Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur: Geek along a 396-foot-long and 150-foot-high ziplining course and feel the rush of flying like a fox. The best aspect about this excursion is that participants get to see some of the best views of the Mehrangarh Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A ziplining experience is a must-try if you want to add some exciting activities to your Rajasthan vacation packages.

Conclusion

Explore a variety of Rajasthan Tour Packages with amazing deals at a delightful India holiday. Get personalized Rajasthan tour packages with great bargains and incentives. Select from a variety of Rajasthan travel packages provided by delightful India Holiday to enjoy some wonderfully prepared adventures. These packages are suitable for all types of tourists looking to start on a Rajasthan journey and may be tailored to your specific requirements.

[dlct-express]

DLCT Express: Book Karo Befikar

One of the foremost companies, DLCT Express is providing transport services to consumers all over India. We are the best in this industry and work to provide cost-effective consignment-related solutions to our esteemed customers. The company has been serving its consumers for a long time and made its place with the No. 1 rank in India. The DLCT Express introduced a mobile application to help the customer to overcome the difficulties in transporting. 

Through this app, the customers can easily book online trucks, lorries, tempo, Tata 407, and various other small/heavy loading vehicles. By using the mobile application one can easily get their desired loading vehicle on rent at their doorstep. Consumers can use the services for sending or receiving their heavy loads at a suitable price. If you are looking for "Truck Booking Services in Jodhpur", the DLCT App can be the best option for you.

Why Choose DLCT Express for Truck Booking Services in India?

With our DLCT Express mobile app, you can send or receive big agricultural, industrial, and home appliances-related machinery equipment at your home or workplace. DLCT express provides the best mobile app-based "Truck Booking Services in India" with hybrid technology. DLCT gives a large number of options to book loaders from 3-wheel loading to 16-18 wheels loader vehicles using the mobile application. Customers can book vehicles using a hybrid mobile app according to their needs like Ola-Uber.

What All Packages I Can Send Using the DLCT Mobile App?

Folks, the fare, loading, and unloading can be negotiated with our driver-partners at the time of booking. You can track your loadings using the mobile application which gives real-time information for your package. Now you don't need to pay the high transport rent/fare for shifting your house/shop, sending/receiving timber/plywood/laminate, electronics/home appliances, furniture, marble/granite, wooden/plastic crates, and various other goods. To get rid of late delivery, no coordination with drivers, and high rent demand problems, the DLCT Express Android app will be very beneficial for you. Loading carriers and heavy vehicles will be available for the customers on this platform at all times. With round-the-clock (24x7) services, DLCT Express is becoming popular day by day as the best “Online Truck Booking App in India”.

How will DLCT Express Help Customers In Cost Optimization?

DLCT Express is having a large team of tech masters to make sure the loading, transporting cost, and real-time tracking system. Our technical team ensures freight cost efficiencies using real-time data according to your loading goods. Cost/rent calculation depends on various attributes such as the consignment type, destination location, distance of truck from the pick-up location, costs per kilometer for that particular route, time duration of unloading or loading the truck, and seasonality, etc. Our highly skilled technical team created a perfect truck matching system for the shipments by churning the complete travel-related information which is based on real-time communication. This helps the customers to get the best service at a low cost.

Why DLCT Express is Best Truck Booking Service in Jodhpur? 

Those days are now gone when we used to go round and round in local transport offices for relocation of our shipments. This process was too much time taking and quite boring. Waiting in long queues to get heavy loaders or vehicles was a very hectic process. But the DLCT express introduced a high-tech built a mobile application that helps customers to save their time and money. Using our mobile application you can relocate heavy goods in a very comfortable and easy way. The DLCT app offers thousands of vehicle options according to the relocation needs in any particular area. 

What makes us the "best truck booking service in jodhpur":

Customers can choose low operational costs

Option for flexible delivery times is also available

Multiple vehicle options according to needs

And, as options for multi-stop orders with a real-time tracking system

These are the few significant points that make DLCT Express the best mobile app-based transportation company. We understand the needs of every customer and make sure of safe delivery on time. With large numbers of partner drivers, we are always committed to giving the best services to our customers.

Transport Vehicle Options Available on DLCT Express App

The transportation booking is so hard these days if you are shifting to a new place. You will have to waste too much time in search of vehicles, especially if you are looking for them in a high-demand area. As we know in various cases the drivers ask for a high amount for carrying your valuables. They also talk in a very rude way if you ask for more clarification. The DLCT App gives the option to its customer to avoid such things. 

DLCT Express believes in transparency under which we make sure that the customer gets detailed information about consignment transfers. To ensure on-time, safe, and damage-free delivery, DLCT is having a huge fleet of vehicles.

DLCT's wide range of vehicles includes:

Piaggio APE

Tata Ace Gold

Tata Yodha Pickup

Heavy Container

14 feet open-Trailor

Tarus 25 T

Ashok Leyland

Tata 16 T

Eicher

Tata 407

Mahindra Bolero

Tata

Piaggio

Suzuki Super Carry

Mahindra Furio 12 ICV

The list of the vehicles is not finished yet. Apart from these heavy loadings, we offer various other types of light and heavy vehicles according to the customer’s demand. So why are you wasting time in search of transport vehicles when the DLCT Express app is here 24x7 for your help. For more detailed information “Contact DLCT Express (Inter-Link)” one of the best “online truck booking apps in India”.

Download DLCT Express Android App Now

[what-is-your-plan-today]

Riding High Ch1: Jodhpurs and Jeans

Chapter Summary: Frank Adler is a single man in his early 30s, simply doing his best to raise his genius niece Mary. After a passing comment from his well-meaning neighbour, land-lady and friend, he decides that before he enrols her into school she needs to learn some social skills and pick up a hobby to help her interact with kids her own age. 

Felicity (Fliss) Gallagher is a single woman in her early 30s. An British Olympic Gold Medal winning Showjumper who was forced into early retirement due to a nasty accident, she’s now settled in South Pasadena running Sandybrook Stables, an Equestrian Centre which provide both boarding and teaching services.

Mary decides she wants to learn how to ride… meaning the two of them meet for the first time

Chapter Warnings: Bad Language words. 

Chapter Pairings:  Frank Adler x OFC Fliss Gallagher 

A/N: So yeah, this one’s been buzzing in my head for AGES now. As you all know, I’m a Brit so I’m REALLY sorry if too much British horsey lingo slips into this…ASK away if you don’t understand. As means of an explanation in the UK we have 3 main types of stables. We have Riding Schools (which focus solely on providing riding lessons), Livery Yards (which are places where owners board their horses) and Equestrian Centres (which do both). After a bit of research it seems that EC also translates across the pond and means the same thing so…just bear with me on this and run with it!

Tagging all my SSB/CSI readers…if you want in or off the list PLEASE just tell me

As always I’m a ho for a REBLOG and COMMENT!

And yes, the woman in the photos in the cover banner on and with the Chestnut is me and my wonderful, wonderful old girl who I lost 2 years ago…

Chapter Song: Driftwood by Travis 

Series Masterlist Main Masterlist

August 2017

 “I’m holding you solely responsible for this.” Frank short Roberta a glare as Mary bounced over to the truck, her blonde hair swinging slightly as she skipped.

“All I said was that it might be useful to have her interact with kids her own age before you throw her into a school, which for the record, I still think is a dumbass idea Frank.” “Input noted and duly ignored…” Frank rolled his eyes “She needs to go to school. Have some kind of variant on a normal childhood.”

Roberta took a deep breath and simply shrugged “On your head be it.”

“Come on Frank!” Mary shouted, standing up on the ledge of the truck “we’re gonna be late!”

“It’s 20 minutes tops to Pinellas Park…” Frank looked at her “We got half an hour, chill out Stack”

“My name’s Mary not Short Stack…” she sing songed back.

“Don’t I know it…” Frank said, looking at her before he turned back to Roberta “I’ll see you later.”

“Hmmm” she nodded, and with that he rolled his eyes again and headed to the truck.

“You know you’re not actually gonna get to ride anything today right?” he asked, turning to his niece.

“No, but I’m still gonna see the ponies.” she said, smiling. “Why can’t we bring Fred?”

“Because a horse might step on him.” Frank said, before he paused. “Actually, shall we take him?” Mary narrowed her eyes at him “That’s mean.” He chuckled, ruffled her hair and started up the truck.

******

“Ok, now soften your outside hand…” Fliss called out across the paddock, as the woman riding the tall, bay warmblood circled her “Yeah, you feel that. He’s taking the contact now, not leaning against your hand. So when you feel that softening, that’s when you need to push with your inside leg…and if is he isn’t listening a soft tap up with the stick…” She watched again from behind her Oakley wraparounds, smiling as the horse extended nicely down the long side of the school.

“Yeah, there you go!” she shouted encouragingly, “Now bring him round again and this time at the corner, pop him into canter…” She took a quick glance at her watch. She was running slightly behind, but what else was new? She would never leave a lesson, regardless, until her client had achieved something, even if it was what they dubbed a small victory. End on a high was her motto, and this was no different. Ever since Lucy had brought Jensen out of his stable, Fliss could see the horse was in one of his awkward moods so she’d had to switch out her plan a little. It had worked and he’d settled after about 15 minutes of being an obstinate shit and he was working quite nicely.

“Good!” She shouted, pacing slightly “Now let’s see if we can extend this a little…” Lucy sat up tall, pushed through her legs and the horse bounded down the side. Fliss grinned, less than 6 months ago Lucy hadn’t even been able to keep the horse in a trot, now here she was producing an extended canter. Moments like this made her job so worthwhile…

“Ok, bring him back down…” she said, “And into trot…and walk…”

Fliss headed over to her client and smiled as she walked alongside her “That was really good Luce…you happy?” “I’m over the moon!” The teenager grinned “I can’t believe it…he went so well!”

“Yeah because you rode him well.” Fliss smiled “You know, I seriously think you should consider a Dressage Competition.” 

“You think?”

“Yeah, I do. I know you don’t have a horse of your own but you can borrow Cap if you want…have a think about it.” “I will, thanks Fliss.”

Fliss smiled, gave the horse a pat and headed back to the gate.

“Joanne?” she called, and one of her grooms appeared. “Can you just supervise Lucy cooling him off. I’ve got someone bringing their daughter in at 11 am that should be here any time soon.”

“Sure.” Joanne nodded “Oh, they back barn has been mucked out but I’ve not had chance to scrub the water buckets out.” “It’s ok, you can do it after lunch” Fliss nodded. “the automatics are getting installed in a month or so which should make it a little easier.”

She patted Joanne on the shoulder and made her way into the office. Reaching for a file she dug out a Registration Form and a Liability Waiver and set them on the desk before she took a quick glance in the mirror. Satisfied that her auburn hair was tamed and there was no hay stick in it she nodded to herself and walked back on the yard, just in time to see a tall, well build dark haired man desperately trying to control a blonde haired girl who was looking around in glee and pointing.

“Hi…” she walked over, momentarily stuck by how damned good looking this guy was. He was dressed simply in a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt which perfectly accentuated his toned upper body. His chiselled jawline which was covered in a short, stubbled beard, soft spikey dark hair, and he flashed her a smile that made the corners of his aviator covered eyes crinkle. A smile that made her clear her throat. “I’m Fliss, you must be Mr Adler.”

Frank looked at the woman in front of him, glad that his glasses hid the fact he was blatantly eyeing her up and down. Dressed in a pair of long riding boots, tight navy blue jodhpurs with a white belt around the top, and a tight pink polo shirt he could see every curve she possessed. But it was the smile she flashed him that made him feel like some kind of teenage school kid again.  “Frank, please.” “Nice to meet you.” Fliss smiled before turning to Mary “And what can I call you Miss?” “Mary.” she said, looking up “Are all these horses yours?”

Fliss chuckled. “No not all of them. 9 belong to me. 3 are my personal ones, then I have 6 that work in the riding school and the other 6 are boarders.” “Oh.” she said, looking around. “So which one can I ride.” “Mary…” Frank chastised her softly as he looked down at her, before glancing back at Fliss “Sorry, she’s excited.” Fliss laughed and shook her head “It’s fine, I love to see it.”

She turned to Mary and then in an exaggerated whisper so that Frank could here said “I’ll let you into a secret, I always put the new kids on Monty because he’s awesome and looks after everyone…and he especially likes girls. He’s a ladies man. You wanna meet him?” Mary nodded eagerly and Fliss looked up at Frank, seeking his permission. He nodded and gestured with his head and she straightened up before leading Mary across the yard to the barn on the opposite side.

Frank stayed where he was for a moment, watching her ass as she walked before he mentally slapped himself and followed.

Fliss led them both into the airy barn, pushing up her sunglasses and down to 2 of the smaller stables at the far end. She stopped at one that contained a small, grey pony who gave a little nicker and stuck his head over the door.

“Monty, meet Mary…” she said with a smile as Mary gently reached up to stroke the pony’s soft nose. 

“He’s really pretty.” Mary said, appraisingly. 

“Yeah he’s awesome.” Fliss smiled, “And he’s a good boy too.” “Can I go in the stable?” Mary asked.

“Erm… if your dad says it’s ok?” Fliss looked at Frank who was tucking his sunglasses down the front of his shirt.

“I’m not her dad.” Frank shook his head “I’m her uncle.” “Oh, sorry.” Fliss frowned “I just assumed.”

“I get it a lot.” he said, waving her apology away “But I am her legal guardian so…”

Fliss nodded, studying him for a moment. There was clearly a bit more to that story but it wasn’t her business to pry.

“Can I?” Mary looked at him and he nodded. 

“Ok so, Monty is really good and nothing scares him but with all horses you should always be quiet and not jump or shout.” Fliss instructed and Frank had to smile as Mary nodded seriously. He hadn’t seen her this engrossed in anything other than books for a long time. Maybe Roberta had been right.

Fliss unbolted the stable door and walked in, leading Mary in after her. She showed her where he liked to be scratched and Mary giggled as she rubbed at the spot on the pony’s withers and he began to tilt his head to the side, lips moving against Fliss’s arm as he nuzzled into her.

“What’s he doing?” Mary asked.

“It’s called grooming.” Fliss explained “So he is mimicking what you’re doing to him to me, see? It’s how they show affection in the wild. Sometimes they can get a bit carried away and they nip but they don’t mean to be nasty or bite.”

She looked over to Frank, keeping one eye on the small girl who was engrossed in petting Monty and looked at him “So, are you just after her learning to ride then or…” Frank nodded “It’s a long story but, she needs a hobby and this was the only thing that seemed to get her excited. Of course it would be the one that will milk me dry…” he said, raising his voice a little.

“Spend less money on beer when you go out tonight” she shot back, and Fliss gave a loud bark of a laugh as Frank, shook his head.

“See what I gotta put up with?” he snorted.

“You should talk to my dad about it.” she laughed “I bled him dry due to horses as a kid, especially when I was up and down the UK competing!” “I was gonna say your accent isn’t local.” he said, smiling.

“Neither is yours.” she shot back “New England?” He cocked his head, momentarily surprised. He didn’t think his accent was that strong considering.

“Boston.” he nodded, “But I aint lived there in a while.” “I lived in Concorde” she explained, noticing his puzzled glance 

“Huh, no kidding.” he smiled “Cambridge.” “Nice state.” Fliss smiled “I loved it.”

“What made you end up here?”

Fliss hesitated for a while. “Erm..” “Sorry, you don’t need to explain, I was just a little curious.” “No, it’s fine just a long and complicated story.” Fliss said, scratching her temple “The abridged version is my marriage broke down and my mum and dad retired out here so I joined them.” She was avoiding his eyes slightly. Frank was smart enough to realise there was slightly more to it than that but he was tactful enough not to press. Besides, it was really none of his business.

“How about you? What you running from?” “What makes you think I’m running from anything?” he asked.

“Aren’t we all?” she looked at him, her deep brown eyes locked onto his.

He hesitated for a moment and then shrugged “Again, a long and complicated story but I wanted to give Mary a life away from hassle. And there was a lot of that in Boston.” He held her gaze and she simply nodded, before turning back to Mary.

“Ok Mary, how about we head into the office, get some forms signed and we can see about booking you in for your first lesson?” Frank watched as Fliss explained the importance of the kick-bolt on the bottom of the stable and showed her how to lock it before they three of them headed back onto the yard.

“Fliss, sorry to interrupt but do you want Cap and Bolt turned out?” a young girl with blonde hair approached them.

“Yeah, they’re not working again today.” Fliss said, “But take them one at a time. Bolt’s taking to being a bit bargey. If he starts wrap the lead-rope round his nose.” “Will do.” “Thanks Jo.” she smiled, and they continued walking.

“What’s bargey?” Mary asked.

“Pushy.” Frank looked at her “Bossy.” “Like you?” Frank shot her a look and saw Fliss smiling to herself as she overheard.

“Or it could mean pain in the ass like you.” he said. “Rude.” Mary shot back as Fliss opened the door to the office. Frank leaned over to hold it open.

“Thanks.” she looked at him smiling. He stepped in after Mary and they both stood, looking around taking it all in.

There was a large photo on the wall to the left, of someone, he presumed Fliss, on a horse jumping an obscenely high fence. On the wall at the back was a number of shelves, one containing files and the others a few more framed photos, one taken outside the gates to the yard of Fliss and a few others, he assumed her staff, and the other contained a number of trophies and a…

“Woah!” Mary said, scooting over “Is that yours?” “Sure is.” Fliss beamed, reaching up to retrieve the box frame. She led it flat on the desk and Mary scrambled up onto the chair to take a closer look.

The frame was split into 2. On the right hand side was a photo of Fliss dressed in competition gear, navy jacket, red piping, white jodhs and a navy hat. She had a smile on her face that was literally ear to ear and round her neck sat the gold medal which was displayed in the left of the frame.

“London 2012…” Mary read the small plaque at the bottom “Frank, look…” “I can see.” he said, surprise evident in his tone. He looked at the woman “You were in the Olympics?” “Yeah.” she smiled “Only one though. Trained for years to get there…”

“Why only one?” Mary looked at her.

“Mary.” Frank groaned “Stop being nosey.” “It’s ok.” Fliss chuckled “A few months later at the World Championships I had a nasty accident. I damaged my back and it took me nearly 6 months to recover. Sadly I lost my place on the team.” “Oh, that’s sad.” Mary looked at her.

“It’s a dog eat dog world kid.” Fliss shrugged “Not all bad though, I got into the training side of things which was great. Just didn’t work out.” There was a moments pause and Fliss replaced the photo and turned to Frank “Can I get you anything to drink?” “No, I’m good thanks.” he smiled.

“Ok, so…” Fliss said, “Mary I’m gonna need my seat back sweetie.” Mary obligingly jumped back down and Fliss took her vacated place, gesturing to the chair by the desk. Frank sat in it and Mary immediately jumped into his lap, her bare legs brushing slightly as she swung them to and fro.

“I have a few forms that you need to fill in and sign.” she said, apologetically “Legal stuff, contact details, waivers, that kind of thing. Safety is paramount at Sandybrook but, accidents to happen. Horse riding can be a dangerous sport…falls happen… as I know only too well.” Frank smiled and nodded.

“But I can give you those to take home, you can bring them with you when you come back.”  she said, reaching into her desk drawer. She pulled out a glossy leaflet and opened it. “Our price list is here. I’m not a huge outfit, I don’t have more than 3 kids on a lesson at a time. Mainly because I don’t have the horses but I prefer to focus on the students, not the profit. I try to keep overheads down as much as I can to keep the costs low…”

She bit her lip, she hated this part of the job, the sales patter as her dad called it. “So it really depends on what you want to do as to how expensive it is. Group lessons are $20 for 45 minutes and individual lessons are $30 for 30. I do always insist on an individual lesson first, but that’s discounted to $20 for the first one.” Frank nodded, it wasn’t cheap but they’d manage. He’d already explained to Mary that she wouldn’t be able to do it every week, but he could certainly stretch to once a fortnight.

“That’s reasonable.” he said after a pause.

Fliss smiled “I’ve only been 6 months or so now, but I’m planning on starting up a few Own a Pony days where the kids can come down and learn how to care for the horses as well as just ride. But that’s all in the planning stages.” “Well you have a good set up.” he said, and she beamed back.

“Thank you, a lot of graft went into setting it up. My mom and dad’s retirement didn’t start out quite as quiet as they had planned!”

“I can imagine.” 

“Ok,so…the real expensive outlay is gonna come at the start.” she said, turning to Mary “You’ll need some boots and a hat kiddo.” Mary grinned up at Frank.

“I do have hats I can loan for a few lessons but it is better if they have their own.” she looked at Frank. “It’s the one thing I don’t recommend getting second hand. But boots and jodhpurs etcetera you can pick up on e-bay and the like.” Frank nodded “And the hat?”

“There’s a great store not far from here…hang on…”  she dug in her drawer again and produced a flier. “Here… the kid stuff is pretty reasonable to be fair, you’re probably looking at about $30 for a decent hat but they’ll help you out. If you take my brochure in you’ll get a 20% discount too.”

Mary took the flier from her and began examining it.

“That’s really it.” Fliss said, as she completed her mental check list “So all that’s left is to either book you in or you can call me…” “Please Frank!” Mary looked at him “Can we book?” Frank nodded “If you want.” “I do…” “Ok…what availability do you have?” Fliss opened the laptop and entered the diary and looked for a free spot.” “Does Wednesday at 1 suit?” she offered “I know once school starts you’ll probably want a weekend or evening but. whilst it’s the holidays does that work?”

Frank nodded “Yeah that’s fine. I can jiggle work around” Fliss tapped on the keyboard and smiled “All booked. If you want to leave me your number I send a text update out the night before just as a reminder.” Frank smiled, and gave out her number which she stored in the diary slot and then clicked saved “All done…guess I’ll see you Wednesday.” “Thanks.” he smiled “And thanks for showing us around.” “Not a problem.” she shook her head “Always important the clients get the tour of the place, to make sure they like it.” “Its awesome.” Mary looked up “Can we go here on the way home.” Frank sighed and looked at Fliss raising an eyebrow. She laughed. 

“Yeah, get used to it. Once you get that horse smell on your hands it’s kind of an addiction.” “Frank hates animals.” Mary shrugged.

“I don’t hate animals.” Frank shook his head.

“You hate Fred.” “No, I don’t”

“You said before we should bring him so a horse steps on him.” Frank inwardly groaned as Fliss gave a chuckle.

“Fred is my cat.” Mary explained.

“Good name.” Fliss said “I have a few yard cats hanging around, they keep the mice at bay. And that reminds me, I haven’t seen Thor in a while…”

“Thor?” Mary looked at her

“Yeah, my dog…” she stood up and opened the office door, giving a sharp whistle. “He never goes far.” As if on cue a large german shepherd came lolling down the yard to greet them. Frank eyed the dog, it was huge. Mary, right on cue jumped down off his lap.

“Can I stroke him?” “Go right ahead.” Fliss said, she looked at Frank and spotting his face she smiled “He’s a softie, looks the part though.” “Well I wouldn’t mess put it that way.” Frank snorted, standing up.

“Is he named after the Avenger?” Mary looked up “I love those films.”

“Sure is, he used to have a brother called Loki too but, well he died.”

Thor gave Mary a lick causing her to giggle before he flopped onto his side raising his paw.

“He wants a belly rub.” Fliss said, and Mary dropped to her knees to give the dog a tickle. His tail began to wag furiously on the floor and Mary laughed.

Frank watched the girl, smiling. He loved seeing her like this. She was so grown up and serious half the time, he yearned to see her acting like a normal 7 year old. He was reticent to drag her away for that reason but he had work later that afternoon, a boat that needed finishing by Monday afternoon was taking him slightly longer than he had anticipated. 

“Alright short stack, we gotta move…” “Do we hafta?” “Sorry kiddo.” Mary made a face.

“Do you wanna go to the store or not?” Frank shot her a look. “Ok.” she said, jumping up and wiping dusting off her knees.

Fliss walked them to the truck which was parked in the car park and her eyes flew over to her horse wagon, a small 3.5 tonne box. Frank noticed her looking before she turned back to him.

“Yours?” he asked.

“Yeah, I did have a bigger one but, well I don’t use it often enough now to warrant it. Maybe at some point I’ll get back into competing…never say never hey?” He smiled.

“Ok, so I’ll see you Wednesday.” she said To Frank’s utter surprise, Mary walked over to the woman and wrapped her arms around her, giving her waist as squeeze, her head pressing into Fliss’s stomach. Fliss bent over to give the girl a quick hug and smiled.

“It was nice to meet you both.” Fliss released Mary and gently ruffled her hair “I can’t wait to see you ride.” Mary headed over to the passenger side of the truck and stood on the sill so she could yank open the door. Fliss turned to Frank and looked at him, frowning slightly.

“Sorry, was that too much? I just…well she…” “Oh,God,no…” Frank stuttered, hastily shaking his head. “It’s just…well she’s never usually that affectionate with strangers. Not that you’re a stranger I suppose, not anymore but…” he shrugged.

“I’m flattered then.” Fliss said, her pretty face cracking into a smile which Frank couldn’t help but return. There was a moment of silence where he simply looked at her before he started suddenly.

“I should…” he gestured to the truck with his keys.

“Yeah, sorry. Have a good day Mr Adler…” “Frank…” “Frank.” she corrected herself with another gorgeous smile “I’ll see you Wednesday.” With another  nod he walked to the truck and Fliss turned and headed back to the yard.

He climbed in and turned to Mary who was looking at him, smirking in a smug way that was well beyond her 7 years.

“What?” he demanded.

“You like her.” Mary snorted.

“She’s a nice girl, I mean woman…lady…”

Mary didn’t say a word, simply sat back as Frank reached around for her belt before doing his own and setting the truck into reverse. Sometimes she was far too observant for her own good. *****

“If she gives you any trouble just tie her up on the porch.” Frank said as Mary settled on the couch in Roberta’s trailer. Roberta snorted and Mary glared at him.

“The only one who gives me trouble around here is you Frank Adler.” Roberta shot back. “Now scoot, Mary’s gotta tell me all about this pretty girl at the stables she says you’re sweet on.” “Jesus…” Frank groaned “I’m not sweet on her, she was just nice.”

“He googled her.” Mary said.

“You googled her” Roberta intoned.

“I was curious ok?” Frank said “And you asked me to!” “She’s an Olympic Gold medallist.” Mary chanted, draping herself over the arm of the sofa, head hanging, hair brushing the floor “At London 2012 but then she had an accident in the World Championships later that year and she broke 2 vertebrae…she didn’t compete again. And she was married to a guy called John. He was on the US Equestrian team but they’re divorced now. He’s in prison…but Frank didn’t tell me why.” “Because it’s none of your business, and you don’t mention it to her.” Frank said sternly, cutting her off.

Roberta looked at him curiously “But you’re not interested in her. At all.” “Like I said, curious.” he shrugged “Especially if she’s gonna be teaching Mary.”

“Mmmhmmm.” Roberta dropped her hands to her hips “Whatever you say honey…” Frank sighed and then looked at Mary. “Be good.” “I will, see you in the morning…” 

He nodded and then headed out. It was a pleasant evening, the heat of the day had died down to an acceptable level and the 10 minute walk down to the small strip of bars wasn’t as sticky as normal. It passed fairly quickly, he was lost in thought about the woman he had met before. It had made for surprising reading, a child star on the circuit the accident had cruelly robbed her of a future in the sport 5 years ago, and from the sounds of it her ass-hat ex-husband had stolen 3 years of her life too. Still, as he had told Mary, it was none of their business.

He yanked the door open to Fergs and headed over to the bar. Ordering his usual he perched on a stool and pulled over one of the papers, flicking it open. Taking a pull of the beer he was handed, he let out a sigh. Friday nights were always his time, his one night of the week where he wasn’t Frank with the Dead Sister and the child genius niece to bring up. He was just plain old Frank Adler, perpetual bachelor that might or might not get lucky, depending on how the night went.

Half an hour or so later he was another beer deep and completely lost in his reading. So much so he was barely aware of the body besides him as it slid into the space next to him at the bar. That was until they spoke.

“So how much did she sting you for at the store?”

Frank grinned up at Fliss “Just short of a hundred. New hat, boots and a pair of jodhpurs.” Fliss giggled “Make sure she wears the boots in, they’re a killer for the first few days!” “I’ll bear it in mind.” he smiled “So, you hear alone or…” “Oh, no. It’s my Mum’s birthday so there’s a few of us out.” she said, glancing over her shoulder. Frank followed her eyes and settled on a table full of women who were all laughing. One looked quite similar to Fliss, same face shape and nose, who he assumed to be her mother. “If I’m honest it’s a bit boring considering they’re all over fifty but…” Frank laughed “Well I was gonna offer to buy you a drink but…” She laughed again “Thanks but, there’s a kitty going…” with that she turned to the bar tender. “Hiya, can I get 4 bud lights, a gin and tonic and a vodka soda please?” The bar tender nodded and headed off.

“Mary hasn’t shut up about Monty all afternoon.” Frank said and Fliss smiled.

“Like I said, once they get the bug they’re bitten.” “It’ll be good for her to have a hobby.” Frank repeated his earlier sentiment “She doesn’t get much interaction with kids her age.”

“Oh, what about School?” Fliss asked. Frank hesitated and took a drink from his bottle. Fliss let out a silent groan “Sorry, that’s really none of my business.” “No, it’s fine.” Frank shook his head, swallowing his beer. “She’s err, home schooled at the moment. My neighbour thought a hobby might be a good way for her to kinda do that before she goes to school.”

Fliss smiled “Well she’s not wrong. The kids I teach are great, I don’t stand for any crap, she’ll be welcomed with open arms.”

“Glad to hear it.” Frank smiled “Mary can be a litte…well, I suppose, odd is the right word. She’s old before her age.”

“Oh I know all about that.” Fliss smiled. “I spent most of my childhood training. Didn’t get chance to do much normal kid stuff. I was that focussed on my dream of gold medals…” “And you achieved it.” Frank nodded.

“Yeah, wish it had lasted longer you know, but what can you do.” she shrugged. “Hey, you never know, Mary might find a sudden hidden talent that catapults her into stardom…” Frank stiffened slightly and it didn’t go unnoticed by Fliss. She hesitated for a moment before Frank shook his head and smiled “Maybe, although that would really gonna fuck my bank balance…”

Fliss chuckled, eyeing him slightly. The man was a total mystery. At that the Bar Tender returned with a tray of drinks and she turned to pay him, waving away the change.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you Wednesday.” she smiled “Bye Frank.” “Yeah, have a good evening.” he smiled and she turned and walked away. Frank watched her go, the tight jeans she was wearing accentuated her ass and her legs, helped by the white heels she was wearing. The loose white cami top rode up slightly as she bent over to deposit the tray and when the woman he assumed to be her mother caught his eye and gave a knowing smirk he hastily turned around. 

“Another beer please pal.” he said, waving his empty bottle. 

“Who’s that?”  Verity leaned over to Fliss as she settled in the seat next to her.

“Oh, that’s the guy I was telling you about.” she shrugged “the one who brought his niece up to the Centre this morning.” “I know you said he was good looking but…” 

“Shut up Mum.” Fliss said, flushing slightly 

“You’re old enough to be his mother.” Jane, one of the other women said and the table laughed.

“I wasn’t looking for me…” Fliss rolled her eyes “Seriously?” Verity laughed and placed her arm round her daughter, giving her a squeeze. “I’m just teasing Lissy, its just nice to see you talking to someone, that’s all.” Fliss smiled and grabbed her beer, taking a drink. 

“Who the fuck was that?” John said, pointing across the packed bar to the man that Fliss had just smiled at.

“No one…” Fliss protested “Just a guy from work, that’s all.” “Right…” John said, the nerve in his jaw twitching. Fliss swallowed nervously and gently touched his arm.

“Honestly, he works at the stables. I was just being polite.”

“He’s eye fucking you.” “No, he’s not…” Fliss rolled her eyes and immediately realised what he had done when John gripped her chin painfully between his thumb and forefinger.

“Don’t roll your eyes at me.” he practically snarled.

“I’m sorry…” Fliss said, the tears springing forth “John you’re hurting me…” He let go and she dropped her head, turning back to the bar. She picked up her drink and took a long pull from the bottle, trying to compose herself. Her hand was shaking, she’d made him angry. 

And she knew what that meant…

“Hey…” her mother’s voice shook her out of the memory and she looked up at her. “Oh Liss…”

“I’m ok…” she said, taking a breath

Her mother looked at her again, and Fliss knew she was busted. “I was just…having a flash back that’s all.”

“He’s not here.” Verity dropped her voice “That fucker is where he belongs, behind bars and he won’t be bothering you again. Me and your dad promised you that…and we meant it.”

“I know, honestly I’m fine…” Fliss assured her mum who leaned over and gave her temple a soft kiss.

Fliss smiled back and shooting one last glance at Frank, who has his back to the table as he continued his reading, she turned to the women and threw herself into the conversation

 @the-omni-princess​​  @momobaby227​​ @geekofmanythings16​​ @angelofhell-666​​ @thewackywriter​​ @marvelfansworld​​​  @cobalt-gear​​  @asgardlover75​​ @jennmurawski13​​​​  @jtargaryen18​​​ @saiyanprincessswanie​​​  @navispalace​​​ @patzammit​​​  @joannaliceevans-fanficblog​​​  @icanfeelastormbrewing​​​ @djeniiscorner​​​  @ayamenimthiriel​​​  @coldmuffinbanditshoe​​​  @disneylovingal​​​ @madzmilllz​​  @sgtjaamesbaarnes​​ @sweater-daddiesdumbdork​​  @southerngracela​  @goldenfightergir​ @kellymat​ @official-and-unstable-satan​

[artificialqueens]

intents wicked or charitable (trixya) 2/10 - beanierose

AN: thanks as always to validation station, you ladies are my sun, moon and stars and i love you dearly. and thank you stutter for looking this over for me and gently coaxing my two brain cells into actually functioning. you have my heart in your hands and there’s no one i’d trust with it more.

(read on ao3) | (find me at katiehoughton)

[one.]

a practical magic au for the spooky season. there’s a curse on any man who dares love you? love a woman, instead. | 5,443 words

In Los Angeles, Trixie had been a night owl. She had to be — sometimes service at the restaurant wasn’t over until nearly two in the morning — but it doesn’t come naturally to her. Since she moved here, she’s been ruled largely by a circadian rhythm that makes her start yawning almost as soon as the sun goes down. It feels like she ought to be going to bed, but she doesn’t need to yet. There’s time.

She gathers up her spoils in both hands and brings everything through to the bathroom, sets it all carefully down on the countertop. Trixie strips out of her jeans and washes her face, ties her hair back. Every day the thought of cutting it all off seems more and more appealing.

The little tub of aloe lotion has the Verbena logo on the lid and Trixie smoothes her thumb over it. It’s adorable. Everything in the whole store was adorable, including (especially) Katya. Trixie scoops a little of the lotion out of the jar and dots it over her skin, takes her time working it in with the pads of her fingers. Her face feels instantly cooler and she hums a small noise, gets an inquisitive head tilt from Dolly.

In bed, Trixie slides her sock feet back and forth beneath the sheets and tries very hard not to squirm. She’s propped the card with Katya’s telephone number against the base of the phone on her nightstand. It’s not quite eight and she feels good, sleepy and soft but not tired yet. She wants to talk to Katya, and the longer she’s been out here alone in this house the more accustomed she’s become to giving herself whatever she wants.

The line rings five times and Trixie is just beginning to resign herself to the fact that Katya might not pick up when she does, breathless. Trixie closes her eyes, can’t quite look that in the face just yet. Katya says her own name, her surname a flash of consonants and vowels all jostling for attention.

“Hi. It’s Trixie. From earlier today.”

“Trixie!” Katya sounds so thrilled, like there is nobody else in the whole world she’d rather be hearing from. “Hello. I was thinking you weren’t going to call.”

Trixie offers up the truth, knowing that it sounds like a lie. “I’ve had a busy afternoon.”

She gets a little noncommittal noise right into her ear for that. Trixie’s fingers are tight around the phone and she twirls the cord in her other hand, stretching it taut and then letting it spring back into a coil again over and over.

“Did you have any more customers?”

“One or two,” Katya says. She doesn’t sound resigned about it. Her voice has the same calm loveliness that she had the whole time Trixie was at Verbena, even when they were cleaning egg off of the windows together. “It’s the Saturday lull.”

Trixie snorts. “The Saturday lull. Right. And you have what, the Wednesday morning rush?”

“It is not up to me to dictate the whims of the good folk of this town, Tracy.”

It’s amazing how she can do that. Call them good folk even though they make their distaste for her readily apparent. Trixie isn’t like that. She likes to think that she’s a good person, but she certainly isn’t nice. Not in the way that Katya is, like it doesn’t cost her anything.

“Sure.”

“People do buy things. I’m not about to go down, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

A retort about how much she would love Katya to go down dies on the tip of Trixie’s tongue. She is making no pretences about how hot she thinks Katya is, not even to her own self, but after everything with Bob she feels raw and exposed as a split fig. It’s not a good idea to get into something now.

“Thank you again. For the stuff.” It seems like a safe thing to say. Trixie lets herself slip down against the pillows a bit more until she’s lying nearly flat. She turns onto her side and brings her knees up so that the parenthetical of her body is angled towards the telephone on the nightstand.

Katya chuckles low in her throat and Trixie has to press her thighs together. “Mama, you are welcome to help yourself to my stuff any time.”

Her face is getting hot again. Trixie turns out the light beside the bed and plunges the room into darkness. It’s overcast tonight and the moon is like a streetlamp burning through the mist.

“Do you live close to town?” Trixie asks. Do you see this same moon?

There are noises in the background like stirring. It seems a little late for dinner, but Trixie likes the thought of Katya standing at the stove with her sweater pushed up past her elbows again, or maybe stripped off over her head so that her hair is even funkier and more staticky.

“I sure do. I’m out on Long Point. I can see the store across the cove.”

Trixie indulges herself in a long moment of imagining Katya standing on the cliff’s edge, the wind whipping her hair and skirt out sideways from her body. She thinks of her keeping watch for the incandescent lick of fire into the night’s dark mouth. It’s maudlin and not at all appropriate for what she knows of Katya so far, but she has found herself drawn to melancholy lately.

They chat for a little while longer. When Trixie hangs up the phone she feels the grip of Katya’s hands in her chest, tugging her open to peer inside. And she finds that she learned almost nothing about Katya. She agreed to come back to the store on Monday without stopping to consider what that might mean.

When she rolls over Dolly is watching her with her long snout resting on both paws. She has a wise face; that was the reason Trixie was drawn to her at the shelter, the reason she brought her home the very next day. Bob never liked her all that much, used to say that it freaked her out that Dolly looks like she understands exactly how hard it is to be a person. Trixie kisses the velvet fur between the dog’s eyes and gets a lick to the chin in response. The candle Katya gave her is on the nightstand and it makes her bedroom smell like the store.

In the morning she doesn’t remember falling asleep and her body aches from disuse. She’s still on her stomach and she groans, rolls over onto her back. It’s like she hasn’t moved an inch all night and neither has Dolly; the spots where she and the dog have been lying are an archipelago of warm patches in the cool sheets. Trixie uses the bathroom and washes her hands, lifts her eyes to see herself in the mirror over the sink.

For the first time since she moved here, all of the redness is gone from her skin. Her face is smooth and pale, dotted with freckles across the bridge of her nose. She makes a little mental note to say thank you to Katya again. She looks five years younger, and her hands are much softer too.

All of Sunday she is jittery and impatient. It makes her more curt with the animals than she likes. She’s snippish with Cash and Guthrie when she has to coax them down from the bed of the truck again. The previous owners of the house warned her that they — like all goats — enjoy being on top of the highest thing in their immediate surroundings. It isn’t the first time they’ve managed to get up onto Trixie’s car. She spots Cash with his two front hooves up on the roof of the cab and she hurries outside to pull him down, has to herd the both of them back into their pen.

Dolly can sense the nervous energy rolling off of Trixie in waves. She follows her around all day and when Trixie settles in for the evening with a book Dolly climbs right into her lap on the couch. She props her glasses up on top of her head and leans down to fuss over the dog.

“Sorry, baby. Mama’s a little strung out today, huh?”

No one is here, so Trixie lets the dog lick her face, and she peppers kisses all over her snout and sniffs her paws and scratches her belly until her legs kick. Trixie puts them both to bed and lies for a long time in a wonderfully tender ecstasy of anticipation. She gets to see Katya tomorrow. After only two conversations, she is looking forward to it so much.

Maybe she’s projecting some things. She has been achingly lonely these last few weeks, now that the novelty of her solitude is beginning to wear off. Katya’s has been the first kind face that she’s seen in months. When she first saw her, when their eyes met, some small part of her came awake. She’s felt an instant connection with a couple of people in her life before, like Kim, but never quite like this.

She is to be at the store for one o’clock in the afternoon, so that she can spend Katya’s lunch hour with her, and she spends the entire morning in a paroxysm of self-doubt. She wears a pair of russet jodhpurs because they have a high waist and she likes the way it makes the fabric pull taut around the curve of her ass. For a while she wanders around the bedroom in just her bra and then settles on a long sleeved tee in her favourite soft pink. She is preening for Katya, absolutely she is, but she’s doing her best not to look like it.

For the drive, Trixie keeps the windows rolled all the way up. She would like to whoop and holler out of them, because she’s driving into town to see a pretty girl who likes her and she feels sixteen and like she has pulled off the impossible. It’s not worth the risk to her hair, which she is wearing down in loose curls that are made static by her scarf. Trixie parks right outside of Verbena this time, in the spot Katya assured her would be open.

Katya is waiting at the counter and when she sees Trixie she hops up and down a couple of times like a sparrow and waves. Trixie jumps down from the cab of the truck without using the step and enjoys the little zap of awareness that shoots up through her thighs and into her pelvis when both of her feet hit the hard ground.

“Hi, good morning, good afternoon, hello,” Katya says when Trixie comes inside. She reaches around Trixie to flip the sign hanging on the door from open to closed, and flip the lock as well. The solid thunk of the snib sliding home makes Trixie’s stomach roll over. “Are you hungry? I’m hungry. I’m starving.”

“I’m always hungry.” Trixie unwinds her scarf and puts it into Katya’s waiting hands.

It gets hung carefully on the coat stand and then Katya reaches for her hand to bring Trixie into the tiny break room with her. Everywhere their skin touches is crackling. Trixie wishes she could see Katya interacting with somebody else, so that she could know whether this is just a Katya thing or whether it’s because she wants to be touching Trixie, specifically.

Katya has sandwiches for them both and she opens a bag of chips and peels it right down the middle so she can lay it out flat between them. The table back here is tiny and there’s only one chair, which Katya insisted that Trixie have. She’s sitting on an overturned crate and it puts her much lower down so that her chin is almost resting on the tabletop.

Their knees keep bumping together in the tight space. Katya talks with her mouth full and takes much longer than Trixie to be finished eating. Once she is she gathers up all of their trash and puts it in the garbage can, turns back around to look at Trixie with her hands on her hips.

“Oh!” Her face cracks apart around a grin and she disappears into the store, apparently assuming that Trixie will follow. Which she does, of course. Katya is rummaging in her enormous, hideous purse and she pulls a small container out and crows in triumph. “Here. For when your back is hurting.”

On the phone on Saturday night, Trixie had rolled over awkwardly and made a small, accidental noise of discontent. It had been humiliating and her cheeks had burned crimson as Katya had babied her over the line, asking her to say where it hurts the most.

“How much?” Trixie pulls her wallet out and thumbs through the handful of bills inside. There’s silence, and when she looks up again Katya is chewing on her bottom lip and getting red all over her teeth.

“It doesn’t have a price. I don’t sell it. I, uh…made it specially. For you.”

Trixie sucks in a breath and feels her cheeks hollowing out around it. People don’t do these sorts of things. Not for her. She is curmudgeonly so much of the time, knows that she can be ornery. Often in the kitchen she would find herself shouting at her sous-chef and the busboys and anybody who came near her. Bob was the only one ever brave enough to shout right back. That was a big part of the reason why Trixie let Bob back her up against the prep counter after close and unbutton each of the six buttons of her whites one at a time like shucking oysters.

“Please let me pay you.”

Katya wrinkles her nose. “I can’t. If you pay me then it becomes a crime.”

“Shut up!” Trixie squawks, and shoves on Katya’s shoulder. She’s laughing too, pleased with herself, and she pushes the little tub into Trixie’s hands. “It’s not a crime, I never solicited you.”

“Pour half a cup into the stream of the water when you’re drawing your bath, and soak for at least twenty minutes,” Katya says sternly. She pokes her finger into Trixie’s chest and Trixie’s whole self unravels around that one point of contact.

Trixie holds the container in both hands and smooths her thumb over the logo on the lid. “I’m still not convinced you’re not trying to kill me.”

“I like my victims to present a challenge. You’re way too easy. Just taking whatever I give you.”

“I never professed not to be a bottom,” Trixie shrugs.

It makes Katya choke out a delighted guffaw and she shakes both fists in the air. She is so cute that Trixie hardly knows what to do with herself. They never made plans past lunch, but she wants to stay here. She’s going to stay here, going to make Katya kick her out.

There’s a little stool behind the register and Trixie settles herself on it, prim and proper and legs crossed at the knee. Katya busies herself reorganising the shelves and sweeping the floor, but she keeps darting these little glances at Trixie and doesn’t seem to care at all that Trixie catches her at it each time.

The music is turned way up and everything is weird and a lot of it is in a language Trixie assumes to be Russian. Katya sings along sometimes, loud and off-key but so enthusiastic that Trixie wishes she knew the words too and could join in. Nobody comes in to the store all afternoon. Plenty of people walk by, and at one point a little kid presses their face up against the window with their tongue out. Trixie thinks of the egg residue on the glass and huffs a little laugh of vindication on Katya’s behalf.

It gets dark right as Katya is closing the store. All afternoon they’ve been talking and laughing, and Trixie has even made herself useful and run the duster along the shelves that are too high for Katya to reach easily. She stretched up on tiptoe to do it even though there really wasn’t any need for that, and she felt Katya’s gaze on her the entire time.

“I absolutely understand if the answer is no, but would you like to come have dinner with me?” Katya is chewing anxiously on her bottom lip again, and Trixie can’t fathom how her lipstick ever makes it through the day.

She says yes immediately, without thinking, and then has to backpedal. “Or, well. I would like to. But I have to go home.”

“The animals.” Katya snaps her fingers, leaves her fist hovering in the air for a long moment. “Right. Damn.”

The bones of Trixie’s butt are numb when she hops down from her stool. It’s making her hyper aware of everything between her knees and her waist. She smoothes her palms down the lengths of her thighs to iron out any creases. Dolly will be aching to go out and use the bathroom by now, and the whole cacophonous lot of them are going to want to be fed.

“You could come home with me? I can feed you.”

“You’re gonna feed me?” Katya rakes her eyes up and down Trixie’s frame. She is suddenly so aware of all the places that she isn’t wiry and slender, all of the curves of her that spill out all over. Katya’s mouth isn’t smiling but her eyes are.

Trixie shrieks and shoves on Katya’s shoulder. “You know I cook, you dumb whore. I told you I’m a chef.”

“You told me you ran away from being a chef,” Katya says flatly.

Trixie manages a strangled noise of affront, but Katya is already swanning away from her. She ducks into the break room for her coat and hat and comes back out struggling her way into them. Her elbow cracks against the doorframe so loudly that Trixie feels it in the roots of her teeth, but Katya doesn’t even react. She takes Trixie’s scarf from where it’s hanging on the coat stand and loops it around her neck, holding on to both of the ends.

Their faces are so close together that Trixie can smell Katya’s gum. She lets her eyes flutter slowly closed, waiting for Katya to use her grip on the two ends of the scarf to tug Trixie in and kiss her. Her heart is a thing with feathers flitting up from her chest into her throat.

Katya doesn’t do it. Instead, she lets go of the scarf completely and takes a step back from Trixie, jams both hands down into the pockets of her coat. Her shoulders are rounded, up in defence.

They don’t talk much on the drive to the house. Katya keeps fiddling with all of the knobs on the dash, flicking through the radio stations without actually pausing to hear what any of them are playing. She’s pulled her feet up to sit cross-legged, which Trixie finds peculiar to do in a car, but she enjoys the crest of Katya’s knee in her periphery whenever she turns to check her blind spots.

Trixie jogs up the steps with her keys in her fist and unlocks the back door, lets Dolly come barrelling out. The dog disappears off around the side of the house, because she hates to be watched while she pees, which Trixie can relate to. She dumps her coat and scarf inside on the bench and comes back out to see Katya down on her knees in the earth.

“Trixie, this is amazing. You live here?”

“Shh! No. Don’t let them hear you.” She turns to look over her shoulder, up at the second floor windows. “They haven’t caught me yet. I think they think I’m a cryptid.”

When she turns back around Katya’s cheeks are pink with barely-suppressed amusement. She’s got her fingers buried in the dirt of Trixie’s vegetable beds and she sifts through it, brings a handful up to her face to smell. Trixie hovers awkwardly next to her, unenthusiastic about getting down on the ground but not wanting to move away from Katya, either.

“What are you growing?”

“Aside from annoyed?” Trixie lifts both eyebrows. “Carrots, zucchini. I’d love parsnips but they’re difficult.”

Katya brings her hands out of the earth and brushes them together, but doesn’t seem too bothered by the soil beneath her fingernails and up past her wrists like tide marks. “Everything’s pretty phallic, mama. You compensating for something?”

“Oh, Katya, my dick is so small,” Trixie sighs, and presses the back of her hand to her forehead like she’s standing at a dock watching a ship draw out of port and she could begin wailing at any moment.

It earns her the exact screaming, staccato burst of laughter from Katya that she’d been hoping for. She gets to her feet and shakes herself off a bit but leaves the dirt staining her bare knees. She’s wearing a dress today that has sleeves but leaves most of her toned, pale legs on show. All day, Trixie has found herself looking, over and over. Has found herself unable to stop.

Inside, Trixie has to turn on the faucet for Katya so she doesn’t get dirt on it. They wash their hands side by side at the kitchen sink, jostling with each other for space beneath the stream of the water. Katya shucked her ankle boots at the door (they are black with stars and moons embroidered all over them in gold thread and Trixie is obsessed) and she’s padding around the kitchen in her red wool socks now, suddenly another inch or so shorter than Trixie.

She insists on making herself useful. Trixie sets her to work chopping all of the vegetables. She’s made nervous by Katya’s lax attitude towards the knife, the way she gesticulates wildly with it while she talks. Dolly hovers around their feet hoping for scraps and Katya keeps stopping to scratch her behind the ears. It’s definitely a hygiene violation, and Trixie keeps having to remind herself that this is not a professional kitchen. This is her home, and Katya is in it.

“About your tiny dick,” Katya gestures out of the window with the knife. Trixie grunts and takes it from her, dumps it into the sink to wash later. “I have a fertilizer mix that I use. I could bring some over for you? Well, you’d have to come and get it. I don’t drive.”

“You want to fertilise my garden?” Trixie keeps her voice carefully flat, even though her hips are twitching and she’s curling her toes inside of her too-big socks.

Katya either misses the innuendo entirely, or is gracious enough not to acknowledge how Trixie is fumbling with it in both hands. “Yeah! I don’t grow veggies, mostly just houseplants, but I think it’ll still be good.”

“Okay. Yeah. That’d be great.”

“Did you hear that, milaya devushka?” Katya is down on her knees on the kitchen floor with Dolly’s head captured between both hands. The dog’s entire body is wagging, thrilled with the attention from a new person. “Your mommy is going to let me fertilise her.”

Okay. Well. She didn’t miss the innuendo, then.

Trixie runs the water in the sink again, her back to Katya, and holds her wrists beneath the cold stream for a moment. Just to stop the insistent pulse of blood in her ears and hands and thighs. When she shuts it off Katya is right beside her, and she’s smiling.

“Do you need help?”

“Not with dinner.”

That makes Katya snort and she gives Trixie a little space, stands with her arms folded neatly in front of her. The picture of obedience, but Trixie can’t stop watching how she’s working her fingers, curling and flexing them against her bicep.

“How can I help you, Tracy?”

She swallows down the knot of electric want in her throat. “Do you wanna feed the chickens?”

Katya lets out an actual yell of delight at the suggestion. She does as she’s told, disappearing off into the mudroom. Trixie calls out instructions and hears Katya opening cabinets, scooping mix into the feeder. She holds it out in the doorway for Trixie to look at and confirm it’s the correct amount, and then the back door opens. Trixie can see her from the kitchen window. The galoshes she’s borrowing from Trixie are a bit too big and she clomps her way around the yard.

The chickens have a bad habit of flapping up into the face of whoever has the misfortune of setting the feeder down among them. Usually Trixie lets the dog outside while she does this so Dolly can herd them, keep them back at least a bit. Katya seems entirely unbothered, even when Faith hops up onto her bent thigh and sticks her beak directly into Katya’s ear.

She turns to see Trixie at the window and grins like a little kid, waves energetically at her. Once dinner is ready Trixie has to go to the back door and call out to her to let her know. She comes inside more dishevelled than before, her hair sticking up in places because Reba likes to pull on it. Trixie hip checks Katya over towards the sink to wash her hands again, leaves her there while she sets two places at the table.

Trixie lights a few candles and doesn’t turn on the overhead lamp, lets the light from the kitchen do most of the work. Outside it is just beginning to rain and Trixie cracks open a couple of the windows in the dining nook so that they’ll be able to hear it. Katya settles across from Trixie at the table and rests her hands either side of her bowl to warm them. Her fingers are red, knuckles cracked and raw like she’s scrubbed too hard trying to get all of the dirt off. She has a tiny streak of it on her cheekbone, but Trixie is not about to point that out to her.

Now that they’re here, eating dinner together with Dolly circling the table, Trixie is beginning to realise that they are sharing a meal for the second time today. It should freak her out, but she thinks Katya is endlessly interesting. Having someone here in the house with her for the very first time is throwing a lot of things into sharp relief. She’s lonely, and she’s pretty certain that Katya is too. There’s nothing wrong with nurturing their friendship, even if Trixie is probably going to spend the rest of eternity marvelling at how hot Katya is whenever she looks at her.

Conversation flows easily between them. Trixie finds herself interrupting a lot, because she is so excited to talk to Katya. And anyway, if she doesn’t derail Katya’s train of thought every once in a while they get so far away from their original topic that Trixie’s anecdotes are no longer relevant.

After dinner they settle on the little couch, and Trixie winds up with the dog sprawled across her lap. A fire is burning in the grate and Katya rolls up the sleeves of her dress. Two days ago, when they’d been cleaning, Trixie had seen the tattoos that decorate Katya’s forearms and she’d gotten very distracted wondering what might be beneath her sweater. They’re harder to see in the lamplight, but she touches her fingers to three tiny circular ones in the crook of Katya’s elbow.

“They’re sigils.” Katya points to each one in turn. “Grounding. Protection. Emotional healing.”

Trixie won’t ask, can’t ask, what it is that Katya might need to heal from. It feels like a terrible invasion of her privacy. The night has drawn thick in around them, the rain coming down much harder now. Trixie is afraid to speak above a whisper, feels like it might spook Katya if she raises her voice.

“I thought the point of being a lesbian is that you don’t need protection,” she says.

Katya is sitting with her back against the arm rest and her knees bent, and she kicks her sock feet out towards Trixie in horror. “Wow. The state of public education in Wisconsin is woefully lacking, huh.”

“You think I went to school?”

The way that joy travels through Katya’s entire body whenever Trixie makes her laugh is so captivating. She’s much quieter than usual, in deference to the intimacy of the evening, but she still wriggles around on the couch like Trixie’s got a hook through her guts.

When Trixie has to hide a yawn in her palm for the fourth time, Katya takes that as her cue. She gets to her feet and folds her body in half, palms flat on the ground and torso pressed against her thighs. She groans and rocks her hips side to side and Trixie looks away, stares right past her and out into the night.

At the car, like she did earlier today outside the store, Katya performs some kind of strange ritual. She circles the truck slowly, muttering something under her breath. She touches each of the wheels, skims her fingertips along the edges of the side panels as she walks around. Clearly, Katya is uncomfortable around vehicles. Trixie is waiting on the porch to shelter from the rain and trying not to watch her. It feels voyeuristic when she’s so vulnerable, but she can’t help it.

“Oh God, not you too,” she calls out.

It startles Katya and she whips around to face her, uses two hands to push her wet bangs back from her forehead. “What?”

“Cash and Guthrie are already obsessed with the truck. I don’t need you at it as well. Please don’t climb onto the roof.”

“Sorry. It’s an old habit. Just- I get nervous around cars.”

Trixie closes the distance between them and opens the passenger door for Katya, gives her an elbow to help boost her up into the seat. Before she closes the door, Trixie pats Katya’s knee in something approximating comfort.

“You don’t have to be sorry. Are you good?”

“Good,” Katya nods.

For the whole drive, she sits with her face pressed to the window and continues her muttering. Trixie leaves her to it, gets the sense that she really doesn’t want to have a conversation right now. And yes, Bob, she is capable of shutting up when she needs to. She gets to go all the way to Katya’s house, gets to see it for the first time.

It is enormous and white and pearly in the darkness, jutting out from the surrounding greenery. Out here there aren’t any streetlights and the trees are patches of richer, more textured darkness. Trixie sits in the idling truck and watches Katya climb the porch steps two at a time and slip inside the house with a last wave in Trixie’s direction. Trixie flashes the headlights in response. She sits there for longer than she probably should, watching lights come on and imagining the way Katya moves through the house, the routine of her evening.

Trixie lets her head drop forward until it hits the top edge of the steering wheel. She sees now, why the whole town thinks that Katya is a witch. She lives out here in this big house on the outskirts of town, and she wears whatever she pleases. Earlier today Trixie noticed Katya’s earrings, two tiny doll hands, and elected not to question that. She is eccentric and unabashed about it. And she’s a lesbian. Or into women at the very least.

She feels enormously, furiously protective over her. Katya has shown her more kindness in the last three days than some of the people that have been in her life for three years. It’s not a crush — Trixie is not that careless with her heart — she’s just interested. Katya is compelling and funny and smart and Trixie has been craving intellectual conversation beyond her weekly phone dates with Kim.

There’s nothing wrong with pursuing a friendship. And anyway, Katya could have kissed her in the store today and she did nothing. Since she came out nearly ten years ago, Trixie has had to field questions from well-meaning but deeply ignorant straight friends. She finds it childish and loathsome when people assume that because two women are lesbians, they must automatically want to fuck one another.

Trixie drives home in silence with an ache in her thighs.

[emotionalshayari]

Best Taxi in Jodhpur | Online car hire in Jodhpur - RajasthanCabTaxi

Taxi at jodhpur, We are here for you the whole way through the travel Taxi in jodhpur and in jaipur and across India. Ever since the Airport Cabs at Rajasthancabtaxi came into existence, there has been enormous increase in its customer-base, owing to quality in taxi companies. Whether you are looking forward to the journey to jodhpur or thought of travelling to other long distances outstation, you will surely bet on us. We get the biggest of taxis. Our taxi drivers are all polite, well-trained, certified, well-versed with local geography who can make you through the means more efficiently. And make sure you get the end on schedule.

 Online car hire in jodhpur, established in 2016, is the running taxi delivery in jodhpur, offering inter-city or outstation cab from jodhpur. Visit Rajasthancabtaxi for outstation cab assistance from jodhpur and jodhpur Airport truck and fall Service Best Rajasthancabtaxi delivery supplier at jodhpur rajasthan wireless taxis at jodhpur greatest outstation taxi Service provider in jodhpur Best Cabs for outstation travel from jodhpur. We provide four cases of taxi/Cab services from jodhpur Local municipality go, Airport, Outstation we suggest you to see these menu rules carefully before booking since all trip cases have several regulations for fares-Outstation taxi companies-that includes one-way, round-trip and multi-city trips to multiple destinations. Understand more about Outstation taxi company from Rajasthancabtaxi.

[orientaronline-blog]

Mlm Business Leads - The Number Of Is Enough?

He has actually stated on various events that he would love to deal with The Undertaker. Contact your spending plan operator through the helpline to get all the information you require prior to booking.

Are you into a lot stress recently? Exhausted of your routinary activities in the city? Ever thought about traveling? Frequently, people with a hectic way of life tend to choose a last minute travel to get away from the busy life of the city. Though the world is faced with many troubles still a great deal of people spent loan and time on shopping, seeing movies and traveling.

Green Travel Options In The U.K.

While reserving air tickets online, you shall keep in mind some crucial tips that will help you avoid mistakes and confusions. They should verify in advance things like precisely which airport will they be beginning with and be landing onto which one. They must also look for additional costs, if any. For a spending plan travel, they ought to also look for transport to hotel and hotel lodging in any specific location they are considering remaining in. Only then will they go ahead with scheduling the stuff once they are sure about everything.

Incredible India, one of the well-known traveler operators, provides a 2 nights and 3 days see to this beautiful city. The package doesn't cost you a fortune. Prime tourist attractions include the Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhavan Palace and the Federal Government Museum. Among the finest travelling packages to Jodhpur, it also consists of lodging Urlaub im Schwarzwald at one of the very best hotels in the city with daily breakfast. They even make plans for a pick up and drop at the airport. The staffs are well mannered and respectful and help you out with the fundamental needs that you might need.

Houses For Sale In Arkansas Looking To Find A Good House To Rehab

It's simple to get carried away on the web researching all the different possible ropes out there. The very best course of action is to find a climbing up gear shop and speak with their personnel. REI and other large retailers don't count due to the fact that although some of their workers are very well-informed, it's hit or miss out on as to whether or not you will discover the ideal individuals. I'm talking about the small devoted equipment stores, of which I will bring out a list later on. For now, here is an easy guide to discuss the basics of selecting a climbing rope.

This may sound dramatic, but it holds true. When you have the ability to make a complete backswing (90 degree shoulder turn, with a 45 degree hip turn) with no muscular stress or restrictions, you will have the ability to generate optimum clubhead speed and power into the golf ball.

People Conserve Their Loan With The Most Affordable Business Class Flights

Staying in a princess Travel Deals room or a Mickey Mouse space can construct anticipation for the activities inside the park. These themes will not make the beds more comfy, however they might serve to keep the kids from getting bored from waiting in the space. Having the different products noticeable from the park can also offer some additional image chances without wasting time in the park to snap similar shots.

Knowing how to speak French is an intellectual property. It will increase your marketability for employment. Some institutions and companies choose staff members who speak more than one language. English is extensively spoken, however when it pertains to interacting with French-speaking individuals, those who speak French have an apparent benefit.

Finding Yourself Some Inexpensive Flights

Each automobile has a specific quantity of range it can take a trip before a routine service check is required, typically anywhere from 3000 km to 4000 km. At this time the oil is altered for clean and brand-new oil, the trigger plugs may be changed and the other fluids checked. This is what many individuals call a tune-up. Whilst these are all extremely essential details, it is very important not to forget having your cars and truck bulbs examined each time too. You can see if they are brilliant enough, whether one or 2 of them seem to be dim, or if any of them are entirely blown. Constantly understanding the state of your vehicle lights is an excellent way to be sure you do not wind up in a circumstance on the road in which an important light goes out. Sometimes this might even be the distinction between life and death.

[danielanduranb]

Explore the Spectacular Jaisalmer War Museum

Jaisalmer’s annual Desert Festival seems to pull a lot of attention amongst the travellers to explore the beautiful dunes of the Thar but shifting a little bit from the regular things Jaisalmer is known for, you will have a new attraction called the War Museum to visit. Its addition as a tourist place in Jaisalmer was in August 2015 and ever since it has been wooing the tourists who visit this site. Jaisalmer War Museum is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who sacrifice their lives protecting the nation during the Indo-Pak War in 1965 and the Longewala battle in 1971. This army museum offers you a visual treat by displaying the vintage equipments used during the Indian wars like tanks, weapons, guns, military vehicles, and war trophies. Let’s just say, a day tour to Jaisalmer War Museum will definitely enlighten you making you consider this place a worth-visit for all.

[ Grab Best Deals on Customized Holiday Packages to Jaisalmer ]

Jaisalmer War Museum and its Galleries

This one of a kind tourist spot beautifully set up by the Indian Army is distanced to be around 10 kilometres from the city centre at the Military Station. Jaisalmer War Museum is commemorated for the heroic act and sacrifice by the Indian soldiers during the Indo-Pak War in 1965 and Longewala battle in 1971. The museum is surrounded by wide earthy grounds and dust filled bushes creating an ambience that equals a war base camp.

Inside the museum complex, you can find a large collection of war trophies and various other army weapons. To name one specific, there is a 106 mm recoilless gun which is the main anti-tank weapon that was used during the Indo-Pak war. Jaisalmer War Museum also has two information display halls named as Longewala Hall and Indian Army Hall along with an audio-visual room that features movie screening about the battles fought.

The movie also showcases an interview with Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, the Maha Vir Chakra recipient since he played an important part during the battle of Longewala. Besides all this, the museum displays the murals of the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives safeguarding the nation. In addition, the Indian Air Force also contributed a hunter aircraft used during the 1971 Indo-Pak War that can be witnessed in the museum courtyard.

Vintage equipments are on full display like guns inside the museum but the outdoors attract the visitors even more. You can witness the T-59 battle tank which was manufactured by the Chinese and used by Pakistan’s military during 1971 Longewala battle, a version of the Soviet T-59 A tank. There is also M4 Sherman tank used by the United States during World War II, this heavy machine was used by Pakistani troops against India.

The complex also has a battle truck named P-15 Radar, this machine was used by Indian Army during one of the wars and is said to have a max range of 150 kilometres and can search its targets up to 3 kilometres altitude. Another heavy machine known for its reliable 105MM main gun is Vijayanta battle tank.

Jaisalmer War Museum Timings: The War Museum is opened daily from 9:00 to 18:30 and the entry is free of cost.

Also Read: Popular Desert Festivals to Witness in Rajasthan

How to Reach Jaisalmer and the War Museum?

Jaisalmer is one of the most visited destinations in Rajasthan and you are bound to find friendly and hospitable locals. The local transport system here relies on rickshaws and autos but taxis are also available taking you to various sightseeing places in Jaisalmer like the War Museum.

Airways: Jodhpur is the closest city from Jaisalmer to have an airport with a distance of almost 300 kilometres. You can easily get a prepaid or private taxi from Jodhpur Airport to Jaisalmer.

Railways: Jaisalmer has a railway station that receives regular trains from Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. From the railway station, you can get taxis to visit the War Museum.

Roadways: Jaisalmer is conveniently connected by roadways to various major northern cities. You can get on a Rajasthan State Transport buses that ply to and fro on a regular basis.

Also Read: Tourist Getaways in Rajasthan for Memorable Holiday Experience

Places to stay in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is one of the most tourist-friendly destinations that is mostly visited for the desert experience and camel rides. You can find all sort of staying options, for budget travellers there are hostels, for luxury tourists, there are resorts and hotels and for a large group there are Airbnb services to rent an entire house.

[ Book Luxurious Hotels and Resorts in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan ]

The museum showcases tales of bravery of the Indian Army and sacrifices made for the nation, how can this attraction not be on your must-visit list? If you have any travel plans to Rajasthan, make sure to visit Jaisalmer War Museum. You can always call us at +91-9212777225 or send us your queries at info@tourmyindia.com if you need any assistance. We provide best travel deals and amazing Rajasthan tour packages that won’t disappoint you.

The post Explore the Spectacular Jaisalmer War Museum appeared first on Tour My India.

from Tour My India