#packing checklist for moving

[mtcremovalsposts]

When Should I Start Packing to Move?

When should you start packing for a move? Begin 1-2 months before your moving date. This timeline helps reduce stress, giving you time to sort belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. 🚚 Planning a move? 🏡 Follow this timeline for a smooth transition to your new home! #MovingTips #PackingGuide #MTCRemovals Follow a weekly packing plan

[galaxseacreature]

the new apartment has wifi and toilet paper now, so it's basically fully inhabitable

[brisbane-removals]

How to Choose Movers in Brisbane Wisely

Alright, so you’re about to dive into the chaos of moving. Fun times, right? Honestly, picking decent movers in Brisbane is like trying to find a good coffee shop that isn’t already packed on a Saturday morning — tricky, but not impossible. Whether you’re just shifting across the river or packing up for a whole new postcode, the squad you hire can either save you sanity or turn it into a horror show. Brisbane’s crawling with moving companies, so don’t just grab the first one with a shiny van and a half-decent website. Do a bit of digging, ask around, and stalk some reviews, maybe even your neighbour who moved last month. Trust me, putting in some effort here means you’re way less likely to end up with broken dishes and a week-long stress headache.

Start with Research

Alright, first things first — don’t just jump in blind. Seriously, poke around online for moving company reviews Brisbane. People love to vent about their moving day, so you’ll get the real scoop — who shows up on time, who tries to sneak in those shady extra fees. If a company gets trashed for accidentally” smashing half the boxes, maybe skip them.

Hop on Google, scroll through a few Facebook groups, maybe even dig into those random review sites. Type stuff like “cheap movers near me Brisbane” or “local movers Brisbane” and see what pops up. Doesn’t hurt to check out a few directories too, just to cover your bases. You want someone who won’t ghost you or, worse, make you wish you’d just done it all yourself.

Request Multiple Moving Quotes

Seriously, don’t just grab the first quote someone throws at you — that’s how you end up overpaying or, worse, dealing with some dodgy operator. Hit up at least three the best moving companies Brisbane, just to get a feel for what’s normal. You’ll spot the rip-offs and the deals that seem a little too good to be true.

Choosing movers Brisbane will want to check out for the place — either in person or maybe a quick video call — before dropping a number. If someone’s throwing out a flat rate without even asking what you’ve headed, yeah, red flag. They’re probably cutting corners, and that’s a headache you don’t need.

Prioritise Licenses and Insurance

Honestly, don’t even think about hiring a Brisbane removalist without checking their paperwork first. If they’re not licensed and insured, that’s a massive red flag. You want your stuff covered if anything goes sideways, scratched furniture, broken TV, whatever. Especially with all your stuff on the line, you can’t risk it. People get burned all the time by dodgy movers who ghost you when there’s damage. Don’t be that person.

Ask the Right Question

Seriously, pester them. You’re trusting these folks with your couch and — let’s be real — probably at least three boxes labeled “random crap.” So, stuff you wanna know:

How long have they been doing this?

Are they the new kids on the block or seasoned professionals with war stories?

What exactly comes with the package — just the truck, or will someone help wrestle your mattress down the stairs? (Because, let’s face it, you don’t wanna do that alone.)

Any sneaky extra charges lurking in the fine print? Ask! Will they toss in unpacking and packing services Brisbane, or are you stuck wrapping your glassware in shirts again?

And if you’re moving far — like, really far — do they even go there?

Don’t just nod along. Their answers will tell you if you’re about to have a smooth move or a total disaster.

Look for Services That Match Your Move

Let’s be real — no two moves are identical. Maybe you’re doing that classic long-haul jump across Queensland, or maybe you just need someone to cart off your mountain of boxes and stash them in storage while you figure out the rest. Good Brisbane movers? They’ll have options, not just some “one-size-fits-all” package.

Downsizing? Jumping ship for a new job? Shifting a whole circus of family chaos to a bigger place? Make sure your movers have pulled off similar things before.

Match the Service to Your Budget

Look, everyone wants to save a buck, but cheap doesn’t always mean smart. Hunt for Brisbane movers that won’t bankrupt you but still know how to treat your grandma’s antique lamp like it’s crown jewels. Some folks go for the rock-bottom price, then end up with a busted sofa or movers who ghost them on moving day. Not worth the headache, trust me.

Oh, and don’t get suckered by those shady companies asking for a fat deposit before they’ve even lifted a box. A small booking fee? Fine. But real-deal movers wait till the job’s done before asking for big bucks. If they want half your paycheck upfront? Run.

Create a Brisbane-Specific Moving Checklist

Alright, let’s talk about Brisbane moving — because honestly, it’s not just about chucking boxes in the back of a truck and hoping for the best. You’ve gotta deal with that weird subtropical weather, dodge peak-hour traffic on Coronation Drive, and maybe wrangle a parking permit for your moving van unless you want a hefty fine. Oh, and don’t even think about moving the same weekend as Riverfire unless chaos is your thing.

Some of the local moving crews? They’re legends — they’ll remind you to switch your power and internet over, update your address with all the right people (council included), and even drop hints on sneaky shortcuts around the city. Honestly, moving to Brisbane removalists tips is just asking for trouble.

Final Thought

Alright, here’s the real deal: picking a moving company in Brisbane isn’t just some bargain-hunting mission or a “who’s got the shiniest truck?” contest. Nah, you want folks who know what they’re doing — honest people who’ll show up when they say they will and won’t lose your stuff halfway to your new place. So, poke around, read what other people are saying, get a few quotes so you’re not getting ripped off, and double-check they’re legit — no shady business.

Oh, and if you’re still lost in the sea of options, you could always give Northside Removals QLD a buzz. Local legends, honestly. People rave about their service and, trust me, they care about your stuff, which is more than I can say for some.

[epicmovers]

Your Trusted Canberra Moving Company for Smooth & Affordable Relocations

Looking for a Canberra moving company that combines quality service with affordable pricing? Our experienced movers specialize in residential and commercial relocations, ensuring every move is handled with care and professionalism. We offer complete moving solutions including packing, loading, transport, and unpacking—all customized to suit your needs. With a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, we’re the go-to choice for stress-free moves in Canberra. Contact us today and discover how easy moving can be!

[melbourneremovalau]

How to Prepare Furniture for Removalists

Moving to a new home or office is an exciting chapter, but it can also bring its share of stress—especially when it comes to protecting your furniture during the move. Whether you're relocating across Melbourne or just around the corner, proper preparation ensures your furniture stays safe and makes the removal process quicker and smoother.

At Melbourne CBD Removals, we pride ourselves on delivering a seamless, stress-free moving experience. But the success of any move also depends on how well furniture is prepped in advance. To help you get ready, here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare your furniture for our professional removalists.

1. Take Stock and Make a Plan

Start by creating an inventory of all the furniture you’re moving. Categorise the items by room and note any that are especially fragile, valuable, or awkwardly shaped. This helps both you and your removalists plan accordingly—determining what needs disassembly, extra protection, or special handling.

Tip: Snap photos of your furniture pre-move. It helps you remember how to reassemble certain items and provides proof of condition should you need it.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter. Ask yourself whether you really need to bring every item with you. Old, broken, or unused furniture can be sold, donated, or recycled. Reducing what you move not only saves space in the truck but also lowers your moving costs.

3. Disassemble Where Possible

Large items like beds, wardrobes, dining tables, and desks should be disassembled to make transport easier and safer. Here are some quick tips:

Remove legs from tables and couches where possible.

Take apart bed frames, storing bolts and screws in a labelled bag taped to the frame.

Dismantle bookshelves or shelving units.

At Melbourne CBD Removals, our team can assist with basic disassembly and reassembly if needed—but having this done in advance will speed up your move day.

4. Clean All Furniture

Dust, dirt, and grime can scratch furniture surfaces during the move. Wipe down all items with a soft cloth before packing. Cleaning furniture before moving also means you won’t be bringing any dirt into your new space.

5. Protect Surfaces with Padding and Wraps

Proper wrapping prevents scratches, dents, and breakage. Use:

Furniture blankets or padded covers for large pieces.

Bubble wrap for delicate surfaces or glass components.

Plastic wrap to secure drawers and doors, keeping them from swinging open during transport.

Cardboard sheets between stacked items for added protection.

Avoid wrapping wooden furniture in plastic for long periods, as this can trap moisture and cause damage.

6. Secure Moving Parts

Furniture with moving parts, such as drawers, doors, or extendable arms, should be secured. Use painter’s tape or plastic wrap to hold these components in place without damaging the finish. For items like filing cabinets, remove contents or secure them tightly so they don't shift during the move.

7. Label Everything Clearly

Even if your furniture looks straightforward, labels can make reassembly much easier. Label disassembled parts (e.g., “Table - Left Leg”) and keep small components like screws or bolts in clearly marked zip-lock bags taped to the corresponding item.

8. Plan for Special Items

Certain pieces—such as antiques, pianos, glass cabinets, or oversized couches—require special handling. Let your removalist know in advance about these items. At Melbourne CBD Removals, we have experience with delicate and high-value pieces and can bring the right tools, equipment, and expertise to handle them safely.

9. Prepare Pathways and Access Points

Clear any obstacles that might hinder the removal process:

Move rugs, mats, or clutter from hallways.

Prop open doors if possible.

Reserve elevators or loading zones in apartment buildings.

Notify your removalist about any tight staircases or difficult access points.

Making these areas accessible helps prevent damage and speeds up the process.

10. Communicate with Your Removalist

Last but not least, keep the lines of communication open. Share your inventory, flag any concerns, and ask about insurance coverage for valuable items. A transparent, collaborative approach makes for a more efficient and secure move.

At Melbourne CBD Removals, we value clear communication, punctuality, and professionalism. Whether you’re moving a single item or a fully furnished house, our experienced team is here to help every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Proper furniture preparation is essential for a safe and efficient move. By taking the time to clean, disassemble, wrap, and organise your furniture, you’ll reduce stress on moving day and protect your valuable belongings.

If you're planning your next move, don’t hesitate to reach out to Melbourne CBD Removals. We’re experts in local and interstate removals, and we’re committed to making your moving experience smooth from start to finish.

[nextgenpropertymgmt]

Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth Sydney Home Move

[vanlinesmove]

Best Moving Tools to Simplify Your Relocation

Planning a move? Make it easier with the best moving tools at your fingertips! From our Moving Cost Calculator to help you budget smarter, to a handy Moving Planner that keeps you organized every step of the way, you’ll have everything you need to stay ahead. Packing made simple with the Packing Calculator, and stay on top of your entire move with our Moving Checklist and Inventory Checklist. With these tools, you’ll be ready to tackle every part of your move, making it more efficient, organized, and less overwhelming!

[page-relocation]

Learn How to Pack a Messy House to Move

Declutter First: Before packing, declutter each room. Separate items into categories like keep, donate, sell, and toss. This reduces the number of items you need to pack and helps you start fresh in your new home.

Gather Packing Supplies: Stock up on packing materials like boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

Room-by-Room Approach: Focus on one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Start with the messiest areas and gradually move to tidier ones.

Create a Packing Schedule: Set a realistic timeline for packing each room, allocating more time for cluttered spaces and less for well-organized ones.

Label Boxes Clearly: As you pack, label boxes with their contents and the room they belong in. This makes unpacking a breeze and helps you find essential items quickly.

Pack Essentials Separately: Keep a box or bag of essentials like toiletries, clothes, and important documents separate. This way, you won't be scrambling to find necessities on moving day.

Clean as You Go: Take the opportunity to clean and dust as you empty each room. A clean home will be more appealing to potential buyers or new occupants.

Enlist Help: Don't hesitate to ask friends or family for assistance. Packing a messy house can be a team effort, making the process faster and less overwhelming.

Dispose of Hazardous Materials Properly: Ensure that you dispose of hazardous materials like chemicals, paints, and batteries following local regulations.

Stay Positive and Stay Organized: Moving can be stressful, but maintaining a positive attitude and staying organized will help you conquer the mess and successfully transition to your new home.

Click here to learn more.

[goldfades]

Please please please protective Joe over postpartum wifey 👏🏻

ofcc!! here it is, my love <3

There was a time when life felt like a perfectly thrown spiral — smooth, certain, easy to catch. Joe made everything look like that, honestly. Sundays on the field, Saturdays back home, even the lazy Tuesday nights when he’d crawl into bed still smelling faintly like grass and laundry detergent and something that just was him.

You built a whole life on those little certainties. A white house with black shutters. A golden retriever named Beau who never quite grew into his paws. And now, tucked into the curve of Joe’s arm, a baby girl with his sleepy blue eyes blinking up at the world like it was brand new and way too bright.

It was supposed to feel perfect — or at least that’s what all the books and well-meaning advice said. But nobody really warned you about this part. About how raw it would feel, the way your body and mind would shift like continents no one could map. About how tired your bones could get, or how sometimes you looked in the mirror and hardly recognized the girl staring back.

Joe saw it, though. He always did.

He moved through the house like a man on a mission lately, whisper-quiet but everywhere all at once — refilling your water bottle before you realized it was empty, pulling you in tighter at night like he could keep the world out with just his arms. He was careful with you in a way that wasn’t suffocating, but fierce, like he was guarding something sacred and breakable.

And maybe you were, in a way.

Joe was a patient man. He had to be — quarterback wasn’t a job for the impulsive, the hot-headed. It was a role built on timing, on seeing a flash of movement and trusting it, threading the ball through chaos with an almost stubborn kind of calm.

But nothing had ever tested his patience like today.

Because today, for the first time, the guys were coming over to meet her. His daughter.

You were curled up on the couch, fresh out of the shower with your hair damp and your skin soft and flushed. The baby was snuggled against your chest, making those small, content newborn sighs that Joe swore he could listen to for the rest of his life and never get tired.

And he was on edge. Not because he didn’t trust his teammates — they were his brothers, in every way that mattered. But because this — this little piece of the life you built together — wasn’t game film or post-win beers or locker room jokes.

This was you. This was her.

And Joe Burrow, the man who could stand in the pocket while a 300-pound linebacker bore down on him without flinching, suddenly found himself running scenarios in his mind like some half-crazed security guard.

He adjusted the throw blanket over your lap. Checked the thermostat again. Made sure the baby’s little hat was pulled low enough over her ears, even though you were sitting inside with the heater humming low. He hovered, adjusting pillows, bringing you your water bottle with a bendy straw tucked in so you wouldn’t have to move too much.

“You’re fussing,” you murmured, voice lazy and warm with affection.

Joe just shrugged, standing above you with his hands on his hips, chewing the inside of his cheek like he was gearing up for a press conference.

“They’re not gonna hold her unless you say it’s okay,” he said, dead serious. “They’ll wash their hands first.”

He ticked it off like a checklist. “No strong cologne. No loud voices. And if she gets fussy—”

“She won’t,” you interrupted, smiling because you could tell he needed it.

But Joe wasn’t so sure. Babies were unpredictable. Teammates even more so. And Joe? Joe didn’t like unpredictable when it came to the two people he loved most in the whole damn world.

The doorbell rang.

Beau barked from his spot by the window, tail wagging excitedly. Joe shot you a quick look — a silent, are you good with this? — and only when you nodded did he open the door.

Ja'Marr was first in, grinning from ear to ear, a pack of diapers slung under one arm like a football. A few others trickled in behind him — Sam, Tee, a couple of the offensive linemen — all of them with that same reverent, wide-eyed look guys got when they saw a newborn up close.

Joe moved fast, intercepting the herd before they could even make it two steps inside. “Shoes off,” he said briskly, nodding toward the mat. “Wash your hands.”

He pointed toward the powder room like a dad corralling a team of unruly Boy Scouts. There was a second of stunned silence — and then laughter, low and easy, but respectful.

They knew better than to mess around with Joe right now.

One by one, they complied, teasing each other about it but following orders all the same. Joe hovered by the couch while you adjusted the baby's position, brushing a kiss against the top of her head before you offered a soft, “You wanna come say hi?”

Even then, Joe stayed close — a silent wall between you and the door, the human equivalent of a velvet rope.

The guys took turns, keeping a cautious distance, most of them too nervous to even ask to hold her. Ja'Marr cracked a few jokes under his breath about Joe looking ready to deck anyone who breathed wrong.

He wasn’t wrong. Joe’s eyes stayed sharp, tracking every movement, every laugh, every time someone leaned in a little too close. His hand hovered near your shoulder the whole time — not touching, but there, a steady reminder that you weren’t doing this alone.

When the baby whimpered once, just a little squeak of protest at all the unfamiliar voices, Joe reacted before you even had the chance — plucking her gently from your arms with that easy, practiced motion he had already mastered.

“She’s good,” he said, voice a shade softer now, one hand cradling her tiny head as he pressed her to his chest.

The room went still.

It was one thing to see Joe Burrow command a huddle. It was another to see him sway, slow and absent-minded, in the middle of his living room with a baby tucked against his heart like she was the whole playbook and the end zone all wrapped up in one.

You leaned back, your heart stretching wide and aching with it — the fierce, stubborn tenderness of this man you married.

The visit didn’t last long. Joe made sure of that. An hour, tops. No overstaying. No “let’s hang out awhile.” When the goodbyes started, Joe stood by the door again, thanking each of them with a handshake.

After the last car pulled away, he locked the door, turned, and exhaled like he hadn’t breathed properly all afternoon.

You were still on the couch, baby sleeping against your chest again, your head tipping back into the pillows. Joe crossed the room in three strides, crouching in front of you like he needed to be eye level, like he needed you to feel it when he said: “You did so good, baby.”

It wasn’t just about today. It was about all of it.

The way your body had carried her. The way you endured the long nights, the painful moments nobody talked about. The way you fought to smile when your heart felt shaky and raw.

He reached out, cupping the side of your face, brushing his thumb over your cheek with infinite gentleness.

“We’re good now,” he whispered, like a promise. “We’re good.”

You closed your eyes, sinking into the safety of it — the safety of him. Of knowing that no matter what storms came, no matter how unpredictable the world could be, Joe would be right here.

Arms up. Heart open.

Always, always guarding the things he loved most.

[epicmovers]

Top 10 Reasons to Hire Professional Removal Companies in Canberra

Searching for a dependable Canberra moving company to handle your relocation with care and precision? Our expert team offers professional moving services tailored to your needs—whether it’s a local household move or an interstate transition. With a strong focus on efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction, we make moving simple and stress-free. From packing to transport, trust our Canberra movers to deliver a smooth experience from start to finish. Request a free quote today and move with confidence!

[ice-man-goes-bwoah]

Can you write a Bucky x reader fic where Reader doesn’t know she’s pregnant but Bucky and Steve hear a second heart beat before going on a mission? You could also have it that maybe Steve notices first and congratulates Bucky by pulling him aside and Bucky is slightly confused because he didn’t hear it right away since he’s always with reader.

Two Heartbeats||Bucky Barnes x reader

Summary — During a mission prep on the quinjet, Steve notices something strange he can hear two heartbeats coming from Y/N.

Word count—672

There was a quiet rhythm to missions—pack, prep, wait.

The hum of the quinjet filled the air, vibrating through the floor beneath your boots. You sat on the bench seat, flipping through the contents of your med pouch with habitual precision. Bucky was next to you, always next to you, close enough that his shoulder brushed yours. His fingers worked the straps of your tac vest without you even asking. It was a quiet intimacy you’d built over months of being partners, teammates… more.

Across the cabin, Steve stood by the rear control panel, eyes flicking from the mission data to something—someone. You.

You didn’t notice it at first, too focused on your checklist. But Bucky did. He arched an eyebrow.

“Steve,” he called casually, “You got something to say, or are you just admiring my girl?”

Steve’s head tilted, a flicker of concentration on his face. Not amused, not teasing. Listening.

“There’s something weird,” he muttered, then stepped closer. “I’m hearing two heartbeats.”

You glanced around, confused. “There’s six of us. That’s not exactly—”

“No,” Steve said, cutting you off gently. “I mean… from you.”

Your brow furrowed, halfway between confusion and unease. “That doesn’t make sense. I feel fine.”

Steve looked over at Bucky then, something shifting behind his eyes. Like a puzzle piece sliding into place.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” he said to Bucky, nodding toward the back corner of the jet.

Bucky gave you a quick look—you okay?—and you nodded, if a little bewildered.

They stepped aside. Steve’s voice dropped low. “I think she’s pregnant.”

Bucky’s face blanked for a second. “You think she—what?”

“I hear another heartbeat. It’s smaller, but it’s there. Consistent. Strong.”

Bucky shook his head, stunned. “But I’m with her all the time. I didn’t—how could I not hear that?”

Steve smiled. “That’s why. You’re used to her. Tuned to her. You weren’t listening for it.”

Bucky’s breath caught, realization dawning slow and wide in his chest. He turned back to look at you—sitting unaware, glancing through your pack like nothing in the world had shifted—and his heart tripped.

Because now that he was listening, really listening…

There it was. Just beneath yours.

A second heartbeat. Softer. Quieter. But real.

A life.

His legs carried him back to you before he even realized he was moving.

You looked up, puzzled. “What’s going on?”

He crouched in front of you, metal hand bracing against your knee. His expression was unreadable, somewhere between awe and disbelief.

“Sweetheart,” he said gently, “has anything felt… different lately?”

You blinked. “You mean aside from this weird tension and Steve acting like he’s about to drop a bomb?”

Bucky laughed, but it was breathless. His hand rose to your stomach, hovering, hesitant. “I think you’re pregnant.”

Your breath caught. “What?”

“I didn’t hear it before. But I do now. Another heartbeat.” His eyes searched yours. “You didn’t know?”

“No,” you said slowly, barely above a whisper. “I mean, I’ve been tired. I thought it was stress or the missions, or just… life.”

His palm settled gently over your stomach. You both just sat there for a second—silent, still, wrapped in the hum of the quinjet and the weight of something enormous.

“You okay?” he asked softly, almost afraid to break the moment.

“I don’t know,” you admitted. “I’m… surprised. And kind of terrified.”

“Me too.” His voice cracked. “But also kind of amazed.”

You stared at him, heart pounding—not from panic, but from something far more fragile. He looked at you like you were precious. Like you’d just given him something he never thought he could have.

Then you gave a breathless, stunned little laugh. “Well. Guess we’re not just packing a med kit this mission.”

He chuckled, pressing a kiss to your knuckles, then your temple. “I’ve got you. Both of you.”

You leaned into him, head resting on his shoulder, and he wrapped his arms around you like a shield, like a vow.

Two heartbeats.

And suddenly, everything had changed.

[bloomzone]

10 signs that you're totally disorganized and how to fix it:

📓. Your notes are scattered everywhere – You have piles of papers, sticky notes, and notebooks, and you can’t find what you need.

Fix: Start by spending 10 minutes organizing what you need for the day n group everything by subject, and toss what you don’t need.

📓. You forget to pack your stuff the night before – You’re rushing in the morning, and you forget books, pens, or even your calculator.

Fix: Prepare your bag the night before. Lay out everything you need and check it before bed to avoid the morning scramble.

📓. You can't remember what subjects you have the next day – You keep checking your schedule last-minute and feel behind.

Fix: Write it on a visible spot—use a planner, whiteboard, or sticky notes to remind you of your schedule. Keep it somewhere you see every day.

📓. Your study materials are not separated by subject – You’re mixing up your revision notes for math, history, and science all in one place.

Fix: Use different folders or binders for each subject. If you don’t have that, color code your notes so it’s easier to grab what you need. ( I personally use binders for subjects with detailed notes like philosophy or french and normal plastic folders for other subject notes cuz I don't trust digital notes 🤫)

📓. You can’t find your previous exams or assignments or some past papes u did – You want to go over old exams, but you can't find them because they’re lost in a sea of papers.

Fix: Set up a folder for past exams and keep them organized by subject. You can even use digital apps to scan and save them.

📓. You end up studying the same chapter over and over – You keep revisiting the same material instead of moving on to what’s next.

Fix: Make a study checklist pleaaaase. List all topics you need to cover and cross them off as you go. Stick to the plan, even if you want to revisit things.

📓. You never know what your next task is – You jump from one thing to another without any clear direction, and everything starts to feel like a mess.

Fix: Create daily to-do lists and prioritize tasks. Break your study time into manageable chunks and u will feel productive

📓. You procrastinate organizing your study time – You think “I’ll organize later” and keep pushing it off until you’re overwhelmed.

Fix: Set aside 10 minutes every morning or evening to plan out your study session, even if it’s just a rough outline of what you’ll focus on.

📓. You keep putting things off until the last minute – You’re leaving study materials scattered until the exam is nearly here.

Fix: Start with the basics ,set small goals, like organizing one subject per day, to get back on track before you get too stressed.

📓. You end up cramming without any clear plan – You try to study everything in a rush, but it doesn’t make sense because you haven’t organized anything.

Fix: Use a timer (I highly recommend an app calls FLIP) put a goal for each 1h session and only focus on one thing at a time. This will help you study in chunks without feeling overwhelmed and understand more the topic u are studying .

@bloomzone

[starrysturnz]

overseas, under you

pairing. chris sturniolo x reader

summary. the boys invite y/n to come along on their winter vacation to hawaii, but problems arise when she finds herself sharing a bedroom with her long time secret crush… and it only has one bed.

warnings. mutual pining between two idiots. smut; a wet dream, some grinding… minor voyuerism in a way. they’re so cute they make me feel so lonely and i literally made them up.

word count. 3.9k

author’s note. one bed trope friends to lovers my beloved <3 a bit cliche but i think i was able to put a unique spin on it! lmk what you guys think :3 this started getting too long so i broke it into two parts!! part two will be released at the beginning of next week. happy valentine’s day to everyone, especially @strnilolover and @darksturnz for helping a girl out with ideas!! kisses!

masterlist | taglist | part two

© starrysturnz. all rights reserved.

a sharp beep beep! from her driveway was y/n’s cue to move along. she’d been rushing all morning to finish up her last-minute packing, having left half of the job for the day of, in true procrastinator fashion. a quick sweep through her mental checklist— phone, wallet, keys, passport— and she was scrambling out of the house.

she almost forgot to lock the door behind her when she caught sight of the boy in the driver’s seat, drumming his fingers impatiently against the leather of the steering wheel. chris always managed to take her breath away, as if it were the first time she was seeing his sharp jawline and piercing aquamarine eyes. shaking the thought away, she turned around and stuffed her key into the lock, triple checking that it was secure before shuffling off to throw her luggage in the trunk.

the slam of the driver’s side door fell on deaf ears as the girl hoisted her suitcase into the van, on a mission to be as quick as possible (after all, she was making them late). a light touch on her wrist had y/n jumping out of her skin, almost dropping the second bag onto the icy ground at her feet. her free hand flew to her chest as her head whipped around to find chris there, the feeling of his fingertips burning into the back of the other still gripping the handle.

chris was already smiling when they locked eyes. “i got it, ma.”

“chris,” she breathed, her shoulders dropping. “thank you.”

“’s nothing,” he replied warmly, in a way that had her cheeks heating up in the cold boston air. “go hop up front, a’ight? you’re picking music. but if you choose wrong, i’m giving matt aux privileges.”

⁺⁎˚

the ride to the airport was relatively uneventful. chris was too focused on following the gps to chat with anyone, not willing to miss an exit and add more time to detour. nick and matt were busy discussing the logistics of an upcoming space camp photoshoot in the backseat, leaving y/n to chew anxiously on her nails, her thoughts racing so fast they could lap the van on the highway.

she felt like an intruder. this trip had been a sort of anniversary gift from a brand the triplets had been partnered with for two years— an all-expenses-paid vacation to hawaii. they could’ve invited anyone, and they used their one extra ticket on her.

even though the boys assured her multiple times that their decision was instant and unanimous— “of course we want you there, you’re our best friend,”— y/n still felt guilty, insisting their brother, justin, might be a more logical choice. it was chris who’d spoken first, claiming that if they’d invited justin, they’d have had to find a way to include their parents as well, and then they’d be paying out of pocket.

it sort of made sense, y/n could admit. but maybe a part of her wished that chris wanted her there for another reason. she wished she was his plus one. that they could hold hands on the beach at sunset. that he would wrap her in his towel to keep her warm as the salty air grew colder. that—

“hey. y/n.”

a two-toned whistle had her tumbling off her train of thought, head snapping toward the driver’s seat at the sound of chris’s voice.

“you good? we’re here.”

she cleared her throat. “sorry. i was just….”

she wasn’t even sure the boy had heard her, already pushing his door open to grab their bags from the back. taking a deep breath, y/n followed suit, double checking they hadn’t left anything in the car before heading to the departures entrance.

⁺⁎˚

y/n was an infrequent flyer, to say the least. the few times she had been on a plane, she found herself in the back of the cabin, sandwiched between large men whose legs took up half her space, and unruly children who should’ve been old enough to know not to throw their toys into her lap.

this was something else entirely. a whole private cubical to herself, with a seat that reclined into a bed? no large men, no unruly children? it was a dream, if nothing else. she was thrilled.

but she also wished she wasn’t in first class. which is ridiculous, by the way— no one ever wishes they weren’t in first class, it’s a backwards thought process. and y/n knew that, but she also knew that if they’d just been in comfort plus, she could sit next to chris, chatting and laughing as usual. he would make the twelve hour flight feel like nothing, but instead, it would feel like double the trip in her little isolation pod.

the thought had her kicking herself in guilt. not only was she in first class, but she was there for free. it wasn’t fair of her to be upset about anything.

unbeknownst to the girl, chris caught the crease in her brow, frowning at the idea that something was bothering her. he waited a minute for the people around them to take their seats before crossing the aisle to her seat, knocking gently on the partition to get her attention.

“y’know, for someone going on a tropical vacation, you don’t seem too excited,” he mused. there was a teasing edge to his voice, but just beneath the surface, concern. “what, you worried you forgot to take out the trash before you left and your house’ll be smelly when you get home?”

“well i am now!” y/n groaned. “jesus, chris, why would you even say that?”

chris’s eyes crinkled as he laughed at her expense. “relax, ma, i’m just playin‘. knowing you, i bet you even swept your driveway before leaving. you didn’t forget anything.”

“swept my—?”

“excuse me, sir,” a polite tone sounded from the other aisle on the right side of the plane, “you’ll need to take your seat now. we will be taking off shortly.”

“’s my cue,” said chris, offering her one last reassuring smile. “stop stressing, okay? everything’s gonna be fine.”

⁺⁎˚

everything was not fine.

it was now three hours into the flight, and y/n had made the mistake of falling asleep immediately, missing dinner. she’d needed it, too, since the whole day had been so busy that she’d only managed to grab a couple snacks here and there. a small bag of chips was the only sustenance at her disposal, and the thought of eating another helping of overly-salted junk food made her feel queasy. she supposed she’d have to wait five hours until breakfast was served.

she’d just decided on a movie to try to pass the time when she heard the unmistakable sound of chris’s voice, his chin resting in his palm as he propped himself up on the partition.

“you get your beauty sleep?”

the boy’s hair was mussed— clearly, he’d made himself comfortable in his own seat. his sagging shoulders gave the impression that he was tired, but his shining eyes were wide awake.

“guess so.”

he hummed, his gaze softening just so. “doing okay? it’s gonna be a long flight still. you need anything?”

y/n gave him her best fake smile, not wanting to ask for anything more than she’d already been given. “i’m good, chris, don’t worry.”

mischief crept its way onto his face at her response, and before she could question it, he said, “guess you won’t be needing this, then.” he pulled the packaged meal from behind his back with a dramatic sigh and a look of faux disappointment he could only hold for so long at y/n’s reaction.

a gasp fell from her lips, her stomach growling at the site. “oh, my god, chris, how did you get that?”

“they skipped you at dinner,” he shrugged. “figured you were passed out, so i asked for two. first class comes with perks, apparently.”

“you’re incredible,” she sighed, relief washing over her like warm water when he handed her the container. “thank you. seriously.”

“’course, ma.” chris turned to head back to his seat, but stopped at the sound of her voice.

“wait, chris…," she blurted, maybe a little too quickly, "can you stay?”

when he turned back around, y/n’s demeanor had shifted from relaxed to tense— like she was afraid she might’ve said the wrong thing. her neck was turtling just barely into her shoulders, and she was picking at her fingernails, a longtime nervous habit chris had (unsuccessfully) tried many times to help her break.

it made his heart hurt. “sure, yeah. scooch over a little.”

the seat was suitable for one person, but it was obviously not built for a cuddle session. the pair struggled to find a comfortable position for a few minutes, before settling on chris sitting behind y/n, arms wrapped around her middle as she ate her dinner. she tried to ignore the electric feeling of his thumbs rubbing into her waist through her hoodie— and it had almost made her choke on a mouthful when he’d first started. she wasn’t even sure he was aware he was doing it.

when she’d finished the last of her lukewarm meal, chris set her tray off to the side in favor of pulling her back to lay down with him.

“i know you’re tired, y/n,” he spoke quietly, his breath fanning her temple, flexing his biceps to bring her that much closer to his chest (a move that made her cheeks grow warm). he planted a hand to the back of her head to steady her against his heart. “go to sleep, okay? i’ll wake you up for breakfast. promise.”

y/n only nodded, and prayed he couldn’t feel the intensity of her heartbeat through their clothing.

⁺⁎˚

the hotel was nice. far nicer than any y/n had ever stayed in before. the lobby alone was massive, with advertisements for every amenity a person could ask for— including a spa, which the girl would happily be taking advantage of. the thought alone sent a shiver down her spine.

nick, noticing, asked, “everything okay?”

she nodded. “just excited to finally relax. i’m afraid the first thing i’m going to do is take a long nap.”

“i hear you. matt kept me up all night with his giggling next door.”

“sorry i like comedies,” the middle triplet rolled his eyes, “not my fault you’re such a light sleeper. y’know they had complimentary earplugs, right?”

“i have sensitive ears, matthew.”

“next guest?” called the concierge before matt could respond, and he gave nick a pointed look before stepping up to check them in.

“so, chris,” nick started with a teasing tone, “what happened to you last night?”

“what do you mean, ‘what happened’ to me?” chris said, seemingly annoyed by the conversation already.

“i got up to use the bathroom and when i peeked into your seat, you were gone. care to tell where you were?”

y/n felt the flush make its way to her face, avoiding eye contact with either of the boys. she opened her phone, hoping to appear busy as she listened anxiously.

“dude, why were you peeking, that’s so creepy—”

“don’t sidestep my question, mister,” nick pressed. “you were gone when i came back, too.”

“i was hanging out with y/n, jeez, man. and it’s weird that you were stalking me, like that’s insane.”

“what, how—? i’m your brother! is it insane that i want to know where you are and that you’re safe? what if you were being kidnapped?”

“on a plane? really, nick?”

grateful that the subject had changed, y/n tuned out the rest of their argument, having mastered that skill many years ago. she watched as matt spoke with the kind-looking older fellow at the service desk, who eventually handed him two room keys. matt offered him a smile in return, and waved the rest of the group over to the elevators.

“okay, so,” he began handing them their respective keycards, “me and nick will take 1207. chris and y/n, you get 1204.”

y/n’s head snapped up at that. “i thought i was rooming with nick.”

“originally, yeah,” said matt, “but we had to move the space camp photoshoot to the early morning, remember? and since me and nick will have to wake up at, like, six, we figured we’d just bunk together.”

she paused. y/n did recall the boys mentioning how matt would come along to the photoshoot because nick needed someone he trusted to help oversee the production, since they’d be working with an entirely unfamiliar crew. she didn’t know they’d changed the time, though.

this wasn’t even out of the norm— y/n had slept over at the sturniolo’s many times growing up, often spending the night in the boys’ beds with them. but something about sharing a hotel room with chris, just the two of them, for a week... it filled her with butterflies.

“and the rooms aren’t connecting?” she clarified.

“well, they’re across from each other,” said matt. “sort of. we’ll just be ten feet away, don’t worry.”

“that okay?” asked chris, a nervous tinge in his voice.

y/n smiled as confidently as she could manage. “yeah, yes. of course. as long as i can take my long showers in peace.”

“fine. but you better leave the door unlocked in case i have to piss.”

they all laughed at that as the elevator doors opened, and headed in the direction of their rooms.

“okay,” matt began, checking his phone, “can we all agree to meet downstairs for dinner at eight?”

“eight? why so late?”

“because i’m tired, nick. i want to sleep. sue me.”

“at least you got some sleep last night,” nick mumbled, and matt’s hand flew up to smack him in the arm, but chris caught his wrist before it could land.

“just go take your nap. we’ll be down at eight.”

with that, the two retreated into their room. chris fumbled with his keycard for a moment, and y/n’s mouth had just opened to offer help when he managed to open the door.

“finally, some peace and—”

chris’s words died in his throat when he saw the room ahead of him. it was beautiful, like the rest of the hotel, with a mini-bar, a luxury bathroom with a glass shower, and floor to ceiling windows on the back wall. what he wasn’t expecting, however, was the bed.

the one bed.

behind him, y/n yawned, pushing past to be able to close the door. “what’s the matter?” she asked, before catching sight of the issue. “oh.”

it was quiet for a few moments.

chris didn’t know what to think. on the one hand, he’d be a liar if he said that this situation wasn’t on par with countless scenarios he’d daydreamed about him and y/n; the prospect of sleeping next to her— feeling her soft skin against his bare chest, the fresh scent of her shampoo filling his lungs— definitely excited him, no doubt about it. he wished they could have that every day.

on the other hand, he knew this wasn’t like all those times she had spent the night at their place over the years. back in boston, y/n split her time relatively evenly between the triplets. sure, she slept in chris’s bed occasionally, cuddling up close to him under his painfully thin comforter (often complaining that it needed replacing), but she did the same with matt and nick…. chris wasn’t special for that. here, though, in this five star hotel room… it would be just the two of them, alone every night, without so much as a connecting room with the others. it felt different, and he’d be remiss to blindly assume her comfort there.

the silence hung heavily in the air around them, creeping into awkward territory, but it seemed nobody wanted to speak first. chris glanced at y/n, who shifted her weight from one foot to the other. he tried to read her expression, but couldn’t land on anything concrete.

wanting to get ahead of the situation, to prove to y/n that her feelings were his priority, chris said in his best reassuring tone, “no worries. ’s probably just a mistake. i bet they’ll find us another room if we call the front desk.”

y/n’s heart dropped. of course chris didn’t want to sleep in the same bed as her for a whole week. that would be weird, she knew it would be. she just hadn’t expected him to suggest getting another room so quickly— knowing chris, she assumed he would make a few jokes about sharing, maybe playfully suggest she sleep on the floor (to which she would gently smack him upside the head, probably), but ultimately leave it up to her to decide. and from there, she could’ve told him it was no big deal. but now… well, she didn’t want to make him feel like he had to do anything he didn’t want to.

“uh, yeah,” she cleared her throat. “yeah, let’s call, then.”

nobody mentioned the way their once-bubbly energy seemed to fall flat, like a soda that had been left out overnight. in fact, nobody said another word until chris got the concierge on the line.

y/n didn’t bother to pay any attention to the call. she was busy trying not to let her exhaustion and disappointment mark the beginning of this trip; they were supposed to have fun! she needed to shake this one minor thing off and get to vacationing. maybe a visit to the spa would—

“you’re sure? all right. no, it’s no problem. thanks. you too.”

a short huff came from chris as he placed the phone back onto the receiver. scratching the inner corner of his eye, he spoke in an apologetic voice, “they said they’re booked out.” a sympathetic smile graced his perfect lips. “’m sorry. guess you’re stuck with me.”

y/n had never tried so hard to keep her emotions off her face. relief and excitement trickled down her spine, kickstarting her brain. it was like her body forgot it was tired. but she figured chris was probably still uneasy about it, and she didn’t want to seem like a creep.

“okay,” she said, “how about we figure out plan b later? i really need this nap right now.” a minor fib— she was giddy in the moment, yes, but the second her back touched a mattress, she’d be done for.

“all right, sleeping beauty,” the triplet rolled his eyes, the corner of his mouth quirking up, eye crinkling. “you take the bed, i’ll take the chair.”

“don’t be ridiculous,” she tried, hoping she wasn’t pushing her luck, “you need to sleep as much as i do, chris. come lay down.”

“are you sure? it’s no big, honest.”

she giggled, partially to lighten the mood, but also because she found this whole thing to be a bit silly. they’d cuddled countless times! waving him over, she teased, “since when are you too good to nap with me? get over here.”

the content smile on his face was all the reassurance she needed.

⁺⁎˚

chris was losing his mind.

there was no one to blame but himself. he knew agreeing to sleep with y/n (in the literal sense) would be a bad idea, but he hadn’t anticipated this.

by some random fluke, he’d woken up before their alarm went off, disoriented. it took him a few moments to realize where he was, what he was doing there, and… why his chest felt so heavy.

his breath caught. somehow, in the midst of their nap, y/n had ended up right on top of chris— her face buried in his neck, ribs expanding and contracting opposite his own. her legs, which had fallen either side of him, were slightly bent, giving him a sinful view of her ass in those yoga pants.

chris laid there for a moment or so, dumbfounded by his sudden predicament. what was the right thing to do here? he couldn’t wake her up, they still had— (he looked over at the clock)— half an hour until the alarm sounded. and moving her felt like too risky a disturbance. if anyone needed the rest right now, it was y/n.

the boy sighed, gazing at the ceiling like it might have an answer written on it. a minute passed, and just when he thought things couldn’t get more complicated— a whimper.

so faint that at first, chris figured he’d imagined it. but then came another, louder this time, and he definitely didn’t imagine that.

she must’ve been having a nightmare. his heart broke a little at the idea that she wasn’t enjoying what little sleep they were able to get after such a long trip. his arms came up to carefully hold her, rubbing her back with tender strokes so as not to startle her awake. closing his eyes, he hoped that her subconscious would recognize his comforting touch and send the bad dreams away.

“i got you, ma,” he whispered quietly, continuing the motions on her back. it didn’t seem to help— she was still tense above him.

… then the craziest thing: the girl’s hips rutting gently into his own. “chris,” y/n whined, eyes still shut tight, another whimper spilling from her mouth.

chris’s eyes shot open.

no way. she was dreaming about him?

now he was really fucked. if he didn’t move her, he’d surely be getting hard any minute, and that would be… difficult to explain, to put it simply. but if he did, and she woke up, she’d suspect he’d done so for a reason, and she’d be embarrassed either way.

“please, chris.” she sounded desperate.

chris felt like a perv, with his unconscious friend unknowingly grinding on him and whining his name into his neck. god, maybe he was dreaming; she looked so beautiful like this. but she was clearly in some level of distress, and his concern for his friend outweighed his morals.

“okay, ’s okay baby. ’m here,” he laid his cheek against the top of her head, hugging her tighter to him. “’m right here, y/n.”

he kept rubbing her back— slowly, reassuringly. y/n’s body shook in his hold, and chris had to stifle a moan as she gave a particularly hard rut of her hips, another distressed noise hitting his ears. poor thing.

“shh. c’mon, ma… you’re okay.”

eventually, y/n’s movements began to still, and soon the only sounds to be heard were her soft snores filling the room, like nothing out of the ordinary had occurred.

the boy beneath her stared at a spot on the wall, in shock. his best friend just had a dirty dream about him, right on top of him! what was he supposed to do now? tell her? ignore it? the thought of letting this go made his stomach churn.

what if it meant nothing? he’d had countless sexual dreams about people he wasn’t romantically interested in. (if every accidental fantasy had a deeper meaning, he’d be married to his high school algebra tutor by now.) chris couldn’t help but wonder, though…

what if it meant everything?

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