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oopspeter · 7 months

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We'll never have sex

SUMMARY: Returning from a year long mission should be a relief, but the terrors from those hard months have followed you back home. Struggling to find comfort in your old ways, a certain co-worker introduces you to his own salvation-- distraction.

WARNINGS: 16+ rating for mature themes, blood, allusions to torture, foul language, minor to medium injury descriptions, weapons and violence.

WC: 3.6K

NOTES: First fic! Please let me know what you think-- it hasn't been proofread very well.

"Are you taller than the last time I saw you?" You tease, in awe of his largely built physique.

"I guess everything finally loosened after being off of the ice for so long," Bucky says rather non-chalant.

"Has the giant stick finally fallen out of your ass then?" You quip with a cheeky grin.

"Never," he shakes his head with an equally matched smile.

"And decided to evolve from that 'lord and saviour' haircut?" You motion to his new trim.

"I've decided that look only suits the holiest of men, which of course I don't qualify for," he instinctively runs his fingers through the chopped locks.

The sound of a heavy heel echoes on the polished concrete, a grand entrance for the one and only Tony Stark.

"Hermit and the recluse!" His hands spread out like an awful gesture of welcome.

"I thought you were too old for modern hip-hop references, Anthony," you push your lips into a thin line, refusing to give him the satisfaction.

"Puh-lease, as if gramps here even knows what I'm yapping about," Tony points his thumb over his shoulder at Bucky as he walks past.

Even though he was totally right, Bucky also refrained from producing any sort of a reaction.

"Here to spread anything useful or are you just trying to be a dick?" Your current distaste for the playboy was evident in your tone, but it was nothing new. Deep down inside you did feel a sense of protectiveness towards him, as did he to you.

Opening the large, stainless steel refrigerator that looked like it could hold at least six months worth of food at a single time, he snatched a bottle of lemon water before slamming the door shut again.

"Since you're back, Banner wants to do a few procedural run throughs just to check up on your health," he flicks the cap off of the bottle which goes flying into the bin. "Oh, and the Star Spangled Banner would like to see you as well-- not the Bruce Banner, but the Star Spangled one."

"You can just say Steve, you know that right?" You squint at him as he daintily sips from the mouthpiece of the bottle.

"Just proving my vocabulary has extended further than the most generic white-man name in America," he shrugs coolly, and you kinda' wanna punch him in his smug face.

The ex-soldier stands as still as stone beside you during your exchange with Tony, if you couldn't see the gentle rise and fall of his chest you'd think he was dead with the lack of noise emitting. Choosing to ignore him, the man takes the cue to leave the room, still feverishly sipping the bottle of lemony water. Once the sound of his heavy heels disappeared out of the kitchen and down the hallway, you noticed how Bucky's shoulders relax.

"Bet you're dreading being back, huh?" You allow to corner of your mouth to turn upwards slightly.

"I could say the same thing to you."

There's an unspoken tension in the air, something far from awkward but not any nearer to comfortable either. Had it been a year and a half since you last saw him? On his six month mission to Angola, at the fourth month you had been sent off on a mission of your own in the Pacific islands to track down an old HYDRA associate who had formulated a plan to obliterate the entire planet from his tiny laboratory in the middle of bum-fuck no where.. no biggie, right?

The seemingly short mission of yours turned into a solo, twelve month exhibition trying to chase a man who was half the size of yourself and almost as clever. Eventually when you caught up to him and the few friends he had made along the way, the year job was over in thirty seconds. Underwhelming.

Sure, you’d escaped death a few times, but not by the man who you’d been hunting. Turns out there were a few other undesirables along your path that you just couldn’t miss the opportunity to lock up. Maybe that was a bit of a roadblock, too.

“I don’t want to keep Bruce waiting, I’ll uh.. see you later?” It was a hopeful question.

“Certainly,” he nods his head in reply, and your heart skips a beat or two.

You blame the heart issues on being so emotionally disconnected from anyone for the past twelve months.

The appointment with Bruce was swift, you chat for more of the time than you did actually doing the check up. He prescribed you with a few pain meds, re-dressed some wounds you’d brought back with you and altered your fitness plan to better accommodate your new injuries. Bruce had a way when it came to making people feel safe, despite the fact any moment a big green monster could jump out and crush you.

There were the usual questions like, how has your diet been-- have you been getting enough sleep-- are the night terrors still occurring-- any unusual pains-- are you sexually active?

The answer has always been something along the lines of nutritious, not at all, all of the time, plenty and no.

It's hard to maintain a sex life being away all the time and locking yourself in your room when you are around, even harder trying to manage a relationship. Sure, you've dated before, dabbled in a love life or two before inevitably deciding it wasn't for you. It never will be for you.

It's far past nightfall by the time you actually decide to leave your room, walking barefoot through the long, cold halls of the tower before finding yourself in the kitchen. Your stomach growls to protest your hunger, throat scratchy and dry as symptoms of your thirst. The automatic lights flicker on the moment you walk through the threshold into the kitchen. A pristine, clean kitchen soon to become the next victim of your horrific cooking skills.

First of all you grab a glass from it's respective cabinet, running the water from the tap to fill it up. Your lips meet the mouth of the glass and you drink, quenching your thirst with a relieved sigh. The water here is refreshing, hygienic, in great contrast to what you've been drinking for the past year. Feeling the coolness in your palms you go to take another sip.

It's metallic, tastes like you've drunk straight from a muddy puddle. The water they have just thrown on your face definitely mixed with the blood dripping from your nose and clinging to your lips. Coughing up a mix of flehm and mucky water, you thrash around in the flimsy wooden chair you've been restrained to.

The room smells of mildew, wet dog fur, and something that is heavily rotting. You can blame the stink of decomposition on whatever is beneath that blue tarp tucked away in the far corner of the room. There's no light aside from a single bulb eerily hanging above your head like some old, cliché horror movie.

Your wrists hurt more than usual and this time you can't blame it on early on-set arthritis, but instead the finger-marks imprinted in a purplish green and the thick rope that rubs against them. The silhouette hiding in the dark approaches you in the light, the indistinguishable appearance morphing into that of a tall man with a mask that hid his face and resembled a smiling monkey. It would be the least menacing thing in the room if he wasn't wielding a knife as large as your forearm.

It's silent aside from the obnoxious drip from the ceiling on the tarp. Drip. Drip. Drip. The face of the knife shines in your eye, reflecting from the light of the bulb hanging from the ceiling. His feet drag along the crusty floor, it's evident he has a limp by the way he carries himself towards you. If you had a free leg or two you'd drive your foot straight into his knee to completely eliminate that problem for him, forever; but how tightly they had bound you prevented even a nudge of movement.

The masked man is close enough for your knees to touch, taking the tip of the sharp knife and dragging it across your cheek to leave a light mark that brings blood in it's wake. You refuse to give him the satisfaction of even a slight whimper which evidentially leaves him unsatisfied, because the knife leaves your face and dives into your--

"Hey, are you okay?"

The glass in your hand shatters completely, hundreds of shards diving and piercing the skin on your palm, the water that was left now drenching your socks. Were you holding it so tightly that the sudden fright made it break?

Swinging around with a crimson hand you find an equally shocked Bucky, lips slightly ajar as a physical indication of his surprise. Not even a moment later he's rushing over with a dishtowel to wrap around your bleeding hand, the white terry cloth quickly becoming stained. You can tell he's panicked by the rise and fall of his shoulders, yet you are struggling to even breathe.

The rotting and mildew is replaced by lemon disinfectant and lingering cooked onion. A dark, dank room now replaced by a pristine, white kitchen. The man in front of you is not a man who wears the mask of a monkey, but instead the one and only Bucky Barnes.

"Fuck, fuck," he has the towel wrapped so tightly around your palm. "We need Banner--"

"No!" You interrupt him, finally finding your own voice. "I don't want to wake him, please don't disturb him."

"Then what do I do?" You can tell he is trying his best to keep his composure and not snap at you for being so stubborn like he has so many times before.

"Get the kit from under the sink, wait for the bleeding to calm and I can take the remaining shards out of my hand," you instruct.

"I will take the remaining shards out of your hand," he corrects. "Keep pressure on it please."

His callous hand places your other hand on top of the towel, pushing the back of it down to apply the same pressure he was before. He's rushing to grab the kit from beneath the kitchen sink, taking his hand to shove all of the bleach bottles aside instead of carefully rummaging through.

You've already made your way to the island, taking a seat at the bar stool and leaning your elbow against the marble. It fucking stings. You have no idea how you transported all the way back into the room after shoving the memory so far down to the depths where you thought it could never recover.

You take in his evening look, those baggy grey sweatpants a signature at-home look of his. The creased t-shirt a dark navy and border lining a compression tee from the way it hugs his torso and biceps so tightly. There are bags under his eyes like there always is, and his brows are pulled tightly together in deep concern.

Your heart does that concerning thing again. Perhaps the bloodloss?

He stands beside you at the end of the counter, the fine marble a slight barrier between your bodies. He unzips the kit with such force you're surprised the entire thing hasn't ripped. He's panicked, you can tell.

"Hey," your uninjured hand reaches out to lightly touch your wrist. "Breathe, it's okay, I'm not dying."

Bucky pauses, and he isn't breathing-- until he does. His tense shoulders drop and his face finally relaxes, then he moves your hand back to apply pressure to the towel.

The silence between you is intense and lasts for what feels like forever. You can tell there's a question on the tip of his tongue that he's too afraid to ask, and you've got a feeling you're not quite sure how to answer it either why. You're not sure why you broke the glass, or why you became absent for so long, or why you were back in that room again.

"Why are you awake?" He interrupts your escape into your own head.

"I couldn't sleep," you answer honestly. "Neither could you?"

Bucky shakes his head in reply. "No, I couldn't."

"Never can." You both say in unison.

There's a pause.

"I'm sorry for scaring you," he doesn't look you in the eyes, instead stares at the red cloth covering your hand.

"You didn't mean to," you shake your head with reassurance, offering a small smile to show that you aren't upset with him at all.

"What if I did?" The corner of his lip upturns.

"Then we'd have a bit of a problem, wouldn't we?" Your tone is playful.

"How about we leave the sparring for after, when all of the glass is out of your hand y'know," he shrugs jokingly.

"Right," you nod your head in agreeance, pulling the towel back to reveal the palm of your hand.

It's definitely not the prettiest thing you've ever seen, but not the worst either. There's only one significantly deep cut but the rest just brushed the surface few layers of skin. Bucky is quick to get to work with the tweezers, disinfectant and plasters.

As he works on mending your hand you can't help but look at his face.

Compared to the last time you saw him there's a scar or two more on his right cheekbone, a significant healed slash across the bridge of his nose, a few extra wrinkles in the corner of his eyes. The stubble on his jaw, chin and upper lip is well maintained and lacks intensity on his neck. The cropped look suits him, hints of grey coming through as a reminder of his aging body now that he has been off the all the chemicals and the ice.

Your eyes trace his side profile, from his hairline to his forehead, eyebrows to the tip of his nose, nose to his lips, lips to his chin and then back to his lips. They're pursed as a habit of concentration, blue eyes trained on the task at hand (literally).

Though it stings, it's practically painless with the way he leans into the counter to reach you. Your heart is skipping again, but this time you think you know why.

"Done," he claps his hands together. "I definitely recommend seeing Banner tomorrow though, even though I spend my weekends fixing myself up I sure as hell ain't a doctor."

"You did a mighty fine job anyways, Mr Barnes," you admire his handy work, though you definitely need that deeper cut a proper look at tomorrow. It'll definitely stop the bleeding and keep it all together for the meantime.

The tension resumes it's place between you, it's palpable.

Your stomach growls in the quiet room.

"Are you hungry?" He quirks a brow.

"Yeah, I was initially in here to cook," you nod your head and rub your forearm with your uninjured hand sheepishly. "Kinda' foiled now." You wave your now bandaged hand.

"Can I take you somewhere?" He's polite, and looks at you like an expectant puppy. You can't help but grin.

"Sure."

It’s a stones throw, or two, from the tower before you finally arrive at your destination. The roaring of his motorbike falls to silence as he uses his heel to push out the kickstand, leaning the bike on it and throwing his leg over to hop off. Reaching his hand out he offers to help you down, which you gracefully accept, placing your hand in the palm of his own and jumping out of your seat.

Dinner was gorgeous. Some little, family owned, Thai place hidden in Brooklyn, where the women knew Bucky’s name and the men shook his hand. They presented you both with a free entrée. It sure as hell made you forget about that little episode in the kitchen. The second the food met your tongue you practically melted into your seat, and Bucky laughed as if to say ‘I know, right!’

Conversation flowed easily, any moment of silent was just a cause of food being stuffed into your mouths. He didn’t ask why you couldn’t sleep, or why you were in such a state and broke the glass. Bucky knew you’d tell him when you were ready.

A shared plate of Khao Niew Ma Maung and a more than generous tip later, you find yourself standing outside of the door to your room. Laughter echoes down the empty, dimly lit hall as you keep at least a foot between you— not daring to even brush arms. His strong featured are illuminated by the shadows, and that funny feeling rests heavily in your chest.

There’s a blanket of silence that falls between you two, not wanting this quiet moment to end. You can see the gentle rise and fall of his chest, and if the super soldier hearing was true he’d definitely be able to hear the heavy beat of your heart.

“Thank you,” you break the silence. “I— tonight was lovely.”

Bucky hums. “It was.”

Neither of you move a muscle, an invitation lingering on the tip of your tongue.

You open your mouth to speak. “Do you—”

“Yes, please.”

Inside your room is sweet, the bed is made with the cosiest of sheets, books stack shelves accompanied by little trinkets you display proudly. Flicking a match you ignite your pumpkin-scented candle for a source of light, the blinds already automatically pulled down on the floor-to-ceiling windows. If the crisp, untouched sheets were not enough of a sign that you couldn’t find rest, perhaps the growing bags under your eyes were.

Respectfully he kicks his shoes off at the door before stepping on your plush carpet, shrugging off his own jacket and neatly placing it on the back of your desk chair. He’s never been in your room, no one has besides Banner who stumbled in panicked to find you a shaking mess on the floor. That’s a story for another time.

You lay on top the bedspread and rest your head on the plush pillow, hands intertwining on your stomach as you stare at the ceiling. Letting out a gentle sigh you feel the mattress dip to the right of your feet.

“You can lay with me, don’t be shy.”

He’s hesitant to do so, but you can feel the warmth of his body as he lays parallel to yourself. You can smell his cologne and it’s much nicer than your expensive candle.

“I like what you’ve done with the place,” he motions with his hand that you can see in your peripherals.

“You thought I’d be happy with the Stark furniture they so kindly gifted us all when we first moved in?” You put a certain emphasis on the word, which causes him to chuckle. The bed shakes under his weight, and the butterflies flutter.

“I think I broke the bed frame on the third day,” he shuffles beside you, you can tell there’s a smile on his face that matches yours.

“Holy shit, who did you do?”

“No— no— not from that!” He’s quick to jump in and defend himself, evidently flustered. “Turns out the billionaire couldn’t spare the few extra dollars to buy something that could hold 260lbs.”

“So what, you were just sleeping and it collapsed beneath you?” You turn your head slightly to glance at his face.

“I mean I kinda’ face planted on it after I got home from a frustrating mission, and it just splintered beneath me.”

“Oh god,” you cover your mouth with your hand to stifle a giggle. “I would’ve paid to see that.”

“I was pissed,” he shakes his head, turning it slightly to look into your eyes. “I stormed through the complex and kicked open Stark’s door.”

“Did you get a new bed frame?”

“No, my mattress is still on the floor.”

“I think you need to make another complaint to head office then.”

“You bet,” he shakes his head with a heavy sigh, but the upturn of his mouth tells you that it’s the least of his worries right now.

There’s a certain tension in the air as his cerulean eyes drown in your own, nothing but the crackling of the candle wick and your combined breaths filling the void.

“Thank you, for taking me out tonight,” your eyes trace his jaw to his lips before flicking back to his own. “I—I wasn’t doing too well.”

“I know,” he nods his head in understanding. “I should be thanking you, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Mrs Nguyen so happy to see me walk through that door with someone other than myself.”

“Is that why she’d check on our table every five minutes despite the fact we were the only people dining there?”

He chuckles, running his hand through his chopped hair. “Seems so.”

For the first time in a very long time, you feel your lids getting heavy as your body sinks further into the mattress. There’s a warmth rather than that awful cool you feel so often, and it’s starting to become a challenge to keep your eyes open.

After what feels like an eternity of struggle you lift your head slightly to notice how Bucky’s lashes now rest on his cheeks, lips parted to let out quiet breaths. And suddenly in this moment you are safe, and everything is okay.

Your lips meet his forehead in a soft, gentle kiss. “Thank you.” Before you rest your head a little closer to his own and fall into a sleep you’d been praying for.

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softlyapocalytpic · 1 year

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So like, @pchberrytea tagged me forever ago now, but I actually got some writing done today SO I THOUGHT I'D SHARE. IT'S TID BIT TUESDAY/WIP WEDNESDAY.

Does anyone want me to tag them? Please give me people tag. I hath no one! Let me give you an excuse to spotlight your writing. I'll so happily read everything and give it love. Let me love you, random stranger.

Anyway, here's Deacon being my excuse to ramble on for two pages about Leo's clinic. Characterization through how someone effects their setting. My buddy nicknamed me tolkien on discord for this.

Most people thought that you had to meet a person to get to know them, but Deacon had learned long ago that there was a lot you could tell about someone from the place they lived.

On the corner of Nowhere Avenue & Shank Alley, tucked away from the hubbub of Goodneighbor’s street market, was a small two-story clinic that stood out from the rest of the anarchist settlement. Sure, it was built with the same New England brickwork as the rest of the neighborhood sporting the same centuries-old weathering, a small neon sign hanging daintily in the window that said Open in big red letters, and a radio tuned lovingly to one of the two preferred stations of Goodneighbor residents that could be heard nostalgically muffled through the walls, but that was where the similarities ended.

You could tell at first glance that someone had put in the elbow grease to restore large parts of the building both inside and out. Where there used to be crumbling brick were children’s murals painted over the patchwork cement, and every window had been blessed with a proper pane of glass. The storefront itself was painted, trim and all, in a rich blue that had only just begun to chip in the places that people touched and leaned in against it. Painted on a wooden sign that fitted into the front door was a message that made its owner’s intent very clear: “All are welcome, free of charge.”

A peak in the window revealed a waiting room with walls painted a cheery yellow. Hanging on them were posters from movies, tourist destinations, and even the rare cute animal by the corner with children’s toys and a rug. Lining the walls were the best-scavenged chairs one could buy and a desk with a pen and paper to put your name on a waiting list.

From experience, he’d come to know the backroom where the good doctor met with each patient and served as a surgery room if necessary. It was tiled with mismatching sets made to create a new pattern out of the scraps and properly grouted to boot. It was also clean. The stainless steel was scratched but shiny and the room always smelled like antiseptic and abraxo. The whole place would smell like it if it wasn’t for the fact that the doctor had flowers and candles (when he could find them) out in the waiting room. Most of Goodneighbor didn’t have the noses to smell it, but it certainly added to the ambiance.

From his peaking around when the doctor was out Deacon had learned that the upstairs was where the doctor lived. The bedroom, kitchen, dining, and workshop were all stuffed together in the same cozy room with only the bathroom being closed behind a door.

There was always a bag packed with non-perishable foods, a set of clean clothes, a tarp, rope, and a handful of other survival essentials. In a framed picture by the bedside was a family of three; a father, an older sister, and a younger brother with a melted candle beside it.

#wip wednesday #tid bit tuesday #leo lockhart #fallout 4 deacon #fallout fanfic

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olumpus · 1 month

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Door Skin A Comprehensive Overview for Homeowners

As a homeowner, selecting the right door materials is crucial for enhancing the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and durability of your home's interiors. Door skin, also known as door facing or door veneer, is a popular choice due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic options. In this comprehensive overview, we'll delve into the features, benefits, types, installation, maintenance, and design possibilities of door skin for homeowners.

Features of Door Skin:

Material Composition: Door skin is typically made from thin sheets of materials such as wood veneer, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), HDF (High-Density Fiberboard), MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), or metal. These materials offer varying degrees of durability, finish options, and customization possibilities.

Durability: High-quality door skins are durable, scratch-resistant, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean, making them suitable for both interior and exterior doors.

Design Options: Door skins come in a wide range of designs, colors, textures, and finishes to suit different interior styles, from classic and traditional to modern and contemporary.

Cost-Effective: Compared to solid wood or metal doors, door skins are more affordable while offering similar aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Benefits of Door Skin for Homeowners:

Aesthetic Appeal: Door skins enhance the visual appeal of doors with their decorative patterns, wood grain finishes, textured surfaces, and vibrant colors, adding a touch of elegance to your home.

Versatility: Door skins can be used for various types of doors, including interior doors, exterior doors, wardrobe doors, cabinet doors, and more, providing design consistency throughout your home.

Customization: Homeowners can customize door skins by choosing specific designs, colors, textures, and finishes that complement their interior décor and personal preferences.

Easy Installation: Installing door skins is relatively straightforward and can be done by professionals or DIY enthusiasts using adhesives, screws, or nails to secure the skin onto the door frame.

Low Maintenance: Door skins require minimal maintenance, occasional cleaning with a damp cloth or mild detergent, and routine inspection for any damages or wear and tear.

Types of Door Skin:

Wood Veneer Door Skin: Made from thin slices of natural wood, wood veneer door skins offer a classic and authentic wood grain appearance, available in various wood species such as oak, walnut, maple, cherry, and more.

PVC Door Skin: PVC door skins are durable, moisture-resistant, and come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, including matte, glossy, embossed, and printed designs.

HDF/MDF Door Skin: High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) and Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) door skins are engineered wood products that offer versatility, durability, and a smooth surface for painting, laminating, or veneering.

Metal Door Skin: Metal door skins, such as stainless steel or aluminum, provide a sleek and modern appearance, ideal for contemporary interiors or commercial applications.

Installation Process:

Prepare the Door: Ensure that the existing door frame is clean, dry, and free from any defects or damage. Remove old paint, varnish, or adhesive residues as needed.

Cut the Door Skin: Measure the dimensions of the door frame and cut the door skin to fit using a sharp utility knife, saw, or scissors, leaving allowances for edges and corners.

Apply Adhesive: Apply a suitable adhesive (recommended by the manufacturer) evenly on the backside of the door skin, covering the entire surface area but avoiding excessive application to prevent seepage.

Attach the Door Skin: Carefully position the door skin onto the door frame, starting from one edge and smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go along. Use a roller or flat tool to press the door skin firmly onto the surface.

Trim and Finish: Trim any excess door skin material using a sharp blade or router, and finish the edges with edge banding, trim pieces, or molding for a clean and seamless appearance.

Allow for Drying and Curing: Allow the adhesive to dry and cure as per the manufacturer's instructions before using the door. Avoid excessive moisture exposure during this period to ensure proper bonding.

Maintenance Tips for Door Skin:

Regular Cleaning: Wipe the door skin surface regularly with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with mild detergent and water to remove dust, dirt, or stains.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, bleach, or harsh chemicals on the door skin as they may damage the finish or surface texture.

Protective Measures: Use door mats, rugs, or protective pads near doors to prevent scratches, dents, or impact damage from heavy objects or footwear.

Inspect for Damage: Periodically inspect the door skin for any signs of damage, peeling, or delamination, and address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Design Possibilities with Door Skin:

Wood-Look Finishes: Achieve the warmth and elegance of natural wood with wood veneer door skins, available in various wood species and finishes like oak, walnut, cherry, mahogany, and more.

Contemporary Patterns: Explore modern and contemporary designs with PVC door skins featuring geometric patterns, abstract motifs, floral prints, metallic finishes, or minimalist textures.

Textured Surfaces: Add depth and tactile appeal to your doors with textured door skins, including embossed patterns, brushed textures, leather-like surfaces, or stone-inspired finishes.

Customized Graphics: Personalize your doors with custom graphics, artwork, logos, or branding elements printed on PVC or metal door skins for a unique and distinctive look.

Color Options: Choose from a spectrum of colors and shades to match your interior color scheme, create contrasts, or make a bold statement with vibrant hues or subtle neutrals.

Conclusion:

Door skin offers homeowners a cost-effective, versatile, and stylish solution for enhancing the appearance of doors throughout their homes. With a wide range of materials, designs, textures, finishes, and customization options available, door skins allow homeowners to achieve luxurious aesthetics, durability, and functionality while staying within budget constraints. Whether you prefer the classic charm of wood veneer, the contemporary appeal of PVC patterns, the durability of metal surfaces, or customized graphics, door skin provides endless design possibilities to elevate your home's interior décor.

#door skin

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carportsadelaideposts · 1 month

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Decking Dos and Don’ts Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Decks are wonderful additions to any home, providing a space for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're installing a new deck or maintaining an existing one, there are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure your decking Adelaide remains safe, sturdy, and beautiful for years to come. In this guide, let’s explore some essential tips for both installation and maintenance of decking.

Installation Dos

Plan Thoroughly: Before beginning any construction, carefully plan your deck layout, considering factors such as size, shape, and location. Take into account the existing landscape, sun exposure, and any obstacles like trees or utilities.

Choose Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality decking materials that are suited to your climate and intended use. Opt for pressure-treated lumber, cedar, or composite decking, which offer durability and resistance to rot, insects, and decay.

Use Proper Hardware: Utilise corrosion-resistant screws, nails, and joist hangers designed for outdoor use. Stainless steel or galvanised hardware will withstand exposure to moisture and prolong the lifespan of your deck.

Follow Building Codes: Adhere to local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before starting construction. Compliance with regulations ensures your deck is structurally sound and safe for use.

Provide Adequate Support: Install sturdy footings and framing to support the weight of the deck and any furniture or accessories. Properly spaced joists and beams are essential for a stable and long-lasting structure.

Installation Don'ts

Cut Corners on Structural Support: Avoid skimping on structural components such as footings, joists, and beams. Inadequate support can lead to sagging, instability, and potential safety hazards.

Ignore Clearance Requirements: Ensure proper clearance between the deck and surrounding structures for home improvements Adelaide-wide, such as doors, windows, and air conditioning units. Failure to provide adequate space can restrict ventilation and lead to moisture-related issues.

Forget About Drainage: Incorporate proper drainage into your deck design to prevent water from pooling or collecting on the surface. Install flashing and a slope to direct water away from the house and ensure proper airflow underneath the deck.

Overlook Safety Measures: Prioritise safety during construction by using appropriate personal protective equipment and following recommended practices for working at heights. Secure ladders and scaffolding properly to prevent accidents and injuries.

Neglect Maintenance Considerations: Anticipate future maintenance needs when designing and building your deck. Choose materials that require minimal upkeep and factor in tasks such as cleaning, sealing, and refinishing to preserve the appearance and integrity of the deck over time.

Maintenance Dos

Clean Regularly: Remove dirt, debris, and organic matter from the surface of the deck to prevent mould, mildew, and discolouration. Sweep regularly and use a mild detergent or specialised cleaner for tougher stains.

Inspect for Damage: Routinely inspect the decking Adelaide-wide for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration, such as loose boards, protruding nails, or wood rot. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure safety.

Seal or Stain as Needed: Apply a protective sealant or stain to the deck surface every few years to enhance weather resistance and prolong the lifespan of the wood. Follow manufacturer instructions for proper application and reapplication intervals.

Trim Vegetation: Keep nearby vegetation trimmed to prevent it from encroaching on the deck or causing damage due to moisture retention and reduced airflow. Trim branches and vines that may pose a risk to the structure or inhibit sunlight exposure.

Inspect Hardware: Check the condition of screws, nails, and other hardware regularly, tightening or replacing as necessary. Inspect connections between the deck and the house for signs of separation or damage that may compromise stability.

Delay Repairs: Avoid postponing necessary repairs or maintenance tasks, as minor issues can escalate into more extensive damage over time. Addressing problems promptly will help preserve the integrity and safety of your deck.

Maintenance Don’ts

Use Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your deck, as they can damage the surface and harm the environment. Opt for eco-friendly cleaners or homemade solutions whenever possible.

Neglect Inspections: Don't overlook routine inspections of your deck's structural components, including support posts, beams, and fasteners. Regular maintenance checks will help identify potential problems early and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Allow Standing Water: Avoid allowing water to accumulate on the deck surface, as prolonged exposure can lead to wood rot, mould growth, and other moisture-related home improvements Adelaide issues. Ensure proper drainage and ventilation to promote airflow and prevent water build-up.

Skip Safety Precautions: Never neglect safety precautions when performing maintenance tasks on your deck. Use appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator, when handling cleaning agents or working with power tools.

Final Words

By following these dos and don'ts for both installation and maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional deck that enhances your outdoor living space for years to come. Remember to prioritise safety, quality materials, and regular upkeep to ensure the longevity and durability of your deck investment.

With proper care and attention, your decking Adelaide and beyond will remain a source of enjoyment and relaxation for your family and guests alike.

Source: Decking Dos and Don’ts Tips for Installation and Maintenance

#decking Adelaide #home improvements Adelaide

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juliebrost · 3 months

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Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: USB-powered Wired Sweater Shaver Razor Used.

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trujillosuarez14 · 4 months

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Outstanding Tips For Your Magnificent Home Improvement Project

If you're looking for great ways to improve your home but don't know where to start, read this article for great advice and tips. The information that you find below can not only help you to become an expert at home improvement, but may also help to increase the value of your home. Put in a garden. It can be a lavish outside nursery, or a simple box window in the kitchen to grow your herbs. The addition of live plants and the appeal they bring to your home is unmatched. If you don't have much of a green thumb, plant strong plants that need little attention, and add a timed drip or sprinkler system for easy watering. Not every home improvement project has to be a major overhaul or a major expense; there are a number of quick and easy updates you can make at a reasonable cost to add value and appeal to your home. Start with paint. Paint your walls, your cabinets, your trim or your doors. You can even paint your stove or floor tiles with specialty paint designed for that purpose. Increase storage space by installing closet or pantry organizers. Replace boring kitchen cabinet knobs with ones that are unique and decorative. While you're at it, do the same with your plain white wall plates. Enhance your new paint job with fresh, bright curtains and sheers. Rent a floor buffer, and buff and wax your hardwood floors. stainless steel splashback nz and a dash of creativity can result in some dramatic changes. The commercially available shades for your lamp tend to be mundane and lack creativity. Go to your local crafts store, pick up some acrylic paint and stencils, and create designs on your lampshades. Keep in mind this can be done with dye based ink pads as well. This will add some style and personality to you rooms and take away the drab look from a cheep looking lamp shade. Always keep the big picture in mind when embarking on a long term home improvement project. Your budget may dictate that you break up a project into several smaller, more manageable pieces, but take care that the finished product doesn't look like a hodgepodge of unrelated, poorly thought out elements. Before you begin your next home improvement project, take the time to look for inspiration in magazines, color swatches and anything else that you can find. It is important to plan ahead so that you don't get stuck trying to do too much when it is time for you to begin your project. This will make the entire process much more relaxing for you. The shingles on your roof will at some point need to be replaced. As asphalt shingles get older, they start to lose the bound granules and curl up on the corners of the sheets. If you are experiencing leaks that have gone through the ceiling, then it is definitely time to lay down a new roof. Otherwise, if your roof has lost several shingles, this is a less drastic but firm indication that it's time to replace the roof. If one has a wooden deck, porch, gazebo, railing, or any other wooden structure, such as a playground set, putting a wood finish on it can be a good weekend project. It will seal the wood from the elements and increase the life span of the structure. The finished product will last much longer than the time it took to accomplish. The days of calling a plumber or electrician for minor household repairs are long gone, not to mention the outrageous costs. Today, hundreds of websites are dedicated to sharing how-to tips and tricks, in a way that is easily understood by even the most reluctant handyman. You will find step-by-step directions and many also, include video demonstrations. To showcase a particularly beautiful flowerbed or landscaping detail, steal this trick from noted horticulturists and botanic garden curators: position outdoor accent lighting fixtures behind plants or statuary to dramatically reveal the unique shapes, textures, and form of shrubs, flowers, and ornamental grasses. This is a particularly effective technique for single-color gardens or landscapes. Now that you know a little bit more about home improvement, you are all set to embark on the around the house project of your choosing. Whether or not you start with something small or tackle a monster of a job is completely up to you. Either way, you'll have the confidence you need to improve your home.

#stainless steel splashback nz

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led-controller888-blog · 8 months

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A Guide to Versatile All Round Fixing Bands

All round fixing bands offer a flexible fastening solution with endless applications. This guide covers everything needed to maximize the usefulness of these adjustable bands.

Introduction to All Round Fixing Bands

All round fixing bands, also called self-locking bands, are designed for adjustable and reusable fastening. They consist of a toothed strap that threads through a ratcheting buckle. Tightening the band causes the teeth to lock in place.

Common materials include stainless steel and plastic like nylon and polypropylene. Higher grades offer increased strength and durability.

Their simple yet ingenious design allows all round fixing bands to cinch around and fasten an incredible variety of items.

Key Benefits of All Round Fixing Bands

What makes all round fixing bands so popular:

Infinitely adjustable tightening and tensioning

No tools required for installation or removal

Reusable on a wide range of applications

Resists vibration loosening over time

Lightweight and compact

Provides quick temporary or permanent fastening

Proper Use of All Round Fixing Bands

Using all round fixing bands correctly ensures reliable fastening:

Inspect for damage and verify band grade for load

Clean and clear surface area where band will be installed

Wrap band around object in desired location

Thread end through buckle, pull tight

Cinch band progressively tighter until object is fully secured

Trim off any excess band length as needed

Check tightness occasionally, re-tighten if any loosening over time

Unique Applications of All Round Fixing Bands

The versatility of all round fixing bands allows limitless fastening solutions:

Binding and securing tool/gear bundles

Holding makeshift repairs and patches temporarily

Providing adjustable straps and slings

Creating secure lash points for tying items down

Fastening tarp/covers over equipment or supplies

Cinching loose clothing or sleeves for work safety

Grouping related wires/cables together neatly

Anchoring temporary guy-lines and tie-downs

Fastening aftermarket accessories or add-ons

Tips for Selecting All Round Fixing Bands

Consider these factors when choosing all round fixing bands:

Heavy loads require wider band strap grades

Outdoor use necessitates UV/weather-resistant bands

Frequency of fastening/unfastening guides reusable vs disposable

Sharp bundle corners need edge/corner protectors

Flame-retardant bands for inherently flammable items

Food/medical compatibility ensures safety

Color-coding helps organize and identify bands

Maintaining All Round Fixing Bands

Follow these tips to extend the lifespan of all round fixing bands:

Inspect bands periodically for damage or wear

Address potential rub points eroding the bands

Lubricate lock mechanisms if binding occurs

Verify bands are fully tightened after vibration

Keep bands clean; replace if excessive buildup

Avoid exposure to damaging UV rays if possible

Store any extra bands properly between uses

Conclusion

With their simple yet adaptable fastening design, all round fixing bands offer a lightweight and versatile solution applicable across countless situations. Keep these performance and maintenance tips in mind to safely get the most out of these handy bands for all your unique needs.

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kompacplus · 11 months

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Designing a Luxury Kitchen - Top Five Suggestions

The internet is full of articles and sites that are crafted by people claiming to represent the luxury kitchen market. However, "luxury" is an over-used word these days. Now that "luxury to the masses" is a common marketing concept in everything from handbags to kitchen tile, it has become difficult to wade through the plethora of information to find what the true luxury consumer is really looking for....to be set apart from the mass market. As a kitchen designer for a high-end British company, I seldom engage in projects that cost less than $100,000 (often the cabinetry alone surpasses that amount). Therefore I consider myself to be on the front lines of engagement with the real luxury consumer. If you are building, remodeling, or designing a luxury kitchen, (or perhaps you just want to emulate one), then consider these suggestions.

kitchen top Malaysia

1. Understand the difference between a framed cabinet with an inset door and a cabinet with an overlay door. A framed cabinet with an inset door is considered to be the higher-end option while cabinetry with overlay doors are the more common type seen on the market today. Many of my clients are not familiar with this difference when they visit my studio and if you are unfamiliar as well, I encourage you to view cabinetry from both categories in person. It is a little bit difficult to visualize, but essentially a framed cabinet with an inset door is a cabinet box with a stationary frame mounted to the front of this box. The cabinet door then sits inside (flush) the frame. Traditional English cabinetry was bench made in this manner and it still holds appeal today. An overlay cabinet can have a frame or be frameless, but regardless, the door overlaps the frame or box. A frameless cabinet with overlay doors can be very desirable in a contemporary kitchen where clean, smooth lines are desired. However, in terms of traditional cabinetry, this is seen as an inexpensive way to produce a lot of cabinets. A framed cabinet with an inset door is a lot more work to manufacture and requires a great deal more craftsmanship to get everything properly aligned in its aperture. If your home value is over $1.5 Million, you really should be purchasing framed cabinetry with inset doors. There is simply a perceived quality associated with it.

2. Spend your money on high-end refrigeration. Most of my clients still opt to conceal their refrigerators behind custom cabinetry panels. However, even if you want the professional look of stainless steel, I would encourage you not to skimp on your refrigerator. A few years ago, Sub Zero had a firm corner on the market for fully integrated refrigeration. By "full integration", I mean that the refrigerator can be designed to sit flush with the cabinetry (24" deep) without the need for a stainless steel grate above it, and without an exposed stainless steel frame. Now, however, there are several more manufacturers offering this feature, including Miele and Thermador. While not all of my projects utilize a fully integrated refrigerator, the vast majority of them do. Luxury kitchens frequently feature a pair of refrigerators that are paneled and trimmed out to look like an armoire or beautiful piece of furniture. In fact, this can be your kitchen's best focal point if done well.

3. Design a space to conceal all of your counter top appliances, such as coffee makers, toasters, blenders, etc. Most high-end kitchens that are well designed allow the homeowner the luxury of having "uncluttered" counter tops. After all, aesthetics are a big part of what you're paying for. Sometimes this can be a large walk-in pantry with built-in cabinetry. Alternatively, I have often employed a method of creating a tall larder cabinet in close proximity to the sink and refrigerator. This larder cabinet, complete with pocket doors, can have an internal counter top with outlets affixed to the back of the cabinet for plugging in an assortment of small appliances ranging from the microwave to the stand-mixer. The idea here is that everything is easily accessible and already plugged in. No luxury kitchen should require the homeowner to pull out a heavy appliance from a base cabinet.

counter top Malaysia

4. Consider using a mixture of counter top materials. In large luxury kitchens today, a single marble or granite material on all counter surfaces can look quite cold. Perhaps it is because these large kitchens simply have so many square feet of counter top material. Regardless, this is a careful line to walk because using too many different materials can quickly look like a trend. To be easy on the eye, consider using your stone of choice around the perimeter counter tops and then opt for a wood top on the island. This breaks up the coldness factor of stone while not conflicting with the pattern of your marble, limestone, or granite.

5. Don't put a stainless steel panel on your dishwasher. This is really just a pet peeve of mine. Personally, I don't think the dishwasher is an attractive appliance. Therefore there is no added value in putting a stainless steel panel on it - even if all of your other appliances are stainless steel. Placing a stainless steel door on your dishwasher just breaks up the visual line of the beautiful cabinetry on which you are splurging. I strongly encourage you to consider a fully integrated dishwasher model. Miele, Bosch, and Asko all currently offer excellent fully integrated models. Again, the term "fully integrated" means that the entire dishwasher front (including the controls) are concealed behind a cabinetry panel. If done properly, you will not be able to distinguish between your dishwashers and any of the adjacent cabinetry.

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oh-a-very-toxic-octopus · 1 year

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Following on from gutting Prison House and making Prison House look like less of a giant ugly white box, here's some more Prison House build thread.

While clearing brambles around our septic tank, I uncovered a rotten cold frame, most of the glass intact.

So I stripped the glass out of the frames and ended up with four good panes.

I'd been worried about natural light inside Prison House since covering the skylight hatches, so this seemed like a good opportunity to replace one of the solid doors with a glazed one.

Bought some CLS and got to work.

Cutting the glass seemed a bit beyond me, so I had to make those panes fit the existing doorframe. Annoyingly they were too tall for the nice simple solution of CLS - glass - CLS - glass - CLS. That's why the crosspieces aren't matching.

Aluminium channel would form a good inner trim and support the double-glazing.

Drilling, clamping, bolting. In the middle of this it occurred to me the channel was going to make it impossible to seal the CLS, so I painted that at some point in this process.

My sweet aluminium channel left these ugly gaps in the corners. I went for the obvious & natural solution.

Perfection.

I bought a load of bullnose skirting board to clamp the glass in place and learned in the space of half an hour to hate our bullshit cheap crap piece of shit fuckwit useless mitre saw. Always buy Makita, ffs.

Fortunately the cuts were sufficiently okay-ish that it all bolted together alright, but I was a little short on wood and opted to cut the crosspieces square. I was gonna paint them anyway, so who'd even know.

Painting time.

I'm wearing pink in so many of these DIY posts, lmfao. It feels weird when my real wardrobe is entirely blues and neutrals. Let it be known that these are the Girl Things my mum buys me and I then wear for dirty tasks in the hope that they will brown with time. They never do.

I got Jim in to help kill the old door as I suspected it was going to fall and crush me like a bug.

It absolutely would have done. The prison service are not fucking around when it comes to doors, and though there is some chipboard in there, it was majority aluminium and stainless steel.

Here's the new door hung, clad and with a lock on it.

I built a goddamn door. I know it is a little ugly and unfinished in these pics, and it took me several weeks to complete, but still. I'd say this is the first major project that really helped me grasp what I could personally DIY. Pretty cool stuff.

#diy forever #prison house #outdoor office #this my house #my posts

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ryuzakemo128 · 1 year

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Marianna's Estate (Part 1)

Author's Note: This is what Marianna's Estate looks like. This description won't fit one single post. So this one will be Series of posts of a description of this estate, so in future the estate will be more clear to you guys.

Part 2 / Masterlist

The fence had brick on the bottom and black metal fence on the top of it. It also surrounded Marianna's estate as they approached. A lovely hedge trims around the inside and outside of the fencing. The roof of the house was blood red, and the house was light gray. A pond was in the centre surrounded by sweet pea flowers. Red Snapdragons and Hyacinth 'Midnight Mystic' flowers were along the outside of the inside hedges.

The white gravel driveway stands out against the grass and hedges, and it also wraps around the pond. The pond had an extremely detailed mermaid statue looking into the pond from the front. They had access to a garage while they were there. There were two garden sheds, one for the front yard and one for the backyard. White garden urns were on each side of the front door with Black Baccara roses in them. Chocolate Cosmos in the window planters on the front of the mansion. Mystic Dreamer Dahlia flowers are the ones she usually gives to her friends. This was primarily a sign of trust, and she didn't like pink as much as the darker shades like Black, Purple, etc.

In her backyard, the large estate blended into the forest after a few yards. The estate could have continued for many years if she had kept up with maintenance. Her father was wealthy, and he had invested a lot of money in maintaining it. Therefore, she was the only one living there despite her father's disappearance and her mother's death.

The heavy dark wooden, bronze edged double doors had a gold lion's head knocker on both doors. The floor of the mansion are dark red mahogany wood, the mansion also had high ceilings and burgundy red with gold trimmed walls except for the bedrooms. The guest bedrooms had pastel pink, blue and green with clouds. As soon as they walked inside the mansion, a huge painting of Kronos eating one of his children hung in the entry foyer. The bust of Marianna’s father on the table underneath it.

The kitchen is open, large and gothic to match the rest of the mansions theme. The black granite countertops and stainless steel appliances give the kitchen a modern touch. There is a large island in the center of the kitchen with bar stools on one side. The cabinets are made from a dark wood and they have intricate details carved into them. The center of the ceiling of the kitchen had a lovely black iron chandelier with dripping crystal accents that added a touch of elegance to the room.

The kitchen also had a large pantry with glass doors, showcasing Marianna's collection of antique plates and silverware. A large gas stove with six burners and a griddle was against one wall, and a double oven was on the opposite wall. The refrigerator and freezer were built into the cabinetry, making them look like they were part of the wall.

The corner of the kitchen, there is a cozy little breakfast nook with a round wooden table and dark cushioned chairs. Windows surrounded the nook let in plenty of natural light and provided the view of the front yard.

Adjacent to the kitchen was a formal dining room with a large, rectangular mahogany table and elegant chairs. The room was adorned with dark red curtains and a crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling. The walls were painted a cream color with gold accents, giving the room a warm and inviting feel.

The dining room had a large table that could seat up to at least ten people, the chairs were burgundy velvet and the table is wooden with a red colour. A black and white Russian rug underneath the table. The room also had a large painting she did a few months ago, in the same style as Bob Ross. The painting depicted a peaceful forest scene with a small stream running through it. It was placed on the wall opposite the entrance, making it a focal point of the room. A wooden cabinet was against one wall, filled with Marianna's collection of antique dinnerware and silverware.

The dining room was attached to the Main Lounge room. The walls were still a burgundy red with gold trimmings like the rest of the house. Floor is still the mahogany red wood. It also had black velvet couches, the large ones were against the walls and there was a small on top of the tv unit. Fireplace near the second couch, only ever used during the winter. The curtains in the Lounge room matched the couches and the dining room curtains were matching the walls. They were also a Burgundy red.

#Stranger Things #stranger things #Marianna (Female Reader)#Marianna Sokolova (Female Reader)#Female Reader #Fem! Reader #F! Reader #Fanfiction #Fanfic #Imagine #Drabble #Stranger Things Fanfiction #Stranger Things Fanfic #Stranger Things Imagine

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claireleung · 1 year

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Different Shape Different Color Stainless Steel Tile Trim

Do you know what is it ?

It is stainless steel profile, and it is used for wall gaps, corner decor or stair nosing, glass or marble edge. It is practical and beautiful

#interior design #interiors #architecture #decoration #engineering #design #interiordesign #decor

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doublegoblin · 1 year

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The unwanted caroler.

“Hey Hank!” The call came from down in the kitchen.

“Yeah?” He answered from the master bathroom.

“You heard from your mah yet?”

Turning the exhaust fan off and letting the steam out through the open door “What?”

“I said, have you heard from your mah yet!?”

“Can you just come up ‘ere I can’t understand a word your sayin’?”

Heavy feet stomp up the squealing steps “I said-” turning the corner into the room “ya heard from ya mah?”

Hank tosses his damp towel at Mikey with a snicker “Nah, I ain’t too worried yet. She’s probably takin’ her sweet time. You know how little old ladies are.”

With a startled grunt Mikey peels the towel from his face. “Well put some pants on and help me with the burd.”

***

Crowded into the small kitchen; with the terracotta tiles, lime green accents, and stainless steel appliances; the men bumped elbows and asses trying to get the last second fixings on the holiday meal.

Knock Knock Knock

Watching a pot of sauce with intense focus “Hank can you get that, might be your mah.”

“Yeah yeah I’m on it. Oh, I tasted it, maybe a little extra salt or vinegar?” He shuffles out of the confined space.

“Hey, uh, can you show me exactly on a map where I asked for the critique?” With a playful smile he bumps Hanks on the way out with his rear.

“Bah!” Hank waves a hand dismissively and opens the front door “Hey Mah glad you could…” Peeking his head beyond the threshold, no mother, only footprint leading to and from the door. With a disgruntled sigh he closes the door.

“Not her?” Mikey inquires leaning back from the pot of bubbling sauce.

“Nah, fuggin’ neighbor kids again. Of all the god damn times of the year…”

“Uh-bupbup, you promised you’d watch that sailor mouth for Christmas. Santa is watchin’ you know.”

“Jolly bastard can kiss my…sigh…sorry. Need a hand still?”

“I think I’m good in ‘ere, just keep me company? Put on a show or somethin’.”

***

Hank hangs up the phone and takes his seat back on the couch, snuggling up close to Mikey.

“Glad she let us know.” Mikey says resting his head on Hank’s shoulder.

“Yeah, I didn’t want to say anythin’ to ‘er face but I was kinda worried. What with the weather being what it is and her eyes ain’t as good anymore.”

Knock Knock Knock

“I’ll get it this time.” Mikey goes to the door.

Same as before nobody was around. As Hank sat on the couch he thought he could see a face peeking through the drawn curtains at him. But, after blinking, it was just an oddly shaped patch of snow.

Tap…tap…tap

“Gutter is really startin’ to rattle. Hey, tomarra, remind me to call Tony to come take a look will ya?”

“You realize that’s Christmas Day, right Hank?”

“Eeeeh, I’ll leave a voicemail.”

***

Setting down at the table the men filled their plates with the Christmas feast they had prepared. Hank was about to take a bite of ham when Mikey slaps his hand.

“Ow, the fuck was that for?” He rubs the sore spot.

“Were ya raised in a barn? We ain’t said grace yet. Your turn this time.”

Hank grumbles but complys. Both men clasp their hands, bow their heads, and close their eyes.

“Dear heavenly fatha’ we thank you for this meal. I thank you for keepin’ me mah safe during these inclement times-”

Knock knock knock

A slight pause “we also give thanks for our health these past few months. The work you did through those docs’ kept my little cousin Terry on this here Earth for another spin and-”

Knock knock bang

Hank tightens his grip and speaks through a clenched jaw “and we ask you bless our house for many years to come. Now we take up this food in your name-”

BANG BANG KNOCK KNOCK BANG BANG BANG

“Amen-FUCKIN’ HELL!” Hank slams his hands down on the table, silverware clattering to the floor. With a swift push and rise his chair falls to the floor and he stomps his way over to the buckling door.

Gripping the handle with white knuckles he flings it open “Da fuck do you want!?”

Standing taller than the door frame an abnormally thin man leans down so his face peeks just past the top trim. His face is stark white with deep set eyes of crimson. Lips pulled tightly up in a macabre combination of a grin and grimace. He speaks through clenched teeth of bone white.

“Good evening. I do hope I am not intruding on anything important. You see. I am having some car trouble, and I was wondering if I could come in to use your telephone to call for a repair man?” His voice was strained but velvety, holding a tinge of predatory delight.

Hank slams the door on the man and trudges back to his seat and angrily picks at the mashed potato tower he had constructed. He glances up at Mikey who is sitting crossed armed and with a disapproving stare.

“What?”

“You know very well ‘what’. Hank, it’s Christmas Eve, let him use our phone.”

The tower had been professionally disassembled into small chunks of debris. Hank sighs and more gently stands back up and heads to the door.

Tha man was still standing in the same position, still grinning, looming.

“I do say that was quite rude. Is it not customary to help those in need during the holiday season.” His eyes twinkle in the candlelight.

“Look I’m not about to have some rando’ come into my house, no matta’ what time of year it is. But,” he digs around in his pocket for some loose change “down at the corner of Burkley and Tavern is a pay phone. Thing still works, use this to call a ride.” Hank goes to hand the man the coin but is grabbed by a clawed boney hand. He struggles and eventually gets his hand free and slams the door once more.

“Hank are ya hurt?” Mikey rushes over and looks Hank’s arm over.

“I’m fine, basta’d has a hell of a grip. I thought carolers were suppose to sing nice songs and shit.”

The lights go out. The only thing saving the men from engulfing shadows were the candles lit along the mantle.

“Sonofabitch! Did he cut the fuggin’ power!?” Hank makes his way to the broom closet near the stares.

“Hank calm down, it was most likely a powa’ line.” Mikey pulls out his phone to look for any news of an outage.

Scratch scratch scratch

The rough sound of claws sliding down bricks carried from the darkened fireplace. Chattering teeth clacked and snapped growing louder and louder.

“Never in all my time have I had the displeasure of meeting a more repugnant home owner.” The man's voice bellowed from just beyond the flue. “Oh such a giving time of year no less! Oh no no, this can not go unpunished.” His spindly fingers curled around the mantle, snuffing out each of the lit candles with a long and boney finger. “I will enjoy taking my time draining you for every drop of that peasant blood.”

As the man’s head slowly loomed down into view his expression changed from a confident sneer to a confused frown. Pointed right between his eyes was the barrel of a sawed-off shotgun. His eyes traced it up to the hand holding it. From the hand to the arm. Then from the arm all the way to the beet red face of the man holding it.

“I-” the man started to say.

“Merry Christmas, get the fuck out.”

The neighbors called the police in response to the gunshot. When they arrived at the address all they saw was the two men, a lovely meal, and a roaring fireplace.

#writing #writeblr #original fiction #original writing #creative writing #fiction #flash writing #Just a couple of guys #cw: language #cw swearing

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