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#restuarant decor
cursedauxiliary · 10 months
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I poorly rant to my mom in english/polish about urban planning and then we pull into the polish+latino neighborhood and she doesnt make a comment
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aureliapearl01 · 9 months
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www.hotelaureliapearl.com HOTEL AURELIA PEARL
We are the best to stay in Patna, having nice interiors and ambiance to stay where we also have a wide range of rooms available.
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isitreallydesign · 2 years
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IM OFF TO TOKYO
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stephensmithuk · 4 months
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A Study in Scarlet Chapter 1
This novel was originally published in 1887 as part of Beeton's Christmas Annual.
Netley is a village near Southampton, home to a military hospital that was opened in 1863 and at 435m long, was the longest building in the world at the time. It saw use in both World Wars, but fell into disrepair after that - after a 1963 fire damaged much of the building, the place was demolished in 1966 and only the chapel remains. A military psychiatric facility remained on site until 1978,
The Fifth Northumberland Fusiliers is now part of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, whose 5th Battalion is today a Reserve regiment.
The 66th (Berkshire) Regiment of Foot disappeared in 1881 as part of army reforms, being one of the ancestors of the modern day The Rifles.
The Battle of Maiwand on 27 July 1880 was one of the key battles of the Second Anglo-Afghan War; to put it simply, it was a heavy British loss although the Afghans, led by Ayub Khan, themselves had a lot of casualties themselves. Two Victoria Crosses were awarded for the battle and the retreat afterwards. Khan's forces were decisively defeated a month later at the Battle of Kandahar, the British ultimately winning that war.
A jezail was a handcrafted long-barreled rifle; very accurate for their time, they were generally highly decorated as well. Some saw use against Soviet forces in that particular conflict in Afghanistan.
Enteric fever is another name for typhoid fever; even with modern treatment, the death rate can be 1-4%.
The Criterion Restuarant is located on 224 Piccadilly and a plaque commemorating Watson's meeting with Stamford was added by the Baker Street Irregulars in 1981. It is currently closed, but the current owners plan to turn it into an Indian restaurant with as much decor as the listed building status allows.
The Bunsen burner was developed in the 1850s by German chemist Robert Bunsen and his assistant Peter Desaga.
Police News of the Past references The Illustrated Police News, a sensationalised tabloid newspaper that ran from 1864 to 1938.
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britt-kageryuu · 6 days
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Mikey is messing around with the AR cooking area again. He's in a full chef uniform, and mixing some batter for some sweet treats. A sign reading 'River is on a mission!' Is propped up on the counter.
Chat has asked for some work stories.
"Okay, as much as I love the Restuarant, customers can be such a mixed bag of crazy!" Mikey says waving his mixing spoon for emphasis. He's pacing around while making sure not to over mix the batter.
"Like the other day I go to take the order of a guy sitting solo. I start the whole 'Welcome to Run of the Mill Restaurant!' Greetings, but instead of 'what can I get you today?' I said 'how are you doing today?' and the guy starts to vent to me!" He lightly shouts in exasperation. He puts the bowl down, and leans on the counter.
"He complains about how he misses the old days when his department had more people, but how the company kept subtly downsizing between people quitting and new hires coming in. Then apparently the higher ups want them to keep up a certain quota of activities while short staffed. And when asking for more time, or people they were told 'We can't give you more hours, and if we give you more people you would need to give them some of your hours instead!'...."
Mikey is staring straight at the camera with a flat kinda annoyed look on his face.
"I just stood there, and once he stopped I go, 'Sir, I may be studying for a degree in psychology and counseling, but this is a restaurant... And Unless you want to tip me very generously, please just tell me your order!'"
Mikey takes a minute to calm down before pouring the batter into some molds, and popping them in the oven.
"I sometimes wonder what kinds of customers are worse?" He says while setting a timer, and taking a seat.
Right as he's about to continue Donnie is heard screaming and dashes through the area like his tail is on fire. Followed by fast moving Roomba with a cackling River on top holding a tablet.
Mikey watches in concerned confusion, when Shelldon floats into frame.
"What's going on with them" Mikey asks pointing out the chaos that just passed.
"Dee made copies of us with cameras to check some place you guys can't fit, and River2 found something that freaked Dad out. So River who is transferring the video feed is chasing him with the tablet." Shelldon replies.
"Is the modified Roomba because she can't run after him fast enough?"
"Totally! This is the most awesome thing to happen in awhile Dude." Shelldon does a couple of flips and spins in joy.
"Huh, we sorry for the interruption chat, but it's not everyday we can scare the heck out of Dee." Mikey says his eyes following the chaos continuing behind the camera with faint screams and laughter being picked up by the camera. An oddly timed donation notification goes off with a graphic of River running with a piggy bank and a banner reading "Thank for the $20 MixMasterChefTurtleFan'
"That's quite the name, but thank you!" Mikey shouts, before checking the timer, and making sure his treats aren't burning because of an error in how he followed the recipe.
The stream continues with a couple stories of coworker shenanigans, and decorating the treats. Donnie and River only slightly forgotten, with many questions from chat on what might be scaring Dee.
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Masterpost
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femmescooter · 11 months
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Health Inspector Blues
“…and there’s the employee washrooms in the back.” Bev finished rattling off, popping her nicorette gum for emphasis. She waved her hand magnanimously at by far the cleanest washroom Ben had ever seen in a restuarant. “Any questions, new kid?”
Ben shook his head, trying to remember everything the tiny redhead had told him in their ten-minute tour. He was only the bar back for now, taking over from Bill, the main bartender when he “went on a retreat”. He had thought that was a euphemism until Bev, the FOH manager, winked at him and told him Bill liked to fuck off to the woods for months on end and emerge with some weirdo short stories.
The whole restuarant was sparkling clean, not just the washrooms. It was almost surreal, coupled with the aggressive amount of informational posters in the staff areas. Everything from hand-washing instructions to the dangers of botulism when canning was plastered over every spare bit of wall that was out of sight of the customers. And the posters themselves were scribbled over in the margins, neat edits mixing with jokes and doodles and even what Ben swore was a recipe for pho ga over an official poster describing unsafe food temperatures.
It did clash horribly with the actual restaurant’s decor, which was bright, colourful and almost a bit too loud if someone had asked Ben (he wished the designer had taken advantage of the lovely vintage wood wall in a way that didn’t involve kitchsy neon, but no one ever asked him), but he couldn’t help but feel reluctantly charmed.
Reluctantly charmed was also the likely response people had to his new boss, chef-owner Richie Tozier.
Richie was friendly, funny and a bit loud but Ben didn’t mind. His friend, Mike, worked here as a server between shelving at the library and said he was paid on time and had family meal every day they were open. So that was nice.
Ben was watching Bev walk him through changing a keg (it felt too awkward to tell her he knew how to do that already) when he noticed a very pretty, very grumpy looking short guy standing outside the door.
“Should I, um, tell him we’re closed?” He offered, indicating the door.
Bev’s face lit up and she whipped her head around to holler at the back: “Richie, your beau is here!”
“Fuck yeah, let him in!” Came an equally loud holler in response.
Richie’s beau turned out to be a health inspector with a clipboard named Eddie Kaspbrak. He wasn’t wearing his uniform but he introduced himself as “Eddie Kaspbrak, health inspector” to Ben before Richie came barreling out of the kitchen.
He skidded to a stop by almost crashing into the bar, grinning widely.
“Eds!” He crowed, “You came!”
“You invited me.” Eddie snapped back, “And don’t call me Eds, I’ve told you a million times—.”
“Look, look, I fiddled with the bleach ratio and it should be perfect now.” As he spoke, Richie opened the bar door and pulled Eddie through and into the back with him, ducking around Stan.
Beside Ben, Bev returned to the keg.
“Don’t stress about the health inspection, new kid, that’s just Eddie.” She told him. “He gave us a passing grade months ago but Richie’s invited him back basically every week to show off just how clean the restuarant is now.”
“Why?”
Stan, the other chef, was now digging into the bar fridge.
“Richie’s obsessed with him and they’re both stupid.” He said, emerging with a single lime. As they watched, he started peeling it like a clementine.
“You okay to slice some lemons?” Bev asked Ben, digging around in her apron until she found a package of cigarettes. Ben nodded.
Now alone, the restaurant as as quiet as it could get. There was the hum of the sanitizer behind him, the soft clacks of his knife hitting the chopping board.
It was quiet enough that he could hear people talking softly behind him.
Ben’s momma had told him not to easvedrop. But in this case, he couldn’t help it.
“…understand why you keep doing this.”
“Aw, Eds, you know why.”
A soft groan of frustration. “It’s not you, Richie. I don’t eat at any restaurants.”
“You’re killing me here.” Richie’s voice was softer than Ben had heard before. “I’m really trying.”
“It’s not… I know. No one’s ever tried as hard as you before.”
“At keeping a clean kitchen?”
“You know what I mean.” Eddie sounded fond. It was sweeter than reluctantly charmed.
“I swear, you won’t get tuberculosis from my food or whatever. Scouts honour.”
“I don’t even know if that’s what I’m worried about anymore.”
“What if…” And Ben had to strain to hear. “What if it wasn’t here? What about my place?”
“…Would you literally cook for me?”
“Of course, Eds. I’ve been trying to for months.”
“Jesus.” A laugh. “Fuck it. Okay. Yeah, Richie, I’ll let you cook for me.”
Ben expected him to cheer. But Richie was quiet, so quiet that Ben jumped as he suddenly opened the BOH door.
“Hey,” And Richie’s whole face was lit up, smile wide but sincere, “new kid. Can you tell Bev and Stan that we’re not opening today? I’ve got a private dinner date.”
And he did just that.
@reddieweek
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ofglories · 2 months
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walking side by side like this is the only familiarity.
the imported holiday had gained traction is seems on the luofu, from what luocha noticed over the years in the rare occasions he’d been around in the past. what had been a small personal event between lovers spread further, with a clash of red decorations thrown on buildings that held signs and people in the front shouting out how they had the best selections for the day.
luocha made a point to completely ignore it all.
there’s utterly nothing here between them that could be compared to the couples that gathered around each other, ignoring the world, because the traveling merchant is very aware that he’s jing yuan’s prisoner for the time being. there hadn’t been an official discussion at any point in their life, as if touching upon the topic would have it all fade away.
“general, you’re staring,” luocha said, tearing jing yuan’s gaze on purpose from all the decorations, and pointed to one of their usual spots, a restaurant that had no interest in the festivity and remained the same as always. “let’s go take a seat and enjoy our meal. hm? unless you’re wanting to try a different place today? are you daydreaming while standing now, perhaps thinking about sharing one of those cutesy meals we passed by?”
How odd it was to see the Luofu decorated in red and pink hearts.
But so it went with customs from other worlds becoming popular. He could still remember the relative chaos when that "Halloween" had been brought in, made all the more exciting by a certain juggling girl. Of course, that holiday tradition had been carefully controlled after the first year nearly caused a panic about ghosts of all things. So it was a relief that this one was simply about selling flowers and couple's meals and chocolate.
Even if a certain Foxian in Aurum Alley had threatened violence when the decorating committee had come near his shop.
It was entertaining to watch, nonetheless.
So his eyes wandered, a small smile on his lips, as he walked beside Luocha. The man was his prisoner, for now, but good behavior was best rewarded, to encourage more. With that in mind, Jing Yuan had dragged the traveling merchant out of his house for this perfectly normal lunch.
Much like always.
Not a date, no matter what it might seem.
They'd never put a name to what they were. Certainly never called themselves anything resembling a couple. Perhaps on some level they had both been instinctually aware that one day one would be the other's prisoner. Or perhaps they had just been too cautious, too afraid of whatever their relationship was fading away the moment they tried to put a label on it. Whatever the case may be... The general still felt his eyes drawn to the various cafes and restuarants displaying their special meals for the day. One in particular caught his eye, nothing especially outlandish but a simple meal for two with a cake to be shared.
It was...tempting.
Still, Jing Yuan tore himself from his thoughts to look at Luocha with a light hum. Staring, was he?
"Perhaps I am. There's something to be said about new experiences, after all." He replied calmly, golden eyes lazily drifting across the other man's face before focusing on green eyes. "Aren't you curious as well? There's many desserts crafted specifically for this day and those cutesy meals as you called them. Many of them look right up your alley, unless it's the decor you object to? If so, we can go to our usual place."
Either way he'd be giving Luocha that new hair accessory bought the other day. Something that would match the rest of his usual daily wear, only with some delicate mother of pearl and jade inlays. Just a gift, a reward for his continued good behavior.
That was all it could be, for now.
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mrktimes · 5 months
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YOUR WEEK IN MERROCK DECEMBER 10 - 16
The week is starting off a little warmer than usual, so if you haven't done your outdoor decorating, now is the time to jump on that! As the weather gets colder through the week, expect to see some pretty low lows, and just a gentle hint: there might be snow for next week's winter market. But until then, enjoy the week, go get some warm cocoa or a hot bowl of soup at one of your favorite Merrock restuarants!
FORECAST:
Sunday: 52°F / 48°F - rain
Monday: 51°F / 25°F - AM rain / wind
Tuesday: 37°F / 30°F - mostly sunny
Wednesday: 39°F / 24°F - partly cloudy
Thursday: 32°F / 26°F - mostly sunny
Friday: 40°F / 31°F - sunny
Saturday: 40°F / 28°F - PM snow
BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK:
December 12th -- Lara Marie Caruso!
December 13th -- Cordelia Browning!
ON THE BULLETIN BOARD:
nothing this week.
LOCATION SPOTLIGHT:
LAKE MALORY -- looking for something fun to do on your wintry days? If Blades isn't cutting it, head to Lake Malory! The lake will soon be icing over for skating and ice fishing purposes, but it's also one of the most scenic places to visit in town.
A LITTLE EXTRA:
Now that it's open open, Blades is open daily for those bringing their own skates (or using the other areas), and on the weekends for those renting!
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Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Carved Decorative Coconut Have Fun Monkey Money Bank Made in Philippines.
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pizza-pie-in-the-sky · 2 months
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The End of Our Journey - A Reflection on Pizza and More
What a journey, right? I can't believe this project has come to an end! It feels like it lasted only a moment, on the other hand, I am well aware a few weeks passed, it's kind of funny. During this project, we visited so many restaurants, with so many different kinds of pizza, and with many different aesthetics, different interpretations of this supposedly simple meal… I think throughout the whole span of this blog, I noticed some important aspects of these restaurants that I believe are important to share!
~ Alex.
There are many aspects, and criteria of sort, by which our group, so me as well, of course, considered these restaurants and decided if we liked them or not. However, I think it goes further than that. After all, the subjects which we covered can't just be equaled to likes/dislikes, as they're deeper than that.
Say, dietary restrictions related to the menus; I am not a person with a celiac disease, so I don't need to search through the menus carefully, because if I pick a wrong dish, it will make me seriously sick. Still, few restaurants that we visited had such information, or we had to figure it out based on the ingredients, which isn't even always safe! Something that I think more restaurants should took into consideration, is clearly marking their options according to particular diets (not only gluten-free, but also lactose-free, vegan, vegeterian, and etc.), due to the safety of their customers. I think it would be highly appreciated by everyone, as well as would make things simply easier! After all, it can't be that hard, right?
Another thing I wondered about, and which I think should be considered, is accessibility of these restaurants. Even though decor is important and it's really nice to sit in a gorgeous restaurant, eating delicious food, it would also be nice if these were accessible to as many people as possible, and sadly mobility was sometimes the issue in the places we visited. I don't mean that from the standpoint of correcting every single place I went to over the course of the past month (and more), what I'm trying to say is, if these restaurants can, they could make the interior more spacious, simply by changing the placement of a few tables, or could inform of the amount of space the restaurant has to offer (and in what way!)! This could be very useful to people struggling with mobility on daily basis.
What I also mean by the restuarants' accesibility is financial accessibility - not everyone can afford to go to a good, italian restaurant or just a pizza place that often, and to some of them even at all. I think it's important to talk about this, and I believe we should have focused on this aspect more - especially that we visited restauarants that were both great and easily affordable!
The last thing I wanted to mention is the approach of these restaurants to the culture of making pizza, and along those lines, that of Italy. Some of the restaurants we visited leaned into the "italian aesthetic" more than the others, some decided to go for their own, unique design, and some seemed to overlook it for the sake of simply developing their own, recognizable pizza-look that would invoke both them and the aesthetic in some strange, yet attention-grabbing way. I wanted to mention that, because this marks a, very intriguing to me, form of appreciating cultures of pizza and Italy, in a way!
(One last thing I hope for is that these don't sound too judgemental, I'm only trying to share my thoughts; hence, if you have any insight into this discussion you're invited to share it here <3.)
So, I think this food blog-project was a huge success for us! Thank you to every person reading this for being on this journey with out group. Goodbye, I wish you a good day/night, filled with pizza of all kinds to the very brims, wherever you are, haha <3.
~ Alex.
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cursedauxiliary · 6 months
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Prob the best night of sleep I've gotten
The start is fuzzy, but I do recall going to a restuarant with friends and arguing with some older women that were sitting at this table bc we got here first, she can take the extra chairs but we ain't giving the whole spot. There was some type of fashion/drag show but also a competition so I ran around for the supplies to fit the theme on the 2nd run I just decided not to go back bc I ran way to far. This restuarant was connected to a series of halls n rooms, exhibits and even a mall. My final outfit was a plaid pirate, white blouse with black corset burgundy plaid skirt with a longer plaid open skirt tucked over. There was talk of spirits roaming the halls, and i opened a door and fell into a pool, it was a big open air greek like temple surrounded by pools. There were few ppl there most notably sanji, I was walking around solving puzzles to open new areas, supposedly if you dunk ur head in the water and chanted you would summon some water spirits/get sent to their realm for a bit. One person spawned in saying Chupa, they had choppers hat. Super fucking annoying screaming little kid trying to distract me from finishing a language puzzle (had to be able to translate what position the family members in the lineages are). Eventually I walked deeper into the temple and ended up on the top floor of this fancy masonry mansion building, it was all roofed balcony that was storage of tables chairs n other decor, there were 2 ppl grabbing stuff and bringing it down an elevator for a party. I hitched a ride in the elevator and took it to the basement. Since I was wearing dress pants and shirt now I blended it p welll with everyone (I was all black, they had a white button up) the basement was the prep room for food, drinks, etc also some lost n found storage. I stayed in the corner next to the elevator checking out those few kitchens picking at the food and then pretended to inspect the expiration dates on the storage/lost n found I was assisted by another and we cleaned out this pile of jackets which had a few white plushies. One was a plush poodle that was constantly whining, now that it wasnt muffled by the jackets everyone could hear it. We tried looking for an off switch or to take out the batteries but once I grabbed it, it stopped whining and celebratory barked essentially recognizing me. The man who owned the house and was hosting the party rounded the corner rapidly, I dropped the dog and ran into the elevator to go back up. Security got called and the elevator kept opening every floor. 1f was a dirt lot surrounded by favelas. Cars were pulling in, I spammed the closed door. 2f open back side of a delivery site with the ramps, military vehicles pulled in and multiple clambered out to reach the elevator, door close was spammed. 3f I dont remember I think it was the party so they couldnt disrupt much, 4f back to supply and tried making my way out to the temple area again but I woke up
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aureliapearl01 · 9 months
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www.hotelaureliapearl.com HOTEL AURELIA PEARL
Let's make your event unforgettable.
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tacoshopus · 11 months
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Tips To Choose The Best Tex-Mex Restaurants In Southlake
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Are you a fan of Tex-Mexican cuisine and looking for the best restaurants in Southlake? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But don’t worry; here are some tips to help you select the best Tex-Mex Southlake restaurant for your taste buds. 
How to select the best Mexican restuarants? 
1. Look for Authenticity 
When searching for a Mexican restaurant, make sure to check for authenticity. A genuine restaurant will offer dishes that are true to their roots, such as tortillas, tacos, and fajitas. You can look for restaurants that use traditional ingredients and spices like cumin, chilli powder, and cilantro. An authentic Tex-Mex restaurant like Taco Shop will give you a true taste of the Southwest. They have unique options for Breakfast; Taco plates are their best seller. Their breakfast tacos are on homemade flour tortillas. Homemade tortillas are usually softer and more flavorful than store-bought ones and are a staple of Mexican cuisine. 
2. Read reviews 
Reviews are a great way to understand what a Tex-Mex restaurant is all about. Look for reviews online or on social media platforms like Google or Facebook. These reviews will give you insight into the restaurant’s quality of food, service, and ambience. You can also check ratings and comments from previous customers to understand the restaurant’s popularity. 
3. Check for Menu variety
Another vital factor to consider when choosing a Tex-Mex restaurant is the variety of its menu. A good Tex-Mex restaurant in Southlake, like TACO SHOP, will offer a range of dishes to cater to different tastes and preferences. This shop has Tacos, Chips with homemade Queso, Chips and Elote, Quesadillas, Burrito, Aqua Fersas and much more. 
4. Look for fresh ingredients
Freshness is crucial when it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine. Look for restaurants that use fresh ingredients like avocados, tomatoes, and peppers. This will ensure that your food is flavorful and healthy. You can also look for restaurants that make their Salsa, guacamole, and sauces from scratch. This way, you can ensure your food is free from preservatives and additives. 
5. Consider the Ambiance 
The ambience of a tex-mex restaurant can significantly affect your dining experience. Look for restaurants that have a lively and vibrant atmosphere. They should have colorful decor, upbeat music, and friendly staff. The restaurant should also be clean and well-maintained. The ambience should make you feel like you are in the heart of Texas. 
6. Check for Pricing 
Pricing is an essential factor to consider when choosing a Mexican restaurant. You want to make sure that you get good value for your money. Look for restaurants that offer reasonable pricing for their dishes. Additionally, they should have daily specials and happy hour deals. This way, you can enjoy your Mexican meal without breaking the bank. 
7. Location Matters 
The location can also affect your decision. Look for restaurants that are conveniently located and easily accessible. They should have ample parking space and be located in a safe neighborhood. You can also look for restaurants that have outdoor seating so that you can enjoy your meal in the fresh air. 
Bottom Line 
In conclusion, choosing the best Texas and Mexican restaurant requires careful consideration of various factors. If you’re looking for the best Tex-Mex restaurant in Southlake, Taco Shop should be at the top of your list. They have everything you need to satisfy your craving for authentic Mexican cuisine. You won’t be disappointed, from their homemade flour tortillas to their fresh ingredients and lively ambiance.So, what are you waiting for? Headover to Taco Shop today and indulge in the finest cuisine that Southlake has to offer. 
Source URL: https://bit.ly/3IMspG9
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magistralucis · 4 years
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18 for soft gop bromance, please! The usual (^_^;) Thank you, love you!!
18: Drinks on the patio/deck of your fave place // Gopnik AU Bromance (Soft ver.)
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Louis was at his happiest in the evenings.
After sunset was when he worked at the restaurant. It was the last artifact of their previous life, now made safe through his efforts: he loved to cook, oversee the kitchen, weave gently through the conversations of the night. He had never felt more alive as when he was there, meeting and helping people. The restaurant healed him from the years he'd spent neglecting the goodness of human beings, and afterwards, healed his lover too. On summer evenings, when Mike was on break from university, they would step out the back and share drinks together. The nights were warm, and now and then a cat would come along, nudging insistently against his hand. Life was good.
Tonight, however, was special. Tonight they were awaiting not only customers, but precious guests. A table was prepared for them in the part of the patio usually sectioned off for reservations. The guests were coming straight from their travels, so presumably, they'd want to be - no, it was the polite thing to serve them right away. It was for that reason Mike and Louis were kept busy from early afternoon; Louis sank into a chair, and took a deep breath, as the hour of their arrival drew near.
It had been years since they'd last met.
Louis was elated this reunion was happening at last, though he was mildly nervous as to whether Vincent and Sebastian would be like he remembered. Whatever he felt, though, he knew Mike would be feeling in spades. Amidst table settings and special menus he refused to forget his lover, and the moment he caught sight of him, he called out: "A drink for you, Misha?"
Mike turned around. “A... pardon?”
He was dressed casually but handsomely, befitting his reputation as the best-looking man in Krasnodar (when he was around - as well as in Kaliningrad, of course, when he was around). Louis was enamoured. “Shall we have a drink before they get here? Just the two of us.”
Then, more softly: “It’s all right. You know no one can see us here.”
No one else was to be seated in this area that night. Only the two loving couples, if all went as intended. Mike smiled. His expression was still uncertain, but he took Louis’s offer and sat down opposite him. Two beers, chosen for their chill more than the flavour. They were silent for a while, sipping from tall glasses, ice clinking against the sides. Louis watched the foam subside in his glass for a moment before he spoke up again. “How are you feeling?”
Mike laughed slightly. “Nervous.”
He wouldn’t even have admitted to that, once upon a time. Louis was surprisingly relieved. In their old city, Mike had grown to see Sebastian and Vincent in a near paternal light, and he still felt that way most of the time: he was struggling with the impulse to seek their approval, to really show them he had improved as a human being. “Is that weird, Lyova?”
“Not at all. It’d be more unsettling if you weren’t nervous.” Louis shook his head. Condensation dripped down his hand and the summer breeze soon dried it away. “I feel the same, too. It’s the anticipation that kills, doesn’t it?”
“Indeed.” Then much to Louis’s surprise, Mike suddenly began speaking of the past. “I’ve been waiting for this moment since we settled in Krasnodar. Even when I didn’t know if I’d ever see you again, when all I had were my staff and my pigeons trailing behind me... I was always thinking of how I could thank them for all they’ve done. For being there for us before we left. We must have put them through so much, when we disappeared...”
He faltered, paused, then resumed again. His cool fingers laced between Louis’s own. “I feel I haven’t even paid back a hundredth of what they did for me. Letters and gifts only go so far from this distance. It feels as if I’ve been waiting for about fifty years to see them again - and now they actually are nearby, and I actually know how to show my gratitude - I’m, I’m so tense. I’m so excited I can hardly breathe. But I’m also equally worried I’m messing this up somehow.”
“Believe me, you’re doing incredible.” Louis was amazed: Mike very seldom talked about their past unless prompted, and even then, it was mostly in apologetic terms. This was the first time Louis had heard him actually analyze his feelings across a timeline, and admit to something that wasn’t guilt for once. “If you messed up at any point, which you didn’t, I did also. I mean, look at me: it’s not just you who’s got the tremors.”
He pointed below the table, where unnoticed by Mike, he’d been bouncing his leg restlessly throughout the entire conversation. A wry little smile returned to his lover’s face. “Besides, it’s not just the plan (whispered with a wink) that expresses our thanks. I think they’d be extremely proud of you if they heard what you said.”
“Do you think so?”
“Mm.” Louis clinked his glass against Mike’s own. It was already dark. Across the surface of their glasses darted pinprick reds and greens of the traffic across the road. “They helped give you back a life of excitement and you took it. Imagine returning to your garden after a long absence, and finding that a sprout you’d left behind had grown into a tree and was flowering.”
A quiet light entered Mike’s eyes. He did not comment more upon this, nor did he obviously take this as a sign of approval, but he didn’t need to. That look told Louis everything there was to know. A creak sounded several steps away. Someone was walking across the patio. Louis and Mike stood up in a hurry, just in time to see the figures of two men led by a cheerful young waiter. They turned the corner, entered the section - saw - and stopped.
One had vivid silver hair, star-bright beneath the restaurant’s lamps. The years had been kind to him; his brown eyes softened in laughter as soon as he saw the couple, and it was ever so familiar, the warmth in his expression. Beside him stood dark-haired Sebastian, his face exactly as piercing and pale as it had been when Mike had first met him. His first reaction was much like Mike’s own, disbelief followed by relentless joy - so relieved, and so overwhelming, that he literally didn’t know what to do with himself as they rushed to meet in the middle.
Louis felt his heart swell with warmth. That was pride, all right.
“Welcome, my friends!” He cried, laughing as Sebastian and Vincent nigh tackled the two of them into an embrace. “So many summers, so many winters! - Oh, I’ve missed you both so much!”
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lightsoma · 4 years
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