❥▐ cupid's brew

ஐ ...Days go on forever, but I have not left your side...ஐ​

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ʑoey Ⓐmber Ӄline​

♣═━┈┈━═♣​

The grandfather clock in the living room sounded off, signaling it was six in the morning. Zoey stirred from her sleep, smiling when she opened her eyes. "Christmas," she breathed out, flinging the sheets off of her and rubbed her eyes. The house was unusually quiet, but she knew her dad was at work. His work didn't close on Christmas, but that was okay with her.

She stumbled out of bed, fuzzy quilt wrapped around. She shuffled into the living room where their humble Christmas tree stood and smiled as she saw the lights blinking. Something caught her attention, and she raised an eyebrow. There was a single package under the tree, wrapped with a purple ribbon. She picked it up, pulling out a little note that was attached to it and read it.

Merry Christmas, my little angel. I'm sorry I'm not here to celebrate it with you this morning, but I'll be there for your play. I promise. More presents are to come later, but I wanted you to have this first.​

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Love, ​

Silly Dad​

Zoey smiled, setting the note to the side before she opened the box. Inside was a beautiful dark blue eye-patch with a snowflake in the center of it. Around it was glittering stars. It was so lovely... And when she touched it, she could feel it was made of satin. "Oh wow... thanks Dad. Merry Christmas to you." She slipped it over her head and then ran to the bathroom to look in the mirror. She smiled as tears came to her eye. This would be her fancy lucky patch. Today was the best day to wear it too.

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Soon, Zoey was backstage with the other actors, actresses, and crew. She was all dressed up, ready to go. She smiled as she adjusted her little cap on her head, the thing that was hiding her long hair so she looked like a boy. She then saw her teacher, smiling at him. He had an
eye-patch too, which was super cool. She hadn't really talked to him, but now would be a good chance to.

She came up to him, smiling as she placed her hands behind her back. "Hi Mr. Henon!" She pulled out her handmade card that read MERRY CHRISTMAS! in big colorful letters, with the teacher drawn in chibi form, looking super serious as he drank tea while sitting in a fancy chair with a Santa hat on inside of it. She wrote a quick note, thanking him for being her teacher, and signed her name at the bottom of the it. "Merry Christmas," she said with a grin, looking up at him with her eye. The other one was covered with her fancy patch. She would put the ragged one on later, because her part didn't come up until much later after all.

Zoey then spun away, walking to her cue spot in the back of the stage. Her lines were memorized, and she had her cues down to a science. She could do this. She wasn't going to be forgetful this time.

Her attention was drawn to a girl, one of the actresses in the show. She was very pretty. Her name was Seraphina? If she remembered correctly. She waved a bit, smiling at the girl. "Hey Sera. You look great." She grinned, giving her a thumbs up. "Good luck today!" And then, in the back of her mind, she wondered if she was going to see Alex again... He was in the play after all. If not, she would try to find him at the party.

ஐ...We can chase the dark together; if you go, then so will I...ஐ​

 

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{OOC: This is a name banner to be used until after finals when I can create a proper banner, so alas. Will add status information for next post, still deciding. MICHAELA and ALBERT are filler names until I can discuss things with hyuge.}​

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...​

<< IGNITE REVOLUTION >>​

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Everything had gone so well, it was absolutely unbelievable to Torvald. The acting and the music, the hair and the decorations and the clothing. The setting was impeccable. A marvel of working-class ingenuity and spirit beheld by these bourgeois fools! It would bring sympathy to his eyes, if he could spare any for such people. Right now, everyone was getting ready. Makeup and mascara dust flew through the air, and the smell of perfume was rich. The backstage proletarians waltzed in and out of the panels, and Torvald towered over the younger peons, imposing in his tattered Prussian uniform, black-dyed wig, and pointed pickelhaube. ​

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<< FELLOW THESPIANS! PREPARE YOURSELVES FOR THE ULTIMATE STRUGGLE AGAINST THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE AUDIENCE! WE WILL WIN THIS REVOLUTION, AND THIS WAR, I AM CERTAIN OF IT! TELL THE FOOLISH FEMALE WASTE OF UTOPIA BOURGEOIS PUPPET MICHAELA TO READY HERSELF, I HAVE NOT SEEN THE UNCONTROLLABLE WENCH HERE AT ALL. >>​

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Torvald cringed when he realized that he, as Albert, would have to wear these disgusting symbols of war and imperialism. But all was all, he was a good actor -- one of the best in the hearts of all humanity, truly -- so for him to delude himself into Albert just for a moment. It was all fine. His life, it was an infinite masquerade of delusions. And forever, forever, it would continue to be--​

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Bump.​

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Wh--what--​

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Torvald widened his eyes and looked down. ​

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Oh.​

It was the little girl with the eye patch. ​

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Torvald lowered his gaze. << EXCUSE ME, MY DEAR COMRADE. We are getting ready and it is much too busy in here-->> He cleared his throat. << YOU, YOUNG THESPIAN OF THE STARS! THOUGH YOU ARE SIMPLY THE EXTRA ROLE, REMEMBER, REMEMBER WELL THAT EVEN UPON YOUR SHOULDERS THE PLAY RESTS. WE ARE ALL EQUALS IN AN EGALITARIAN PRODUCTION! >> Torvald pointed his finger to the sky, but his face was deep in its serious frown. << NERVOUSNESS IS THE ENEMY. THE ENEMY MUST BE DESTROYED. REMEMBER THIS CREED AND TAKE IT WITH YOU IN YOUR PERSONAL REVOLUTION. >>​

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He felt a lump in his throat, and his eyes seemed to dim their flickering fires as he looked down at the girl.​

What was wrong with her eye? He suddenly felt his heart skip a beat. His fingers trembled. Was it a wound from the endless struggle against the oppression by the rich and the lucky, the ascribed? A sour melancholic taste lingered in his mouth. He had barely seen this young girl before, so it had come as a slow surprise to him. Did he know any optometrists? All injuries could be healed and repaired in the endless, glorious revolution.​

<< CEASE REVOLUTION >>​

 

(*) Dorm --> Auditorium (*) Mood: Content (*) Music (*) Outfit (*) OOC: (*)​

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Ah Christmas morning, a time spent usually with family. Alex's morning was different though. His relatives knew that he would be doing the play first before stopping by so aside from the messages saying that some of them would be going to see him, they didn't bother too much. Still he wonder which ones were going to see it since some of his relatives had a tendency to tease him over certain things.​

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~​

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Once he'd taken care of everything before hand, Alex made his way to the auditorium and got backstage. First thing he needed to take care of was getting ready for the show. Since he'd yet to look at the costumes he was glad that he'd gotten some assistance with everything. Now that getting prep was out of the way, he could only wait for the show to begin. ​

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While he waited, he took in a few deep breaths to aid in keeping him calm. Everything that he was feeling right now was perfectly normal, but that didn't mean that he could let in interfere with the performance.​

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ஐ ...Days go on forever, but I have not left your side...ஐ​

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ʑoey Ⓐmber Ӄline​

♣═━┈┈━═♣​

Zoey could feel the exciting energy building up all around her. Everyone was nervous, excited, or maybe all together calm. She was one of the ones that were content, not feeling a slight bit nervous at all. Nope, not her. She heard someone shouting off in the distance, but she just rolled her eyes a bit and took a look back at the script that was in her hand. Okay, she came in right after one of the songs. Good. And then after that, she would-

She suddenly stumbled off balance, having someone run into her as if she was a wall or something. "Wa-ah!" She caught herself, blinking at the prepetrator who ran into her. It was no other than the leading male. He looked... rather silly in his costume. She raised an eyebrow at him, and then suddenly-

<< EXCUSE ME, MY DEAR COMRADE. We are getting ready and it is much too busy in here-->> He cleared his throat. << YOU, YOUNG THESPIAN OF THE STARS! THOUGH YOU ARE SIMPLY THE EXTRA ROLE, REMEMBER, REMEMBER WELL THAT EVEN UPON YOUR SHOULDERS THE PLAY RESTS. WE ARE ALL EQUALS IN AN EGALITARIAN PRODUCTION! >>

"Uh..." She just stared at him, kind of dumbfounded. Was he already so much in his role? Sheesh. Give this guy a cookie, bravo. But she didn't say anything as she just blinked up at him. He continued on with his shouting.


<< NERVOUSNESS IS THE ENEMY. THE ENEMY MUST BE DESTROYED. REMEMBER THIS CREED AND TAKE IT WITH YOU IN YOUR PERSONAL REVOLUTION. >>

When the guy was finally finished, she wrinkled her lips in slight contempt. He was now staring at her, and she knew why. The eye-patch kind of stood out after all. But she wasn't going to let that bother her. Nope. Instead, she cleared her own throat and then stood up straight.

"YES FELLOW LEAD ACTOR! I AM BUT AN EXTRA, BUT I SHALL MAKE THEE SHINE BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN! NERVOUSNESS IS NOT MY ENEMY SIR, FOR I EAT IT WITH WHEAT BREAD, MILK, AND BUTTER." She kept a straight face, but a laugh was threatening to come out. Never in her life had she spoke back to someone like that. But this was so much fun. "I WISH FOR THE FATES TO BE IN YOUR FAVOR OH HIGH ONE, SO YOU MAY NOT FORGET YOUR LINES AND SPEAK LIKE KING JULIUS CAESAR OF OLD; POWERFUL, COMMANDING, DRAWING EVERYONE IN WITH THY BEAUTIFUL FLOWING LANGUAGE!" She coughed a bit, hiding a giggle behind her hands as she turned a bit from the guy. But she wasn't done. Oh no. He started it. "I AM ZOEY AMBER KLINE OF SIXTEEN YEARS! THE OH SO GHOST LIKE ONE WITH THE EYE-PATCH. YOU, SIR, ARE PROBABLY NO OTHER THAN TORVALD THE BOLD!" She then dropped her old style, deciding to slide into a modern world now. "NICE TO MEET YA!" she stuck out a hand to him, expecting him to take it.

ஐ...We can chase the dark together; if you go, then so will I...ஐ​

 

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{OOC: This is a name banner to be used until after finals when I can create a proper banner, so alas. Will add status information for next post, still deciding. MICHAELA and ALBERT are filler names until I can discuss things with hyuge.}​

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<< IGNITE REVOLUTION >>​

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As the eye-patched girl continued to blather on in her loud voice, Torvald stared and blinked. ​

What was she doing?​

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She had her chest puffed out in what seemed to be ... defiance? Acknowledgement? At the same time it seemed hard for her to keep away her laughter. Was she making a mockery of his speech? Imbecile. Torvald narrowed his eyes in bitter contempt for a brief moment. Why was she speaking like this? How dare it was she speak like this? Nobody could match his righteous speeches to explode the masses into a fury of rigor and true revolutionary passion!​

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And she, a stranger, called him Torvald instead of Tannhauser ... He held his teeth taut. ​

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So when she held out her tiny hand, he was tempted to slap it away like a dirty bag of blood money.​

Almost.​

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He stared directly at her eyes again, his own fiery blue flames challenging her gaze. This was the first time that someone had brought up the boisterous oratory abilities within their heart to challenge the endless struggles of being on the stage.​

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Torvald stared at her for a long while, his face changing from scathing hate to neutral befuddlement to confusion, and finally to a deep, resonating melancholy. One that sat upon his shoulders like a ghost, and one that seemed to have lingered with him for years, resurfacing as the hundreds of times it did before. ​

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<< CEASE REVOLUTION >>​

Torvald did not take her hand, but asked her a question, instead.

<< Kline, what is your reason for acting? >>

 

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ITS A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE!

Julius awoke from his slumber and to his utter surprise he actually awoke earlier than he had to. Oh joyous day it was as he skipped around the room and headed into the shower and got himself ready for the day...but right when he got out a feeling of depression hit as he realized that the thrill of rushing was gone and he really had nothing to push him in the morning. With a groan, Julius walked down ate breakfast and noticed a message on his answering machine. Julius hesitated to push the button and the moment he heard the message his eye twitched "Yeah...merry friggin christmas back to you" Julius said before walking out.​

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He drove on and once he got towards the auditorium he stretched and raised an eyebrow when he notice how busy it was "what the hell?....oh **** today is the play!" Julius said before facepalming and getting the last things needed. As he worked on the last few things, Julius noticed his favourite little student walk up to him and hand him a present. It touched him to see that he got a present and he thanked the girl happily as he received the gift before she returned back to what she was doing. "awwww this is why she is my favourite student" Julius said silently as he opened the present and immediately his eye twitched "....maybe I should find a new favourite student" Julius said as he pulled out the pirate hat. Julius was conflicted with this picture and questioned whether Noelle did this as a joke or genuinely thought this was a good gift. In the end he appreciated the fact that she got something for him and placed the hat on.​

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As he returned to his job the sound of a girl reached his ears and his eye instantly twitched once more as he heard the mistaken name. At this point he began to wonder if it was bug Julius day, but once he turned his attention to the girl he raised and eyebrow as he received the Christmas card and once he saw it his heart melted as he saw the cute card and the chibi version of himself. "Daaaaaaaaaawwww...new..favourite...student..." Julius said wiping a small tear from his eye. Of course he wasn't really serious about the favourite student part but it did touch his heart.

Once the theatre began to fill, Julius crossed his arms and glanced out at the seats and then back at everybody who was backstage "Alright kiddos, tis time to get your asses out there and show them what you've been practising" Julius said raising his fist and clenching it "I want you all to grab their attention, kidnap it, put it in a bag, tie the damn bag and whack it with a stick of pure entertainment and return it to the ower for a ransom of pure entertainment." Julius said before walking out onto the stage. "Yo whats up everybody, I know what your wondering...your wondering daaaaaaaaaang who is this amazing guy speaking to you? well I'm sorry but I will not be acting tonight, instead you will actually gain a far better show than you would ever imagine! You will witness a group of students preform the play know as the guy in the colouring book" Julius said before suddenly pausing and cupped his chin as he thought and then face-palmed and looked back at the crowd "No wait...it involves a girl......ah yes! its the Girl in the Watercolors" Julius said before using one hand to hold the tip of his pirate hat, twisted it to the side and used his other hand to point at the crowd "Now depending on your reaction I may just have yo kick all your butts...now enjoy" Julius said saying the last part happily before heading backstage once more.
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ஐ ...Days go on forever, but I have not left your side...ஐ​

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ʑoey Ⓐmber Ӄline​

♣═━┈┈━═♣​

It seemed like no one liked to shake hands anymore these days. She saw that Travold seemed kind of angry at her at first, like she overstepped some bounds. Her confidence kind of dissipated and she found herself retreating in herself now. She did something stupid, didn't she. Well, her social skills weren't all topped notch and whatnot. She pulled her hand back, sighing out a bit as she looked to the side with her good eye.

The question was brought up. Acting. Why was she doing it? She never really thought of it before. She was also taken off guard when he addressed her by her last name instead of her first name. She shrugged her shoulders, looking back at the strange guy. "Um... I guess for fun. To meet other people... To help others stand out more. I usually get the extras." She smiled a bit, adjusting her fancy eye-patch out of habit before she spoke again. "Sorry if I was weird. Um... Good luck with the play." She cleared her throat, taking a step back from him as she held the script in her hand. It was then she remembered why she kind of stayed on the side of the walls, never really interacting with anyone. She felt like she was different, really different. Like anything she would do would screw up a relationship, or she would make an enemy out of someone on accident. She felt her eyes stinging, feeling a bit hurt and snuffed out. Her fault for being silly, she guessed.

She heard the announcement from the teacher that the play was going to start and scooted further back towards the stage wall. She let out a small sigh, holding her script tightly to her. Her raggedy eye-patch was in her costume pocket, ready to use. She guessed she should put it on, but maybe she could wait just a bit longer...

ஐ...We can chase the dark together; if you go, then so will I...ஐ​

 

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{OOC: This is a name banner to be used until after finals when I can create a proper banner, so alas. Will add status information for next post, still deciding. MICHAELA and ALBERT are filler names until I can discuss things with hyuge.}​

As Zoey continued on about her reasons for acting, Torvald's sour expression froze like marble on his face. For fun. Meeting other people.
Helping others stand out more?
She enjoyed only the extras. To not be in the spotlight. Someone who wished to help others. He moved his gaze from her eye-patch to her single watery-blue eye, that seemed shaky with confusion and nervousness, but there was a strength behind her that seemed to resonate in her impalpable sense of security for being behind the scenes. The throngs of backstage workers moved around Torvald like faceless shadows, and he placed his hands together.

Professor Julius's surly voice rung through the rooms and the auditorium beyond it. Eyepatches were goddamn everywhere, huh? What masks could masks be from hiding the truth of oppression from eyes ...

Torvald looked away and walked passed Zoey, his expression in something that seemed like a characteristic frown of melancholy. His boots thumped the floor with a stringent determination. He slowly took out his complementary candy cane from the pocket of his first act uniform, the ones given to the main cast members, and hung it from the edge of Zoey's script.

<< Merry christmas. >>

He walked away without saying another word.

 

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⎛ DAY 5 ‖ 1/4 ⎠ ☁ ⎛ DATE ‖ DECEMBER 25TH ⎠ ☁ ⎛ LOCATION ‖ HOME ⎠​

⎛ MOOD ‖ CHEERFUL ⎠ ☁ ⎛ ❤!! ‖ %22 ⎠ ☁ ⎛ WEARING ⎠​

⎛ OOC ‖ HOUSE IS THREE STORIES, GUEST ROOMS ARE ON FLOOR TWO. ​

USE YOUR IMAGINATION FOR THE INTERIOR OF THE HOUSE. ​

I'LL TRY AND BOTHER TO FIND **** LATER. ⎠​

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❝Ｉ'ＬＬＫＥＥＰＡＬＬＹＯＵＲ​

ＳＥＣＲＥＴＳ．．．ＭＡＹＢＥ．❞​

When the play was successfully finished, the entirety of the cast and crew took the stage and everyone took a bow. After a few curtain calls, the group decided, hell, it was Christmas, why not have the party tonight and we can make it a sleepover! Sophie hoped Lucas was prepared for all these kids.

☁ ☁ ☁​

After the auditorium was cleared out, everyone packed up their respective things and followed Sophie in her car to her house, which wasn't a great distance from Fortissimo, but not a walk through the park, either. Her house was rather secluded and neighbors were a bit distant to come across.

After parking her car in its respective place, Lucas appeared next to her in all of his prim, proper, and butler-y goodness and began directing traffic for the others, while telling her to go in and quickly inspect everything before her guest entered. She smiled with satisfaction at the results of his hard work and made a mental note to reward him with something later.

Soon, all of the cast and crew ( and maybe then some ) were led through the foyer and into the spacious and open living room. Despite the outward appearance of it, Sophie's home was an odd mixture of modern and classic aspects, due to the designing of her uncle and mother. Pierce's mom wasn't the only one with . . . strange tastes.

❝Congratulations on a successful play, everyone.❞ Sophie began, ❝To celebrate, food, drinks, and other things for your pleasure have been prepared by myself and my friend Lucas,❞ she motioned to the dark haired young man who quietly stood in the corner and waved when he was called upon. ❝There's a pool out back, if any of you care to swim, and there is also alcohol, but mind your manners and be responsible, especially you underage folk.❞

She looked around and calculated who would be drunk soon enough and which ones were underage. Most of them were, but Sophie had drank a time or two, or three in her life, so she didn't mind it.

❝To abstain from regretful mistakes, everyone is allowed to stay the night, and anyone who has drank more than their share is definitely not driving home. Alright, go scatter to your heart's content. Food's in the kitchen, et cetera. Oh — in the restrooms upstairs you'll find a few boxes of condoms ( again, courtesy of Lucas ). If you intend to do anything, don't stain my house with your messes and keep it out of the public eye.❞

❝Bottom line, just don't destroy my house.❞

With that, she motioned everyone to go be fly and fancy free while she dragged Lucas off to the side and began talking about the plans for the rest of the night with him.

 

Christmas morning had been all right at best. Maria and her family weren't the closest. Holidays were usually tense. In previous years, Stephan's presence had been just what she needed to get through, but this year he hadn't even shown up. Stephan sent them all a text saying he wouldn't be able to make it. He hadn't even yelled at her about EAP! If he had been so Mae over it, then he had an odd way of showing it. The gifts were lavish and plenty. She didn't really care for them anymore. Her mind was too preoccupied to enjoy them. Maria had gone out the day before and bought some toys and a collar for EAP. She had also found something by chance that she wanted to give to Tucker, even though they still weren't really talking. It left a hollow feeling in her chest and she ached at night with longing. Sophie was hosting the after party. Hopefully they could finally talk then, maybe she could even give him his present.

Torvald had been annoying as usual before the musical started. He was insulting her per usual. She shrugged it off, mentally preparing herself. Noëlle wished her luck and she was honestly grateful. It meant a lot. Maria would have liked to hear it from Tucker, but no doubt he was tied up in the sound booth. Zachary and Elisa helped her with final touches on her outfits and makeup before curtain call. It was time. She thanked the both of them before taking her place. She managed to put all other thoughts out of mind, but occasionally chanced a glance up at the booth. Even with the blinding bright lights on her face, she could still see the outline of his form through the large window.

When the performance ended, she was glowing from a sense of triumph! They did an amazing job. It seemed to go off without a hitch. They couldn't ask for anything better.

They all cleaned up and changed out of their costumes before leaving the auditorium. She had the present for Tuckerstowed away safely inside her bag. She drove herself, slow and steady. The roads were getting pretty bed. Everyone seemed to arrive at Sophie's house in one condition. That was a plus.

Sophie began her greeting with a commanding aura. Maria scoffed when the brunette got to the part about condoms. How silly! Who would need something lite that?? She smiled, but approached Sophia anyway. "This looks great, Soph. You're doing an amazing. You did an incredible job."

She moved to the kitchen and made herself a drink, popping open a bottleof champagne and pouring a glass. Maria consumed the first glass in the kitchen, socializing with the others and chattering noisily about the performance. When she filled the second champagne flute, she excused herself and found her bag, slipping her fingers around the present and finding her way to an empty room--a drawing room or a parlor. Sophie seemed to be rather well endowed.

Maria had no clue if Tucker would find her. She never asked him too. She relaxed in one of the thick chairs. The neatly wrapped present rested delicately in her lap. She was tired from the musical, bit not too tired. Her red lips pressed down on the rim of the glass and she sipped down the gold and pink bubbly liquid. Anticipation built up inside her to the point where she thought she might explode. Maria felt jittery. He probably wouldn't come looking for her. Thinking that was the only thing she could do to stay calm, but then it left her feeling numb when she lingered on the thought for too long.

 

ooc: gomen had class and been out all day about to pass out so sorry for sorry can't post Elisa dying now ; ; but she is in the partay too being all cute and fashionista and taking pictures

Christmas has been great to him so far. He woke up to a package from his mother containing a watch (from Jack), a small cat stuffed toy (supposedly from one year old Simon) and a great, Christmas-y sweater (from his mother). With being woken up so early, he was able to have a long video call with them in the morning. He spoke to his mother privately for a while, which was nice. He told her everything and she pretty much said the same thing as Michelle, his therapist did, but it seemed to put him in a much better mood coming from her. He was also able to talk to Jack and Simon, the two new men in his mother's life, which was great - even though Simon didn't say much, for obvious reasons. They wished he was there with him but at the same time wished they were there for him but Tucker really didn't mind. He was just happy to get a Christmas greeting from his family so early in the morning.

After bidding goodbye (which took forever on its own), he cooked himself some French Toast then grabbed the presents he's prepared for people before heading out. He wore his mother's sweater under his thick winter coat. He stopped by Michelle's office first, greeting her a Merry Christmas and dropping of her present - which was a perfume bottle. Then, he made his way to the Animal Shelter where he spent most of his time. He gave Sean his present (which was a dog keychain so he could hold all his keys because he really needed that along with a shirt). He and his scruffy friend then tended to the animals all day giving them special treats and letting them play outside for a bit. It was all so much fun but it seemed to end too soon as Tucker rushed out of the shelter and to the school.

For the entire play, he was too busy in the sound booth but whenever he caught a cast or crew member he told them to break a leg - which was the theatre speak for good luck of course. He also quickly gave Julius his present, which was this fancy pen thing because Julius was a professor now. He dropped by with Erik as well, giving him his present. It was a bottle opener shaped as the beer glass and a pack of premium smokes. He tried to get to Maria before the show, but she seemed to busy and he had to get to work anyway. He looked over the controls one time too many and then the show began. Luckily, he didn't mess up on the mics - thank goodness! Plus, the play went so great! It was probably the best show - perfect for Opening Night!

He followed into Sophie's place, holding a cake he had bought earlier. It was kind of his Christmas present to everyone. He also held a paper bag, containing the present for Maria. Inside it were some things he bought for Eap but also some for Maria. He felt bad about not being able to talk to her lately - after all's that's happened. He felt like they were suddenly growing very distant... and Tucker just hated it when he could see a friendship slowly deteriorating.

Everyone was gathered in Sophie's home as she began to lay down the house rules which actually... weren't much. He laughed at her comment on the alcohol, thinking to himself if it would be wise to take some. He wasn't a drinker, but he would take wine or champagne on special occasions - and this was one of them! However, he was driving back home (probably some time early in the morning while it was still dark) and being even a little bit intoxicated would be a dumb move. Then again, Sophie did say they could sleep over - but as if he was fond at the idea of that.

He was suddenly brought out of his thoughts when Sophie began speaking again, mentioning the bathroom upstairs with the... with the... the... A shiver ran down his spine hearing the words coming out of Sophie's mouth. Why would there even be things for that?! He shut his eyes tightly as he shook his head a bit, trying to erase the thought. He gulped nervously as he held the cake steady, even though his body felt like it was shaking. He felt the panic inside him start to rise. No. This wasn't good! Just forget it. Just forget. Nothing was upstairs. Nope. Nothing. He blinked a couple times before he started noticing that people were moving about.

He pressed his lips together as he moved towards the kitchen, probably where he should place the cake down. He found his way over there, gliding through people who looked about for drinks then dropped the box on the counter. He set down the paper bag for Maria for a moment, and pulled the cover off. He tucked that under the box and left it there on the counter, putting out the little note on the side that read: " Merry Christmas! Great job everyone! Enjoy the cake. Devour to your hearts content. -Tucker "

He bent down to grab the brown paper bag again and then left the kitchen, entering a large room. He didn't really have any intention upon entering the room, not really knowing where he was - but then his chestnut eyes spotted a familiar blonde actress. A nervous smile ran across his lips as he tightly gripped the brown paper bag that he held. He walked over to the girl, stopping by her side as he greeted "H-hey Maria! Merry Christmas!"

He looked at her for a moment, holding her glass of champagne. He smiled at her, quite nervously still, not really knowing what to say next - even though he had spoken about it with Sean earlier. Sean advised him to just say what he felt like saying - whatever entered his mind. He literally just told him "Don't think." It was kind of an impossible feat for Tucker, but maybe he could try it?

He cleared his throat. "A-amazing job by the way. You were great! Absolutely perfect... uh, um, you know, as Michaela. So good. Um. Yeah." Wow. Okay, maybe this is why he did think before saying or doing anything. His right hand slowly rose up to awkwardly scratch the back of his neck, but that's when he remembered the bag that he held. "Oh! These are for you!" he said suddenly, his chestnut eyes growing wide. He held the bag (containing the presents: a can of supreme cat food, a new toy and a golden pendant to be attached on a collar all for Eap and three red roses tied together with a golden ribbon along with a cat keychain similar to Sean's dog one for Maria) out to her.

 

♫ Clothes ♫ Mood» Happy ♫ Music ♫ Date: 12/25/2015 ♫​

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Location » Sophie's house ♫ OOC: ♫​

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Seraphina walked into the house and smiled, not like her own, but it was charming. She walked into the room were Sophie was explaining rules and such. ​

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❝Congratulations on a successful play, everyone.❞ Sophie began, ❝To celebrate, food, drinks, and other things for your pleasure have been prepared by myself and my friend Lucas,❞ she motioned to the dark haired young man who quietly stood in the corner and waved when he was called upon. ❝There's a pool out back, if any of you care to swim, and there is also alcohol, but mind your manners and be responsible, especially you underage folk.❞​

​

Alcohol... interesting. She wondered how many of the people here would be drunk. She probably would have something herself, but she wasn't going to over do it. ​

​

❝To abstain from regretful mistakes, everyone is allowed to stay the night, and anyone who has drank more than their share is definitely not driving home. Alright, go scatter to your heart's content. Food's in the kitchen, et cetera. Oh — in the restrooms upstairs you'll find a few boxes of condoms ( again, courtesy of Lucas ). If you intend to do anything, don't stain my house with your messes and keep it out of the public eye.❞​

​

​

Would she stay the night? Hmmm maybe. It would be fun. Her eye twitched when Sophie started to talk about the Comdoms... Dear God. Sophie was a brave one to have all these people around her house... Seraphina wouldn't be able to do it. ​

Seraphina went into the kitchen and got herself a small glass of red wine, then sat in the parlor room. She looked at her, and was about to say something when... the same man she met in the cafe days before come up to Maria. Huh... it looks like Maria did have a boyfriend after all. That was slightly irritating. She drank it in silence as she watched him. She saw how nervous he was. He couldn't have been her boyfriend, he was way to nervous. And plus, she doubted Maria would go for someone like that. She fixed her hair and just watched the scene unfold. ​

​

​

She wondered if Aidan would be here tonight... it was possible. She hoped he would come. It would be a lot of fun. Maybe he would stay the night too..... Sera shook her head. Bah. "What good was it hoping and wishing for something to happen. If he came I will talk to him, if not I won't. And plus, their are many more boys to talk to... what was so special about him." She thought to herself... but she knew. ​

 

Awoken by the usual sound of his alarm, Dennis reluctantly awoke. He sat up in his bed and looked at the calendar. Christmas day. "Whoop de doo." He put something hardly festive on as he looked around the apartment. It was barely decorated at all. Just a lone christmas wreath hanging up on the door and a small christmas tree on an end table. He lazily walked over to his refrigerator and pulled out some milk and cookies, because hey that seemed like an appropriate breakfast. Despite his usually upbeat manner, Dennis wasn't too fond of the holiday season. I mean it was a time to get together with his family and celebrate all the joy they've had together over the year and prep for the new one coming up. However he was the only one in his apartment. He was always, the only one in his apartment. Sure his parents couldn't help it because they travelled the world for their jobs and his older brother, Jason, was studying abroad. But still it would be nice if they could all get together one day and actually just have fun together. "Oh well, no use dwelling on that old stuff. It's been like three years already so why am I still expecting anything different?" he mumbled to himself.

Despite not having anyone over that didn't exempt him from giving and receiving gifts to his family. He opened the three separate mailboxes he got yesterday. His mother still sent him socks...because according to her he was always in constant need of new socks. His dad ended up getting him a new jacket, but he didn't really need a new one anyway. When he opened up Jason's box he flipped out. His brother Jason got him a wooden replica of a sword from a series he loved. He sent generic thank you texts to his folks and a super ecstatic one to Jason. With all the festivities done he got on his bike, and just strolled around town until it was time for the true thing that he was looking forward to. Opening night.

-----------------------------

He was super excited all day. Seeing the crowd as packed as they were got into his nerves but he really just needed to do a few minor things here and there but still, being on and performing for this large an audience was a bit of a new thing for him. Despite his nerves and probably most everyones all those rehearsals ended up paying off big time. Everyone did fantastically, especially the two leads. He was so proud that he was able to be a part of this performance, even if it wasn't the largest role. Then even better yet they were having a christmas after party.

When they got to Sophie's house he was stunned by how large and...interestingly designed the place was. He really wouldn't know what to do with all this space if it was his house.Sophie then began explaining that there was all types of beverages and food in the kitchen, though he'd probably refrain from drinking any of the alcohol because he hadn't made any plans to start drinking in this lifetime. Then she said something that made his eyes widen a bit. Something about a box of...things in the restroom. While he was positive he had no need for them he'd be lying if he said he wasn't curious as to who would be using them. Relationships were always hot topics after all. 'So basically the only rules here are don't break anything and try to be subtle if you plan on doing anything,' he thought to himself. Dennis was pretty sure he could avoid breaking either of those rules. When everyone did their own thing he started to hear his stomach growl at him. Food was on the brain so food was where he going. He made a beeline for the kitchen and noticed a ravishing looking cake. His mouth watered and his eyes were locked on it until he noticed a note next to it. Man he was going to have to send a thank you note to Tucker later on. He got out a plate and cut off a slice of the cake, which he inhaled. Probably one of the best cakes he's had in awhile. He got himself a soda and started guzzling that down while contemplating whether or not he should go for a swim and/or eat more cake. In the end, he walked outside to the back yard and sat himself down by the edge of the pool thinking on how this christmas had been so much better than ones in the past few years.

 

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✧ location: duvont home // bennett home ✧ mood: jolly ✧ theme: tea? ✧​

✧ affection: -- ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ✧ ​

✧ ooc: merry christmas! <3 ✧​

Richie awoke with a toothy grin as he inhaled deeply. The alluring scent of sugar cookies lingered in the air. He literally sprung out of bed, landing on his Christmas-themed, sock-covered feet. He checked his phone, whose background was also Christmas related. He truly felt like a giddy child as he threw on a pair of comfy pajama pants, a sweatshirt, and some slippers. The boy peered into the mirror, and found the condition of his hair to be most unsavory. He brushed and teased it to perfection, then sprinted down the stairs into the adorned living room.

He greeted his family, all of which were already downstairs. Ryder didn't pay much attention to him, or look very jolly. This was to be expected though, considering the type of person his identical twin was. His mother and Ariella, on the other hand, replied with a warm 'merry christmas!' and inviting smiles. Together, the family unwrapped all their presents. Though Richie found out Santa Clause didn't exist many years ago, the magic of Christmas never wore off to him. From Ryder the blonde-haired boy got a simple pair of socks. He giggled ( because he already predicted that Ryder would give him something like that ) and gave his brother a hug, even despite his twin's attempt to sneak away. Mama Duvont got him some cute sweaters ( the owl, cat, and deer ones ), while his sister gave him a few Agatha Christie books ( btw, her books are primarily murder mysteries ). Richie felt extremely grateful to have such a caring and generous family. They shared cookies, milk, and laughs soon afterwards.

​

Richie was surprised at how voluminous Sophie's home was. The boy listened closely to her announcement; what he gathered was essentially pool, condoms, and alcohol. Now this would be a fun party, most certainly. Fortunately, he came prepared with a bathing suit, since he'd hear around that she had a pool. Some people began to disband, so Richie headed out back to the pool. He was greeted by a truly bone-chilling scene ( in the sense it was freezing lol ), and he decided the pool wasn't such a good idea. There was just one person out back with brown hair, sitting by the edge of the pool. He seemed familiar, but Richie couldn't put a name to the face. They have most certainly never spoken before, but how did he seem so familiar? Where had Richie seen him...?

Oh, of course... rehearsals! He was one of the extras, if memory served correctly. Since it was just the two of them, Richie felt a little awkward, so he headed back inside. He wasn't in the mood to meet someone new, he'd rather hang out with someone he knew already. Perhaps Elisa or Zach, or even Noëlle. His phone vibrated in his pocket; he sighed and looked at who texted him... Ryder? What was he doing texting him...?

​

Text from Ryder:​

Ur at that party rite?​

Mom's tweakin' bout drugs/alcohol/girl.​

Told her to relax.​

Ya' know, drive fast take chances.​

​

Um... okay? Richie was slightly confused over why his twin would text him over something so obvious, but it didn't matter anyway. He replied with a simple 'yeah i am... okay thanks' and slid the phone back into his pocket. He reentered the foyer, to see that virtually no one had left yet. Perfect... the boy attempted to scout anyone he could talk with.

 

As much as he wanted to spend time with his sister, he knew that his family only lived an hour and thirty minutes away, so it'd be no problem to make there the next day. The presents were given and the little one was sleeping halfway through the play. He put her in the car himself and watched as their mother drove away. That was enough to satisfy him until tomorrow. The play was a major success, despite being on Christmas day, they seemed to be sold out! It was an amazing feeling to know that a auditorium full of people had payed to see something you and a few classmates had worked hard to put together. It made him feel like celebrating, and partying at Sophie's seemed to be the perfect way to show it. He couldn't make heads or tails of the girl, but listening to her and seeing her house, he still gleaned nothing of who or what she was as a person. Uppity rich girl? Or cool party animal? He scratched the side of his blond curls as he stared at her. Who cares, she was super pretty, and she had a banging place to party in.

He tried to take a head count, and see who had come and who hadn't. He kept his eye out for his many likes and suddenly found it stuck on one. He had much fun with his fellow blond that he decided it was going to be a blast having fun with him here. Without further ado, with a drink in his hand, Zachary approached young Richie with a question. "Come here often?" His mouth shut immediately and the berating began.

'Oh my God you must be drunk. But you haven't drunken anything. Well, not much of anything. Well maybe a few sips of whatever this is. I can't pronounce it, but it tastes great. Are you saying all this out loud? Nah, he would be saying something. But can you believe that you just said that! It's so corny. Stop being corny! Be smooth, like LL Cool Jay. Who hasn't been cool since the nineties! Just shut up!'

He cleared his throat and smiled at Richie, a little wobbly on his feet, he straightened up and stared at the him dreamily. He was so cute. Like a little cute man. If he was a super hero that's what his name would be Richie the Cute Man. Sending out little beams of hearts that would make all villains stop in the name of Cute. Or would he be Cute Boy, since hew as a minor...jeez, he would have to give this more thought. If only he could draw.

 

​

✧ location: bennett home ✧ mood: jolly ✧ theme: tea? ✧​

✧ affection: zach ❤ ❤ ❤ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ✧ ​

✧ ooc: merry christmas! <3 ✧​

"Come here often?"

The familiar voice made Richie giggle as Zach appeared in front of him. He smiled cheerfully and gave a playful reply, "Actually... no, this is my first time... h-how about you...?" His false timidness surely would make him much cuter, as he'd heard come out of his friend's mouth on many occasions during rehearsal. Was Zach into him? Was he even gay / bi in the first place? The boy was tempted to ask, but then it'd ruin their little "roleplaying" session.

Richie continued his role eagerly. He nervously played with his hands, chewed his lip slightly, and darted his eyes away whenever Zach looked into them. There was silence between the two, so Richie felt compelled to revive their conversation that had digressed into cute actions. "S-so... anything n-new Zach? H-how have you been...?" Keeping up the quiver in his voice was a challenge, certainly, but the green-eyed boy enjoyed it nonetheless.

As he waited anxiously for Zach's answer, Richie took advantage of this to survey his host's home. It was quite... unique, compared to many others he'd seen. In fact, he hadn't seen anything like this. The interior design and decor was the odd combination, indeed. It looked like it was designed by two people with entirely different tastes; it seemed as if the two designs were clashing, but somehow muddled together into something that looked half-decent. Richie would have to compliment Sophie's home next time he saw her, and inquire about who did the designing / decorating. But for now, the boy turned his attention back to Zach, still awaiting his answer.

Damn, he looked especially good today.

 

[/url]

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​

There was some soft Christmas music playing--from where? Maria did not know.--and the constant hum of chatter in the background. Everyone was so lively. She pulled her phone out to check the time. Perhaps it would be best to just rejoin the party. The odds of him coming to look for her were slim to none. Tucker was a bit of a social butterfly. Everyone liked him. There was no doubt he would be preoccupied with socializing. It had been hard enough for her to slip away and he was better liked than she.

The soft padding of footsteps echoed down the hall and she looked up in time to see that stupid Broadway brunette walk in. Maria rolled her eyes. She wanted to be in here alone, but of course some stupid child would mess that up. They were inconsiderate. She began to stand, wanting to leave. Tucker would clearly not find her here, if he was even looking. As much as Maria didn't want to listen to it, a good chunk of her was screaming about how she was wasting her time.

She had just gotten to her feet when the familiar cherry-haired red head popped into the doorway. It felt like the wind had been knocked out of her and she dropped back down into the chair, almost spilling her champagne. Her throat was suddenly very dry and she had to take a large sip in order to rid the horrible case of cotton mouth she was currently undergoing.

Tucker approached her and her breath caught in her throat. He was tightly gripping some brown paper bag, but her blue eyes were too transfixed on his nervous smile to really pay much attention to it. She tried to swallow, but most of her motor functions seemed to have shut down. Maria hadn't actually seen him at the performance, just the top of his head on occasion in the dim light coming from the sound booth. Here, standing in front of her, he looked wonderful. Her lips turned up slowly into a smile. Her icy blue eyes were a little darker, more colorful. Tucker stopped walking once he was standing by her side. ❝ H-hey Maria! Merry Christmas! ❞ he greeted her.

She had to crane her neck up to look at him properly. ❝ Hey, yeah, Merry Christmas. ❞ she replied. Her voice was a little shaky. No one had ever really made her feel so nervous. For a moment, she completely forgot about the other girl in the room. That insolent child was nothing but a nuisance. There was a few moments of awkwardness after that. He kept smiling at her and she felt like she should say something, but words wouldn't come. What she really wanted, was to leap to her feet and throw herself into his arms, but she restrained. She wanted to feel the warmth of his body pressed firmly against hers for a second time. The touch of his hand on her cheek and his fingers wound in her hair had managed to imprint itself on her, but imagination was never as good as the real thing.

He cleared his throat. ❝ A-amazing job by the way. You were great! Absolutely perfect... uh, um, you know, as Michaela. So good. Um. Yeah. ❞ He was talking now. What did he say?

She blinked twice before the words began to solidify in her head. The musical! Right. He was complimenting her. Maria opened her mouth to thank him, but all that came out was her shallow breathing. Immediately, she snapped it shut and just nodded to him instead.

❝ Oh! These are for you! ❞ he said suddenly, his chestnut eyes growing wide. Maria's hands were trembling as she took the bag, having to set down the glass of champagne. The beg rested gingerly in her lap and she reached in, pulling out each of the objects one by one--a can of supreme cat food, a new toy and a golden pendant to be attached on a collar all for Eap, and three red roses tied together with a golden ribbon along with a cat key chain.

Her blue eyes widened and she looked up at him in surprise. She hadn't been expecting a present at all. ❝ Oh, wow--Tucker these are wonderful! ❞ Maria put the kitty stuffs back into the bag but held onto the roses and key chain. ❝ I actually just got EAP a collar for Christmas. He'll look great with this on it. ❞ Her eyes sparkled in the light and her cheeks were beginning to hurt from smiling. He was incredible, always incredible. She reached for her clutch and hooked the key chain onto the strap. ❝ I'll put my keys on this later. The flowers are beautiful. I really wasn't expecting anything from you. ❞ She rose to her feet, setting the bag and her small box for him down on the table. Maria wrapped her arms around him in a friendly embrace, not trying to startle him. She still didn't know how he felt and if she pushed it would only end badly.

When Maria pulled away, she refrained from looking up at him. Her cheeks were blazing and she quickly turned back to the presents. Blue eyes locked onto the brunette in the room watching them and she suddenly felt disgusted. What a creep! She scooped up the items, downed the last of the champagne in her glass, and turned to face Tucker. ❝ I actually have something for you too, but I was wondering if we could go somewhere more private. We... We still need to talk... ❞ She had been dreading the talk. For almost a week she had been preparing herself for rejection and even now the idea still stung.

Maria grabbed him by the wrist with her free hand and dragged him out of the room without waiting for a reply. She wanted some place private where no one would disturb them. She couldn't handle the thought of being interrupted. Everything needed to be said now, not stopped to be picked up later. Most of the places of the first floor wouldn't be secluded enough and as much as she didn't want to send him the wrong idea--but was totally open to the possibility--one of the bedrooms would probably be best. She pulled him along until they reached the second floor. Her hand released his wrist as she knocked on a closed door. There was no sound, so she deemed it safe to open and slipped inside, pulling him after her.

Once in the room, Maria shut and locked the door before turning on the light. It was a quaint small guestroom. She set the paper bag down, but lifted the roses to her nose and inhaled their sweet perfume. It helped calm her breathing which was now slightly askew from running around in heels through a large house. ❝ Um.. Sorry, ❞ she mumbled into the flowers. ❝ I uh--I just really wanted us to be able to talk, without distractions. ❞ She smiled up at him timidly over the red petals and carried the small decoratively wrapped box to the bed and sat down. Maria slid it away from her to the openness of the bed. ❝ Here. This is for you. I thought it would look nice with that shark sweater you wore. ❞ She bit down on her bottom lip and chewed anxiously. ❝ I thought maybe we... ❞ She didn't look at him. This was the first time they had been alone together since Sunday. Every once of her being screamed to move closer, but she refrained--for now. It would depend on how things went.

✜ Wearing ✔ ❖ Music ❖ Date: 12/25/2015 ❖ Day: 5 & 2/4 ✜​

✜ Mood: Nervous ❖ Interaction: Tucker ❖ Location: Parlor//Guest Room ✜ ​

✜ ❤: Tucker ❖ Activity: Talking. . . ❖ OOC: ✘ ✜​

​

 

​

✿ OUTFIT| MUSIC | OOC |MOOD ↝ FESTIVE✿​

✖ LOCATION ↝ SOPHIE'S HOME ✖​

Perfect! Just the two people she hoped to bump into. The two blondes were conversing. She raised the camera up to her face, snapping a shot of her best friend and her new friend, Zach. They both looked especially dashing that night - which was always nice to see and preserve in photographs. Her camera made a little click noise as she pressed down at the button, meaning she had taken the photo (no flash, of couse). She slung the strap of her camera over her shoulder, letting it hang by her side as she let her hands hold two wrapped presents.

She skipped over to them, her black boots making small thuds on the ground as the skirt of her white dress danced with her ever skip. She wore one of her favourite dresses today, her white one - that fitted her slim body so well. It was as if it was made for her body alone. It wrapped around her thin body snuggly, hugging her curves. It was sweet and girly, with studs and crystals on the edges of its collar. Of course, she wore her favourite pair of combat boots to go with it and a cross ring.

"Hey Richie! Hey Zach!" she greeted with a wide grin, "Merry Christmas!!" she said happily as she held out each of their presents. She smaller one was held out to Zach while the larger one was held out for Richie. She bought them prior to coming to the play but was unable to give them because she was busy helping the actors with touch ups and getting dressed even during the production. She bought Richie a shirt with a cat on it, a book with all things about adorable DIY goodies and a small kitten toy she made for him. She got Zach a zombie keychain, having seen it over the counter and it reminded her of him immediately.

As they each took her presents she reached for her camera again and took shots of them opening it. The smile on her pleased face never disappeared. She lowered her camera once again, dropping it to her side carefully. "So how's about we all get a drink?"

 

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╔XxxXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxxXXXXXXxXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX╗​

WEARING ✔ ⧉ DATE▹ 12/25/2015 ⧉ DAY▹ 5 & 2/4 ⧉ MUSIC​

MOOD▹ ??? ⧉ LOCATION▹ BATHROOM ⧉ OOC▹ ✘​

ACTIVITY▹ GIRL TALK ⧉ INTERACTION▹ SOPHIE ⧉ ❤▹ 2/10​

╚XXXXXxxXXXXXXXXXXxxxXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX╝​

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Pierce had been practically bouncing off the walls since yesterday. She didn't want to interrupt Sophie on Christmas Eve and she had family plans which it made pretty difficult regardless. All day today she kept thinking about how she needed to talk to the other girl. It was getting unbearable, especially while sitting in the box office with Oliver during the musical. They were so close together in the stuffy little room that she thought she might literally lose her mind. Pierce had no idea how to interpret the events that transpired yesterday, or even the fact that it did happen. Maybe she was over thinking things? That was usually the case. That's why she needed Sophie!

​

The party was her first real opportunity to talk to her friend. She wanted a drink to help herself calm down, but didn't want to do so with everyone around. Her mother didn't even know! It was something she only did in the confines of her bedroom where no one could know. She was a good girl. Good girls didn't do things like that. Where was Sophie?! Pierce was wading through party attendant after party attendant. The sparkly silver dress her mother picked out for her seemed to cast little circles of light on the walls wherever she went. It definitely wasn't something she would have chose for herself, but her mother insisted that she looked great in it and should definitely wear it to the after party. Pierce hadn't even wanted to come! If anyone else was hosting it, she probably wouldn't have, but if she didn't show up to Sophie's party she never would have heard the end of it.

​

​

There!--in the foyer standing next to Lucas, Sophie. She hurried across the tile floor in her flats until she reached her. Pierce clutched onto Sophie's arm and gave Lucas an apologetic glance. ❝ S-sorry, Lucas, b-but I really need to steal S-Sophie. ❞ She swallowed nervously. Lucas seemed kind. She had met him--twice?--before. He gave her a nod and a grin before disappearing down one of the halls. Pierce didn't let go of Sophie's arm, but let her hands slide to the other girl's wrist and dragged her to the nearest bathroom. It was very sleek and modern. She locked the door behind them and slumped down to the floor, the skirt of her dress rising up her thigh as she did so.​

​

Pierce leaned her back against the cabinet and motioned for Sophie to join her. ❝ I have been waiting to talk to you all day! ❞ She bit her peachy lip and stared at the other girl with her chocolate brown eyes. Pierce needed answers. ❝ I... I need your opinion. ❞ She was nervous, but if she didn't just get it out now, then there was no hope. ❝ I don't have boy experience. Oliver--Oliver invited me to go ice skating with him yesterday! ❞ she squeaked, ❝ And I went. Was it a date? I mean... It was really awkward in the beginning, but by the end I was having a lot of fun. I even mostly stopped stuttering and stammering whichisnearlyimpossibleevenwithyoumostofthetime-- ❞ she sucked in a large breath of air, ❝ I don't know what to think! ❞​

​

She was picking at her broken nails nervously as she dove into the story of everything that happened yesterday--even the really embarrassing story about the peppermint hot chocolate she spilled. By the end of it, Pierce was beat red and her heart was hammering in her chest. She had been holding in her breath and exhaled it long and slowly. Sophie would probably make fun of her, or say ❛ I told you so. ❜ That girl loved to be right. Her hair fell in her face and she brushed it aside with trembling hands. She looked at her friend with wide chocolate eyes in search of answers. ❝ ... Well," she finally said after no reply from Sophie, ❝ What do you think? Was it a date? Do you... do you think he likes me? Or maybe he was just doing me a charity because he's an adult and I'm just a teenager. It doesn't seem likely that he would want anything to do with me... ❞ Pierce wasn't even sure if she liked Oliver. She hadn't really liked anyone since that whole incident with Adrian. She kind of found that Ethan guy that plays one of the extras to be kinda cool and sweet, but that was about the extent of it. But now--every time she had been alone with Oliver it made her feel strange and tingly.​

​

 

Aidan sat down with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc in his hand in a chair in what he presumed was the living room. His part in the play had gone over reasonably well. He only screwed one line up badly, but fortunately everyone else had managed to cover for him in that. He hoped it didn't kill it too much. Christmas had been a good time. He had woken up at 6:00am due to that damned alarm and had woken his parents, Delilah and James up about two hours later. A bit early perhaps, but he felt it was necessary. They all sat down to open up presents together. It was one of his favourite times. It was just him, mum and dad there together doing something. Notable presents included a few upgrades for old faithful, his PC. A better graphics card, new motherboard and another 8gb of RAM was pretty good. On top of that, he had recieved a few new books, much to his delight. Most notably was a book called Revan, based on the Star Wars character of that name. Not that most knew about him, after all, not many knew about the Expanded Universe and he knew more about it than he should.

Now at the party, he didn't know what to do. He just sat in the room. He had seen people around, handing out presents here and there to friends, but he didn't recieve any and nor did he give, so overall he was not surprised and didn't expect anything from them. He'd be more surprised if he recieved anything. A warm welcome, maybe even a 'hello' and a civil conversation with someone would be a good enough present for him. God knows he didn't have enough conversations with people. He had listened somewhat attentively as the rules were explained. This was going to be his only glass, and the condoms would be totally unnecessary in his case, or at least he hoped so. He knew none of these people well enough to even warrant anything of the sort. He quickly turned his mind off the subject.

It was a real shame he didn't know many people here better. It would be nicer if he did. Maybe this was a time to get to know people? He sighed. There were people about, but most of them were in conversation and he didn't want to intrude. It seemed rude to do that. He remained sitting down, lamenting how alone he was. The only person that appeared to like him at all was Seraphina and it seemed that nobody liked her either. He was a little concerned about that girl. She was asking for his number, trying to hang out with him and he noticed a few odd looks from her before. It worried him. He wondered what she was thinking about him. Nothing more than a friend he hoped. That's all he saw her as.

He couldn't help but feel a bit depressed at the sight of everyone else. Laughing, smiling and being social. Enjoying being around one another and here he was, alone with his glass of white wine in a room seemingly alone, even though there were some people in the room. He just didn't have the will or courage to get up and say hello and get involved. He sighed again. Forever alone. That was him. All because he was too much of a damn coward to go up and say hi and try to be involved. That was going to be the death of him, or so he thought. He dearly wished that he possessed that skill. Maybe it could be learned? He hoped it could. At times like these, he didn't want to be alone when everyone else wasn't.