The Golden Boy

Benjamin Fischer | 26 | Paramedic

[zaranott]

The brunette kept her gaze focused on the path they were walking, though caught the appreciative smile in the corner of her eye, her own smile appearing to grace her features. Zara tended to be somewhat judgemental of people when she first met them but Ben had avoided it, she didn’t know if it was Harpers words ringing in the back of her mind, telling her that she didn’t have people because she was too judgy, or the fact that he’d managed to sway past her attempt at a bitchy remark the second they’d met, maybe it was the conversation that’d come from it, his accident. That showed inner strength and Zara liked strong willed people. Or maybe it was the interest he’d taken in her, she never really spoke to anyone about herself, people didn’t seem to care too much, Zara had managed to bitch out enough people that she’d probably gotten herself a bit of a reputation for it. She let out an amused breath as she turned to look at him as he spoke, a shoulder shrugging. “Not really my life story, people know that about me.” She shrugged. “It’s not a secret, it couldn’t be a secret. That’s just the way it is for us rich kids.” She spoke, not really sure if he’d understand properly what she was saying. She laughed softly as he spoke, saying he didn’t think he did, her hand reaching to tuck her hair behind her ear again as she looked over at him. “But no, I don’t generally go out of my way to tell people the life story.” She added to her answer, her tongue dampening her lower lip, truth be told Zara wasn’t really open with anyone. She liked being a closed book, maybe that’s where she was going wrong in life, she’d given Ben the smallest insight to her life and he hadn’t run a mile, hell if anything she kind of thought he might even respect her more for it. Knowing she wasn’t just some rich kid with a pole up her ass. She smiled at him again, properly, not a half-hearted one as they reached the entrance of the bar and grill. “Why did you?” She questioned, pausing momentarily. “- Take such interest?” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He shrugged, Ben could see how a short tid bit into someone’s past can’t really measure up to a life story, but found himself to have grown accustomed to saying it. He assumed the whole rich kids remark was a joke between those who lived such a life. But understood that with the wealth and status came gossip and probably upping each other for whatever reason. He smiled, amused at the fact that they didn’t usually do this kind of thing and yet, somehow they managed to open up this much to one another. He walked closer to the entrance as he let the question sink in. He reached out to open the door for her but took a moment. “I suppose I wanted to find out what was there behind the sarcasm and forced smiles.” He answered, thinking back to when they had first met before opening the door and motioning for her to go on ahead of him. Like what he thought  back then. He was taught to give people second chances and find out who they really were rather than assume you know and move on. Besides she was a real beauty and even Ben couldn’t ignore that was partially the reason he stayed interested after the first moment Jazmyn jumped on her and told him to invest in buying a leash. But he wasn’t the kind of guy to go asking people out and only talk to beautiful women. So it didn’t fuel some kind of underlying agenda either. A waiter led her and Ben over to a high table near the bar and a window, before quickly handing them menus and taking off to assist some other customers. 

[ohwowits-vanessa-blog]

Vanessa stood up and lifted Lily on her hands, she gave a small his on her head, “She is really cute! And you are right about what you said before, I really don’t think about them… in fact I didn’t had any relationship in a long time … but I’m starting to feel something for someone I know, "she said with a big smile on her face” and perhaps you even know him! or maybe not, “she laughed. She stood again together with Lily and put her back in her little bad. she sat next to Ben she looked at Ben and not could do nothing but smile. “That so awkward i don’t know what to say…”

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He smiled as she stood, lifting Lilly air in the air before holding her close. He raised his eyebrows as she mentioned a special someone. “Oh yeah? Well that’s good. Make any moves yet?” He asked, teasing her slightly as he leaned back, crossing his arms.

[ttfntessa-blog]

It still shocked Tess that one could live in Ashfield and be so close to some and so distant from others. Like Ben for instance. She couldn’t recall a time off the top of her head that she had seen him before and yet, she had lived in Ashfield longer than she could count on both hands. “Fifteen years or so… give or take — I’ve been here since I was like fourteen-ish?” A tiny laugh followed after, the girl making a face. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He was aware that he hadn’t been out and about the past two years he had lived here. If he had to, he would label himself a shut in, since it seemed like he never got out of the house long enough to meet people who lived here for much longer than he did. He raised his brows, surprised. “Fifteen years? Wow, that’s a lot longer than me.” Ben then caught on to how she lived her since she was a teen. “Oh, but you’re not from here, originally?” He asked, hoping he wasn’t prying too much. Just curious was all, although Ben would often be called nosy.

[ohwowits-vanessa-blog]

, I usually finishing mt relationships as nice as i can… even though I’m pretty jealous and most people simply will hate that…. but I still won’t give up! I never gave up on love,” she sighed … she was sad to hear that Ben’s   wedding canceled  "I’m so sorry to hear that … I think you’re amazing person, and maybe it was your destiny, just not marry her ,think on the bright side at least you’re still happy,“ she hugged Ben.Vanessa looked up at Ben, she smiled embarrassed smile and continued to hug him, "You are so warm and i’m so cold” she snuggled together with Ben. "I had a boyfriend before Tanner, he was an asshole! I started jealous because of him  and only because of him … he cheated on me with his friend… I was 17 and he was my first,i mean the first that i slept with him. We were together for almost two years since i was 15 years old to 17 years old and he probably was sick of me so he found himself another bitch to love “she looked at Ben wishing thats something will happend.

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

Ben nodded along as he agreed, it was probably always best for both sides, to end things on good terms, but that’s not always something exes find easy. He chuckled as she wrapped her arms around him, and let her hold as long as she wanted. “The other guy was stupid to cheat on you.” Ben mentioned with a shake of his head. He hated people who cheated on their respective partners. That is no way to treat someone you care about. “You’re a great girl, who probably deserves more than Tanner and that asshole.” He noticed her lingering stare and coughed, looking to Lilly’s crib. “Still quiet a mouse, isn’t she.”

[alexander-ford-blog]

Smirking softly, Alex chuckled under his breath when Ben went along with his date joke. “Hm, say eight? I need to straighten my hair.” He joked, shaking his head in amusement at the other male. “Probably for the best, I know for a fact I’m way over being off my head drunk, it’s not worth the hangover.” In all honesty, Alex had gotten the drunken induced behavior out of his system during his years studying to be a doctor, he didn’t indulge that heavily any more. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

Ben shook his head at the idea of this date thing going on forever, but pushing it aside considering this was all light-hearted fun. “Straighten your hair? I’d like to see how that works.” He grinned, thinking about an attempt to actually straighten such short hair, not to mention how it would look afterwards, on a grown man. He let a reminiscing ah escape his throat as he nodded at the memories. “The classic hangover. Yeah, thank god we don’t have to deal with those anymore. Although I did have a mean hangover cure.” He explained, grateful for the tolerance he had built over the years.

[zaranott]

Zara smiled back, it was nice, talking to someone that had a clean slate with her, that she’d managed to talk to for longer than five minutes without rolling her eyes or bickering with them. It was somewhat a refreshing change for her. She exhaled softly, shoving her thumbs into the front pockets of her shorts in order to avoid his personal space again, her thumbs lightly pulling at the denim fabric.”Well you shouldn’t, you’re important to the running of ER. Most people would probably love the chance to thank you.” She answered honestly as she let her gaze fall from him and back to the path they were walking down, the bar and grill in sight at the end of the block. “Well, maybe not quite as uncomplicated as I assumed, hm?” She spoke, glancing sideways to flash him another smile. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

Ben gave a sincere smile, subtly thanking her for the kind words. He assumed if he had thanked her again, it would defeat the purpose of it all. Not to mention bum out the conversation, when he was trying to make it more interesting and light-hearted in the first place. But he supposed he hadn’t been succeeding considering they had discussed his accident and life problems. He shook his head and snickered as she gave another teasing remark, followed by a flash of her pearly whites. “I guess not.” He muttered back with an amused grin. He lifted his gaze from the sidewalk for once, to notice their destination was only a few steps away. He furrowed his brow and thought up a question. “Do you do this often? Talk about your life story and go out with a person you met half an hour ago?” He asked, completely making up the time since he wasn’t aware of exactly how they have been talking. Ben found himself having trouble remembering if he had done this lately. “Cause I don’t think I have.” He didn’t mean any offense if she took it in a way of calling her weird or promiscuous. He was the one who offered to continue the conversation elsewhere. Quite honestly, he thought she would have said no considering how often her phone was going off. But he had to assume that was a regular thing since she specifically pointed that out. He offered a harmless smile, to let her know he didn’t mean anything by the question. He was just curious to know if he was the only one and to secretly see if she was enjoying herself. He hasn’t taken the time out of the two years he’s been here to make friends, sadly enough.

[alexander-ford-blog]

“Aren’t those the best kind of friends?” He chuckled lightly, reaching to scratch at his arm softly. “I mean, brandy can’t screw you over, well, it can but only if you indulge too much.” He spoke somewhat thoughtfully, smirking to himself, it’d been a long time since Alex had been drunk enough for brandy to cause him to make any sort of mistakes, and by mistakes that was literally just waking up next to someone that made him want to chew off his arm instead of waking them. “Dunno, is this a date? Are you asking me on a date?” He teased, shaking his head in amusement. “Na man, you’re good, I think I can run to my own liqueur.” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

Ben snickered at the mention of their friends screwing them over. But what’s to expect from two friends that made you regret everything choice you make under their supervision and influence. He scoffed when Alex brought up the mention of a date. “Yeah, I’m asking you on a date. When should I pick you up?” He asked, playing along. Before nodding, fine with paying with his and only his drink. “I can’t really remember the last time I really let the whiskey take over. Any liquor for that matter.” He partly muttered, thinking back to his younger days. The truth for Ben was that he never really got drunk, just buzzed enough that he could blind away his thoughts, go home, and sleep.

[ohlara]

 Audra’s comments did not hold any truth to them. Her dialogue was usually clouded with sarcasm and little sincerity until she was with her choice of alcohol. “Good, no pressure. Just her happiness.” She winked as a sign of her teasing manner. “So Benjamin, tell me about yourself. Who are you?” Although they had clicked instantly over dogs it had come to her that other than his name and his dog, he was a complete stranger. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He smiled as she continued to tease him before nodding. He raised his brow playfully as he asked back. “Who am I?” He chuckled, tilting his head to side for a moment to think how he should explain himself. “Well, I’m originally from New York. My parents both still work over there as a quantum mechanics professor and a nurse. I have two sisters who stayed behind as well. Gemma and Adalind.” He began, introducing his family first as he occasionally sent a look to Audra before continuing. “I’m a paramedic. I got into the job because of a car crash I was in when I was little. I got out fine, but not after thanking the EMT who helped me. Ever since then, I wanted to help people just as he helped me.” He explained, shrugging a little, not knowing how to go on. “I came to Ashfield for work and now it’s me and Jazmyn’s home.” He finished with a smile and look to Jaz, who had run ahead to get a drink from the spring. He turned to Audra with an expected smile. “Your turn, A.”

[ohwowits-vanessa-blog]

“No I don’t have a special man in my life, well i had someone, but I was then … and It was over.” She thought for a moment about her ex and what was at that time … she decided to tell Benjamin about her ex, “I met him when I was twenty two … his name was Tanner he was a nice person and he studied with me together in collages. I studied art and he studied medicine … We started dating after he told me he liked me and I was just arther a breakup I decided, I decided to take it as some kind of a fling. Yes I know it’s disgusting but I was after a breakup so don’t judge, "she giggled and continued to speak"The first date was awkward but he walked me home and just kissed me … We were togther for about a year and then he moved to different city, it’s over nice and we stayed friends, but at the moment i have no idea where he is …and what about you? You have interesting ex stories? ”

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He nodded along hearing about this Tanner guy. He offered a furrowed brow and smile. He wouldn’t ever judge Vanessa for anything, especially for having fun and exploring life. It was no secret that he’s had his flings and one night stands. Not too much to go on and on, but enough to know the temptation. “It’s awesome to hear you ended on good terms, it’s seems that’s hard to hear about these days.” He commented, hearing about tons of relationships that ended with resentment, anger, and.. jealousy. He chuckled softly as she asked about interesting ex’s. He sighed. “I almost got married once.” He revealed quite casually with a sad smile. “But it was called off.” He shrugged, insinuating that there wasn’t any hard feelings. Other than the fact that he missed her, he knew that he was often too much for her to handle and respected her decision to call it off. “We just met up recently. I was kind of trying to avoid her for the longest time but living in the same area proved it more difficult than I thought.” He admitted with a weak laugh. “But yeah, that’s the one that got away I guess.”

[zaranott]

The brunette was both somewhat relieved and satisfied at the same time that she was done with her story. Relieved because she didn’t feel like getting into the nitty gritty stuff, especially when most people in her life didn’t know the full extent of her childhood, or her teen years, it was always what people saw on the outside and so long as Zara managed to keep up appearances the things behind closed doors didn’t matter too much. As for satisfaction, she was glad she’d told him enough to fulfil his hunger to know about the life of the rich and somewhat famous. Her head tilted slightly, turning to look at him as he began to speak, a smile gracing her lips as she listened intently, glad to not be speaking about herself. “Everyone has a story to tell.” She spoke somewhat softly, as though urging him to continue, but not in an impatient way, just a way that showed interest. “Siblings sound like a lot of fun.” She laughed softly at his story of them blaming him for everything. Her parents had never intended for her to be an only child, it’d just happened to work out that way. She paused in her step for a moment as he mentioned an accident and her hand reached up to tuck her hair behind her ear so she could see him properly, her head turning to look at him slightly all whilst keeping her eyes on the pavement too. She listened intently to his story, wincing slightly at small details, like passing out and such, obviously realising out horrendous it must have been for him. She smiled again at the mention of his sisters being there to greet him when he woke up. She’d never really minded being an only child but she’d always wondered what it would have been like to grow up with someone else in the same situation as her, maybe then her parents wouldn’t have been so hard on her if they had their standards to share between two children. That or both would have had a lot expected of them. His story of his family was warming, and the smile didn’t drop from her face, though mentally she felt herself urging him to continue, her breath sucked in in anticipation to hear whether his mother was alright or not. Once he confirmed she was she felt herself exhale heavily, not realising until then that she’d been holding onto the air in her lungs. Zara looked somewhat confused when he thanked her before biting her lip softly. “You have nothing to thank me for.” She answered genuinely. “You sound like you had it rough, but I’m glad you were lucky.” She spoke honestly as she found herself reaching to tenderly touch his arm as some kind of support for his story. Her fingers lightly grazed against the fabric of his clothes before she realised what she was doing and she dropped her hand. Internally debating on apologising she decided not to drag attention to the invasion of personal space she’d just made. “Studying to become anything is difficult, it takes determination, but at least you managed to turn something bad into a positive thing, thats whats important.” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He looked to Zara and gave an official smile, rather than flashing a grin and looking away. Her concern for him and his mom was evident and he thought it was real sweet of her to give him an honest answer. He found the gentle touch on his arm comforting and was very grateful for her kindness toward the accident that had happened with his mom and him. “You’ve got a point there, and thanks. I sometimes lose the ability to see what I’m doing is actually having a positive effect.” He admitted, not really expecting those words of truth to come out so effortlessly. His job had an effect, but the only two he could see lately was death and the fact that he doubted his ability to help people. He supposed this walk, filled with talking and getting to know one another, gave him the courage, or at least the feeling. That what he told her, was between them and she wouldn’t judge. Considering all of Zara’s life, she was being judged by those who she surrounded herself with, even her parents who judged if she was deserving of their attention. “But anyway. There’s your normal childhood.” He teased, watching the cement sidewalk below with a smile. 

[alexander-ford-blog]

He nodded appreciatively. “I’m thankful” he retorted with a firm smile sat on his face, only widening at Bens grin. “Maybe?” He teased lightly. “I’m gonna hold you to it.” He added, nudging his hand back as he hit him in the arm, chuckling lightly. “Scotch is my poison and my best friend.”

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He laughed out loud as Alex caught his attempt at making it seem like a casual thought, rather than an actual proposal for a drink together. Accepting the friendly nudge with open arms, Ben chuckled, gazing at the floor for a moment as he landed himself a drinking buddy. “You make long time friends with hard liquor too?” He asked, teasing at the fact that whiskey was his confidant. “Hey, I made the plans. That mean I pay for the drinks?” He asked, with a furrowed brow, appearing as if he were worried that he landed himself in a night of losing money. Though he wasn’t really, considering his trips to the bar every other day, it’d be his weekly payment. 

[zaranott]

Zara exhaled softly, truth be told she appreciated the life she’d been given, having life handed to you on a silver platter wasn’t really one to be complained about and she fully understood that she was lucky but barely anything in her life as a child worked with the hierarchy of needs, she was psychologists dream. Self-actualization she had, morality, creativity, acceptance of facts, all of those she understood, esteem was something she definitely managed to lack, and even still struggled with, although she’d always been excellent at hiding that, she managed to ooze confidence even if it wasn’t always the actual case. Love and belonging was another touchy one, friends, she had, although as she’d already covered they sometimes happened to be fake. Family, again she’d covered and that was obviously a strained topic too. Safety, she had that too, for the most part, but the abusive relationship she’d been in as a teen made her lack security of herself, material things she had plenty of security but when it came to herself, it was lacking somewhat. Psychological things she had too, being as those were just living and breathing, food, water, the stuff that all of her peers had.  It was true she had everything that monetary value could give but as a child she’d grown up without the most important thing, a parent that was there. If she fell over and sliced herself open or bruised herself she could cry to her mother, instead she had a stranger pick her up, brush her off and tell her to get on with it. Her nannies were strict in their regime, she had a set schedule and she had to stick to it, and that had happened for as long as she could remember. If she wanted her father at something, to see him somewhere other than his work she had to talk to his personal assistant to ensure it was logged in his calendar, events like birthdays and school, and movie trips that other kids had with their parents had never really happened for Zara. Not unless she’d gone with a friend and their parents.  Even when she did well she barely got praised for it, and if she did it was through money, her father would just buy her an expensive gift to show he was proud, her mother would congratulate her before continuing with her day. It wasn’t really any wonder she’d developed the eating disorder in college, she didn’t have the support system she needed to be in an ivy league, she was so busy keeping on track of work and staying on top of her friendship group that stress had gotten to her and she’d have momentary lapses of control, but that was just it, and it was just another thing that her therapist had to deal with, her parents didn’t really take it seriously until she’d visited home and they’d realised how skeletal she’d gotten. Though, that was a chapter she was - for the most part at least - over.  To be honest, walking down the street she wasn’t quite sure why she’d indulged into the conversation with Ben but she was generally a good judge of character - she’d always been skeptical of who she made friends with, and he’d obviously striked her as the type that cared about those little details, besides, she’d only mentioned a little bit of a huge list of stories she could have told him, though she wasn’t about to indulge in those. That was definitely for another day. You did peak my interest, and I can say it was very well satisfied. She smirked softly and shrugged a shoulder. “Well thats not even half of it, but you’re welcome.” She retorted, musing softly. “Please, thats barely anything.” She laughed lightly, as though attempting to lighten her own tone. “but you’re welcome, life on the other side hm?” She paused, as he spoke again, mentioning they were on the right street. “Of course-” she replied simply, trailing beside him before waiting at the end of the path, her body leaning lightly against a post as she did. She smiled as he re-joined her, her fingers intwining with one and other as she fell into step beside him, heading towards the bar and grill. “So, you know mine, what’s your story?” She teased lightly. “What’s a normal childhood?” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He began to walk alongside her, slipping his hands in his pockets now that he had nothing like Jazmyn’s leash to hold onto. He scoffed an amused chuckled, a normal childhood. But he had to suppose compared to her’s, his was a lot more heard of. He shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t know where to start, I don’t really have a big story to tell.” He quite literally, grew up with his parents, went to school, graduated and got a job. The most expected lifestyle for any middle class home. “I mean. My dad is a Quantum Physics Mechanics Professor in New York. Where I grew up.” He mentioned shortly, turning his torso to her slightly for only a moment. Knowing he had told her that already before continuing on. “My mom is a nurse. I have two sisters. Gemma who is a maid, and Adalind who is a new reporter.” He went on describing who he grew up with, relatively stating the facts. “Um, my parents were really active in my life, visiting soccer tournys and stuff like that. We were all a pretty close nit family. My sisters and I would get in the occasional fight before I got overrun by the two of them. Especially when they’d run to mom and dad, saying everything was my fault.” He explained with a reminiscing chuckle. “But overall we got along pretty well, most of the time.” He shrugged, not sure where he was going with this but figured she told him as much as she did, the least he could was tell her more about him. He lifted one of his hands to scratch the back of his head. “I was in this car accident when I was 13... My mom and I, were on our way back from a dentist appointment. We-uh, she was driving me home since I had my mouth frozen from a cavity.” He smiled lightly. Remembering that whenever that happened, he’d get to stay home the rest of the day from school, his mom fully aware he wasn’t in any pain or dizzy from it, took him home so he could just have a day off. “Anyway, on the way back, we were passing a green light in the middle of an intersection and this car came rushing from the left. It hit us pretty hard, in the rear of the car. Enough that it had flipped and skid into oncoming traffic. I had passed out from hitting my head and I’m unaware of how long we stayed like that. But the next thing I knew, there were firefighters and paramedics, quickly pulling me and my mother out of the wreckage. I had a peek at how my mom was doing, and saw that she was unconscious on top of a gaurney. We  got transported in an ambulance to the hospital. On the way, I slipped in and out, but when I was slightly awake I heard the EMT, telling me to hold on to the sound of his voice. Saying hang on, before I passed out again.. Soon after, I woke up in a white hospital room with my sisters by my side. They strangled in hugs, telling me all these like, we’re so happy you’re okay kind of stuff.” He explained, a chuckle emitting from his throat at to what they did next. “They were so worried about what was going to happen to me, that they uh- made a list? I guess. Of all the things they had done over the years that they were sorry for. Some of it was small petty stuff they had down. Like blaming me for something they’ve done, to our parents and stealing. Stealing, was the one I remember specifically, because they told me they stole my CD player and hid my action figurine collectables.” He laughed. “I was so mad when they told me, not really thinking about the situation I was in. That’s just always something that I’ve found funny for some reason.” But Ben could guess the reason. That was the one time, in his life that he was actually terrified. And the thing that terrified him wasn’t the fact that he had almost lost his life. It was that his parents and sisters almost lost a son/brother and all he acted like was a little bratty kid. It was the only thing that could make him crack the tiniest smile from something so tragic. He shook his head and continued on. “The doctors said me and my mother were going to be fine and that we could be released in a few days. I was insanely happy to hear my mom was alright and to see my family. But the one thing I couldn’t stop thinking about was the paramedic who helped me. Eventually when were allowed to leave, I asked to see that same paramedic, so I could get the chance to thank him.” He smiled. Glad that something so horrible in his past, has led him to having his job of saving people now. He glanced over to Zara. “Thanks.” He stated plainly. He’s been having the toughest time with his job lately, and until now he almost forgot what made him do the job in the first place. “I haven’t talked about it in awhile and revisiting it just helped me. So... thanks.” He mentioned, before quickly moving so it wouldn’t feel awkward. “After that, it’s safe to say that’s why I’m in the career I’m in now. But it wasn’t all touch and go after that. Studying to become a EMT was hard.” He admitted with a deep chuckle, remembering how easy everything was now, but back then he had to study and reread things over and over again to get it stuck in his head. 

[zaranott]

The brunette looked down at the dog again, her hand reaching down to pet her one last time before they set off. She smiled as he spoke, her head nodding just once. “Perfect.” She answered as she started to walk, her hand reaching to lightly pull at her short shorts, adjusting them slightly so they came further down her thigh. “The mansion house?” She asked, half joking as she mused over what he said. She chewed on her lip momentarily, as though deciding what to go with, she didn’t want the nitty gritty, telling a stranger that an upbringing so challenging gave you an eating disorder for the best years of college and didn’t stop the abusive ex-boyfriend being brushed under the carpet in order to keep up appearances probably wasn’t the story to go with. “Um.” she started, her hand reaching to pull her hair over her shoulder slightly. “Well I guess you never worry money, so you’re not struggling in that way, I’m an only child so I kind of got given what I wanted when I wanted it, my mothers a fashion designer so she was out of town a lot, my father owns the production studio, so he’s busier than me so I got nannies, they were cool, I guess.” She shrugged lightly, gnawing on her lip. “I was expected to excel at things, I had dance classes from like, before I could properly walk.” she laughed at the idea, being a little over dramatic. I was expected to get into an Ivy League, which well, I went to Columbia so.” She glanced sideways at him, as though debating whether to continue. “My parents thought every problem growing up could be dealt with by a therapist?” She laughed lightly, as though the idea was crazy to her, but her upbringing had made her struggle, always feel like she wasn’t good enough. It’d meshed her into the person she was today, she liked being on top because she’d been taught that was the only place to be. “But in the best part it was good, y’know? I never wanted for anything, but I used to have the feeling I was used by most people, like high school friends, you start to question whether they’re your friend because they want to be or because you’re rich.” She shrugged a shoulder lightly. “But for the most part it was good, we had good vacations when my parents both got time off together, I got to go to my fathers work, see what it was like, when I went to Columbia I had more experience than any of my peers. I knew what things were, and if I ever struggled with anything I got a private tutor. It was nice as a kid knowing that I could be rough and tumble and fall down a step of stairs without having to worry about the important stuff like medical insurance, because although I had it it didn’t really matter? My parents saw problems and just threw money at it.” She paused again, clearing her throat to look at him again. “So the upbringing was good.” She was sure she’d said that several times already but realised most of the things she’d said were kind of negative. “I understand how lucky I’ve been, anyway, but it’s much nicer being rich at twenty-five than it was at say, twelve.” She raised a hand, scratching lightly at the back of her neck. “Sorry you asked yet?” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

As they began to walk, Ben couldn’t help but notice her behaviour when he had asked about her story. He never had anything big happen with family. They were all very close, and helped each other out whenever the other needed it. Always watching over and protecting each other. It’s assumed to be where Ben developed the over protective quality, he has now. He even has it with complete strangers at times, those he had met not only a few days before. So people could imagine how scary and brutal it could be when it came to his loved ones. Like every other family,  they had the occasional spat between his parents or sisters, about something stupid. Although it never lasted more than a week. And then there was money and school. Which weren’t a problem at all either. So he knew he was in for the long haul when it came to hearing about a life so different from his, the life that he’s already had a taste of how it must have been like growing up in Zara’s home. Nevertheless, he was still very tempted in knowing more about her, so he listened in carefully. From the beginning he had already heard what he had expected. But knowing that there’s always something going on behind closed doors, he prepared to open his mind. Not to make up or look for things that she might leave out, but to be aware that people have things they’d like to keep secret. Not to mention, Ben was still a stranger to her, so he had to consider she wasn't about to spill her guts about every single thing that happened as well. He kept his eyes forward while they walked, occasionally taking a glance at the woman beside him as she explained the life of being brought up by people who weren’t her parents, and receiving expectations higher than any kid should face when they were starting out in life. He gave her a kind smile, when she debated whether to go on, letting her know he was listening and ready to hear more. Ben’s brow caved, hearing that she was left to deal with everything through a complete stranger, when her parents didn’t have the time. ‘His face exhibited worry and sympathy as he heard the news. But kept it hidden as best as he could, knowing she wasn’t telling him her life story to get pity. Just the idea of a family so cold, left him saddened. Of course the parents may have expected their daughter to be happy, given all the money, the riches and everything it could buy. Aside from the attention of her parents. It may sound cheesy as if it were a line from a script of a Lifetime movie. But even those convey a realistic look into the everyday life of any human on the planet. He always had the attention of both his parents. To his soccer games, tournaments, birthdays, speeches, graduations, and even the four minute tuck ins that happened before he shut his eyes and fell asleep in his bed. They showered him with love.’ He wasn’t against therapy, he figured if it helped anyone who committed to it, they should continue. But the idea of some parents who left their kid to deal with their problems with a therapist and never attempted to see what was going on with their children themselves. Puzzled him.  He nodded along, and his gaze began to drop. The more he heard about what Zara had went through growing up, he had felt less inclined to keep his gaze fixed on her or to even keep his head up. His eyes roamed the sidewalk as they talked, occasionally giving Jazmyn the every now and then glance. She began to tell him on how it was good. Before mentioning the fact that she lost the ability to see what relationships she had were true. If her friends had cared, or pretended to. If they had faked their interest, admiration, or concern, just for the moments to soak in the money she had spread out before her. He shook his head, people were demented sometimes. He managed to lift his gaze and stare for a minute as she convinced him it had it’s great moments. But showed she had trouble, bringing up anything that hadn’t involved money. The mention of trips came to mind. Zara had furthered explained that the education and job, were things she was grateful for. It must have been nice having such a big part of both her father’s life and her’s, to share in common. He nodded with a tilted head as he agreed, he can definitely see the perks of having loads of money when she grew up, but it was greatly more useful to her as an adult. He smirked at her humored question. “I wouldn’t say sorry.” He squinted a bit, as he looked for the word to describe it. “You did peak my interest, and I can say it was very well satisfied.” He explained weakly, though his grin was still intact. He was lightly teasing, because he did actually enjoy hearing more about her. “I’m glad you trusted me, enough to tell that much about yourself.” He said, his grin shrinking to a subtly kind smile, as he looked at her. Before noticing the street sign behind her. “Oh, my friend lives on this street over here.” Benjamin casually pointed behind Zara, leading her and Jaz to a house that was right on the corner. They stopped at the driveway, as he turned to the brunette. “I’m just gonna run inside real quick.” He mentioned, assuming she didn’t want to go inside and have a chat along with his friend. Then as soon as he gave her a smile, he jogged up to the front door. He greeted his friend and politely asked if they could watch over Jazmyn, because he didn’t want to leave her alone. They easily agreed and nodded, since this was a recurring thing every time he couldn’t keep an eye on his canine. He bent down to give Jaz a short see you later, before waving goodbye and re joining Zara on the sidewalk. “Alright, all set.” He said with a smile as he dusted his hands. 

[zaranott]

Zara returned his smile, glad that she hadn’t rubbed him up the wrong way with her comment, people had a tendency to pick apart what she said because of who she was due to her tendency to be mean, even when it wasn’t actually meant in a negative manner. She gasped playfully at his not that this conversation was a breeze. “The cheek!” she retorted with a laugh, head shaking at him. “Hey well, you can tell me all about it maybe.” She offered, giving him a nod. “Good plan, what about the pup?” She asked, nodding towards Jaz. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

Ben snickered at her reaction. He grazed his mouth with an open hand, trying to hide the smile before looking down at Jaz himself. He couldn’t refrain from frowning knowing Jazmyn couldn’t come along. “I hate tying her up, or leaving alone...” He muttered, before moistening his lips and giving a nod. “I got a friend nearby that’ll look after to her. She so happens to live by a bar and grill.” He smirked, happy how well this seemed to be turning out and began walking, nodding for Zara to follow and keep up. “This kind of upbringing I hear you have. What was it really like?” He asked, genuinely interested. He hoped not to be stepping on any toes, but he was curious to hear how even the good side of life, had it’s downs. Not to mention, he liked hearing about her. Hearing how peoples parents were or how they were brought always told you a lot about a person, and he wanted to get to know more about Zara.

[zaranott]

She laughed lightly as he spoke I kind of figured already. “Sounds like you have me summed up already, huh?” She mused playfully, not meaning any bad by the comment as she reached to tuck her hair over her shoulder again. Her eyes rolled softly as her phone buzzed again, making a dinging sound to signal another email coming though, she shook her head, almost amused. “See? I’m a wanted woman.” She mused dramatically. Work could wait though, she’d earned her day off, her show had been renewed a month or so earlier and it was kind of all go since then, renewing contracts and finalising scripts. It’d been a bit crazy, as her phone was showing. “A drink? Am I that hard work?” She teased again as her hand moved to play with the bangle on her wrist. “I’m down for whatever, I haven’t had lunch yet though so if you want to go straight to the drinking I do warn you in advance that it could go straight to my head.” 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He smiled widely, unable to contain his amusement, not to mention embarrassment on how she accused him of being a know it all. He knew it was all good fun. Plus he was aware of how perceptive he could be, which was a nice way of saying being a nosy, smart-ass. He nodded along to the other ding, that rang through the air, emitting from her phone. His grin stayed plastered on his face as he looked down and poked his cheek with his tongue. “Not that this conversation was a breeze.” He paused to tease back. “But it’s been a long week, or a.. long year.” He admitted, before nodding. “How bout we settle for a place that serves alcohol and food then. Sound good?” He asked, thinking that he really could have something to eat himself.

[zaranott]

Zara paused momentarily as he spoke again, her head tilting to the side slightly as she offered him a slight hint of a grin. She had the tendency to scare people off with her attitude so strangers asking her to hang out was somewhat an odd suggestion to her, it generally took a few meetings for people to work her out and realise she didn’t always mean to come across as she could do. She nodded her head lightly. “I’m not against the idea.” She answered, dampening her lower lip as she reached for her phone, tapping at the screen a little, scrolling through the emails to see which were important and which weren’t, making a very quick mental note to reply. “It’s officially my day off, but you’ll quickly find out I’m never really off, I just fit everything else in.” She quipped, her head shaking lightly as she locked her phone screen and slid it back into her pocket. “What were you thinking?” She questioned, referring to the elsewhere part of his question. 

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He watched Zara carefully as she ran over the idea in her mind. She seemed like the type to be very calculating. He assumed she could often be mistaken for being cold or thought she was above everyone. But Ben’s mom taught him to look closer into people and always give them a chance. Plus, Zara seemed like a very confident, knows what she wants kind of woman, and he always respected that. He pursed his lips into a tiny but amused smile, as she admitted she wasn’t against the idea. He let her answer the emails and tap away at her phone, watching her for a moment before letting his eyes fall to Jazmyn. She seemed to sense something was happening and started to stand. “I kind of figured already.” Ben grinned, it was easy to see that she was a very busy and important woman, but everyone needs to slow down at some point even if the emails, texts, and work never stop, she can. “I don’t know. I was thinking a bite to eat, perhaps a drink.. I can sure use one.” He explained, describing a harmless outing between two people who were getting to know more about one another. Besides, he felt like this conversation was going a little slow and had a feeling he wasn’t showing his best side- or at least, not his more fun, light-hearted one.

[ohwowits-vanessa-blog]

Vanessa hugged Benjamin “Yes I am optimistic about it … the main thing that we are fine! That’s why I’m afraid your work, it’s very frightening  to see such cases every day and or even worse,” she knew he probably understands what she’s talking about. She knew he was a paramedic to save people, and she knew he was a good person. Vanessa looked on Ben’s face, she smiled, “You’re so cute, I’m glad you’re my friend! Ugh i sound like a little girl…i bet your girlfriend is having so much fun with you” Vanessa thought Ben had a girlfriend, she gave a big smirk.

[benjamincoreyfischer-blog]

He glanced down, thinking about the other horrific cases he’s seen before pushing it out of his head. He chuckled at her, cute compliments before scoffing lightly, shaking his head. “I don’t have a girlfriend right now. But thanks.” He smiled at her and furrowed his brow. “What about you, was there ever a lucky guy, in your life?”