life support

Jaxon Hall and Casey Wright. I've been sleeping with the lights on cause the darkness is surrounding you. This is my world, this is my choice and you're the drug that gets me through.

[brookexmax]

“Oh, is that so? What made you think that then? Tell me, I’m intrigued,” Brooke challenged, her brows arching up at him questioningly. Although it was harmless playful behaviour between the two, she couldn’t help but think: You couldn’t be more wrong. Because ‘good’ wasn’t what she saw herself as, not at all. It hadn’t even registered in her mind that he jokingly called her a kid because her mind drifted off elsewhere. How can she be good after what she’s done? If Jaxon knew, she wasn’t sure he’d see her in the same light anymore. She was terrified that one day, he’d see her the way she viewed herself: a monster. Anything other than good, no matter how hard she tries to be. Trying to make up for that one fatal mistake back then. Back when she was more naïve, back when she was stupid, back when she trusted blindly even though she was taught not to. Well, Brooke sure as hell learnt her lesson. Falling for someone in the same fields as you – in this case, being a spy – was a dumb move in the first place. Her feelings are what compromised a mission. That being said, it was not her fault that the guy she thought she loved turned out to be a traitor. It wasn’t her fault that it was only supposed to be a mission to gather intel on a location – a simple in and out job, really, where there would be a few distractions as always but she had it all under control. Or she thought she had. It also wasn’t her fault that all forms of communication with the team waiting were inoperable due to interference, so she couldn’t request back up for the mission that went south. Again, she was only young – her training was still in progress, the mission was supposed to be easy and to gain experience. Only, it turned out to be one of the most traumatic experiences she’d encountered. Especially when confronted with the enemy disguised as the person she thought she knew like a book. At the end of it all, she was left battered and bruised with a gun pointed at her head. Summoning the last bit of energy, allowing the adrenaline to kick in as it was a matter of her life, or her demise. In a struggling battle to disarm him, Brooke managed to get her hands on the gun whilst being in a very tricky situation. Her grip was barely loose when she accidentally pulled the trigger on him while trying to regain stability. And after? The rest was history. It was only when the sound of the shot alarmed that the team realised something went disastrously wrong. She could recall not having the energy to get up from the floor, looking at what she’d done. Even if he turned out to be a horrible person, she had to believe the person she knew still existed inside somewhere – and she killed him. That, she never forgave herself for. Nobody ever knew what truly happened. Rumours spread at the academy, about how it was deliberate and not an accident, how some people believed it was her fault whilst others thought it was an amazing, considering her age and all. Her answers were only simple and as vague as possibly during debriefing, where she’d only reported basic facts. She never left that building as the same person. Often, she wondered whether Jaxon ever heard about it. And if so, what he believed. Part of her hoped that he knew nothing despite the rumours that spread. Even though she pretended she was always fine, the truth was she was never fine after that day. She hated herself for the mistake she made, and even though she was now considered one of the best at the academy – along with Jaxon, of course – she never believed it. Ever. Not after that ordeal. And ever since then, she completely threw herself into her work to ensure she never made that mistake again. Isolated herself from most people unless necessary. Making sure she knew how to fire a gun properly, as well as how to disarm it, making sure that she didn’t flinch at the sight of it despite the flashbacks that flooded her mind. That she was always on target, not missing once, without so much as her hand shaking. She had to be the best she could be. Noone has time for imperfections after all. That’s what her parents taught her anyway. 

Shaking her head in thought, trying to lock those thoughts away from her brain. After all, she needed to focus on now. She berated herself for allowing a harmless joke twist into something that poisoned her mind with distasteful memories. That was then, this is now, she had to remind herself. She was on a proper, serious mission with Jaxon and that’s what she had to focus on. Plus, it was a party. She shouldn’t be thinking of these sort of things at a party of all places. More often than not, she almost allowed the truth to fall from her lips when it came to Jax – it was difficult not to. But then she reminded herself about what happened before when she thought she could trust someone, how easily they turned on her then and she couldn’t let history repeat itself. Even if she trusted him more than she could ever imagine herself trusting anybody. She wasn’t ready yet and she wasn’t sure when she’d ever be. Her mind focused on him now, she convinced herself that she was back in reality and laughed when he agreed with her about wiping Max’s vomit – what a lovely thing to be talking about anyway, she thought. “They probably would, you know. Then you’ll have the mad freaks who would probably bring one of those specimen tubes just to put some of it in, then sell it on EBay,” Brooke laughed at the thought even if it made her want to gag, grimacing slightly at the thought. 

“Yeah? Well, neither do –” she cut off just as the tempo of the music changed, giving him a bewildered look just as much as he was. “What sort of party is this? Great, my life has turned into one of those cheesy Disney channel movies. Who would even…?” she shook her head, frankly embarrassed at the thought. But of course it just had to be typical, she thought to herself. A normal party, like a normal student and then they get thrown into something as silly as this? Out of any time at any party this could happen, it just so happened to be this one? At this moment? Brooke could only make one conclusion: the universe was officially against her. It wasn’t until now when she realised just exactly how close they were. Sure, they were already stood pretty close to each other to start with but with the adjustment to the music and all – it felt as though she was ten times closer to him than before and honestly – the feeling made her nervous. Her breathing hitched slightly as she felt his hands on her hips and suddenly she felt a bit self-conscious. It wasn’t because of him or anything, She wondered whether he could hear just how fast her heart was racing. Then she figured that was impossible because of the music, but also that theoretically speaking, it wouldn’t be plausible anyway. This calmed her down a little internally, so she smiled up at him, rolling her eyes playfully at his words. “No, obviously I didn’t know that. I clearly thought that I was going to stand here like a pleb,” she joked before letting her arms hang loosely around his neck. “I stand by what I said before, following your lead, I mean. Just because the music’s changed doesn’t mean my mind has. Just saying! So if this goes horribly wrong, I’m blaming you.”

[jaxonxcasey]

Jaxon smirked, thinking about what to enumerate for a moment before glancing back at the girl who he grew fond of, "For one, you're not into drugs which is a good thing, and then you're good at what we're doing," He continued, he was going to say that she was good on being a spy but considering how many might people overhear him when he says that, he decided against it. The last thing he wanted to do was to compromise their mission, he glanced at her before smiling, "All I know is that in my eyes, you're good........." And beautiful and so much more but Jaxon held his tongue, this wasn't the right place nor he was the right guy for her, when he got into this business, he knew what was in store for him, he saw his dad sacrifice a lot (his mother, their relationship as father and son, and many more). When he first stepped into the academy, he was so unsure that he should do this but after the training he went through to get there, there was no turning back and he never did since them. Of course, there were thoughts about how he would have a normal life if he chose to not to get himself tied up to the organization but it always fade away.

It wasn't until he met and got to know Brooke that he stopped and taught about having a normal relationship but even if she feels the same way for him, they were too invested to be great spies. As much as he wanted to say that they knew each other like the back of their own palms, he wasn't really sure of that, he heard some rumors here and there about Brooke, but he shrugged it off, knowing that if it was true, then so be it, but in the back of his head, of course, he wanted it to be false. Looking at her right now, how she seems to be okay, he cannot imagine her pulling the trigger to someone she had known, better yet someone she had loved so he had never asked her that quite personal question and he had told himself that it was just rumors. For someone who can smile as she can, he regarded that as a fake rumor. She was doing quite well in every classes and missions so obviously there are people who would be jealous of her and would talk shit behind her back but he wouldn't believe it unless she confirmed it.

Jaxon made a face since they were talking about puking now, the last time he had bumped into Max, he was so sure that they guy was too drunk for his own good. But as a spy, they needed to blend in so she wouldn't really babysit the guy, they need to protect him, yes, but their job was to look for the threat and find intel in the school, someone who might also be here to spy on Max but was not on the same side as them. "I seriously cannot imagine that, living your life under a microscope, that's the right description of how Max lives," He muttered under his breath, he was not exactly a fan of the guy (not only because he was too close to Brooke but also, he heard that he likes to sneak out in the middle of the night without telling anyone which he thinks was a total selfish thing to do, the bodyguards were only there to help him out but a part of him understands it as well, they were there 24/7 and he needed some time for himself). "Might cause a couple hundred bucks, do you want me to scoop in the puke and put in inside the container and we'll sell it?" He teased her smirking, that was unprofessional and he wouldn't do anything like that.

"You wanted to dance anyways," Jaxon chuckled under his breath, this wasn't really good for his self control but since she wanted to dance, he was giving in. "Not into slow dance, are you?" He mumbled when he realized how her reaction when the music changed, everyone around them has their own world anyways, he can spot some couple kissing, his eyes even saw Max outside in the veranda talking to his friend, Casey, he was focusing on other things beside the fact that he was so close to Brooke, he took a deep breath before letting his eyes drag along her feature, "We will just be bad on this together," He told her, this wasn't his first dance or anything so he can assure her that he wouldn't be stepping on her foot anytime soon, "Do you think you'll miss this?" Jax asked her before raising her brow, he doesn't want to admit it but he will probably miss this place, the freedom and spending time with Brooke, when they go back to the academy, they'd probably be assigned to different missions.

[brookexmax]

Perfection doesn’t exist. That’s why Max never quite understood why people strived for a perfect relationship, as though that was the ultimate goal. What was the point? They would never be truly happy, aiming for a goal that can never be accomplished. Sure, people had their vast definitions of what could be considered ‘perfect’ but the ideology behind it was still the same. It’s why he’d scoff whenever people he never knew pretended that they knew him because they see articles on the internet, or think that they know the President’s son inside out judging by a single photograph took by the paparazzi. It’s why he’d roll his eyes whenever said people told him that he must have the ‘perfect life,’ being the president’s son and all. Because if perfect meant being shielded from doing normal things people would do at his age because his life was in constant danger, or if ‘perfect’ meant that he had to hide his relationship with the girl he loves more than his entire existence in fear of other people, then sure, he had the perfect life. Only, the truth was that was far from the dictionary definition of perfect. Did that mean he was unhappy? Not a chance. Max was content with his life for the most part, if you completely disregard the fact he never knew when his life could be hanging in the balance. Nevertheless, part of that, he thought was amusing in a way that wasn’t even funny. It added to the excitement in his life, and it sort of made him a bit careless, because he had to enjoy life as it is now, just in case it was snatched away from him within a moment.

For all intents and purposes, it was a safe reassurance to say that no matter how careless Max got on occasions, Casey was always there to keep him grounded. Either that, or she’d be riding the waves of their life together. Just because they haven’t seen much of each other recently doesn’t mean that they don’t still care about each other. Because it was true – they did care about each other. He knew that. The nagging voice at the back of his head taunted him on occasions, telling him that he wasn’t worth it and that one day, Casey would find someone better than him: someone who would always have time for her. But he’d always shrug that horrible thought off and pretend it never existed, considering there was no apparent reason to act like it did exist. Even if losing her was his biggest fear, something he feared more than whether not he’d survive the next week, he would never admit it. What was the point in dampening the situation? There wasn’t. “Yeah, well, that’s… that’s because I’m too lazy to start running. At the moment, I think the only time you’d catch me running is if someone was chasing me. And unless you’re the one chasing me, I can’t be bothered to run. I’m not provoked, yet,” he jested, mirroring her expression with a raised brow unintentionally without even realising that he was doing it. Most likely because he was so used to it. “Oh. I see. So now you tell me you’re a vampire? I dunno, I feel like this is the ultimate act of betrayal. Thought we were meant to be honest with each other. But you’re a vampire because you might bite me?! You’re either that…or – or you’re a cannibal… and I don’t know which is scarier.” Max huffed, furrowing his eyebrows as though it was the ultimate dilemma, even if the grin etching on his face meant that he couldn’t even attempt to be serious which then ended up with obnoxious laughter. Curiosity piqued his interest when she stated that she wished she was scary, which both confused yet intrigued him all the same. 

“I’m glad you’re not scary, though. I mean, think about it. Aren’t scary people usually the loneliest? Because people feel so intimidated by them, that they’re too terrified to make a simple gesture or to say a word. Even if that word is ‘hello’ because they’re fearful. I think that would be sad, to live in a world like that. So again, I’m glad you’re not scary.” As he reconsidered the words he’d spoken, he came to realise just how deep he sounded – something definitely unlike Max, considering he was always more of a jokester, so he couldn’t understand why he said that in the first place. Knowing him, he blamed it on the drink. It made so much more sense, that way. Tutting like a parent to a child that has done something wrong, Max shook his head in disapproval when she mentioned being the least drunk person in the room. “Have you not had a single drink yet? How disappointing. I think we’re gonna have to fix this problem, don’t you?” he laughed a little before raising his eyebrows questioningly, grabbing a red cup from someone as they walked around with them. “For you,” he added, passing her the cup. Averting his attention back to the people he pointed at moments before, he couldn’t help but laugh at them, even if he was being a bit judgmental. Only slightly though, no harm in it, at least that’s what he thought. “Sure, they’re adorable if you tilt your head ninety degrees, and imagine them with paper bags over their heads,” Max joked, hiccupping a few times in the middle of his sentence, which only made him laugh that little bit more at the ridiculousness of anything that comes out of his mouth. A proud, satisfied smile graced his lips when she acknowledged knowing that he would do just about the same for her as she would for him, glad that he was understood in the way he initially hoped. It may have sounded silly, but not to him. To him, it was everything. Nodding with obvious agreement, yet another one of his infamous smiles spread across his face as she said he was lucky to have her. And he knew that she was one hundred percent correct. “Tell me about it, I’m the luckiest man alive,” he replied, knowing that the words that left his lips were the precise truth. Narrowing his eyes slightly as she told him to forget it, he wondered whether he should do just that. He had no reason to be all that concerned, even if the traitorous part of his brain was telling him to think otherwise. And being the curious guy he was, Max decided there wasn’t any harm with trying to press a bit further. “What’s there to forget?” he asked, deciding that there was no problem with having a go, even if he wasn’t certain what he was asking about. If she still didn’t want to talk about it after that, then he would let it go unless it became an issue, which he hoped it wouldn’t… because he was certain she would tell him if something was bothering her. They had enough trust in each other for that.

“I know, I know… but worrying sucks. It gets a bit boring and plus, we’re at a party! We shouldn’t have to worry at a party. It’s about having fun, not feeling sick from worrying so much. It’ll be fine. We’ll be fine.” In that moment, Max wasn’t sure who he was trying to convince more: Casey, or himself.  Her reaction to his comment was priceless in his eyes, a reaction that’s usually different to what he’d expect from anyone else. Which was one of the many reasons why he loved her so much. “I know, I’m always right, never forget it,” Max teased, with a cheeky wink to signify that he was only kidding. Smiling as he let himself be pulled down to her height, he smiled widely as she spoke the three words he’d never get tired of hearing, especially from her. “I love you more,” he said quietly, hovering by her ear as he spoke the words back to her to ensure that she heard him, and no one else did.

[jaxonxcasey]

Casey would never forgive herself if she would do something that would hurt Max but sometimes, she couldn’t help but think that their their relationship makes things more complicated especially in Max’s life. If they weren’t together, at least, Max wouldn’t have to worry about her, at least, he’d concentrate on the threat on his life and not think about hers as well. He might not say it, but she knew that even if he acts like he was not scared of the people who’s trying to hurt, deep down, he is, and he was scared that they might hurt her as well. Casey got to admit, even if she would be headstrong, she was scared of the threat that was surrounding her boyfriend, like in the blink of an eye, someone can take him away from her and she cannot imagine that. So, even if she hated the bodyguard, she actually were thankful that they risk their lives to keep Max safe. All she wanted is to have Max safe and those who threaten to hurt him eliminated. Max didn’t choose this life and she cannot imagine being in his position, being his girlfriend was hard enough, being him, that unimaginable. Although Max seems to coping quite well, or maybe he’s just making her think that he is so she wouldn’t worry about him. Truthfully though, she worries about him, every time, he is the love of her life and she cannot imagine how her life would be without him by her side. Sure, it’s hard to be his girlfriend but it’s harder if she doesn’t have him around.

Casey and Max were actually long time friends before they started dating, she got a bestfriend, a boyfriend in one person. When they started dating, she actually made sure that what she felt for Max, she wouldn’t risk losing her bestfriend because of unsure feelings. Whatever Max was saying was actually kinda corny but she laughed anyways because he was overacting, like thinking that she was either a vampire or cannibal, she shook her head, "Seriously, Max, I don't know where you get your ideas from but next time I go for a run, I'm dragging you with me, enough with being lazy." She told him, it was good for his health and she just wanted to spend time with him as much as she can. During the past few weeks, it was so hard to look for a schedule that they were both free, either she has classes or he has one, they have classes together which was the only time they can be together unlike before that you can never see them apart.

"Well, maybe if I was scary, I can scare those people who wants to hurt you off," Casey told him as softly as she could, there was no way that she could protect him by just being her, as much as she thinks that she could fend off people, she was nothing compared to those people who were threatening Max, they might have big guns and everything, her dad might be able to help but if she was just normal Casey then it was hopeless. "But yeah, you're right, it must be lonely to be always alone because you are scary." There must be something behind that, Max was friendly and nice but if you're that protected, then it must be really lonely, like he cannot live the life he wanted. That made Casey want to make more fun memories with Max, like he might not have played in the park before or dance under the rain or other normal things like that, she was going to make sure that he would experience every little things that he had not as a kid. She wrinkled her nose when the red cup he grabbed was someone else's drink, but she held it anyways, there was no way she was going to drink like it has someone else's saliva and she wasn't keen to share. She laughed when he was hiccuped showing that he was really drunk, that's one of the reason she wouldn't be drinking tonight, she needed to take care of him and no matter how fun it is to chug down a bottle of alcohol, she had to restrain herself from doing so, for his sake. "Come on, Max, you are drunk, do you want to go ahead and leave? I can tuck you in your bed," She teased him chuckling, if she asked him to walk towards her in a straight path, there was no doubt that he would fail doing that. Things might not always be easy for them but at least, she knew that they're both lucky to have each other, he kept her secret and well, she was his secret.

Her lips were on a tight line as she sighed, brushing the hair off her face as she brought the red cup towards her lips, "Okay, okay, I'll stop being a buzzkill and have fun," Before the red cup could even touch her lips, she placed it down, shaking her head, "I cannot drink someone else's cup, that's disgusting," The only person who would allow to share a cup with her was Max anyways, the kiss and make out so sharing a cup would be alright but if it was someone else's then no thank you. She grabbed a bottle of beer on the nearby table and chugged it down, squeezing her eyes close when she felt it right from her throat down towards her stomach, "Damn," She wiped her lips with the back of her hand before looking up at Max, "It's been too long since I had my last beer, seriously, if I fall asleep on the floor or threw up on my car, I'll blame you for telling me to have fun." She chuckled before shaking her head, leaning towards him so that his mouth would be near her ear, she smiled at him when he said that he loves her more, she would have kissed him then and there, if she didn't have any restrain.

[poppysty]

[jaxonxcasey]

“It’s not my style. Besides, a little could turn into a lot. A lot can turn into an addiction and well, it all goes downhill from there. Like I said, I’d rather not screw my life up,” Brooke griped, rolling her eyes once again but laughing quietly after. She looked back up at him, the corners of her lips upturned while her eyes sparkled, crinkling at the edges. It was so typical for her to get into a conversation about something so trivial and get happy over it. Though she was certain if she was having a conversation like that with anyone else, she wouldn’t be as happy – maybe it was just because it’s Jaxon… but that was another thought to be dealt with another day, she couldn’t think about that. He was just a colleague, someone she now considered a friend, nothing more, nothing less. At least that’s what she tried to convince herself. It felt so easy to talk with him; their conversations could be filled with nothing but nonsense, but she’d make sense of it. The best part about this mission was the fact she got to do it with him, considering how comfortable she found herself in his presence. Though she couldn’t rely solely on that for any cause; their conversations were usually filled with humour and nothing personal, which she was glad for because if it ever went down that road, she wasn’t sure she’d be able to give herself over to it, not wanting to rehash any dark moments she’d experienced in the past. Because it wasn’t about the past; it was about the present and she didn’t find any reason why she or anyone should dwell on it… even if she was always trapped with her own mindless thoughts of the past. Voicing them aloud could potentially destroy her, even if it was with Jaxon. She couldn’t go down that road. Ever. Moving some hair behind her ear, she nodded when he said that they couldn’t use it while they were there. She couldn’t agree more, but found that a simple nod would do the trick, because they were on the same page. Nodding again when he said that whoever was after Max that their plans were disgusting, Brooke folded her arms, looking down for a moment because she definitely knew how cruel people could be, given by experience. “It’s disgusting, yeah. I wish I could say it’s surprising but sadly it’s not. Plenty of cruel people in this world,” she sighed softly, before looking up at him with a rueful smile. The seriousness of her voice made her feel weighed down a little, already realising that the conversation could be heading down a darker road… and that wasn’t what she wanted. After all, they were at a party. Parties were supposed to be fun, meaningless without a care in the world. Except for the fact that they had to care because it was their job. “Oh, shut up! You’re not boring – and I’m not just saying that either. You’re far from boring, actually,” she laughed, her eyes going wide at his self-deprecation. How could he say that he was boring? If he was boring, Brooke would have been half asleep by now. Jaxon was probably the least boring person she knew; just because she was messing with him about being the ‘life and soul of the party’ didn’t mean that she thought he was a complete grump either, because that wasn’t true. “As for cleaning up Max’s vomit, I don’t think that will be happening. Besides, we’re here to make sure that he’s safe – not to wipe up his vomit. If it were me, I’d make him clean it up himself – but I have a feeling his friend would do it for him,” she jested with a shrug. To other people, she may have seen like the type to seem a bit cold at times, no matter how warm her persona seemed to be. When it came to other people, it was a case of being firm with them, not wanting to allow anyone to walk all over her. It most likely stemmed from the way she was brought up by her parents, and the way they trained her at the academy. “Good… because there’s nothing to explain. Like I said, I’m not… I’m not interested in him – or anyone like that. Or well, like anything.” She almost went on to say that she was more interested in Jax – but then she realised the complications that could have escalated from that, with the hesitations from her side and saying in just a ‘friendly manner.’ She couldn’t stick her foot further in her mouth if she tried, and so decided not to say anything more regarding it. Brooke wasn’t prepared to humiliate herself like that, and if she did, she’d want to hide and never come back out. “Whaaaaaat?” An innocent smile tugged at her lips, amused at his reluctant reaction. “Hey, it’s not like I’m a professional dancer either!” she held her hands up defensively, a blithe laugh escaping from her. She smiled down at their hands as he led the way, following right beside him. Then she told herself to stop overthinking it; he was just guiding her. It was nothing, she had to refrain from allowing any microscopic feeling come to light, clouding her judgement. Laughing when he asked if he could have this dance, she beamed brightly back at him before nodding. Mock-curtseying, as though it was some formal event in the previous century, she held his hand once more. “Of course you may. Oh – and I know that I wanted to dance but… I am totally following your lead because I don’t know what I’m doing.”

"Good choice, Brooke, I have always knew that you're a good kid," He was only teasing her, calling her a kid and all, Jaxon understands what Brooke had said, like once you've tried doing drugs, it is just something that could pull you in easily if you don't have the self-control. He admitted before that he had tried cocaine but his dad had pulled him before he got too addicted to it. But that is one of the memories of the past that he was not willing to talk to, not just him but his father too. Most of his childhood 'friends' are either dead because of an overdose or they are in jail. His father has a big dream for him and that is to be just like him, that's why he cannot get distracted with the thought that he might actually like Brooke more than just a friend. There are a lot of things that he wanted to tell Brooke but he always had to bite his tongue, there was so much about him than this, than fighting, than handling a gun, but of course, he cannot share that to her, if he does, it is like giving himself fully to her. That can be used against him in the future, they were taught that even your closest friend can turn into an enemy. But sometimes, he cannot help it, there was just something about Brooke, and he can catch himself slipping away, showing a side of him that other people might not have seen, information about his childhood that was never shared to someone else's, and it scares the shit out of him. As someone stuyding to be a spy, there are quite a handful of things that scares him and one of those was relationship. The only healthy relationship he had was with his father, and that's because they don't see each other everyday, though he might appear charismatic and friendly with other people, but he has got a serious side, the side that would make sure that they will protect Max at all cost, even if things get too dangerous, he can tell that Brooke and him will be able to keep the President's son alive until they find the threat. He had always speak highly of Brooke, he first handedly saw her into action and there was no doubt in his mind that even if she had done this alone, she would succeed but it was impulse when he asked for a favor to join the mission, it was not because does not trust her skills, it was soley because he loves her company. His head was full of thoughts of Brooke, it was just when she spoke again about how digusting people are for trying to hurt Max and specifically others, "Yeah," He nodded in agreement, he hoped that they can protect more people, and not just a handful one, Max was lucky that he was the President's son because at least, his dad is an important man and they can afford asking spies help to protect him but what about those other people who dies everyday but has the chance to be saved? Shaking his head to get those thoughts out of it, he cannot do anything to save them because what he can just do is to protect people who they were told to protect, and to follow orders. "You're going to see how boring I am especially since you've been hanging out with me for quite some time already," He doesn't really go out during their free time, he still focus on Max even if he was free to do whatever he has to do. "You're right, we are going to make sure he wipe those vomit, but yeah, a lot of people would do it for him too, just to get close and all." Since they were already on the dance floor and she literally said yes when he asked her to dance, he smiled, shaking his head, "What? I'll take the lead? That's funny because I don't even know how to," It seems like there was a cue and the music change, not one of those upbeat songs anymore, but a slow song, something that is meant to be danced during prom and not in parties, "Jeez," He scratched the back of his head before taking a deep breath, they were already there and it was embarrassing to back down so instead of feeling like the whole world was watching them, he had shrugged it off and just rested his hands on her hips while he playfully beamed at her, "You have to put your arms around my neck, you know that right?"

[jaxonxcasey]

If Max was being true to himself, he would admit that perhaps he hadn’t been as good of a boyfriend as he could have been. He didn’t want to admit that he was in the wrong though. At the end of the day, Casey didn’t seem to mind. If she did, then she did a pretty good job at pretending not to. Max just hoped that she knew that no matter how much time apart they had, he didn’t love her any less. If anything, it made him love her even more. Made him able to appreciate the time that he did have with her. Because he would literally do anything for her, even if his own life depended on it. There was a form of irony that linked with his ideologies in that instance, because there was always going to be a possible chance of death looming over Max, ready to be stricken at any point… until the culprit or culprits is/are revealed and the threat eliminated. He should be fearing for his own life, but truth be told he was more concerned for Casey’s wellbeing than his own. He knew that she was more than capable of handling herself, but that was beside the point. She is everything to him, there was no doubt about it. “I guess you just have that effect on people. Even me, sometimes when I see you, I want to run in the other direction because you’re that terrifying. So don’t say you’re not, because you are,” Max teased, the wide smirk on his face just an obvious factor that he was messing with her. He laughed even more at the fact she denied being scary after that, to which he just shook his head after he’d spoken. Of course she was right, that she wasn’t scary – but it was fun to play along for the crack. “Am not! I’m like the least drunk person in this place,” he replied, scrunching his face up slightly, knowing full well that he was probably exaggerating. “Okay, not the least but… but close enough, right? I mean there are people worse off – I mean look at them,” he grinned, looking ahead at a couple of people with quite possibly the worst dance moves ever. Opening his mouth to retaliate, no words came out as he realised that there was truth to her answer. Still, he was too stubborn to fully agree so he shrugged, shaking his head slightly. “You shouldn’t act like one until needs be. You don’t see me throwing up any time soon, right?” he smiled innocently, assuming that he wasn’t in that much of a state just yet. Max felt good more than anything, “but you know I’d do the same for you though, right?” he added, just to be on the safe side that Casey knew he would do anything for her, just like she would for him – no matter what. “More like the pleasure’s all mine. I’d say I’m the lucky one here,” he said returning her beaming smile with one of his own. Max could be in a terrible mood and all he’d have to look at is Casey’s face to have his normal, chirpy self restored. You could say that she was the light of his life. Caught off guard when she asked him what he was looking at, he contemplated saying that he thought he could detect something wrong with her, but decided to ignore it reluctantly. Instead, he shrugged, giving her a fond smile. “I’m looking at you. Is that a problem?” he asked, raising his eyebrows at her, being his typical playful self instead of going into something serious, considering being serious wasn’t his area of expertise. At ‘other stuff,’ Max raised his brows once again, giving her an unconvincing look, as though he had a feeling that there might have been something underlying, something more that she wasn’t telling him. “Other stuff? Sounds very specific,” he pointed out, the undertones of sarcasm in his voice, yet covered up with his infamous smile. In all fairness, he assumed that if anything was truly wrong, then she would have approached him about it. So it couldn’t be all that serious if she didn’t want to be specific. Noticing her frown, Max unintentionally reflected her expressions, frowning back at her too as if upon instinct. He didn’t see what the harm was with joking. After all, if you can’t joke and have a laugh about matters like this, then you’d end up sad… which was what he intended to avoid at all costs. “Oh c’mon, lighten up a bit, yeah?” he pouted childishly, nudging her gently as though trying to brighten it up. “Noone’s gonna attack me at a crowded party, are they? No harm in joking about. I’m not worried about it, you shouldn’t be either!” No matter how much enthusiasm he tried to pour in his voice, the look in his eyes most likely betrayed his words; that he was worried, he just didn’t want to act like it. “Ahh, so you’re into animals now are ya?” he smirked, tilting his head slightly. Of course, out of all the ways he could have responded, it had to be like that.  “Hey, you’ve always been my priority too, y’know? I’d choose you over school, over anything else a million times over. You already know that though, I think. Hmm, maybe – if we get the chance we can do everything you’ve just said? There are twenty-four hours in a day after all, so it shouldn’t be hard! And shh, we won’t be disappointed. Or at least I won’t; I’m never disappointed when I’m with you.”

Casey and Max's relationship might not be perfect but the good thing is that they are trying and it is very much real. After Casey found out what her father, the one she looked up to, the one she always thought was a honest businessman was not who she thought he is, Casey cannot point out what was real and was not real anymore. But Max, he kept her from literally going insane, without him, Casey doesn't know if she could have handled the stress and coped with what has been going on with her life. Not once, he judged her too, she had been unfair to herself, calling herself stupid for not seeing it, but Max never done that, he just listened to her and didn't even back off from their relationship. He did not give up on her, so there was no reason that she does that, even if they don't really have so much time for each other these days. Casey scoffed at Max, trying to act offended with what he was saying, like he was scared of her to the point that he would run in the opposite direction. "Well, you're not running now?" She raised her brow at him, chuckling, no matter how much they try to be serious at a conversation, it always always ends up being as light as this, "Careful, Max, I might bite you," She showed him a toothy smile before laughing rather loudly, the loudest and most cheerful laugh that emitted from her lips since the last time she saw him. "I wish I was scary though," Because, if she was, then maybe she can scare his perpetrators off, and he wouldn't always have to be surrounded by his bodyguard like the one who was peeking at them now, she just shrugged, she did not even continue what she wanted to say because she doesn't want to ruin Max's moon. "I think I'm the least drunk person in this room because I am not drunk at all," She have not touched a single bottle of beer or some red cup which probably contain something cheap that she cannot even get her down her throat. "Hey, they look cute together though," She chuckled at the couple who was dancing, if moving around the dancefloor drunkenly is considered dancing, then they are. "We're worse than them, Max," She mumbled smirking, she was looked up at him as she tilted her head at the side, "I know you would do the same thing," There was no doubt in her mind that even at how much alcohol he had consumed, if she was in trouble, he would come for her, and he was that one person who she can always rely on. "You are lucky to have me, like look at me, all dressed up for a party," She shook her hips slightly, trying to be the life of the party which she is not, though she enjoys being the center of attention in a party, she would always pick being on the sideline with Max compared to that. She does not like feeling jealous over some non-existent flirty relationship between Max and that Brooke and she hates herself for feeling that way, like there was no reason for her to be jealous especially knowing that Max loves her, she knew that, like a hundred percent, with just the way he looks at her or how he would always put her on top of his priorities even before hos own. "Forget it," She shook her head, she doesn't want to worry him about something that was seriously nothing, maybe Brooke was just one of his friends, she might not even know but she can be someone who's not interested with Max right (though that is hard to believe since everyone is interested with Max)? She pouted, like that obvious pursing of her lips that makes her look like a puppy but she was upset that he was joking about his safety, she always think about that looming darkness that might just take Max away from her, sometimes, she wonders if she was bad luck in his life, like maybe she brought this to him. "I cannot help but be worried, you know," Her voice was soft, she was not even sure if he can hear what she was saying but she looked up at him and nodded, he was right, she should lighten up, it's a party and no one would dare to hurt him here. "Jeez, nevermind, Max," She groaned, his response would always be nothing that she expects, she licked her lips before smiling widely, she loves to hear that, a reassurance that this would work out no matter how hard it is sometimes to even see each other, she just needed to hold on. "You're right," She brushed the hair off her face before taking his hand and pulling him down softly towards her level, giving him a small peck on the cheek before muttering an "I love you", she just had to do that, but she pulled away quick because it was too risky and that's the last thing that she wanted to be.

[interconnectedspiral]

// relationship goals //

[dylan-aka-stiles]

[jaxonxcasey]

[jaxonxcasey]

“Haha, very funny,” Brooke shot back, rolling her eyes playfully, shaking her head with disapproval – yet being unable to conceal the fact she found it amusing, a laugh passing through her lips. “If I had the ‘different’ kind of coke, I’m pretty sure I would screw my whole life up. Imagine that disaster happening! No way would I ever take the chance… but you already knew that, didn’t you?” she grinned slightly, playing along. After all, it was a party which only meant the chance to have a little bit of fun. Sure, they were spies on a mission yet it wouldn’t hurt to loosen up a bit. Parties weren’t the most normal thing for Brooke to attend but for some reason, being here was so different, away from the ordinary. If they were back at the academy, then she most likely would have been more reserved or made an excuse not to go. But the only reason she was there anyway was because of Max. If he didn’t go the party, she wouldn’t have. It was just normal to keep up appearances, their covers, by being normal students and going to parties. The person she came to this place was not the same person who started the mission. On the inside, she was still there but as for the act she portrayed an outgoing, reasonably confident girl when in actuality, she was the opposite. Though she prefers the person she pretends to be, she assumes that if she kept up with this act long enough, she’d start actually believing it and embracing it. When it came to Jaxon though, it was easier to be herself because she never had to worry about his perception of her. At least, that’s what she hoped. Brooke leaned in a little closer, close enough to hear his words over the music. It was better this way; it meant that he didn’t have to talk loud, which he didn’t anyway, but it also meant that nobody else around them would know what they are talking about. “Yeah, me neither. It’s sick. If you’ve got some… beef, or whatever, with the President. Deal with him instead. Then again, I suppose they think the best way to get to the President is by hurting someone he cares about – who better than to pick on his son? It’s terrible. Max doesn’t deserve it,” she sighed, with genuine sympathy towards Max. Part of her wondered whether despite the intense training they’d endured, whether they will be enough protection for him in the long run. And the uncertainty killed her inside, only causing her to berate herself for not fully focusing on the task. And instead wandering into a world of her own, trapped inside her own sense of self. Smiling softly up at him as she snapped out of her own thoughts, laughing a little and decided to play along with her use of sarcasm and/or wit… or what she thought she had, anyway. “I can tell you’re the life and soul of the party, Jax!” Brooke teased, raising her eyebrows at him, a joking grin playing across her lips. When the question was turned back on her, she just shrugged, briefly glancing at the people around them before looking back up at him. “Nothing exciting. Just talking to Max, really. And eavesdropping into other people’s conversations, even if it’s hard to hear because of the music. Some of the things I heard weren’t exactly pleasant… rather vivid details on how they plan on spending their nights. Luckily, none of them involving Max…” her voice trailed off, before realising that her words could have been interpreted in a way that she didn’t want. She thought that it sounded like she was implying that it was lucky that people’s plans didn’t include Max for their own… ways of pleasure… and that’s not what she meant. Not at all. Her eyes widened at the thought and she felt her cheeks heat. “I didn’t mean – I didn’t mean that. Believe me, I’m not… I’m not interested in that way about him – or anyone, for that matter.” Brooke paused for a moment, averting her gaze as she chewed on her lower lip as though it would prevent her from saying something even more stupid. In a desperate attempt at quickly changing the subject, she rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly and looked back up at Jaxon. “Now, if I don’t get at least one dance with you tonight then I’ll be severely disappointed,” she smiled coyly. “I mean come on – the music is on and we’re just standing here!”

“A little coke wouldn’t hurt anyone, Brooke,” Jaxon smirked, he was just teasing her but he had tried taking cocaine once or twice, it was a silly rebellious phase of his life that he thought taking drugs would make it better but his father slapped that thought of out his head. Slapped. Literally. Hard. Jaxon does not talk about it a lot though, things in the past were best not talked about. There was never a conversation about his mother leaving them or how his father got into the business, they were just not good at talking. It was a surprise that Jaxon can even hold a decent conversation with some people, but then, maybe that's the only thing he got from his mother, the charm and how he makes people around him feel special. He glanced towards Brooke before smiling, there was so much he wants to know about her, and there are so much he wants to tell her too. But then, maybe opening about her might be crossing the line of their professional relationship, she was a friend but he's hesistant to say anything that can be thought as sharing too much information. Jaxon trusts her with his life but there were rules in being a spy, you cannot rely on anybody else but yourself, it's confused him so much because as much as he wanted to let go of everything and trust her completely, something was holding him back. He was so used to working alone, but working with her was a breeze through, maybe he was evolving into someone who can trust another person but there was still a long way to go. "But you're right, we cannot use those especially when we're here," On a mission, he meant, they cannot be complacent because no one was hurting Max or attempting to, that is. Maybe someone tipped off that some spies were in school, that's why the matermind behind hurting Max was just letting them relax a bit then they would be surprised by an attack. Even though Jaxon and Max haven't talked like how much the President's son converse with Brooke, he was hoping that this was just a false alarm, no one was actually attempting to hurt Max, but it was better to be safe than sorry. "Yeah, that's just sick, it's quite digusting on how people would come up with that," He sighed, but they first-hand see how evil can people be, and it actually feels suck-ish that the only one they can help are people who were important, like there are billions and billions of people around the world and even if you want to help them all, you cannot. He smirked, shaking his head, he was the total opposite and he knows that Brooke was just being sarcastic, "I'm quite boring, I know, but I am hopeful that I won't be wiping Max's vomit later on." He noticed that the President's son was drinking quite a lot, probably letting loose after having a stressful week. His eyebrow rose a bit when she seems to be relieved when people's plan doesn't involved Max, it made his heart stop a beat, maybe she likes him, but who wouldn't right? He was the President's son. He was funny. He seems really nice. It was a surprise that he wasn't fishing into the ocean of women who were swarming around him. "You don't really need to explain," He cleared his throat, he does not know what he was supposed to say, that it was alright to like someone else? Even that someone was their assignment? Even that someone was not him? "Brooke," He groaned, making a face when she mentioned about dancing, he might be good with handling his gun but they were not taught on how to dance in the academy. "Just don't blame me if I step on your foot," He surendered, she seemed to be eager about dancing and he cannot really deny himself in spending a little time with her, even if they were with other people, "Let's go," He caught her hand, holding it before managing to move their way to the dancefloor, he did not even attempt to loosen his grip of her hand because he was scared that he might let go it with how large the crowd it. "If I do it, I might just do it right?" He swayed left to right before letting go of her hand, staring at her for a minute before extending his arm again, "May I have this dance?"

[jaxonxcasey]

With their own personal lives going on, it is only expected for there to be times where you don’t see much of each other, no matter the circumstances. After all, it meant that you are happier to see each other afterwards. That’s the perspective that Max would rather think in, anyway. A more positive perspective meant a positive outcome. He was the believer of ‘if you believe something will happen, then it will.’ In this instance, the ‘something’ was that they’ll be happy when they see each other. He certainly felt like it. Just one look at Casey and he felt that all normality in his abnormal world was restored. A laugh passed through his lips, nodding in agreement when Casey mentioned how Terrance and James were scared of her, being a witness to that on a number of occasions. “I know. All you’d have to do is shout, ‘BOO’ down their ears and they’d end up scarpering off. A hilarious thought, actually. If there’s ever a next time, I might have to record it and upload it to the internet,” he retorted with a lighthearted chuckle before shaking his head at his own statement. Even he knew that he wasn’t that cruel. “Okay, maybe not upload it on the internet –“he corrected himself. “But perhaps recording it – that’s a definitive one. Do that, won’t need to upload it anywhere else because I’m not that horrible of a person.” When she asked if he was drunk, Max tilted his head to the side slightly, furrowing his eyebrows and shaking his head quickly as though to dismiss her question. “Am not drunk,” he mimicked, imitating her actions by also folding his arms across his chest, a childish smile playing on his lips. It’s not like he would have admitted it if he was. But to him, he wasn’t at that stage. Because surely a few drink didn’t classify as drunk. Tipsy, yes. Drunk, not so much. “I’m fine though, honeeeest,” he said, slurring on his words ever so slightly, barely noticeable. “Heeeey, as my best friend, you’re also inclined to have fun and not be my babysitter,” Max grinned sheepishly, prodding her arm gently with his finger. “You know what that means? It means that you get to have fun with me! How lucky of you, right?” he joked, his usual cheeky smirk danced across his lips. Focusing his attention back to Casey, he just about manage to glimpse at the moment her smile faltered. Part of him was tempted to question her about it, but then he decided not to. They were at a party; what’s the point in dampening the lively atmosphere? Besides, even with a few drinks in his system it probably wasn’t appropriate because knowing Max, he would say the wrong thing and get dragged through hell because of it. Giving her hand a gentle squeeze once they were in the veranda, returning her bright smile with one of his own, his eyes lighting up just seeing her. Every time he looked at Casey, it felt like the first time all over again. It has been that way since he first met her and he didn’t intend for that to stop now. At her remark, he raised his eyebrows, not expecting that response. “What else would I be busy with? Other than school stuff – and trying not to get killed,” he shrugged casually, as though it was one of the most obvious things in the world. “It’s been a couple of days? Feels like forever,” Max huffed at the thought, frowning slightly but soon brightening up remembering that they have now. It’s better than nothing at all. “Hmm, what mice would that be exactly?” he asked coyly, smiling softly down at her, using one hand to brush some of her hair that fell into her face. “You never need to apologise, I get it; school first and all. Buuuuut I’d love to spend more time with you! If they don’t like it, we’ll sneak out like we usually do. Where would ya like to go?”

If only life was as easy, if there was a pause button, Casey would probably click that so that she and Max can pause their separate lives for a moment and try to spend time together. But life does not work that way, they both have their committments and as much as she wants Max to leave everything and be with her, even just for a day, she does not want to be selfish. To his parents. To those people who looks up to him. And to Max, himself. She just missed him, but then again, she misses him a lot, whenever he leaves her room, in the next five minutes, she would long to have him again. It was quite surprising that Max still doesn’t find her clingy with how much she send him messages or call him, if she was her own boyfriend, she would probably broke up with herself already. “I’m sure they are too scared of me, like I might just look at them and they would get it and scatter away,” Casey smirked, she tried to look at Max seriously, trying to practice that ‘evil eyes’ but have not even finished it because she was already laughing. “I’m not very scary, Max, they wouldn’t be scared of me,” But if she was scary, there’s this one person he would try to scare and that was the person who’s trying to hurt Max, that’s it, and she would be alright. “Course, you are not drubk, probably very, very drunk,” She rolled her eyes at him, sighing afterwards, she promised herself not to drink now that he was quite tipsy, there needs to be someone who can take care of him when he had so much drink. “I’m your bestfriend and you’re right, I am not your babysitter but it doesn’t mean I shouldn’t act like one because who else would pull you towards the bathroom when you need to throw up, that would be me,” She smiled at him confidently although she was not really into cleaning up pukes, there’s nothing she can do if it was Max’s vomit. Casey knew that he would do the same if she was on his position, he would hold her hair and rub her back, she gave him a thumb’s up, “Yeah, I’m quite lucky to have fun with you, I’m just lucky to have you,” She beamed genuinely and she meant in a different way, like she was lucky to have him in her life, to have him as her boyfriend. Letting Max drag her away from the crowd so they can have some time for themselves, she longs for the day that they can admit to everyone that they are together but that's an impossible dream right now. "What are you looking at?" She raised her perfectly manicured brow when she caught him just staring at her, "I don't know, other stuff?" She chewed on her lesser lip, she does not want to bring up her jealousy over Brooke because that was just petty considering there was no chance that Max would do that. "The not getting killed part is not funny at all," She frowned, she knew that Max would joke around about it but since he had a ton of bodyguards around him, his dad must not thought of it as a joke, it was something serious and it worries the fuck out of Casey, whenever he replies to a text a little longer than usual, she wants to bolt out of the room to make sure he was alright. She unconsciously tilted her head so that she can feel his soft touch, he was right, it has been too long since they had seen each other and if they don't be subtle about how they missed each other, people might spot them right outside and would be suspicious about their actions. "The mice who is my boyfriend," She laughed, it was the first time she had called him her boyfriend for a long time, it was always bestfriend because other people were lurking around, "Hmm, I don't know, Max, school is first but you're my priority, like you're even on top of school................Maybe somewhere new, like going to the park, I haven't been into one for a very long time or going on walks to the beach? Maybe even stargazing, just get away from all of these for a while," She was probably talking too much because by the end of her 'where she wants to go' speech, she was out of breath, she shook her head, smiling at him, "Or we can just stay in and watch Nexflix, let's not be too adventurous and plan everything because that might not happen and we'll just be disappointed."

[brookexmax]

[redshood]

+

[jaxonxcasey]

The only purpose of have a drink was to keep up pretences and maintain her appearance – her role at the party. To be a normal student like the rest. Oblivious as anything though despite the fact she should have known what exactly was in the cups, Brooke looked at Jaxon with a puzzled look for a couple of seconds before it clicked in her mind and she brought the cup to her nose, sniffing it slightly with a look of disapproval. “To think for a minute I thought it was just some coke or something,” she said, shaking her head while allowing a quiet laugh to emit from her lips, raising her eyebrows for a second as he nodded his head quickly, but deciding to let it slide on that one occasion. Conscious that she shouldn’t really be drinking any alcohol whatsoever, she gathered that one drink wouldn’t hurt – even if it wasn’t as nice as warned by Jaxon. Besides, she wouldn’t consider herself to be a complete lightweight, even if there was a job to focus on there was no harm in one drink. One drink surely wouldn’t disturb her focus on the job, and considering the vigorous dedication she allocated towards her profession, she figured that she should act like the other students at the party – and that consisted of having some fun. It wasn’t like she didn’t know what fun was, she just spared it wisely. Taking a sip out of the cup nonetheless, she shrugged at the next questions while looking around just to ensure that Max was in sight, smiling over at him with a quick wave as she caught a glance. Turning her head so she was looking back up at Jaxon, so she could answer the questions he’d given her, she nodded her head as though to say ‘it’s all going good’. “Yeah, it’s been a good night so far. Max is a good guy, you know? I like him.” Random conversation topic change, she knew that, but Brooke was only saying what was true. There was part of her that was sure that Jaxon already knew that she liked Max, considering the amount of times she’d make an effort to get to know the guy and all. Focusing on her current conversation with him, she couldn’t help but observe their surroundings just to make sure that there was no person acting suspicious. Although, she resounded that no one would dare to try anything with the President’s son in a popular area. It was when he was on his own, when she should worry. “I can’t remember the last time I attended a party. Not usually my kind of scene. Not that I haven’t ever been to a party or anything, of course – I guess just not enough to be used to them yet. I don’t even know if that makes sense,” Brooke laughed, a little nervously, albeit she wasn’t sure why she felt that way. “What were you doing here on your lonesome anyway? Before I came along and rescued you from being on your own?” she joked, a small grin spreading across her face as she waited for a response.

"If you want some coke, they have one as well, but a different kind," Jaxon smiled at her teasingly, it's time to try and blend in, to make other students think that they are really part of the community. It was hard to do that for Jaxon sometimes because all of these guys talk about how they'd tap this and tap that, there was so much they should worry about than having sex with the hottest girl in school. He would try so hard not to roll his eyes when they talk about that, but then when they are talking about Brooke, his fist would curl and he has to try to keep his cool. He would lie to himself and just say that he was protective of her because she is his partner and nothing else. Glancing around, he sometimes feel like he was out of place, between the two of them, he thinks that Brooke fits in quite well, maybe that's one of the reason on why this mission should have been specifically for her and not the two of them. "Yeah, I think he is a good guy, I don't have an idea on why someone would like to hurt him, it's probably about the President." He made sure that his voice was soft so no one can hear what they're talking about, it was hard to hate Max when he's a nice guy even though he can be quite flirty to Brooke. He nodded at her, it has been a while, although they have this secret parties at the academy, it wouldn't get wild as this, he bet that after a few hours, they'd be seeing someone making out in the couch or students acting like normal students. It was a breath of fresh air, seeing how people around them are not as uptight as those in the academy, not that he hates being in the academy, it's just tiring to act like you can do everything, that you're perfect and you cannot make any mistakes. Everyone is bound to make one anyways, even spies like them. "Oh, I'm just looking around, doing nothing really...............I'm know, I'm the most boring person and it's a party and I should talk to other people," He chuckled, but he wans't good at that, he acts like he is confident but he wasn't really, he just act like he is, the usual. "What about you? Aside from talking to Max, of course? What were you doing?" He smiled at her, as if he doesn't know, he has been watching Max and so was Brooke so he actually caught a glance at her once in a while, not that he focused on her instead of Max, well, maybe he does sometimes without even noticing. 

[jaxonxcasey]

Classes were completely stressful, and even though Max tried his hardest with them, sometimes he felt as though he was doing below par – below his standard, and his dad would be disappointed if he ever achieved a low grade due to the importance of his father. Only wanting to follow in his footsteps, almost like his shadow. And to reward himself for trying so hard, though he wouldn’t admit he was slacking in aspects, he couldn’t see why going to a party wouldn’t have been a good thing to do. Besides, it was one of the few opportunities where he managed to see Casey, considering they had barely any interaction with each other. And even though he didn’t want to admit it, he saw more of Brooke than he did of his own girlfriend. Obviously, this was because of her job – she had to spend almost every waking hour with him. That’s what she was paid to do, although she didn’t seem to exactly mind too much considering the effort she put in to get to know him. As far as he knew, there was nothing in it, only friendship – but perhaps a bit of harmless ‘flirting’ wouldn’t hurt. Not really. It wasn’t like he was cheating or anything. He would never do that to Casey because he loved her so dearly. If he ever did anything to screw their relationship up, he wasn’t sure what he would do with himself. He would probably feel lost with no idea what to do. In all fairness, it was difficult to maintain a secret relationship due to the various implications. That didn’t make him love her any less though – she was still the light of his life. His only constant. “Oh, it’s definitely Terrance. Or am I James? Maybe I’m both of them morphed in to one. Actually – I hope not.” Max played along, laughing at his own dumb joke, as usual. Nothing new there. “Crackalackalackalackalacking,” he said simply in a jokey tone of voice, a bit obvious that he’d had a few drinks already. “Hey, what’s wrong with crackalacking?” he huffed playfully, folding his arms and pouting like a kid who just got told that they weren’t allowed any ice cream. “Alright, it was that guy over there,” Max pointed aimlessly in a random direction, almost smacking a passer-by in the face as he stuck his arm out. “Sorry,” he tried to be serious but couldn’t help but start laughing again. Softening slightly as he looked in the direction she nodded in, he shrugged his shoulders before glancing over at Brooke – who was now with Jaxon – offering a polite smile over at her before turning back to Casey. “Ahhh – I dunno. I don’t see what the harm it would do. It’s not like they don’t have their eyes on me. They can make their own way out if they need me for anything. Besides, I’m only with you. Not gonna take me out there to stab me in the heart or anything right?” he teased, another smug smirk forming on his face as he absentmindedly took her hand. He figured if anyone was concerned, they’d find him. And the spies had his number anyway if they lost him. Holding her hand in his without thinking, he led the way over to the veranda. Once they were there, he smiled fondly at his girlfriend before letting go of her hand. “I’ve missed you.”

Hiding a relationship that she was supposed to be flaunting was hard, but keeping it downlow was the only way they can shy away from the media anyways. Casey doesn't think she can survive the attention, just being on the side, being Max's bestfriend, they already give her unwanted attention so telling the world that she's the President's son's girlfriend (though he was only Max to her), it would probably triple the attention that she doesn't need. Brushing the hair off her face as she turned around to look at Max, her eyebrow raising, she shook her head, "You know, Terrance and James would know better than to touch me, they're actually quite scared of me, you know, how bad ass your bestfriend is," She laughed, those two are actually pestering her the past few weeks, trying to get her to go out with them but obviously, she is taken, so there's not a chance that she would say yes to them. She was very much in love with Max so no thank you. "You're drunk?" She folded her arms in her chest, she was not sure on how long has he been in the party but by the looks of it, he might have been there a while, he was a bit drunk already. Not that she doesn't allow him to drink but Casey just gets worried a lot, with everything that is going on, how Max's life seems to be always in danger, it leaves her anxious. "Okay, okay, I shall stop being the nagging bestfriend and just tell you to have fun, you deserve it anyways." She waved it off but as soon as she smiled, it also faltered when she noticed that his eyes were fixed on Brooke. She doesn't want that green eyed monster to linger, she chewed on her lesser lip as she looked away, she hates feeling this way especially when she knows so well that Max wouldn't do anything to hurt her. She was quite surprised when Max held her hand, pulling her towards the veranda, just simple gesture like that calm the monsters inside of her, there was just reassurance that no matter what happen, it's Max and Casey, no one else, there's no Brooke, not his parents, not her dad, just them and that was enough to make her feel better. She looked up to him, she couldn't help but give him that wide smile, it's only Max who can make her smile that wide. "Really? Thought you were busy with someon--something else, but I do miss you too, this week sucks, haven't seen you in like a couple of days." She shrugged, it's not their fault anyways, apart from their relationship, they have other commitments and priorities as well. "I hope when the cat was away, the mice didn't play?" She raised her brow, hugging herself while her hair has gotten all over her face when the cold wind blew rather strongly. "I'm sorry if I wasn't around that much this week, from tennis practice to some school work, to everything, I was just busy, I promise to spend some more time with you in the next couple of days yeah? Maybe we can even go out this weekend, well, if your bodyguards would allow you but I'm sure if they don't, we can find a way?" 

[manipmadness-blog]

Dylan O'Brien & Maia Mitchell

[jaxonxcasey]

After settling in to the role of being a student at some prim and proper academy, Brooke found that she didn’t actually mind the place as much as she initially thought that she should. What shocked her even more than that was that the President’s son wasn’t nearly as half bad as she’d automatically made the assumption of before she’d even walked through the doors.  Now getting to know Max seemed less like a job everyday. He seemed like a decent guy and besides, getting closer to him meant that it was easier to protect him, being nearby on most occasions and all. Earning his trust was a part of her strategic plan to make everything easier on her side; gather intel, get close to Max and the people he’s close to so she could eliminate any threat that surfaced but it turned out that there wasn’t all that many people that Max was close to. Only Casey who, as far as Brooke knew, was Max’s best friend. Which only diminished an inkling that she originally had; that whoever was after him was reasonably close to him. Because Casey gave her no reason to put any suspicion on her, who seemed to be practically the only person he was close to – or allowed himself to be close to. And when speaking to him, the only person he really mentions is her which explained a lot to Brooke that they were close. And while she was executing her plan to get closer to Max, she found that she enjoyed talking to him. He was a nice guy and now she could see why he attracted so many people’s attention – he even caught hers. But as far as any ‘feelings’ were to say, she managed to tell herself that friendship was all it was. That was all. And now they were at a party; everybody was. And she thought there was no reason not to go – after all, isn’t that what all the students do? She found herself speaking with Max for the majority of the time she was there, getting lost in the topic although she couldn’t quite remember what they were talking about. When he told her that he’d be back in a bit because he wanted to see Casey, she smiled up at him with a nod to say that it’s fine. Alongside a ‘I’ll be over there if you need me’ comment, because Jaxon caught her eye and she realised that she hadn’t spoke to him as much since going to the party. Looking around to ensure that the President’s son was still in sight, Brooke made her way over to Jax, taking a cup that was offered to her on the way with a polite ‘thanks’. “Hey, you,” she smiled softly up at him, using her elbow give him a light nudge. “Everything seems alright so far. Max seems happy. Honestly, I don’t know how someone can remain content and happy when they have a constant threat looming over them,” she shrugged, glancing over at Max to make sure everything’s okay before looking back at him. “What about you? Is everything okay with you?”

Jaxon shouldn't be drinking at all, what if something happens and he was passed out, drunk and he wouldn't be able to do his mission. So instead of finish off the red cup with liquor in it, he placed it on the side, only to see Brooke coming towards him when he looked back up. He gave her a smile when she nudged him, there was no denying that he probably has feelings for her but that doesn't mean he would act on that specific that was lingering. You don't need to be a genius to figure out that you have feelings for someone but studying as a spy, Jaxon knew how to control his emotions so instead of letting it on that he was jealous of Brooke's budding relationship with Max, he would just act as if it's her plan all along, maybe it is, he doesn't know, maybe that's one of her strategy, getting to know him to extract information about who might hurt him. Jax has got to admit that Max seems to be a great guy though, he is not that bratty asshole that Jaxon thought he would be, if the situation was normal, maybe he would even consider being friends with the guy. He glanced at Brooke, giving her one of those smile that was only meant for her though she wouldn't notice that, "Hey to you too," He nodded at her, resting his back on the wall, she was right, everything seems to be fine as of the moment, every corner of the room has his bodyguards anyways and the rest were just students who are trying to have fun, Jaxon shout let loose and relax as well. He nodded furiously when she asked him if he was alright, was he being obvious? "Yeah, course, everything's alright, and just a head's up, the liquor in the red cups aren't that great, they taste like water compared to what we have in the aca-----." He didn't finish his sentence because some guys from their class started hanging out near them, "How about you? How's your night? Having fun?" He asked with a fake enthusiasm in his voice, his eyes flickering towards Max and Casey then back at Brooke, "Everyone seems to be enjoying and I hope you are too, it's been a while since I attended a party." The parties they had at the academy were lame but the alcohol was better there, here, it seems to be all fun, drinking, flirting, and just making a fool out of yourself, in the academy, they still need to be well-composed and everything. Being in a normal school wasn't that bad at all, well, being normal wasn't that bad but he wanted to be a spy like his father so normal shouldn't be in his language but he was thankful for the mission, it made him see the other side of what his life could have been. 

[brookexmax]

At the prospect of attending a party was enough to get Max excited for the night. Parties were a couple of the only times he was able to have a little bit of fun. And whilst his bodyguards were always lingering around at all hours of the day, at parties they tended to be more lenient. And by lenient, it meant that they were in the room, hovering near the walls and doors just to keep an eye on everyone and obviously him being the priority. However if someone strayed a little too close to him, then they would get involved which was embarrassing for Max, who had to tell them that it was okay and that nobody was trying to kill him. Although, they seemed to allow him more personal space whenever Brooke was around. He never questioned it, but he assumed that his bodyguards knew the spies, so when either of them were around they didn’t need to keep tabs on him every single minute. So in that sense, he was thankful to have Brooke making the effort getting to know him. Maybe it was because of her job, but she never treated him as though he was a ‘job’ or like he was even the President’s son. She treated him like a normal person and for that, he was grateful for. Part of him wondered whether after all this was over, if they’d keep in touch, or whether it will be swept under the rug and be another thing that just came and left. Max was currently talking to her about the party and although it had been roughly a month since she and Jaxon arrived, he thought to ask how she felt about being there. From there, the conversation just seemed to have escalated into random stuff. Looking around the room, he saw his girlfriend around and about; just seeing Casey there made him smile, so he decided that he’d go and say hello. “I’ll be back in a bit, I’m gonna go and see Casey,” he informed Brooke, before nodding his head in the direction he’d be heading in before getting up and walking over, behind her. Approaching her from behind slowly, being careful to not give himself away, Max grinned and placed hands over her eyes. “Guess who?” he said cheerfully before laughing slightly. When he removed his hands from her eyes, he smiled down at her, just so happy to be in her presence. “What’s crackalacking?”

[jaxonxcasey]

It was probably one of those longest week of her life, she rarely saw Max because of her busy schedule, she had to juggle with her studies and things happening at home. It didn't help her mood when she arrived and saw Max hanging out with this girl. Again. The past few weeks she also noticed this Brooke girl seems to be following her boyfriend wherever he goes, Casey was not always the jealous girlfriend but seeing how Brooke makes him smile and even how close they can be, it just makes her feel left out, a tug on her heart knowing that they can never be that close in public because of the fear that other people might found out about their real relationship, that they're more than just friends. Maybe it was her fault for not always being there for him especially in the past few weeks, she cannot just expect him to be always there when she needs him although she knew that he would try the hardest to be a great boyfriend even in the situation they're in. She decided not to come over yet, Casey doesn't want her moodiness to affect his own mood, he has always been good in sensing her mood. Taking a cup from the table and popping a cookie inside her mouth, she begun chewing as her eyebrows were furrowed, felt someone behind her covering her eyes. Trying to be in a good mood, she chuckled softly, trying to play with Max's game, "Oh, is this Terrance from Math class or James, the footballer who's an ass?" When his hands left her eyes, she turned around, giving him a small smile, "Oh, it's just Max," She winked at him, cocking her head at the side at his random question, God, she missed him so much, she just wanted to pull him down and give him a tight, tight hug but she cannot do that since people were around them. "A crackalacking...........Is somebody that I hope you'll never be, Max, where did you even hear that word?" She nodded towards the empty veranda so they can stay there and talk, the room was getting crowded and she cannot really hear half of what he was saying because of the loud music, "Would it be okay if we stay there or you're not allowed to walk out there since it's out in the open?" She asked him, shouting a bit, her fingers softly brushing on his arm to pull him down towards her level so he can hear what she was saying.