A rose by any other name

30. Nurse and part-time fashion designer. Social butterfly and previously a high school nurse in Colorado. Written by K, 26.

[miaxbennett]

About Amelia R. Bennett

Current Activity Level: High

Biography + Rules || Prompts || Memes || Wanted Plots || Wishlist || Inspiration || Opens

Plotting: Open || Shipping: Open

[scinglives]

Just great. Mia had just settled into a somewhat restful shift until one of the young interns broke the cardinal rule of any hospital: stating that it was a slow day. Not even an hour later, the ER had become a hub of busyness. Worse was when she saw the uniforms of some of the patients indicating they were firefighters. Without meaning to, it sent the blonde into a slight panic especially when she wondered how bad the actual fire was. “Hush. If I had a dollar for every patient who said that to me I’d be the richest woman in the world.” Amelia’s tone was half-scolding, half-teasing. Sometimes she wondered who was more stubborn between the pair of them. To reduce whatever urge he might have to jump back into action (though she highly doubted Callum would be jumping anywhere anytime soon), the blonde quickly drew the curtain to isolate his sight from the chaos outside. All humor evaporated once she actually got a chance to see the blood dripping down his face. “Just a few broken ribs. Just some blood dripping down your face. Do you have any idea how you look? Better yet, you think you can fool me?” With her at a mini five-foot-two, their height difference was severe, but the nurse did not let it stop her from staring up pointedly at him as she placed on her latex gloves. Taking a moment, she reached for gauze and disinfectant before rushing over to start with cleaning his bloodied fingers. With a sigh, she added: “Take a seat Taylor. Just…give me at least twenty minutes alright? I need to make sure I won’t have a sleepless night worrying if I let you off with a concussion or internal bleeding. And really, think about it. How many people can you really help like this?” Ever so gently, she pushed him toward the examination table to sit. 

Callum knew that as soon as he was brought in to the ER that Mia was going to be at him. They had known each other a while now, mainly from different ER visits but most of the time it had been him bringing in a colleague. He was rarely the one that was the patient. "I'm guessing I don't look good?" He asked with a raised eyebrow, wincing because frankly that just hurt. This kind of thing happened, it was part of the job. But it didn't make it any easier, wincing as he sat down. Okay everything was hurting and he couldn't hide it any more.

"Fine, twenty minutes." He insisted with a smile, he wasn't going to be helping tonight, there was no way he was able to go back to the scene like this. He could barely walk. "You can always just home with me, then you won't have to worry about me having a concussion because you can sit and watch me."

[miaxbennett]

scinglives​:

Callum knew that as soon as he was brought in to the ER that Mia was going to be at him. They had known each other a while now, mainly from different ER visits but most of the time it had been him bringing in a colleague. He was rarely the one that was the patient. “I’m guessing I don’t look good?” He asked with a raised eyebrow, wincing because frankly that just hurt. This kind of thing happened, it was part of the job. But it didn’t make it any easier, wincing as he sat down. Okay everything was hurting and he couldn’t hide it any more.

“Fine, twenty minutes.” He insisted with a smile, he wasn’t going to be helping tonight, there was no way he was able to go back to the scene like this. He could barely walk. “You can always just home with me, then you won’t have to worry about me having a concussion because you can sit and watch me.”

;

She was ever so thankful she was the one who ended up taking care of him. Being imposing as he was in stature, she was sure Callum could have smooth talked his way out of the hospital after nothing more than having forehead patched up. Unimpressed but more than that, worried, Amelia’s soft face hardened, especially as her hands hovered over him as he sat down. “Was the fire that bad? Were you wearing your helmet at all?” Of course head injuries more often than not looked worse than they were, but considering it seemed to hurt, she wondered what could have caused the cut he seemed to have.

“Maybe I should fight with you more often.” She quipped, a smile breaking through her previously stony mask. Giving him time to adjust to the new position, she took her time cleaning the rest of the blood from his hands before moving on to the blood covering his face; one of her pale hands gently cradling his jaw in her hand. “You’d really let me stay over? Not that I wouldn’t want to...but, you’re not gonna hate having me micro manage you for the next few hours are you?” The suggestion put her at ease though, considering he looked as though he could barely move. “I charge extra for overnight care.” She added teasingly. 

[miaxbennett]

flirtofwallstreet​:

Alexander wished he could see Mia’s expression when she responded to his emails, specially when the second one hit his inbox. He could win money betting on the blush on her cheeks. But he simply responded with a Great choice before returning to his usual agenda of emails and meetings.

As the blonde arrived, he was already at the table, checking on the menu and dressed in a striped suit. “No worries, Mia. I can survive waiting fifteen minutes if I get the pleasure of your company” the man looked up from the menu, shooting his bright smile to her. Damn, she looked good in that dress. “Are you asking if this is my date spot? Mia, that’s a bit too personal” Alex let out a chuckle, shaking his head before she could respond “Just kidding, but it’s more like my business meeting spot. This is the first time I’m using it for more personal reasons”

;

Nope. She was not ready for this at all. If anything proved that fact to her, it was that stupid striped suit he wore. More than that, the contrast of his tie and pocket square with his bright blue eyes was...distracting. Trying to get herself together, she internally joked that maybe he looked so good today because he knew they would be having lunch. Now that would be something. Settling in across from him, Alexander’s...friendly (flirtatious?) greeting brought more warmth to her cheeks - making the rouge on her cheeks darken. “If we didn’t have so much riding on this  project and you weren’t my senior...I’d almost think you were flirting with me.” Mia replied in what she hoped sounded like a teasing fashion. 

Again, he used her nickname. Which helped to focus on when he yet again poked fun at her. It was ridiculous that he knew how to turn her into a school girl. “You can’t blame me for wondering. The office girls have bets running on where you take your dates.” Loathe she was to admit it, she wondered too. Looking up from her menu in confusion, the blonde tilted her head with a somewhat curious smile. “Personal, you say? I thought we were here to talk business.” Not that she minded that work did not seem to be on his mind right then.

[scinglives]

@miaxbennett

"It's not as bad as it looks." Callum insisted, he had come through with a few of the other firefighters from the scene, seeing Mia as soon as he was brought in to the ER. "It's a few broken ribs, it's not a big deal." He said with a sigh and tried to hide the pain he was in, his hand moving to his head where there was blood dripping down his face. "Okay fine, more than that. But I'm standing, that's a good sign, right? I'm okay. There's people who are more hurt than I am."

[miaxbennett]

Just great. Mia had just settled into a somewhat restful shift until one of the young interns broke the cardinal rule of any hospital: stating that it was a slow day. Not even an hour later, the ER had become a hub of busyness. Worse was when she saw the uniforms of some of the patients indicating they were firefighters. Without meaning to, it sent the blonde into a slight panic especially when she wondered how bad the actual fire was. “Hush. If I had a dollar for every patient who said that to me I’d be the richest woman in the world.” Amelia’s tone was half-scolding, half-teasing. Sometimes she wondered who was more stubborn between the pair of them. To reduce whatever urge he might have to jump back into action (though she highly doubted Callum would be jumping anywhere anytime soon), the blonde quickly drew the curtain to isolate his sight from the chaos outside. All humor evaporated once she actually got a chance to see the blood dripping down his face. “Just a few broken ribs. Just some blood dripping down your face. Do you have any idea how you look? Better yet, you think you can fool me?” With her at a mini five-foot-two, their height difference was severe, but the nurse did not let it stop her from staring up pointedly at him as she placed on her latex gloves. Taking a moment, she reached for gauze and disinfectant before rushing over to start with cleaning his bloodied fingers. With a sigh, she added: “Take a seat Taylor. Just...give me at least twenty minutes alright? I need to make sure I won’t have a sleepless night worrying if I let you off with a concussion or internal bleeding. And really, think about it. How many people can you really help like this?” Ever so gently, she pushed him toward the examination table to sit. 

[miaxbennett]

the-estranged-estrangedaframian​:

The ancient Lynceus frowned but it was only because he was contemplating the words which Mia spake; while immortality had given him an advantage in knowledge, so much accrued was wasted on account of an increasingly wearied outlook.

Mia, on the other hand, seemed to use her knowledge more scrupulously. At least scrupulous is how Lync saw her advice to him. She was a nurse, yes, but her ability to heal people went beyond that. Like something in the blood. Lync knew not of her past, nevertheless deciding to stick by his deductions regarding Mia’s character.

“… Just one goal? I guess that makes more sense than spreading ones talents Macedon thin…”

;

There was a moment after Mia ended her little ramble that she felt a little embarrassed. Confronted with death, disease and joy on a daily basis, one would think she would be a little more..controlled with her emotions but it really felt like the exact opposite. The blonde was a little bashful, which showed in her momentary reluctance to look at the older man with which she so eagerly engaged. More than that, she was perhaps needlessly concerned with appearing naive and even a little air-headed. Without having to say it, which arguably made his case stronger, Lync had an air of wisdom and intelligence about him. Maybe it was just that she did not encounter many people that actually paused to take someone else’s words into consideration before replying with the first thing that entered their minds. Without exactly meaning to, his reply drew a chuckle from her. “Well, I guess there’s one overarching goal. The one that’s your reason for waking up in the morning. Like...oh I don’t know...become the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, climb every major mountain in the world, discover a new species...stuff like that. And along the way there’s the little goals, like finishing college or buying a house. At least that’s how I see it.” She shrugged in that shy way of hers. Pursing her lips more than once, Amelia might have appeared like a fish gawking with an unasked question. “This is a personal question...I know that...but...since you said you’ve experienced everything...have you accomplished your goal or your purpose?” The question was soft, as if to lighten the blow the nuances her words might unintentionally hold.

[cursivebloodlines]

"Funny," Aaron quipped in amusement, "I have a lot of thoughts, actually. Probably far too many to count. I don't think you'd really want to hear even half of them, though." A light chuckle passed from his lips. "An excellent listener, I'm sure you are... however, it would be cruel to force you to listen to that. You'd be throwing things at me to silence me -- we'd both benefit from my silence." Silence was one way of putting it. An exaggeration He couldn't be silent if he tried. But still...the sentiment counted... right?

Out of everyone she could have approached, she chose him. That had meant a lot to Aaron, as much as he wouldn't outrightly admit it. Often he could be reprimanded by colleagues for not taking his job seriously enough. Or they held him to much higher standards because his father was a very well-respected detective back in his prime days and so they expected him to be just like his father. And he couldn't be more different than him. It irked him, because, despite his stupid jokes and dopey demeanor combined with his laid-back attitude, he was good at his job. His hard work often went unnoticed, but that was something he had become accustomed to over the years. So, for her to seek him out, even if he didn't say it - it meant a lot to him. And she was lovely, which happened to be an even bigger bonus. "Oof," Aaron pretended to wince as though she had just hurt him, the hand placed on his chest dramatically clutching it as he leaned back in his chair, soothing a nonexistent injury. "You wound me, Detective. You're only as old as you feel. You have even further a way to go than me, so I'm reckoning muffins for breakfast won't do you any harm... as for me," he paused, shaking his head with a light laugh. "Well, I feel done for now, I'll go back to my mental age for now. That's the justification I'll use." About to protest the idea of her treat or surrendering with an 'okay then, next time' Aaron stopped in his tracks as she started discussing the case. Right, time for business. Straightening up, he did his best to pay attention to her as she spoke, fiddling with a napkin on the table to help him concentrate, tugging at the ends. He nodded occasionally, an indicator he was still listening as he let the facts settle in his mind, giving it all some consideration.

"Ah. One of those ones," he said calmly, though he did wrinkle his nose at the thought. Allowing his thoughts to settle in, he assured her, "You're not crazy. You're a detective for a reason, right? You're sensible, and if you have a gut feeling that something isn't right - most of the time, that is the case. The murder weapon in the trash sounds sloppy. Almost too convenient. If it sounds like it's too good to be true, it usually is. Could be put there on purpose..." he thought out loud, stroking his chin. "But then if the prints match... Huh. Tricky. What did she do for a living? The victim? Is there anyone who could be linked to both the victim and the best friend?"

[miaxbennett]

The rookie detective only gave her superior a cheeky look. "Lots of thoughts, huh? Well, you're in good company there." Amelia bantered. Her little tirade earlier was on the lower end of what she felt could turn into hours long ramblings. "And now you're just being a tease and unfair to boot. I, for one, would love to know what's happening upstairs - least of all for how poetically you spoke about my muffin earlier." If she was not fifteen years too old to pout, she just might have.

Their little back and forth made the blue-eyed detective wistful for her previous occupation. It felt like in her new path in life, the people she was faced with forced her to be cautious and on guard. Heck, even dealing with some of her colleagues who only had eyes for their next promotion, could be akin to walking on eggshells. She did not want to show her complete naivety and assert that she assumed everyone she worked with in the department were all about protecting and serving, but she did expect a little less...corporate style careering. Aaron had been a nice break from it all. Perhaps she might even tell him once this case was over. After all, it would sound ore sincere once her junior career was not hanging in the balance based off nothing but a hunch. "Ooooh no, ya see, that's how ya get in trouble, thinking you're safe. Health scares are sneakier than criminals that's for sure." She replied with a laugh, just a twinge of a New York accent coloring her words. "And how old's that, pray tell? You still gotta learn algebra or are you old enough to drive a car?" Teased the blonde. Maybe she should give this whole 'mental age' thing a try too. Sounds much less stressful. Seeing the change from goofball to senior detective filled Mia with confidence, assured that: 1) he was not about to laugh her out of the diner and 2) he was actually taking her seriously. As she spoke, she went through the motions of altering her black coffee to her tastes, pausing every so often to gesticulate wildly as was common to her when talking about...well, anything really.

The moment Aaron replied, a loud sigh of relief came from her. "Good, that's good...so I haven't completely lost it. This actually happens...I thought I just read way too many mystery novels." The joke was a little self-depreciating but honest. At this rate she had read more than solved. "It's just easy to second guess myself when everyone's so convinced and I don't necessarily have the experience to back it up. I wish I was a little like you..." She admitted. He seemed to have a confidence that was really enviable. Nibbling on a chocolate chip, Amelia thought for a moment. "Meh, you know the type. Local businesswoman, successful. Kids all went to some or other Ivy League uni. There did seem to be some strive between her and the best friend but here's the thing...it's the family. I'd only interviewed them altogether once and they seemed completely heartbroken...but something was off about all of them. Sent chills up my spine." True to form, gooseflesh appeared on her uncovered forearms.

[t-xexexe]

Open rp w. Lync // modern verse // mfnb // 18+

*if you want your muse to know that Lync in an immortal, please drop by in my DMs

“Sometimes I think I’ve seen everything there is to see, and done everything there is to do… I know it’s a cliche, but it’s all truth-based…”

[miaxbennett]

Having been a nurse for so long, since she hit twenty-one in fact, there was rarely ever an occasion where someone could talk circles around her anymore. Not like Lync. Every time they shared a conversation, Amelia not so much heard but felt the weight his words had and try as she might, the best she got was that whatever meaning his words had was perhaps for an audience of one. This time however, she could not help but feel a certain heartache in the way he spoke; no doubt it showed on her face which was as expressive as ever. “Even if it is a cliche it’s still a sad thought...to think that there’s nothing left to experience. I always thought we were wired to have a purpose, to strive for some goal in life...” Her eyebrows furrowed as she tried to contemplate the idea that a person as young as him could possibly have experienced everything. “It is a little funny though...I think every time I’ve heard or read that sentiment, the person was right around the corner from experiencing something new. Maybe yours isn’t so far off too?” She perked up with a grin. 

[miaxbennett]

huntrcssqueen​:

Amelia was somebody who Grayson held dear to him. That was what worried him. That was what made him distance himself from her and keep her at arms length away to keep her safe. It was another person whome he couldn’t watch suffer. Not again. He couldn’t face more pain. Hearing that she wanted to go it was sort of shocking. It wasn’t something everybody enjoyed but it was him in his element. The city life was still difficult at times, getting used to it all. Everybody on the force would question his bruiting looks but also wanted to be partnered with him when heading out. ❝ You sure you would want to go? If you’d like to I will take you. ❞ He gave a nod assuring her that he would. It was a promise without saying it. The corner of his lips did tug up into a half smile at the compliment. ❝ Thank you. ❞ Nothing was forced being said or done on the drive and the whole conversation. It felt easy and comfortable. Keeping his arm rested against his chest and stomach as it was wrapped up he let out a slight laugh at the promise that he told her. ❝ Right, we will. ❞ He agreed as it was only fair. Getting to his face he shook his head at the offer but thanked her anyways as he used his good arm to push himself up and out of the car, getting his keys that were in one of the pockets to slightly fumble with them, using both hands just to get the key before sliding it into the slot to unlock the door and open it up, holding it open to let her in first.

;

No-one would have guessed Grayson had been n the Army at some point with how careful Amelia watched him walk his way to the door - her eyes almost comically narrowed for the first sign of instability. Her hawk eyes only turned away once she realized he had been holding the door open for her. Having the grace to at least look at little sheepish when she thought of how overprotective she was being, the blonde entered his apartment with a certain air of excitement. It was only thanks to her self-control that she had not raced through the space, looking for various clues about the man who kept to himself. “I don’t mind getting lunch ready if you need a minute.” Mia offered gently, very much aware she was treating him as though his injury was much worse than a bullet graze. His question about camping made her chuckle. She was sure to many people she came across as a little too high maintenance, after all she did enjoy all the creature comforts the city offered and of course, dressing up as often as she could. But really, even someone as talkative as her enjoyed nature and the quiet to be found there. More than that, there was something about wanting to capture the childhood both her and James missed out on. If their trip ever happened, she was sure that she would share that particular story with Grayson...Really it was too depressing to think of too deeply especially after the day they had. “I would! I mean getting to see the sunrise is more than enough to make me want to go, but there’s all the other things too: making s’mores, telling each other stories till late at night...James and I kinda skipped over that part of our childhoods.” For a moment her smile faltered as she gave a small, somewhat helpless shrug.

[miaxbennett]

wanderlustedharding​:

“I’m a pretty unique person.” he said with a smile. Always has been. Dylan looked around some more; in his usual way he got lucky in a few different ways. The area was nice there was no doubt about that, but in a town right on the water like this, there was bound to be some shipwrights in the area. “It’s no sweat, because now I get to explore an amazing place I might’ve missed otherwise. Not only that, but my boat can be repaired and I’ll be back on the water soon enough. Besides, I’ve also made a new friend here already.” Though her concern was appreciated, not a lot of people would give a confused and almost shipwrecked sailor the time of day. “I’m probably fine, but I also know better than to question an expert. By all means doctor check me out, but is there any chance you can do it while we walk? I need to look for some people that can repair my boat.” he said as he began walking. Dylan brushed off some sea salt off of his bare torso, he should probably get a shower soon, but at least he had company. “Normally I would, but my home is currently halfway in the water.” he teased. “I’m sure some of my clothes are fine. I have a fair bit of money actually, but I don’t know if it’ll be enough to cover both the ship repairs and however long I may need to be in some form of hotel or motel.” Ship repairs could take awhile, best guess he’d be in this town for a couple of weeks.

;

The blonde could only nod her head in amused agreement; unique he most certainly was. His optimistic thinking was a little more than admirable, thought Amelia. There were much less dire circumstances in which most people, herself included, could not see the positives in their situation. “I mean when you put it that way, it doesn’t sound half as bad. Oh I don’t know about that, Ireland has her ways of beckoning people to her shores somehow, some way.” Her own heritage was why she was there in the first place. “What is it you do on the water exactly? Are you a...what was the old fashioned term?...an adventurer?” Strange as it seemed, the word seemed to suit him perfectly, at least in her own mind. The thought that sprung to mind at his reply was this poor man’s boat, sinking further and further into the watery depths. Immediately, the American teetered after him on her wedged espadrilles. “Of course, I was just on the way to the market myself! Luckily, since you’re walking straight and your speech isn’t slurred so we can probably rule out a concussion.Tell me if you feel any tenderness here...” She asked as she reached on the tips of her toes to gently touch at certain spots around his head. Being close to him, Amelia took the time to scan the visible parts of his body for injuries. “Any unusual aches or pains? Have you had a tetanus shot in the past decade?...I’m Amelia by the way, a nurse, though Doc doesn’t have a bad ring to it...” She teased, leaving a moment for the man to introduce himself in turn. Though she laughed at his jest, she did find his circumstances a little distressing. “Hmm...that does sound like a predicament...” For a second or two, she stared at the cobblestones beneath them biting her lip in thought before eventually adding. “...The place I’m staying at is my godfather’s holiday home. It just so happens there’s quite a few rooms open...so you won’t have to worry about taking the room right next to mine, or me being in your space if you prefer a bit of solace. There’s also ample storage space should you need to keep your stuff somewhere while your ship’s being repaired. That is...if you don’t mind the intrusive offer I just gave...” She turned to him with a sheepish, bashful laugh.

[miaxbennett]

cursivebloodlines​:

Aaron couldn’t help but feel a little bit guilty for not paying enough attention. It was clear she was invested in the case, and she had summoned him here for a reason, for his assistance. And he’d blatantly obliged, happy to help… so the least he could do was lend an ear or two to her. “There’s nothing wrong with your ramblings. They’re kinda fun to listen to,” he said with an offhanded shrug. “It’s not you, it’s me, I promise,” Aaron added then, laughing at himself, at how he sounded like some walking cliche trying to initiate a breakup. Classic. Noticing the way a couple of people had glanced over at them, he grinned, amused that they - or more like she caught their attention by reacting to his silly ways. Still, it humoured him.

“I feel like my brain is always a pretzel,” he chirped back with a quiet laugh. Aaron raised his eyebrows when she laughed again and found himself eliciting a few chuckles of his own. It was always nice to make someone laugh. If it made them feel more comfortable around him then it was definitely worth it, even better. He hoped he was approachable enough, even if his inattentiveness made him look like he was deliberately not listening. “You can have muffins for breakfast if you wanted. Who would be stopping you? I know I’m definitely not,” he teased again, a boyish grin on his face. Looking at the plate before him, his eyes lit up at the sight as he looked back at Amelia, looking at her as if to say 'are you serious?’ “You’re too kind,” he said, a hand on his chest as he elicited another laugh. “I owe you one - next one’s on me,” Aaron promised, breaking off a piece of the muffin. “Wanna try me again with this case? I’ll do better to listen properly this time. Promise.”

;

Self-conscious about her penchant for rambling, Amelia was left in a bit of fluster being told that they could be fun to listen to. Enough that she picked up a random sugar packet to play with to avoid looking at him for a while. “Right~ Mr-It’s-me-not-you, any thoughts you’d like to share with the class?” Asked the ex-nurse once her laughter died down.”I’m told I’m an excellent listener.” And it was true. After all, it was pretty much a prerequisite for her previous occupation and it came in handy now too. 

The camaraderie with the older man across from her made Amelia feel rather warm in the best of ways. It was half of why she approached him in the first place. He did not have a superiority complex like some of her superiors nor did he hold her to rigid formal interactions which made asking questions a lot harder than it needed to be. “Nothing, you say? How about the chance of having a heart attack significantly increasing the closer you get to the big four-oh?” Though her eyebrow was cocked, there was nothing but a teasing amusement written all over her face. One look at him and Amelia assumed he was in pretty much good health any way. She just had time to utter something to the effect of: I can’t exactly let you go hungry before the waitress appeared to which the rookie detective ordered a muffin and another two cups of coffee. It was going to be a long meeting. “Nonsense! I’m the one who asked you here, it’s my treat.” Pursing her lips, Amelia took a moment to compile the facts of the case. “So...a woman’s murdered in her home. Late fifties. Husband was at work and her kids, while in town, were elsewhere that night. We’ve done the investigations, we’ve processed the evidence and the culprit turns out to be her best friend. Everything points to her. The flimsy alibi, the motive, we found the murder weapon discarded in her trash can and the opportunity to do it is all there. My partner wants to close it but...” The blonde sighed, “Something just isn’t right...and I’ve tried telling him that but...nah, you’ll think I’m crazy...” She ended with a chuckle and shake of her head. Now was not the time to come off as the unhinged, overly enthusiastic novice.

[miaxbennett]

huntrcssqueen​:

The more time that he sat alone the more time he had to think. He hated thinking. Thinking wasn’t something that made him feel at peace of any kind. It made his PTSD worse, it made him punch at the wall and then have to repair it. Overall it just didn’t sit well with him and he knew that her brother would have felt the same way that he did. With a half laugh and gentle smile, he nodded his head. ❝ I’ll keep that in mind. ❞ He stated about how she would be there if he needed somebody to bother. He knew her well enough to know that she would come knocking at his door even if he didn’t give her a call to check in on him. He was grateful for it. She was smart, kind hearted, had a gentle touch to herself. Part of her looked like his late girlfriend which tugged at his heartstrings. ❝ No, real camping is pitching your tend, making your own fire, roasting the marshmallows if you’re wanting them, looking up at the night sky and listening to the sounds around you. ❞ He explained as he could see how most people would camp though. ❝ I did it for awhile. The Army though made it happen a lot more and after awhile it was enjoyable. The little moments. You could see the sun set or rise a lot clearer. ❞ He smiled as his eyes looked upwards. With all the bombs and shooting there were some highlights. Playing card games, leaning against some posts or rocks watching the days go by. His attention was brought toward her face as he was gentle. It was soft as he nodded his head. It wasn’t something anybody would like to see of course. ❝ I’m sorry I worried you. I am okay though and I promise to be safer. I just lost it seeing you get hurt. ❞ It was truthful. It made his skin crawl, felt like it was on fire and made him pull the trigger that much quicker.

;

Short and sweet as always, was Amelia’s fond thought at Grayson’s reply. But more than anything, she appreciated that he recognized her sincerity to be there for him and without nagging, knew her door would always be open for him. The drive to his home was surprisingly pleasant despite the injuries both of them carried from their eventful day. She supposed because it felt so different than usual - for once, she was the one taking the lead if only so the man beside her could take a break. “Sounds magical. I’ve been in NY for so long I can’t remember what it’s like to properly see the stars or listen to anything that isn’t cars or people talking loudly...Would you take me sometime? It doesn’t have to be now, just whenever we find time?” Though it had been for his benefit that she suggested camping at all, the nurse could not help but like the picture Grayson painted for her. And who better than someone she actually enjoyed spending time with? At that moment, she had been at a stoplight and lucky enough to see him smile, a sight that stopped her short. She replied before softly adding, “You should smile more. It suits you.” Swollen cheek and all she gave him a grin of her own before focusing on the road ahead of her. From their conversation earlier about kindness, Mia held a faint worry deep down that Grayson would one day do something reckless just to save another person and it was only when he promised her right then that she felt a little calmer. “I’ll hold you to that promise Thorne. And on that note, since either of us don’t like seeing the other hurt, we’ll just have to look after ourselves better, right?” For some reason, her heart raced at the thought that her safety meant so much to him. Parking her car, the blonde walked around to the passenger side to open the door for the injured man. “Need any help?” She offered as her worried blue eyes looked him over.

[miaxbennett]

flirtofwallstreet​:

The way she praised his career and skills, not to mention the way his nickname escaped her lips, didn’t went out of Alexander’s radar. But somehow, he managed to restrain the smirk that was threatening to creep its way up to his lips. However, the way that Amelia started to stumble with her words was too much for him, and he let out a sincere chuckle of amusement, shaking his head “Oh my God I’m just teasing you. Don’t take me too seriously all of the time. You’ll learn how to deal with me.” the man shot her a wink before knocking on the desk twice and standing up and walking out of the meeting room, turning to smile once again at the blonde and say “I’ll reach to Julia then and see how our schedules work”

Unfortunately, it wasn’t until the very next day that he managed to send Amelia an email with two options for lunch; an Italian restaurant or a coffee shop with amazing sandwiches. Your pick was the only thing in the email’s body

;

It had been while she was typing an email to a client that a message from Alexander popped up in the corner of her screen. Though he said he would speak to her personal assistant, Mia had to admit that secretly she doubted he actually would. Then again, the way he smiled at her yesterday...shaking her head she opened up the email. Italian. Was all her first reply read until the blonde started overthinking. Was that too intimate for a meeting? I flipped a coin to decide. She sent another email with a bold faced lie. 

Thankfully, her day was mostly filled going back and forth between meetings. Truly a blessing in disguise since it prevented her from thinking too deeply about her upcoming lunch with Alex. Until it was time to pitch up that is. Late by fifteen minutes, the blonde rushed into the restaurant, dressed in a simple wrap dress and her blonde hair ruffled by the wind. “A meeting ran over time. I got one of those paranoid clients who can’t stop asking questions.” She explained a little breathlessly. It was a half-truth. The extra five minutes had been spent trying not to freak out, no thanks to Julia deciding to fawn over him. “I hope you weren’t waiting too long? You picked a nice place. Do you come here often?” She offered with a somewhat shy smile.

[miaxbennett]

No surprise or distress at her answer. Amelia could not help but tilt her head in confusion although her face conveyed a welcoming pleasantness. What a strange man. Usually when she met people who seemed to have more than a few question marks to their person, she would make an excuse to leave ASAP but instead, she found herself even more curious. "I don't think I've ever met someone who ever smiled saying those words." Quipped the blonde with a smile she could not help returning. The latter half of his statement served to turn her smile into a grimace. Being the type-A, over-planner she was, his tale sounded like her worst nightmare. "That's awful! Not just having your boat wrecked but your plans too. Would you...like me to take a look at you? Sometimes it's easy to miss injuries when you're pumped full of adrenaline." She offered, knowing he most likely experienced what she explained. "For what it's worth, it's a little slice of Paradise. You couldn't have been luckier. I wouldn't mind showing you around sometime. But...uhm...do you have a place to stay? Food? Dry clothes? Money?" Though Amelia was aware she was coming across as a typical nosy American, she could not really leave someone to a possibly fatal fate without attempting to help at the very least. No matter how hardy he appeared.

[wanderlustedharding]

Open to: F/NB

Made with: Beta

Contrary to popular belief, Dylan didn't always get the luxury of smooth sailing; both literally and metaphorically. Today was living proof of that. The bad news was: his ship solidly smacked around in a storm, and his engine was basically shot; but the good news was ship was by some country's bay. After making sure that boat wouldn't sink, Dylan lightly jogged up to a street and looked to the first person he saw. "Hi, excuse me. Is there any chance you could tell me where I am?"

[miaxbennett]

Amelia did not think she would enjoy the beach town as much as she did but even she had to admit there was a magical whimsy to Ireland that very few places managed to exude. That, or she was just biased toward the country from which her paternal grandparents hailed. It was a rather temperate day, neither too hot nor too cold though it was just a touch or two too humid than what she was used to back home. On her way to the market, she dressed down in a casual sundress while lobbing her handwoven basket lost in thought when all of a sudden a man appeared in front of her. "I...we're in Donegal, Ireland -" The American replied once she got her racing heart to calm down. The blonde-haired nurse looked over the man in concern. "Are you alright? Do you have a concussion or memory loss?" Blue eyes urgently scanned his form.

[cursivebloodlines]

Muse: Aaron Carter

Open to: Any/all genders | Mutuals & Non-Mutuals

Connection/Scenario: Any and all, feel free to specify. /Self-explanatory.

Edited with Beta | Open Starters Tag. | @indiestarter

(Side note: yes, I used this starter for him ages ago... yes I am using it again. Deal with it ♥ I most likely will do this eventually with all of my old ones because I prefer to use beta and that way I can get rid of the old one!)

For a small cafe, it had a lot to offer: a quaint, charming decor - one that perhaps would have been considered out of fashion for modern times yet there was something about it the detective loved about it. Friendly chatter could be heard among customers sitting comfortably at their tables: regulars and some first timers all the same. Despite the busy atmosphere as the lunchtime hour kicked in, it was still quite pleasant to simply sit and spend time in.  The vast choice of a menu for a little business was impressive. It had taken Aaron a while to decide what he wanted but now that he had, he was distracted by the chocolate chip muffin that was practically beckoning him. It sat there untouched on the plate of the person sitting opposite him. In fact, it only just occurred to him right then that a question was directed at him… and he had no idea what the spoken question was. Their words went through one ear and out of the other.

“What? Yes, I was listening, actually,” Aaron quickly piped up, completely oblivious as to whether the other had even asked if he was listening. Which, if they hadn’t, was a massive indicator that he hadn’t been listening, thus foiling his plan to pretend to play along with whatever the topic of conversation was. Gesturing towards the muffin on the plate, a small smile tugged the corners of his lips as the man let out a quiet laugh. “I was listening… I just so happened to notice that muffin looking sad right there, untouched and painfully alone. Coincidentally, I was wondering if you were planning on eating it? Me and the muffin, well, I feel like there’s this unspoken connection, you see. And it’s just destined to be in my digestive system.”

[miaxbennett]

It was little places like this that reminded Amelia of why she enjoyed small towns despite being a life long city mouse. Young as she was, if approaching thirty-two could be considered young, she was what people would refer to as an 'old soul'. Settings like this made her feel anything but uncomfortable and though she had not known any of her grandparents, she imagined this is what it might have felt like to return to a place like this. With her life taking a twist from nurse to suddenly becoming an amateur detective, Amelia remained busy, never quite being able to slow down no matter how much she wished to. The chocolate chip muffin she ordered was meant to be a little reward for herself. The week had started off with a difficult case and even with her medical knowledge it was throwing her for a loop hence the man in front of her. The blonde had not meant to, not really, but before she knew it she was launching into the details of the case - nothing too sensitive for the setting but mulling over the basics of what she did know.

Her little tirade was interrupted by Aaron suddenly speaking which in turn served to unnerve her. Her startled little gasp turned into a relaxed chuckle which made one or two patrons turn their way. "Well clearly not...but it's alright. I think I launched into one of my infamous ramblings. There's just a case I'm working on that's turning my brain into a pretzel." She replied, more relieved that she had not made herself look like an utter fool in front of someone she respected. The homicide detective's spiel about her humble muffin sent her into another fit of giggles. She knew the feeling well. "As delicious as this muffin looks, I don't think I'm close to serenading it just yet. Have you heard of breakfast by any chance?" The blonde teased. "I mean, yeah I was gonna eat it but who am I to stand in the way of destiny and true love?" As she pushed the plate toward Aaron, Amelia caught the attention of a waitress to bring her another muffin.

[miaxbennett]

hcllhcre​:

the corner of his mouth formed a contort when lips slightly tugged off to one side with eyes looking down after having told of the harsh reality that she were a partial victim of circumstance residing now with him and his property to do as he wanted yet the prince was curious and most importantly fascinated by her. yes he was attracted to the young woman yet he was not hasty or desperate to tear off her gown and act impulsively on sexual desires to relieve himself through her and simply succumb to unbridled desire and lust coursing through him. their was clear respect when she addressed him to which he admired and appreciated as most in her position would act rude but in her position it was justified. “ i have not eaten yet but i don’t feed so immediately when i have a guest over. “ showing that the feeling were rather mutual despite the two hailing from different worlds with him referring to feeding and implying in that he meant to drink blood for he was not human or mortal as his sustenance and survival came from feeding off blood. the prince were worried he would frighten her if he were to sink his fangs into her flesh to taste her warm nourished blood on to his tongue yet he knew to be patient and to not be so impolite to his guest. eyes would lock and linger on her own with evidently their being no display of a smirk or semblance of a smile. “ hmm, how interesting of your father to put his faith in me that you would not be harmed by my hand. that does concern me if your father does not fear what i can unleash upon him but fortunately for him i honor agreements. i will not strike your father’s kingdom while you remain mine. “ slightly insulted as he suspected her father wasn’t afraid of the prince yet he was certain her father wouldn’t be so foolish enough to try and attack or attempt a rescue to save his daughter. “ the games we play are rigged yet i for one can not lose if i do not play. i have no desire to play games. i learned if there is something that you want you simply reach out and grab it. “ the corners of his mouth perked up revealing the fraction or hint of a grin as dracula cockily revelled in his power but it was short lived when the topic of discussion became more personal.

 breaking off eye contact with her own as his gaze would lower away from her face. “ i don’t remember who i was before i became this evil. i do know that i did it to protect my people yet i failed. i was a prince but i suppose i might have been a good man yet goodness does not flourish in a world so cruel. it gets trampled on. “ a cynical view but one he solely believed in that no one was absolved of being purely good but rather everyone was capable of cruelty. “ i am very lonely. “ he revealed unashamedly as his eyes would then lock with her own. his hand would recant off to the side. falling silent when her words resonated with him about forgiveness and finding peace through it. she wasn’t naive but pure. “ i don’t want you to live through the horrors i have endured.” he would state calmly and softly only to then follow up with a query as he narrowed his gaze and leaned in a little close. “ do i frighten you princess. would it repulse you if i were to place my lips upon your flesh? a lonely man to take from his guest and feel the furnace of her skin against mind. “ in a way seeking permission to make love to her as he was aroused by her kindness and innocence.  

;

The prince’s confession made the young gentlewoman’s eyes widen in surprise, and even though she had not eaten all that much that evening, her dinner sat heavier in her stomach. She was so very confused. Before arriving, the stories she heard prepared her for a monster, a man with no heart or conscience. And yet...he dressed her in all these beautiful dresses and sat patiently while she ate her own dinner while he went without. Her eyes did sparkle with a light amusement that they had something in common. “Well...I won’t be a guest for much longer will I?” The blonde replied in a gentle tone, a small smile on her face. It was true...this was going to be her new home. “Is there anything I can do to make your feeding easier? I’d feel bad if I had dinner every night and you had to wait until I was finished to have yours.” Being quite close with her family, she was used to eating with others and while this new arrangement had some obstacles they needed to overcome, Amelia had no wish to make either of their lives more difficult than need be. His reply about her father caused her face to turn into a frown and in the silence that filled the space, she debated as to whether or not the truth would be more harmful. “He hasn’t put any faith in you...Your Highness,” She started after a while, averting her eyes from the attractive prince across from her, “He views me and this agreement between you as an exact replacement for the wife you lost. Of course I know such a thought is ridiculous because no-one can ever be replaced. I know it’s only been two days...but I’m satisfied with being here for however long you want me. My father understands this too.” Amelia promised, hoping to calm the volatile storm that existed between her father and Prince Dracula. “Perhaps that is a trait you can teach me in time.” By nature and nurture, she was the type to be passive and could not imagine just grabbing something she wanted. 

Heartache was the emotion that flooded her as she watched the prince turn his otherworldly eyes from her. How long had it been since he had the chance to share his thoughts with someone else? In some sense, Amelia felt unworthy of his honesty and to some extent, the trust he showed her. Extending her hand toward his, she spoke up. “What you say is true...but you are still a good man. Truly. An evil man would not accept a young, naive girl in exchange for sparing an entire village. He would throw her in his dungeons and starve her. Never mind giving her fancy dresses to wear to dinner. You’ve been good to me and I’m thankful.” The sweet and kind words were all she had to combat the sadness of the sentences he spoke that broke her heart even further. When their eyes met, she found that she could not look away so hypnotic were his eyes. “Then care for yourself. You’re all I have now.” The thought of being left alone in this big castle scared her, but it did not last long. Having him so close to her made her body feel hot and her breaths became shallow. She shook her head. “I was scared of the stories I was told about you...but you do not frighten me. I just...I didn’t expect you to see me as a woman...” He was considerably older than her and the most she hoped for was that he might see her as a younger sister. The reality made her overjoyed. “My body is yours...my prince...I don’t want you to feel alone anymore.” She breathed, her eyes on his lips before closing the distance and kissing him passionately yet timidly. 

[miaxbennett]

huntrcssqueen​:

There wasn’t much that Grayson did on his own, most of the time it was a walk, run or something in that sense just to keep his mind busy. His own brain was a dangerous thing and that was what worries him at times. Swallowing he shared a small smile as he looked to her,  ❝ We will see. ❞ He spoke simply and lightly about something that he could do, he started to think of things that he could do more one handed that didn’t involve a lot of strength because he knew she would also kick his ass. ❝ Yeah, I haven’t gone on a night hike or camped for awhile… ❞ The last time he did any of that was when he served and it made him take a sharp breath inward before shaking it off. ❝ I’ve got a burrito bowl that’s enough for two, even three people. ❞ He told her as he walked back toward her car. Stopping in his tracks, he shook his head, ❝ Don’t be sorry. None of this was your fault. Had you been there or not this would have happened regardless. I would have shown up there and if not getting shot today who knows, I could have been shot a different day. ❞ He told her honestly as he looked into her eyes and brought his hand to her cheek that wasn’t hurt, ❝ I just want you to feel better alright? ❞

Mia tilted her head in understanding with a bright smile. It was more than she expected really. Having established the man was a workaholic and was not all too kind to himself in exchange for extending that privilege to others, that he was not thinking of ways to work remotely was a great start. “Lucky for you, you have time to think about it. And of course, you’re welcome to bother me any time you start to feel like you’re getting cabin fever.” She quipped, pointing to her smartphone. The nurse enjoyed keeping up with others, Grayson especially. Hell, maybe she might even take a day off herself and spend some time with him if he did not mind overly chatty company. “I can’t remember the last time I’d been camping or anything like that. Uni, maybe? Though I don’t think it counts when all your friends are drunk and nosily singing songs blasted on bluetooth speakers,” The blonde recounted with a chuckle. “It’d be nice to learn what it’s actually like some time. Have you done that kind of thing often or was it an Army thing?” She could imagine how different anyone’s interests could be after such life changing work. At the mention of a burrito bowl, Amelia’s stomach growled loudly. “Ah...that sounds so much better than the pastry I was planning to get for lunch! We could trade recipes even!” The thought of seeing him in such a domesticated setting made her press the gas pedal of her car just a little harder. After all, it was not a sight everyone got to see. The first part of his reply went down smoothly as he had said something to that effect earlier...it was the hand on her cheek that made her mind sound like white noise. A moment passed and she realized she needed to actually speak. “See, logically  know that and you’re right, ‘course you are. I guess it was actually seeing what you do that made me worry. I...don’t exactly like the idea that your average workday might involve you getting shot, you know?” The nurse answered softly, her own fingers grazing the arm she placed in a sling earlier.