”Of course,” she nodded obediently. After a few moments she remembered something that would probably be pretty important. “Oh, wait! What’s your name?” If she told Garrett that some random guy stopped by looking for him, the werewolf would flip.
The brunette fidgeted slightly, unsure where to go from there. “H-He’s not home. He went out with his sister and friend.” She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to find his shadow once more. It was uncomfortable, somehow, for her to be in the presence of a human. Probably because she’s been surrounded by nothing but supernatural people for the past few weeks.
A feminine voice halted Owen’s feet. There was but her silhouette in the eight-thirty darkness, but she must have been one of the ladies Garrett mentioned. “I am a friend of Garrett’s,” he called to the somewhat distant figure, “if this is his cabin. We were going to go break stuff.” A grand grin flashed at the thought, though he doubted she could see.
“Um.” She stared at the shadow not too far from the cabin. “I don’t think you’re supposed to be here. This is…private property and…stuff.” Selena scrunched up her nose. That was probably the least threatening thing she’d ever said. It wasn’t Nick or Garrett or Francis. This scent was new, not anyone she’d met before.
Fidgeting at her spot on the porch, she cleared her throat. “So, like…you should go. Or else.” Yeah. Real intimidating, Selena.
Setting: Garratt's cabin (Massachusetts, America); August 10, 2014; 8:40 P.M.
Summary: Owen goes to his friend's cabin to meet with him. As it turns out, Selena is the only one home.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Selena (aneternalamateur):
N/A
owenalexander:
"Thank you." One nod a mid-turn later, the silhouette rang the reminder bell. He faced the shadow once again, half-embarrassed. "Owen. The Hiker Guy."
aneternalamateur:
She could see his grin even in the dark and returned it. “Okay, Hiker Guy. I’m Selena. The…Non-Threatening Girl.” She shrugged and laughed a little. Well, at least he wasn’t a murderer. That wouldn’t have been good news for Nick.
owenalexander:
Chuckling, he assured, “I am sure you are terrifying when need be.”
She could only smile at his words and pulled away. She looked up at him, and slowly that smile reached up to her dark brown eyes. “Thanks, Owen.” She replied faintly, unsure what else to say.
A dose of adoration and a sense of protection glossed over the trusting “mess”. “Maybe so,” he laughed, “but you are also a soldier. Keep on trooping, little lady.”
Feeling someone hug her was the most comforting thing she could ever feel. Abby was the type of person that survived off of hugs and physical contact like that. She was terribly clingy, if only because she needed to feel someone’s arms around her to make her feel realand secure.
His words were soothing and she buried her face into his chest as her arms immediately wrapped around his torso. Her fingers clung to the cloth of his shirt as she let out a quiet but shaky sigh.
"Yeah," she nodded in agreement. "I want to… As soon as I graduate college, when I’m not indebted to my mother about tuition, I’m moving as far away as I can." She muttered briefly before shaking her head.
"…doubt she’d even let me, then.” She grumbled, crossing her arms almost childishly over her chest. “…sorry.” she whispered in defeat, suddenly dropping her arms and hanging her head.
"I don’t mean to—…" she sighed. "…I shouldn’t be throwing this at you, dude. It’s not all that fair."
"A couple friends I knew spent as much time away from the house as they could, even if it was two houses away." His lips cradled a smile at the memories. "Perhaps you should do the same."
“Can I just quit college and move to California?
—-I can’t fucking handle my family anymore.
It’s like, just because I’m still in college
doesn’t mean you get to treat me like a fucking CHILD!”
Setting: Abby's (Massachusetts, America); July 22, 2014; 2:29 PM
Summary: Abby and Owen share a moment after she
About Characters:
Owen:
Owen had friends with rough relationships with their parents.
Abby (notquitepsychotic):
Abby and her mother's relationship is complicated. She feels "indebted" to her mom due to tuition and wants to move "as far away" as she can, probably California.
“I’m sorry for bothering you. Say hi to your friend”, she ended the call tossing the phone on the passenger seat. Her eyes flashed red with every one of her emotions. Quickly, she started the car and made her way back out of the city. A plan she should’ve stuck with in the first place.
His voice greeted her and suddenly everything she wanted to say escaped her. She forced the words out of her mouth, stuttering “Owen? It’s Mal.” He probably doesn’t remember me. “I just wanted to make sure you were ok.”
Andrew and Owen were talking about the last night—in which Owen didn’t lie, but avoided telling him everything, saying he went to a bar and had a few drinks and felt hammered later that evening—when his phone rang. It rang once before he could remove it from his pocket. The screen read “Mal calling…” Two rings passed as he contemplated answering. He pardoned his impoliteness and pressed the little, green phone. “Hello?”
Mal sat in her car for awhile, holding the holding lightly in the palm of her hand. For the life of her she couldn’t press the button to call him back. All she wanted to know was if he was okay, what was the harm in checking in? Though what if he never wanted to talk to her again. If he could even remember who she was.
Finally she pushed redial and a wave of panic swept her. Holding the phone to her ear, she held her breath as it rang afraid to hear his voice. Somehow part of her still hoped he didn’t answer.
Andrew called him, letting him know he was outside—he was there sooner than expected. Owen devoured the last bite of food and gulped his warm tea before he informed the clerk he would back around six. Owen departed from the building and got into Andrew’s car.
The car engined purred as she drove and her fingers tapped lightly on the steering wheel to the song on the radio. Her vision bounced between the road and her phone nervously in case he called back. I really hope he’s ok. Before she could change her mind, she made a u-turn back into the city. Mal drove for a bit before she finally snapped to her senses. Fuck, what am I doing? She pulled the car over, letting it come to a smooth stop. Turning the car off she sat in silence, listening to her breathing, trying to figure out her next move. He’s fine, he has to be. He didn’t call, he’s fine…oh god.
It must have been hours before he woke in his bed, for the sun was high outside the hotel window. Owen threw the cover off of him and wiped his eyes. Laying there, he could actually think now. He tried to recall what happened last night.
There was his car, and Mal was there. A little flirting. Flames of blood.
No, no, no, fast forward.
They’re in the car. “Owen, I really am sorry. I’ll fix this, promise.” Limp. Key. “I wish I could take it back.”
He let out a heavy breath and pulled out his phone. There was a missed call and voicemail from an foreign number. Calling his voicemail, he listened to the left message.
“Hey Owen. It’s Mal, just calling to ask of you’re alright. I had to leave early . I hope your sanity came back to you. Call me back if you need anything.”
With a heavy exhale, he deleted the message and saved the number. He called his local friend Andrew and asked for a ride to his car, abandoned on the side of the road a few miles away. Until then, he would freshen up as best he could and grab breakfast from down stairs.
Mal let the human sleep, grabbed her things and headed out of the hotel. The guilt from harming him still hadn’t subsided. Despite everything her body still needed to feed. She snuck her way down into the janitors room with a mission. An older man probably 70’s, sat in a chair half asleep. Like a lioness stalking her prey, she pounced onto his lap grabbing his chin tightly and forcing it up. “Hello there doll”, her eyes glowed a deep red. The man started to scream and she placed a single hand over his mouth. “Shh, it’ll be over soon”. With her reassuring words she looked him straight in the eyes, feeling the drops of his sanity drain into her. Her body buzzed as she pulled more and more from him, watching the man go limp. Every last ounce was hers now and she hopped off the man. “You’ll thank me in the end”, she patted his chest as he looked around confused. With her eyes returning to normal she hurried out of the building into her car.
Mal felt bad for leaving the human before he woke. She had to get out of the city though. With all the raids she had done and now this. There was no question she would be tracked down. Holding her phone in her hand she thought about calling him for awhile. He wouldn’t answer but she could at least leave a message. Pulling out his business card, she dialled the number. Leaving a message with his voicemail, she ended the call, tossed her phone on the passengers seat and started the car.
Setting: Hotel, Andrew's car, Mal's car (America); May 31, 2012; 11:50 A.M.
Summary: After an indescribable evening, Mal leaves Owen before he wakes. She starts for out of town but worries for Owen. She calls.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Mal (eyesoffury):
N/A
owenalexander:
"Wait, Mal, that’s—" she ended the call. He sighed and raised his eyebrows and hand, "Not what I meant." He put his right elbow up on the window frame on his friend’s car. He considered calling her back, but maybe what she needed was some space.
Andrew looked at him, but remained silent, letting his friend sort things out for himself. Reclining his seat, Owen lay in silence until they reached his car.
"Take care, man. I’ll see you at three. Chill out until then, all right?"
"Thank you, Andrew. I will be there," he replied, shutting the car door. Andrew drove away in his Porche and Owen entered his Camaro. There wasn’t much to do, seeing as he already ate and there was no one to see. It was one, so he still had over an hour before he had to head down to the company. The hotel was undesirable, but he needed to change. "So much for six."
"I highly disagree." His mouth trailed down her neck. As it reached her collarbone, it lifted and curled again. In a mock-serious face, Owen warned, "This is a routine we must exercise daily. It’s a matter of life and death."
Bliss was sprawled upon his face as a laugh puffed. Owen quickly propped himself above the wifey. With a crooked smile, he brushed a lock away. His lips gently pressed along her jaw.
Setting: Owen's house (Minnesota, America); May 26, 2014; 9:05 P.M.
Summary: Owen and Analiese are cute and lazy in bed.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Arsenic (fracturedxinnocence):
N/A
@owenalexander [x]
"Hello—is it me you’re looking for?"
❝ — If it is then clearly I’ve found you.❞
owenalexander:
"Ssh," he cooed, quickly hovering her to leave a kiss. "Life or death, Ana.”
fracturedxinnocence:
[ Instead of answering verbally, she kissed him back.
Both arms wound around his neck to pull him closer.
She’d never minded being told to hush before until now. ]
"Unfortunately, ‘should’ is not ‘is’. I am grateful. Is there any material item you have been wanting lately? I would like to purchase it for you—or at least put some money down for it."
Naya smirked at him. “Always.” She spoke softly before sighing at his question. Why not lead? “Because I do not deserve to lead. My Pack, my family, was killed because my stupid decision to date a hunter. Three years of abuse and keeping my family safe ultimately lead to their demise as well. I will not risk another soul, especially not under my power.”
"I do not seek power or leadership. I seek keeping people safe. I will not let anyone harm an innocent ever again. Be it an innocent human or an innocent supernatural creature. I will not risk the safety of the people I care about ever again."
To his surprise, Owen did not flinch when the wolf’s eyes burned crimson. To his demise, those eyes reminded him a night of psychological Hell by the hands of a Fury. He clenched his fists but returned her crooked smile. “Head Bitch.”
Impressed as he was, the vampire’s expression quickly fell when the wolf mentioned the derivation of her strength. He decided the lesser of evils: “With all that power, why not lead?”
Not many knew of the supernatural side of the world. They did the most stupidest things without even realizing what they were doing and how much danger they may put themselves in by simply being in the woods or out at night. Naya and her Pack were there to protect as many as they could.
"I am an Alpha." She focused to push the alpha out in her. Her eyes bled red and she smirked at the vampire. She blinked and they went back to the brown color. "I have three wolves running through me. My family had died. I am an Alpha but I also choose to be a Beta/Omega, so my eyes are normally blue and red."
There were far more dangers than Owen realized before, than most humans realized. Ignorance was bliss—the vampire knew that, come tomorrow, he would question everyone’s “status.” It was comforting to know there were protectors there to fight the war of life.
"Hm," he absorbed. "Interesting…" His lips perked to the side. "Thank you, Naya. I assume you are in line for Alpha? You could be the H.B.I.C."
"I’m not really down-playing myself. It’s the fact that I’ve never been one to brag about what I can and can’t do. I wasn’t brought up that way. I’m proud of what I can do. I make it a habit for continue it. But I never bring it up just to brag." She shrugs her shoulders.
Naya shrugs once again. “Not completely sure. I know that the Alpha Pack is never…yes…a pack of all Alpha werewolves. I know we need to train for that, but that is about it. I’m not sure when they will attack and I guess that is the reason for all the meetings and training sessions.” She wasn’t as worried as she could be. “Don’t worry. It’s nothing serious as of right now.”
A chuckle was inevitable as the she-wolf further explained herself. “Naya, do not down-play yourself. Most people are skilled in athletics or the arts, even more lack the skill entirely. To have both is worthy of praise, whether or not you make use of them all the time.”
"Really? Has there been a sudden uprising of fangs in the area, or are you all preparing in case it happens?" The vampire kept his voice light, but the soon-to-be-human fretted the idea. He could not fairly describe his loathing for becoming a vampire—the fear of killing another, of killing himself was a punishment he would never wish upon anyway. However, detecting the true nature of others by their smells opened his eyes to an entirely new world. Of course, he knew a handful of supernatural figures, many a different species, but he figured there was but a few groups scattered throughout the world. As a vampire, that hypothesis was thrown out the window. Owen picked up the smells of various bloods everywhere he went. Earth was crawling with legends. Once he was a human again, the man would live in paranoia. He would know there was a predator near but not know who it would be. He could never be sure of anyone. If there were more to come…
“I don’t do everything. I just do what I like. Plus it’s really just sports and music. Nothing too crazy. I don’t do them often unless I really feel like it. I try not to be cramped, but my Alpha’s calling crazy amounts of Pack Meetings and Training Sessions.”
Naya grinned at him. “Nah, we just like to be hidden. We don’t come out much anymore.” She shrugs, smiling widely at him. “So. tell me a bit about yourself, Owen.”
Setting: Outside (America); April 1, 2013; 1:10 P.M.
Summary: Vampire Owen meets werewolf Naya. He asks for clarity on the truth of wolves.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Naya (donecetforteslupum):
Naya is active. She plays soccer, volleyball, and lacrosse. She is a cheerleader and likes to dance and sing. On top of it all, she trains with her wolf pack. Despite being proud of these abilities, Naya was not brought up to boast. She has blood of three wolves flowing three her from her family, making her naturally born Alpha. Unfortunately, she was fooled by her boyfriend, a hunter, and blames herself for her family's deaths. Because of this horrible incident, she chooses to be Beta/Omega in rank and vows to do her best in protecting those whom cannot help themselves, supernatural beings and humans alike.
owenalexander:
He raised his eyebrows and waited for her to finish before making a grand bow. “Then you have my highest respects, Naya.” Straightening his back, a grin morphed into a smile. “Well, whatever the case might be, I have no doubts you cannot care for yourself. Now, tease me here: are you born a wolf, or must you be bitten to turn? I have read far too many tales on the matter.”
bigbadsexywolf:
Naya laughs, smiling at Owen. He was really sweet. “I am glad to have received them.” She teased. Naya nodded her head. “We are trying to keep this town safe and the people in it alive. It’s hard but we are trying.” She shrugs her shoulders, before raising a brow at his question. “I’m a born wolf. They can be born or bitten. An Alpha and a human will most likely have a werewolf child who will be in the line for Alpha. Two werewolves will have a werewolf child and then with a Beta or Omega and a human it is rare for them to even have a werewolf child. It will more likely to just be human. An Alpha can only turn people.”
owenalexander:
"Oh, do not be mistaken: I am going to buy you something. I ask because I am certain you would rather have something you like than to have a man try to guess. I hear that never turns out well.”
donecetforteslupum:
Naya laughed but still shook her head. “okay…although I really wish that you wouldn’t waste your money like this.” She told him. “A necklace will be fine. Not too expensive though.”
owenalexander:
"It will only be wasted if you choose not to wear it," he gaily guilted. "Shall we embark on our voyage?"
The dead quiet voice in his head—his human thoughts—begged, Kill me if this becomes anything more than a thank-you trip.
Nadi wouldn’t ever forget the time they had together, when they were together. She wouldn’t ever stop loving him, but it just wasn’t the same as what she felt for her Nick. She had the thought, though, of going back to him, mostly out of fear of going through this pregnancy alone. But Nadi knew it wouldn’t be a good idea to go back to him. Wouldn’t it just hurt them both? The reasons why she couldn’t be with him were still there.
She rubbed her face against his chest, as she cuddled closer to him. “A story.” The Were smiled through her tears and she lifted her head. “I never thought of it like that.”
Soon enough, the tigress wept. Tiny blotches of wetness bled to his skin; he smiled. He was silent. His hand moved to her back, continuing its previous motion.
Then she apologized.
Lips parted to speak. He was silent. About a year had passed since complication. Neither of them had spoken of it, both focusing on the brighter sides. There was an understanding between them; there always had been—he did not need words. Hearing them now, though, after so much change, rocked him. The bridge he built to cross the forceful river was wobbling under his feet.
Closing his eyes, Owen took a silent breath. Another smile appeared. Life was full of uncertain steps, but he was always one for hiking. He kissed her hair once more. “Don’t be: we have another story to tell.” Seconds pass, and a small laugh flew from his system. “So the Protector and the Tigress kept the little ones safe.”
Nadi snuggled close to him when he pulled her into his arms. She buried her face against him. Oh how she missed being in his arms, feeling comfortable and safe. Sometimes she even missed him, his love and acceptance. Tears started to roll down her cheeks and soak into his shirt, she was so afraid, and she felt so alone with the pregnancy thing. “…I’m sorry Owen.”
A soft smile appeared at her assurance, and Owen scooted closer to her. He took the untouched milk from her hands and set it on the table. “Come here.” The human wrapped his friend up with his arms. He had known her long enough to know when she was about to break. His hand rubbed her arm soothingly. Kissing her hair, Owen whispered in her ear, “Warriors cry too, you know.”
Of course he would ask that question, the one question she didn’t want to answer at all. “It doesn’t matter. He’s not going to be involved, I don’t want him involved.” Aka she hated the father with a deep, burning passion and didn’t want her son tainted with the stupid god’s terrible ways.
She shrugged her shoulders a little. “I don’t know. He wanted to protect me from his maker. He just left, I tried to stop him, but he refused to listen. He didn’t want to drag me and Teren around trying to keep a step ahead from her.” Nadi wasn’t even certain Nick would want to be with her now that she was pregnant with another man’s baby.
So, Owen mmmmmmiiiiiiiiiiigggggggghhhhhhhhhttttttttttt have freaked out a little when she didn’t drink her chocolate… Irresistibly, he laughed. “Well, not being ‘together’ does not mean you are not together.”
Nadi glanced up to him when he brought the chocolate milk. Oh how she’s been craving chocolate. Taking the glass, she muttered a thanks, but she didn’t take a sip. Chocolate wasn’t really good for her people, but she knew how much was too much and she’d eat it anyway. But her baby, she didn’t want to risk harming him. Nadi was quiet for a few moments, lost in the scent of the chocolate and her thoughts. Finally, she took a breath and shifted her attention to him. “Nick’s not the father, he left months ago.”
He headed straight for the fridge and grabbed the chocolate syrup. His hand stopped—could pregnant women have chocolate? Mental ticks clocked the seconds, and he shrugged the thought. In the two minutes he took to make the glass, Owen’s mind was a blur. Upon his return, he was almost surprised he was able to make it. “Uh… Here.” He gave her the drink, waited for an order, and quickly sat down.
Nadi was afraid of how he might react. She was about to answer him, but he headed to the kitchen before she could. She almost followed him, but she didn’t. All Nadi did was curl up and wait as she dreaded to tell him what she needed to tell him.
"What?" Owen glanced down to her hidden stomach. There wasn’t a bump when they hugged, was there? Blinking away his astonishment, he looked around the floor for answers. "…Is it Nick’s?" He looked at her, but quickly shook his head. "Sorry, I—"
"How far along are you? Can I get you anything?" Before she could answer, he was making his way to kitchen, not sure what could be helpful but trusting the room had something.
Nadi almost wanted to turn around and leave without ever telling him anything. But he opened the door before she had a chance to. He pulled her into a hug and she welcomed that comfort as she hugged him back. The Were pulled away and moved inside. “..I didn’t feel like I should use too much of my powers.” Mostly she was afraid of what might happen to her child. “I have to tell you something.”
Owen was indulging himself in a Lovecraft novel when he heard his name and a knock. Another smile graced his face at the recognition of the voice. Setting aside the book on the table, the man quickly went for the door. As he opened it, he hugged his friend and greeted her. “Come on in.” He shut the entrance. “I’m surprised you used the door.” A chuckle sounded, but eyebrows pushed together when he noticed the small frown on her face. “What is wrong?”
Setting: Owen's house (Minnesota, America); November 25, 2013; 9:50 P.M.
Summary: When a frightened Nadi stops by and tells Owen the big news, Owen comforts her. He then tells her he is dating another woman, Analiese.
About Characters:
Owen:
Owen is dating Analiese.
Nadi (nadezhdixpaket):
Nadi is pregnant. She does not want the father involved. Nick is gone.
owenalexander:
"M-hm." The smiling man’s thumb wiped the wetness from Nadi’s face. "An even better one is coming up, one so grand, I am going to dedicate an entire bookshelf to it. It is going to win all the awards.”
A chuckle escaped him, “sure… a walk is always nice with another.” He offered his hand to the other as he closed the gap between them. “I’m Garrett, by the way.”
It was the morning after a full moon and Garrett had meandered through the woods to find the package of clothes he had left for himself on emergencies such as this. He dressed quickly into an old wife-beater and trousers. He had no shoes, they weren’t a huge necessity, especially since his cabin was somewhere along the path.
When the human male had greeted Garrett, he suddenly was hyper aware of himself and his surroundings. He realized how rugged and dirtied he must have looked, especially without shoes. He must have looked homeless. He laughed and scratched the back of is neck, tendrils of curly black hair were matted to his head and sides of his face with dirt and sweat.
"Mornin’," he greeted in return. "…just takin’ a walk before I head home for a bath." He winced slightly, not in pain, but in embarrassment.
Loving the outdoors as he did, Owen was out on a hike when he crossed paths with another man. The man looked rough, probably a fellow nature man. “Oh, good morning,” the short haired man nodded. The sky was a painting of pinks and oranges; the sun was on its way.
Setting: Trail (Massachusetts, America); June 14, 2014; 5:00 A.M.
Summary: Owen meets Garrett.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Garrett (thecursedmoon):
N/A
owenalexander:
"Have to agree there."
With a nod, he took the offered hand. With a firm shake he introduced, “Owen. Pleasure to meet you.” Their feet trooped forward. “You must know these woods pretty well to not wear shoes. I’ve broken too many beers out here to go barefoot myself.” He laughed at the memories.
“Oh, but I don’t understand what qualifies as right so how can I know how to qualify wrong?” She shook her head in defiance. “You, sir, are going to have to elaborate.”
“I have to agree with you there.” He slipped his phone into his pocket.
“It is a natural thing. It has to be. Think about it. You cannot learn this much awesome. Actually, when I was born, I received a certificate for most awesome baby. True story.”
“I’m sure you can’t help it. I mean I am pretty awesome.” She grinned and kissed his cheek. “Buuuuut enough about how awesome I am! You’re pretty awesome too. What makes you so awesome, Owen?”
Parker wrinkled her nose and gave a lopsided grin to the camera. Once the picture was taken, she jumped on him in a hug. “Owen, you’re ridiculous and that is fantastic!”
“That might work!” He received his phone and turned on the camera. An indescribable, amusing face was made and he made rabbit ears with his fingers behind her fiery hair as he held the camera for a picture.
Laughing, she poked his cheek. “No one will believe you! We’ll just have to take a picture for posterity’s sake. Would you like this back?” She held his phone out.
“If only I had that purse! Then I’d have paper and a pen and ask you for your autograph. Who will believe me when I say Parker called me to her rescue because she had nightmares?”
“I will love it now!” She held it up with a grin and kissed it before sliding it into her pocket. “However, yours is going to be worth more now that it’s going to have my number.” Before adding her number she took a quick picture of herself with her tongue out.
“Okay, I will get right on that. And great, you’ll love it now; it has been in my hands.” Smiling, he handed the phone back to Parker. “Here,” he pulled out his phone. “Put yours in.”
“Ooooo! You should! You look so handsome carrying around your purple handbag!” She shrugged. ”I like it well enough. It let’s me call people and let’s people call me.”
“Of course silly pants! Though I think you should start carrying around a notepad and pen. You never know what you might need.” She laughed and handed him her phone. “It’s fairly new, actually.”
“You definitely should give me your number and you definitelyshouldn’t worry about Trip kicking your ass. He pretty much stays out of things unless someone happens to cause me pain. Then he’s pretty good about playing the big brother role.”
Nadi stared down at her hands as she tried to keep it together. She didn’t want him to be angry or worried for her or whatever it was he was feeling. “Owen, it doesn’t have to be personal. It’s over, they’re all dead. My fight for survival will never end, Owen. I tried to end it, I tried to get them to stop. There will always be those who want me dead.” Even when she had been with him, she got injured, a lot. The wounds usually healed before he was able to come see her so she ended up just forgetting to tell him. “Can I have a hug?”
His eyelids squeezed shut. How the hell could she possibly be fine? Nadi continued talking, and Owen locked his hands together, sliding them down his neck. Both strength and soothing in her voice, the human relaxed his muscles. Slight shame sunk in at her last words, irritating but somewhat correcting him, his own tone now calm despite his stress. “It is one thing to see them when they were there to begin with. That is a story.” Arms dropping, Owen opened his eyes and turned back toward the woman. “Being there when they’re made makes it personal.” Curling his thumbs into his belt loops, he looked blankly at her shoes, slowly opening his mouth to speak and furrowing his brows. He sighed. “Chocolate milk?”
"I’m fine Owen.” She watched him, hating how angry he got. “You’ve seen my scars. I don’t care what they do to me, what they’ve done. Because I’m not dead.I’ve had worse, I’m not always safe, they will always come after me. Please Owen. I just need your support right now.”
Nadi flinched. She’d never seen him that angry. Actually she never saw him angry before. Biting down on her bottom lip, she turned to see him throw a punch in the wall, and throw the wooden chair. “Owen…” Not entirely sure what to do, she followed him outside. “It’s okay Owen. Don’t be angry.”
Eyes slammed shut. Muscles contracted. He lifted his head to the ceiling for control, but his anger was too strong. Owen yelled a curse. He turned away from the counter to go outside, but his feet betrayed him. The man stepped back toward the counter. Fist swung into the wall—a hole. He spun around. Fuming. Dashing toward the dining area, he grabbed a wooden chair and flung it across the room. A painting fell. He stormed out the back door. His eyes scanned desperately for something to break or throw.
Nadi was quiet for a long moment and averted her gaze. Part of her felt shame that she had to tell him. But she couldn’t keep something like this from him, he had to know, he had to be her strength when she felt like she was losing hers. “..Yes..” Her voice was soft, quiet when she finally answered him.
Piercing eyes absorbed every detail they could as worry conquered the friend. He rushed to learn all she said, but the last she said sent Owen’s body rigid.
He dropped his hands. Anger flooded throughout his system. Hands clenched into fists. “Worse than death.” The barely inaudible words sneered through his mouth. Worse than death was torture. Insufferable pain.
Owen stepped through the kitchen, hands tense on the edge of the counter. Leaning hard, shoulders tight. Peering at Nadi with a slight turn of his head, he whispered in need of confirmation, “They touched you?”
“I’m the only hybrid… or one of the few. The rest try to mate with their own kind. But yes. I’m Arcadian, born in human form. The Katagarian’s, their born in animal form, found out I’m a vampire and wanted to do more than hunt me.”
Nadi rubbed at her neck where the stupid collar had been. Her anxiety rose, as her emotions crashed down on her, suddenly. She’d been holding it all in, but with Owen there she just wanted to cry. He was her rock. He was always her rock. It didn’t matter that they weren’t together anymore. He was still her Owen. Her strength. “My.. people…” How much did she still him, did she tell him of the war between the Arcadian’s and the Katagarians? When she needed to know that he knew, her stupid memory couldn’t remember how much she had told him.
Desperation began to build. Why wouldn’t she tell him? Owen covered his panic, forbidding to look more pathetic than he did. He parted his mouth to speak. No words formed.
Setting: Owen's house (Minnesota, America); March 2, 2013; 1:30 P.M.
Summary: What begins as friendly teasing quickly turns south as Nadi reveals she was tortured.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Nadi (nadezhdixpaket):
Because she's a vampire and an Arcadian, the Katagarians want Nadi more than dead; they tortured her.
owenalexander:
A cold chill and a rigid body. Arms dropped to his sides—a feeling of defeat. His hand stung from punching the wall. He rolled in his lips and looked up at the tree he used to climb, trying like hell to contain himself. Not helping, Nadi.
Without a second thought, Owen glided into her sadness. His arms wrapped her up tightly. It was all he could do.
Summary: Teren wishes to paint, so Owen grabs his paint supplies.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Teren (nadezhdixpaket):
She considers her bear Hamlet her protector.
Nadi (nadezhdixpaket):
N/A
(When Owen goes to his "house" in this thread, he is going to his hotel room. He brings his paints with him with all his travels.)
Can I paint?
“You can paint with me, Teren.”
“Really?”
“Absolutely, as long as Nadi thinks it’s okay.”
“Okay!”
Owen waited for Teren as she asked. They could paint outside.
Teren went and asked Nadi if she could paint. Nadi said yes with a smile. The little girl ran back to Owen. “She said okay!” Then her brows furrowed. “I don’t have paint.” She pouted a little, she hasn’t painted since kindergarten when they did finger painting.
“That’s okay; I have plenty of paint. I’ll drive home and bring some back, and we can paint outside, okay?”
“Okay!” She beamed and hugged her bear.
“High-five!” He smiled. “Just make sure everything is ready when I come back. We don’t want to waste any time painting, now do we?”
“Okay! Yay!” She bounced on her toes, excited. “I’ll be reaaaaady!”
With a laugh, Owen exited and drove off to his house. About fifteen minutes later, Owen returned and sett up art supplies, waiting to finish before calling Teren outside. He brought fifteen bottles of paint and sixteen brushes of all sizes. He brought his apron, but left it hanging off a canvas for the little girl. There were two easles, and the man lowered one to the shortest level, which still may have been too tall. Other than that, everything was ready for painting, and he went to the door and called out for Teren.
Teren was excited, and bounced all over the apartment. Nadi had to get the girl to settle down. By the time he came back, Nadi had gotten Teren an old blanket to sit on, and had her change into old clothes. When they heard him at the door, Nadi opened the door and smiled at him. “She’s very excited,” she told him, with a smile. Teren ran outside, hugging her teddy bear. “While she paints, could you try to get her bear out of her arms? He’s a protector to her, but I don’t think she’d be happy if she got paint on him.” Handing him the blanket, Nadi glanced to Teren, very happy that Teren was happy. “The blanket is in case she makes a mess.”
It was as though Teren had been building up the pressure of excitement inside and finally combusted, she darted outside so quickly. “Of course. He can paint his own picture.” He flashed his teeth. “Nadi, what’s painting without a little mess?”
He grabbed the blanket and walked over to Teren, whose bubbly spirit was overflowing like an open, shaken beer. The blanket was laid on the ground and Owen convinced Teren to let her bear, whom she called Hamlet, paint beside her instead of with her. “You two can share what you painted when you’re done.” Owen took out his pallets and poured in some paint for the three of them while he asked what they would make and supported their ideas. After tying on the apron, which he folded to better fit her, he said, “All right. Let’s get started.”
“Thanks, Owen.” Nadi smiled at him. She chuckled and shook her head. “I know, mess and painting walk hand in hand, but we do only rent this place. There’s nothing wrong with trying to contain the mess.” She glanced to Teren, she hasn’t seen Teren this happy in a long time. Owen was a good thing in their lives.
Teren was excited about this new form of art, one that she hadn’t played with since kindergarten. During that time, though, she had been silly with it, and made a really big mess that her mother had been proud of. She did as he suggested. The child was barely able to sit still, she was so excited.
“Women,” he joked, walking away.
As a wizard with his wand, Owen flicked his wrist, glossing the blank canvas with yellow and blue and random areas of white and black before adding bottled green on top. He glanced back and forth between his canvas and the little artist beside him. He layered light colors upon each other making figure of a girl, face unidentifiable, in a spring meadow. In her hands held a tiny fennec fox.
Throughout this process, Owen would ask Teren how Hamlet’s and her paintings were coming along and tell little stories and jokes. Teren actually made three paintings by the time he was finished with his first.
Teren had fun painting, it wasn’t as easy as drawing with her crayon, but she did the best she could. One painting was a meadow, with lots of flowers, looking like the foxglove flower. Another painting was of a forest.
In the third painting, she had painted a strange looking creature, half jackal, half tiger sort of thing. The body was a orange-brown, with black stripes, large paws, long legs. on it’s back was a thick black strip of fur starting from the head, to the fluffy tail, with small white stripes along the back. The creature’s ears were kind of round, but more pointy, and the snout was long, but not as long as a jackal’s. She’s been practicing drawing the creature, and she wanted to paint it for a really long time.
“Wow, Teren. What is that? I love it.” His eyebrows scruntched together as he studied her favorite of the three.
“It’s… jackal and tiger…” Teren replied, very softly. “It reminds me of Nadi.”
“Does it? How so?” To the door did his eyes wander, knowing Nadi was inside.
“I… uh… dunno. Cause she’s cool?” Teren replied, her cheeks flushing, almost afraid she just made a mistake.
He looked back at Teren. “That she is. She is awesome, and so are you.”
Teren made a face. “I’m… No I’m not.”
“You don’t think you’re awesome?” Owen did not approve.
“N-no…”
Owen kneeled down onto the grown in front of her. He removed her apron and stared at her for a moment. “Teren, you are very special. There is no reason to feel otherwise, you understand?”
Teren looked at him. She shook her head. “Why am I special?”
“Why? Because you’re Teren, and there isn’t anybody as sweet and skilled and awesome as you are.” Owen pointed to her heart. “This is why you’re special, Teren.”
“…Mr. Ray… he didn’t think so.”
“I’m smarter than Mr. Ray. I’m a painter. I know beauty when I see it. I see it in you, Teren.”
“Really?” her cheeks flushed and she grabbed her teddy bear, and hugged him tightly.
“Really. Isn’t that right, Hamlet?” Owen shook the bear’s hand.
Teren smiled a little, feeling shy. “Promise?”
“Promise.” Their pinkies united. “Now come here, you.” Owen gave Teren a great bear hug.
A pinky promise. She never did a pinky promise before. She giggled and hugged him back.
“Okay, so what are we going to do with all this amazing art?”
“Hang them up?”
“Of course! Why didn’t I think of that?” Owen brought his hand to his forehead and slapped it gently. “I guess I’m not as smart as you, huh? Where do you want them?” Rising from the ground, Owen took Hamlet and put him around Teren’s neck so she could carry two of her paintings while Owen brought his and one of hers in. “Nadi,” he called inside the house. “Look what we made!”
Teren followed him, happily, holding onto the paintings, excited to show Nadi.
Nadi looked up when they came in. She smiled softly. “What did you two make?” she asked, curious. Teren handed her the two paintings she was carrying, and Nadi took them, and looked at them. “Oh, these are lovely. They are perfect, Teren!”
“And she made this:” Owen brought over the mixed breed picture Teren had worked hardest on.
Nadi set down the two paintings, and glanced to Owen when he brought over the other painting. She took it, and lightly touched the painted hybrid. Nadi tried really hard not to react to the fact that Teren painted her true form, in front of Owen. “This… this is lovely.” Her gaze shifted to Teren and she smiled softly.
Teren scuffed her feet, looking shy over the painting.
“Isn’t it?” he answered excitedly. “Very unique.”
Nadi smiled and ruffled the girl’s hair. “Yes, it’s uniquely fantastic!”
Teren giggled, blushing. “You aren’t mad?”
“Why would I be mad? Owen loves it. I love it. There’s no reason for me to be mad,” Nadi stated, and hugged Teren.
“And this,” he quietly spoke, “is an even prettier picture.”
He pulled out his phone and took a picture.
Teren squeaked after Owen took the picture and hide behind Nadi, very camera shy.
Nadi chuckled. “It’s okay, Teren.”
“I’m sorry, Teren. Just saving a memory. Would you like to see it?” He turned the screen toward her. “It’s beautiful.”
Teren snuck towards him and looked at the picture. “Really? Nadi’s pretty.”
He leaned in to Teren’s ear. “I think you’re prettier,” he whispered and tapped her nose before sliding his phone into his pocket.
Teren giggled and blushed. “Noooo.”
“Sh, it’s a secret.”
“I like secrets!”
“As do I.”
“Now, where do we hang these gorgeous paintings?”
“Everywhere!”
“Do you have anything to hang them with?” He glanced at both Nadi and Teren for an answer.
“Tape!” Teren ran to her room, getting tape.
Nadi shook her head, and got her hammer and nails, and bringing them to him.. “I’m sure this will work better than tape.”
“Thank you, Nadi.” Accepting the tools, Owen nailed the paintings where Teren insisted and Nadi agreed.
Teren bounced up and down, proud of the paintings.
“They seem to brighten the place, don’t they?” Nadi asked, with a smile.
“Like sunshine.”
Teren giggled, and hid her head behind her bear.
“Well, it was certainly fun painting with you, young lady. We should do it again sometime.”
“Okay!”
“I’ll see you later, Teren,” he chuckled. “Goodbye, Nadi.”
“BYE!” Teren giggled, waving really big.
“Bye Owen,” Nadi smiled and waved at him, before sending Teren off to get ready for bed.
“True!” She grinned brightly. “Some of my fondest painting memories involved painting with other people.” She poked his nose playfully. “You’re a smart cookie.”
“Hmm… Not much for me today. Maybe I’ll do a little painting, or try to find something interesting to photograph. I’ll probably cook something, and definitely spend sometime with Jeremy.” She thought for a moment then made a face. “That plan is almost completely void of social interactions.”
Eighty Degrees Fahrenheit in Minnesota on a Monday | Mal | Complete
He was right, it was no big deal. She was just going to hang out with him, right?
“Totally not stressed,” her voice was a little higher pitched than normal as she tried to convince him she was alright. “Though, I can’t wait to see you.” A big smile formed on her face at thought of being around him again. This was going to be fun.
If Mal had not obviously been uncomfortable, he would have laughed a few more times. Instead, Owen limited his humor. “Stop stressing out, Mal. Nothing good will come from it.” He glanced at the time on the dashboard. “It will be about thirty minutes before I get there. Park your car and relax. You’re going to have a great time whooping my ass in laser tag tonight, I promise.”
“No, Mal, I’m supposed to pick you up. But I am trying to secretly think of a way to pick you up, seeing as you are driving around the area, waiting to pounce on me like a lioness.”
“Then it is so, lasertag it is.” She was definitely dressed for such things. Though it worried her that she would be under dressed. What did you wear on a first date? Wait, was this a first date?
“So, do you want me to meet you there, darlin’?”, her grip flexed on the steering wheel as she drove. Her dating skills were a little rusty, not knowing exactly how this was supposed to work. And why exactly did she care so much about impressing him?
Clearing her throat, she tried to play it off, “Maybe I do, maybe I don’t. I guess you’ll just have to see.” She gave a smirk as if he were there and could see. Mal pondered his question for a moment. “Well, I say lasertag so I can kick your ass, ” laughing slightly, “I mean, unless you’re afraid of a little competition.”
Noticing the pitch of her voice, “Sounds like somebody likes me, Mal,” he teased. “What would you like to do? Something like laser tag or more along the lines of a movie?” Owen checked his mirrors every few seconds like a good citizen.
“No, not at all”, she said with a slight squeal of excitement. Then trying to play it cool she added, “I’m just out driving. Do you want me to meet you somewhere or something, doll?”
“Oh, are you mocking me now? I’ll keep that in mind,” he chuckled. For no apparent reason, Owen checked his watch. “How about…now? Are you busy at the moment?”
She smirked, “what you’d like to with me eh?”. Half laughing she added, “Of course sweetheart.” Changing her tone to that of sincerity, “I’d absolutely love to. Just name your time and I’ll clear up my schedule.”
As soon as she realized it was Owen a big stupid grin formed on her face. “Hey,doll. It’s good to hear from you. I’m good, a lot better than the other night”, Mal gave a slight chuckle. “How are you, sweetheart?”
Mal had spent her entire day driving around. The hotel room was boring and she didn’t really have anywhere to go. As she drove to no destination in particular she sang her heart out to every song on the radio. This had always been a way of escape for her. Her phone, laying on the passenger seat, started to ring. Not bothering to check the ID, she reached over and pressed speaker. “Hello?”
Owen had been released from work, and it felt too nice to stay home. Before driving down the highway, he took out his phone and hooked it up in his car so that he would not have to hold it between his neck and shoulder. (He was safe on the road, and Bluetooths were tacky and uncomfortable.) The volume was turned up to a higher volume and his voice was ready to project. He dialed her number and listened as the phone rang.
Summary: Getting off work, Owen calls Mal. They arrange a date for the evening.
About Characters:
Owen:
Owen is a cautious driver. "Bluetooths are tacky and uncomfortable."
Mal (eyesofffury):
N/A
owenalexander:
Owen was not a fan of lying. “If you don’t want to talk about it, say so, but do not lie to me,” he would say. Yet he let this one slide as he found himself smiling like a child in a candy shop as the inflections of her voice shifted; she sounded genuinely excited. “I can’t wait to see you either, Mal,” he gently replied.
Mal smiled and nodded at his suggestion for food. “I don’t eat much human food,” she said with a shrug, “so I’m just going to trust you.” Looking down at her outfit, she pondered his question. “Well, I don’t actually have a bathing suit. ” She turned her face away shyly. “I could just go in my underwear but I don’t think that would go over well.” Glancing back at him, she smiled coyly, “Or we could wait til it’s dark?”. Letting out a nervous laugh, she shook her head, “But I guess if those options don’t work for you, I have shorts at the hotel room.”
She followed his lead, holding his hand tight but not too tight, a big stupid grin plastered to her face. Mal didn’t say anything, she stuck by his side as he lead her out. The whole time she felt incredibly glad he didn’t turn down her suggestion, it would be nice to be able to be somewhere somewhat quiet.
She bit her bottom lip slightly, pondering his question. Food would be nice but swimming would get her closer to him. Tilting her head slightly she replied, “Well. How about we grab something to eat and head to the water.” She shrugged a shoulder and half smiled, “it could be a picnic of sorts.” Her hand squeezed his lightly, hoping he would approve of her suggestion. The day just couldn’t end so soon, she was enjoying it too much.
Entering with her sassy grace, Owen smiled like an idiot as she pulled the vest over her head and carried her weapon to the station. “Considering I knew before we started, no, I don’t think you do. But you did wipe out a few times, and that is enough for me.”
According to Isaac Newton’s third law of motion, to every action, there is an opposite but equal reaction. Henceforth, Owen nudged Mal back. And then she… She intertwined her hand with his. He looked down at the hands and up at her smile and found himself starting to smile. It was a comforting feeling, really, and Owen welcomed it with an open heart and mind. “Now what would you like to do, Mal? Another round? Food? A movie? Or it’s hot enough; we could go swimming.”
Mal made her way back to the prep room, removing her gear and meeting up with Owen. Almost bouncing on her feet she chuckled, “That was fun.” Her hands dug into her pockets and she smirked and shrugged, “Do I have to say, I told you so?” She nudged him with her hip, giggling. Removing her hand from her pocket, she slipped it into his own hand, wondering if he would mind. Glancing at him, she flashed him a big smile, slightly nervous.
His trigger finger could not fire fast enough, for the lights in his vest faded from Mal’s vicious fire. Her strong, quiet laugh forced his before she ran away. As his lights revived, there was a glimpse of Mal’s turning off. Owen could not help but snicker as he made his way to a shelter where he could shoot the nearby target. One pull of a trigger and the game was over. Victoriously, he removed his vest and returned his gun to the prep room and waited for Mal.
Mal was lining up a target when she was hit unexpectedly by a body. Swinging around, her eyes lit up at the sight of Owen. She jumped back and swung her phaser in his direction, almost panicking, firing aimlessly until she finally hit him. Mal paused only for a second with an expression of slight shock that she had gotten him first. It faded into a laugh quickly and she darted away from him, totally forgetting about other players. She put enough distance and obstacles between them but when she rounded a wall there was an opponent waiting for her and she was hit.
He focused more on finding the other team’s base than shooting members. His gear’s lights turned off four times before the enemy’s base was in sight. Ducking and running and ducking and running, Owen made his way through the dark room’s countless obstacles. He was almost able to shoot the target when he bumped into an opposing member.
Making her way to the back, she hid behind a barrier. Silent, she crept to the edge, spotting someone from the opposite team, firing and hitting the opponent. She spun around only to be hit by another player that went flying by her. Mal was enjoying herself far too much. She darted around, hiding and firing and being fired at. All the while, trying to find and hit Owen before he got to her.
The buzzer went off to notify a fresh game and a minute passed for everyone to establish their ground. Owen was on the red time and she was on green. When the buzzer sounded again, Owen crept down the ramp he was on and attacked the first green he saw, a young boy of about eleven years. His victory was silent.
Mal smirked, “Are you?”. She blew him a kiss, winked and mouthed the words ‘Good Luck’. Gripping her phaser and rocking back and forth on her feet, she waited anxiously for the game to start. She had enough time to check out the competitors, all of which she could seriously beat. The truth was that this would be easy for her but at the risk of looking strange for being so proficient in weaponry, she decided she would tone it down. If not just for Owen’s sake, for all of theirs.
It was strange for a woman to wrap her arm, but Owen was already having too good of a time and they had not even bought their way in. He tipped his hat with a restatement of her question and wrapped his arm around her. Tickets were purchased and they suited up in seperate teams’ gear. There were a few other people waiting to join the next game. “Are you ready, Mal?”
She loved how her hand fit in his but she wouldn’t tell him that. Instead she continued to smile, something she had ceased to do since he picked her up. When he tickled her, she laughed, pulling away slightly. Then with fluid movement, she wrapped her arm around his waist and gestured toward the building with the other, “Shall we?”
Thus was the car ride to the laser tag. He even continued belting out a tune as he went to open her door again, offering his hand for her support as gentlemen do and tickling her as she stood.
Mal filled in Owen’s blanks and hummed along to the rest, forgetting the tension she had previously felt. Her fingers continued to tap along to the beat. She couldn’t help but glance at him often, smiling each time.
It was apparent Mal was uncomfortable, so Owen started singing along obnoxciously. For all the unfamiliar lines, he blurted various combinations of “something’s”, “fa’s”, and “la’s” and drove with ease.
Recognizing the song, her fingers tapped on her knee to the song on the radio as she hummed along. Again, Mal’s lack of conversational skills grabbed a hold of her and she sat there not knowing what to say or really knowing if she should say anything.
“Mostly classic rock. I love that sound, it’s so much better than the crap today,” she said with a shrug. “But it’s your car, sweetheart. You can listen to whatever you want.”
All she could was giggle.”I guess you’re right. I could never hurt you”, Mal patted his cheek giving him a sincere grin. “So what about music? Any radio in this sexy beast of a car?”
Mal made an expression of slight shock. “Queen Bitch? Well, that’s no way to talk to a lady, Mr. Alexander”, she said with a sarcastic tone. It didn’t really bother her, she enjoyed this playfulness. “If you would like to be that way though then maybe I won’t. Maybe I’ll just whoop your ass and make you cry for mommy.” She laughed, amused at herself and the conversation.
Laughing she nodded. The best part of his joke was that she really had been but she neglected to mention this. “Well, I’ll tell you what. I’ll go easy on you, don’t want to make you cry or anything,” she said through a slight smirk.
Her nerves had set aside and she was just glad to be with a friend. “So, you nervous about having a girl kick your ass?”. Mal gave a slight chuckle. Her thoughts stayed away from the fact that this was a date, the more she thought about it the more nervous she got.
Mal sat in the parking lot of the hotel, fixing her hair and makeup as best as she could in the mirror. When she saw his car pull in her heart started to race and it puzzled her as to how this man could do such a thing to her. What a gentleman, she thought as he held the doors open for her. Mal couldn’t help but grin like a fool, “I’m great, thank you. Just excited to see you.” She gave him a wink and a pat on the knee. “How about you? How are you, doll?”
Ending the call, Owen drove for a few quiet seconds before his thoughts rushed with ideas and more what-if’s. Worry-free thoughts. His only concern was how Mal was feeling at the moment, a concern which, as he pulled into the hotel’s parking lot, evaporated as the hot mama smiled. It was eighty degrees after all.
He opened and shut both her driver’s side door and his passenger’s side door as she changed vehicles. Getting into his car, he asked, “So hi, how are you?”
Summary: Owen and Mal go on their first date (ohemgeefeels). After a round of laser tag, the couple decides to grab Subway for a picnic by the river and swim.
About Characters:
Owen:
Until today, Owen has not played laser tag in years.
Mal (eyesoffury):
Mal listens to classic rock.
owenalexander:
He took her to the car and did his thing. As he strapped in his seat-belt and shifted gears, he stated, “Well, if it is going to a picnic, we need sandwich-type food, so we are going to Subway.” He glanced at her attire. “Would you like to stop and get a bathing suit or something?”
owenalexander:
Before he had the chance to think, Owen blocked off the thoughts from that moment of hellfire and automatically shifted the words she referenced. “Ever hear of Furies, sweetheart?” That glazed night of mind-boggling suffering and confusion. “Because my true nature got the best of me and your mind seemed delicious.” Curiosity piqued his mind—a preferred emotion over what he should have felt. “Mal, you never told me about Furies,” he averred as she blushed from her intriguing and rather tempting idea.
eyesoffury:
A small, nervous laugh passed her lips. She had somehow forgot to really explain what she was to him. Part of her wanted to ignore the question, go on pretending like she was normal but the truth was that eventually she would have to tell him. Turning her head to the passenger window, she watched the world outside as she spoke, “Well. We’re beings that can inflict insanity in others by staring into their eyes. Hence the red eyes and such.” Suddenly feeling a little uncomfortable and worried, she shifted in the seat slightly, pinning her hands between her knees.
owenalexander:
He took her answer as it was, accepting it as a normalcy. At the moment, he was not in any danger, ergo, why worry? “That does not sound like fun.”
Teren was almost kidnapped. Nadi sent her to her parents. When a panicked Owen asks why, Nadi reveals what she and Teren are. Disbelief leads Nadi to transform in front of him. Unfortunately, the shift re-opens a wound. Owen tends to her. They go inside, and she tells him the story of her people.
About Characters:
Owen:
Owen is willing to go shirtless if it means helping a friend. He is one of five other people who has seen Nadi's animal form.
Nadi (nadezhdixpaket):
Nadi's animal form is half-jackal, half-tiger.* In rescuing Teren, she got shot in her side. She despises sitting still with her soul. Because of her parents' mating, Nadi has mixed blood. She was hunted by her people for this reason but claims she was able to stop it. Being an Arcadian, she can live for a thousand years, though she has a human heart. Since Jayden and she did not claim their fated mating, Nadi cannot birth a child.
Teren (nadezhdixpaket):
Teren shifts into the form of a fennec fox.
Mr. Ray:
Also known as "Douche-Ass" and "Butt-Douche", Mr. Ray was Teren's previous guardian. He has been and is being investigated by Jayden. Nadi suspects he wants Teren back.
Jayden:
An agent for the FBI and Nadi's boyfriend, he has previously investigated Mr. Ray and is currently hunting him down. Nadi feels Jayden is not sharing everything with her, and there is more Mr. Ray is not sharing with Jayden. He was mated to Nadi but did not want to be fated to her; they did not claim the mating. Because he is human, he does not suffer the consequence. (The male were-hunter is cursed to live without ever being able to have sex.)
Jazira (nadezhdixpaket):
She is a tigress. Taken from her family at a young age, she was shunned by the ones who raised her when she mated with Lou.
Lou (timelessperdition):
He is a jackel.** He was shunned by his family when he mated with Jazira.
* The owner of this character changed her form to half-tiger, half-wolf. Her fox gene is too small to influence her form.
** The owner of this character changed his form to half-wolf, half-fox.
“Hi Owen.”
“Is something wrong, Nadi?”
“Somebody tried to take Teren.”
“What? Is she okay? Is she here? Is she safe?” He looked around frantically, a rush of panic flowing through him.
“She’s fine. I got her away. She’s with my mother right now.”
“Is she safe?”
“With my parents, she’s very safe.”
“Why did someone try to take her? I don’t understand.”
“I don’t know. I think… it has something to do with her parents. She told me yesterday that her last guardian told her men were following her. Either he was telling the truth, or lying to get her to stay with him again.”
“Why do they want Teren?” This did not settle well.
“I don’t know…” She ran a hand through her hair, frustrated with the whole situation. “It… might… have something to do with… how she’s special.”
His eyebrows lowered and scrunched together. “What, is something wrong with her?”
“No. Nothing is wrong with her.” She hesitated, for a moment, before making a decision. “Can you keep a secret?”
“Yes, of course I can keep a secret.” This was not exactly a time to be sharing secrets, not when Teren’s life was in jeopardy.
“Okay.” She fidgeted a little. “Those pictures of fennec fox’s she keeps drawing, is because that’s what she is. She can take the form of the fennec fox.”
Owen stared blankly at her for a few seconds, eyes wide with confusion, brows shoved together in madness. His hand mad small movements as she spoke. “Nadi, I don’t think this the time to be playing around.”
“I’m not playing around.” She studied him, closely. “Because I can take the form of an animal, too. Three… actually. The painting of the mixed breed she did, that’s my true form.”
She sounded sincere enough, but how was he to believe her? Yes, Owen had always wanted to trust in phenomenal things, but it was not something someone could do so easily in the real world. Dreaming was one thing; living the dream was a completely different concept. Ergo, Owen looked at Nadi as though she was ill and a little unstable. “Your true form?” he repeated. “Right.”
He didn’t believe her. He way he looked at her, stung, a lot. She really didn’t want to have to show him. “Owen… please, don’t freak out.” Nadi moved back a few steps. She took a breath, and shifted to her hybrid form, the painting almost looked just like her. ((aka too lazy to describe it again)) She stretched, claws extending, before settling her uneasy gaze towards him. Few had actually seen her hybrid form, only two were alive who saw it. Nadi was afraid of his rejection.
However it was possible, Owen’s eyes widened more to the size of half dollar coins. Nadi changed. She transformed. Frankly, it scared the hell out of him. He backed up a few steps as her claws extended. The thought of running was quite intriguing, but Owen remained frozen for multiple reasons. The first reason was shear shock. What just happened? The second reason? Running away as your friend shifts into a creepy hybrid of whatever tends to be considered “freaking out,” which he was asked not to do. It was better to stay and panic on the inside. Then, she would not have turned into a beast if she could not control it. He was safe around her. The last reason was completely subconscious: if this was real, what else was?
Thunder purred in the distance and a dark cloud crawled toward them. His bright eyes drifted off to the cloud for a moment before looking into Nadi’s eyes. Still brown, still Nadi, just different. He sighed and paced, hands behind his head for second and breathed deeply.
“Okay then. So you’re…that, and Teren’s a fox. Fun.”
Nadi remained still, relaxed as she watched his reaction. She was afraid he would run, to reject her, because she was different. Even among her own kind, her own family, she was rejected. She stayed in her hybrid form for a moment longer, to see if he would get used to the idea.
She shifted back to her human form, clothes appearing on her body. She gasped, the movement caused her to reopen her wound, where she was shot. Nadi clutched her side, fresh blood soaking through her shirt. “I’m… half jackal, half tiger. I can take either form, and the one you just saw…” She tried to breathe through the pain. “I need to… sit down.”
Suddenly she was herself again, or at least her human self—he was unsure which was her natural form. There was a slight relief when she turned back, until he noticed red spreading from her side. This condition was scarier than her previous state. As she heaved over, Owen ran to her. He steadied her hand as she reached for the ground. “No, you need to lay down.” His right hand moved to under her head to gently lower it as his left hand pressed on her abdomen. “Nadi, what is going on?” he demanded with worry and fear. “How the hell did this happen? Shit!” Owen took off his black shirt and carelessly folded it to a small square. “Hold this. Tell me where I can find your first-aid and a towel.”
“No no… I’m fine,” she protested. “Tis just a flesh wound,” she tried to be funny as she pushed herself up, with a wince, not wanting to lay down. That was all she did when she was wounded. Resting was not something she liked to do. Nadi lifted her shirt a little and checked her bandage. “Oh, I forgot to tell you I got shot when getting Teren away from those men.” Glancing to him, she pressed his shirt to her wound, as she tried to think where her first aide kit was. “They are in the bathroom, the first aid is in a drawer by the sink.”
He rolled his eyes. “Okay, Mercucio. I consider ‘flesh wounds’ a little more serious than splinters, Nadi.” He stopped and looked at her. “You got shot? Damn it, Nadi, why didn’t you say anything to me?” Practically jumping up, Owen ran into her house. In the few times he had been in her house, he stayed in the living room and kitchen. Panic and adrenaline coursed through him as he searched for the bathroom and then for the supplies. He dampened a towel and grabbed the case and raced to Nadi. “Pressure, pressure, pressure,” he chanted mutely. He tossed away his bloody T-shirt and wiped her poorly protected wound with the wet towel. “I’m just going to overlap it for now. We can put on some fresh gauze in an hour or two,” he informed, wrapping the material around her.
“I had worse. It was fine.” Nadi told him, shaking her head. She didn’t want to hear a lecture. Sitting there, quietly, she pressed the shirt against her tightly, keeping pressure. It hurt a lot, she was silently cursing herself for shifting, that hadn’t been a smart idea, though it had been the only thing she could do to make him believe her. When he came back, she glanced to him, letting him take care of her. There were very few people she actually trusted enough to take care of her wounds.
For the next few minutes, Owen focused solely on caring for Nadi. His steady hands worked quickly with purpose but remained gentle. The feeling of her warm skin was marked down on a mental notepad he would look over later, along with other things. His flickering eyes were narrowed and brows pushed together. When he finished, he helped Nadi up, holding her hand and waist as she stood. “Are you all right?”
Nadi was silent while he worked on her, watching him as he took care of her wound. She ignored the pain, it felt better, though, with what he was doing. But, of course, she got impatient, eventually, as he worked. Waiting wasn’t one of her strong suits. When he was finally done, she smiled a little and got up as he helped her up. Leaning against him, she nodded. “I’m fine.”
Temporarily, his hands hovered around her after she said the words. When he was sure she was all right, Owen packed the rest of the medical kit away and grabbed his bloody, black T-shirt and the towel. Kit in the bathroom, towel in the hamper, shirt in the trash. He walked back outside and stopped twenty feet in front of Nadi. Looking directly into her chocolate eyes, he gulped and balled his fists. “What do they want with Teren?”
Nadi studied him, as he seemed to make absolute sure she was alright. She arched a brow at him, waiting, till he was sure that she was fine. She tugged at her hair, when he moved to put all the stuff away, and back inside. Nadi was about to head inside, when he was back outside and brought the subject back to Teren. “I don’t know. I’m trying to figure it out. I feel her old guardian know’s more than what he told the FBI when Jayden brought him in for questioning.” She had begged Jayden to tell her what Mr. Ray had said. “He knew who tried to take her.” Still in pain from reopening the wound, Nadi headed inside. She’d grabbed his hand and led him inside as she passed him. Once inside, she sat down, slowly on her couch.
Owen took in this information, trying to piece something together he did not know anything about, until he saw her move. Closer and closer, she grabbed his hand. “You’re hands are soft,” he blurted, dazed. If there was an awkward feeling tied to those words, Owen’s senses were too clouded to feel it.
“I’d feel a little better if you'd lie down, Nadi,” he announced, still standing. She was uncomfortable, and the bending of her body where the wound was did not help, he was positive. “Or at least sit still for an hour.”
Nadi was a little startled when he mentioned her hand being soft. She wasn’t sure what he meant by that, but she pushed that thought aside, deciding not to dwell on it.
“Oh, you’re persistent.” Her gaze shifted to him, he seemed worried about her. Even with all the friends she made in the past few weeks, it still startled her when they worried about her. it was difficult to believe, or accept that anyone would care enough to worry about her. “I really hate resting, or laying down, or sitting still for longer than five minutes. But fine.” Nadi sighed, and shifted her body to lay on the couch.
“Thank you.”
Sitting down, he rested his elbows on his thighs and held head face in his hands before a heavy exhale. Like cars on a high-way, everything was rushing around so quickly, everything was blurred, smeared into the background. His hands moved out in a triangular form as they slid down his nose and into a prayer’s pose against his lips. Then his fingers twisted to lock his hands together, and his elbows lowered his arms into his lap.
“What are we going to do, Nadi?”
Nadi watched him. He seemed so stressed over the whole thing. She found herself wanting to just hug him and tell him it would be alright. But honestly, she didn’t know if it would be alright.
“I don’t know. Jayden is going to catch them, he already talked to her old guardian. Its only a matter of time before he finds them.” She sighed a little and closed her eyes. “She’s safe now. She wasn’t hurt. I’m going to find out everything I can.”
It sounded like she had a lot of faith in her boyfriend, and Owen ever-so slightly widened his eyes for what seemed the millionth time in the last thirty minutes, not so much in the matter of relationship status, but that it seemed she threw all her hope into one man. “What about you? Are you safe?”
Her eyes opened. His question startled her. Glancing to him, she nodded. No one ever really asked her that before, if she was safe. “I am. I… used to be hunted, by my own people, because I’m a mixed blood. I was able, though, to get them to stop hunting me.”
“Wow, racism in Mythical Land. That sounds fun,” he humored.
One could hear the frown in his voice. “They tried to kill you because you’re different?”
She nodded, solemnly, picking at a spot on her shirt. “It’s all really complicated, and a really long story, if you want to hear it….”
“I’ve got the time.”
Nadi sighed a little. “Alright.” She shifted a little to get a bit more comfortable. “My kind call themselves were-hunters. We were created probably thousands of years ago, by magic.” She paused for a moment. “The god Apollo, once created a race called the Apollite’s. One day, in a fit of a rage, after a few Apollites killed his mistress and child, he cursed all the Apollites, banished them from from the sunlight, and cursed them to drink the blood of each other, and they live until the age of 27, when they are forced to die, a long, and painful death.”
She paused for a moment, and moistened her lips, taking a breath. “King Lycaon, the King of Arcadia, married a beautiful Apollite, but he didn’t know what she was till she died on her 27th birthday. He had two sons who would suffer the same fate, if he didn’t try to change their fate. So he experimented with magic, to join Apollites with predatory animals. He created the Were-Hunter. We outlive our 27th birthday, but we live up to a thousand years. And when he created us, he created the were-hunter born with a human heart, the Arcadian, and the were-hunter born with the animal heart, the Katagaria. I am Arcadian, I was born in my human form.”
Running a hand through her hair, she paused to take another breath. It was always difficult to tell the story of her people. “The gods weren’t happy with what he had done, he changed the fate of some of the Apollites. The fates cursed us. The Arcadian and Katagaria will always be at war with each other. Which also leads to why I was hunted. My people, they like things to be among their own race. The tigers, with tigers, jackals with jackals. And the Arcadian and Katagaria can’t be mixed with each other. But the fates also cursed us with a mate. We don’t know who our mate is, we won’t know unless we sleep with someone. If the mating mark appears on the palm of our hand, we have three weeks to claim the mating. If it isn’t claimed… the male were-hunter is cursed to live without ever being able to have sex. The female were-hunter can still have sex, but she can’t have children.”
Nadi glanced to him, to take in his reactions. “My parents were mated by the fates, but because my mother is a tigress, and my father a jackal, they were basically shunned from their families. Not… not that my mother really knew her family, anyway… she was taken from them at a young age, but that’s another story that involves my sister.” She looked down at her right hand, rubbing her palm. “I had a mate. Jayden. But we didn’t claim it. He didn’t face the consequences, but I can’t have children.”
“That is…a lot.”
There were not any questions to be answered—all the oddity explained itself—so he asked the only odd thing in her story. “Why didn’t anything happen to him? Is he a different kind of…breed or something?” It felt wrong to call a person a term like that, and it made Owen more uncomfortable than everything she said.
Nadi shook her head. “No. He’s human. The laws of my kind didn’t apply to him.” She smoothed out a spot on her shirt, before realizing she should probably get a clean shirt. Her shirt was still bloody. “I had to do a lot of research, he didn’t want to be mated to me…” Those three weeks, had been a nightmare. She had thought Jayden didn’t want her. His rejection had stung. At the time she hadn’t been sure why it hurt so much. Her gaze shifted to him, studying him. “Are you okay?”
Like an apprentice on a coffee run, Owen found himself running back and forth between understanding why Jayden would not want to have a hybrid baby and how it must have crushed Nadi as a form of rejection. His expression must have been peculiar because wondered about his condition. “Yeah, yes, I-I’m fine. Just…thinking,” he exhaled. Folding his hands, he put them on the back of his neck and stood. He paced a few times. He stopped. “Would you like me to get you another shirt?” He gestured behind him to small hallway to the bedrooms and then remembered he was shirtless and looked down. There was a tiny bit of blood he had failed to remove when he wiped his hands off earlier. It did not bother him, so he shrugged and looked back at Nadi, waiting for an answer.
“The fact that I’m not really human, doesn’t bother you?” Nadi wondered what he was thinking, it was mostly a curiosity thing, and the fact that she was a little worried that he wasn’t accepting any of what she told him. She didn’t want to lose his friendship, over the fact that she wasn’t human. It was bad enough that she couldn’t get her family to like her. Nodding, she smiled a little at him. “Yes, please.”
The question shocked him.
“No. It’s…weird, but. It’s you.” He lingered before being directed to her room. His eyes darted around the room before going to her closet. He selected the comfiest shirt she had, which was a purple T-shirt with black writing and brought it to her. Temptation to ask if she needed help because of her side lurked, but he managed to suppress the question and wait in the kitchen.
“Me?” She wasn’t entirely sure what he meant by that. She tried to relax a little as he went to get her a shirt. Even in the few minutes he was gone for, Nadi got a little restless, impatient. Waiting was something that she had trouble with. Unless of course she had to wait when hunting, then she could wait for hours. The tiger in her was good at waiting. When he came back, she smiled, and took the shirt. “Thank you.” Sitting up, she pulled off her bloody shirt. Nadi wasn’t really shy about her body. If he saw her topless, she wouldn’t care at all. Even though, Nadi had a few scars; old wounds where she had been scratched by a big animal, or bitten. Her scars didn’t bother her. After pulling on the clean shirt, she laid back down with a sigh.
At the sound of her exhale, Owen wandered back into the living room, taking her old shirt and putting it in the hamper in the bathroom. He sat down beside Nadi. “So now what?”
Nadi glanced to him when he sat beside her. “I don’t know. Do.. you have any questions?” She studied him for a moment. “You know… you’re one of the few who’ve seen my hybrid form.”
“How many others?”
She had to take a moment to figure it out. “Maybe five others. Or four if you count my parents as one.”
He nodded. Seconds later, a little smile edged at the side of his mouth. It was obvious she trusted him when she shifted, but it set in. Pleasant thought as it was, it was soiled by how the visit started in the first place. “So as of right now, you don’t know the ass-who-had-Teren-last’s intentions?”
Nadi picked at a spot on her couch, she already sat there for too long. “No. I don’t know. I wish I knew more about her, and what happened to her parents.” She sighed deeply. “I’m going to find her old guardian, and find out what he didn’t tell the FBI.”
Owen was taken aback. “When? With who? I don’t want you going alone.” He was protective, and he was protective of her and Teren.
Nadi glanced to him, and shrugged. “Maybe tomorrow. Teren calls him Mr. Ray.” She smiled a little at his concern. “Owen, I’ll be fine.”
“I don’t think the ass deserves a respectable title. I am not overly fond of putting people down, but he is Douche-Ass now. In front of Teren, he is Butt-Douche.” With a satisfied nod, he waited. “I know you can take care of yourself, but my worry is not so easily removed. Please do better than ‘okay.’”
Nadi laughed, before pressing her hand to her side, it hurt a bit to laugh. “Right, we can call him that.” She smiled at him. “I promise, Owen, that I will be better than okay.”
Another urge: he wanted to hold her side. Press it lightly.
When she agreed, humor found its way into his face. When she promised, he held up his farthest finger. “Pinky swear?”
Nadi blushed when he wanted to do a pinky swear. He was adorable. “I pinky swear,” she states as she hooked her pinky finger with his.
“I feel some-what accomplished now.”
“Yay for feeling accomplished!”
From past—and personal—experiences, Owen knew not to bring back up previously sad topics once a layer of happiness has been laid down. Instead, he rose to his feet. “I think I better head out. Do you need anything?”
Nadi glanced to him, and nodded. “Alright.” She smiled softly at him. “No, I’m fine. Thank you, Owen. I’m sorry about your shirt.” Pushing herself up, she started to get up off the couch. “I’ll show you to the door.” Nadi attempted to be a good hostess, even when wounded. Then she’ll go straight to bed.
Owen fought to tell her to stay seated. She was a strong spirit and thus a little stubborn. Best to not say anything to irritate a Nadi. “Shirts—who needs them, anyway?”
He held his hand out for her support and together they approached the door stationed a distant ten feet away. Opening it, Owen recalled he did not provide her with his number, so he pulled out his business card. “Any time you want or need me, give me a ring.”
He dipped his head and kissed Nadi on the cheek and walked out the door.
Nadi chuckled and shook her head. “Some people need shirts.” She stated as she took his hand, walking with him to the door. Taking the business card, she looked at it and smiled.” Okay thank you. Have a good night,” she told him before he kissed her cheek. After watching him leave for a few moments before closing the door, and heading to bed.5:00 P.M.
"Monsieur, it’d be my genuine pleasure." Fleurette responded with a simple nod, her smile returning, widening even in response; how could she pass up the offer of such a charming man, after all?
Owen’s smile softened. “Would you care you join me for dinner, Miss Mayebelle? I was going to grab Chinese, but we can have anything if it does not suit your taste.”
“You know,” She began with a gentle sigh, though her smile remained in place. “When you can’t… see, people tend to think that you’re not as… capable, as everybody else. I just like to prove them wrong, I guess.” She replied with a soft chuckle.
“I practically ran to find out the source of the music. You distracted me from dinner.” His fingers swept his hair and smiled at the woman who could not see.
“O-Oh- non, non, monsieur… I’d be much better than I am if that was the case.” Fleurette smiled, albeit rather shyly; to have someone think so highly of her skill as a pianist was rather surprising. “I- I merely wish to be as good as I possibly can; after all, people should only hear the most pleasant of music.”
To avoid laughing and embarrassing her further, Owen rolled his lips in and wet them before releasing an easy smile. He cocked his head as she explained, eyes noting the details of her dress. “I do not suppose you have been around for centuries to have the finest teach you themselves? You are cataloged with that league of greatness, Miss Mayebelle.”
At his comment on such, the slight tinge of pink flared to that of a prominent crimson with her sheepishness, a slight stammer caught in her throat. “I-I- I have always played piano, monsieur.” Fleurette smiled, nodding. “Ever since I was small, it was used as a sort of therapy. The people that raised me taught me how to play.” She explained simply, tucking a few snowy locks behind her ear.
He dropped his hand, grin spreading. “No, it would be impolite to ask, Miss Mayebelle; though, I do admire your name and skill. As well as your pink.” Owen stifled a laugh, lamely gesturing to his cheek. “I see no reason to. Actually, I am far more interested in how you learned to play like that because that was, well, incredible.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Owen.” Fleurette smiled softly in response, sensing how analytical his gaze was upon her; ah, perhaps he had picked up the fact that she was indeed blind, then. Not that she minded, most people had a tendency to stare at first. “Fleurette. Fleurette Mayebelle, monsieur. And before you ask, yes, I’m blind.” She both introduced and told him, a slight blush painting the canvas that was her ivory face. “Most people are a little uncomfortable with it, or tend to wonder, so I usually clear it up out of habit, I apologise.”
On his way to pick up dinner, he halted. He listened. Demanding the corridors’ attention, a beautifully executed piece filled the halls from the opposite end of the building. Where was the sound’s source? It was remarkable.
The lean man hastened his leisure stroll to one of discreet determination, a pure curve of joy gracing him as his piercing blue eyes noticed wavy, colorless hair at the grand piano. His mind was too swayed by the music to acknowledge whether his feet raced or paced at the vision, but soon enough he was a few feet behind her. His heart danced.
“Oh, non, mademoiselle,” he immediately answered when she turned to him, blinking his focus in. With a slight tilt of the head, Owen studied her powder white features and the delicate way they emphasized the color in her eyes. “It felt prudent I saw the master of the masterpiece before I left. Owen,” he introduced. As he stuck out his hand, he noted the odd piercings in her seekers and, with a quick flashback of trivial facts, wondered if she could see it at all.
Summary: Owen meets Fleurette. Fascinated with her piano skills, he invites her to dinner.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Fleurette Mayebelle (tentatum):
Fleurette is blind. She has been playing piano since she was a child. The music is therapy. She likes to challenge those whom doubt her.
owenalexander:
"Great."
"Shall we?" Unsure of how much she could see around her, Owen considered the idea of her reading energy similar to those fantastical stories and raised his elbow as he would with any woman.
beauteblanc:
"But of course." Replied Fleurette, not without the notion of a playful tone. Whilst a lack of sight was something that was oft brought to the attention of others it did little to prevent her from life; she took his arm with a brief glance, a warm smile indeed.
owenalexander:
Proudly did the male smile, and the duo strolled out the grand entrance. There were plenty of questions: Was she from around here? Was she a professional pianist? Who and what were her favorites? When his inquiries echoed, he told her about his life's moves: He was born in Minnesota, but his parents and he transferred to Illinois for proper schooling. After two years there, Owen was sent to live with his grandmother in North Carolina because his parents split. (He did not mention the divorce was because of Cassidy's, his little sister's, death.) When it was time for college, he moved to Virginia. Minnesota came afterward, and that was where he stayed. "Actually, I live in my folks' old home; the mortgage was almost paid off since my grand-father gave it to my dad."
He explained his job (comparing it to Warren Buffet as always) and talked about his old job at Red Rhino's, the art studio. As for his favorites? Admittedly, he did not listen to enough classical music to have any. The businessman rocked to classic rock and country on the radio, but he appreciated art of all sorts.
Soon enough, the the aroma of Chinese-American food whipped their noses, and Owen opened the door for the lady. He offered to read her the menu, and, naturally, Fleurette's order was placed first. After asking for the spiciest chicken and lo mein, the dreamer turned to the wonder. "Do you prefer we take this food back to the hotel, or might we eat in the park?"
tentatum:
“You know, around this time of year the weather is lovely of an evening; and if you are lucky, monsieur Alexander, you’ll get to see the stars as clear as day in the park,” she quipped in turn, curling the soft notions of a grin. Of course, she had to bless the emphasis that he would, rather than they; and though it stirred the tiniest notion of longing, all was well.
Of course, Fleurette still expressed every reason to possess caution; as hers was a background she would rather not paint in detail. Explaining that she was a piano tutor was suitable enough, since it was the obvious truth in her practice; but any more than that, other than the tiniest lies about coming from France (which, in essence, was true; but only in infancy), it remained the same.
owenalexander:
With a downward head tilt, he smiled. “Park it is.” Blues looked up when their dinner was ready. Owen thanked, paid, and wished a goodnight to the employee before accepting the food and turning away. He took a powdered hand, and his other, slightly scarred hand held open the door. “My lady, right this way,” he guided, twirling her out the door.
Setting: Telley's (Maggie's bookstore); September 29, 2013; 5:00 P.M.
Summary: Owen meets Maggie.
About Characters:
Owen:
N/A
Maggie (hellomsmagic):
N/A
owenalexander:
hellomsmagic started following you
Upon one of his travels, Owen Alexander found himself exploring the streets during his leisure time, as he did with most cities. With a Christmas face, he entered a local bookstore: Telley’s. He was relaxed but eager as his eyes darted across the binds. He wandered into the “J’s” section and grinned and the scale of it all. The aisles were compact. Books were stacked, vertical, slanted, neat, messy, old, new—it was comfortable.
His fingers were reaching for a tattered green when a voice called to him. A natural smile swooped over his face, but Owen’s eyebrows furrowed. Bella? Iver? Or was this someone else entirely? “Have we met?”
hellomsmagic:
Maggie looked up from her magazine when she heard the door to her bookstore opened. She watched him curiously for a few moments as he puttered around the shelves. She closed her magazine and went to go see if he needed any help. She smiled at her new customer, “Hi. Can I help you?” She pulled her brunette hair to the side as she looked up at him. His next question was a little odd, however. “I’m sorry? I…don’t think so…” She chuckled awkwardly, wringing her hands together. Where did that come from? She looked his features over as she thought back; nope, she didn’t remember him. Perhaps he had come into the shop before, but sometimes on busy days, everything’s just a blur. “I think you might have me mixed up with someone else.” She said, chewing her lip. “Sorry. But do you need any help looking for a book?”
owenalexander:
Fingers fell from binding, and Owen bowed his head in amusement. “I am terribly sorry; I do not mean to make you uncomfortable. Must be someone else.”
"My name is Owen," he introduced. His hand stretched across the distance for a shake.
owenalexander:
"Maggi Magic." The oblivious man's hand fell to his side.
"No, ma'am; however, I would not mind a work of historical fiction. Any suggestions?"
Michelle thought about his suggestions. She shook her head. “I tried to, I even confronted one of the hunters and that didn’t get him anywhere but pain. They are awfully stubborn, though smart since they seem to always know where I am.” She thought out loud. “I have to get close enough to cast a spell or compel them and I know they have weapons to make me go with them. I’m immortal not destructible.” She added with a frown.
"It’s okay though, they haven’t caught me yet so it’s all good so far."
"I will not encourage mass-murder, and I have no idea what you are limited to, but is there a way you can track them down? Perhaps you can cast a spell to keep them away from you and loved ones? Strip them of their capabilities? Erase memories?"
People are trying to kill Michelle; she is uncertain why. Also a witch, she is a vampire.
owenalexander:
Chuckling, Owen cocked his head to the side. “What is wrong?”
xxwelcometooursillylifexx:
Michelle shrugged lightly. “It’s nothing all that drastic, don’t worry. I’m just confused with what’s going on lately, nevertheless idiotic people are trying to kill me for a reason I don’t even know.” She responded with a frown.
owenalexander:
He nodded. “I do not mean to intrude, and we do not have to discuss it, if you do not wish to, but if I had to guess, knowing what I do now, I would put my money on either Gray Faces or some sort of supernatural enemy. You were the witch, correct?”
xxwelcometooursillylifexx:
Michelle listened to his question, she nodded in response. “No Gray faces at all. I’m guessing it is a enemy of mine who wants to destroy me.” She then nodded. “Correct, indeed. I’m also a vampire as well.” She responded softly.
xxwelcometooursillylifexx:
Michelle just nodded to his reaction, her body language showing she was irritated by her current situation.
She let a small chuckle at what Owen said. “Apparently it’s extremely rare for a vampire to still have their magical sources with them, so I am different than others. I am badass-ery. When I want to be anyway.”
xxwelcometooursillylifexx:
Michelle let out a small chuckle. “Why thank you.”
"I’m a lone ranger on this one. I wouldn’t want anyone getting hurt because of me."
owenalexander:
Owen thought for a moment, weighing her words, respecting her more and more. He angled his chin and narrowed his eyes. “We are going to buy you chocolate.”
xxwelcometooursillylifexx:
Michelle expected protest in her being a lone ranger since people always wanted to help her wither she wanted help or not. She formed a small smile, glad Owen didn’t do so. “I suppose chocolate would help this current situation. If you’re offered to buy anyway.” She smiled.
owenalexander:
Echoing amused air, he nodded in direction. “Come on.”
Walking time, aw yeah. “What do you eat? Hershey? Godiva? Ghirardelli? I was raised by my grandmother; don’t ask.”
