shadows.

❝ all is shadow mixed with dust, & there’s no voice but in the sounds made by what the wind lifts up or sweeps forward, nor silence except from what the wind  abandons. ❞

[silvcrshadows]

# 𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐯𝐜𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬: a muse blog affiliated with sedonaroleplay — written by liz.

levi becker ( oliver jackson-cohen ) — intro. threads. musings.

[livelovecaliforniadreams]

[respairs]

@silvcrshadows ( levi )

[respairs]

⸺DARIUS CARTER.

The mere hint of laughter from Levi has Darius’ gaze narrowing. “Laugh one more time, and I’ll become that guy who asks for a hug,” Darius’ threat for once will hold merit, he even widened his arms and briefly stepped towards Levi. However, when it comes down to it, he honestly wouldn’t do that to the other— they’re both respectable, grown men after-all. 

“Pfft,” he snickered. Darius’ kids and their friends just exist to test him, and no one can tell him otherwise. Where’s their respect for the City Manager? According to his son, Micah, he’s not in the office, so out here he’s just their dad. This apparently gave them free reign to literally colour outside the lines. “Picasso my ass,” perhaps it’s the vibe of the event or being out in fresh air but there’s a levity in him that not many are privy to. “Not that I wouldn’t encourage them,” he adds, but at this point he’s pretty sure his kids have forged their own paths. 

“It’s a good thing that I’ve done all I wanted to this evening.” Darius is more than ready to direct himself back home. The quicker he can remove all this paint decorated clothing, the better. “What are you up to now?” He enquired, wondering if perhaps they are heading in the same direction? 

[silvcrshadows]

In a mock stance of mulling over surrender, Levi’s palms held themselves up. “At this point, maybe I could use some paint.” At the same time, his slight smirk refused to fade from the threat. When he found Jasiri and she’d witness multicolored patches smeared on him, she’d either find it endearing, or wonder what the hell he’d gotten himself into. Far from the first time those thoughts would have crossed her mind. Or both, once relaying the part about the paint being from kids. 

“Now..” A brief pause, followed by a tick of his jaw. “You don’t want me telling your kids what you actually think about their art.” Except Darius balanced it all seamlessly, a family man with sustained success. And Levi wasn’t one that threw around mutual respect easily. “Teach us your ways, boss." A substantial pat met the other man's shoulder.

Determining his subsequent answer, a slight narrowed gaze glanced both ways again. “You know, think I’m going to head to the game booths over there.” Winning a giant stuffed animal for his better half seemed ideal. “Up for any before your escape?” A sly glint present in his eyes. 

[fromdvsk]

“Oh, so you’re going to make me say that you were right, huh?” Dre cocked a brow at his friend in jest as he shook his head, fighting off the laugh that threatened to continue to shake his shoulders. The queen up front had moved onto her next victim, and the crowd’s noise swelled again, but Dre’s focus stays put. “I mean it though.” His voice drops a bit at the serious nature of what he’s about to say. "Feels like the first time in weeks my chest hasn't felt like it's got a brick sitting on it." His gaze travels back to the queen, not meeting Levi’s gaze as he admits the thing that has been plaguing him over the last several weeks. “Guess I just needed somebody to drag me out of Le Rouge and into the daylight while force-feeding me mimosas until I remembered how to have fun.”  He grabs his glass, holds it up between them. "So thanks. For dragging. And for the mimosas." A beat, that grin creeping back in. "Mostly the mimosas."

[silvcrshadows]

“That I am.” Levi replied without missing a beat, a smug grin already etching itself onto his expression. Genuinely though, it was a positive, witnessing Dre having a much needed reprieve. The flowing mimosas and entertaining pranks being pulled by the queens were mainly the ones to thank. The intent hadn’t been to push his friend out, yet figured at least, the prominent weight Dre carried as of late since the raging fires needed somewhere else to land. Somewhere else aside from solely Le Rouge. Hearing the tone shift, followed by a sheer admittance, a knowing silence fell between them. "Hey, you know anything I can do." He finally states once his friend's words settle. The showing up mattered over the years. "Had a feeling you at least needed the change of scenery." Away from a location that didn't double as a workplace. Holding his own glass up, both clank together for a haphazard toast. "But you're welcome, for the record." It'd be Dre's discretion, whether he shared further or not. "I am still waiting, you know. To hear you say I was right."

[omarixwatkins]

starter for @silvcrshadows

location: by some food trucks

Showing up at foods trucks hungry was one thing, but Omari had crossed the threshold into starving. And that was a mistake. Every food truck smelled good and he had spent at least fifteen minutes wandering back and forth, reading the menus as if they'd just decide for him. He told himself that he was narrowing down his options by going back and forth, but he wasn't. "This is impossible." Omari finally stopped, muttering to himself.

His gaze shifted away from the trucks and it landed on someone familiar. Levi. Of all people. He considered pretending that he hadn't seen him, but then he thought of his sister. Omari made his way over to him, "You've been here longer than I have," he more or less greeted the other man, "which food truck are you sending someone to if they ask?"

[silvcrshadows]

Of course. It seemed as if the majority of Sedona had the same idea at the moment, evidenced by each food truck line being not much shorter than the other. An exasperated huff escaped Levi upon surveying his immediate surroundings. A reminder why an assistant ran most errands. Despite the overt impatience, he took some time, deciding which truck’s cuisine would be the deciding factor. And Jasiri’s for that matter, since he’d take extra back so she could try some later on. 

Yet, a familiar individual approaching halted any further movement forward. “— Have I?” His brows creased briefly in thought. “How long have you been here?” Though, Levi wouldn’t be surprised if Omari was waiting a while already. Considering the crowds. "Trick question or not.." He began with a faint grin. "What do you think you're feeling right now?..Barbeque? Curry? Tacos?" Just a few of the many options presented.

[respairs]

⸺JASIRI WATKINS.

Heat bloomed in Jasiri’s cheeks as she caught the meaning behind his words. Ducking her head, she fixed her gaze to the menu as she attempted to hide her smile. Levi made her feel as though she was the sun of his universe. This in turn gave her the impression that she brought vibrancy to his outlook with simply her presence. At times that notion was stupefying, yet empowering at the same time. Thoughts of him being her unofficial tour guide made her excited for the adventures ahead in Sedona. 

As the server whisked away their orders to the kitchen Jasiri watched intently as he considered the offer. If she were in his shoes, the anxiousness alone would make her second-guess coming along. In the end she knows he’s much braver than her, and committed to doing things differently this time around. His commentary cut the slight tension in the air as waited for his response. Her shoulders visibly relaxed before she chuckled. “Maybe they’re just lulling you into a false sense of security, before they pounce.” Jasiri’s brand of humour takes some getting used to, but Levi’s more than acclimated to it by now. “I want you there,” she confirms with a smile. “You will survive.” During that visit she’s sure that her family and friends are going to find ways to interrogate him, and make their own judgements. They need to see if he’ll match up to what she’s told them about him, and that’s fair. 

Dinner was sumptuous and filling to the point where Jasiri didn’t think she would have any room for dessert. However, by the end of the meal, she craved something sweet, even if she may be unable to finish it. The molten chocolate lava cake came paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture of the ice cream and flavours of the cake complimented each other perfectly. Even the strawberry used for garnishing added something fun to the sweet treat. Before she knew it, the dessert plate only held remnants of what once was something delicious. 

As they stepped out of the restaurant, the air felt refreshing and cool. Jasiri was already wearing Levi’s blazer over her dress in anticipation for it to be a bit cold. “Should we go for a stroll?” She suggested. It would be nice to watch the sunset but it’s not a necessity. Besides, if she knew Levi as well as she believes, he has other things up his sleeves. If anything, her inquiry would help her figure out any surprises ahead.

[silvcrshadows]

The irrestible charm Jasiri’s humor brought affected the grin at the corner of Levi’s lips, settling into something fond. No untimely obstacle stood a chance against her. “I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s their plan.” A low, amused huff escapes him, yet the stakes weren't lost behind his tone. He owed this to himself, to her, to both of them. The likely animosity coming from her family and friends back home was expected. On all fronts. His public mess traced back to him alone. Facing the inevitable, while Jas began making moving arrangements, seemed a best case. The media could keep on with their lashings, those close to her though? Their views did matter most.

I want you there. 

A surefire assurance fell between them. What better answer was there? He’d much rather go than stay back in Arizona this time around regardless. “You’re right.” Knuckles loosened their grip around his empty glass, nodding affirmatively just when the waiter swung by the table once more, dropping off more incredible food. “I’ll go.” He insisted. "I want to." Deep blue eyes didn't leave Jas,' as if sealing the answer definitively. There were too many instances over the prolonged separation period that a Florida trip, to try and see her again, had backfired. Not now.

Once dinner reached an unfortunate wrap, from the main courses through an elaorate dessert, Levi already removed his blazer before standing upright entirely, draping the dark material over Jasiri's stunning garment. In case the evening's outside air held a chill. Reaching the restaurant's ornate doors, they both stepped through, an un-restrained, outside atmosphere engulfing them. "You mean, after this.." Purposely, his gravely tone trails off, arm firm around her only shifting so he could face her. Reaching a palm upward, resting it on one side of Jas' cheek, head dropping downward enough to press his lips against hers for an intent, sweeping kiss. Didn't matter who would be passing by. All that did was the culmination of their celebratory night, underneath the oranges and yellows lining the sky that burned wild above them. With much more awaiting where that came from.

[nextchaptcrs]

Elliott: Hey, good to know! Well, talk to me if there's anything missing, my shift is longer today. Elliott: I'm not even sure what I can get from the country club to make it even! You'll have to help me out here.

[silvcrshadows]

Levi: You bet, but for all I needed, the library should let you off early instead. Levi: If you drop by the restaurant here on a lunch break, they can make anything you want? On the house. 

[respairs]

BELLA: Thanks! I knew I kept you around for a reason 😉 BELLA: Yeah, let them go about their day. I'll be there in 10, maybe 15 minutes for the latest BELLA: If they aren't in a rush to come in then they're fine with how you've handled everything so I wouldn't bother them again

[silvcrshadows]

LEVI: For you, reporter extraordinaire? Anything. 🫡 LEVI: Be careful on the way over, alright? LEVI: Remind me to send that text as your five star review to them. Your bosses may or may not already have one from me. Or a hundred. 

[respairs]

JASIRI: I did, kind of? Might go take a nap soon JASIRI: Good, she'll keep your bosses happy. I do know that name though! She's Iyana's cousin, right? JASIRI: Sir, you're at work BYEEEE 😆

[silvcrshadows]

LEVI: Meaning you should go do that now, everything's getting squared away here.  LEVI: She is, I’m sure Iyana’s mentioned her before.  LEVI: I'd rather not be 😎

[vcrbis]

Iyana: As much as I love that idea Iyana: The timing of it would be horrendous Iyana: But you should convince her when the timing is right 🙂‍↕️ Iyana: Any idea how long it'll last?

[silvcrshadows]

Levi: Considered done in advance. ✔️ Levi: I’ve had enough negative media my way..sans Bella.  Levi: Paramedics say it might be starting to clear, where are you? 

[limsjaebeom]

[respairs]

@silvcrshadows ( levi )

[fromdvsk]

CLOSED STARTER ⸺  levi @silvcrshadows SETTING ⸺ drag brunch at the pride in the desert event

Dre leans back in his chair, a slow disbelieving grin tugging at his lips before a loud, full body laugh finally escapes him as he shakes his head at the sight before him. A queen in a floor-length silver gown just snatched the toupee off a bald man at the next table, perched it perfectly on her own head, and kept lip-syncing without missing a single beat.

Slowly starting to clap, Dre realizes this is probably the first time since the fire at the church that he's actually laughed and it actually has less to do with the copious amounts of alcohol he's already consumed today and more to do with what an incredible entertainer the queens have been so far. And for that, he's grateful. "I dunno about you," he leans over towards Levi, speaking loudly over the rowdy crowd, "but I needed this."

[silvcrshadows]

The drag brunches were already bringing a maximum amount of entertainment alone. Every other offering planned during the Pride Festival had some difficult competition on their hands. Witnessing the latest, wild prank a queen pulled on a guest nearby, a laugh finds itself stifling underneath Levi's breath. In the same instance, Dre's near-mirrored reaction initiates a sense of accomplishment. Some sheer amusement was something he knew his friend likely needed as of late.

A sly grin formed at the corner of his mouth, nodding at the admittance. "That was the idea." If the empty drink glasses before them hadn't been proof enough. "Seriously." Levi starts before a brief pause. "You're out here, you're having a good time. That should say a lot."

[silvcrshadows]

── 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 ( sedona, arizona )

[respairs]

⸺DARIUS CARTER. featuring LEVI BECKER at PRIDE IN THE DESERT;

Day one was winding down, and had seemed pretty successful thus far. The crowds were well-fed and there was no shortage of entertainment. The paint party is one thing that drew the largest crowd for the evening, and he purposely went out of his way to avoid that section of the fairgrounds. However his attempt was wasted as his children and their friends tracked him down, and brought the paint with them for an ambush of sorts.

If only Micah and Luna would apply this level of planning to other avenues of their lives. As a result of their ‘paint fight’ he’s now spattered in several hues of paint, with some glow in the dark ones in the mix. Darius’ jean jacket was already dyed with a variety of colours in a mellow finish. Now, with the addition of the paint, everything is chaotic, pants included; the white t-shirt he layered with, will never be the same. In the bathroom he appraised his appearance. The primary concern was removing the paint near his eyes.

Emerging, he finds himself in familiar company. “Don’t even…” he threatened in the face of potential laughter. “I don’t want to talk about it,” he adds, but eventually a chuckle claims him. “Just wait till you have children of your own.” 

// @silvcrshadows

[silvcrshadows]

Shit. Which way did Jasiri say she went again? Through a few hazed blinks, Levi’s towering frame halted in his tracks, surveying the immediate, multi-colored festival perimeter. Although, all the colors were more or less running together instead. Considering drinks had been flowing since the day’s start at the lively drag brunches, that probably had much, if not everything, to do with it. What appeared like the midway-games section up ahead, he decided proceeding in that general direction. That was, until a welcome presence derailed his attention. For the best. 

Witnessing Darius approach, entirely covered in fresh, vibrant paint patches, a quiet laugh find itself escaping him. “All I was going to say is they better have won the paint battle.” Sly amusement etches into his expression, palms briefly lifting. He’d be the last person knocking dedication. “I mean, you might have some future Picassos on your hands there.” Sheer respect hinged itself behind Levi’s teasing tone. The other man and his family were an ideal snapshot for Sedona citizens and beyond, proof that a future didn’t have to remain a permanent loss. From Levi’s standpoint? A marriage proposal that didn’t fail would be a solid starting point. Then again, all odds were stacked against him then. A much better shot this around, with reparations underway, could very well still be in the cards.

[respairs]

⸺JASIRI WATKINS.

 Talks of their future, though immediate, always brings a smile to her lips. “Hmm…I wonder who that someone could be,” she adds, playing along with his teasing. “I’m sure they never expected to be wooed by the desert.” After their initial separation, their texts had heavily consisted of apologies, missing you’s, and complaints about the desert; some came from a levelheaded Levi, while others were from a clearly inebriated one. “Now, look at them,” she pointedly pins him with a knowing smile. “You’re my unofficial tour guide to this town." 

At the mention of steak, she’s giving the menu another once over. Jasiri hums thoughtfully as she once again makes an attempt to decide. The eggplant parmesan beckoned her, and she wouldn’t mind pairing it with a ribeye steak. A combination of sights and smells eventually led her to confirm that choice. Her stomach was definitely looking forward to dining on the combination soon enough. “Alright, I think I’m set on the ribeye, and eggplant parmesan,” she nods.   

Jasiri tilts her head as she regards him. “I know...um...do you want to come with me?” The question stems from the idea that’s been bouncing around in her mind since they FaceTimed with her family in the afternoon. “My parents would welcome the visit.” It’s been quite a few years since he’s seen them in person. “I can’t promise you won’t get grilled though,” and by her mom especially. That woman was such a powerhouse even if she didn’t appear like it. 

[silvcrshadows]

A brief, quiet laugh escapes him, preceding a sole shake of his head at Jasiri’s quip. “They did not.” Far from locations they considered in the past. Yet, when her mesmerizing presence alone had the innate ability to alleviate the darkest of circumstances, place no longer became a concern. She already long filled a permanent, barren void he preferred casting away. “It’s a little easier being wooed when the view just got better.” A wry grin finds itself at the curve of his lips, sharp gaze softening her direction, the red rock terrain lining the landscape for miles outside the windows having nothing against the company sat before him. What once felt like prison, now felt much more like comfort for a change. “I mean, with a review like that, I better live up to it.” A welcome task, ideal tour guide or not.

“Couldn’t have picked better.” Levi endorsed the dinner choice Jas made with an ease. Then again, any dish listed on the exclusive menu could be hers. Just as when purchasing lavish dresses around the area boutiques, didn’t matter what or how many. After all, he owed her another, considering the New Year’s choice was practically reduced to near ruin. 

The following offer ceased further, additional movement from his broad stature. Would that be a good idea? Maybe, maybe not. From what he could perceive at least, conversing with her family when Jasiri called during her visit had gone..rather well. Better than expected, which he’d certainly didn't take for granted. Especially since figuring they’d despise him for an eternity, once dragging their daughter’s name unwarranted into his public disaster. “— Well..” Levi begins, jaw shifting slightly in marked thought. “Seeing as they haven’t sent me to an early grave.." Yet. “Why not?” He concedes, palms lifting slightly. Besides, he'd rather be around for assistance with the considerable move instead of remaining back on the sidelines, states away. "That is, if you truly don't mind."

[omarixwatkins]

"Nah." Omari answered simply. If he had it all figured out, he doubted he'd be playing pool with his older sister's boyfriend at a bar he just started working at. Omari's expression shifted slightly with Levi's next words. They were more thoughtful than serious as he leaned against the edge of the table with the cue resting loosely against his shoulder. "Yeah, but if you're saying I'm lucking out, that means there was a version where I wasn't." Jasari being here made it easier, softer. Easier to pretend it wasn't another temporary stop.

[silvcrshadows]

Levi’s brows pull together, studying Omari like he could accurately assess his expression without fail. The indifference shown? Excepted though.  “— The job’s going well here so far, right?” The entire Watkins family were smart as whips, Jasiri’s younger brother already paving his own away after this recent move couldn’t be less of a shock to the system either. “In a way, yeah, I am saying you’re lucking out.” A passing beat. “You’re already in a much better position than I was..” His tone anything except pointed. “If that makes you feel any better?” He bet it might've.

[sugar-and-spice-roleplay-memes]

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