Tender Hearts

"The rain clouds may hide the sun, but sometimes--just sometimes--the sun leaves a little of itself behind to shine." Private and selective Newsies-based RP blog.

[sweetjillianryan]

stringstaylor​:

Strings sat next to Juni at the table, his hand holding hers. It was reassuring to get away from the hectic life and into the world of the May Boarding House. The boarders who ate dinner (and let’s face it, who wouldn’t want one of Grandma May’s dinners) sat at the table with an appetite. Those who wanted privacy would have their dinner delivered to their rooms by Biddy, who always wrote a kind note so they wouldn’t feel alone.

The dinner table was crowded this time, the traveling salesman dominating the conversation with his snake venom remedies and “a cure that would make the common cold disappear in five minutes.” Strings didn’t want to ask what was in it. He only talked back when he mentioned that his other remedy could get rid of all of Miss Juni’s freckles.

“I happen to like her freckles.” Before he could really say what was on his mind, Grandma May reminded everyone at the table that they were all created in God’s eyes, with freckles, dimples, moles, and everything else. We should be thankful for all God has given them.

Biddy sat quietly, focusing a bit too much on her food without glancing up at anyone. 

It wasn’t the first time this particular lodger mentioned one or more features she could get assistance with, but Juni had been smart enough lately to not bother to take him up on it. Her hair was too long or too short, her freckles too many or her dimples too deep; perhaps even that she was too short. Years before, she might have taken the comments to heart and wondered if her life would truly be better with his “remedies”.

That had been years before. Now, she had found some measure of confidence in herself, due in no small part to Strings’ attentions and affection. Her hand moved to his forearm, pairing with Grandma May’s words in an effort to soothe ruffled feathers before things escalated. The traveling salesman seemed properly admonished–for the moment, at least–and mumbled an apology as he returned his attention to his meal.

Juni had been prepared to offer another topic of conversation, eager to move past the odd tension that had arisen, when the came a knock at the door. Most in the area knew that the Mays’ door was always open, so it caused her to frown. “I-I’ll get it.” She replied, and excused herself to answer the door. In the entryway, she gasped (”Wh-what happened?!”), the remainder of the small conversation hushed.

Finally, Juni returned, biting her lip. “I’ll s-see if I c-can find another chair.” Rounding the corner, Rat shuffled carefully, his stance hunched and withdrawn.

“Don’t go into any trouble for me, Juni-bird…” He began, but the small woman was off anyway, leaving him standing awkwardly around the lodgers. “Hello….everybody. I just–the toys.” He lifted a bag. “For the cats. You forgot the toys.”

[stringstaylor]

Strings wiped his mouth on his napkin as he tried not to look the salesman. He seemed embarrassed at his flub and hurried to finish his dinner. A night at the bar would do him good, and he quickly went up to his room to change. Strings gave a sheepish shrug to Grandma May before jumping up, surprised to see Rat. “Toys? You didn’t have to do that, mate!” 

Biddy glanced up from her meal and did a double take. Her heart nearly jumped into her throat. He looked absolutely awful. She jumped up, knocking over her chair. “My God, what happened?” She replied as she took Rat’s arm and led him to her late grandfather’s armchair.

Strings looked between the two and snuck out into the hallway. “Perhaps we should make our escape to deliver Patch his food?” He whispered. He could hear Mrs. May reprimand Biddy for leaving the table so abruptly, until she saw Rat.

“I don’t think we’ll be missed.”

[sweetjillianryan]

Juni returned a few moments later, handing off a rag with chipped ice to Biddy as she sought to care after Rat. He’d wandered all the way to the boarding house...just to deliver the toys for the cats? Somehow Juni doubted that, but she wasn’t about to say that aloud--having him there would no doubt help to break Biddy from her rut, and if Rat was anything like Biddy...it would likely do him good, too.

Glancing to Strings, she chewed her lip, loathe to off and leave Biddy and Rat on their own. Then again...what better way to have them confront one another than using this precise opportunity. 

“I s-suppose you’re right.” She whispered in return, and moved to the kitchen to put together the plate for Patch, and gathering her shawl. She also produced one of the larger cookies for him, beaming up at him. “S-since you cleaned your p-plate, you get a s-sweet.”

[sweetjillianryan]

stringstaylor​:

Strings sat next to Juni at the table, his hand holding hers. It was reassuring to get away from the hectic life and into the world of the May Boarding House. The boarders who ate dinner (and let’s face it, who wouldn’t want one of Grandma May’s dinners) sat at the table with an appetite. Those who wanted privacy would have their dinner delivered to their rooms by Biddy, who always wrote a kind note so they wouldn’t feel alone.

The dinner table was crowded this time, the traveling salesman dominating the conversation with his snake venom remedies and “a cure that would make the common cold disappear in five minutes.” Strings didn’t want to ask what was in it. He only talked back when he mentioned that his other remedy could get rid of all of Miss Juni’s freckles.

“I happen to like her freckles.” Before he could really say what was on his mind, Grandma May reminded everyone at the table that they were all created in God’s eyes, with freckles, dimples, moles, and everything else. We should be thankful for all God has given them.

Biddy sat quietly, focusing a bit too much on her food without glancing up at anyone. 

It wasn’t the first time this particular lodger mentioned one or more features she could get assistance with, but Juni had been smart enough lately to not bother to take him up on it. Her hair was too long or too short, her freckles too many or her dimples too deep; perhaps even that she was too short. Years before, she might have taken the comments to heart and wondered if her life would truly be better with his “remedies”.

That had been years before. Now, she had found some measure of confidence in herself, due in no small part to Strings’ attentions and affection. Her hand moved to his forearm, pairing with Grandma May’s words in an effort to soothe ruffled feathers before things escalated. The traveling salesman seemed properly admonished--for the moment, at least--and mumbled an apology as he returned his attention to his meal.

Juni had been prepared to offer another topic of conversation, eager to move past the odd tension that had arisen, when the came a knock at the door. Most in the area knew that the Mays’ door was always open, so it caused her to frown. “I-I’ll get it.” She replied, and excused herself to answer the door. In the entryway, she gasped (”Wh-what happened?!”), the remainder of the small conversation hushed.

Finally, Juni returned, biting her lip. “I’ll s-see if I c-can find another chair.” Rounding the corner, Rat shuffled carefully, his stance hunched and withdrawn.

“Don’t go into any trouble for me, Juni-bird...” He began, but the small woman was off anyway, leaving him standing awkwardly around the lodgers. “Hello....everybody. I just--the toys.” He lifted a bag. “For the cats. You forgot the toys.”

[timberdemarco]

romeofoley​:

Romeo stared at her. “Stay low and discreet for you is wearing a dress and a corset.” He said simply. “You’ll still be working.” He put more of the paperwork aside before lacing his fingers together and resting them on his desk. He was more calm but calm for him was scary. 

“Are you demanding me to tell you to go do something that could potentially show a weakness to our allies?” He continued to stare at Timber, almost amused. “If you want a job so badly, you can pass along to our allies that we will be hosting a poker night. Alcohol causes loose lips, a pair of tits can cause a whole story to be spilled, while the game of poker allows an amicable scene.” He smirked, “Make sure you wear the corset.”

Romeo was the boss. Romeo was the boss. She repeated it in her head like a mantra in an effort to avoid the flaring temper that worked its way along the back of her neck to flush her features. Her hands clenched and unclenched in fists, fingers rigid like sharp talons and barely restrained. 

Boss or no, people didn’t talk to her that way. He didn’t get to talk to her that way.

“I am not your lackey, and I am not your whore.” She seethed. In a quick swipe, the paperwork was flipped off of the desk and onto the floor. “Use one of your showgirls, or you know what? You wear the goddamn corset, you condescending asshole.”

With that, Timber turned to the door, continuing her cursing and tirade, only in Italian. Mischief had taught her well.

[romeofoley]

“You are a soldier, Timber.” He said evenly, not even bothering to make a glance at the papers on the floor. He wanted to laugh. It would’ve been so easy to laugh. If only she wasn’t so daft to realize that she was the only one who could do the job and still come out unscathed. “And a fucking good one at that.” He leaned on his desk, now clean from any paperwork. “It just so happens that you wear many hats in this organization and I chose for you to wear your…feminine one.” He lit a cigarette, his eyes never leaving her. “Would you rather me put someone less experienced on the line?”

[sweetjillianryan]

He wasn’t merely being placating--Romeo didn’t have the time for that, nor did he care about something so silly. If it wasn’t the truth, he didn’t say it. That didn’t mean Timber had to like it. Still in her temper, she refused to face him just yet. She needed to keep herself from throwing whatever shard she could find at him.

Ultimately, Timber finally took a few deep breaths, and glanced back to him. “You’re the boss.” She finally managed, though it was practically through gritted teeth. “I’ll strap on the pair of tits too, shall I?”

Another beat, then, “Mis has the right stuff to wear. I’ll borrow hers. At least she can tie it properly.”

[sweetjillianryan]

stringstaylor​:

 “It’s nothing too big. Well, it kind of is, but it can disappear or we can deal with it. Nothing to worry about now.” He let her take off his jacket as Biddy peered around the corner. She always did that, just in case Rat decided to come. Her face always fell when she saw he wasn’t there but he would greet her happily nonetheless. The cats would cheer her up.

“Climb up that lattice? With my back?” He joked as he picked her up and swung her around. One of these days they wouldn’t need to worry about having permission to go for nightly walks. He hoped it was sooner rather than later. He almost had enough for the perfect ring (for his budget). He and Juni could live at the Boarding House until they found a place to live. Those thoughts made him have a little bounce in his step. 

“Of course we can take it. It’ll be nice to see Patch. He’s been holed up in that theatre for too long.” He took a deep inhale. “And I see the lovely women here made Patch’s favorite.”

It was an expected move, yet Juni still gave a small squeak and laughed as Strings spun her about. He greeted her, similarly each day they were together, and each day it continued to fill her with immense glee and giddiness. There was promise of happiness each time he held her–she would never be used to the safety he provided her, however slight.

“I c-could climb down!” She laughed, beaming up at him as she was set to her feet again. “F-for you, I w-would brave any heights.”

Taking his hand, she led him back toward the kitchens. “The r-roast you brought! G-Grandma M-May and Biddy have b-been hard at work.” She was practically bouncing as she slipped through the doorway. “Th-the smell of the r-roast brought a s-stray Strings!”

[stringstaylor]

“And break your leg, or worse, your neck? Then you’d be in bed all day, and the day would be less beautiful without your presence in our city. No, I’d much rather you use the front door.” It sounded cheesy but he meant every word. There was not a person he met that didn’t like Juni. Even Old Mrs. Peterson, the cranky woman who always said Strings cut her meat wrong or over charged her, cracked a smile when she was around.

Strings squeezed her hand and let her practically pull him into the kitchen. “I’m sure I saw an army of men marching down the street chanting about the roast.” He said as he rested his hand on the small of her back. “I’ll be happy to bring a plate to Patch, Mrs. May. So long as if I can have a bit of company with Juni, here.”

[sweetjillianryan]

There had been a time when Grandma May had been wary of the English boys. They’d been loud and rambunctious and Patch a touch too strange for the usually quiet boarding house. Now, it was strange without the four of them under the same roof, and Juni thought that perhaps the boarders missed the fray. She knew Grandma May did.

“H-he’s an expert n-negotiator, G-Grandma May.” She warned teasingly. “It’s b-best to say yes, or h-he might talk us out of th-the cookies next.”

Permission given, she smiled brightly up at him again, thrilled to be having the evening with him. With that smile, how could Grandma May say no? The dimple was enough to make Juni agree to just about anything. 

[sweetjillianryan]

stringstaylor​:

 “It’s nothing too big. Well, it kind of is, but it can disappear or we can deal with it. Nothing to worry about now.” He let her take off his jacket as Biddy peered around the corner. She always did that, just in case Rat decided to come. Her face always fell when she saw he wasn’t there but he would greet her happily nonetheless. The cats would cheer her up.

“Climb up that lattice? With my back?” He joked as he picked her up and swung her around. One of these days they wouldn’t need to worry about having permission to go for nightly walks. He hoped it was sooner rather than later. He almost had enough for the perfect ring (for his budget). He and Juni could live at the Boarding House until they found a place to live. Those thoughts made him have a little bounce in his step. 

“Of course we can take it. It’ll be nice to see Patch. He’s been holed up in that theatre for too long.” He took a deep inhale. “And I see the lovely women here made Patch’s favorite.”

It was an expected move, yet Juni still gave a small squeak and laughed as Strings spun her about. He greeted her, similarly each day they were together, and each day it continued to fill her with immense glee and giddiness. There was promise of happiness each time he held her--she would never be used to the safety he provided her, however slight.

“I c-could climb down!” She laughed, beaming up at him as she was set to her feet again. “F-for you, I w-would brave any heights.”

Taking his hand, she led him back toward the kitchens. “The r-roast you brought! G-Grandma M-May and Biddy have b-been hard at work.” She was practically bouncing as she slipped through the doorway. “Th-the smell of the r-roast brought a s-stray Strings!”

[sweetjillianryan]

@stringstaylor

The smell of the roast permeated the boarding house, and Juni’s own stomach reacted in kind, grumbling that it hadn’t been allowed any of it yet. Rather than allow it to continue its tirade, she nibbled on a scrap of carrot, and wiped her hands clean on the apron. Just as she thought to glance toward the clock to find the time, she began to hear it.

My Bonnie lies over the ocean So bring back my Bonnie to me…

Immediately, Juni perked up, giddiness bubbling in her throat as she recognized the voice, and quickly worked the apron off. Tossing it over the back of one of the chairs, she nearly dashed to the front door to receive her beau.

By the time he stops, Juni’s beaming at the door, thrilled to see him–as if she hadn’t just seen him the day before. “You’re late…” She said, though she could hardly admonish him behind the glee.

[the-daily-mischief]

Strings brought his bike into the yard and grinned up as the front door opened. “It’s a long story, Libbit.” He took the basket off the front of his bike, the black cat meowing loudly. “I’ll explain more after dinner.” As soon as he reached the front door, he leaned down and kissed Juni on her forehead. “You always make things better.” He said quietly. Though he wanted to hug her, the cats were trying to escape to prowl their old house and go up to the attic.

“I still want to take you out for a walk, if Mrs. May allows it. It may be easier to talk to you about it alone.” His voice was low but there was a slight sense of urgency as he held her hand with his free one. He didn’t want to talk to Juni with so many people in the house. He couldn’t help but want to keep this secret between their close knit group, like if letting it out in the open meant that it was real. 

[sweetjillianryan]

Juni practically vibrated in glee as he approached, and lifted her head just slightly for her affection as he leaned down, as one of the cats might give a soft nudge for their own. It was only at his quiet tone that her smile faltered, however slightly. It was never good when Strings had something heavy on his mind, and they had been together long enough for her to recognize the signs that this was indeed something serious. 

“Wh-what’s wrong?” She asked softly, reaching to take his hand. At his reassurance that they would discuss it, she nodded. “Of c-course. I don’t s-see why Grandma M-May would say no. Th-the lattice is still b-beneath my window, anyway.” Her smile turned mischievous as she closed the door behind them. Taking the basket, she released the felines from inside, who immediately bounced out and began winding between their legs. It didn’t take long, however, for them to begin to play and scamper up the stairs. 

Standing on her toes, she began to help him with his jacket. “S-supper’s just ready. G-Grandma May w-wanted to know if we could t-take some to Patch.”

[sweetjillianryan]

@stringstaylor

The smell of the roast permeated the boarding house, and Juni’s own stomach reacted in kind, grumbling that it hadn’t been allowed any of it yet. Rather than allow it to continue its tirade, she nibbled on a scrap of carrot, and wiped her hands clean on the apron. Just as she thought to glance toward the clock to find the time, she began to hear it.

My Bonnie lies over the ocean So bring back my Bonnie to me...

Immediately, Juni perked up, giddiness bubbling in her throat as she recognized the voice, and quickly worked the apron off. Tossing it over the back of one of the chairs, she nearly dashed to the front door to receive her beau.

By the time he stops, Juni’s beaming at the door, thrilled to see him--as if she hadn’t just seen him the day before. “You’re late...” She said, though she could hardly admonish him behind the glee.

[sweetjillianryan]

obediencemay​:

Biddy started to take the vegetables out of the basket to wash, though the water made her hurt finger sting, she had to feel of some use. The Boarding House always brought memories of Rat, and to block them, she kept busy. She silently started working.

“There’s always room for one more around my table!” Grandma May said gleefully. “Is it your beau? It’s his pork I’m cookin’ up, so of course he can have a seat. Mr. Taylor always as a seat at my table!” Grandma May started to hum to herself. “I’m gonna need him for a favor. His friend Patch hasn’t been around for awhile. Now I’m glad that nothing has broken in my house for a while and that my boarders are no longer surprised by a suit of armor, but that boy has got to eat! I’d love for him to send him a plate.”

It was impossible not to giggle slightly. Patch had always been a character--she stilled passed by some of his “artwork” on the hallway wall upstairs. The suit of armor had been hung up for the time being, but that didn’t mean the spirit of the odd knight didn’t live on. 

“I-I’m sure he’ll see th-that Patch is properly fed. Ms. Larkson is k-kind to him, but I kn-know he loves your c-cooking.” She was slowly beginning to forget the raw panic she’d felt in the market, and worked on rolling her sleeves up to help with the remainder of their dinner. If only things could be as they used to be. She missed having the whole family together.

[sweetjillianryan]

obediencemay​:

“You look pale.” Biddy said as she still glanced around for something terrifying. She didn’t see anything scary. Just people who seemed to have little interest in them. Maybe her imagination was getting the best of her.

“We have everything.” She asked slowly as she watched Juni closely. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Biddy linked her arm with Juni’s as she looked around once more for any suspicious characters. Everyone still looked plain and unassuming. “If you need to sit down for a spell, we can.”

“N-no!” Juni said immediately, though the words were more panicked than she’d intended. Very suddenly, she felt the urge to escape. She felt like a rabbit, hearing a predator not far behind, and she wanted to run. Underneath it all, she knew she was safe–nothing would happen to her in a crowd, but how could she explain any of it to Biddy?

She swallowed and shook her head slightly. “I-I’m sorry. I–can we p-please go h-home? Please?”

[obediencemay]

“Yeah, sure.” Biddy said as she picked up her pace. This wasn’t like Juni. Juni was the calm one with the level head. Instead, she smiled and nodded over to an older lady who had a cold gaze as she examined herbs that hung from her window.

“It’s the witch.” She whispered with a smirk. “I still think she’s a kind witch, but she doesn’t like people. I bet she has a ton of animals and rocks and gems in her house and casts spells that control the weather.” Biddy said, linking her arm tighter with Juni’s. “We should bake her cookies sometime. Maybe she’ll take kindly to us and be able to cast us spells, like…” Biddy thought for a moment. “I know! I think I’d want to be able to help Grandma feel better and back to her old self. What kind of spell would you want?”

[sweetjillianryan]

It took until a few moments after they’d escaped the marketplace that Juni realized Biddy was attempting to lighten the panicked mood she was in. She appreciated the effort, at the very least, and the further they moved, the more Juni attempted to relax and regain composure. She offered a shaky sort of smile.

“O-oh, I…I’m not s-sure. I s-suppose I’d wish for y-your wish to come true. It’s b-better than anything I c-can come up with, and I l-love you both…” She chewed on her lip. “P-perhaps she wouldn’t c-cast spells at all, b-but instead g-give potions. S-something that could m-make you fly, or s-speak all the languages.”

[obediencemay]

“But both of us get wishes! I’d want your wish to come true, and if we go around in circles, perhaps the witch would chop off our heads!” Biddy said, wiggling her fingers as though making her own magic spell.

“I wouldn’t want to speak every language, but I would like to fly. Maybe it’ll turn us into a bird. Imagine how the sky would look if humans were able to fly with our massive bodies. We’d have to turn into birds!’ Biddy said. “Maybe we should bake her some cookies. She does look lonely. She’s always sitting by herself on her stairs.” Biddy opened the door to the May’s boarding house, the smell of pork cooking wafting outside. “She may turn us into frogs, though.”

[sweetjillianryan]

“I th-think I’d much r-rather be a bird.” She muttered with a wrinkled nose. The moment they stepped foot inside the boarding house, surrounded by the familiar and comforting smell from the kitchen, Juni finally began to relax. Inside the boarding house with her family, nothing could touch her. She was safe.

Returning to the kitchen, she shrugged off her shawl and began to unpack the wares--though not before pressing a kiss to Grandma May’s cheek. “It s-smells so g-good in here, Grandma May!” She chewed on her lip. “D-do you suppose we’ll have enough for a g-guest...?”

[sweetjillianryan]

obediencemay​:

“You look pale.” Biddy said as she still glanced around for something terrifying. She didn’t see anything scary. Just people who seemed to have little interest in them. Maybe her imagination was getting the best of her.

“We have everything.” She asked slowly as she watched Juni closely. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Biddy linked her arm with Juni’s as she looked around once more for any suspicious characters. Everyone still looked plain and unassuming. “If you need to sit down for a spell, we can.”

“N-no!” Juni said immediately, though the words were more panicked than she’d intended. Very suddenly, she felt the urge to escape. She felt like a rabbit, hearing a predator not far behind, and she wanted to run. Underneath it all, she knew she was safe–nothing would happen to her in a crowd, but how could she explain any of it to Biddy?

She swallowed and shook her head slightly. “I-I’m sorry. I–can we p-please go h-home? Please?”

[obediencemay]

“Yeah, sure.” Biddy said as she picked up her pace. This wasn’t like Juni. Juni was the calm one with the level head. Instead, she smiled and nodded over to an older lady who had a cold gaze as she examined herbs that hung from her window.

“It’s the witch.” She whispered with a smirk. “I still think she’s a kind witch, but she doesn’t like people. I bet she has a ton of animals and rocks and gems in her house and casts spells that control the weather.” Biddy said, linking her arm tighter with Juni’s. “We should bake her cookies sometime. Maybe she’ll take kindly to us and be able to cast us spells, like…” Biddy thought for a moment. “I know! I think I’d want to be able to help Grandma feel better and back to her old self. What kind of spell would you want?”

[sweetjillianryan]

It took until a few moments after they’d escaped the marketplace that Juni realized Biddy was attempting to lighten the panicked mood she was in. She appreciated the effort, at the very least, and the further they moved, the more Juni attempted to relax and regain composure. She offered a shaky sort of smile.

“O-oh, I...I’m not s-sure. I s-suppose I’d wish for y-your wish to come true. It’s b-better than anything I c-can come up with, and I l-love you both...” She chewed on her lip. “P-perhaps she wouldn’t c-cast spells at all, b-but instead g-give potions. S-something that could m-make you fly, or s-speak all the languages.”

[sweetjillianryan]

obediencemay​:

“You look pale.” Biddy said as she still glanced around for something terrifying. She didn’t see anything scary. Just people who seemed to have little interest in them. Maybe her imagination was getting the best of her.

“We have everything.” She asked slowly as she watched Juni closely. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Biddy linked her arm with Juni’s as she looked around once more for any suspicious characters. Everyone still looked plain and unassuming. “If you need to sit down for a spell, we can.”

“N-no!” Juni said immediately, though the words were more panicked than she’d intended. Very suddenly, she felt the urge to escape. She felt like a rabbit, hearing a predator not far behind, and she wanted to run. Underneath it all, she knew she was safe--nothing would happen to her in a crowd, but how could she explain any of it to Biddy?

She swallowed and shook her head slightly. “I-I’m sorry. I--can we p-please go h-home? Please?”

[brooklynluna]

“ is that what i think it is ? “ - Luna, from Timber (Let’s play “let’s watch Luna work on bodies”) @timberdemarco​

Over the years, the Louie’s Pub basement has become more than a wine and liquor cellar. The extra store room next door went from an underground boxing venue, Tommy’s own storage space, overnight guests, to an infirmary. At first, it was to be an infirmary where Luna was allowed to study in peace for Medical School and where she could tend to any injuries and ailments the patrons came to her for.  However, little did Tommy guess what was to eventually become of it since Luna’s residency at the Brooklyn Hospital Morgue.

When the city morgues filled to capacity, several makeshift morgues popped up throughout the city. The Pub basement became such a place. As reluctant Tommy was at first, he was promised a cut of the hospital funds. Thus, Luna was able to take her “studies” to the only place she could work in peace.

Luna sifted through the papers in the folder that came with the new “specimen” that had just rolled in. She muttered to herself as she jotted a few notes, lifting the sheet to examine the bruises on the corpse’s neck.

“…49-year-old male, death possibly by asphyxiation…” She continued jotting more notes before she heard Timber walk in. 

“Yeah… Oh shit. Sorry, you weren’t supposed to see that.” She pulled the sheet over the body before putting the folder down. “Thank goodness I haven’t cut the poor guy open yet… So, what brings you down here?”

[sweetjillianryan]

“I’ve seen bodies before, Lu.” Timber rolled her eyes. It didn’t necessarily make it any easier to see one splayed out on some slab--beneath a pub, no less. That was something that would bug her every time she stepped foot inside Louie’s now. Timber had done worse before and to living men, but there was something about cutting them open when they were dead that left a bad taste in her mouth.

Luckily, she couldn’t claim this particular one. The less Luna saw of her own work, the better.

She wrinkled her nose as she rounded the table and redirected her attention to what she assumed were the man’s effects. “I’m talking about this.” Timber gestured to a couple of crudely fashioned weapons. “Apparently the real thing wasn’t good enough for him, so he made his own knife? Not like there isn’t a surplus out there.”

Shoving her hands into her pockets to keep from touching the merchandise, she rejoined Luna by the table, taking to leaning against it--more or less to keep from looking at the body. “So, this is your thing now? Commissioned by the Hospital, or is this extra credit?”

[obediencemay]

“We can’t be together. He’ll just keep getting beat up and I could get dragged into it.” Biddy said quietly. “We’ll…we’ll be able to move on from this. It just takes time.” Biddy tried to convince herself more that she could move on. Grandma May even said that boys come and go and that one would take her heart and run with it. The first part made Biddy more determined that she’d get over Rat, until Grandma May added that last part. She seemed to think that Biddy was being ridiculous, but she didn’t say so. 

“Besides, it’s illegal.”

[sweetjillianryan]

That was something that Juni would have a hard time arguing. It wasn’t her place to begin with, she knew, but it was difficult to see the woman she considered her sister and one of her dearest friends pine for one another, and not attempt to help. Love, in her opinion, was the greatest thing a person could give another.

“No love should be illegal.” She muttered passionately to herself. It didn’t make sense to her how something so wonderful could be so eagerly frowned upon. She saw the way others looked at Biddy; she saw how they looked at many of the people who lived in their neighborhood. They were seen as lesser–she would never understand why. “Happiness shouldn’t be illegal.”

[obediencemay]

“It shouldn’t,” Biddy said firmly with a nod. “But unfortunately,” There was a small sigh that escaped her lips as she switched the basket from one hand to the other. “I think I’d like to be rich and own an island. And on that island, people can love who they please and be happy.” She said with a small smile. “And everyone would have beautiful gardens, and there would be great celebrations just to watch the sunset, but only as it starts to set on the horizon will it get quiet, and you’ll get to hear the soft voice singing a lullaby to our village, then everyone would get to spend time with the people they love and their family before going to bed. That way, everyone will have sweet dreams.” 

It was all fantasy, though. At least it was nice to think about. “Do you think we can turn the attic into that island for a day or two? I’m not sure how we would bring the ocean in, but at least it would be a nice place to hideout for a while?”

[sweetjillianryan]

“I d-don’t think that G-Grandma May would like for us to f-flood the attic,” She mused, as though truly considering the mechanics of such a request, “Much less all the s-sand. Perhaps if we p-put a blanket down–”

Juni trailed off, her eyes fixated on a face bobbing with the crowd. Fear hitched her breath, blue eyes growing wide as saucers. It couldn’t be…he was dead. He couldn’t be walking the streets…he was dead.

Then, just as quickly as she’d spotted him in the crowd, the face was gone in a blink. No matter how she stood on her toes or glanced around the vendor and Biddy, she couldn’t find the dark, familiar face in his black suit.

“I-I thought…” She whispered, “I th-thought I s-saw h-him…”

[obediencemay]

“I’m not sure where we would get the sand and take it back with us. The beach is a little far and I don’t think we can carry it all. We could put it in our skirts, though.” She said laughing, but Juni wasn’t laughing. Biddy stopped laughing and looked over at her sister. She looked pale and frightened.

“Saw who?” She said gently, looking around for anyone who looked menacing. It was just the normal faces at the market. There were a few new ones, but they seemed invested in haggling with the vendors and paid little mind to the two walking through. “Do you need to sit down? You look sick…”

[sweetjillianryan]

Her heartbeat was roaring in her ears, very nearly blocking Biddy’s voice. She glanced behind herself, and then attempted to look into the crowd again, before she realized that Biddy was looking at her with concern.

“Wh-what?” She shook her head once, and then again as if it clear the fog of fear. “N-no...no, I’m...e-everything’s fine.” She finally managed, rubbing her palm against her racing heart. “I w-was seeing things. Th-that’s all.” 

Juni attempted to smile, wanting to move passed the moment of weakness and terror. “H-have we f-finished, then? W-we don’t want to l-leave Grandma M-May alone too long...”

[rpmemestbh]

Drinking starters

as requested by @ambitionbled (it won’t let me tag you, sorry!)

CONCERN.

❝How much have you had to drink?❞

❝You could have fucking alcohol poisoning!❞  

❝Easy, there. Try to sit up.❞

❝I think I might’ve overdone it on the alcohol…❞

❝We’ve got to go get your stomach pumped.❞

❝I thought you said you were clean!❞

❝Yes, it is a big deal.❞

❝Let me drive you home.❞

❝You are NOT driving like this!❞

❝You are gonna have one hell of a hangover tomorrow.❞

❝Drinking until you puke is not normal.❞

DRUNK.

❝Is this real life?❞ 

❝I want to go to sleep but I can’t find any sheep.❞

❝How do you show fish affection?❞

❝Taco Bell is open 24 hours, right?❞

❝Tequila is not my friend? YOU’RE not my friend.❞

❝Drunk I am not.❞

-glasses on head- ❝Where did I put my glasses?❞

❝How do I tell my parents I’m a mermaid?❞ 

❝I’m not even tired.❞

❝I should call my ex.❞

❝I’m not drunk enough for this.❞

❝Does playing Mario Kart drunk count as drunk driving?❞

-hugging the floor- ❝I’m trying to stop the floor from spinning.❞

❝Can we go out for fried chicken?❞

ANGST.

❝What’s the fucking point anymore?❞

❝Screw recovery. I want a drink.❞

❝I’m too sober for this shit.❞ 

❝I don’t give a shit what you think.❞

❝I seriously don’t feel too good.❞

❝I didn’t even have that much to drink.❞

❝Will you stop fucking interrogating me?❞

❝I can drive. I’m fine.❞

❝There’s a reason I drink so much.❞

❝You’re the reason I drink so much.❞

❝I’m only happy when I’m drunk.❞

FLUFF/FUN.

❝You’re cute, you know that?❞ 

❝You wanna get wasted?❞

❝I’m bar-hopping tonight, wanna come?❞

❝What are you drinking, and why aren’t you sharing?❞

❝I’m having a party for two.❞

❝You’re so hot.❞

❝I’m usually too chicken-shit to say this, but…I really like you.❞

❝I don’t want to kiss you with your alcohol breath.❞

*kisses on forehead*

*kisses on cheek*

*kisses on lips*

[obediencemay]

“We can’t be together. He’ll just keep getting beat up and I could get dragged into it.” Biddy said quietly. “We’ll…we’ll be able to move on from this. It just takes time.” Biddy tried to convince herself more that she could move on. Grandma May even said that boys come and go and that one would take her heart and run with it. The first part made Biddy more determined that she’d get over Rat, until Grandma May added that last part. She seemed to think that Biddy was being ridiculous, but she didn’t say so. 

“Besides, it’s illegal.”

[sweetjillianryan]

That was something that Juni would have a hard time arguing. It wasn’t her place to begin with, she knew, but it was difficult to see the woman she considered her sister and one of her dearest friends pine for one another, and not attempt to help. Love, in her opinion, was the greatest thing a person could give another.

“No love should be illegal.” She muttered passionately to herself. It didn’t make sense to her how something so wonderful could be so eagerly frowned upon. She saw the way others looked at Biddy; she saw how they looked at many of the people who lived in their neighborhood. They were seen as lesser–she would never understand why. “Happiness shouldn’t be illegal.”

[obediencemay]

“It shouldn’t,” Biddy said firmly with a nod. “But unfortunately,” There was a small sigh that escaped her lips as she switched the basket from one hand to the other. “I think I’d like to be rich and own an island. And on that island, people can love who they please and be happy.” She said with a small smile. “And everyone would have beautiful gardens, and there would be great celebrations just to watch the sunset, but only as it starts to set on the horizon will it get quiet, and you’ll get to hear the soft voice singing a lullaby to our village, then everyone would get to spend time with the people they love and their family before going to bed. That way, everyone will have sweet dreams.” 

It was all fantasy, though. At least it was nice to think about. “Do you think we can turn the attic into that island for a day or two? I’m not sure how we would bring the ocean in, but at least it would be a nice place to hideout for a while?”

[sweetjillianryan]

“I d-don’t think that G-Grandma May would like for us to f-flood the attic,” She mused, as though truly considering the mechanics of such a request, “Much less all the s-sand. Perhaps if we p-put a blanket down--”

Juni trailed off, her eyes fixated on a face bobbing with the crowd. Fear hitched her breath, blue eyes growing wide as saucers. It couldn’t be...he was dead. He couldn’t be walking the streets...he was dead.

Then, just as quickly as she’d spotted him in the crowd, the face was gone in a blink. No matter how she stood on her toes or glanced around the vendor and Biddy, she couldn’t find the dark, familiar face in his black suit.

“I-I thought...” She whispered, “I th-thought I s-saw h-him...”

[obediencemay]

“We can’t be together. He’ll just keep getting beat up and I could get dragged into it.” Biddy said quietly. “We’ll…we’ll be able to move on from this. It just takes time.” Biddy tried to convince herself more that she could move on. Grandma May even said that boys come and go and that one would take her heart and run with it. The first part made Biddy more determined that she’d get over Rat, until Grandma May added that last part. She seemed to think that Biddy was being ridiculous, but she didn’t say so. 

“Besides, it’s illegal.”

[sweetjillianryan]

That was something that Juni would have a hard time arguing. It wasn’t her place to begin with, she knew, but it was difficult to see the woman she considered her sister and one of her dearest friends pine for one another, and not attempt to help. Love, in her opinion, was the greatest thing a person could give another.

“No love should be illegal.” She muttered passionately to herself. It didn’t make sense to her how something so wonderful could be so eagerly frowned upon. She saw the way others looked at Biddy; she saw how they looked at many of the people who lived in their neighborhood. They were seen as lesser--she would never understand why. “Happiness shouldn’t be illegal.”

[obediencemay]

“Then we’ll bake pie.” She said quietly examining the apples. She picked one up and held it up to the sun. It wasn’t perfect, but what apples were? Maybe those in the Garden of Eden, but their perfection led to temptation. It’s the imperfect ones that you wanted…like Rat. He wasn’t perfect, but out of the bunch of men, he was. She put the apple in the basket with a small smile.

“And as your sister, I want to make sure I don’t drag you down. I want to see you happy, and whenever Strings comes in the room, you glow.”

[sweetjillianryan]

“You d-don’t drag me down.” Juni frowned slightly, hating that Biddy would ever think of herself that way. Her hand moved to grab her sister’s, clutching gently as they walked. “You make me happy. And th-that’s all I want for you, too. T-to find someone that m-makes you happy…”

She chewed on her lip. “…w-won’t you talk to him, at least?” She asked quietly.

[obediencemay]

Biddy paid for the apples and swung the basket a little bit as she squeezed Juni’s hand. “That’s the problem. Rat makes me happy but…I just can’t have him get hurt anymore. Not because of me.” Biddy walked quietly for a moment. She wasn’t sure how she would react if she were to talk to Rat. Would she be able to talk or stay strong about her decision?

“I don’t know, Juni. I’m scared that if I talk to him, I may start to cry.”

[sweetjillianryan]

It was hard to imagine what her life would be like if she’d had to make a similar decision with Strings. Her heart would be broken, hard to mend and find the strength to keep going. Juni understood the idea of the pain, but wasn’t certain she understood the reasoning.

“W-why are you d-doing this to yourself?” She asked quietly, pausing in their step. “All this is d-doing is making you both so unhappy. Wouldn’t it b-be better to b-be h-happy, no matter what? P-people...search their entire lives for wh-what you had. I l-love you, Biddy, but you n-need and deserve more.”