#botb arc

[cherryflavr]

PUNK AU : new students

[kashmiresims]

The Exposed Hart

The study hall was quiet until Alarie Thackery made an urgent squeal, pushed her chair back and pointed out the window.

Because a gentleman always keeps his end of the bet. Even if that means streaking a lap around the school.

[kashmiresims]

Finale

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The last band of the night had finished playing. They could hear the shouts and applause of the audience drift backstage and into the Green Room where multiple musicians waited in anticipation. Only one band would win.

Would the winner be the calculating daughter of the Mayor? She had tried so hard to make victory in her favor. Although, she would need to find a new double bassist if she were to continue forward with her endeavor to bring classical into the rock world. That wasn’t her only problem; she still had a blackmail issue involving a certain judge.

Would the winner be the spit-fire guitar player with a chip on her shoulder? She had learned to play only to win back a friend she didn’t have anymore. Could this be the one time the world wouldn’t be against her? She had her band back, but could she keep it?

Would the winner be the talented yet anxiety-ridden young man pacing in the corner of the room? He used to have confidence they would win because his band was talented but the unwelcome technical issue during their performance had possibly hurt their chances and now no one was a sure bet. He not only had a bad taste in his mouth now, but also a complicated relationship with his best friend.

Or Would the winners be any of the other young hopefuls wishing to break into the professional music scene?

“Leona,” Illyana said to get the singer’s attention. Leona turned a suspicious eye, not knowing what to expect from Illyana now.

“You did a...a great job,” Illyana managed to smile and give a compliment despite the remaining anger and hurt that Leona’s actions had caused her. It wasn’t worth losing another friend. Leona looked perplexed for a moment as if praise was the last thing in the world she would have received from Illyana.

“Thank you,” Leona did end up returning the smile but it soon transformed into a glower because of what she saw behind Illyana.

“You!” Leona downright growled while marching past Illyana and approached Evelyn Jane Orbinson. It was no coincidence that this was the first time Leona had spotted the Mayor's daughter. Evelyn Jane had seen Leona sing and was dumbfounded how Leona could make such a quick turn from the Mayor’s Ball to the Battle of Bands, but made sure not to be seen by her the rest of the night. Evelyn Jane’s eyes went wide like a small child whose hand was caught in the cookie jar at the sight of Leona. “Do you have any idea how embarrassing it is to show up for an event to be told you weren’t on the list?!” “For what it’s worth I did try!” Evelyn put her hands up, trying to distance herself from Leona and all the looks aimed at them because of Leona’s shouting. “It’s worth nothing! Everyone told me you were a snake and I gave you the benefit of the doubt but it looks like they were all right about you! You’re despicable! You don’t have enough courage to win on your own merits and instead, have to connive and cheat to bring others down!” “I…” “Save your breath,” Leona cut her off in a snarl and turned her back on the floundering girl, restraining the urge to punch her right in her lying little mouth. Then they heard the announcement that the judges had come to a decision and the room quieted. “And the winner of the Battle of the Bands is….” No one even dared breathe. “The Raven Crowns!” Illyana froze with shock and it wasn’t until Alarie was nudging her from behind to go on stage was she able to move, though still in disbelief that they had won! THEY HAD WON!

Leona, Alarie, and Illyana emerged onto the stage in front of the cheering crowd. In their excitement, all three of them began to jump up and down. Leona was even doing it in her high heels and the exhilaration of winning must have blocked out all her thoughts of how uncomfortable they were. “Congratulations, ladies,” the female judge smiled and then proceeded to list off the spoils of their winnings–opening for a real concert, a recording session with Green Diamond Records, a meeting with an industry music agent, and of course the prize of 10,000 simoleons! It was surreal, and the three girls were over the moon in delight. They had worked hard and had been through many trials and tribulations to get to this point. They. Had. Won. 

On the opposite side of the theater, a well-dressed young woman holding a violin case was hastily vacating the building with a glare that could kill any that got in her way. Her way, which was how the competition was supposed to go but didn’t. She was humiliated. She was full of loathing. “Evie, slow down!” her brother advised. “No, you hurry up!” she shouted behind her and didn’t change her pace. She unlocked her convertible and put her violin in the back seat. Starting the ignition, she started backing out of her parking space and Reggie nearly had to run after the car and jump over the door into the passenger seat. They drove in silence for awhile before Reggie asked, “Why are you always so callous?” Never in their years together had her brother been so forthright to question his sister’s nature. He remembered her to be a very loving girl when they were children but sometime along the way she had become downright ruthless. “Oh little brother, you have a lot to learn if you are going to be going into politics for this family,” was all she said, and in a tone full of genuine sympathy before she shifted the gear and hit the gas, speeding down the highway skyline back toward Isla Del Kashmire.

Back at the Fame Theater, things were wrapping up. Musicians were packing their instruments and the crowd was clearing out. The winning band was lingering in the theater entrance, talking to admirers and accepting congratulations. Nick Hart had his guitar case packed but he didn’t have the heart to go home–to hear his father tell him that playing in a band was a frivolous waste of time. Nick had been so sure of winning that he thought giving up art school would be worth it and now he had nothing. Not even Illyana. He had heard Leona Hillenburg’s outburst in the Green Groom and something she said had struck him. The part about the Mayor’s daughter having to cheat to bring others down in order to win. He knew his amp had been sabotaged but now he was less sure it was Illyana’s doing. Could it have really been Evelyn Jane? Either way he had lost Illyana’s friendship, probably for good, knowing her penchant for holding grudges. He bid goodbye to Cypress and Orion, and caught sight of her in the entrance. She was talking to some boys, smiling and laughing with them. If he apologized, would she forgive him? He made his way toward her but stopped right behind her, because he had come to a realization. He didn’t deserve her friendship, not after those horrible things he’d said to her. He, who she had called conceited, immature, and arrogant. Maybe he wasn’t ever going to change, and if that was the case, she was probably better off without him. With a heavy heart, he adjusted his strap and kept walking toward the exit and she didn’t even notice him pass to remind him that he’d lost their bet.

Outside, Leona and Antoine shared a quiet moment alone where he planted kisses all around her face. Every unspoken admiration and adoration was bursting through his lips onto her skin. It was enough to make a girl weak in the knees. She could safely say that after tonight, she knew she loved Antoine Thackery with her whole heart. “I need to go home,” she gave Antoine a playful push, interrupting his onslaught of pecks and took off her high heels, which put her a few inches shorter than before. Her feet sang in relief as they felt the cool grass. "My Dad will start to worry if I stay out too late." “Your Dad is going to kill me. He’ll say I kidnapped you, that I seduced you,” Antoine said, only half-joking and reluctant to stop showing his affections. “I’ll call myself a cab so you don’t have to deal with him,” Leona didn’t contest it. She would have to tell her father about how she sang at the Battle of the Bands instead of the Mayor’s Ball that night, but she would leave out the parts that involved Antoine. “It’s probably for the best,” he leaned over and kissed her on the tip of her nose, “I don’t know when we’ll see each other again though, Songbird. I go back to campus Monday.” A wave of melancholy hit her in the chest and she threw her arms around him and gave him a long embrace, “I love you, thank you for everything.” He only squeezed her tighter and didn’t say another word.  

Orion was still sitting in the Green Room. Nick had already left, and the room was mostly empty now.

“Hey,” Cypress approached and Orion stood, wiping his hands over his jeans. His palms were still kind of sweaty from their performance and his anxiety was still heightened for some reason.

“Hey,” Orion replied. He felt disappointment too. He had thought they would win, and he felt like they would have if those amp settings had been correct and maybe if his stupid nerves would have calmed down.

“Are you going to be okay?”

Orion met his friend’s gaze and wanted to pull Cypress into a hug just to feel a familiar comfort but knew Cypress would probably get weird about it. He had hugged Cypress on many occasions before and it never bugged either of them. He ended up looking away, “I’ll be fine.”

“Listen, I never really got a chance to explain something to you after we listened to music together.” “Explain what?” Orion arched a brow, bracing for more bad news. He didn’t know if he could keep it together if that was the case. His heart felt like it was going to escape his chest at the rate it was pounding against his rib cage. “I think…I know you feel something more for me, but I don’t have that kind of attraction toward anyone.” A tightness began to squeeze Orion’s heart like a vice and he looked at the ground. Was this it then? Cypress was going to stop being friends with him because he felt too much? “But I love you and I love being your best friend, so…” Cypress made a move to brush his hair but then realized it wasn’t that long anymore. He clenched his fist and lowered his hand meeting Orion’s surprised stare. "So I’m here for you and I always will be but I can’t be anything more to you than just your best friend. Do you understand?” A great relief washed over him, and it was almost too much emotion he felt at hearing that Cypress loved him, even if it was purely platonic. He took a deep breath and realized it all made sense. Cypress had never expressed desires to date or any kind of attraction toward anyone. No wonder Orion was so confused when Cypress showed up at the Starboard Lounge with a date. That kind of intimacy wasn’t something he was interested in. Orion was okay with that, as long as Cypress would still be his friend.

Orion gave a slow nod, “I understand, but…” Cypress raised his brows to encourage Orion to get his thought out as he turned to leave. “Can I still hug you?” “Sure man, if it makes you feel better,” Cypress grinned. Orion had always been a very affectionate friend who thrived on physical contact. Cypress continued forth, only to be reeled backward because Orion had ensnared him in a tight hug and buried his face into his shoulder. Cypress made a small laugh because he didn’t think Orion meant to hug him right then. “Thanks,” Orion exhaled, finally feeling his anxiety simmering down. Alanna was right, he was very lucky to have a friend like Cypress. He'd rather have lost a hundred Battle of the Bands than be without his best friend. THE END.

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[kashmiresims]

The Wait is Over

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There was an eerie sort of silence settled upon the stage at the Fame Theater. The only semblance of sound was the humming of the bright neon lights that were rotating around and illuminating the space where they’d be occupying in an hour or two.

“This is it, man,” Nick surveyed the whole theater while standing next to Orion. 

Orion crossed his arms and felt a knot of anxiety hit his chest. It was a big venue. He took a deep breath to calm himself. It wasn’t just that he had been having an internal struggle about Cypress lately, but for all his talent he still got jittery in front of crowds. Though hardly anyone was there at the early hour. “Are you playing tonight?” A voice from the side asked and the boys turned to see a man, presumably someone in charge of something as evident by the clipboard in his hand.

“Yeah we’re Incarcerated Heart,” Nick adjusted the strap on his guitar case across his shoulder and smiled. “Sweet, well just go on back to the Green Room. It looks like you guys go on at eight-thirty tonight so feel free to check your settings. Catering will arrive at seven-thirty and the theater doesn’t open to the public until seven.” Orion and Nick walked down the long hallway and entered the Green Room where there were a few other members of other bands hanging around. The Green Room had exits to the stage, vending machines, and plenty of cushy seating. There was cork board with a pinned list of upcoming shows and the Battle of the Bands schedule. Nick glanced over it and saw there were 10 bands playing total. “Where is Cypress?” Orion asked, checking the clock. “He called me before I left and told me he had to run some errands and should be here around six-thirty,” Nick answered, “I’m going to go configure the amp settings since we have time to kill.”

Nick exited the Green Room onto the stage and could see across the theater to where they had first entered. He smirked as he crouched next to the amp, just imagining the cheering crowd and the upcoming electric energy the night promised. He unpacked his guitar and plugged it into the amp, strummed a bit and then twisted the knobs until he got the sound he was looking for. He had a sense of Déjà vu and grinned to himself, wondering if Illyana would need help with configuring her amp settings again.

When he was satisfied he returned to the Green Room to find Orion had been accosted by some girls from school. He smoothly stepped in to join the conversation, putting his best smile on for the brunette in the pink skirt. “Hey there, are you two in a band?” “Not really,” giggled the one in pigtails he may have had algebra with, “We helped carry in my brother’s equipment and saw Orion.” Orion gulped, feeling his anxiety flare up, “So you’ll be watching tonight?” “Duh,” she replied with a playful roll of her eyes. “I know I’m supposed to be rooting for my brother’s band but I like you guys much better, so good luck!” “You know, they say kisses are the best way to wish good luck,” Nick raised his brows and puckered his lips at them. They giggled even harder before they ultimately were called away by the coordinator because they were not in any bands and shouldn’t be lingering backstage. 

“You’re sick,” Orion shoved Nick lightly in the shoulder, and he fell into one of the cushy chairs with the side of his face cupped in his hand. Orion sat in the chair next to him and crossed his arms, seeming worried. “What’s wrong dude?” “I’m just nervous.” “Don’t worry, we’ll win.” “It’s not that. I’ve had issues playing live before, you know that.” Nick sighed and gave a nod, remembering the last gig they played at a local restaurant and pool hall. Orion had choked while in the middle of a song, ran offstage and Cypress had to chase him down in the bathroom to calm him. Which left Nick entertaining the crowd to the sounds of improvised guitar solos. They only got paid half of what they were promised. Orion’s leg was tapping the floor in increasing time, jittery like a kid who had too much coffee. Nick kicked his leg out and pinned Orion’s down, giving him a level stare, “Stop and take another deep breath and you’ll get through it, I promise.” Orion nodded and inhaled deeply. Idle chatter had grown as more bands arrived in the Green Room but a voice rose above the chatter and Nick clearly made out one he recognized as it said his name. Though when his eyes landed on the voice he knew, their image was something he didn’t.   

“Nick!” Illyana repeated and waved from the Green Room entrance. She was hardcore rocking a style to match her music. Her hair was let down with streaks of red to match her guitar, her jeans were pre-torn to get that edgy punk rock look, and her lips were shimmering in a ruby red lipstick and smiling wide at him. She came to win and look good doing it. It may have taken a moment for Nick’s brain to start again, to form a cohesive sentence after taking the new appearance in, “Hey.” Her drummer stayed back to chat with the coordinator, as Illyana made her way to where Nick and Orion were sitting. Nick gave a low whistle as she approached, “Damn, Ill, you look amazing. I hope you wear that on our date.” She narrowed her eyes at him as her cheeks adopted a shade of red but didn’t dignify him with an answer, instead, she asked, “Where is your drummer?” “He’ll be along. What about your new 'secret weapon' of a singer? Where are they?” Nick shot back, not forgetting Illyana’s proclamation at the comics store a few weeks ago that her new singer was they key to beating his band. 

lllyana called a name out over the other talking musicians and an extremely beautiful girl emerged, walking toward them and stood next to Illyana. “This is Alarie’s sister, Alanna, our new singer.”

It took Nick and Orion a moment to realize they had actually seen her before at the Starboard Lounge. Nick’s jaw dropped, “You were Cypress’s date!” Orion sort of grimaced at the memory but still seemed amazed at Alanna’s transformation. She was a true chameleon, and they wouldn’t have recognized her otherwise. She was wearing low waisted jeans with black high heel boots and a blue halter top that revealed a pierced navel. Her hair, instead of being in a braid, was pulled into a side ponytail and teased. Little did they know all of the effort and pains her sister had to deal with to get Alanna into such a get-up. “Yeah, but that didn’t really work out,” Alanna replied. “What do you mean?” Orion leaned forward with sudden interest and a raised brow. He’d always wondered how Cypress’s date went but Cypress never mentioned it and he was too afraid to ask. “We didn’t really have any chemistry,” Alanna met Orion’s gaze, “He’s a nice guy and you’re lucky to have him as a friend.” Orion knew that! Why did she sound so adamant as she said it? She didn't explain herself, just smiled warmly and wished them luck before Illyana ushered her back toward her sister in an attempt to regroup. “We don’t need luck, we’re going to win!” Nick cockily called out after them, causing Illyana to turn around and roll her eyes with the utmost exaggeration.

“Can you call Cypress and see if he’s on his way?” Orion asked. “I’m sure he is on his way, it's only a quarter after,” Nick shrugged. “Can you please just do it?” Orion snapped. Nick looked a bit struck at his friend’s impatient demeanor but then figured it was Orion’s nerves driving him to act hat way. So he shrugged and pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and dialed. It went straight to voice mail. Nick hung up and a touch of worry reached his eyes as he looked to Orion, “Dude, he didn’t answer.”

[kashmiresims]

Picking Favorites

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Breakfast was usually a quiet affair in Nick’s home. Mostly he and his two younger brothers were just always too tired to get into lengthy discussions. His father would drink coffee and read the newspaper and his mother used the morning for contemplation. So it was rather jolting for Nick to be addressed in the middle of eating pancakes. “Nick, have you filled out any scholarship applications this summer?” Nick looked from his plate to his father, fork midway to his mouth in a horrified silence. “You can never start too early you know, son,” his father added. Nick hadn’t filled out anything. It was summer for crying out loud! He didn’t want to worry about academic stuff and he hadn’t even started his senior year in high school yet.

“I’ll think about it,” Nick answered, his voice low and croaky from just waking up not even a half hour before. He knew his reply would placate his father for the time being. He had no intention to 'think about it' though. “Also I put in a good word with Jimmy Phoenix and he’ll consider taking you as an intern next summer after you graduate,” his father continued, much to Nick’s annoyance. “That’s wonderful, dear!” his mother came out of her contemplation to say, “Nicholas, you should thank your father, that was most considerate of him to do.” “Uh, I don’t remember asking to be an intern at a law office,” Nick grumbled. Both his parents frowned at him. “You can’t just play around all of next summer like you have been this one. You need to get some activities for your resume. I started when I was Shane’s age!” his father pointed at Nick’s next youngest brother sitting at the table. Shane was only 15. He looked startled at being brought into this conversation and started eating his pancakes faster. “For the millionth time, Dad, I am not you,” Nick groaned.

Apparently, there had been one too many arguments started this way because his mother and two brothers started to clear their plates and vacate the dining table in preparation for the shouting match to ensue. “You know, any other guys your age would jump at the chance to intern for Jimmy’s office. You’re being very ungrateful. Why can’t you take your future seriously?!” His father snarled. “You don’t take my plans for the future seriously!” Nick raised his voice and stood. Shane ninja-whisked Nick’s empty plate out from under him and continued on cleaning up breakfast. Nick was done eating anyway. His father’s eyes narrowed, completely enraged. He knew Nick's plans and didn’t approve one bit. Nick had always been a creative kid with a big imagination. His parents thought his drawings were just a hobby, but when he told them he wanted to go to art school, they had flipped their shit. Nick wanted to be a painter. “If you’re going to take that tone with me you can forget about playing at your band thing tonight,” his father threatened. Nick’s frown lifted to panic, “No, you can’t! I’ve been practicing all summer!” “Instead, you can join us at the Mayor’s Ball. I can introduce you to Jimmy, and plus there will be a lot of other influential people it wouldn’t hurt to know.” That sounded like the worst night ever. Nick would rather slowly peel band-aids of his body than go to something as boring as the Mayor’s Ball. His father rubbed elbows with politicians and lawyers on a daily basis, being a court judge and was expected to be there. “I can’t miss Battle of the Bands!” Nick started to panic. His father rubbed his chin in thought and then gave him a beguiling smile, “You can go if you drop your ridiculous notion of going to art school.” Nick’s anger boiled up but he caught it his throat. This is what his father chose to do with his power? Obliterate the hope of a future Nick wanted for himself? If he refused, he’d be letting his band down. Nick might be many things but he wasn’t a flake. So what was he to do? Go to Sim State, join a fraternity, and go into political science? That’s the future his Dad would have picked out; he'd rather have his son be successful than happy. His dad failed to realize success didn't always lead to happiness. Nick turned around and gritted his teeth, still very angry at his father’s tactics. He crossed his arms, “Fine. No art school.” His father gave a slight nod, acknowledging he had won and promptly left the room. Nick caught Shane putting dishes into the washer in the kitchen. He needed a way to de-stress from the morning’s conversation.

“Hey bro, let’s go to the Recreation Center this afternoon. Kick some balls around,” he leaned against the counter and suggested. He didn’t usually spend quality time with Shane. Shane was into science fairs, computers, and generally being isolated in his room. He had time, he wasn’t supposed to be at the theater for the competition until at least five o' clock. Shane finished loading the breakfast plates and shrugged, “I don’t really want to. I don’t like you always kicking those soccer balls at my head.” “Maybe if you learned how to tend a goal, you could catch it before it hits you.” “Noooo!” Shane whined in protest and made a move to leave.

“Play you for it?” His borther stopped. Shane couldn’t resist a game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. They’d played it to decide things ever since they were boys. After three hits to the palm, Nick came out with scissors that clearly beat his brother’s choice of paper. Nick gave a whoop of victory and then slapped Shane on the back, “Get your gym clothes.”

“Okay just…keep your eye on the ball,” Nick instructed as he held the soccer ball under his foot to steady it. He played on the school’s soccer team. Hopefully, he’d be made captain for the upcoming year. He didn’t plan to get rusty, so once every week he came downtown to practice on the indoorsoccer nets. “Don’t aim for my head!” Shane yelled. “Yeah, yeah,“ Nick waved his brother’s worries away and backed up. He then ran forward and kicked the ball. Shane let out a little girl’s scream and jumped out of the way. If only all the other goalies he played against were as dedicated as his brother in avoiding the ball. His team would be unbeatable! Shane regained some composure and threw the ball back to Nick. “Nick?” Shane asked as Nick lined up the soccer ball for another shot. “Yeah?” “Are you really going to give up on art school?” “I kind of have to. Otherwise, Dad will ground me or something and make me miss Battle of the Bands,” he said, growing angry at the thought of that morning and kicked the ball extra hard at Shane. Shane yelped and barely missed being hit in the chest. “You shouldn’t let him bully you,” he threw the ball back, accidentally hitting Nick in the arm with it.

Nick rubbed his arm and glared, “Easy for you to say, Dad approves of everything you do.” He picked up the soccer ball and tossed it the air a few times, “Except someday he’s gonna start nagging you to get a girlfriend. Man, that’s gonna be hilarious.” “You don’t think I can’t get one!?” Shane bellowed in indignation. “You have to actually speak to girls,” Nick mocked and kicked the ball again. Shane caught it, seeming fired up with adrenaline. Nick was slightly impressed. “You should be one to talk. You’ve never had any girlfriends!” Shane threw the ball back again, aiming for Nick’s head. Nick dodged it easily and with a laugh of amusement. True, he’d never had any girlfriends, but he’d had plenty of dates. He’d have another one soon.

After kicking more than enough goals to win him a championship, Nick finally felt a bit calmer and less stressed. He hit the showers and in turn let the warm water hit his sweaty face. He closed his eyes and started thinking again. He’d still get to play the competition that night but at the cost of giving up on his dream for the future. Funny how he was more stressed over the conversation with his dad and had no nerves about playing in front of a big crowd in a few hours. Maybe he could still pursue art in his free time. Yeah right, like he’d have any free time during college while studying law and politics, or interning for big shot lawyers. He released a deep sigh and scrubbed his face.

His thoughts turned to Illyana. He had surprised even himself for coming up with a 'date' as Illyana's punishment if she were to lose. But really, how bad could it be? It just sort of popped into his head. Before the other night, he’d never considered Illyana as someone he could take out. She was always his best friend growing up; an opinionated, somewhat obnoxious little girl with a short fuse and even after puberty she was still the same in his mind. Then, after she had pulled him into that long hug, he suddenly started becoming aware of her in much different ways than before. How her complexion always looked sun-kissed, how pretty and expressive her eyes were, how full and utterly kissable her lips seemed, and how she fit perfectly against him in that moment. It was a hell of a revelation, and he’d be stupid to pass up such an opportunity. He smiled and turned off the water, shaking his head and ridding his hair of excess water before grabbing a towel and drying off.

As Nick and his brother started to walk back to the downtown bus stop, they felt little droplets of water starting to fall onto their faces and arms. “Summer rain is the best,“ Shane declared, lifting his hand to catch a few droplets. Nick looked at his brother in all his innocent awkwardness. Maybe if Shane was lucky, a girl would talk to him first and save him the anxiety. Girlfriend or not, Nick knew Shane was still the preferred son. Nick didn’t know if it was because he had red hair like their father or what–it was still a shitty thing do for a parent to pick favorites and he refused to let the fact cause ill-feelings between them. It wasn't Shane's fault, it was his father's.

[kashmiresims]

Reunion

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If Leona had to have three guesses of who would be knocking on her door during the middle of the week, she would have guessed either the landlord, a door-to-door cult member trying to recruit followers, or possibly even her grandmother since the elder woman lived next door.

Alarie Thackery wouldn’t have even been in the top 10 of her guesses. Yet there she stood on the doorstep of the townhouse.

“I thought you weren’t talking to me,” Leona said with a bewildered frown when she opened the door.

Alarie seemed a little ashamed now that Leona had come right out and said it. Leona hadn’t spoken to either of her former band mates in at least two weeks. Not since Illyana got snippy and hung up on her when she tried to apologize.

It was turning out to be a very lonely summer. The only thing to look forward to now was the catalyst that had started the entire feud: The Mayor’s Ball.

Alarie touched her forehead regretfully, “I’m sorry, Illyana can be…

”Unforgiving?” Leona frowned and crossed her arms.

Alarie shrugged, “She finally forgave Nick Hart.”

“Great, so I have about five years before she’ll speak to me again,” Leona grumbled in bitter sarcasm. “What did you come here for, Alarie?”

“Is your Dad home?” Alarie peeked over Leona’s shoulder with a hint of worry.

“No, he’s out. Why?” Leona asked sharply.

“I brought you a little surprise,” Alarie’s worry turned to a sly smile and she stepped out of the way to reveal her tall, dark, extremely handsome elder brother standing down the walkway.

“Antoine!?” Leona gaped, but a little composure was regained as her gape transformed into a wide smile. She and Antoine had a definite attraction in recent years but barely got to see each other since he had left for university. That, and her father disapproved of his attentions toward her. She was three and a half years his junior, but honestly, that didn’t bother either of them.

“Hey there, songbird” he smiled as he said the nickname he’d given to her. She could have melted on her doorstep but instead ran full throttle at him until he caught her in a big hug where he lifted her off her feet and twirled her. Once she was back on the ground, they kissed.

“You have no idea how much I have missed you!” Leona said, feeling joy erupt through her chest as he set his forehead against hers, creating a small and intimate space to look into each others’ eyes. “It’s kind of hard to see you when your father hates me,” he answered. Her father was a reasonable man unless it concerned Antoine Thackery. He’d been that way ever since he had walked into his daughter’s room when she was 14 and found her making out with a high school senior. “Well he’s out at the gym now, so you are safe,” she kissed him again. “Eugh, okay come on let’s go,” Alarie coughed in a disgusted manner and started heading towards the sidewalk. “Where are we going?” Leona asked, half apprehensive. “Your favorite place,” Antoine put his arm around her as they followed his sister.

Leona belted out the last few notes to her favorite song in a private room at the Karaoke Club in downtown Scandalica City. As of late, she had only been practicing the song she had planned to sing at the Mayor’s Ball and it was nice to sing some songs for fun for a change.

Alarie and Antoine watched her while sitting on the room’s sofas. “Whose next?” Leona asked with a jubilant smile. She couldn’t hog all the songs to herself. Alarie didn’t seem to want to sing but Antoine actually had a good voice; she raised her brows and held the microphone out to him, meaning for him to take it. He grinned and stood, picking it up from her hand and started searching the karaoke machine for a song to sing. It was so wonderful to see him, to be near him. She thought for sure he would forget her and start dating other girls in college. Her father told her as much, to try and persuade her to stop holding a flame for Antoine. He came back though, to see her. This proved he still felt for her. Her heart did a giddy flip flop and she glanced at Alarie, wishing she would go somewhere and leave Antoine and Leona alone just for a bit.

She leaned against the wall to watch Antoine start singing lyrics to a popular song on the radio. “Leona?” she heard Alarie say her name and she turned her head slightly. “Yes?” “How did you get invited to sing at the Mayor’s Ball?” “Well…I ran into the mayor’s daughter at Sand’s and…” “She offered you a spot,” Alarie’s expression darkened as she finished Leona’s sentence for her. “How..did you know?” Leona asked, clearly puzzled as she had never said anything about the mayor’s daughter being involved. “We found out that Evelyn Jane Orbinson is playing in her own band at the competition. She must have caused you to drop out so she had a better chance to win.” Leona blinked a few times at that bluntness, just to process those sentences. When she finally understood what Alarie was saying, she knew It couldn’t be true! She had the invitation and everything! “She may be playing, but I have an invitation to the Mayor’s Ball. I still have a spot to sing.” “Do you know that for sure?” Alarie snapped. “Why would I not?” Leona asked in offense. Alarie groaned and faced Leona, bracing herself against the wall with one hand on her hip, “How naive are you? Evelyn Jane can’t be trusted. You don’t know her like we do. She pulls this kind of shit all the time at school. She’s the essence of manipulation.” Leona frowned, “How do I know you aren’t trying to manipulate me into coming back and singing for you?" Alarie glowered, “How can you say that? I came to you out of concern. The Battle of the Bands will have talent scouts. If we win we get to open a concert with our own set. How is the Mayor’s Ball more important?”

“Ladies…?” they heard Antoine’s deep voice cut through the argument–apparently he was done singing and they had missed every word. “Talk some sense into her!” Alarie clenched her fists and promptly left the room in a huff of frustration. Leona looked to Antoine with a puzzled frown. Was he only brought along to persuade her to give up on her dream?

But she refused to have those thoughts cloud her happiness because now that Alarie had vacated the room, Antoine opened his arms and Leona gladly went to him. He embraced her and held her close, “I thought we’d never be alone again.”

She lifted herself onto her toes to kiss him, and their lips met passionately, his mouth nearly crashing into hers. She desired more, but he tilted his head back, denying her. “You should hear my sister out,” he sighed. Leona pushed him away with wide, betrayed eyes, “Antoine, it’s a rare chance. I thought you of all people would be on my side!” “I am on your side, but I am just saying there has to be some reason to what she is saying. Could it be possible that a member of one of the most powerful political families in the region has manipulated you into dropping out of the Battle of the Bands to better their own chances of winning?

Leona shook her head, “I just don’t believe it.” “What, that you are good enough to be a threat?” he asked. She looked away, and said sadly, “That you wouldn’t trust that I know what I am doing.” “Songbird…” Antoine’s look softened and he reached out but she slapped his hand away, suddenly miffed at him. In a voice full of resolve and with a leveled stare she declared, “I’m going to sing at the Mayor’s Ball and not even you can convince me otherwise.” 

[kashmiresims]

Hanging by a String

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Reggie refused to continue practicing on the keyboard no matter how much his sister nagged. It was the same principle either way. He made a flourishing crescendo and played hard into his solo. He looked over at Franz, who had momentarily stopped to allow Reggie’s solo. Franz was stoic as per usual and though it was normal, Reggie couldn’t help but to feel pissed off--a lingering feeling he'd been feeling ever since witnessing Franz and Alanna chatting it up all buddy-buddy style.

“Why aren’t you practicing?” he pointed a grumpy stare at his sister, who was listening to them practice while she lounged in the sitting room’s sofa.

“Because I know my part perfectly,” she said with an air of superiority and waved her hand for dramatic effect, causing the bangles she was wearing to clink together. “You two don’t yet. So keep practicing.”

Reggie lifted his lip in an annoyed snarl and his sister just smiled, “I’m going to go get something to drink. Want anything?”

Franz shook his head and Reggie said, “No thanks.”

Evelyn Jane gave a pout but stood and left the room to find a refreshment.

“So how long have you been hanging out with Alanna?” Reggie asked in an even tone, trying to hide his annoyance, just as he completed his solo. Franz started to pluck the bass with a slight frown, perhaps a bit puzzled at why Reggie was asking such a question. “I saw you two at the bakery the other day,” Reggie explained. “Were you spying on us?” Franz seemed a little put-off, his voice low and gravelly. His pizzicato trailed off waiting for an explanation. “She wasn’t at her usual coffee shop and when I happened to see her leave the library, I wanted to see where she was headed,” Reggie explained. “She walked right into your family’s bakery and it looked like you two were getting along well enough.” “So you stalked her?” Franz narrowed his eyes. “Nothing that dramatic,” Reggie assured, “I just thought I should warn you that she’s a tease, so don’t have your heart set on her.”

“She’s not a tease,” Franz objected, “She’s really nice and actually listens to what I say.” Reggie seemed to grow more irate as Franz defended her, “So you do like her?”

Franz’s jaw clenched and he looked away, “I barely know her.” That wasn’t an answer. Reggie studied his friend, suddenly suspicious, “Did you go on a date with her?” Franz’s brow raised in slight surprise as if wondering how Reggie could think that Franz would make a good date to anyone. Reggie took Franz’s typical silence as admission. The thought of Franz and Alanna together pissed him off beyond words, especially remembering the scene of them so easily laughing together in the bakery, which only fueled the jealousy inside him. How easily could she move interest from him, the Mayor's son, to Franz? Franz, who no one ever even noticed.

Without warning, he took an angry swing at the blond boy. Evelyn Jane had come back in the room just in time to see the attempted assault, she cried out in surprise and rushed toward them, “Reggie, what is wrong with you?” Franz was quick to shoulder the blow, being taller than Reggie. He suddenly looked very angry. Scary even. This was the reason they were friends. Reggie was not the most athletic student, and was often picked on when he was a kid. That all stopped when Franz came around. Franz Schoulsburg was a very intimidating, silent individual and sent the bullies running. One time in junior high, a particularly nasty kid made the mistake of challenging him and ended up with a concussion. It had cost Franz so much suspension that he failed a grade and was held back a year. Franz had protected the Mayor’s son and risked his education all in the understanding of friendship and now that Reggie had openly attacked, it couldn’t end well.

“No!” Evelyn Jane gasped in shock as Franz’s fist popped Reggie in the nose, sending him staggering backward with a wash of blood across his face. Reggie held his nose in disbelief and Franz backed away without a word, then turned and left them.

“Franz! Franz wait!” Evelyn Jane ran after him, following him out the front door. She nearly sprinted in her heels to catch up to him and close the gap he had made by taking naturally long strides. He didn’t stop so she reached out and grabbed his shoulder. He quickly flipped around and grabbed her opposite wrist covered in bangle bracelets. “You can find another bass player. I only was doing this as a favor to him,” he growled in low, dangerous tone.

Evelyn Jane winced at his hold, and her next words came out in a whimper, “Don’t quit. I can make him apologize.” He eased his grip, shifting her bangles apart and found a very dark bruise on the underside of her wrist. His frown was fixed on it for a few seconds, seeming to wonder how she managed it. He looked to her reaction but she only took her hand back and held her shoulder, not meeting his eyes.

She bit her lip, “Please reconsider?” She looked like she was about to fall apart, and for some reason pity struck him. He knew she wasn't the kind of girl that deserved it but she was practically begging, and that was not something Evelyn Jane Orbinson did lightly. He should have just walked away. “Tell me why he’s suddenly obsessed with Alanna Thackery and I’ll reconsider.” Her green eyes narrowed, seeming to work out the events that had transpired when she was out of the room and her lips became very thin. “All I know is that Reggie doesn’t take rejection well.” Franz thought about her cryptic answer for a moment and then nodded in understanding, brushing past her and going back into the house. Reggie looked up from where he sat with some tissue trying to dab blood away. He tensed, seeming a bit afraid that Franz would punch him again and stood, moving at least three feet from the tall boy.

“Look, Alanna and I are just casual acquaintances. You want to know what we were talking about? Books. That’s all we’ve ever talked about. So you can take your stupid idea that we’re involved or that she likes me or whatever is causing you to act like a prick and get over it.” It was a rare thing indeed to witness Franz speak so many sentences at once. So it must have been important for him to get it out. Reggie considered the words as rationality came back to him. He crumpled up his tissue and sighed while closing his eyes, “I apologize. What I did was uncalled for.” Franz gave a solemn nod, and gestured toward Reggie’s nose, “It’s not broken is it?” Reggie gingerly felt the bridge of his nose, “I don’t think so. It hurts but the bleeding stopped. I think you just ruptured some blood vessels.” “Good,” Franz said and turned toward Evelyn Jane, “Have him cleaned up, and I will see you at the Battle of The Bands on Saturday.” Evelyn Jane wordlessly mouthed ‘Thank you’ and then turned to tend to her brother.

[kashmiresims]

Lessons

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After her initial rendezvous with the Maestro, Evelyn Jane was beckoned back to Shaun Piper’s penthouse again and again nearly every day. She obliged him, of course. Her explanation to anyone that asked about her increased time with the elder gentleman was that he was giving her advanced ‘violin lessons’. Shaun Piper would be the type to flock toward talent, and he had never had a protégé before. Though it was clear to Evelyn Jane that Shaun coveted more than her talent when he had kissed her. Evelyn Jane was currently basking in the summer’s afternoon sunlight next to Shaun Piper after a particularly invigorating violin lesson. He had given her praise where she deserved it but critiqued her quite thoroughly. She had been critiqued right out of her clothing and into his bed. His wife was away again. Evelyn Jane had little care of where the woman was as long as she wasn’t there. She rolled to her side and faced Shaun while sliding her hand over his. She couldn’t help but to stare at him with a twisted sort of fascination. She actually liked his company and if things went her way she wouldn’t mind continuing lessons with him. He glanced down at her with a quick smile before sitting up and entering the bathroom connected to the bedroom.

She rolled further across the bed, and into the spot he had been laying before, kicking up her leg to rest on her opposite knee and splaying her fingers out before her eyes to admire her recent manicure. The Battle of the Bands was only three days away and it was time to see if her plan had worked. “What are you doing this weekend?” she tested the waters. “You’ll have to be more specific,” he answered. “Saturday Night. I’m playing violin in the regional Battle of the Bands and want to know if you could come watch me play?” She heard the click of his medicine cabinet and she pulled herself up to hear his answer with baited breath. “I’m actually judging the Battle of the Bands,” he answered. Maybe less amused than she anticipated him to be at this ‘coincidence.’ “That’s kind of funny,” she popped a counterfeit giggle, “Why would they have the Symphony conductor judge that kind of competition?”

“Musical diversity I guess,” she heard Shaun mumble, “Don’t expect any favoritism, you will either win or lose based on your skill and sound.” Her feigned expression of innocence faded into a pout, “You don’t want me to win?” “You’ll win if you deserve it,” he said, “You can’t expect me to judge your band’s music on how well you are in bed.” That’s exactly what she expected. Honestly, she didn’t know if she could pull it off winning without his favor.

She bit her lip and frowned, she hoped it wouldn't have come to this. She heard the sink water running now, Shaun was washing his face. “It would be a shame if your wife found out about what we’ve been doing,” she changed the subject. Her tone was casual yet her words had a definite threat laced within them. She heard the faucet turn off and a small, deep, chuckle. For some reason, it made her skin prickle. That wasn’t a reaction she expected.

“If my wife should find out, she would hardly be surprised,” he said and then appeared in the threshold between bedroom and bathroom, “You two actually have a lot in common.” She certainly didn’t know how to reply to that. So he kept talking, “My wife manipulated me into proposing to her. She convinced me that I couldn’t have her, so I tried harder to make her mine. In the end, I fell right into her scheme,” he threw the hand towel draped around his neck into the sink and pointed at Evelyn Jane, eyes narrowed. “So do you think I’m really that stupid to fall for the same type twice? I can see a politician’s daughter from a mile away, Miss Orbinson.”

Her eyebrows arched in genuine surprise. She had never exactly told him who she really was. She had always just been ‘Miss Evie’ and let him assume otherwise. “So you don’t…care…if she finds out?” she asked suspiciously. “I’d welcome it. She’s a degenerate gambler and I have a prenup. She’d be out on the street if she divorced me.” This wasn’t going Evelyn Jane’s way at all. It had turned south rather quickly. “I guess this little affair of ours is over then if you can’t be of use to me,” she said curtly and made a move to stand and find her clothes. In a sudden, unexpected movement, she was knocked backward into the mattress. Her head whirled from the sudden fall as she focused on his face above her.

“You can be of use to me, though. I’ve taken a real liking toward you,” he smiled wickedly. “I’ll tell my father,” she hissed, throwing her hand up to push his leering face away. “Tell your father what exactly? You’ve been screwing a man older than him and who happens to married no less?” he growled and grabbed her wrist and slammed it into the mattress where he held it there tightly. “I’ll tell him that you took advantage of me!” she retorted with an angry squeak that was rapidly turning to panic as she struggled to throw his weight off of her. He actually laughed, threw his head back and made a guffaw as if she were the most amusing thing he’d ever witnessed,“You won’t do that.” She stilled and gave him a hard look, demanding an explanation. “Did your father ever tell you about your Aunt Margaret?” That was certainly a change of topic and hardly answered the question of why she wouldn’t hesitate to tell her father that Shaun Piper was a disgusting old man. She knew of Aunt Margaret, her father’s estranged sister. “She disgraced the family. That’s all they ever said of her. They removed all pictures of her from family albums. She’s like a ghost.” “The Orbinsons care a great deal about their image. They’d do anything to protect that political legacy of theirs. Including shunning any family member they felt tarnished their reputation.” She didn’t like where the conversation was headed.

“Maggie slept around, seduced men of power, she was in the tabloids, and ended up spending millions of her inheritance being a high roller. Some sorry jerk actually felt sorry for her and let her into his life and that same sorry bastard was dumb enough to marry her even.” Evelyn Jane felt her stomach lurch. “If you tell anyone about us, I’ll make sure it becomes public knowledge and no doubt your family’s reputation will be damaged, your father’s career would take a hit, and you my dear, would become just. like. her” He pointed across the room at a picture on a shelf that was of him in his younger years smiling next to pretty brunette who only looked vaguely familiar because she shared the Mayor’s same calculating blue eyes. Aunt Margaret.

Shaun released her wrist and stood, seeming to trust that Evelyn Jane understood her circumstances and his conditions. He picked out a fresh outfit and dressed. All the while Evelyn Jane had slowly pulled herself upright while furiously trying to think of anything she could do to get back at him, to ruin him, to get out of this predicament she had stupidly allowed herself to fall into. She clutched her wrist to her chest, realizing it hurt from all the pressure Shaun had put on it. “I’ll see you tomorrow, same time,” he said in a dismissive tone while adjusting the cuffs of his jacket, not bothering to face her again. An awful and rare feeling of helplessness washed over Evelyn Jane. She could think of nothing she could do that wouldn’t expose her and ruin her family’s reputation. She begrudgingly picked up her clothes and dressed in silence before brushing past him to escape as quickly as possible. However, they both knew there was little chance of Evelyn Jane escaping her violin lessons now that Shaun Piper had her under his thumb.