heartbeat | myg [6-9]
Summary: The fear of falling in love start to crawl in Rad’s system. Why though?
Warnings: 18+ content; smut; swearing; mentions of death
Alive.
Back to the current week. The night of Tanner's send off party to London came. Up to that day, Sun never heard from Rad so she did not bother him, too. All familiar faces are in the studio and as Tanner promised, it's just gonna be them and a few other friends. Kash is already there and Rad is still not in sight. In the middle of the party, Sun goes to her house to make an important call. On her way back to the studio, she was startled to see a very pale guy in black standing by her porch holding two bottles of beer.
Sun: (shuts her eyes) Fucking odds! Rad! You scared me!
Rad: (chuckles) I'm sorry. Fucking odds? (gives her beer)
Sun: (exhales sharply)(takes beer) Thanks. I just don't like cursing with (points up) Big Dad's name on it so I say fucking odds instead. (calms herself down) Phew! So. You're finally here. (smiles)
Rad: Yeah um...I just got stuck in a meeting, but I'm here.
Sun: (nods) Cool. Do the guys know you're here?
Rad: Yeah I arrived a few minutes ago. Tyler said you're in here, so. (shrugs) I...was hoping we could talk. I mean if you're not too busy.
Sun: Oh no, no, I just got off from a client call and I'm free now. (nods) Do you wanna come inside or stay here or-
Rad: Anywhere is fine.
They just went inside the house since it's too chilly outside. They sit next to each other on the couch.
Rad: Um. I guess I could start by apologizing for what happened last time, back in the studio. Everything was a mess that day and I began to lose my temper in the morning and my mood just went on for the rest of the day, seeing every wrong detail, hearing every wrong note and sound and- (sighs) I know you get it.
Sun smiles and nods.
Rad: I am...not normally like this. And it's fine if you thought I was a freak for suddenly snapping like that. There's just...a lot that has happened in the past. I know my line of reasoning is too...safe, but yeah.
Sun feels he wants to open up so she's trying her best to just listen first before talking. Rad remained silent for a few minutes until bam! He starts opening up.
Rad: Chord and I...we lost our dad when we were young. He's got a heart condition and they never found him a donor until his whole system just gave up. Everything happened so fast, but I witnessed it all. His struggle, all the pain mom went through, he passed and I had to grow up fast for my mom and my brother. Until only a few years later I was also diagnosed with the same heart condition as his. I was around 14, 15 back then. Everyone was just recovering and here comes another storm. We had to go through it again. I've had two unsuccessful transplants in ten years, countless visits to hospitals in between and a huge heartbreak - figuratively speaking.
Sun is just looking at him.
Rad told her about Kara. Life was hard that time, but he actually felt happy when they got together and everyone in the family was happy for them. They eventually got engaged and just two years ago, on their wedding day, Kara never showed up. They had the chance to talk when things settled down and according to Kara, she doesn't want to be with someone who might just leave her one day and that she actually fell for another man. What hurt the most for Rad was the part where she left him for someone who happens to be his close friend. And that he found out that they're actually doing stuff behind his back when they were still together. That's when another storm hit.
Rad pushed himself to the limit knowing that he has a bad heart. He exhausted himself with work and physical activities. He'd run or play basketball every day and every night too, if he's not at the bar finishing a bottle of whisky all by himself. All the stupid things people do when they're angry.
Rad: That same year, my heart failed and I almost died. I woke up one night and I could barely breathe. Good thing I was at home that time so mom and Chord were able to rush me to the hospital. I swear I was (gestures) this close to dying and I didn't care. Then everything just went black. And then I woke up...(points his chest) with a new heart. I was thankful to whoever the donor is, that's for sure. I know it's seldom that donors reveal their identity, but I didn't bother asking if it was kept anonymous or not. I guess a part of me is just trying to hold back...you know...meeting a grieving family while I'm here, living. (nods) But that time I wasn't sure if I'm thankful to still be alive. I mean a lot of things hit me. That this was my third transplant and I don't know how long it's gonna last.
He exhaled sharply.
Rad: Basically I was just like...traumatized with everything that happened blow by blow, you know what I mean? With people...leaving. So yeah, I was then clinically diagnosed with trauma and depression, so I just took my time off work and off everything just to cope. And Kash, my mom and Chord were always there. Kash has probably seen the worst in me, but he still stayed by my side. (looks at Sun) You know what pushed me to start living my life again? I threw a huge tantrum like I did last week in the studio. And Chord tried his best to hug me while I was furious. He was crying, trying to calm me down and he said "I can't lose another loved one again, so please live."
And then they were both silent.
Rad: I don't know why I told you all this or if this was even relevant when all I wanted to do is say sorry for what happened last week. (chuckles) I think I just wanted you to know a little bit about me. And I don't know why or if you even care, but yeah.
Sun: (smiles softly) It's okay. I appreciate you opening up to your annoying friend and I actually care. I'd like to know more about my grumpy friend.
Rad chuckles softly.
Rad: I kinda missed that annoying friend blowing up my phone with all those annoying messages and emojis. (looks at her)
Sun: (laughs) I swear I have never used that many emojis in my entire digital years.
They laughed and gulped their beer.
Sun: Tanner...said you were a lot of things - like me - but in a different way. And he was right. We both lost loved ones. We lost our parents in a plane crash when we were little, then I lost Jazz two years ago. I have moped for more than you can imagine. But you know, life doesn't end when good things end or when your loved ones go. Moving on sucks, it's hard. But moving forward is a different story. It's gradual, less painful and...(shrugs) just more realistic.
This time Rad is just looking at her, listening.
Sun: I uh...(points her chest) had a heart condition myself. Congenital. I was diagnosed when I was seven and got worse at 13. That was actually one of the reasons my parents were on that plane. My dad was going for a business trip in Japan and my mom tagged along because my doctor told her that I may have a probable match there. Long story short, I lost my parents, but I got a new heart. I lost my sister later on, but you know, I still have Arden, his family, Tanner's family, my friends, now you guys. (chuckles) There's just you know (shrugs) still a lot to be thankful for. I'm alive, you're alive, and I guess that's just...beautiful. (smiles)
Rad nods. Sun just made a lot of sense at that moment.
Sun: And um...Rad. Your donor's identity was never anonymous.
Rad looks at her, confused.
Sun: And I'm sorry if you haven't heard from me for a while after you kept me company that rainy night. Yes, I got your texts. (smiles softly) It just so happened that the day after, Tyler handed me the profile of my sister's heart recipient. And I've been asking him to do this for months when I finally felt ready to find and meet him or her. And honestly, it just took me a lot of time to process everything. (looks at him with teary eyes) I guess I was just so surprised and beyond happy and thankful that...that I was with him all along, keeping me company even if he was grumpy, sending me one-liner cold-ass texts, (chuckles) making me happy when I piss him off. (scrunches her nose and smiles)
Rad's totally surprised.
Sun: Yes, Summer Jazz Hart's 'heart' is in you. And it's now yours to take care of. (smiles) And by the way, I love your name.
Rad is just staring at her. He's totally speechless. After one straight minute of just staring at each other, Rad just said...
Rad: Thank you. (chuckles shakily) I know 'thank you' will never be enough, but still, thank you. (smiles)
Sun: Thank you is perfect. And you being alive right now is more than enough. (smiles)
Rad leans towards her and hugs her tight.
Sun: (hugs him back) Chord was right. I too can't afford to lose another loved one, so you should live. Not because my sister's heart is in you, but simply because you're a good person, you're a good friend and you deserve a good life. I know we've only known each other for a short while, but knowing you just feels...right. And nice.
Rad: (smiles) Thank you. (sighs in relief) I swear I'm not a hugger, but I just suddenly turned into one, no thanks to you.
Sun: (hits his back)(laughs) Hey! I give the best and warmest hugs.
Rad: I know. And for some reason I am not complaining. (pulls away from the hug)(offers a handshake) Rhythm Andrews Dean, Rad for short.
Sun: (shakes his hand) Winter Sun Hart. (smiles)
Rad: (smiles) I love your name, too.
Sun: (smiles) Thank you. (exhales sharply) Be happy, you grumpy cat. I swear I'll try my best to keep you happy. (laughs)
Rad chuckles.
Rad: I have one more thing to say.
Sun: Spill it.
Rad: (exhales sharply) Meow. (raises an eyebrow)
Sun laughs so hard.
Rad: God, it only takes one word to make you laugh like crazy.
Sun: You're so cute when you do that. I swear you're sooo cute. (laughs)
Rad was just looking at her while she laughed, like he was looking at something very beautiful.
The night went on. Tyler didn't get the chance to catch up with Sun since he and Liam have graveyard shifts at the hospital. They're both resident doctors. During their midnight break, they both went up the rooftop to have some coffee.
Tyler: (stretches and groans) Ugh! Can't wait for our rotation next week! Graveyard shift totally messed up my sleep cycle. Actually, med school in general messed up my sleep cycle and my chance to have a love life.
Liam: (snorts) So you have a love life??? (laughs)
Tyler: I'm gonna kick your asses when we meet again. And I mean yours and Sun's. (rolls his eyes)
Liam: I'm just kidding. You know I'd love to see you bring someone to Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.
Tyler: Aww, that's really sweet, William. (sighs) Hmm, on the other hand, I'm looking forward to our Sunny bringing someone over for the coming holidays. (giggles)
Liam: (looks at him) Oh. Is she seeing someone?
Tyler: We didn't catch up on that yet, but this Rad guy is something.
Liam: (nods) Ah, Tanner and Arden's college friend, right?
Tyler: (nods) Mm-hm. (drinks coffee) He's quite a catch, but he's different.
Liam: Different how?
Tyler: I mean he's not the Tanner or Arden or you type. You know, extroverted, people person, boyfriend material. Well Sun mentioned he's just really shy most of the time - an introvert. He's interesting though. Apart from the fact that he has Jazz's heart, he's still interesting.
Liam: Hang on. So he's the recipient of Jazz's heart???
Tyler: (nods) Mm-hm. I mean, what are the chances right? Just when Sun is ready to know who received her sister's donated heart, she suddenly meets Mr. Grumpy guy.
Liam: (nods) Ah, interesting.
Tyler: Right? (chuckles) And Arden actually told me a little bit about him last time and he said that ever since, Rad is never the sweet and caring type of friend. That's why he was also surprised that he kept Sun company that one rainy night. (eats sandwich)
Liam: Well, (sighs) if transplant chronicles were true, maybe his heartbeat kind of draws him closer to Sun. You know, since Jazz was Sun's sister and best friend.
Tyler: (shrugs) Yeah. Or maybe Jazz pushed him to get closer to her. You know, so that someday her sister won't be alone, that someone will look after her and take care of her.
Liam: Yeah like we don't ever do that. And there's a lot of us. (drinks iced coffee)
Tyler: I know, silly. But of course a significant other's care is sometimes...unparalleled. You know what I mean?
Liam: (hums and nods) Hm, you're right. (bites sandwich) So. (wipes his lips) You sound like you're skipping to 'the good part'. Well if he's that 'shy', do you think he'll ask Sun out?
Tyler: I don't know. Maybe? I hope so?
Liam: And Sun? Do you think she's interested in him?
Tyler: (chuckles softly and hums) Hm. I know Sun when she likes someone. She's sort of brimming or shining like the sun. Dude I cracked her so easily when she had this big crush on you.
They both chuckled. Liam blushed.
Tyler: And man I can feel her holding back her glow when we talk about Rad. (giggles) Let's just wait and see the 'good part'. (winks at him)
Liam just smiled. A little back story. Tyler and the Hart sisters have been this chaotic trio since they were young. Tyler and Sun were the same age, Jazz is three years older. Liam was a new kid in town and he's around 13 back then. And then it's no longer a trio, they call themselves 'the fantastic four'. Liam is a year older than the two and he adored Jazz big time while the little sister has a secret crush on him.
That was the only secret that Jazz never knew about Sun. Only Tyler knew about it. Sun's pretty okay with it since Liam adored her like his little sister anyway. And growing up, Sun was totally okay with it as long as Liam pursues her big sister and no one else. Jazz, however, had a boyfriend and Liam didn't take his chances.
Later on he's also been into relationships and so did Tyler and Sun. Liam also knew about Sun crushing on him big time. Sun confessed when she was totally over him and they just laughed it out. They were kids back then anyway. The four of them remained very good friends despite all the puppy love mishaps.
🌙 🖤 ☀
25.
One day at JTD. Rad enters his studio after his meeting.
Kash: Oh you're back!
Rad: (startled)(closed his eyes) Fuck (exhales) me.
Kash: Ooh, trust me, I'd never wanna do that to you.
Rad: What the hell are you doing here? (puts tablet on table)
Kash: We're going somewhere.
Rad: (checks time) It's just 11 o'clock.
Kash: I know. I'm done with work, Jamie said you're free after your meeting, (shrugs) so?
Rad: I can't. I'm picking up Holly from the vet and let me remind you, Keiko is there, too.
Kash: Oh of course I got that handled. I had them boarded. (smiles) They're open 24/7 so we can pick them up anytime.
Rad sighs.
Kah: Oh come on, let's just have a little fun. It's Friday anyway.
And the next thing Rad knew, they're in a children's heart foundation. Everyone's in the backyard playground and they can already see familiar faces, but the kids are not yet around. Seems like they're having a mini party.
Kash: There they are. Hey guys! (waves at them)
Helping with the food and decorations are the gang - Arden, Tyler, Liam and Chord.
Chord: Hey you made it! (pound hugs Rad) Hey bro.
Rad: (taps his back) Hey. What are you doing here?
Chord: Oh I'm covering. (fixing his camera) It's my first time to join their annual charity event. And it's Sun's birthday.
Rad: Oh. Is that right? (looks at Kash)
Kash: What? Oh don't worry, we didn't come here empty-handed. The cake's on its way.
Tyler: Looks like Rad didn't get the memo. (chuckles)
Rad chuckles softly.
Kash: You know for someone who eats, breathes and lives 'work', he really misses a lot on recreation.
They laughed as Rad glared at him.
Arden: Oh this is what you call work-life balance dude. (laughs) Oh, here she comes.
They turn around and Sun is walking towards them, bringing a box and she doesn't seem happy.
Tyler: Hey Sunny hunny. You don't seem so happy. What's wrong?
Sun: Hey guys. (sighs) Well I was happy until I saw these. (shows box)
They all peeked and saw five cute little gray and white kittens crying.
All: Aww.
Sun: Somebody left them at the gate and there's no mom in sight. (frowns)
Tyler: Oh hunny, don't worry, we'll figure them out later okay? (gets box) Right now, we have kids to entertain.
Sun smiles softly. And then she realized Kash and Rad were there.
Sun: Oh you guys are here. (hugs Kash) Hello!
Kash: Yeah we got invited to your party. Happy birthday, Sun. (smiles)
Sun: Thank you. (smiles) And thanks for being here. Hey you. (hugs Rad)
Tyler nudges Liam with his elbow. Liam looks at them.
Rad: Happy birthday, Sun. Sorry, I didn't know.
Sun: Oh that's fine. (looks at everyone) Thanks guys for still being here in our 3rd year. And we have new faces, too. (chuckles) So, everything ready?
[Music Bed: Free Love by HONNE]
A number of kids joined them a few minutes later. The Hart's have always supported this particular foundation even if Sun wasn't diagnosed yet. The initiative started when Erin, Sun's mom, survived several heart failures when she was young like miraculously. As thanksgiving, Sun's grandparents did this little gesture of giving back and helping those with the same condition. Later on, the Hart's continued this and then Jazz and Sun still did it with their guardians when they lost their parents. Now, this is Sun's 3rd year doing this with her team and friends. Since Jazz passed, she just chose to hold this annual activity during her birthday so she can celebrate it with the kids.
The team prepared games for the kids and the gang participated in the demo. Though of course they had to force Rad to do the chicken dance and they won't stop teasing him, especially Sun. They even had a water balloon and water gun fight and it's Sun's first time hearing and seeing Rad's genuine laugh. He's running around and two particular kids are passionately chasing him, ready to throw water balloons at him. They succeeded. Rad lay on the grass and these kids attacked him. He looked so happy and Sun was very happy seeing him in that state.
The kids even played with the kittens. Unfortunately, the foundation won't allow pets inside since it's in their policy. Some kids might be allergic to dog or cat hair. After playing, the kids finally gathered around to eat and to sing a happy birthday song for Sun. Sun is wearing a cute birthday cap and she's clapping and singing with the kids. Rad can't help but stare at her. She looked so happy and her smile was always very sweet and warm. Kash glances at him quickly and he smiles. He knows Rad is very happy even if it doesn't show. Liam, who's on the other side, is just looking at Sun but he also glanced at Rad whose eyes won't leave Sun.
Everyone's soaking wet after the water games so they changed up. The guys were just casually removing their shirts on one corner since they're guys. When Kash returned bringing shirts for him, Chord and Rad, the three of them changed. From one corner.
Tyler: (nudges Sun's arm with his elbow) Hey look. Look!
Sun: What? (eats chips)
And they see the three guys wear their dry shirts, Rad facing the other side.
Tyler: God, Rad is really white as snow! He sure looks like vanilla ice cream. Yum!
Sun: Ty! Will you shut up?!
Tyler giggles.
Tyler: Oh hunny, I'd kill for Kash and Chord's abs. Like God, chiseled to perfection. I wonder if that pale guy has some packs, too.
Sun snorts. Sun agrees though, Rad's skin is so white. She never saw him wearing short-sleeved tops or shorts, but she sure can see his very pale face and hands. The only time she saw his forearms was today when he rolled his sleeves up to play with the kids and now that he's wearing a short-sleeved black shirt.
They finished around 5 and they all bid the kids and the foundation staff goodbye. By the parking lot, they also sent off Sun's team members till the ones who were left were the gang.
Sun: Aw I miss Tanner. (frowns) But thank you, thank you so much guys for being here with me today. (gives them a big smile)
Arden: Anytime sis. (hugs her) You know we'll drop everything for you.
Sun: (hugs him tight) That's so sweet, but why do I sense that you need something from me?
Arden: I'll DM you later. (laughs and pulls away from the hug) Happy?
Sun: Very. (smiles and scrunches her nose)
Arden: (groans) Ugh. (pinches her nose) You look so cute when you scrunch that nose. (to everyone) So. The sun is still up and it's the weekend. You guys want to go someplace else?
Chord: Oh hey! I'm not sure if you guys are into theme parks, but the new one just opened last week and it's got pretty cool rides.
Tyler: Ooh, it's been ages since I went to a theme park. (points Liam and Sun) That makes three of us. We have been going to the same places since we were kids. (laughs)
Kash: Oh yeah? Well I'm not a fan of extreme rides, but (raises hand) I'm up for it.
Arden: I guess I'm the one who asked so (raises hand) I'm in. (smiles)
Tyler: (raises Sun and Liam's hands) We're in!
Kash: Cool! (raises Rad's hand) I guess we're all in.
Rad sighs. But before anything else, Kash suggested that Sun leaves the kittens to their vet first. And so while the rest went straight to the theme park, Sun, Rad and Kash went to the vet. Sun is dying to meet Holly and Keiko, but Kash told her they have very bad separation anxiety so since they're still not taking them out of boarding, he just promised Sun that she'll get to meet them before the night ends. They also decided to just leave Sun's truck at home and just join them in Kash's silver Territory. He asked Rad to drive and Sun to ride shotgun so he can stretch at the backseat.
They reached the theme park and Chord is dying to ride the rollercoaster with someone, but nobody wants to go with him.
Sun: (hums) Hm, interesting. A bunch of scaredy cats in here. (nods)
Tyler: (scowls) You bitch!
They laughed.
Sun: I'll go with you. Come on!
They both ran towards the gates.
Liam: Sun!
Sun: (shouts from afar) I'm good! This is fun! (shrieks)
Liam just sighed.
Arden: (taps Liam's shoulder) She'll be fine. Come on.
Rad noticed that - Liam looking so worried for Sun. They all waited for Sun and Chord at the exit. They step out laughing and jumping.
Tyler: Aw, look at these happy kids.
Sun: Oh we're gonna do it one more time later.
Chord: (points Sun) Now she is the perfect theme park buddy. (pulls her hand) Come on! Next ride!
Kash: Hey wait up!
Rad smiles unconsciously. Sun looks so happy and so does his brother. They also played on kiosks to win cool prizes. Sun played guns with Liam and they won a cute koala stuffed toy. Then they saw Arden and Rad shooting some hoops. Arden lost so she let Sun take his place as he catch his breath. She's pretty good at hoops. They hit the highest score so they got a prize. Transition to the four of them in front of the prize booth.
Sun: (whines while looking at the prize) Yes. (sulks)
Rad: No.
Sun: (looks at him) Yes!
Rad: (looks at her) There's other stuff in there. (points)
Sun: No. I want (points) that one.
She's like a spoiled little girl.
Staff: (in his 40s) Final answer?
Rad: No.
Sun: Yes! (extends arms) Give it to me, good sir! (shrieks)
Staff: (gives a huge stuffed cat) Here you go. (to Rad) Ladies always get what they want. (winks) Better luck next time kid.
Rad sighs. Sun hugs the stuffed toy and smiles at Rad.
Sun: Thank you! (giggles)
She's taking the other big koala toy from Liam and he doesn't want to hand it over.
Liam: This is mine now, you have a bigger one.
Sun: (scowls) No! (steals the toy) These are MINE. Now let's go.
And she walks away with two giant stuffed toys in her arms. And then Tyler, Kash and Chord approached her and she's like a little kid showing off her new toys. Arden, Liam and Rad were just looking at her, sighing.
Arden: (points her) That girl just turned 25 today. (to Liam and Rad) She just did, right? 25?
Rad and Liam: (shakes their heads) We're not sure man.
They were having a blast when Liam and Tyler got called in the hospital. Sun sulks over it, but she can't do anything, it's their job to save lives. Arden also left after having dinner at their favorite sports bar to meet other friends. Now Sun is left with Rad, Kash and Chord. They went for just one round of drinks and went straight to the vet to take Holly and Keiko. Sun shrieked when she saw Holly - a brown toy poodle. Holly is reaching over to his dad, but Sun steals him and gives him cuddles and smooches. Poor dog, he seemed shocked. Chord won't stop laughing. And then the other staff brings Keiko out - a golden retriever - on a leash, and Sun giggled. While hugging Holly, she literally sits on the floor to cuddle Keiko. Keiko showered her with wet smooches.
As with the kittens, the Vet suggested that they should stay for at least two weeks there to recover from malnutrition. They also decided to have them adopted since Sun can't take them all home. She's adopting one and Chord is adopting one, too. Kash would love to have one, but Keiko is already a handful.
They called it a night after the trip to the vet. Chord just drove Sun home. Sun is about to sleep when she receives a photo on iMessage.
Rad: <sends Holly's picture>
Rad: Someone says good night.
Sun chuckles. She takes a goofy selfie with her troop - the koala and cat and sends it to Rad,
Sun: My little troop sends their hugs.
Rad: 😸😸😸
And as usual, they stayed up for the next hour bombarding each other with annoying texts and tons of emojis. And the following days after that? They regularly and indirectly check on each other with, of course, annoying texts and lots of emojis. They'd see each other sometimes when their companies are part of the same project. Just like one day in an outdoor MV shoot by the beach. The weather is windy and chilly. Rad parked his car beside a van.
Kash: Oh, Sun's team is heading the shoot?
Rad: (gets backpack from the backseat)(scoffs) Don't play all surprised when your department is in-charge of the production.
Kash: (chuckles)(removes seatbelt) I'm just messing with you. (groans) Ahh, thank God it didn't take me centuries to convince you to come here.
Rad: (turns engine off) I still don't know what I'm needed here for, but I don't think I have a choice.
Kash: Same here bro. It's both a blessing and a curse to be close with the big boss you know.
Rad: We're not close. (steps out)
Kash keeps on laughing at his best friend's blunt attitude. They approach Prod Tent 1 where their team is. The staff greeted them. Rad claims one table as his working station and one of the staff members volunteered to set up his laptop and console for him. He's working on a revision onsite because the artist will not fly directly to Spain after their shoot and he won't have time to drop by JTD to work on the revisions. During instances like this, JTD's CEO sends out his best troop, especially if it's a VIP artist - or entitled ones according to Rad - to directly work on urgent matters.
While the staff member is working on Rad's workstation for the day, he goes out of the tent to check the site, holding a folder and something else in his hand. Kash went out with him to check on the setup and to look for Sun.
Meg: Hey you guys!
The two turn to their left.
Kash: (surprised) Meg, hi.
Meg: Hey Kash! (kissed his cheek) How are you? Hi boss! (hugs Rad and kisses his cheek)
Kash almost bursted into laughter.
Rad: (stunned) Um, hey. I see you're part of the MV?
Meg: (nods) Mm-hm. You know I'm one of the favorites. (giggles)
Rad: (nods) Ah, I see.
Meg: I'm surprised to hear that you guys are coming over. You don't usually go to shoots.
Kash: Oh. I guess we're that popular for you to hear the news about our special appearance here. (chuckles)
Meg: Oh trust me, your team kind of freaked out when they heard the bosses are coming. And some other girls from, what's that studio called again? "Where?House!"? Seems like you're famous out there, Kashy.
Kash: (scoffs) Oh yeah? (smiles) I wonder if Yarra's around. (looks around)
Meg: You player, go steady for once.
Kash: Look who's talking.
Meg: (clings on Rad's arm) Well I'm kinda waiting for someone, you know that. (leans her head on Rad's arm)
Rad and Kash looked at each other.
Kash: Sun! (waves at her)
Sun wrapped things up with JTD's staff, waved and flashed a big smile to Kash with a red nose. She approached the boys and Meg.
Sun: Hey you're here!
Kash: And you're here, too! (hugs her)
Sun: Yeah I was on another shoot when I got called.
Kash: (snorts)(pokes her nose) Hey you, Rudolph. (laughs)
Sun: (scoffs) Loser. I'm cold, okay? I wasn't even supposed to be here so I'm not dressed for the weather. (cups Kash's face) Feel.
Kash: (shakes his head) Oh shit your hands are cold!
Sun laughs. She was about to greet Rad with a hug too, but she saw Meg clinged to him so she's not sure if it's appropriate to give him a hug.
Rad: (in a cold tone) So only Kash gets a hug now?
Kash almost laughed again.
Sun: Oh. Of course not, silly. Hey. (hugs Rad)
And Meg steps aside as Rad claims his arm back. She's wondering who this woman is hugging her long-time crush. Meg intentionally clears her throat so the two break the hug.
Kash: Oh um, Sun, this is Meg. She's part of the dance troupe.
Meg: Lead dancer. (smirks)
Kash: Sorry, "lead dancer". Meg, meet Sun, Where?House! Studios' big boss.
Sun punches his arm.
Sun: (extends her hand) Hi, Meg. (smiles) It's nice to meet you. Oh you were great back there, I saw your run earlier.
Meg: (sarcastic tone) Aw thanks. (shakes her hand)
Then one of Sun's team members come rushing to her, bringing a knitted scarf.
Staff: Sunny! (gives scarf) So sorry, this is all we could find. (frowns)
Sun: Oh this is perfect. Thank you so much. (winks) I'll be there in a few.
Staff: Sure. Hey Rad. Hey Kash. (smiles sweetly)
Kash: Hey. (winks)
Staff: See you guys later.
Rad and Sun chuckled.
Kash: (chuckling) What?
Rad: (sighs)(to Sun) You're really a terrible girl scout. (gives her a white hoodie)
Kash and Meg were surprised.
Sun: Oh yay! (claps) Gimme, gimme! (snatches hoodie and wears it)
Rad chuckles at her cuteness. Now Sun's hair is all messed up with the hood over her head. Rad puts the hood down and clears all those hair strands on her face.
Sun: (sighs in relief) Ahh, I feel better. Thanks. (smiles and scrunches her nose)(wraps the scarf around her neck)
Without saying a word, Rad takes an orange beanie from his jacket's pocket and puts it on Sun's head.
Sun: Oh, it comes with a beanie. (chuckles) Thanks.
Rad smiles.
[Music Bed: Lost by Blake Rose]
Meg rolls her eyes while Kash is smiling like a little boy watching a cute couple. They went about their own business that day. Rad and Kash would go to the shoot area to see how everything is going and Sun crashing into JTD's tent from time to time because the head video editor wants her to throw ideas on how the MV should look. And Rad, even if he's busy working on the music, would steal glances on Sun whenever she's around. And Kash would notice of course. The trio regrouped at lunch and they drove a few minutes to get coffee for their team.
🌙 🖤 ☀
Kiss.
That same night, Rad is in Kash's apartment. They ordered some takeout, bought some booze and crashed on the couch to watch some basketball with the boys - Holly and Keiko. During halftime, they cleaned up and brought out more beer. Rad is busy with his phone while Kash is watching him. Just when Kash thought that Rad's not giving a shit on him...
Rad: (texting) What do you want?
Kash: (stunned) What?
Rad: You keep staring, it's annoying.
Kash: (scoffs) I am not. (looks away and eats chips)
Rad: (looks at him) Do you want to die?
Kash: (scoffs) Fuck you, asshole.
Rad: (goes back to texting) What is it?
Kash: Fine. But don't fuck with me, I want clear answers.
Rad hums.
Kash: What's up with you and Sun?
Rad did not react.
Kash: I told you not to fuck with me.
Rad: We're friends. Aren't we all?
Kash chuckles, shaking his head.
Kash: That wasn't "clear" at all. Come on.
Rad: (puts his phone down) It's not "clear" because it's not what you want to hear.
Kash: (shrugs) Maybe. So. Again. What are you? Aside from regular textmates and part-time colleagues?
Rad: (scoffs) What- are you sneaking into my phone?
As if on cue, Holly barks. Kash glares at the poor dog. He barked more and ran to the door with Keiko. Saved by the barks. The doorbell rings.
Rad: Are you expecting someone?
Kash: Oh, 'must be your brother. I invited him over because I'm the "nicer" brother.
Rad: (scoffs) Asshole.
Kash opens the door and to his surprise, Chord comes with great company.
Kash: Oh!
Rad turns his head to the door to see what the fuss is about. He's about to check on them when he hears a familiar voice.
Sun: (hugs Kash) I swear this kid here needs a friend. (shrieks) Holly! Keiko!
The pups jumped on her like she's a good old friend of theirs.
Chord: Well she's having a pity pizza party on her own so I decided to bring her here. I hope it's fine? (shows pizza boxes) We're bringing pizza. (smiles like a bunny)
Kash: Of course! Come in. Oh your brother's here.
Chord: Oh cool!
Kash: I hope you don't mind, Sun. We're in our cavemen state right now, shirts and sweats and everything.
Sun: (carrying Holly) Oh please, I'm so used to Arden and Tanner in those. (shows tracksuit) I belong. (chuckles)
Kash: Cool.
Rad: (stands) Hey.
Sun: Hey! (hugs him and Holly barks)(startled) Oh! Sorry Holly. Jealous baby are we?
Rad chuckles.
Rad: He wants all the attention so don't go around hugging other people when he's with you. Even me, apparently.
Sun: (to Holly) That is duly noted, cute sir. (gives him smooches)
And so Sun hung around with the boys that night, They watched a movie after the game and the pups won't leave her side. They even played cards after and the losers took a shot. Kash and Chord ended up drunk and Sun, tipsy. Around 1AM.
Chord: (slurs) Sun-hon, I know I brought you here, but I'm sorry I can't drive you home. I mean I can't - literally. (lays down on the couch)
Sun: (snorts) It's okay. I can take a Lyft.
Kash: (slurs) What? No! Rad is fine, he can take you home. Right, Rad?
Rad: Uh, I'd love to drive you home, but I also drank quite a lot. But I'll definitely take you home in a Lyft.
Kash: That's my man! (dives on the beanbag) Ahh, I'm so drunk.
Rad: Kash, can you please make sure my brother doesn't drive home?
Chord starts to snore.
Kash: (snorts) Oh I got this bro. I don't think he's driving anywhere in that state. Sun, I'll see you later okay? (blows her kisses on a different direction) Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!
Sun: Uh, I'm right here, but thanks. That's so sweet. (chuckles)
Rad shakes his head and mumbles. Sun punches his arm to shut him up.
Kash: Oh just catch them! (hugs pillow) Take care, you two.
And just like that, the two fade away to dreamland.
Sun: Are they gonna be okay in here?
Rad: Yeah they will be. (gets their keys) I'll keep these just to be safe. Oh um, I just need to get my wallet and jacket upstairs, is that okay?
Sun: (nods) Yeah, sure.
Rad: Come on. (carries Holly) And this big guy will stay with me first. Keiko, come on. (whistles)
So the two of them locked Kash's apartment and took the lift to Rad's apartment.
Rad: (opens door) Come in.
Sun: Thanks. (smiles)
Holly and Keiko ran inside. Rad's place is very neat. It's manly but soft at the same time.
Rad: Please make yourself comfortable, I'll just grab my stuff.
Sun: Sure. (smiles)(looks around) I like your place.
Rad: Thank you. (smiles)
And Rad went to his room to get his stuff. When he stepped out, he's bringing a hoodie again.
Rad: It's still cold outside. (gives black hoodie) I got your favorite. (smiles)
Sun: (chuckles) I won't say no to that. I swear your brother just pulled me out of the house wearing this. He didn't even care if I'm wearing something warm or not. (wears hoodie) You know what he said?
Rad: What?
Sun: He said "My brothers have enough jackets, I can just grab one for you." (chuckles) That bastard.
Sun's hair is a mess so she can't find the hoodie's neck hole.
Sun: (groans) Ugh, where is it.
Rad chuckles and steps towards her to help her.
Rad: Here, let me.
He's smiling at how Sun can transform from a 25-year-old lady to a ten-year-old in one snap. Her head popped out of the neck hole. Rad is still smiling.
Sun: (sighs in relief) Ahh, better. (fixes her hair) Now my hair.
Rad: (chuckles softly) Ahh, this cute little girl. (fixes her hair)
Sun: (points at him) Ha! You called me cute!
Rad: Well, (nods) you are.
Sun: Told you! (winks and laughs)
Rad: You are annoyingly cute.
Sun: (gloats) I know, I know. (chuckles)(sniffs hoodie and exhales) Ahh, I really love this scent.
Rad: You mean my scent.
Sun: (rolls her eyes) Yeah, whatever.
They both chuckled. They're still standing close to each other.
Sun: Rad?
Rad: (hums) Hm?
Sun: Hug me?
Rad: (chuckles) What?
Sun: Just hug me. Please?
Confused, but he obeyed. Rad wrapped his arms around Sun whose arms were also wrapped around his waist.
Sun: (smiles and hums) Hm. You feel so warm. (leans her head on his chest)
Rad just chuckles and he's so sure he's blushing that time because he can feel his cheeks heat up. Good thing Sun can't see his face. He feels so happy. Sun breaks the hug and looks at Rad.
Rad: (still smiling) What now?
Sun: (smiles) I can feel you smiling. I was right.
She gently pinches his cheeks and lifts them like how she did last time.
Sun: (smiles) You really have a beautiful smile. (taps his cheeks gently)
Sun's smile always gets Rad. It is beautiful and warm and her eyes are sparkling. Sun's hands are still gently patting Rad's cheeks like a little girl when Rad's eyes got locked on her like they always do. Rad's smile slowly fades and it seems like something is drawing her closer to Sun.
[Music Bed: I Make Sparks by Novo Amor]
It wasn't long until he leaned forward and kissed her. Sun's surprised with Rad's lips pressed on hers that her eyes bugged out. But Rad's lips felt soft and warm; his scent, his breath and the taste of whisky on his lips was so intoxicating that she ended up closing her eyes and just cherished the moment.
First were soft smooches, until Rad quickly breaks the kiss, gently shoves Sun's hands that were still holding his face and he slides his hands on Sun's jaws only to go back to kissing her more. This time for real. Sun responds to his kiss and her hands are now holding onto Rad's forearms while they kiss.
Rad loves how Sun kisses him - gentle and sweet, he feels like melting anytime. Sun loves the way Rad kisses her - soft but dominating, filled with emotions. They break the kiss just to shift angles and catch their breaths. Their hearts were beating so fast that time and their lips were just so in sync.
They ended things sweetly with soft smooches. They look at each other and Rad kisses her cheek, her forehead and then he hugs her tight. Still surprised, Sun wraps her arms around him and just rests her head on Rad's shoulder.
Scene and music fade.
🌙 🖤 ☀
Rain: I.
Time skip to a week later at JTD. Tight shot of a folder thrown on the desk of the conference room. Zoom out to Rad sitting on a swivel chair.
Rad: (calm tone) Do I look like a joke to you?
Kash, who's sitting across Rad quietly sighs and closes his eyes, hoping everything doesn't get worse.
Mason: (stammers) No- um- (clears throat) it's nothing like that brother.
Rad: So what the hell is that? I spent sleepless nights finishing that and then you changed every word written in there? What? 'Coz Kai can't fucking spit bars right?
Mason: Well it's not just that. It's just...not his style.
Rad: (yells) Then why the hell did you ask me to waste my time on writing and producing that shit?!
Kash: Rad-
Rad: No, hang on. (stands) I gave him two other sets and he chose this one because it's "the best" according to him. And now, just because his fucking tongue can't spit bars, he wants every word and pace changed? Isn't this why we're doing a collab with Jaze for the rap part? Or did he also scrap that because he thinks he's better going off solo?
Mason sighs.
Mason: The uh...the collab will not push through.
Rad: (scoffs) Fuck. (chuckles) Okay, you know what Mase? Do whatever you want with the song, I am not charging so don't even think about fucking using my name on the credits. (points folder) THIS is NOT my song anymore. (stands) And I'm taking the track back. I'll give it to much more deserving artists in our team.
Mason: Rad, man, (stands) don't do this. We only have a couple of weeks left.
Rad: Do I look like I care? Kai should know how to fucking respect the producers and songwriters in this company if he wants to be respected as an artist. Right now, it's either my original composition or nothing. (walks out)
Mason: Rad. Rad come on!
Kash: Mase just (sighs)...just let him. I'll try to talk to him okay? But please do something about Kai. This is getting way out of hand.
Mason nods. Kash went straight to Rad's studio. He's sitting on the couch, drinking beer.
Kash: (exhales sharply) Okay, what's up? Tell me.
Rad: I don't have anything to say. I've said my piece earlier. You were there, right?
Kash: No I mean what's up with you? You think I didn't notice your attitude this past week? Bro, I know you too well.
Rad ignored him.
Kash: What happened that night?
Rad: (looks at him) What night?
Kash: The basketball-slash-movie night with Sun and Chord. You were acting weird after that night.
Still no response from Rad.
Kash: Totally not work-related bro - I hate to break it to you, but you like Sun. And I mean SO MUCH. I know you too well, Rad. Don't fucking deny it. I know when you're going through something.
Rad: I don't like her.
Kash: (scoffs) Can you not fucking mess with me right now? 'Coz I'm telling you, this is not funny and it's not-
Rad: (yells) I'm falling for her! Okay?! So much that it scares me!
Kash is beyond surprised. He's speechless.
Rad: I didn't mean to, it just happened. She's annoyingly "happy" all the time, her smile drives me crazy and no one's ever done that to me. She's so warm, her mere presence is so warm. She has a very kind heart and she tries her best to annoy me, but I fucking end up smiling and wanting more of her attention.
Kash: (shakes his head) Hang on, okay? Hang on. You like her or "love" her, she's single and I'm positive that she likes you too, then what the hell is the problem?
Rad: I've rejected two hearts, Kash. And it drives me crazy just thinking about how (points his chest) this heart will keep up with me or how long it's gonna make me alive. I am not afraid to die, but I might get terrified of dying when I become too happy and attached to someone. And I've been through a lot. I don't think I can afford another heartbreak if things don't work out between us.
Kash: (shakes his head again) Hold on. You are thinking way too ahead, bro. You are okay, your heart is okay. And why are you skipping the good part and going straight to another heartbreak?
Rad did not argue. Kash has a point.
Kash: Don't you think you're being too unfair? Both to Sun and yourself. (scoffs) Man I'm not sure if you're gonna find another girl who's as amazing as Sun. Look, I swear I would've made a move on her when I met her. I mean, look at her, does she seem like my type? No - even if she looks very attractive. 'Coz you're right, there's this warmth that radiates in her and it's (thinks of a word) enticing. But that night (gestures, stressing on this statement) THAT NIGHT when we first met her in Tanner's party, I saw the way you look at her. And I just mentally hit my head and told myself to back off because she's yours. (shrugs) And I was right. You fucking glow when she's around. That's how well I know you man.
Rad sighs.
Kash: Give yourself a break and be happy. I mean be happy again. There's no one stopping you anyway.
Kash's phone rings. He sighs before answering it.
Kash: (phone) Chord bro, what's up? (looks at Rad) Yeah I'm actually with him, why? Oh you are? (to Rad) Your brother's calling you.
Rad: My phone's dead.
Kash: His phone's dead. Everything alright? No, we're in the studio. No, we haven't seen each other yet since we had our movie night last week.
Rad looks at him, he knows they're talking about Sun.
Kash: (nods) Uh-huh. Yeah. Well, have you tried calling her? What about her staff? Okay where are you guys exactly? Okay we'll head out now. Call me when you find her. Okay, bye.
Rad: What's going on?
Kash: Chord's supposed to be shooting with Sun's team and she's still not in the location. He tried calling her but her phone's dead. He tried calling the studio and they said that she already left an hour ago. They're just about to cancel the shoot because it started to rain.
Rad heard thunder. He runs to his studio's window and rolls the blinds up - it's already pouring outside.
Rad: Shit. (grabs his jacket) Let's go.
They both rushed to the parking lot. Rad's driving and Kash's still trying to reach Sun.
Kash: (sighs) Still unattended. (checks maps) Take a left here.
They're shooting in the woods and on Sun's way there, she got one of her tires flat in the middle of the road by the mountains. She was changing the tire when she heard thunder and in just a couple of minutes, it started to rain hard. She's starting to panic, but she managed to replace the tire with a spare one and she just threw the flat one at the back of her truck. She hurried inside and tried to calm herself down. She leans towards the steering wheel to not see the rain. She turns up the music to not hear the thunder.
Sun: (catching her breath) Stop. Please stop. (pertaining to the rain)(shaky voice) You're okay Sun, you're okay. (crying) You're okay.
A few more minutes later, Rad and Kash saw Sun's truck on hazard.
Kash: (points) There! That's her truck!
Rad parks behind her truck and jumps out, not minding the heavy rain. Sun's doors are locked and windows are moist so he couldn't see her clearly from the passenger's side.
Rad: Sun! (knocks) Sun open up!
She's still leaning to the steering wheel and the music's still too loud. Rad runs to the other side and he sees her more clearly.
Rad: Sun! (pounds window)
Kash also started calling her, they're both soaked in the rain. Sun almost fell asleep, that's why she didn't hear them at first. Finally she looks up.
Sun: Rad?
Rad: Open up!
She unlocks the door, Rad opens it incredibly fast and he holds Sun's face, checking if she's hurt or anything. He's shaking and worried.
Rad: Hey, we're here, you're okay. (wipes her tears) You're okay.
He gives her a peck on the forehead and suddenly gives her a smooch on the lips, leaving Kash shocked, and then he hugs her tight. Sun felt very relieved.
Rad: You're okay. (closes his eyes)(sighs in relief) You're okay.
And then a red F150 parks. It's Chord.
Chord: Hey is she okay? Sun, 'you okay?
Still wrapped in Rad's arms, Sun managed to look at Chord and nod. Chord still did not absorb all the hugging and everything because he was also very worried.
Kash: The rain is getting worse guys. Rad, take her with you, I'll take her truck.
And so that's what they did. When Rad and Sun reached her house, Rad asked her to take a shower already so she wouldn't catch a cold. Meanwhile, the two other boys did the same in Kash's apartment before going to Sun's place to bring Rad some clothes. When they arrived, Rad was in some workout shirt and shorts that he had in his car while waiting for the boys. He's making some tea in the kitchen.
Kash: (removes his coat) God, this weather. (gives bag) Here's your stuff man.
Rad: Thanks. Is Holly okay?
Kash: I took him in. He and Keiko should be fine. How's Sun?
Rad: She's still in her room, probably just finished showering.
Not for long they hear the barn door on Sun's room slide open. She steps out wearing a huge purple hoodie, track shorts and socks.
Sun: Oh hey, you're here. (smiles)
She still has puffy eyes from crying too much earlier. Chord suddenly runs to her and hugs her tight.
Chord: I'm sorry. I shouldn't let you go there all by yourself.
Sun: Hey. (chuckles softly)(rubs Chord's back) It's okay. I'm good. And thank you guys for going all the way there to get me.
Kash: You really got us worried, Sun. (hugs her) Sure you're good?
Sun: (nods) Mm-hm. Sorry, the rain really just freaks me out.
Rad: Hey um, sorry to invade your kitchen, I just made you some tea. (gives cup of tea to Sun) Here you go.
Sun: (takes it) Oh thank you. Oh please no, all of you, please make yourselves comfortable here. (sips tea) Mm, this is good.
Kash: Nothing for us?
Rad: You heard her, make yourself comfortable and just go get yours in there.
Sun snorts.
Kash: What an asshole host.
Rad: Hey Sun, you mind if I use your shower? I could use the guest bathroom, I really don't mind.
Sun: Oh no, I don't think there's towels in there right now. You can just use the one in my room.
Rad: Are you sure?
Sun: (wiggles her hand, shooing him away as she sips her tea) Go. Just go.
Kash and Chord laugh. Sun made some soup for everyone while Rad's in the shower. Rad steps out wearing a black pullover and black shorts. Sun chuckles.
Rad: What?
Sun: I just wonder - how many black fits do you actually own?
The two other boys laughed.
Kash: Oh trust me Sun, these Dean brothers own like A LOT of black pieces. Like their closets have 80% black fits.
Sun: And the other 20%?
Rad & Chord: White and gray. (looks at each other)
Sun: (shrieks) What??? Those are not even colors! (laughs)
[Music Bed: Falling Up by Dean Lewis]
They had soup altogether and the guys had two rounds of beer before going home. The rain hadn't stopped though.
🌙 🖤 ☀