Zion Barnes

“Most people don’t listen with the intent to understand, they listen with the intent to reply."

[sabine-drechsler-deactivated201]

Inside and just outside of 740 was becoming such a stark contrast. Maybe it was insensitive, inconsiderate, but the protesters outside should have made people wonder who the monsters really were. 

Walking across the lobby with a relaxed and confident gait, Sabine was mentally preparing herself. They would most likely be on her once she set a foot out the door, all the way until she got into the car waiting for her. She strode across the lobby, a bag of rolled up yarn in her arms for some kitten photo shoot her project group was assigned to. She didn’t need to notice the man she was walking past until he stood and bumped right into her.

“Oh – no, no, I’m not hurt.” Came her distracted reply as she looked down and searched the floor. “But I dropped these balls of yarn, I should have tied the bag closed. This was bound to happen.” The yarn had rolled away from them, leaving lines of string in their wake. “You mind helping me out?” She asked, pointing to a ball that rolled underneath his legs. 

[zion-barnes-blog]

Yarn. Yarn everywhere. Zion felt horrible about putting a stop to wherever she was going. Kneeling down he began to wrap up the yarn as neatly as he could. “I’m so very sorry, really, I am. I’m just...distracted. A lot’s been going on and...yeah. Sorry. He shot her a smile and handed her the wrapped ball of yarn, reaching for a blue ball that had rolled under a nearby chair. “You’re brave, going out into that mess of people you know. They’re pretty much out for blood if you ask me.”

[naomisnows]

“How old is she?” Naomi asked. “I mean, if you’re planning on having her solely care for the dog, I’d wait until she was in her preteens at least.” Growing up, the care of her pets was often left to her parents. Sure, Naomi walked and played with them but it was her mother who ensured they were fed, had enough water, etc.as Naomi was at school for most of the day. It was only now that she was beginning to appreciate just how much her mother did seeing as she was caring for a dog herself. “The board would kick you out.” She laughed. “You wouldn’t stand a chance and neither would that poor dog.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

“Caitlyn is three. A little young to be watching after a dog if you ask me.” Zion laughed again and shook his head. “I’d be homeless in a second...and I don’t know about you but I am not a fan of sleeping in cars and in my office.” Just the thought of that made Zion want to chuckled. He’d never manage to live that one down if it got out into the papers. There was enough hoopla flying around after his recent interview.

[naomisnows]

“My parents weren’t big on cats either. They liked animals but cats just didn’t do it for them. I think it was because my mom is so protective of the house furnishings that if a cat knocked something over, she’d die. I have to say that I’m not really a huge cat-lover, either. I think they’re cute but I don’t know if I could ever own one.” Naomi shrugged. “I don’t think there’s an age requirement. Like I said, I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have a dog so as long as you think you’re ready or that she can care for it, you’re good to go.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

Zion laughed, feeling good for the first time in what felt like forever. “I think I’ll hold off on the dog part. Not only would her mother kill me, but I’m pretty sure she’s far too young to be taking care of a living creature. Perhaps when she’s older, hmm?” He laughed again, still picturing his daughter holding a leash and toddling after an energetic puppy. A cute sight, but not one he needed in his apartment. “Can you imagine the trouble an unattended dog could get into in my apartment? I’d owe 740 more money than I have!”

[naomisnows]

“I’ve had a dog since I can remember. I can’t imagine life without one.” Naomi admitted. Growing up, she’d always had a canine companion. With her parents being dog lovers as well, there wasn’t a time where Naomi didn’t have a pet. In fact, she often had more than one. “Dogs aren’t for everyone, though. Some people are better suited for cats.” Shrugging off his comment, Naomi smiled. “You shouldn’t be sorry for bumping into them, then. If they can’t accept your apology, don’t waste your time giving them one.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

“My parents weren’t really into cats...or any animals in general. They worked a lot. Although I did love playing with the neighbor’s dog. Her name was Lady and she was the best fetcher...” He laughed, not allowing himself to go down memory lane. “I could never have a pet now. I work too much and Caitlyn is too young to even entertain the idea of taking care of it herself. Maybe when she’s older...how old do you have to be to get a dog? Is there even an age?”

[dach1x1-blog]

Basil quirked his lips downward, arching an eyebrow at what he felt was a cookie-cutter response. “Ok-a-y…well, polite doesn’t mean it wasn’t weird.” He took his notes, frowning to himself as he realized he was going to have to reorganize them by date all over again, and huffed as he stood, trying to fold them neatly back into his notebook somehow. Once that was dealt with he looked up, reached across the space between them and flicked Zion in the shoulder with his fingers. Then he drew back with an exaggerated gasp. “Oh shit, man–you’re not hurt, are ya?” Face drop. “See?”

[zion-barnes-blog]

 The lenience that stretched between them as the guy shoved his papers back into their notebook made Zion’s skin craw. Awkward. This whole damn situation was awkward. And he hated it. He knew it was probably the wrong reaction to have to it, but it didn’t matter. When the guy flicked his shoulder and fawned over him Zion growled. “Were you raised in a barn?” There was no reason to make fun of him. He was just worried. He was just being human. Zion narrowed his eyes and backed up a step. “Allow me to apologize for asking a question. Next time I run into someone I’ll make certain not to double check if they’re hurt or not. Since it’s clearly not something I should be doing.”

[naomisnows]

“Well, poor Momo here has been stuck inside all week so I thought I’d sacrifice a little and take him out.” Naomi explained, her eyes falling to the dog. “Although, after our walk today, I think he’s going to want to stay inside for the next two weeks.” It was clear the dog was tired, having not even the energy to wag his tail. A good thing, really, as it’d meant he’d enjoyed himself. She waved off his comment. “It’s not like you did it on purpose. All of us have done the same thing at one point.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

“As a little boy I’d always wanted a dog but the thought of having to pick up after it was a total turn off...I can’t even imagine having one now. Dogs were made to run free in a yard or something.” Zion laughed, trying to picture himself with a corgi or a poodle in his apartment with Caitlyn. It was a humorous picture. The poor thing would have to be trained to use the toilet! “I’m glad you’re all right with it. I’ve met some people who’d have had my head. People can be so rude sometimes.”

[josephmscott]

Genevieve placed her purse under her arm and then reached out to shake the fathers hand, handshake firm like her father had taught her. “It’s certainly one to remember,” she chuckles, clasping her hands in front of her. “And for a runaway your daughter is pretty cute. At least she’s not like a wanted criminal, and even if she was I’m sure she’s cute enough to be acquitted of all charges.” She always tried her hardest to make things easier on people when she met them, and hoped Zion was getting that kind of vibe.

[zion-barnes-blog]

Her handshake was a good one, no limp fish. A smile thing to be proud of but Zion found he was. “Acquitted? Probably not. With her looks the law would ppull the whole see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil. Because sometimes I wonder if that is exactly how our system works.” Zion laughed and shook his head a little bit. “What’s a pretty woman like yourself doing in here a lone, if I may ask?”

[naomisnows]

Despite the wintry weather, Naomi had decided to take Momo out for a walk. Working all day, the poor dog was often left on his own inside the hotel room. Though she made sure to take him out, it was rare that Naomi did so for a suitable amount of time, usually only long enough to allow him to go to the bathroom. So, finding herself with more time than usual, she bundled up and took him out. Now, approximately two hours after they’d left, both Naomi and Momo were eager to find some rest in the warmth of their hotel room. Not paying too much attention to those around her, she was on her way towards the elevators when a figure stood up and promptly bumped into her. Though not hard enough to lose balance, Naomi’s first instinct was to turn around where she was met with a familiar face. “No, I’m fine. I was more surprised than anything.” She assured him. “You?”

[zion-barnes-blog]

Zion was relieved that he knew the person and that she seemed to take his rough greeting with her in stride. He smiled warmly at her and shook his head a little bit, to clear his thoughts. “I’m fine, just...distracted is all. You’re brave, to be walking your dog out in this cold. I only go outside when I must during the winter...and that’s even when I’ve got three coats on.” He laughed and crossed his arms over his chest. “I’m glad you’re all right though...I should pay more attention to my surroundings.”

[dach1x1-blog]

Basil grumbled some when Zion’s shoulder hit his, knocking one of his arms out of place enough to send the entire stack of papers he’d been carrying to the floor, most of which were notes he’d taken in his ingredient pairing course at school. He bent quickly to try and sweep as many of them into his arms as possible, as he wasn’t sure which one of them had crude doodles of food on them and which didn’t.

When Zion asked if he was hurt, though, he looked up with a brow raised, and a slightly defensive mask on. “Is that a serious question or some kind of jab? It’s not like you knocked me into a dumpster, mate.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

The papers flew everywhere and Zion felt his face flush. It had been ages since he’d actually caused a paper explosion like this. Squatting down he grabbed what he could, careful not to crumple the pages. He hated when people did that. Thanks for the help...but why’d you feel the need to crumple my shit? At the man’s harsh response Zion frowned. How rude. Holding the papers out he shook his head. “I was just asking. It’s the polite thing to do.” A part of him wanted to make a quip about having proper manners but he kept it to himself. The lobby of 740 was no place to start a fight. It’d been in the papers in minutes and he doubted himself or this man wanted that.

[fgrphoto]

[zion-barnes-blog]

3X5E1486 by Felipe G B-17 engine nacelle blueprint

[zion-barnes-blog]

Zion sighed and tossed the newspaper into a nearby bin. Ever since the party crashers all the news had cared to talk about had been him and everyone else in his building. And frankly, it was tiresome. Theories there and theories here didn’t solve the damnable problem! He bit back an angry growl and rifled through his bag for something, anything he could read, that wouldn’t be talking about this fiasco. If only time would pass faster and he could go get the new jet plans. Coming up empty Zion slumped back into his chair and crossed his arms, scanning the room in front of him. The lobby of 740 was nice, but Zion had seen better, and nothing seemed to hold his attention for too long. Giving up all hope of being patient he stood and promptly knocked his shoulder into someone. Disgruntled and a little on the embarrassed side Zion backed off. “I’m sorry. You’re not hurt are you?”

[aisforavril-deactivated20140616]

[josephmscott]

“We all have different points of views,” the blonde woman responded diplomatically. She understood how some frazzled parents would see it very helpful to keep their kids on a leash. Some children certainly acted as if they needed leashes, that was for sure. Oh, she had an adorable smile. Genevieve smiled in response and wrinkled her nose at the little girl, trying to make her laugh. “That’s very kind of her,” she remarked absently. Her attention returned to the man when he introduced himself. “Oh! I’m Genevieve Luca, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Zion. Caitlyn too.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

Zion held out his free hand, balancing Caitlyn on his hip. She was starting to get a little big for it though. He made a mental note to figure out a way to ask Danielle if se thought she was growing up too fast. :The pleasure is mine Miss. Genevieve. Quite a first meeting, no? Chasing down a runaway.” He laughed, at ease. Not only was this place relaxing for him but the ease of Genevieve’s smile made it all that much easier to feel like they were in good hands.

[harlowrenier]

“It’s not selfish to want to find who you care for.” Harlow informed him with a shrug. “Especially if one of them is your daughter.” She added. “Anyway, I’m looking for my friends. I know Livia is here but the other two, I have no idea. I’m sure they’re fine, though. Probably doing better than me.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

“No, it’s not. But it is selfish to just think about myself in this situation. It’s only fair I help you too you know.” Zion’s logic was probably a little flawed but he honestly did feel bad about just focusing on himself and his family. “All right we’re looking for Livia. What does Livia look like? Black dress? Blue dress?”

[loganxcook]

Something in the guy’s tone got Logan’s back up so it was a struggle to keep both his tone level and expression neutral. Sure, he’d been distracted but he doubted it could have been for that long and it was just something in the phrasing that made him want to curl his fists but naturally he resisted. “I’d say I obviously had intentions to move forward, seeing as that’s what happens in a queue.” He gave a slight chuckle in order to lighten any heaviness in his tone. “But if I held you up by getting distracted, by all means go ahead. I’d hate to get between someone and their caffine fix.” Stepping back slightly and gesturing to the space he’d made, he gave him a small smile “All yours.”

[zion-barnes-blog]

Zion’s face softened and he shook his head.He had probably been a little on the impatient side, although that didn’t excuse the man’s stasis. Caffeine was important. “I’m no line cutter, haven’t been ever since I was a kid.” Zion explained. “But I do believe it is customary to move with the queue rather than remain stationary.” He smiled at him, and looked pointedly at the back of the line that had moved a few spaces forward.

[naomisnows]

Unapologetically passionate, it took Naomi a minute to relax. No, she wasn’t wound up but ever the animated woman, she was a little frayed. Additionally, she couldn’t hide her disappointment when he rushed to move the conversation to safer territory. Harvard-educated, Naomi lived off intellectual stimulation and she found friendly arguments/debates to be the best sources of that. He, however, clearly thought otherwise. Nodding, Naomi remained silent for a moment. “Talk about it then.” She shrugged finally. “I just ranted at you about animals, why not give you the chance to get back at me?”

[zion-barnes-blog]

He watched the woman decompress and he took the few moments of silence to drink some of his coffee. Clearly, he was going to need it to keep up with this woman. That was part of his love for engineering. Things moved at a pace he could follow and absorb at the same time. “Revenge is never a good thing you know.” Zion said with a chuckle. “But I’m not so sure you’d like to listen to me ramble on about things either, unless, of course, you’re interested.”

[maximum-charming-blog]

The corners of Poppy’s lips curled upward into a smile and continued until it transformed into a grin. A laugh escaped her mouth as she heard the other person’s response and nodded to that. “To be honest, most of us hardly know how, even the ones who are in the position of doing so.” She began with a shrug. “But my teacher told me once, back in my freshman year, to get involved with politics. She told us to embrace it.” She stated, turning to look at the closed elevator doors. Her eyelids squinted a bit upon recalling her professor’s exact words. “She then added ‘One day, you might not know it, a nuclear bomb will hit you and you still won’t know that it’s a nuclear bomb that hit you, because you simply ignored being conscious.’” She trailed off then shook her head. “Sorry, that was stupid.” The young woman added quickly, before looking down at her feet and turning silent.

[zion-barnes-blog]

And she was off to the races. Zion listened, it was the polite thing to do, but he’d be lying if he said he was eager to be having this strange conversation in the elevator. Things were never dull in this apartment complex. “I don’t think it’s stupid.” Zion muttered, shrugging. The logic made plenty of sense, although the likelihood it would actually work...slim. “I think it’s a little ridiculous though...to think these current politics will continue to work because the sheer force of your will though. The world changes...and it probably will if a disaster like that happens. Whose to say it’s not a sign for a new and better political system?”