RPG What's A Girl To Do? [PG-SL]

[Kitty]

[COLOR=#006aaf][SIZE=1]Bianca was still a bit shaken from what had happened with Sammy, but at the same time excited and worried. But she knew she couldn't concentrate on that right now. What was most important was finding Leah.

It was annoying not having a car, though she had recieved her license a couple years ago. She walked from the beach to Web Connect, the internet cafe, to The Signal. But Leah was nowhere to be seen. Bianca was already half way to Cafe Lite when she paused to take a rest. All this walking was beginning to get to her, especially since Timber Valley was such a large city and the usual hangout spots were at least twenty blocks away from each other.

Spotting a local bench, Bianca headed over to it.

[b]"Where are you Leah? Seriously.. Making me walk all over town.."[/b] she mumbled as she walked towards it. She saw someone sitting on it, and quieted down, but when she saw the face, she stopped.

[b]"Leah!"[/b]

Leah turned towards her, and revealed a tear-streaked face. But when she realized who it was that said her name, she got angry.

[b]"Oh, it's [i]you[/i],"[/b] she growled, standing up and walking the other way.

[b]"No! Leah, wait up!"[/b] Bianca called after her. She ran up and grabbed onto Leah's arm. [b]"Please don't be mad at me. I can't help it! I didn't even know until thirty minutes ago! And don't blame Sammy either..."[/b]

[b]"Well if it isn't [i]your[/i] fault or his, then who's [i]is[/i] it?!"[/b] Leah shouted back.

[b]"I- ... I don't know... But you can't honestly believe either of us would want to hurt you! And I didn't even think you liked him anyway. You always seemed much more interested in that Alex boy,"[/b] Bianca continued, still not letting go of her old friend's arm. The comment about Alex made Leah blush furiously, but she grew madder still.

[b]"Shut up! Just shut up and leave me alone!"[/b] she cried, forcefully taking her arm back while more tears streaked down her cheeks. She turned and ran off, leaving Bianca frustrated and confused behind her. Bianca attempted to catch her, but ran out of breath in front of Cafe Lite. Deciding she'd give talking to Leah another shot some other time, she headed inside and almost immediately saw Sammy talking to someone at the counter. Sammy spotted her, and the two of them instantly became pink in the face.

He waved at her to come over to them, and she slowly approached.

[b]"Hey B... Oh. Um, this is Alex."[/b] Alex didn't seem to notice the awkward pause while Sammy had spoken, and shook Bianca's hand, but he looked disappointed.

[b]"I ran into Leah outside. She's real mad. She ran off after I tried talking to her.."[/b] Bianca mumbled, looking down at her feet. It was a completely horrible feeling knowing that one of her oldest and closest friends now hated her guts.

[b]"Yeah.. She chewed me out, too."[/b]

[b]"I still don't get it,"[/b] Alex added, making the other two look at him. [b]"I mean.. While we were down at the beach, she seemed happy. Then I mention you and she got quiet. We even kissed a couple times, and [i]still[/i] she's having troubles getting over the two of you being a couple."[/b]

[b]"Oh, we aren't a couple yet--"[/b] Bianca blurted out. When she realized what she had said, she felt her face get extremely red, and couldn't even bring herself to look at Sammy because she was so embarrassed.

[b]"So.. Any idea where she went?"[/b] Alex asked after a while. Bianca shook her head. [b]"Well.. I'm going to go see if I can find her. Hope you don't mind me leavin'.. See you Sammy. Bianca."[/b] He made a motion to Sammy with a sort of 'Good Luck' message to it before rushing out the door.

[b]"Care for a seat?"[/b] Sammy chuckled nervously, offering her the chair Alex had previously been sitting in.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]Leah was walking down a road, it was quiet. She had her crossed her arms and was looking down. At least she had stopped crying, but seeing B made her mad. There had to be someway that she could get the whole situation out of her head.

"Leah!" Some else had called her name, this time it was Alex.

Leah turned around and saw Alex, she opened her arms and embraced him. He hugged her back tightly, trying to make her feel better. Once again his warmth made Leah forget about everything, she just loved being near him.

[CENTER]Simple And Clean - Hikaru Utada*[/CENTER]

"Lets go back to the Cafe. Maybe we can talk about this kay?"

Leah only nodded. They turned around and started to walk back toward the Cafe. Leah had her arms wrapped around Alex's stomach area, he had his arm wrapped around her shoulders.

Once again the Cafe door's bell rang as they entered the Cafe. B shot up and walked, quite fast, toward Leah. It seemed as though she was hesitant as to hug her or not.

"I'm glad your back..."

Leah just nodded, and she went toward where Sammy was sitting. He turned around on his chair to face her. Leah's face was plain, so was his. After a couple of blinks she spoke.

"I don't think we're friends anymore."

"What? Why?"

Leah shrugged, "I might talk to you and stuff - but I don't want to be your friend anymore."

Sammy's expression showed confusion, you could tell he was trying to sort things out. Leah bit her lip waiting for his reply.

"I don't really understand you Leah..."

"What part of I don't want to be your friend don't you understand? It's easy as that. Do you need a Websters English Dictionary?"

Leah turned around, grabbed Alex's hand and walked out of the cafe. Leaving B and Sammy even more confused. Even Alex was hoping this was going to end soon.

*= Play this song and read the rest of post. [/SIZE]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1][B]"So Brandi, you seem really happy. What's going on? You finally get a boyfriend?"[/B] Jeremy teased as she served the plates.

[B]"No. I just...had something go right for me today."[/B] Brandi had to pause to think of an answer.

Her parents just gave a rather confused look.

[B]"Mom, since I didn't have any homework today, do you mind if I go out later?"

"Sure, honey."[/B] Her mother replied quickly.

------------------

After her parents left to take Jeremy back to his hotel, Brandi decided to leave as well. She almost wanted to go and confront Michael, but was too afraid. They had only just met for the first time formally today.

Walking toward The Mall, Brandi bumped into Kiala. Literally.

Turning the corner, the two accidentally ran into one another.

[B]"I'm sorry, are you okay?"[/B] Brandi asked, holding her shoulder.

[B]"Yeah. What about you?"[/B] Kiala asked.

[B]"I'm fine."

"Phew. Well, that was a way to say hello."[/B] Brandi chuckled. [B]"Where are you headed?"

"I was just on my way to The Mall."

"Me too!"[/B]

[B]"Let's go together then."[/B] Kiala invited her.

After walking a little more and discussing school, Brandi decided to ask Kiala for a little help.

[B]"Do you mind if I ask you something?"

"Sure, go ahead."[/B] She nodded.

[B]"What if...you like this boy, but you've only just met for the first time and you want to possibly go to the Dance with him? Should you ask him, or wait to see if he'll make a move?"

"Hmm...that's a tough question."[/B] Kiala nodded, putting her hand underneath her chin as to think.

-------------

OOC: Tag, Hug Monster. Hope that helped.[/SIZE]

[SlowChemical]

[SIZE=1]Hitomi sat on her bed finally home. She was tired and wanted to go to sleep. She wanted nothing more but to sleep and listen to music. Yet she knew that was not going to happen. Not with her older sister and younger one hanging around.
Her older sister barged in her room ?Hi-to-mi?.? Her sister sang.
?What Mimirue?.? Hitomi said bitterly
?Well I think your big sister has to know where you were. You didn?t go straight home?? Mimrue chimed
?None of your business?.? Hitomi pouted
?Ahh don?t worry I won?t tell mom and dad??
?Ugh I hate when you call Tim ?dad? It?s disgusting??
?Haha still caught up with that? Don?t worry secret safe with me? Her sister winked and left her room. Hitomi covered her face with her pillow. She felt like screaming at the top of her lungs. Yet then she just attract attention from her family. That was the last thing she wanted to do.
Her little sister walked in holding her favorite teddy bear. She tilted her head and looked at Hitomi. ?What are you doing? If you keep doing that your going to..suf-fur-cat..? Her sister said
?Its suffocate Haraku?? Hitomi said and took of her pillow from her face.
?Doesn?t matter?I?m telling dad you?re here!? Haraku smiled evily.
?Don?t you dare tell TIM!? Hitomi glared at her.
?Watch me!? Haraku ran out the door. Hitomi ran after her. She hated how little kids can run so fast. Haraku ran down the stairs and into Tim?s office.
?DAD! DAD! Hitomi here!? Haraku said to Tim.
?You!? Hitomi yelled and grabbed Haraku.
?Let down your sister Hitomi?? Tim told her. Hitomi slowly obeyed him.
?Now you can go Haraku. Hitomi why don?t you sit down right there?? Tim motioned to a chair.
?Okay Tim..? Hitomi sat down on ther chair not looking at him. Tim winced as she called him by his real name. Yet he felt by now he should get use to it. He never got her to say ?dad? or ?father? even ?stepfather? would have been nice.
Tim cleared his throat ? Well how is school??
?Fine just fine..? Hitomi glared at him ?Let?s cut the small talk! If that all your going to do then can I leave??
?I was just trying to get closer to you Hitomi?I?m a bit worried you know. I got the right as your father??
?You mean my stepfather! My real father is dead.You know the big cloud in the sky. Don?t you dare think you have a right?? Hitomi pouted. Tim was shocked at her outburst. He tried his hardest to get closer to her. Yet Hitomi kept pushing him away. It has been like this for so long. His wife has told him that Hitomi is always been that way. He wished he could at least help break that shell Hitomi made around herself.
?Hitomi?? Tim started
?I be leaving I got homework to do. You know they give me that everyday?? Hitomi got up and left the room. [/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1]OOC: That part where Leah said she didn't think they were friends anymore really screwed me up, lol. I just went through this situation, quite recently, and it's infuriating. But, this is okay, hopefully it'll give me inspiration.

[color=indigo]Sammy was fumming. Never, and he meant, never had he been so angry with a girl.

[b]"What in bloody hell is her problem? She's acting so childishly about this,"[/b] Sammy slapped his hand on the bar, shaking his glass and scaring Bianca.

[b]"Sammy, you can't be angry--"

"And why not?! I've apologized. You've apologized. She's obviously got a thing for Alex. So why should this be such a problem? She should be happy. Why do you and I have to be the ones to struggle with it while she's off making up for it with him?"[/b] Sammy just about clothes-hanged a passing teenager as he pointed sharply towards the door.

[b]"I know this is infuriating, Sammy. But, we did keep it a secret,"[/b] Bianca tried to calm Sammy, holding onto his arm.

[b]"Secrets, huh? She never mentioned Alex to me, did she slip it to you at all?"[/b] Sammy's eyes glistened with a bubbling anger. Bianca stared back, her face flooded with concern.

[b]"I didn't think so. I'm tired of this crap. Here me? Sick of it,"[/b] with that Sammy jumped onto the bar, [b]"Everyone, listen up. My name is Sammy, I'm 18 years old, and I love Bianca with all my heart."[/b]

Sammy pointed down at a now cherry red-faced Bianca. She tried to force a smile and wave, but ended up tugging at Sammy's pant leg.

[b]"Get down from my bar, Sammy. Before you get thrown out,"[/b] Michael urged, nodding towards the bouncer, [b]"Please, I don't want to see you tossed like a rag doll."[/b]

Sammy nodded and jumped down, planting his palms on his face. He felt Bianca's tender hand run up his arm. He looked up at her, pleading not to tell him "This will all be okay". She only rested her face against his shoulder. Even through his shirt, he could feel the intense heat of her cheeks.

[b]"Sorry for putting you on the spot,"[/b] he finally managed.

Bianca shook her head and sat back to look at him.

[b]"Do you want to hang out later? I'm going to go confront her,"[/b] Sammy stood up.

[b]"Uh, I don't know if that's such a good idea,"[/b] Bianca stood also.

[b]"No, it's a brilliant idea. If something doesn't get done, this is just going to fester and turn into a monster. A monster that's just going to eat and devour our happiness, and hers,"[/b] Sammy paid for their drinks, and anyone elses he ruined from jumping on the bar.

[b]"Well, you do what you feel you have to do. Give me a call afterwards, okay?"[/b] Bianca poked Sammy in the chest.

[b]"Of course, be careful going home,"[/b] Sammy leaned in and kissed her on the forehead.

He turned and started down the street. He caught a glimpse of the couple as they exited earlier, and went in the direction they had. He was a bit behind, but his long strided pace made it easier for him to try and catch up. He jumped to look above the crowd and spotted Alex's head. A rush of excitement and adrenaline rushed through him, and in no time, Sammy was trotting in front of them. Leah's eyes glared ice daggers, and if looks could kill, Sammy would've fallen down instantly.

[b]"You want to hurt me some more, Sam?"[/b] she spat, stepping up a few feet towards him.

[b]"You know what, yeah, I will,"[/b] Sammy folded his arms, [b]"Listen, I don't appreciate this attitude you're giving me. But most of all, I can't tolerate it being directed at Bianca. She had nothing to do with this. She had no idea what my feelings were until about an hour ago. So whatever animosity you have towards her needs to end right here. The last thing she'd ever want to do is hurt you,"[/b] Sammy dropped his arm, as if he were ready to pounce, [b]"As for me, I really don't want to have these hurtful and hateful feelings towards you. I want to see you happy, I want to see you laugh and smile."[/b]

Sammy placed his hands on her shoulders, softening his tone of voice.

[b]"It upset me when you said I lied to you about Bianca. How could I lie if you asked me today, and I told you the truth? How could I lie when no one else knew? How could I be so horrible for this lying, when you never told me about Alex? Not that it matters now, but the point is, don't hate me for lying--when you do it too,"[/b] Sammy let go, pushing her back slightly, [b]"If you don't want to be friends with me anymore, fine. Whatever. As long as you're happy, I don't care. I just want this hate to end. Bianca wants this to end. And I know, deep inside your stubborn self, you want this to end."[/b]

Sammy took a couple of paces back and turned to walk away. Emotionally exhausted, he rubbed his face with both hands and started walking. He didn't know where he was going, but he hoped it'd be somewhere peaceful.

[i]"Let's go feet. Carry me away..."[/i] [/size][/color]

[Revelation]

[size=1][color=#7D8593]Working furiously to fulfill the desired drinks of the customers inside Café Lite, Michael hadn?t realized that he had stopped to meet and talk with Brandi for the first time in his four years of high school. It wasn?t until everyone held their drinks and he was given a break that he was able to sit back and review his day up until the present moment that he had realized what had just taken place within Café Lite. Michael sat up abruptly and suddenly was in full realization at that moment. He had talked to the girl he dared to dream of speaking with, as if she was an untouched angel that God had sent to him.

?She talked to me. Wow, I can?t believe it. I talked to her. Wait...? Michael thought for a moment and stood up, walked towards the bar again, his eyes in thought. ?I [i]talked[/i] to [i]her[/i]. I [i]talked[/i] to... her. My, oh my, Michael Dean-Arquette, you?ve really outdone yourself today. That?s at least one thing crossed off of your list.?

?What list, Michael?? Michael hadn?t realized that someone was listening to his spoken thoughts, which caused him to look around like a fool. He finally saw who it was and stood up straight, scratching his head. ?What?s this list of your?s??

?Hey Bianca.? He took a few steps towards her and leaned on the counter once again, drinking the last of his Honeydew smoothie. ?It?s nothing really, just a mental list, I suppose.?

?Oh. I see. I wish I had a list like that, maybe it?d keep me occupied.?

Looking up, Michael could see that Bianca was tormented with running thoughts that clouded her focus and mind. ?Hey Bianca, why don?t I get you a free drink? You look like you can use it.? She merely smiled and nodded. ?Alrighties then, one White Chocolate Caramel Cappuccino coming right up.?

Bianca was one of the few girls that Michael knew and liked. He felt comfortable with her and knew he could depend on her when he could. It was strange though, with Dameon and Samuel, Michael didn?t have a care in the world. He could care less for whatever the world dished him when he was with those two, let alone what the world wanted from him. Michael was laid-back and happy-go-lucky, yet it wasn?t as if he was reverting back to his preppy, perky self when he was young?n back in New York. Everyone else saw him as the quiet, solitary kid who has a cool demeanor about him, a collected mind, and an avid love for the punk life- masochism, physical pain to replace the emotional pain, the many piercing and tattoos, and much more that is only stereotypical. Only some saw him as Michael Dean-Arquette, a kid who was just like everyone else and those people were his friends.

Returning with Bianca?s drink, he handed it to her and added shaved chocolate on top of the whipped cream. He wanted to see her smile and be careless like she always was. He looked at her then tended to a customer real quick and then went back, wanting to ask her who she was going to the dance with but was shut down before he could.

?I?m wondering Michael, who are you going to the dance with or who do you want to [i]take[/i]??

This came as a big shock to Michael. He wasn?t prepared for anyone to ask that question, let alone someone who knew Brandi. He blinked a few times and played his usual cool self. ?Not sure. I?m still running through my options. Why??

?No reason.? When there was clearly a reason for this question. Bianca noticed the time and raised her cup of White Chocolate Caramel Cappuccino and said her good bye to Michael. ?I?ll see you later, Michael. Thanks for the drink.?

Michael watched her leave and exhaled deeply, it was a bullet he just dodged from Bianca?s question. He shook his head and went back to work, watching the several customers leave as well as the sun setting, turning the afternoon into dusk. He then had another realization, if he couldn?t tell Bianca who he wanted to take then could he even admit his feelings to Brandi? There were millions of situations racing through his mind, not even one could predict what the future brought and this brought even more anxiety to Michael, all the more.

[i]?What if I can?t say a word? Would that still be enough? What if I choke and do something wrong? Would she still like me? Should I bring me to the table or should I bring a piece of me? I can?t do this... can I??[/i][/size][/color]

[2010DigitalBoy]

[COLOR=Purple]?You?ve got to be assertive!? Kiala said, slamming her fist into her hand. She tried to look tough as if to seem enthusiastic.

?Really?? Brand responded, a bit thrown off my Kiala?s sudden response.

?Yeah!? Kiala said, a bit smile spreading across her face as she prepared her inspiring speech, ?You gotta give it all you got! Show him how great you are! How can he turn you down when he sees how awesome you are!?

?Oh, I?m not all that?? Brandi said, slightly embarrassed. Kiala put her hands on Brandi?s shoulders and gave her a stern look.

?Don?t ever say that! You?re a beautiful, smart, courageous girl! If you?re in love with someone you can?t put yourself down you gotta boost yourself up and take charge! You love him and he must know! Show him you?re the best!?

?I?m? the best??

?Yeah!?

?Yeah? yeah, I am the best aren?t I!?

?Yeah!?

?And I gotta show him!?

?Yeah!?

?So? how do I do that??

?Um? Yeah?? A sweat drop formed on Brandi?s head.

?How about we go to the mall now and figure all this out later?? Just then Kiala realized what to say.

?Wait! Okay, here?s the plan. How well do you know this boy??

?Um? not? really? at all?? Brandi said blushing.

?Alright then! Where is he right now??

?Working? over at Café Lite.?

?Perfect! Okay, here?s the plan. Sit down at the counter and get him talking. Start with just a basic ?hi? and then examine him for any sign of interest. Maybe an ipod or something and ask him about it like ?hey what songs you got on there?? He?s bound to have something you like. So get him talking about music and before you know it you?ve sparked a conversation! You?ll know what to do from there!?

?Thanks, Kiala! I better go.?

?Good luck!?[/COLOR]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1][CENTER][I]Should I do as Kiala said? I want to...so badly, but what if I seem too assertive? No, what she said is right. I have to show that I have some confidence. If I screw it up, I can just...admire him from afar.[/I][/CENTER]

Brandi debated on whether or not she should return to Café Lite. There were, as always over the past few days, a million questions running through her head. But she knew that she had to make a decision. With the dance coming up quickly, and her own feelings about to burst, Brandi had to do something.

[B]"I'll go."[/B] She nodded.

---------------

Sighing heavily before opening the door, Brandi was about to take her leap of faith.

[B]"C'mon Brandi. You can do this."[/B] She shook her head in reassurance. [B]"I can talk to him again. It'll be okay."[/B]

---------------

[B]"Back again?"[/B] Michael asked, seeming rather surprised at Brandi's reappearance as she approached him at the bar.

[B]"Yeah. I was just wandering around and decided to come back."[/B] She smiled.

There was a short silence between the two, and Michael looked around quickly. The room was nearly empty.

[B]"So, we're in the same classes, yet we've never spoken."[/B] Brandi hesitated. [B]"Strange, isn't it?"[/B]

[B]"Yes. Rather strange."[/B] Michael agreed.

[B]"I'm sorry. I never properly introduced myself, I'm Brandi Morgan."[/B] Brandi recited, unsure of what to do.

[B]"Michael Dean-Arquette."[/B] He replied.

[B]"Right, of course."[/B]

Again, that silence rose.

[CENTER][I]Should I make my move now? Should I tell him how I feel? Or should I run away?

No...I mustn't run away...

But can I find the words to confess to you...how much I love you?[/I][/CENTER][/SIZE]

[Redemption]

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Thursday - Evening - Near the Park[/b]

Alex watched Sammy walk away from the two of them. [b]Lying huh?[/b]

" Leah, hang on a sec. Stay here ok, then we'll walk home," he said to her. She nodded and sat down on a nearby bench. Alex turned in the direction of Sammy.

" Hey! Wait up a sec!" he yelled. Sammy turned around to see who called him. Alex ran up to him.

" What do you want?" Sammy growled.
" Whoa man! Hold up on the hostility," Alex said, holding up his hands in defense, " I just wanted to say that Leah and I aren't an item, like you and B aren't one either. We only started to get close today. Again, like you and B, only a couple of hours ago. So don't go all Nazi on me or her. I know she's a bit emotional but just ease up on her. I want this to end as much as you do. Oh, and I'm not blaming you for anything either."
" ....Right...."

With that, Sammy walked away, mulling over what Alex had said. Sighing, Alex walked back to Leah. He wondered why she was all hostile over this. Yeah, the guy lied, but did he lead her on or something? Alex ruffled his black spiky hair, trying to think of the solution.

[b]Girls.... you just can't pick what emotion they're going to have next..... some one needs to make a manual for them, so we actually know what's going on....[/b]

Night was falling and the cicadas were making their usual nightly song. Mosquitoes were out and around, looking for a meal. The street lights of Timber Valley flickered on as Leah and Alex made their way home. They didn't talk much. Alex didn't want to say anything to upset her further, but his silence was probably making her more angry. He just didn't know what to do.

They were on the bus, half way on their journey home, when Alex tentatively broke the silence.

" So.... ah.... you're going to come to the dance with me.... right?" he asked, a little hopefully.
Leah gave a weak smile at him. " Of course.... why wouldn't you think that?"
" Just.... today... those things that happened." Alex didn't want to say specifics.
" ...Oh....."
" Just me being stupid. Don't worry. So, what are you going to wear?"
Leah giggled. " You're not supposed to ask a girl that. It's a surprise."
" Damn...... I was hoping you could go in those bikinis of yours," he said with a wink.
This time, Leah laughed out loud. " You're a true Aussie male all right."
Alex strugged his shoulders. " I try my best."

The bus halted at their stop. Leah and Alex departed the vehicle and made their way up the suburban street to their homes. But before they got there, Alex stopped Leah around the corner from their house.

" Look... uh.... I just wanted to say this before we got home..... I know I must sound like an ass for asking this now, but.... uh.... I know I like you and all.... god, I feel stupid asking this.... but, could we kinda... take this slow? I sound like an idiot huh?"

Leah shook her head, smiling a little. " No... I don't mind..."

Alex looked at her seriously now, his blue eyes glittering. " I just don't want to hurt you, you know.... because of today....."

" Yeah.... I understand...." Leah said, looking down to the ground.

Alex sighed with relief and gave her a soft hug. " Thanks. I just didn't want to say in case your mum heard. I just don't want her to go all Nazi on me, that's all."

Leah laughed. " Yeah.... I didn't think about how'd she react..."

" Yeah, me going out with the girl next door... sounds so cliche, it's not funny."

" Well.... night Alex..."

" Night Leah." He gave her a small kiss on the cheek before they headed towards their separate homes. Alex took out his house key and let himself in. Switching on the lights, he dumped his surfboard and his school bag on the sofa before taking a shower and starting to cook dinner.

As the pasta boiled away, Alex sat down in his boxers and thought about the dance tomorrow. He was no good with clothes.

" I think I'll have to ask Leah if she can come over and help me out. I wonder if her mum will let her, if she tells her we're going to be going together to the dance. Heh. And I must ask her what her favourite flower is."[/color][/size]

[Revelation]

[size=1][color=#7D8593]Silence was something Michael became used to, since it was something he lived with for so long. It wasn?t intentional or even unwanted, it just happened to be there. Yet, this silence was something he didn?t want, it was awkward and it added uneasiness to the atmosphere when there was already a slight discomfort since Michael had this heavy feeling for Brandi.

[i]Come on, Mikey-boy. You can do this, just say something. Find out what she likes, or what she doesn?t like, or whatever. Just find out something about her. Come on, Mikey, what did dad teach you?[/i]

?No matter how hard or how many times life hits you, don?t let it knock you out in the ring.?

?Excuse me?? Brandi looked at Michael, wondering if he had said something to her under his breath. ?I?m sorry, did you say something??

Shaking his head, Michael inhaled slightly and popped out one of his earphones and walked back to Brandi, knowing this time that he had to take on this ordeal that life conjured up, show that he won?t be a quitter and let it knock him out of the ring.

He smiled the smile that only came up every few moments, where his dimples showed, his pearl-white teeth shined, and it was all that the girls awed about back in the days when he smiled in New York and here he was, smiling that same smile to the girl he only dared to dream about. ?It?s nothing, just reminding myself something that I have to do.?

?You know, this?ll sound really weird but... you have a beautiful smile. Has anyone told you that before?? Brandi complimented, but at the same time thinking she couldn?t believe she had just said that to Michael.

Chuckling, Michael replied, ?If you don?t count my mother as anyone, then no. Not many people have told me I have a beautiful smile. It always either about my dimples, my teeth, or otherwise. Thanks for the compliment.?

Shyly, Brandi folded her arms on the counter of the bar and stuck one hand out, drawing swirls with her finger, looking down as she quietly said ?You?re welcome.? Michael watched her as he wiped down the other side of the bar, something sparkling in his eyes as he did. He looked down as well.

Café Lite was beginning to close and everyone had already headed out, save Brandi and Michael. Donny and the rest of the crew had left for somewhere else other than Café Lite, leaving only Michael and Brandi inside the smoothie shop, lit with interesting colorful lights and booming with music always disapproved by adults, rebelled with by teenagers, and mainly used in young areas populated by teenagers. Café Lite had been his second, well perhaps third after his first job, since his arrival upon moving to Timber Valley. Café Lite was probably the reason why he felt so comfortable enough to talk to Brandi. He began to round up his work he was intended to do when it came to closing up Café Lite and took off his apron but before he came around to sit next to Brandi, he turned around, asking Brandi what she wanted to drink.

?Hot Chocolate would be nice.?

With a smile, Michael began to make a batch of hot chocolate for the two of them. Once finished, he added a small amount of vanilla and chocolate, as well as whipped cream and added a shaving of chocolate on top. He then opened the small entrance to the back and came around to sit next to Brandi, handing her the hot chocolate. She replied with a thank you and the two sat, drinking and warming up to each other as their drink warmed them. It wasn?t until long the two began to laugh with each other and tell one another their small stories about life and what it brought them. Michael felt a real connection with Brandi, something he longed for in years after his father?s death and his distancing from people. He?d never been real with anyone, not even Dameon and Samuel and those two were probably his closest friends, except for Brandi Morgan. Michael knew at once that he had to ask her.

?Hey, Brandi?? Michael put down the cup as she looked at him. ?I have a question to ask you.?

?What is it??

With a sigh, Michael looked into Brandi?s eyes and asked, ?Will you go to the dance with me tomorrow night?? He surveyed her face but then suddenly played his cool and apathetic self once more, ?If you don?t want to, that?s cool. I was just wondering and...? Quickly picking up his drink, Michael looked ahead and drank some more.

?I would love to.? A soft and desired reply had escaped the beautiful lips possessed by Brandi. Michael turned to her and blinked a few times. ?I?d love to go to the dance with you, Michael.? There was nothing he could say or at least there nothing in his mind that he wanted to say at the moment. He was flabbergasted at the fact that Brandi had just accepted his invitation to the dance. Brandi looked at him and surveyed his face, wondering why he hadn?t said a word. ?Michael? Is something wrong??

Now attentive, Michael realized he was still sitting next to Brandi. ?What? Yeah, I?m fine.? He cleared his throat and checked the time. ?Wow, I think we should get home. We?ve been for over an hour.? Getting up, Michael made sure to double check to lock the doors and windows, turn off the lights and machines, put up the chairs, and whatnot, but most of all to take out the money from the cash register and place it in a safe. Surveying the room once, Michael opened the door for Brandi and closed it and locking it as he exited the store.

?Well, I guess it?s time for us to part. See you at school??

?I?ll see you at school.? Brandi turned to leave but heard Michael?s voice. ?Would you like a ride home??

?That?d be great, thanks.?

And thus the day ended with Michael driving Brandi Morgan home, the polar opposite of himself yet the girl he could only dream of. He was a happy man and she was a happy girl, yet to Michael it was more than happiness, it was something else, something he could never describe in words alone.[/size][/color]

[Sinistra]

[SIZE=1]Brandi sighed with relief and disbelief at the same time as she closed the door to her apartment. Could her mind let her believe everything that had just happened? It was too surreal for her. Was she really living in this past hour? Was it really Michael that she approached? Brandi had to reassure herself that everything was real.

[I][CENTER]'I can't believe it. I'm actually going to the dance with Michael. This is too good to be true!'[/CENTER][/I]

With that, an unstoppable smile appeared on her face, and Brandi jumped about happily. [B]"I'm going to the dance! I'm going to the dance! And with-"

"With who?"[/B] A voice interrupted.

Brandi's face turned a little red around her nose and she turned around bashfully, it was her mother with a rather satisfied look on her face. And with that, a shy reply followed. Brandi almost seemed a little embarrassed to reveal it. It wasn't Michael at all, but rather her family.

[B]"A boy..."

"I know that, honey."[/B] She shook her head and walked toward her daughter. [B]"But what's his name?"[/B]

[B]"Michael...Michael Dean-Arquette."[/B] Brandi nodded confidently.

[B]"Really? Well that's nice. I'm happy for you Brandi."[/B] Her mother smiled and hugged her. [B]"Have lots of fun, okay?"[/B]

[B]"I will, Mom."[/B] Brandi beamed radiantly.

Her parents had always been so trusting of Brandi, and they always understood her reasons for doing things the way she did. They were almost too good to be true, but no...Brandi was fortunate enough to have been born into this world by a loving couple whose compassion and understanding by far, beat anyone else's in their daughter's opinion.

And now, she was going to the dance with the one boy that she had wished for to even just notice her. Brandi thought she was living a fairy tale.

[B]"Papa! Je vais demain à la danse avec un garçon. (Father, I'm going to the dance tomorrow with a boy.)"[/B] Brandi ran over to her father and hugged him immediately.

[B]"Je suis heureux pour vous. Soyez sûr et ayez l'amusement. (I am happy for you. Be safe and have fun.)"[/B] Her father grinned.

[B]"Ne vous inquiétez pas. (Don't worry.)"[/B] Brandi said as she looked up at him. [B]"Je serai sûr. (I will be safe.)"[/B]

-----------

[B]"I woke up today, thinking it would be just another ordinary day. But who would've known that I would have actually accomplished something wanted so badly so quickly. Kiala was right, it was a good thing that I went back to the Café."[/B] Brandi thought to herself as she sat on her bed in her pajamas, staring out the window towards the streets of Timber Valley.

[CENTER][B]"I always wonder...what will tomorrow bring?"[/B][/CENTER][/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo][i]"Who the hell does he think he is..Eh, whatever. I'm done with this. If Leah wants to hate me, fine. If Alex wants to hate me, fine. I just hope Leah and Bianca make up. I don't care who ends up wanting to kick my rear in the end, I just don't want to drag Bianca into this mess..."[/i]

Sammy sighed heavily. His angered stride soon slowed to a melow saunter. He stood at a street light, waiting for the right time to cross the street. He wanted to see Bianca, but was afraid she'd get upset if she saw the look in his eyes. In any case, Sammy reached into his pocket to grab his cell phone.

[i]"I suppose I should call her, though.."[/i] he thought, dialing Bianca's number.

He waited a few rings and started to cross the road.

[b]"Hello Sammy!"[/b] Bianca's voice perked, [b]"Are you okay?"

"I'll be all right, I suppose. As long as you're okay, I'm fine. You still at the cafe?"

"Well, I'm just about to leave. You going home?"[/b]

Sammy hoped the curve and weaved in and out of the crowd of people.

[b]"Yeah, I'm giong to head home. I was going to stop by the cafe if you wanted me to walk you home."

"Oh, I would love that,"[/b] her voice sounded soft, so soft that Sammy wasn't sure if she was hesitating, or being sweet.

[b]"You sure? I don't want to be all up in your space or anythi--"

"Sammy, I would love it if you walked me home."[/b]

Sammy smiled, he knew Bianca was sincere. Saying his goodbye, he hung up and turned back to trot back to the cafe. [/color][/size]

[Revelation]

[size=1][color=#7D8593]The sweet scent of White Tea and Ginger still wafted around in Michael?s car. It was a scent he would never want to part with. He watched Brandi walk into her house before leaving and as soon as he saw the door close, he made his way out of the driveway and out onto the street.

[i]You?re one lucky guy, Mikey-boy, one lucky guy. You?ve finally got up off of your ass and asked Brandi Morgan on a date with you, ain?t that somethin?? Let?s just hope it all goes down well.[/i]

As Michael made his way past the outlet stores on his right, his phone began to ring Prodigy- Girls, which Michael knew was Sammy at an instant. Instead of having the same ring tone for everyone, Michael, since he was a man of music, decided to download different ring tones for different people or groups and thus, he knew at once that Sammy was calling.

?Hey, what?s up??

?Mikey, where are you? You told me to come by.?

Driving down the street, Michael watched the road confused and suddenly realized that he had and looked all around and made a U-Turn. ?I?m on my way, Sammy. Wait a few and I?ll be there.? Now, Michael was speeding the opposite way towards Café Lite. He had completely forgotten that he had told Michael to return to the Café if he had time and this was all due to his focus on Brandi, which wasn?t bad, it just had made him clear his mind of everything which he loved doing. It was a relief of stress whenever he saw her face or even heard her laugh, and even when she spoke French, in fact, he knew a bit himself after spending a few years in France.

Now arriving at the parking lot of Café Lite, Michael saw that Sammy took a seat on one of the outside patio chairs that Café Lite had set up. Sammy had to shield his eyes when Michael?s car lights turned to high beam, blinding his eyes. With a smirk, Michael stuck his head out of the window and called out to Sammy, who began to walk towards his car and open the door. Upon getting in, Michael pulled out of the parking lot and sped down the street, not knowing where to go next.

?Where do you want to go? You look like you could use some R&R; clear your head or somethin?.? Michael looked to Sammy, who rolled down the window and placed his elbow on the open window and let his head rest in his hand, he sighed and shrugged. This gave Michael a signal to go anywhere he felt would help, mainly anywhere that wouldn?t remind him of what had happened today. ?A bite to eat then.?

[center]+++++++[/center]

Sitting in one of the local restaurants in Timber Valley, Michael looked to Sammy who was still had a preoccupied look on his face. He leaned back in his chair as the waitress brought them water and took their orders, but all the while, he still looked to his friend, who looked as if he had gone through a great ordeal. Sighing, Michael threw a piece of his napkin at his friend and this made him turn with a raised brow. Michael merely shrugged, throwing his hands up saying that it wasn?t him. Sammy, once again, looked out the window and this made Michael throw another piece of napkin, making Sammy look to him again, this time with a raised brow then a laugh.

?Now there?s the Sammy I know. Hey, aren?t Quincy and I supposed to be the brooding ones among your friends?? Sammy?s laughter had suddenly stopped and he coughed. At once, Michael put two and two together, creating part of the puzzle that Sammy had become. ?Listen, you know I don?t like to pester and poke my nose into people?s business...?

Shooting his friend a glare, Sammy cut in, ?Then don?t, Mikey. I?d rather not talk about it.?

?[i]But[/i], you look like you could use a friend right now. So, I think I will pester and poke my nose, since it?s my specialty, is it not?? Michael smiled a goofy smile and Sammy couldn?t help but chuckle. ?Well, don?t kill me if I?m right but... does this have anything to do with Quincy and Bianca?? Then quickly he said, ?I don?t know if they?re the same problem or if they?re two separate but it seems like you still got a problem with the two or something.? Michael leaned closer, ?Is it the ?or something???[/size][/color]

[Kitty]

[COLOR=#006aaf][SIZE=1]OOC: This might be confusing, so just to let you know, my post is set [i]before[/i] Revelation's.
---

Bianca waited quietly outside the cafe, leaning against the window as the sunlight faded away and the streetlights buzzed to life. Sammy had walked her home several times before, but now it seemed like a huge deal. She was quietly flipping out, hoping she wouldn't embarrass herself or say the wrong thing or hurt his feelings. And she knew he was angry about Leah, and probably wouldn't want to talk about it, but she wanted to know what had happened.

[b]"Hey,"[/b] Sammy spoke into her ear, making her jump. She turned and saw him laughing.

[b]"Sammy! Don't [i]do[/i] that!"[/b] Bianca shouted, though she was giggling while play hitting him. As he fled from her strikes, he stuck his tongue out at her and she gave him a glare.

[b]"But it's so fun. And besides, you do it to me, too, you little sneak"[/b] Sammy replied, tickling her sides.

[b]"Yeah, yeah,"[/b] she yawned, waving passively. [b]"C'mon. If I get home late, I'll get in trouble again."[/b] Grabbing Sammy's hand, Bianca rushed off towards her home, pulling him after her.

[center]~~~[/center]

About a block and a half away from Bianca's house, Sammy began chasing her around like he normally did, poking at her sides and making her squeak. Laughing and giggling, they ran around the sidewalk until they were two houses down from hers. Bianca, who was wearing Sammy's jacket because she was lacking her own, slowed down until she had come to a complete stop. Sammy kept walking before checking behind him and seeing her leaning against a street lamp.

[b]"Why'd you stop?"[/b] he asked, walking back towards her.

[b]"What did she say? When you ran out after them, what happened?"[/b] Bianca knew he had wanted to avoid this, but it was bugging her. She needed to know.

[b]"Oh.. Um.. Well,"[/b] he stumbled, not really sure of what to say. He scratched his head before sighing. [b]"I.. I yelled at her."[/b] He winced when he saw Bianca's shocked look. She was about to say something when he quieted her with a hand. [b]"I know, I know. I shouldn't have. But there was no other way to get through to her. And I didn't yell the whole time. I calmed down as I blew off steam at her. But.. I scolded her for blaming all of this on you, her for being a hypocrit, and for thinking we don't want her to be happy."[/b]

Bianca was quiet. She was afraid Sammy might have, in his anger, yelled at Leah just to make her feel as bad as he did for this whole thing, but she was glad he hadn't. And another part of her was happy for hearing that he had defended her. The two stayed quiet for quite a bit when Bianca suddenly realized she was right outside her house and she needed to get home.

[b]"Well, I'm just glad you--"[/b]

[b]"Didn't bite her head off?"[/b] Bianca paused for a moment before letting out a laugh.

[b]"Yeah. That,"[/b] she chuckled. [b]"I've got to get inside. Oh, here's your jacket back."[/b] As she began to pull it off her shoulders, he put his hands on her shoulders.

[b]"Don't worry about it. You can give it back tomorrow,"[/b] he smiled. [b]"You ought to be going inside, and I've got to meet Michael back at the Cafe. I'll pick you up at 7:30 for school, so make sure you're awake."[/b] He swiped gently at her nose with a wink.

[b]"Yeah, yeah,"[/b] she replied, sticking her tongue out. [b]"See you tomorrow Sammy."[/b] She walked over to him and put her arms around his neck. He bent down and hugged her back, kissing her on the cheek as he pulled away.

[b]"G'night."[/b][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Citrus]

[SIZE=1]Leah put her book down as she settled into her bed. Her mom entered to room and smiled.

"What?"

Her mother shook her head and walked out of the room. Leah laughed a little bit and turned off her light. Tomorrow was going to be a big day, not just for her, but for everyone.

Your probably thinkings that there is going to be a happy dance where everyone dances the night away. Well... I am sorry to say...

Not everything has a happy ending.


[B]What's A Girl To Do? Episode Two: And It Started With A Bang[/B]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[B][CENTER]Friday[/CENTER][/B]

Leah woke up rubbing her eyes. She was actually up early. Well, she always was on Fridays. Leah quickly took a shower and got dressed. Rushign down the stairs Leah's mother called after her.

"Wheres the fire?!"

" No where! I just wanna get to school."

Her mother shrugged.

Leah walked out of the house, she saw that Alex was exiting his own house as well. They seemed to finish at the same exact time all the time he smiled.

When they took the corner Alex said, "Ready for the dance tonight?"

Leah nodded and smiled. The remainder of the walk was silent. No one talked. They apporached the school and walked up the hill as usual. Leah held Alex's hand, Alex looked at her, you could tell they liked each other very much.

'Well I have Band first today, what do you have again?"

OOC: Sorry for the shortness. I just wanted the day to start.[/SIZE]

[Annie]

[size=1][color=indigo]Sammy's head buzzed with thousands of thoughts. Michael's intense, relentless gaze and throwing of napkins did little to keep his mind focused. Bianca's words still echoed in his ears, Leah's anger still kept his ears warm.

[b]"Earth to Sammy. I'm growing tired of trying to help you out if you're not going to pay attention to me, man,"[/b] Michael threw his arm over the back of his seat and chewed aimlessly on his straw.

[b]"I'm sorry, Michael,"[/b] Sammy finally broke his gaze from the window and folded his hands behind his head, [b]"My problem isn't so much with Quincy. Sure, I'm a bit jealous that he caught Bianca's attention. But that's no reason for me to be all pissed off at him. He's a good guy. My problem lies within Leah and her response to all of this."

"What does she have to do with anything?"[/b] Michael's head tilted slightly, a bit confused and surprised.

[b]"Well, she had a crush on me. I really didn't think much of it ever, before today that is. She basically asked me today if I liked Bianca, like..really cared for her. When I said yes, she went all bananas on me and Bianca."

"No way?"[/b] Michael's straw tipped and fell from his lips.

[b]"Totally, man. You know, I really don't care if she hates and resents me for the rest of her life, but it really upset me that she is being so nasty towards her best friend,"[/b] Sammy shook his head and picked at his fries.

[b]"So, you confronted Leah?"

"Yeah. I did."[/b]

There was a small silence. Michael stared with his "Oh god, what did you do?" face. Sammy groaned and shrugged.

[b]"I didn't go ballistic or anything. I may have raised my voice. But, this whole situation is what's up with me,"[/b] he took a sip of his drink, [b]"What about you? You've got to have better news for me."

"Well,"[/b] Michael stretched and rubbed his fingers on his shirt, [b]"I finally worked the nerve to talk to Brandi Morgan."

"Hah, you dog! It's about damned time. Tell me, you going to the dance with her?"[/b] Sammy chuckled and leaned into the table.

[b]"Oh, yeah. Man, I was so nervous. I am surprised I didn't drop her drink,"[/b] Michael's face flushed a bit.

Sammy laughed softly and looked at his watch. Stretching himself, he stood up.

[b]"Well, congratulations. I think I'm going to go hit the sack,"[/b] Sammy dropped a couple of dollars for his share of the dinner.

[b]"All right, man. Look,"[/b] Michael stood up, [b]"Don't let this whole thing get to you. I hate seeing you upset; it makes me upset. You still going to the dance tomorrow night?"

"Eh, I guess."

"Taking anyone?"

"No, I'm just going to show my face, say 'hi' to some people, then probably leave. I don't know, we'll see how tomorrow goes at school,"[/b] Sammy and Michael exchanged their handshake they'd made up years ago.

Walking out into the busy town, Sammy grabbed a cab and headed home. After the seemingly long ride home, Sammy entered his house as quietly as he could.

[b]"It's late, Mr. Carter,"[/b] his mom's voice came out of the darkness.

[b]"I'm sorry, Mum. Michael paid for dinner,"[/b] he cringed, waiting for the "what are you doing eating that junk?" lecture.

[b]"I see. Well, don't let it happen again,"[/b] his mom turned on the living room lamp and shook her finger at him playfully.

[b]"Yes, ma'am!"[/b] Sammy mocked a salute and ran upstairs.

He entered his room and plopped down on his bed. Without removing anything other than his shoes, he curled up and tried to calm his mind to get some rest. Today was full of excitement, and he knew tomorrow was only going to get even more complicated.[/size][/color]

[Redemption]

[color=#6600cc][size=1][b]Friday - Morning - Before school[/b]

Alex awoke to a strange feeling in his stomach. It was a mix of nervousness and anxienty about this dance. He had a strange feeling things weren't destined to go well at this event. Getting up, Alex ruffled his hair, which was in a right mess. He yawned before walking to the kitchen to make himself some breakfast. He ate quickly as he organised his school bag.

Looking at the clock, Alex then realised it wa too early to go to school. A smile crossed his lips.
" I think it's time for a surf."

Alex changed into his board shorts and grabbed his board from the lounge room before taking off down the beach. It was a clear sunny morning - perfect conditions. The swell was great. Paddling out into the water, Alex could feel himself bobble up and down in the water. This was his favourite time of day - when he could surf. It was bliss. Nothing but the sun on his back and the water at his feet.

The water swished around his feet as he waited for a good-sized wave to come around. He calculated the sets and when the one he wanted came around, he started to paddle towards the beach. The wave began to form as it hit the shallower water. The curve of it shaped around, crashing at the end Alex was paddling away from. That sound....

The sound of the crashing wave was music to Alex's ears. He was starting to stand on his board. As the wave curved over, Alex stood up on his board, crouching slightly as he sped down the barrel. It was almost an eerie slience as he glided over the water, his hand brushing the wall of water to his side. This was where he wanted to be, this was his calling.

[center]=============================[/center]

After two hours of surfing, Alex arrived home to take a shower and get dressed for school. He did up his school tie before grabbing his bag and headed out the front door. Leah was heading out her door too when they met up and walked to school.

" Ready for the dance tonight?" Alex decided to ask.

She nodded but remained slient. The rest of the walk to school was silent, although Leah held Alex's hand rather tightly. He looked at her with an expression of affection.

As they approached the school, Leah decided to speak up.

" Well I have Band first today, what do you have again?" she asked, looking up at Alex.
" I have Drama class.... we're supposed to be performing a play in front of the whole school sooon as our final exam. We're starting to audition for the parts today."
" Really? What are you doing?"
" Shakespeare of course. Taming of the Shrew - a modernised version. Like the moive '10 Things I Hate About You'. You know that movie was based off of that play?"[/color][/size]

OOC: Tag Citrus