bitethvhand

[bitethvhand]

Even though Frankie didn't really drink, she loved people watching in bars. Knowing full well that every emotion possible thrived in this environment. Taking a seat on a stool, she took out her small sketchbook and began drawing the bottles that made up the liquor shelf. While her eyes glanced from the colored glasses to blank pages, she didn't realize that someone was close until their voice called her back to attention. "Me?" Pointing to herself, she then looked behind her, realizing that no one else was near. "Of course, you mean me." Laughing softly, she closed the book and tried to think of something to order, but nothing came to mind. "Yeah, I'll take whatever you are drinking, but I'll probably take very tiny sips throughout the night."

open for anyone! (0/3) @cardinalstart location: Breaking Glass Bar at night

Usually Noelle didn't drink but they were feeling lonely and a tad sorry for themselves so here they were now, on their third cocktail of the night instead of their usual routine of sitting in front of the tv, crosswords in hand.

They were about to signal the bartender for another drink when they glanced to the other next to them." Would you like one?"

[bitethvhand]

It'd only been a month since Frankie booked a one-way ticket to Cardinal Hill. The weather wasn't much different from her hometown; one of the big reasons she chose it was because of the equally freezing winters. After taking as many help wanted flyers as she could, she made her way to the park to go through them. Sunny Acres became a frequent spot she visited, not wanting to stay too long at the hotel she called home during the day. She'd get lost drawing until the sun set. Despite looking directly at the person holding the football, she was in no way paying attention to anything they were doing. So when they shouted in her direction to catch, she lost grip on all of the papers in her hand, sending them scattering into the grass. "Shit" she muttered before managing to catch the ball coming her way. Looking down at the mess of job postings, she then looked back at him with furrowed brows. "Since I caught it, you should help me pick all these up." Her face softened, offering a smile, not wanting him to think that she was being rude. The wind carried a paper closer to his feet, and she laughed. "I'll at least take that one."

Open starter for @cardinalstart

Located at Sunny Acres Park

The sun was shining brightly overhead, and Happy felt completely in his element for the first time in a long time. He'd always been partial to the warmer weather, always felt most himself with sun rays beaming down on his tan skin, and today was no different. Having a perfect yet rare mix of free time and extra energy, he found himself at the park, throwing around a football by himself, hopeful that he'd either run into a friend or find fun somewhere else. It didn't take long before he grew slightly impatient, turning to the first person he saw wander by. "Hey!" He called out, "catch!" He threw the football in their direction, hoping to rope them into a game of catch at the very least.

[bitethvhand]

Eden would never get used to not talking to a friend from childhood, someone she had never believed would just stop speaking to her, but at some point, she did give up allowing herself to care. Of course, she gave up a lot of feelings the night before leaving college, so when hearing Luke's name, there was an underlying anger that bubbled from her chest, making her frown. "He stopped responding to my letters and calls. At first, I just kept bugging him, but then I couldn't do it anymore." There was probably something she missed, something that got mixed up when living so far away from each other, but after being assaulted, the ability to ask any real questions about it vanished. "We sent only a few letters back and forth, and then it was just done. He ignored my calls, and the letters went unanswered..." Trailing off, she tried to think of any reason why Paige would be curious about her friendship with Luke. "Wait, why are you asking me this? Did you talk to him?" There was a huge part of her that felt guilty for not saying anything to him when she got home. It wasn't like she didn't know the places he would be, but he also didn't seem to seek her out, so she stayed in her depressed bubble. Ignoring the bigger issues, afraid that if she even tried to look into it, then everyone would know why she came home.

closed starter for eden (@bitethvhand) located at the maplewood inn

One of the biggest reasons for her return to Cardinal Hill was to reunite with her sisters. They held her together. Paige took responsibility for her actions in high school but the truth had been kept tucked behind her tongue. Part of the wrongs she felt needed to be righted was giving the truth to the unknowing third party: Eden. That door had still been locked for the time being, wanting to catch up with her sister before dropping a bomb that size. A lie that colossal needed to be handled with care. It was through being filled in on some of what she missed through their letters and long-distance phone calls that Paige uncovered more than she bargained for. "Wait, rewind," the blonde started giving a backward roll of her fingers. "You mean you haven't heard from Luke in years? How did I not know this? What happened?" Those were only a few of the questions that ricocheted around her skull. Paige wondered if their secret had been prematurely revealed or played a part in their disconnect, wondering what could've happened to break the friendship she'd been fighting behind the scenes to ensure stayed safe.

[bitethvhand]

Being the eldest sister in the Prior family meant that Eden could always tell when someone wasn't really listening. Yet he still seemed to try a little harder than her siblings, and anyone was better than Paige, who would just make it obvious. All of this sounded so weird coming from her, because to Elias, there were no secrets between him and Dorothy. He must've thought Eden was sleep deprived or coming down with a fever; all of this was just rambling. She was also aware that despite her protective feelings towards Dot, this was none of her business. The two of them were in this relationship together, and Eden was very much not involved. Still, she couldn't help but want both of them not to experience a horrible downfall, all because of some silly secret.

Closing her eyes, she quietly decided to herself that it wasn't worth it. There was nothing that Eden could say or do to make the situation any better, so instead she decided to just let it be. He even said that there was nothing that would make him leave Dot, and so she had to believe it. When her eyes opened again, she made sure her shoulders weren't as close to her ears as before. "I know you care for her, and honestly, I think it's just because of the upcoming anniversary that I am even being so weird about this. I promise to keep it a secret, and if you need any help, please let me know." With her panicked feelings a bit more in check, her mind drifted to the good parts of all this, being able to see Dot walk down an aisle and maybe becoming a loving mother. "Do you have the ring picked out yet? I'm sure you already know her size."

Elias listened to Eden but if he was being honest he didn't really know what relevance any of this information had to his life or his plan to marry her sister. He knew that the relationship between Dorothy's mother and her biological father hadn't been a good one but he really didn't feel like he had to heed the caution she put forth. They weren't Dorothy's parents and he didn't imagine them to commit the same relationship sins as they had. Elias and Dorothy had good communication and were honest and open with each other. Dorothy knew the ins and outs of Elias better than anyone else in this world and he felt the same way about her. As far as Elias was led to believe there was nothing he didn't know about Dorothy. His mind was incapable of fathoming that she might be keeping a life altering secret from him that would completely change his outlook on life as he knew it so he simply didn't. So Elias listened and he took Eden's advice with a grain of salt.

"I do," he confirmed when it was finally his time to speak again. He cared for Dorothy deeply and had for a very long time now and he didn't see that changing in his life. He'd already made big sacrifices for this woman and invested a lot of love and devotion he wasn't just going to throw all that away just because someone might not approve due to their own personal hang ups that had nothing to do with him or his partner. "I don't think there's anything that would stop me from marrying Dot," he added. This wasn't a decision that came lightly. He'd watched his brother get married fast and young and was now seeing the consequences of that decision in the wake of the man's divorce. Even if he knew he wanted to marry her almost immediately after they'd started dating Elias was patient and he waited and now finally felt like the right time. "I just think this summer's the right time. We're not getting any younger," he stated though that found a little weird to say to Dorothy's older sister who as far as Elias knew hadn't ever really settled down in life. Still, he and Dorothy wanted to have kids and start a family and a life together and Elias didn't want to wait for that chapter in his life much longer.

[bitethvhand]

Matilda let out a breathy laugh at Athena's quip, furrowing her brows and looking her friend up and down, she took out the mouth guard and nodded. "I've already told many people that with just a few more sessions, you could give me a run for my money." Despite it coming out in a sarcastic tone, it wasn't so far off to say that Athena was better than most. She knew when to duck at the right moment and could throw a hard punch, but she also held back something that Matilda saw many people do in the ring with her. It wasn't until her friend mentioned Sharon that Matty laughed so hard she snorted. "Hey, be nice...actually, no scratch that, her attitude today was outrageous." The woman gave the two of them nasty looks whenever they took the ring after her and proceeded to make snide comments that were hard to fully hear. "People forget I own this place, always expecting a man to be the one who takes care of it all. I know for a fact she wouldn't be gossiping like that if she knew I was the owner."

She wasn't one to flaunt her seniority around, but she at least expected some respect from other patrons. Taking off the rest of her gear and placing it in a locker, she wiped the sweat from her forehead and smiled. "I'm starving, what were you thinking?"

Location: Castillo's Boxing Gym (after class) Starter for @bitethvhand

"I'm just saying, in another life I do think I could have been a prized fighter," Athena joked as she unwrapped her hands and started to pack her gloves up. She hadn't always been the most athletic person but she had found a lot of solace in fitness activities. When she had found the boxing gym after the move, it felt aligned with how she was feeling. She liked the idea of being able to protect herself beyond just magic and Matilda had been a great teacher. "Especially if that Sharon over there is on the other end," she said in a lower voice as the annoying woman in question passed by. "Sorry, I know I shouldn't talk crap about your other students," she teased, nudging her friend before zipping up her bag. "Okay, please tell me you're ready for lunch. I am starving and I am ready to go back to putting my friend hat on," she added and slung her bag over her shoulder. "My treat."

[bitethvhand]

Walking through the picturesque streets of Cardinal Hill, you find Frankie Karmin, the 24 year old unemployed person originally from Alberta, Canada. Living alongside them in such a small town, you know that they're gentle and scatterbrained, but what you might not know is that they are a human, and that they’re hiding something… ― fc; wally baram

CHARACTER PROFILE: Full name: Francesca "Frankie" Karmin Pronouns: She/Her Nickname(s): Frankie, Fran Birthdate: April 16th Age: 24 Zodiac: Aries Magic Status: Non-magic; Human Sexuality: Bisexual/Queer Relationship Status: Single Hometown: Alberta, CA Current Residence: Cardinal Hill, WA Occupation: unemployed artist

PERSONALITY: Positive Traits: gentle, courageous, determined, confident, optimistic, honest, passionate, accessible, aspiring, capable, caring, creative, daring, dedicated, efficient, hardworking, innovative, perceptive Negative Traits: scatterbrained, impatient, moody, impulsive, short-tempered, changeable, fastidious, fussy, overcritical, sarcastic, self-indulgent, sneaky

HISTORY: (TW parental abuse, sick parents, controlling adults, arranged marriage, stalking)

Francesca Karmin had a strict childhood and did everything she could to make it as messy as possible. At a young age, she showed a deep interest in art, always coloring or drawing, even making small plays to perform for her disapproving family. Both her parents were immigrants who made their way to Canada right before she was born. Because of the difference between their childhood and hers, they felt she had it too easy, and that was why she didn't fall in love with the career path they had planned out.

Her parents had many things planned out long before Frankie had any say in them. For one, there was the name she was given, which never felt like hers, so she refused to go by it. Then there was the plan for her to work in the medical field. A wish that her father had placed on her as an infant. To top it all off, they already had an idea of who she would marry and start a family with.

As a teenager, she decided that if she just did what they said and graduated, then it would all be over. She saved up money from every paycheck to make sure she had enough to leave right after she threw the cap in the air.

However, that plan didn't go the way she hoped. Her father got sick a week before her graduation, and the guilt of leaving her parents in their worst moment made her stay much longer than she anticipated.

A few years later, her father was given only a few more years to live. So he and her mother decided to bring up their plans for her marriage. It was when they told her this that she decided enough was enough. The money she saved up was good to keep her steady for a few months on her own, a year if she was frugal. So the night that they had planned for her to meet her new suitor, she ran off to Kelowna, CA.

It was far enough from her family that they would never find her, but it was only a first stop in her trek to find a proper home. There, she met a new group of people who believed in her art and the things she felt she could achieve.

At the age of twenty-three, her mother and would-be fiancé managed to catch up with her, her father passing away only a few months after she fled. She decided that it was best to leave Canada completely. Instead of allowing them to take her back home and marry someone she never cared for, she booked a flight to Cardinal Hill, WA.

PERSONALITY & MORE:

She is very much a weird art girlie, one of her favorite directors is David Lynch, and she could talk about the themes of his work for hours. Kate Bush and Blues music are always playing on her record player at home. Art is important to her; it's the thing that has kept her sane throughout some really tough times. When people do not understand her sketches or paintings, it can hit a little harder than it should.

Frankie is a very gentle and kind person. If you come up to her for directions, she'll do her best to show you where to go, even if she has no clue where it is. When her temper flares, it's normally not in front of others; in fact, she is amazing at hiding her more upsetting feelings until alone and able to process.

Thanks to her strict childhood, she hates being told what to do. Now, in Cardinal Hill, she wants to embrace a calmer side, one where she can go with the flow and not worry so much.

[bitethvhand]

Despite spending many long nights with Tripps, Eleanor still hadn't managed to tell him the whole truth, why she was here, and so forth. Right now seemed like the perfect time, hell, she could even later blame it on her lack of sleep and call it a lie, but the idea of actively lying to him made her feel queasy. So instead of speaking about why she was so tired, she just decided to talk about being exhausted.

Sticking her tongue at him, she did her best to not roll her eyes at his comment. The thing she always loved about him was that he had this ability to make her laugh, despite whatever the current mood. It had been important to her in the quest of finding new friends to find people who didn't seem to mind the real her.

"I'm a simple woman, what can I say?" Nell shrugged, knowing full well he wasn't that upset with her choice. "Maybe on a day when I can actually think, I can give you something better to whip up." Even if the next request was chocolate chip cookies, she would do her best to find something a bit more complicated to the mix.

Plopping down on the stool, she rubbed her eyes before blinking a few times and allowing her vision to clear. Placing her elbows on the island and then her chin in her hands, she smiled weakly at Tripps. "I am never going to tell you that you use too much cheese." Nell giggled before thinking of a time back home. "My mothers waited forever to let me try cheese as a kid, and the moment they did, I never slowed down. They compared it to my coffee addiction, which started at a young age as well." She paused before speaking again, being so tired meant several thoughts ran through her brain at once. "Tripps, do you like kittens? I was thinking of getting one. Maybe having a tiny being cuddling me at night will help with sleeping."

"Allergies are the worst," Tripps stated, emphatically. If only she knew how much he truly related to that statement. "Sleep and hydration, that's my recommendation." Though, he wasn't entirely convinced yet that Nell wasn't sick. She knew her body best, however, so he wasn't going to press the matter right now. If she started to cough, all bets were off.

With a scoff, he claimed, "I always know what I'm talking about. It's high time you realized that, Nell." There was a certain smirk to the lips there, that said he knew how full of shit those words were, too.

"Mac n' cheese?" Tripps dropped his head back on a groan, like she physically pained him with the simple request. "I offer you the world, and you give me back mac n' cheese," the male complained lightly, amused. "But fine, I'll make some of the best mac n' cheese you've ever had, just for you." Here, he booped the end of her nose playfully. "Gourmet mac."

Leading the way to the kitchen, he paused to pull a stool up to the island for her. "Now you sit down, take a load off," he offered. "I'll need you out of the way for this magic." It was more that he wanted her to relax and worry about nothing, since that was the point of this. "The key to gourmet macaroni is — I know this is going to blow your mind — the cheese," Tripps explained, going to the fridge to get what he needed. "This recipe needs four... Now you might be saying, isn't that too much cheese? And to that," his head popped over the fridge door to look at her, "I say no. Absolutely not."

[bitethvhand]

Eleanor took a mental note of the ranch; she'd been wanting to ride a horse for ages, but was terrified of ever hurting one. Ever since she was a child, she reacted poorly to hurting any type of creature. So to hear that she could simply just be with one seemed to be the perfect start.

A commune sounded so nice, the ability to live with people who cared for you so deeply, and also wanted to make the world a better place, or at least that was what she assumed happened in those living situations. Nell would be sure to ask more questions later, but she also knew that he probably got them all the time. Nodding her head, she smiled sweetly at Ocean, thinking of all the family and friends he must've left behind at home. She knew exactly what that felt like, to leave everything you ever knew for Cardinal Hill. "I'm one of those people who like to take a pull-out chair to where the waves hit and then sit there and read. I feel that kinda of peace you talk about." The sound of water had always been relaxing to her; anytime it rained, she'd get the best sleep of her life.

"I know some people like that," Eleanor said quickly before he could feel any more upset about what he had just said. "I think sometimes it's hard to meet someone's eyes. I mean, they can say so much and even contradict what a person is actually saying. I think because of my job, I do my best to look at people's faces and make sure I'm getting the whole picture." Placing her hand gently on the top of his, she shook her head. "No, no, I'd still love to get ice cream. You aren't being a downer; you are just being honest with me. Which is nice since we just met." In her line of work, she knew many people who lied straight to her face, only hoping to make things easier on her, but she appreciated and loved honesty the most.

"Yeah...I kind of already started adding to my winter wardrobe," Ocean told Nell. "I figure if I start now, I'll have a good amount by the time it starts getting cold again." Nodding at Nell, he confirmed, "Yeah, I work there too. And I think they will. A lot of people who come there are actually new to riding, and we make it work. But if you're nervous, you can always come and just meet them, maybe brush them a little. Sometimes people feel better about it if they do that first."

When Nell laughed, it didn't feel like she was making fun of their names. It was more just amusing, and that was something that Ocean could understand. "Well their names are Skye and River, so I think they wanted to continue the nature names. Plus...everyone on the commune is pretty nature-focused, so we're not the only ones there with names like this." It had always made Ocean feel like he belonged on the commune with a name like his, so he had never really felt self-conscious about his name - except for when Aaron used to make him feel that way. Not wanting to think about him right now (or at all), Ocean just focused on Nell and their conversation. "Yeah, it can be dangerous," Ocean told her. "You have to respect the ocean because...well, you could die." There was no point pretending that wasn't the case. "But if you're careful, it can be really peaceful. You know how people think that when they look at the stars? That's how I feel about the ocean."

"I'm the opposite," Ocean told Nell. "I'm better with names. I think it's because - " Ocean stopped abruptly because he realized what he was about to say would make him sound stupid probably. But he'd already started, so he needed to finish now. "I tend to look down a lot," he explained sheepishly, doing just that now. "I don't look at people's faces as much as I should." Ocean was blushing again, and he didn't say anything for a moment, taking the time to get past the moment. Shrugging, Ocean was still looking down when he disagreed quietly, "I really don't." Now he looked up at Nell, saying, "It's okay if you don't want to get ice cream anymore. I know I'm being a downer."

[bitethvhand]

"How's the weather up there?" His voice, followed by that silly grin, felt as if it could be coming from another time.

But the weather quickly brought them back to reality. Nathan wasn't saying this in the chilly October weather. Instead, it was one of the first hotter days of the summer, her hair the only thing still wet from her swim only a few minutes ago. He, of course, managed to show up during lunchtime, the slowest part of the day for Nadia. So there was no way for them to avoid someone she wanted to both wanted to scream at but also wanted to kiss until unable to breathe.

The last time Nadia looked at him from this angle, they would climb down the ladder quicker than they were able to say hi. In autumn, the pool was drained, and the two spent hours in the chill air skateboarding in the deep end and making out in the shallow end. The memory made her frustrated in multiple ways.

Looking down at Nibs made their knees grow weak and their brow furrow, because she was still angry at him, and she was still infatuated with him. Biting their lip, they took a deep breath before climbing down the ladder and finally meeting his eye. "Showing up on the hottest day of summer seems cruel." Moving the whistle around her neck in between her hands, Nadia let out a heavy sigh. Ever since the breakup, she'd done her best to avoid him, but that was hard in Cardinal Hill. Being the community pool lifeguard made this avoidance even more difficult.

He was lucky it was so hot; it flooded her logical senses and made her brain fuzzy. The breakup happened too fast. Nadia was still deep in the idea that they would be together for much longer, the honeymoon phase, as some would call it. Making each time she saw him a battle between saying, I miss you or leave me alone. As the days grew into months, I miss you was winning.

"I couldn't see my house from there, it's not that high, that would be terrifying."

closed starter for nadia (@bitethvhand) located at cardinal hill community pool

It was starting to heat up which for Cardinal meant a nice 80-degree day. That had been all he ever knew, feeling like he was going to melt whenever I got into the 90s. Not that Nibs was known for wearing a shirt anyway and preferred the warmer months so that he could free the nipple. After skateboarding around for the last hour he'd hit a point where the skin on his shoulders was hot to the touch. There could only be one thing to cool him to his core and his usual slushie wouldn't do the trick, the community pool calling to Nibs while cruising by. The boy sauntered in, hoping there weren't too many kids so that he could jump in with his jean shorts on without worrying about some parent throwing a fit. While that was his goal once he saw who sat atop the lifeguard station every other thought vanished. His feet were moving before he knew what he was going to say and before he knew it Nibs was standing below her with the signature goofy grin she brought out of him. "How's the weather up there?" That was all that came to mind when the time came to speak up. Most of the time words came easy to him but Nadia tongued tied even the most confident of yappers. "Looks like you've got the best seat in the house. Can you see your house from up there?" Nibs didn't want to push his luck, trying to keep it light in the hopes she took the bait and indulged him in a conversation.

[bitethvhand]

Matilda's mother always said she was born fighting, and even when she wanted to deny it, she couldn't. It was something she seemed to just know how to do, and it would help her greatly as she got older. Since leaving her career in professional boxing, Matty hasn't really had any fair fights. Her days had been filled with self-defense training until Danny showed up. The first time the two sparred, she remembered the excitement that bubbled through her body as it went on. It was something she swore she wasn't missing, doing her very best to keep that side of her locked away, but he broke it out of her so quickly, and she never looked back.

A soft giggle escaped her lips at his comment because it was true. A fun tactic she didn't use all the time was flirtation. Saving it for moments like this. Boxing like this had always felt so simple; there were no complications when throwing a good punch or kicking a weak spot. Matilda's life outside of work was complicated; the hours she'd spent doing her very best not to feel were exhausting. Some days, she'd do everything possible to not sit in silence, knowing full well her thoughts would overshadow any rationale she possessed. So to be here fighting with Danny, it felt as if she were weightless.

They fought until they were dripping with sweat, only stopping when it became clear there would be no winner. Taking a seat on the nearest stool in the ring, Matilda began the process of taking off her gear before taking a long gulp of water. After wiping her face and chest down with a small towel, she looked at her opponent with a wide grin. "One of these days, I am going to actually pin you down and win." Sure, the only way to really win a match was to knock the other person out, but she never went that far with anyone. The last time she hit someone hard enough to do that was moments before dashing into Cardinal Hill.

Danny felt the quiet understanding between them. Neither overshared about their past lives before Cardinal Hill, but both knew there was more than what stilled over the surface of who they were as people now. Matilda knew her shit well, and fought like it was second nature. It was why he felt like they were evenly matched as they sparred. And yes, maybe he was a little bit of a flirt. Anyone would have to be blind not to see that Matty was hot, and a fun person to chat up. It was a banter that began when he'd first started coming months ago, and all in good fun.

"Oh shit, you're tryin' to distract me now," Danny said with a broad grin that showed off the dimples on his cheeks when Matty nearly whispered in his ear. It sent a little shiver along his spine, but didn't drop his stance. He knew that double jab was coming, and his fists instinctively came up to his face as he prepared to block and dodge. This was the exact sort of thing he needed after the month he'd been having, to clear his head and just let instinct take over like they'd practiced many times before. Kicking, dodging, blocking, landing hits, and getting pummeled. Expelling the negative energy while honing this skill that had taken a lifetime to cultivate to the point they were at now. It was like a dance, and one the two knew well.

[bitethvhand]

With raised eyebrows, Eleanor shook her head softly, trying to think of the last time she worked several jobs. She worked in the campus library and convenience store her first semester in college. Just thinking about that time in her life caused her body to shiver. Odd jobs had become her specialty in her early twenties, but she never once got the chance to care for an animal. "Ohh, I always wanted to do that! I mean, what's better than being paid to hang out with a furry friend?"

"Yes, please, I already had my all black coffee, and my nervous system can't handle another." Her relationship with caffeine had always been a weird one. As a toddler, she had her first sip of coffee from a grandparent and was hooked. Her mothers kept her away from it as best they could, but once she turned eighteen, they had little say. "I'll take it for here, thank you." Grabbing some money out of her wallet, Nell smiled up at Lori. "My work day is over, so I can finally sit still with my own thoughts."

In her line of work, it was common for Eleanor to focus on herself last. Always making sure that the problems for her clients, friends, or family had been dealt with long before her own. It was a terrible habit, one she needed to break, but since moving here, it got worse.

Lori laughed at the comment remembering that she'd run into Nell earlier that week at the roller rink. Even though Lori was a transplant to Cardinal Hill she felt like she'd worked in town long enough to know most of the faces around this place and a newer addition to this town always stood out like she was. "I'm also dogsitting this week," she added with a laugh not that her and Sunday were getting paid to watch their friends' husky while they were out of town but it was still additional work for Lori this week even though she quite liked having a temporary furry companion.

Lori plucked away at the register when Nell ordered. "Sounds good to me. Do you need room for cream?" Lori asked. "And do you want that for here or to go?" She got all the questions out of the way so she didn't make any wrong assumptions with her order before she made any sudden moves to make her very easy order. Lori loved when a customer didn't get too complicated with things.

[bitethvhand]

"I'm thinking about getting a manual out about how to fix these things and just do it myself." She laughed softly, trying to hide any annoyance she felt at the situation. A hot apartment was not ideal. When getting dressed this morning, Eleanor didn't plan on taking off the sweater until much later in the day, only wearing a white undershirt and no other support. The cool breeze coming from the open windows made this even more obvious. Instead of running into her room and putting on a bra, she just stood there with Xander, allowing this moment to be whatever it may be. He made her feel comfortable in both her body and feelings, always listening to her the same way she did with clients, and she'd be lying if she didn't find his attention exhilarating. For a few years, she shied away from everyone's affection, even her own. The betrayal still lingered from her past relationship, stunting growth, but here she was, vulnerable and unafraid. Excitement bloomed in her chest when he looked at her. Nell had to hold herself still as he did, the sensation causing a tingling chill to crawl up her spine.

Turning to face the bottle and glasses, she took a deep breath and did her best to pour the pink liquid into the foggy cups. Somehow, despite all the heat and flustered feelings, Nell managed to not cause any spillage before looking back at him. "I am not the type of person who is going to shame someone for the giggles." She watched him closely, trying so hard not to stare, but when he lifted his shirt, she couldn't help but hold her gaze. When he walked to the thermostat, only then was she able to come back to earth. Taking a deep breath, she silently thanked the heat because it made it impossible for Xander to tell if she was blushing or not. "If it isn't fixed by tomorrow, then I will probably just have to take the day off and bother them until they fix it."

Sitting down, her fingers laced around the cold stem of the wine glass. The apartment was now at a more mild temperature, but it was hard to tell with her body so aflame. A grin on her face as he sat in front of her and held his own up. "I'm flattered." Nell felt as if she was on a rollercoaster; every time his skin brushed hers, she'd feel that same sensation of being at the top of the lift, but she had no idea when they'd drop. "Thanks for being so cool with the change of plans..." Her voice trailed off, still wanting to know more about the man before her. "So, Xander, tell me more about you. Do you have any pets? I was thinking of adopting a cat, but not sure where to start." She wanted to ask him deeper questions, but also didn't want to scare him off. Taking another sip of her drink, she did her best to keep her cool, hoping that the wine would soon give her more courage.

Once she told him where to go, he knew exactly what turns to take and eased into the drive, grateful for the change of pace. It was the extension of that calm that he had felt the moment she touched his arm. Or really the moment he had stepped into her office. He eased into park in front of her place and let out a low whistle as he followed her into her apartment when he felt the gust of warm air. "What is it about maintenance people that makes them never want to actually do any maintenance?" He shook his head, putting this into the column of why he couldn't trust people to upkeep his home. His trailer always ran well and worked well because he was attentive, not that he would brag about it. His mother would pass out if she knew how and where he was living.

Xander felt himself blush when he realized he was staring at her as she took off her sweater. He had always felt a soft adoration for her but since she had touched his arm earlier it was like she had broken through an unspoken barrier and now they were clearly on the other side of it. Or at least that was how it felt for him. It took him a moment to hear her voice and he cleared his throat as he shook himself back into the moment. "Yeah, yeah there's no rush. I could take a look at things if you'd like. I mean I'm not HVAC specialist but I know a few things he offered, his smile lifting as she brought out the wine. "I am up for it but I have to warn you that I get the giggles any time I have wine," he admitted, the heat getting him a bit so he had to pull up the front of his shirt to wipe his brow, exposing his stomach for a moment. "Let me just take a quick peak," he told her, observing the thermostat on the wall. He knew that the source was probably at the base of the apartment complex and while he wanted to fix this issue, he knew it would probably waste more time than he needed.

"I could also just give a stern talking to your repair guy," he offered as he finally took a seat with her, thanking her for the wine. "Cheers, to an afternoon off with the best company. Don't let Felix know I said that," he teased and gently clinked his glass against hers.

[bitethvhand]

It was nice to see him not react with wide eyes or a slack jaw, or both, at her approach; many men in the past had felt the need to put on a tough act in her presence when she very much wanted the opposite. So her posture softened as he scanned the room. By the time he looked back at her, Matilda had begun to formulate what type of routine he would need. They'd have to start slow if this was his first time; no one ever stayed if they were pushed too far on the first day. Nodding her head as she listened, she then began walking over to the treadmills.

Turning around to face him, she walked backwards, knowing this whole building like the back of her hand, it became a regular thing. "Well, welcome to Cardinal Hill, it's been my home for a few years now, and I can't see myself anywhere else." This was a half-truth; some family members were still missing to feel like a permanent home. "Since it's your first time, you should start with the treadmills. It's a great starting point since it's easier to go at your own pace." When they got to the row of treadmills, she turned and patted one that was recently cleaned. "Did you want to start today or just scope the place out?"

She would be the one to assist? Mateo supposed that would be okay. A woman was less likely to judge him — openly. They were nicer, softer creatures than their male counterparts could be. Her direct manner certainly gave the impression she knew what she was doing, so there wasn't any concern of that.

"I see," he nodded along to her words, listening intently even as he stared about the room. So, they were a case-by-case sort of gym, it sounded; Mateo couldn't imagine the horrific filing system they must have, that kind of paperwork would be a lot to keep track of. But, he rather liked this personalized approached, nevertheless. Not everything would suit him, so it sounded reasonable he should only pay for what he needed.

"Um, no," Mateo admitted, eyes back on her, embarrassed. "I ah, I haven't been to any gym," he clarified, "and I'm new to Cardinal Hill, as well.. I've been here a few weeks now, I guess I am just.. needing to reinvent myself somehow?" There wasn't any certainty in his tone of this. He added weakly, "New place, new me?"

[bitethvhand]

Looking at her watch, Matilda smiled to herself before looking back at Vivian. "Do you wanna come over and watch this with me? I can run to the store real quick and grab some snacks with more flavor. When I get back, I can even help you close out." Being both a business owner and a waitress many times back in the day, she knew exactly how to close out a register. At first, she hated the task of counting all the loose change and crumbled bills, but as she did it more, it became soothing. "Plus, if anyone is lurking near closing time, I can give them a look."

Vivian scanned the VHS tape as Matilda asked her question. "I get off around nine." She said - it wasn't uncommon for her to finish late. Most people liked to rent their movies in the evening. That was definitely something she understood. Going to the video store after dark was a very exciting vibe. "Yeah, the snacks we have here are pretty basic." She said, as she also went to scan the M&Ms. "They're decent enough but there's better options elsewhere."

[bitethvhand]

Nadia had found a comfortable friendship with Alice since her return to Cardinal Hill. The two enjoyed getting a ton of snacks and watching Tales from the Crypt, or on harder days, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Today, she felt in the mood for a mix-up, so Nadia decided to let Alice choose. "I completely get you, now that it's summer, I am at the pool all day. I was thinking we could get our usual snacks and then maybe head to Rewind Rental before my place?" They loved their job as a lifeguard, but it still took a toll on them. Some days nothing happened, she'd sit in her chair under the shade, the whistle dangling from her neck. Even if nothing happened, their eyes were constantly scanning the area for anyone in danger, causing her to only want to be still for several hours after work, laughing with a friend. "What do you think?"

starter for @bitethvhand location: Somewhere around Cardinal Hill

" So-" Alice starts clapping her hands together. enthusiastically." What do you want to do today? It's friday night and my evening is wide open! I'm expecting us to have a fun filled evening, you don't know how much I need this." She sighs a bit too dramatically just to make it obvious." I just need a night to forget about work and everything else."

[bitethvhand]

She watched how he moved, the way he handed the money over as if it was no big deal, it was the confidence he did it with that caused her to stare. In High School, Monte was dealing with so many things that were out of his control, something she could relate to. Maybe that was why he felt so safe to be around, because despite the heavy burden of life, he still managed to find beauty in things. While pouring the cream into her coffee, her mind wandered to what a road trip with him to such a beloved place would be like. The way he would react when seeing all the gardens, she got so lost that she almost poured far too much cream into the cup. Catching herself just in time, she closed her eyes and told herself she could do this.

Once getting outside, he had several questions, ones that would make complete sense for him to ask, yet it still caused her to tense up. When he followed them all up with the choice of not saying a word, that was when it felt as if her knees grew weak. At some point, her family had given up asking these things, knowing they would not get a clear answer. Pursing her lips and taking a quick sip of her coffee, she looked over at him with a soft smile. "They are really happy I'm home. Paige is being a little quiet about certain things, but I can't really push her on it; that never got me anywhere." He knew her bond with her sisters, and Monte often heard of the random fights and makeups that happened throughout her teenage years. "I do live with them, but I'm redoing the garden shed near the inn. It's huge, so I'm trying to figure out how to make it seem like there are actual sections."

Her eyes went back to her coffee as she smiled to herself, shocked that despite saying all of that, she felt no panic. Taking another sip of her drink, she then looked back at him. "When did you and Corey decide to make a band? Are you playing anytime soon?"

⋄⋄ 🍃⋄⋄

He wanted to escape the only home he'd ever known but something always stood in the way. When would've been his chance was when he lost the two most important people in his life then it just never made sense to go. Now Monte looked at the simplicity of his daily routine he thought it might be time to take a trip one of these days. If he had someone to go with him, maybe show him around, that would be the best reason to finally do it. "You've got a deal, I'd love that." His smile hadn't left since seeing her again for the first time, a glow that only she could bring. Monte hoped it wasn't as obvious as he feared it was in high school but he hadn't learned how to talk to girls any better these days, especially her. "I'll need to make a list and probably make sure my car gets some TLC first. I want to see it all." He stopped himself from asking her to come along if she wanted. Don't scare her off, the boy mentally instructed.

"Comin' right up," Monte replied before stepping towards the counter. He passed forward his cup for one of their free refills and asked for a small black coffee with room left for cream just how she wanted it, pulling a five-dollar bill out of his wallet in exchange for his fresh cup. "Keep the change." He waved once taking hold of Eden's drink, giving an appreciative nod to the cashier before hanging off the cup to its rightful recipient to get the cream she desired. This might've been the first time in his life where he didn't worry about money, with what his grandparents left him, a stable job, and a side hustle, Monte could live comfortably. Not that he did, still preferring Instant Noodles to just about anything else. Maybe she'd give an excuse to use the stove, if she ever came over to take him up on that smoking offer, a munchie feast would be necessary. Once Eden prepared her drink to her liking they were out the door which he made sure to hold open for her. Only then did he feel comfortable bringing in more questions for her. "Your sisters glad to have you back? Are you staying with them or somewhere else?" He didn't want to ask too much but Monte couldn't help it to some extent. "Not like it matters, I guess, so long as you're here." The boy tried to laugh off his own awkward nature, averting his gaze to not stare too long, knowing that he could've all day long.

[bitethvhand]

A night with her best friend was desperately needed. Eden had spent several months in a state of numbness, something she had hoped would stick, only for it to crumble instantly in a coffee shop. The winter allowed her to hide under layers of clothing, but as it got warmer, she started to shed all of it. Never seeing Monte during the cold months, only to see him in the glorious heat of spring, felt like a sign, and Eden's feelings grew complicated. It would be a lie to say that she didn't want to just welcome him back into her life. In college, so much was lacking, despite having a good group of friends; it wasn't the same. People like Luna and Monte were missed, both in their own rightful way. Friends and family were far out of reach, and because of that, it felt like a part of her was missing.

Packing all the essentials for a sleepover with Luna, Eden made her way to their house. Even though she was a bundle of emotions, the excitement of knowing she'd be safe in her best friend's presence beat out the harder feelings. Once they opened the door, a wide smile grew on Eden's face, unable to waver as the two hugged tightly. "You'd better have included When Harry Met Sally, you know that one is my favorite, and it has Carrie Fisher." It wasn't lost on her that her favorite romantic comedy was one of two people meeting at one point in their lives, only to fall in love in another. In fact, she was glaringly aware of the whole ordeal.

Standing in front of someone who knew her deepest secret, why she left Emerson in a rush, despite wanting to grow there, caused her chest to tighten each time her anxious brain reminded her of that fact. Tightening her grip on her duffle bag, she walked into the house and took a deep breath. "Luna, I have a lot to talk to you about. I know that wasn't the plan, but you know I can't keep anything from you, and honestly, I need your advice."

✿ Closed starter for Eden (@bitethvhand) in the basement of Luna's home.

‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ The basement was dim except for the soft glow of the TV screen and the flickering lights of a few half-burnt candles that Luna had set out earlier. The air smelled faintly like vanilla and old wood, and the faint buzz of the VCR was the only sound accompanying the lull between previews. A stack of VHS tapes sat nearby, some with their plastic sleeves still intact from the rental store, others with cracked cases and handwritten labels in soft, slanted cursive. One read Ghostbusters (don’t rewind!) and another simply said Swayze, with a tiny heart doodled next to the name in faded ink.

‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Luna was curled up sideways on the couch, blanket tucked around their shoulders like a cape, one sock half-off and the other pulled up to their shin. They were halfway through a grape soda when the doorbell rang, its chime echoing faintly through the house. A grin tugged at their lips, wide and instant, and the blanket was thrown. They practically sprang up the steps, socked feet making soft thumps against the old wood.

‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ There was no need for Luna to have moved their room down into the basement, but something about the space felt safe, secluded, cozy, like a secret nook no one else could claim. The fairy lights that coiled around the stair railing flickered gently, bathing the basement in a soft constellation of yellow glow. They’d spent the afternoon getting everything perfect: fluffing the couch cushions, crafting an honest-to-goodness pillow fort (with proper architectural integrity), and arranging their favorite snacks and drinks into neat rows like offerings at a sleepover altar. They weren’t teenagers anymore, but who said that meant they had to stop acting like it sometimes?

‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ Reaching the front door, Luna swung it open with the same energy they used to when they were younger playing pretend. “Eden!” they exclaimed, voice already rising with joy as they reached forward and wrapped their friend into a tight, bouncing hug. “You are so not ready for the fun we’re gonna have tonight.” They stepped back with a little bounce still in their knees, eyes bright. “I made popcorn, like, three different ways. And I may or may not have created a ranking chart for movie kisses.” A pause, then a conspiratorial whisper: “You’re judging with me, obviously.”