adam-sawyer

[adam-sawyer]

It was just playful—at least, it was back at the academy. That’s what Adam had told himself. There was nothing that was going to come of them because when they came back from that alternate reality where there was no other guy and definitely no Jackson, the truth of it was that Sutton had, for better or—definitely for worse—dedicated herself to him. And while that shameless flirting had continued over the following years, the fact that Adam was across the world made it hard for anything to happen, and when he had finally settled down, Sutton was already firmly camped in Oz. They could never do anything about that teasing, and that only encouraged Adam to… escalate his playfulness. They couldn’t do anything about it—until now.

There were two camps in Easton as far as Adam was concerned—those who wanted to make something of themselves while they were at the academy, and those who wanted to focus on their academics. He couldn’t fault the latter group, but being the first Sawyer to enter the prestigious school and having stumbled into a particularly prestigious set of friends, it felt as if it was expected of Adam to put that effort in. Ultimately, it was a popularity contest, and the photographer was plenty popular.

Adam laughed and bit against his bottom lip, sparing a glance to Sutton as they came to a halt at a set of traffic lights. “Maybe I’ll convince the boys to take our volleyball games on tour… I’m sure I can find a good bar or two in Australia to make it worthwhile.” A few recognisable faces were in the background of Adam’s—slightly homoerotic scene. Lovely had Anthony up on his shoulder, Kit and Zach were on the opposite side of the net too. The rest weren’t familiar—though they seemed plenty friendly with one another as Sutton scrolled through the photos, suffice to say. “I’m sure I could spin it with the gang.”

Nothing that Sutton could’ve said would have topped anything that Adam had said about Sibylla himself—they had their fair share of discussions about her in the years that had passed. Originally Sawyer was sympathetic to his ex to some extent—but that had very quickly worn thin and it wasn’t long before he’d joined Sutton in their colourful descriptors of his once-lover. “You know what Easton’s like, Sutts. Everyone’s heard the tales of despair that follow the illustrious Adam Sawyer—some people like the reputation, but the smart ones know to steer clear of the trainwreck that is me.” Adam’s grin widened for his companion as they’d swung into the underground parking complex for his apartment. “Yeah, well—don’t get too poetic about it, love. I just thought you should hear it in person.” 

Adam pulled his keys from the ignition and wasted no time in pushing open his door, sliding out to open Sutton’s door for her and fish out her luggage. “Let’s get you settled and get something to eat. I’m starving.”

A shameless flirt. That was right. Sutton used to avoid his flirting by passing it away, but now she’d gotten used to firing it back. He used to tell her that there was an alternate universe just for them, no Jackson, no any other guy, but him. She didn’t want to admit it to him, but there weren’t many other guys in her life asides from him. Sutton had her friends, some of those she’d made in Australia, and had even stayed relatively in contact with Devon and Jason. Yet.. out of all them, every single one of them, Adam stayed. Through everything. --and naturally, that meant that the flirting came pretty easily to them.

Sutton couldn’t remember if she’d ever tried to make herself important during her time at Easton. She was pretty sure she didn’t. Her time there was wonderful, half of it spent either drunk or high - or both - but she’d never decided to go for head of house of anything ridiculous like that. Not that it was ridiculous. To her, the idea of Sutton Palmer even trying to do something like that was just.. so unlike her or anything she’d ever think about.

They were close to Easton, now. Sutton recognised where they were and knew the route like the back of her hand. From the airport to Easton, she used to travel back and forth every time she left. Which.. oddly, was a lot. She enjoyed how it felt to be in his car. His Porsche. A roll of her eyes had her thinking about the fact that he’d bought it. Sutton hummed when he said he looked good; it was nice to know that he was still as humble as ever. “I better get that invite. Or at least.. introduce me to your other topless friends.”

Sutton could go on about how much of a terrible person his ex was, but she opted to stay quiet about it. He knew what she thought about it, and she’d completely agreed that it was his ex’s fault for not taking her pill. Sutts would always be careful about that - no unwanted surprises, and everything. “No need to apologise. I think the same.” She muttered, listening to him for a second before glancing towards him. Sutton didn’t know why hearing him happy that she hadn’t met anyone in Australia made her.. happy. “Any competition here for me that you haven’t mentioned yet?” Taking the cigarette from his fingers and placing it between her lips. He’d told her before that he was proud of her, but nothing beat hearing it in person. “You know that means the world to me, right? And all that shit.” Sutton teased.

[adam-sawyer]

Adam had always been a shameless flirt. Facetime never changed that, and when they had both partaken in alcohol, it more often than not took a turn. There were times where it had bordered on just straight up explicit—but that sort of frustration wasn’t exactly ideal when they were near enough on the opposite side of the world from one another on the regular. Nevertheless, that playfulness had been present since the academy between them and he never intended on stopping. The blonde bombshell who sat beside him had earned herself a spot in the Sawyer inner circle; home only to Ollie, Bonnie, Kit and Kaylee when she turned up on a whim. Those precious few were the handful of faces who had kept themselves part of his life—even as they had slowly begun to drift further and further away. Oliver had found himself the love of his life, Bonnie was married—Kaylee had disappeared into the depths of her drug abuse and… who knew where Kit had gone.

Adam however—was one of the more popular boys in Easton. Friends in high places and his shameless whoring of his cooking had made a name for himself. Truth be told, he had left his Drake roots behind at first. Quick to move up that made-up hierarchy of snobby elitists to prove his worth to the Vanderbilts and the Aranults and the Lovelys of the world, and too quick to forget those who had supported him. Fortunately, becoming head of Drake changed all that for the older Sawyer. He made amends—and Drake was all the better for it, or so he’d thought.

They weren’t far now—a few miles at most, and Adam was all too happy to break a few rules when it came to getting home that little bit faster. What was the point of owning a Porsche if you didn’t put your foot down once in a while, after all? Her proclamation stole his attention and a toothy grin pressed wide across his features, taking a cursory glance at just what she’d stumbled upon. “I look good, right? Not to toot my own horn or anything but…” Adam sucked in a breath and laughed, biting against his bottom lip. “I promise the next time I’m topless on the beach recreating that one scene from Top Gun, you’ll be invited. Or I’ll take more pictures.”

“It takes two to tango—but I’m not the one who forgot my pill for the better part of a week…” Adam rolled his eyes and slowed down as Easton came into view on the distant horizon. “Abel’s the only thing of worth that woman’s produced in her life as far as I’m concerned.” Adam clicked his tongue and took a deep drag of the cigarette that Sutton had lit for him. “Sorry, I don’t mean to be so negative,” Adam offered an apology with something of a smile pressed to his lips for Sutton. “Good to know I’ve not got to worry about competition stealing you away back in Oz.” Adam’s inflection threatened playfulness, but there was something else beneath it too—hinting at something more. He watched her out of the corner of his eye and pulled the cigarette from his lips to offer over to her. “I’m proud of you, Sutton. I can’t even begin to describe how good it is to see you clean and away from it all.”

Being with Adam was something she’d thought about, of course it was. Who could blame her? He wasn’t just.. gorgeous, in his own right, but he was Adam Sawyer. He had been her support and her guidance throughout those years, even if they weren’t as close during their Easton days. He’d been her constant, even when he’d whisked himself off for his job. He’d still managed to find time to check in. That was what made her think of him in that way, just occasionally. For now, he was one of her closest friends. The person who got her through. They had their own shameless flirting across the years and the video calls, especially when they’d had a drink or two. He must have known how much he meant to her - if the pure fact she’d flown across the world to see him didn’t show it, then she didn’t know what would. 

Jackson wasn’t one of the more popular boys in Easton, and while Sutton didn’t care for made-up hierarchies, she still knew it. He knew it. And he never helped himself. His actions and words were done first, asked for forgiveness later, or not at all. She had simply found that most of their time together made up for his social-shittiness, though it had started to go downhill, and quickly when it did. While Sutton was more laidback than most people, her feelings were still there, and he played with them like he did his guitar. That was years ago, now. Years. 

Sutton couldn’t wait to get back to his apartment. The plane journey wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t exactly the most comfortable she’d ever been for the fourteen hours it had taken her. She’d brought things to do, things to watch, to listen to-- even work had crept into filling her hours and her stayover. She knew he was speeding just slightly, but she didn’t really care. Sutton wanted to have a conversation with Adam that wasn’t gazing at the side of his face every now and there. She fiddled with the passcode again, a soft smile involuntarily showing on her face as she scrolled to find the photos. When she reached them, and ignored a few others, her eyes widened behind her glasses. “Christ, Adam, when did this happen?”

It suited him, and it suited him well. Sutts had always found him attractive, but time had been far too kind to him. She looked-- well, the same, with signs of aging across her face. She looked a lot fresher than before, as the drugs were rid of within her system, and the Australian sun had suited her. “Thanks.” She spoke softly, never knowing quite how to take compliments. Sutton reached across for his lighter, holding it to the end of the cigarette he’d held between his lips and lighting it for him. “Such a life ruiner, Adam. How dare you.” She grinned, wickedly. The question made her scrunch her nose up, shaking her head and looking upwards. “I’ve had my fair share of casual flings, but no one’s caught my eye in that way. They’re great to look at, don’t get me wrong, but the bar’s been my priority. That and staying clean.”

[adam-sawyer]

Oh absolutely I will, want me to knit a subtle middle finger in there as well so that you know its there but no one else really does? Want me to arrive at the gallery in the worst jumper ever that has no colour scheme whatsoever and is greatly displeasing to the eye?

Go for a tour around the volcanoes, if he slips on a rock then it would be a tragic accident indeed. I will admit though he is reading all of this over my shoulder and has said that he refuses to go on a trip with you darling so I may have to get my hands dirty in more ways than one.

I couldn't imagine it actually, I don't even know why I asked. I wish we had more baby dates for my bird and your little clone. They could have had a love like ours.

I think a subtle middle finger would be a brilliant addition; just so people really know how I feel about them while I'm trying to discuss the finer intricacies of art and rob them of their worldly worth. You can deliver it in the most garish and hideous jumper you can find, I look forward to it.

I can't believe you're letting him spy on our communique, Bonnie. What if he saw all the stuff I said I'd do to you a few messages back? Does he know about the whips and chains? The red room? The exhibitionism? You're really going to have to knock him off now.

My little clone? He's nothing like me. Except in all the ways he's like me. He can cook a mean carbonara too, it's just not as good as mine. I couldn't give him all of my secrets.

[adam-sawyer]

I wanted my daughter to have fun things to wear and pregnancy is boring once your bump gets in the way of tattooing people. I was terrible for a while but I made some weird and wonderful jumpers for her which she wore with pride.

He's come to terms with part of my heart always belongs to you babe. You're so much more than a side piece, we just need to wait for Ced's mysterious accident.

Does he have any mini-Lovely's running around in the wide world or has he decided he has too much love to give. I love that for you, I would also doodle on such an expensive car just for the drama.

I can't wait. I'll have to commission you to knit me a Christmas jumper which fits my usual bah humbug attitude. The gallery's having one of those Christmas jumper days and I don't own one.

He'll have to watch himself walking down stairs. Maybe I should invite him on a hunting trip, or take him on a tour of exotic, remote mountains which he might miraculously disappear on...

Can you imagine Oliver trying to look after a child? I didn't even let him babysit. I can't imagine him trying to look after an infant. And besides—it wipes off, I just like to see how long he goes before he notices. He's had a dick drawn under his left brake light for the better part of a week now.

[adam-sawyer]

I'll knit you a half and half scarf, half Gryffindor and half Ravenclaw as I can't decide what one you'd be best in as you fit into both just so well. No more Hufflepuff slander to me my dear angel, otherwise I shall go feral on you.

Ah he'll understand, I've been calling you my side piece for years that he just refers to you as his husband-in-law now. Though he could have been muttering something else now that I think of it, I don't know why he bothers to try and sensor himself, I taught my little bird the word fuck when she was learning to speak.

Oh definitely, he always did have to do a few work outs after a couple carbs in his dinner from what I noticed from afar. I never really knew Oliver all that well, I pray he is doing well? Well of course Adam, everything I make is a masterpiece.

You've taken up knitting, Ms Richardson? I can't say I ever pictured you with those kinds of needles in your hand, but I respect it. Much cleaner. I've tried picking up a few hobbies but I find that I just spend a lot of money on the fanciest stuff for it and then never actually do it.

I should hope so. I deserve so much more than to be a side piece but I suppose I'll make do for the time being. At least Diggory knows that there's no stopping you from that mad and shameless love you feel for me, Bonnie.

Ollie's been doing well, found himself the love of his life, settling down et cetera et cetera. He's driving a half-million dollar car that I like to doodle on when he's not looking with marker pens. It upsets him greatly.

[adam-sawyer]

I'll always be a Hufflepuff at heart though I understand why you would think Ravenclaw. I'll make you a scarf, what house do you relate to the most? Are you a puff like me my sweet or is our love forbidden?

Ah yes thats true, I don't think it goes well with my first name either. I'll stick with Richardson, or how about Sawyer? That seems like a solid last name.

See, my disguise worked well! Though I believe maybe one of our old friends recognised me which is why I made a quick getaway. Ooh a famouse Adam carbonara? My heart is a flutter. Oh definitely so, what colour is best for you my friend? I'll make sure to bring a canvas so whatever we decide gets pinned is documented for the occasion.

I'm CLEARLY a Gryffondor. Or a Ravenclaw. I've never really put much thought into it, to be honest with you. Maybe I should do one of those tests. I think it'd probably tell me I'm a Hufflepuff and my life would spiral. Not that there's anything wrong with being a Puff, I just didn't think I'd be one.

Bonnie Sawyer has a bit of a ring to it, I won't lie. We'll just have to off your husband. I'm sure he'll understand when you tell him it's for the greater good.

It worked very well. I'd never have guessed it was you anyway if you weren't multicoloured. The special Adam Carbonara draws in many from afar, though I'll have to keep it secret from the Lovelys, we know what Oliver's like when it comes to Italian food. Those carbs go straight to his waist and we'll never hear the end of it. As for which colour—it feels like it'd only be fitting with you that we go something bright and vibrant. Take your pick, dear Bonnie. No doubt it'll be a masterpiece.

[adam-sawyer]

He was a suprisingly good Batman, I liked the edgier side of him in it. I'm glad the Puffs finally got the justice they deserved. I have my yellow and black scarf in these winter months and I am not ashamed.

God who knows, Ms Richarllivun? We'll figure it out, I should probably ask Ced if that actually even happened or if it was a fever dream. I'll bring my film camera.

I wanted to make a purchase and I made sure I was as in disguise as I could possibly be when I did, huge hat with sunglasses and everything. I'm sure that it would be arranged that something of mine is pinned against your wall. I'm in the area at the moment looking after my little bird from afar, she's not herself right now so I may appear at yours with a bottle of vino soon. How is my littlest Sawyer? As handsome and gentlemanly as his father I can imagine?

You know I always took you as more of a Ravenclaw but I could see the Hufflepuff in you too. I have cigarettes, rum and the heater in the Porsche to keep me warm, I don't need a scarf. You're welcome to all of them should you decide to partake.

Ms Richarllivun is a bit of a mouthful, Bonnie. I don't even know how I should pronounce that. Is it Rick-har-lli-vun? That doesn't roll off the tongue well. I think you should stick to Richardson so I can pretend you never got married.

You truly went incognito, I never pay those ladies half a mind, they talk too much and I run out of polite things to say to them five minutes in. As for the little Sawyer boy, he's too busy being infatuated with his beloved to bother talking to me at the moment, though that'll change when I text him that I'm making carbonara for dinner. We can discuss getting something of yours pinned to the wall when you're over for dinner with that bottle of vino.

[adam-sawyer]

Well he's been putting up with me for all of these years so I'm not sure if it's a better fate than that poor Diggory boy at least it was a quick end for him, with me its just prolonged torture. Hufflepuff deserved justice.

I ask that we go for a drive in the porsche, have an adventure for the day and take every and any picture we can. Like flip a coin on whether we go left or we go right.

Well, since our bittersweet ending, I may have been in that gallery and made a purchase.. anonymously of course, I wanted something of my best friend. I have been here there and everywhere darling, I have been guest appearing in tattoo studios across the world. I have a private arts business where it is comission only and no prints so every thing is one of a kind but really.. I've just been my vagabond self. My sweet little bird has flown the nest and I find myself searching for her in the silence.

I suppose death of the dark lord is justice for Hufflepuff in the end, right? Diggory died a terrible death and Edward Cullen was far too pretty for the Potterverse anyway. He had to sparkle to recognition elsewhere and rightfully so. He's also not bad as Batman, I guess.

That could be arranged, Ms Richardson. Or are you Ms Sullivan too now? Ms Richardson-Sullivan? Ms Sullivan-Richardson? This is getting far too confusing. Either way—yes, we'll drive and we'll take plenty of pictures.

Tsk, I should've suspected as much, dear Bonnie. You needn't have made a purchase, though I certainly appreciate your support. If you've ever a desire to hang some one of a kinds—I'm sure I could find a wall to put you your art up against. Should you ever decide to settle down, you know you're always welcome in the neighbourhood. It'd be nice to have you back in my life in a more permanent fixture, love. As for your little bird—I think the youngest Sawyer might have some contact with her, I'm sure I could get him to prod her about speaking to her dearest mother once in a while.

[adam-sawyer]

I know right? Its a mystery wrapped up in the last name my daughter has on her birth certificate. I do hope I haven't screwed her up like my parents screwed me up.

I can't off him that easily, he's pretty to look at, it'll have to be a long game I'm afraid and we'll drive off into the sunset in the Porsche. Deal?

How have you been though my dear friend, did I see your name on a gallery a while back or was that a trick of the light?

Mmm. I recall him sharing the same name as somebody from Harry Potter, is that right? Died in a maze to he who shall not be named? I hope he's fared better than Edward Cullen.

I don't know; I'm a fickle creature, Bonnie. I've played the long con before and it's burned me, now I act on impulse and regret those decisions instead. You can take the Porsche for a spin though if you ask nicely.

You were not fooled, Ms Richardson. There is indeed a gallery, it is doing very well thanks to Oliver and all the other fancy surnames that haunted the halls of Easton. They tell all their other rich friends and they all stop by to stare at art and throw money at me. What have you been up to? Have you found stardom? Do you run a seedy little bar? Are you a stay at home wife who bakes cupcakes on the regular?

[adam-sawyer]

I don't believe I have ever partook in burgundy, I may have to try that. I seem to be matching with my daughter and maybe husband at this moment in time.

I knew I was doing something wrong! It wasn't you at the alter, god damn it, is it too late to have a redo? Ah yes, the fluffy haired boy has tamed his locks since you last saw him.. or should I consider him a man now?

You always have me my dear Adam, you're one I regret leaving behind, but Easton was just too small for me.

This enigma—mystery of a husband has me intrigued, Bonnie. You and your little one have always been two peas in a pod.

These mistakes happen, but you've said 'til death do us part, Ms Richardson. We're going to have to off your other husband first. It's fine, I've had a glow up—and you've just missed my Top Gun phase, you missed the moustache but I bought a porsche and I have a flight jacket.

Easton was too small for me all those years ago, but I find myself settling back into it quite easily these days. Seems the academy is in my shadow wherever I go these days.

[adam-sawyer]

Who would you think it is if I left it a mystery, someone who was just as sporadic as I? You know you would have been my man of honour if it had been a planned ceremony. I have missed you too much to put into words. I know, myself without my coloured hair is a strange image to think of but I've gotten bored as I've used every colour already.

What about burgundy? Burgundy's a nice colour. I would've assumed if it was somebody as sporadic as you, you would have married me, dear Bonnie. But as it stands, I'm fairly certain I've not partook in a Vegas wedding so I can only imagine you found yourself some new fluffy haired boy who showers you with compliments.

I've missed you too, Bonnie. Everyone's come and gone, and yet I remain.

[adam-sawyer]

Marriage is overrated, though I like the sound of Ms so I shall keep that... though I think there may have actually been an impromtu Vegas wedding years ago, I may have to check that. I have seemed to hang up the hairdying tools for a while, I have natural hair at the moment, who would have thought!

Scandalous, Ms Richardson. You with natural hair? I never thought I'd see the day. I've done many stupid things in the name of love but I can't say I ever had a Vegas wedding. Who's the lucky guy or gal? Why wasn't I your man of honour? I won't take it too personally but I want you to know I felt a prang in my heart that I've not felt in years.

[adam-sawyer]

[adam-sawyer]

You knoe I knew an Adam Sawyer once, amazing guy but didn't like hair dye, weird that isn't it? What are your thoughts on it kind sir?

That's a mighty complex topic of conversation there, Miss Richardson. Or is it Mrs Richardson by now? Ms. Richardson Esquiress, perhaps? Hair dye is overrated, especially when some particularly pretty people look so very beautiful with their natural hair colour.

[adam-sawyer]

[adam-sawyer]

It didn’t hurt to think about, though. The thought of them together had crossed his mind several times over the past few years—he’d had some short term partners but with him travelling the world it was hard for anything to ever… stick. Sutton was the one woman in Adam’s life that was constant and that was a blessing in its own right, even more so than Sibylla or Spencer. It wasn’t something they had discussed at all, but Adam was Adam and his playful flirting didn’t stop over facetime, and while he wasn’t expecting anything to come of this trip, she’d flown across the world to come stay with him. If that wasn’t… something, he didn’t know what was.

Well wishes and condolences were sent back and forth and a quiet little hint that when she was done playing sympathetic with Jackson she’d always be welcome to drop by—but nothing ever came of it. The nights came and they went and while Adam never hid his opinion of Sutton’s partner—he wasn’t about to lambast him to her, even if Lovely had offered to run a smear campaign. Jackson didn’t need it; he did it himself. The only redeeming feature Jackson had was that he wasn’t TJ Sales.

He’d intended to make short work of the drive home—the speed limit was something of a suggestion, and while he wasn’t playing it dangerous, the traffic was light and getting back to his apartment and back to Easton was first and foremost. “They’re in there, somewhere…” He murmured in reference to the volleyball photos; gesturing to his phone in her lap. “Keep scrolling down if you’re brave enough and you might stumble upon them.” He flashed her a playful grin and turned his attention back to the road.

There was no doubt that time was kind to Adam—ever since he’d kicked the habit of recreationals, he had put some weight on and turned that into muscle mass and it suited him. “Thank you, Sutts. You’re still as pretty as the day I first saw you.” Adam spoke, reaching to pinch a cigarette from the pack on the dashboard. He’d set it between his lips but didn’t fumble for his lighter just yet. “It is—but she’s still Sibylla. That’ll never change, and I don’t think she’ll ever really get over me ruining her life.” He rolled his eyes, glancing alongside to Sutton beside him. “You not found yourself one of those Bondi Beach lifeguards to shack up with yet? I suppose the bar’s got all of your attention.”

It wouldn’t have worked, not when they were younger. Adam and Sutton, though they shared similarities, were probably not a good match when they were at Easton. They were young, and it would have ended terribly. Sutts was starting to gain her addiction at the time that they were beginning their friendship, and she knew that she would have always ended up at rehab, no matter who else entered her life. She never knew what this month would bring her, but she wanted to spend that time with Adam. They’d grown, they’d matured- mostly. She was sober. And she was proud.

Sutton had never gone to that party. She’d been busy consoling her friend at the time, though sent Adam her good-wishes, however much she never looked at her phone to see if they’d been accepted or ignored in all of his celebration. Kit was a contender, but she’d never admit that poor Jackson had no chance. He never made a good impression on the Drake boys.

Truthfully, she was happy to be in that passenger seat. She’d been dreaming of this moment - the drive back into Easton with him - ever since they’d booked the ticket. “Okay, maybe not always..” Sutton drew herself off, lolling her head around to look at him driving before smiling at him softly. Of course she wasn’t always well-behaved. He knew that. “Volleyball photos? Oh, I have to see those, Adam.” She’d see them, she knew she would. Her eyes remained on his, hidden behind her sunglasses, as she took him in again. 

“You look really good at the minute, you know that?” She questioned, unabashedly. Sutton had seen him over video-calls from time to time, but to see him properly was something else. Time had taken well to Adam. Really well. Mentions of Abel’s mother had her rolling her eyes and glancing back out of the window. She truly was awful to every single one of Adam’s friends and Sutton knew that he wasn’t happy in the end. Abel was something positive that came from their relationship, but even he was a bit of a surprise. So Sutton bit her tongue when he told her that she had mellowed. “That’s good. That’s really good.”

[adam-sawyer]

It was a strange little hypothetical—one he’d considered once or twice many moons ago at Easton. What if it did happen? Truth be told, Adam was too tied up in Spence and Kaylee and just about anybody who would’ve given him the time of day—but Sutton was something else. They were always playful and brutally honest with one another—and the truth of it was that Adam all those years ago wasn’t the same man that he’d become. Too childish, too… everywhere. He wasn’t the foundation that she needed. He was certain they would have had fun together but he had no doubt that it would have ended in heartbreak and tragedy. Perhaps it was better they’d given one another time to grow up.

The Drake competition wasn’t really one, not in the grand scheme of things. His competition was Kit and Jackson—and the latter never really came close. He was popular in his own right, but he wasn’t popular like Kit or Adam, and the Sawyer boy had edged out Kit by a few margin votes. The party he’d thrown upon his victory was a bender that went down in Drake history; and Jackson was a notable exception from their revelry—Jackson and Sutton in kind. He couldn’t really blame her for not showing.

“I’m glad we’re on the same page,” Adam matched her laughter, watching his passenger with that sharp and playful grin of his as they went comfortably beyond the speed limit to make it back towards Easton. She had become a constant in his life and it was a routine that Adam was happy to have, no matter where he was in the world. He would always cut time out of his day for Sutton—especially when she was getting clean. “Even if you’re lying about always being well-behaved.” He teased, shaking his head as he turned his attention back to the road. “I’m just glad you didn’t stumble upon the volleyball pictures…” Adam offered, brightening his grin. It was hard to tell with him if he was being serious about what lurked in the depths of his phone.

He polished off the rest of her cigarette with a deep drag and tossed the butt out the window, wincing at the thought of Sibylla and Sutton’s relationship; he was aware they never really got along, but that had become a bit of a trend with Sibylla when their relationship had started to decline. Jealousy wasn’t a colour that she wore well. “She’s not—okay, she was pretty awful to all of you…” He mused, furrowing his brow. “She’s mellowed a bit now, at least.” He offered as if it was some form of admonishment from her misdeeds. “Probably for the best with Abel on the scene, the last thing he needs is us at each other’s throats all the time.”

Never going to happen. That was what she always told him. It was almost like a challenge, to Adam. Sutton had realised it the moment she said it. The words had made her laugh, and the little alternative universe he’d created just for her always got her thinking, of course it did. What would have happened if she was single and she’d accepted his chat up lines? Truth be told, she fell for her best friend and it was the worst mistake of her life. Even if on the outside, they seemed to be okay, them being together was something that she always regretted. Life would have been better for her at Easton if she’d just agreed to listen to the incredible amount of people that told her it was a bad idea. Her boyfriend had been in love with another, and an extraordinarily beautiful Billings girl at that. She’d never kept in contact with many Easton friends. She wondered what they were doing.

Adam had beaten Jackson to head of Drake, that year. She’d been incredibly happy for her friend, of course she had. Yet she hadn’t the proper chance to celebrate him, for she’d spent most of her time consoling or calming down a broken Jackson. He’d taken a hit to the ego, from what she could remember. A small smile was brought to her lips at the memory.

“Okay, very cliché.” She returned, her laughter ringing out in the car. Adam always had been, but it was what she so adored about him. Sutton was close, but not that close to him. She loved getting to know him more and more over the years, and truthfully he’d been one of the only people to stay with her over time. She couldn’t have asked for anyone else to be there for her, and for him to even create his passcode to be the day they met, was incredibly sweet of him. Small gestures that made her feel special. It was what she loved about her friend. “I’m always well-behaved, so I hope that photo will be sent my way.”

Sutton rolled her eyes at the quote, though the telling smile on her lips ensured him that she was joking. She let the cigarette get taken from her and she let it. It reminded her of the times at Easton where they used to share the last one of the pack, sit and drink, smoke, until the sun came up. “Sibylla’s always a fucking nightmare.” She commented under her breath. Sutton knew of their relationship, but never the ins and outs. He’d spoken to her at times about her, but she knew Adam always deserved better. Sibylla had never taken to Sutton, from her perspective. That was okay; it didn’t make a difference in her life. “That’s really good, Adam. I’m glad to hear it.” She smiled over towards him.