#( interactions: ariya chakri langley. )

[nicolemcrtin]

WHO. @ariyacl WHERE. ariya's office

"Sorry for the delay." She hadn't bothered to knock. Something about that text from Ariya had a worrisome feeling growing within her. Even urgent cases hadn't warranted a message like the one she'd received that day, and it seemed as though every force in the hospital was attempting to hold her back from arriving to Ariya's office in a timely manner. "The e.r. is fucked today. You have no idea the sights I've seen. And if this is about that case for the patient with jaundice I'm waiting on the lab reports. Unless you have something new? Is that what you wanted to see me about? Or do you just desperately want my company?"

[ryatnavarro]

TO: @ariyacl

"I think I've been poisoned." Ryat moaned as he sat on the other side of Ariya. A cup in hand, full of something that was supposedly supposed to ease his stomach. He brought it to his lips and took a sip, but immediately gagged at the taste. "That taste like shit." He hissed, looking up at his friend, "You sure this is supposed to help? Or are you just trying to finish the job?" He joked, arching his brow.

[kmadrigalsoto]

Taking her phone back, Kimberly saved Ariya's contact before texting her a simple message: 'hello this is kimberly', so that she could note down her number as well. She looked forward to the lessons and is honestly going in with an open mind. If it didn't work out in her favour, then at least she tried. "A good sign is that I haven't permanently left, so this place has been warming up to me and balancing out that homesickness." If her time at Wilmington wasn't the greatest, then she would have opted for a different place, perhaps country. However, fate made her settle and so far, she didn't feel the need to change that.

"You know, if you somehow end up leaving the medical field, you should think about being in sales or an influencer because your reviews are top tier." mused Kimberly with a light hearted laugh. "Funny enough, I have not been to that zoo. So judging by this description and sheer enthusiasm, it is definitely a must see and on my list." Shrugging, the assistant wasn't too sure if she had explored it like she should and so Kimmie replied with, "Probably not...Honestly I've been sticking to places that I'm comfortable with and know. Although work does have a habit of taking me to spots in Wilmington that I've never been to before."

She handed the phone back, her mind already racing with excitement about teaching someone to surf. "Summer's perfect for learning—warm water, chill waves. You'll love it!" Did she sound like a crazed surfer? Yup. But whatever it took to get someone to love the sport, she supposed. "I'm glad to hear that at least. I wouldn't want you to feel so homesick, you know?" The question about must-visit spots in Wilmington made her pause. She bit her lip, considering. There were so many places she loved, but one stood out. "Okay, you absolutely have to hit up the zoo in Masonboro. It's wild—pun totally intended."

Her eyes lit up as she continued, "It's like… stepping into a whole other world. They've got this Rainforest Realm where monkeys swing right over your head. And don't even get me started on the African Savanna. You'll swear you're on a legit safari. But it's not just gawking at animals. You can feed parakeets—which is way more fun than it sounds—or pet goats if you're into that." A chuckle escaped her. "Plus, they're big on conservation and education. So you leave feeling all smart and stuff." Curiosity got the better of her. "Have you explored much of Wilmington yet? 'Cause I've got a mental list of awesome spots a mile long."

[jaydenlucas]

I don't know about that, Ari. If I didn't know any better I'd be pretty positive hating me is one of your top kinks. I've never had someone hate me so thoroughly, and you know what that means? Lots of passion. Ouch. I'll be sure to cry about that while I sit in my multi million dollar home and count a stack. Nah, I think you and I both know if I wanted to settle down, I could. Oh? Are you offering? Time and place, sweetheart. Well, I'd hate to break this to you, but most women would love nothing more then to fake it with me. In fact -- none ever actually do. Successful, attractive, rich, tongue game on point, as is dick. So, I'm sorry to break your little heart, but I'm a whole damn prize, if I say so myself. And miss all this sass and sharp tongue? Where's the fact in that?

I wouldn't touch you with a ten-foot pole, let alone anything else. And trust me, my 'kinks' are way too advanced for your pea-sized brain to comprehend. All or nothing? More like nothing and nothing. The only list you're on is the 'Most Likely to Die Alone' list. And let me tell you, you're winning by a landslide. The only thing that needs penetrating is that thick skull of yours. Maybe then you'd realize that no woman in her right mind would ever waste her time faking anything with you. Now, why don't you toddle off and bother someone who actually gives a damn about your existence? I'm sure there's a mirror somewhere just dying to hear your sad little stories.

[nicolemcrtin]

"And why not?" With raised brows, the brunette stared at the woman before her; only moments had passed between the name she'd said and then... the story continued. And Nicole hadn't so much as moved an inch. "The therapist?" My therapist–she misses that part out. In an attempt to save herself from the mix of emotions that's flickered over her features, she cleared her throat, bringing the coffee to her lips for a sip. "Well, I'm happy for you." And it's genuine, despite the momentary shock that she fell into. "Okay there are so many things wrong with that statement. Why would it ever be wild that someone wants to be with you? Anyone would be lucky to have you. And you've got to remember that. You're the prize, not him. Don't make me, make you say it with me." A smile was offered to the woman before she's shaking her head at the topic brought up. "Oh and I'm the one playing detective? Please, nothing so exciting. It was Carina and Maggie, actually." And that last statement from Ariya had Nicole's face drop at the realization of what she'd said. "Oh God, no, not like that. Definitely not that."

Ari rolled her eyes, amused by Nicole's enthusiasm. "Whoa, easy there, Detective Nicole. I'm not about to spill all the juicy details," she said, sipping her coffee. "But if you must know, it's Pearce Callahan. My neighbor therapist next door." She paused briefly. "Things just… happened recently." By that she jumped on his dick one night, ghosted him and now they were dating. Yeah, happened wasn’t how anyone would describe it, but she was rolling with it. Her face reddened slightly. "He's sweet. Doesn't mind my sarcastic deflections. It's kinda wild that he wants to be with me, but here we are." She shrugged. "Anyway, what’s this about two residents in the supply closet? Do tell. I need some good gossip to keep me awake during my next shift. And I’d be careful what you wish for with that axe murderer. Knowing this town’s history, we'd end up with some deranged clown instead."

[ryatnavarro]

That I am, thanks for noticing. Wow -- your friend can be wise and shit at times. How else do you think the mfer survived this long? Magic? No mfer, this wisdom. Coming from the girl who has given me nothing but tough love since I've met her? Classic, Ari. Consider this a return on your generosity. Unfortunately, I think you might have a point there. Who else would be here to put my ass in check? Good. Do that. Shut up. Don't make me regret even speaking. But yes, you'd have first crack at him if he deserves it, but you're utterly mistaking if you think I won't take my own swing. Shit -- I'll probably be your get away driver anyways.

Oh yes, you're an absolute joy. A regular ray of sunshine. Look at you, being all wise and shit. Who are you and what have you done with my friend? But seriously, thanks. I know I'm in a mess here, and your tough love is... appreciated. Even if it makes me want to strangle you sometimes. Please, like I'd give you the satisfaction of disappearing. You'd miss me too much. But you're right. I need to handle this like an adult. No more sneaking around or pretending it's not happening. Aww, look at you, all protective and murderous. I'm touched, really. But let's save the savagery for a real emergency, yeah? I can handle myself. Besides, if anyone's going to kill Pearce, it'll be me. You know, if he deserves it.

[ryatnavarro]

"I don't know who the fuck told you that, but they lied to you." He mused, "After all, I'm ancient. My bones are fragile, I can't keep doing these toe bending experiences." Ryat tossed back, hinting at the way this girl always called him old. "Awwww, you'd care that much to give me some ear buds? You really are the best." He smiled as she agreed to drive him, arching a brow at her following remark, "Can't let me drive if I'm drunk. There's ways to make sure I stay out that driver seat tonight." He challenged, "Plus, how else am I going to be able to hang my head out the window." He settled into the passenger side, "Oh they will. I've long been prepared." Ryat rested his elbow against the door, his window all the way down, wind blowing his hair back. He simply just 'mhm-ed' her when asked about the therapist, but the next part had his head whipping towards her. "No shit?! You're dating your shrink? Fucking the dude, sure. But dating him? That's wild. Good for you, Ari."

She rolled her eyes at his mock offense. "Whatever, you love that I keep you on your toes," she retorted with a smirk. When he challenged her about Whitney Houston's iconic song, she let out a bark of laughter. "Maybe after a few drinks. And earplugs for you." God, as mean as she could be, she would never put anyone through that hell. As they got ready to head out, she shook her head at his 'passenger princess' comment. "Fine, birthday boy. But don't expect me to chauffeur you around all night," she warned. Grabbing her keys, she made her way to the door. "Let's see if those 'survivor instincts' of yours can get us out of a locked room," she called over her shoulder. The duo headed to the door, and after buckling in, she drove towards the escape room. "I have a secret to tell. Remember the hot therapist? Well, we might be a thing now." How would you tell one of your best friends you were dating the same guy you ghosted after sleeping with him? There was no best way to do it. So here they were...

[kmadrigalsoto]

Normally she would have heard a witty comment from her friend, but the silence was deafening at this point as she looked over at Ariya with half concern and half curiosity. “W-what?” she blurted out in disbelief. Although she heard of such illness, she didn’t know the severity of it and based on her friend’s demeanour, it looked and sounded serious. Frowning, she tried not to express any sort of pity as that was probably the last thing the other woman would have wanted. Although Kimberly felt sympathy of the sort, she also knew that her friend needed someone to simply listen. “I’m sorry to hear that Ariya…And I do understand why you would push everyone way. However…” As her voice trailed off, a gentle smile crept onto her lips as she lightly bumped shoulders with her and said, “It sounds like doing all that is hurting more than it should...It's not easy, no? Especially when it goes to show how people like Pearce, hell even myself would go the whole way with you. If you don't mind me asking, what good does it do to push people away?"

She flashed a half-smile at Kim's aquatic creature comment, but her mind was elsewhere. The truth wanted to spill out, and for once, her usual sharp comebacks failed her. Her friend's concern cut straight through her defenses, making her want to crawl into herself. She'd been carrying this burden alone, trying to protect everyone else from the mess that was her life. "I got sick again," Ari said. "Kawasaki Disease. It's back." The words hung between them, raw and real. "The doctors say it's rare for it to return, but here we are." She stared at the ocean, wishing she could disappear into its depths. "I've been pushing everyone away because of it. Especially Pearce. I thought if I made him leave first, it would hurt less." 

[jaydenlucas]

We love a girl who gets it. Smart women -- they're sexy. Talk a little too much, but nonetheless. That implies I want you to take me home, Ari. Maybe I just want you to awe and coo at the window.. probably even pet my head. Not everything needs to be deep, you know? I think you get off on insulting me. Does that do it for you? Feeling all warm and fuzzy on the inside? Who says I even gotta touch someone? Sometimes the thought of me alone is all one needs.

"Oh, you're right. What was I thinking? Insulting a fuck boy is like trying to teach a fish to climb a tree—pointless and a waste of time. And don't get too excited about me calling you cute. It's like calling a puppy cute—it doesn't mean I want to take you home or anything. Aww... did you just run out of groupies to entertain? I guess I'll just have to keep an eye out for any news about the great Jay Hawthorne. Though, I have to admit, I'm not much for sports gossip. I prefer my news with a side of substance.

[kmadrigalsoto]

The reassurance did pique Kimberly's interest as she listened attentively to Ariya's response. Being in Wilmington gave her the opportunity to try out new things to match her new comer vibe. Therefore, adding the water sport to the list didn't sound like a bad idea. "Oh yeah for sure, I agree that it's a part of the learning process." It was inevitable to avoid the effects of the water, but surely with practice it would get better. "Mmkays, Ariya...You're warming up to me and totally selling it. I trust your take on this. Let's exchange numbers so that we could keep in touch. Summer is practically here and I'm so down to try out a new hobby." She then handed her phone over so that the doctor could include her contact info.

Forcing out a smile, Kimberly chuckled softly and sighed at the idea of missing the family that drove her out of her home. A part of her was curious to know how they're doing, but did she miss them? Questionable and she couldn't bring herself to answer it in that moment. "Mhm, we're only human at the end of the day and adapting to change can be overwhelming. It's been two years, so I will say that I do feel settled in for the most part and I'm grateful that it worked out. I'm curious though, as a Wilmington native do you have a go to place or a must visit spot to recommend aside from the beach? I love exploring new places and so I thought I'd ask."

Ariya laughed at Kimberly's question about dying while surfing. "No, no, you won't die, I promise!" She reassured with a grin. "I mean, sure, you might wipe out a few times and get some water up your nose, but that's all part of the learning process." She could empathize with feeling like a klutz, though. When she first started surfing as a teenager, she spent more time falling off the board than actually riding waves. But with practice, it got easier. "Trust me, I was a total klutz when I first started too. But the more you do it, the more natural it feels. And there's no better feeling than catching that perfect wave and riding it all the way to shore." The doctor smiled as she continued, "Plus, we'd start you off in shallow water with a big, stable board. I'll be right there beside you the whole time to give tips and make sure you're safe."

Shifting gears slightly, Ariya's expression softened with understanding. "I can only imagine how much you must miss home, especially with such a big transition and being so far from family." While she'd been lucky enough to grow up in Wilmington, she knew the challenges of having roots in another country. "Homesickness is totally normal. When I went to college, it was hard on me. But I hope you're starting to feel more settled here, bit by bit."

[kmadrigalsoto]

"I'll be honest, I've never heard of this place until she told me." Kimberly was a city girl at heart, but when it came to wanting to live a modest lifestyle, she knew that it would be best to be in a place where the people in her circle wouldn't think of. "But I agree with you, everyone's been mostly welcoming." It was overwhelming to move away, let alone to a new country. However, Kimberly was grateful to have such a good support system to show her the ropes and get her through this transition in her iife.

"I figured you'd understand than most. I can't imagine the chaos that you go through, especially since it deals with people's lives." replied the heiress. "Aww, love that for you. It's always a good feeling whenever you get in touch with your roots." Kimberly had her fair share of homesickness and she doubts that she'll be able to shake it off. There were days where she was so ready to pack up and go, but she knew that she'd be doing a disservice to herself as she knew her father would find out in a heartbeat. She was absolutely not ready to face her family under any circumstances.

"Exactly, I will say America is obviously more developed in comparison to my country. Regardless, I still miss home." Tilting her head to the side, she thought about the offer and asked, "I won't die right?" she joked at first before knocking on the wooden bench. "It looks so cool, but I feel like I'm such a klutz!"

Ari smiled, listening as the other woman shared her story. It was wonderful that a friend had recommended Wilmington and that she'd done her research before deciding to move. The city had a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities to get involved—something she could definitely appreciate. Then again, she was a native, of course she loved where she lived. "That's wonderful that you had a friend who recommended Wilmington. It's a great place to live, with a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities to get involved."

As Kimberly described her work in the Mayor's office, she nodded. Every day being a new challenge was a feeling she could relate to all too well. As a diagnostician, no two shifts were ever the same. Each patient presented a unique puzzle to solve. One minute she might be analyzing blood work, the next reviewing imaging scans or conducting a physical examination. It kept her on her toes, but she wouldn't have it any other way. “I’m a Doctor, so I can definitely relate.” When the topic shifted to Thailand, her eyes lit up. "Yes, I've been lucky enough to visit a few times. Maybe because I’m Thai, I always feel a special connection when I'm there."

The comment about the similarities between their two cultures made her ponder for a moment. "I think you're right about the hustle and grind mentality. No matter where you go in the world, people are working hard to build a better life for themselves and their families. It's something that unites us all, even with our differences." Grinning, she added, "And hey, if you ever want to give surfing a try, just let me know. I'd be happy to give you a lesson sometime. It's a great way to de-stress after a long day at work." 

[kmadrigalsoto]

"Sounds refreshing. I'm not much of a surfer, but I do enjoy the water and it's pretty cool to see others enjoy it with their niche activity." Nodding at Ariya's response, Kimberly was glad to see that they shifted to a positive yet realistic perspective. "Most people aim to have a career they're passionate about, so you're pretty much set." And most people would be Kimberly included, but she wouldn't admit that out loud. It was still a work in progress, let alone she'd only recently decided to stray away from her upper class lifestyle.

"It is. One of my childhood best friends recommended this place and already lived here. So when I was deciding where to go, I did a bit of research and had a preference of not wanting to go to a big city, I just opted for this place." As for the question of working in the mayor's office, the heiress had to pause and carefully word it seeing as her honest truth was that she was coming from a role that was over six figures and chose to downgrade for the sake of her existential crisis. "That's pretty much the gist of it, but the way I see it—everyday is s new challenge and well, something different. Irza's always being pulled left and right, but it keeps me busy and I prefer that than doing something redundant and feeling stuck in one place. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I feel like you understand more than anything given your line of work?" After learning about Ariya's background, Kimberly perked up and complimented her home country, "Oh Thailand is absolutely beautiful! Have you visited there already? The obvious differences are the weather and how most of America is multicultural. I feel like the one similarity we have is the whole hustle and grind perspective. Everyone's trying to make ends meet and I respect that."

She nodded, her smile growing as she thought of her day off. "Thanks, I'm really looking forward to it. And yeah, the waves here are pretty great, especially in the summer. There's nothing quite like catching a perfect wave and riding it all the way to shore." It was why coming back to Wilmington was something she looked forward to. Home was where the heart lies and all of that… "Yeah, I need to keep that perspective. It's easy to get caught up in the bad days, but I know that overall, I love what I do and I'm making a difference in people's lives." Being kind to herself didn’t come easy when she had lives to save.

When Kimberly mentioned being from the Philippines and working in the Mayor's Office, she smiled. "That's quite a journey. What made you choose Wilmington, of all places? And what's it like working in the Mayor's Office? I imagine it must be pretty interesting, being at the center of local politics and decision-making. I've always been fascinated by different cultures and how they shape people's perspectives. I’m Thai, but I’m also American, so it’s not like I know the difference… Have you found any big differences between the Philippines and here, in terms of work culture or just day-to-day life?" She hoped her questions didn't come across as prying, she simply was curious.

[nicolemcrtin]

The coffee cup had been halfway to her lips when Ariya said it–seeing someone–and without hesitation it was placed back onto the table before her. Wide brown eyes never leaving the diagnosticians own gaze. "Okay, who is it? Tell me everything. When did you meet him? Where did you meet him?" Despite the grin that took over her lips, the thought of when the last time she'd dated briefly crossed her mind. That would be quickly pushed away–filed for another time. Or filed under the thoughts that needed distractions. "God, I have nothing fun to say other than I walked in on two residents in the supplies rooms. And you won't guess who they were. Really, I wish an axe murderer would come in here once in awhile or something. Just for added dramatics."

"I'll look at it. My case load is not bogging me down—for once." She took another sip of coffee, feeling the warmth spread through her. Her mind drifted to Pearce, and a small smile tugged at her lips. "Well, I've been seeing someone," she admitted, her cheeks turning a shade pinker. Ariya wasn't used to feeling flustered, especially not about a guy. But he was different. He saw through her sarcasm and didn't back down from her sharp tongue. "It's still new, but he's good to me." She didn't elaborate further, not wanting to jinx it. Part of her wanted to gush about how he made her laugh, how he challenged her in ways no one else had. But that wasn't her style. Instead, she deflected, "What about you? Any juicy hospital gossip I've missed during my caffeine-deprived haze?" She leaned back in her chair, enjoying the sun on her face. For a moment, she allowed herself to relax, pushing thoughts of work aside. It felt good to just sit and chat, even if her body was screaming for a proper rest.

[jaydenlucas]

Daaaamnnnn, girl. I didn't know you were so kinky. I don't know, something tells me I'm just not going to swing that way. But aye, you do what makes you happy. I'm sure there are people out there that will give you your, uh, butt kink fetish. I got plenty, you're just happen to be on that list. Haven't you heard? Jayden Lucas doesn't do the whole one girl thing. It's all or nothing. Is that right? I find it hard to believe. This snow queen thing seems like it'd be kind of hard to penetrate long enough to get anywhere.

Oh, I could take it out and shove it up yours if you want to. If that day ever comes, hell froze over. And since that's never going to happen, good luck with that. Don't you have other girls to bug. Why does it have to be me? Wait a minute, you love being tortured, I get it... With the right man, I never have to fake it. Never call me baby girl, ever. It's gross.

[kmadrigalsoto]

"Well I'm glad that you're finally going to get your break." mused Kimberly with a nod of approval. For a second, she thought she was going to have to file a formal complaint on the hospital for overworking her on such conditions. "Now those are two good options that work either way, you're definitely making the most of it. Are the waves good here?" Chuckling softly, the heiress sighed as she knew it was going to take a lot of effort to get through with that mindset. "You'll have your good and bad days, but as long as you can bounce back from it then you're capable of anything. One bad day doesn't mean a bad life."

Kimberly was an imposter for obvious reasons, but she kept that comment to herself and simply nodded in agreement. "Ah, that makes more sense hence the surfing...You're by the waters right? Yeah, that was my reasoning for moving there, especially being new to a whole country. I didn't really want to be deserted." After learning more about Ariya, the heiress went ahead and gave her usual spiel, "Nice, well those patients will need a reality check if they want to live." She paused and leaned back into the bench while crossing her legs and getting comfortable, "More like a change of scenery and work. I'm from the Philippines and well my goal was to work abroad. So I ended up here and I currently work in the Mayor's Office."

Ariya smiled softly, grateful for Kimberly's understanding. She truly wasn’t the type to annoy anyone—at least not when unprovoked. Today, she was just having a day. "I definitely need a break. And you’re right, I'll need to make sure to always have my earbuds on hand from now on. My day off, it's coming up soon. When that happens, I will veg in my backyard or go out to the beach to surf." The best way for her to honestly relax in her opinion. She nodded thoughtfully as the other spoke about the pressures and expectations that come with being human. "Yeah. It's easy to get caught up in the labels and forget that there's a person behind them. I guess I just need to remind myself that it's okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes, and that it doesn't make me any less of a doctor or a person." Easier said than done though.

"Imposter Syndrome is definitely real. I've felt it myself, especially when I first started out as a doctor. It's like you're constantly waiting for someone to figure out that you don't belong there, even though you've worked your ass off to get where you are." She nodded when Kimberly mentioned living in Midtown. "I live in Wrightsville Beach, but Midtown is nice, though. You’ve got everything at your fingertips. I moved back to Wilmington about a year ago, after working in a few different cities. It's nice to be back home, even if it means dealing with the occasional entitled patient or two." She said with a laugh. "So, what brought you to Wilmington? Work, family, or just looking for a change of scenery?"

[ryatnavarro]

"Wait -- you'd be into all that witchy shit?" He asked, truly just amused to think of her like that more than anything. "Shit -- how about you do your bestie a favor and make him a voodoo doll. Stuff some money in its pockets. You know, help a brotha out." He was more than aware, however, that if anyone did have a voodoo doll of him, the last thing they'd be doing with it was trying make his life better. But it didn't hurt to throw out the sentiment nonetheless. "Is it really considered dramatic if I was right? I did, in fact, die." He scoffed, rolling his eyes, "Please -- who you think invented that 'no heart' shit. At the end of the day, we know what's really going on. You wouldn't have lasted this long in this career otherwise."

He hardly believed her when she shook off his concern, but if anyone knew about not pushing people until they were ready, it was him. So he allowed her to have that. For now. "We are both nuts." He confirmed, "I'm not sure most would say heaven, but sure." He didn't talk about his affairs quite like he'd want to speak about Nazli. That in itself told him that shit was getting too damn real and he was more than likely going to land on his face. "She hasn't, yet. But it's still new, give it time." Shrugging, "We're not even like dating, or whatever. We just -- I don't fuck and do crazy shit together. It works." Somehow, someway.

After spending so much time in hospitals herself, she knew exactly how annoying dramatic patients could be. She'd rather die than admit it, but his theatrics actually made her smile inside—it was nice having someone around who could match her sardonic wit without taking offense. Ari rolled her eyes at his dramatic antics about dying, fighting back an amused grin. "If you die, I'll bring you back just to kill you myself for being so dramatic," she said, crossing her arms. His comment about doing things from the goodness of her heart made her snort. "My heart? Bold of you to assume I have one. I take care of people because of the money I'm getting. Not free of charge."

His smile caught her attention, and she studied him carefully. When he asked if everything was alright, she paused, considering whether to share her concerns. "Yeah, I'm good. Just... stuff," she deflected, not ready to discuss her health issues. The way he spoke about this mystery woman intrigued her, and she noticed how his entire demeanor shifted. "So you're both nuts? Match made in heaven," she teased. His comment about feeling normal with this person struck something in her—she understood that feeling all too well. "As long as she makes you happy and doesn't try to murder you in your sleep, I suppose I can approve," she joked, then raised an eyebrow. "But seriously, who is she? You can't just drop this bomb and not give me details."