whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

Another night, another event at a club. It had been Whitney's biggest fear a few months ago, to enter an unfamiliar establishment with drunk people. And now she was one of those drunk people, having a little too much fun and giving no fuges about it. A lot had changed since she had decided to embrace this new coping mechanism of alcohol and fun. It was as if the moment she got a little buzzed, none of her worries or the heavy feelings that plagued her when sober mattered much. Like she was floating on a different cloud where those thoughts and feelings could no longer reach her.

Unsure about classes, she had instead dipped her toes back into the social scene of college. Girls she had never spoken to before had become her friends since she had decided to join in on the fun. Keg stands, shots, lots of girly drinks. Anything to increase the fun. Tonight she had been invited out to have a few drinks before a frat party a mile or so away. Since it wasn't that far to drive, she had taken her car and slipped in with her new crowd. They were only half trough the night when she had spotted a few older girls that her brother might like and teasingly sent him some pictures and texts. If she ought to get out and have more of a life, why shouldn't he?

She was almost done with her third cosmo when Ian showed up, looking not too pleased. Despite his words, she beamed. "Ian! You came! No no, join us for a few drinks, please?" she suggested, easily ignoring his statement. Home? No, she was having so much fun and it wasn't even that late yet. "See the brunette over there. Isn't she cute?"

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑: @whitneyxrossi 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: komodo

THE INCESSANT BUZZING OF HIS PHONE ON THE COFFEE TABLE had pulled Ian from the comfort of his couch and into the night. It was nearing midnight, and he’d hoped to enjoy a quiet evening after a long week at work. Instead, he was fumbling for his keys, already dreading the sight that awaited him at the club. It had become a pattern, his encouragement to venture out having seemingly backfired into free-flowing drinks and drunken texts; he couldn't tell whether he preferred this or her shut-in stage. At least she's getting out.

As he drove, the warm glow of neon lights reflected off his windshield, and the low bass from the radio filled the air. It was vaguely reminiscent of when his father would drive him home from similar nights out. He couldn’t shake the worry gnawing at his gut; the roles had reversed and he felt entirely unprepared to be the responsible one.

Pulling into the parking lot, he spotted her car— a good sign, at least. Ian took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever chaos lay ahead. As he stepped inside, the raucous atmosphere hit him like a wave. Scanning the crowd, he finally caught sight of familiar brown hair, half-laughing, half-sobbing with unfamiliar faces in a booth, a bright pink drink in her hand.

With a resigned sigh, he made his way over, weaving through the throng of bodies. ❛ Whit, come on, it’s time to go home, ❜ he said, doing his best to sound firm yet gentle.

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney was glad they had opted for something greasy like pizza. She hadn't told Ellie she'd been out last night, pretty hammered. But the grease was helping with her quietly but prominently there hangover. "I think so." she nodded a little bit, knowing hers was closely linked to her dreams and aspirations, not just anywhere she could come up with. She had traveled a lot of places with her family during the summers or holidays and school breaks. Her father had been fond of getting the family out of the city and having some quality family time in a new place. "I have seen some pictures of stunning scenery from there, so that is probably true. And they have a lot of really beautiful old historical buildings and sites as well."

"Yeah, anywhere. No worries about expenses, travel time, none of it," she shook her head, taking another sip of her water."Thats a good one," she nodded and took another bite, before wiping her hands and mouth on a napkin. Ellie hadn't traveled much, save for work trips or conferences but that was purely business. Plus it was only around the United States and not even that far from New Bellevoux. She'd be happy to travel some, but between work and her son, it wasn't possible. But getting to talk about it with Whitney, it was nice to dream. "I feel like Ireland could be fun, the scenery looks amazing alone."

[whitneyxrossi]

After many weeks of her mother insisting and prying she consider going back to University full time, Whitney had spent most of the day looking at class schedules and fall courses. It was not that she didn't find most of it compelling and interesting, but more the fact that she didn't know if she was ready to go back. She didn't feel healed after everything she had recently gone trough. And she worried that by giving in to her mothers demands she might end up worse for wear. Which was why it was amazing to have Ellie over. To be distracted and hang out to do something very normal but also pleasant with someone she cared for. "Anywhere? Hmm.." Whitney gave herself time to think, considering her short list for travel destinations. "Probably Oxford, England. It is such an iconic place where so many writers found their voice."

Who: @whitneyxrossi and Ellie

Where: Whitney's place

When: September 2024

Ellie was the ever lasting big sister to people she had befriended, including Whitney. However, Ellie herself had known Ian, her older brother for years, but she took a liking to Whitney and always tried to look out for her. Check up on her when she could. So knowing she liked to stay home, Ellie invited herself over for pizza and movies and just to catch up. "So tell me, if you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?" Ellie asked before taking a bite of her slice and washing it down with some water.

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney liked to think that she would help someone out if they were in trouble, though she had to admit that sometimes she wasn't brave enough to act in the moment like Evren was. She had never been fond of attention, and if someone were in trouble but making a spectacle she often left it to someone else. Someone braver.. In this very moment she felt so weak and unbalanced. Not just physically because she had a hard time standing on her own, but because she had managed to put herself in this state.

His smile was reassuring, despite the fact that her brain still couldn't fully seem to comprehend that a handsome, older male was being so awfully nice to her. From she was very young Whit had gotten used to disappearing in crowds and blending into the scenery, rarely seen or noticed by others. So why had he seen her? Swallowing back the bile she could taste in her mouth, she nodded carefully. "Ahm okay. We'll stay here." she agreed. The sink wouldn't be much better than the toilet, he was right on that. And it would be easiest to get her wound clean here. "Yeah I'll let you know." she felt herself flush when he spoke hoer own words back to her. Had she really said that out loud? Oh god. "I just don't.. good looking guys don't usually pay me any mind.." she stutteringly tried to explain.

Evren would always do anything he could to help anyone. Whether it be someone at the bar like he was doing now, someone in the grocery store, or someone that just looked lost making their way around town Evren would do anything he could to help them. So when he'd found the brunette on the ground of the bar, he hadn't hesitated to help her. They'd made their way to the bathroom fairly quickly and Evren eased her to the ground, helping her sit against the wall so that she wouldn't fall over. It was only once he'd began cleaning her wound and she started speaking that he looked at her again, offering her a smile. "Well, I can move you closer to the toilets if it's easier but honestly, I wouldn't recommend that." he laughed. "You just let me know if you're feeling sick and I'll move as fast as I can, either out of your way or move you to the sink whatever we need." he shrugged. Though whenever she called him handsome he laughed, nodding. "I promise I'll make sure you don't throw up on my handsome face." he added. "I'll move, promise." @whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

It was a challenge at times to reinitiate her whole situation, even to someone she trusted and felt at ease telling it to. She often felt like she was only burdening her family and friends when she went deeper past 'I'm not great at the moment'. The details making it seem as if she was telling everyone that she wasn't okay and ultimately there was very little they could do. Which was why she always struggled to share further. In response to Grace's sympathies she only nodded at first. How was she going to respond to that? "Yeah.. I mean I wouldn't pretend with you.. I just have no clue what I need or what might help. I just feel stuck in my grief recently. Like its this vicious circle I can't escape." she tried to explain with a downcast stare, wiggling a bit in her chair. "I yeah sure.. I don't know.. just feels like I'm burdening everyone with this." she admitted, swallowing a bit hard as she slowly lifted her gaze to Grace again. "I'd love to babysit. That sounds great." somehow, she managed a whisp of a smile.

Relieved to let her godmother do the talking, Whitney cupped her coffee cup between her hands as she listened attentively. It had to be really rough on the girls to see their parents living apart and their family being broken up. Sure they had two loving parents, which was probably what would save them from feeling it too deeply, but most kids of divorce she knew had some scars. "It sounds like you and August is handling it well though. I'm proud of you for working so hard to co parent with him. That can't be easy." She nodded eyes heavy with compassion, reaching out to grasp Grace's hand, glad that she wanted to share but also sad that she was struggling with so much. "At least when you see them smiling and happy, you know you are doing your best and whats right for your family. Not everyone is strong enough to keep pushing trough like that."

Grace listened intently, her heart aching for Whitney as she spoke. She knew how much Whitney had been through recently, and it pained her to see her goddaughter struggling. Grace reached across the table and gently squeezed Whitney's hand, offering a comforting touch. "I'm really sorry to hear that, Whit," Grace said softly, her eyes filled with empathy. "You've been through a lot, and it's okay not to feel okay. You don't have to pretend with me. I'm here for you, whatever you need." She paused, giving Whitney a moment to gather her thoughts. "I'm really glad you're taking the time to see me. It's important to have people you can lean on when things get tough. And as for babysitting, the girls would love that. They miss you too. We'll definitely arrange something soon."

Grace took a sip of her coffee, giving Whitney a reassuring smile. "As for the split... it's been an adjustment for all of us. The girls have moments, but I'm trying to ensure they feel loved and secure. It's not always easy, but we're taking it one day at a time. And honestly, having you around makes a big difference." She hesitated for a moment, wondering if she should delve deeper into how she was handling everything. But she decided being open might help Whitney feel more comfortable sharing her struggles. "I won't lie; it's been tough on me too. There are days when I question everything. But seeing the girls happy and knowing they're okay helps me keep going."

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney wasn't the best at making friends. It wasn't that she was unapproachable, but rather that she was shy enough that inserting herself into conversations or talking to people who didn't talk to her first was a struggle. And once she made friends, she often found out that they had very different interests and wanted to party and drink more than she was comfortable with. Which was why she often found herself more in touch with the friends she had that were older than her. Who weren't, like her peers, in their Uni party phase. "I mean I did this to myself. You know I've never been too much of a drinker, but lately I just feel like its a good way to let loose and try to let go." she said with a shrug, somewhat explaining her behavior, giving Jazzy an appreciative smile. "Maybe we should mix it up then. Its been too long since you and I had some fun." she suggested. An 'eh' life sounded safe though. "Oh you know, working trough my friends death. Trying and failing not to relive loosing my dad.. it hasn't been the brightest of months."

Some of the customers from the bakery had become somewhat of a little friend group that Jazzy held near and dear to her heart. Some of them had become so close that she'd even venture to hang out with them outside if business hours. Whitney was absolutely one of those people. Though jazzy could sense that Whitney was going through something and she couldn't necessarily put her finger on the what or the why. So making herself available, she'd offer up any sort of help or advice if need be. "You're very welcome," she said with a friendly smile after bringing over the small treat and water, hydration and eating were much needed after drinking. "I'm okay, things are eh," she said with a shrug, indicating that life was neither exciting nor boring at the same time. "But what about you?" She asked, reaching to squeeze Whitney's hands.

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney disliked having to do things in person. Mostly because she was shy and always felt like she was bothering people rather than having any natural confidence as a customer. Suffice to say she was an easy customer to deal with given that she was often so nervous that she just agreed to anything the seller said. Then again she had been so damn relieved when technology was furthered enough that she could do most things she needed online or through an app. "I mean that is fair. Sometimes it does take a while even in person." she agreed with a nod. She understood finding it a time suck and a hassle to do. Whit listened curiously to Zehra as she shared how long she had lived here and what she did for a living. Emergency dispatcher? Wow. That was admirable. "So where did you move from? I've lived here all my life, and never really left." she admitted. It made her all too curious about those who chose to come here from elsewhere. "Isn't your job pretty high stress? How do you cope with that?" When asked about herself she shrugged. "I'm in Uni working on my Literature bachelors. My mom doesn't see a future in it, but I dream of becoming an author."

Zehra wasn't one that considered herself proactive, nor was she someone that considered herself to even go in person to take care of things. More often than not she'd call, wait a few hours - possibly even days - and then forget she'd even called until she finally hears back from them months later. That's just the kind of person she was; non confrontational and definitely not someone to feel like a burden to someone even if there was an actual problem. However, if she could go by the bank today and have everything knocked out before she left there, that was certainly a win in her book. "I surely hope so. I know that stuff can take awhile sometimes." she admitted, despite the fact she was usually pretty careful and this was the first time she'd ever had to go though something like this. Zehra followed the other's lead, making their way towards their destination. When the other asked if she'd lived here long, Zehra nodded, but followed it with a shrug. "About five years or so." she admitted. "Moved here and got a job as an emergency dispatcher. I work a lot so I don't get out much." she sighed. "And you?" @whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney had promised she would come, and yet she had struggled leaving her apartment. The thought of all those people jammed into a small club, the loud music and dancing, it was daunting. Which was why she had needed half a bottle of vodka and orange juice to find the liquid courage to leave her building and take a cab over to Komodo. Once there, she had to take some deep breaths before approaching the bouncers, scared they would see just how sauced she was and deny her entry. Luckily, they did not seem to notice her much, just nodding in her direction as she stepped past. Once inside, she allowed herself a few moments to take it all in. There was no mistaking this was a birthday celebration given the decorations and the music of which certain songs she could remember as hits from her high school days. Undoubtedly Neena had put them on a playlist for some nostalgia. When the birthday girl in question came shashaying over, Whit could not help but smile. "Why aren't you the devil in disguise. Of course I do! Happy birthday Neena! Its good to see you."

Who: Open @newbellevouxstarters Where: Komodo

It was her birthday and Neena had rented out all of Komodo for the night. She loved a good party and she loved being the center of attention. So combining them? Neena was in heaven. A new sparkly outfit, everyone in the town crammed into the place having a good time and alcohol flowing were all making this the best night ever. One of her friends had helped her organize things and thrown in a few surprises like a cake coming sometime later. "I've got shots!" She announced in a sing song voice as she approached someone standing by themselves. She had been on her way back to Evren, but she saw the person and decided to make a pit stop. She could always get more shots after. "Want to do a shot with the birthday girl?"

[whitneyxrossi]

It was a very unfamiliar feeling to Whitney. The feeling of being out of control. She had experienced it in private, in the confines of her own space as her world seemed to crumble each time she tried to get her legs under her and was met with another devastating loss.. but she had never experienced it, nor entertained this type of state, in public. She knew that if any of this reached her family's ears, they would be ashamed of her actions. Ian might be concerned for her first, but seeing how out of character this was he would inevitably have to judge her actions. She didn't deserve the help she was getting, though she was too polite to brush it off. Her helpers touch brought her back out of the trappings of her mind, making her remain in the present.

Mostly, Whit tried not to look at the blood that she could still feel seeping down her arm and trough her fingers. Sitting? "Ahm yeah, yeah that's fine." she assented, only daring to bob her head a touch as it felt heavy and she feared it would live a life of its own if she didn't concentrate on keeping her chin and sight more level. "Guess that's fair." she couldn't help a croaky chuckle at his assessment of her lacking balance. He was right though, she could hardly stand on her own at this point, feeling drowsy and numb. Right now she could barely feel the faint throb of the cut she had gotten, even when he began cleaning it, the stings that before had burned to the point of making her want to cry, were faint. "Drowsy.. kind of queasy yeah. I'm not great with blood it makes me.. nauseous." she admitted, wondering if she would reach the sink by leaning over if she could not hold it back. "Shit don't wanna puke all over that handsome face."

Evren could tell that this girl seemed worried - or maybe nervous? he couldn't quite tell - and while he wanted to help her, he also didn't want her to be upset by his actions or his ability to help; he truly just wanted to do what he could for someone in need. Yet, he didn't want to talk about the money or her tab. His primary focus was on helping this girl in any way that he could. He watched, noticing how unstable she seemed to be and he reached out, placing a hand on her arm just below the injury - he'd worry about getting her blood off his hands later - for now his only focus was to get this girl's arm looked at. Once they were inside the bathroom he paused, trying to figure out the best solution for how to go about this, and he sighed, looking down at her. "Can I help you so you're sitting on the counter top?" he questioned, thankful this bar's sink was in fact a counter and not just a sink on a pedestal. "It'll give me a little easier view of what we're working with and also - no offense - but I don't exactly trust you're stable enough to stand up for long." he added, waiting for permission but allowed himself to begin cleaning the injury. He had to admit though, it was deeper than he thought; he was unsure of stitches yet though. "You alright? You feel sick or anything?" he questioned, his instincts taking over from the many times that he had to ask this same question at the tattoo parlor. @whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney knew she was going down a path that wasn't the best. Drinking away her grief wasn't going to do much good, and she should probably simply start seeing a therapist or something. But if she did, her mom would suggest something even more invasive, and she didn't know how to talk her out of it. So instead she didn't act. At least she was lucky to have friends to talk to. Jazzy wouldn't tell anyone how she was doing. Besides, she wouldn't judge her for her current activities either. The sight of more baked goos and water made Whitney quirk up some. "Thank you." she said with emphasis, for once feeling hungry enough to start picking apart the pastry right away. "How have you been?" she asked, curious to know. Jasmine was less scared to live the life she wanted, which meant Whit was no stranger to living vicariously trough her friend.

Jazzy loved the bakery, mostly because she got free food, but also because of the friends she made while working there. And Whitney, someone she was very good friends with, had quickly become one of her favorite customers. There was something about her that intrigued Jazzy and she always had enjoyed her company. She smiled at Whitney and shrugged at her question, "I guess so," with a little chuckle. After taking the last customers order from the line, Jazzy took a break and headed on over to Whitney's table. She brought an extra baked good for her and some water, to help her headache some. "I brought this in hopes that it would help," she said and settled in to the seat across from her friend.

[whitneyxrossi]

"I guess.." Whit managed a somewhat brittle smile back. She felt her stomach curl a little with the potential of leaving a mess in he wake, though at the same time she was not in a position to do much about it. Nor could she seem to fully find her balance. The fact that this man she had never met before was willing to help her out without being asked or prompted told her he was a good guy. She wasn't confident to assume it had anything to do with her looks as she didn't consider herself the kind the guys looked at, but even then most men wouldn't come to a girls aid like this. Some might for ulterior motives, but seeing as they hadn't crossed paths earlier, she doubted that was the case here. "Shit, fingers crossed." she half said, half mumbled, not liking the sight of blood nor the sensation of it sliding down her arm and dripping off her fingers. She took the paper he offered, pressing them to the cut as well as she could as she felt her body being lifted. Once on her feet, she bit her lip in concentration trying to keep her balance. She felt unsteady, though as long as she made no sudden moves, she should be able to stay on her feet. "Okay, sounds ahm... prudent." she said in agreement, struggling a tad to access her normal vocabulary with the alcohol pumping trough ehr body and the rush in her head from being injured. Shit she hoped it wasn't hospital worthy.. Ian would worry way too much if it was. Letting him take the lead, she let herself be guided towards the bathrooms, then inside after his fairly loud announcement. There was no doubt that he was a nice guy. Seeming to look out for anyone by nature. Once inside the bathroom, Whit reached for the sink to steady herself, swallowing hard as she tried not to look at her bleeding arm too much. The sight was making her nauseous and the last thing she wanted was to throw up anywhere near her kind helper. Just nodding at his words, her jaw tensed as he began to clean it. Fuck that burned.. Although she tried, a small whimper escaped her. Ow.

Offering the other a small smile as she spoke, Evren shrugged. "I'm sure someone will take care of it." he added, knowing that he already had full intention of paying for this girl's tab. He didn't know her, and even though he was in a committed relationship with Neena, Evren knew she wouldn't mind. He was a 'girl's guy' as they often talked themselves, and Evren would take any and all lengths to help out someone in need, even if it was doing something simple like paying a tab, grabbing something from the top shelf, or in this instance, helping a brunette in a bar with an injured arm. Clearly she needed the help more than he did; and who was he to turn it down, especially since he assumed she was alone. "I'm sure it's probably just a deep cut, and I say myself that alcohol makes it bleed so much worse too." he shrugged again, standing and looking around before he helped her up, grabbing a few napkins nearby for her to hold on her arm. "Take these." he admitted, placing them on top of the injury and hoisting her to her feet, hoping that she was at least somewhat stable considering he'd just helped her from the floor. "I'm thinking we should wash it first, see how bad it is and then we can assist in some other way." he admitted, looking at the injury and over his shoulder as he began walking backwards, letting himself make sure he wasn't going to trip over anyone in the process. Making his way towards the ladies room, he paused, kicking the door with his foot and cleared his throat before exclaiming. "Male with injured female coming in! I want to be respectful so this is you're warning!" before he made his way inside, still facing backwards as he made his way to the sink, thankful that the bathroom was otherwise unoccupied. "This may sting." he admitted, wetting a paper towel from the dispenser and began using it to clean the other's injury best he could. @whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney felt more at ease in the park than she would anywhere else. At least here there was the open air and no confined spaces. Lately she had been feeling cramped and claustrophobic in small spaces. In return she had avoided them completely. Though she had also avoided the outside all together for a while now. "Sounds like a good plan. Maybe going there will make it all more expedient?" she suggested, trying to sound optimistic about it all. "Of course. Its the small acts of kindness, you know?" she said with a small smile. That was what she had been raised to believe anyway. Help your neighbor, the person next to you who needed a small gesture. Usually that was all it took. "You're welcome I guess." she said with a nod. It was nice that she didn't mind what most would refer to as a cold truth. Some people would take that much more personal or answer negativity with negativity. "Yeah? Well then we have something in common." That did make her smile grow on its own, with less effort than before. "You as well. Have you lived here long?" Whit asked as she gestured towards the path they could take and slowly began walking towards the bakery.

Zehra could admit that it would be easier to start over, to cancel the card and get a new one from the bank, but that didn't mean she wanted to. It had taken her long enough to switch over everything when she'd moved here; she had attachment to things she didn't want attachment too, unfortunately. And change had always been hard for her. But, at least this way she was guaranteed that her money in her account would be safe and sound; she had rent and other bills coming out soon anyways. "I'll give the bank a call in a few, maybe even go by there today." she shrugged, offering the other a small smile and shook her head. "Thank you for your help." she sighed. "Even if we didn't find it, at least I didn't have to look alone." she shrugged. When the other apologized for being the voice of negativity, Zehra sighed. "Honestly, I'm glad I had someone to bring me to my sense sooner. Thank you for that." she smiled, looking at her and letting a genuine smile form on he face at the mention of cake and childish things. "I just so happen to love childish things and cake." she admitted, extending her hand at the other and grasping the brunette's. "I'm Zehra. It's wonderful to meet you, Whitney." @whitneyxrossi

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney still felt awkward and odd being outside among regular people. She didn't feel.. normal at this time. Nor did she feel anywhere near okay. But she was walking the line of trying not to let her own problems and struggles affect the people she loved. Pushing herself to seem fine and like she was back on her feet for their benefit. Regardless it felt good to see her godmother. Since she had never much seen eye to eye with her own mother, Whit had always felt closer to Grace in comparison. Not entirely trusting her own voice, she nodded with a soft smile, glad to be seated. Her eyes firmly on Grace as she listened to how the girls were doing. If she paid the most attention to her, she could ignore the bustle of the people around them. "I'm glad they have activities to keep them occupied. Them being happy and content is what's most important. You have to let me baby sit soon, I miss them a lot." She said gently, meaning every word. "So they are ahm handling the split okay? How are you doing with it?" she asked, albeit a little carefully. A mix of emotions flitted across Whitney's face at the question. She didn't quite know how to answer without lying, while she also didn't want to ruin the mood. Swallowing a tad hard she let out a small sigh. "It has been.. hard. Fist dad and now my best friend.. I'm not going to lie, I'm not doing all that great." she admitted. Grace knew her well enough to deserve the truth. Her support had always been invaluable, and she wouldn't dismiss it now.

Grace welcomed Whitney with a warm hug, feeling a wave of relief and genuine joy at seeing her goddaughter. "I've missed you too," Grace said, her smile wide and heartfelt. As they pulled apart, Grace took a moment to really look at Whitney, noting how much she had grown and matured."Wonderful," she echoed, touched by Whitney's excitement. "It's been too long since we've had some time together. Let's catch up properly." They made their way to the nearest table, and Grace took a seat across from Whitney, appreciating the moment of calm. "The girls are doing really well," she began, her face lighting up with pride. "They've been busy with day camps this summer, plus their dance and gymnastics classes. It keeps them occupied and happy."Grace sighed softly, feeling the weight of her exhaustion but also the warmth of her love for her family. "Even though things have been a little rough, seeing them thrive makes it all worth it."

Grace looked back at Whitney, her eyes filled with gratitude. "It's so good to have you here. How have you been holding up?" she asked gently, knowing that Whitney had her own struggles but also recognizing the importance of being there for each other.

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney: oky, deeal! Whitney: idk... Whitney: triffic lits, blnkin lits, wite buldings.. on has um dome? cnt remambar wat itsss cald.. oficial stufff?

Ian: Absolutely, the burger is yours and I'll get you a shake Ian: Do you know how to send your location Ian: ... nevermind, tell me what you see Ian: What buildings are around you? Any landmarks?

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney quite envied Jasmine her love of her family's business, if not also the way her parents seemed to support her no matter what her dreams of a future career might be. In comparison her disinterest in her own family's several businesses, and her mothers dismissal of her studies as a mere whim before she 'came to her senses' to fall in line and take over her work with time seemed.. harsh and daunting. Feeling Jasmine's hands squeeze her own brought Whitney back to the present, while also making her feel warm and a tad more at ease in face of her friends affections. "Yeah you would." she smiled a bit knowingly. Then again didn't anyone over eighteen? She could tell that Jazzy sympathized though, and that meant a lot. "I'd really like that. I'll be at my usual one." she said, briefly returning pressure to her friends hands before taking her cup and heading for her favorite table, at the very back corner of the bakery. Coffee and the book she had brought with her ought to help her settle her headache until Jasmine was free.

Even wwhen she didn't have to work whether at the country club or elsewhere, she found herself at the bakery. She was drawn to it like a moth to a flame and she wouldn't have it any other way. She had formed plenty of friendships there and being able to run into those people on a random day made it all the more fun. "Hey," she said back with a smile, "missed you around here," she replied looking about the crowded bakery. As Whitney squeezed Jazzy's hand, she gave her friend a reassuring smile. Putting down the cup she had, she took Whitney's hands in hers and squeezed them back. "Great, and I know how that goes." She said with a small chuckle and an eye roll, though she definitely felt for Whitney. "Give me like twenty minutes and then I can join you at a table if you'd like?"

[whitneyxrossi]

While Whitney loved books and diving into literature discussions was something she did fervently in her studies, she had never been one for social media. Which perhaps was odd given her youth, but she much preferred discussing the stories and books she loved in person. Never had she stuck around a clothing store to chit chat with the clerks there but at West and Elm she often popped by simply to engage in discussions and inquiries about the employees latest favorite or their opinions about newly published material. Of course she was also lucky to take a few modern literature classes at Uni where they discussed works from the twenty first century all the time. "No I agree. I think many readers find comfort in the familiarity of a story with the writers own twist on it." She said with a smile. Genuine excitement and sparkle was suddenly in her eyes now that she was discussing her favorite topic with someone who equally enjoyed it. Leaning back against the tree, she listened to the others thoughts with intrigue clearly written on her face. "I do too. A well placed hook is ever so thrilling. I do, though I have an overactive imagination so I do not read them too often. I need a pause in between. Is that your favorite genre?"

Neena loved books. Both buying and reading them, though she knew perfectly well they were two different hobbies. And currently she was more into the buying books as the books were piling up on her pretty shelf from West and Elm. But still, she had seen the Housemaid on booktok and on bestselling lists and in the bookstores. At this point she was so influenced by it and needed to know if it was actually a good read or just trumped up by the hype. "Sometimes things don't have to be the most original to be good." Neena agreed with a smile and a shrug. She wiped the sweat on her forehead as she tried to get her heartbeat to slow since she wanted to talk for a bit before running on. But it was so hot today, taking a break was a good idea. Even in just a sports bra and some shorts, Neena was still drenched in sweat. Maybe a break was a good idea. "But I love a good hook, and from what I've seen the plot looks like it'd keep my interest. Do you like thrillers?" She asked.

[whitneyxrossi]

Whitney: oll take it! Whitney: yessss? Whitney: pffttt u no fun Whitney: migh ned som helpe.. idk were im at.. Whitney: u promse i get tat burgr?

Ian: I’m sorry, you’re right. You’re the mightiest ant I know Ian: You get the best prize Ian: Making it home safely 🏆 Ian: You’ll call if you need anything?