put a light to my smoke with a shotgun kiss, find your lips through the haze

Hey everyone :)
 
Currently enjoying the city!!!
 
I'm so happy, I haven't been back to NYC in a while and it's finally nice to be here and doing some exploring with some good friends.
 
Finally!!!

can't stop listening to Look At This by A Tribe Called Red. it's actually incredible to just dance your heart out to, believe it or not.
also, it's very difficult to create a mens set, I haven't done this in a long, long time.
 

(Travis)
 
"Hey, man." Peter clapped my shoulder as we stood outside the club. The boys were out having a cigarette and although Peter didn't smoke, he wanted to get some fresh air. It was nice to have a friend outside of the band and he knew me pretty well. Now that he was home, though he was being vague about it all, we hung out more. "Are you sure it's a good idea?"
 
"I mean, we'll see how I feel later, right?" I shrugged. "It should be interesting. Toby said he went once or twice and it was good."
 
Toby and Martin had asked me a couple nights back to go to this little shindig they've been catching onto recently. After the club closed, there was always something happening underground. In a place like this, the city never sleeps, so it's no wonder that there was something happening in the closed corners that nobody ever bothers to look. It was some private underground, where people fought. Some amateur MMA style but nothing incredibly serious. Toby told me that it varied - underground, club parking lots. It may not be exactly a safe idea, but it definitely was an intriguing one.
 
"If you say so." Peter sighed. Maybe it was the whole Marine in him, but he didn't seem too amused with the idea. Although, I reckon that Peter would be able to crush me with his hand alone.
 
As I took the last drag of my cigarette and threw it on the ground, Emma came stumbling out of the club doors with Noah just behind her. She was giggling and Noah was holding her shoulders to keep her from completely falling on the ground. I didn't know what was going on between the two of them, but it seemed alright. "What's up, guys?" Carson greeted them, throwing his cigarette butt on the ground as well.
 
"I think we're going to head home now." Emma smiled.
 
Noah embraced her from behind and dug his chin into her neck. He was smiling, too. "We'll see you guys later."
 
We all waved goodbye and the second they turned the corner, Peter piped up. "Who's that guy she's with?"
 
Martin chuckled. "Hint of jealousy in that voice, Pete?" He dropped his cigarette and pulled a joint out of his metal case, bringing it to his lips and lighting it.
 
"Just a question."
 
"This kid Noah." I answered him. "I don't think it's anything serious."
 
"Mhm.." Peter mused.
 
I ignored him, taking the joint from Martin and inhaling deeply. The club was starting to slow down, people started leaving - all while we were still outside enjoying a nice little smoke break.
 
-
 
(Emma)
 
I woke up in the middle of the night to some keys jingling and footsteps in the apartment. When I stretched out to look at the time, it was two in the morning. There was nobody beside me, no other bodies or clothes or anything at all. I groaned. I was starting to really get sick of the feeling it gave me, spending a night with Noah and then waking up all alone. But I supressed the thought because it wasn't something I wanted to dwell on at this time of the night. Instead, I dragged my legs over and got out of bed. I walked down the hallway and ran a hand through my hair.
 
"Still up?" Travis chuckled, throwing his keys on the kitchen island.
 
"You guys just coming in?" I noticed that he was with Peter, who was now settled on the couch. "Are you moving in, too?" I teased.
 
Peter grinned, flashing his perfect set of teeth. "Just getting comfy."
 
Travis went to his bedroom and I went to the cupboards to grab myself a glass and filled it with water. It woke me up a little bit and only then did I take in Peter and his appearance. He was looking over at me. He looked good tonight at the club, per usual, but there was a change now. There was a faint scratch on his cheek, a red line, and a small cut on his lip. "Pete.." I walked over sit on the coffee table in front of him. "Are you okay?"
 
"What?" He blurted out.
 
My mouth was open in awe as I lightly grazed my thumb on the dried blood on his cheek. He winced slightly and I bit down on my lip. "Sorry. What happened?" Travis came in and I heard him shuffling in the kitchen. When I glanced over my shoulder, he was settled on the other couch and he, too, had scratches on his face. A cut on his forehead and a slightly swollen and red cheek. "Am I missing something? You guys look like shit."
 
Travis laughed, flipping through channels. "Not a big deal, Ems."
 
"I'm not sure I even want to know." I rolled my eyes at him, then turned back to look at Peter. He was staring into my eyes and I felt like he was gazing into my soul, so I just looked down. "Don't tell me."
 
"Are you sure?" Travis chimed. "It's one hell of a story."
 
"Actually, it's hilarious," Peter chuckled, "I've never seen a girl try to throw a punch so hard."
 
My head shot up and looked at him in disbelief. "You fought a girl tonight?"
 
"What?" He shook his head. "No. I was talking about Travis."
 
I laughed hysterically and jumped onto the couch next to Travis, throwing my arm over his shoulder. I pressed down on his forehead gently with my thumb and he flinched. "Ah! Emma!" He hissed at me.
 
I just smirked. "Good thing I left when I did, huh."
 
"Yeah." Travis muttered.
 
Peter smiled. "Yeah. We wouldn't want to embarrass Travis since you can probably throw a better right hook."
 
"That is true." I grinned.
 
Travis finally settled on the sports channel, and it was showing one of the final four games of March Madness. "Is Noah in there sleeping?" He asked me.
 
I chewed on my upper lip and played with my fingers. I should probably gather some advice from Travis tomorrow morning when my head was much clearer, but for now I had to answer his question. I shook my head lightly. "Nope." I said, popping my lips on the 'P.'
 
"Uh?" Travis murmured. "Should I ask?"
 
"No." I shrugged.
 
I looked up and noticed Peter stealing glances in our direction. I was glad Travis had a friend like him and didn't mind that he was over often - he was something nice to look at it and could actually hold up a conversation. Seeing too much of the band can really take its toll on you and it was nice to see a fresh face, an especially handsome, fresh face. "What about you, Peter?" I engaged.
 
He raised an eyebrow at me. "Hm? What about me?"
 
"What has led you here to our big comfy couch, hm?" I chuckled. "Where's your girlfriend tonight?" I wondered out loud. Then I wanted to take it back because it seemed nosy and too curious.
 
But Peter just chuckled and shrugged, stretching out his arms on the couch. "Just making the most of the off days, you know." He grinned. "No girlfriend."
 
I bit down on my lip the moment he answered the girlfriend question. And Travis smacked me in the face with a pillow the second I bit down on my lip. "Excuse me!" I screeched, slapping his thigh.
 
Peter was laughing, but slowly stood up as well. "Well, I'm going to head out."
 
"Sure you don't want to crash?" Travis offered him. "Don't want you getting jumped out there, bro."
 
They both chuckled but Peter politely declined the offer. "I could use and appreciate my bed tonight. Thanks, though, man."
 
Travis stuck out his hand and shook Peter's. More like clapped it, some manly kind of handshake. I rolled my eyes at Travis for not even walking Peter to the door, so I stood up instead to walk him. Peter seemed to notice and began to walk to the front. I followed closely behind and opened the door for him as he slid on his shoes. I leaned on the door and he just stood in the doorway. "Thanks for always having me around."
 
"I don't really get a choice, do I?" I joked.
 
He cracked a smile and shoved his hands in his pockets. We were silent for a couple of seconds just staring into each other's eyes and there was something about Peter that I wanted to know. Intriguing, that he was. I was curious. I knew the James Bond character he was for a couple of hours one night but talking and a kiss on the cheek while we were both drunk didn't mean we knew each other at all. It was interesting. My eyes trailed from his beautiful blues down to his lips, which had the small cut on it. I wanted to run a thumb along them, touch his face and feel the scratch again, see if he was okay.
 
"You guys should totally make out now." Travis shouted from behind. I looked down with a quiet laugh and I heard Peter chuckling as well. When I peeked over my shoulder, Travis was standing in the hallway just looking at us. "Don't mind me." He was laughing loudly as he walked into the kitchen.
 
I looked back at Peter and just gave him a hug. "Get home safe."
 
"See you soon, Emma." He flashed a smile and started to walk off.
 
When I closed the door, Travis was back in view down the hallway. "Let's not make it so obvious that you're into the guy."
 
"I thought we had already established that when we met on Halloween?" I walked down the hallway and grabbed a pillow from the couch, throwing it at Travis.
 
He caught it, of course, and threw it right back. I dodged it and fell onto the couch. "You're explaining things tomorrow, though. I'm going to crash now."
 
While Travis went to his bedroom, I changed the channel from basketball to a rerun of some reality show. I was awake now and left alone with some thoughts, which I guess, I was going to be explaining to Travis tomorrow. At least this gave me time to get them in order.

feeling like i'm just another remedy
 

It was just a couple minutes after noon and Travis' footsteps were echoing all throughout the apartment, accompanied by Blaise's consistent barking. I rolled out of bed and peeked my head out into the hall. "Heavy feet, much?"
 
Travis popped his head out of the bathroom. "Sorry. Just getting ready."
 
I shook my head at him and dragged myself back into my comfortable bed. But a minute or two later, Travis came in and with the door already open, Blaise ran and hopped onto the bed, sitting by my feet. "You know, I wanted to sleep in."
 
"It's already late." Travis chuckled. "Anyway, I'm just going out for lunch with Peter."
 
"Peter? Your Navy friend?"
 
"Marine." Travis corrected me. "The one you kissed at the Halloween party. Yes."
 
I rolled my eyes at him, digging my face into my pillow with a loud groan, but I stole a quick glance at Travis. "Why do you look so dressed up?"
 
He was wearing a light grey sweater with a light blue collared shirt underneath and some navy trousers. He looked down at himself, running a hand down his chest and smirking. "Fancy place."
 
"Are you trying to impress him, Travis?" I teased.
 
"Obviously."
 
"The usual."
 
We both laughed. "By the way, Noah said he's coming in a half hour. He called and said that about fifteen minutes ago."
 
Almost instantly, I sat up. "What?" I threw a pillow as hard as I could at Travis. "Excuse me?"
 
"Have fun." He grinned, waving and walking out of my room. Blaise jumped off my bed and followed him, barking all throughout the apartment.
 
I groaned, throwing myself back. At this point, I did not feel like moving or doing anything except lay in my bed. So I did just that. I waited around in my bed, lounging and resting my eyes until I heard three hard knocks on my door. I got out of bed and opened the door. But it didn't hit me that I was in simple boy shorts and a loose tank top with no bra on. "Shit." I blurted out. Thank goodness it was black. I wanted to smack myself for just staying in bed instead of actually changing or getting cleaned up.
 
"Wow. Well, then.." Noah's lips rose at the corner, forming a small smile.
 
I bit down on my lip and shook my head at myself. "I should probably put something on, or something."
 
"No, it's fine." Noah chuckled, walking into the apartment. "I don't mind."
 
I rolled my eyes as I walked in front of him, leading him into the kitchen. Of course he didn't mind, he was a boy. I poured him a glass of water before I ran into Travis' room, since it was closer, and put on a pair of sweatpants that were laying on his bed. When I walked out, Noah pouted. "Party pooper."
 
I just laughed. "So, what brings you here, Mister Alexander?"
 
"Just wanted to talk." He shrugged.
 
"What about?" I wondered.
 
"Emma," he started, clearing his throat, "you're a cool girl."
 
Already I was confused. I wasn't sure if I should thank him for the compliment or just stay quiet. "Pardon?"
 
"Can I propose something?" Noah blurted. "Just to get to the point, I guess." I nodded, so he continued. "Well, you're cool. You're pretty as hell. But, I mean.." He stammered.
 
I had no idea where this was going, but it seemed to be going a little fast. Sure, we kissed, but I didn't know what he was talking about by any means. "Uh..?"
 
"We're in New York. We're young. I was thinking maybe we can make this something... casual?"
 
"What?" I muttered.
 
Noah scratched the back of his head with a small innocent smile on his face. "Casual? Me and you?"
 
I was a little dumbfounded by his proposal, but I tried to wrap my head around it. "Like.. friends with benefits?"
 
"Yeah, well, I don't really.." He scrunched up his face in disapproval, "not a big fan of that term. But yeah."
 
"Well, I wasn't really looking for anything, but you're cute.." I mumbled.
 
Noah chuckled, leaning forward on the stool to get closer to me. "I think it could work out." He inched closer with every word he said.
 
I wasn't sure how to feel about this considering casual was never my thing, but I remember also promising myself to stay away from boys for a while. I figured this could possibly be the best of those two worlds. However, I still didn't know what to really do with Noah even though he was right in front of my face. "Emma?" He mumbled.
 
I snapped out of my little daze and he pressed his lips against mine softly. When he pulled away, he rest his forehead on mine and his eyes were still on my lips. Maybe it was adrenaline, maybe I was still in a daze, or maybe it was a spur of the moment thing - but I quickly wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him in. Noah seemed pleased, satisfied that we managed to work something out. I didn't agree to this casual business but casual was what I needed right now, anyway.
 
*
 
I woke up in my own bed and when I checked my phone for the time, it was only five thirty. I remember being with Noah and resting my eyes in my bed, but he was nowhere to be found. I threw my legs over and stood up. I noticed I was wearing what I wore this morning without Travis' sweatpants - they were on my bedroom floor. I walked around the apartment to see where Noah could be hiding but he wasn't hiding anywhere. I sighed, checking my phone for any messages.
 
Surely enough, there was one from Noah sent at four in the afternoon. "Hey, it's Noah. See, maybe casual can work."
 
I grinned at the message. Although we didn't do much, the whole idea of casual with no commitment could possibly be in the works for me. I wasn't too sure, though. "So like," I heard noise coming from the front door, "you're home pretty much this entire month?"
 
"Yeah, I mean, basically. I have off days, you know." A deep voice responded.
 
I poked my head out of the kitchen area and saw Travis sliding off his shoes. "That's not too bad." He said, walking into the living area. He was with his friend, Peter, and I was in these boy shorts and a loose tank top. Again, not fitting for meeting any boys. Peter took a seat and didn't even look in my direction. I sighed in relief, tip-toeing out of the kitchen and towards the hallway.
 
Travis, however, caught sight of me and laughed. "Good idea, Ems."
 
When I came back out, I was in a comfy knit sweater and a pair of my own sweats this time. I rested my hands on the couch behind Travis and leaned forward. "Hey friends."
 
"How was your day, Emma?" Travis leaned his head back, smirking at me like a child.
 
"Good. We can talk about my day later. How was yours?"
 
"Good. Peter showed me a new lunch place in Midtown." He nodded towards Peter who was sitting on the loveseat, smiling.
 
I smiled back at him. "Nice to see you again." Then I checked him out. Only after did I think to myself that maybe I shouldn't have blatantly examined the man head to toe right in front of him, but it didn't cross my mind while I was doing it. He was still built, but I noticed a tattoo here and there that I never noticed before.
 
"You, too." Peter said in a polite voice. "Are you coming out tonight?"
 
"Ooh." I poked Travis. "I was never invite out tonight." I looked up and shrugged at Peter. "I was never invited tonight." I repeated.
 
Peter was chuckling, and Travis was shaking his head at me. "Well, I'm not about to invite you out." Travis crossed his arms against his chest and began to change the channels on the tv.
 
I faked shock and hurt, holding onto my chest. "Ouch, Travvy."
 
He ignored me, but there was a faint smile that was on his face. I walked around the couch to sit next to Peter. I hugged my knees into my chest, my feet resting on the couch, and gave him big puppy eyes. I glanced at Travis and he was watching with a grin. "Peter..."
 
"Emma..." He laughed.
 
"What are you doing tonight?"
 
"I think I'm going out." He said in between chuckles. I waited patiently, big doe eyes and an innocent smile. "Did you... want to come out?"
 
I shot a look at Travis and we all laughed. "Guess I'm invited now. I'll go and get ready."
 
"You better go and get ready. Lord knows it takes you three hours."
 
"Just for that, Trav," I smacked him playfully on the arm, "I'll take three and a half!"

me and you,
and with the top down
we'll cruise around
land and make love on the moon
would you like that?
 
The hate for the 50 item limit is growing with every one I make... argh. I'm also pretty sure that the leak for Justin Timberlake's 20/20 Experience is the best thing that's happened this break so far. Still making a purchase... music for the (eyes low, panty droppin) soul
 

I trudged down the hallway with my hair still in loose curls from last night and my head slightly throbbing with my pulse heavily beating at my temples. When I had full view of the living area, I noticed Travis' arm draped over his chest, very close to falling off the couch. On the sweetheart couch was Carson spread out and cuddling with Blaise. I chuckled at the sight of the boys as I walked into the kitchen to look for a quick bite.
 
Suddenly, I heard a loud bang. I jumped, startled. I turned around and saw Travis' head pop out from behind the couch. "I'm okay."
 
I shook my head at him. "Good night, Trav?"
 
"Yeah, Trav." Carson groaned, stretching out his arms above his head. Blaise hopped off the couch and went to lick Travis' face. "Way to wake me up."
 
"You didn't tell me that the Noah you were talking about was Noah Alexander." Travis ignored what Carson and I both said. He was walking towards the kitchen and I slid him a glass of orange juice on the island. He took it and chugged it down, waiting for an answer. Carson slid into the stool next to him and I gave him a glass as well.
 
"Are we going to interrogate Emma now?"
 
Carson chimed in. "Yeah, Noah Alexander?"
 
"How do you guys know him?"
 
"He's Chris' brother." Travis and Carson said in unison, and they both shrugged also.
 
I should have remembered this. I did meet Chris, Noah's brother who looked almost identical to him, last night. And it was a fun night in the end. We went to the bar to meet the band and Chris and his band played while we all drank. Then, he joined us after they played the set and we all were just one, big, happy drinking family.
 
I nodded my head. "Ah, very well then. But Trav," I pointed a finger at him, "you told me the name Noah didn't sound familiar."
 
"It didn't." He shrugged. "My bad. But the Alexanders are cool dudes. I'm surprised. It's truly a small world."
 
"That's all you guys have to say about him? No warnings? No threats?" I gasped, faking shock. Part of me was happy that they weren't doing so; it made me feel that it was safe to play the field. But part of me wanted Carson and Travis to play the big brother role and try to scare me off. They didn't. They looked at each other as if they were trying to come up with reasons against Noah but they didn't say a word. "Really? Nothing?"
 
"Did you want something?" Carson chuckled, finishing off the glass and heading back onto the couch. He kicked his feet up and pulled up the nearest book to read.
 
Travis was still leaning against the island, looking at me. "You do, don't you?"
 
"What do you mean?"
 
Travis sighed but had a small smile on his face. "Want some dirt on Noah. Something bad so you have some excuse."
 
"Excuse for what?" I wasn't sure if I was supposed to feel offended by Travis' response.
 
"To push him away. To not go for it." He answered simply.
 
I bit down on my lip, taken back by what Travis just said. Maybe he was right, but I wanted him to be wrong. The pains of being a female - we never actually know what we want even when we think we do. I opened my mouth to say something but closed it right after I realized I didn't really know what to say. Travis had a smirk on his face. I sighed. "Just a safety thing, I guess," I muttered, "nobody likes to feel vulnerable."
 
"How are you going to let him all in with that attitude?"
 
"That's the point." I retorted. The look on Travis' face made me instantly want to take it back. Behind him, Carson was stealing glances towards us, all while hiding behind this tiny novel. "You know me, Travis." I groaned.
 
He shook his head. "Not a good mentality, my friend. Noah is a good person."
 
I felt like I was being lectured by Travis on how to treat Noah and I wanted to ask him which one of us was his best friend, but instead I told myself that he was only looking out for me and wanted the best, even if it meant hitting me with this stuff. "I get it." I simply said, walking away and into my room. I decided to change, take Blaise out for a walk or something. It was my day off work and I wanted to enjoy it instead of spend it inside, or talking and discussing this topic with Travis.
 
"You guys need more weed in your life!" I heard Carson yell out. I just laughed.
 
Once I put on some comfortable pants and a sweater, I grabbed Blaise's leash and headed out. On the way out, I received a message from Daria that said, 'Why do you guys look so good together? You're messing with a real model Ems!!! xo' I laughed when I read it and I knew she was definietly talking about those pictures I forwarded to her.
 
Of course, the second I read her message, Noah's named popped up on my phone. He had just sent me a message, too. "Hey. Hope your day is going well. Let me know if you can make some time for a friend in your busy schedule :)"
 
I couldn't help but smile. I sent him a message back because, well, how could I ignore that? "Afternoon, Noah. Hope yours is, too. Maybe tomorrow.. I can bless you with my presence." I teased him.
 
He sent me a reply almost instantly. "Looking forward to tomorrow then, your highness."
 
I laughed. Blaise started barking obnoxiously loud so I looked up to check what he was going crazy about. In front of him was little Hudson licking his face and Noah stood there, a wide grin on his face as his arm was stretched out behind his head. He was scratching the back of it innocently and glanced up at me. "Fancy running into you here."
 
"You saw all of that, didn't you?"
 
"I happen to like when people smile at their phones. I think it's cute." He chuckled.
 
I rolled my eyes at him. Noah never failed to make me feel shy, something about being near him maybe because he was so handsome or such a gentleman or just someone new. I couldn't put my finger on it. "What are you doing today?"
 
"The usual," he shrugged, "walk Hudson, gym. What about you, Miss Emma?"
 
I smiled at him. "Walk Blaise. Who knows what else?"
 
Noah had on a smirk. He was always so intriguing to me and I liked it, but I also wish he wasn't at the same time. I didn't want to get reeled in, and I wanted to keep these guards up. "Care to join on an adventure later?"
 
"Depends where, Sir Noah." I said playfully.
 
Noah laughed lightly. "My brother and a couple friends are hanging out tonight, so tell Travis and the guys they can come, too. But we used to go to this place all the time as teenagers. It's one of the best places in the city."
 
I bit down on my lip, hiding a smile. "Count me in."
 
"I'll see you later then." He nodded. We both said our goodbyes and I made my way back to the apartment. I was nearly skipping on the way home, I was full of excitement. I didn't like feeling like a little school girl but I couldn't help it. The second I stepped through the door, I heard loud noises coming from the living room.
 
I walked in and saw the band sitting all over the couches, and Noah's brother Chris was there, too. "What's up, Ems?" Travis grinned.
 
"What's going on, guys?"
 
"Are you busy tonight?" Toby asked. "Say no, because the girl I'm talking to is coming out tonight and it would be nice if you were there, you know, to have another girl there."
 
I rolled my eyes at Toby. "What's up?"
 
"Just adventures." Chris chuckled.
 
"I ran into Noah, actually," I smiled at him, "that's what he told me, too."
 
Martin nudged Chris' arm playfully. "Look at little Alexander go, eh. Your brother's got game."
 
Chris shook his head, shrugging Martin off. "Well, Emma," he looked over at me, "do you smoke?"
 
"Do I smoke..." I sucked in my lips, "Smoke what?"
 
All the boys laughed. Travis answered that one for me and told Chris that I have before and on occasion, but it wasn't exactly at the top of my priority list. Tonight, like Noah had said earlier, they were all going out to this place they used to go to as teenagers. And like teenagers, they wanted to drink and be drunk and smoke and be high. It sounded like a bunch of rebellious fun, and frankly, something that I could use.
 
Chris eventually went home after discussing plans and the boys stayed in the apartment, playing video games to pass the time. When I got out of my room all ready and changed, I saw Travis close a little metal case. "Mad question asking, blunt passing, music blasting." He rapped, trying to be gangster.
 
I shook my head at him. "You're smoking everyone tonight?"
 
"You're covered, Ems," he laughed, "if that's what you're asking."
 
"Well, I have your alcohol fix." I held up two cases of cold shots.
 
He kept on laughing. "Like true teenagers." I nodded. He continued, "I like this. Maybe Noah is bringing out some fun in you."
 
"As if I'm not fun already!"
 
*
 
"Isn't this illegal? Trespassing maybe? Use of drugs?" I teased Noah as the rest of the boys made their way into this rusty, old door. The lights were off inside but some light from the moon was coming in through little cracks and windows. I heard a couple creaks and noises and suddenly, lights came on. It was an old theatre, the Loew's theatre. It was closed down and now used by a furniture store for storage. Noah told me that the furniture wasn't always there; just recently.
 
Chris appeared in the middle of the stage, standing on some chairs. "This place is too awesome to get destroyed."
 
"I agree, man." Carson chimed in.
 
Noah took my hand and I bit down on my lip. Something was turning in my stomach and it felt like butterflies, but I wanted to shake that feeling off. It was cute, and unexpected - like always. We walked to one of the many seats further up, and we sat in the middle of the row. We had a clear view of the stage that was full of dust and chairs, and the paint on the ceiling was chipping off and everything felt so old and beautiful.
 
By this point, I was a little tipsy. We had a little pre-game at Toby's place and his girl kept on feeding me alcohol. It was her way of bonding, I suppose. The boys were all downing hard liquor and beer, and I could assume that a couple of them were drunk. They danced and played around on the stage while drinking, and some of the boys sat in the front row just watching the entertainment while smoking a joint. Toby and his girl were sitting on two of the chairs just drinking.
 
I turned to Noah, putting my feet up on the seats in front. "This is what you guys used to do as teenagers? Sneak into an abandoned theatre?"
 
"We were cool kids, huh?"
 
"Super."
 
"But this place is really pretty." He shrugged, pulling out a blunt from his jacket pocket and taking out a lighter. "It's just historic. Part of New York that I think should stay."
 
I looked around, up, left, right, everywhere. He was right. It felt very historic. With the old engravings in the walls and even the seats felt like it was built way too long ago. But it was cool. While Noah lit up, I downed the rest of the cold shot that I had. I set the empty can on the ground and opened the new one that I had hidden in the sleeve of my arm.
 
Noah exhaled slowly, looking at me. I wondered if he was drunk at all, but he was definitely going to be flying soon. "Want to trade?"
 
"Sure." I handed him the beer and he passed me the blunt. I inhaled deeply and I could feel Noah's eyes on me the whole time. Once the tip left my lips, I turned to him with the smoke still in my mouth. I leaned in closer to him, tilting my head just slightly and letting my lips touch his gently. I let it out softly and I could feel his soft lips on mine taking it in. When I glanced up, he was looking at me. We pulled apart and he exhaled all the smoke out without letting his eyes off me.
 
Noah leaned his head back against the seat, a small smirk on his face. His eyes went from staring into mine, to down at my lips, and then back into my eyes. I watched him closely as he began to inch towards me. "Do you want to do that again with less space between us?" He whispered.
 
I lifted the blunt to my lips once again and inhaled deeply. Once I had enough, I pressed my lips harder this time against Noah's and blew out against it. He sucked it all in like before and then kissed me gently. It was short and sweet, and he chuckled lightly right after, all the smoke seeping through his teeth and lips. I laughed, and he leaned in again to kiss me; this time it was much longer and much deeper.
 
When we parted this time, a smirk crept up on my face. I snatched the beer from his hand and downed a bunch. At the same time, I handed him the blunt and he took a couple more hits. I stood up and held my hand out for him. Instead of putting his hand there, he gave me the blunt. "Final trade." He said, and I chuckled, finishing off the last of it before I threw it inside the empty beer can that was on the floor. He finished the rest of the beer in the other can and then put his hand in mine.
 
"Let's play." I shrugged with a smug smile on my face.
 
"What?" I heard him mumble through his laugh. His eyes were glossy, pink and small. I could only assume mine looked the same.
 
I dragged him down to where everybody except Toby and his girl - guaranteed they were off in some little hidden corner doing something interesting. The guys were messing around, dancing on the chairs and causing ruckus. Either they were drunk, high, or both. It seemed a little destructive, but there was so much about it that was fun. Feeling free, like a kid again with no worries.
 
I hopped up onto a fancy looking chair, Noah's hand still in mine. I began walking from chair to chair and Noah just walked next to me. "Your highness." He laughed.
 
"That's right." I grinned, doing a little spin while stepping onto the next chair.
 
"Hey, don't get too ahead of yourself, Sugar Plum." Travis called out from the front row. "Hate to see you fall."
 
I shook my head at him. "Sugar Plum is a fairy. I can fly."
 
I was surprised that we didn't get caught or that someone didn't come in and scare us off. But it was a night that was probably well needed for many of us. To feel free, to feel young and careless. God, we were hooligans.

find some other kind of place to go, oh oh
 
In love with Boy London so much, and the St. Lucia remix to this song by Passion Pit
Don't be alarmed by the numerous amounts of pretty boy faces in this set, haha, just enjoy em. Small, kind of brief story to fill in for now..
 

I was woken up by my loud, ringing phone that was also vibrating on my bedside table. With my eyes still closed, I threw my arm over to reach the bedside table until I felt my phone. I picked it up and peeked through one eye to see where the answer and speaker buttons were. "Hello?"
 
"GOOD MORNING EMMA ROBERTS!" Daria screamed on the line. I dug my face into my pillow until she spoke again, this time in a lower volume. "Do you care to get your ass on Skype for me?"
 
"Lovely." I mumbled. "Be on in a few." We both muttered goodbyes and I dragged myself out of my bed. Travis was reading newspapers on the kitchen island and eating some toast. I slid my laptop off the counter and brought it with me to the couch. I made myself comfortable before opening it up and chatting with Daria. I didn't care that I had crazy bed head, or looked like the cat dragged me in.
 
"GOOD MORNING EMMA ROBERTS!" Daria greeted me the same once the video call began.
 
I stared at her with an unimpressed face and she laughed. Blaise came to sit on the couch next to me. "Blaise says hello, too."
 
"Why, hello there, friend." Daria grinned. "I'm glad to see you guys."
 
"Travis is back there." I glanced over my shoulder, and Travis just waved. "He says hi."
 
"Tell him I say hi."
 
"Daria says hi!" I told Travis.
 
"HI!" He yelled from the kitchen area.
 
"Now that our hellos are out of the way," Daria chuckled, "what's been new? I wish we had a real life gossip girl so I could just be informed all the time on the whereabouts and details."
 
"That would ruin lives." I shook my head at Daria. "Nothing too much. I told you most of it on the phone the other day."
 
"The big promo! And the drunken celebration..." Daz looked at me in disapproval but she still had a smile on her face. "How excited are you?"
 
"I worked my first shoot at the gallery yesterday. That sounds really weird," I murmured to myself, "but anyway, it was fun."
 
"Did you meet any cute boys?"
 
"Just one." I gushed.
 
I told Daria about yesterday's events - the photoshoot, Casey working up his charm, Vanessa pushing things to happen (but it was much appreciated), and the walk home with the notorious Noah, the model. I was so happy that we decided to video call instead of just talking through the phone - the reactions that Daria had were priceless and something I wouldn't wanna miss.
 
She had a wide smile on her face once I finished telling my story. "Can I google him?"
 
I shook my head at her, trying to supress a laugh. "Please don't." Just when I said that, my phone buzzed next to me and I looked over to see what it was. On the screen read Unknown Caller, with a number that I did not recognize beneath it. Daria looked at me curiously. "Sorry, one second."
 
I picked up the phone. "Hello?"
 
"Emma." A husky, raspy, deep male voice said my name. "Uh, hey."
 
I put it on speaker so that Daria could hear. I knew she was going to want to anyway. "Sorry, who is this?"
 
"Oh, it's me. I mean, it's Noah." He said with a small chuckle, sounding like he was a bit embarrassed or something.
 
On the screen, Daria was flailing her arms like a crazy little girl. She began to raise her eyebrows up and down as well. I ignored her but still had a smile on my face - I couldn't help it. "Morning, Noah."
 
"How are you?"
 
"So sweet!" Daria blurted out, but I lowered the volume on the laptop just enough so that Noah wouldn't be able to hear it through the phone.
 
I gave Daz a death stare. "I'm good, how are you?"
 
"Good. Just calling to make sure you didn't give me the wrong number and all," he laughed.
 
I laughed, too. "I wouldn't do that to you."
 
"I'm glad you didn't."
 
"What are you up to today?" I asked casually. Daria, once again, was making some silly faces through the screen.
 
I took him off speaker so that Daria would have to endure the rest of our conversation not knowing what he's saying. Her jaw dropped at me and I gave her a smirk back. "Nothing really, probably walk my dog, gym, do some groceries. I think something's happening tonight, though."
 
"What's happening?"
 
"I'm not too sure," he mused, "my friends still have to get back to me."
 
"A model party?" I teased.
 
"Those can be fun sometimes." Noah chuckled. "Anyway, I'm going to get a head start on those groceries. Did you, uh-" he stuttered, "want to, uh, grab some lunch or something in a few? You can meet my dog."
 
I was probably blushing now, but I hoped that Daria couldn't see it. "I'll send you a text. You can meet mine, too."
 
"Mine might be a little cuter..."
 
"We'll just have to see." I laughed. "Bye."
 
"Bye, Emma." Noah said, and with that, he hung up.
 
Daria screamed at me. "How could you leave me out like that!!!"
 
"As much as I love my best friend," I began, "Noah has asked me to go out for lunch. I should probably take a shower if I don't want to scare him off."
 
"Good idea. But you're going to be telling me all about it once you come home!" She demanded. "He had a cute voice, too. Very sexy."
 
I winked at Daria and we said our goodbyes, Blaise and Travis jumped in to wave goodbye at her, too. I promised that I would give her a call later on in the day to tell her how lunch went. Before I shut the laptop off, I received an e-mail from Richard, the photographer, and it had all the photos that we took from the shoot. I forwarded them to Daria with the message, 'Have fun while I'm out.'
 
Travis, of course, overheard the entire conversation and nudged me as I was walking to my room. "So, Noah, huh.."
 
"Yes, Trav."
 
"Do you think he's good in bed?"
 
I smacked his chest lightly. "Wouldn't you like to know!"
 
Travis just laughed, shoving me gently. "You gotta know if he's a keeper or not, Ems!"
 

 
I met Noah at this little sandwich shop not too far from Central Park. He went in and got us some lunch and we walked over to Central Park to find a nice bench and let the dogs off to play. He had a chocolate labrador who was still a puppy, with light blue eyes. "That's not fair. Blaise was just as cute when he was a little pup, too."
 
Noah laughed as he bit into his sandwich. "I still won. But Blaise is still cute, you know. He's a husky. Forever everyone's favourites."
 
"Don't act like little Hudson isn't a chick magnet for you." I nudged him, nodding towards the two ladies who were passing by for a nice jog bend down to pet Hudson and Blaise. They looked over at us with a smile once the dogs began to run in our direction.
 
"I don't know," Noah shrugged, leaning forward to pick up Hudson. He stared at me with those little blues and I gave him a scratch behind his ear. "Is it working?"
 
I shook my head at Noah with a smile. "Maybe." Blaise was sitting by my feet now, resting and being good. I finished off my lunch quickly and when I turned to look at Noah, he was already finished, just downing some water. "Did you figure out what you were doing tonight?"
 
"Actually, yeah. My friends have finally remembered me." He chuckled. "My friend's having a show, East Village area. He's also having an after party nearby, expecting a good number of people." He bit down on his lip and looked up at me. "Are you doing anything tonight?"
 
"Are you inviting me to the party?"
 
"Yes." He said shyly.
 
I smiled at him. "Will you pick me up?"
 
"Be at your door at seven thirty sharp." Noah flashed his million dollar smile, giving me a side hug.
 

 
"Emma!" Travis called from the washroom. When I peeked my head in, he was running his fingers through his hair and pulling his white v-neck down from his neck. "Are you coming out tonight?"
 
"What?"
 
"To a show. It's in East Village, so not too far to walk if you get drunk." He joked.
 
I raised an eyebrow at him, a bit confused. "Noah asked me to come to his friend's show tonight... in East Village."
 
Travis stared at me blankly. "Sorry, Ems. Name doesn't ring a bell. Maybe if I see a face..."
 
"We'll just see tonight, then."
 
"We're not performing." Travis shrugged. "Just supporting a friend. And going to the after party."
 
I was intrigued. This was like six degrees of separation. "I'll most likely see you tonight, then."
 
"See you tonight, then." Travis laughed and gave me a hug before I made my way downstairs to the lobby to meet Noah.
 
He was dressed casually but very put together. For a model, I guess, this was his usual look that was so simple but still managed to get a couple stares. A white v-neck with a denim button down that was open on top, and a leather jacket. He had on some dark jeans and boots to top it all off. I wondered if he outdressed me. It was definitely a change from the casual grey tee and light jeans he wore earlier for lunch.
 
"You look great." He said, giving me a small kiss on the cheek. That was something that I did not expect at all, but I didn't mind either.
 
"Thanks." I smiled. "You, too. You clean up nicely. I'm glad the scruff is still there, though." I complimented him.
 
Noah was smiling. "You look good in just about anything, apparently."
 
"Noah!" I exclaimed. My cheeks were probably crimson red if it weren't for the blush that I had already applied before I left. He just shrugged. "You're too nice."
 
Once we got to the little venue, I spotted the guys from the band. They came up to me with bear hugs and drinks, and Noah looked thrown off. "Couple of my best friends." I gestured towards them.
 
Carson and Toby just shook hands with Noah, but it seemed like they were all familiar with each other. "What's up, buddy? You know Emma?" Toby asked him with a grin on his face. "What time is Chris on?"
 
"Wanna ask you the same thing." Noah just laughed, then checked his watch. "Half an hour now."
 
"Alright, Ems. We will see you in a bit. Come meet us at the bar." Carson hugged me and the two of them went off. I was dying to ask Noah how he knew Carson and Toby but he was approached by yet another person.
 
Who looked just like him, but with tattoos and more facial hair. Same build, same height, same features. "Noah! Thanks for coming out."
 
"Of course." They hugged, grinning. "This is Emma."
 
"Hi, I'm Chris." The guy shook my hand. "You look familiar."
 
"So do you." I remarked, wide-eyed. "Are you guys brothers?"
 
Noah scratched the back of his head with a small smile and Chris was laughing right next to him. They could be twins for all I knew, just one had tattoos. "Yeah," Chris answered, "we are. Now tell me why you look so familiar.."
 
I was blank. I didn't have an answer for him, but he answered his own question. With a question for me. "Are you Travis' friend?"
 
"You know Travis?"
 
Chris laughed and the look on his face made it seem like a lightbulb was flashing above his head. "Travis Renforth, of course. I knew it. Is he coming out tonight?"
 
"Yeah, he should be here soon." I chuckled. This was all too weird, but I liked it.
 
"I've gotta go get set up and all. I'll see you guys after. Noah," he looked over at his brother, "tell me Emma's coming later?"
 
Noah looked at me with raised eyebrows and a smirk. "I sure hope so."
 
Once Chris left, Noah turned to me and asked, "How do you know Travis?"
 
"We've been best friends since the diaper days." I answered simply.
 
"Small world." He smiled.

are you scared to wear your heart out on your sleeve?
..you ain't alone
just let me be your ticket home
 

"Good afternoon, sunshine." I placed a hot french vanilla on the desk and slid it in Vanessa's direction.
 
She groaned, but held a smile on her face. "Thank you, buttercup."
 
I woke up with a killer hangover and not a single trace of what had happened the night before. Thankfully, Travis was being a good friend and a good roommate. When I dragged myself out of bed, I found an Advil and a glass of water next to my bed. I downed that quickly before heading into the kitchen where he had breakfast laid out and ready. I promised Travis that I would bring him something back when I got home to express my gratitude.
 
"How was your night last night?" Vanessa asked, sipping on her latte.
 
"What?"
 
"You sent me a very drunk text at around midnight." She chuckled. "Did you have fun?"
 
"Oh, god." I wanted to smack myself in the head.
 
Vanessa seemed to read it all over my face, and she shrugged. "Forget that I asked. We'll talk about it when you remember." She smirked.
 
I only rolled my eyes at her, setting my bags down and drinking my own coffee. "Anyway, why is it so empty in here?" I questioned, looking around the entire gallery and not seeing a single soul. It was only Vanessa and me, and it was already past noon. Was I missing something? Did I not need to come in?
 
Vanessa just stared blankly at me. "Must've been a great night." She mumbled, chuckling lightly. "There's a shoot today. Some guy called in earlier to confirm, too."
 
I furrowed my brows in frustration. Why did I not remember this? "A shoot?"
 
"Cooper said you were in charge, don't you remember?"
 
I thought about it for a second longer and something clicked in my head. I knew that getting drunk wouldn't exactly be the smartest idea for last night, but it happened anyway. There was going to be some sort of photoshoot taking place in the gallery today, and since the promotion, I had to be the one spear heading it and managing the gallery for the day. It was going to be closed, so they didn't need much more than Vanessa and me working.
 
"I got it now." I nudged Vanessa. "Give me a break, okay, I only woke up like an hour ago."
 
She shook her head at me. "Oh, Emma."
 
Just then, we heard the door open. I turned around ready to greet the crew of photographers and a model or two, but I only saw a familiar face walk in. He tousled his hair and grinned. "Ladies."
 
"Am I missing something here?" Vanessa said, scrunching up her face in confusion.
 
I shrugged, just as confused as her. "What are you doing here, Casey?"
 
"As if you don't want me here," he nudged me with a smirk on his face, chuckling. "But seriously, I know the model. She's a good friend of mine."
 
And by good friend, I knew exactly what Casey meant. The smirk was still on his face and he didn't need to say much more. Minutes after he walked in, a small crew came into the gallery. I walked up to them with a wide smile. "Hey guys."
 
"Emma Roberts?" A young man with thick framed glasses came up to me, shaking my hand. "Hey, Richard. You can call me Rich."
 
"Nice to meet you." I said and introduced myself to the rest of the people that were gathered behind him - some people carrying boxes, a backdrop, some light fixtures. I began to show them around the gallery, telling them where they could work and what they could work with, the works. They seemed to be satisfied, and I assumed they've been in the gallery before. I walked back to where Vanessa was sitting and observing. "Nice crowd." I chuckled.
 
"Some beautiful people." She nodded toward the two models who were now putting on some new clothes.
 
"They're models for a reason." I laughed. We both noticed that Casey was talking to the female model. She was slim, tall, blonde hair with green eyes. She had full lips and small hips, and the dress she was wearing showed off her long golden legs. It made me aware that Casey's type could frankly be a Victoria Secret model. "Exhibit A."
 
Vanessa laughed. "He's working his charm. The boy's got game."
 
Vanessa continued to go on about Casey - how flirtatious he was, how cute she thinks he is, or at least that's what I thought she was going on about. I got a little distracted, zoned out while staring at the male model. He was putting on a crisp white shirt, rolling up his sleeves and then buttoning it down to slowly conceal that god-send of a stomach he had. He had a smile on his face, some million dollar one, while a short woman was in front of him on her tip-toes to reach his hair, fixing it for the shot. He walked forward to step in front of the backdrop with the female model, and they began their poses.
 
"Earth to Emma." I snapped out of it and looked at Vanessa, but she wasn't next to me any longer. She was next to the photographer, pointing at the models and helping him out. Next to me, instead, was Casey. He was poking my arm gently. When I finally looked at him, he let out a small laugh. "Wow, talk about distraction."
 
"Shut up." I rolled my eyes.
 
"Did you want an introduction? You could just ask." I bit down on my lip. I didn't need Casey's help. Heck, I didn't need to be introduced. I could just admire from afar, since it would probably be what's best for everyone anyway, especially me. "God, Emma." Casey groaned, grabbing my hand and suddenly dragging me closer to where the shoot was. The models stepped aside to do some quick touch ups while Vanessa continued to talk to the photographer.
 
I tried to shake Casey's grip off and resist. "No, no, no." I fought with him, in a stern voice even though I had to try to be quiet. "Casey, st-"
 
"Hey." The handsome face turned around, Casey's hand on his shoulder, with a wide smile showing off his perfect teeth. "What's up, Case?"
 
Was every model like this? Or maybe I just couldn't see any flaws in him because I was so blinded by his model title.. I really hoped it was the latter. "Just wanted to introduce you to my friend, Emma."
 
His eyes floated to me, the smile still on his face. He stuck out his hand and I shook it firmly. I felt like a little girl who was talking to her crush for the first time. "Ah, the boss of this gallery. Nice to meet you."
 
I returned the smile, probably blushing like crazy. He did just call me the boss. "Nice to meet you, too, um.."
 
"Noah."
 
"Noah." I nodded. "Shoot looks great so far."
 
Noah chuckled lightly. "Yeah." He said, shrugging out of the white button down to put on a denim shirt. I felt a little awkward, still blushing, as I stood next to him while he did this quick change. "Oh, sorry. I'm just kind of used to it."
 
"It's okay." I shook my head quickly.
 
"Hey, Ems!" Vanessa called out. I turned around and she had a devious grin on her face. She seemed to have befriended the photographer because he mirrored her smile as well. "You and Noah should totally just take some fun pictures together."
 
Beside me, Noah was smiling. He looked like he didn't have a care in the world. It took me a moment to realize that Casey and his lady friend were stepping away from the backdrop, laughing and touching each other. "Did you just pull Casey into the shoot?"
 
Casey glanced over his shoulder, winking at me. I groaned internally. They put together this evil plan and probably thought it was a win-win in all situations: Casey would be with his lady friend over there, Vanessa would work her charm on the young photographer, and I'd be able to finally chat with Noah. But it was embarrassing and I was not exactly fond of being in front of the camera and posing, especially with a talented model who made me feel like he was way out of my league.
 
"Sounds like it'd be fun." Noah grinned, walking forward to get in front of the camera. He dug his hands into his pockets, the sleeves of his denim shirt wrapped tightly around his muscles. I couldn't help but stare. He was looking at me like he was waiting.
 
I sighed loudly so that Vanessa would hear. Casey wasn't even near the shoot anymore but I did see a faint figure near the desks; he was definitely still working his charm on the model. I stood next to Noah, unsure of what to do. "Oh, come on, Ems." Vanessa piped in. "Maybe a smile?"
 
I forced a smile and Noah laughed next to me. He threw an arm over my shoulder, his other hand still deep in his pocket. He turned his head to me, his face slightly in my hair while he smiled. The photographer began to snap pictures. If I wasn't blushing before, I definitely was now. Like a little school girl, I had these lame butterflies in my stomach. Or maybe like a high schooler who was talking to the captain of the football team. That was definitely me.
 
I wrapped an arm around him and leaned in, resting my free hand on his chest. I didn't know what else to do. Vanessa looked like she was having a blast behind the camera, her arms crossed and a grin on her face. Noah moved and stood behind me, his arms resting on my head gently. I could hear him laughing. I just put my hands into my pockets and looked up innocently. The photographer continued to snap pictures; it was endless. Pose after pose, I became more comfortable since Noah was leading it.
 
After some number of pictures, Casey and his friend came back and did a quick wardrobe change. I hurried off to Vanessa and smack her gently on her arm. "I can't believe you."
 
"Rich, can we see those pictures?" Vanessa ignored me, a smile plastered on her face.
 
He walked over to the desk closeby where the laptop was and winked at me. "You looked good out there. Vanessa was right."
 
I stood behind Vanessa as she began to click through the pictures. "They're so cute!!!" She gushed. And I had to agree with her. Noah and I looked close, like we were some sort of model couple, and we even looked through the pictures of Casey and the girl. They looked flawless.
 
At the end of the shoot, Rich sent me his card and said that he would send me the pictures that we took today with Noah and me. He thanked us for letting him use the space, the gallery, and I thanked him for being so kind. Vanessa walked out with him, and I knew I had to ask her about that the next time I came into work. Casey ended up walking out with his friend which did not come as a surprise. I knew that I had to message him about that as well.
 
It was just Noah and me left in the gallery. He stepped out and held the door open for me. "Thanks." I smiled at him, turning around to lock the door to the gallery. When I turned back around, he was still there, hands dug into his pocket with a small smile on his face. Was this his signature look or something?
 
"Can I walk you home?" He asked in a timid voice.
 
"Oh," I bit down on my lip, "it's okay. You don't have to." I felt bad, trying to be polite. I had just met the boy and he was already being such a gentleman.
 
"Come on," he said, grabbing my shoulders and pushing me forward, "I insist."
 
I just laughed and shook my head. "Forcing me to let you walk me home."
 
"Let me be a gentleman, Miss Emma." Noah flashed me a grin.
 
On the walk home, we actually introduced ourselves properly. He was Noah James Alexander from Boston, which could explain his faint Boston accent. I questioned whether or not that was safe to have in New York, but then realized that it was almost not there. He got scouted to be a model at nineteen and has traveled everywhere for it. Now, he's twenty five and still kicking. When he talked, there was mystery in him, and it intrigued me. He was spilling to me the simple facts about him and his life, but there was something in the way he said it all that was reeling me in.
 
"Thanks for walking me home." I smiled at him.
 
"Thanks for letting me." He returned the smile. "Chivalry isn't all dead."
 
I chuckled quietly, looking away and running a hand through my hair to avoid looking into his eyes and blushing. There was enough of that for today. "I'll see you around, Noah." I mumbled, turning around on my heel to walk toward my apartment.
 
When I had my hand on the door of the main lobby, I heard Noah call out my name. I turned around and he was standing just at the bottom of the steps. "How do you know you'll see me around?"
 
I bit down on my lip, raising a curious eyebrow. I didn't expect this from him. "New York's a small city, darling." I simply told him.
 
"True." He nodded, licking his lips and looking down at his feet. He was rocking back and forth on his tip-toes then his heels. "But how about we make that a sure thing?"
 
"What are you suggesting?"
 
"Maybe if I can get your number.." Noah muttered.
 
I walked toward him with a sly smile on my face, completely embarrassed with those butterflies still fluttering around. I patted his chest softly. "Smooth, kid."
 
His eyes flashed up to meet mine. "You think so?"
 
I rolled my eyes. I didn't want to boost his ego when he probably already knew just how beautiful and charming he was. "Your phone?"
 
Noah rushed to pull it out of his pocket and I hurried to put my number in it. When I was finished, I slid it back into his jean pocket and gave him a shy smile. "Guess now I'll be hearing from you."
 
Noah nodded, his eyes crinkling up at the side as his lips rose up. He was slowly taking steps back, waving lightly. "Guess you will. Goodnight, Emma."
 
"Goodnight." I said and walked into the building. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face as I stepped into the elevator and made my way to my apartment.

I would do the same, you best believe
 
A blooming love for The Lumineers, and a consistent dislike for the 50 item limit
 
Mainly for @alycat to indulge, and for me to never let go of Emma because I'm clingy
 
The weather was cold in New York, it grew almost as cold as some hearts frozen around this city. The past couple of months have been a blur, series of new faces, drinking and work and the same old routines that bore my mind to death. After Daria finally settled down, some part of me felt like I was getting too old but still wasn't reaching that time in my life yet, and it felt off-putting. Then I remember that I shouldn't compare my situation to others and it all starts again from there - I sleep, I wake up, I go to work and hang out with my friends after, over think about similar things at night and fall back asleep.
 
However, there wasn't much to complain about. With the promotion at the gallery and graduation to come in some odd number of weeks, I felt satisfied with the direction I was headed. Not to mention the success of the people around me - Travis and the band were slowly gaining positive recognition in the city's harsh music industry.
 
The only part of my life that's unsettled and has always been, is the love part. I realized that I could never pull it together when it came to relationships, and perhaps that was one of the reasons I stayed away from it for some time. Ivan was still around and he did stay for good like he had said before, but I only saw him here and there and not everyday, in the gallery or out and about or with Casey. He still crosses my mind every now and then and sometimes I wonder if the choices we made were for the better, how things would have been if we didn't part like we did, if I ever crossed his mind, if he's still the same man I fell in love with - all these what-ifs..
 

Of course a roof top dinner wasn't anything too extraordinary for this group of business men and women, which included Mr. Cooper, the big bad boss, Ivan, and now myself. But it was new to me, and I rushed outside onto the garden balcony with a full drink in hand. I walked quickly to the edge, resting my elbows on the metal railing and looking out at the city skyline. I sighed, chugging down a good chunk of my drink.
 
"Easy, Emma." I heard a soft murmur behind me. Suddenly, Ivan was leaning against the railing just like I was. Though I rarely saw him, I figured I was going run into him more often than not now that I received the promotion at David Nolan. I didn't know how to feel about it just yet... we were okay to be in the same room, hang around the same friends. But sometimes feelings would resurface or make themselves too familiar, and I didn't like the feel.
 
I shook my head at him. "That was too embarrassing for me to handle." I groaned. Inside, a snarky comment from a pretentious woman dressed in the finest, most crisp business suit, was addressed to me when I stuttered while answering Mr. Cooper. And it was far too humiliating for me to stay in there. I politely excused myself after having finished my sentence, and here I was downing drinks on a fancy rooftop.
 
"It really wasn't that bad." Ivan sounded re-assuring.
 
"You laughed, Ivan." I retorted.
 
He chuckled quietly. "They're not all as uptight and serious as they seem. You're just newer, I guess they're poking fun."
 
"Lots of fun." I rolled my eyes.
 
"Come on," Ivan smiled, "you know Cooper loves you already anyway."
 
"Does he?"
 
"Like you didn't know." He rolled his eyes at me and nudged me softly. When I looked at him with a blank stare, Ivan just shook his head. "Well, he does. So you're on his good side already. Don't worry about what happened."
 
I sucked in a deep breath and nodded, letting it out slowly. The crazy nerves I had before coming to this dinner got me so worked up that I took any chance I could to get out, including a small sly comment from someone who I felt was intimidating. I wanted to scold myself for it. "Alright then."
 
"Well, I do hate interrupting love birds." A deep voice cut in, and Ivan and I turned around to see a tall Mr. Cooper standing behind us with his suit jacket buttoned and hands in his pockets. "Unfortunately, dinner's cut short. I have to get going." He walked toward us slowly.
 
"Dinner was great. Thanks again, Mark." Ivan took a step foward and firmly shook hands with Mr. Cooper.
 
"Anytime. Don't forget tomorrow." Mr. Cooper told Ivan. "Hope to see you soon, Miss Roberts?" He addressed me this time.
 
"Of course. Thank you for a lovely night." Mr. Cooper took my hand and pulled me in to kiss me softly on the cheek. It was a kind gesture, one that I didn't expect from him at all.
 
"Should I call a ride for you two?" He asked us.
 
Ivan answered. "No, I think we're okay. Thank you."
 
Mr. Cooper had a wide grin on his face, a low snicker coming out. "Be safe, kids." He pointed at us playfully before heading off.
 
I slapped Ivan's chest playfully. "First name basis. Look at you go, Ivan."
 
"You know how it is." Ivan smirked, fixing his tie as if he was the boss of things around here.
 
The two of us made our way back inside and all the way down to the lobby of the tall tower. I wish we had one of the private drivers that I knew Mr. Cooper would be able to send us, but Ivan so politely declined the offer. "Are you going to walk me home?" I asked him casually. And I wish I didn't the second after it came out of my mouth because my heart fluttered waiting for his answer.
 
Ivan smiled. "I was thinking more like, go to the bar and catch the game, then walk you home?"
 
I bit down on my lip, trying to hide a small smile. "Okay."
 
Once we entered the Chelsea Brewing Company, we both had second thoughts on staying. It was jam packed, like nobody's ever watched a sports game in their life. Now that hockey was back and March Madness was just around the corner, all the men and even women were here ready to get rowdy and more importantly, place good money on bets. Ivan took my hand and led me to one of two empty seats at the bar.
 
"Can we make a good night out of this?" He asked, all coy and timid. It made me blush.
 
"Thank God I'm not a boring person." I joked. The bartender handed us two beers in large mugs and I simply tapped my glass to Ivan's. "What would you say if I said I could outdrink you?"
 
Ivan had a surprised look on his face, perhaps even offended. "I'd say you're wrong." He tapped his glass to mine now and began to chug.
 
***
 
"That wasn't really fair, you know." A drunken Emma slurred her words just slightly, and a drunken me found it awfully hilarious. She was stumbling down the hallway of her apartment building.
 
"Almost at the door, Ems, almost." I laughed.
 
She looked at me in shock, leaning against the wall close to her apartment door and shaking her head in disapproval. "You shouldn't make fun of me, Ivan."
 
"Why not? Just having a little fun." I grinned, poking her shoulder just slightly.
 
She giggled. It rang in my ears and made me feel like we were a couple years back, in love and stubborn and silly and so, so very naive. "You're going to start a war. And I'm going to win." She smirked, eyes looking right into mine. "Just like how I won tonight's drinking-" she hiccuped- "competition."
 
"Oh," I leaned forward, my face inches from her to taunt her, "but you didn't, remember?"
 
Emma rolled her eyes at me, scoffing as she dug her hand into her purse, probably looking for her keys. "Like I said, that wasn't really fair. I believe I still won." She pulled the keys out of her bag, letting them dangle off her index finger.
 
"Thanks for a good night, Ems." I said, my eyes low but even through the haze, she was beautiful to me. I took her hands in mine and gave them a light squeeze.
 
She bit down on her lip, temptation rising in me. She was against the wall, drunk, her head leaning back and eyes still holding mine. She gave my hand a gentle squeeze back. "Yeah." She whispered.
 
Like it was my automatic reaction or sudden instinct, I took a step forward and there was nowhere for her to move. I was inches away from her face, from her body, and she was still up against the wall, still melting me with those brown eyes. She cocked her head to the side and lifted her chin up just slightly, her lips brushing right against mine. "We shouldn't." I mumbled, still holding her hands.
 
"Why not?" She murmured against my lips.
 
I pressed my forehead against hers. "It took so long for us to get here. We're okay now. I just don't want to ruin it..." I tried to explain as best as my intoxicated mind could, without slurring my words.
 
"You know what you're ruining?" She muttered back.
 
"What?"
 
"This moment." She whispered.
 
My eyes flashed up only to meet hers, and suddenly her hands were around my neck. Mine instantly went around her waist and our lips met. For the first time in a long time, there was something in my arms that I did not want to let go of at all. The kiss was deep, passionate, and when we pulled apart, we were both breathless. Emma jammed the key into her front door and took my hand, dragging me into her bedroom.
 
It was all familiar to me still. The furniture, the placement, the feel of her sheets, the scent in her room. My hands were tangled in her hair, hers tangled in mine. I was still accustomed to everything - the feel of her skin against my lips, her skin against my grazing fingertips, her hair cascading down her back as she leaned back to let me kiss her from her neck down.
 
She lifted her arms above her head, letting me slowly slide the top off. She hurried to do the same to me. I didn't budge. I reached behind her back to undo the lace bra and set it on the floor. Now it was skin against skin, her short and warm breath against my lips as she stared into my eyes.
 
I just brushed my lips against her jawline, grasping her hair and pulling her head back ever so slowly to place my lips against the bare spot on her neck. My hands eventually found their way down her sides to rest on her hips.
 
Suddenly, I felt her hands roughly tangled in my hair, pushing me deeper into her neck and I followed. I wanted to please her, give her what she wanted, what she deserved. I missed her so much, all of her.. Each and every part of her.
 
"Ivan," she pulled away abruptly, breathing out while sitting in my lap, "I-"
 
"Emma, stop." I whispered, placing a finger against her lips.
 
"What?"
 
"You're ruining the moment."
 
A smirk creeped onto her face. "I missed you." She said, cupping my face and pulling me into her. Such simple words caused my heart to jump, and I wanted her then and there.
 
I leaned over her and pushed her down against the bed. "I missed," I said, planting small kisses against her collarbone and chest, "you, too." I trailed down to her stomach, to her thighs. "So much." I paused, hovering just in between her thighs, looking up at her with lust and love.
 
I saw that she was biting down on her lip, her eyes low like she was already somewhat satisfied. "You don't even know." She said breathlessly. It brought a smug smile to my face.
 

I woke up, tangled in my own sheets, my head and body feeling like someone smashed me with a ton of bricks. I sat up slowly as to not get a sudden head rush and looked over at my phone. Three missed calls, and it was quarter to eleven in the morning. "What the hell?" I wondered out loud. I threw my legs over the edge of my bed and ran a hand through my hair. Carefully, I walked out of my room and into the main living area. I found my brother, Casey, sitting on the couch with his feet up watching another reality show on the Food network.
 
"You look like crap." He laughed at me, throwing a water bottle in my direction as I sat down on the couch opposite him.
 
"Thanks." I nodded at him. "What the heck happened last night?"
 
"Really?" Casey asked, as if I was an idiot.
 
"Really. I remember nothing. Just dinner with Cooper and co." I chuckled.
 
Casey laughed, too. He seemed to be getting a real kick out of hungover me, so I just let him have his fun. "I really can't believe you don't remember a thing. That bad?"
 
I shrugged. From what I know, I was at the rooftop dinner and then suddenly, Emma was back with me. I couldn't be any happier with how last night went, but maybe Casey can fill me in on a few things. "I actually thought it went pretty good."
 
"Man..." Casey looked at me in awe and then burst out with a fit of chuckles.
 
"Okay!" I groaned. "Just tell me already."
 
"I had to pick you up from Emma and Trav's, Ive. At like two in the morning."
 
"Huh?"
 
"You and Emma were both drunk as hell. Me and Trav were surprised you guys were still walking."
 
In my mind, curiosity was racing. Didn't I spend the night with Emma? I just thought I made my way back home early in the morning and knocked out right away. "What are you talking about?"
 
"Emma stumbled in drunk last night, and you were there, too. Travis called me because he didn't trust that you would get home safe, even if he got you a cab." Casey chuckled.
 
"Two in the morning?" I questioned him. "We just came through the door and then he called for you?"
 
"Basically. He heard you guys fooling around in the hallway since you two were so loud - and drink your water," Casey threw a pillow at me, "-so he opened the door and you two drunkies wobbled right on in."
 
I took a long chug from the water bottle, trying to down the hangover and the information Casey was telling me. Everything last night was just a dream... some drunken fantasy that I wish was real. I bit down on my lip, trying to remember and trying to forget at the same time. This would do no good for my mind, the fantasy would just eat at it. Especially if what really happened was that embarrassing, stumbling into her apartment drunk as hell. "What's wrong, bro?" Casey pulled me out of my own thoughts.
 
"Nothing," I shook my head, "just.. wow. I can't believe I got that drunk."
 
"With Emma. Step forward in the right direction?"
 
"Nah, man..." I muttered. "She probably doesn't remember anything. That's not exactly a good way to start hanging out again... getting plastered out of our minds."
 
"But it sure is fun, isn't it?" Casey shrugged, a small smile on his face. He probably wouldn't let this go. And I wouldn't either, especially not that dream that felt all too real. "Just not a good idea since you have a meeting with Mr. Mark Cooper in two hours."
 
I groaned. Leave it to Casey to really bring me back to reality.

would you believe me if I said I'm in love
baby, I want you to want me..
 
maybe surfing was his first love. maybe surfing was his only love. but it could never explain all the things he said, whether full of love or full of resentment.
 
she remembers watching him come out of barrels with wide smiles, the carefree look on his face. he runs up to her and pulls her in, him smelling of the sea and her smelling like sunshine. he kisses her softly and she feels her heart skip a beat and the butterflies soaring in her stomach, like she was back in the fifth grade. she had a crush on her love and it wouldn't go away. he tells her about the rush, she tells him that she understands. she didn't have the same passion, but she loved it, too.
 
it still didn't justify the way she felt second to the sport.
 
maybe she deserved better. maybe she would benefit from him pushing her away, but it could never fix anything.
 
he remembers coming home after late night sessions, whole body sore from the beating the ocean gave, and the fight he gave right back. he walks into their little house to see her dancing in the kitchen finishing up dinner. when he snakes his arms around her waist, she smells of roses and vanilla and home. he digs his face in her neck and she laughs quietly, and he knows that he loves her too much for his own good.
 
it still didn't justify the way he felt like he couldn't give her what she wanted, or be what she needed.
 
and they fought, almost everyday, that there was always something in the way. it wasn't someone that was a bigger priority, but it was something. and she didn't want to fight for his attention and he didn't want her to.
 
she told him to go and pursue what he loves, chase for the big dreams. and he told her that he loved her but he didn't know how else to make it better. they couldn't find solid ground and their emotions were just as rocky as the waves in the pacific on the stormiest day.
 
maybe that's where it all falls apart. when two people are good for each other, but are not good to each other.

love Alabama Shakes, loved the movie Silver Linings Playbook, love this song
 
Rule 1: Always post the rules.
Rule 2: Answer the questions the person who tagged you has written and write 11 new ones.
Rule 3: Tag 11 new people

@alycat
 
1. If you were auditioning for American Idol, what song would you sing?
naive by the kooks
 
2. Is your bedroom clean or untidy?
my closet and my desk is untidy, but I don't like throwing clothes on the floor... so that part is clean
 
3. If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
marc jacobs
 
4. What’s your best friend like?
opposites of me in both extremes. one's quieter, a pure kid at heart. the other is loud, crazy, spontaneous at the highest level.
 
5. Which magazines do you read most frequently?
nylon, cosmo, women's health
 
6. When you’re in an elevator with another person, do you acknowledge them or keep to yourself?
acknowledge them with a smile and then keep to myself the rest of the ride
 
7. What’s your dream field of study?
medicine
 
8. If you could have a fourteen-day holiday anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do?
I would've chosen the Mentawai Islands for a seven day... but fourteen, probably South Africa. I'd explore, give back, live freely and fall in love with everything there
 
9. What do you hate that everyone else seems to love?
spicy foods. I can't handle it, but maybe one day I'll learn
 
10. What’s the last thing that you made?
dinner!
 
11. What is one thing you don’t understand, but wish you did?
why junk tastes soooo much better than healthy things, whyyyy
 

@lovecocotutu
 
1) If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would it be?
James Dean, John Lennon, and Justin Timberlake.... cause why not
 
2) What did you eat for dinner last night?
I had grilled salmon, yum
 
3) If you could acquire any skill, what would it be?
it'd be pretty cool to be ambidextrous
 
4) What would you eat at your last meal, if you could choose?
a nice juicy steak, with this white chocolate brownie and ice cream for dessert... so hungry :(
 
5) Are you afraid of anything?
very deep water
 
6) What is one item on your bucket list (or anything you'd love to do)?
skydiving!
 
7) If you could change one thing about your personality, what would it be? (if anything)
I'd like to be more patient
 
8) If you could change one thing about your physical appearance, what would it be? (if anything)
my height :(
 
9) Do you have a role model? If so, who?
my momma!
 
10) Do you have a favorite blog or website? If so, what is it?
I have a couple I used to read regularly, but I haven't been online much so I can't list them for you :(
 
11) Are your friends like you, or different than you?
most of them are like me, a couple are different
 

not sure if these people have already been tagged, but..
@lovecocotutu
@incubeautee
@lacrossefashionista
@wakeupfarah
@peaceloveglitter
@labellabeautyxo
@ducktape
@roses-are-roses
@karineminzonwilson
@luxecouture
@the-wild-things
 
1. What's the one song that makes you want to dance, hairbrush in hand and hair flipping and all (oh teenage days), like crazy in your room?
2. Do you close your eyes on rollercoasters?
3. Do you respond to your text messages right away or do you forget to respond after reading?
4. What's one talent you wish you had?
5. How would you describe your childhood?
6. What's one bad habit you have that you wish you could break?
7. What's the favourite age that you've been so far?
8. Do you always over pack or under pack, or pack just right?
9. What's one thing you like that your friends don't seem to enjoy?
10. Do you collect anything?
11. If you could specialize in cooking one cuisine (Italian, French etc), what would it be? (Did this question make sense oh god lol)

long overdue. not so long, however. my apologies, but emma and daria are just so close to me heart
 

It was a little late at night and in some number of hours, my best friend was going to be walking down the aisle. I folded up my prepared speech that I finally finished after a couple glasses of wine and placed it on the bedside table, laying my phone just on top. I left my room and quietly made my way to Daria's. When I twisted the door, it was unlocked, so I invited myself in - tiptoeing as to not disturb anybody. My eyebrows raised, seeing the last person I expected to be in Daria's room. Ryan brushed by me with no word, just a faint smile leaving his lips, and closed the door shut as I took a seat on the couch.
 
"What was that?" I asked Daria.
 
"Loose ends." She simply said.
 
I glanced at the clock on the wall. "You should really get to bed, lady. You're getting married soon."
 
Daria jumped onto the couch next to me, bringing her feet up and hugging her knees to her chest. With her one hand, she grabbed mine and squeezed it. "I know. I'm getting butterflies just thinking about it. It's all happening so fast, Ems." She sounded like a little girl who's wedding dreams were finally coming true.
 
"And you've never looked happier." I gave her hand a small squeeze back. "You're right, though, it is happening fast. Seeing Ryan just now kind of put things into perspective. I met you when you guys were dating."
 
Daria sighed, a smile on her face. "Now we are well past that stage."
 
"I'm so proud of you." I whispered, beginning to get slightly emotional with my best friend.
 
Daria just bit down on her lip, trying to hide a smile. "Emma."
 
"I know," I blinked, trying to clear my eyes from tears, "I don't know why I'm getting so emotional. But my best friend is getting married! This is all so real. I can't imagine how you feel. I'm so happy that you found the one."
 
"Thank you so much, Ems." She leaned over and gave me a tight hug. "I'm lucky."
 
"So is Jake."
 
"But I'm the luckiest because I have Jake and you." She grinned.
 

-
 

The big day was finally here for Daria, and it was definitely one of the most enjoyable yet stressful days. Sticking to scheduled time was proving to be a little difficult with the girls all getting ready, but we managed. Once it finally got to the time, I walked down with Matt and waited at the front for Daria's arrival.
 
And when she did arrive and walk down that aisle, all eyes were on her like it was supposed to be. I peeked at Jake through the corner of my eye and he beamed the second he saw her. I always loved watching the groom at weddings when they first see their bride, and Jake's reaction was nowhere close to dissapointing; only assuring that they were the perfect two.
 
The ceremony went by quickly, most likely because no one was watching the time. It was just Daria and Jake, and it was their time and their moment. Once they walked out together, we made our way to the reception where many surprises were to come.
 

-
 

"You're a married woman now, Daz." I touched my champagne flute to hers with a wide smile.
 
She returned the smile and there was a bright glow to her that I couldn't explain. A married glow, perhaps, but she looked like the happiest woman in the world. "You know, I kind of like the sound of that. Daria Ellsbury."
 
"You've always liked the sound of that." I joked.
 
"It flows, doesn't it?"
 
I nodded and wrapped an arm around her shoulder. "Well, you are the most stunning bride I've ever seen. And I hope today was perfect."
 
"Of course it was." Daz smiled and wrapped me in a long hug.