I'm sorry I have been delaying this chapter for so long. In case any of you haven't been updated- I was on a family trip to Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China [it was an awesome trip by the way] and it was hard finding internet connection there, considering I can't really communicate with any of the people there. Anyways, the most important thing is, I'm back. I won't guarantee I will be free for the next week because according to my schedule; I'm not. I at least have this one week all to myself, and if I get enough encouragement to update the next chapter, I think I just might update it within a week or so. No promises though.
So, this chapter we have just a teensy background of The Golden Boys because I want so. I think it'd be great to know just a little insight of where each of The Golden Boys came from, don't you think so? Oh yeah, just to spoil the fun, even though this chapter doesn't contain that much of Blellie- Blellie shits are coming very, very soon! I'm so freakin' excited! And let me remind you once again, this is AU.
Songs used: The Ballad of Mona Lisa by Panic! At The Disco, You Found Me by The Fray, Sing it Out by Switchfoot, A Little Bit Longer by Nick Jonas (Jonas Brothers).
Disclaimer: Everything belongs to their rightful owner(s)
The Golden Being
chapter 5: the golden past
.
When Cameron meets Jesse St James for the first time, Jesse slaps the young blond right behind his head. He remembers it correctly. Sometimes, when Cameron's all alone in his room, observing the night sky with his violins and grand piano sits just within his eyesight, his mind travels to that memory. He remembers the way his mother urges his father to talk to the famous St. James couple, and holding Laura St. James' hand is none other than the four (going on five) years old Jesse, glaring at everything for no apparent reason.
Young Cameron (even now) was always known to be quiet, calm and collected. His pale blue eyes look foggy behind his glasses, but he's a beauty- always has been, since birth. He was the child with golden hair and angelic fingers, playing the tune that nobody could muster in a decade, but he had. But like most wealthy kids, he was trained to live, walk, talk, sit and even sometimes... breathe. He was like a robot. Everybody was.
And quiet he may be, but he was always curious to have friends- to have someone you won't have to act as robots with. And apparently, Jesse was also naive about that department too- he just shows it in a vicious way.
When that slap lands across the back of Cameron's head, he was shocked. No, Cameron Reddington was incapable of high emotions- so he didn't cry. When Laura St. James shrieked and asked her son why he did such a thing, Jesse responded smugly, "He was staring weirdly at me! It creeps me out, mom!"
He wasn't staring at Jesse, God no.
He was staring at the two boys playing with one each other- pushing and punching one another, but still remain laughing. It was such a curious scenery. Why would someone enjoy getting pushed? Laura made Jesse apologize of course, and that's when the young dark-headed noticed what he was really seeing. It was quick, almost like a flash when it happened- but Jesse proclaimed something about how they can join the boys to play and the next thing he knew, he was being dragged by Jesse towards the boy and Jesse had demanded for the boys to play with them, or he'll pay people to do things to them.
The boys were Michael and Max.
Michael and Max were a force together- and even though they always walk together as a group, Michael and Max were always somehow leaning to support each other. Michael was the genius in the group, a walking dictionary and more. He was raised with his family being busy all of the times; his father's perfume business in the Arabic lands and going on global, his mother's a professor, always educating her sons- Benjamin (the eldest), Robert and Griffin (the twins) and last but not least, Michael (the youngest).
Max has always been exposed to the dangerous environment of life- so nothing really scares him, except for clowns, which the Goldens wouldn't stop teasing him about. He lives among his cousins and a half-brother, who he claims he sees once in three years. He knows the deepest, darkest secrets buried under the ground people walk on everyday- and holds it like it's nothing fragile. He's a man of steel, but with his own scars carved within his heart. He grows up, lacking with love a boy needs- her mother died, suffocating in her own breaths; lung cancer from the smoking. And his father... he was gone most of the times.
Yes, underneath all of those leisure they walk in; they're still not perfect.
Jesse shows it every time the thought of those precious to him gets hurt, and he wouldn't be there to do anything.
Cameron shows it every time he shuts his eyes and plays his musical instruments.
Michael shows it every time he doesn't feel like he's fully educated, fully understand of something.
Max shows it every time he twirls his mother's necklace between his fingers.
And sometimes, they show it at times they don't notice the most. Like now. The young blond stops strumming on the guitar and flicks his pale blue eyes towards the other Goldens, in Nellie's living room. Jesse's forehead covers in a thin layer of sweats and he keeps rubbing his hands together, once in a minute, his eyes will turn towards the door. Michael's by the bookshelves, going through the books just to calm his nerves down. Max sits on the couch, his body hunches forward and his fingers are twirling the silver necklace hanging from around his neck.
He sighs.
They never cross Nellie this far.
Sure, they were times when they did went just a tad too far. But they never actually could do anything to harm what means so much to her- this high school experience. But... they were practically her brothers, besides from Jesse who is her biological one; it's only their job to act as defense. She was being bullied. It should offend them. They are family.
Max straightens his post from hunching lower and looks sideways, his thumb and forefinger lay still to hold the silver pendant. "Do you think she'll kill us?"
"Well," Jesse breathes, looking forward and trying on a brave face. "I've already written my will, just in case."
Cameron scoffs, putting the guitar away properly. He's always like that around musical instruments- treating it like a lost lover. "She won't kill us."
"Not physically," Michael pipes in, although his eyes never leaves the book he's reading. Cameron curiously focuses on the pale book cover, reading; The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
"But she will kill us, right?" Max questions again, rubbing his face from the anxiety.
"Metaphorically speaking," Michael shuts the book close and finally turns to his anxious friend. "Yes."
Insert blunt look here.
"Thank you, Captain Obvious," Max spurts out, rolling his eyes.
"You asked," Michael points out, putting the book away and pulling out another. "I answered. Isn't that how it works?"
"Stop being a smart-ass. Nobody likes it." Max sinks into the couch, sighing loudly.
Cameron comes then, and peeks out the window using his fingers to moves the curtains, just slightly. "She's coming home this instant. I can feel it."
"Look dude. No offense," Jesse puts his hands out, narrowing his eyes in action. "But you're no psychic. So, don't try to act like one."
Cameron doesn't say anything but shrugs his shoulders- there's no point in arguing with Jesse anyway.
"You're just scared," Max muffles, a smirk slowly tugging by the corner of his lips.
Jesse scoffs, rolling his eyes. "Sure I am."
"Dude, you know you can't lie to us." Michael responds, shaking his head slowly.
"Hey. Don't be a smart-ass. Nobody likes it." Jesse repeats what Max says, biting the words out.
But as soon as he mutters it, Cameron can see it in his eyes that he, himself, knows his doom awaits him. He lets out harsh breaths and runs his fingers through his dark hair, jumping onto the couch next to Max. The dangerous heartthrob watches and clasps his hands on the Andromeda's heir's knees- a small gesture of comfort that Jesse doesn't acknowledge physically. "But," Jesse says, cutting short his sentence before he continues. "Whatever happens, we can't tell her about the investigator and how we found out she was being bullied."
"And what are we supposed to say if she asks why but we can't tell her those reasons?" Max asks, now retreating his hands and clenching it.
"I'll make something up," Jesse retorts, his eyes blinking rapidly, as if trying to stay awake. "But, seriously. If any of you break a sweat and she can sniff it- today would be the last time you'll ever see the sunlight." It's an empty threat to the Goldens, but they could very well hear the deep amount of venomous in his words- if they haven't known him personally, they'd probably crying their eyes out by now.
Cameron closes his eyes, breathes deeply and opens his eyes back again. The rest of the Goldens' figure falls into his eyesight. "She's here."
And just like some sort of cue, the sound of the motorcycle's tires screeches against the road before it halts into a stop. There's a moment of silence, and the Golden takes their position, standing up and face the door. The sound of boots hitting the pavement could be heard from inside the house, as if the owner of it does it on purpose. The knob moves and all of the Golden holds their breath- counting the moment to zero.
The door swings open and she enters.
Nellie.
Just as swiftly, she shuts it close- her back is facing them.
The Golden Boys stand close, like a shield to one another- like the perfect team they were meant to be. Jesse, standing on the front with his chin held high and his eyes free to judge, because nobody ever argues back; because he has power. The shaggy blond by his right side, standing as the loyal right-hand man and to stand confident. Max stands on Jesse's left, his eyes narrowed and his posture rigid; just an edge of roughness. And Michael stands by Max's other side, his looks pointed and his appearance look clean and sophisticated; just a nice touch of smartness.
There you have it; The Golden Boys.
"I can't..." Nellie turns around, her eyes gazing down on the floor. "I can't believe what you did."
It's like a protocol; as long as it's not a question, they're not going to answer. At least, that's how they've handle the medias all these times.
She finally lifts her face up and a pang of hurt overwhelms the boys, although like usual, they don't show it- her pale cheeks and nose turns red and her eyes are glassy as it tries to focus the sight that is The Golden Boys. Jesse looks away for the second, knowing it will be hard to protect their strong demeanor if he caves in too easily.
"Why?" She asks, the words that comes out are shaky. "WHY WOULD YOU DO THESE TO ME?!"
She's launching forward now, but none of them move. None of them break their little facade.
"WAS IT YOU? WAS IT YOU THAT SENT ALL OF THOSE MESSAGES IN THE FIRST PLACE?! IS THIS SOME KIND OF SICK PLAN TO RUIN MY LIFE?! 'CAUSE SO FAR, IT'S WORKING. CONGRATULATION! ISN'T THAT WHAT YOU WANT, JESSE? ISN'T THAT WHAT ALL OF YOU WANT?!" She shouts, flailing her hands around to prove her point. "You can't, can you? You can't go a day without meddling into my life. This is just... I can't even. But, why? Why would you do these to me? You know I've wanted to go to this school- IT'S BEEN TWO MONTHS FOR GOD'S SAKE! What. The. Hell. Is. Wrong. With. You. Guys?"
Jesse swallows thickly, "There's nothing wrong with any of us, Nel-Nel."
"Don't Nel-Nel me. Not right now. I just—" Nellie roughly runs her fingers through her hair, as if trying to rip all of it from her head. "What if Jane noticed something? What if my cover's blown? What if everything's ruin? What'll happened to Blaine? To New Directions? I can't..."
"You know your cover haven't been blown—"
"NOT YET!"
"Still."
"Ugh, you don't get it, do you?" Nellie shakes her head, now walking to the wall and resting her forehead against it. "I worked so hard and I was- I was— having a, um, g-great time at school."
Jesse nods his head, huffing afterward. "Oh. 'Great time'. I see. I guess throwing fries at people's head are some sort of a new trend civilian are playing these days. Interesting. You know what, Nell? How 'bout you teach me that game? I would love to throw some fries at Cameron's head."
He's being bitterly cynical, and she can sense it.
"That was nothing." She blurts out, only partially facing her brother. "I-I could have handle it."
"And get into a fight with football players three times the size of you?" Jesse laughs mockingly. "Are you trying to get yourself murder?"
She spins then, spitting out, "You know nothing."
"I'm not particularly sure of that," Jesse responds back, a professional look plasters come across his face. "But— whatever stop the tears, sister."
"Then transfer out of McKinley!" She orders, pointing her forefinger up at him.
"I can't do that."
"Why can't you?"
"Just because." He isn't hesitate to reply back.
"You're an ass," she finally breathes out, having her eyes looking elsewhere.
Jesse's stomach cringes, but he doesn't act on it; Nellie never curses. He takes a few seconds passed and feels Cameron's hand resting on his shoulder- just the support he needs, for now at least. "You wouldn't understand," there's a small hint of roar in his voice, arguing back.
"Being an ass? I sure hope not!"
"Being a brother! You wouldn't understand any of it!"
"I understand that there are boundaries you need to respect and keep off! Did that ever occur to you? To respect whatever my wish is?"
"Like I said," Jesse doesn't back down. "You. Wouldn't. Understand."
"Oh, FUCK IT, JESSE! You aren't always right- you need to realize that! You need to grow up and realize that the harsh reality doesn't succumb to whatever the hell you're demanding!"
"You have no fucking idea how I'm handling the 'harsh reality' Nellie!"
"Oh yeah?!" She chucks out. "Enlighten me, please!"
"I—" He stops himself, feeling the grasp of Cameron's holding on his shoulder tightens- waking him up from his anger. He wouldn't tell her. He laid out the rules himself, and he isn't about to break it. No mention of the investigator and the fact they know the whole bullying thing from him. NO. He composes himself, killing his ego as he knows he'd be losing this argument. "I can't."
Nellie huffs out, "What a big surprise."
He shot her a look. "We gotta go."
"Please do."
"I really am sorr—"
"Don't."
"Fine," Jesse grumbles out, furrowing his brows and trying his best to control his breathing. "In case you've forgotten, we have a business dinner with mom and dad this weekend. Do not blow me off. Just FYI, Kristin's going to be there. I expect she would want to see you."
"Sure," she reluctantly replies.
"I'll see you soon, Nellie."
"Just go."
And go, they do.
She should have known things are going to go from bad to worse very, very quickly.
It's the moment Tina, Wade and Artie rolls into the choir room claiming that they have persuade a few people to join New Directions, she should have noticed something. But there was a hint of glory rising up in the air- they have gotten a new member! Just what they need. And she's too blurry by that atmosphere to noticed the slight crack to the situation.
"Oh cool!" Sam exclaims, high-fiving Tina in the process. "Who?"
"You wouldn't believe it," Tina breathes out, the redness from all of the excitement creeps up on her cheek.
No. Nellie still can't believe it.
They're in the auditorium now and she could feel it, in her fingertips, the expectations from each and one of her glee members. It's a great feeling- she wishes she could feel the same. None of them notice her sorrow. The microphone had been set up and everyone's awaiting for the new members to audition, to show them their talent- leaving her shrink in her seat and hoping for some miracle. In less than a minute, her brother will walk up on that stage and perform. And like it or not, Nellie knows he's going to get in, there's no doubt. All of them.
"Are you okay, Nellie?" Blaine's voice laces with concern and something tugs Nellie on the inside. She turns to face him, and shots a not-so-genuine smile. He worries too much, she thinks as her hand searches for his.
The former warbler returns the smile as she answers, his hand squeezing hers. "I'm fine," she mumbles out, leaning her head against the seat. "Just tired, s'all."
"Oh. You work too much on your homework. You should lay it off a bit, y'know?" he turns his attention back to the stage.
"Easy for you to say," Nellie grins slightly, despite everything. "You don't have Mr Smith's class."
"That is true," Blaine answers back, in a teasing manner.
"Shh," Sam angrily hushes them, waving their hands from Blaine's other side while his eyes are focusing on the stage.
"Oh wow, I didn't notice you're a fan of the Goldens, Sam." Nellie notes, making weird faces.
"Are you kidding me?" Sam mutters out, in a disbelieving-tone, "I heard they practically own the Avengers!"
"I'm not sure...," Nellie hesitates, "...that's true."
"Believe whatever you want to believe," Sam huffs out, sounding displease and ends the conversation.
The sound of the boots catches everyone's attention and Nellie flinches just a little bit when Jesse's face is illuminated under the spotlight. Behind him, she could see shadows of the rest of the Goldens taking places by each of their instruments. Michael, the guitar. Cameron, the bass. And Max, going straight to the drums. Mr Schue beams, sitting on the front among the New Directions and she could practically smell the proud coming off from Tina, Artie and Wade's chest- after all, if it wasn't for them, The Golden Boys wouldn't known about glee at all.
Joy.
"Good evening, everybody," Jesse says through the microphone, sending them his charming smile.
"JESSE! I LOVE YOU!" Sugar suddenly shouts, only to be quieten down by Joe, who sits next to her.
"I heard you, crazy fan-girl," Jesse points out, winking and swooning the oblivious girl. Nellie, in the meantime, rolls her eyes. "Well, I'm Jesse St. James and I will be performing The Ballad of Mona Lisa by Panic! at the Disco, alongside with my friends here. I hope you'll find it entertaining as I have entertained myself countless times singing this song. So, sit back, relax and most definitely—," his eyes lands on Nellie, winking. "—enjoy."
The music starts and everyone falls into a mutual silence.
Jesse lowers his gaze, before he looks back up- his expression completely changes darker. His tone is deep, dripping with sorrowful kind of emotion- almost as if mysteriously-like, "She paints her fingers with a close precision. He starts to notice empty bottles of gin and takes a moment to assess the sins she's paid for." Max accompany Jesse with his drums, offering beats and rhythm which set the mood just right. Cameron and Michael also doesn't fail Jesse with their musical talent. "A lonely speaker in a conversation. Her words were swimming through his ears again. There's nothing wrong with just a taste of what you've paid for..."
Jesse radiates the feels of darkness, clawing each and everybody with the words being said. The words that contain desperation for vengeance, obsession for just a hint of evil- of course, he could play it off. "Say what you mean, tell me I'm right and let the sun rain down on me. Give me a sign, I want to believe..." His deep, loud voice floats into mid-air, having expressions of complete amazement in return. Jesse smirks evilly- attention never really something he despises of. "Woah, Mona Lisa, you're guaranteed to run this town! Woah, Mona Lisa, I'd pay to see you frown!"
The song goes on for the next three minutes or so and Jesse doesn't miss a beat, as if he'd practiced this performance a hundred times already. Cameron's finger works on the bass like magic, and Michael's talent on the guitar isn't any less great. Max drums like Nellie would've thought he would. Maybe they did practiced this a hundred times before.
When he's finished, everyone claps their hands- making it an obligation for Nellie to clap too, even though all she ever wants is to run away from that place and gets away from her brother.
Suffocating.
That's what she's feeling right now.
"Thank you." Jesse breathes out, and extends his hand to one of his friend. "Now, I present to you, my good companion, Michael Walt!"
They move coordinately and smoothly, like a routine of some sort. Max stays on the drums, while Cameron goes over to the piano and Jesse takes the guitar. Someone comes up to give Michael a stool, and he swiftly thank him before adjusting the mic and flashes his smile, emitting the soft dimple on his cheek. "Hi. My name is Michael, and I'm going to sing A Little Bit Longer, by Jonas Brothers. I hope you'd enjoy it."
The piano starts, and the air in the atmosphere changes. Saddens. Nellie remembers the first time hearing this song- it's about diabetes, the moment Nick Jonas had known about it. And Michael falls in love with it- but it's not because of Nick Jonas. No, not really. It's more to Max's story. Being best friend with Max since they were diapers, Michael knows him better than anyone else. And when Max mourns over the lost of his mother- Michael's not for one to act like he doesn't care. And these lyrics... It speaks to him. To the both of them.
"Got the news today but they said I had to stay, a little bit longer and I'll be fine," the piano plays along with Michael's voice, before the drums and guitars kick in. "When i thought it'd all be done, when I thought it'd all been said- a little bit longer and I'll be fine. But you don't know what you got 'til it's gone and you don't know what it's like to feel so low. And every time you smile or laugh you glow. You don't even know, know, know."
When Michael first sings this song, Max runs out of the room at the line 'every time you smile, or laugh, you glow'. Nellie remembers Max's mother; dark hair and dark brown orbs with a gentle smile, but pale and sick and grey-skinned. She's always coughing, and back then, Nellie had an idea that Max hated his mother. But he didn't hate her- he hated the way she was, the stubbornness when she refused to quit smoking. The way she ignored Max when he needed her the most. The way she passed away too soon, leaving him all alone. But he loved (loves) her, always have. "All this time moves by, still no reason why- a little bit longer and I'll be fine."
She remembers watching Max sits on the plastic chair outside his mother's ward, looking down at his laps. Jesse and Cameron told her not to interrupt Max, and she watched, behind her little eyes and behind her brother's body as Michael slowly walked up to Max. He was praying, she knows that now. For his mother. "Waitin' on a cure but none of them are sure- a little bit longer and I'll be fine. But you don't know what you got 'til it's gone. You don't know what its like to feel so low. And every time you smile or laugh you glow. You don't even know, know, know."
Nellie snaps out of her trance as she notices Brittany is, on the moment, crying her eyes out, alongside with Tina and Sugar. She doesn't bother to comment on anything, knowing she'd be crying too if she doesn't have her identity to protect. "So I'll wait 'til kingdom come. All the highs and lows are gone. A little bit longer and I'll be fine. I'll be...fine."
Nellie turns her head, only to find Sam's holding out his sobs and Blaine's wiping his eyes.
Why isn't she surprised?
"Thank you everyone. Let me introduce to you, Max Wickham." Max walks up, clapping his hand with Michael and shares a hug for a moment, before he turns to smile at the audience. Nellie could make the small blush covering his cheek, probably holding his tears too. But he's a strong man. Max wouldn't cry in front of public's eyes easily. He punches stuff.
He waves his hand casually, "Hello, New Directions. The name's Max Wickham and I'll be performing Sing It Out. Switchfoot."
Everyone watches as he holds the silver necklace and kiss it, before closing his eyes while Michael, who switches guitar with Jesse begins to strum it. "I'm on the run... I'm on the ropes this time. Where is my song? I've lost the song of my soul tonight." Suddenly, Cameron and Jesse comes into the spotlight, put stools besides Max and sits down, heads nodding to the song. Michael sits at the empty seat Cameron had already put for him. "Sing it out, sing it out. Take what is left of me. Make it a melody. Sing it out, sing out loud. I can't find the words to sing. You'd be my remedy."
And then, Cameron and Jesse jumps in, being the background vocals. "My song... My song... I'll sing with what's left of me..."
Michael strums the guitar, and Max continues, "I'm holding on, I'm holding on to you. My world is wrong, my world is a lie that's come true. And I fall in love with the ones that run me through, when all along all I need is you..."
It doesn't take a genius to know he's talking about his mother.
"Sing it out, sing out loud. I can't find the words to sing. You'd be my remedy," the rest of the Goldens continue to act as the background vocal, adding the bittersweet sense into the song, while Max shed his first tears. "My song, my song, my song... I'll sing with what's left of me."
"That was really, really good, guys!" Mr Schue claps his hand together, his eyes red. "Now we just have—"
"Cameron." Jesse finishes the elder man's sentence.
"That's right? Are you still up for it?" the teacher asks.
"Sure." Cameron nods his head and pushes his glass towards his eyes. He walks up to the piano and sits down. Nellie shifts- watching Cameron perform has always been an exciting thing to watch. "I found God on the corner of 1st and Amistad. Where the West was all but won. All alone, smoking his last cigarette. I said, 'Where've you been?' He said, 'Ask anything'."
Nellie remembers when Cameron first sings this song. It was for the sister he'd lost. She was stillborn, and there was nothing he could do. Nellie still remembers his sister's name, ringing in the back of her head; Margaret Athena Jean Reddington. She watches Cameron, his eyes closed and his lips move to the lyrics, "Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me. Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded. Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you? Just a little late, you found me, you found me..."
She could imagine Margaret well enough; probably with green eyes and much darker shade of blond hair, but musically talented just the same. "...But in the end everyone ends up alone. Losing her, the only one who's ever known- Who I am, who I'm not and who I wanna to be. No way to know how long she will be next to me..."
There is no doubt from the beginning that The Golden Boys are a shoe-in.
There's a war inside of her. 'Cause at one point, she wants to choke the air out of her brother and his friend's lungs, but at the same time, she's extremely proud of them. Not to mention, each and one of their performances were more than spectacular and could have left her in tears.
Suffocating.
Proud, but suffocating.
Sigh.
She knows she's late. Her mother hadn't stop calling her for the last ten minutes and driving to the mansion had been difficult as she tried to ignore the calls and focus on the road. Business dinner has always been important- it's a personal dinner between her parents and some company's owner to discuss over things, but without it being too formal. Her presence, with her siblings, are just there to show people how the St. James are a complete, united family. As children, they are not as involve in the 'meeting' as much, but as they grow older, it has become a way to know what's happening in the Andromeda economics.
A lesson.
A way to get ready.
Usually, she'd be in no hurry like this, considering she lives in the mansion with her parents. So she could easily get ready with them. But now that she lives separately, she has to drive to the mansion herself and get change there. It's a good thing her parents decided to buy a new mansion that's closer to where she lives right now. This has to be their fourth mansion overall (not counting the one outside the country), in Columbus, Ohio. The others remain scatter across the United States.
She hops off her motorcycle and quickly unclasps her helmet under her jaw while walking up the small steps to the main entrance.
The door opens, and holding them is Cedric, their personal butlers for years. "Good evening, Young Miss St. James. The maids await you with your dress."
Nellie nods her head, grins and gets on her toes to leave a peck on the old man's cheek. "Hello Cedric. Long time no see."
The old man holds a small smile, "Yes. I'm afraid it has been a while since I last saw you, Young Miss. How are you?"
"Dead," she scuffles out. "If I don't get ready in ten minutes."
"Then I suggest you should hurry, Miss."
"CEDRIC?! IS THAT NELLIE, I HEAR?!" Her mother's screeching voice comes hitting the air like lightning. Something in Nellie's stomach drops. Uh-oh.
Cedric seems calm, narrowing his dark eyes towards the youngest St. James. "Should I answer her?"
"After I'm gone," she whispers harshly, going straight to the stairs.
"Yes. Of course. Upstairs. The second room to the right."
And just as she disappears from Cedric's view, she hears he says, "Yes madam. She just went to get change."
"That girl! Doesn't she know anything about being punctual? Oh, kids. Headaches! They give me headaches, Cedric! Thank God I got Kristin married- at least she has her husband to worry after her. I just wish I could marry Jesse off already-why haven't I got him married, oh Cedric?"
"I believe it's because he still has to graduate and goes to college, madam."
"Oh. That's right." Her mother sounds disappointed. "That's a shame."
Nellie chuckles and enters her room, where the maids are waiting nervously for her. One of them- Tami who have worked for the past five years now, grabs her by the arm. "Where were you? We need to get you ready, Miss! Madam St. James are already mad."
She holds her hands up, "Okay. Okay . I'm sorry. Make me look presentable. You know you can."
Ten minutes later, Nellie walks out of the room in a satin blue dress that reaches up until her knees. Her bangs has also been braided to the side and Tami had put just a light touch of make-up on her pale face. She doesn't usually dresses all fancy like these, mostly because she would find herself uncomfortable after five hours in it. But sometimes, it's nice.
She remembers playing princesses in her mother's dressing room with Kristin, when they have such little care to the world.
"There you are," her mother mutters out, observing her as she descends the stairs. "We are late."
"Why, good evening to you too, mother," Nellie teases, in an attempt to avoid her mother's wrath.
Joseph St. James sends a warm smile up at his youngest daughter, "You look beautiful, dear."
"Thanks dad," she grins, until it falters when she spots her one and only brother, dressed perfectly in an Italian suit. "Jesse," she greets incredulously.
"Nellie." He replies flatly.
"Nellie," another set of voice makes her look the other way.
She gasps, fastens her steps to hug the figure. "Kristin!" she shrieks, laughing into her eldest sister's ears.
Kristin returns the hug with just the same amount of force. Nellie isn't hesitate to bury her nose into Kristin's long hair, smelling her scent deeply and trying to remember the last time she had smelt this scent. Too long. After a moment, they break apart and the youngest St. James doesn't miss the chance to calculates every little changes on her eldest sister's face. Kristin is a walking beauty, her face appears more mature than her age really is and she stands tall, like a powerful woman she's born to be. Following their mother's side, Kristin has more of the typical Asian's look but with their dad's flowing brown hair.
"Are we done here?" Jesse grumbles out, rolling his eyes. "I thought we were in a hurry."
Nellie stuck her tongue out.
"Yeah. That's very mature, Nellie." He comments, faking a smile.
"Oh, thank you, Jesse." She dryly says.
"I was not complementing you. I was being sarcastic."
"Don't. You suck at being sarcastic."
"I AM NO—"
"That is enough," Kristin voices out, glaring at her younger siblings.
"Kristin is right," their father warns, putting both hands on Kristin's shoulders. "I need you two to behave."
"I don't know if I could stay civil with him being in the same room, dad." Nellie crosses her hands over her chest.
"And I don't know if I could even eat if she's breathing down my neck, father."
"Well then," their mother snaps, "You two will just have to deal with it. We are the St. James. We have reputation to take care of. Do you, or do you not understand me?"
Both Jesse and Nellie share a look and force out the words, "Yes, mother."
"Good." Laura St. James sternly says, going over to their limo, where Cedric holds the door for them.
The ride to the hotel takes longer than she has anticipates, but she was too distracted by the lights of the city to bother all about it. She always has some kind of lights obsession- it doesn't matter if it's light from the stars, or the lamps, or coming from fire. But lights have always makes her feel content. And she has always love nights. Because we would need dark to see the lights, right?
She gets out of the limo and glances at the hotel, while everybody greets them like they always do.
"The restaurant, please?" she hears her father asks as she follows behind.
The manager who greets them gladly leads them to the restaurant, where the lights lit up beautifully and the smell of wealth reach up to her nose, making her cringes. She tries not to bother much of Jesse and his large ego, so he turns to the sight of the busy restaurants where most of them seem to be talking business with one another while others are just enjoying their dinner. "Um, mom?"
Laura stops and blinks at her daughter, "Yes darling?"
"Who are we having dinner with, anyway?"
"Oh that's right!" Laura laughs, "I forgot to inform you, dear. We're having dinner with—"
"I see them!" Joseph exclaims, pointing towards one way.
Nellie lets her hazel eyes fall onto what her father is pointing and almost choke on her own breath when she sees the dark pair of eyes, staring straight at her.
"That's the Jenkins, honey." Laura's voice sounds distant when she says it.
She swallows.
Those eyes belong to only one- Blake. Blake Jenkins.
Total words in this chapter: 5, 954. Just to let you guys know- and for my future reference.
nellieblake- Thanks so much for dropping a review, I totally appreciate it. I'm glad you like the last chapter. Yeah, I am kinda frustrated with myself because the lack of Blellie too, which is weird because I'm the author, but yeah... A story needs to have a progress, right? I am really happy you like The Goldens! They are my favorite people too besides from Blaine (in this story). And I apologize I didn't update this sooner.
jenpepper- Thank you for your opinion! I really am glad you're still reading this story.
Klaine-Angel504- Thank you sooo much! It's people like you who keeps me updating, y'know?! XD
Msjustinerivers- haha. I'm sorry for the lack of update. Unfortunately, I can't update it every other day. But I try to update it as frequently as I could- at least, once a week. We'll see. Thanks for leaving a review. I appreciate it, really.
LadyAnnabellaRose- Hello. Yeah, I've noticed my story has the same plot with yours with the secret sister and everything, and I hope you don't misunderstand this as me, stealing your story, because stealing anybody's story would be the last thing I wish to do. Your Invisible story is very addictive, by the way and I am just in love with it. I literally burst out laughing when I read your comment that Jane should get hit by a bus- that's an awesome thought. And I agree- Blake and Nellie should be together, but... my story is kinda slow, I know. I apologize for that. I hope you'll be around to read my story still. Thanks for the review.
XloveXconquersXallX- Well, I can't say anything on that. You would just need to read and find out yourself. lol. But thanks so much for the review.
littlemissmusicdummy- Thank you for taking your time and drop a review. It means a lot to me. And to read that you 'literally squeal and start jumping' when I update just makes me grin like a mad man. I don't know I could do that to someone. And it also saddens me when they saw the pictures. I mean, I've been in their shoes- knowing my little sister got bullied in school. It's really heart-wrenching.
slytherinblellie- I am sorry that it is killing you. Please don't die. lol. I hope this chapter is fine with you? And yeah, Jesse could come across as a jerk- but he really has a big heart for those he cares about. I'm glad you like the idea of Golden Boys coming to McKinley. :) Thanks for leaving your opinion.
xoBlingBaby- Once again, I am blown away by your review. Thank you. And I am very excited to know you're writing a Blellie fic yourself- I personally couldn't wait to read it. I'm sure it'll turn out wonderful. And for your question, I already answered it in a PM- I hope you've gotten it, and I'm sorry if it's not any helpful. Once again, I thank you [even though, seriously, I can't thank you enough]. You... You are a wonderful person, you. :D
Guest- Sorry anon for the lack of updates. I hope you'd stay patient with me. But seriously though, thank you for leaving a review. Even such small gesture means a lot to me. :)
josefa st berry- Um, I don't about the Michael-Nellie-Blake triangle but I will take that into consideration. Just to inform you though, I am thinking of throwing Michael-Nellie-Blake triangle at my other story called 'Becoming Normal' that I haven't publish or even start yet. I mean, if I could find the time- I'll just might do it. Thanks for the lovely review!
Guest- Hey reader. First of all, don't force yourself on the review if you don't want to- I guess I get it. So, I'm sorry if any of my words seem to be, like, forcing you to review my story. Either way, I'm glad to know you like my story enough to leave a review- it makes what you said just really, really worth it. Thank you. And I hope you have a nice weekend as well. :)
Hnina- Hi there. I'll try to update my other stories on Tumblr as soon as I can. Thanks for telling me this. I appreciate it so. And YES! I think I just might write a Grant Gustin/Nellie one-shot, but I'll be writing it o Tumblr. Do you have any specific requests? Like a prompt for them? 'Cause if you do, then just drop your prompt in my Tumblr ask and I'll work on it as quickly as I could. Once again, thank you. Hope you have a nice day, love. In France, no less!
wires and waves- Hey. So happy to get your review. And don't worry about reviewing- especially if you have exams. I totally would understand. Oh and Nellie's breakdown? SPOILERS: Nellie will have a breakdown. It's in Chapter 9 (that is, if everything I write goes according to plan). And thanks for the small pointers- I needed that! I'm sooo sorry for my English- I know it's horrible. And what you've written would be so helpful. Thank you so much. :) Anyways, thanks for your opinion.
Luvi-95- thank you! I hope this chapter satisfying enough? If not, please don't hate me.
KadiXD- Thanks so much for leaving your review, and I'm so happy to know you found my story to your entertainment. I'll try to write it as best as I could. :)