He could handle is alcohol. Always had been able to. Slipping drinks out of the garage fridge with Chris and Doug back when they were 14. But using the beer to drown his sorrows, Nick had a feeling he would soon be drunk.
She ordered the pizzas and returned to the living room. "Do you want another beer, or would you like some water?"
Faye took the mug before he could answer. She wandered into the kitchen and refilled the mug, but only half way. She set her glass on the counter and returned to the living room.
She leaned over the back of the couch and handed him the beer. "Don't make yourself sick."
Faye could smell a bit of cologne underneath the cigarette smell. "You know Nick, I do care. You probably don't believe me, but I do care.
"Don't you worry about the care bear. She's out of your hair."
She looked up when there was a knock at the door, "Can't be the pizzas, they're never this quick."
Cassie smiled at Adam and reached down to ruffle Raj's fur. "You ready to go boy?" she asked the dog in a cheerful voice and was rewarded by a happy sounding bark. Taking Adam's hand they walked over to Diana and Melanie. "Well, we're going to head out of here. Adam's got a couple of errands to run in town. We'll see you at school tomorrow?" Letting go Adam's hand she hugged Diana and whispered in her ear. "I love you Diana, you know that. You're my best friend." She stepped away and gave Melanie a small smile.
Diana looked at Cassie and gave her this I know look/smile. "Yeah we'll see you there." Diana smiled at Melanie as they went inside the house.
Raj was jumping around impatiently, which caused Cassie to give a soft chuckle. Looking up at Adam she took his hand and turned towards everyone giving them a small wave. "See you guys tomorrow." She called out and led Adam to his car. Relaxing against it she gave a sigh of relief. "Well that's over. Have you decided what movie to rent yet? I said Dracula 2000 and you said nothing with witches soooo..." She let the sentence trail off as she tugged on his sweater, drawing him closer.
"Dracula sounds fine." He said nipping at her neck, "but don't get mad if it gives me any ideas." It didn't take long to get to town, and Adam drove to the video place he had a membership to. He got out and opened the door for Cassie. The place still had boards up on it's window from the hurricane.
"My lady." He said with a bow. "No, Raj, you wait here." He said as the dog tried to push past Cassie.
Suzan watched as Adam and Cassie made their exit. 'Wonder what they're going to do tonight now that they don't have to sneek around.' She smirked and turned to Deborah. "Well let's go then, the pizza she awaits." Suzan walked over to the Henderson twins and gave them a smile. 'Nick shouldn't be the only ones there. It'll be too weird. "Hey Chris, Doug, you wanna go hang out at Faye's?" she asked with a wink. "She's ordering pizza and I'm sure she's got plenty of booze stocked up there." She glanced over at Sean. 'Hmmm He's talking to one of the goodie goodies... maybe he'll just have to miss out on this party... three girls... three guys... oh the possibilities."
Sean watched Adam and Cassie walk away and had to smile. 'It's only fair that they get alone time after having to wait so long.' He noticed Suzan and Deb making their way across the lawn and stop over where Chris and Doug were. 'First Faye then Nick, smells like Faye's up to something.' He nodded toward the twins, Suzan, and Deb. "What do you think they're up to. Seems like everyone's leaving here. Faye left and Nick left but...he went in the direction of Faye's house. Now Cassie and Adam have left but I doubt that they're going to Faye's." A thoughtful look crossed over Sean's face. He was never one to pry in anyone's business but the way keeping secrets had taken it's toll on the coven the last couple of months had him curious about what everyone was up to.
Laurel pursed her lips, noticing that everyone was leaving the yard. Had the party ended and someone just not bothered to mention it to her or Sean? She doubted it, something was definitely up. Paying attention, she continued to listen to Sean.
Laurel frowned then. Faye leaving first was never a good thing. Sure, the girl had an aversion to the rest of them, and so did Nick. There was still something off about it.
That was for certain. Unless Cassie had decided that one of Faye's parties was NOT what the coven needed at the moment. Faye's concept of fun was vastly different than hers. "If we take off," she said, emphasizing the we because maybe she and Sean could do something that consisted of what she thought of fun, "I think we should at least tell Diana we'll see her later."
"You're right, it would be rude just to leave with out saying good bye." He was actually looking forward to spending time with Laurel. She was a sweet girl and she was always nice to him, for that he would always be grateful. He stood up and after quickly brushing the grass and dirt off his pants offered Laurel his hand. "So what do you want to do? Take in a movie or something?"
So he had some sense in him after all, Laurel thought. Courtesy was always a positive point when it was genuine and it came to Laurel. Some people could be so insensitive. Accepting Sean's hand to pull her up, Laurel pulled her hair up as he asked her his next question.
Truthfully, she had no idea. A movie sounded really good, but what would they go see? Everything was probably still closed after the storm had hit the island. Laurel scrunched her brow together as she thought, and suggested, "We could go see if anything's open first?" She shrugged. "Then we could come back to the road, and, I don't know, assure our parents we're just fine?"
Sean nodded, "Sounds like a plan." He had almost said date but he afraid that Laurel would have would have laughed in his face. He was used to it from outsider girls but if one of his own, especially Laurel, did it then it was hurt, a lot. Laurel was completely sweet unlike Faye, Deb and Suzan. For some reason her opinion mattered to him. He walked over to Diana's back door and opened it for Laurel. "After you miss." He gave her a smile that he hoped would come off as charming.
Laurel nodded, and followed Sean through the yard. She spotted Diana inside, and she was cleaning up. Maybe they should at least offer to come back later and help. Melanie was there, so maybe Melanie could stay with Diana. Help mend someone who'd just lost her entire romantic world. Sure, she said she was okay on the outside, but Laurel seriously doubted she was.
"After you miss." He gave her a smile that he hoped would come off as charming.
"Why thank you," Laurel said, smiling. At least Sean was being courteous, instead of grabby. She remembered a time when that's what he was. She felt bad that they'd been ignoring him so much, that they'd not paid as much attention to him, and that Black John had gotten to him. They had, of course, buried the belt with the piece of lodestone in the buckle, and made sure that the lodestone had been completely crushed before they had done so.
Deborah nodded, and followed Suzan over to the Henderson twins, Chris and Doug. She was explaining about the party, so Deb took the opportunity to look around at everyone else. They all seemed to be scattering like wild animals - except in a more orderly fashion. What's up with all the leaving all of a sudden? She wondered, silently telling herself that she should mention to Cassie that maybe they should all sit down and talk about what had gone on. It wasn't like they had... Watching Chris and Doug take off, Deb nudged Suzan. "Let's am-scray."
Chris and Doug decided to go along. Heck everybody else was leaving, might as well follow the more fun crowd. "Might be more fun to go spy on Cassie and Adam." Doug said elbowing Chris in the side.
"Shut up." Chris told him with a laugh. He filled a bucket of water up and set it by the fire so no one would forget to put the fire out. He knew that Laurel or Melanie wouldn't, but he didn't think that they would want to carry the water.
They started towards Faye's as well, not too far behind Suzan and Doug. Doug ran ahead, popping Suzan lightly on the rump as he passed her.
Nick watched as Faye opened the door. He didn't really care who it was. He could be at home working on his car right now, but he did feel that being part of the coven was important. He needed to show up and join in the lovely festivities every now and then.
He decided that he would stay for a little while, then head back to his own house. He suddenly remembered something that he had heard. Faye had told everyone that he kissed like an iguana. Cassie obviously didn't think so. He'd eventually have to correct her on that. But not now, not in front of anyone.
Faye smile as she let the others in. "Wasn't sure if you two would show," she said as the twins bustled into the living room.
'What are you thinking about Nicky? Wish you would just believe me.'
Chris turned on the big screen TV. Halloween 2 was on HBO. "Help yourselves to the kitchen. There's beer, pop, wine, and some other stuff. Pizza is on it's way."
She turned to get something from the basement. As she walked past Nick she let her fingers glide across his shoulder.
Suzan glared at Doug's retreating back as he went past and slapped her on her bottom. 'Boys.' she thought gruffly as her and Deborah walked into Faye's house. She heard Faye telling the twins where everything was and saw the tall ebony maned girl trail her fingers over Nick's shoulders. 'So it begins.' she thought with a smirk. 'Oh poor Nick, used by one and then another. Wonder how long Faye will keep him around before she gets bored.' Walking into the kitchen she poured herself a glass of Faye's 'special' wine and went back into the living room, sitting down beside Nick.
"Well the party over at Di's is dying down. Sean's still talking to Laurel, Diana and Mel went into Diana's house and Cassie..." She trailed her sentence off glancing at Nick out of the corner of her eye. "Went with Adam somewhere." She took a sip of her wine and leaned back. 'Why am I torturing him like this?' She asked herself but knew the answer anyways. 'Cause I like to.' Tossing her hair over her shoulder she gave Chris a dazzling smile then glared at Doug. "I'll get you back later for that Dougey."
"I'll be waiting." Doug said wiggling his eyebrows at Susan suggestively. He blew her a kiss before leaning back on the couch and placing his hands behind his neck. Unlike Nick, he didn't particularly care where he was, and threw his feet up on the coffee table. "This is the life."
Nick glared at Susan, then downed the rest of the beer. 'Bubble head.' He thought to himself.
Nick watched as Faye walked past him. Yeah, she was definitely up to something. Might as well be the first to fin out. Nick stood, stretched his arms above his head, and followed behind Faye. He pulled a cigarette out of his pocket and lit it as the basement door fell shut behind him. "Need some help?" He asked her, his voice rough, ragged, and so damn sexy.
Suzan sneered as Doug propped his feet up on the table. 'Some people don't have manners.' She noticed as Nick got up and followed Faye down to the basement. 'Hmmm interesting.' she thought with a grin. Glancing at Chris she patted the spot beside her. "Hey Chris why don't you come sit next to me?" she asked sweetly giving him a come hither look.
Faye lifted the sheet from a large box in a dark corner of the basement. She cooed softly at the raven as she turned on the lamp.
She looked up at Nick, "Don't want them to think I was going soft."
She glanced into Nick's steely eyes; I think a car hit him. He's here just until the wing heals then he's out," she said, trying to sound like her usual stern self. "You won't tell anyone will you?"
Faye put a hand on his shoulder as she stepped back so he could see the ebony bird. "If they think I've grown soft, then they'll never take me seriously."
She turned the light out and covered the box, "He needs to sleep, I just wanted to check on him."
She turned to leave and bumped into Nick. Their lips brushed. Her eyes widened, her hand on his chest. "Um...sorry."
She rushed back upstairs. Nick could hear her snarling at the twins for using a vase as a football., "Put that down you circus freaks! No football in this house, with that vase!"
Nick stared up the stairs a bit taken back. He believed Faye had just tried to kiss him. What in the world was going on? And now she was caring for an injured bird??? He shrugged and started back up the stairs. Maybe all the business with Black John had changed Faye. Nick highly doubted it, but just maybe...
Suzan flipped Faye's TV off much to the twin's dismay and turned the radio up. The bass pumped through the speakers at a decent level and she stood up sitting her glass down on the coffee table. Completely ignoring the twin's who were being there normal self she walked to the door, opened it and stepped out unto the porch and waited for the pizza man to show up. 'Ah lovely New England weather. I could really use that sweater now.' She thought as she remembered the peach sweater that she fully intended on persuading her mom to buy for her.
Faye was in the kitchen starting up the coffee pot. She heard the twins grumbling about the TV. She leaned out and glared at the TV. It winked on, but in mute. She grin as the twins started jeering at the football game.
She started slicing up some chocolate cake to have with her coffee. 'Cute sweet little Care Bear would offer everyone a piece of cake. Perfect Little Care Bear!'
She winced when she felt the knife bite into her palm. She looked down to see herself holding the knife in both hands. "Brings out the worst in me," she grumbled as she rinsed off her hand in the sink.
She placed a slice of cake on a plate for herself and poured some coffee. She took the rest of the cake and went to the kitchen and set the platter on the coffee table, "Dig in."
Faye noticed Deb's eyes narrow on her cut left palm. "Just a scratch," she mumbled and returned to the kitchen.
Sitting at the table she sipped at her coffee and ate her piece of cake.
Suzan's eyes widened as Faye brought in a chocolate cake. She hurriedly sliced herself a piece and began to eat. She wondered if she should grab another piece before or after she finished the first ones. There was no telling how much would be left after the twins got into it. She decided half-heartedly against the second slice. 'Need to watch my figure if I want to fit into that sweater I'm going to get my mom to get me.' She ate her cake in silence and sneered as she glanced at the TV. 'Stupid football game, I really hate this time of year. Football everywhere all the friggin time.' When she was done she pushed her plate away and smiled at Faye. "Thanks, just what I needed." Looking down at her nails she wondered if she could squeeze in a nail appointment after school tomorrow.
Deborah had been just as aggravated as the twins when Suzan turned the television off, but had dealt with that. She wasn't' surprised when she noticed Faye peek out of the kitchen, glaring, and turned to back on. She smirked for a second, and then looked back at the game, and then Nick. He seemed… all right, if you called sitting there and nursing a beer all right. Then Faye came out, with some cake. The first thing Deborah noticed was the slice on Faye's hand.
"Just a scratch," she mumbled and returned to the kitchen.
Nodding, Deb watched Faye go back to the kitchen. Picking up a throw pillow, she threw it at Nick, hoping to snap him out of whatever daze he seemed to be in. "Go talk to her," she suggested, as she noticed the pizza guy pull up and Suzan at the door.
Chris and Doug both dove into the cake with out any thoughts to calories or fat. Nick declined, sitting in the back of the room, away from the others. He noticed that Suzan only took one piece. Was everyone in the coven changing? Well, Chris and Doug were still Chris and Doug. Cassie and Adam were together, that was the biggest change of all, Suzan eating one piece of cake, Faye being nice to him, he had even noticed Laurel and Sean hanging out together before he left.
Freaky. He heard the doorbell ring. "Pizza's here." He said to no one, letting his head lean back against the back of the chair, and let his eye close. Nick's eyes flew open as the pillow fell into his lap. He looked around and saw that his cousin was the culprit. He looked at her in amazement. 'You want me to talk to Faye?' he mouthed to her. When she nodded, he shook his head.
'Oh what the hell. Either that or leave.' He threw the pillow back at her, a bit harder than intended and went into the kitchen.
He looked down at her hand. "You alright?" He asked.
Back at the door Suzan opened it up to reveal a somewhat cute pizza guy. "Why hello there," she drawled and stepped aside for him to come in. "I'll go get the money." She smiled at him and went into the kitchen. She noticed Faye sitting at the table and Nick standing over her. She raised a shapely brow, grabbed the money that was on the counter and went back to the front door. Taking the pizza from the guy she handed the boxes to Doug. "Here make yourself useful." She glared at him, still plotting what she could do to get him back for the slap on the rear. She turned back to the pizza guy and placing the money in his palm she closed his hand giving it a little squeeze. "Keep the change." She said as she pushed him out the door. She giggled as his walked dazedly back to his car. Closing the door she walked back into the living room and plopped down next to Deborah. "Wonder what made Faye hurt her hand." She said and curiously glanced toward the kitchen door.
Faye looked up at Nick; she hadn't realized he had come back into the kitchen. "Yeah, fine. I just cut it when I was slicing the cake," she hesitated a moment. "My hand slipped."
She stood and took her full plate to the counter.
"It's strange," she said quietly without looking up. "Things have changed so much almost over night. It's kind of weird if you think about it."
When her honey eyes locked on Nick, there was something strange in them. Tears? Couldn't be, this is Faye, the ice lady.
"I...." She hesitated a moment then returned to her seat and sipped at her coffee some more.
"You want to hang out sometime?"
Faye's face was almost emotionless. Something like worry glittered in hers. Waiting for an answer.
Nick raised an eyebrow at Faye. She seemed serious. But he was still talking about Faye here. Well, why not, Armstrong? He asked himself. What could it hurt. He was strong enough that Faye couldn't make him do anything. And being with her might just help take his mind off of Cassie.
Faye might just want to use him to anger Cassie... That made the decision for him.
"I'd like that." He answered her. "I'm not as classy as you Faye, you've known that for a long time. But if you want to get together some time, I'd be," he paused, unable to find just the right word to describe just how he would be feeling, "well, it'd be fun."
She smiled, "I'd like that."
Faye took a thoughtful sip of her coffee? "Classy? Who said you need to be classy?"
Setting her mug down she stood up close to him. Her vanilla perfume was a gentle and welcoming scent. "Who said you need to change Nick?" She asked softly in her husky voice. "If someone can't take you for who you are, then to hell with them. Change should only be if you want it."
"You want something else to drink?" She walked to the fridge and tossed him an inquiring glance.
"That's a welcome feeling." Nick said aloud, but more to himself than to Faye. He shook his head at Faye offer. It was almost absurd. Him and Faye alone, well sort of considering most of the coven was in the other room only a few feet away. Nick didn't know if it was the beer or what, but he rather enjoyed being in there with Faye. She was a knockout; you didn't need to be a witch to see that.
What a concept - Nick and Faye. The both were beyond a doubt the toughest emotionally in the group. Neither one of them gave themselves up easily, but when they did, it seemed to be a disaster. Faye with Black John, and Nick with his daughter.
He knew that deep inside Faye was hurting from having to share the leadership of the coven with both Cassie and Diana, her only 'enemies' in the group. Why not both help each other heal those wounds. Was it getting hot in the kitchen? Nick pulled the collar of his t-shirt away from his neck.
'God I sound like an idiot.' Nick looked over his shoulder as he heard Susan send the Pizza boy off. "Do you want me to get you a piece of Pizza?"
"Wonder what made Faye hurt her hand." Suzan said and curiously glanced toward the kitchen door.
Deborah wondered that herself, and beckoned for Chris to join her and Suzan. So, maybe they weren't the staying up late talking about what kind of shoes everyone was wearing, but if someone was hurt in the coven, they were concerned. And this was Faye who was acting off, not one of the goodie goodies.
"I know," Deb said, settling down into a more comfortable position for her arm, "it didn't look like a little scratch. It looked like a slice right down the middle of her hand." Deborah frowned, wondering if it had been there since before they got rid of Black John, and they'd all been too concerned with getting rid of him to notice. Of course, Faye had run off with him herself, and likely it would have been her own fault. But Deborah figured it had just happened in the kitchen. "Maybe Nick'll get it out of her. When he wants to, he can be concerned."
Nodding, she said, "Pizza sounds good." She followed him into the living room.
Nick grabbed two paper plates, and lifted a slice of Pizza on to each of them. Then remembering to grab her a napkin first, set one plate down in front of Faye. He ate the pizza slowly, content to watch the others. Chris a Doug ate with a flair. Waving the pizza around every time their team scored a touchdown. But even they were smart enough to make sure no sauce fell on Faye furniture or carpet.
Picking up her own slice of pizza Suzan took a bit and rolled her eyes as Chris and Doug celebrated a touch down with a slice of pizza. 'Morons.' She thought to herself and glanced at Faye and Nick. 'Hmmm they sure look cozy.' She turned her attention back to her pizza, picking the toppings off one by one and popping them in her mouth. When she was done she once more resisted the urge for seconds. She wanted that sweater to much and she figured that after she got it, wore it and then got tired of it she would discard it and eat like normal. 'A girl's got to keep up a good image and that sweater would make me a lovely image to behold.' She wiped her hands with a napkin then sat back on the couch. The party was starting to seem dull and she had to stifle a yawn.
Doug laughed and took a bite of his pizza. He had a twenty-dollar bet with a boy from school over who would win the game. And with a bit of will power, and sheer luck, His team was pulling ahead. He went to sit back down on the couch, but caught his sneaker on the edge of the coffee table. He flailed his arms trying to catch his balance, but it was useless. He tumbled sideways, straight into Suzan's lap. Upon landing, he quickly wrapped his arms around her neck and grinned up at her. "If you wanted me to sit in your lap, Suzan, you could have just asked." He batted his eyes at her.
Was the whole coven hooking up or something? Chris thought shaking his head at his brother. Seemed he was getting a thing for Susan. Nick and Faye were sitting awfully close together. Laurel and Sean were kinda paired off back at Diana's. And of course there was no separating Cassie and Adam. That meant he was the only guy with out a witch chick. Diana wasn't really his type, too goody goody, but hot nonetheless. Melanie the brain? He almost laughed aloud at that. That left... He looked sideways out of the corner of his eye at Deborah. 'Eh..." he shook off the thought with a shudder. Better to be single than beat up by a girl.
Suzan shuddered and pushed Doug off her lap. "As if." she said and rolled her eyes. She caught Chris looking at them and gave him a wink. 'Why do I get the other brother all over me? That's just my luck I guess.' She was half tempted to shove a piece of pizza in Doug's face but that would ensue a food fight and Faye would have her hide for that so instead she stood up and giving Doug a dark look headed back into the kitchen for a refill on her wine.
The little bit of Faye's wine she had drank was already giving her a slight buzz and she had to giggle at Doug's antics even though he was entirely not her type. Uncorking the bottle she poured herself another glass and drank half of it. It wasn't bitter like most wines and had more of a juice flavor to it. Replacing the half she drank she went to the doorway to the living room and leaned against the frame. She looked at the people that had been her friends for years and wondered what the rest of the school year held for them.
Faye noticed that Susan seemed bored. She grinned inwardly. "Who's up for a swim?"
She hadn't even taken a bite of her pizza yet. She tugged at Susan's hand, "Come on. Let's go guys."
Flashing a smile at nick she asked, "How about you? You gonna come and have some fun?"
Nick laughed, "No suit." He said starting for the door. "It's been nice Faye." He said lowly to her, so only she could hear. "Maybe next time." He gave a short little wave to Deborah. "Catch you at home, Deb."
She pouted, "Is that a no? Why don't ya pick up a suit and stop by the beach for a bit. I think a swim will do us all some good." Faye threw a sidelong glance at Deb hoping that she would help out. She was certain that the twins would be up for swimming.
She was doing her best to pull her group back together. Things needed to get back to the way they used to be. Faye knew all too well how much more comfortable solid ground is. The whole thing with Black John turned everyone's own little world upside down. Change was cool, but they all needed to be together all the same.
Faye's own pedestal had crumbled from beneath her. Things were changing about her and within her. She was like a new born trying to develope a New Faye or the old Faye. She still wasn't sure yet and she wasn't about To let The others know. She had earned their respect over the years and one Little nervous breakdown would throw it all down the drain.
One thing was for sure; her mind was still set against the care bear. She had plans for her...big plans. Just Faye and Care bear. No more power plays. Bringing her friends in it left so many rooms for error. She could not let the girl hurt anyone close to her again.
"Ok, let's go, everybody! I have suits for you and Deb if you don't have yours," she said to Susan.
~*~*~*~
Cassie got out of the car and pushed Raj gently back away from the door and closed it. Taking Adam's hand in hers they walked to into the store. She as thankful that they were open for business. Stopping in the horror section she looked up at Adam. "Does this seem real to you? I mean, are we really together picking out a movie to watch, alone." It all felt like a dream and she was afraid that any minute she would wake up back in California, alone with just her mom and her unicorns to greet her before she got up for school. Leaning over she snatched Dracula 2000 from the shelf and gave Adam and wink. "Vampire movies are so..." she let her sentence trail off with a sigh and leaned toward him. "Seductive, don't you think." She couldn't help the mischievous glint that came into her eyes. 'No one's stopping us now.' She thought happily.
Adam laughed, "I wouldn't exactly call them seductive. More like pain inflicting." He took the movie case from her and walked up to the counter. He told the clerk his video number and waited while he retrieved the movie from behind the counter.
"Where's your girlfriend?" The pimply-faced clerk asked putting a paper on the counter for her to sign. "Haven't seen you two in here for ages."
Adam blushed slightly, concentrating on signing his name. He pushed the paper back across the counter and handed the boy a five-dollar bill. "We broke up." He told him, even though it was none of his business really.
"You're kidding me!" The boy said as he rang the video up on the cash register. He shook his head in amazement as he counted out the change. "You guys have been coming in here as long as I worked here, and that's been three years now." He dropped the rest of the change into Adam's hand. "And who's this, your little sister?"
Cassie walked up to the counter and stood beside Adam and caught the end of the conversation. They were talking about him and Diana breaking up and obviously it had upset the guy at the counter. 'What was it like a soap opera for him, geez.' The color drained from her face as he asked if she was Adam's sister. She opened her mouth to make a nasty comment but stopped herself. 'That's not me. Although I'd love to tell him where he could stick his curiosity.' She thought with a smirk but quickly recovered giving him a smile. Linking her arm through Adam's she gave a soft laugh. "His sister? You must be joking." She looked up at Adam and gave him a questioning look. 'To be sure he'll set this guy straight.' She thought to herself, her face beginning to flush. She was beginning to wonder if she would have to live in Diana's shadow when it came to her relationship with Adam. Everyone in town seemed to be used to seeing him and Diana together.
Adam laughed as well. Might as well get used to the scrutiny. At least for a while. He had worried about what the coven would think, but the interrogation by outsiders, that hadn't crossed his mind. "No, this is Cassie. She moved up here earlier from California." He pocketed the change and took the movie off of the counter. Hmmm, Cassie was his girlfriend, but she was also so much more than that. How do you honestly say that someone's soul is connected to yours? 'She's my honey bunches of oats? Yes indeedy she's my sweetie? She's my cherry pie? Sweetie peetie?' "She's my girlfriend."
"Wow." The clerk said as he watched Adam and Cassie leaving. "Would have never seen that one coming."
Cassie gave the clerk a glance as they walked out of the door. 'Never seen that coming eh?' she thought with a smirk then hid it before Adam could see it as they headed outside to Adam's car. Opening the door she petted a very happy Raj before climbing in and closing the door. She wondered what was going on at Faye's party. Mostly she was wondering what Nick was doing at Faye's party. She attempted to push the thought of Nick away but for some reason she kept seeing an image of him on the beach the night her father had tried to get into her mind. He had been so concerned and a little angry with the girls for letting her walk off so far. 'Poor Nick. One of these days I'll make it up to you.' She thought silently and smiled at Adam. She had everything she wanted and yet she still felt empty.
Adam pulled his car up in front of his house, and let it idle a second before cutting it off. "You alright?" He asked, turning in his seat to look at Cassie. He hoped she wasn't thinking about Diana. Of course he still felt terrible about it, but they couldn't dwell on it forever. Especially when his grammy was out visiting her friends.
She ordered the pizzas and returned to the living room. "Do you want another beer, or would you like some water?"
Faye took the mug before he could answer. She wandered into the kitchen and refilled the mug, but only half way. She set her glass on the counter and returned to the living room.
She leaned over the back of the couch and handed him the beer. "Don't make yourself sick."
Faye could smell a bit of cologne underneath the cigarette smell. "You know Nick, I do care. You probably don't believe me, but I do care.
"Don't you worry about the care bear. She's out of your hair."
She looked up when there was a knock at the door, "Can't be the pizzas, they're never this quick."
Cassie smiled at Adam and reached down to ruffle Raj's fur. "You ready to go boy?" she asked the dog in a cheerful voice and was rewarded by a happy sounding bark. Taking Adam's hand they walked over to Diana and Melanie. "Well, we're going to head out of here. Adam's got a couple of errands to run in town. We'll see you at school tomorrow?" Letting go Adam's hand she hugged Diana and whispered in her ear. "I love you Diana, you know that. You're my best friend." She stepped away and gave Melanie a small smile.
Diana looked at Cassie and gave her this I know look/smile. "Yeah we'll see you there." Diana smiled at Melanie as they went inside the house.
Raj was jumping around impatiently, which caused Cassie to give a soft chuckle. Looking up at Adam she took his hand and turned towards everyone giving them a small wave. "See you guys tomorrow." She called out and led Adam to his car. Relaxing against it she gave a sigh of relief. "Well that's over. Have you decided what movie to rent yet? I said Dracula 2000 and you said nothing with witches soooo..." She let the sentence trail off as she tugged on his sweater, drawing him closer.
"Dracula sounds fine." He said nipping at her neck, "but don't get mad if it gives me any ideas." It didn't take long to get to town, and Adam drove to the video place he had a membership to. He got out and opened the door for Cassie. The place still had boards up on it's window from the hurricane.
"My lady." He said with a bow. "No, Raj, you wait here." He said as the dog tried to push past Cassie.
Suzan watched as Adam and Cassie made their exit. 'Wonder what they're going to do tonight now that they don't have to sneek around.' She smirked and turned to Deborah. "Well let's go then, the pizza she awaits." Suzan walked over to the Henderson twins and gave them a smile. 'Nick shouldn't be the only ones there. It'll be too weird. "Hey Chris, Doug, you wanna go hang out at Faye's?" she asked with a wink. "She's ordering pizza and I'm sure she's got plenty of booze stocked up there." She glanced over at Sean. 'Hmmm He's talking to one of the goodie goodies... maybe he'll just have to miss out on this party... three girls... three guys... oh the possibilities."
Sean watched Adam and Cassie walk away and had to smile. 'It's only fair that they get alone time after having to wait so long.' He noticed Suzan and Deb making their way across the lawn and stop over where Chris and Doug were. 'First Faye then Nick, smells like Faye's up to something.' He nodded toward the twins, Suzan, and Deb. "What do you think they're up to. Seems like everyone's leaving here. Faye left and Nick left but...he went in the direction of Faye's house. Now Cassie and Adam have left but I doubt that they're going to Faye's." A thoughtful look crossed over Sean's face. He was never one to pry in anyone's business but the way keeping secrets had taken it's toll on the coven the last couple of months had him curious about what everyone was up to.
Laurel pursed her lips, noticing that everyone was leaving the yard. Had the party ended and someone just not bothered to mention it to her or Sean? She doubted it, something was definitely up. Paying attention, she continued to listen to Sean.
Laurel frowned then. Faye leaving first was never a good thing. Sure, the girl had an aversion to the rest of them, and so did Nick. There was still something off about it.
That was for certain. Unless Cassie had decided that one of Faye's parties was NOT what the coven needed at the moment. Faye's concept of fun was vastly different than hers. "If we take off," she said, emphasizing the we because maybe she and Sean could do something that consisted of what she thought of fun, "I think we should at least tell Diana we'll see her later."
"You're right, it would be rude just to leave with out saying good bye." He was actually looking forward to spending time with Laurel. She was a sweet girl and she was always nice to him, for that he would always be grateful. He stood up and after quickly brushing the grass and dirt off his pants offered Laurel his hand. "So what do you want to do? Take in a movie or something?"
So he had some sense in him after all, Laurel thought. Courtesy was always a positive point when it was genuine and it came to Laurel. Some people could be so insensitive. Accepting Sean's hand to pull her up, Laurel pulled her hair up as he asked her his next question.
Truthfully, she had no idea. A movie sounded really good, but what would they go see? Everything was probably still closed after the storm had hit the island. Laurel scrunched her brow together as she thought, and suggested, "We could go see if anything's open first?" She shrugged. "Then we could come back to the road, and, I don't know, assure our parents we're just fine?"
Sean nodded, "Sounds like a plan." He had almost said date but he afraid that Laurel would have would have laughed in his face. He was used to it from outsider girls but if one of his own, especially Laurel, did it then it was hurt, a lot. Laurel was completely sweet unlike Faye, Deb and Suzan. For some reason her opinion mattered to him. He walked over to Diana's back door and opened it for Laurel. "After you miss." He gave her a smile that he hoped would come off as charming.
Laurel nodded, and followed Sean through the yard. She spotted Diana inside, and she was cleaning up. Maybe they should at least offer to come back later and help. Melanie was there, so maybe Melanie could stay with Diana. Help mend someone who'd just lost her entire romantic world. Sure, she said she was okay on the outside, but Laurel seriously doubted she was.
"After you miss." He gave her a smile that he hoped would come off as charming.
"Why thank you," Laurel said, smiling. At least Sean was being courteous, instead of grabby. She remembered a time when that's what he was. She felt bad that they'd been ignoring him so much, that they'd not paid as much attention to him, and that Black John had gotten to him. They had, of course, buried the belt with the piece of lodestone in the buckle, and made sure that the lodestone had been completely crushed before they had done so.
Deborah nodded, and followed Suzan over to the Henderson twins, Chris and Doug. She was explaining about the party, so Deb took the opportunity to look around at everyone else. They all seemed to be scattering like wild animals - except in a more orderly fashion. What's up with all the leaving all of a sudden? She wondered, silently telling herself that she should mention to Cassie that maybe they should all sit down and talk about what had gone on. It wasn't like they had... Watching Chris and Doug take off, Deb nudged Suzan. "Let's am-scray."
Chris and Doug decided to go along. Heck everybody else was leaving, might as well follow the more fun crowd. "Might be more fun to go spy on Cassie and Adam." Doug said elbowing Chris in the side.
"Shut up." Chris told him with a laugh. He filled a bucket of water up and set it by the fire so no one would forget to put the fire out. He knew that Laurel or Melanie wouldn't, but he didn't think that they would want to carry the water.
They started towards Faye's as well, not too far behind Suzan and Doug. Doug ran ahead, popping Suzan lightly on the rump as he passed her.
Nick watched as Faye opened the door. He didn't really care who it was. He could be at home working on his car right now, but he did feel that being part of the coven was important. He needed to show up and join in the lovely festivities every now and then.
He decided that he would stay for a little while, then head back to his own house. He suddenly remembered something that he had heard. Faye had told everyone that he kissed like an iguana. Cassie obviously didn't think so. He'd eventually have to correct her on that. But not now, not in front of anyone.
Faye smile as she let the others in. "Wasn't sure if you two would show," she said as the twins bustled into the living room.
'What are you thinking about Nicky? Wish you would just believe me.'
Chris turned on the big screen TV. Halloween 2 was on HBO. "Help yourselves to the kitchen. There's beer, pop, wine, and some other stuff. Pizza is on it's way."
She turned to get something from the basement. As she walked past Nick she let her fingers glide across his shoulder.
Suzan glared at Doug's retreating back as he went past and slapped her on her bottom. 'Boys.' she thought gruffly as her and Deborah walked into Faye's house. She heard Faye telling the twins where everything was and saw the tall ebony maned girl trail her fingers over Nick's shoulders. 'So it begins.' she thought with a smirk. 'Oh poor Nick, used by one and then another. Wonder how long Faye will keep him around before she gets bored.' Walking into the kitchen she poured herself a glass of Faye's 'special' wine and went back into the living room, sitting down beside Nick.
"Well the party over at Di's is dying down. Sean's still talking to Laurel, Diana and Mel went into Diana's house and Cassie..." She trailed her sentence off glancing at Nick out of the corner of her eye. "Went with Adam somewhere." She took a sip of her wine and leaned back. 'Why am I torturing him like this?' She asked herself but knew the answer anyways. 'Cause I like to.' Tossing her hair over her shoulder she gave Chris a dazzling smile then glared at Doug. "I'll get you back later for that Dougey."
"I'll be waiting." Doug said wiggling his eyebrows at Susan suggestively. He blew her a kiss before leaning back on the couch and placing his hands behind his neck. Unlike Nick, he didn't particularly care where he was, and threw his feet up on the coffee table. "This is the life."
Nick glared at Susan, then downed the rest of the beer. 'Bubble head.' He thought to himself.
Nick watched as Faye walked past him. Yeah, she was definitely up to something. Might as well be the first to fin out. Nick stood, stretched his arms above his head, and followed behind Faye. He pulled a cigarette out of his pocket and lit it as the basement door fell shut behind him. "Need some help?" He asked her, his voice rough, ragged, and so damn sexy.
Suzan sneered as Doug propped his feet up on the table. 'Some people don't have manners.' She noticed as Nick got up and followed Faye down to the basement. 'Hmmm interesting.' she thought with a grin. Glancing at Chris she patted the spot beside her. "Hey Chris why don't you come sit next to me?" she asked sweetly giving him a come hither look.
Faye lifted the sheet from a large box in a dark corner of the basement. She cooed softly at the raven as she turned on the lamp.
She looked up at Nick, "Don't want them to think I was going soft."
She glanced into Nick's steely eyes; I think a car hit him. He's here just until the wing heals then he's out," she said, trying to sound like her usual stern self. "You won't tell anyone will you?"
Faye put a hand on his shoulder as she stepped back so he could see the ebony bird. "If they think I've grown soft, then they'll never take me seriously."
She turned the light out and covered the box, "He needs to sleep, I just wanted to check on him."
She turned to leave and bumped into Nick. Their lips brushed. Her eyes widened, her hand on his chest. "Um...sorry."
She rushed back upstairs. Nick could hear her snarling at the twins for using a vase as a football., "Put that down you circus freaks! No football in this house, with that vase!"
Nick stared up the stairs a bit taken back. He believed Faye had just tried to kiss him. What in the world was going on? And now she was caring for an injured bird??? He shrugged and started back up the stairs. Maybe all the business with Black John had changed Faye. Nick highly doubted it, but just maybe...
Suzan flipped Faye's TV off much to the twin's dismay and turned the radio up. The bass pumped through the speakers at a decent level and she stood up sitting her glass down on the coffee table. Completely ignoring the twin's who were being there normal self she walked to the door, opened it and stepped out unto the porch and waited for the pizza man to show up. 'Ah lovely New England weather. I could really use that sweater now.' She thought as she remembered the peach sweater that she fully intended on persuading her mom to buy for her.
Faye was in the kitchen starting up the coffee pot. She heard the twins grumbling about the TV. She leaned out and glared at the TV. It winked on, but in mute. She grin as the twins started jeering at the football game.
She started slicing up some chocolate cake to have with her coffee. 'Cute sweet little Care Bear would offer everyone a piece of cake. Perfect Little Care Bear!'
She winced when she felt the knife bite into her palm. She looked down to see herself holding the knife in both hands. "Brings out the worst in me," she grumbled as she rinsed off her hand in the sink.
She placed a slice of cake on a plate for herself and poured some coffee. She took the rest of the cake and went to the kitchen and set the platter on the coffee table, "Dig in."
Faye noticed Deb's eyes narrow on her cut left palm. "Just a scratch," she mumbled and returned to the kitchen.
Sitting at the table she sipped at her coffee and ate her piece of cake.
Suzan's eyes widened as Faye brought in a chocolate cake. She hurriedly sliced herself a piece and began to eat. She wondered if she should grab another piece before or after she finished the first ones. There was no telling how much would be left after the twins got into it. She decided half-heartedly against the second slice. 'Need to watch my figure if I want to fit into that sweater I'm going to get my mom to get me.' She ate her cake in silence and sneered as she glanced at the TV. 'Stupid football game, I really hate this time of year. Football everywhere all the friggin time.' When she was done she pushed her plate away and smiled at Faye. "Thanks, just what I needed." Looking down at her nails she wondered if she could squeeze in a nail appointment after school tomorrow.
Deborah had been just as aggravated as the twins when Suzan turned the television off, but had dealt with that. She wasn't' surprised when she noticed Faye peek out of the kitchen, glaring, and turned to back on. She smirked for a second, and then looked back at the game, and then Nick. He seemed… all right, if you called sitting there and nursing a beer all right. Then Faye came out, with some cake. The first thing Deborah noticed was the slice on Faye's hand.
"Just a scratch," she mumbled and returned to the kitchen.
Nodding, Deb watched Faye go back to the kitchen. Picking up a throw pillow, she threw it at Nick, hoping to snap him out of whatever daze he seemed to be in. "Go talk to her," she suggested, as she noticed the pizza guy pull up and Suzan at the door.
Chris and Doug both dove into the cake with out any thoughts to calories or fat. Nick declined, sitting in the back of the room, away from the others. He noticed that Suzan only took one piece. Was everyone in the coven changing? Well, Chris and Doug were still Chris and Doug. Cassie and Adam were together, that was the biggest change of all, Suzan eating one piece of cake, Faye being nice to him, he had even noticed Laurel and Sean hanging out together before he left.
Freaky. He heard the doorbell ring. "Pizza's here." He said to no one, letting his head lean back against the back of the chair, and let his eye close. Nick's eyes flew open as the pillow fell into his lap. He looked around and saw that his cousin was the culprit. He looked at her in amazement. 'You want me to talk to Faye?' he mouthed to her. When she nodded, he shook his head.
'Oh what the hell. Either that or leave.' He threw the pillow back at her, a bit harder than intended and went into the kitchen.
He looked down at her hand. "You alright?" He asked.
Back at the door Suzan opened it up to reveal a somewhat cute pizza guy. "Why hello there," she drawled and stepped aside for him to come in. "I'll go get the money." She smiled at him and went into the kitchen. She noticed Faye sitting at the table and Nick standing over her. She raised a shapely brow, grabbed the money that was on the counter and went back to the front door. Taking the pizza from the guy she handed the boxes to Doug. "Here make yourself useful." She glared at him, still plotting what she could do to get him back for the slap on the rear. She turned back to the pizza guy and placing the money in his palm she closed his hand giving it a little squeeze. "Keep the change." She said as she pushed him out the door. She giggled as his walked dazedly back to his car. Closing the door she walked back into the living room and plopped down next to Deborah. "Wonder what made Faye hurt her hand." She said and curiously glanced toward the kitchen door.
Faye looked up at Nick; she hadn't realized he had come back into the kitchen. "Yeah, fine. I just cut it when I was slicing the cake," she hesitated a moment. "My hand slipped."
She stood and took her full plate to the counter.
"It's strange," she said quietly without looking up. "Things have changed so much almost over night. It's kind of weird if you think about it."
When her honey eyes locked on Nick, there was something strange in them. Tears? Couldn't be, this is Faye, the ice lady.
"I...." She hesitated a moment then returned to her seat and sipped at her coffee some more.
"You want to hang out sometime?"
Faye's face was almost emotionless. Something like worry glittered in hers. Waiting for an answer.
Nick raised an eyebrow at Faye. She seemed serious. But he was still talking about Faye here. Well, why not, Armstrong? He asked himself. What could it hurt. He was strong enough that Faye couldn't make him do anything. And being with her might just help take his mind off of Cassie.
Faye might just want to use him to anger Cassie... That made the decision for him.
"I'd like that." He answered her. "I'm not as classy as you Faye, you've known that for a long time. But if you want to get together some time, I'd be," he paused, unable to find just the right word to describe just how he would be feeling, "well, it'd be fun."
She smiled, "I'd like that."
Faye took a thoughtful sip of her coffee? "Classy? Who said you need to be classy?"
Setting her mug down she stood up close to him. Her vanilla perfume was a gentle and welcoming scent. "Who said you need to change Nick?" She asked softly in her husky voice. "If someone can't take you for who you are, then to hell with them. Change should only be if you want it."
"You want something else to drink?" She walked to the fridge and tossed him an inquiring glance.
"That's a welcome feeling." Nick said aloud, but more to himself than to Faye. He shook his head at Faye offer. It was almost absurd. Him and Faye alone, well sort of considering most of the coven was in the other room only a few feet away. Nick didn't know if it was the beer or what, but he rather enjoyed being in there with Faye. She was a knockout; you didn't need to be a witch to see that.
What a concept - Nick and Faye. The both were beyond a doubt the toughest emotionally in the group. Neither one of them gave themselves up easily, but when they did, it seemed to be a disaster. Faye with Black John, and Nick with his daughter.
He knew that deep inside Faye was hurting from having to share the leadership of the coven with both Cassie and Diana, her only 'enemies' in the group. Why not both help each other heal those wounds. Was it getting hot in the kitchen? Nick pulled the collar of his t-shirt away from his neck.
'God I sound like an idiot.' Nick looked over his shoulder as he heard Susan send the Pizza boy off. "Do you want me to get you a piece of Pizza?"
"Wonder what made Faye hurt her hand." Suzan said and curiously glanced toward the kitchen door.
Deborah wondered that herself, and beckoned for Chris to join her and Suzan. So, maybe they weren't the staying up late talking about what kind of shoes everyone was wearing, but if someone was hurt in the coven, they were concerned. And this was Faye who was acting off, not one of the goodie goodies.
"I know," Deb said, settling down into a more comfortable position for her arm, "it didn't look like a little scratch. It looked like a slice right down the middle of her hand." Deborah frowned, wondering if it had been there since before they got rid of Black John, and they'd all been too concerned with getting rid of him to notice. Of course, Faye had run off with him herself, and likely it would have been her own fault. But Deborah figured it had just happened in the kitchen. "Maybe Nick'll get it out of her. When he wants to, he can be concerned."
Nodding, she said, "Pizza sounds good." She followed him into the living room.
Nick grabbed two paper plates, and lifted a slice of Pizza on to each of them. Then remembering to grab her a napkin first, set one plate down in front of Faye. He ate the pizza slowly, content to watch the others. Chris a Doug ate with a flair. Waving the pizza around every time their team scored a touchdown. But even they were smart enough to make sure no sauce fell on Faye furniture or carpet.
Picking up her own slice of pizza Suzan took a bit and rolled her eyes as Chris and Doug celebrated a touch down with a slice of pizza. 'Morons.' She thought to herself and glanced at Faye and Nick. 'Hmmm they sure look cozy.' She turned her attention back to her pizza, picking the toppings off one by one and popping them in her mouth. When she was done she once more resisted the urge for seconds. She wanted that sweater to much and she figured that after she got it, wore it and then got tired of it she would discard it and eat like normal. 'A girl's got to keep up a good image and that sweater would make me a lovely image to behold.' She wiped her hands with a napkin then sat back on the couch. The party was starting to seem dull and she had to stifle a yawn.
Doug laughed and took a bite of his pizza. He had a twenty-dollar bet with a boy from school over who would win the game. And with a bit of will power, and sheer luck, His team was pulling ahead. He went to sit back down on the couch, but caught his sneaker on the edge of the coffee table. He flailed his arms trying to catch his balance, but it was useless. He tumbled sideways, straight into Suzan's lap. Upon landing, he quickly wrapped his arms around her neck and grinned up at her. "If you wanted me to sit in your lap, Suzan, you could have just asked." He batted his eyes at her.
Was the whole coven hooking up or something? Chris thought shaking his head at his brother. Seemed he was getting a thing for Susan. Nick and Faye were sitting awfully close together. Laurel and Sean were kinda paired off back at Diana's. And of course there was no separating Cassie and Adam. That meant he was the only guy with out a witch chick. Diana wasn't really his type, too goody goody, but hot nonetheless. Melanie the brain? He almost laughed aloud at that. That left... He looked sideways out of the corner of his eye at Deborah. 'Eh..." he shook off the thought with a shudder. Better to be single than beat up by a girl.
Suzan shuddered and pushed Doug off her lap. "As if." she said and rolled her eyes. She caught Chris looking at them and gave him a wink. 'Why do I get the other brother all over me? That's just my luck I guess.' She was half tempted to shove a piece of pizza in Doug's face but that would ensue a food fight and Faye would have her hide for that so instead she stood up and giving Doug a dark look headed back into the kitchen for a refill on her wine.
The little bit of Faye's wine she had drank was already giving her a slight buzz and she had to giggle at Doug's antics even though he was entirely not her type. Uncorking the bottle she poured herself another glass and drank half of it. It wasn't bitter like most wines and had more of a juice flavor to it. Replacing the half she drank she went to the doorway to the living room and leaned against the frame. She looked at the people that had been her friends for years and wondered what the rest of the school year held for them.
Faye noticed that Susan seemed bored. She grinned inwardly. "Who's up for a swim?"
She hadn't even taken a bite of her pizza yet. She tugged at Susan's hand, "Come on. Let's go guys."
Flashing a smile at nick she asked, "How about you? You gonna come and have some fun?"
Nick laughed, "No suit." He said starting for the door. "It's been nice Faye." He said lowly to her, so only she could hear. "Maybe next time." He gave a short little wave to Deborah. "Catch you at home, Deb."
She pouted, "Is that a no? Why don't ya pick up a suit and stop by the beach for a bit. I think a swim will do us all some good." Faye threw a sidelong glance at Deb hoping that she would help out. She was certain that the twins would be up for swimming.
She was doing her best to pull her group back together. Things needed to get back to the way they used to be. Faye knew all too well how much more comfortable solid ground is. The whole thing with Black John turned everyone's own little world upside down. Change was cool, but they all needed to be together all the same.
Faye's own pedestal had crumbled from beneath her. Things were changing about her and within her. She was like a new born trying to develope a New Faye or the old Faye. She still wasn't sure yet and she wasn't about To let The others know. She had earned their respect over the years and one Little nervous breakdown would throw it all down the drain.
One thing was for sure; her mind was still set against the care bear. She had plans for her...big plans. Just Faye and Care bear. No more power plays. Bringing her friends in it left so many rooms for error. She could not let the girl hurt anyone close to her again.
"Ok, let's go, everybody! I have suits for you and Deb if you don't have yours," she said to Susan.
~*~*~*~
Cassie got out of the car and pushed Raj gently back away from the door and closed it. Taking Adam's hand in hers they walked to into the store. She as thankful that they were open for business. Stopping in the horror section she looked up at Adam. "Does this seem real to you? I mean, are we really together picking out a movie to watch, alone." It all felt like a dream and she was afraid that any minute she would wake up back in California, alone with just her mom and her unicorns to greet her before she got up for school. Leaning over she snatched Dracula 2000 from the shelf and gave Adam and wink. "Vampire movies are so..." she let her sentence trail off with a sigh and leaned toward him. "Seductive, don't you think." She couldn't help the mischievous glint that came into her eyes. 'No one's stopping us now.' She thought happily.
Adam laughed, "I wouldn't exactly call them seductive. More like pain inflicting." He took the movie case from her and walked up to the counter. He told the clerk his video number and waited while he retrieved the movie from behind the counter.
"Where's your girlfriend?" The pimply-faced clerk asked putting a paper on the counter for her to sign. "Haven't seen you two in here for ages."
Adam blushed slightly, concentrating on signing his name. He pushed the paper back across the counter and handed the boy a five-dollar bill. "We broke up." He told him, even though it was none of his business really.
"You're kidding me!" The boy said as he rang the video up on the cash register. He shook his head in amazement as he counted out the change. "You guys have been coming in here as long as I worked here, and that's been three years now." He dropped the rest of the change into Adam's hand. "And who's this, your little sister?"
Cassie walked up to the counter and stood beside Adam and caught the end of the conversation. They were talking about him and Diana breaking up and obviously it had upset the guy at the counter. 'What was it like a soap opera for him, geez.' The color drained from her face as he asked if she was Adam's sister. She opened her mouth to make a nasty comment but stopped herself. 'That's not me. Although I'd love to tell him where he could stick his curiosity.' She thought with a smirk but quickly recovered giving him a smile. Linking her arm through Adam's she gave a soft laugh. "His sister? You must be joking." She looked up at Adam and gave him a questioning look. 'To be sure he'll set this guy straight.' She thought to herself, her face beginning to flush. She was beginning to wonder if she would have to live in Diana's shadow when it came to her relationship with Adam. Everyone in town seemed to be used to seeing him and Diana together.
Adam laughed as well. Might as well get used to the scrutiny. At least for a while. He had worried about what the coven would think, but the interrogation by outsiders, that hadn't crossed his mind. "No, this is Cassie. She moved up here earlier from California." He pocketed the change and took the movie off of the counter. Hmmm, Cassie was his girlfriend, but she was also so much more than that. How do you honestly say that someone's soul is connected to yours? 'She's my honey bunches of oats? Yes indeedy she's my sweetie? She's my cherry pie? Sweetie peetie?' "She's my girlfriend."
"Wow." The clerk said as he watched Adam and Cassie leaving. "Would have never seen that one coming."
Cassie gave the clerk a glance as they walked out of the door. 'Never seen that coming eh?' she thought with a smirk then hid it before Adam could see it as they headed outside to Adam's car. Opening the door she petted a very happy Raj before climbing in and closing the door. She wondered what was going on at Faye's party. Mostly she was wondering what Nick was doing at Faye's party. She attempted to push the thought of Nick away but for some reason she kept seeing an image of him on the beach the night her father had tried to get into her mind. He had been so concerned and a little angry with the girls for letting her walk off so far. 'Poor Nick. One of these days I'll make it up to you.' She thought silently and smiled at Adam. She had everything she wanted and yet she still felt empty.
Adam pulled his car up in front of his house, and let it idle a second before cutting it off. "You alright?" He asked, turning in his seat to look at Cassie. He hoped she wasn't thinking about Diana. Of course he still felt terrible about it, but they couldn't dwell on it forever. Especially when his grammy was out visiting her friends.