The Perfect Prank
Chapter X. An Interesting Proposal
By: Sailor Angie
AN: Thank you guys so much for your responses! I am happy to announce that Love Is Blind does have over 200 reviews. You guys rock! Now I know this chapter is shorter, it actually was originally combined with Chapter 11, but I decided that I wanted some drama, and I released it sooner than I had planned. Anywho, I would like to dedicate this chapter to MsDiva, and Stillness of Saturn for the longest reviews I've ever gotten. Yay! Shout outs are still at the end of the chapter, and I have another fun challenge for you. It's better than the last one I promise. Please read, review, and for god's sake, ENJOY!
**********
"I don't think I can do this." Darien allowed Serena to tie his bowtie.
"Don't be so mellow-dramatic, besides, you can easily avoid her if that's what you want." Serena tugged on the sides of the bow tie to even out the creases, "Perfect." She smiled.
"Thank you Serena." Darien looked into her eyes.
"A lot of guys don't know how to tie one of those, it's no big deal." She avoided his gaze.
"That's not what I meant." He tried to grab her attention, "I meant thank you for all the support you've given me," she blushed, "I appreciate it." He paused, "I appreciate you." She could feel his breath tickling her lips. She felt as though he was getting closer, and closer. Soon there would be no space separating their –
"Ready to go?" Andrew intruded.
Serena and Darien jolted apart and followed Andrew outside to the car.
The ride was extremely uncomfortable. Darien couldn't help but stare at Serena. She wore a light blue floor sweeping gown that accentuated every curve on her body.
"We're here," Mina announced as they pulled up in front of the fancy club Darien had booked.
Andrew handed his keys to the valet and escorted Mina inside. Darien followed suit by helping Serena get out of the car and following her into the building.
"Take a deep breath," Serena advised, and Darien exhaled, "You'll be just fine." Serena rubbed his back.
"Thanks." He smiled at her, "Is it okay if I leave you for a while?" Darien had many people he needed to speak with.
"Of course, mingle away." She straitened his tie, "But I want a spot on your dance card after they show the movie." Serena requested.
"You got it, I'll find you before the movie starts okay?" Darien promised.
"Sure." Serena smiled, and Darien headed over to the bar to find some friends he hadn't seen in a while.
Serena sat alone at a table contemplating her plan. She knew she needed to call it off, Darien was a lot more vulnerable than she had originally thought he was. And although she would never admit it, she was falling for him.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a tap on her shoulder. "I wouldn't have left you if I knew you were just gonna sit a table by yourself." Darien sat down next to her.
"I don't want to take you away from your friends. I just don't know anyone here." She reasoned.
"That hasn't stopped you in the past from becoming the life of the party. At least that's what Mina's been telling everyone tonight." Darien chuckled, "Do you want something to drink?"
"No, I'm alright, but thanks." Serena was trying not to let him know she really wanted to go home . . . she wasn't doing a good job of it.
"Do you want me to take you home?" Darien grabbed Serena's hand forcing her to look at him.
"No, of course not." She removed her hand from his, "I haven't seen your movie yet." She beamed, "But thank you anyway."
Andrew chimed his fork on his wine glass, "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming to see the Three Amigos production of 'Buy Me.' For those of you who aren't familiar with us, I'll give you a brief history. First off, I'm Andrew, and Chad and Greg and I have been friends for the longest time. We each have our special talents, and one day we decided to put them to use together. I've directed each of our 17 short independent films. Chad has written every original script, and been the star in most of our shows. Greg on the other hand cleans up the messes that everyone makes in post-production. In truth we should be called the Five Amigos because there are two other people who have been with us since the beginning. We all wouldn't be here tonight with out the mad organizational skills of my best friend Darien Shields. And lest we forget Chad's girlfriend Raye. She not only edits Chad's scripts, being that she's an English major, but she's got the female lead in 'Buy Me.' So let's give them all a round of applause. We would be nowhere without you." Everyone in the club clapped for Darien and the others. "And with no further ado," Andrew continued, "I would like to present to you all: 'Buy Me.'" Andrew sat down.
Darien couldn't watch the movie, not after Andrew had introduced Raye as Chad's girlfriend. That was something he was not ready for at all.
"Are you okay?" Serena whispered in Darien's ear, "You look like you're gonna be sick."
"That sounds right." Darien swallowed.
The movie credits soon began rolling, and the audience clapped again. Darien looked up as the applause began to fade.
Chad had gotten up on the stage and was trying to figure out how to turn on the microphone. "This thing work?" Chad's voice reverberated throughout the club. "I'm not quite sure how to do this, cuz I've never done this before, but I'm gonna give it my best shot." There were some hoots and hollers from the slightly inebriated crowd, "Thanks." Chad laughed, "Raye, I love you with everything I have . . ."
Darien didn't need to hear another word. He quietly got up and bolted for the door. Serena watched him leave and wondered what she should do.
As Chad proposed to Raye, Serena slowly got out of her seat and followed Darien outside. She saw him getting into a taxi and managed to slip in on the opposite side.
"Go back inside Serena." Darien was flustered.
"Not unless you come with me. I'm not leaving you like this. I thought you said you were over her." The cab began to move.
"I dunno, I guess I'm not." Darien folded his arms and stared vacantly out the window of the moving car.
"There has to be more to it than that." Serena placed her hand on his shoulder. They rode in silence for a while.
"You wouldn't understand." He finally mumbled as the cab driver pulled into the driveway of an apartment complex. "Take this young woman to the Regent University dorms on campus." Darien handed the driver folded bills as he opened his door.
"Darien!" She protested.
"Go home Serena, this time you can't help." Darien shut the door and watched Serena place her palm flat on the window as the taxi rolled away.
**********
AN: So did you ever think in a million years that I'd throw you such a curve ball. Obviously Chad doesn't know how to be a good friend that he'd propose so soon, but whatev. Okay, so onto the challenge.
Angie's Challenge Part Duex: As some of you may have noticed, I've been having some difficulty coming up with synonyms for the word: 'SMILE.' It's super annoying that I'm saying it like every two seconds! And I'm sure it's just as annoying for you as a reader. So my challenge, besides the basic synonyms: grin, beam, smirk, [insert other common synonym], can you guys give me really creative ways to say smile? I know you can do it!
Anyways, onto the shout outs!
ThatsMsDiva2U, I have never gotten such a long review, thank you so much. And as for reviewing, if you click the 'Author Alert' button, every time I put out a new chapter it ff.net will e-mail you and let you know. As far as Serena and the prank goes, the way I see it, is that she's using it as an excuse to get close to him. Don't get me wrong, we can all clearly see that she has feelings for him, but she refuses to admit it, and so the prank becomes her device to ignore said feelings. I went to high school with mikahoshi11, and as I've said to her, Mina and Andy are based on a couple I know in real life that is super annoying with their PDA's (public displays of affection). Really gross. I totally agree with you on what Raye should have done, but unfortunately, she wasn't thinking strait, and Darien's feelings weren't her first priority. As far as 'Night w/ a Prince' goes, I wouldn't have even considered it if I didn't feel like it worked. And I hope people won't be turned off by the fact that I'll be using some of it. Thanks again for your review. And I will have Chapter 11 out promptly.
Serenity's Angel In Heaven, I'm not mad, I guess I didn't mean for it to be a filler chapter (one that you have to put in, but isn't the most exciting), but Darien and Serena did sleep in the same bed together. Glad you liked Love Is Blind. I really love the title, I truly believe it. And as far as my delay on last chapter, I dunno, I guess I didn't have time to type it. I have up to Chapter 16 written right now, and it's not done. I'll probably go to 20, but I try to wait for reviews so I can respond, and sometimes I get busy. I love writing fan fics for you all, but unfortunately, my academics come first. College is a lot harder than it looks.
The Final Stillness of Saturn, yes, yes, yes, PDA's SUCK!!!!!!!!!!! The computer solitaire hit close to home for me too, I was kinda addicted last summer, so I thought it'd be funny to add in. I'm not sure I quite understand the whole librarian/copying thing. Perhaps you could explain further. And for the DVE error, I know you guys are just keeping me on my toes. And it annoys me as much as you when I proofread things, and I still find errors later. But anyway, still glad you're liking the story, and I know you're gonna be a huge help for my challenge. You've got a writer's brain.
Mikahoshi11, I wish Raye would have tripped on the red carpet, that would have been too funny for words. But I don't think there was a red carpet. Oh well, still glad to have you back, thanks for a laugh. Ke Ke Ke Ke
Chibi J, my multiple personalities are none of your business/don't listen to her, she's so rude/has anyone seen my Lucky Charms? Thanks for the definition, and I wouldn't have made it so similar that those who have read the original story would want to skip the chapter. Plus it's super funny. It puts the comedy in romantic-comedy.
Ellen, lol, you're so funny. I like to put the previews at the end of the chapter #1 so people realize I have it written, and #2, I want you guys thinking about what will happen. Again, it just comes from me watching way too many soap operas.
Samsonite, Marie J.W., I would love to answer your question, but that would give away too much. I will say you'll find out sooner rather than later okay!
Lara1786, 'steaming hot bowl of toe-curling romance and delicious naughtiness?' Where do you come up with this, lmao! Next chapter has some, but you do realize that this story isn't a hentai or lemon right? I would love to be able to write something like that, but I physically can't. I get too embarrassed, isn't that so silly.
Ximena, kirei*snow*tenshi, serena79, SailorKittyMoon, Leira 1, Silverian Rose, thank you all so much for your support. It just tickles me when I see your reviews on my other fics, and for this one. And to Leira 1, congrats on being #200!
*********
Preview --- Chapter XI. Consenting Adults --- Serena and Darien have both gone home for the night. But is the night over?
Chapter X. An Interesting Proposal
By: Sailor Angie
AN: Thank you guys so much for your responses! I am happy to announce that Love Is Blind does have over 200 reviews. You guys rock! Now I know this chapter is shorter, it actually was originally combined with Chapter 11, but I decided that I wanted some drama, and I released it sooner than I had planned. Anywho, I would like to dedicate this chapter to MsDiva, and Stillness of Saturn for the longest reviews I've ever gotten. Yay! Shout outs are still at the end of the chapter, and I have another fun challenge for you. It's better than the last one I promise. Please read, review, and for god's sake, ENJOY!
**********
"I don't think I can do this." Darien allowed Serena to tie his bowtie.
"Don't be so mellow-dramatic, besides, you can easily avoid her if that's what you want." Serena tugged on the sides of the bow tie to even out the creases, "Perfect." She smiled.
"Thank you Serena." Darien looked into her eyes.
"A lot of guys don't know how to tie one of those, it's no big deal." She avoided his gaze.
"That's not what I meant." He tried to grab her attention, "I meant thank you for all the support you've given me," she blushed, "I appreciate it." He paused, "I appreciate you." She could feel his breath tickling her lips. She felt as though he was getting closer, and closer. Soon there would be no space separating their –
"Ready to go?" Andrew intruded.
Serena and Darien jolted apart and followed Andrew outside to the car.
The ride was extremely uncomfortable. Darien couldn't help but stare at Serena. She wore a light blue floor sweeping gown that accentuated every curve on her body.
"We're here," Mina announced as they pulled up in front of the fancy club Darien had booked.
Andrew handed his keys to the valet and escorted Mina inside. Darien followed suit by helping Serena get out of the car and following her into the building.
"Take a deep breath," Serena advised, and Darien exhaled, "You'll be just fine." Serena rubbed his back.
"Thanks." He smiled at her, "Is it okay if I leave you for a while?" Darien had many people he needed to speak with.
"Of course, mingle away." She straitened his tie, "But I want a spot on your dance card after they show the movie." Serena requested.
"You got it, I'll find you before the movie starts okay?" Darien promised.
"Sure." Serena smiled, and Darien headed over to the bar to find some friends he hadn't seen in a while.
Serena sat alone at a table contemplating her plan. She knew she needed to call it off, Darien was a lot more vulnerable than she had originally thought he was. And although she would never admit it, she was falling for him.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a tap on her shoulder. "I wouldn't have left you if I knew you were just gonna sit a table by yourself." Darien sat down next to her.
"I don't want to take you away from your friends. I just don't know anyone here." She reasoned.
"That hasn't stopped you in the past from becoming the life of the party. At least that's what Mina's been telling everyone tonight." Darien chuckled, "Do you want something to drink?"
"No, I'm alright, but thanks." Serena was trying not to let him know she really wanted to go home . . . she wasn't doing a good job of it.
"Do you want me to take you home?" Darien grabbed Serena's hand forcing her to look at him.
"No, of course not." She removed her hand from his, "I haven't seen your movie yet." She beamed, "But thank you anyway."
Andrew chimed his fork on his wine glass, "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming to see the Three Amigos production of 'Buy Me.' For those of you who aren't familiar with us, I'll give you a brief history. First off, I'm Andrew, and Chad and Greg and I have been friends for the longest time. We each have our special talents, and one day we decided to put them to use together. I've directed each of our 17 short independent films. Chad has written every original script, and been the star in most of our shows. Greg on the other hand cleans up the messes that everyone makes in post-production. In truth we should be called the Five Amigos because there are two other people who have been with us since the beginning. We all wouldn't be here tonight with out the mad organizational skills of my best friend Darien Shields. And lest we forget Chad's girlfriend Raye. She not only edits Chad's scripts, being that she's an English major, but she's got the female lead in 'Buy Me.' So let's give them all a round of applause. We would be nowhere without you." Everyone in the club clapped for Darien and the others. "And with no further ado," Andrew continued, "I would like to present to you all: 'Buy Me.'" Andrew sat down.
Darien couldn't watch the movie, not after Andrew had introduced Raye as Chad's girlfriend. That was something he was not ready for at all.
"Are you okay?" Serena whispered in Darien's ear, "You look like you're gonna be sick."
"That sounds right." Darien swallowed.
The movie credits soon began rolling, and the audience clapped again. Darien looked up as the applause began to fade.
Chad had gotten up on the stage and was trying to figure out how to turn on the microphone. "This thing work?" Chad's voice reverberated throughout the club. "I'm not quite sure how to do this, cuz I've never done this before, but I'm gonna give it my best shot." There were some hoots and hollers from the slightly inebriated crowd, "Thanks." Chad laughed, "Raye, I love you with everything I have . . ."
Darien didn't need to hear another word. He quietly got up and bolted for the door. Serena watched him leave and wondered what she should do.
As Chad proposed to Raye, Serena slowly got out of her seat and followed Darien outside. She saw him getting into a taxi and managed to slip in on the opposite side.
"Go back inside Serena." Darien was flustered.
"Not unless you come with me. I'm not leaving you like this. I thought you said you were over her." The cab began to move.
"I dunno, I guess I'm not." Darien folded his arms and stared vacantly out the window of the moving car.
"There has to be more to it than that." Serena placed her hand on his shoulder. They rode in silence for a while.
"You wouldn't understand." He finally mumbled as the cab driver pulled into the driveway of an apartment complex. "Take this young woman to the Regent University dorms on campus." Darien handed the driver folded bills as he opened his door.
"Darien!" She protested.
"Go home Serena, this time you can't help." Darien shut the door and watched Serena place her palm flat on the window as the taxi rolled away.
**********
AN: So did you ever think in a million years that I'd throw you such a curve ball. Obviously Chad doesn't know how to be a good friend that he'd propose so soon, but whatev. Okay, so onto the challenge.
Angie's Challenge Part Duex: As some of you may have noticed, I've been having some difficulty coming up with synonyms for the word: 'SMILE.' It's super annoying that I'm saying it like every two seconds! And I'm sure it's just as annoying for you as a reader. So my challenge, besides the basic synonyms: grin, beam, smirk, [insert other common synonym], can you guys give me really creative ways to say smile? I know you can do it!
Anyways, onto the shout outs!
ThatsMsDiva2U, I have never gotten such a long review, thank you so much. And as for reviewing, if you click the 'Author Alert' button, every time I put out a new chapter it ff.net will e-mail you and let you know. As far as Serena and the prank goes, the way I see it, is that she's using it as an excuse to get close to him. Don't get me wrong, we can all clearly see that she has feelings for him, but she refuses to admit it, and so the prank becomes her device to ignore said feelings. I went to high school with mikahoshi11, and as I've said to her, Mina and Andy are based on a couple I know in real life that is super annoying with their PDA's (public displays of affection). Really gross. I totally agree with you on what Raye should have done, but unfortunately, she wasn't thinking strait, and Darien's feelings weren't her first priority. As far as 'Night w/ a Prince' goes, I wouldn't have even considered it if I didn't feel like it worked. And I hope people won't be turned off by the fact that I'll be using some of it. Thanks again for your review. And I will have Chapter 11 out promptly.
Serenity's Angel In Heaven, I'm not mad, I guess I didn't mean for it to be a filler chapter (one that you have to put in, but isn't the most exciting), but Darien and Serena did sleep in the same bed together. Glad you liked Love Is Blind. I really love the title, I truly believe it. And as far as my delay on last chapter, I dunno, I guess I didn't have time to type it. I have up to Chapter 16 written right now, and it's not done. I'll probably go to 20, but I try to wait for reviews so I can respond, and sometimes I get busy. I love writing fan fics for you all, but unfortunately, my academics come first. College is a lot harder than it looks.
The Final Stillness of Saturn, yes, yes, yes, PDA's SUCK!!!!!!!!!!! The computer solitaire hit close to home for me too, I was kinda addicted last summer, so I thought it'd be funny to add in. I'm not sure I quite understand the whole librarian/copying thing. Perhaps you could explain further. And for the DVE error, I know you guys are just keeping me on my toes. And it annoys me as much as you when I proofread things, and I still find errors later. But anyway, still glad you're liking the story, and I know you're gonna be a huge help for my challenge. You've got a writer's brain.
Mikahoshi11, I wish Raye would have tripped on the red carpet, that would have been too funny for words. But I don't think there was a red carpet. Oh well, still glad to have you back, thanks for a laugh. Ke Ke Ke Ke
Chibi J, my multiple personalities are none of your business/don't listen to her, she's so rude/has anyone seen my Lucky Charms? Thanks for the definition, and I wouldn't have made it so similar that those who have read the original story would want to skip the chapter. Plus it's super funny. It puts the comedy in romantic-comedy.
Ellen, lol, you're so funny. I like to put the previews at the end of the chapter #1 so people realize I have it written, and #2, I want you guys thinking about what will happen. Again, it just comes from me watching way too many soap operas.
Samsonite, Marie J.W., I would love to answer your question, but that would give away too much. I will say you'll find out sooner rather than later okay!
Lara1786, 'steaming hot bowl of toe-curling romance and delicious naughtiness?' Where do you come up with this, lmao! Next chapter has some, but you do realize that this story isn't a hentai or lemon right? I would love to be able to write something like that, but I physically can't. I get too embarrassed, isn't that so silly.
Ximena, kirei*snow*tenshi, serena79, SailorKittyMoon, Leira 1, Silverian Rose, thank you all so much for your support. It just tickles me when I see your reviews on my other fics, and for this one. And to Leira 1, congrats on being #200!
*********
Preview --- Chapter XI. Consenting Adults --- Serena and Darien have both gone home for the night. But is the night over?