AN: The finale! Thank you so much for sticking around! I hope you enjoy it, and like always, I apologize for any and all mistakes. We get lots of good things for our peeps in this one. Happy times for all!
"The opening went better than well. Lots of my friends and acquaintances from the business. A few big names I had never imagined would be there. Word of mouth is your best advertising, by the way."
Clarke smiled widely before releasing a soft exhale. "I wish you could have been there. All of you." Her eyes traced each name carved expertly on the stone. "I miss you guys, but I need you to know that I'm doing well. Life is good. It's hard, but it's great."
She nodded to herself before looking down at her feet for a second of silence. "Anyway, I'll stop by any time I'm in the area. Keep each other company until then." Clarke took a second to place a flower over each gravestone before smiling down, her heart light and no longer constricted with the pain of feeling lost and alone without them. It had taken her a long time to get to that point, but she was grateful to have finally arrived to it. She would never stop missing her family but talking about them or to them no longer felt like her world was crumbling and taking her with it. "I love you guys." She finally whispered before carefully making her way over to the waiting car.
Lexa looked up when she heard the soft crunching of grass.
With a small smile she got out of the car and quickly offered her open arms to the girl.
Clarke stepped into the embrace and squeezed, allowing her eyes to shut tightly and her lungs to inhale deeply. Peace. That's what she felt surrounded by Lexa. Her warmth, the thumping of her heart next to her ear, and that smell that was all uniquely Lexa. Nobody else. It was all extremely therapeutic.
"Thank you for coming with me." She whispered while she locked her arms more securely at the girl's back.
"Of course. Anytime." Lexa mouthed into her hair, her own eyes closing to revel in the comfort she felt every time the blonde was near her.
They remained as they were, with only the sound of birds and the light breeze as their soundtrack, unmoving and unbothered by the rest of the world for a bit longer.
It was Clarke who pulled away first, albeit reluctantly. She missed Lexa's heat immediately and pacified herself by using her hands to bring down the brunette's face closer. "Have I told you I loved you today?" She didn't wait for a response before moving in to kiss her softly. A small smile took residence on her favorite lips then.
"It never hurts to hear it one more time." Lexa cooed before claiming one more kiss from her girlfriend.
It had been a remarkable coincidence that each of their jobs sent them off to Virginia together, but neither one questioned it, instead making plans for when they got there.
Their stop at the cemetery would be the first thing on their list before their schedules could get busy with the demands of their careers.
Clarke penciled in a few places and things she wanted to show Lexa but understood that perhaps only one or two could really be ticked off as the brunette resumed her long work hours on set with her team.
A few days into their trip, Clarke had to tend to the reason for her visit. She had spent quite a while with Virginia's power art couple as they caught up over tea. They asked many questions, and she recounted happenings from after the time she delivered her work to them in person. It was a nice visit, and she was happy to get another tour of their home as they talked through the newest additions that adorned their walls.
What a difference time makes- it really did help heal. Clarke no longer feared coming back to the place she once left, and she was grateful to be able to walk around familiar stomping grounds with unburdened shoulders and swift steps. It was why she had been so excited about a combined trip to Virginia. She wanted to show Lexa where she grew up, where she played, her favorite coffee shop, she wanted to do it all.
In the end, Lexa's schedule only allowed for an impromptu trip to Clarke's favorite restaurant where they met up Wells for a nice dinner, and a coffee date at her favorite shop, but both girls were over the moon at having done some of it on their work trip.
A Couple of Months Later
Lexa ventured a look at Clarke, who was also being subjected to the same intrusive treatment. Hands were everywhere at once, in locks of hair, on fingernails and toenails, swiping against cheekbones and lips. It was a lot, at least it was for Lexa, but when she noticed Clarke was very much basking in the attention, she smiled.
"Now you have lipstick on your teeth, lady." The crew's makeup artist retorted playfully before asking the brunette to blot and rid her teeth of the stains. "All done." She smiled triumphantly at her masterpiece that was Lexa in mostly neutral colors, but glowing skin. "Beautiful."
"Thank you." Lexa did her best to hide a sheepish smile. "Sorry I'll be messing it up soon." She teased as she realized she would be sweating bullets in an hour or so.
"Clarke, can you please keep your girl from ruining my work?" The woman pleaded with a serious glare at the brunette.
Clarke managed a soft chuckle as she tried to keep still for her own dabbing of lipstick. When she blotted the excess and disposed of the tissue in the trash bin, she nodded. "You got it."
It was hard not to smile at the exchange. Lexa took comfort in the open banter she shared with some of the crew now. In the past months, she had grown close to a handful of them, and they in turn had become closely acquainted with Clarke. They all got along so well, and it was nice to see that they could potentially be building a second family with them.
Their Tassels family all sat in the stands while they watched the pair make their way down the red-carpet hand in hand. Lexa and Clarke waved up at them when they spotted Raven and Octavia jumping and cheering loudly from their bench.
They awed photographers, how could they not. A brunette with long legs made even longer by blue satin pumps commanded attention. Especially if she wore a fitted suit dress that yelled boss lady. She looked stunning. It didn't hurt that she had a beautiful blonde by her side, equally dressed to the nines in an appealing cream dress that was tight around her waist but flared at the shoulders and legs. Her gold strappy heels glistened with the flashing bulbs that went off in cadence. They looked like they belonged.
'A gorgeous couple, and soon to be powerhouse.' That's what one of the entertainment reporters had mouthed into her microphone when she saw them make their way by her after posing for another round of photos. "She's a talented writer and co-creator of this film, and she's Virginia's own up and coming art gallery owner and skilled artist, but we're claiming her. Sorry, Virginia." The reporter grinned with a wink at her camera.
The after-party was where everyone got to really celebrate Lexa. People she knew, and some she didn't, made their way to her to congratulate her on a job well done with the script. Some even offered short side hugs, because professionalism and sexual harassment, but the feeling was conveyed. They were thoroughly pleased and happy for her accomplishment.
"I just saw Emily Blunt!" Raven rushed to Lexa and Clarke gushing about her very real but brief encounter with the actress. "I love her." She whispered before crushing Lexa in a hug, mindful of both their drinks.
"Should I be worried?" Anya rolled her eyes behind them at hearing Raven's star-struck tone.
It was quick, but Raven rolled her eyes in return before waving her hand at her dismissively. "Please. She's gorgeous, but she's no Anya Silva." She winked.
"The Silva's have dashing good looks." Lexa added while flashing a cocky grin, receiving a kiss to the cheek from the blonde next to her.
They took part in a bout of laughter before more of their family made their way to them with proud smiles in place.
Indra walked straight to Lexa and took her in the warmest motherly hug. She smiled widely and kissed her cheek. "I am so proud of you, honey". She pulled back and smiled at Clarke who had a matching smile in place. Almost reflexively she cupped the blonde's chin in sweet gesture.
"So, are we getting drunk on someone else's alcohol tonight or not?" Octavia challenged as she swiped a few flutes of champagne off a waiter's tray.
"Hell yeah." Bellamy responded before lifting his tumbler in celebration. "To Lexa."
"To Indra." Clarke added with her own raised glass.
"To Tassels." Indra smiled at Lincoln as he stated with finality.
While everyone could have foreseen the level of attention the movie would garner Indra's establishment, no one could fathom to what degree.
As the film released, word got around that the story had been inspired by real-life events that revolved around the little establishment in Los Angeles. Fans of the movie as well as critics made their way over to be a part of the hype.
Where Lexa's play had brought in customers during a very trying period, the film packed the sidewalk with throngs of many patrons looking for simple bragging rights and some who sought to run into the inspirations for the characters themselves.
Friends could post a photo or a short clip on their social media accounts just to say they visited the burlesque show slash bar that had been the main setting stage for the highly acclaimed film.
Others waited in anticipation, hoping and excited at the possibility that they might get a photo or a hug from Lexa, or Clarke, even Bellamy. Some even cried when Raven approached them and took them in crushing hugs, loving the attention, and genuinely happy she had fans.
It was an exciting and busy time for all.
So much so, that it wasn't uncommon for many to stand in line without ever getting the chance to step inside by the time the night ended. Many returned the next day determined to arrive earlier so they could be one of the chosen ones.
Titus moved around backstage as he deposited freshly dry-cleaned outfits on racks when he heard Indra sigh out loud behind the bar counter.
"What is it?" He moved center stage to look at her with concern.
The woman shook her head. "I'm still having a hard time wrapping my mind around all of this. Can you believe it, dear, this little place is the hottest spot in Los Angeles?" She shook her head again as she ripped open another envelope.
"That's not hard to believe." He deadpanned. "Your place was always someplace for the masses to come and feel flirty, have a good time. Now, it's only busier." He shrugged.
She looked up at him with a grateful smile. "Still, I'm having a hard time balancing the operations, the money, the constant phone calls for interviews, and the new social media accounts that Lexa suggested we become more involved with."
"A good problem to have." Titus replied as he made his way down to her.
"A problem nonetheless." Indra whispered under her breath.
The stool squeaked as he sat in front of her and reached for her hands. "What can I do to help?"
Indra scoffed. "You do enough around here, darling."
"What can the team do?" He suggested, and Indra raised her head in thought.
"You're a genius." She reached across to pull his cheek to her lips. "That's why I keep you around." She walked around the bar to head upstairs.
Titus frowned in jest and pouted as he swiveled around. "You mean it's not because of my good looks?" He yelled at her, but she had long since disappeared to gather her thoughts and plans behind the comfort of her own desk.
It had become customary for the group to enter through the alley door since fans usually flooded the sidewalk entrance long before opening. Octavia and Lincoln used their key to enter and headed straight for the stairs as Indra had asked.
She and Titus were sat at her desk with glasses of whiskey nearby. Their eyes immediately caught onto the pair as they walked in.
"Drinking already?" Octavia teased, and then wrinkled her brows when she spotted two more tumblers with amber liquid on the desk. She looked sideways at Lincoln who also looked curiously at the woman and man still sitting.
Indra smiled widely. "Celebrating. I hope." She cleared her throat before she began. "I had a riveting conversation with my daughter earlier today. Turns out the military is giving her a nice promotion and moving her to London."
"That's great news." Octavia nodded and moved to retrieve the tumblers she assumed were for her and Lincoln. It didn't register that perhaps toasting to Indra's only daughter would require the entire group to be present. Not just them two.
Indra halted any further movements from the girl by putting her hand up. "Thank you, dear. But that's not why we're celebrating."
"Oh?" Lincoln accepted the glass from the brunette and waited anxiously for more details.
The older woman looked at Titus and proceeded when he nodded encouragingly at her. "She broke the news to me because I called to offer her a position here at Tassels." Octavia knitted her brows and asked silently for clarification. "I have to admit I was relieved she turned me down because I already had someone else in mind." She smiled and pointed at the two of them. "I want you two to become part owners and managers of this place with me."
Floored. The pair was caught off guard and their faces expressed the shock. "You want us? Why us?" Octavia stammered.
"Why not you?" Indra shrugged. You have been with me the longest, and you are my two beautiful loyal children. I want to reward that and give you a chance to build a future here that entails more than just dancing and playing for the band."
"Wow." Lincoln rubbed his head in thought. "That means a lot, Indra."
"But?" Titus asked immediately.
"No but." Octavia shook her head adamantly. "I mean, no but from me." She cautioned a look up at her boyfriend. "Linc?"
His eyes searched hers, and any thought of turning down Indra's offer dissipated when he saw how happy Octavia looked. "No but. Except..."
"That's a 'but'." Indra commented dryly yet playfully.
"No." He shook his head. "I just, I like playing in the band. I don't want to step away from that."
"You don't have to." Indra supplied. "In fact, I would beg that you don't. I would have to hire someone to replace you, I hate doing that." She smiled. "My only ask is that you guys take part in making some big decisions with and for me if you choose to accept. I need help. We need help. There are tasks that need undivided attention, or at least enough knowledge to be able to delegate appropriately, and I just can't do it. I have no time, not to mention zero interest in whatever app you kids use nowadays to communicate to the world. You two can take the tasks you want, and delegate the rest."
The pair looked quietly at each other for a few quiet moments. "Yes." Octavia finally accepted when Lincoln smiled at her his answer. "We accept."
"Great!" Indra clapped her hands and stood; Titus followed suit. "Congratulations my loves, you are now part owners of Tassels. I couldn't have chosen more wisely; I am fully confident you two will keep this place intact long after I am gone."
Octavia's eyes watered at the comment. She had always seen Indra as a mother, in truth, they all did. But hearing Indra indirectly voice the feeling that both were very much like her own flesh and blood made her stomach flip affectionately. And though neither carried her name, they would make sure to treat this place as if they were Indra's own family, hopefully eventually passing it down to their own children. But that was a conversation for a much later time.
"Thank you, Indra." Lincoln voiced as he raised his tumbler.
"I love you two. Make me proud." They all toasted to the development before Octavia placed her empty glass on the table and launched herself into Indra's arms.
When things calmed down for Lexa after the release, she insisted they get away on their first official vacation.
Since Clarke was not one to argue a getaway with her girlfriend, she quickly planned reinforcements with Frankie and the instructor at CURE to ensure all was taken care of for the next two weeks.
Lexa initially felt guilty leaving the Tassels crew behind while they navigated through the aftermath of the film's release. Still, she didn't feel compelled enough to stay put when she had the freedom to enjoy some rest with Clarke.
So, the couple found themselves in Collioure, France, sitting by the water in yellow patio chairs and eating delectable French food.
"Did you know they called this the 'City of Painters'?" Lexa questioned with a proud glint in her eye.
The girl sitting across from her smiled as she took another delicious bite from her plate. "I did." She nodded, not missing the way Lexa's grin fell at having failed to one-up her. "I'm impressed you did."
The smile was back. "I know some things."
"You know a lot of things." Clarke added.
"That is true." Lexa agreed. "I know your ticklish spot. I know you like it when I do that thing with my tongue. I know-"
"Lexa!" The blonde's face reddened with a sudden flood of need. "Wow." She coughed as she attempted to swallow her food.
"Sorry." She flashed her a sly grin that hardly looked apologetic and entirely lascivious. "It must be the setting."
Clarke shook her head and shot her a playful glare over her food. "Must be."
"Maybe we can explore that some more after your session later." Lexa suggested while the blonde chuckled softly and shook off the lewd thoughts the lust-filled gleam in her girlfriend's eyes evoked.
Clarke spent the better part of the day painting for leisure.
Her paint brush made guidelines on the canvas as she got to work. She purposely chose a spot that was nestled in an alley with buildings that reached up to three stories on either side. She smiled as she realized the colors were going to look amazing on her canvas. Each building was a different color, orange, lavender, yellow, and others tones of each. The flowers and plants that hung neatly from some windowsills would only add to the overall tone she would try to capture in her work. It all reminded her of other paintings she had seen of Italy and Spain. She only hoped she could do it justice.
When she was done, Lexa made her way to her to assist her with her tools. On their way back to their hotel, they happened to spot a cozy café where they drank too much coffee and ate too many sweet pastries.
The next day, Lexa surprised the blonde with a reservation for an audio-guided tour at the Museum of Modern Art. She smiled wide when she saw the sparkle in Clarke's eyes as they made their way around the place.
"I told you some day we would travel together." Lexa whispered in the girl's ear when they stopped at a particular sculpture.
A thrilling chill made its way down her arms and legs, and she smiled in response. "Yes, you did." Her smile widened when she finished lacing her fingers with the brunette's. There was a pep to their step as they made their way to the next art piece.
Not too long after, a particular painting caught their attention.
"Wow." Clarke gasped and brought a hand to her mouth. She was flabbergasted by the feelings that rushed through her. "I never thought I would be standing here looking up at Gustave Courbet's Le Sommeil." She shook her head in awe.
"It's beautiful." Lexa nodded, understanding the enormity of the moment for Clarke. "Sensual, but not vulgar."
"Exactly. I think that's why many critics believe the painting to portray two friends who happen to be embracing rather than two women basking in the afterglow of their love-making." She pointed to certain spots on the piece. "But these seem to further infer that passion and lust led them to the bed." Lexa could barely make out a discarded necklace by the brunette's leg. "And the way the blonde is holding onto the other woman, there's love in that touch on her leg, and her lips by her breast."
Lexa nodded again. "And the look of utter trust and peace on the brunette's face, I am intimately familiar with both of those." She hadn't meant it entirely as a joke, but Clarke smiled, nonetheless.
After a few more minutes of drinking in the detail of that piece, the couple moved through other nude paintings.
This time when Lexa spoke, she meant it exactly as light-hearted as it came out. "So, any chance you feel inspired enough to paint me like one of these French girls?"
Clarke laughed and rolled her eyes playfully. "That joke is outdated and overrated. It has to die here and now." She smiled. "But I could never say no naked art with you." She laughed as she walked them around the rest of the tour, while her mind swam with images of her favorite naked body. Stolen kisses kept them sane for another hour or so.
They lay in bed satiated and glowing, and Clarke could think of nothing else except how truly content she was. Not all of it was because of the mind-blowing sex they had, either.
A short post-coital introspection had the blonde thinking back through her life since she left Arkadia, Virginia.
It had taken her quite some time to overcome the many emotional and metaphoric obstacles she faced, but she had done so successfully. Not alone either, because every time she thought about a particular bump in the road, she saw Lexa there helping her over it.
And she had helped Lexa with her own troubles in turn.
They were good together. Better than good.
Clarke had no idea what was next on the horizon, surely more films for Lexa, and more networking with more renown galleries for her, but she was sure there would be more trying times ahead. After all, was that not life itself?
But she knew one thing was certain, Lexa would be there for her, and she would be there for Lexa. No matter what.
Immediately, her arms tightened around the brunette's naked form. Her heart growing at hearing the easy sigh that escaped Lexa's parted lips.
"I love you, D.C." She whispered sleepily.
She couldn't help but look forward to everything they had yet to accomplish together and on their own as sleep began to take her under.
"I love you, too, Virginia." Lexa nestled closer to Clarke's warm body.
Because what they had done so far, was only a glimpse into what they were bound to do.
The End.
My dearest friends, we have arrived at the end of this journey! I am sincerely grateful to each and every last one of you. Your kind words of encouragement kept me going through the roughest of times. A lot has transpired in all our lives, including mine, since I began this story. Some bad, some good, all lessons to learn from. I hope and wish for the best to each of you. Remember you are worth all the good things that come to you. Grab them all and take them with you. I hope to see you around soon! Keep an eye out for future Clexa works. Peace out!
