Chapter 27
Walking through the entrance of the Fair, Steph started bouncing around and pointing to the various stalls, rides and amusements set up.
She'd been talking non-stop since they set off about all the things she'd hope to see and do and kept reminding everyone about the fact she really wanted a sparkly cowgirl hat.
Simon had taken the liberty to hire out a private function room for that night; they figured if they cut the day at the Fair a few hours shorter, they could get to the club that night, and would surprise Steph later in the day.
Alvin meanwhile had found himself slipping into a foul mood after contemplating further on the lack of forward movement between he and Brittany.
Steph stood gobsmacked at the showground "I wanna go on that! And eat that! And I wanna get one of those, and, and I want a sparkly cowgirl hat!"
Alvin rolled his eyes and groaned dramatically, slumping his body, "Oh will someone get her the %$# ing hat?"
Simon pointed over to a stall, "I see some" he turned to Steph, smiling, "Ok, what colour does the birthday girl want?"
Steph thought for a second, "Silver...no, no gold...no, yellow...wait is that just a tacky shade of gold? Does gold have shades? No wait, gold makes me look cheap, get silver"
Simon laughed, "You sure about that now? Silver?"
Steph nodded, "Yep, oh I am SO excited. Best Freakin' Day Ever is happening RIGHT NOW! WHOOOOO!"
Brittany took a step away, "OK, well, do you think you could save your energy and pump it out in small doses over the day? Or should we expect this level of excitement from you all day?" she stood with hands on hips.
Steph wrapped her arm round her and strolled along laughing, "I'm sorry, I'll calm down...I think I had too much coffee" she laughed again, making Brittany a little uneasy, "Ooo-kay...you're not getting sugar til after lunch"
Steph frowned at her, "%$# that! I want cotton candy!" she smiled and bolted towards the nearest stall.
Jeanette smiled, shaking her head and leaning over to Eleanor and Bruno, who were walking beside her, "It's gonna be a long day"
Alvin stopped the group, "OK who wants the first shift of babysitting Miss 18?"
Theodore, distracted by a sign tugged on Eleanor's hand, "Hey Ellie, look, they got a 'Foods of the World' event"
Eleanor smiled and excused them from the group "Ok, uh, we'll meet up with you guys a bit later, this is too good to pass up" and they ran off in that direction.
Simon walked back to the group carrying a sparkly silver cowgirl hat, trimmed with a fluffy boa.
He stepped out of the way as Theodore and Eleanor ran past him, and stood with the rest of the group, "Where they headed to?"
Alvin rolled his eyes, "Theo found food"
Steph came back holding a large cotton candy stick and preceded to pull off little pink clumps and stuff them in her mouth, she looked about, "Where's Theo and Ellie?" then she was distracted by sequins, "Oh is that my hat?" she asked excitedly, eyeing the sparkly gift.
Simon smiled and held it up, "Actually, I though Alvin might like this one"
Alvin jabbed him in the ribs, which hurt Simon, but also made him laugh, "Kidding, yes it's for you, happy birthday"
She proudly put it on and scouted around the Fair, "So where to first?"
Brittany looked at Alvin, and smiled sweetly, "I wanna go on the Tunnel of Love"
Jeanette beamed, "Oh me too, that sounds so romantic" she linked into Simon's arm, "Let's do that"
Simon groaned a little, and faked a smile "Oh yippee" he said sarcastically.
Jeanette looked a little downcast.
Simon rolled his eyes and sighed, attempting a smile, "If that's what you want, let's go" the laced their fingers together and headed in the direction of where the amusement rides were.
Turning back Simon called out, "You guys coming too?"
Brittany nodded and grabbed Alvin's hand pulling him towards Simon and Jeanette.
Alex leant into Steph, "So, you up for the Tunnel of Love too?"
Steph smiled at him and looked over at Bruno, "That may be a little awkward; what's Bruno gonna do?"
"He's a big boy, I'm sure he can find something to amuse himself with for a couple of minutes" he glared a little at Bruno, who just rolled his eyes, and wrapped his arm round Steph's waist.
Steph looked over at Bruno and again at Alex, leaning in close she whispered sternly, "Be nice, for me?"
He rolled his eyes and nodded in agreement as Steph looked at them both, "How about the Mechanical Bull instead?" she smiled sweetly, and tipped her hat, "Let's ride 'em!"
She leant in and kissed Alex before turning and skipping off in the direction of the Mechanical Bull.
Alex exchanged glances with Bruno before heading off after Steph.
Bruno closed his eyes and took a deep breath in, "Keep calm...just keep calm, as much as you wanna knock this guy out...don't...not today anyway..." he smiled to himself and opened his eyes and followed in tow.
Over at the food stalls, Eleanor and Theodore were admiring the sights, smells and flavours of the wares on display.
They were over sampling some Lebanese cuisine when they were tapped on the shoulder.
They turned to be met by a group of well dressed people, all carrying clipboards and wearing 'Judge' sashes; so they were important type people.
Apart from the fact they each had a goofy looking smile on their faces; the kind you give to a celebrity when you aim to look cool, but come off looking completely stupid.
One woman stepped forward.
She was a bit of a rotund woman, with a beehive hairdo and flared glasses.
She smiled widely, "Hi, hi, oh my goodness, I thought it was you" she reached for Theodore's hand and shook it vigorously before turning to Eleanor and grasping her hand also, "I am just so delighted to meet you"
Eleanor faked a smile and glanced at Theodore, "Oh, um" she turned back to the woman, "It's lovely meeting you, um, was there something you wanted?"
She giggled and turned to the other judges, making Theodore and Eleanor a little uncomfortable, "Well we were just wondering if you, Theodore and Eleanor wouldn't mind being our celebrity judges for the chilli cook off?"
Theodore looked at Eleanor and back at the judges, "Um, sure...why what happened to the other celebrity judges?"
The self-nominated judge let out a raucous laughter, making Eleanor and Theodore recoil back and bump into the stall behind them, "Oh my, well we had a bit of a miscommunication and our original celebrity wasn't able to make it...or the note they didn't know...but then we saw you walking through the Fair and just knew we had to have the Theodore Seville and Eleanor Miller"
The woman lowered her glasses, "We'd just adore having you help us judge the competition"
Theodore shrugged at Eleanor, who simply shrugged and gave a slight nod, before turning back to the judges and smiling, "Sure, why not"
The judges all cheered and then aimed to compose themselves seriously as the woman handed Theodore a piece of paper, "Now this is where the cook-off will take place and it's from 2pm" she bounced on her toes a little, "Oh I am so thrilled you'll be judging with us" and she turned to the others "Right we need signs up everywhere, let's move people" before they all walked off into the crowd.
Eleanor turned to Theodore and let out a sigh of relief, "Well that was weird"
Theodore smirked, "Nice to be noticed though for something other than singing though"
Eleanor laughed, "Yeah that's true...and being deemed as the 'cute ones'" she made bunny ears.
Theodore looked at the map again and shrugged, "Least we get a free feed" he smiled and linked arms with Eleanor.
She giggled as they made their way further down the long line food stalls.
Waiting in line was never a skill Brittany had mastered.
"We've been here for hours!" she whinged.
Alvin closed his eyes and lifted his head to the sky, rocking back on a chain divider, as Jeanette shook her head, "Brittany it's been like, only 15 minutes"
Brittany pouted, "Well, it feels like hours...longest friggin' 15 minutes ever" she muttered.
Simon looked at the line up ahead.
It was true that while the Tunnel of Love was a romantic type ride, each turn did last a good 10 or so minutes, meaning that the waiting time was by far the longest than any other ride.
Simon turned to Alvin, "Doesn't she have an off switch? Or at least a mute button?"
Alvin rolled his eyes, "I've been looking for that for years"
Brittany turned and stood nose to nose with him, "Watch it mister"
He folded his arms and looked at her coolly, unaffected by her sudden outburst, "Or what?" he challenged and raised an eyebrow.
She balled her fists up and she felt the fire burn inside her.
Why was he acting like such a pain in the ass?
But she didn't have a comeback.
Instead she found herself getting all huffy and pushed her way out of the line, walking away.
Jeanette shook her head as those around them were just looking at them, and called out, "Brittany!"
But she didn't turn back.
"Oh no" Alvin started, unenthusiastically, "I should go after her"
Jeanette turned to Alvin and folded her arms, unimpressed by his actions, "What the heck was that Alvin?"
He looked at her and shrugged, "That was your sister"
Simon pointed out, "Yeah, and your girlfriend...right?"
Alvin stood up from the chain he was leaning against and nodded slightly, "Yeah, 'course she still is...I'm just not in the mood for this tunnel of love sh*t" he looked out to the crowd and could just make Brittany's figure walking further away.
He rolled his eyes and sighed, "Fine I'll go after her" he made his way out of the line and started wandering through the crowd.
Simon took his glasses off and rubbed his eyes, "I will never understand their relationship"
Jeanette had to laugh a little, "Who needs soap operas when we have a real life one in our very own family?"
Simon smiled and put his glasses on, folding Jeanette into his chest and hugging her, "I'm so glad we have the sense to discuss any issues we have, rationally and logically"
Jeanette nuzzled into his chest and hugged him back, "I'm just glad I have you"
She looked up and smiled.
Simon smiled back and leant down to kiss her.
Steph, Alex and Bruno were next in line to ride the Mechanical Bull.
Bruno watched as Steph finished the last of her cotton candy, "Are you sure you should ride after just eating that?"
Steph smiled and tossed the stick in the bin, "Bring it on baby" she patted her stomach, "Iron Gut"
Bruno laughed a little, "Well let's hope that Iron Gut doesn't have some dodgy welding in it and spring a leak"
Alex even gave a smirk to Bruno's comment.
Steph shook her head, "Not gonna happen, not today, not any day" she took her shoes off and stepped into the inflatable ring and over to the guy running the ride.
"Hey there Miss, I like your hat" the guy commented, gesturing to the fluffy, sparkly hat that perched itself on Steph's head.
She beamed and put her hands on her hips, "Thanks partner, it's for my birthday; it's my birthday today"
He helped her onto the Bull, "Well happy birthday then Miss. Ever ride one of these before?"
Steph laughed, "I've ridden something similar to this here Bucking Bronco" she looked over in Alex's direction and winked.
They guy smiled and shook his head a little, "Ok, well, rules are you can only grip the rope with one hand, the other must remain in the air at all times. We'll hit it on the first level for about 30seconds, before ramping it up a notch for the next 25seconds. As we go on the time between each round will be only 10seconds, so you'll be hit pretty quick with the last few rounds"
He passed her the rope and instructed her how to grip it properly, "Ok, Cowgirl, you're all set, hold on tight" and he headed over to the control box.
Steph waved over at Alex and Bruno, who returned the gesture with a slight wave each, and called out, "Ye-har!"
The Bull started up, rocking back and forth and tilting around.
Steph gripped the Bull with her thighs and tightened her grip on the rope, finding the rhythm and leaning back into the movements of the Bull.
"Ride it baby!" Alex called out, laughing.
Bruno nodded, a little impressed, "She's not half bad, you know"
Alex turned to him, "And that means what, exactly?"
Bruno shrugged at him with a look, "I meant the whole riding the Bull thing, nothin' else, Alex" he groaned and tapped his fist against his leg, shaking his head slightly.
Alex turned slowly back to watch Steph.
By now the Bull had reached the next level and started to spin every so often.
Steph mastered the ability to loosen and tighten her grip as needed and quickly found the rhythm of the Bull's movements.
She hadn't however mastered the ability to keep a whole cooked breakfast, coffee and a stick of cotton candy down.
"Dammit Bruno was right, my Iron Gut's sprung a leak. %$# ." she thought and swallowed, determined to get to the next round.
Bruno noticing from the sidelines Steph's face, nudged Alex a little, "Steph doesn't look too good"
Alex shook his head, "Oh sh*t she's gonna hurl"
The Bull went up another round.
The constant spinning, thrashing and jerky movements of the Bull were making the unsettling nausea swell up in Steph's gut quickly.
Although she wanted to continue (she thought she was getting pretty good), she knew any minute she was gonna chuck her guts up.
She leant to the side and let her body drop and bounce to the crash mat below before hurriedly crawling to and flipping herself over the edge and raced towards the nearest...well anything she could reach that wasn't surrounded by people.
Alex swore and he and Bruno chased after her.
After searching for a good 25 minutes, Alvin finally found Brittany sitting on a bench sipping on a snow cone.
She was looking down and had her sunglasses on.
He took a deep breath in and prepared himself for the onslaught.
As he came closer he could see the tear stains trickling down her cheek.
"Sh*t, made her cry" Alvin thought.
A shadow cast over her, "Hey"
She looked up at him and sniffed a little, "What do you want?"
He sat down next to her, "Look, I just wanted to see if you were ok"
Brittany looked back down and sipped at the snow cone a little more, "I'm just fine"
Alvin shrugged, "Well that's ok then...want me leave you to it?" he nodded at the snow cone.
She glanced over at him and twisted her body away from him.
Alvin sighed and readied himself to get up, "Suit yourself"
"Wait!"
He slumped back into the bench as Brittany twisted back to face him a little better, "What's wrong? I mean, ever since we left the site this morning you've been in a really bad mood" she questioned.
He shrugged simply and leant forward, resting his arms on his knees, "Wanna know why I couldn't sleep last night?...or most nights actually"
Brittany nodded and took another nibble of her snow cone.
Alvin tilted his head to look at her, "You are so ridiculously sexy and you've been flaunting and teasing me for weeks now and, well" he coughed a little, "Let's just say my boys are not fairing too well"
Brittany glanced quickly at Alvin's crotch, making him smirk a little and her blush, and back up at him.
She lifted her sunglasses onto her head and turned a little more towards him, reaching out and holding his hand, "It's been a little crowded lately" she shrugged, "I mean I still would love to be with you, but-"
"But what?" Alvin interrupted, "What do I have to do, I will do anything at the moment" he looked at her intently, "Anything" and stared at her, hoping she could read between the lines as to what he'd have to resort to if 'worst came to worst', but really didn't want to.
It seemed Brittany's ESP wasn't tuned in at that moment, "I still don't understand what you want me to do about it?"
Alvin sighed and shook his head.
He clasped his hands together and twisted to face her, "Ok...um...oh I know, what happens to a balloon if you blow it up too much?"
Brittany reeled her head back a bit, "Huh?"
Alvin repeated his analogy, "What happens to a balloon when you blow it up too much?"
Brittany thought a moment and said back slowly, "It...pops?"
Alvin nodded, "Exactly...now alter that situation, think of me, think of the effects you are having on me...and what'll happen?"
Brittany started laughing as Alvin smirked a bit, "Oh! I get it now...you'll go...pop?"
Alvin laughed and nodded a little, "Yeah in a way"
Brittany was silent a moment, and giggled a little, "Can't you enlist the help of Mrs Palmer and her five daughters?"
Alvin looked at his hand and back at Brittany, "Seriously how am I the only one who's never heard that before?"
Brittany shrugged.
Alvin lifted his hand up then let it flop back down resting back on his knees, "Well there is that...but..."
He paused as Brittany leant in closer, "But what?"
Alvin leant back on the bench, "You could help me out?"
Brittany sat upright and her mouth opened, "Alvin!"
He laughed, "What?"
Brittany looked down at her own hand and over to Alvin, "But...I'd have to...touch it"
Alvin nodded slowly, "That's usually the way" he looked at her shocked expression and sighed, "Look if you don't wanna" he shrugged, "Just gimme a head start to the RV before everyone else arrives" he smiled.
Brittany nodded and smiled a little back, "This is kinda a gross topic of conversation ya know?"
Alvin reached his hand out and held Brittany's hand loosely, "Yeah well, welcome to my world...with a hot girlfriend like you, every day's a battle"
She laughed a little the stopped and looked at him, "You haven't, um" she cleared her throat, "You know...while we've been road tripping have you?"
Alvin rubbed his neck a little, "Ahh...let's just say I've mastered the ability to be efficient with whatever time I have" he winked.
Brittany's eyes grew wide as Alvin laughed nervously and shook his head, "Mostly so I can get a good freakin' night's sleep" he raised his eyebrow at Brittany then turned his head away and shifted a little on the bench.
Brittany thought for a moment, "Wait you do that in the room? While I'm sleeping?" he voice rose at the end, and she looked a little disgusted.
Alvin smiled proudly, "I'm pretty quiet huh?"
Brittany screwed her nose up, "Oh that's disgusting Alvin!"
Alvin laughed a little, "You asked!"
Brittany shook her head, "I didn't think you'd tell me"
Alvin questioned her, "Then why ask?"
Brittany nibbled again at her snow cone and shook her head.
They sat in silence for a while before Alvin said, "Oh and sorry for being such a dick before"
Brittany looked over at him and offered her snow cone to him "Apology accepted" she leant in and kissed him.
He felt himself melt at the icy cold feel of her tongue rolling over his.
She pulled away and smiled at him, "Guess we better go find what everyone's doing now huh?"
Alvin shrugged, "I'll send out the call to see where everyone is"
Simon and Jeanette were snuggled into each other as they sat and floated round through the maze of red and pink hearts, and cutesy cupids in their cliché swan.
Simon had his one hand cradling Jeanette's head kissing her, while the other he caressed her leg lightly.
Jeanette had one hand on his chest and the other around his waist.
"Well at least this is more interesting than the ride" Simon thought to himself.
He pulled back and looked at Jeanette in the soft lighting of the Tunnel and smiled at her.
He stroked some hair behind her ear and gazed into her eyes, "You are the most beautiful girl ever"
Jeanette closed her eyes and lowered her head smiling.
Simon knew she was blushing.
He laughed a little, "It's true, in my opinion, you're perfect in every way"
Jeanette giggled, "Oh Simon, I'm not perfect and you know it. I am the clumsiest person, and I don't have much in the way of fashion and style and-"
She felt his lips again against her.
When he pulled back, Simon shook his head slightly, "You talk too much about your flaws, but I look beyond them, I see you're an amazing person, and to me you are the epitome of perfection; You're fun to be with, you're smart and talented, I think you're totally gorgeous and you're full of class"
Jeanette shifted a little and sat up, she folded her hands and looked at them in her lap, "Hey, um, Simon?"
Simon laughed a little, relaxing slightly back into the cushioned seat of the swan, "Hey, um, what?"
Jeanette took a deep breath in, "What would you say if I told you that I bought something that might taint your view of perfection of me? Drop me down a class or two?" she looked up uneasy.
Simon leant in closer to her, "Um, like what exactly?"
Jeanette turned from his gaze, "Well the other day, while you guys all went to the driving range and us girls went to the mall" she started fiddling with the edge of her top, "Well you already know Steph bought some lingerie"
Simon nodded, and cleared his throat, "Yes, I remember that...why?"
Jeanette was working herself up, "Um, because I sort of bought some too" she looked quickly at Simon, who was wide eyed and trying to process this new information.
She added quickly, "It's nothing as racy as what Steph bought, but I felt pretty in it and Brittany and Eleanor said I looked good in it and-"
Simon reached over and held her hand; she was rambling and he needed her to just quiet down for a second.
Jeanette bit her bottom lip, "Oh Simon, please say something"
He shook his head and shifted uncomfortably, "Do I even get to see it?"
Jeanette's face turned a deep red, "Simon!"
"Well..." he adjusted his glasses and sat a little straighter, "Isn't that the point of buying those things? To show them off?"
Jeanette nodded slightly, "Well yes, I suppose, but...I can't show you"
Simon shrugged, "Why not?"
Jeanette wished she hadn't said anything, but the fact she had that little pink and black gift bag tucked away in the depths of her suitcase without Simon's knowledge had been eating her up inside.
She took another deep breath in, summoned her courage and turned to face Simon, "I didn't think that was where we were headed with our relationship Simon"
Simon rubbed his arm, "Well, eventually though right?"
Jeanette sat in silence.
Simon sighed and reached back for her hand, rubbing it lightly with his thumb, "Look, you have to understand Jeanette, I try to be a gentleman in every way possible, but deep down; I'm still a guy"
He let that sink in and watched as Jeanette slowly nodded, "I know that"
He wrapped his arm round her and pulled her gently into his side, "Jeanette you know I'd never pressure you into anything you weren't ready for, but why bring this up, I mean deep down do you want something to come from this?"
Jeanette shook her head, "No...I don't know, I just wanted you to know, I didn't want to keep it a secret from you that I'd bought it" she sighed heavily, "Maybe I can just show you sometime when I'm not wearing them...just to start with?"
She looked up at him; he could feel her shaking slightly, and knew she was way out of her comfort zone.
Truth be told, so was he, but it took every ounce of strength and determination not to show it.
He smiled back at her and kissed her forehead, "When you're ready, I'll be waiting"
She smiled and eased into relaxing once more as the swan drifted slowly towards the large cupid doors, signally the conclusion of the ride.
Outside the ride, Simon looked around and noticed Alvin and Brittany hadn't returned, "I hope Alvin found Brittany" he said, just as his phone buzzed in his pocket.
He pulled the phone out and checked the message:
Hey Si – where u ? A
Jeanette peered at the message as Simon swiped a reply:
Just finished Tun of Luv...u find B? Si
He got a quick reply back:
Yeah found her...all good ;)...stay there we're makin our way ova. C u soon. A
Simon texted a smiley face back and smiled at Jeanette, "Well it seems Alvin and Brittany have patched things up once more" he looked around, "They're meeting us here soon"
Jeanette nodded.
Alex jogged up to Steph as she stood up and wiped her mouth with her hand, "Bleagh"
She turned to see Alex standing there trying not to laugh and opened his arms.
She walked into them and hugged him quickly before stepping back, "Seriously, do not go over there...looks like someone just murdered a pink fairy"
Alex screwed his face up and laughed, "Thanks for that"
Bruno jogged up and offered Steph a bottle of water.
She thanked him and swished the water in her mouth spitting it out a few times before swallowing a few mouthfuls and pouring some over her face.
Alex folded his arms, "Feel better?"
Steph smiled and shook her head about, spraying water about, "Yeah...dammit I was getting good too!"
Bruno nodded, "Yes you were...but I told you so"
Steph lowered her eyebrows and smiled, "Yeah, yeah"
Alex felt his phone chime and flicked open the message, reading it before sending a reply.
"Whossat?" Steph asked
Alex looked up at her, "Just Alvin asking where we are"
Steph nodded, "Hmm...ok well we'll wait for them and figure out where to go next"
The three headed back to the Mechanical Bull and waited until Alvin and Brittany arrived.
While they waited Steph looked at Bruno then at Alex, "Hey Alex?"
He looked at her, "Mmm?"
She smiled sweetly, "Can you be sweetheart and get me another bottle of water?"
He looked around for a drink stand; the nearest one was a fair way away.
He looked back at Steph, "Can't you wait til Al and Britt arrive? We'll get you one then"
She made a pouty face, "Please? I'm thirsty now...it's my birthday"
Alex rolled his eyes, "Dammit, you're gonna play that card all day aren't ya?"
She nodded as he turned and started towards the drinks stand.
Once he'd left Steph spun towards Bruno, a big smile on her face, "So having fun?"
Bruno smiled and shrugged a little, "Yeah I guess..."
Steph put her hands on her hips, "But?"
He looked at her and rubbed his neck, "I mean...not much has happened yet...apart from you hurling" he snickered as Steph slapped him on the arm and laughed.
She thought for a moment, "Hmm, something interesting hey?" she looked around and noticed a huge stage in the distance not too far away.
It was set up for later performances that would take place throughout the day.
She smiled to herself and looked at Bruno, "You got a good eye?"
He looked at her a little confused as Alex came back with a bottle of water, "Here ya go, babe"
She smiled at him, "Great...hold onto that for a second, wait here for Al and Britt then meet us over at that stage" she pointed in the distance.
He looked at her confused, then at Bruno, who simply shrugged and said, "Your guess is as good as mine"
Steph smiled wickedly and grabbed Bruno by the hand before pulling him towards the stage.
Alex was left gobsmacked and stood watching them race off.
Nearing the stage Bruno stopped to a halt, "Wait, what are you gonna do?"
Steph paced up and back a little, "Not me, what are we gonna do?"
Bruno felt a smile creep over his face, "Um...what?"
Steph looked at him, "You want interesting, you got it" she turned back to the stage and grabbed his hand and pulled him round the back.
There were a few roadies taking a break on some crates and boxes.
Steph ducked down behind a box and pulled Bruno down too, "Ok they're all sitting on their asses stuffing their faces. Perfect opportunity"
Bruno looked out at the roadies and back at Steph, "Perfect opportunity for what exactly?"
Steph beamed and slunk back to the steps at the side of the stage.
Bruno rolled his eyes and followed, unsure still what the hell was going to happen.
Steph crept up the steps, Bruno following and turned suddenly, making Bruno bump into her, "Ok" she started, "I need you to keep watch for a second, do whatever it takes to keep them guys" she pointed in the direction of where the roadies were sitting "Off this stage" she pointed down at the stage floor.
Bruno looked behind him and then back at Steph, "Seriously, what?"
Steph rolled her eyes and smiled, "Duh, in case security comes or something"
Bruno laughed a little, "No I meant, why, as in what are you going to do?"
"I'm gonna perform, haven't done it for a while, so you're in for a real treat" Steph announced dramatically and crept into the wings and saw the sound desk and smiled to herself.
She and Bruno crept over as she fiddled with a few dials and switches and unmuted the main microphone and speakers.
She located an auxiliary cord and pulled Brittany's iPod from her pocket (which she'd put in there by accident after nearly stepping on it looking for something else and had forgotten she had it until just moments ago).
She plugged it in and scrolled through the playlist until she found a song she was happy with.
She smiled at Bruno, "Just remember if I go down, I'm dragging you with me"
Bruno looked unsure, "Yeah and what about Alex when he finds out, he's gonna be mighty pissed off that you dragged me up here and not him"
Steph waved him off and looked about the floor, "Eh, he's had fun with me for ages now, he'll be fine...that and he'll be so mesmerised by my performance, he'll have forgotten all about the fact you're here too"
She stepped around him and found a huge piece of cord and wrapped it and looped it found the top of the stairs, "Hopefully that'll stop anyone who tries to stop us"
Bruno watched her race round and poked his head out the wings and saw Alex, Alvin, Brittany and it appeared they'd sent a message to Simon, Jeanette, Theodore and Eleanor too, as they all stood looking around at the stage looking confused.
Bruno laughed a little as Steph came up next to him and handed him the iPod, "Just press play when I get out there"
She winked and walked on the stage thinking, "Oh I'm gonna get %$# ing busted for this one" she laughed and picked up the microphone, waving out to the others.
"What's she doing?" Brittany asked
Alex shook his head, "No idea...but I don't like it" he looked around.
Steph nodded over to the wings as Bruno hit play.
A bass started pumping, followed by the tapping of a snare drum and the introduction of a guitar boomed over the speakers as Steph hurried onto the stage and grabbed the mic; passersby stopped and looked up at the stage as the intro to 'Like it Loud' by Cassie Davis pumped out.
How did my day just go from bad to worse
Lost my cell phone now I'm late for work
Wearing my favourite shoes and the heel broke
Tell me I'm getting punk'd
This is beyond a joke
She kicked her leg round the mic stand and caught it in her hand dragging it over to the side of the stage.
I'm so on edge
You'd think I was scared
Of my own shadow
It's days like these
I gotta live by my motto
Get in the car
And turn on the radio
Turn it up turn it up
She stared walking round, working the stage and shaking her ass round and flicking her hair.
I like it loud
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
I wanna shout
Turn it up turn it up turn it up
Loud
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
I wanna shout
Turn it up turn it up turn it up
She ran her hands over the curves of her body and grinded her hips a little, looking out at Alex she winked and crouched down.
Tell me
How many times we had this argument
Why is it that you have to bring it up again
Just yesterday you said you let it go
What's going on inside your head I'll never know
She looked over at Bruno and nodded smiling.
Bruno turned to hear angry footsteps coming up the steps.
Some of the roadies were looking mighty pissed off and confused as to why the stage was being used...and how anyone managed to get up there.
They looked up to see Bruno guarding the top of the steps, "Uh, she's doing the sound check?"
One of the roadies looked at him and shook his head, "Out of the way lad"
Bruno glanced back at Steph and then at the stairs.
He noticed they were clamped onto the stage.
He thought quickly, "Sorry guys" and smiled giving the first guy a shove, making him lose his balance and topple down the stairs, dragging the others with him, "It's for her birthday" he called out, smiling.
Then he reached down, loosened the clamps and using his legs, pushed the stairs away til they crashed to the ground.
He stood smiling triumphantly and held and thumbs up to Steph when she looked to see what was going on.
The roadies all clambered over each other to get up, the main guy was yelling instructions to some to find another way up there and cut the sound while the others he sent to find security.
She returned the smile and continued performing.
Bout to press play iPod in hand
I got my ear phones in
You'd never know
That I'm not even listening
You're too busy yelling
For you to notice anything
So I hit the volume and turn it up
She ran over and dragged Bruno on stage, who just stood there stunned as Steph danced around him, kinda using him as a human dance pole.
Coz I like it loud
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
I wanna shout
Turn it up, turn it up
Turn it up
Loud
I wanna scream,
Top of my lungs
I wanna shout
Turn it up, turn it up
Turn it up
Steph popped and krumped around Bruno as he stood there, finally relaxing and laughed at her shaking her ass around, even krumping a little with her, albeit it wasn't really his style.
She flicked her hair around seductively and watched as the crowds began to form.
Many were uncertain as to why an unscheduled show had begun, but they all seemed to be enjoying it so far.
Alex shook his head and spoke gruffly, "What the %$# is he doing there?"
Jeanette shrugged, "She's just dancing, I'm sure it means nothing"
Alex looked at her, as she stood a little closer to Simon, "Um, because he's not really doing anything"
Alex looked back slowly at the stage as Alvin came and stood next to him.
Nudging him a little he leant in and said, "Look, man, she's just playing up for the crowds, looks like Bruno just got dragged into the show. Not like he's grindin her or anything."
Alex mumbled something under his breath.
Alright
Everybody ready?
Here we go
She started crouching down, sliding down the front of Bruno, who immediately thrust his hands in the air so as to show Alex, in particular, there was no touching.
Come on let's bring it on down
Get a bit softer now
Come on let's bring it on down
Get a bit softer now
Steph brought her body back up against Bruno, grinding her ass against him. He titled his head upwards and closed his eyes; trying to concentrate on something other than the fact Steph's ass was that close to him.
Let's get louder now
You know I just wanna shout
Let's get louder now
Heeeeeyyy!
She threw her head back and hit the notes and started working around the stage again.
Loud
I wanna
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
Now shout it
Oh
Turn it up, turn it up
Turn it up
It loud yeah
Needless to say many of the men in the crowd began hollering, making Steph laugh and flirt with the crowd some more.
Alvin smiled and chuckled to himself, "She's really working it up there" he looked around, "Definitely got the crowd lovin' it"
Alex shook his head, "This is all bullsh*t, why the %$# is she doing this for?"
Brittany shrugged, "It's Steph, does she need a reason?"
Alex shook his head again and lowered it before turning and pushing back through the crowd.
Theodore called out to him, but Alvin put his hand on Theo's shoulder, "He needs to cool off, let him go"
I wanna scream at the top of my lungs
Hey-yeah yeah yeah
Turn it up
Steph stood and punched her fist in the air and arched her head back.
The crowd broke into a frenzy of applause; Alvin opting to stick his fingers in his mouth and whistling loudly.
Steph giggled and took hold of Bruno's hand, lead him to the edge of the stage and bowed.
Bruno, a little embarrassed waved a little as the others cheered and waved out to them.
When they looked up, they saw a very unhappy security guard and the roadies at the front of the crowd.
Steph laughed and looked at Bruno, "Having fun now?"
Bruno laughed and nodded, "Definitely"
Steph nodded, "Consider this your initiation...you passed" she squealed a little and bounced on her toes, "Oh we are sooo busted though"
They walked quickly to the side of the stage as Steph unplugged the iPod and stuffed it back in her pocket.
They were greeted by the guard and roadies at the side of the stage.
Steph looked at them, then at Bruno, noticing the stairs were now lying on the ground a drop from the stage, "What happened to the stairs?"
Bruno shrugged, "You told me to keep them off the stage...so I did"
Steph sat on the edge of the stage, Bruno crouching behind her, and called out, "Hi, hey, um, sorry 'bout that, but it's my birthday today...and I didn't break anything...it's all good to go...did ya like it?"
The guard yelled back, "Kids do you realise how much of an uproar you've created? This here is a family Fair, and we do not tolerate such unruly behaviour, now get down here at once!"
Steph looked at Bruno, "Oopsie" and called out back to the guards, "Umm, are we in trouble?"
The guard folded his arms, and tapped his foot, "What do you think?"
At that moment the others ran round and looked at the standoff.
Simon laughed nervously and analysed the situation, "Um, hi, look that's our friends up there and well she, anyway, has a tendency to be a little unpredictable and spontaneous at times and-"
The guard looked over at him and smiled, "You're Simon"
Simon was taken aback, "Uh, yes, yes I am"
The guard looked up and saw the others standing there, "Oh wow you're all here, hey my daughter loves you guys, oh she'd just be over the moon if I could get you're autographs"
Simon thought for a moment and looked up at Steph dangling her legs over the edge of the stage and Bruno behind her.
She smiled and gave a little wave, winking at him.
He turned to the guard, "We'll trade you, our friends for autographs"
The guard frowned, "Are you trying to bribe me from my duties?"
Alvin laughed and smiled charmingly, stepping in and tipping his hat, "How 'bout we get you and your daughter tickets to our Vegas show too?"
Simon glared at Alvin and whispered angrily, "Alvin, what are you doing?"
Alvin smiled and spoke through his teeth, "Trust me"
The guard thought for a while and smiled.
Then he looked up at Steph and Bruno and frowned at them, "You kids better not get into any more trouble around the Fair right?"
They looked at each other and smiled, nodding back at the guard.
He turned to Alvin, "And you can get me two tickets to your Vegas show?"
Alvin upped the charm and held his hand out, "All you gotta do is let our friends go, and they're yours for the taking"
The guard beamed and shook Alvin's hand, "Just don't tell my supervisor"
Alvin and Simon imitated locking their lips, as the guard turned and instructed the roadies to get the stairs back up on the stage.
Once locked in, Steph and Bruno headed back down with the others.
Steph and Bruno got a bit of a warning from the guard.
Steph waved and blew a kiss to him as he walked off.
She turned, then, to the others and frowned, "And no one saw where Alex went?"
Theodore looked down sheepishly, "I don't think he liked your song Steph"
Brittany added, "Yeah dragging Bruno on stage, probably wasn't the smartest idea."
Bruno rubbed the back of his neck and lowered his head a little.
Steph groaned, "Oh %$# me, dammit he's been acting like a freakin' child lately" she fixed her hat on her head, "Now I gotta find him" she started off away from the stage, "%$# in' hell, he said he wouldn't do this" she screamed out and stormed into the crowds.
Alvin watched her leave and whistled, "Man she is pissed off...hate to be Alex right now" he laughed.
Bruno pushed his hands in his pockets, "Sh*t, I didn't mean to drive a wedge between them"
Simon patted Bruno on the shoulder, "I wouldn't worry too much about it...you were just the unlucky person in the wings"
Alvin nudged Bruno and whispered, "Didn't seem that unlucky when she was grinding down on you though" he raised his eyebrows and snickered, as Bruno coughed.
Brittany smiled, and tried to reassure him, "You're not the first unsuspecting victim in Steph's little spontaneous dance moments"
Jeanette nodded, "I think she's danced with everyone here at least once or twice"
Alvin shot his hand up, "17 times!"
Brittany shook her head, "And you're proud of that?"
Alvin smiled at her, "I'll take any lady...or Steph ha ha, who wants to shake their ass at me any day" he held one arm out and used the other one as if he were slapping back and forth, "Bump and grind it baby, oh yeah"
Brittany rolled her eyes and folded her arms as Alvin laughed and scooped her round her waist, kissing her on the neck.
Simon looked at his watch, "Well should we think about getting something for lunch then?"
Theodore looked at his phone and noted the time, "Um, well, Ellie and I are needed over at the judges tables in about an hour's time"
The others looked at him, "Huh?"
Eleanor smiled proudly, "We've been asked to be celebrity judges for the chilli cook off"
Jeanette beamed and hugged Eleanor, "Oh wow Ellie, that's great guys"
Eleanor beamed, "Free food, I'm not one to back down on that offer"
"Me either" Theodore added, patting his stomach.
Alvin's stomach rumbled, "Easy" he patted it, "Well, food sounds like a great idea"
Bruno looked around and spotted a tent not too far away that held some interest to him, "Uh, I'll catch up with you guys soon, I've um, seen some people I know and I wanna go say hi" he lied; he didn't like lying, but he really needed to go over to that tent without the other's becoming suspicious.
Alvin shrugged, "Ok, well we'll be over at the world foods area, want us to get you somethin'?"
Bruno shook his head, "Nah, I won't be long"
The others nodded and turned heading in the direction of where the aromas of different dishes were wafting through the air.
Bruno waited until they'd walked a fair distance before heading over towards the tent.
He smiled as he approached; Wine Bar.
"Man I need a drink right now" he thought, "Oh and how convenient that I have just so happened to stumble across this here Wine Bar"
He felt like sh*t for causing tension between Steph and Alex, but thought against it, "No, he's the one acting all jealous like, I've done sh*t all...I didn't ask Steph to drag me on stage either"
He sighed and shook his head as he approached the door, which wasn't very well guarded, considering it was a family Fair.
Bruno waited until he saw a group of people about to enter the Bar and slipped into the group.
Once inside he looked around, impressed by the set up (and the fact of how easy it'd been to get in) and headed over to where the white wine was set up.
He'd always been impartial to the taste of a decent white wine, but given his personal funds, he'd usually had to settle for something a little less decent, albeit still drinkable.
Bruno noticed a sign between some bottles that read, 'Taste 4 wines for $10'.
Bruno smiled; he could happily part with $10 for such a cause.
He walked over to one of the Wine officials and presented $10, "I want my 4 glasses"
The official lowered his head at Bruno and screwed his nose up at him, "Young man, do you even know the difference between a Riesling and a Chardonnay?"
Bruno had to smile; not only had this guy not asked for his ID, fail on him, but he'd also challenged him with a question he knew the answer to.
Folding his arms, Bruno laughed and rattled off a perfect textbook description of each wine variety.
The official was stunned, but if he was impressed, he wasn't showing it.
He handed Bruno a little grey card, "Get this punched for each wine you taste"
Bruno took the card and flipped it over in his hand.
The official shook his head and walked over to another part of the tent.
Bruno smiled and tapping the card against his hand, he walked around inspecting different wines before deciding on his first.
Slapping the card on the table he asked, "I'd like to taste that one" he pointed to a bottle.
The attendant gave Bruno the once over and shrugged; who was he to judge if some punk skater kid liked wine, he was still getting paid for the day's work.
The attendant punched the card and poured a glass for Bruno.
Bruno faked a smile and found a quiet corner to drink the wine.
He got some looks from some other wine enthusiasts and could see them whispering to each other.
He shook his head and hunched his shoulders, taking a sip of the wine, "What do they %$# in know?" he thought.
He put the glass on the table and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath in and rubbed his temples.
He took another mouthful and thought back, "I haven't done anything wrong have I?" he shook his head, "No, I haven't...even managed to behave myself...mostly" he smiled at the stage incident.
Bruno leant back on the bar stool and bounced his leg involuntarily.
Suddenly he became frustrated, and balled his fist up, "That damn Alex is just like every other prick who thinks I'm some %$# in' lowlife" he picked up the wine glass hastily and threw the rest of the wine down, wiping his mouth with his sleeve.
He put the glass down and gripped at his head trying to wrestle with his thoughts.
On one hand he wanted nothing more than to clobber Alex, and knock some sense into him, so to speak.
But on the other he wanted to get along with Alex for the sake of Steph if nothing else.
The ladies sitting nearby whispered again and pointed at Bruno, shaking their heads at him.
He looked up and glared at them, "Oh cause you're so perfect, you don't have %$# in' problems?"
The women were taken aback and disgusted by his language quickly moved away as Bruno growled under his breath and stood, upturning the bar table and exited the tent quickly before anyone could 'escort' him out or call the security.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out the wine card, "What a waste" and threw the card into the bin, heading towards the world foods area to find the others.
Meanwhile Steph had looked high and low for Alex.
In the end she got tired of walking and pulled her phone out sending a text:
Where the hell r u?
She tapped her phone in her hand and looked around waiting for a reply.
After 10 minutes of waiting she stomped her foot and decided to call Alex.
It took a few rings, but eventually he picked up, "What?"
Steph wasn't happy, "Where are you? Why didn't you text back?"
He sighed, "We need to talk"
Steph nodded as her voice rose a bit, "Oh ya think? Look where'd you run off to then?"
"Hot Stuff" Alex replied.
Steph sighed, she knew what 'we need to talk' meant, "Gimme 10 I'll be there soon" she closed her phone and made her way to the RVs.
Steph knocked on the door of 'Hot Stuff' and entered.
Alex was sitting back in the booth.
He looked up at her as she came and sat down opposite.
Steph folded her arms and looked over at him, a little unimpressed, "Ok, so what's the deal?"
Alex looked at her, "You're kidding if you don't know"
Steph rolled her eyes and slumped back, "Alex, I was just dancing, no harm done, not like I made out with him or anything"
Alex looked away slightly, "You have no idea do you?"
She titled her head a little as Alex shook his head, "You have no idea how hard it is watching you, my girlfriend shaking and grinding around him, while I'm left there to watch the whole thing unfold"
Steph closed her eyes and opened them slowly, "Him has a name; him's name is Bruno and Bruno is just a friend, ok?"
Alex looked unconvinced.
Steph took a breath in and leant over, putting her hands face up on the table, "Look, I'm sorry, I got caught in the moment and I wasn't thinking what that'd look like to you...I was kinda hoping it'd turn you on a bit" she gave a small smile.
Alex blinked at her, "Would've if it were me up there"
Steph lowered her head, "Ok, yes point taken...look I just wanted Bruno to feel part of the group more, I mean he's just come into our little circle of friends"
"Cause you dragged him into it" Alex added.
Steph lifted her head and frowned a little, bringing her hands back to her lap, "Yes, and as I was going to say, we've all known each other for a while and I thought its gotta suck sitting on the outer, so I wanted him to feel included and thought a little spontaneous initiation would do the trick"
"Why?" Alex challenged, "He's just some guy we happen to be giving a lift to Vegas, isn't he?"
Steph nodded a little, "Well yeah, but it'd make the trip a lot less painful if we could get along as well and have some fun along the way"
Alex tapped the table as Steph stood up and came round to him, "Alex, no matter what attention I may show Bruno, it's all out of trying to make a friendship. In the end, you're the one I'm coming back to, the one I wanna be with, not Bruno, ok?"
He twisted and sat on the edge of the seat, reaching out and holding her round the waist, he kissed her lightly on the stomach as Steph held his head and leant down to kiss him.
Alex looked up and gave a sideways smile, "So there's definitely nothing going on between you two then?"
Steph shook her head, "No, there isn't, so stop freaking out"
Alex sighed and stood up, hugging Steph.
She smiled at him and stroked his face, "Seriously, can you please now try and get along with Bruno...he's a nice guy, and who knows you two might have something in common"
Alex nodded slightly, "Ok, ok...I'll try"
"I mean it Alex, please?" her tone was serious as she pleaded.
Alex closed his eyes and opened them slowly, "Alright, for you then...but, reckon I could get a little more attention my way?"
Steph rolled her eyes and nodded, "Ok, ok, point taken" she winked.
He smiled at her as she smiled wickedly and looked into the back room, "There is one thing you have over Bruno, though"
Alex raised an eyebrow, "What's that then?"
Steph took his hand and lead him to the bedroom "You get to screw round with me" she turned and pushed him down on the bed, laughing and closing the door behind her.
Alvin let out a loud belch and wiped his mouth, "Good chilli" he patted his stomach as Brittany screwed up her nose and shoved him a little, "Gosh you have the manners of an animal"
Alvin shrugged and took a sip of coke, "We're all animals baby" he started singing,
You and me baby ain't nothing but mammals
So let's do it like they do on the discovery channel
Jeanette popped another few fries into her mouth and wiped her fingers on a napkin as Theodore pointed out, "Hey here comes Bruno"
The others looked up as Bruno came and sat down on the edge of the group.
Simon offered him some fries, which he smiled at and took a small handful as Eleanor gave him a hot dog, "We bought way too much and figured if we were hungry, you would be too"
"Thanks" Bruno smiled and took a mouthful.
Eleanor drew her head back a bit and narrowed her eyes a little, leaning back in towards him, sniffing.
"Sh*t, busted" Bruno thought.
Eleanor was taken aback, "Have you been drinking?"
Bruno coughed and shifted his gaze before looking back at them, "And?"
Jeanette shook her head, "But you're underage Bruno"
He shrugged, "It was a glass of wine, nothing to go crazy over, I just needed to clear my head a bit, that's all" and took another bite of the hot dog.
Alvin gave a smile, "How'd you get in with no ID?"
Bruno smiled back, "They didn't question me...that and a poorly guarded entrance"
Alvin nodded, impressed, "Damn you and your height advantage, I still get pulled up, and I'm the eldest one here"
Brittany laughed, "Cause you're such a short ass that's why"
Alvin shook his head, and looked at Simon who was looking at Bruno, "Si, loosen up, no damage done, Bruno didn't get busted...'cept by Ellie"
Simon sighed, "Ok...whatever, I'm not getting into it" he looked at his watch, and turned to Theodore, "You guys should get moving, it's nearly 2 o'clock"
Theodore nodded as he helped Eleanor up and finished his drink, tossing it into a bin nearby.
They all stood up and carried whatever remaining food they had and followed Theodore and Eleanor to where the judging of the chilli cook off was happening.
Upon arriving there Eleanor's face fell when she saw the poster advertising her and Theodore as guest judges, "You'd think they'd get a more recent photo of us huh?" she pointed to the poster with a photo of them at 8 years old.
Jeanette gave a little giggle and wrapped her arm round Eleanor's shoulders, "Aww but you're so adorable in this photo"
Eleanor put her hands on her hips and frowned at Jeanette, "And I'm not now?"
Jeanette stopped laughing as Theodore took Eleanor by the hand, "It doesn't matter, everyone knows it's us, c'mon"
The others waved and went to stand with the crowd as Alvin's phone started ringing.
He pulled it out of his pocket and slid it open, "Hey Dave...huh?...hang on" he nodded to the others and walked away from the crowd a bit, covering his other ear so as to be able to hear Dave better.
"Ok, I can hear you better now, what's up?" Alvin asked.
"Just wanted to see how you were all doing, seeing where you are" Dave replied.
Alvin could hear him tapping away at the keyboard of his laptop, "Yeah we're all good, uh, we're just outside Tucson, at a Fair for Steph's birthday"
Dave nodded, "Ahh, well say Happy Birthday to her from me then"
Alvin nodded, "Yep...oh and, um, Dave?"
"Yes?"
Alvin cleared his throat, "Um, while I think of it, can I ask a favour?"
Dave's face fell, even Alvin could sense that and his tone of voice went a little more serious, "What is it Alvin? I'm not advancing you any more money"
Alvin shook his head, "No, no, money wise we're good...although we now have another person on board but-"
"What do you mean?" Dave interrupted.
Alvin stopped for a moment and laughed, "Oh we just picked up a drifter that's all" he held the phone away from his ear as Dave yelled down the other end, "WHAT? Alvin, a complete stranger? You have a complete stranger with you?"
Alvin rolled his eyes and paced a little, "He's not a complete stranger now...his name's Bruno and he's round our age and he needed a lift to Vegas...it's fine Dave...but that's not what I wanted to ask"
Dave sighed and put his hand over his eyes, "What is it Alvin?"
"Can you save four tickets to the concert?"
Dave was silent for a moment, "What? Why?"
Alvin went on to explain the story of Summer and Tiffany and then of the guard and his daughter; although he omitted the reason why they'd offered the tickets to the guard as Alvin knew that information would probably relay back to Steph's dad, which he was sure she'd hate.
Dave sighed on the other end, "Alvin..."
"Please?" Alvin begged.
Dave lowered his hand and Alvin could hear the mouse clicking away, "Alright, I'll reserve four tickets, but that's it. No more giving tickets away just willy nilly"
Alvin snickered but contained his laughter; willy.
Dave was confused and shook his head, "Ok, so everything else is going fine then? Nothing else you need to tell me?"
Alvin shook his head, "Nope, all good"
Dave nodded, "Good to hear...well tickets to the concert go on sale in a few days time, the organisers are expecting it to sell out pretty quickly"
Alvin smirked, "Wouldn't expect anything less really"
Dave rolled his eyes, "Oh and how are you all going with your routines for these new numbers? I'm a little hesitant still on allowing you to perform some of these songs considering you've not had a lot of time to rehearse"
Alvin scuffed his foot on the ground, "Dave relax, we'll be fine" he added, "We're professionals" and beamed.
Dave said slowly, "Yes that's what I'm afraid of"
Alvin laughed, "Dave, seriously, it'll be fine, you'll see"
Dave was about to say his goodbyes, when he suddenly remembered, "Oh yes, that's what else I had to tell you"
Alvin stopped and looked concerned, "Yeah?"
"I've booked a television appearance in Albuquerque"
"They have TV in Albuquerque?" Alvin joked.
Dave rolled his eyes, "Yes Alvin, they do, but it's a promotion for the concert, plus they'll probably want to ask you, in particular about the break in...and they want you to perform a number or two"
Alvin started back towards the group, "Oh great"
Dave sighed, "I know you're over talking about it, but this is what happens when you're a celebrity. I think they want you to perform Girls and Boys of Rock and Roll too"
Alvin let out a loud groan, "Oh come on, Dave?" he pleaded.
Dave shook his head, "Forget the routine, there wouldn't be enough room to perform your whole routine anyway... now do you have a pen, I'll give you the details"
Alvin sighed and jogged over towards Simon, "Hang on" he held the phone to his chest and held his hand out to Simon, "Gimme your phone a sec"
Simon looked at him, "Why?"
Alvin rolled his eyes and held his hand out firmer, "Just gimme, I gotta get somethin' down"
Simon pulled his phone out as Alvin opened the notepad function and held his phone back to his ear, "Ok Dave, shoot"
Alvin swiped the details onto Simon's phone and smiled, "OK, great...got it...why didn't you just email this to us?"
Dave shrugged, "Well, I'll do that too, just in case, but I wasn't sure if you'd always be in range of Wifi. Besides I have you on the phone now anyway"
Alvin nodded, "Ok, well, I'll let the others know then...yep...ok, see ya in Vegas...bye" he hung up and handed Simon his phone back.
Simon looked at the message Alvin had written and looked up at him, eyebrows raised slightly, "What's this for?"
Alvin shoved his phone in his pocket and wrapped his arms round Brittany, resting on her shoulder, "We gots a TV interview in Albuquerque in a few days time...I think it coincides with when tickets go on sale or something...It's to promote the concert anyway...oh and we gotta do Rock and Roll" he rolled his eyes and stuck his tongue out.
Jeanette smiled, "Ha ha, and you thought you'd gotten out of it" she laughed at Alvin, who simply shook his head, "At least we don't need to perform the routine, it's just simply singing"
Bruno asked, "Isn't there that musical bit in the middle where you'd usually dance"
Alvin rolled his eyes, "%$# there is too, dammit"
Simon looked at Bruno and laughed, "Thanks for reminding him"
Bruno returned the smile as Alvin slumped on Brittany, who heaved him off and frowned at him, "Don't lean on me like that"
Alvin stood up and paced a little, "Ok, so what do we do then? We can't do the original routine, there prob won't be enough room, especially for me to swing Britt round without taking out you guys...plus don't wanna %$# my shoulder up before Vegas...just in case"
Simon shrugged, "We'll just have to see the space and we'll work it out then" he turned to the stage where the finalists for the chilli cook off where taking place, "Theodore will be happy"
Alvin added sarcastically, "Well that's all that matters then isn't it; that Theo will be happy we're performing the freakin' song"
Brittany turned to him, "It's not that bad Alvin"
Simon adding, "Yeah, used to be one of your favourites once upon a time"
Alvin shrugged, "Then I grew up and I moved on, musically"
Brittany shook her head as Alvin jumped at his phone ringing again, "Well aren't I Mr Popularity today?" he grinned, holding the phone to his ear, "Yo?"
"Alvin, where you at?" Steph asked
Alvin smiled, looking around, "Over at the chilli cook off judging area thingo...you two sort ya sh*t out?"
Steph laughed, "Yeah, we're cool" she squealed and laughed again, "Sorry 'bout that, um, we'll be there soon then" she laughed and hung up the phone.
Alvin smiled and put the phone back in his pocket, "That was Steph" he looked at Bruno, "They're on their way over, and it seems Alex has cooled off"
Bruno nodded and pushed his hands in his pockets, scuffing his foot in the dirt.
They all stood around waiting for Steph and Alex, and watching as Theodore and Eleanor gave their verdicts on the chilli.
They could see Alex carrying Steph on his back as they came closer; Steph was whooping her hat in the air and calling out, "Ye-har! Move outta the way!"
She smiled as an exhausted Alex lowered her to the ground.
She thrust her arms in the air, "We're back!" she announced loudly.
Brittany giggled, "Yay for you"
Steph looked at Bruno, then at Alex and nudged him forward, "Go on"
Alex looked at her as she raised her eyebrows at him, "Go" she said sternly.
He sighed and walked up to Bruno, "I'm, uh, sorry for being a pain in the ass and sh*t" he held his hand out.
Bruno looked at his hand and up at Alex.
He looked past him and glanced at Steph, who was looking hopeful, and biting down on her bottom lip.
She bounced a little on her toes and mouthed back, "Please? For me?"
Although everything in his head was screaming to deck Alex now, he fought against it and took hold of Alex's hand, shaking it.
Alex quickly dropped his hand, gave a complimentary smile and walked to Steph whispering, "Happy now?"
Steph smiled, as he came behind her and wrapped his arms loosely around her waist, "Yes, now let's keep it that way" she looked up at the stage, at Theodore and Eleanor, who were huddled around a little table in the corner, "Who's winning?"
Simon shook his head, "No idea...but going from Theo's reactions I'd say he's going to go with the fourth entry"
Jeanette nodded, "Yeah, Ellie's reaction seemed pretty pleased with that one too"
They hung around until the judging had finished; Simon and Jeanette knocking it on the head with their guess, and watched as Theodore and Eleanor presented the winners with a trophy prize and stood around taking photos.
Simon looked at his watch, and turned to Steph, in particular "Ok, if we head into Tucson now, we may be able to hit that club tonight if you want Steph, rather than tomorrow night?"
Steph nodded, "%$# yeah!...oh but I wanted a ride on the giant slide" she pointed over to the slide and made a pouty face.
Simon smiled and rolled his eyes, "One turn, then we gotta move it...we booked a private room, so we gotta get there tonight"
Steph bounced up and down and started running towards the slide as Theodore and Eleanor rejoined the group, "Where's she off to now?"
Alvin smiled, "We're heading off soon, but Steph wants to go on the giant slide"
Eleanor nodded as they followed Steph over, who kept turning round calling out, "HURRY UP!"
After a few turns on the giant slide, they all headed back to the RVs, exhausted by the day, but still pumped for the night ahead.
Steph made the most of what time she had at the Fair by convincing the others of various pieces of Fair crap she said she 'needed', always resorting to the "But it's my birthday" card.
Eventually, she came out with a teddy bear Alvin had won her on the skee-ball; a long horn trumpet (which Simon said he'd cram somewhere if she continued blowing into it) and a gag gift of an invisible dog leash, which they aptly named Frizzle II.