A/N: Woohoo! Another chapter! I actually finished this chapter like 4 days ago... But as I always am, I wasn't pleased; and then I noticed all the whoops I've committed and started tweaking everything... So after a lot of editing, tweaking and poking finally here's the chapter. Needless to say, today I started writing the next chapter, and I gotta prepare myself emotionally to write it *Sobs* Don't worry I've managed to push one more chapter before the last one, meaning there are only 2 chapters left! *SOBS*
Thank you so much for the reviews! If it wasn't for you guys I would've never been able to find enough motivation to keep writing so much love to you all, and PLEASE keep reviewing! It makes me happy that people are enjoying my story! :)
Shout out to my amazing reviewers: loonaticslover13, LANA 8D, JunjouRomanticafortheWinxoxo and my latest reviewer Mitch 566! Thank you guys so much! And keep reading! =3
Lexi was currently dusting, vacuuming, moping… In conclusion she was performing every bit of cleaning process she had access to. It's gotten so extreme that she had managed to beat Rev and his crazy cleaning sprees whenever he had his family coming over. Though Lexi's actions did matched with the roadrunner's usual reasons for such exaggerated cleaning routines, she was expecting a guest today and instead of tending the kitchen she decided to make sure the place was spotless.
Slam and Rev were currently in the kitchen cooking, while Rev watched the oven Slam took over the stove. But it was way too early for dinner time?! That didn't matter she wanted everything to be perfect and ready for when Jake arrived.
Even though it was hard to tell but Tech was also helping Lexi with the cleaning and other errands. He was currently on his way back from the grocery store with Duck buying some last minute things that Lexi requested.
Tired but accomplished she sat on the couch taking a break from her endless cleaning. Even though it was just the common room, kitchen and guest bathroom she felt as if she just cleaned the entire tower inside and out.
Rev zoomed himself towards Lexi and handed her a large glass filled with cold water.
She let out a relieving sigh and grabbed the glass from the roadrunner's hand, "Thanks Rev… Wow I'm tired!" she expressed before taking a sip of water.
Rev chuckled, "Well-I-asked-if-you-needed-any-help-with-cleaning ! You-know-if-it-was-me-behing-the-duster-I-would've -been-done-hours-ago!" He joked.
"Yeah well since this was all my idea it kinda seemed unfair if I made you clean or do my chores…" She explained.
"That-sounds-really-kind-of-you-Lexi-but-you-know- I-would've-never-taken-it-the-wrong-way! I-actually-enjoy-cleaning-and-doing-chores! As-long-as-I'm-doing-something-and-not-laying-arou nd-doing-nothing-I'm-happy!" Expressed a cheery Rev.
Lexi smiled at her speedy companion, she knew he meant well with his help offer. But for now she was just grateful that he and Slam were taking care of the food, since she didn't consider herself a skilled chef like Jake, if anything she kinda felt embarrassed that she was a girl and wasn't very functional in the kitchen. She knew how to cook, she just knew how to do it for herself and maybe for another person, but not for her entire team plus one. Not to mention that her food didn't taste as good as Jake and Slam's cooking, so when Slam offered to cook when she let her teammates know about her dinner plans she was more than grateful with the tasmanian's kind gesture.
Rev was mostly helping with dessert since he enjoyed baking, and the sweet smell reached the female bunny's nostrils, "Mmmm, what's baking Rev?" She dreamily asked.
"Angel-food-cake! At-first-I-didn't-know-what-to-make-for-dessert, I-wanted-chocolate-cake-and-Slam-wanted-german-cho colate-cake-but-we-were-out-of-coconut-and-I-have- to-admit-it's-not-my-favorite-to-bake-then-I-reall y-really-REALLY-wanted-to-do-a-strawberry-triffle- so-that's-why-I'm-baking-the-angel-food-cake! Tech-is-getting-the-rest-of-the-strawberries-and-e xtra-fruits-and-whip-ingredients! Oh-I'm-so-excited-to-try-it! It's-my-mom's-secret-recipe-I've-been-dying-to-try -and-hopefully-it'll-taste-as-good-as-hers!" Said an excited Rev, the avian really did enjoy baking.
"Well that sounds amazing Rev!" Said Lexi putting her glass down on the coffee table, "Thanks Rev, for helping me with today's dinner." she gave Rev a grateful smile.
"You're-welcome-Lexi-I'm-just-excited-to-have-ever yone-together-for-dinner-hopefully-talking-and-get ting-along! Plus-you-gave-me-an-excuse-to-try-my-mom's-recipe! " He said as a chuckle escaped his beak.
She smiled at him, but her smile faded as she wondered if her entire team would literally show up. There was no doubt she was counting on 4 of her teammates, but only 1 remained as a mystery; she was eager yet scared to know if he would show up or not.
"Well-I'm-gonna-go-check-on-Slam-and-see-if-he-nee ds-any-help!" Said Rev as he stood and zoomed towards the kitchen.
Lexi stared blankly at the view in front of her, a concerning expression on her face. Emotionally she was a mess, physically she was exhausted but she had other things to attend at the moment rather than her feelings.
The doors from the elevator opened to reveal Tech and Duck who carried bags from the grocery store. Lexi glanced at their direction and walked towards them with the intention to help them with the bags.
"No Lex, we got it!" Informed Tech pulling the bags away from the female bunny.
"What?! Have her carry something! In fact I said I wasn't going to help and here I am carrying the stuff that she requested for her thing, that even though I'm included I specifically said that would NOT help!" Sneered Duck as he handed Lexi one of the bags, and she didn't protest as she happily grabbed it.
"No! We got it covered!" The coyote growled to the mallard, he now glanced at Lexi, "Lexi, you have about an hour to get ready. We'll cut the cheese and set the table, don't worry we got it all covered." Tech said reassuringly.
Lexi hesitated before she glanced at her watch and noticed that Tech was indeed right, she only had an hour to get ready before 6:00 p.m. Which was the time that she told Jake and the others when the dinner would start.
She gave him a thankful nod before she placed the bags on the floor and darted towards her room, even though Duck's protests echoed around her; she didn't really have the time to help out further than what she had already done. She quickly undressed and hopped into the shower, her outfit already laying on her hammock, ready to be worn.
She quickly dressed and dried her hair, she wore light neutral makeup from her new makeup collection that Jake got her. Never in her life has she ever owned so many makeup products, not that she needed them… But one day he just surprised her with the extent collection of expensive beauty products, a new and bigger vanity for storage and comfort, not to mention the latest fall and winter collection from Shaun Paul, including shoes and accessories. To say that she wasn't excited to get all these items was a lie, she was always into fashion, but ever since she joined the team her suit was mainly her first and only option. It was on rare outings with the team when she actually got the chance to wear normal outfits, but ever since she started dating Jake her outings started to increase, and not that he cared how she dressed but since he was really good friends with Shaun Paul he provided her with such a luxurious collection.
She was currently wearing a turquoise casual loose blouse, black skinny jeans and brown flats. She had her ears down with no ribbon around them, her accessories were quite simple, she wore a simple silver necklace with a star pendant and simple black bracelets hugged her wrists. She sprayed a light splash of her sweet perfume, and that concluded her "getting ready" routine.
She walked out of her room and into the kitchen, the table was surprisingly impeccably set, the plates were neatly placed, all form of silverware was neatly placed in order along with different types of glasses; including water goblets and wine glasses. There were water pitchers and a weird looking pitcher which she assumed was for the wine. A couple of trays were spread along the table with appetizers and cheese, a salad bowl, bread basket and a couple of candles were lit up in random places around the table, giving their dinning room a warm cozy feeling.
She stared at the table in shock, never had she ever seen this table look so fancy and proper.
Tech, who was behind the female bunny lightly cleared his throat to get her attention, which worked because she turned towards him, her expression still in awe. "So… What do you think?" He asked breaking the silence.
"Tech… This! You did this?" She asked in disbelief.
"Yup! I did a little research on how to properly set a table, and this came up, and I thought, piece of cake. I have to admit it looks way better now than it does everyday." He proudly informed her.
She ran towards the coyote and hugged him, the hug taking him by surprise; he wasn't one to normally have physical contact with others so if something he seemed surprised; he didn't know exactly how to relax, though his expression softened and he gently patted her back in a supporting manner.
"Tech this looks amazing! I mean… It looks like we're going to dine in a 5 star restaurant!" She said breaking the hug.
"Well Slam did went a little over board with his cooking today… Not sure exactly what he's up to, but I know it's something special, and I really didn't want to just have the usual boring table…" He sheepishly admitted.
Tech was currently dressed with a blue casual long-sleeved buttoned up shirt and gray smart trousers with black shoes and belt.
"YUP-isn't-it-neat?! My-strawberry-trifle-is-going-to-look-amazing-with -this-table! Speaking-of-which-the-trifle-is-currently-cooling- in-the-fridge-and-by-the-time-dinner-arrives-it'll -be-ready-to-eat!" Happily said Rev who quickly zoomed himself towards Tech and Lexi.
Lexi chuckled at the roadrunner's words, "Great! I can't wait to try the trifle Rev, it sounds amazing!" she expressed.
Rev's outfit resembled the coyote's, the only difference was the color and the fact that he wore jeans instead of trousers. His shirt was actually black with grey stripes on it.
Suddenly Slam walked into the kitchen, his outfit was more similar to Tech's, the only addition was the apron he wore as he walked towards the stove and turned the oven off. "Food ready!" He gladly informed his teammates as he walked back towards them.
Lexi hugged the tasmanian as soon as he reached her, "Thanks for cooking Slam. It smells amazing! I don't know what I would've done without you!"
The tasmanian slightly blushed at her, "It's nothing Lexi friend." He said as he chuckled his words out.
She broke the hug when she heard Duck quacking into the group. His outfit looked more like Rev's, but instead of a buttoned up shirt, he wore a long sleeve t-shirt, and black shoes.
"Hey how much longer until we have to wait?!" Asked an inpatient Duck.
Lexi glanced at her watch and noticed that Jake was actually 10 minutes late. She nervously glanced around the common room in hopes that their remaining teammate would suddenly exit his room and join them, but she knew that was a little too much to ask; even though she couldn't help but hope for a miracle at this point.
Her uneasy look caught the coyote's attention; he worriedly stood next to her and placed a supporting hand on her shoulder. Lexi glanced at him and gave him a lightly hurt look which anyone could easily tell she was trying her best to hide.
She stared at Ace's door, and Tech sighed before he spoke "You know… I think you should just relax and enjoy your evening. We don't get to have nice dinners like this very often, and this is all about us getting to know Jake better." He paused and turned Lexi to face him. "Lex, we're your friends… And we'll always be here for you. I know you and Ace have been distant lately, and I know his friendship means a lot to you but you just gotta give him some time… He already has a lot on his plate as it is."
Lexi felt like crying but instead she just embraced the coyote; grateful for his support and what she assumed was on behalf of the rest of the team.
She broke the hug and looked back at the rest of her teammates who were now also looking at her, she delivered a thankful smile towards them, her eyes slightly glimmering; but she had managed to hold back the tears, first because she didn't really have the time to cry; what if Jake arrived and saw her in such state, and secondly she didn't want to mess up her makeup.
"Thanks guys… for being here, cooking, cleaning… For everything, it really means a lot." She said, even though she meant it, the rest could sense a hint of hurt in her tone.
"No-problem-Lexi-you-know-you-can-always-count-on- us!" Said Rev as he zoomed towards her and stretched an arm around her shoulders in a supporting manner.
"Yeah, Lexi friend forever!" Slam cheered happily.
"Yeah sister, you know I may seem arrogant most of the time; but you know I really care for you." admitted Duck.
Lexi smiled as the sensation of crying grew even more, but this time the reason behind her hidden tears was happiness. She was happy that at the end of the day she still had friends she could count on, friends who supported her and would never abandon her on her times of need.
A small beeping alarm sounded and they all looked towards a pad that was placed next to the elevator. The beeping sound was the tower's doorbell, naturally being the fastest Rev ran towards the pad and pressed the button to see who their guest was even though they already had a hunch of who it was.
"Who-is-it? Is-it-you-Jake? We're-here-waiting-for-you!" Said Rev as he pressed a button on the pad, he paused for a second and waited for an image to appear from the security cameras in the main lobby.
And as in cue Jake's face popped up, "Yeah it's me mate, not to pressure you or anything but the papz are really killing me today so the faster you open up the faster I can get away from all of this rubbish." Quickly explained the actor displayed on the pad.
"Okie-dokie-Jake!" Said Rev as he punched in a code that would grant access for Jake to enter the elevator.
A minute later and the main doors to the common room opened to reveal Jake who was carrying two bottles in his hands. He wore his usual attire of decent slim jeans, a nice buttoned up casual long sleeved shirt and a well fitted blazer on top. He hurriedly walked out of the elevator and towards the group who patiently awaited for his arrival.
"I'm sorry guys, but I had a meeting with the director and the producers and it took a bit more than we expected. Plus traffic and those crazy papz…" Jake explained as he gave the team an apologetic look.
Lexi walked towards him and playfully fixed the collar of his shirt, "Hey don't worry babe, Slam was just done cooking and we just all gathered here since we all just walked out of our rooms." She sweetly explained to her boyfriend, in hopes to relieve his sudden stress of being the late guest.
He gave her a relieving smile before he gently leaned towards her and pecked her lips to greet her.
When they parted she softly and playfully slapped his chest, "Besides, there's nothing wrong with being fashionably late." she teased.
He chuckled at her sudden teasingly actions, his cheeks flushing seeing as they were in front of the rest of the guys, "I guess not," he paused as he looked back at her teammates who stared at the couple with curiosity, he cleared his throat and stepped away from Lexi; properly facing the rest. "How are you guys?" He happily asked.
"Happy because you're finally here, and we can hopefully eat soon!" Said Duck in a playful manner.
"Excuse our friend here…" Started Tech gesturing towards Duck, "We're glad to have you for dinner Jake." Expressed Tech delivering the actor a welcoming smile.
"We-are-super-excited-to-have-you-here-today-Jake! And-it-seems-like-Slam-did-something-really-specia l-for-dinner-so-I-can-tell-that-he's-also-super-ex cited-to-have-you-here-as-well! In-fact-I'm-so-happy-that-I-finally-got-the-chance -to-finally-try-out-my-mom's-trifle-recipe!" Said Rev as he cheerfully slightly jumped while he expressed his words.
Slam gave the roadrunner an agreeing nod as he happily clapped his hands.
"Well I've heard that Slam's cooking is quite impressive, so I'm super eager to finally try it!" Admitted Jake, he suddenly remembered that his hands were occupied by two bottles; he quickly glanced at them and then back at the team, "I brought two bottles of wine from my personal collection… Their both italians."
Tech walked towards Jake and grabbed the bottles from his hand and started walking towards the kitchen.
Lexi grabbed his arm and started to walk him towards the kitchen, the rest following their actions as they all now walked towards the kitchen.
Tech signaled the rest to take a seat on the table while he helped Slam with the serving. Jake stared impressively at the table as he noted how properly arranged it was with the proper cutlery, dish and glasses; even though he was used to eating like this, it kind of surprised him to see that the Loonatics took the time to actually dine like this, even though that wasn't the case for their everyday dining; this was a special occasion, not to mention that Tech went a little overboard with setting the table. Non the less everyone enjoyed how the table was set.
Slam and Tech were now approaching the table with what looked like soup bowls. They gently placed one in front of everyone, it seemed to be some kind of creamy soup, when done with the serving both Tech and Slam took their seats and joined the rest to eat their starter course of their dinner.
It's not that he just noticed, in fact he noticed ever since he stepped into the tower that the leader of the team was missing from the group, curiously as to why he gently leaned towards Lexi and slowly asked, "Hey love, uh… Where's Ace?"
Apparently he wasn't as quiet as he thought he was because the rest glanced towards him and Lexi, giving them a nervous glare.
Lexi let her spoon fall making a light clink on her plate, she heavily sighed since she was not expecting the sudden question, "I-I… Uh… I don't know…" She nervously answered.
They all noticed her sudden nervousness; leaving Tech a bit more worried for her than the rest, but things got even more tenser as they all noticed her flinch in her seat; her ears perked up and pink rings started to glow around them; meaning she heard something, and she was right; she didn't dare to look towards the direction of the sound but when the rest noticed the presence of someone else walking towards the kitchen they all did.
Tech respectfully stood as he noticed his leader approaching the kitchen, "Chief! Uh… You wanna join us? Slam made some really special dishes tonight, I don't think you wanna miss this!" He said in a nervous yet convincing manner.
Ace lifted his hand in a dismissal manner before he replied, "That all sounds tempting Tech, but-"
He was interrupted by the coyote's words, "Let me guess… You're gonna go for a ride." Finished the coyote for the bunny in an unimpressed manner.
Ace glared at the coyote for his sudden outburst, but Tech felt upset; he didn't know which side to be on. On one hand, he knew what his leader was going through, and he understood how hurt he was with his situation with Lexi, he knew that there was a reason behind his sudden distance with his best friend. Yet he also understood that Lexi really did cared for him, and that regardless of what happened between the two she was willing to move on; Ace knew her more than anyone so for him to remove himself from her picture was a little bit cruel too when all she wanted was for him to be there for her… Even though he knew that there was more behind her saddened reasons.
He didn't know if it was because Jake was there, or because he was helping Lexi with the whole dinner; who knows they were both his friends and maybe today he felt a bit more on Lexi's side even though he shouldn't take either side to be fair.
Ace sighed and composed himself, trying not to look or sound upset. He glanced at Slam and gave him an apologetic look, "I'm sorry buddy, can you save me a plate?" He asked politely.
The tasmanian gladly nodded, "Ok Ace."
Jake stared at him and noted that he was indeed going for a ride as he was holding his helmet in one hand and his outfit consisted of jeans, sneakers, leather jacket, riding gloves and a scarf since it was kind of chilly today.
"Alright I guess I'll see you guys later…" He said as he waved everybody goodbye and walked towards the hangar were their flying/hovering vehicles were located.
They all waved goodbye, and Jake was about to do the same but was stopped by Lexi who quickly grabbed his hand and forcefully pulled it down to his lap. He turned to her confused, she wasn't facing him, she was facing her plate and her eyes were forcefully shut; her expression seemed hurt, but mostly as if she was holding something back.
Respectfully Jake relaxed his hand to signal her that he was going to comply with her sudden quiet demand. She softened her grip until she finally released his hand, and that's when she glanced at him and gave him a thankful nod. Even though he was confused and his insides were begging him to interrogate her for her sudden actions; he knew that now would be totally inappropriate, but he just couldn't shake the thought that his girlfriend was keeping something from him.
Lexi took a deep breath and forcefully smiled to the rest scattered around the table, hoping that they didn't noticed her muted tantrum. Some smiled back at her, and others were currently too busy with their soups. She felt like breaking the tense ice now that the cause for their unexpected tension was officially out of the way.
"So… Jake, you had a meeting earlier with the director and producers of the movie you're starring in, did they finally let you know where your next filming location is going to be at?" She asked, her tone loud enough to include the rest into the conversation.
The rest gave Jake an intrigued look as they waited for the actor to reply his answer, "Yes they finally let us know…"
"And…" Pressed Lexi, her tone now filled with curiosity.
Jake glanced at her, "Actually I would prefer to talk about that in private later on if you don't mind?" He said, changing his tone into a more serious one.
The rest looked a bit disappointed since they were patiently waiting for the actor's reply, not to mention that his answer might've given them a topic for the rest to talk about. Jake noticed their expressions, and because of that he delivered them an apologetic look. "Sorry, it's just that it has to be confidential for a while." He sheepishly answered.
"Oh!" Responded a surprised Lexi. "Sure, no problem we'll talk later." She promised.
"Well I heard it was going to be somewhere in the middle East!" Commented Duck.
The rest glared at the mallard for trying to push the subject even further when Jake impulsively ended it.
Changing the subject and ignoring Duck's comment he nervously took a deep breath and grinned at Slam, "Slam, this soup is amazing! You have to tell me your secrets!" Complimented Jake.
The sudden change in the subject made the rest in the table agree with Jake as they also started to compliment the tasmanian for the flavorful soup.
Slam chuckled "Thank you!" He happily grunted to everyone for the wonderful compliments.
When they were all done with the soup, Rev and Tech stood and helped clear the table, Lexi stood and grabbed the empty wine pitcher and started to walk towards a small fridge that was pretty much hidden inside a lower cupboard; it was a wine cooler that Tech had built when they moved in. The kitchen may seem simple at clear view but inside the cupboards and drawers hid other numerous kitchen related gadgets rather than to serve as normal kitchen storage, some of them even hid in the actual countertops as well.
Lexi placed the pitcher in the counter and opened the mini fridge and pulled out a bottle.
"Uh Lexi… I think we should open the bottles that Jake brought." Suggested Tech.
Lexi raised an eyebrow at him, "Oh?" was all she managed to ask.
Tech was now walking towards Lexi with Jake's bottles in hand, behind his shoulder she could see Slam and Rev serving the rest with the main course, she glanced towards the stove and noticed that their main dish was Lasagna.
"Lasagna?" She asked curiously as she started to walked towards the table and took her seat back, suddenly forgetting about the wine.
"Yup! But-it's-not-just-any-lasagna-Lex! This-is-gourmet-lasagna-that-Slam-made-from-scratc h! We-got-the-ingredients-from-that-new-organic-marke t-around-the-corner-we-got-fresh-tomatoes-which-he -used-to-prepare-the-sauce-from-scratch-we-also-go t-fresh-herbs-which-he-used-for-the-seasoning-inst ead-of-using-the-usual-powdered-italian-seasoning- fresh-veggies-and-three-different-cheeses-from-the -dairy-I-think-it-has-ricotta-mozzarella-and-a-hin t-of-feta-and-the-meat-is-also-fresh-from-their-bu tcher-shop-but-we-made-half-meaty-half-veggie-for- you-guys-just-in-case-even-though-we-made-a-second -veggie-tray-just-in-case-and-an-extra-meat!"
Duck looked at his plate with delight as the smell hypnotized him to grab his fork, his mouth obviously watering. "That all sounds amazing, I can't wait to dig in!" Expressed the mallard.
"Well be patient Duck, I just gotta open these bottles here." Said Tech as he placed one of the bottles on the countertop, the rest staring at him with interest on how he was going to open the wine bottle. He was currently positioning the bottle on one specific spot, mostly Jake stared at him confused as the coyote touched a button from a hidden keypad in the counter as soon as he found his desired spot. Suddenly from the spot of the bottle came up what looked like a machine that suddenly gripped the bottle and a metal cap positioned itself were the cork was located at, the metal cap suctioned the cork away from the bottle finally opening it.
Jake stared at it mesmerized, sure he had an electric bottle opener, but not like this one which was currently part of the counter.
"Where did you get that amazing opener?" Curiously asked Jake.
Tech glanced at Jake as he poured the bottle into the wine pitcher, "Hmm… Oh this? I built it when we first moved into the tower." He simply answered.
"You built it? As in you didn't buy it at the store and installed it?" Asked a surprised Jake.
Tech slightly chuckled, "Yes, as in I built it from scratch." He replied.
"Wow that's amazing, and not to mention convenient!" He complimented.
"I can build you one later on if you'd like, though I would have to install it in your house sometime…" Offered the coyote.
"Wait, you mean you can build another one? What materials do you need? I can get them for you." Jake asked surprised.
Tech once again chuckled, "No I have plenty of materials here, and I can have it ready in roughly 30 minutes. But again I would have to install it." He explained.
Jake stared at the coyote amazed by the sudden piece of information, "You can build it. Today?" Repeated an astonished Jake.
Lexi chuckled and pecked her lips on Jake's cheek, "Yup! He doesn't know Tech yet!" She added.
They all laughed at her comment, Jake giving them all a confused look. Of course he didn't know Tech well enough to know that he was capable of building gadgets and machines in a matter of minutes.
He nervously scratched the back of his neck, "Well I didn't know it was even possible, forgive me but I just didn't know." he sheepishly admitted.
"And may I add Jake, according to a bit of research I did, the wine you brought is the perfect match for our main dish." Tech commented as he walked towards the table with the pitcher in hand, he placed it on the table and the rest passed and served themselves if desired.
"Wow, lucky guess!" Joked Lexi as she slightly elbowed her boyfriend, and he gave her and the rest a smile as if to say 'No problem'.
A couple of minutes later and they were done with their main course. They all complimented Slam for his amazing culinary skills, he certainly outdid himself this time.
By now the ice was finally broken and Jake had let loose and felt more comfortable with talking with the rest, they were currently eating Rev's trifle.
"Mmm… I gotta say Rev, this is amazing!" Complimented Lexi, taking a bite from her dessert.
"I-know-right-this-tastes-even-better-than-my-mom' s-although-don't-tell-her-that-or-else-she'll-make -a-big-deal-out-it!" Informed Rev.
"Amazing?! Pffftt Girl this is orgasmic!" Corrected Duck.
Slam was already done with his piece and was now licking his spoon.
"You know Slam, there's plenty left, you can have another piece if you'd like. After all you've earned it." Suggested Tech as he passed the trifle cake stand towards Slam.
For one second Slam thought of devouring the whole thing in one bite, but then he remembered that he had to save a plate for Ace so he unwillingly served himself a reasonable piece.
"Amazing indeed Rev." Added Jake, he now faced the team before he continued his sentence, "In fact I was wondering what were your plans for Thanksgiving?"
They all stared at each other in thought for a couple of seconds before Rev replied, "Well-usually-we-make-a-Thanksgiving-dinner-and-in vite-my-parents-over-or-sometimes-I-go-to-my-paren t's-house-and-lately-Zadavia-has-been-joining-us-a lso-but-Slam-cooks-the-turkey-and-the-mashed-and-s weet-potatoes-Lexi-makes-the-greenbean-casserole-a nd-I-usually-take-care-of-dessert!"
"Why are you asking Jake?" Curiously asked Lexi.
"Well because Thanksgiving is this upcoming thursday and I was wondering if you guys would like to come over to my house for dinner?"
The team stared at each other for a couple of minutes in thought as if they were telepathically debating the answer, and it seemed like they all agreed on the answer.
"Wow thanks Jake! We'd loved to!" Answered Tech, and they all seemed to agree on the coyote's answer as they all happily chattered in an agreeing manner.
Lexi on the other hand seemed a bit uneasy, not that she didn't like the idea, after all this is what she wanted; for her friends to get to know Jake better. But ever since they got their powers they always celebrated Thanksgiving in the tower together, this would be the first year that they would break their tradition, not to mention that she kind of had a hunch that Ace wouldn't like the idea seeing as how he's been acting lately.
"Oh Good! I would have a chef working that day, but knowing me I always help a bit in the kitchen but what I would really love is to have Rev's trifle there!" Expressed Jake as he glanced at Rev.
The roadrunner became suddenly speechless as a huge grin grew on his beak, "OMG-No-problem-Jake-I-can-even-make-more-than-one -if-you'd-really-like! I'm-so-excited!"
"Great! I usually fly to Acme London, but since I have to work the next day I can't really risk myself to travel for a short period of time… Gretchen will be there with her fiancé, and I've also invited Haley to join us."
Tech looked at the actor with curiosity, suddenly something didn't sound right, "Wait, aren't you british?"
"Yes why?" Asked Jake a bit surprised by the coyote's sudden obvious question.
"British people don't celebrate Thanksgiving… Am I right?" The coyote asked suspiciously.
Jake chuckled a bit, seeing as how the coyote did have a point and how his invitation suddenly sounded suspicious, "I'm half british mate, my mum is american and she's always taught us about her american roots and customs… Meaning she also does a 4th of July BBQ on our house every year, even though non of our guests really care about why everything is decorated red, white and blue…"
"That's-right-I-remember-reading-that-he-was-half- british-when-I-first-read-his-biography-when-we-go t-that-mission-on-him-being-missing!" Supported Rev.
Lexi already knew all of this information from her boyfriend, but she suddenly felt happy that her teammates were finally getting to know parts of Jake that they didn't know.
Tech gave him an understanding look and nodded, "Ohhh, ok!" he nervously chuckled, "Sorry about that, now I remember Rev." he finished as he glanced at the roadrunner.
"But you're accent! It's purely british!" Exclaimed Duck.
"Yes, mum being the only american in the house… I had school, my entire family from my dad's side, my friends… It's the one accent that stuck with me for obvious reasons. Although when I started my acting career you get to learn and mimic different accents, and I have to admit that ironically the american was the hardest for me to learn; but mum actually helped me perfect my american accent… I just prefer to speak with my native british accent in real life since it's the one that I feel the most comfortable with, after all I was born and raised in Acme London."
"Hmmm…" Acknowledged the mallard as he thought about something else to say, "Wait did you mentioned earlier that Haley… As in, the Haley Bunny will be at your house this thursday?"
Lexi gave Jake an uneasy look as Duck's question came as a reminder of Jake's other guests for his dinner, a guest that for some reason her presence bothered her. Maybe it was just instinct to protect what was hers, or just the uneasiness of the fact that Haley was Jake's co-star and love interest in the movie; and rather she'd like it or not they'd have to film a couple of love scenes together, some she wasn't even sure if she was ready to watch, or just accept. Sure they were dating and she knew that kissing a possible co-star came with the package of his career, she just wasn't sure if she was ok with that yet; even though it was all purely an act.
Jake nodded as he replied, "Yes."
"Is this guy great or what?! Not only is he inviting us to his humble and amazing mansion for Thanksgiving with all of that amazing gourmet banquet, he is also going to introduce me to the lovely Haley Bunny!" Bragged Duck, intentionally putting Jake on the spotlight.
Jake looked at him a bit surprised, and he raised an eyebrow at the mallard. Suddenly a smirk grew on his face, "Well I'm sure she'd be thrilled to meet you Duck, and I'm pretty sure her fiancé will also be thrilled to meet you as well." Teased Jake.
Lexi's features softened a bit at the new piece of information, and she couldn't help but giggle at herself for the way she felt before.
Duck's eyes widened at Jake's words, "No way! When did she get engaged?" demanded the mallard.
Jake chuckled, "I think sometime over the summer…" he replied.
"But! But it hasn't been in the tabloids! She's single according to her biography!" Said Duck as a matter-of-factly.
"Well she's actually been keeping it secret, only her closest friends and family know about it. And we can't blame her! She just wants privacy and a normal life whenever the cameras are not looking." Explained Jake.
"Exactly Duck, not everyone is fame hungry like you; even though they have the power to do so." Added Lexi. And the rest chuckled at her comment, specially her teammates as they personally knew how Duck was.
"You're despicable you know that?" Expressed a newly irritated Duck.
A couple of minutes later and the table was cleared, each loonatic was either watching TV, or helping with the cleaning, minus Lexi who was with Jake riding the elevator to the tower's rooftop. Once arrived, they stepped out. Lexi took a deep breath, remembering the last time she was here; she took in the view of the now lighted city below her. Jake standing next to her doing the same.
They were both being warmed by their coats since the night was a bit chilly.
Jake pulled Lexi towards him and stretched his arm around her shoulder, she grabbed his hand and smiled at him.
He returned the smile she gave him for a couple of seconds until it suddenly faded and a concerned look crept on him. Curious Lexi's faded as well and a wondering look now grew on her. "What's wrong?" She gently asked fully facing him.
Unsure about the words he should use he sighed, "Nothing… Well…" he paused, "Love have you been alright?" he asked in worry.
Confused at his sudden question, she raised an eyebrow at him, "Yes why?" she replied suspiciously.
"Well maybe I didn't ask the right question…" He corrected, "Are you and Ace alright?"
The question took her by surprise and her gaze suddenly fell to the ground as she suddenly thought about her lost friend.
Jake cupped her chin and brought her eyes to his, "Lexi, I know something's up."
She tried her best not to meet his eyes, it's not that she wanted to lie about it, it's just that she didn't want to talk about it, specially not to her boyfriend. "It's nothing…" she lied.
"It sure doesn't look like nothing love." He replied unconvinced.
She sighed defeatedly, "I don't really know what's going on," she paused, "But ever since the premier everything's changed between us…"
Jake suddenly felt a jolt of guilt, he had talked to Ace the day of the premier, and now he suddenly felt like it was his fault that his girlfriend's friendship with the team's leader had changed. He knew about Ace's feelings for Lexi, and sure he had to be pre-cautious about keeping his girl on track; he did love her and didn't want to loose her, but he sure didn't want for them to lose their friendship. He had promised Ace that he wouldn't mention Lexi about their chat, and he still stood by it, he knew how much Ace's friendship meant to her; so if he suddenly mentioned that they had a chat that day, and that it might've been his fault he knew for sure that she wouldn't be able to forgive him. Of course he didn't know if Ace had managed to maintain his part of the bargain.
Worried he asked, "Has Ace said anything to you?"
Lexi glanced at him a bit confused of his sudden worry, "Eh… No, that's the thing he doesn't really talk to me anymore."
"Just like that?" He asked a bit surprised of her answer.
"Yes… Well it's partially…" She stopped herself when she noticed that she might've revealed a little too much information. Information she promised herself to keep under lock and key, information that only Ace and her knew, and that she hoped it maintained itself a mystery for both leader and second in command.
She changed her expression to a more thoughtful one, even though she knew Jake noticed her sudden pause in her reply since a curious look grew on his features. "It was partially what?" He tried picking up the conversation again.
Lexi looked at him and faked a smile, "Oh nothing… I spaced out a bit there, don't even remember what I was talking about. Anyways… When do I get to know about you're confidential filming location?" She said, in hopes that Jake forgets about their previous topic.
"Oh right, I forgot I had to talk to you about that." He sheepishly answered.
"Well! I'm all ears. Literally." She joked.
Jake was fully facing Lexi, he gently grabbed both of her hands and looked straight into her eyes. "It's Acme France." He happily informed her.
A smile grew on her face as soon as she heard the words, "That's amazing Jake!" she happily replied, happy that her boyfriend will have such an amazing opportunity to travel to the popular European country.
"I know, even though I've been to France before… But to be honest I don't remember much since I was 4 years old when me and my family went to vacation there one summer." He admitted.
Lexi still stared at him with delight, but her smile faded when she realized that it all meant that he would have to leave Acmetropolis sometime, "When are you leaving?" she asked, and a bit of sadness could be sensed in her tone.
Jake's smile also faded, "In a week." he replied.
Lexi's eyes widened, she wasn't really ready for her boyfriend to leave so soon, specially with how vulnerable she's been feeling lately. "For how long?" She asked, even though she wasn't quite ready to know the answer either.
Jake looked down at his feet as he as well was dreading the answer, "3 months…"
Now her eyes also met the ground as reality hit her, "Oh…" was all she expressed.
Jake cupped her face and kissed her as a consoling manner, a smile was starting to slowly curl up on his face as their lips locked. When they parted, Lexi noticed his smile and she couldn't help but to feel confused.
"What's so funny? You know I'm happy for you and all but I'm going to miss you terribly."
Jake tried to control his emotions, but he was so eager to finish what he wanted to say that he couldn't contain himself. "You know Lexi, we don't have to wait that long to see each other…" He started, making the situation a little more difficult for her to comprehend.
"Well I know that with today's advanced technology anything's possible…" She tried to conclude.
Jake shook his head, dismissing what she was trying to say, "No love, this is much more than just a holo chat… Lexi, I know it's always been a dream of yours to go to Acme France, so I was wondering if you'd like to come along with me?"
Lexi was speechless at Jake's proposal as it took her by surprise, "Wh-What?" she asked in disbelief.
Jake chuckled at her reaction, "It doesn't have to be for the entire three months, but I figured you'd loved to come along with… Think about it, you'll finally have time to relax and enjoy yourself, not to mention that it will be extremely romantic for us… Love, we will finally be able to get away from everything, from the papz, the drama, the stress. And that's not all, we will be getting a week off for the holidays so we'll be able to fly up to London and spend Christmas with my family, after all mum's dying to meet you." He explained.
Lexi was still in her dumbfounded state, "Jake…" she started, but found herself speechless once again.
"And it's not just Paris love… We'll be filming a week in Italy as well, and if I'm not mistaking I think we'll be filming in Spain also…" He stopped when he noticed his girlfriend's confused expression; he looked at her apprehensively, her current expression was not quite what he was expecting.
There was a few seconds of silence before Lexi found it in her to speak, "Jake…" She sighed, "I- I can't… I mean don't get me wrong I'd loved to, you're right it's been my dream ever since I was a little girl," She expressed with a bit of excitement, but stopped and her expression changed to a more concerned one. "it's not that I don't want to Jake it's just that… My job, I just can't leave like that."
"Love I'll talk to your boss if I need to, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity." He said convincingly.
"I know it is Jake, and I understand… And I know Zadavia will probably approve, but it's not just up to her you know…"
"Ace… You need me to talk to him?" He asked softly.
She sighed in sorrow at the mention of his name. Truth is she was dying to go with him, and it wasn't just Zadavia or Ace's permission that was keeping her from doing so. "Jake, it's not really about permission, it's not really about who approves my vacation slip or not… I'm second in command of this team, if something happens to Ace and God forbid of such thing happening, it's my duty to take the lead. It's about responsibility… I'm on this team and we count on each other, the same way I count on them, the same way that this city counts on us." Her tone serious and determined.
Jake's expression changed from eagerness to disappointment, even though he understood her point he still had hope in changing her mind. "I understand love…" He replied, suddenly deciding not to press the subject.
Lexi stared at him with concern as she noticed his sudden smile fade away, though something inside her brought her to try and cheer him up; she still wasn't completely determined of her decision, "Hey…" She said cupping his chin and bringing his gaze to hers, "Tell you what, I'll think about it." she said reassuringly, and the smile grew once again on his face as he pressed his lips against hers.
"Thank you." Was all he said when they parted.
Lexi chuckled even though she was a bit confused. "For what?"
"For at least giving me a spark of hope. Lexi I can promise you that it will be an amazing experience, and if you want to go only for a month or a couple of weeks that's fine as well, but it would mean a lot for me." Explained the actor.
Lexi gave him a kind warm smile, she could tell that it really did meant a lot to him, even though that Jake had more than enough reasons to impress Lexi, it wasn't just the fact that it was the city of love that they would be traveling to, this was his job also; and he felt like he wanted to include her somehow when it came to his career. It was more of having her support while he finally made his dreams come true of becoming a big screen movie star, it was more of having the person he loved the most by his side while he traveled the world, it was having that enormous extra inch of happiness by his side while he did what passioned him the most.
"I also need to know your decision by Wednesday…" He carefully added. Of course he had personal jet planes and could easily leave whenever he pleased to, but for this occasion production was taking care of everything for each crew member, actors and actresses involved in the movie including family or personal members of each and every cast members, all of that included transportation of all sorts, food and hospitality in extravagant hotels as well.
Lexi nodded silently as she decided not to go deeper into why since she already had a clue as to why he had a deadline for her answer. She hated to be put under pressure, if it was her she would stay because it's what she really felt it was the right thing to do, she had a duty as second in command of the Loonatics to stay and watch her leader's back. It wasn't really that she would miss anything or anyone in specific, if anything she felt like she needed the getaway; and this time it wasn't just stress like she had when she agreed that one time to Duck to go to Apocalypso (Even though that ended up being disastrous…), this was more desire to get away from it all, to get her feelings straight. After all it should be Jake she should be falling for right? He was good for her, the press thought so, her mother approved, her friends also approved… Well sorta.
All that was crossing her mind was…
'Jake is good… Ace is lost…'
DUN DUN DUNNNNNNN! LOL!
Alright guys, Please review! There are only 2 chapters left! Can you believe it? We've gotten so far!