OMG, 6 months later? What's wrong with me? Okay, okay! I cannot resist posting this chapter anymore. I was trying to wait to write the next 2 chapters and post all at once so that there was really something worth reading with tons of new developments. So, this is a filler chapter, but I am soooo excited to write the next ones :D Bear with me! I'm still doing the school thing and unfortunately fic writing has taken a backseat to life, but I'm still at it. Sorry for the delay!
Thank you ALL so much for reading/reviewing! It certainly motivates me knowing that you're reading this still. Shouties: Avarenda, noodles207, I Talk2Evil Little Pixes, TRexPoop, Emma James, Ryoko05, imaferrari, LoLo06, courting disaster, KairiM, Harley Quinn Davidson, MusicSouth91, Irishgrl33, infamous awe (I guess it's supposed to be pronounced JAY-tawn, similar to a nickname for my bestie. But, I kinda got used to pronouncing it J'Aton. So I'll leave that to open interpretation :P), lone fenix, Elly1212 (I thought about it and I'll probably pursue it sometime later in life. Thanks for the compliment!), degrassi1son, LostandDelirious, mutt009, eternallymontyp, WillowOn3 (hope you and ConcealedAttraction are doing well!), letsbefrankimawkward (you crack me up! lol and I think this chapter will make you love Liz just a little more), Tagme07, Inkmstr10 (I'm honored, thank you!), suspenceme, SouthofNowherefanatic, TrulyUndecided, squee-shee, Your Relentless Lover, lalalalee (thanks for coming back!), casalang, and last but not least, my beta: River McSlappy! LOL (here's to the BPITW)
Enjoy! :)10.4.11
Disclaimer: I don't own South of Nowhere or the character. However, I do own the poem in this chapter (also from Chapter 10) called "Undying Love."
As far as I can remember.
That's what I usually tell people when they first find out about my secret… because, in all honesty, it's the first memory that comes to mind. I think when you're at that age, it's really difficult to sort the chronological order of things. Something you did when you were 4, could easily be transposed in memory with something you did when you were 3. There really was no way of distinguishing when events happened because, quite frankly, you didn't even know the concept of numbers. You didn't fully realize that 3 came before 4. When someone asks how old you are, you proudly flash your little phalanges and say, "This many!" That's what the adults tell you to do anyway.
As far as I can remember.
I was so excited that I didn't have to hold my pinky finger down with my thumb. I proudly folded my thumb over my palm and was… this many! I couldn't wait to go to Chuck E. Cheese's and play in the ball pit and have all the cheese pizza I could possibly eat. But, mom insisted that we stop by her work on the way there.
"Mommy, when are we goooooing?"
"Soon, sweetie." She didn't bother to look away from the computer.
She'd ran so many tests, more than… this many. CT scans, MRIs, you name it. This time, she put some sort of gel in different areas of my head and put this head cap on me. She plugged these skinny wires into these tiny sockets all over the cap.
"Maybe an EEG will work."
I glanced at her. "Mommy, what's an EEG?"
Her eyes snapped in my direction. "She's doing it again."
"Doing what, mommy?" I brought my legs up to sit Indian style in the chair.
She flipped a switch on some machine next to the computer monitor and turned a few small knobs before drawing the desk chair to sit in front of me.
She sat there with a troubled look, which only grew worrisome by the second. She only hoped that maybe it was temporary. She continued to sit there in silence, but I could hear everything.
"Mommy, when are we going to Chuck E. Cheese? I'm hungry." I crossed my arms and pouted.
"We'll leave here when you can tell me how you're doing that."
"Whoa!" I uncrossed my arms. "How did you talk without moving your mouth?"
"I'm not talking, sweetie." She squinted. "You're reading my mind. Tell mommy how you're doing that."
"I'm not doing anything." I suddenly felt very small in the chair I sat in as my mother grew concerned. I felt like I was in trouble.
"Blue cat. I'm thinking of a blue cat." She grasped the armrests. "What am I thinking about, Spencer?"
"I don't wanna say." I bit my mouth closed and hid my face in my little hands.
"Tell me, Spencer!" She raised her voice a bit as she swiped my arms aside. I felt so exposed and in so much trouble. I couldn't even comprehend the seriousness of the situation. One second, I am eating cereal and playing with my brothers, telling them how excited I am to go to Chuck E. Cheese for my birthday and how I want to play all these games, especially the wack-a-mole game. And I so happened to guess that dad and mom got me a Malibu Barbie dream house for all my Barbies to finally have a nice home to sleep in after a long day at the pool (aka the bathtub). At first, they blamed Glen and Clay for telling me, when really, I heard it from mom. Mom swore she never said anything. I was telling her all these things she was saying… only she wasn't saying them; she was thinking them. And the next thing I know, mom drags me to the hospital she works at and is running all these weird tests on me. My tummy's grumbling and I suddenly don't want to play all the games at Chuck E. Cheese anymore. I don't want all the pizza I can eat. I just want something to eat. Anything. I don't even think I deserve the Malibu Barbie dream house anymore. I feel like I did something terribly wrong.
"I don't wanna say, mommy!" I began sobbing quietly. "I just want to go home."
"Honey," she said calmly, realizing how freaked out I was, but still believing I had any sense of control over what was going on, "tell me what I was thinking and we'll go to Chuck E. Cheese, I promise."
I wiped at my tears, noticing how her eyes kept panning to the monitor and then to me. "You were thinking… of a blue cat." I whispered.
She stood up as the chair rolled from underneath her. She looked intently at some squiggly lines on the computer monitor, showing readings from the wires sticking out of my head. "This doesn't make sense. Everything seems… normal."
"If everything's normal, isn't that a good thing?" I hesitantly questioned, sniffling a bit from my sobbing fit.
Mom exhaled in frustration, palms down on the desk. She looked at me over her shoulder. "It is a good thing, sweetie. All the results are normal. Only…" she turned to face me, still keeping her distance from her freakish daughter, "you're not normal. Something's very different about you… and that's not a good thing."
We did go to Chuck E. Cheese after that. Glen and Clay made every effort to play with me and get me to celebrate my birthday like any excited kid should. But, I resorted to eating my slice of pizza and sitting in the corner, sobbing to myself.
Whoever said that being different was a good thing?
I unlocked the door and walked through the front of the café before turning the lights on. Shortly after, Corinne walked in, casually tying her mousy brown hair up in a ponytail. Ever since Donny got fired, Corinne gladly changed her schedule to take on the early shift. I've actually been on time for work lately, only because I feel like Jenna has me under a microscope. Corinne and I aren't super close friends, but she's a decent person. So, I don't think Jenna's using her to micromanage me or anything… at least I hope not.
"Good morning, Spencer!" She genuinely smiled, although I could hear the exhaustion in her thoughts. For a second, I missed the grunts, sighs and silent conversations I would have with Donny during our early shifts.
"G'morning," I replied lethargically and tried my best to smother on a smile. I started the brewers as Corinne made her way to the cubby to put her belongings away. When she got back, she began to take the chairs off the tabletops. I quietly made an espresso concoction on the rocks and poured it into 2 plastic cups. I watched as Corinne came back around the counter to check the work schedule.
"PM Shift with Aiden, AM Shift with Mark, AM Shift with Spencer, Spencer's Birthday… Oh!" She looked over her shoulder. "Spencer, happy birthday!"
"Thanks!" I handed one of the espresso drinks to her.
"Thank you!" Her eyes lit up. "You read my mind."
Indeed. I nodded.
"Any idea which day you'll be requesting work off?" Charles is kind enough to give us part-timers a freebie day of our choice for our birthdays.
"I'm taking Saturday off." It'll be nice to sleep in for once. "I try not to make a big deal out of my birthday, but I guess Charles insists on putting our birthdays on the work schedule." I leaned against the countertop and took in the vibrant smell of java steaming out of the brewers.
"Aww, it's your special day though! You gotta go all out!" She nudged me.
I snickered, "It's just my 22nd birthday. Everything's downhill after you turn 21, right?"
"Oh, come on! Life is just getting started." She smirked. "Celebrate! You deserve it."
"Thanks." I realized she wasn't going to let up. "I've got no plans yet, but we'll see where the day goes."
Her eyes panned towards the doorway and she began to smile profusely. "How stinkin' cute is that?" "Yes, let's see where the day goes."
I followed her glances to the door and noticed a very awake Liz walking in with what looked like a dozen red roses. She sauntered so smugly towards the front counter as I stood there agape.
"Did you really think I was gonna let you leave this morning without making a big fuss about your birthday?" She grazed her bangs aside. I've never been so hot for someone before. I actually didn't need the espresso anymore.
"So effing cute!" Corinne draped her green apron on and proceeded to fill the cold milk and creamer canisters.
I had no words, but could feel my cheeks redden in such appreciation. I pranced around the counter and gave her the biggest heart-melting kiss ever. She hugged me tightly as I heard the cellophane crinkle slightly against my back.
I'm totally smitten. No one's ever done anything like this for me before.
I think I'm in love.
She grinned into our kiss before pulling away. "Happy Birthday, sweetie."
"You too… I-I mean, thank you!" I was still dazed.
Liz giggled as she presented me with the roses. "It's my pleasure."
I took in the sweet scent. "You really didn't have to though."
She looked at me incredulously. "Are you kidding me? Today is like… celebrating Christmas!"
I chuckled. "You're unbelievable."
"So, what've you got planned today?" "Please say 'nothing.' Please say 'nothing.'"
I crumpled my eyebrows in brief and fake contemplation before shaking my head, "Nothing planned, to be honest."
"Sweet!" "Alright." She nodded with assertion. "Did you want to grab lunch after your shift is over?"
"Ah, I have to stop by Steinhaus' office hours today to discuss my paper." I responded as Liz quirked an eyebrow. "You know, the one that's due next Monday?"
"Oh, right right!" Her eyes finally widened in recognition. "You can't be doing that bad on your paper."
"Yeah, right." I scoffed. "Kwan said my draft was an epic fail." Not everyone (i.e. me) can write papers as well as others (i.e. my girlfriend) can. She did her paper on Freudian theory as it pertains to male dominance in the political forum. Her draft was so well written that Kwan, the teacher's assistant, practically begged her not to make changes and advised her to submit it as her final paper. Damn, Liz is such a smart gal! Why didn't I think of something so brilliant?
"Aww, sweetie," Liz partly pouted, "do you want me to help?"
"I might take you up on your offer. Let's see what Steinhaus has to say."
"Okay," she smiled, "Don't let him hog you too long… and don't get locked in any bathrooms. You and I have very special dinner plans." She grinned ecstatically. "I cannot wait to surprise her at the Poetry Lounge. It's gonna be insanely awesome!"
Well, at least I know she's not taking me to a place where the ketchup comes in packets… not that I mind anyway. Acknowledging that it's my birthday is already enough of a celebration really.
I gave her a quick peck on the lips. "I can't wait." I bit my lip in anticipation. I wonder what she's got up those little sleeves of hers.
"Mmm, you're so damn cute!" Liz's feet shuffled towards the door, but her fingers were reluctant to let go of mine. "I'll see you later." She said seductively, yet bashfully. It was adorable.
I paced across the floor and quickly placed the flowers in an empty vase, making sure to place them in plain sight to remind me of how lucky I am to have Liz in my life.
"You two are nauseatingly cute!" Corinne squealed. "Ugh! I'm slightly jealous!" She began to grind more beans as customers began to pour in.
I'm proud to say that nothing could have brought me down. In fact, I was extra cheery and courteous to our customers, which resulted in a rather full tip jar. At one point, I serenaded a customer while I put his drink together. Corinne was astonished, but grateful nonetheless. It was a side of me that even I have never seen. No matter what, I knew this was one birthday that would be anything but a disappointment.
Needless to say, my shift went by so quickly and all our customers were in such a wonderful mood, I was actually kinda sad to leave. But I've got places to be, things to do, and actual plans… birthday plans… to be surprised about! Now that I think of it, can time go by any faster so we can get to dinner already?
The sun was out and the breeze was calm and refreshing. Typical Southern California weather, but for the first time, I noticed enough to be appreciative about it. I began humming the song from Cinderella, "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes"… and I kinda hoped that the chirping I heard from the trees would magically sync with the song in my head and all these colorful birds and blue jays would whisk around me and sing about. And then I'd twirl in the middle of the school plaza and everyone would break out in dance.
Yeah… that's not gonna happen. But, I can dream, can't I?
I pulled on the strap of my backpack that was slipping down my right arm as I waited for my stop on the 4th floor. The elevator dinged before the silver doors opened. I stepped out and found myself at the end of a short hallway. I ventured down the quiet white halls, glancing at room numbers.
Room 402: Professor Bob Moran
Room 403: Dr. Loretta Lewis
Room 404: Dr. Bill Steinhaus
Dr. Steinhaus' door was wide open and I could hear the very faint sound of classical music. I peeked in and noticed he was sipping on tea and intently reading some literary journal. I quietly tapped on the doorframe before he looked up at me with indifferent eyes behind his low-hanging glasses.
"Good afternoon, Dr. Steinhaus," I genuinely smiled as I greeted him.
He simply cleared his throat and quietly shut the journal before brushing off biscotti crumbs from his forest green knitted vest. "Good afternoon," he mumbled. Despite his seemingly grumpy behavior, his thoughts told me he was actually glad to have a visitor since no one had come to office hours since last week. Steinhaus adjusted himself in his seat and motioned me to take the empty seat on the other side of his somewhat cluttered desk.
"My name's Spencer Carlin, sir." I quickly slipped into the chair. "I'm in your Monday/Wednesday section?" I said in somewhat of a question to see if he'd recognize me.
"Ah, yes (the talker from the back row)," he nodded. He recognized me alright. "What can I help you with (considering you spend the majority of class chit-chatting)?"
I tried to shake off his condescending thoughts as I placed my draft on the table and wiped a pleasant smile on my face. "Well, I submitted my draft to the TA and she said I had a lot to work on. She said, at best, my paper is deserving of a C."
He raised his eyebrows. "Well, I don't doubt Kwan's judgment. She's currently doing her PhD dissertation on personality theory. So, she knows what she's talking about." Steinhaus said so smugly. After all, he's her mentor and close friends with her father. It comes off like she's the only student he sincerely cares about.
I bit my cheek, so as to not bark at him. "I don't doubt Kwan's knowledge. The problem is she didn't really say what I needed to work on. If anything, it sounded like she wanted me to trash the idea and start all over."
He pursed his lips in contemplation before his eyes panned down to the paper in front of me. He reached out to grab it as he pushed the bridge of his classes up. Steinhaus' eyebrows furrowed as he skimmed the first few pages.
"I can see why Kwan would think that." "Hmm." He neither nodded nor shook his head. He continued to skim and I heard his thoughts critiquing every little sentence. After a few minutes, he flipped the paper back to the first page. "The problem is the person you selected to write about doesn't necessarily fulfill the Maslow personality theory described in your paper."
I shrugged. "What's wrong with the person I selected?"
"I would have selected someone else… other than Jim Carrey… to discuss the Maslow theory." I guess watching Bruce Almighty while writing my paper kinda threw me off a little. It sounded like a good idea at the time. "I agree with Kwan. You should start over and select another public figure. Someone inspirational who really embodies the different stages of the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs. Describe the different events in this individual's life as they pertain to the different levels of the pyramid." He handed the paper back to me. "If you can do that and provide insightful analysis on each event, it shouldn't be short of an A." He folded his hands and genuinely smiled.
I nodded with optimism. "Thanks, professor! I appreciate all your help."
"My pleasure. I am here all week during office hours. So, come see me if you're still struggling. Kwan is also available during discussion hours."
Wow! Steinhaus isn't as bad as I'd thought he'd be. He just looks rough around the edges… and understandably gets cranky when ulcers erupt.
When I'd gotten home in the early afternoon, I noticed Madison's car in the parking port. Hmm… she must've gotten off work early. Not sure why, but I was excited to tell her about Liz surprising me this morning.
I quickly unlocked the door and pranced right in, "Mad, you will never guess what happened this morning." I grinned as I placed my belongings on the countertop.
When I looked up, I was surprised to see Ashley there. I suddenly heard footsteps scuffing the carpet in the hallway before Madison's door shut quietly.
"Hi," Ashley cleared he throat as she stood abruptly from the dining table, sliding her hands in her pockets.
Okay, that was weird. "Hey," I smiled, still surprised to see her. I wasn't really sure what to say to her after everything that happened yesterday.
"Madison," she spoke abruptly, "is in her room… changing."
I nodded, my feet still planted where I stood. "I gathered." My eyebrow quirked, both at this awkward situation and finding Madison home early. She ran away pretty quickly. I knew something was up, but Madison obviously needed her space. "She's home early." I stated the obvious as I made my way over to the couch, letting Ashley stand there in her awkwardness.
"Yeah. Her boss let her out early. So, we decided to hang out." I noticed her shoulders slump a bit as she found it in herself to relax.
"Hmm," I flipped the television on. MTV's showing a Jersey Shore marathon of season 1. "Where's Jton?"
"She has work. We're gonna go hang out with her after she gets off in a bit. Just gonna grab a bite and walk around 3rd Street Promenade." Ashley finally made her way around to the opposite side of the couch. "Wanna come?"
"Oh, that's okay. I'm actually going out with Liz tonight." I didn't mind that Madison had her own plans. My friends know I don't like to celebrate my birthday. Liz is an exception though, for obvious reasons. I smile to myself at the thought of her.
"Oh." Her voice went from hopeful to curious. At least, that's what I gathered. "Some other time then."
I cleared my throat, "Sure." My focus went from the television to my phone. Liz had been texting me sweet, mushy gushy messages all day. I couldn't help but smile all day long like a smitten fool.
"Does she know?" Ashley asked.
My smile tamed down as I looked to her. "That you tried to kiss me?" I raised a brow, noticing how tables turn often. Ashley's always quick to call me out about what happened at the Dubliner. For once, I get to call her out on her antics. "No, I didn't tell her." I shrugged at the thought.
She pursed her lips in a smirk. "I meant… does she know about your secret?"
I still smiled, amused to have called her out nonetheless. "Oh, that." I bit my lips shut, shaking my head. "Nope, not yet."
"Why not?"
I shrugged, "I don't know. It'll happen when it happens." I noticed Ashley nodding knowingly. "What?"
She raised her eyebrows. "Nothing." She shook her head. "It's just... that sucks!"
"It's not like I'm gonna hide it forever." I furrowed my eyebrows in slight frustration. "I don't see you going around telling everyone that you're invincible."
"That's because it's no one's business. You seemed to pry it out of me, though. I don't know why it was so important for you to know."
"So? How's that any different than my secret?"
"You have so many ties to people… people who care. Friends, family, girlfriend. You kinda owe it to them… to tell them that you invade the privacy that is their innermost honest selves… even if you don't intend to." Ashley crossed her arms. "As for me? Who cares if I live or die?" She wasn't being morbid about life. Just bluntly honest.
"I do," I blurted instinctually. It caught me off guard, but it's true. I do care… for some odd, unknown reason.
"Why?" She squinted in curiosity, her voice a decibel above a whisper.
"Because… I just… do. I don't have to explain it. Just accept it." I turned my attention back to the fist-pumping Guidos on TV.
"Fair enough." There was a nice, calming pause in our debate… before Ashley chose to break the silence. "And… I'm sorry about yesterday." I looked at her once more. "About trying to kiss—"
"It's okay." I interrupted.
"I don't know what came over me." She crumpled her eyebrows, shaking her head in confusion.
"It's nothing to be sorry about. I grabbed your hand." I recollected yesterday's events. "It made you weak. You fell into me. It was my fault actually."
"That's not your fault. I offered to help you up."
I don't know what this is. Ashley infuriates me sometimes… with her comments about the things I do and how I live my life. And now we're suddenly trying to profusely apologize for things beyond our control? For being nice and courteous to one another? What is this? It confuses me.
"Let's just… forget about it." I retorted, waving my hand as if to wipe the imaginary slate clean.
She sighed, but conceded. "Sure thing." She reminds me of myself… always trying to find reasons and explanation to things in order to justify or clarify her actions… anything to get someone to understand how and why she does what she does. I never notice her act this way around anyone else besides me. She seems to care what I think of her. At least that's what I gather.
"So, I'm going to Portland this weekend." Ashley mentioned as I felt her stare bore into the side of my head.
"Yeah?" I remained unmoved. "That's cool."
"Do you… wanna come with?"
I quirked an eyebrow, my eyes panning in her direction. "What?"
"Yeah, I figured I could help you on your personality theory paper."
"And we have to go all the way to Portland to work on my paper?" I asked somewhat incredulously.
"I just… need to regroup for a bit and thought we could kill two birds with one stone."
"Hmm," I contemplated. "Thanks for the offer, but I think I'll manage down here."
My phone vibrated in my hand.
Hey bday princess ;-) I'm outside whenever u're ready
I smirked as I jumped up. "I'm gonna get ready. Liz is here." I walked past Ashley to get to my room.
"Sounds good." She didn't necessarily sound as defeated as I'd anticipated.
I threw on an elegant navy tunic with turquoise beads decorating the deep, round collar. My top stood out over the black leggings and strappy heels I wore. I lightly retouched my eyeliner before grabbing a light shawl.
"Have fun on 3rd Street, Mad!" I yelled over as I knocked on her door. "I'm going to dinner with Liz!"
"Okay, have fun!" She yelled back, her voice muffled by the door. "Can't wait to hear all about it! Enjoy your birthday!"
"Will do!" I smiled as I pranced down the hallway and towards the front door, grabbing my belongings on the way out. Ashley's eyes followed me. "Catch ya later, Ash."
She smiled, "Happy Birthday, Spencer!"
"Thank you!" I nodded before shutting the door. When I turned, I bumped right into Liz who immediately gathered me into her arms in this excited bear hug.
"There she is." She growled into my shoulder, before pulling away. "I am so excited for tonight!" "I've missed the birthday girl so much!"
I laughed, wrapping my arms around her before she pulled back. "I thought you were in the car. You surprised me!"
"What can I say? (I hope Anthony has everything together) I'm full of surprises." She tenderly took my lip in between hers. I savored this sensual kiss, grateful for this moment. We didn't even hear the door open.
Ashley cleared her throat.
"Hey! Ashley!" Liz looked up. "Did you stop by to use the bathroom again?" She chuckled to herself.
Ashley played along with a smile. She's a good sport. "I was actually gonna grab something from my car. Madison and I are.. uh.. heading out soon."
"Nice! Madison's in." Liz nodded. In? For what?
I quirked an eyebrow at Liz before I glared suspiciously at Ashley. She sighed in what seemed like slight disappointment, as if I'd discovered something I shouldn't have.
Liz pulled me along. "Alright. Well, have a good night then!" She waved at Ashley.
"You too!"
Everyone was acting really weird today. Madison bolted for her room the second I got home. The last time she did that, she was sporting some kinky dominatrix outfits and trying to entice Aiden away from the Xbox, when I'd happened to come home early from Spring Break that day. I know Liz has something big planned for tonight. So, her weird behavior is kinda normal. But that whole exchange with Ashley was strange. And Ashley? Well, she's… Ashley. Enough said.
I figured one of either two things would happen: 1. Everyone was on something and the temporary weirdness would eventually wear off or 2. I'd find out soon enough what's going on.
Except soon enough didn't come soon enough! Liz was taking her sweet time and making stops along the way. First, we stopped at the ATM so she could get some cash. Then, we stopped at the gas station so she could put gas in her car. She even decided her car needed a hand wash. She wanted to get an energy drink, but the gas station didn't have the sugar free version. So, we stopped by the grocery store so she could pick some up. In between all of this, she was apologizing for having to run all these errands, whilst she was responding to all these text messages about our "plans." Internally, she was a stressball and I partly felt bad for her. The last thing I'd ever want is for my girlfriend to stress out on my birthday.
"Are you okay?" I timidly asked as Liz cracked open the Rockstar and chugged half the can. Her nerves are familiar to me. She only gets like this when she's about to perform.
"Absolutely! (Oh my fucking goodness!)" She grinned as she put the can in the cup holder. She shut the door and started the engine.
"Can I just say," I squeezed her arm reassuringly, "I appreciate everything you've done for me?"
"My pleasure." She smirked this devilish smirk of hers as her nerves calmed down a bit. "I have a favor to ask you."
"Anything."
"Can I put this on you?" She reached in her pocket and pulled out a handkerchief.
"Sure." I smirked back as she placed the cloth over my eyes and careful tied it into a knot behind my head. "I gotta say… this is definitely a step up from toothpaste."
"Spencer Carlin," Liz mumbled before kissing me fully on the lips. "Don't you tempt me."
I laughed.
Even though I was blindfolded, I knew we were taking the long way to The Poetry Lounge. Liz carefully guided me over the parking lot's asphalt and eased me into the lounge. I pursed my lips, now realizing what was going on. Unfortunately, when you put me in a room full of people, thoughts hit me harder than a foghorn going off right by my ear.
Liz removed the blindfold as I heard a choir of "Surprise!" I gasped in astonishment, not because I was utterly surprised (yes, I kinda caught on), but because no one's ever gathered together like this just to celebrate my birthday!
They continued applauding as I panned across the room. Among the crowd were several of Liz's friends whom I'd recognized, including Anthony, Sebastian and Kader. There were some regular artists from poetry night whom I'd met when I'd attend some of Liz's performances. Standing by the punch fountain were Glen, Clay and Chelsea. I nearly began tearing up when I saw Clay. He'd flown in all the way from New York! I noticed a beaming Madison jumping up and down in excitement, with Jton at her side. And next to Jton stood Ashley. For a brief moment, I'd felt profoundly appreciative of those two, especially Ashley. It saddened me that Donny, Sarah and Aiden were not part of this moment, but I'd quickly grown to appreciate Jton and Ashley for being there for me, even though we hadn't known each other for very long.
I continued glancing around the room and admired the black and white birthday streamers, balloons and banners in contrast with the calming blue lights illuminating the stage and walls. The tables were set up around the main floor, circling a makeshift dance floor in front of the stage. Champagne bottles popped from behind the bar and the bubbly began oozing over the fine glassware. Simultaneously, a jazz band on stage began playing some upbeat big band swing music.
I looked over to Liz who was grinning at me. I hugged her tightly. "I love it!" I said in her ear. "Thank you!"
"Happy birthday, little sis!" Clay cheered. I immediately transferred my tight hugs to my long distant brother, to Chelsea and then to Glen. I can honestly say I was happy to see Glen. I just hoped he'd be on his best behavior.
"I can't believe you're here!" I looked to Clay and Chelsea before turning to Liz. "Liz, this is Clay, Chelsea and Glen. These are my brothers."
Liz stepped forward, "We spoke on the phone." She stuck her hand out.
"Yeah." Clay smiled, shaking her hand.
"It's nice to meet you!" She genuinely responded. It occurred to me that, with Madison's help, Liz had been orchestrating this whole shindig for quite some time. I was extremely impressed how easily this girl could melt my heart… on numerous occasions.
"Definitely nice to put a face to a voice." He responded before Liz introduced herself to Chelsea and Glen.
"So, you're the reason my little sis has been beaming with happiness lately." Glen was always a flatterer.
"It goes both ways." Liz grinned. They made small chitchat as I glanced to my right and caught myself in an embrace with an ecstatic Madison. She nearly spilled her glass of champagne on me.
"Happy birthday, Spence!" She squealed as I momentarily noticed Jton and Ashley form a short line to greet me.
"Mad, I'm so glad you are here right now!" Out of the fab five, I would say Madison's the closest thing I have to a best friend, considering Donny has been completely M.I.A.
"Me too! Sorry about earlier. I had to bolt for my room when you got home. My thoughts would've spoiled the surprise."
I nodded in realization and backed up to admire her violet cocktail dress. "Cute outfit! Who are you trying to impress tonight?"
"Pshh." She slapped my arm with her clutch. "Girl, please." I looked over my shoulder and caught Glen stealing glances at Madison.
"It's pretty clear what he wants."
"Not in his wildest dreams." I could tell she liked the attention, but she was still dealing with fresh wounds.
"Spence." She called my attention. "Liz did a great job." I watched her eyes glance in my girlfriend's direction. "She's a keeper." My roommate affirmed before taking a sip of the champagne. Although I didn't need it, I appreciated her approval.
I turned to make sure Liz was doing alright with my brothers. They were gathered around the bar, ordering drinks and getting to know my wonderful girlfriend.
"You know," Jton gently guided me to one side of the bar, "it's not a birthday without some birthday shots." She waved the bartender over. I smirked, and partly cringed at the thought of another hangover. I hope she goes easy on me.
The bartender set up a few shot glasses and placed a bottle of chilled vodka in front of us. Jton stood to my right, happily pouring the shots. Her fedora shaded her eyes from the light and I could only see this wide smirk on her lips. From across the bar, Liz and my brothers cheered us on.
"Happy birthday," Ashley mumbled from my left. I smiled at her for a moment before our view was blocked by Madison's arm.
"And what a happy birthday it is indeed!" She reached over and traded her empty glass for a shot. Jton served Ashley and me our shots and the four of us cheered with our glasses in the air.
"Happy birthday, Spencer!" Jton hollered as Madison cheered. We simultaneously threw our heads back and took in the smooth, cool liquor. I quickly bit down on a lemon wedge dowsed in some sugar to chase the shot.
"You alright?" Ashley gently rubbed the clothed part of my back. I knew the alcohol didn't affect her, and it was somewhat comforting that she would be concerned about my well-being.
I nodded before excusing myself to greet the rest of the guests. Safe to say that by the late evening, I had a good buzz going. Everyone wanted to have a drink or two with me at some point. Liz managed to stay by my side nearly the entire night. I loved introducing her to the people who mattered most to me, and I could tell it meant a lot to her to introduce me to hers. I was completely complacent with draping my arms around her and looking at her lovingly as she spoke. Between the band's swing and jazz numbers that got the crowd dancing gracefully on their feet, the open mic artists entertained us with their uplifting performances. Later in the evening, some friends from work joined the little soiree, Corinne included.
I spent a good chunk of the time sitting and chatting with Clay and Chelsea, hearing about their lives in New York, how Clay enjoyed working for the state and how Chelsea showcased her art is some of the most famous galleries, both locally and internationally. Maybe it was the alcohol talking, but I couldn't help but tell them, several times, that I'd appreciated them coming all this way just for my birthday. And each time, they would laugh at my broken record syndrome.
Liz left for a second to grab me another drink, when she got caught in conversation with Jton. Apparently, they'd known each other from a few classes they took together, and Ashley managed to acquaint herself with Liz as well. I nonchalantly watched Ashley drink with Madison, yet she knew when to cut my roommate off. She practically babysat Madison for the remainder of the evening. However, I knew I could trust Ashley this time around.
I got up and headed to the appetizer table, where Glen shimmied his way over. I already knew what he was going to ask me.
"So…"
"So?" I responded indifferently.
"Word has it that Madison's single."
"Look." I placed a few quiche bites on my plate before putting the tongs down. "As much as I love you like a brother, you're an idiot."
He scoffed.
"Madison being single does necessarily put you in the running. So, don't waste your time." I turned to leave. I knew he was quite tipsy and being… a guy. Or, I'd say, a douche.
"Whatever." He groaned before sipping his beer, brashly gawking at my gorgeous roommate taking the floor with Jton. I smiled, noticing how much fun Madison was having without the influence of testosterone. She was really enjoying herself.
I made my way towards Liz, who was sitting and chatting with Kader, Sebastian and Anthony. On my way over, I passed Ashley leaning against the bar, enjoying her cocktail. She didn't say words, but her glances were alluring. My feet betrayed me, as I turned sharply and parked right next to her.
She smiled, glancing sideways. "Are you having fun?"
"I am, thank you! How about you?" I took a bite of the quiche.
"Great!" Ashley glanced across the crowds "Liz really outdid herself. Looks like everyone's having a great time."
"Yeah, I totally didn't know."
"Oh really?" She asked, her tone laced in doubtfulness. "So, you didn't see this coming at all?"
I rolled my eyes, "Well, I knew she had something planned here tonight, but I didn't know she was going to invite everyone and their moms."
"Guess there's no surprising you."
"Besides you?" I shrugged, "No, I guess not."
She smiled with her eyes and I wondered what she was thinking. "Speaking of surprises, I do have something for you." She put her drink on the bar and reached into her purse. I took this as an opportunity to shamelessly, but quickly check her out. Her slender legs stood out from these cute open-toe black heels, perfectly framed under this black strapless dress that hugged her body in all the right places. "Sorry, I didn't have time to wrap it." Ashley pulled out a small box made from bamboo.
My eyes snapped back to her face. She totally caught me checking her out. Fortunately, the alcohol in my system prevented me from actually giving a damn.
I looked at the box with curiosity as she placed it in my hands. "Thank you!"
"Open it," She smiled again. I carefully pulled the top off the box and noticed the colorful patterns of the woven square pendant hanging from black string. It reminded me of the intricate patterns woven into friendship bracelets. "It's a Tibetan good luck charm I've had since I was there." She paused. "My life has been nothing but peaceful since."
Something in her eyes spoke to me on how much it'd meant to her. "Aww, Ash… I can't take this."
"Please." Her voice lulled. "I want you to have it."
I nodded in understanding and clenched the box as Liz strolled nonchalantly in our direction. She draped an arm around my shoulders and kissed the side of my head before looking to Ashley. "I can't thank you and Madison enough for all your help decorating tonight."
Ashley glanced at Madison dancing with Jton, "It was our pleasure." She smiled again. "Anything for Spencer." Her eyes were now staring into mine. On the surface, her words were seemingly innocent, but something in her boldness and tone made me think otherwise. I didn't know whether I should be flattered or offended really.
Liz nodded and turned to whisper something in my ear, "I have one more surprise for you."
"What is it?" I feigned curiosity, though I kinda already knew.
She kissed my cheek and approached the stage as the latest dance number came to its end. Liz grabbed the mic, "Good evening everyone! I'm so glad you could all make it tonight to celebrate the birth of the wonderful Spencer Carlin." Everyone cheered. I glanced at Ashley who tilted her glass to me. "She means so much to me, and I dedicate this next performance to her." Liz smirked before she paused. And then she spoke, her eyes on me the entire time.
"Your smile is that of sensation,
Of sweet sunrays dancing in the sky.
Your eyes are those of stars glistening by,
Of mysterious temptations.
Your face is that of serenity,
Of some great relief to my troubled mind.
Your lips are those of the soft flower kind,
Of a tinge of perfection in the brevity.
Your hands are those of strong desire,
Of security around mine.
Your touch is that of cold winds confined,
Of the entrapment of burning fires.
Your soul is that of a beautiful gift from above,
Of complete clarity in morning dew.
And so my heart is that which beats and thrives for you;
It is that, tainted with undying love."
The crowd roared in applause as Liz lightly stepped off the stage. She sauntered towards me and offered her hand. As I took it, the jazz band continued to play and we walked to the dance floor. Others quickly joined around us as Liz pulled me close. We swayed to the sultry voice of the saxophone, accompanied by the bass and light percussion.
"So, what'd you th—"
"I love you." I interrupted. We shared in this soft, but sensual kiss, her smirk still pressed on her lips. "You are truly amazing. No one's ever done this for me before."
"I just wanted to show you how special you are." She husked.
I smiled, "Thank you for everything."
"You're welcome." She paused. "I also got us two tickets to the William Fitzsimmons concert next weekend."
"No way!" I grinned even bigger, if that's even possible. She nodded ecstatically. "How'd you get them? The concert's sold out!"
"I have my ways." Liz said so smugly. "Thought it'd also be a great way to celebrate you finishing your paper! I know how much it's been stressing you out."
"Yeah, well," I sighed, "it is what it is."
"Speaking of, how did office hours go with Steinhaus?"
"Really?" I quirked an eyebrow in disbelief. "You wanna talk about school… now?"
"Well, I wanted to help you with it this weekend, but I have to go visit my mom. My grandma is really sick and my mom could use my support."
"Aww," I frowned a bit, "I hope your grandma gets better soon."
"She's hospitalized in Lebanon. I really don't know how bad it is."
"Of course you should visit your mom this weekend! Don't worry about my paper. I'll manage."
"So, what did Steinhaus say about it?"
"That I should start over, just as Kwan instructed."
"Well, I was talking to Ashley." Oh, great... I see where this is going now. "She got an A in Steinhaus' class. She said she's willing to help you out."
"Oh really?" It came out as a sarcastic statement.
"The only thing is she has to go to Portland this weekend, but she could really use the company."
"And Jton can't go with her?"
"Jton can't make it."
"Madison?"
"Spence, she could really help you, and it'd be nice for you to travel and take a break." Liz paused. "Plus, she mentioned how dangerous it can get, driving all that way alone."
I scoffed. Ashley in danger? More like Ashley is the danger. What's she scheming?
After the song ended, I excused myself and made a bee-line for the brunette. She gazed at me expectantly, smiling coyly which only egged me on.
"Can you just tell me what's so important about going to Portland this weekend? Why do you need me to go with you so badly?"
"I don't," Ashley shrugged, making faces as if I was acting crazy. "I just threw the offer out there."
I rolled my eyes.
"You know, you could say 'no,'" she chuckled. "'No' is an option."
"Actually," Glen intruded from where he was standing next to us at the bar, "that sounds like a grand idea!" His thoughts, although drunken and slurred, seemed a bit retaliatory. He sloppily hooked an arm around my shoulders, looking at Ashley and then to me. "You could visit mom on the way up there."
"Glen, no." I said curtly, my eyes piercing his.
"Well, dad's going out of town this weekend for a social worker conference, Clay has to go back to New York, and I have a huge road game to attend." He paused. "Someone's gotta stop by and see her."
"No," I responded, in a more defeated tone. Even if I didn't want to, Glen was right. Either he or dad had visited mom each week to make sure she was properly taken care of, such as making sure the nurses were turning her every two hours to prevent bed sores. As much as I despised her, I knew that the nurses could be negligent at times. And at the end of the day, she is still my mother.
"C'mon Spence. Don't be difficult."
"Hey," Ashley interjected somewhat abrasively, "her answer's 'no,' alright?"
Glen opened his mouth to respond with what I knew would be anything but polite, but I'd interrupted. "I-It's okay, Ashley." I let out a long sigh. "Unfortunately, 'no' is not an option in this case."