Round 4

Time seems to pass quicker in the new year and before you know it, it is already the beginning of March. Which means it is time for the premiere of “And Then There Were None”. There will be several performances over the month though only the premiere really matters. Not only the families will be invited also a few producers and casting directors have announced their coming. So you better show your full potential because who knows somebody might show interest in you.
In the last rehearsal everything seems to go wrong though with costumes being in the wrong color, parts of the scenery have gone missing or have been painted over… whispers in the hallway seem to know who is to blame. (A little hint: She usually gets a role expect this time). But no proof is found and there isn’t much the teachers can do. Luckily the premiere happens without any incident/accident.

Afterwards, there will be a small party, feel free to mingle and if you want you can try and impress one of the producers or casting directions. Be careful though not to try too much since they are looking for someone with talent and not someone who is good with compliments.

Families coming to the Premiere: Thomas’ father; Fiona’s parents; Oliver’s parents and his sister Livia; Edward’s mother; (Mario did invite his parents but they couldn’t come to an emergency; he won’t be too happy about it) 

April comes with a bang or better said with a Movie/TV Character party It will happen during the first weekend and like you can already guess from the Theme it is time to dress up. You can pick any character you like.

Please check the Updates & Rumors for any incidents happening in from the beginning of the new year until April.

Livia’s pranks or her ideas for them have left quite the impression. So don’t be too surprised if you suddenly find yourself covered in glitter after taking a shower or if you are suffering due itching powder. Paige did consider cutting or shaving the hair of a few rivals but luckily for you, Lindsay and Sasha could persuade not to go through with her plan.


Round 4 Requirements

* Name and age of your character
* Round Status
* Romantic Interests (at least 2 and maximum 3; you are allowed to change them)

* Please state if your family is coming to the premiere and who is coming

* Story about the messed up rehearsals - was she freaked out by the happening? Was she one of those with a ruined costume? Did she know who might be behind it?

* Story about the play’s premiere - How did you feel before the premiere? Were your nerves handling the tension or were you ready to freak out? How did it go for you? Did you mess up any of the scenes? What happened afterward during the party? Did you try and talk with one of the important people?

Important Note: You DON’T have to describe the whole play. I’m totally fine if you only pick out one scene or a few including your character. If you want to mention some of the actual text → https://archive.org/stream/AndThenThereWereNone_726/AndThenThereWereNone_djvu.txt

* Story about the Movie/TV character party - Did you enjoy yourself? Did something happen between you and one of the extras? What did you think of the theme?

Optional:
* Story about the pranks -  Were one of those that got pranked? If yes what happened to you.

* Story about the beginning of the new year until March; Reaction to the newest Rumors and Updates; How is your character feeling now more than a half a year has passed? Are the classes going good or does she have any problems?

Outfits: Play (remember the time and setting, the play is set in the the 1930's; you are allowed to genderbend the roles); Premiere Party and Movie/TV Character Party; Optional Outfits: Any other outfit you would like to add

Round 4 will close at 9 pm (Forum Time) on the 21st November

Last edited by schoggettchen (18/11/2017 at 23:42)

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Impressions

They will be based on your interaction with my characters. I have more to work with if you interact with the characters more often in your stories.

Lyon Leone

Edward - He is no fool knowing exactly that this was no date between him and Lyon and if he was being honest with himself he was okay with it. Sure she was nice and talking about the art of directing a movie helped him to relax but in the end, it wasn’t more than a meeting between two friends… or maybe in the future friends. Because there wasn’t much Edward knows about Lyon and vice versa. He would like to change that though remembering his offer to watch Star Wars together. He wonders if she should accept.
Thomas - He wonders what the heck went wrong… for him, it feels a bit like Lyon had misunderstood him. He didn’t want to put all the blame on her since he has kissed her back. Thomas still thinks it shouldn’t have happened because while he does enjoy hookups doesn’t mean that he does more than one at the same time. He knows why Lyon is avoiding him and he can’t even blame her for it. It was a shame though because he did enjoy talking to her back before the kiss… before the possibility of being more than just friends. Maybe being friends - if given Lyon was up for it - is the better choice for them.

Jessica - There are worse roommates she could have gotten. Well not that she and Lyon have talked with each other a lot yet and honestly, in the beginning, she was fine with it. Mabey she shouldn’t be judging her by the look only - the pink hair is a bit too much - but she is definitely not the kind of person she would usually hang out with. Jessica has to admit though that she checked out Lyon’s show only to find it horrible. The fan video, on the other hand, was so bad that it was already funny. Maybe spending more time with her roomie wouldn’t be such a bad idea.
Mario - She has seen her around of course… the pink hair usually in two buns is hard to miss. And he did notice that she spent some time with his cousin though lately, it looked like they were avoiding each other. If Mario were someone else he might have cared and asked her about it but he wasn’t. He couldn’t help but notice that she was hanging out with Jessica lately… he knows that they are roommates though maybe she is more interesting than it might seem at the first glance. 

Optional Plot:
(it is up to you whether you do those task or not; it might help you to develop a better relationship with the extras, but if you have no time or interest you can skip them)


Edward will ask Lyon one week before the premiere if she is still interested in watching Star Wars with him; there will be small breaks during the movies so he can ask how she is doing, if she excited for the play and he will also tell her more about him (his love for plants, the incident with the dog; likes and dislikes)
Thomas will ask Lyon if she would be interested in getting a coffee with him in the middle of January. He wants to find a way to repair their friendship because he thinks it might be the best solution for them. He thinks that their talk during the date went wrong and wants to explain himself (he never wanted to imply that he didn’t kiss back and maybe avoiding her wasn’t his best decision)

Jessica will ask Lyon in the middle of January if she would like to sit with her and Mario during Lunch. She will still be in her grumpy and moody self but she will slowly open up telling more about herself and of course, asking about Lyon as well though she will avoid talking about Witch Way (the show doesn’t interest her as well)
Mario can often be found wandering around the Campus or of course spending time with Jessica. Approaching him will be a bit difficult since he isn’t the biggest talker but seeing that Jess likes Lyon he will make an effort. You should avoid asking about Thomas though (their relationship hasn’t gotten better) and if asked about the stupid rumor he will tell her his honest opinion (he finds it completely ridiculous.

Julienne Donaghue

Daniel - For him it had been definitely a date… one he enjoyed a lot he should mention. He was a bit hesitating if going to a Comedy club was the best idea but he laughed, she laughed despite the redhead jokes. If he could only tell if it had been a date for her as well. He wasn’t blind noticing that she spent a lot of time with Thomas too and while he wasn’t jealous per se, it did annoy him a bit.  Daniel still remembered her rejection but he could understand her motives and he couldn’t help himself to make a few flirty comments just to see how Jules would react to them. Seeing her blush was a cute sight and one he wouldn’t forget this easily. Maybe she was right and instead of looking for a quick hookup he should try to get to know her better and he felt like they had gotten a bit closer.
Thomas - That had been fun… no it was way more than fun. He was surprised by her confession of watching soccer games before - maybe it was time for him to stop with those stupid stereotypes - and then she started cursing he was sure that he was dreaming. Thomas knows that she isn’t a Liverpool but with her cheering and screaming he wouldn’t even noticed. He liked seeing Julie this enthusiastic and outgoing and he wouldn’t mind hugging her more often… or spending time with her. She seemed to see the side his father always liked to ignore and it felt nice that he had someone he could talk to. The rumor about her being a bad kisser was totally overrated… though maybe he needed a second one to judge better.

Optional Plot:
(it is up to you whether you do those task or not; it might help you to develop a better relationship with the extras, but if you have no time or interest you can skip them)


Daniel will offer Jules help to learn for her role though he won’t be a big help in the end. Being his usual self he will make jokes, flirt a bit more than usual because he decided that he likes seeing her blush but he has learned his lesson and won’t make the first step again. In the end they won’t get much done but as long as Jules had fun he doesn’t care.
Thomas will be in a slight lousy mood as the premiere gets closer… it isn’t exactly stage fright but since his father is coming he knows what to expect. Julie can try to cheer him up - after stupid jokes or her simply talking about whatever she feels like - he will feel a bit better. He hasn’t forgotten about their kiss and wouldn’t mind getting a second chance… of course only to prove that she isn’t a bad kisser.

Dahlia Christiansen

Alexander - He was shocked - honestly shocked - by the fact that Dee hasn’t seen the Godfather trilogy yet. Even his sister had seen it… though if he thinks about it now he might have forced her to join him for a screening. Unfortunately, Dee didn’t enjoy herself as much as he had wished and he hoped it wouldn’t ruin… well, what whatever was going on between them. There was something about her that made him enjoy being around her and getting to know her better. Alexander knows that they are friends but lately has been asking himself if there couldn’t be a bit more between them. At least now he knows if he wants to watch another movie with her he should pick something along the lines of animation.
Edward - He was a bit skeptical if Dee would enjoy herself at the Zoo with him but in the end, it looked like he had been worrying about nothing. He saw her smiling a few times as he told her what he knows about the different animals. Too bad that she wasn’t going to stay for Christmas though but he got the impressions that she didn’t see her parents too often. It felt nice that he could talk to her about what would have been without his mother applying for Summerfield - though he was starting to like it more and more this year. Edward could relate to Dee having other dreams as well but he was glad that she here… even if it might be only for this year.
Richard - It was nice and he isn’t talking about the cute puppies only. In hindsight, he should have asked her earlier instead of kidnapping Dee but… well, he forgot about it. Unfortunately, the puppies didn’t help as much as Richard has hoped but luckily the day wasn’t completely ruined. Seeing Dee getting all excited about the different breeds and even asking questions, it was for sure unexpected. It made sense when she told him about Jarl which was still a strange name - not that he would ever tell her. But maybe that was what Richard needed no cute puppies but a friend he could talk to.

Optional Plot:
(it is up to you whether you do those task or not; it might help you to develop a better relationship with the extras, but if you have no time or interest you can skip them)


Alexander doesn’t want to make the same mistake again and have Dee sit during a movie she doesn’t enjoy. So in the beginning of March, he will ask if she would be interested in watching Inside Out with him (he hasn’t seen it yet). It is definitely not what Alexander would usually watch but to his surprise he actually enjoys himself… and maybe the company is also to blame for this.
Edward will ask Dee a few weeks before the premiere if she is interested in rehearsing together. Despite knowing most of his lines already he isn’t sure if he playing his role convincing enough and he would like to get a second opinion. Of course, he will help Dee with her lines as well if she should need help.
Richard is unsure what character he will dress up for the party - being like usual he waits until only three weeks are left - so he decides to ask Dee for advice… meaning she will go shopping with him. He will try different costumes most of them looking ridiculous - which Dee is allowed to tell him - until he finally settles on Captain Jack Sparrow. 

Tess Meijer

Oliver - Hearing her story about losing her mother and blaming her father for it explained a lot for him and yet he still can’t approve of her getting drunk to forget. Oliver knows that he won’t be able to feel the same as Tess does but for him, there has to be a better reason. If he is being honest he doesn’t know if he can see himself with someone who rather gets wasted than talking about her problems. He isn’t expecting her to change from one day to the next nor would he ever force her to do something but the point is that he trusts her, likes her and he wants more than just the casual sex they had lately. But Oliver doesn’t know if he has the strength to deal with a drunk Tess whenever she wants to forget again. 

Optional Plot:
(it is up to you whether you do those task or not; it might help you to develop a better relationship with the extras, but if you have no time or interest you can skip them)


Edward likes Tess that is pretty clear and to him, the date was only between friends and he doesn’t mind at all. Since he enjoys spending time with her he will ask if she would be interested in a Bond Marathon in the middle of February. He will be a bit nosy asking about her and Oliver.
Mario wouldn’t say that meeting Tess was pleasant at least she didn’t annoy him like others would do. In preparation for his role, he will spend more time in the library reading the book and making notes. Tess can spot him there especially in the week before the premiere. She better not tries to bother him too much.
Oliver wants to offer his help after hearing Tess’ story and will propose that instead of drinking to forget she can come to his room to talk or to watch the remaining Harry Potter movies since he is still shocked that she hasn’t seen them. He will make it pretty obvious what he thinks of her way of dealing and should she drink any alcohol during the premiere party he will be pissed.

Last edited by schoggettchen (21/11/2017 at 23:28)

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Updates & Rumors Part II

With the begging of spring, the hormones at Summerfield seem to be going crazy. First, it was Mario but looks like Jessica found herself a new toy. We managed to spot her leaving Daniel's room a few times in the middle of the room. And here we were thinking that she turned him down last year. We wonder what changed... maybe a  certain redhead is to blame. Jealousy can be an interesting thing.

There are a few birthday happenings over the next three months: We have Jessica turning 23, Norman turning 20, Camille turning 20, Lindsay turning 23 and Fiona turning 21. There won't be any birthday parties - nobody wants to risk getting detention with the premiere soon - but you are allowed to congratulate.

Lindsay and Richard will start talking with each other again at the end of February. It is far away from what you can consider an actual conversation but for them, it is a small step.

Paige first lost Thomas, now she lost the lead role and it looks like she is slowly losing her friends as well. Seems like nobody is willing to deal with her bad mood and stupid attempts to sabotage the play these days.

Remember the rumor about Alexander and Fiona a few months ago? And while it still doesn't look like they are getting back together - a certain brunette seems to the reason for that - we have seen them talking with each other. We don't know for sure why they broke up in the first place but if the whispers can be trusted... looks like Red Curls is still a virgin and Fiona got tired of waiting.

Has it finally happen? Did Oliver confess his long-lasting crush to Sasha? A trustworthy resource told us that he spent almost the whole night in her room - guess having her own room finally paid off. Silly Ollie for believing that we would never discover his crush... we wonder what his curly mate thinks about it. 

Rumors

Our eagle eyes spotted a cute pink head networking... or was she menworking? Ups that sounded wrong, after all, we all must have connections in this world to make it. The question now lies in whether our pink head is good enough to maintain them.

Is Dee the reason for the break up of Summerfield's famous couple? Over the past months we have seen her around Richard and now they even went on a date together. Maybe we misjudged the little hurricane... though it was hard to miss that she spent an evening with Alexander as well and then her sister's comment. Maybe tweedle Dee has something for curls in general.

Our sources shared the results of the upcoming play and surprise surprise our little Tessy tipsy got the role of Vera. We wonder if she'll be cunning like the character or a train wreck who runs and cries, but if her finale is like Vera's, please keep the ropes away from her.

Julie, oh how we have misjudged you? We were thinking you were just another innocent girl living the dream of becoming an actress one day. But then we spotted her leaving Summerfield with Daniel and some days later with Thomas. Not to forget her iron grip on Thomas during the New Year Party. The poor boy couldn't even enjoy the evening together with his father. We wonder if it hadn't been her plan all along. Making Paige jealous, breaking them apart only to be the next pretty girl at his side.

Looks of the Extras for the TV/Movie Character Party

Alexander as Michael Corleone
Camille as Rose DeWitt Bukater
Daniel as The Joker
Edward as James Bond
Fiona as Wednesday Addams
Jessica as Babydoll
Lindsay as Black Swan
Mario as John McClane
Norman as Captain Kirk
Oliver as Dr. King Schultz
Paige as Holly Golightly
Sasha as Beatrix Kiddo
Richard as Captain Jack Sparrow
Thomas as Han Solo

Last edited by schoggettchen (22/11/2017 at 00:18)

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{Name} Tess Meijer
{Age and Birthday} 19-August 19
{Face Claim} Zoey Ivory

{Round Status}
Round 1, 2, 3, 4 Done
{Romantic (Interets)} Oliver, (Edward, Mario)
{Premiere Party} Dad And Dominique

{Outfits}

Premiere, Premiere Party, Movie

{Story}

London Eye

Ollie
Tess looked out the London eye, thinking about the past few weeks at school had been going well and Tess knew for sure she was going to class 2, So why did she feel so down looking at her companion, she knew what made her feel so down but talking about it seemed so silly. Because who believes a rumour anyways, still, Tess wanted to be anywhere but here with him.

“Tess?” Tess looked away from the window at Ollie, “Yes?” she replied. “You have been ignoring me,” Tess shook her head, “Just busy with rehearsals,” Ollie frowned, “Thank you for bringing me here, it’s beautiful,” Tess pointed at London outside, still Ollie kept the frown upon his face. “What’s wrong?” Tess looked into his vibrant grey eyes and shook his head, “Nothing,” It was Ollie’s turn to shake his head. “Tell me,” Tess signed “It’s stupid,” Ollie smiled, “Tell me,” Tess signed, “I am just jealous,” Ollie smiled “Of who?”, “The person you love...Sasha,” Tess replied looking out of the window not seeing some recognition dawn on Ollie, “I won’t lie to you Tess,” Tess turned to look at Ollie, “Last year she was the only person I could think of,” Tess' heart fell but she nodded at him looking outside once again, “But this year someone with bright brown eyes and cute curls took every space in my mind and heart,” While saying that Ollie’s finger twirled into her hair. Tess looked at him surprise, “Wait what,” Ollie smiled, “I know is way too soon but it seems like I don’t mind when I am around you, so I want I want to say is, I love you, my poem princess,” Tess laughed and kissed his lips before pulling back, “I love you to my handsome English prince,” while laughing they kissed some more, “Want to be my girlfriend,” Tess grinned, “Yes Ollie, I love too,” Tess replied kissing him once again forgetting to look outside for the amazing London view.

Afterwards, they had a lovely dinner at another restaurant Ollie said had amazing food, Tess enjoyed not only the food but also the company. She had to admit she had the greatest day even if it started some way other than she wanted it to be, Later at night, they made love before Tess fell asleep in his arms.

Bond& Books

Edward, Mario
“Bond marathon?” Tess asked an exited Edward, “He nodded it will be fun,” Tess frowned “I will only go with you if I know what it is Edward, so what is it?” Edward still had a stupid smile on his face, “Watching all bond movies on re-run,” Tess laughed, “Seriously?” Edward nodded and Tess signed.
“Sure could be fun,” Tess replied having seen only three bond movies she was sure she would enjoy the others too.

She was right she did like the marathon even with Edward asking her question about her boyfriend and her.

“Edward, I am telling you, he is amazing,” Edward frowned, “Really?!” Tess nodded “Yes, even in bed,” When Edward blushed Tess laughed before looking at the movie once again, “But it’s it really just the S*x,” Tess looked amused at him and shook her head, “It’s also because he is worried about me, tries to understand me and makes me laugh,” Tess replied looking at Edward expanded, “So he does have a good heart,” Tess nodded and smiled, “I hope to find someone who looks at me just like you look at him,” Tess huffed, “Are you kidding me, I will be totally jealous of that girl, Edward, your amazing,” Tess smiled at him bumping her shoulder into his, “Have more confident buddy,” Edward smiled at her and nodded they talked about other things after that while also watching the movies.
*** *** ***

Tess searched for a more quiet place in the library when she caught Mario taking notes of the script. She sat across from him and opened her history book, she had some homework to do. “What are you doing?” Tess held up her book, “History,” she replied. “I meant sitting here,” Mario replied frowning. “Making history homework,” Tess replied and opened her book once again, “We don’t get homework when a play is coming up,” Tess looked up and smiled, “I know doing extra work,” Mario front, “You should work more on the play,” Tess raised an eyebrow and closed her book, “Why do you care?” She asked him, “I don’t! But want to do a good play,” Mario had something nervous in his voice but Tess didn’t comment, “Okay, give me a piece with your character...” Tess looked at his note and nodded, “Philip and Vera,” Tess said challenging him. “Chapter 10,” Mario replied and Tess nodded, “Do you believe it?!” She asked him looking around in the library, hoping no one looked their way she was Vera, and Vera would be suspicious at the moment too. Vera would be sitting with Philip Lombard on the windowsill of the living room, Outside pouring rain with the wind howling in the great gusts against the window-panes. Mario cocked his head slightly, “You mean, do I believe that old Wargrave is right?” Tess looked at him with big eyes, “When he says it’s one of us,” Tess looked around the library once again and replied with a simple, “Yes,” but it came out as a silent whisper, no one should know they where suspects. Mario getting something suspicious also looked around, “It’s difficult to say.” Tess' eyes got bigger, just as surprised as Vera would be, Logically, you know, he is right, and yet...” Tess finished his sentence, “And yet it seems so incredible!” Tess replied with a slight nod and Mario made a grimace, Tess didn’t know because of the play or because she rocked the part, “That was..., how do you do it?” Tess pointed at his script, “It’s not someone I portray is someone I am on stage I become her I will know what she should say next every time,” Tess gave him a nod and opened her history book once again she really wanted to pass this year.

Rehearsal

Paige
“Tess no, no, no what happened to you,” Tess signed and something snapped. The director had been on her back the whole time threaten to take her role from her while Tess knew she was doing her best. Her hand went to her hip, “Maybe an a*h*le of a director could actually direct instead of putting us down,” Tess heard people around her inhale. Before he could say anything else Tess held up her finger, “Vera is amazing, she’s scared woman that won’t admit her past mistakes because for her there is no mistake I am her, I know her so why are you hammering me on not being her. On this stage I am Vera, not Tess,” Tess finished crossing her arms. Tess heard someone in the black audience laugh and yell, “She just lost her role,” Tess recognized that voice anywhere and wanted to glare at the girl behind it, even if this time Paige may be right. But she was surprised when the director applauds her, “Yes that fire Te...Vera that’s what I want to see, chapter 8 once again everyone from the start,” And Tess smiled and did just that even though the happy smile was totally Tess and not Vera.
*** *** ***

At the last rehearsals every thing that could go wrong seems to go wrong and everyone thought it was the bad karma while Tess was sure that the bad karma had the same name as Paige, Tess was just happy enough to stay with Ollie the nights, She had been talking with him, watching all Harry Potters and once again she actually liked the movie and the second time around she got distracted more often but the best thing talking about her drank problem made Tess realise that he was right and even though he was amazing for her she needed professional help and Tess knew exactly who was going to pay for all this.

Premier

Edward, Mario, OllieTess loved being on stage everything about it: be it running, telling her script, interacting with her schoolmates and making the play come alive, yes Tess loved everything about it especially being Vera on stage.

Tess sat across from a table with five other classmates she heard the cassette play, the gust of wind came up and died down. Tess shook her shoulder same way she would do when having it cold. “There is a storm coming,” Tess spoke up while looking out the imaginary window. Blore or better yet Thomas spoke up, “There was an old fellow in the train from Plymouth yesterday. He kept saying a storm was coming. Wonderful how they know whether these old salts.” Tess had to admit Thomas was great in acting demanding attention when he was talking not only from the audience but also his playmates. Edward aka Mr Rogers went around the table collecting the meat plates, suddenly with the plates in hand, he stopped.
His voice oddly scared, “There’s somebody running,” the tape made running voice and everyone got a thoughtful face because they knew, they knew... without being told. As by common accord, they all rose to there feet and looked towards the door. Rosetta or the good old Dr Armstrong appeared on stage and said, “General MacArthur -” Tess cut her off and spoke up, “Dead!” Her voice a little shaky. Dr replied with a nod and said, “Yes, he’s dead...” All there was heard was the sound of the weather outside and the silent on stage before they all turned to look at each other without saying a word.

The tape was giving them a storm that just broke, Tess was feeling amazing she really liked being up here. Borne aka Thomas came through the door. Tess and the others stood in a hall scene.
A sudden his and roar were heard and the tape stopped the rain sounds.

As Thomas passed Rosetta up the stairs Vera turned away and walked into the previous scene. She looked around the table and came to the conclusion everything was the same as they left it. Then Edward also walked into the scene and watched Tessa questions before saying “Oh, Miss, I- I just came to see...” But Tess cut him off harshly and replied, “You’re quite right, Rogers. Look for yourself. There are only seven...” and then the light went off and Tess and Edward walked off.
*** *** ***

Tess lowered her voice before saying to Philip aka Mario, “If- if it is one f them, which do you think it is?” Tess was amused and though at the library some days ago. Mario grinned and replied, “I take it you are expecting our two selves? Well, that’s all right. I know very well that I am not the murderer, and I don’t fancy there’s anything insane about you, Vera. You strike me as being one of the safest and most level-headed girls I have come across. I’d stake my reputation on your sanity,” Tess smiled warily looking around before replying, “Thank you.” Mario replied once again. “Come on, Miss Vera Cleythrone, aren’t you going to return the compliment?” Tess kept quiet and bit her lip, before replying, “You’ve admitted, you know, that you don’t hold human life particularly scared, but all the same I can’t you as-as the man who dictated that gramophone record,” Tess finished and Mario replied, “Quite right. If I were to commit one or more murders it would be solely for what I could get out of them. This mass clearance isn’t my line of country. Good, then we’ll eliminate ourselves and concentrate on our five fellow prisoners. Which of them U.N. Owen? Well, at a guess, and with absolutely nothing to upon, I’d plump for Wargrave!” Tess looked surprised, “Oh!” keeping quiet for a moment before responding once again, “Why?” Mario closed his eyes before opening them again, “Hard to say exactly. But to begin with, he’s an old man and he’s been presiding over courts of law for years. That is to say, he’s played god almighty for a good many months every year. That must go to a man’s head eventually. He gets to see himself as all-powerful, as holding the power of life and death.. and it’s possible that his brain might snap and he might want to go one step farther and be the executioner and judge extraordinary.” Tess wondered what was wrong with Mario he delivered his text but he didn’t seem to be present. Tess replied slowly, “Yes, I suppose that’s possible...” Mario replied with “Who do you plump for?” Without thinking, Tess replied with, “Dr Armstrong.” Mario whistle and Tess had to hold in a smile Mario whistle was cute, “The doctor, eh? You know, I should have put him last of all.” but Tess shook her head, “Oh, no! Two of the deaths have been poison. That rather points to a doctor. And then you can’t get over the fact that the only thing we are absolutely certain Mrs Rogers had was the sleeping draught that he gave her.” Mario admitted “That’s true,” Tess kept going, “If a doctor went mad, it would be a long time before anyone suspected. And doctors overwork and have a lot of strain.” Mario replied “Yes but I doubt if he could have killed Macarthur. He wouldn’t have had time during that brief interval when I left him… not, that is, unless he fairly hared down there and back again, and I doubt if he’s in good enough training to do that and show no signs of it.” Tess replied, “He didn’t do it then. HE had an opportunity later.” Mario looked at Tess and simply said: “When?” Tess wasn’t hit out of the park yet, “When he went down to call the General to lunch,” Mario whistled again softly and replied, “So you think he did it then? A pretty thing to do.” Tess frowned she was serious after all and so was Vera “What risk was there? He’s the only person here with medical knowledge. He can swear the body’s been dead at least an hour and who’s to contradict him?” Mario kept quiet before replying, “You know...That’s a clever idea of yours. I wonder...”
*** *** ***

Tess was watching Mario closer they were at the last couple of scene’s and Tess didn’t want to slip her acting job, she had been carving out a great job after all this last few days. Mario also seemed deep in thought before speaking up, “Now look here, my dear girl, You just listen-”  Tess shocked her head and shivered but then Mario sprang at her and Tess pressed the gun’s trigger… Mario fell on the ground. Tess walked slowly to him and looked down at Mario, he was dead and then there was one. Tess felt the relief and mumbled “It’s over, no more fear, no more nerves it’s over,” Tess looked around the beach and sat down looking at the waves, “I am the only one here,” Tess kept quiet for a second before saying, “I am alive at peace, no more fear,” While she was watching the magnificent setting sun, She was safe and then tape with her “thoughts” started, “I am so tired and hungry but certainly tired, I want to sleep, sleep, sleep,” to give the tape more power Tess yawned, “Tomorrow they my come and save her, but if they didn’t it was okay she didn’t mind being alone,” Tess felt calm, serene before turning her head to the house and standing up, “Nothing to be afraid of  any longer! No terrors waiting for her! Just an ordinary well-built modern house. And yet, a little earlier in the day, she couldn’t look at it without shivering,” Tess spoke up together with the tape, “Fear,” Tess frowned when the tape continued, “What a strange feeling fear was...” Tess smiled, “While it was over now. She had conquered… had triumphed over the most deadly peril, she had turned the table on her would be-destroyer,” Tess started to walk towards the house. The sun setting in the background was red and orange peaceful and Tess felt it too, the tape continued, “The whole thing might be a dream… She was so tired, so terribly tired, her limbs where aching,” Tess dropped her eyes and mumbled along with the tape, “No more fear, don’t be afraid… Just go to sleep, sleep...sleep...sleep…to sleep safely since she was alone on the island, One little Indian boy left all alone,”  Tess smiled to herself and went into the front door, The scene changed into a peaceful house. “Ordinarily one wouldn’t care to sleep where there’s a dead body in practically every bedroom!...Could she eat something before going to sleep?” Tess shook her head, “She was to tired,” Still Tess paused at the dining room before looking at the table and seeing three china figures and Tess laughed. “You behind the time my dear,” she mumbled and grabbed two to throw them out of the window hearing the crashing noise the tape made, the last one she grabbed and held in her hand, “You come with me, we have won my dear! we have won!” While getting into the hall Tess walked the stair slowly feeling her legs shake “Suddenly I felt very tired,” The tape continued, “One little Indian boy left all alone...How did it end? Oh, yes!,” Tess mumbled once again with the tape “He got married and then there were none.” Tess closed her eyes again and the tape continued, “Married funny, how she suddenly got the feeling again that Hugo was in the house..very strong, Yes Hugo was waiting for her upstairs,” And Tess spoke up “Don’t be a fool. You’re so tired that you’re imagining the most fantastic things,” and her voice broke because she was walking slowly on the stairs. Tess tripped and left the gun behind only holding the china doll tighter. Tess looked around her she was acting just as confused as Vera had been, “What was the verse going again she,” She heard the tape continue. “Hugo, Hugo, Hugo,” Love made people blind and so was Vera in her last moment’s of living opening the door Tess walked inside Vera’s room and gasp loudly. What was there hanging on the hook? A rope with a noose all ready, A chair to stand upon, A chair that could be kicked away. “This is what Hugo wants,” Tess heard the tape play and stood on the stool. That’s was the last line of the verse of course, “He went and hanged himself and then there were none… Tess let the doll slip out of her hand the doll hit the stage and broke. “The cold hands of Cyril had thought her throat of course,” Tess heard the tape play her voice “You can go to the rock, Cyril… And that was Vera’s murder as easy as that! And Vera remembered it, no she didn’t want to remember it, Tess walked on the chair and stood on it adjusting the noose.
“Hugo is waiting for you, you got to do it,” the tape said and Tess let go and kicked the chair away her eyes looking deadly at the ceiling, it wasn’t all too dangerous they had rehearsed this part a lot and then the stage went black.

Tess got help getting off the rope and ran off the stage in Ollie’s open arm, She had her Hugo right where she wanted him.
*** *** ***

Later at night, Tess talked to producers even she even got it done to land herself an upcoming internship for next year. Seeing her father Tess got sick and she made him out for a fool and that without being drunk and because she also refused to get drunk she made Ollie and she leaves the party pretty soon so that they could watch a movie in his room. They had both been too tired to do anything else, Tess had a nice sleep in his arm.

Forgiveness

“Tess, I can’t tell you that,” Tess smiled at Dominique, “How many times Dominique,” The woman looked at Tess surprised, “I...I..I…,” Tess waited calmingly. Tess had woken up full of energy like always when waking up next to Ollie, after making breakfast for her boyfriend and Norman she called her step-mother it was time to let the past go, but before she did she had to do some things starting with her stepmother Dominique. “5 times,” Came out of the woman before her in a whisper, Tess took a sip from her coffee, “I am sorry to hear that,” Tess replied and stroked the woman shoulder which the other woman smiled at, “The first one I gave away in adoption,” Tess signed her dad hated to share the attention so it wasn’t a surprise for he to hear how many time he made the woman before her do an abortion, “He wants to keep this one because I am a disappointment,” Tess clarified and Dominique nodded slowly, “I am sorry, Tess,” The girl shook her head, “Don’t be, I fully understand him now,” Dominique nodded slowly, “And Dommy, I forgive you,” Dominique’s tears wasn’t what she expected the hug neither but it felt incredibly warm, “Thank you Tess this means a lot. Tess nodded and smiled at her, “You will never be my mother but how about friends?” Tess asked the woman who happily nodded and Tess grinned, “And promise to be the best older sister,” Dominique grinned with her, “Won’t doubt that Tess, won’t doubt that at all,” Tess smiled she should forgive her dad also but Tess wasn’t ready for that yet but for something else she was.
*** *** ***
“You want what?” Tess called her dad later at night, “I want to go to rehab father,” Tess replied once again, “And why call me?” Tess rolled her eyes, “Because you are going to pay for it,” Tess heard her father huff, “You got your mother’s inheritance use that,” Tess huffed exactly the same as her dad, “But father it’s your fault I am f*ked up so you should pay...” when her father wanted to replay Tess talked over him, “It’s for the 19 years of child support,” Her father was silent on the other side of the line, “It’s the least you can do for the girl you never wanted,” With that said Tess hang up the phone after rehab she will try to fix them but she knew it will never be a daughter-father relationship.

Movie

Ollie
“Hey babe,” Tess looked at Ollie and smile, “Hello handsome cowboy,” Tess replied with a grin kissing his lips even though his beard itched, “Mine is easy who are you,” Tess smiled, “Dancer of course,” Tess replied and smiled, “Come on, let’s dance,” Ollie shook his head, “I have to left feet,” Tess laugh, “I got to right feet,” Ollie complained about the fact Tess wasn’t taking him seriously, “Ollie relax it’s going to be fine,” Ollie growled, “I hate dancing,” Tess pulled him on the dance floor, “Than don’t call it dancing call it moving,” while saying that Tess hooked her arm around his neck.

Tess had needed a party, classes were finally over. Funny thing was she didn’t want to drink and saying that her boyfriend was strict about it Tess promised herself not to drink,  she wanted to let loose, however. So when the movie party was announced Tess was grateful even though she had no idea what she would go as finally she chose a step up movie 4 the lead dancer at a dinner.

“This isn’t so bad,” Ollie spoke up after the third or was it the fourth dance, “Of course not, your with me,” Tess mumbled and smiled when he turned Tess around, “That really was a bold move,” Ollie smiled kissing her lips softly, “What can I say I am with you, right,” Tess laughed and kissed him, once again, “That’s right, we are together,” Tess mumbled with a smile.

Last edited by NinaJones (25/11/2017 at 13:53)

Age: 19
Status: done
Interests: Alexander, Edward, Richard
Premiere: Harlow will show up, obviously

The life goes on

Life went on, I yelled at my sister, wasn't talking much for the week after because of being embarrassed, endured occasional teasing... and faced the rumors. Well, maybe not exactly faced, but treated them as usual...
"Really? Was that really the reason?" Yeap, I was again confirming what I've read on Dramafield page.
"Are you bored again?" Fiona entered my bedroom and plopped down on the bed next to me. Well, I was shouting and door were open.
"Horribly, I can't even be mad at the prospect of being relationship breaker. But look at this" I passed laptop to her, directly on the said rumor.
"What the hell?!" Aaaand... she shut it. "Where did they got that?"
"Don't abuse my gear, Fifi" I sometimes called her that. Sometimes. THough if you thought about it, Fiona does dive headfirst into things and doesn't really ponder on what to do or how to act in most of the situations.
"You shouldn't believe everything they write there."
"If I did, would I be even trying to confirm?"
Well, part of Dramafield's scoops was certainly true. Fiona and Alexander and Lindsay and Richard started talking to each other. The rest... Well, Alexander did seem pissed about that particular post, so maybe something was there. And let's not forget about me and my possible notoriety. Well, the imaginary one, since the SPotlight Stealer could come to life at any given point.

Practice makes perfect... or more nervous

"Dee? Are you even listening?"
"I'm listening, but I really need to finish this, so we can fully proceed."
Maybe accepting Edward's proposal to practice our roles wasn't such a good idea. I still hadn't remembered good portion of my role and I proposed my room to practice... Worst of all, before he came, I got sudden crativity burst and I was drawing on the tablet by the time he came and I wanted to finish it, before it would left me. And I listened to Edward, I really did! Multitasking isn't my strongest suit.
"Can I... see what you're doing?" I merely settled myself so he could look at the outline I was finishing. I had a bit of a knach for comic-like characters, as it was this time, but when I wasn't having creativity bursts and had the urge to draw, I've been practicing for the exam. I still had my plans rolling, although... "... HAve you ever thought of making our own comic?" Oh, I see where he got that...
"Nope. I'd lack the story" I put the finishing touches, saved and closed everything. "Okay, let's get to it, before I feel the urge to color it."
I knew Edward was good. He seemed to memorize almost all his role and I wasn't even halfway. SO I've been staring at him intensely, trying to find anything that could be in the need of working. I could use such thing too. Despite people often saying that I'm a natural and with talent, I didn't want to rely just on that. But back to Edward. I stared at him, listened...
"Well, you could be a little bit harsher and more dominating, I think, that sounded somehow meek to me."
"You think so?"
"I do. No complaints other than that."
"Mhm" he accepted the potential advice. Actually, this was the only problem I had, it was still early, so director could have different idea than me regarding Edward's character. I mean, he was the one with idea and imposed that on his wife... Which made me giggle all of a sudden.
"What is it?"
"Well, I realized that you and Fiona have the roles that are in opposition to your personalities."
"Yeah..."
I'm glad that Edward is more comfortable around me. I mean, we both had similar story with acting not being our first choice. I had someone I could relate to and he knew my plans. But I wasn't sure of them.
"Okay, Dee. Your turn."
And now it was me who had to practice. I still needed to use the scenario, like I said, I hadn't memorized it all yet. I always tried my best when it was coming to it, but in terms of memorizing in the given amount of time, I've always been the slowest to it. Yet when I got it, I got it and I was prepared.
"I don't know if you realized it" he started, making me look curiously at him "but you create a rather strong first impression of the character, something that would be hard to break if she was a dynamic one."
"..." well, that was new. "Never even heard of it... That could be a problem? Well, apart from the spotlight-on-me case..."
"In this play I don't think so, but maybe we could try to mellow it a little."
"Yeah, that would be great."

Dee can be speechless too

"Again?" Harlow's dissapointed voice gave away all that I was feeling at the moment. "Well, we all know that dad is out there on the ocean, but I thought mom wouldn't have a delegation or something."
"Yeah, it makes me think that they don't care" I mumbled.
I was really dissappointed in my mother. I called her two weeks ago to invite her for the premiere and she accepted... But today she called again, saying that she's needed in the branch abroad, so nope. At times like this it's hard to maintain positive lookout on life or upcoming events. After the call, I decided to call Harlow and tell her about it just a minutes before the final rehearsal.
Edward's notice was right in the end, as the director told me the same thing. Thankfully, I probably will manage to get people think about the mindset of my character.
"Seriously... Don't worry, sis, I'll be there and I'll behave."
"Cool, there's a party afterwards, you might want to go with me."
"Only for a little bit, though. You know, I have to study."
"With Aaron?" I teased her. She accidentally confessed to me when we've been hanging out recently and being a sister, I couldn't pass the occasion.
"Alone, unfortunately... But hey, what about you and that redheaded cutie? Alexander, was it? Are you talking to him or go the other way?"
"We're talking, thank you" I replied. "Nothing happened yet, though."
"Well, you'd better work on it, you can't fool me. I'd be going to work" oh, I failed to mention that Harlow got a part-time job. That reminded me that I should get one as well... Next year. "See you at the premiere, sis."
I sighed. Well, maybe I did have a crush on him, despite the occasional annoyance at his nitpicking and pointing out the wrongs. That's why I've never asked him to help me with my role. Which could be my downfall if I'd ever make a move. But enough about that, final rehearsal awaits and I'm ready!
...
...
...
"She's freaking out" Fiona said. She knew me too well...
And I've been freaking out once I noticed that someone messed up the whole thing. I was missing my wig, some other people costumes and where was the scenery? THe premiere was almost there, this was supposed to be the final thing, with everything on place and stuff. What the hell happened?
"How do you know?" Richard was also at the proximity of the scene...
"Look at her, she's slackjawed and not talking."
"I don't see how that's freaking out..."
"Somehow, I'm not surprised..."
Maybe I should close my jaw. But I couldn't, I was mortified, with thousands of questions running through my head at the same time. I had no idea who would want to play such stupid thing... Or maybe I did, as there was one person that was crossing my mind... And maybe she did that thing the other day, when I was covered all in glitter after the shower... Which actually wasn't a bad thing for me. Still, there has been one person and that one person was a very likely subject...
"You'll catch flies" Fiona decided to close my mouth for me. That made me blink and go back to reality. Oh Lord...
At least the rest went without a hitch, though I was freakishly close to forget my text...

How to be hopeless like Dee

"Hey, blanket please" those were my first words when I entered Alexander's room. And I literally panted them out.
"It's not that cold anymore" he mused, nevertheless, he handed me the blanket, when I was taking off my shoes.
"Yeah, but I've been running the whole distance and it's still calendar winter, I have to remind you."
"Okay, okay, settle in."
I placed the snacks, wrapped myself in a blanket and plopped down, while he was setting it all up. His proposition came unexpected, as a way to ease the stress about the premiere... which was around the corner. That and to ease me a bit. Well, at least I knew what we'd be watching. I've seen Inside Out once before, with Artie, so that was a strange thing to ponder, since Artie and I had already been dating and here I was just crushing. Oh well...
I had to behave, though. I've seen it, so there was a risk of spoilers. So I had to keep myself shut. By eating.
"You're hogging all the popcorn " he pointed out, rather amused. Yeah, I've been keeping it all to myself, so I lessened the hold, so he could take a bit.
"Well, I have to keep my mouth shut, unless you do want to risk spoilers." I managed to somehow warm up, so I've ditched blanket. "Gee, they're like a group of kids who doesn't want one kid to play with them" I rolled my eyes at what was happening. Now I remembered why I wasn't liking the film first time I saw it.
"Hard to argue with that."
There was a little bit of strange atmosphere around. Or maybe it was just my imagination, since it was Alexander we're talking about. Oh Lord, I'm hopeless...
"Dee? Something wrong?"
"Hmm... Let's see... We're in your room, in your bedroom and watching a movie... I don't know about you, but that could lead to something."
He stared at me. Literally stared. For a moment.
"What do you have in mind?"
Wait, what? I may have misheard something. Okay, Dee, play it...
"I don't know, anything, actually" I shrugged. Okay, not play it. "I wouldn't mind."
He hasn't said a word about it. Maybe he was thinking. But certainly he hadn't expected me to cuddle up to him by the time Sadness was gaining control of the console. But he didn't seem to mind... I hope.
"You know, next time we should watch Shrek of Kung Fu Panda" I said, when the credits began to roll... Yeah, still cuddling.
"Next time?"
"Yeah, you didn't think that I'd stop at that? Shrek is practically a classic nowadays."
"If that's how you put it..." Well, animation classic, but given he likes classics, he could enjoy this one.
Film was over, so I should go back to my dorm. But seriously, who would like to do it when faced with my situation? I thought so.

And then there were none

I was breathing deeply, trying my best to calm down. Again, my familiar stage fright kicked in, minutes before the play was about to start. Fortunately, everything was in order this time and I knew that Harlow was on the audience, she sent me a message. I was still mad at my mother for taking up work rather than see me perform. But now I had this anxiety, combined with the knot on my stomach. Yeah, I wasn't handling myself that well.
"Stage fright?" Edward joined me for a minute. I nodded. "You'll be fine, right?"
"Of course" I managed to say and sighed. "Hope that I won't steal the spotlight."
I don't know ifI did steal it, but I decided to go for it, making impression on people with my characted, specifically making a point in her confession to Vera.
"Beatrice Taylor was in service with me" I said, as if I was telling a story, keeping poise, calm and elegance. "Not a nice girl - as I found out too late. I was very much deceived in her" I slipped a subtle note of disappointment in there. "Of course all that was the sheerest hypocrisy! She was a loose girl with no morals. Disgusting! It was some timebefore I found out that she was what they call 'in trouble.'" I slipped more and more disappointment and disgust, before my face finally gave it away for a moment, showing complite distaste with a smiple nose-wrinkling. "It was a great shock to me. Her parents were decent folk, too, who had brought her up very strictly. I'm glad to say they did not condone her behaviour." And I returned to the tone from the beginning, as if I was telling a story again.
"What happened?" Tess was my partner for the scene.
"Naturally I did not keep her an hour under my roof. No one shall ever say that I condoned immorality." I said, as if I was explaining something to a little child. After all, I played respected member of the community and it was my duty to enlighten her.
"What happened - to her?"
"The abandoned creature, not content with having one sin on her conscience, committed a still graver sin" I slipped a little bit of sadness at the words 'abandoned creature', but I was still a narrator of the story, before telling the point. "She took her own life." And I slipped a note of disdain here.
"But if your - hardness - drove her to it..." Tess - as Vera - spoke to me a few moments later, when it was time to end the scene.
"Her own action - her own sin - that was what drove her to it" I interrupted her with a sharp tone, still keeping the calm exterior. It was to make a final point. "If she had behaved like a decent modest young woman none of this would have happened." I was still using that sharp tone, as Emily Brent easily condemning the girl. A final point that revealed the mindset of the woman I played, how she was raised.
And I did think I did a good job overall, hoped that I hadn't stealed the spotling the times I was on stage. I played all the parts and gave my absolute best. No doubt about that. Even the final feebleness and not feeling so well. I managed.
"Here's my talented sister" I was hugged by Harlow the moment I came out to the party.
"As if we had any" I quipped, making her laugh. "So, what do you think?"
"You have a future for playing old ladies" she joked, I giggled. "My little sister all grown up and stuff" she hugged me again. "Mom and dad doesn't know what they are missing" it was obvious that neither of them would come see it later.
"Thanks, sis" I smiled. I was lucky to have Harlow studying in London, she was close.
"I'd better get going, study time... I'll get the costume altered soon, promise."
Oh yeah, there was a party next month, already settled. "Mingle away and charm those people."
She gave me final hug and nudge and left. Hearing those words from her, I felt reenergized, ready to take on the world.
"Dee" Edward called to me, he was standing with his mother. "Your sister already left?"
"Yup, can't fight with upcoming test" I shrugged. "Hello, Mrs Kenton."
"Dahlia, is it?" I nodded. I still hated  being called my full name, but I had to bear it. "It's so good to see you."
Edward's mom seemed like a nice person. Well, she wanted her son to be an actor. My parents weren't even voicing their own wants, but they weren't pleased with our own choices either.
I wasn't interested in sucking up to people that came to see the premiere, though I did manage to land a few conversations with them. And I believed I was honest enough.
"It's important to have something else besides acting, so I'm thinking of applying for architecture" I told one of them.
"And what about your studies at Summerfield?"
There is a possibility of applying after my studies here are over. All can be manageable."

Costume shopping 101

"Okay, this is the place" Richard said, as we stood before the shop that sold costumes. "We can find something for ourselves."
"Speak for yourself, I already have a costume" I grinned, entering the store with him.
Richard was in a bit of pinch when it was coming to costumes, as he wasn't having any idea. I had to thank Harlow for mine, even though... Nevermind. So when he asked me to help him find one, I agreed. I wasn't having anything to do at this point anyway, no plans whatsoever.
"And what are you dressing up as?" he asked, interested. We were browsing through the racks, trying to find something for him.
"Jessica Rabbit. I'll be showing way more cleavage that I even did through this year."
"It would be interesting to see redheaded you" he smiled. "I think I'll try this one... and this."
"Let's see this one too" I handed him another hanger. "And this."
"We'll take this one, huh?" he spotted another one.
So we had around ten hangers with various costumes ready to try on. Richard entered the changing room and I waited for him to emerge... Okay, not exactly. He was changing and I looked around the shop for three more costumes.
"Uuuh... nope" was my first opinion at first costume. "Have those three too."
Another one...
"Oh God" I laughed.
Another...
"Hey, that's not bad..."
We tried all on them... Okay, Richard was trying on and I gave him my honest opinions... Most of them involving laughing at hos ridiculous he looked. We could say that I had fun at his expense. A lots of fun.
"So, we have three that were 'not bad'" Richard sighed. "So..."
"So pick one of the three" I grinned. "Well, I'm having fun."
"I'm not really... Well, I guess I'd practice my drunken walk."
"Jack Sparrow?" I looked at what he picked.
"Captain Jack Sparrow" he corrected me, jumping into the character. Well, that's iconic phrase, not hard to remember.
"Yeah, you'll get it right on the spot."

I'm not bad. I'm just drawn that way.

"Hey Captain" I greeted Richard when I spotted him at the party, flipping back red strands a little. Just a little.
"Hey, Mrs Rabbit, fancy seeing you here" well, maybe we weren't going exactly in character, since he missed the signature way of talking and I wasn't behaving like a sultry character either.
"Now it looks better."
"I know" he grinned. "You're looking great as well."
"Eyes up here, Shaggy" he frowned at the nickname. "Anyway, are you two decently talking?"
"Us?"
"You and Lindsay."
"..." his answer told me everything, it was still a work in progress. I wasn't even going to ask why it happened. Apparently it was bound to be or something. I don't know, really.
We talked a bit after this. I don't really know how it would appear for me to break off his relationship with Lindsay. We were cool, friends maybe. I don't think it would go as something more. Not now, really. Why would even? Maybe I shouldn't even think about such things, since I'm still debating...
"Oh God." And then I spotted Alexander, hence my remark. Alexander in a suit that practically resembled what I've seen... oh yeah, he mentioned dressing up as Michael Corleone, when I witheld the information about my own costume. I hadn't expected him looking... "I need a drink. Water, juice, something stronger, whatever." Seriously, I hadn't expected Alexander looking that hot. I think I'll faint...
"Saw something interesting?" Richard smiled at me.
"You can say that."
One glass later I managed to approach Alexander, getting a bit in character... Well, I wonder if he noticed me before.
"Mr Corleone" I used specific tone of voice. He looked at me, surprised.
"Dee?" Oh Lord... I sighed.
"And the magic is gone" I complained. "You know, you could've played thecharacter or something..."
"Could I?" he smiled. "You're looking great. Why haven't you told me?"
"You're not so bad yourself. And about what?" I tilted my head slightly. "And how would you react if I told you that I plan to dress up as Jessica Rabbit?" He seemed speechless for a moment. "Thought so."
Honestly, I really hoped he would hide the surprise... But maybe he needed confirmation before diving in. Perhaps that was the case.
A few minutes later we were having a bit of fresh air, at least I needed it a little bit (damn you, hormones!) and he volunteered to be my company.
"Good that I watched that trilogy with you" I said. "At least I know whom you're dressing up as."
"Is that so?" he smiled slightly.
"Yeah. Is that intentional?"
"Was intentional you dressing up as Jessica?"
Oh, that's how you want to play? On ho, sir, not this time...
He probably hadn't expected another thing. That I pull him to me and kiss him. Yeah, you heard that right. I grabbed him by tie,
pulled him closer and kissed him.
God, how much I wanted to do that... No regrets.

Last edited by Siri (22/11/2017 at 14:52)

Julienne Donaghue
19 years old

Interests : Thomas & Daniel
Round 1/3 Done

No one coming to the premiere
Going to the movie party as Sandra Dee from Grease

And then there were rehearsals

As soon as January began days seemed to fly quickly, and soon rehearsals for the play began. While at first they spent lots of time discussing the details like the set and costumes, they quickly realized time was running out for the actual acting rehearsal. Well, that and the fact they had to deal with the hurt ego of Paige who didn't get cast for the first time since her arrival at Summerfield. She made a habit of watching the rehearsals and throwing tantrums like she were a directing assistant no one asked for.
It was needless to say the actual director kicked her out from the set often, even if she was technically allowed in there because she was a backup actor.

"Where's the boat?"
Stage assistants ran everywhere trying to find the front part of the stage boat used on the first act. Julienne shook her head, leaning on a seat.
"How did she manage to steal that away?" Of course she was talking about Paige because she knew she'd be the one to play those bad taste-pranks at them, even if she looked at the people with an innocent look on her face.
"You think she did it this time too?" Thomas placed a hand on her shoulder, looking with a worried expression at the stage.
"Come on Tom, we know she's been screwing things up since we got the roles."
"Yeah but... making part of the set disappear isn't too much for her? I mean we could also acknowledge the fact the staff could also be incompetent..."
The girl rose her head to Tom, giving him a seriously? look.
"Did any of this happen in previous plays?" Thomas shook his head, giving a long sigh. - "I guess you have your answer then."

But the missing part of the boat wasn't the only thing delaying the rehearsals. There were costumes that appeared in different colors, some clearly had been shrunk in a washing machine, leaving guys with shorts instead of pants and baby-fitting shirts. It was incredibly annoying.

"She's getting way over her head." Lindsay sighed as she fell on Julienne's bed after the ginger had poured her heart out, her eyes swollen from crying. - "Just so you know, Sasha and I don't like what she's doing."
"I know... but come on, we're only a month away of the opening night and it's like we give three steps forward and she pushes us two steps back. We barely see any progress!"
"Relax, take a deep breath and focus on something else for now." Julie's roommate smiled, - "Valentines is almost at our door, are you going to give chocolate to someone?" She waggled her brows.
"No, I don't think I will... I mean it's not like that tradition is still alive and since I have no boyfriend to celebrate with..." Julie chuckled.
"What about that gossip of you and Daniel? And Tom too, by the way."
Julienne's face became red then, thinking about the stupid rumors and the fact she had to face both boys after the news were out.
She didn't know which felt worse, trying to explain to Daniel why she went on a date with Thomas even if they weren't in a relationship of any kind, or having Daniel try to explain that he didn't hook up with Jessica when Julienne wouldn't even mind if he did.
Everything was all tangled and weird around that school thanks to that gossip website.
She wasn't even going to start thinking about her relationship with Tom either, after that kiss they continued to act like the friends they were even if he did start to flirt more openly now, which on one hand made her heart race but on the other it worried her. She didn't want to be a new conquest on his book so she never let him ride too long on the flirt train.
"I take it from your silence that you don't want to talk about it?"
Lindsay chuckled, waking Julie up from her mental discussion.
"Sorry, I spaced out. I don't have anything special with any of them, we're friends and we simply hang out sometimes... that website is just stupid..."
"Yeah, I know... But they were right when saying you had an iron grip on Tom at NYE, even I saw that!" Lindsay chuckled, earning herself a pillow in the face.
"Thomas was being kept hostage by his father, he even thanked me when I managed to free him. I'm sure spending the evening with his father like the website put it wasn't at all what he wanted."
Lindsay chuckled again, staring at Julienne's flushed face.
"You like him, don't you?"
"What? Don't be silly!" Julie crossed her arms, her face the color of her hair.
"You do like him! Haha!" Lindsay nearly jumped from the bed to hug her roommate. - "It's okay, I won't tell Paige. God knows what she'd do to you."
"That somehow doesn't make me calm at all." Julienne nervously smiled at the brunette who continued to laugh and shake her head.
"Don't worry, she may bark but she doesn't bite...much."
Right... much...

Birthdays & endless rehearsals

Julienne moved to the usual table in the cafeteria where some of her friends were already sitting.
It was still early in the morning so there wasn't much talking because coffee hadn't been drunk yet but it didn't take long for the ginger to feel Daniel's nudge on her side.
He pointed at the entrance of the hall where Julie could see Lindsay and Richard talking.
"They're back together?" Fiona asked with a surprised face, one Julienne couldn't really share because she knew they had started talking some time ago now.
"They're not back together but they're friends. I mean why shouldn't they be, it's not like Richard cheated on her or anything." Julie shrugged her shoulders, feeling Daniel, Thomas and Fiona's gaze on her.
"How come we didn't see it happen?"
Julienne smiled at Tom. - "Because you guys were too busy with the play. I don't blame you, I wouldn't notice either if she weren't my roommate."
"But according to Dramafield she isn't the only one who began talking to her ex." Daniel grinned towards Fiona, who rolled her eyes.
"What about it? Alex and I are just friends."
"So it is true." Daniel grinned and from the look Fiona gave him Julienne wouldn't be surprised if that fork ended up craved on his hand.
But just like he had been summoned Alexander stopped by our table, calling Fiona's attention.
"Good morning.." he told everyone, his eyes landing on the brunette, - "And happy birthday."
"Happy birthday??" Julienne stared confused at her friend. - "I can't believe you didn't tell me it's your birthday!"
"Oh, right! Today's the 5th!" Thomas turned to the girl too.
"It's just a normal day, I didn't think it mattered." Fiona stuck out her tongue at the group who eyed each other.
"Oh really?" Julienne eyed her teasingly before she nodded at the guys.
What followed was a loud chant of the birthday song everyone knew from heart, with an extremely dramatic flourishes because they were in a Drama school after all.

"The order of death upon the island had been subjected by me to special thought and care. There were, I considered, amongst my guests, varying degrees of guilt."
"Wait wait wait." Daniel rose a hand to stop Julienne's reading. She eyed him with a raised brow because it was the fourth time he stopped her. She wondered why she asked for his help with memorizing her lines.
"What now?"
"You don't look heavy enough. I mean it's like you're just reading the story. You need to feel like you're Wargrave. You must speak like he would. Lazy and heavy and old."
"Daniel honey, he's stating the facts like any judge would. I don't see him expressing emotions in this part, it's like he's documenting the plans he made and justifying them, no need to over-dramatize the whole thing."
"But this is a drama Jules!"
"Did you get cast?" She then asked, narrowing her eyes at the man.
"No?" Daniel looked confused because it was nothing new by then; everyone knew he didn't get a part.
"EXACTLY." She rose her hands to the air, huffing while she felt stress fill her up.
"Okay, ouch." He replied rather offended, which seemed to wake Julienne up.
She turned to him and let out a long deep sigh, raising then a hand to her temples.
"I'm sorry Daniel... I'm just really tired and stressed about this play."
"I know, and I forgive you, this time." He rose to her and gave a small hug. - "The play will run perfectly and you'll nail the role."
"I don't know... sometimes I think I got Wargrave's personality and feelings but the next moment I'm terrified I'm going to ruin him."
"It's just a college play Jules, don't think too much about it." He pulled her into another hug, a more prolonged one. After a few minutes he pulled back but only enough to stare into her olive eyes.
Julienne swallowed dry because she knew that look and she could already feel her cheeks warming up.
"Erm, we should take a break from working on this..." She used the opportunity to move away with the excuse of setting the script on the table. - "What do you think of grabbing tea?"
"Coffee for me but sure..." Daniel sighed, running a hand through his spiked up hair and Julie could see him biting his lower lip.
She had to admit she did like him but more as a friend. He was cute, yes, but she had started to fall for someone else and she had to be honest to herself, even if she knew she wouldn't act up on her feelings.

The premiere was in two days but Julienne continued to rehearse every single day after school but as the theater got more and more work done for the opening night Julie started to rehearse later in the evening.
The ginger ran over her lines once again, sighing deeply.
"The order of death upon the island had been subjected by me to special thought and care. *turns right* There were, I considered, amongst my guests, varying degrees of guilt. Those whose guilt was the lightest should, I decided, pass out first, and not suffer the prolonged mental strain and fear that the more cold-blooded offenders were to suffer..."
"Still rehearsing?" Thomas' voice made Julienne turn, seeing him approach the stage.
"I can't help it..."
Thomas gave a sad smile, joining her on stage, his hands inside his jacket pockets.
"Yeah... I did that too on my first year here..."
Julienne noticed a different glow on his eyes, was it sadness?"
"Why so blue?" The man turned his face to her. - "I can see you're not okay..." She leaned on a stage prop and so did Thomas, with a sigh.
"I'm not blue, I suppose..." He looked at her in silence, seeing Julie nudge him with her gaze to continue. - "...My father's coming to the premiere."
"Oh..." Yes she could see now why he was worried. - "But you have a great role and you nail your lines, I'm sure he'll love it"
"Yeah, you don't know Mr. Green." Thomas sighed again, which told Julienne she couldn't just leave him that way.
"Well remember you're Mr. Green too, just a younger, more good looking version." She winked, which made him smile. Goal #1 achieved.
"Don't let him hear you." He chuckled. Julienne approached him a little, staring at his pretty face.
"Oh he can hear me alright." She grinned, - "But hey at least your dad is coming, my parents will drive my sister to a modelling casting so they won't even make it back on time for the premiere but you don't see me blue."
"That's because your parents are cool, they don't miss out on anything else and I'm sure they'll love your performance even if they can't be here to see it. My father, on the other hand..." He trailed off, his face turning sour again.
"Your father will love it because we all do and you're a really good actor. I know you probably would like to be Cristiano Ronaldo but hey, you can still be a Brad Pitt."
When he chuckled again Julienne knew she had achieved goal #2. She also chuckled with him.
"I wouldn't even need that much, I'd be content with being like Beckham."
"Right, because he's not also known worldwide?" Julienne laughed, - "Or is it because you want to marry a Spice Girl?" she teased.
"Nah, the Spice Girls are too old for me. Which still reminds me that I have yet to hear you sing."
Julienne smirked, knowing just the thing to cheer him up. She took a few steps back and grabbed a mic, starting to sing acapella Wannabe from the Spice Girls. She only stopped when she heard him laugh heartily.
"Okay, you'd definitely fit a girls band." Tom laughed, approaching Julienne who was rather breathless.
"I know, I know, I even have Ginger's hair." She grinned, placing the mic back on the table. When she turned Thomas was mere centimeters away, his blue eyes locked on hers. Julienne felt her face immediately turn red, specially when his hand cupped one of her cheeks.
If she was breathless after singing Wannabe she definitely felt worse when Thomas' lips touched hers for the first time since that peck in December. It was like she had a flashback of that evening but she couldn't really push away, she was enjoying his scent and warmness too much to react.
When Tom did break the kiss Julienne stared wide eyed at him for a few moments, her heart racing like it wanted to jump out of her chest.
"We.." Julie's voice came out raspy so she swallowed dry and tried again, - "...we can't do this... I don't do this..." She tried to explain, feeling Thomas' hand fall down on his side. He nodded but still had a smile on his lips.
"I know... This was just for rumor-debunking purposes again."
Julie's mouth dropped a little, she didn't expect that.
"Right..." She mumbled, feeling completely embarrassed even if Thomas' smile only grew.
"Thank you Julie..."
"For what, letting you kiss me?"
Thomas chuckled. - "That too. But for cheering me up."
"Oh."

Showtime

It was needless to say Julienne's stress level was at its peak as she tried to get into her dress and still work over her lines.
"What if I screw things up?" She sighed, letting Lindsay zip up the dress.
"You won't. Stop stressing." The brunette took the script from Julie's hands. - "And stop looking at the lines."
The ginger sat down, feeling her anxiety take over her. She started to feel itchy and Lindsay had to grab her hands to stop her from scratching her arm off.
"Relax." The girl smiled, pulling Julienne up. - "It'll be okay."
"Ten minutes for the show!" A backstage assistant shouted, which only made Julienne more nervous.
"I'm not feeling that well..." She mumbled, pacing back and forward.
"It's just nerves, it will pass." Lindsay chuckled, seeing Julie scratch her arms again. - "And stop scratching woman."
"I can't help it... I'm feeling so itchy." Julie shook her head, looking down at her covered arms. She pulled the sleeve up and gasped, seeing her skin completely red. - "What the..."
"What is it?" Lindsay approached her, holding her arm. - "No way."
She turned around, eyeing the room. People were rushing by, focused on their task at hand.
"Don't tell me that bitch sabotaged my outfit!" Julienne understood Lindsay's frantic search and grunted under her breath. - "Wait Linds, I don't care." Her roommate turned to her, wide eyed. - "I'll endure this, I didn't work my butt off to get shut down by some itching powder."
"But Julie, you'll only feel worse afterwards."
"I don't care."
Julienne had spend too much time working her role and poured her heart out for that presentation. She was not going to let Paige win. Even if she felt like her skin was peeling off.
"Everything ready?" The director approached the girls, and even if Lindsay walked to him as if to say something Julienne nodded, getting in front of her roommate.
"Everything good." She assured the man who smiled, clapping his hands. - "Okay people, five minutes to showtime!"
Julienne sat down again, trying to calm down both her nerves and also the itching. Someone called Lindsay and the girl eyed nervously at Julienne.
"Go. I'm okay." She gave a little smile to try and ease the girl. When Lindsay walked away Julienne sighed deeply, trying her best not to scratch her skin.
She went over the acts and made sure everything was good to go on stage.
"Hey there! Ready to- wow!" Daniel gasped when Julienne turned to him. - "What happened to you?!"
Julie's brows furrowed, eyeing her friend. - "What do you mean?"
Daniel blinked several times before he managed to grab her hand and lead the girl to a mirror. The sight Julienne had shocked her.
Her face was completely red and swollen, she could see blisters on her neck due to the fabric and it was like that sight made all her strength fade away and she began scratching her body.
"What did you eat? Are you allergic to something?"
Julienne shook her head, sitting down on the floor. - "I didn't eat anything, I was never allergic."
"It must be the dress!" Daniel touched her shoulder to turn her around and unzip the tight dress but Julienne slapped his hand away.
"No, I need to go on stage!"
"Julie are you crazy?" Daniel stared wide eyed at her, both hands on her shoulders. - "You can't act like this!"
The commotion called attentions and it didn't take long for the director to approach them, giving a shocked look at Julienne.
"What happened to you?" He approached the girl, lifting her chin to examine her face. - "Did you use a different kind of makeup? You never try these things on an opening night!"
"I didn't!" Tears started streaming down Julienne's red and swollen cheeks. When the director saw the blisters on her neck he rolled up her sleeves to stare at the same reaction on her skin.
"What's happening?" Thomas walked to the small group that had gathered around Julienne, his eyes widening at the sight of her face.
"Someone take her to the infirmary." The director rose to his feet, eyeing the group. - "What are we going to do if we don't have Wargrave?" He shook his head, giving another glance at Julienne. - "Why did this have to happen now?"
"I can take over." Paige's voice made heads turn her way. She smirked at Julienne, making then an innocent face at the director. - "I am after all an understudy, I know all the lines."
The director turned to Julienne and the ginger only wished she could wrap her hands on that little snake's neck. She didn't know what was worse, being all red due to the itching powder, being all red because everyone was looking at her swollen face or being red due to anger.
"Alright..." The director sighed, turning to two stage assistants, - "Get her Wargrave's second act outfit." He then turned to Paige. - "You better dress the same size."
Paige let out a sickening chuckle, making Julienne's hand curl into a fist. - "Oh we might need to make it a bit tighter, but nothing we can't work out."
"I'm going to kill her." Julienne whispered to Daniel between clenched teeth, anger boiling her blood.
"Someone take Julienne to the infirmary, now." The director commanded, eyeing the stage assistants. Daniel stepped forward.
"I'll take her."
The director nodded, turning away and the small group that had gathered started to disperse.
"Are you okay?" Thomas leaned down, a hand running gently down Julienne's shoulder. - "I mean it's a stupid question, forget it." He shook his head and it took Julie all she had to not start crying again.
"Come on Jules, let's go... you need to get off that dress." Daniel grabbed Julienne's hands, pulling her up from the floor. Thomas stared at her with a worried expression.
"I'll be fine..." she mumbled, trying hard not to let her voice break. - "Good luck out there."
She gave a little sad smile and leaned on Daniel, walking out of backstage.
Turned out Julienne had a severe allergy to the itching powder Paige put on her clothes. The nurses gave her a long shower with all sorts of anti-allergic medicine and told her to stay the night in observation.
Even if her friends did come visit her after the premiere party and assured her the play had been a success, Julienne could help but cry all night.

April showers bring May flowers

It took a whole week for Julienne to feel 100% recovered from the prank. She spent most of that time in her room, unwilling to let others see her still red face which resulted in sleepovers with Fiona and Lindsay and even Sasha sometimes. Tom brought over his ps4 and continued to try (and fail) to teach the girl how to play FIFA and Daniel convinced her to binge watch a whole season of The Ranch. It felt good to have her friends around even if she didn't enjoy the fact Paige had gone by not only unpunished but also being appraised for her acting as Wargrave.
Despite the official reports that there was no evidence as to who sabotaged her costume, Julie knew in her heart it had been Paige; and so did a few others. Lindsay stopped hanging out with her and even Sasha tolerated less and less Paige's diva behavior.
The good part of it all (if there was any) was the fact she could spend some time with Thomas, which she enjoyed greatly, even if he always called her a tomato. Thankfully as the allergy went away she returned to her normal, pale color.

With that school went back to normal with classes and fun weekends and Julienne even got to go home for the Easter.
When she returned to Summerfield she heard the news of an upcoming official party.
"What are you doing with a skull in hand?" Julienne laughed, seeing Fiona approach her, the pale thing in hand.
"I'm going to be Wednesday, I think this suits her!" The brunette grinned.
"Yeah... maybe..." Julie continued to browse the outfits at the store.
"Do you have any idea who you're going to dress as?"
"I don't know..." She turned to her friend, - "I'd love to dress as someone from a musical but I'm not going to do Christine Daae and I also don't want to dress up for Les Mis, I'll be pretty hot."
"Isn't that the point?" Fiona chuckled, waggling her brows at the ginger.
"I mean hot as in warm, a long dress and shawls and stuff!"
Of course she'd like to look hot, it was a college party after all. And the costumes for Les Mis didn't exactly fit that requirement.
"Well what other musicals do you like?"
Julienne tilted her head, seeing Fiona pick out a black braided wig for her Wednesday costume.
"Well I like Wicked but again, don't want to turn green. I had enough with looking red..." and she definitely did have enough of changing her skin color, - "...I also like Breakfast at Tiffany's and Pretty Girl."
"Oh Paige is going as Holly so if you don't want another clash I wouldn't advise you to do BAT's."
Julienne rolled her eyes, of course Paige had to dress up as Holly. Stupid girl. - "But I could see you as Barbra Streisand though."
"I don't know... I don't feel it." Julie sighed, taking a look at the wigs. She stopped in front of a short curly blonde wig and grinned widely. - "Hey, no one is going as Sandy right?"
"Sandy? Sandy who?" But then Fiona glanced at the wig and Julienne's smile. - "Ohhh no, no one thought of that yet."
"Good."

"Hey, why so serious?"
Julienne grinned, eyeing a Joker who was clearly Daniel underneath.
"I'm not serious darling!" She smiled, pretending to puff from a chocolate cigarette; considering she didn't smoke and actually Sandy didn't either she decided to bring a pack of candy cigarettes just for fun.
"Oh nice!" Daniel went off character and stole the cigarette Julie had in hand, peeling the paper.
"They that's my cig!" She tried to snatch it back but Daniel munched it down.
"Oh delicious." He grinned, and with the whole joker makeup he did look terrifying.
"You don't steal from Sandra Dee!" She exclaimed, taking out another cigarette, being careful this time not to let the Joker snatch it away.
"You're a phony my dear," He replied in his Joker tone, - "You see, you're a real good lass who just dressed up in this" he motioned for her tight outfit, - "To please a guy. But by all means, I ain't complainin."
Julienne laughed, leaning on the side of the table.
"I'm pretty sure the Joker doesn't have a cowboy twang."
"This wasn't a twang!" Daniel gasped, - "Was it?"
"It kinda was." Julie laughed, taking a sip then from her drink.
"You do look awesome though." Daniel smiled, his eyes going up and down Julie's body. She could feel her cheeks warm up but she played it off.
"I'm Sandy, not Harley Quinn." She stuck out her tongue.
"Even Harley was a decent person before. Who's to say you won't be my next victim?" Daniel waggled his brows, making Julie laugh.
"You look seriously disconcerting with that face."
"Well you know what I say... What doesn't kill you simply makes you stranger." He grinned.

"Sandy?" The obvious impression of John Travolta made Julienne chuckle, seeing Thomas approach her in a Han Solo costume.
"Hello...stud." She smiled teasingly, making Tom fall into laugher.
"You look..." His eyes went down her outfit lazily, - "...great."
"I'll take that as a compliment!"
"For someone who had no idea what to dress up as, you did find a great solution." Thomas approached Julienne, both of them watching the other people in costumes, some dancing, some standing there chatting.
"Yeah when I went shopping with Fiona I saw this wig and the idea came to me."
"I see... Well it is a great costume, even if I do prefer your natural hair color. There are way too many blondes out there."
Julienne chuckled, - "Even if redheads have no souls?"
"Hmmm." Thomas pretended to think about it, getting some more chuckles out of Julie. - "Yeah even then."
"Come on Han Solo, let's dance."
Julienne grabbed Thomas' hand and moved him towards the dancefloor.
"Liking this dance I am." He mumbled, a smile dancing on his lips.
"That's Yoda! Maybe you should have painted your skin green and put on some big ears?"
"Okay, first of all, you're a dork for knowing that..." Julienne stuck out her tongue but kept dancing with Thomas, - "And secondly, I was just trying to be funny, kid." When he realized Julie didn't laugh at that one he sobered up. - "I mean Han Solo is awesome but there aren't many quotes I can use. It's not like I can go around saying Never tell me the odds"
"Never say never." Julie smiled, feeling Thomas' hand move down her back as they danced. - "Wanna know the odds of that happening?"
Thomas grinned widely, noticing the opportunity she had just presented him.
"No no. Never tell me the odds." He replied in his Han Solo accent.
"See?" Julienne grinned, letting Tom twirl her a bit. - "Now who'd say I would end up dancing with Han Solo."
"If I'd known I'd come dressed as Danny."
Julienne laughed, - "And be the front page of the next batch of rumors? I could see it already, Thomas and Julienne in matching costumes, the pretty girl by the golden boy's side."
Tom shrugged his shoulders, stopping their dance. His hand still rested on her back.
"I don't care about rumors. Do you?"
Julie shook her head. She had been bothered by them before but not now, not anymore. They could say whatever they wanted of her, she knew her friends would still be on her side because they knew her for who she is.
She didn't expect Thomas to pull her closer to him and even less for his lips to touch hers, especially in front of everyone in that party hall.
"Is this another attempt to debunk the rumor?" She asked with a short breath when Tom backed a little.
"No. No, it's not." He smiled, his blue eyes locked on Julie's olive ones.
She knew she should walk away, she knew Thomas didn't do relationships but at that single moment, she couldn't care less.

Last edited by hhgurl1 (23/11/2017 at 18:29)

Name and age: Lyon Leone, 20

Round Status: R1 complete, R2 complete, R3 complete, R4 complete

Romantic Interests: Mario and Jessica, both of which are more complicated than I'd like.

My momager Gigi has declined my invitation to the premiere

January

Jessica's birthday

"Here." I said awkwardly as I thrust a gift bag in Jessica's direction as we were getting ready for class.

"What's this?" She asked eyeing the bag skeptically, but not touching it.

"Birthday present." I said probably too fast, as I wondered if I'd made a massive mistake getting her something. After all we weren't exactly friends.

"Dork." She sighed, but she took the bag from my hands. "Sweet." She responded as she pulled out the vintage leather jacket I'd found at a great little shop in town.

"Glad you like it." I said a little too brightly. What the hell, I thought...I'm acting like I have a crush...maybe I do...damn.

"I didn't say that." She said with a smirk as she shrugged off the jacket she was wearing to put on the one I got her. "Fit's good though." She said before grabbing her bag and leaving.

She didn't say she didn't like it, was the only thought that filled my head as I finished grabbing everything I needed to leave the room.

coffee with Thomas

Maybe it was me calling him Draco at the New Years Eve perty, or maybe his father made him do it...or maybe it was because it finally got too cold for me to wear my headphones but Thomas and I managed a quiet sort of civility one that I worried was going to be short lasting when he asked me to have coffee, but I decided to keep an open mind about it and said "yes".

The first few moments were spent with us making light conversation like two people who didn't know each other.

"This is dumb." I said finally.

"What?" Thomas asked confused.

"Us sitting here acting like we barely know each other." I said.

"Yeah that is dumb." He agreed.

And it seemed to be that simple, and as we caught up about the last couple of months I wondered why we hadn't tried talking like friends sooner, it was a role that suited us both.

lunch with Jessica and Mario

I was shocked when one afternoon after mumbling something about being hungy Jessica invited me to have lunch with her and Mario. With the book I was reading still in hand I decided to say "yes" and join her because if she was making an effort to include me, and I wanted to be included, there seemed no point in saying no.

Lunch with them started out awkward. Mario and I knew next to nothing about each other although we'd seen each other around campus and had both been cast in the play and Jessica was her usual self...but that wasn't entirely a bad thing. It was Mario who actually managed to make things less tense by asking what I was reading. It was a novel called "Compulsion", a fictionalized account of the Leopold and Loeb murder case.

Both of them seemed interested and Jessica managed to share that crimes and thrillers were her favorite genres and Mario asked if I'd gotten the book from the library. I told them that the movie version was on NetFlix, and offereed to lend  Mario my copy when I was done. From there the conversation flowed a bit more naturally as we talked about our favorite movies and songs.

In the middle of it all though my phone buzzed and I excused myself to take the call. On the other end was Mr. Green, Thomas's father...and he wanted to know if I had time to come in an read for his team...that afternoon. Looking over at Jessica and Mario I was tempted to say "no" but I reasoned that if either of them were in my position they'd be doing the exact same thing I was, so I asked for an address to be texted to me, ended the call, and made an excuse to leave.

***

It wasn't until I got to the casting that I realized how underdressed I probably was.

Oh well, I thought to myself, nothing I can do about that now.

The reading itself lasted 20 minutes and I thought it could have went better.

Did I really rush away for this? I wondered on the cab ride back to Summerfield. I did I realized with a heavy sigh and hoped I hadn't ruined any progress I'd made with Jessica.

Exploring

Jessica didn't invite me to sit with her or Mario again and while she didn't completely shut me out it definitately felt like we were just getting to know each other again. I thought about telling her about the call from Mr.Green but considering the rumor going around campus about whether I was networking or something more seedy I didn't want to risk adding fuel to the gossip fire because who knew how they'd twist an impromtu casting call. No doubt there'd be some insensitive jokes about a casting couch...

It was late February before I heard from Mr. Green again. Apparently, he loved my audition and it was down to me and one other actress for the part. He told me wanted to see the play before making any decision...no pressure there I tried to convince myself as I felt myself spinning into a panic attack because this wasn't just any role this could be the role that legitimized my career as an actress.

***

Rather than sit alone in my room I decided to grab my camera and go out exloring. There were a few places I remembered from Thomas's tour a few months back, some places that weren't regularly used and so I figured they'd be perfect to take a few pictures. One of the places was a long out of use aviary, overgrown with ivy and oddly well preserved if you didn't count the overgrown foliage. I'd only been there for a few minutes when I heard footsteps passing through the leaves. I felt my body tense up until I heard a slightly familiar voice say my name, I turned and there was Mario.

"I didn't know anyone else knew about this place." He said looking at me skeptically.

"I found out about it a few months back." I told him, "I didn't have my camera with me then, but I can go." I felt like I was babbling. I knew I was babbling.

"You don't have to."

Why did he look so cute when he said that? I thought as I took a few more pictures. It felt awkward snapping pictures in the silence knowing that he was there so I decided to risk it and ask a few more questions.

"So are there any other places like this?" I asked tentatively as I continued to shoot.

"A couple." He started "In fact more than a couple." He offered.

"Maybe I'll get lucky and find one." I said, hoping I didn't sound too sarcastic, in fact I hoped I didn't sound sarcastic at all. "Enjoy the rest of your afternoon." I said as I replaced the camera around my neck.

"Keep your eyes out for the set graveyard." He called after me as I was leaving.

"Set graveyard?"

"Yeah it's like an art installation of all these random set pieces on the campus."

"That sounds cool."

"It is." He replied and I realized why he and Jessica were such good friends.

Movie with Edward

I was kind of shocked when I ran into Edward and he asked about watching Star Wars. I knew there were at least six of those movies and the idea of agreeing to sit through more than one seemed daunting so I suggested that we watch one. I wanted to be into the movie but I was underwhelmed and I told Edward as much when he asked about it. He admitted that it wasn;t his favorite either and then switched the conversation to the play. I was honest when I told him I wasn't sure how I was going to do, after all the rehersals had been a bit of a mess and while I probably had the least lines that didn't mean that I didn't need to rehearse. I wasn't surprised that as a whole the conversation went well, Edward was easy to talk to and I regretted not getting to know him better sooner, but hoped that could be rectified since it seemed like he'd be a good friend.

The final rehearsal

At least my costume fits and is the right color I sighed as it felt like the world was crumbling around me literally. If this was a precurser of things to come then I could kiss whatever chances I had impressing Mr. Green.

Opening night

A little encouragement...Gigi Leone Style

My mother refused to come to the play.

"If I support small parts you won't strive for bigger ones." She said matter-of-factly.

I hadn't told her that Mr. Green was coming or what this so-called small part meant for me, not only because of what it could mean, but because of what it did mean: it was a role I was genuinely working to to do well.

I was shocked by how well the play went, but despite the disastrous rehearsals everyone actually did well. I just hoped that I did well enough... 

The premiere party

Once I'd changed out of my costume I couldn't wait to get out of the wig I needed to wear for the play and immediately put my hair up into my two signature buns. As I looked into one of the mirrors backstage to accomplish this I noticed Mario pass behind me.

"You were great tonight!" I called out to him with a smile and in my head I could hear Jessica calling me a dork.

"Yeah whatever." He said.

"You were." I tried to encourage him.

"Yeah but my parents didn't even see it."

"Did they refuse to come too?" I asked.

"Too?" He asked skeptically.

"I knew my mom wasn't coming when I told her the part I was cast for." I confesed as I turned to face him, my hair done.

"Seriously?" He asked. "That's harsh, my parents wanted to be here, they just couldn't make it."

"So that means they should be here for one of the other shows." I said with a smile.

"You're going to the party right?"

"Yeah."

"Maybe you have time for a quick stop first." He asked with a half smile. "But you'll need sneakers." He said loking at my heels.

***

20 minutes later we were standing in the set graveyard and even in the semi-dark it was beautiful.

"Thank you for showing me this." I told him.

"You're welcome."

I wanted to kiss him, but I didn't want to misread the moment, instead I mentioned that we should probably head to the party and he agreed.

***

In many ways the premiere party was a repeat of the New Year's Eve Party in that one of the first people I saw was Thomas's father who didn't hesitate to compliment me on my performance.

"Thank you." I told him.

"No, thank you. I saw something different in you tonight. Call my office on Monday."

"Thank you again." I told him.

"Go, mingle. I'm sure there are other people who want to talk to you."

What did it say about me that even in a room full of casting agents etc. the one person I wanted to talk to was Mario...

Movie/TV character party

My inspiration

Diana Ross as Billie Holiday in "Lady Sings the Blues"

I wasn't looking forward to a costume party, especially not after my mother suggested I go as my character from "Witch Way". Ultimately I chose Diana Ross and Billie Holiday from "Lady Sings the Blues" it required another wig but it was necessary to complete the look.

"What kind of fairy princess are you supposed to be?" Jessica asked when she saw me fully dressed.

"The drug addicted, blues singing kind."

"Seriously?"

"Seriously."

"You picked her sparkliest look didn't you?"

"Maybe."

Jessica just laughed as she adjusted her own costume.

"See you there." she said.

And a few minutes later as I prepared to leave alone I once again wished I wasn't going.

I was never 100% comfortable at parties where I needed to be Lyon Leone the person and not Lyon Leone the actress and so it wasn't long before I found myself craving air. I ended up leaving the party early and while I intended walking back to the dorm I ended up walking to the set graveyard. Mario was already there.

"Is that you Lyon?" He asked looking at me.

"I can go." I said instantly regretting it.

"You don't have to." He said. "You want a drink?" he asked offering me the bottle at his side.

"No, thanks though."

"No camera this time." He asked after taking a small swig.

"Nowhere to put it." I laughed, "And I wasn't planning on coming here."

"Did you follow me?" He asked.

"No, I would never do that-" I started.

"I'm just joking." He said cutting me off. "But what are you doing here?"

"The party it just...it was too much."

"I get that...You can have a seat you know."

I found a semi-clean piece of staging near him and sat down trying not to think about the fact that I was all in white. I found that Mario wouldn't initiate conversation but if I asked a question he'd answer. After a couple of questions about whether his family had liked the show when they finally saw it, and if he had a chance to watch "Compulsion" yet, I found myself worried I was saying too much. I hated that he made me nervous. After a few minutes of silence I told him I should probably get going, to my surprise he told me I didn't have to.

"You want me to stay?" I asked.

"I could think of worst company."

I swallowed hard, uncertain what to say next.

"You sure you don't want a drink?" He asked

"I want to kiss you." I blurted out and wished I could take the words back...that is until his lips met mine.

I hope this isn't Thomas 2.0 I thought as I kissed him back...

Last edited by Dare (22/11/2017 at 02:39)

Well since no one is done - which means I can't do the Gala Dates - I will extend Round 4.

---

Contestants:
Please be sure to stick to the time guidelines as listed by the contest host. Due to the holidays and the format of this contest, this host has been granted an additional 24 hours for the current round. That round will close no later than 22/11/2017 at 16:12.


Thank you for understanding. Good luck! ♥

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Round 5

Your first year at Summerfield is reaching its end. The play was a full success and while no one of actually managed to lead a role outside of College yet, you got a chance to show your whole talent. Not to forget that there will be more opportunities coming over the next years.
In June Summerfield’s director is celebrating his 55th birthday and it has been decided there will be a Gala held. It will take place on the 24th June. All of you will expect to show up, in proper attire and looks like a few of you even managed to get them a date:

Julienne (Hhgurl1) & Thomas
Lyon (Dare) & Mario
Tess (NinaJones) &
Dee (Siri) & Alexander

How your character gets asked for the Gala is up to you… of course it also allowed that you are the one asking the Extra.

After the Gala, there isn’t much more happening at Summerfield. Classes are coming to the end, exams have to be passed and before you know it, it is time for the summer holidays.


Round 5 Requirements

* Name and age of your character
* Round Status
* Gala Date

* Story about the asking - Were you asked or did you do the asking? Where did it happen? Did you say yes or was it the wrong person asking you?

* Story about the Gala - What did you do during the Gala? Did you enjoy yourself? Or did you find the whole setting boring? How was it spending a few hours together with your date? Did you manage to get a bit closer to each other?

Outfits: Getting asked/Asking the Extra and the Gala

Round 5 // Contest will close at 4 pm (Forum Time) on the 25th November.

Last edited by schoggettchen (23/11/2017 at 23:22)

---

Impressions

They will be based on your interaction with my characters. I have more to work with if you interact with the characters more often in your stories.

Lyon Leone

Mario - When he first heard about the Gala he scoffed already wondering if there was any way to ditch it but then he spotted Lyon in the hallway. Sometimes he still wonders how he could not see her before… maybe it is due the fact that she hung out with Thomas and usually he avoids his friends. But Lyon is different and that in more than just one way it seems. Her being this straightforward with her wish to kiss him for example but that is exactly what he likes in people… no beating around the bush instead telling what is on her mind. Mario knows that they don’t know each other for a long time yet but for him it makes sense to ask her about the Gala. Lyon seems exactly like the kind of person who could turn this boring evening into a fun event. And he reckons with both of them coming back to Summerfield after the holidays there will be more time for them to get to know each other better.

Julienne Donaghue

Thomas - Okay Julie was definitely not a bad kisser - the rumor was stupid anyway - the one though about her wanting to be at his side was a different matter. Thomas didn’t believe the nonsense of her wanting to break him and Paige up but as the months passed he couldn’t deny that maybe he was the one wanting Julie at his side. It was strange since a part of him still doesn’t believe in serious relationships but Thomas reckons it is just like he had told her during their date. He needed a connection without really hooking up and that is exactly what they have. He felt that they were getting closer to each conversation and there was always something new he would learn about her. Thomas knows that Julie is the one he wants to take to the Gala and she might be the one he wants to see if dating might work out for him.

Dahlia Christiansen

Alexander - He wasn’t sure whether he was dreaming or if the past months actually happened… to think it all started when Dee stumbled right in front of him. And now with the Gala just around the corner, Alexander knew there was no one else he wanted to be his date for the night. He mused that the two of them were a rather strange combination… he liked classics and she preferred cartoons but someone once said opposites attracted. And Alexander was pretty smitten by Dee. She didn’t tease him about the virgin rumor which was very glad for and then there had been the kiss during the party. He didn’t see it coming, to be honest despite him and Dee spending a lot of time together. But now that he knows how it feels like he isn’t going to mind at all if there will be more in the future.

Tess Meijer

Last edited by schoggettchen (23/11/2017 at 23:26)

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Updates & Rumors

1. Following Birthdays have happened since April until the end of June: Alexander turning 22, Mario turning 21, Paige turning 22, Richard turning 23, Thomas turning 23; like always feel free to congratulate them

Unfortunately I don't have the time to do more... Let's just say that Summerfield's Gossip girl or boy was too busy with exams to look for any interesting information about your character.

Extras' attire for the Gala

Alexander Please imagine it with his face
Camille
Daniel
Edward
Fiona
Jessica
Lindsay
Mario
Norman
Oliver
Paige
Richard
Sasha
Thomas

Last edited by schoggettchen (23/11/2017 at 23:21)

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{Name} Tess Meijer
{Age and Birthday} 19-August 19
{Face Claim} Zoey Ivory

{Round Status}
All rounds done
{Date} Boyfriend
{Outfits}

Date, Gala

{Story}

Call

Ollie
Tess picked her phone grumpy she had wanted a little more sleep, “Yes?” she mumbled into her cellphone, “Tess with me...” Tess sat up yawning, “Hello father, why call so early?” Tess asked him and looked beside her to see a peaceful sleeping Ollie who embraces her waist. Mumbling something in his sleep Tess found him the cutest but she had to focus on the call, “I did what you asked me to do,” Tess nodded “And?” She heard her father huff but reply with, “London starting July until early September, your school knows about it,” Tess nodded, “Thank you,” she replied. She heard her father inhale before he spoke again, “I am sorry Tess for everything,” Tess was surprised but kept quiet for a moment, “I will forgive you...when I am ready dad,” Tess told him and before her dad could answer she hang up, “Who was that?” Ollie tired voice spoke up, “My father,” Tess replied softly, Ollie nodded, “He admitted me to a rehab facilitation,” Ollie opened one eye, “Good,” Tess smiled and kissed his lips. “I think so too,” she mumbled to Ollie before closing her eyes, “Let’s watch the last Harry Movie today,” Ollie nodded, “I am okay with that,” Ollie replied kissing Tess once again before closing his eyes, “But let’s sleep a little longer, that jerk could have called you later than 6 am,” Tess nodded on his chest, “Tell me about it, it’s Saturday after all.”

Date

Ollie
“Where are we going?” Tess asked Ollie for the fifth time, “Is a surprise,” Tess signed and just let it go she would see soon enough. She hadn’t expected to be shown a beautiful garden, “How pretty,” Ollie smirked, “Not as pretty as you,” Tess smiled and followed him to the path he was walking. “What are we doing here?” Ollie shook his head, “Will tell you soon,” Tess signed once again, “Stop that your soul will escape,” Tess grinned, “No worries, You will catch him back for me,” Ollie laughed, “You trust me a lot,” Tess nodded, “We are together right,” Ollie nodded on that, “Right,” he mumbled and moved a little faster. They walked around him showing her everything but his mind seemed somewhere else yet Tess didn’t complain and just let him show her the way he wanted to be. “It’s this a maze?” Tess asked surprise when Ollie stopped before a green hedge, Ollie nodded, “Do you trust me?” Tess nodded without so much of a thought to it, “Every day some more,” Tess mumbled and Ollie smiled, “Well come,” Tess followed him once again in the maze not afraid to get lost. While walking Tess talked continuously, Ollie focused on the road giving answer to Tess now and then, “Where here,” Tess looked surprised around them she was speechless this was beautiful in the midst of the maze was a fountain blasting water in pretty bows, “Wow,” Tess spoke up not taking her eyes of the scene, even when Ollie pulled her closer to the fountain Tess eyes where on it, “Tess,” It was when Ollie called her name that she looked at him in the eye, “Yes?” Tess asked sweetly. But was surprised to see Ollie on a knee holding out a corsage, “Will you be my date to the gala,” Tess had tears in her eyes when she nodded really fast, she would really love too, Ollie’s smile was so worth her answer. “Great,” he replied standing back up and getting her on his arm to twirl around with her, “Ollie put me down,” Tess said laughing. “Only if you have dinner with me,” Tess laughter only got bigger, “Okay, okay but put me down,” Tess was surprised to see that a picnic was set just behind the incredible fountain, she had an amazing dinner while kissing Ollie and watching the fountain she really couldn’t wait until the gala it would properly be the last party till she got her sh*t back together.

Gala

Ollie
“Wow, you look amazing,” Tess smiled, “Well thank you, Hottie,” She grabbed him at his tie, “Don’t pink suit you perfectly,” Ollie laughed, “I told you, I had a pink tie,” Tess smiled and hooked her arm in his, “Show the way,” Ollie nodded and did but not with difficulty his eyes where on Tess continuously.

“Are you having a good time?” Ollie asked later the night. Tess nodded she had a dance, chat with Edward, Fiona and some other friends. She had also been surprised to see Mario at the gala and was amused with the date he had with him but she let him be, “It is beautifully decorated, you know I like my friend and the food is delicious,” Ollie raised an eyebrow, Tess grinned, “And I like the company.” Ollie smiled after the last one, “I really would like to take that dress of,” Ollie hummed and Tess smiled, “I would love for you to take it off to,” Ollie smiled also, “So we can leave?” Tess nodded, “Certainly,” While saying that Tess hooked her arms in his like she had been doing the whole night.

“That was good,” Tess said later the night while laying half on Ollie. Ollie nodded eyes half-lidded, “That was great,” he mumbled and Tess grinned. Before getting serious, “You know I will miss you right,” Tess mumbled in his chest but he heard it. “I will miss you too but I am also proud of you,” Tess felt tears slip. While Ollie wiped them away Tess kissed his lips, “Your the best thing that happens to me,” Ollie smiled, “Good because so are you,” Tess also smiled at his word before saying a poem close to her heart.

“I don’t mind falling
if at the end you will catch me,
and shares me,
for all the world to see
that I am yours,”

Tess finished and kissed his lips, Ollie frowned, “I will really miss your poems,” Ollie replied before deepening the kiss and the night was still young and Ollie showed her how young.

Last edited by NinaJones (25/11/2017 at 13:53)

Age: 20 (shortly after Alexander :p)
Status: done
Date: Alexander

Inbox overload

"Dee, shut down your phone!" Fiona complained to me rather loudly, when I was doing the usual, watching cartoons.
The problem was... well, today was my birthday and Artie and his boyfriend decided to send me a lot of messages. So it was beeping frequently and driving everybody mad. Vibrations were a lot worse, making me jump and I couldn't turn it silent, since I hoped that my parents would remember that their younger daughter is turning one year older... And before anybody of you ask, I did lower ringtone volume, but it still drove people nuts.
"I can't" I sighed. "I'm waiting for a call."
"And you can't turn off your phone?"
"Well, would you if you waited for your parents to remember to call you specifically on particular day?"
"Maybe not" she shrugged. And there was a beep. "This ringtone is driving me crazy, what the heck is happening?"
"My ex and his boyfriend are happening" I sighed once more. "Once a year there's inbox overload, because they'd love to send you one-word or one-letter messages for you to piece it all together."
"... Are they nuts?"
"Yeah, probably."

ROtfL

Sometimes people need to do or see stupid things. Just like now, Richard and I, with watching silly videos... Because we could. There weren't any issues to take care on right now. So we watched animal videos.
"Why cats are so afraid of cucumbers?" That was something I didn't get at all.
"Don't ask me, but it's funny."
So... we didn't get that stuff at all. Honestly, what was the trigger? However, we didn't want to find out, simply because it would be too much nitpicking into the video and that would really ruin the fun.
"This will never gets old" he commented on another video we were watching.
"Yeah."
Richard and I were cool, sort of pals, I guess. He wasn't the brightest, but he sure was funny. And we had a great time when nothing interrupted or either of us wasn't kidnapping the other. Yeap, I was still reminding him about that day.
"So, are you two going official?" he asked out of the blue. I blinked.
"Excuse me?"
"Well, you and Alexander." Really, Richard? Out of all subjects you had to ask, was this? "Don't give me that face, I had to ask."
I diplomatically (or not) started eating the bar I had with me.
"And you're doing that again, eating."
"Well, I'm not going to comment on anything."

Isn't it kinda obvious?

When there are days with warm weather, sun and no rain, I'd gladly use them. Just like this time, taking up all the bench, reading. Because I simply wanted to. People do think that when you watch cartoons, you're too childish for some books. And people that are saying it usually are reading some kind of abomination like Those-Books-I-Cannot-Speak-Of. At least I picked something better... Although I'm not so convinced that Jayne Eyre is something I'd normally pick... hey, blame my boredom. At least I could enjoy warm weather without worrying for anything at least for an hour or so.
Or maybe I was in a mood for romance since I could say that I may be in one right now. It all pointed to it. See, this is a bit problematic, to end up with someone practically at the end of the year. Speaking of him, he probably had a class at this moment. Or it should end already. On the other hand, I'd reather enjoy warm weather while it lasts than go stalk certain redhead.
Speaking of certain redhead... He appeared in my field of view, just as I took a moment of break from the book and turned my head to the side. I waved at his direction, just in greeting and returned to the story.
"Shouldn't you be in class?" Speak of the devil... Alexander noticed my wave or me in general... How did he knew my schedule was beyond me.
"Ditched it" I stated matter-of-factly. "Have to enjoy the sun, before typical English weather kicks up."
"I gave up on understanding your priorities" he laughed, probably in hopelessness. "Make me a place?"
"Sure, I could use a pillow."
People wondered why we weren't official... well, we never actually discussed the matter, it just happened that at one day PDA was welcome with him. It still was a work in progress and without going TMI. That would be uncalled for.
"Dee?"
"Mmm?" I looked up at him. He was having a book as well, probably studying. Right now it was lowered to his side.
"You know about the gala, right?"
"Yeah." Of course I knew. It was everywhere and Fiona started to tease me if Alexander would ask me or I him. "So? We're going together, right?"
"Yes, I hoped that you would agree to it" he smiled. He was so cute right now, it was hard to restrain myself.
I rose up to sitting position and kissed him lightly on the lips.
"Isn't it kind of obvious that I would? I hope you know how to dance, because I'm clueless."
"Really?" he looked a bit doubtful.
"No." I knew basics, so it wouldn't be that bad.

Fancy events + Dee = ...?

"Oh Lord, I need a drink" were my first words when I saw Aexander at my dorstep. We agreed that he'd pick me up (well, he kind of insisted) and I've been doing the usual (a.k.a. cartoons) when he knocked. Seeing him all dressed and ready to go gave me the exact same reaction I had at the party in April.
"Already?" he mused, placing a little kiss.
"Sorry, but you, sir, are looking hot in suits" I stated. "Like smoking hot, so a cooldown is appreciated." That should give him some idea about how he was making me feel dressed up like that. "Last party was no exception."
"Is that so?" he expressed interest, before smiling. "Maybe I should dress up in suits more often."
"You, sir, are going to be the death of me if you do."
That gala wasn't so necessary for me, but it was a statement that we enter together. For me, it was a sign that we're official and nothing else mattered. So entering the site was getting us few looks, but I don't think any of them were surprised... or that surprised. We weren't hiding or something...
But I have to admit that it was too fancy for me. I'm not fond of fancy, it was still better than family gathering where everybody was interested in our lives.
"Plans for the summer?" I asked Alexander somewhere in the middle of it.
"I don't know. I'll go home for certain with Camille. You could visit us, if you want."
"I'll see about it... August maybe...?"
"Are you having something for July?"
"Well..." here it goes. "I decided to apply for architecture again, in London. Don't know how it go."
"London? Is your sister a reason?"
"Well, now you are too..."

Summer is coming

"Finally!" I exclaimed happily, after last exam had been taken. "No more cramming!"
Camille looked at me rather strangely in my book, but she could just be surprised. Last exam was the hardest one for me and if it wasn't for her brother and Edward, I probably would've flunked it. The last thing I needed now is retaking because of a bad grade. Nope. I'm hoping to pass it and not to worry about it later.
"What are you going to do now?" she asked.
"Pack my stuff?" I tilted my head in non-serious manner. "No, really, pack my stuff and help Harlow move." With Harlow calling me and announcing her moving plans from that huge house to an apartment, cheaper, with less people and the potential flatmates (a couple, as I recalled) probably had a puppy, which was awesome. I wondered if I could stay there for July, but that was optional. Harlow wasn't going to return to Scarborough for the summer now that she had still that part-time job. I could look for something like this as well...
"You mentioned."
I really needed to pack my stuff, so when we reached the dorms, I quickly vanished in my room. I had my plans, but I'm not exactly certain if I should follow them right now, but it wouldn't hurt to try, I've been practicing a lot.
When everything was properly packed (minus laptop, drawing tablet, basic bathroom stuff and few clothes for the last days), I decided to catch some fresh air. I didn't know how things would play out, circumstances could happen and autumn wouldn't welcome me in Summerfield, but somewhere else. I knew I wanted to study in London, now having more than one reason to do so. After all, it wouldn't be that far...
"Hey, Dee" I was greeted by Edward on my way. He warmed up, but still we were having a long way to go when it was coming to friendship and anything. But he knows what I'm up to.
"Oh, hey" I smiled at him. "What's up?"
"Nothing really... So, do you know what are you going to do?"
"It will all be clear after practical exam" I sighed. "Don't worry, though, I'll be sure to visit if things do happen."
"I don't think you should be telling that to me" he smiled knowingly. Well, I didn't exactly tell Alexander that I might leave Summerfield, he probably figured that out on his own. It all was uncertain at this point.
"Yeah, I should... Alex knows I applied, though."
"That's a start, no? You're staying in London?"
"Well, I hope so at least for the results. I plan to spend some time at home as well."
I didn't know what future would bring or if I follow what I wanted in the end.

Last edited by Siri (25/11/2017 at 10:21)

Name and age: Lyon Leone, 20
Gala date: Mario
Round status: All 5 rounds complete

Mario's birthday

I was thankful that after the kiss with Mario things didn't get awkward...or "official". It was genuinely just nice to have someone other than Jessica to talk to, even though I still didn't consider Jessica and I friends. She was the one who tipped me off about Mario's birthday though.

"Don't get him the same thing you got me." She said with a half smile that signaled it was meant to be a joke.

"Crap I already had a matching jacket picked out." I said with a straight face.

"You did? Where'd you find another one?"

"I'm joking." I said.

"Hey maybe you aren't a half bad actress."

***

"Is all that for me?" Mario asked when I met him a few hours later in the set graveyard. It had become the default place we hung out on the rare occassions either of us bothered to make actual plans.

"Just this one." I said as I held out a small bag. "I didn't have time to wrap it."

"Citizen Kane?" He asked holding up the dvd.

"I'm not a huge fan, but you seemed to like Orson Welles in Compulsion."

"I've heard this is so hard to watch."

"It can be."

"Watch it with me?"

"Sure." I started "But I make no promises to stay awake."

"Just don't snore." he laughed.

"I make no promises about that either."

I could hardly believe how open I was with Mario, but he made it easy, and easy felt good.

A date for the gala

A few days after Mario's birthday I finally got some news about the movie Mr. Green was directing. He said he fought for me for the role but the studio wanted to go in another direction. I understood but I was still disappointed and decided to skip my last class and go and take some photos.

"Hey Lyon wait up!" I heard Mario calling after me as I was about to leave the building. "Don't you have another class?"

"I'm not going, heading into town to take come pictures instead. I just have to grab my camera."

"You want to be alone."

"Not really."

We walked to the dorms to grab my camera and then started to walk into town.

"Have you heard about this gala?" He asked.

"It's all my mom can talk about since they sent the email blast to the parents."

"Does that mean you're going?"

"I have to at least make an appearance. I figure if I hate it I can always leave early. What about you.

"I was thinking about ditching it, but it could be cool if you're there."

"Do you just want to meet there?"

"I was thinking we could go together, like a date."

"Like a date sounds good." I said with a smile.

Like a date sounded really good...

The gala

Faded hair? Check.

Wrong gown? Check

The gala hadn't even started yet and I wanted it to be over.

"What are you complaining about?" My mom asked when I told her about the dress. "The one you asked me to send was something you'd worn alreadly."

"A year and a half ago." I started. "I wore that dress a year and a half ago, for like 10 minutes at a photo shoot."

"People saw you in it."

"So what."

"I did you a favor. Wear the dress I sent."

"I could also not go."

"Save the drama for in front of the camera."

I was being dramatic...it was after all just a dress.

***

"Wow." Was the first word out of Mario's mouth when he showed up at my dorm room later that evening. Jessica had already decided to leave.

"Wow yourself." I said admiring him in his all black ensemble.

"We have to go to this thing right?" He asked, his eyes still glued on me.

"We don't have to, but we should."

***

It was clear the administration had put a lot of work into ensuring that the gala was beautiful, and everyone looked amazing. It was also clear that neither Mario or I wanted to really be there, we'd both attended things like this out of obligation as opposed to desire. So we engaged in some obligatory small talk with the faculty and posed for a few pics as proof we attended before we circled back to each other.

"Want to grab some pizza?" I whisspered to him.

"I know a place in town." He whispered back

"Do they deliver?"

"Yeah. Your room or mine?"

"Yours."

***

We headed back to Mario's dorm room and ordered a couple of slices. As we sat on his bed in our formalwear eating pizza I realized that while this was nothing like I expected Summerfield to be that I couldn't wait to see what would come next.

Last edited by Dare (24/11/2017 at 17:22)

Julienne Donaghue
19 years old

Date: Thomas
Round 1/4 Done

Time flies and we're the pilot

It's incredible how time flies when you're not paying attention. The next two months ran under their noses and the exam week approached at large steps.
The afternoons spent in the coffee shop or watching movies were replaced with afternoons in the library or in the suite studying, some times in groups, some alone.
Julienne was lucky that most of her friends were upperclassmen so they helped her a lot with subjects like History of Dramatic Arts and Intro to Diction. The one Julie bugged the most though was Lindsay since she was her roommate and was easier to find.
Things with Thomas had settled into a strange (at least for Julie) but rather nice routine. They'd go out with their friends, have weekend dates doing all sorts of fun stuff and she got the chance to get closer to him.
It was undeniable that she had fallen for him pretty hard. She knew Thomas was aware of that and a part of her also knew he liked her but the ginger couldn't really say they were a couple. She couldn't call it hooking up either since they never moved from first base.
Julie knows Thomas isn't boyfriend material, like Lindsay so often reminds her, and that's part of the reason she never got more intimate with him. She doesn't want to expect anything from the man because she knows how much he hates it but deep down a part of her is waiting for him to tell her otherwise.
Considering the fact Daniel saw the kiss back in April, he retreated quite a lot with the flirting, even if he still made teasing remarks or jokes. Julienne felt sorry for him in a way, she did like him but the connection she felt with Thomas was far greater. But still it did hurt a little to see him smile sadly and make friendzone jokes about himself; apparently that was the norm with him and girls.
But he respected her and they continued to be friends, just like the rest of the group and as time went by even Richard began to hang out with them again since he and Lindsay were on speaking terms, thankfully.

"How did it go?" Thomas smiled, sitting down by Julienne's side on the library.
The ginger girl sighed, closing the book she had been trying to read for about two hours now.
"I think it went well? I don't know, I might have forgotten a few things.."
"You said that about the Cinematography exam and you nailed it." Tom chuckled, eyeing the book Julie was studying.
"That's why I don't know... I may think it went well and end up with it going wrong or the other way around." She stuck out her tongue at her sorta-maybe-not boyfriend. - "But I'm sure you didn't come here to ask about the exam" She eyed him.
Thomas smiled, pulling his chair closer to Julienne's. She could feel her heart start to rush, as it always happened whenever Tom was less than 50cms from her.
"No, I didn't come to ask you about the exam, but I might have come because I wanted to see you. Is that so crazy?"
Julienne laughed, trying to keep her voice down because other people were still studying.
"You sat with me in the cafeteria just..." She glanced at her watch - "...three hours ago, during lunch."
"Okay okay. So maybe it would sound crazy if I said that..." He winked. - "Have you heard of the principal's birthday?"
Julienne thought about it for a few moments, shaking her head then.
"Hm no, I don't think so..."
A bright smile appeared on Thomas' lips, making Julienne stare at him with a mix of suspicion and curiosity.
"Every year he has different ideas and plans for his birthday, which is this month. I heard from reliable sources that this year we're going to have a gala."
"A gala?" Julienne repeated, thinking of where exactly they were going to host such a thing.
"Yes, a gala. He threw one two years ago in the presentation hall and it was really awesome."
"Oh, I see..." A gala, that was something Julienne didn't expect to happen in Summerfield. Prom maybe but considering she was a freshman and none of her friends were seniors she wouldn't set foot on it. But then another thought hit her like a train. - "But what am I going to wear??" She stared blankly at Thomas, trying to remember the clothes she had brought with her to Summerfield and she knew there was nothing gala-worthy.
The young man laughed, covering one of Julie's hands with his.
"It's usually formal attire for a gala... But I'm sure you'll look great with anything you wear." He smiled, managing to once again make her blush. - "But you do need to take a date to the event."
"We do? Why? That makes no sense!" Julienne stared in confusion at Thomas who laughed again.
"Okay you don't need to but you should. Like, someone like me." He grinned.
"Wait a minute..." Julienne threw him a teasing look. - "Are you asking me on another date Thomas Green?"
"It's not just any date," Tom puffed, - "It's a gala date. But yeah, I suppose I am."
His kid-like grin made Julienne want to squeeze those cheeks (or cover them with kisses, any of the two) but she controlled her urge and instead smiled warmly, squeezing his hand.
"I'd love to."
"Good." Thomas leaned towards her, planting a fleeting kiss on her lips. Then he winked and left the library, leaving a flushed and worried Julienne behind. Flushed due to him and worried due to the dress.

Summer is here, laugh and cheer

Julienne straightened the fabric of her lavender colored dress, taking a deep breath before she entered the hall. She could already hear the posh music and chatting coming from inside.
She immediately regretted telling Thomas to meet her there, maybe she'd feel more comfortable if she went inside with him, but now it was too late for regrets.
Some heads turned to her but quickly returned to their business when they noticed it was no one of importance.
Julie searched for Tom's head and cursed under her breath for the fact that every single male student looked the same with the black suit and pulled back hair. Thomas was taller than most of those guys but with the amount of them sitting, it would take her a while to find him.
When she did though, both of them eyed each other from head to toe and a smile appeared on their lips almost immediately.
"Next time pick me up at the door." She kissed his cheek, greeting the other people hanging around too.

"So what are your plans for Summer?"
Julienne twirled around the hall as she danced with Thomas.
"I'm going home, Anna is moving to Italy in September so this is probably our last summer together as a family."
"Italy? But didn't she want to study here in London?" Thomas furrowed his brows.
"Yeah that was the initial idea but her agent decided that Elite Models wanted her to study abroad and apparently Milan is the place to go so..."
"You're going to miss her huh?"
Julienne felt surprised about how transparent she was when it came to Thomas. He always knew how she was feeling when it concerned stuff like this. The ginger nodded.
"I mean, she's my sister, how could I not miss her?" Julie smiled. Tom leaned to her and placed a kiss on her forehead, making her smile warmly.
"It's only natural that you will." He nodded, - "And how about me? Are you going to miss me this summer?" He grinned.
Julienne bit her lower lip. She didn't know what to reply. She knew Thomas didn't like people to have great expectations of him so if she said she would miss him would he feel uncomfortable? But what if she said she wouldn't, it was three months after all, there's no denying that she's definitely going to miss him to death.
"I am." She ended up mumbling, her cheeks turning red. - "I mean I like being with you and with everyone else and going home means I won't get to see you for three months so..." but Thomas' chuckle cut her off.
"It's alright... I'll miss you too."
His smile made Julienne's hard race. She nodded, tiptoeing to kiss him lightly on the lips. Thomas wrapped his arms around Julie and didn't let her break the kiss.
She only managed to pull back when she was short of breath.
"We don't live that far away, it's only around an hour by car... We can always meet up..."
"I'd like that." Julienne hugged the man, happy that despite him not being what's considered boyfriend material he still wanted to see her during the holidays.
Thomas cupped Julie's cheek, tilting her head to him and kissed her. The ginger could melt right there but she preferred to enjoy the moment, even if she could feel the stares boring into her skull.

It didn't matter what happened; it didn't matter what label she could slap on that relationship; he was all that mattered.

Last edited by hhgurl1 (25/11/2017 at 00:03)

Contest is closed. Results and banners will be posted within 24 hours.

Thank you all for joining  :)

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The Results and Banners

Banners have been added

Round 1

Round 2

Round 3

Round 4

Round 5

Overall Winners

Couples

Credit

Last edited by schoggettchen (26/11/2017 at 10:19)

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♡   ♥ ~ This contest will remain open for feedback until 18:47 on November 26, 2017. ~ ♥   ♡

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Another great contest and the amount of details you put into the worldbuilding and extras is much appreciated. I'd be up for reprising the Lyon Leone character if you wanted to do another contest set here.

@ Dare

Thanks a lot. I enjoyed reading Lyon's story and since I'm definitely planning with the second season - not for this year probably - I'm hoping to see her again

And all the Banners have been posted. In case there is a mistake just let me know that I can fix them... shouldn't work when I'm too tired

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