stay with me --- jeston

[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

it's been said that time heals wounds

Jenna was surprised when genuine laughter escapd her lips when he said 'and a gun'. She wasn't sure why she found that so funny, but for the first time that night, her face had lit up brighter, it was a quirky statement that she couldn't help but find endearing. She grinned at him, not self conscious at all, she never had a problem at smiling in front of people, but she was genuinely, but pleasantly surprised at the fact that this seemed so easy. Weston was one of the first men to make her feel comfortable, he might have been big, but he didn't seem threatening. Everything about him soothed her, and he had even made her laugh, which was strange to her. She was not used to it, but she found that she could not complain. "It's not too bad, I lock my door at night, though I don't think anyone would bother to rob me, since it's obvious there isn't much to take." She shrugged, her voice somewhat quiet, and she didn't know why she was admitting about the lack of material things she had, but she didn't feel like she was whining, only trying to make him feel better. Which was peculiar all in itself, but she hoped that she would reassure him that she was fine. She was not used to someone feeling so concerned for her, it was a nice change, it made her less wary in his presence.

Jenna instantly felt bad for making the male's shoulders slump, and the expression on his face made her doubt her own words. Would it be so bad to see him again? Probably. Not like she wouldn't have wanted to, he had more than proved that he wasn't out to get her, but Jenna was supposed to be blending in, but if that failed, she didn't want to drag someone like Weston down with her. That was her main reason for saying no, but his words made her heart hurt a little bit, and she shook her head. "No, not at all!" She wanted to convey the fact that it was nothing to do with him, it was all on her. "You're the first person to make me laugh in a long time, it's just ... not a good idea." She didn't know how to explain it, she didn't feel like opening up, no, she had known this man for half an hour, and she liked him yes, but that didn't mean she wanted to burden him with her messed up life story. No, he just had to know that this wasn't on him, is all. Talking about pets was safe ground, and Jenna really did enjoy animals, so the smile on her lips was fond of the subject, but she shook her head sadly. "Sadly, no, the apartment won't allow pets. Though it would be nice to have a friend around." She said, she figured that having like a dog or a cat with her would make her feel less alone, but she simply did not have time for a pet. It would also mean extra money, money which she couldn't spare right now.

The worry in his voice really touched her, as weird as it was to hear it. When she was back at Lawrence's, the only 'friend' she had was another hooker Martha, since her school friends were no more, and she would take care of her injuries and bruises, but then Martha left, and she didn't have anyone, and no one showed concern for her since then. She had been well and truly on her own, and Jennifer had gotten used to it. And Weston didn't even know her, yet it seemed like he wanted to protect her. He seemed like the kind of man, the one where he just wanted everyone to get along, for no one to get hurt, but she knew that he must realise that that may be quite a naive view of life. "Hey, don't worry ... What are the odds of something like that happening again? Probably one in a million." She gave him a reassuring smile, since there was no way she could take the long way home. After work, that was the last thing that the woman would want, with her eyes itching from a lack of sleep, and he bones hurting from her awkward position of sleeping, she did not want to walk an extra mile just to feel safe. But she had stopped them now, this was as far as she was willing to take him, because as much as she knew she shouldn't care, she felt a little ashamed of the place she lived in. It was so small, and even as clean as she got it it was still dirty, and she simply lived out of a few dollars out of her pocket, she really did not want him seeing it and feeling sorry for her, no, he had already seen enough of the neighbourhood she lived in.

She eyed him with a gentle gaze, gratitude evident in her eyes, and not just for the fact that he had saved her from the scarred man, no, it was for making sure that she would be okay, for walking her home, for making her feel at ease and making her laugh, for making the walk home so much shorter than it usually is. She offered him a smile when he asked her to be safe, and a nod was all that she could manage. "Yeah, I'll be safe, like I said, one in a million." She assured him more than herself, and she felt awkward for a few moments. She didn't know how to walk away, whether she should say more. She placed a hand on his arm, and squeezed gently, the only contact she was willing to give and even that made her heart flutter unpleasantly, which was only a reflex. When she pulled away a short moment later, she wondered whether she could ever touch another man without fear or repulsion, she certainly hoped so, but that wasn't at the forefront of her mind. That was about the last thing she even needed to consider. "Don't get lost on the right turn two streets down, that can be a little complicated." She offered, her own way of keeping him safe, tit for tat, she was just that kind of person. "Goodnight Weston, it was a pleasure meeting you." She said softly, brushing some black hair out of her bright green eyes, before turning around and walking around the corner, feeling her stomach drop a little, as she cast a glance behind to the male for a split second.

When she was inside, she tossed her key onto the kitchen table, the tiredness getting the better of her as she took a shower in lukewarm water, since in this apartment the water never seemed to be hot. She was on autopilot now, and once she dressed in a t-shirt and some sweats for sleep, she drifted off quickly, not before thinking about the fact that at least now she knew there were decent people out there. Up until that night, she had lost hope, but Weston helped her realise that there are good people, just that maybe she was looking in all the wrong places. When she woke up in the morning, she had almost forgotten about the night before, getting on with everyday as she had before, never thinking she would see Weston again, and for at least a few weeks she hadn't. He felt like a distant memory to her now, a memory of kindness, but far away none the less. She got on with work, life, surviving, fearing of hearing news of Lawrence, knowing that the scarred man must have told him.

tagged weston wearing this notes <33

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

[/color][/font]
like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

TOut of all the things that had happened to her that night, the last thing he thought he was going to hear was a laugh from her. One of Weston’s primary goals was to make people smile. Laugh. He was the jokester, prankster, and always the one who could light up a small room. It was just one of the natural roles of a man’s man. Without the leader being a funny guy, there was no party. There was just some guys behind some old grump who didn’t know any better. Together like that, they are more of a posse. Not a group of guys just looking to hang out. Although sometimes he could fit into the crowd a little bit more than he liked to, he generally liked the well-being of others. Out of all the things he wanted for this girl tonight was to at least make her laugh. And be safe. That was probably the most important. Weston would have never been able to sleep if he just let her on her way. For all he knew, the creep could be waiting for her around the corner.

He knew very well it didn’t take much for a person to come in and steal something, so that wasn’t reassuring. It was a moment of power and triumph to take whatever little a person had. No, it wasn’t from personal experience. Just out in other piece of shit uncivilized countries, people are taking from those who have less then them. It was a common occurrence. Why couldn’t they just fit with the rest of the world? The United States certainly caught up to the European countries who were more civilized one hundred years ago than some countries today. It wasn’t a good idea to get Weston started on that. Being in the military, he had very opinionated views on such sore subjects. To fight and know all of it. He would have still been over there if it weren’t for his leg. Still, the small hero act of the day was enough to suit him for a while.

Pride went with him more when she noted he was the first time to make her laugh in a long time. Not just in the simple night, but for a long time. Though, that just made Weston more curious. What could have been in her life that she was happier this night during the creep in the alleyway than usually? Maybe it was better that he didn’t know. He was already worried. He was already sitting there feeling bad for her. No, bad wasn’t really the right term for it. There was a little sorry mixed in there. He just couldn’t believe the stupidity and awfulness of some people. Who had that kind of heart? Weston didn’t understand the mindset at all. Jenna was obviously nothing but a beautiful, strong-hearted woman. He shook his head at himself. What was he talking about? He just met her. There was only a couple of other words exchanged to each other. It was mostly him asking, getting a nervous response that didn’t answer the question most of the time, and then him talking and answering her question. She knew a hell lot more about him than he did about her. That was strange to think about.

Not to be the devil’s advocate, but he wanted to know why it wasn’t a good idea. But, he didn’t expect her to see him again. What was the point? His curiosity would be gone and he would go about his business. There wasn’t really anything more to try to pester her about. Jenna wanted to be left alone. Weston needed to go and leave her alone. It was what she was probably trying to hint. When she was reassuring him that she would be fine, he was trying to keep all of this in mind. Failing, but trying. ”…Alright. But if you feel any threats, don’t be afraid to call…someone.” Trying to add it so he didn’t mean him. She didn’t have his number and she wasn’t going to ask it. Weston would offer it, but giving his number out to everyone was actually- surprisingly- not one of his most common moves. ”Anyone that will help. I’m sure they’d be glad to.” He told her with a gentle smile, still glowing slightly from making her laugh before.

She gave him directions, which he simply nodded to, but then she held out her hand and touched his arm. Earlier, one of the first things said to her trying to calm her down, Weston had gently brushed his hand against her arm. She jerked away crying. Now she was reaching for him, giving him some satisfaction and reassurance of her gratitude. She didn’t need to do anything for him. That was certain. Still, he looked at her, realizing again how beautiful she was. He really did mean it. Just the dark light on her bright features, seeing it mostly when she bushed her hair away from her face. Such a graceful little move. Weston found himself almost dazed, but kept himself in check, just carefully wondering if this was the best choice. ”Bye Jenna.” He almost wanted to stay and watch her to see if she made it okay, but the hint was clear.

He turned around, really feeling it in his leg about half-way to his truck. Driving home and still thinking about the woman, worrying, but glad he could walk her to her apartment. He was nearly ran over by both of his excited pups as soon as he walked into the door. The usual. Getting up for work in the morning was going to be a pain right in the ass.

A couple of weeks later, he found him and a huge group of friends on the way to the bowling alley. It had been redone with all these new appliances and workers, so they figured they would try it out. With a basket full of beer. Good ol’ beer. Weston wasn’t really a light weight, but for as much as he went out, he didn’t have to drink a whole awful lot. He drove his truck, packing it as full as he could with everything and jumped out. After entrance, fees, and those damn annoying required shoes, he picked up a heavy ball to put it over on the rim when he just about dropped it on his foot. There was a couple of guys standing around, winking over at one of the women working there. But of course, Weston hadn’t seen her until now. No, this wasn’t possible. She worked here? Setting down lightly, and calling across the room, slightly to show off, he called out, ”Jenna! Glad to see you’re safe and sound.” Though there was a little more tease in his voice (since there was an audience of his friends) he was very serious. She was okay. Or… looked okay. No scratches or bruises to indicate she had been mugged again. Maybe Weston could sleep for a full night now.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

[/color][/size]
calling for me[/font]
[/center]

[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

it's been said that time heals wounds

In the first few weeks following the incident with the guy in the alley, and Weston coming to her rescue, Jenna's mind had been a little bit in shambles. Stray thoughts would flick over her mind of the man, who seemed to sweet and genuinely cared. The thing was, he was only one man. The first man in a long time to show her that not all men were horrible, but then again, it's not like she made her opinion about the male species from just one man. Multiple men had set out to hurt her, and ruin her life, and so one man didn't count for much. Or so she tried to convince herself, since she was the one who had told Weston that it would be a bad idea for her to come see his dogs, bad idea to see him again. She felt like she was regretting for a little while, sometimes wondering what it would be like if she did see him again, but neither of them deserved what would come of them being friends of any kind. However, she never let herself dwell on the past, because if she did, she would be much worse off right now than she is appearing to be.

Continuing with life was an easy feat. The guy in the alley still making her heart thump from fear, just in case he told Lawrence about her whereabouts. But it's been weeks, and Lawrence has not turned up in Manuka, not that she knew of anyway, so she was safe for now right? Just until she scrapes up enough money to be able to move away, no? This morning felt like just another day, a little cooler, since it was winter time, and she had finally bought herself a scarf. She was wearing glasses that day too, feeling like she could see better always gave her less of a headache. Tying her hair up messily, she shrugged on an old jacket, it was well worn and had cost very little because of that, but she was not ashamed of her shabby clothes. She couldn't afford to be picky, when she needed to save money, cheap clothes seemed like a small feat. She didn't care if she was judged, she was just trying to get by.

In the bright light of the afternoon, since she didn't start work until around six, the journey to work was so different. It was insane actually, that all the corners that held shadows in the night looked much more frightening than when light illuminated them in the day. She preferred the day journey. When she entered her work place, it was a little quiet, but looked much better now than when she had started those few months ago. They had been doing some renovations, it looked newer and better, but that didn't make Jenna's job any more glamorous. She always seemed to walk around just looking at her feet, doing whatever needed to be done. Right now, she was needed in the back, mopping some floors. It was hard work, all the stains were etched into the floor deeply, and it made her forehead a little sweaty, because of all the scrubbing. She was not afraid to do the hard labour, after all, someone needed to do it. She didn't have an education for anything better, and she figured that anything better would also make her stand out a little, and her plan was blending in.

Jenna wasn't paying much attention to the rowdiness which seemed to appear later on in the evening, in the shape of a group of men. She was in the middle of keeping her distance from the young looking men who had come up to her. They were younger than her, though maybe just hit their twenties, and the flirtations were clear. One of the guys threw her a wink, and she ignored it, pointing them in the direction in which they needed to go. She never felt panic when being confronted when there were a lot of people around. They couldn't do anything, because there were witnesses, and that always put Jenna at ease. As the other three guys started heading off, the one guy glnaced down at her name tag, coming close as she took a step back. "When does your shift finish?" She sighed, shaking her head, her green eyes on his face, and her chin jutted out in a proud motion. "Sorry, that's confidential." She gave him a hard smile, and he looked about ready to say something else, but another sound caught her attention.

Her name, was called so loudly, the booming sound almost making her cringe, as she turned, wide eyed in the direction of which it was coming from. And there stood Weston, in all his beautiful glory, a smile on his face, acting like he was ... she didn't know, like pea-cocking to an extent, as his friends watched him to see who was this Jenna that was apparently safe and sound. She fixed the glasses upon her nose, feeling a little more self conscious than she had a few moments ago, and licked her lips, moving a little closer to Weston so they could hear each other speak, without him drawing any more attention to the situation. That made her feel uncomfortable. She had almost forgotten how nice he had been, the involuntary rush in the pit of her stomach as she got close enough. "Um ... Hello, Weston." She smiled, eyeing the beer and the guys behind him, wrapping her arms around herself. "Yes, I'm fine thank you." She offered a small smile, and looked back. "It's nice to see you, but listen, I have to get back to work..." She motioned back, a small blush of ... she didn't know, maybe shame at what she did covered her cheeks as she eyed him. "But you and your friends have fun." She told him, before walking back to her duties. She did want to ask how he was, but she didn't feel comfortable, not in that moment, she thought that she best leave them be. That didn't mean that she didn't keep her eye on the group, watching the loud laughter, the alcohol consumption, and hoping beyond hope that all the testosterone wouldn't cause any trouble.

tagged weston wearing this notes <33

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

[/color][/font]
like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

The poor guy that talked to her before didn’t stand a chance. Not that Weston really stood a chance either, but he already knew what was going to happen before the other man even walked over there. Jenna had to get hit on constantly. Even in her work-state clothes. He had been indeed surprised when she went from the fancy coat he saw her in to what she looked like now. Not bad. No, not at all. He just hadn’t really expected glasses, messy hair, and the simply clothes. He figured it was probably a work tidy thing. Who wanted to get dressed up to work at some place like the bowling alley? It was a cool place, don’t get him wrong, but people go there to be served. There were cleaning people and those that went around and made sure that everyone was obeying the rules. He wasn’t aware of much other jobs around that area, but seeing her mopping up the floor was a different image than he had pictured her when they first met. He expected her as a real estate sales woman or something.

Maybe it was a better thing that Weston stepped in. The guy gave him a hard look and Weston just gave one back similar to perhaps ‘you mad?’ The rest of his buddies were laughing behind him, and he knew exactly why. They were enjoying the show. It wasn’t really Weston to go up and just over go someone like that, but he would be lying if he said he didn’t feel special if she talked to him as opposed to the other guy. It could be her own little way of repaying him back. Although Weston already asked for that payment. Just that she would keep herself safe. It would be better if she had someone at home, but she never indicated such. She indicated that she was alone. Much like Weston. But at least Weston had specific training. Because of his training, it made him hard to believe that other people just went around normally without fear. Weston wasn’t afraid because of his reassurance that he could fight. It was weird to think anything else.

She looked startled and he instantly felt bad. Oops. It didn’t occur to Weston that she wasn’t going to like the attention. He forgot sometimes. Still, she didn’t ignore him. She also remembered his name. He smiled widely at her and saw she glanced at his little group. Great, weren’t they? It was like the alpha wolf was showing off what he had. She kept awkwardly glancing around. Soothingly and a lot more quiet, he perched his brow at her, ”Aw, they’re harmless. They’re better than they appear.” He said the last part a little louder so the rest could hear his teasing. One of them took a friendly punch to Weston’s shoulder, sneering some combat that Weston was quick to laugh and ignore. Normal night for the champion. ”Didn’t know you worked here. Would have came sooner.” There was some flirt in his voice because he was out in public, but he hadn’t meant to. When he realized there had been, he took a step back, as if a physical signal he wasn’t meaning to come on anything. He sat on the table and reached for a beer beside him, but not yet opening it.

He actually expected to sit there and have a conversation with her, but she went to go away. Man, she really wasn’t expecting to see him again, was she? ”Whoa, wait-“ He urged, but then looking at her face again and the frown was turned into an amused little crooked smile. Weston hadn’t seen it at first because he had been focusing on other things, but the woman was hiding her cheeks. Her eyes still piercing right through her glasses. They were cute. Made her look like a completely different woman than the other night. Though so far, she was acting the exact same. Now she was blushing. This interested him. About what? He looked over himself to make sure nothing was badly exposed and she was embarrassed to look at it or something, but he was solid. His regular tighter shirts- as Weston enjoyed showing off. ”You blushing?” He asked, twisting off the beer cap to take a drink.

Honestly, the first beer was always the worse. It tasted nasty and felt sticky and cool down his throat when most alcohols tended to burn. But he got use to it. There was no way this was going to get him even tipsy. Not that it mattered. Weston wasn’t a bad drunk. Most of the time. He didn’t provoke violence around the wrong people, but the smallest thing could set off the temper he had. Weston had a hard time controlling his temper anyway, so when alcohol was mixed, it wasn’t a pretty combination. Nothing serious had ever happened, but he intended to keep that record as clean as he could. He breathed his nose as he looked at her. He wasn’t sure why exactly he was so inclined to talk to her. Catching up and socializing was something he liked, but when she was talking about going back to her shift, he felt disappointed. Almost like he was getting rejected, and he didn’t like it.

His friends called his name to start a game with him. ”Hey, you allowed to play?” Weston asked, holding up a hand to someone that was about to make a comment. A guy’s night always involved a woman, ironically. Most of them were planning for their girl to meet up while there was one already there (wasted as hell already). There would be no problem if Jenna joined. If she wanted to. If she could. Weston fiddled with the open end of his beer before looking over at his friends and saw they put him in the system already. If anything, he could catch her between his turns. Despite the situation they last met, he had enjoyed talking to her. Her laugh had been quite the pleasant melody to his ears. Let’s be honest- Weston was also extremely attracted to her. But his values would prevent anything from happening. Didn’t mean his mind set wouldn’t change.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

[/color][/size]
calling for me[/font]
[/center]

[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

it's been said that time heals wounds

Jenna was so confused. Was this even the same man that she had met in the alleyway? Yes, it seemed so, because his easy going nature and smile were something she distinctly remembered, but all of this showing off ... she wondered why he needed it. She didn't understand. For one night, Weston had proven that not all men were the same, but when it came to it, he was now acting less kind, and more for show. She didn't like it, but she had no right to like or dislike anything about him, since she really didn't know him all that well. When he said that his friends were harmless, in such a careless tone, she pursed her lips a little. She guessed that if Weston had anything to say, they would keep to themselves, the male was giving off very leader like qualities. She nodded a little, and bit her lips. "Umm ... yes ... I'm sure they're lovely." She said, but really, Jenna wouldn't want to be in a room full of men, even if she was with Weston, because she would feel threatened. She didn't even have completely trust in Weston either, even if he did save her, this change of attitude was a little bit off putting, as much as she liked him.

Jenna tilted her head to the side a little bit, moving one slim hand to move up the glasses she was wearing up her nose, and sighed a little. "Would you?" She asked softly, because it seemed like a come on, something out of a movie, and she hadn't expected him to be like that. "I'm flattered, really, but this isn't exactly a glamorous job that I'd want to tell a person I met once about." The words weren't harsh or meant to offend, they were just truthful, and she glanced away a little because she felt kind of embarrassed now, because he and his friends were free to judge her career choice. They knew nothing about her life, or what she's been through, or why she needs this crappy job, and that is why it was a little shameful to admit to it. She moved a stray strand of hair from her eyes, and kept her gaze low, her shyness emanating from her, because she was a strong willed, but shy person at heart. She watched him pick up his beer, and eyed it a little suspiciously, because men and beer usually equalled a mess that she would have to clean up. Her muscles ached even at the thought of it.

When she was gonna head back to work, Weston seemed like he had something else to say, and she turned around to look at him expectantly, absent mindedly rubbing her hands together, because her fingertips felt like they were freezing. However, when he called on the flush on her cheeks, she gave him a surprised look. Really? He called he out on blushing ... The confusion reached highest levels. Where did the nice Weston go? This one was kind of jerkish, because words like that were obviously meant to show off, and she hated being the brunt of this showing off. "I assure you, not for the reasons you think." She said quietly, looking down at her feel and her well worn shoes, feeling so uncertain that the other night even happened. But the flush crept a little deeper, and she held her breath for a few seconds, trying to calm herself.

She was actually almost relieved when Weston was being called to play, and she gave him an apologetic smile when he asked if she was able to play. "Sorry, but no." She told him, her eyes on him, trying to work him out. Was it too much to hope that he would know what she was thinking? That he was acting like a peacock, proudly showing off his feathers. It wasn't really an admirable quality in a person, but who was Jenna to judge? After all, she had married Lawrence, and that man was the worst. Arrogant, pompous. self assured and flirtatious with anything that has a set of boobs. She sure knew how to pick em. Not that she had picked Weston, but she had liked him more before, was that such a bad deduction to make? Sometimes opinions change, and she wanted to catch him on his own, just to see if he wouldn't be acting like this if he wasn't with his friends. "Because, you know, the floors won't clean themselves." She shrugged a little, licking her lips because they felt dry.

She offered him one last smile. "Well, I better get back to work..." She blinked, "I'll see you around." She nodded, crossing her arms over her chest as she didn't wait for him to make her stop again, letting him get back to his friends and his game as she went back into the staff room, and took a minute to just have a breather, before heading back out to swap with a girl called Camille, so now she was at the check out, where people booked their alleys, and got their shoes from. She greeted the new people who came in with a smile, but she couldn't help but let her gaze linger in the direction of the men playing bowling. She told herself it was to make sure there was no trouble, but she refused to let herself believe that her intentions were anything but that.

tagged weston wearing this notes <33

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

[/color][/font]
like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

Weston didn’t miss the irony of the current situation. She seemed more weary of him now while he was out in public with a bunch of people as opposed to when he was walking the woman home. Of course, that had been right after he had saved her, but he wasn’t sure if that was the only little part in the puzzle. It wasn’t doing well for his image with his giggling friends, that was for sure. At the moment, he cared less about that. Which was new for him. That part he didn’t really think about. The majority of his attention was on the woman in front of him looking at him through her glasses. Weston too wore glasses, but of course, that wasn’t a really common known trait. He only needed it when reading and it probably wouldn’t surprise many people to see that Weston wasn’t really a reading person. He made it through math and science pretty well, but when it came to all that writing crap, he was going to pass. Creativity was left for flirting and motivating. In which case, they weren’t very successful tonight.

Her reaction to his friends wasn’t out of the ordinary though. Most women were always weary by a bunch of drinking guys that looked like they were going to cause trouble. Weston knew they were as fake as he was. The most they did was run around and steal street signs. Weston had at least three in his apartment. Something he could actually get in huge trouble for, but it wasn’t as if the city didn’t replace them. Most of the locals knew where they were going, it was okay. Manuka wasn’t exactly New York with flooded streets and so many streets that they could stretch it out into one giant street and make it half way across the world from beginning to end. Not really an environment that Weston liked as much. Growing up in a small town had been hard to switch back and forth from. ”Some of them way too lovely.” He told her with a gentle roll of his eyes like ‘ah, what are you going to do?’ Although he wasn’t sure if there were different voices on the term ‘lovely’ for British people. Weston wasn’t exactly aware, and this woman obviously had some sort of background up in Britain. Her accent proved that much. It wasn’t exactly an easy one to catch on if you lived in America. People tried, but over did it and just sounded… ridiculous. That was something Weston would never attempt.

At her comment, he noticed she didn’t seem… confused. Just a matter of fact, almost as if it hadn’t been a question at all. Weston was going through the past five minutes in his head, trying desperately to figure out what he might have said that would offended her. She didn’t sound offended, but not as… welcoming as the other night. Which was saying quite a bit. The whole met once thing actually hit Weston a little harder than it should have. It was true, but he had been thinking a lot about her since the night they met. His pride hurt a little bit, but Weston kept a professional face on. Couldn’t let something like that get to him, although his fingers fiddled a little more nervously. It also reminded him of what she had told him before. They probably shouldn’t see each other more than that. Suddenly, all of that made a little more sense. Didn’t really improve anything. He had to remind himself this wasn’t his usual choice in women. ”I suppose you’re right. But hey, you have a job. If you want another one, feel free to let me know.” He told her reassuringly, giving a small half smile. If anything, Weston was extremely resourceful. Important people went to the expensive gym he worked out. They liked to chat about everything and Weston felt like he knew them all pretty well because of his social attitude. He was sure he could find one of them. Had to be better than working here.

The smile Weston had on his face had vanished. His eyes darted to his drink before looking back up at her, trying to figure her out. Weston was pretty good at reading people considering he chatted with several of them a day. But it was hard. The words were quiet, but they might as well been shouted. She couldn’t even look at him. Damn it, what did he do wrong? Weston was thinking through it all. He had been nice… no.. gestures that he might have played on someone else. He didn’t feel so showy off anymore. All of his friends didn’t hear as much as he intended, but they could at least see her blushing. Weston’s back was turned, so they couldn’t see the shock stricken blank expression on his face. They all whispered and laughed softly to themselves as they got the impression Weston was succeeding. He felt anything but. Was it mentioning her job? Shit, he should have known. With no surprise after that moment, she rejected him. She at least gave a smile. One in which Weston returned. Small and polite. ”Tell me if you change your mind.” And she turned around without letting him get another word in. Weston stood there for a little bit, watching her go and feeling suddenly heavier.

The calling of his group snapped him out of it as he took another big gulp of his drink. ”Alright. I don’t know why you’re all in such a hurry to have your asses kicked.” He shrugged, getting a few little combats back and settled Weston right back into his alpha dog state. Although he would be lying if he didn’t say he looked over at Jenna every once in a while. Despite her comment on cleaning the floors, he saw she was behind the main counter. So there would be one last time talking to her before walking out. He played a good game, getting second to one of the swimmers of the group. He had a couple of more beers than he had planned, but he was no where near drunk. Just a wee bit tipsy. Where decisions weren’t terrible and horrible, but they might have been questionable. There was still sense. The problem with Weston drinking was although he knew the difference between tipsy and drunk, he sounded the same. Acted a little different, but his words were still flaunted and slurred. When they were about to leave, Weston pointed to the table, ”Ah no, clean up your messes.” He ordered much like a mother would to a bunch of her sons. The guys huffed and one managed to hit it right on the head ”Trying to impress that girl that already rejected you?” Well yeah, that was actually part of it. But, you know, he could care less at this point. ”Fuck youuuu, just clean it up. We want to come here again.” Although he got some crap, the guys all picked up their bottles to put in the trash.

Weston took off of his shoes and wandered over to the counter, glad to see that no one was going to be up there taking his time. He wondered if she had a tally of how many guys hit on her a night. Even in her work clothes, the tipsy Weston couldn’t help but notice how beautiful she was. Girls that fixed themselves up were beautiful and sexy- yes, but there was something about a girl without makeup. With his girlfriends- it was almost as if there was nothing setting them a part. It was all her all natural. Weston didn’t know how to explain it, but for some odd reason, that was the image in his head. Must have been the alcohol. He placed the shoes down on the counter. ”Jest- Jenna,” Where did that come from? ”How was your shift?” Then of course cut right to the chase because his decision making was a little poor, ”Okay, earlier… I just, wanted to apologize for whatever it was that I did. Cause you are important and I like to see you happy.” His words probably didn’t make any sense- especially for a man that hadn’t talked very much except about himself. As that’s all she had really allowed that night. It probably sounded more intense than it was, or it could have been exactly like he meant. He didn’t know. He just didn’t want to leave things over there and though the night had been fun, it was always at the back of his mind, lurking and biting at him. Was it his shirt? Most people liked the tight look but other people thought he might as well been shirtless. Which was fine, but the front door said otherwise. Stupid rules. If Weston wasn’t such a goody goody sometimes, perhaps he would see how far he could stretch. But tonight wasn’t the night.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

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calling for me[/font]
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[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

it's been said that time heals wounds

Jenna had her arms crossed across her chest in an almost self protective manner, and there was a part of her that wished she hadn't tied her hair up, just so she could let it fall over her face to hide her features. Sometimes it acted like a shield to her, something she'd use to put a barrier between herself and whatever reality she was facing. The reality right now was that Weston was giving her attention, and she wasn't quite sure what to do with it. Okay, so someone like her would be used to being given attention, she had made a living off of it for years, but right now she just felt exposed under his gaze. Jenna knew that she was probably reading too much into it, but if she wasn't going to question everything to protect herself, who would?

That's right, no one. She was all alone in this city, and even though she had met some people, she really wasn't close with any of them. That was for the better, but it was a really lonely life. When he spoke of his friends, using her word; 'lovely' it sounded weird coming from his lips. It was an adjective she had used not knowing how else to describe them, but she chuckled anyhow at his 'what can you do' shrug. She just hoped that they wouldn't cause trouble. They were the people in Weston's life, and you had to appreciate all the friends you have, she just didn't like the fact that Weston felt like he should show off before them. Not that she had any right to.

Jenna kind of wished that she hadn't said anything about her job, because she tended to avoid topics that made her uncomfortable, even though that was obviously not always possible. However, the woman was startled at Weston's next words, and the shameful blush deepened on her cheeks, but it also made her chin raise up just a little almost pridefully, since she didn't need people trying to fix her life for her, especially people she didn't know well. "That's not something I'd ask anyone to provide me with." She spoke, her voice low. Jenna was a really independent woman, if she couldn't do it herself, she hated asking for help. She supposed that her pat made her more wary of everything, and asking for help was weakness. She had been weak for far too long to fall into that again. She really hoped that Weston wasn't seriously thinking that she'd take him up on something like that anyway.

The woman felt bad for bringing the frown onto Weston's face when she refused the game. She did offer him a friendly smile as he asked to tell him if she changed her mind, which Jenna knew she wouldn't, since she was on the clock and also she didn't really want to be around so many people. Yeah, so she was around people all the time, like her co-workers, but most of the time she didn't really need to talk to them. "Okay, I will. Enjoy the game." Jenna said, it wasn't a promise, she just said she'd think about it, and if the answer was still not, that's the way to would be. She could hear Weston say something to his friends, but she was back in her work area, by the main counter. Every once in a while, her eyes strayed to where the guys were, but she tried convincing herself that she only did it to make sure that no trouble would be caused, but she also knew that it was really for more selfish reasons that she wouldn't admit it.

When their game was over, Jenna couldn't help but have her attention drawn to Weston telling his friends to clean the stuff up. A small smile quirked at the corners of her lips at that, and she didn't know why. Maybe because his niceness was coming through. Really, most people usually left their messes for the people working there to clean up, and a lot of the time it was her who did a lot of it, so she appreciated the gesture, even though she was sure that Weston didn't know it. However, she did turn her attention to some paperwork, it was just for her to fill in her schedule and work hours, and she hadn't had a chance to look at it before, but the counter was free now so she had a spare minute. She frowned a little at the times on the paper, and was really in her own bubble, pretty much, that she didn't hear anyone approaching. Therefore, the sound of her name startled her a little, and she scared easily, so her eyes were filled with panic for a moment before she saw who it had been that said her name.

She sighed a little tiredly when he asked her how her shift was and shrugged. "Long, I'm ready for it to be over." She admitted, licking her lips absent mindedly as she wrote some numbers on her paper, before moving to take the shoes that he was returning and place them in place of his shoes, and handed him back the shoes that were his. But she didn't get to say anything else before he was speaking, and she cast her green gaze onto his features, and wondered if he had drunk too much. Jenna didn't know why he thought that he could use 'important' and 'happy' when talking about her, since they really barely knew one another. "Uhh .." She faltered for a moment, but decided that honesty was the best policy.

"The first time we met there were no friends around you, and I got the feeling that you were trying to ... show off to your friends?" She spoke softly, playing with her own fingers absentmindedly. "So, I wasn't sure if I was comfortable with the change, not like I have the right to judge, but I don't know ..." She trailed off, hoping that he understood what she was saying. Jenna gave him a look at the last part. "You don't mean that. You've had a little to drink, you'd think different tomorrow." She assured him, smiling as someone else brought their shoes over, and handed back their real shoes. She did avoid his gaze a little then, simply because she felt she crossed a line which she didn't want to cross. She didn't need to explain herself, and neither did he.

tagged weston wearing this notes <33

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

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like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

Being at the top of the game, he didn’t like getting rejected. Even though Weston had this really nasty habit of leading people on and then rejecting them in the end, he didn’t like it when it was gestured toward him. That was probably what caught him most by surprise when he was with Jenna. She didn’t seem easily amused. When he met people that weren’t amused by him, his number one goal was to make them smile. He did that to a nurse once. She was very pissy and not in the mood to deal with people like him, but he had been able to make her somewhat pleasant. When she reached the point of pleasant, he smiled and lit up like he was getting a giant Christmas present. He walked out of that place with stitches in his hand and his head held high above the rest. See what he did? People didn’t really understand the joy in it, but he did. Oh, he most certainly did.

He couldn’t do anything to make her smile normally though. Hell, he had gotten her a brighter smile when she had been in tears scared to death of that rat bastard in the alleyway. It made for a very confused man. Weston was very charismatic and such, but his brains weren’t too good. School hadn’t been his number one and his officer was always yelling at him ‘Patton, why don’t you use your head boy?’ which he was punished with by pushups. One hundred pushups. A warm-up. A situation like this? Weston could hardly handle it. He couldn’t think outside of the box and only went with what he knew. He knew that he was in a professional that helped people. It was surrounded by those who needed help. Weston had to know the right motivation, the wrong motivation how far to push, when they haven’t been pushed far enough, why a muscle wasn’t working correctly, if it was sore or injured. All of this in mind, he went over and helped the physical beings of people. If Weston had enough smarts, maybe he would have been a therapist. The thought of it made him laugh to himself. Someone who was so focused on sports didn’t really fit into the category therapist as much as it did physical trainer. Still, it helped people. He liked helping people. Come on, he was in the marines because it was that important to him.

So her look was surprising. Like she wanted to do it herself or something. Weston understood the drive himself, but looking at it was a different matter. He just blinked at her and nodded, not really wanting to see how far he could push on the subject if only that much was going to get that kind of reaction. He didn’t understand. What was different about him? He hadn’t even gotten that haircut that he should have gotten a week ago. Weston kept his hair rather short because when it grew out, it was curly and he hated it, but that was beside the point. That’s how much he felt like he was the same guy… however long ago it had been. When she walked away, he felt like he was waving to his small group of friends and family when he went for training. Like he may not see or talk to her again. If she gave the same attitude, he would understand the message. He wasn’t sure why this bothered him so much. Usually Weston was all for the ‘what if they had a bad day’ excuse.

It was a good thing he didn’t think about what would have happened if he walked over there in the state he was in. Again, not really drunk, but there wasn’t a chance you could call the man sober. Weston thought he was a good drunk, as most drunks thought. They later learned the next morning not so much, but at the time, all of this sounded like a good idea. Maybe that was why she said no. She was working and she was having a long day, like she said. Hope filled his stomach as he smile at her, leaning on the counter still and appearing cool. His friends were all stumbling out the door probably looking for a cab or finding someone that was sober to walk around. They could fend for themselves. Although Weston didn’t think about what he was expecting to do. He was planning to go with the guy that was sober, but he seemed to have his hands pretty full. It wasn’t his priority at the moment. He’d figure out as long as this conversation was going to take.

This was the second time that night that he managed to scare the crap out of her by just saying her name. Jumpy little thing, wasn’t she? Made him want to stand as guard to make sure he was the only one to startle her. ”I feel that way at work sometimes.” He said as if that contributed in anyway, smiling a little like a dork afterwards.

At first, he didn’t think he was going to get an answer. He was going to leave feeling heavy again, but she started with it. Weston blinked. Although that was exactly what Weston did, not a lot of people pointed out to him before. He did it so long out of habit that he forgot that his moods automatically changed when his friends were around. It was just a part of him now. It seemed. He had to show off, or how was he going to be the top dog? It was hard to explain to someone that didn’t know him too well. Hell, it was hard to explain to anyone. The comment did take him aback. ”Oh uh… that… I guess I do. I do that all the time. Most people like me more.” He admitted, not sure where his mouth was running, as he was exposing the thing he had been hiding for years, ”I’m cooler with people that think I’m cool.” He said, throwing his hands in the air in defeat, ”Sorry. I don’t even realize it anymore.” He said, giggling a little bit at his own slurs in the middle of his sentence. As she went on, he looked at her tilting his head like a massive dog. Well of course she was. Everyone was important and he wanted to have them happy. Except evil people. But they weren’t even people. Like demon sons of bitches. Those were crazy. ”No, no, you see when I’m as think as you drunk I am-“ Not hearing his switch of words, ”You see that I don’t tell lies when I drink. In fact, I once got in trouble because I protested drunk. And I said some things offensiveingly toward the Human Society,” Making up words as he went along, ”But it was okay in the end. That’s kind of what I was hoping out of this. That it is okay. I don’t know you well but you seem like you’re a nice person who deserves to be niced to.” A motivational speech from a man who had too many beers.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

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calling for me[/font]
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[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

it's been said that time heals wounds

Jenna had dealt with a lot of sober, and not so sober people in her lifetime. Whether it was when she was back in England, way before Lawrence and even then, but also while coming to Manuka. When you worked in a place like this, there were bound to be those that took in and consumed too much alcohol, and every single time she felt very uncomfortable with them. It was kind of a defence thing, because a lot of the time when she had been ... abused so to speak, alcohol was involved. She couldn’t generalise for all the men who drank, she knew some were alright, pleasant even ... but she had had the misfortune to see the bad side of drinking. This was another reason why she had shied away from Weston and his friends; they had all been drinking. Of course, if the night that she and Weston had first met was anything to go by, the man wouldn’t let anything happen to her, but Jenna found that cautiousness was something that reassured her. She offered a small smile to the man as he sympathised with her, his little smile somewhat endearing. “Mhm, seems like you’ve been relaxing from long days at work, though.” She commented softly, no envy or anything in her voice, just simple observation, since clearly they were here in this bowling place to relax a little, have a bit of fun. Unfortunately, Jenna herself didn’t really have that luxury. She needed to work to scrape by ... she was thinking of looking for another job now that she was settled in Manuka, but something low key like this seemed more preferable. She was really paranoid of Lawrence finding her.

Jenna had always believed that honesty was the best policy when dealing with someone, just because she would have liked for the same curteousy to be extended to her. Being honest went a long way, and she hoped that Weston appreciated her thoughts as she spoke them, because she would have truly felt bad if she’d offended him somehow. She may not know him well, and her words were mere assumptions, but it seemed like the time that Weston and his friends had spent there were enough for her to make a judgement. Jenna also knew that this might not be what he’s like around his friends all the time, and some people would really find it rude. But she was tired, and the words seemed to slip out of her mouth on their own accord. She wasn’t expecting the man to say anything back, hell she was expecting him to leave and never want to see her again, but there he was, almost explaining himself. Must be the alcohol, she thought. Biting her lip a little uncertainly she nodded, but she looked at his face, green eyes on blue and frowned a little. “I liked you well enough the night we met ... and not just because I was grateful.” She told him, putting the pen that she was holding down, and her slender fingers resting on the counter top. But her words were completely true, he had made her laugh when there was no one to show off to, and she realised that she had liked that. That he seemed sweet and caring, and well ... kind. A kindness that she hadn’t seen in a while, especially not from a man.

His next words made Jenna chuckle softly. “And being cool is ... important?” She asked, tilting her head to the side curiously. She realised that she wasn’t afraid. This man who had a little bit to drink had a charming smile on his face, and only kind words to offer. As with anything, Jenna could have completely been misjudging the situation, but nothing about him screamed danger. Hell, all he’d wanted from her the night he saved her was for her to keep safe herself. When he apologised she shook her head, his slurred words making her sigh a little. “You shouldn’t apologise for who you are.” She said, which was the truth. Even though that might have been hypocritical of her, because a moment ago she was thinking that she didn’t like the pretence he seemed to have in front of his friends. For all she knew, that could have just been Weston, who he was; a person who helped those in need, but still seeked assurance from those who were the most important to him. That would seem like a natural thing to feel, simply because a lot of people wanted to seem big and important to those who matter. Jenna herself had sometimes said things to conform with what people would like to hear, especially when she was still in the sex business she would say all the things that the client wanted to hear, even if she didn’t believe it herself.

After she said that he would think differently tomorrow, he spoke very quickly, mixing up his words. She understood them that he meant that when he’s drunk he doesn’t tell lies. That made a somewhat amused expression cross her strained features, and she moved a strand of hair from her face that kept falling in her eyes and annoying her. Really, she should tie it up better next time, but she had been in a hurry that day. Her smile brightened at the image of a drunken Weston protesting, and the funny thing was... she could totally see that. It was really an amusing image, and she somewhat liked the idea because it proved further that she had misjudged him, and that he was a good person. Of course, over time, everyone revealed their bad side, but for now she was enjoying seeing that there were good men. As he finished his speech, Jenna licked her lips and really, even though her face looked tired, she actually felt light. “Well, thank you I suppose. No need to apologise for anything though, it’s just kind of a personal thing I have ...” She explained her own behaviour a little, shrugging into herself subconsciously because it happened naturally, and she was talking about shying away from people, from men and why didn’t want to join the game. There were just too many men, and that scared her. She wasn’t about to admit that to a near stranger though. Her eyes followed the movement of the door. “I hope you’re not driving.” She told him, as she put away some other shoes that someone brought and smiled at them, before putting her attention back on Weston. “Since your friends seem to be leaving.” She pointed out, not because she wanted Weston to leave, but because she didn’t want to take up his time and risk him missing his ride.

tagged weston wearing this notes i thank the internet for the gif

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

[/color][/font]
like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

It was going to be a mix of what he was going to be thinking the next morning. On one hand, he’d be pretty proud of himself that he was able to talk to her again and leaving a better impression. However, he also would be smacking himself aside the head with leaving the impression of a drunken man. Weston swore he didn’t drink all the time. Just on a fun guys night out if there were ever such a thing. He would be throwing his head around, knowing how much of an idiot he must have seemed like. He liked to impress Jenna as much as he did anyone else (maybe even more), so this stunt wasn’t really going to make the impression he wanted to. All the while, it was better to leave off of whatever this was turning into than probably what happened before. From that, it sounded like she hadn’t been too entirely thrilled to see him. Something that Weston also didn’t get often.

Well it had indeed been a long day at work. It was always a long day for someone that wanted to do nothing but socialize and play. Sometimes he forgot he actually had a specific job to do. He was so busy talking to people that the social animal didn’t realize how much time was flying by. Most of this was on the clock stuff, so he usually let the sessions go a few moments longer because of his chatty mouth. He was a therapist, but he wasn’t going to do that kind of therapy epitome used as comic relief on TV shows. Some teased him about that, but everyone knew that he was pretty fair. Not to say that Weston was overpaid anyway. He totally knew he was. It was one of the reasons he picked the job in the first place. A couple of hundred dollars to help the kid who was stupid enough to break his knee again please. So it all made up for it. Even Weston Patton wasn’t a completely on hundred percent angel. ”Yes! I love my job, don’t get me wrong, but people just dun want to work. And I gotta make them work. So then they get fussy.” Weston explained with what he thought was complete sense.

She was being very calm and logical to the man that was slurring his way through the conversation. He had people like her at parties before. They were labeled the ‘babysitters’ to make sure that no one got them in huge trouble. Babysitters were more popular when he was drinking underage (something he hadn’t done of a lot because of sports) to make sure no one was making any calls to the cops and such. They talked in the same way she did. Almost as if using small words and was watching all the drunken mob come and go as they please. Some people hated watching people that stupid. Some people thought they should have come with popcorn- it was such good entertainment. For Jenna, it also could have been her having to be nice to people at work. She had to be getting off soon though, right? The bowling alley was closing and fewer people were lounging around while they waited for a ride. Weston would have been the person to close this joint, wouldn’t he?

That made Weston perk him. It was as if he had grown a few inches. A great smile came across despite his condition. So she had enjoyed spending time with him. It hadn’t been mixed signals from the guy that was making sure she was getting home okay. She didn’t like it when he was showing off for his friends. That honestly had to be the first. People thought he was more charismatic when he was with his friends. It could also be a flirting aspect. He wasn’t sure. ”So… you like me more alone than with those guys?” He asked, as if he were still trying to properly comprehend that. His mind was pretty blown at that moment. The words were such voodoo, he felt like he needed to repeat that to himself a few times. It was also… a better feeling. He was more like himself when he was solo. That meant Jenna liked his company when Weston was more himself. It was a good feeling.

Cool was important. Why did she phrase it like a question? Most people spent their entire high school lives trying to gain that goal. Some people found that goal and didn’t continue to have it after, so dwindled on the golden years forever. That had been one of Weston’s fears, but as it turns out, he was just as smooth. Even better, if you asked him. Weston nodded, a little rusty like since his fuzziness didn’t really allow him to nod very briskly without getting dizzy. Further on she went with her words. It had stumped him. Weston looked away for a minute. Who was he? Was he the guy that was always trying to show off to the rest of the world? Or was he the guy that watched Ever After by himself? That sweet plushy part that he refused to show. That was probably the hardest part about acting in front of everyone. The real happy self seemed to drift away further and further. It was too deep of a thought for him to handle. ”I…” He didn’t finish. His mind was still going with nothing he was able to say without totally collapsing. Then he remembered the entire phrase, ”Wait- personal thing?”

Weston looked over his shoulder. Yes, indeed they were leaving. Weston was able to take care of himself. ”No driving. They can take care of themselves. As can I.” He stood proudly, not showing off but more of not wanting to dependent on anyone. If he were a chick, perhaps situations might have been different. But he was a guy that was ready to face anything. Even if he couldn’t quite be able to angle it correctly, but he had been in drunken fights before when he was way more trashed. This was a piece of cake… pie… cake? He was suddenly hungry.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

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calling for me[/font]
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[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

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it's been said that time heals wounds.

Jenna's green eyes were observing the behaviour of the large man. Usually, she found such men intimidating as well as frightening, the muscles looking threatening and bringing back unfond memories of her past, yet for some reason, she couldn't make herself feel that with Weston. Weston, who was standing drunken before her, and made an attempt to speak to her for the third time and he didn't seem like he wanted to hurt her. She was feeling flattered, because she was only female. The kind of positive attention making her chest feel light, because he just looked like he wanted to talk to her. Of course, Jenna knew not to stop being at least somewhat weary, yet she had faith that she was safe. The words out of Weston's mouth were actually quite funny, as he complained about his job, and her tired eyes were filled with a spark of amusement coupled with a small smile at the corners of her lips. "I suppose they come to you for a reason, so they should make it their money's worth to help themselves." She reasons softly, leaning forward on her work space on her elbow for a moment, feeling an ache in her back for being up on her feet all day, yet she couldn't sit down. Not with so little to go before closing time. "But you get to help people. It must be a rewarding job." She comments lightly, with a small nod, thinking that maybe it would be better to talk to him sober, but she wasn't sure if she'd see him again.

Jenna was a little confused as to why he seemed to brighten up at her words, though his question wasn't completely how she had phrased it, but it rang true enough. She bit down on her lower lip uncertainly, casting her eyes down to her hands because she felt kind of bad for thinking that. She felt like she was judging Weston, yet she couldn't shake that she did like him better not in front of his friends. He seemed more genuine, which is something Jenna isn't used to seeing. But that didn't mean it was her place to say anything about his behaviour around anyone, because she didn't know him well enough. Or rather, she didn't know him at all, though some kind of tingling sense at the back of her head implied that maybe she'd like to know more. Maybe, just maybe, it wouldn't be so bad to talk to Weston past this day, but the thought also made her chest ache a little because no. He shouldn't be pulled into her life, not when her real name wasn't Jenna and while she was on the run. She didn't want to ruin other people's lives, especially not to someone who was proving to be nice. She was better off thinking that he was a man so she should keep her distance. That no matter how nice they were the same, so she would keep her wishes to herself.

"Um ... I suppose that is what I meant. I think you're more genuine without your friends around, but it's really not my place to judge." She told him, a dark brown strand of hair falling over her eyes that she didn't bother moving out of her face. She couldn't help but feel like she was being too honest, and berated herself to hold her tongue. "Your friends seem nice though." She said, almost a peace offering. But she supposed that at least he had friends. She didn't really. Sure, she had people that she knew and were acquaintances with, but she didn't let anyone close enough to call it actual friendship. It was too risky, too much was at stake and Jenna was used to being alone anyway. It didn't matter too much. She offered a smile to him, but her smile disappeared when he caught her words. Damn. Jenna knew she shouldn't have said anything. She felt a small flush creep up her neck and she felt uncomfortable for having said so much. She couldn't tell him why she found all those guys in his friend group intimidating. He was drunk, and she was tired and she hoped that she'd never have to explain this. Not if she made sure he kept his distance and vice versa. She shook her head, meeting his gaze her eyes softened as she held it for a few special moments. "Yeah ... it doesn't matter. I've got some ... issues I suppose, and just leave it at that." Maybe if he knew there was something wrong with her next time in the same room he wouldn't want to talk to her? She sure hoped so. For his sake.

Jenna was visibly relieved when he said he wasn't driving, because even if he wasn't completely drunk off his rocker, he was pretty bad and in no state to get in front of the wheel. However, he seemed to also be in tough guy mode. Puffing out his chest in a proud manner that the woman had to admit was rather endearing, and holy crap she shouldn't be thinking that. "I'm glad to hear that." She told him honestly, and cocked up an eyebrow in a curious gesture, a smile playing around her lips. "Oh? And how do you plan on taking care of yourself?" She inquired, eyeing his state as she picked up the last pair of shoes handed to her and handed the right ones to the person. Weston would be the last person to leave, she should have guessed. Though she knew her co-workers would be starting to clean up in a few minutes. "If your friends leave, and you're not driving that leaves walking ... and well, I don't really want to find you in a ditch on my way home." She laughed a bit, a teasing tilt to her voice but her heart sped up with the thought that scared her. She didn't want to see him get hurt. Not really in any way, but and it made her head spin a little at how passionately she felt that. Huh. She really should learn not to cling onto people who show her a little kindness. She knew she should have learned that a long time ago, but it also seemed like she was doomed to repeat all of her mistakes over and over. She bit her lip and looked at Weston, wondering what he was going to do as she would be heading home soon herself and she didn't want to leave him in this state. "There's nothing to stick around for, Weston. I'm getting off in a minute." She told him softly, hoping that he would take that ride with his friends.

emily ▾ 1129 words ▾ sorry this took so long!

[/style][/style][style=font-size: 8px; text-transform: uppercase; font-family: calibri; color: #cccccc;]sarah loves me!

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

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In that one sentence, tipsy Weston thought she couldn’t have described it better. When they didn’t work, he felt like they were just wasting their money. They were spending money for him to try to encourage them. Of course, that was the whole idea of the job. If they were able to do it without him, there would be no reason to pay him. In some ways, lazy people were half of his paycheck. The other half were the kids who worked a little too hard during the game. When he was in sports, that was one of his worse fears. Breaking something and not being able to play. Sports had been his entire life in high school. They dictated who he hung out with, when he hung out with them, what type of grades he had to get, and whether or not he could look his parents in the eyes proudly. His parents had been sport people too, so it all made sense. Those who weren’t in his shoes didn’t understand. Not being able to play, having to sit on the bench and watch his teammates play the game he loved would have crushed him. It was bad enough what happened to his leg. He couldn’t imagine if it was during sports seasons. Especially football.

His passion also made it even more rewarding when a job was completed. Nothing was quite like looking at a kid in the face and telling him he was able to play the next game as long as he was careful and didn’t play the entire time. So when Jenna mentioned it, a new smile came on his face. As if he were looking at someone distant. ”Yeah. Seeing someone else make progress and happy with themselves is all worth it.” He said it as if he were in a dreamy state, still slurring. His eyes came back on Jenna’s absolutely radiant ones. See- if he were drunk, he might have blurted out, ‘fuck, you’re so beautiful’, but he knew that might be a little inappropriate now. See, that was the difference. ”It’s why I was in the military. Did I tell you that?” Although the past few weeks he had been focusing on the details of the night they met, they seemed really blurry now. ”I like helping others. But I was too stupid to be a doctor.” Which was true. Grades mattered when people’s lives were in danger.

Oh. Well of course he was more that way. That was the problem. Those type of guys weren’t the top dog. They weren’t the cool guys that everyone wanted to hang out with because his awesomeness vibe was too much to handle. At least, that was what Weston liked to think of himself. Calla was probably the only person on Earth who knew more of his other side. She knew better than to even mention it though. Maybe when they were fighting, but that didn’t happen very often. Probably the only woman who understood him. She was the one to smack him across the head when he said he was getting married. Should have listened to her. See how much that did him, huh? ”Yes…” He nodded, opening his mouth to say something else, but shutting it. He didn’t think he would ever be drunk enough to actually say what he wanted to say. It was like his love for sports- no one really quite understood except for him. Except for maybe another poor fellow that was in his same position. It wasn’t a terrible position, of course, but it could feel so distant sometimes. Only ones that probably knew about it were his pups. They weren’t telling anyone.

For a split moment, he thought he was going to get a story from her. He had been so curious about her ever since they met. There was something mysterious about her he wasn’t able to predict. Like there was something behind her eyes that she was keeping from the rest of the world. It was part of what drew him in. The other part of course was the rest of her. What he knew about her. She just seemed so easy to talk to despite her trying to push some of the conversation away. Even now when she was talking about issues. It could have very well been what happened first time they met, but he felt like it was something before that. The last event being worse. ”Can I help?” He blurted, not even thinking about what he was saying, but saying it on impulse, ”Do I need to punch someone? Cause I can.” At those words, Weston felt the need to flex his arm muscles while he was standing there. Having no idea that wasn’t really what she probably had in mind. Weston was prepared though. Bold. Confident. Even if he did feel slightly exposed with some of the subjects they talked about.

The questions she asked were simple, but he felt like answering them would be similar to answering a complex puzzle. He blinked a couple of times, as if not really knowing how he was going to take care of himself. Just that he was. ”I told you, I’m not that drunk. I just talk funny.” Scrunching his nose as he said it as if it added some sort of flair to his words. ”If you’re so worried, you could drive me home. I’ve got a truck. Or walk me home. I live that way.” He pointed, as if it was supposed to help her direct on exactly how far away it was. His friends were heading out the door, and Weston waved to them all. Partly staying because it gave an impression he was going to get Jenna by the end of the night, but of course, the rest of it was not wanting to stop talking to Jenna. He felt like they made such progress. That he knew so much more even if he was still skimming the surface. Frankly, he was doing most of the blabbering. While she very patiently responded in her true opinions.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

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[JENNIFER ADELINA PRITCHARD]

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it's been said that time heals wounds.

Jenna didn't remember many of her school years. She was twenty-six and school seems like it was forever and a day ago. She remembered having friends, having fun with friends until she realised that her parents were barely coping with bills and all, and that was when she had wanted to help. After that it was really blurry, and Jenna would rather block out all that time, except the years haunted her in her dreams. At least she found her escape eventually, right? She shook her head as if to make the thought go away and tuned into what Weston was saying, curious despite herself as her gaze took him in, the almost wistful look he was giving at the thought of helping someone else, and she supposed that that gave her a sort of new out look on this man. Simply because he seemed really genuine, and selfless, which is not a quality that Jenna had seen in many people and therefore she was intrigued. She was about to comment that he hadn't told her, no, but his words made her frown because he did not look stupid. She disliked it when people looked down upon themselves when clearly others could see potential. He green eyed gaze was soft, and she offered him a smile, a genuine smile. "Come on Weston. Anyone could be a doctor, yet not everyone would join the military, get shot and still carry on as happy as you look." She told him softly, since she didn't know him well enough to know if he was truly happy or not, Jenna just spoke out her observations.

Licking her lips absently, there was a silence that wasn't awkward, didn't stretch before she herself spoke, and smiled at his response. A simple word, but wasn't that the case? Didn't most actions and one syllable words mean a thousand different things? She didn't say anything to that, but Weston seemed like the kind of man people people loved. He seemed like a leader, and helpful and kind, but wanting to impress those around him. Jenna didn't think that he should put so much effort into it, hell, she had to admit that even half drunk, she liked him. Liked hie words, and the way he smiled about the things he loved, and he was really honest too. Genuine. That was not a thing that anyone saw often enough any more. There were a lot of things that Jenna could judge about the man before her, but she didn't like being judged herself, and therefore she didn't really like doing it to others. She didn't want to assume things because she'd hate it if she were proven wrong, and she frowned at how many times that happened. When a client would come in and she'd think they wouldn't be kinder, and they'd turn out to be the opposite, she'd berate herself. That was why she would be careful when judging someone who seemed nice, though most logic was flying out of her mind by now.

When Jenna explained about her issues, what came out of his mouth was about the last thing she had been expecting and that made her laugh loudly, because wow. She couldn't remember the last time she laughed so happily, because she didn't know what she expected, but it was not that. "Oh goodness, no. No one needs to be punched, I promise." She eyed the flexed arm muscles, thinking that she should be panicking now, thinking about how strong they were, but she was at ease, in her place of work with a man and she had to admit that she liked it. The grin was bright on her face and she shook her head. "I mean, I know you could, but thanks for the offer." She didn't mention that he'd need to go about a few years back in time and a different country to be able to do anything about the people who'd hurt her. but she appreciated the gesture anyway. It was like he felt he should be a hero, yet Jenna didn't feel like a damsel in distress. She was holding her own now, she took charge of her life and even though her life is not perfect, she was here now wasn't she? As free as she could be away from Lawrence and his grasp.

Jenna quirked an eyebrow in Weston's direction when he said he was not that drunk. Okay, she'd seen people who were worse drunks, that was certain, yet he was certainly in no condition to get behind the wheel. She cast her intense green eyes onto his blue ones and cocked her head to the side a little. "Alright, you're not that drunk, you talk funny, but you've still had too much to get behind the wheel." She spoke softly to him, leaning forward on her elbows. "You helped me out, and now I'm returning the favour." It wasn't because she felt like she owed him anything, he clearly had told her that she didn't, but for some reason Jenna thought that she didn't want to see him in danger. It made her nervous, and his next words made her give him a knowing look, and rolled her eyes a little when Weston just waved his friends off. "Confident that I won't just leave you to spend the night in a bowling alley?" She asked, the sentence almost a tease as she chuckled a little and ran a hand down her face once the last person was out of there, and they were left all alone. And yet, she still didn't feel nervous. Usually, alone meant that no one could see what would happen, but she didn't feel that in Weston's presence. "Fine, I'll drive." She tells him. "Wait here, I need to lock up and change." She says with a small nod, actually kind of excited about spending more time with this man and that scared her. I mean, she almost didn't resist at all to taking him home. She changed, and let her hair loose out of her hair band, it was her comfort blanket, and went back to where she had left Weston waiting. "Ready?"

emily ▾ 1033 words ▾ hehe babies!

[/style][/style][style=font-size: 8px; text-transform: uppercase; font-family: calibri; color: #cccccc;]sarah loves me!

[WESTON LEE PATTON]

YOU ARE TAKING ME APART

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like bad glue on a get well card[/center]

The man liked to be appreciated. Or acknowledged for something he did. Even if it was something as simple as the two words ‘thank you’, he was glad for it. It let him know that other people knew what he just did. All of this behind the scenes and playing behind the curtain while everyone just stared and admired the actors on stage wasn’t the way he rolled. He didn’t mind not being in the spotlight (most of the time), but at least shine the light on him a little bit for a couple of split seconds. Weston always tried to let people know when he was grateful. Sure, sometimes it wasn’t probably enough. Just a little something. One of his favorite moments whenever he went to an occasion with lots of people was when the speakers asked for all who served in the United States military to rise and be recognized for the service to the country. Everyone then clapped and he saw fellow current or past military stand.

So when Jenna said that, he beamed. That was one of the things she knew about him while he was trying to calm himself down and comforting her at the same time. That night now seemed like ages ago. Walking in, it hadn’t seemed that long ago, but now that he was standing here, these two acted like they met a couple of more times. It made him happy. Like somehow he was making her feel more at ease. Weston didn’t really count. He talked at ease with just about everyone no matter what number of meeting it was. A kind smile appeared on his face, ”That’s… one of the nicest sentences I’ve ever heard.” It could have been the fact he couldn’t remember any specific other sentences that topped that, but he was sure that there wasn’t. Especially since it was coming from Jenna. ”It’s not too hard though. I mean, living is nice.” Meaning there were plenty who died. Plus, he didn’t want to mention that getting shot wasn’t the worse thing that happened in the amount of time. There was his general using his shot as an excuse, but really having it be the fact Weston fell into a puddle after doing so, revealing his tail to his boss. Then coming home to a not so happy reunion. Shot had been only a small accident. Weston… amazingly was happy though. He himself didn’t understand why. He should be some drunk, bitter, cold, and cruel. Supposed it was never his way of dealing with things, right? Friends helped.

Weston was very glad he decided to stay with her and talk to her instead of going with the rest of his friends. He was finding all sorts of warm feelings (in which he was convinced half was the beer) and smiles between the two of them. No, he couldn’t have left her on the note they first met or when he acted differently around his friends. That was unacceptable to the man who was determined to make friends with as many as he could. The guys would leave thinking that Weston was going to try again. Not seeing him follow. That much would get around. For once, he didn’t even care. Yes, in the beginning, he did care, but now after talking to her, it didn’t matter if the guys thought he hooked up with Jenna or not. He wasn’t going to tell them he did. Not at all. He’d let them assume, and if one was brave enough to ask if it were true, he’d say it wasn’t. Something pretty uncommon for the merman. Not completely as weird feeling as he thought it would be.

Her laugh was absolutely contagious. He never heard her laugh that… fully before. Like she meant it more than just an amused chuckle by his little bit of a buzz. Before he could even stop his mouth, he commented, ”Wow, your laugh is beautiful.” Having a little harder of a time pronouncing beautiful the way he wanted to. As his words were a little mushed together, so he had to make sure to separate the syllables. He wondered what he said that was so funny, and hoped that he could do it again in the future. He was the fun happy guy. Laughs were something he loved to hear. ”Okay, cause, I’ll be there anytime.” Like having to punch the guy that was attacking her in the alleyway. A couple of weeks later, having to punch someone to get the edge off. Had to go to the ER for stitches on that one. He was pretty proud of them, though the nurse who took care of him was not easily amused. Pretty, but not easily amused.

He wasn’t sure if she was just saying that because it was easier not to argue with him or if she really meant it, but either way he felt a small amount of victory. Grinning a bit like a dork, he straightened his shirt, then locking gaze upon her when she mentioned behind the wheel. Well that was probably true. Things were a little bit fuzzy, and at the moment, Weston felt like he was pretty distracted, so perhaps a road wasn’t the best idea. When she mentioned that this was returning the favor, he felt the need to protest she didn’t have to do it because of what happened the time they met before. He remembered insisting upon it then. Still, he felt like if he argued the point, he would make her back down from the offer. So he shut his mouth for once.

With a shrug, he said, ”When I usually act on things, I don’t think about what ifs very often.” As if he were talking about something more casual. Basically Weston was an impulse guy. Right now, he almost felt giddy as he waited for her to change and get ready. She was literally the last one here. It was almost eerie without people crowding the joint. But as she came out, he held out his keys in hand, ”Don’t crash my truck. Whatever it hits won’t survive.” When Weston joked about how his truck was ‘a tank’, he wasn’t too far from the truth. Pretty durable, that thing. He hit a van in traffic once and it put a little scratch. The van was a disaster. Weston had fun paying that bill.

NOW THERES ALWAYS TIME

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