erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Jul 29, 2006 20:01:03 GMT -5
My very first attempt at writing BHH fanfic. Love to hear your view. but please go easy Odd Couples Ch. 1: Make up for the Miles SUMMARY: Summer is just about over, and Vaughn is allready off to England for college. Corrrine joins him, after falling in love with it from her backpacking trip. They both decide that it's best to break off from their current relationships, leaving a devastated Josie and Marshall. Lucas, on the other hand, takes advantage of the situation and uses the chance to finally get together with Josie, but is it allready too late? Multiple ships. A/N: I haven't seen any of the conclusions episodes as I keep missing them when they air, and have only read a few spoilers to aid me in writing this fic. I do appologize for any incorrect info I might have written. And would find it helpful if you could point them out, incase they interfere with the actual conclusions. Also, please review if you like my fic, and wish to see it continued. The lack of reader interest will take away any appeal of continuing, so if you wish to see the end, please review. DISCLAIMER: Bhh is not mine! ------------------- Marshall paced the room, as he watched his girlfriend pack her very last suitcase. He had only just seen her pack a month earlier, and now here he was watching the same scene repeat all over. But this time he wouldn't be going along with her. He pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to clear his mind. "I really don't get exactly why your doing this," "What's there to get? I'm moving to London," She noticed the absence of his treading feet and looked back over her shoulders. "You're going to school in London," he cleared, "There's a difference." "Yeah, but I'll still be there for most of the year." she explained. "Don't you get it Marshall?" "No, I don't, I mean, didn't you allready get enough of the place on our backpacking excursion?" She seemed to ignore his question, and continued packing, sorting through various items that had been sprawled out on her floor. One of which was a small replica of the Eiffle Tower, Marshall bought her. She paused when she felt him approach her. "Corrine," came his voice, softer than she has ever heard it. She took a deep breath and turned to face him. "Look, we'll be thousands of miles apart. Miles that no amount of phone calls or postcards could ever make up for," He stood there processing her words. He knew it, she was breaking up with him. "Say something Marshall," she said looking up. "Like what?" he asked with more of a bite than he intended. "I don't know, just something," "Corrine," he started, "are you saying you want to break up?" "No," she found her self lying when she saw all the hurt in his eyes. Hurt that made her wish, she could take back those words, and pretend that everything was okay. Marshall shook his head. "Yes, that is what you're saying!" He never liked having arguments with her, but this time he just couldn't help it. What was he suppsed to do, give up and let her leave him, possibly for forever? "God, Marshall! Why do you have to make it so hard?!" Corrine stood up, dropping the mini tower she had been holding onto. "Me?" he pointed to himself. "You're the one giving up on us!" "I'm not giving up," she protested. "Oh, so what do you call, 'no amount of phone calls or postcards could ever make up for'?" He stepped a little closer to Corrine, only to find her turn her back to him and make her way to her dresser. "The truth, Marshall, that's what I call it," she explained in a calm voice. "Yeah, well your truth is a little messed up," There was a long silence before either of them spoke up. Marshall was trying to surpress the pain he felt, and realized that arguing was only going to make their situation worse. He stepped a little closer to Corrine, untill she felt the slightest tickle from his breath on her neck. "I'd do anything you want, Corrine. Just don't tell me you want to break up." "That's not what I want," she whispered. "Then tell me what it is," he pleaded. "Becuase I know your not telling me you want to break up over a few silly miles," When she didn't reply he got a sense it wasn't about the distance at all. "Or is there another reason?" he asked stepping back, his voice full of pain. She turned around feeling almost lost without him standing by so close. "No, of course not, Marshall, that's not it," she reached out for his hand, but he pulled away too quickly. He searched her eyes, in hopes to find an answer. "I, I need to go," "Marshall," "I'll talk to you later. I just need...I need some air," he grabbed his coat off from her bed. "There isn't going to be a later, Marshall. My plane leaves in four hours," He glanced at the clock. Was it allready past seven?! "What! You never told me it was leaving so soon," "Myabe you just never listened," she said flatly. He looked at her with sincerity, trying to collect the right words to say, but he found nothing. Breathing out a frusterated sigh, he looked at her one last time before turning the knob on the door. ------------------- Knock Knock Josie quickly wiped the tears from her cheeks with her allready dampened kleenex. She gave herself a quick look in the mirror. There was no hiding her sadness. Her eyes were red and swollen from endless teary nights. Then sprinting to the door at another series of knocks, she tried her best to fake a smile. "Hey Josie," greeted Lucas. "Lucas, didn't expect you for another 30 minutes," "Well, yeah, but we better get a move on it, if we want to see Corrine take off. I hear it's a major traffic jam on the way to the airport," It was hard to ignore her devastated appearance. But he gave up trying to make it a big deal, as it only caused her more trouble. Allready her claimed love had left her, and now her best friend was following close behind. "Let me just go get ready," she opened the door wider and motioned him in. "I'll be down in a few," "Okay," he brushed pass her and stood awkwardly at the foot of the stairs. She eyed him curiously from the corner of her eyes as she locked the door. "Just make yourself at home," "Yeah of course," he nodded. "There's some chilled soda in the fridge, if you want any," she added as she began to climb the steps. "Oh, don't worry about me," Lucas answered. He had never been to her house before today. The past month, he and his family were in Hawaii. So there was no possible way to visit any of his friends. He paced down the hall, drinking in the cozy atmosphere of Josie's, or rather Josie's mom's tastefully decored home. He paused when he noticed Josie's diploma proudly hanging on the wall. It all seemed so long ago. Black hole high, the wormhole, Pearadyne. It felt as if everyone had completely put the past behind them. But he couldn't blame them, they were all busy settling into their new lives. Especially Vaughn and Corrine, as they were getting ready to start a new life in a new country. Soon it was just going to be Joise, Marshall and himself. And he didn't know exactly how that was going to fare. He remembered the sodas in the fridge, and figured he'd take one to help pass the time. ------------------- Air didn't really help. What he really needed was someone to talk to, and a way to help change Corrine's mind. But he knew nothing would help. She knew what she wanted, no use in trying to change her mind. All the same, he dug into his pockets and pulled out his cell. He flipped it open and searched for a very familiar number, and after hitting the call key, sat himself on the edge on a nearby bench. ------------------- // So, that was the first chapter. How was it? Please review. And don't worry there will be more interactions between the characters in the coming chapters. I can't really say what's on the way besides that, I write as it comes to mind.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Aug 5, 2006 17:19:46 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 2: Stop Pretending
SUMMARY: Summer is just about over, and Vaughn is allready off to England for college. Corrrine joins him, after falling in love with it from her backpacking trip. They both decide that it's best to break off from their current relationships, leaving a devastated Josie and Marshall. Lucas, on the other hand, takes advantage of the situation and uses the chance to finally get together with Josie, but is it allready too late? Multiple ships.
A/N: I haven't seen any of the conclusions episodes as I keep missing them when they air, and have only read a few spoilers to aid me in writing this fic. I do appologize for any incorrect info I might have written. And would find it helpful if you could point them out, incase they interfere with the actual conclusions.
Also, please review if you like my fic, and wish to see it continued. The lack of reader interest will take away any appeal of continuing, so if you wish to see the end, please review.
DISCLAIMER: Bhh is not mine!
-------------------
"Marshall?" answered the other end of the call.
"Hey Lucas," Marshall stared down following the cement pathway with his eyes. "got a minute?"
"Yeah, what's up?" he asked as he switched the phone from his right hand to his left, as he reached into the fridge to grab a can of soda. "darn, it's diet," he cursed.
"What was that?"
Lucas hadn't realized that he said it out loud. "Oh nothing." He placed the can back into the fridge, and opted for a glass of milk instead. "So what do you want to talk about?" There was no point in asking. He allready knew what the answer was.
"Corrine," answered Marshall.
"Of course," Lucas began searching through the cupboards for a glass. He found them neatly organized by height next to the dishes. He smiled inwardly. 'Guess mother's not always like daughter' he thought, as he extended his arm to the back for one of the taller glasses.
Marshall glanced around the park. It was quite deserted, and besides the crew of guys trimming up the grass and bushes off to the far side, he was all alone. And right now that is exactly how he felt. "She's breaking up with me Lucas,"
His reply surprised him, and the glass that Lucas had just carefully pulled out from the back, and had thought was secure in his hands, slipped and shattered on the floor. "Crap!"
"Lucas what was that?!" Marshall asked worriedly. Had the news surprised Lucas more than it did him? When there was no answer from his friend, he increased to an excessive shout, thinking his friend had fallen down. "LUCAS?! ARE YOU STILL THERE?"
Lucas stared down at the mess, thinking how he'd clean it up. 'I hope she didn't hear that,' he thought. But when he looked up, he was saw Josie standing there, looking shocked. "Sorry Josie," he appologized into his phone.
"NO LUCAS, THIS IS MARSHALL!" replied the other end of the call.
"Marshall, let me call you back," he said not looking away from Josie's stare.
"Oh good, you're o...wait! Lucas, don't hang-" too late. Lucas had allready ended the call. "-up."
Josie, shook her head as she trudged over to a closet to retrieve a broom and dustpan. "I told you you could get a soda, not ruin one of my mom's glasses," she pushed Lucas off to the side as she began to sweep up the broken glass.
"I'm sorry," he appologized for a second time.
"It's okay," she claimed, but her tone said otherwise.
"Here, let me get that. It's my fault," he offered, trying to take the broom from her, but she only nudged him back.
"No it's fine, I've got it."
He stood aside, watching her carefully pick up the remaining smaller shards that were conspicuously scattered on the floor. If only she could pick her self up the same way from the mess that she had become.
When she was done, he was still absentmindedly staring down at the spot she had just left. "Lucas?" she asked.
"Uh...yeah," he said snapping back from his thoughts.
She looked at him with a puzzled expression on her face. "are you okay?"
"Yeah!" he answered with a bit too much enthusiasm. He furrowed his brow, "...we should really get going,"
"Yeah, of course," she ran to the living room adjacent from the kitchen and snatched her keys, surprisingly along with a mini messenger bag from the coffee table. "Okay, let's go,"
"Ladies first," he stretched his arms out in front of him, and gave a slight bow.
Josie walked ahead, Lucas trailing behind.
-------------------
Marshall leaned back on the bench, and sighed heavily. 'Corrine,' he thought, as he closed his eyes. There was a slightly cool breeze in the evening air, and he could feel it on his face.
A figure was quickly approaching the bench from the distance.
"Marshall?" asked an all too familiar voice.
Marshall let one eye lid lazily open, taking a peek at the person, who had just happened by, or he had hoped to have, becuase all that time he had thought he was alone. Realizing who it was, he completely opened his eyes, and straightened his back. "Professor Z?!"
"Marshall," he confirmed with a smile.
He was wearing track suit bottoms, and a plain old black tee, stained with sweat.
"May I sit?" asked Z, nodding to the vacant spot on the bench next to Marshall.
"Uh...yeah!" he scooted over to the the side to make more room. Enough room, so that he wouldn't accidentally rub his elbows with Z's evidently sweaty ones.
"Never see you around here," Z began, looking for an explanation.
"I don't really come to the park," Marshall explained, fixing his stare at the grass.
"You did today," Z wiped the persperation from his forehead with the sleeve of his tee. "Any particular reason why?"
Igonoring Z's question, he turned to face his once science teacher, "Do you come to run here often?"
He, too fixed his gaze upon the grass, as he answered the question. "I try to, yes. They have a great running course through the woods. I find it relaxing."
"Always in the evening?"
Z furrowed his brow. Since when did his running habbits, ever mattered? He felt like he was being interrogated, and by someone about or even more than ten years his junior nonetheless. He answered after a moment's hesitation, "yes,"
Surprisingly Marshall didn't ask anything after, so Z continued. "You look like you've got something on your mind. Is that why you're here?"
His student eyed him suspisciously. "How do you know?"
"C'mon, Marshall. How long exactly have we known eachother?" he explained more than asking.
Marshall nodded his understanding. If he needed someone to talk to, why not Z? "It's Corrine,"
"Ahh," Z leaned back on the bench and rested his hands on the back of his head. "Why am I not surprised?"
-------------------
Conversation was lacking between Lucas and Josie. Neither of them had said a single word since they left the house.
Josie decided to break the awkward silence. "Nice car, Lucas,"
"Thanks," he didn't break his concentration from the road. "Graduation present," he then explained.
"Nice," she smoothed her hand over the black leather seats.
She then stared out her window, her eyes skimming the endless treetops. It was allready close to 9, and from where they lived it was about an half an hour's drive to the airport, but with the added traffic that she could allready make out in the distance, it would easily add another 30 minutes. Equalling one long awkward drive if they didn't start a conversation soon.
"How was vacationing in Hawaii?" she asked, keeping her gaze outside.
"Great" he simply answered. He hesitated, as if he was about to add something to his answer, but he only asked, "How was summer school?" he cringed on the inside at their forced discussion.
"It was allright," she answered turning to face him.
"That's good,"
Josie watched him closely. The way he had been acting, wast no surprise to her at all. Lately, or since last week, he had been acting the same way around her, even when they were around Corrine and Marshall. He kept conversation light, and he never made much of an eye contact with her. Coincindently, he had started acting this way, the day she had yelled at him for making a big deal about her current situation with Vaughn.
Lucas noticed from the corner of his eyes that Joise was blatantly watching him. He glanced over in her direction, giving a weak smile.
"You can stop pretending now, Lucas" she said, in response.
"What are you talking about?" but he did know.
"Look, we both know perfectly well that you aren't acting like yourself at all Lucas," she explained, not breaking away from her stare.
"I'm acting perfectly normal," he insisted.
"I know you want to say something to me about Vauhn, so just go ahead and say it, so we can get it over with and have no more awkwardness between us," explained Josie.
"I...I have noth--" he began.
"--LUCAS! Stop it, and just say what it is one your mind okay?!"
He sighed in defeat. "Okay," he breathed. "I hate seeing you like this Josie. It makes me hurt to see you in such a wreck. I know you love Vauhn, and you wish he didn't go away, but...but crying over it all night won't do any good. Look at what it's done to you, if any of us hasn't been acting like themselves, I'd say it'd be you. Josie, you need to move on,"
-------------------
// Again, please review. I'd love to hear what you guys have to say.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Aug 16, 2006 19:31:26 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 3: Traffic Jam
SUMMARY: Summer is just about over, and Vaughn is already off to England for college. Corrrine joins him, after falling in love with it from her backpacking trip. They both decide that it's best to break off from their current relationships, leaving a devastated Josie and Marshall. Lucas, on the other hand, takes advantage of the situation and uses the chance to finally get together with Josie, but is it already too late? Multiple ships.
A/N: I haven't seen any of the conclusions episodes as I keep missing them when they air, and have only read a few spoilers to aid me in writing this fic. I do apologize for any incorrect info I might have written. And would find it helpful if you could point them out, incase they interfere with the actual conclusions.
Also, please review if you like my fic, and wish to see it continued. The lack of reader interest will take away any appeal of continuing, so if you wish to see the end, please review.
DISCLAIMER: Bhh is not mine!
-------------------
"Oh, and I suppose you'd want me to move on to you?"
Her reply took Lucas by surprise, so much that he almost steered the car into the opposing lane, which is saying allot, being that it's two lanes over. He didn't mean to get her upset, he only wanted to help her, and obviously he failed at that.
"No, that's not what I meant," said Lucas, but secretly that was all he could wish for.
Josie smiled smugly, "I knew it, you're still jealous that I picked Vaughn and not you,"
"I'm not jealous," he lied. "I just...I just think it's best if you--"
"--no Lucas, you don't know what’s best for me!" she declared. This was not what she pictured when she asked Lucas to say what was on his mind. She figured once he got whatever was bothering him off his chest, everything would be back to the way it was. But it didn't help, and if anything, it surely worsened their situation. "You know, I'd rather have that awkwardness between us, than have to talk to you the whole way to the airport."
"Fine," He literally felt a piece of his heart break away.
-------------------
"Well did you understand why shy said what she did?" Professor Z asked.
They had been conversing for well over half an hour. The sun was practically gone, the landscapers had left, and the only people at the park were the two of them. Z gave a yawn. He was feeling sleepy, but it wasn't even close to nine. He must have tired himself out with all that running. He turned his attention back to the young man beside him.
"I tried to," That young man answered.
Z nodded his head. "I'll take that as a no,"
"Don't get me wrong," Marshall said quickly. "I listened to everything she said,"
"There's a difference between listening and understanding, Marshall. And I take it that you didn't do much of the latter. Otherwise, I don't think you'd be here right now." Z pushed his glasses up, with a finger.
Marshall faced his former teacher. "What are you saying?" he asked "I should just let her end our relationship!"
Z stared at the ground, as if he was closely examining the concrete sidewalk. And for a moment, it seemed like he wasn't going to say anything. "I used to have a puppy," he started rather unexpectedly in a calm voice. Marshall gave him his full attention, sensing the unusual seriousness his tone had taken.
"Chowder. He was practically my little brother, than the family pet. We all loved him, but I think its safe to say that I loved him the most. So one day, we get home from spending the entire day at the zoo, and we find him balled up under a table, he was hardly breathing." Z paused, and Marshall noticed the far away look in his eyes. The kind of look, you get when you're thinking about one of those unforgettable memories.
Marshall searched for a few considerate words during the pause, but it wasn't long until Z continued.
"We rushed him to the vet, and I remember the vet talking to my parents in hushed voices off to the side, while they told me to go play in the play room. I pretended to go, but I really just hid behind a chair. And I must have been only seven or eight, but I somehow understood every single word he was telling my mom and dad. See, Chowder had some disease. He had it for awhile, we just didn't know it, and he said it was extremely painful for Chowder. He said there wasn't much he could do about it, it was already too late. So he wanted to put him down, to end his suffering. When he said that, I immediately ran out, I didn't care if they found out I'd been eavesdropping--I just ran. I got outside, and I just cried my heart out. But deep down, I knew it was for the best, I loved him too much to see him in so much pain."
Marshall stared out, not at anything in particular, just whatever his eyes landed on, while he sorted out Z's words, and what the whole purpose of Z retelling that story was.
And after five minutes of complete silence, Z stood up stretching out his arms. "It's getting late Marshall," he pointed out.
Marshall had been deeply lost in his thoughts the last few minutes. He looked up, and saw Z looming over him. "Yeah. Right."
"I'll see you around. Good night Marshall," And he was off.
"Hey!" Marshall called out. Z stopped, and gave his head a slight turn. "Sorry about Chowder,"
-------------------
Corrine finished checking in her bags and was now sitting with her parents in the airport lobby, awaiting the arrival of her friends.
"Shouldn't you be going through the gates now, honey?" asked her Mom.
Corrine craned her neck to see behind the group of people just arriving through the automatic doors. "Not yet Mom, they're coming,
I promise," she reassured.
"I just don't want you missing your plane, that's all,"
Her dad glanced down at his watch. "Don't worry, she's got plenty of time," he reassured, wrapping his arm around his wife.
Corrine heard the set of automatic doors open, and the rush of people's voices drifted into the lobby. Again she craned her neck, and a large smile spread across her face as she spotted her two friends. "There they are!" she shouted, running up to meet them.
"Sorry we're late," apologized Josie, as she leaned across to give Corrine a hug.
"Yeah, killer traffic jam," added Lucas.
Josie looked around with a slightly confused look. Then turning to Corrine asked, "Where's Marshall?"
"Oh," her cheerful tone seemed to disappear as she answered. "he's not here yet."
"That's okay," chirped Lucas, "we're still here," he motioned between him and Josie, although he didn't feel okay referring to them as 'we'.
"Yeah, and look," Josie pulled something out of her messenger bag. It was a gift wrapped rectangle, with a neat red bow at the top.
"I got you something...well, more like made it. I'm sorta low on cash." She held it out for Corrine.
"Aw, Josie you didn't have to," Corrine knew people said this all the time, even though honestly they were expecting to be given something. But unlike those people she really did mean it.
"Don't be silly,"
Corrine took the package from Josie. She noticed the red and yellow striped paper it was wrapped in, and was reminded how seldom Josie ever wrapped any of her presents before. It never really bothered Corrine, it was just silly gift wrap.
"I want you to open it now," said Josie.
Corrine moved over to a table, as Josie and Lucas closed around, watching intently.
"Is this a scrap book?" asked Corrine after she pulled the gift wrap off. She looked up at Josie, with a big grin.
Josie nodded her head.
"Josie! I never knew you made scrap books," she smoothed her fingers over the cover, feeling the different textures of paper.
"I don't, but I thought you might like it, so I said what the heck," Josie explained. She was relieved to see that Corrine liked it.
The three friends, gathered around the table, flipping through the scrapbook, and remembering what memories went with which pictures. They laughed, and had a good time, including Lucas. And though he sat across from Josie, he didn't bother to make much of an eye contact with her.
"I remember that," Lucas pointed to a photo, resulting in a burst of laughter from the group.
"Marshall is missing the fun," stated Josie between her fits of laughter, not knowing the reminder of his absence would kill Corrine's good mood.
Just that moment, her father came by. "Honey, think it's about time you start saying your goodbyes," he pointed to his watch.
Corrine glanced around at the table at her friends. Both Josie and Lucas put on a brave smile, knowing saying goodbye was always the hardest thing to do. What with Marshall not even there, they knew it would be extra hard for her. She too, put on a brave smile, before closing up the scrapbook.
She was surrounded by the people that cared for her the most. Her family, and her friends--minus Marshall, but she figured if he really did care about her, he'd be there, no questions asked. She looked around at them with a sad face.
"Don't look so down," said her mother. "I didn't see a single sign of a frown the last time you went off to Europe,"
"That's because I was only gonna be away for two months, or not even," she explained.
"Don't worry," her mother wrapped her arms around her, and pulled her into a tight embrace. "In a few months it will already be Christmas, and you can come home."
"If she even wants to come back," her father joked lightly.
"Don't worry about it Corrine, you're gonna have the time of your life in London," reassured Josie.
"And when you come back, we'll all still be here waiting for you," added Lucas.
Corrine's frown, seemed to vanish, as a huge smile took its place. She truly had a great set of friends, who were always going to be there for her. And she was truly grateful for their friendship.
"Well," she said, putting on a brave smile. "I should really get going," She gave the airport one last look, in hopes to find that familiar face appear before her, but with no success she sighed, and promised herself, she wouldn't let it ruin her trip.
"You take good care of yourself Corrine," came Lucas.
"And don't forget to write us," reminded Josie.
"Everyday," added her mother with much emphasis.
Corrine smiled, and promised she'd do what they'd asked. Then slid her slightly shaky fingers under the handle of her carryon. As she turned around, getting ready to say her goodbyes, her heart literally stopped, when she noticed who had walked through the automatic doors.
- Okay, so it's pretty obvious who it was right? But I still had to cut it off until the next chapter.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Aug 22, 2006 15:47:30 GMT -5
Odd Couples Strawberrycolada.com Ch. 4: Goodbyes and Hellos
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"You made it," she exclaimed rushing over to him as if nothing happened between them.
"I've been thinking, Corrine," he said as he tightly embraced her.
"Yeah?" she looked up expectantly, only find her lips captured by his.
The kiss said everything he wanted to, but couldn't. And Corrine understood it was his way of letting her go. When they finally pulled away, Marshall leaned into her ear. "I love you," he whispered, and he truly meant it with all his heart.
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Corrine, managed to say all of her goodbyes without shedding one tear. And as she stood before the gate entrance, she looked back at the five most important people in her life, and smiled knowing when she'd return they'd always be there for her. She breathed out sharply, pasted on a genuine smile, and waved her final goodbye, and walked through the gates, ready to tackle her new life.
------------------- "No, she's just a friend," he insisted.
"Well, she knows your gonna be there?" his friend asked.
Vaughn sighed. He didn't know how many times he had already explained all this to his roommate. Too many to count. "No, I thought it'd be a nice surprise." he answered.
"Well, what if she doesn't recognize you?"
"She will," he answered icily. He glanced at the clock, and was thankful to know it was just about time for him to leave. "Well, I gotta get going," he said, as he grabbed his keys from the counter.
"Want me to come with you man?" asked his friend.
"No, you gotta go to class," he reminded. "See you later," and happily closed the door behind him.
He was actually excited to see Corrine. They never had the closest or the best relationship, but she was still a friend. Corrine was always around, and it was a relief to know that something was at least consistent in his life.
He bounded down the stairs two steps at a time, out of habit. Even if he wasn't rushing, he found himself skipping steps on the stairs, just to get to the bottom faster. "Good morning," he greeted a woman who was coming from the opposite direction. She was old, he noticed, and wearing a hat, and a coat, although it was nowhere cold out.
The old woman smiled back, "Good morning," and pulled something out of the paper bag she had been carrying. It was a white rose, and handed it to Vaughn.
"Thank you," he said taking the flower from the woman's delicate fingers. Never before had he received a rose, and he never imagined his first one to be from an elder woman.
When he got to the bottom he pushed the door with his hand, and immediately felt the warm sun rays hit his face. It was a perfect day; he had no classes, and his friend would soon be arriving. He figured he'd take Corrine around, show her a few places, though he doubted she'd need a guide, since she spent her whole summer touring Europe already. She probably knew her way around better than he did. Just like Corrine to be perfect at everything.
His car was parked on the corner of the street. And after climbing in and setting the rose in the cup holder, he slid his key into the ignition, and sped off into the direction of the airport.
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Corrine pulled the last of her luggage off the conveyor belt. She looked around, not sure what to do next. Although she clearly knew, getting settled in her new apartment was probably her best bet. She pulled out her wallet from her purse, making sure she had money for cab fare. After confirming, she pulled out the handles and with confidence walked off towards the front, her luggage rolling behind her.
As she neared the lobby, her eyes landed on Vaughn and a very big smile quickly found its way to her lips. "Vaughn?" she asked her self, as she quickened her pace. He met her half way, with a big grin on his face.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, letting go of the handles and letting them drop on the floor.
"Surprise?" he said matter of factly. Bending down to give her a hug. "I thought I'd come by to pick you up."
"You didn't have to," she stated.
She watched as he bended over half way, to pick up her luggage. "I know, but I thought it'd be nice. You know, you wouldn't have to be alone on your first day, like I was--trust me, it's not very fun" he explained.
She could only smile back in response. It was probably the nicest thing he has ever done for her.
He made a face like he just remembered something important. "This is for you," he pulled something out of his back pocket. It was the white rose. "Welcome to London," he said in his best imitated tourist guide voice.
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"So how's everyone since I left?" asked Vaughn as he stuffed the last of her bags into the back trunk.
Corrine gave it some consideration before finding the right answer. "They're all good," she said, but forgot to mention the part 'besides Josie, who's been a total wreck since you left her, and Lucas who's been acting like a complete stranger whenever she was around'. But she figured, he didn't need to know all that.
"That's good to hear," he said giving his trunk a final push to close it tight. He walked to the passenger's side, and opened the door for Corrine, who stared in awe at his gesture. "What?"
"Oh nothing," she answered sliding in to the seat, and watched as he shut her door, and made his way around to his.
"So, where to?" he asked, backing out of the parking space.
He watched her from the corner of his eyes, as she rummaged through her purse. She pulled out a piece of yellow paper that was folded way more than necessary. "Here," she said holding out the paper with an address scribbled on. Vaughn studied the writing, before realizing where it was.
They left the parking lot in silence, though it wasn't the kind of awkward or uncomfortable silence you'd think of.
"Thanks for the rose," said Corrine five minutes into the ride. She stared down at the single white flower between her fingers.
"You're welcome," he felt a little guilty that the rose hadn't really been from him.
"I've never gotten a white rose before, well aside from my parents," she then explained. "They're my favorite, so I really appreciate it." she smiled up at him.
"What about Marshall?" he found him self asking. It was a little too hard to for him to believe that she had never gotten a white rose before. Marshall had probably given her thousands.
"He thought they were a hassle to look for, although I can tell you right now they aren't rare or anything. So he'd usually give me the red ones." she said it in a kind of sad tone, that made Vaughn feel sympathetic towards her.
"Wow, I always thought he was the perfect boyfriend," he said.
"No, he in't perfect, but he is a really great guy,"
"So why did you break up with him then?" he took a glance at her, and she returned it with a puzzled look.
"How did you know, it just happened last night?" she asked, brushing his question aside.
He gave a chuckle before answering, "word travels fast," he didn't mention the part of Marshall calling him up to ask him to keep a good eye on Corrine. 'Take care of her for me,' he remembered Marshall saying before they hung up.
"Obviously," she simply said, and went to looking out the window, smiling at all the familiar places.
"So, you still didn't answer my question?" came Vaughn a minute later.
"What?"
"Why did you do it, if he was such a great guy?"
"The distance, it wouldn't work, you know?" she looked over at him, but he kept his eyes glued on the road. "What's you're reason?" she asked in a joking tone, as if there wasn't any other reason but hers.
When Vaughn didn't respond, the cheery mood, seemed to dwindle down and Corrine went back to look out the window, feeling as if she said something wrong.
"Let's just say, it wasn't that reason," he finally said.
She looked at him, her mouth parted, ready to say something, but when she noticed what they arrived to, her words went missing, and she was literally speechless.
They pulled up to a shabby two story building. It was without doubt old, and without any proper maintenance. The roof sagged in, a few blocks of bricks were missing from the side, two shutters hung crooked, and there were absolutely no signs of vegetation.
"Where are we?" she asked when she came to.
"Welcome home?" he said unsurely.
She opened her door, and quickly stepped out. Vaughn followed suit.
Corrine looked around in shock, before pulling out yet another peice of folded paper from her purse.
"This can't be it," she declared, as she unfolded the paper. "it looks nothing like the photo," she held up the picture to the building to compare.
Vaughn stepped behind her examining the photo and the real thing. He chuckled after taking a look.
"What?" Corrine asked, turning around sharply.
"Let me guess, you got this from the internet," he gave the photo a flick with his finger.
"So?"
"So, I hope you didn't pay to live in this kooky hole,"
She glared up at him, and he noticed his mistake. "I meant, dump." he corrected himself. He had to watch his language more often, now that Corrine was around.
"Maybe it's better inside," she suggested walking up to the front door.
"I doubt it," he said, but she kept walking anyway ignoring his reply.
He looked over at the barren property noting the very dead grass, just as an idea came into mind. "Corrine," he ran up a few steps to catch up with her and placed a hand on her arm. She looked up at his touch. "Come on," he tugged gently, hinting to the car. She looked up at the building and sighed before complying to his wishes.
------------------- Hoped you like this chapter. Please review!
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erika
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Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Sept 6, 2006 14:47:49 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 5: Changes
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"Where are we going?" she asked buckling herself under the seatbelt.
"I know a place where you can stay," he explained.
"Really? I hope it's nothing like that one." she pointed at the old building they just left behind.
"Trust me, it's not. That's why I wouldn't trust the internet. Apartments are something you should look at for yourself," he said in all truthfulness. "I'd ask for my money back, if I were you."
That's what she would need to do if she had already made payments. But thankfully the landlady said she'd give her the first month free. So there was no money to get back. "I didn't pay for it yet," she replied.
"That's good,"
She watched him with a smile. This was truly not the Vaughn she knew. The Vaughn she remembered knowing wouldn't have come to pick her up, or given her a rose, or opened her door, or even suggest a different place for her to stay. And the only time they would see each other was by chance on the street. 'He's changed,' Corrine thought to herself.
Vaughn glanced over and caught her staring at him. "What?" he asked.
"You're just really different, that's all," she explained focusing her attention now on the road. "It's like you're a different person."
"Is that a good thing?"
"Yeah," she nodded her head.
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"What’s this place?" she asked examining the red building that they arrived at.
"My apartment," he simply answered.
She looked at him questioningly. It was the kind of look that screamed an explanation.
"What?"
"I can't stay with you," she declined.
"Sure you can, there's an extra bed" he paused. "I'm not saying it'll be permanent or anything. Just until you find a decent place."
"That's really nice of you, Vaughn, but, I mean, I guess, if it won't be any trouble..."
"It's not. I mean, maybe Greg might flip out about having' a girl around. But other than that it's no trouble." He noticed she was giving him that look again. He knew what was coming, so before she could even ask he cleared it up. "Greg's my roommate."
She gave her head a nod. "And he'll flip out, why?"
"Well, let's just say he hasn't got any luck with the ladies," he looked over at her noticing her lips curl into a small amused smile. "So, ready?"
"Yeah," she breathed.
He climbed out of the car, and walked to the other side to open Corrine's door. She smiled, noting how gentlemanly he had become over the short span of a month. Living in London must have taught him something she then concluded. She stood aside watching him unload her bags from the trunk, she reached out to lend a hand, but he only insisted that he had it under control.
"C'mon," he said. Pulling her luggage behind him, he walked up to the front door holding it open for Corrine.
"Thanks," she said as she passed through.
"Third floor," he said as he began to drag her luggage up the flight of stairs.
"Do you guys have an elevator," she wondered.
"No,"
-------------------
She stared at the shiny gold 8 nailed on the door, as Vaughn fumbled in his pocket for his keys. She could almost see a deformed version of her reflection on it's face. She heard the clang of two metals touching and the turn of a knob, and looked up to see the door before her open, to reveal a startlingly spacious apartment.
"Wow, this is huge," Corrine exclaimed walking in. She pictured the apartment to be small and crowded, but it turned out anything but. There was a moderate sized kitchen to the left of the door, and the rest was a very spacious and open room. A single black leather couch, a TV, and coffee table were arranged in the far back near the windows. There was a small dining table right of the kitchen, and a shiny metal sculpture stood high on a stand next to the entry. There were also several doors--three to be exact--two lining one wall, and the other on the opposite.
Vaughn dragged in her luggage leaving them just beside the entrance. He closed the door behind him, and dropped his keys on the counter. "Not really, it just looks that way since we don't have much furniture." he explained.
"I like it, it's very minimalistic," she stroked the very modern looking sculpture, feeling its cool metal surface.
"That's Greg's," Vaughn informed. "he's very artsy fartsy, though you'd never expect that from him. You want anything to drink?" he moved over to the kitchen.
"No, I’m good," she answered. "Oh, where will I be staying?"
"Right. I almost forgot." He quickly paced to the door that stood alone on the wall. "You can stay in my room," he opened the door exposing a surprisingly clean and well organized room. "cleaned up for you," he turned his head to flash her a quick smile.
"I thought you had an extra bed,"
"Yeah, it's in Greg's room. I mean, if you feel more comfortable staying there simply because it's 'the extra bed', you can, I just figured--"
"Oh, no, I just don't want to be too much trouble," she slightly shook her head.
She heard Vaughn chuckle. "Corrine, would you stop. You're not any trouble at all. I'm glad you're here," She couldn't help but smile at the last of his words. Someone was glad to have her around, it was a nice feeling. "So, what will it be?"
She smiled, and brushed pass him through the open door, claiming his room. "Okay," he said in finality.
-------------------
Vaughn had brought in her things to his room, and left her there to unpack and do whatever it was she needed to do. Afterwards he sprawled himself on the couch, and unwittingly dozed off.
He woke up to the sound of his cell ringing, which had fallen from his pocket to the floor. He picked it up, and glanced down at the caller. Instead of a name, a series of unfamiliar numbers were displayed. Dismissing the call, he tossed his cell beside him on the couch, hearing the muted thump it made as it hit the leather. Feeling as though he slept through the remainder of the afternoon, he quickly checked the time. He had napped for a little over an hour.
He got up, thinking to check up on Corrine, and maybe ask her if she wanted to join him for an extremely late lunch.
Knock. Knock.
"Come in," he heard her yell out.
He found her sitting cross legged on his bed, hunched over a pile of papers, with a pen loosely gripped between her fingers. "What are you doing?" he asked curiously.
"Writing letters," she answered.
"Already?" he asked with surprise. "To who?"
"My parents, and the guys back home. They want me to write every day,"
He immediately thought of Josie, though it didn't trigger any feelings, as it could have had only several months earlier. "Tell them I said hi,"
She looked up at him, and smiled. "Okay,"
He hesitated for a moment before finally asking. "I was also thinking," he started off, "maybe you wanna go grab a bite to eat?" he asked hoping she'd accept his offer, relieving him from his usual lonely meals.
"You know, that sounds like a great idea," she dropped her pen on the bed, as she stretched her arms out.
"The bathroom is right across, if you want to take a shower," he pointed behind him.
"I know, I already took one while you were napping,"
"Okay," he didn't know what else to say, and so he turned around and walked out, quietly shutting the door behind him, leaving her to get ready.
------------------- Yeah, sorry for the longer than usual wait for this chapter. I've been kinda out of it, but now I'm back in, and the next update should hopefully be sooner than later.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Oct 8, 2006 14:17:17 GMT -5
Odd Couples Strawberrycolada.com Ch. 6: The Hill
SUMMARY: Summer is just about over, and Vaughn is already off to England for college. Corrrine joins him, after falling in love with it from her backpacking trip. They both decide that it's best to break off from their current relationships, leaving a devastated Josie and Marshall. Lucas, on the other hand, takes advantage of the situation and uses the chance to finally get together with Josie, but is it already too late? Multiple ships.
A/N: I haven't seen any of the conclusions episodes as I keep missing them when they air, and have only read a few spoilers to aid me in writing this fic. I do apologize for any incorrect info I might have written. And would find it helpful if you could point them out, incase they interfere with the actual conclusions.
Also, please review if you like my fic, and wish to see it continued. The lack of reader interest will take away any appeal of continuing, so if you wish to see the end, please review.
DISCLAIMER: Bhh is not mine!
Thank you to everyone who has read and reviewed!! You guys are the reason I have kept writing.
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"'Wonder how Corrine's doing?" Lucas asked.
But his question was answered with silence.
"I bet she's doing fine, Lucas," he answered himself, when Marshall didn't. He looked up at his friend who appeared to be lost in his own world in the middle of a cafe. "Yo, Marshall?" he waved a hand hoping to catch his attention. But when that failed, he softly slapped the back of his palm on his cheek, and watched his friend come to. "Nice to have you back,"
"Sorry, Lucas," he apologized.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah," Marshall picked up his drink to sip at it, but then noticed he had already drained the remains. "I think I need a refill though,"
Lucas watched as his friend walk over to the counter, and order another drink, which would become his third since they arrived half an hour ago. He returned a minute later with his hand clasped around the cafe's signature monogrammed Styrofoam cup. "So what were we talking about, again?" he asked as he seated himself.
"We weren't. I was," Lucas corrected.
"Sorry," he apologized again.
He studied the figure sitting before him: a sleep deprived, messy, out of it looking guy, sipping endlessly at a highly caffeinated drink. Whoever this was, it surely wasn't his best friend Marshall.
"Marshall, are you okay?" asked Lucas again. "If you want to talk, I'm right here."
"Yeah, no, I mean, I'm fine," Marshall gave his hand a wave in the air as if to dismiss the subject.
Lucas didn't buy it. Ever since Corrine left--which was only last night--Marshall hadn't been acting himself. Maybe it was the fact that he and Corrine were no longer the perfect couple, or maybe it was her being thousands of miles away, but Lucas concluded it was a little bit of both. He honestly felt sorry for his best friend, he couldn't even imagine what he must be feeling. He let his eyes wander to the Styrofoam cup sitting on the table, not knowing what else to do. He zig zagged his eyes through the monogram like a maze, until a voice caught him off guard. It was Marshall.
"You and Josie still not talking?" he asked, finally starting a conversation.
"No," Lucas sighed sadly. He tried not to bring it up, since his silly problem with Josie couldn't even compare to Marshall's. But he answered without hesitation.
Marshall nodded, took hold of his drink again, and leaned back against the chair, almost withdrawing from the short conversation. Lucas watched him and rolled his eyes. He understood Marshall was going through a bit of a tough time, but he couldn't help but be a little irritated at his inability to hold a simple conversation.
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The loud taps of Corrine's shoes on the stairs echoed in the foyer. She slowed her pace, and eased each foot down slowly, as to reduce the noise she made.
Vaughn, who was several steps ahead, looked back at her. "Heels, Corrine?"
"No, they're flats," she corrected.
"Flats?"
"You know like ballet flats?"
He took a glance back again, eyeing the ballerina type shoe that hugged her feet. "For a minute there I thought Miss Corrine Baxter had been wearing heels," he teased.
"I wear heels," she defended herself "...just not often,"
"Not often meaning never," he opened the door, holding it open for her.
She let that hang in the air. She didn't know how to respond. She had worn heels before, so it's not like she'd never worn them, she just preferred other shoes. "So where we eating?" she asked, quickly changing subjects.
"I don't know, wherever you want. I don't really mind."
As they neared the corner, Vaughn dug into his pocket pulling out his keys. Suddenly he felt a warm hand on his arm, and looked up to see Corrine.
"Let's walk," she said, pulling him in the other direction away from the car.
"Yeah, okay," he pocketed his keys back, and followed Corrine.
-------------------
They sat there in silence for a few more minutes, until a phone went off to the sound of The Fray.
"Yeah," Marshall answered, glancing in Lucas's direction. He gave his head a few nods, "I'll be there," He closed his phone, and set it back down on the table.
Lucas stared down at the phone, waiting to see if Marshall would tell him who he was talking to.
"Josie," said Marshall.
"What?" Lucas asked with surprise.
"That was Josie," he answered "wanted to know if I could give her a ride."
Lucas felt his heart throb with pain, that she'd ask Marshall and not him. All the times before it was him that Josie always went to--after Vaughn. But being that they weren't even on speaking terms, he shouldn't have been surprised, but he couldn't help but be that anyway. But other than surprise, he felt a tinge of jealousy too. "Oh," he replied.
"You want to take her?" came Marshall a few seconds later.
The question caught him off guard. 'Where did that come from?' Lucas asked himself. He glared at Marshall across the table.
"Your looking at me like I shot you," he explained. "Look, its not that big of a deal Lucas. You can take her, if you want."
Lucas hadn't realized he had been giving Marshall a hateful look. He shook his head. "I couldn't even if I wanted. She wouldn't want me there."
"So, use the time to work things out. You've been a wreck lately," Marshall suggested. He noticed Lucas's lips curl into a smile, and finally break into a snicker. "What?!"
"I've been a wreck?" he asked. "You should look in the mirror Marshall. You haven't been in the best condition either,"
Marshall glared at him for a few good seconds before cracking into laughter along with Lucas.
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The sky hovered above them in the nicest shade of blue Corrine had ever seen, with big, white, billowy clouds, that floated ever so slowly. It was the kind of day that made you smile, and that was exactly what Corrine and Vaughn were doing.
Vaughn had caught up with her sometime earlier, and now the pair were walking side by side chatting about this and that--nothing really in particular. And at one point, Vaughn had made a remark that got Corrine laughing for a straight minute.
"You know," started Corrine "I've really missed this place,"
Vaughn nodded his head. "Yeah, one heck of a place to miss,"
She detected a slight hint of sarcasm in his reply. "I'm serious," she said.
"So am I," he insisted.
Corrine didn't say anything, and Vaughn looked over at her to see what had gotten her quiet all of a sudden. She was gazing into the window of the shop they were passing by, and he could clearly make out her reflection. She noticed him looking at her, and turned her head away from the window.
"It's weird," she said calmly.
"What is?" he asked, when she didn't continue.
"Well, you gotta let me finish!" she exclaimed with a joking tone, slapping him playfully on the arm.
"Okay, sorry,"
"Marshall and I only spent two days here, but I knew on the first day that I wanted to live here," she explained.
He kept walking, waiting for her to say more, but his ears were only met with silence. He opened his mouth to say something, but she cut him off abruptly, even before he could say a single word.
"Do you like it here?" she asked him
"Surprisingly, I do," he answered. "I guess it's grown on me,"
"Marshall didn't really like it here, he couldn't wait to get back home. I don't think he had a very good summer," she said this in sad tone.
He pondered at her words for a long second. The way she sounded made it seem as if she was unhappy when she and Marshall were together, or at least when they were together in Europe. He noticed she grew considerably silent again, no doubt in thought of her ex back home. She looked sad, and he didn't like it very much. He wanted to see her smiling, and laughing like she was only a few moments ago.
"You wanna see something?" he asked her, hoping to get her mind off Marshall, and their friends back home.
"Okay?" she answered unsurely.
"C'mon,"
She pictured him taking her up some hill with a breath taking view of the city, just like in all the movies. Most of them, at least, where the guy would usually take the girl up a hill and confess to her some deep, dark, usually embarrassing secret, or propose his love for her. Not that she wanted Vaughn to love her in that type of way, and not that she loved him that way either--they were just friends--but she still expected to be brought up that hill, so she could pretend to be that girl in the movies.
He didn't bring her up a hill or a mountain, or anything with a view. Instead she was greeted by two golden arches.
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I shouldn’t make promises regarding the arrival of chapters, since I obviously can't keep them. I'm sorry this one took a awhile. I'll try not to take too long for the next update. I hope you enjoyed this chapter!! and please review.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Oct 26, 2006 21:04:31 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 7: Corrine Avenue ------------------- "So, you want to go, or should I?" asked Marshall. Lucas sat there quickly reviewing his options. They were, A: Go and try to fix things, but risk making it even worse or B: Let Marshall go, and loose a perfectly good chance of making things right between them. After a second or two, he looked up. "Wish me luck!" he said grabbing his keys from the table. "Good luck!" called out Marshall. Lucas turned around. He truly felt bad having to leave just when Marshall started to act normal again. ------------------- Corrine stared at the world famous sign before her, thinking it was the farthest thing she ever thought Vaughn wanted to show her. She was obviously mistaken. "McDonalds?" she asked. "You wanted to show me McDonald's?" "What? No!" He took hold of her shoulders and guided her to the right. "Look," Corrine did what she was asked, but only saw a bunch of buildings, and nothing out of the ordinary. "I'm looking, but I'm not seeing anything." "Just look around the corner, and you'll see it," he insisted. Again, Corrine looked, and she still couldn't find anything. She huffed in frustration, and turned around. "Okay, Vaughn just show me." "The street," he smiled. "The sign," She looked up at the street sign, and noticed immediately. "Corrine Avenue," she read, and a smile quickly spread across her face. "I found this one day, while I was having lunch," he began "at McDonald's." at that Corrine burst into laughter. He didn't mean it to be funny, but if it made Corrine happy, it didn't really matter. He smiled along with her. "I thought it'd take your mind off Marshall," he added truthfully. "That was really nice of you Vaughn," she said laying a hand on his shoulder, before walking off. "And, I'd say it did more than just that." "Wait, where are you going?" he asked watching her make her way to the McDonald's. "I thought we were having lunch?" ------------------- On the walk to her door, Lucas rehearsed his apology over and over again. It sounded perfect, but he knew once he was standing in front of her, he would definitely screw it up. Ding dong. After a few seconds, which lasted an hour to Lucas, the door opened, and came the voice of Josie. "Thanks again Marshall, I really app--" she ended there as she looked up too see the person she was least expecting. She bit her lip, to keep herself from saying anything. She didn't understand why it was Lucas standing outside her door looking like an idiot, when it was Marshall she called. She looked at him, waiting for an explanation. Lucas stood there motionless, feeling out of place like a palm tree in the dead winter. His palms were damp, his eyes avoided Josie and his practiced apology refused to come out. He opened his mouth, hoping anything would come out, but to no avail. Josie rolled her eyes. "Where's Marshall?" she asked. He quickly glanced at her direction, but looked away a second later afraid to make eye contact. "Actually, that’s why I'm here. He, he had to do something," he finally said. "Great," she breathed. "Now I don't have a ride," 'and I bet you're hoping I'd let you give me one, so we can have another one of our fantastic conversations,' she then thought sarcastically. Josie stood there waiting for Lucas to speak, but once again he failed to even open his mouth. "Is that all?" she asked coldly, preparing to close the door on him, if he failed to answer again. "I can give you a ride?" he finally asked. Josie found him looking more out of place than before. She almost found herself saying yes, out of pity, but caught herself. "No, that's okay. I want to walk anyway," she answered, and began to gently shut the door even before Lucas could reply. Lucas stared at the white rectangle gradually filling in the space between them, and separating him from Josie. He could have reached forward and stopped it from closing any further, and then he'd recite his planned speech, and mend their friendship. But he didn't. He couldn't. ------------------- Corrine climbed out of bed after sticking the very last stamp onto the manila envelope. She dropped it onto the side table, hoping she'd remember to get it mailed in the morning before dropping by her new college. She sat herself on the edge of her bed and yawned, as she felt sleep overcome her. It had been one lovely long day, full of surprises of all sorts. Vaughn's "late lunch" turned dinner, especially took a toll on her body. She remembered after walking off to McDonald's Vaughn ran after her, pulling her arm. 'I had another place in mind,' he had said, then escorted her out back into the streets. They roamed all over London. They visited a park, where they fed a paddling of ducks, a museum, and Corrine's favorite, upscale boutiques. It was close to eight when they finally settled down at a cozy, and expensive looking restaurant. Corrine couldn't help a smile as she reminisced about her day. But unwittingly, she was smiling more because of Vaughn than anything else. She woke up the next morning to the rays of the sun hitting her face. If it wasn't for the unfamiliar light fixture hanging above her, she would have still thought she was sleeping in her own bed. Back at home with all her family and friends, and Marshall. She rolled over on her side to face the alarm clock. It read 8:32. 'Vaughn must already be up,' she thought. After getting up, she walked herself out of the room to the kitchen. She heard the clanking of what sounded like spoons, and the liquid sound of water pouring into a glass, so she figured it must have been Vaughn. But as she turned the little corner, it wasn't Vaughn's blonde head she saw sticking up from behind the fridge. Instead it was dark brown, even almost black. Then she realized it couldn't have been anyone else but Greg. "Good morning," greeted Corrine. The fridge door slowly closed, and revealed behind it Vaughn's roommate, clad in nothing but boxer shorts. Corrine's eyes traveled the length of him, noting his thick dark patch of hair irresistibly tousled from sleep. His eyes were unmistakably blue, and his skin the perfect shade between a roasted almond and hazelnut. 'And this guy has no luck with girls?' she asked herself almost disbelieving Vaughn's words. Corrine unconsciously stared at his sculpted torso, trying to ignore the glass of orange juice that prevented her from seeing the full picture. She was lost in though, that she had not realized he had returned her greeting. "Good morning," he said again, this time it finally reached her. She looked up, with a feeling of embarrassment. 'Stop it,' she scolded herself. "I'm Corrine," she stuck out her hand. "I know," he said reaching out to give her hand a shake. "I'm Greg, nice to finally meet you," "Ditto," She gave him a smile, then looked around the kitchen. The counters were completely clear of any utensils, plates, cups, or breakfast. "If you want breakfast," Greg began as if reading Corrine's mind, "we don't have any." "Oh. Actually, I was wondering if Vaughn was up yet?" she asked. "You just missed him," he motioned to the door with a nod. "He has class today," Corrine lowered her head, hiding a disappointed expression. Although she tried not to, she couldn't help but hope Vaughn had more surprises for her up his sleeve. But he went off to class, and she would be stuck all by herself for most of the day. "I was sorta counting on him to come with me to my school today," she lifted her chin up and smiled. "That's okay," and made an about face, happily walking off back to Vaughn's room. "I can go with you," she heard him call out. "...if you want me to," She paused, as she lingered on his words, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She wanted to turn around, and yell out, 'yes, please come with me!'. but instead she stood there, her back to him. "I mean, I don't have any classes today. And since Vaughn obviously can't go, I'd be happy to take his place," he explained. "I'm sure he wouldn't want you running around town alone," She pretended to consider his offer, even though she already knew what she wanted to say. "That would be nice," she finally replied, turning around to meet his gaze. ------------------- I hope you guys enjoyed another chapter. Sorry it was cut short, and sorry for the wait. Again, please review. by the way, theres a thread to post reviews located here, so you guys can post your reviews and responses there imstead
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erika
Junior Member
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Post by erika on Dec 2, 2006 1:08:36 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 8: Holding Hands ------------------- "So...how'd it go with Josie?" asked Marshall with a wide grin as he watched his friend walk up the path. Marshall was sitting on the same bench at the same park he was at last night with Z. After Lucas left the cafe, he also left feeling he needed some fresh air, and maybe another encounter with his former teacher. Lucas didn't say a word as he sat himself in the empty seat, a strong air of disappointment radiating from him. "It was horrible," he finally confessed with a frown. "What happened?" Marshall asked with genuine concern. "I'm an idiot," he breathed into the sky. "that's what." he had the urge of throwing a punch to the bench, thinking it would do him good to release some of the anger he bottled up. But he didn't. ------------------- Corrine was spending the morning with Greg, who kindly offered to accompany her to the post office. She remembered feeling giddy at the thought of him escorting her around, and secretly wished Vaughn would stay out for the entire day. But Greg had already promised her he'd be back a little after lunch. "Royal Holloway, huh?" They were just now pulling up the driveway, and Corrine could make out the school's bell tower peeking through some scattered trees. She couldn't wait to lay her eyes on the historic college that she had up until now only seen on paper. "Yeah," "So what’re you majoring in?" "Well, I'm working my way up to becoming a neurologist," Because her dad was a brain surgeon, people were always thinking her parents pushed her in the direction of neurology, but in actuality she had made up her own mind that she wanted to become a surgeon. "That's right," he waved a finger in the air. "Vaughn said you're quite the genius, aren't you?" "He did?" she asked almost in disbelief. It was truly un Vaughn like, and the thought of him mentioning her to someone else with out any obligations made her more than smile. She laid a hand furtively on her chest, and furrowed her brows questioning herself what had come over her. Her hear was beating just a little faster. "Yeah Ms. Valedictorian," he smiled in her direction. She smiled back for a second before the scenery outside the window stole her attention. They were closely approaching the palatial red structure, and Corrine could already make out much of the ornate detailing that paper failed to do. The anticipation the building roused in her temporarily pushed aside her thoughts of Vaughn. "You can go ahead, while I look for a place to park," Greg said as he pulled up to the courtyard entrance. "I'll meet you there." She stepped out of the car grabbing her bag and a paper folder along with her. After watching Greg take off, she turned around and stared up the college looming over her. After taking a deep breath, she slowly made her way under the arched opening, taking in every aspect of the building. The courtyard was just as she imagined it--brilliantly green. The grass stretched out the entire length, with only several strips of concrete cutting paths through the otherwise untouched block of grass. A border of picnic tables lined one end, and in the center of it all stood a stone statue. Eager to take a photo of the scenery before her, Corrine dug into her purse as she continued to stroll through the courtyard. She didn't pay very much attention to her path as her mind was set one finding her camera, and had suddenly collided into something. She heard the thud of a book falling into the grass and looked up to find a girl glaring unpleasantly in her direction. "I am so sorry," Corrine apologized as she dropped to her knees to pick up the girl's book. "You must be new," the girl said dryly eyeing Corrine with loathe. "Actually I am. I'm Corrine" She introduced herself and kindly handed the book back, but the girl ignored her outstretched hand. "And I'm not taking that," she said frostily in her English accent. "You don't expect me to carry that book around now that it's covered in dew," She was about the same height as Corrine, but her attitude and fine-tuned features made her no less intimidating than a giant. Corrine stood before her not knowing exactly how to react. Hesitantly, she stretched out her sweater sleeve ready to wipe away the moisture from the book. But an unexpected hand wrapped protectively around her waist startling her. The book escaped her hands and fell once again onto the grass. "There you are," a male voice said, as the hand wrapped around her tighter. The girl eyed Corrine and the mystery guy nastily. "You better pick that up," she ordered. Everything seemed to be moving in fast-forward and Corrine became lost trying to figure out what was happening, and who was behind her. She turned around knowing it could have only been Greg, but the one person she was imagining and expecting to see was no where near. "I missed you," Greg whispered audibly into Corrine's ear as she turned around, making sure the other girl could hear him. He saw her roll her eyes. Even though the words had clearly come from Greg, she still imagined it coming from someone else. After a moment to push off her thoughts of Vaughn, Corrine caught on. "I missed you too," she whispered back. After realizing the book was still on the ground, she began to bend down. But Greg caught her hand in his before it reached the ground. "We're going to be late," he reminded, pulling her away. The girl glared back at them as they walked off. Corrine left the scene without any regret for not picking up the girl's book. "Better watch out for that one," he warned jokingly. ------------------- Class had dragged on, and Vaughn was feeling particularly happy it finally came to an end. He was tired of lectures and starved for skipping breakfast, and the only thing he wanted to do was get home and reclaim the few hours of sleep school had deprived him. But then he remembered Corrine. She would be without a doubt waiting for him back at the apartment. He smiled unconsciously at the thought of her heelless shoes tapping loudly against the stairway. That had been the first time he had ever seen her look so girly. When he arrived at the door he expected to see her waiting patiently on the couch, but he found that she wasn't there, nor was she in his room. Even the roommate who claimed he had nowhere to be was gone, leaving the apartment silent and feeling quite lonely. 'Maybe he took her instead,' he concluded, as he discarded his jacket on the sofa. Then he too landed himself on the leather cushions, deciding to take a quick nap. The sound of the door opening stirred him from his sleep. They were back. "I actually feel sorta ba..." Corrine's voice trailed off when she noticed Vaughn wake up from his afternoon slumber. "Hey Vaughn!" Vaughn waved his hand, and attempted a sleepy greeting, but failed horribly when he noticed their interlaced fingers. "Uh, what are you guys doing?" he questioned rapidly. Corrine immediately looked down at her and Greg's hand and chuckled. Vaughn raised an eyebrow. "It's a long story," she started pulling her hand away from Greg's. "He helped me out of a situation, and I'm helping him back," "And what exactly does hold--" "Basically she was pretending to be my girlfriend so I could get Tonya to finally leave me alone," Greg interrupted, answering Vaughn's question. "And I'm telling you it worked like a charm." Vaughn glanced over at Corrine who was setting down her bag on the dining table. A trace of jealousy glinted in his eyes at the thought of Greg calling her his girlfriend and lacing his fingers in hers. Covering up what small feelings he felt, he yawned and headed towards the bathroom. "That’s awesome, man," he then called out. ------------------- So I finally got around to another chapter. Hope you enjoyed it, and I'm also hopping you'll review!
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Dec 19, 2006 20:55:59 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 9: The Attic and the Date
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ONE WEEK LATER
Marshall lay in his bed feeling quite sluggish despite his earlier energetic self. It was only mid afternoon, and he didn't have much to do, but stare up at his white ceiling.
The sound of The Fray cut through the silence of his room. "Hello?" he answered.
"Hey Marshall," answered the other end. It was Josie.
"Hey Josie," he greeted. "What's up?"
"I got a package from Corrine's mom just awhile ago. They're letters from Corrine, and I was thinking it'd be a good idea if we met up, or something," she said through the phone.
"Yeah, Okay," he replied coolly, although inside his heart was racing out of excitement. Corrine's letters have finally arrived and he couldn't wait to get his hands on his.
"And could you tell Lucas also?" Josie asked sounding a bit unsure.
"Couldn't you?" But his question was left unanswered just as he predicted. Even after a week, Josie and Lucas's grudge didn't go away. "Yeah, I'll tell him for you,"
He hung up afterwards only to open his phone back up to call Lucas. He knew Lucas wouldn't be too pleased to hear that he had agreed to meet up with Josie for him, but he wasn't going to personally deliver his letter to him, just because of some silly argument. Plus it was another chance for him to straighten things out with Josie, anyway.
"Hey," Lucas answered.
"I Just got a call from Josie," Marshall began, imagining Lucas tense up at her name. "she has the package from Corrine with all our letters in it. She wants to meet up,"
Lucas hesitated to answer wondering why she couldn't have called him herself. She had his number. He sighed knowing he couldn't go anyway. "I can't," he breathed.
"Why not?"
"My mom wants me to clean up the attic, and I already said I would," Lucas explained.
Marshall paused, as an idea popped into his head. "Can't we just come over?"
The idea seemed preposterous. 'I can't have her come over' he thought. He didn't have anything to hide, but she would certainly prove to be a big distraction. Despite his feelings toward Marshall's suggestion, he agreed to have them over. "Sure, I guess so,"
Lucas set his cell phone down on the counter, and picked up the empty box sitting on the kitchen floor. His mom specifically asked him to fill it up with the stacks of photos that had mysteriously accumulated in the attic.
On the way up the stairs he passed by the laundry room, and noticed his mom pulling out clothes from the dryer in her lemon yellow party dress and pearls. As if she had sensed his eyes on her, she looked up to the doorway and smiled. "The attic isn't going to clean itself up," she reminded.
"I know, I know," he groaned as he continued down the hall to the stairs.
"Oh Lucas," his mother called out.
He turned around and saw her head poking out of from the side of the door.
"Thank you,"
"No problem,"
When he reached the attic, he gave the knob a turn, walked in and unconsciously shut the door behind him. At the very sound of a click he realized his mistake. Throwing the box on the floor he hurriedly dashed forward, grabbing the door knob. He shook it violently hoping it would be miraculously repaired. But after reality finally dawned on him, he stared in silent horror at the broken door knob, cursing himself at his foolish mistake.
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Elizabeth smiled sweetly up at Vaughn. "I love them," she buried her nose in the flowers and pretended to inhale their fragrance, which she secretively hated. Then threw her arms around him, lingering longer than necessary.
"So, you ready then?" he asked as they pulled apart, and offered her his arm.
He was going on his very first date since he arrived in London, and he was feeling especially confident. He stole a sideways glance at his date, who he only met that morning. He bumped into her at the library and was immediately drawn into her the moment their eyes met, and he just had the urge to ask her out for dinner. And there they were, walking down a brightly lit street in London, arm in arm.
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Josie walked up the path to the Randall's front door, which suddenly opened, and exposed what looked like a big silver box with arms and legs. It turned out to be Lucas's dad carrying a gigantic silver wrapped present. She stepped off the path, to let Mr. Randall through. He didn't notice her.
"You need any help?" she then asked.
He first peered over the sides of the box, but realized whoever said it was standing behind him. "Oh ho ho, Josie. No thanks dear, good to see you though," he sounded breathless, and in a hurry. Josie watched him as he lifted the box into the back of the minivan. 'Must be one huge present,' she thought, then walked back up to the door, which was left wide open.
When she stepped through the entry, she could hear Mr. Randall honk the horn, and call out to his wife.
"I'm coming!" came the voice of Mrs. Randall. The sound of her heels clicking on their wooden floor. Josie stood by the stairwell, waiting for her to come by. Mrs. Randall would have missed her had she not turned around to call up to Lucas.
"Lucus honey," she began then noticed the girl standing patiently at the foot of the stairs. "Almost didn't see you standing there Josie,"
"I've been sort of invisible lately," she answered referring to her previous encounter with her husband.
Lucas's mom smiled. "Wish I could chat, but we're kinda running late for a wedding," she explained. "Could you tell Lucas we're leaving, and that I left some money on the kitchen counter for dinner?"
"Yeah," Josie nodded. "Uh...where is Lucas?"
"The attic. Up the stairs, turn left and it's the very last door," she smiled again, and then turned on her heels, quietly closing the front door with her.
Josie looked up the flight of stairs. She wondered if she should wait for Marshall to arrive before walking into the attic and being welcomed with awkward silence from Lucas. She breathed out sharply and fought the urge to wait. Feeling that she couldn't go any longer with the silence, she started for the stairs.
She quietly made her way to the end of the hall where she found the attic door tightly shut. She reached for the knob with slightly trembling hands and walked in. She cautiously shut the door behind her. Surprisingly what welcomed her was not silence.
"What's your problem?!" came Lucas sounding distressed.
"Excuse me? If you don't want me here, all you had to do was say so," she replied raising her voice to meet Lucas's. "Actually, you know what? I'm out of here,"
"Good luck," he said under his breath as he watched her make for the door.
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"Actually, I've lived here all my life," she answered.
The answer was obvious to Vaughn thanks to her accent, but he asked anyway since they were already running out of things to say. 'This is nice,' he thought sarcastically. They weren't even up to the dinner part of the date, and already he could tell the evening was going to go downhill.
There was another long awkward pause, that was just begging to be broken, but Vaughn couldn't think of anything else worth asking or saying. She was indeed a beauty on the outside, but what good was that if there was nothing inside, as Vaughn realized. Not once during their walk, had she ever made an attempt to start a conversation. She just hung onto his arm, and obediently answered him. She wasn't acting like the girl Vaughn met that morning.
"Have you ever been here?" Vaughn asked as they finally approached the chosen restaurant.
"No, this is my first time,"
'Of course,' he thought. "And you've lived here all your life?" he asked in pretend disbelief.
She giggled. And Vaughn smiled. He might not have been enjoying himself as much as he would've liked, but maybe once they got in, it'd get better.
The dinner went just as he was hoping, maybe even slightly better. She warmed up to him, and started to act like the girl he fell in a daze for just several hours earlier. He was even planning to ask her out again.
"What are you doing tomorrow?" he asked playfully.
"I don't know. But if you're wondering if I'll be free..." she trailed off.
"Will you be?"
"I don't know, what do you have planned?" she reached across the table, and started playfully playing with Vaughn fingers.
He glanced down, and noticed Elizabeth's slender fingers over his. Her nails were painted a rich red, which was a nice contrast against her fair skin. "I thought we'd do lunch," he answered as he took her hand in his.
"Just lunch?" she asked with a teasing smile.
At that same moment, Vaughn's attention went to the entrance. A familiar head of hair had caught his eye, and he could clearly distinguish his room mate's voice trailing to their table. He quickly glanced around, trying to confirm his presumptions, with no avail.
Elizabeth tugged him back into their conversation. He gave a weak smile.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Jan 16, 2007 19:42:12 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 10: The Photo
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"Why isn't this door opening?" asked Josie through gritted teeth as she tried to turn the knob for the fifth time.
Lucas looked up to watch her futile attempts to open the door. "It's broken," Lucas answered simply, and went back to rummaging through a box of brick-a-brack.
He remembered his mom fussing about getting the door fixed for years, and even though his dad promised to get it done "as soon as possible", the topic was sort of forgotten. And because of that, he too, forgot about it, until he heard the reminding click of the door locking him in.
Josie pounded her tiny fist against the door in frustration. "You could have warned me it was broken," she finally said surrendering to the broken door.
"Trust me I would have, but you came in and closed the door before I could really say anything," He had calmed down much to Josie's surprise.
He looked up, and for the first time in a long time, stared right into her eyes. She returned the look, but only for a brief moment. She tore herself away, and picked up the brown package she set on top of a box when she was attempting to pry the door open. "So I guess we're stuck here then, huh?"
"Yeah, at least until Marshall gets here," Lucas explained.
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Elizabeth tugged on his arm for a second time; he briefly turned around, gave her a smile, and once again diverted his attention back to the entrance.
"What are you looking for?" she asked, but instead of answering her, he pulled his hand away from hers, and pushed his chair back from the table. "Where are you going?"
The idea of Corrine and Greg bothered him, with unexplainable reasons why. It wasn't as if he had feelings for Corrine, or Greg for that matter, but imagining them together was very unsettling.
"The check," Vaughn answered rather hastily, all the while scanning the surrounding tables.
She looked up at him with a half confused smile. "We just asked for it a few minutes ago,"
"It's taking too long," he simply reasoned, "I'll be right back,"
He was off before she could tell him to stay and wait.
Vaughn walked briskly to the front in hopes that they might still be there waiting to be seated, but found that besides the employee standing behind the podium the entry was empty. He stood there for a minute, stalling his trip back to his date, but ultimately hoping to catch a glint of her hair, or the pleasant sound of her laughter. The employee eyed him suspiciously, and to avoid any questions, Vaughn decided it was about time to walk back.
As he turned around to head back to his table, that same familiar head of hair caught his eye, and instinctively changed his direction.
He found Corrine sitting alone at the table with her back not only to the door, but also to him. As far as he could see Greg was nowhere in sight, and Vaughn concluded he must have left for the bathroom. Standing awkwardly behind a decorative plant with suspicious eyes watching him, he eyed her conspicuously from several tables away. She was more dressed up than he had ever seen her, even more so than when she was wearing those flats that day and for a minute, he wondered if Greg was more worth dressing up for than he was. After watching her stalker-like for another minute, he decided to walk over and casually pretend to spot her on the way to the bathroom.
But suddenly at midstep, he realized how much he was acting like a fool. Hiding behind a plant, watching her from behind, pretending to bump into her, when he knew all along she was there. 'What am I doing, Why do I even care?' he asked himself turning back around. What did it matter to him if his roommate was on a date with one of his good friends? Or if his good friend dressed up more for his roommate than she had ever did from him? It didn't mean it meant anything, and besides he was on a date of his own with a girl he was honestly crazy over, and who was crazy over him. Corrine and Greg should be the least of his worries. But even so the thought of Corrine and Greg together kept creeping back.
On the way back to his table Vaughn spotted their waiter walking by with a small black leather case. Assuming it was their check; he walked up to him and very impolitely took it from his hands, and with a hoarse thank you walked away.
He tried his best to put on a genuine smile as he approached his waiting date. "Got it," he said triumphantly holding up the check book.
Elizabeth giggled. "You mean the check that I have right here?" she picked up the leather booklet sitting on the table and waved it across Vaughn's face.
Vaughn opened the book in his hands, and glanced down at the piece of paper inside. It was definitely not theirs. "Ooops," he said. And before he could turn around and return the book with an apology, the waiter came behind him looking very unhappy, and as politely as he could asked for the check back.
Vaughn smiled apologetically as he returned the book.
"Are you okay?" Elizabeth asked with concern, when he didn't sit back down.
He nodded and let her hand slide into his when she reached out. "You ready?" he asked.
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"That's not exactly cleaning," Josie pointed out as she watched Lucas flip through stacks of photos. She felt it was okay to say something, and hopefully it would help kick start a conversation. Because whether or not they were friends again or not, the silence was unbearable.
He glanced up at her. "Really? I didn't know that," he remarked with bitter sarcasm then went back to work.
Josie was astonished at his rapid sarcastic response, and was ready to bite back, but bit her tongue before any of it could get out. She didn't want to argue anymore, she was honestly sick of it, and just wanted to forgive each other and go about life as it was before. She didn't say anything, but sat her self down next to Lucas.
She reached over and grabbed a small stack of old photographs and Lucas shot her a quizzical look that asked 'did I say you could look at those?' Josie felt a little hesitant and almost returned the photos back, when she happened to look down. It was a picture of Vaughn. It was taken in Professor Z's class, as Josie recognized from the background. He was smiling with his face all flushed and his shirt sleeves rolled up, and his hair messy as if he just ran his hand through it. But even despite his ridiculous appearance Josie couldn't help but smile as she recalled his handsome features.
Then she noticed Corrine--or half of her--off to the side of the photo, and was reminded of the reality of both their absence. The two of them were off somewhere in London, and Josie wondered if the two of them had anytime to hang out, oblivious to the fact that they lived under the same roof. 'They'd be a cute couple,' she admitted, ignoring the ache in her heart.
"I'm sorry," Lucas said softly bringing Josie back to reality.
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It feels as if it's been an eternity since I last posted a chapter, and I apologize for that. Hope you enjoyed this chapter.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Jan 30, 2007 16:38:13 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 11: Dear Corrine
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"What," Josie asked.
"I said I'm sorry," he repeated looking up. "And you don't have to say sorry back,"
'Back?' Josie didn't feel she had anything to apologize for period, and wasn't even thinking of apologizing.
"Not that you did anything," he continued earning a smile and a nod from Josie. "But I'm sorry, and not just for that one day, I mean I'm sorry for everything," his apology was beginning to sound a little cliché, like an overused movie line, but it was exactly what he wanted to say sorry for. He was tired of the ignoring and the silence, and he was almost sure she was too.
Josie smiled at him, setting down the photos on the floor. She searched her head for something decent to say, something that wouldn't ruin the mood. But it was already too late, Marshall ruined it first.
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Vaughn had declined Elizabeth's invitation into her apartment. He felt he had too much on his mind and had taken off, reminding her sweetly about their lunch date the next day with a kiss goodnight.
As he neared his own apartment he took notice of Greg's car, which was missing, removing any doubt to Vaughn's assumptions about Corrine and Greg. He looked up at the complex, and ran his hand through his hair. It wasn't too late to turn back and reconsider the invitation; it wasn't as if anyone was waiting for him to come home. After a moment of deliberation, he returned his keys into his pocket, and made his way back down the street, where Elizabeth's eyes danced in delight at the sight of his return and change of mind.
Back at his place, however, Corrine sat around a series of printed ads for apartments she and Greg found on the internet, waiting to consult Vaughn when he returned. But as the clock struck midnight, Corrine gave up waiting, and gathered the papers into a pile, and left for bed.
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There was silence again between Josie and Lucas, but this time it wasn't the same cold feeling silence. The two listened quietly for the sound of Marshall climbing the stairs, and when they finally heard the faint thud of his footsteps, excitement rose, until the footsteps went the other direction away from the attic.
"What’s he doing?" whispered Josie, trying not to interrupt the quiet.
"I don't know," Lucas answered, still listening intently. "I don't think he knows we're in here,"
There was a short pause in which a crazy idea landed itself in Lucas's head.
"Wait," he said holding up a hand as if to stop time. "You didn't lock the door when my mom left?"
Josie looked at him questioningly. "Obviously, otherwise Marshall wouldn't have gotten up."
"No, I mean, how do we know that that's Marshall?" he started, "How do we know it's not some maniac?"
Josie rolled her eyes at his preposterous suggestion, "Really Lucas? A maniac?"
"Why not?" he asked.
"That's crazy," she reasoned.
"Exactly!" he practically spat out with excitement, then realized it wasn't the best situation to be yelling, and quieted down to a bare whisper, "They're maniacs of course it's crazy,"
Josie shook her head, and made her way to the little window parting the delicate lace curtains to peer below. "Okay Lucas, but what exactly would you call that," she smiled smugly down the glass.
He walked over and peered down into the street. There was a car parked in his driveway, and it wasn't just any car. "That's Marshall's car," he answered.
"Exactly."
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The next morning Vaughn stepped up to his apartment door to hear the muted sounds of a conversation drifting into the hallway. Dismissing it as a neighbor, he quietly slid his key into the door, and walked through gently shutting it behind him knowing Corrine and Greg were still sleeping. But as soon as the door shut, the conversation became more distinct.
He found Corrine and Greg sitting in their dining table, which they hardly ever used, talking and laughing over breakfast. The scene reminded him of the little encounter at the restaurant the night before. And wanting to desperately find out what she was laughing over he walked as quiet as possible, and had he not tripped over an invisible object he would have gone unnoticed.
Corrine was the first to notice his arrival, and looked up slightly smiling, and lacking any words to say. Vaughn smiled back, taking notice of the smallest hint of concern in her eyes, thinking they said everything she didn't. 'So she was worried,' he deducted stepping forward.
"Where have you been?" asked Greg teasingly, knowing exactly where he had been the night before.
Vaughn let the question hang in the air, as he felt it wasn't necessary to answer a question Greg already knew the answer to. But Corrine looked up expectantly waiting for his reply, and Vaughn fought the urge to answer. He didn't want to tell her he spent the night at Elizabeth's, though she knew well enough he went on a date with her last night. And not that it mattered if she knew anyway. But the look she was giving him, just made him want to answer. "What's to eat?" he asked quickly changing subjects.
"French toast," Corrine answered.
"She made them," added Greg proudly pointing to Corrine courtesy of his fork.
Vaughn turned to her, and without making a word stared into her brown eyes, which were shiny like two round polished marbles. Corrine felt naked under his scrutinizing eyes. But though she tried, she couldn't tear herself away from his gaze. "I didn't know you cook," he suddenly said, his gaze unwavering.
She quickly drew away, taking a sip from her glass. All the while Greg watched the two in bewilderment. "there's a lot you don't know about me," she said cheerfully, setting down her orange juice.
'I'd like to know them all,' he thought watching her.
"Help yourself, there's plenty," said Corrine and soon after excused herself, gathering her dishes. "I'll get that," Greg offered, getting up to take the plates from her hands.
Corrine smiled in response, and with a thank you walked off to Vaughn's room.
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Marshall spent most of the night at Lucas's helping him and Josie out with the cleaning he promised his mom he'd do. When he had arrived at the Randall's he had trouble finding them, and had even searched the entire second floor, until he finally remembered the attic. He found Lucas and Josie waiting for him expectantly as he opened the door with scattered piles of photos littering the floor behind them, piles which he had helped clean up before leaving. And he remembered being pushed up against the wall as the two of them ran wildly out like maniacs, and thanking God. After they had settled down it was both a surprise and a relief for Marshall to see Lucas and Josie speaking to each other. And when he finally got home he tore open the letter he had been dying to read, and spent the rest of the night thinking of his reply which he'd write in the morning.
He woke up to find himself still holding onto Corrine's letter, and still wearing last night's clothes. Cursing himself at his inability to stay awake long enough to at least change, he got up, carefully setting the paper on his dresser. He briefly glanced at his reflection and noticed immediately the dark bags under his eyes from lack of sleep. Then his eyes wandered to the picture frame sitting on the dresser. It was a picture of him and Corrine when they were still together. She looked so happy. He looked so happy. "Dear Corrine," he began planning out his letter aloud. "I miss you,"
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Okay, so the deal is, I think, next chapter will be all Corrine and Vaughn. I'm holding off with the Josie/Lucas/Marshall storyline at least for one chapter. So expect loads of Corrine and Vaughn interaction coming next.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Feb 10, 2007 13:46:10 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 12: Vaughn Decided
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Corrine walked out wearing a flower printed skirt that hit right above her knees, with a simple yellow tank top that accentuated her dark complexion. She sashayed gracefully by the living room where Vaughn was seated watching the morning news. The sight of the skirt caught his attention, and he immediately switched from watching the TV to watching Corrine. He caught himself smiling at her graceful movements as she stuffed her bag with folders and books.
"What?" Corrine asked stopping in her tracks when she noticed Vaughn watching her from the couch.
He gaped at her a second longer before replying. "Nothing," he searched for something to say, and then noticed her flip-flops. "I just realized you're not wearing your flats today," he remarked saving himself from what could have been an embarrassing moment. After all she did catch him staring at her.
She smiled at him with slight uncertainty. "Actually," she began holding up a finger in the air, and with a lovely twirl of her skirt picked up a pair of white flats from the floor behind her.
"There they are!" he said in mock triumph, examining the obviously new pair of shoes in her hand. It was nice seeing her dress more like a girl, not that she didn't before. But now at least, he could appreciate her shapely petite body under her curve hugging outfits, instead of the unflattering school uniform he always saw her in. "So you've got class today?" he asked trailing his eyes to her slender legs.
"No, just dropping by the library to squeeze in a few hours of studying," she slipped on a flat effortlessly as she stood on one foot. "Oh that reminds me," she paused as she struggled with the other. She glanced up and noticed him grinning.
She looked hopelessly adorable as she made a great effort to slip on her shoe. "Yeah?" Vaughn asked through his smile, a little hopeful for an invite.
"Did Greg leave yet?" she replied harmlessly, not knowing it had not only disappointed Vaughn, but also ignited a small flame of jealousy.
'Greg of course,' Vaughn thought with genuine disappointment. "No, I think he's in his room. Why?" his voice was missing it's jovial tone, and he had slipped back into the cushions of the coach, facing the television. It was Greg she wanted, not him.
Corrine noticed his sudden change of mood, and wondered if she had said something remotely wrong. "He was supposed to go check out some apartments with me today," she started, "but you know what? I'd love it if you came along instead," she said reaching for her jacket that had been draped over a chair. She stole a sideways glance at him, hoping she had made up for whatever wrong she had said before.
The invite was exactly what he was wishing for and he tried hard to keep from smiling. The thought of her wanting his company made Vaughn almost jump for joy. He contemplated over the matter for several seconds, all the awhile trying to remind himself that he had a date in a few hours, but the reminder didn't keep him from accepting her offer. He glanced over at the clock; it was close to 9:30. 'I have plenty of time,' he decided subconsciously. "Yeah, I'll come," he said.
"Great! Let's meet around, say, 1 o'clock on the corner of Corrine Ave?" she said with a playful smile.
'Shoot,' he thought. His date was around the same time. "Yeah, 1 o'clock," he replied, thinking he was screwed.
-------------------
Vaughn checked his reflection in the full length mirror in his room, noting his less then perfect appearance. It was always happening to him--he could never make himself look perfectly presentable when it came to impressing a girl. 'This will have to do,' he decided, giving his hair one last fix before walking away.
-------------------
Corrine exited through the library doors and paused to breath in the cool soon-to-be autumn air, and admire how beautiful the day had gotten. It was the perfect day to find an apartment.
As she stepped forward, a small pebble caused her to stumble over and drop the books she held in her arms. "darn it," she whispered, falling down to her knees to retrieve the fallen items. The simple act made her remember the unpleasant encounter with the British girl, and how Greg had been her knight and shinning armor. As she reached for the last book, a hand came forward and swept it up before she could get it. She looked up expecting to see Greg.
Vaughn beamed down at her. "And I thought you didn't curse," he said remembering the day she had glared up at him for saying 'kooky hole'. "You should do it more often. It's cute," he added.
She felt her cheeks rise in color. "It was a slip, that's all," she insisted taking the book from Vaughn.
"Here," Vaughn reached forward offering to take the books from her. "I'll put them in the car,"
Corrine smiled at him, and watched as he carried them away. "I thought I was going to meet you by McDonald's?" she called after him. She didn't ever remember telling him to come pick her up, or what library she was going to for that matter.
Vaughn flashed a smile over his shoulder and continued walking ahead.
She quickened her step in attempt to catch up with him. "And how did you know I was here,"
They had finally ended up at Vaughn's car. And as Corrine watched Vaughn place her books in the back seat, she waited patiently for an answer. "Well?" she prodded.
"I'm beginning to get the impression that you really don't want me here," he said as he began to unlock the passenger door.
Immediately Corrine started to feel some guilt for acting as if his presence wasn't wanted. If anything Corrine was more than pleased to know that he had gone through the trouble to pick her up. "No, of course not. I'm glad you're here," her cheeks still feeling slightly flushed.
Vaughn smiled in satisfaction as he held the door open and watched Corrine climb in.
-------------------
Vaughn noticed Corrine sitting quietly and looking out the window. He was surprised she hasn't asked him about how his date went, or told him about how hers went. He was dying to ask her about it, but figured he'd let her bring it up only if she wanted to. He wasn't going to force it out of her.
"Thanks," he heard her say suddenly.
He glanced at her, "What for?"
"For coming with me," she tore her attention away from the scenery outside to flash him a meaningful smile. "I'm sure you had something so much better to do,"
'Elizabeth,' he thought with some regret. He was sure he would have had a wonderful time with her, but seeing Corrine blush was more than worth it. He noticed a trace of disappointment in her expression when he failed to answer, and he wanted more than anything to make it go away, but even though spending time with Corrine was what he wanted more he still couldn't help but feel terrible for canceling on such a sweet girl like Elizabeth. "So, let's take a look at these apartments," he said cheerfully changing subjects.
Corrine pulled out a stack of papers from her bag, and quickly thumbed through it, pulling a sheet out near the end. "This one's close by," she said showing Vaughn the ad. "And it's my favorite,"
He studied the address, before steering the car into the right direction.
-------------------
They arrived to a white stone building in a quaint neighborhood. Vaughn could tell why it was her favorite. It was one of those picturesque Victorian flats complete with detailed ornamentation, and a black metal fence. It was classically beautiful. It was perfect for Corrine.
"Isn't it beautiful?!" she shouted in excitement as she ran forward to the gate.
Vaughn stood discretely by the car watching her with a smile. 'Not as beautiful as you,' he thought secretly.
She turned around and beckoned him to come forward. "Let's take a look inside,"
Vaughn looked around cautiously, before moving. "I think you need an agent to do that," he warned. "Or at least get permission from the landlord,"
"Maybe I can still see it," she said and pushed the gate open. And Vaughn was forced to run after her.
-------------------
Inside Corrine ran into a tenant, and kindly asked him where she could find the landlord and how he liked living in the building. After a brief conversation and a point up the stairs she learned that he had just recently scooped up the last vacant flat.
"C'mon Corrine, I'm sure there are others just as good," Vaughn reassured wrapping an arm around her tiny shoulders as they made their way back to the car.
"I know, but I really liked this one," she explained, feeling comfort in Vaughn's arm.
Back in the car Vaughn searched through the stack of papers for their next destination. "Where did you find all these?" he asked in astonishment at the thick stack of papers.
"Oh, Greg helped me find them off the internet. We were practically up all last night looking for them," she explained failing to mention the part where she had waited foolishly for him to come home.
"Is that all you guys did?" he couldn't help himself.
"Well, we ordered pizza," she added.
"Is that all? You guys didn't go out or anything?" he continued asking.
"No, we stayed in," she answered.
He was expecting her to go on about her date with Greg, not about staying in and ordering pizza. Vaughn felt like an idiot. A jealous idiot.
-------------------
Well, there it is! Hope you enjoyed it. And please review.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on Apr 8, 2007 0:27:34 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 13: Planning of Surprises
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Vaughn had kept to himself afterwards, careful not to ask too much. He quickly picked out another apartment, showing it to Corrine for her approval then started the car and drove off in silence.
Corrine sighed as she turned to look out her window. "I wonder how the guys' are doing back home?" 'I wonder how Marshall's doing.'
Vaughn tore his attention away from the road to glance at her. He wanted very much to answer her question with the typical, 'I'm sure they're doing fine,' But nothing came out. And suddenly, he wondered too, what his friends back home were up to. He smirked as the thought of Lucas and Josie forming a relationship came to mind. It would be about time.
-------------------
Marshall looked up from his brochures and papers as the door to the cafe opened. He watched as his two friends walked in, taking notice that for the first time in several weeks they appeared to be enjoying each other’s company.
They stood by the door scanning the tables, easily overlooking Marshall who was seated in a far corner.
Marshall grunted at their failure to notice him, and stood up waving a hand in the air. "Lucas!" he called out, grabbing their attention.
The two walked over, Josie leading, and Lucas trailing behind. "You couldn't have picked a better table" said Lucas sarcastically. Lucas eyed the littered table curiously and noticed several brochures all of which looked to belong to colleges, along with maps, and other papers. "College stuff?" he wondered.
Marshall quickly gathered the papers into a pile, and carelessly threw them into the seat beside him. "Yeah, college stuff," he answered hastily then motioned for them to sit down.
Josie looked at him suspiciously as she took her seat. It was obvious it was something more than just "college stuff", if it was even that to begin with.
He barely returned the look, trying to focus his attention on the half-eaten cream cheese bagel in front of him. He scraped the toasted top with his knife, leaving little ridges in the white spread.
"Can you believe summer is almost over?" interrupted Lucas.
"I know. It feels like I've wasted it," said Josie recalling all the perfect summer days she threw away to stay in to watch reruns of her favorite shows and mope around at the loss of a certain someone.
Marshall glanced between his two friends, thinking of Corrine. She was probably having the time of her life in London, and she was probably having the time of her life being single too. Then the thought of Vaughn entered his thoughts, and jealousy soon took over. He subconsciously narrowed his eyes at Lucas, who, in return, looked at Marshall in bewilderment.
"What?" Lucas asked.
'God knows what they might be doing,' Marshall thought dangerously to himself as he poked at the bagel, ignoring Lucas's question. They had, after all, gotten closer their last year at Blake Holsey, and being alone and single in London would only drive them closer, he figured. "I know I wasted mine." he then declared, thinking he should have gone after her as she as about to board her plane, and kissed her square on the lips, like in all those romantic films.
-------------------
The car pulled up to a red brick building complex--the fourth and probably last stop for the day. It was obvious to Vaughn that Corrine's motivation to find a new home had left her a long time ago.
Corrine cringed at its appearance, and grabbed the ad to compare.
"You can't judge a book by its cover," Vaughn remarked in a smart aleck tone. He could tell she thought it looked like crap. Hell, he thought, anything would look like crap after seeing the last apartment.
Corrine flashed him a look over her shoulder, before returning her gaze at the building. "Well, I guess a look won't hurt," She opened her door and stepped out into the fresh air that smelled faintly of sweet pastries and cakes. She smiled as she inhaled the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon. She stepped quickly up to the porch steps, her shoes clicking on the pavement.
Vaughn followed. "Look at that, it already looks better than that kooky hole we saw before,"
It took awhile for Corrine to understand, and when it finally occurred to her she glared back at him disapprovingly.
"Hey, that's not fair, you can curse but I can't," he teased.
"I told you, it was a slip that's all," she said turning the knob on the door. Corrine Baxter never cursed, or at least in front of people.
Corrine cracked the door open about an inch, and hesitated.
Vaughn moved up on the steps, and waited for her to open it the rest of the way, as he was actually eager to see what was inside. But after a few seconds passed and his impatience kicked in, he stepped forward planning to open the door himself, when Corrine suddenly turned around. Their faces now were only mere inches apart.
Corrine found her hand gently lying on his chest. She blushed, as she tried to step back, only to find herself restricted from doing so. She glanced at her sides, and noticed a hand resting protectively on her waist.
Vaughn looked down as well. And he figured within those seconds, he must have thought Corrine would have gone off balance, and fallen off the steps, because his hand had somehow made their way around her waist. He looked up, drawing his hand away awkwardly.
"Sorry," they apologized in unison. They both laughed it off.
"I was thinking, maybe since, I'm obviously not in the mood to go house hunting anymore, maybe you could drop me back at the library," Corrine asked, pulling the door shut behind her.
Vaughn pretended to give it some thought, "Sure,"
-------------------
"Thanks Vaughn, but I don't really need a chaperone," Corrine joked.
"Oh, c'mon, you're not the only one who needs to study," he replied coolly as he set his paper folder down at a table.
Corrine scanned the nearly empty library, and spotting an empty table she said, "Well, so you don't distract me, I'm gonna sit over there."
"Suite yourself," he answered, turning around to find a few books on philosophy and English literature.
He really didn't need to study, but he figured, since there wasn't really anything else to do, and since Greg would be in class pretty much all day, he'd hang around and wait for Corrine to be done pouring over her notes and books so they could go do something.
He pretended to look over the shelves, stealing a view of Corrine studying through the gaps in the shelves from time to time. She looked completely engaged in whatever was in the book, and he wished he had the patience to sit around and study like that.
A small delicate hand ran up his back, and he turned around and found Elizabeth smiling seductively back at him. "I thought you said you were out of town?"
Vaughn glanced around, guiltily, "I was, and then I remembered I have this huge exam tomorrow that I can't fail," he quickly made up.
"Poor Vaughn," she was playing with his shirt collar between her fingers.
"I know, I was up here since 8," he lied and glanced back at Corrine, hoping she wouldn't look over and notice the two of them.
Elizabeth's hand reached up and cupped Vaughn's cheek. "What do you think about taking a little break," she asked in her sultry voice, leaning up to kiss him.
Vaughn turned away, "I actually just took my break," he lied. No matter how much he wanted to kiss her back, or tell her how pretty she looked, he was more afraid of Corrine catching them together.
"It'll only take minute," she smiled, showing off her perfect set of pearly whites.
He took her shoulders and gently moved her aside.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"I'm sorry; I just really need to get back to studying. Look, I'll call you later tonight, okay?"
Elizabeth nodded her head in disappointment, and watched as he walked off.
As he continued his pretend search, he bumped into a display showcasing international cuisine, and remembered an errand he needed to run.
He took the long way back to the table, giving Elizabeth enough time to leave the area. He didn't want her seeing him with Corrine either. He walked through 10 minutes worth of aisles, and even pretended to ask an employee about a book he allegedly couldn't locate, before walking back to Corrine.
She looked up from the note cards in her hands, when she heard footsteps approach.
"I just remembered, I had this errand to run. You want me to come pick you up later?" he whispered into her ear.
"That's okay," she answered shaking her head.
-------------------
The three of them walked out into the brightly lit parking lot after their movie ended.
"Is it okay if you ride with Marshall?" Lucas asked, throwing away his half empty extra large pop-corn bucket.
"Uh, sure," Josie answered.
"I don't think I have time to drop you off, my mom told be to be home before midnight, and it's already a quarter till," Lucas explained.
Marshall took a sip from his drink. "Hang in there, Lucas, just a few more months," he replied patting him on the back.
"Yeah, well I'll see you guys tomorrow then," Lucas parted from his friends into the opposite direction.
In the car, Josie immediately brought up the question she'd been meaning to ask since this morning. "What are you up to?"
"What are you talking about?" he asked innocently as he slid the key into the ignition.
"You know very well what I mean. Those brochures, they weren't really colleges were they?"
Marshall looked over at Josie. Except for the areas the street light outside lit, his whole face was shadows. "Actually, they were,"
Josie was still suspicious. "Well, I hope that's the only thing they were,"
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I appologize a million times plus 1 that the wait had to take so long. I've seriosuly been busy with so many things that finding the time to write was a challenge. Anyway, regular updates are back. Enjoy the chapter, and don't forget to review.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on May 7, 2007 19:59:39 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 14: Power’s Out -------------------
This turned out to be a long chapter, and another all Vaughn and Corrine one too. Hope you guys don't mind it.
Corrine stared out the curtain bare windows and into the brightly lit city. The sun had gone down a few hours ago, and now the stars were twinkling in the dark and cloudless sky. She gave the glass pane a few taps with her finger before noticing a couple walking briskly across the street.
At first glance it looked like their hands were laced together, but a closer look had said otherwise. It looked almost as if the girl was being pulled against her will. The guy would occasionally glance back and appear to shout something, to which the girl responded angrily to. It was obvious she wasn't very happy, and Corrine concluded that whatever it was the guy was shouting back at her didn't make anything better. She continued watching in sympathy until the girl looked up at the window.
Corrine glanced away quickly, diverting her attention to the moon. It was hardly a full moon, or any moon at all--just a thin crescent sliver of grey that Corrine quickly identified as the waxing crescent phase. She remembered all the moon phases by heart, thanks to her freshman year science project on the moon and tides which she remembered getting a hundred percent on.
After the couple disappeared Corrine looked back into the now nearly empty streets, where she spotted the distinct red London mailbox. It was then that she remembered the letters she mailed back home a week ago. "I hope they got them," she said aloud. She scanned the streets below one last time before deciding a quick trip for some coffee wouldn't hurt.
She looked back at her scattered books and notes on the floor and sighed. Had those elementary kids chose a different day for their field trip, Corrine would have still been at the library, away from the urges to drink caffeinated beverages and think about home. She sat herself back down on the sofa when she realized she needed to get back to studying, at least for another hour before she could even think about running off for coffee breaks.
-------------------
Vaughn balanced one of the paper bags on his knees, as he fished out his keys which he had mistakenly dropped back into his pockets as he was going up the stairs. He glanced over at the stairway thinking he heard footsteps, and the faint sounds of voices coming up. He dismissed it soon after successfully pulling out his keys without dropping anything.
He walked into his apartment to find all the lights off except for the one in the living room. There he also found Corrine on the floor surrounded by scattered papers and two or three books. He figured she was really into what she was reading because she didn't even bother to look up. "Hey," she greeted keeping her eyes glued on the last page of a chapter.
"Stop studying and come help me," he called out. He dropped the three paper bags heavily on the counter, and flipped on the light switch.
Corrine finally looked up. "Help you what? I--is, are those groceries?" she asked in amazement.
"Yeah," he nodded.
Corrine dog eared the page and shut the book gently and got up. She looked over to meet Vaughn's gaze. "Are you serious? You went off to buy your own groceries?!"
"Yeah, is it that unusual?" he asked, rather offended.
Corrine was now over in the kitchen, digging through the paper bags. "No, not really, it's just I can't picture you going grocery shopping that's all," she chuckled imagining Vaughn over in the produce section examining apples. "I hope you bought some coffee,"
Vaughn nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I guess, but it's not like I can count on Greg to do it," then added as an afterthought, "I think there might be some in the bottom of that bag," he pointed as he pulled off his jacket, and tossed it on a chair.
"Anyway, did you want me to help put these away?" she asked as she pulled out a bag of coffee beans.
"No, actually I was thinking of making dinner," he said with confidence. He watched her set down the coffee beans.
"You're going to make dinner?" she asked once again in disbelief.
"We're going to make dinner," he corrected tossing her a yellow apron.
-------------------
"Careful," Corrine warned as she kept her eyes steady on the blade, thinking any moment it'd slip and slice Vaughn's finger. "Careful," she reminded again.
"Thanks, I will,"
She watched as the blade effortlessly sliced the onion in half. "Careful," she said a third time, knowing it would irritate Vaughn.
"Thanks, I think I've got it, Corrine," He looked up and noticed she was giggling.
"Sorry. I--I think I'll go get the salad ready,"
"Yeah, I think that's a good idea,"
After having difficulties with opening the bag of pre-rinsed lettuce leaves, Corrine finally got the salad into the wooden bowl. She walked it over to the dining table and set it in the center, along with the store bought bottle of Italian vinaigrette.
"What else?" she asked, wiping her hands on the canary yellow apron Vaughn had given her to wear. "And why am I the only one wearing an apron?"
Vaughn sniffed, and used the back of his palm to wipe the corners of his eyes. "I didn't think you wanted to get yourself all dirty," he answered honestly then sniffed the air again.
Corrine was too thankful to even consider laughing at his current teary state. "Thanks Vaughn," She reached over the counter and ripped off a sheet from the paper towel roll. "Here,"
"No thanks," he declined, taking the towel gently from her hands anyway, and setting it down by the cutting board.
Corrine got a view of his tomato sauce splattered shirt then looked down at her clean apron, and chuckled inwardly. He needed it more than she did.
She looked up from his shirt to meet his gaze. She hadn't noticed it before, but his eyes were the nicest shade of brown. "What?" she wondered curiously? She wasn't sure what was happening to her knees, but they were suddenly feeling weak. She leaned on the counter for support, feeling she'd collapse at any given moment if he didn't stop looking at her.
But his gaze did not waiver.
"Don't look at me like that," she said feeling self conscious.
"Like what?" he wondered putting down his knife.
"Like--like how you're doing it now," she took a step back.
Vaughn was enjoying himself, and he was enjoying Corrine's reaction. "What do you mean?"
"Go back to chopping those onions," she suggested.
"Only if--" he started but was distracted by the piece of lettuce hanging onto a strand of her hair. He stepped forward closing in the space between them, and gently picked it off. "Lettuce," he smiled showing her the green leaf.
Corrine tried to smile back, but the closeness of Vaughn reminded her of their earlier encounter. "Thanks," She remained standing mere inches away from him, though she felt incredibly uncomfortable. She watched him run his hand through his hair.
Vaughn sighed. 'What are you doing?' he asked himself, as he stared guiltily down into Corrine's eyes. He pulled himself away. "Never mind," he said, and cursed himself for acting too confident.
"You should change your shirt," she suggested.
"Yeah," he nodded.
-------------------
Vaughn walked back into the kitchen with his shirt half way on when the power went out.
"Vaughn?" Corrine called out, thinking he was still changing in the room.
"Corrine, I'm right here," he held out his hand for her to seek out.
"Oh," she replied when her hand met his, which she immediately let go upon contact.
Vaughn felt around for the kitchen drawers. "I think I have a flashlight somewhere in here,"
As Corrine's eyes were starting to get adjusted to the darkness, she began to see Vaughn's silhouette. "There isn't a storm is there?" she wondered.
"No, I don't think so," he pulled a drawer open which luckily contained the portable light source. "Here we go,"
When he turned the light on, the first thing Corrine noticed was Vaughn's half covered torso. She looked away feeling her cheeks rise in color.
"Here," he handed her the flashlight, "I'm going to see what's going on,"
"Don't you need this?" she called out.
"No it's okay,"
-------------------
After finding out the whole block was without electricity, Vaughn and Corrine decided to wait it out. They lit candles--most of which belonged to Corrine, and most of them scented--and sat back on the leather couch, discussing anything that would come to mind.
"Try some," Vaughn insisted nudging her in the arm with the glass bottle.
"No," she pushed away the bottle. "I don't drink,"
Vaughn moved over closing in the space between them. "If you're worried about age--"
"I'm not," she interrupted. "I just--I'd rather not," She sat stiffly at the end of the couch, and kept her eyes glued on the idle TV screen. She sounded impatient, and grouchy, and too much of a do gooder. And she didn't want to sound like she wasn't enjoying his company. She sighed, leaned back on the leather cushions, and turned her head to face Vaughn.
"You know, I'm sure you'd like this," he kept going, taking a gulp from his nearly empty bottle. "There are all different flavors: Orange, raspberry, vanilla, watermelon, green apple, cran--"
"Fine," Corrine decided, feeling daring. They were after all, legally allowed to drink, it's not like she would be breaking any laws.
"Cranberry, black cherry," he continued dismissing her previous statement.
"Okay, Vaughn, I'll have one," she repeated herself.
Vaughn's eyes grew wide in surprise, and he shot up out of his seat. "That's more like it," he exclaimed.
He walked over to the kitchen, forgetting to ask her what flavor she wanted.
Meanwhile, Corrine looked down at her lap, and noticed the yellow apron she was still wearing. She picked off, a piece of potato peeling that dried up into the cloth. "When is Greg coming home?" she called out loud enough for him to hear her across the room.
Vaughn pretended not to hear it. He didn't want to spend their time talking about his roommate, who he felt was beginning to steal Corrine's friendship away from him. He grabbed her a bottle of green apple Smirnoff, and a cranberry one for him. "I'm sorry, did you say something?" he then asked coolly. He noticed she had taken off the apron, and left it folded neatly on the coffee table.
"Uh, never mind," she smiled, reaching for the bottle from his extended hand. "Thanks,"
"Hold on, let me open that for you," he added.
"Please, I can open it myself," she said with a hint of attitude.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot girls can do anything guys can do, right?" he handed Corrine the unopened bottle.
"Exactly," she watched Vaughn, as he effortlessly twisted the top off his. She then went onto doing the same, except hers didn't open; instead she felt the metal ridges in the cap pushing into the soft skin of her palm. She winced as she continued twisting until she heard a satisfying pop. She smiled up at Vaughn at her achievement. Vaughn smiled back. "See I told you,"
"I knew you could do it all along," he sat himself down on the couch, this time leaving only an inch or two between them. "So?"
She took another sip, trying to get its full flavor. "Hmm, not bad," she concluded.
"Uh oh, Corrine's walking on the wild side now," he teased.
Corrine joined in laughing. "Be quiet,"
"I think you mean 'shut up'," Vaughn laughed.
"Yeah, whatever," Corrine playfully pushed him on the arm, causing some of his drink to spill from the mouth of the bottle. "Oh, I am so sorry."
Corrine jumped up, making a mad dash for the kitchen, but Vaughn caught her hand before she could get too far. "Its okay, see?" he brushed off the small amount of liquid that spilled on his shirt. "All better. So sit back down, and don't worry about it,"
She obeyed sitting back down on the couch next to Vaughn. The two remained silent for the next few minutes, as they sat quietly in the dark, drinking, and thinking of what to say. Corrine was thinking of thanking Vaughn for making an effort to cook dinner, though it ended up an unfinished disaster. And Vaughn was thinking of a way to let her know he enjoyed having her around, and how he wouldn't mind sharing his room with her a little longer. But neither of them spoke for a long time.
"You wanna know the truth?" Vaughn finally spoke up.
-------------------
I am more than sorry, that this chapter took a long time. I know I promised regular updates. I’m working on it.
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erika
Junior Member
Posts: 56
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Post by erika on May 27, 2007 17:04:43 GMT -5
Odd Couples Ch. 15: Attempted Confession
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She crossed her legs Indian style, like a little kid, and nodded her head. "Okay," She wasn't sure what she was expecting. But somewhere deep inside she desperately wanted to know how he felt about her. Not for the reason that she had any feelings for him--or at least that's what she had gotten herself to believe--but to settle her mind. She swallowed hard, anticipating the words that would escape his lips.
"Remember when I said I didn't break up with Josie for the same reason you broke up with Marshall?"
"Yeah, what about it?" She had almost forgotten about that conversation.
"Well, the truth is," He said slowly making sure to say everything he needed to in one line, "I ended it with Josie becau--"
He barely had time to finish the sentence, since Greg came barging in through the door. Vaughn sighed heavily in defeat, and looked over at his roommate in despise.
"The whole bloody buildings out of power," exclaimed Greg in a forced British accent.
Corrine giggled, despite being disappointed at not getting to hear Vaughn's reason.
Vaughn shook his head, "Why the hell are you talking like that?"
"You're look at Joseph Wallace's new Mr. Darcy," he proudly stuck out his chest.
Vaughn was not comprehending. "What?"
"Who's Joseph Wallace?" asked Corrine.
"No, not who, what." Greg corrected.
Vaughn was already getting enough of the conversation. "What is it then?" he asked impatiently. Knowing Greg, it was probably some scam he had gotten himself into again.
"A theater production company," he answered.
"Come again?" It was still not registering to Vaughn.
Greg shrugged off his jacket and fell back on the couch next to Vaughn. "I was walking out of the coffee shop, when I bumped into this tough looking guy. I sorta kinda spilled my coffee all over his suit, and I thought he was gonna beat the kooky out of me," he stopped there, as his eyes wandered out the window into the night sky, the candle light extenuating his handsome features.
"But?" Corrine asked with interest.
Greg snapped back. "But he didn't," he simply answered.
Vaughn gritted his teeth. "What the hell does he have to do with whatever Joseph Wallace is?"
Corrine was too busy listening to notice that both guys had swore in the conversation.
"Because, he said he likes how I look."
"And?"
"And turns out he was the casting director for the theater's new version of Pride and Prejudice. I'm gonna be star!" he exclaimed grabbing Vaughn by the shoulders and shaking him briskly a few times.
Vaughn gently pushed him away. "You don't even act,"
"That's terrific! Congratulations!" squealed Corrine, rushing out of her seat to give Greg a hug.
"At least someone's supportive,"
Vaughn got up from the couch smoothing a hand over his hair. "No, I mean, I'm happy for ya man," and walked off towards the kitchen.
- TWO WEEKS LATER -------------------
Lucas's mud splattered car pulled into Marshall's driveway. He always imagined when he'd get a car whether it was new or not, he'd always keep it nice and clean and shiny, but now that he had one all that cleaning just didn't seem too important.
The summer was almost over and fall would soon be arriving, and that only meant one thing--college. He wasn't excited, and he wasn't looking forward to being a freshman and living on an unfamiliar campus and going to class everyday. It was going to be Blake Holsey all over again, except without his friends.
He gave the door bell a few rings, then stepped back and waited for someone to come answer it.
The door opened and out popped Marshall's dad. He was tall, intimidating, and he was giving Lucas an inquisitive look. "Yes?" he asked in an authoritative voice.
Lucas swallowed. "Is Marshall home?"
"Who's at the door?" came another voice from inside. It was a younger male's voice, but it wasn't Marshall. And a few seconds later a slightly taller Grant appeared behind his dad. He saw Lucas and smiled.
"I got it" the taller, older grant said, pushing his dad aside.
Mr. Wheeler gave Lucas one last look before walking back into the living room.
"Is that really you Grant?" inquired Lucas who was staring at Marshall's older brother in awe.
"Yup. In the flesh," Grant answered coolly as he always had.
"Since when did you get here?"
"Just this morning,"
"Marshall didn't tell me anything about it,"
"It was a surprise," he paused. "Was there something you needed?"
Lucas had almost forgotten why he had come in the first place. "Yeah, Marshall around?"
"Actually he just stepped out, but you're welcome to wait for him inside, he should be coming back soon,"
"Thanks,"
With that Grant led Lucas pass the living room where Mr. Wheeler was watching recaps of last night's football game to the foot of the stairs. "I assume you know where his room is?"
Lucas nodded.
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It had been two long weeks since they had a real conversation. Vaughn felt like he was avoiding her, or she avoiding him, but truthfully they were just busy. Both of them were constantly out of the apartment, and only saw each other long enough to say hi or ask about each other's day. He had no doubts, however, that she and Greg were spending allot of time together.
Sometimes late at night he'd hear them come in, whispering or quietly laughing. They'd rehearse Greg's play, and sometimes he'd even hear the room to his bedroom door close behind them, and not until later would Greg come back to his own room where Vaughn lay wide awake.
In the mornings he'd open the fridge to see new take-out boxes appear from fancy restaurants. Restaurants that he had imagined taking Corrine to.
'They're not together' he told himself over and over again for comfort. But there was little evidence that would argue otherwise.
He grabbed his keys from the counter ready to head out to class when the door opened. He wasn't the least bit surprised it was the two new best friends.
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Lucas glanced down at his watch. He had been waiting for fifteen minutes.
He got up from Marshall's bed and began to stroll, observing old photos, awards and other knick knacks he had lying around. The room was clean to Lucas's surprise, unlike his own which had clothes, papers, and candy wrappers littering the floor.
He made his way over to the dresser where some brochures caught his attention. It seemed he wasn't the only one with college on his mind. He picked one up with a two guys laughing in front of a brick building. One of the guys was carrying books, and the other had a backpack slung over a shoulder.
After setting it back down, another piece of paper caught his attention. One that had "England" unmistakably written out in bold letters.
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"You won't believe this," Corrine started, forgetting about formal greetings. She sounded out of breath, and her cheeks were flushed.
"What?" asked Vaughn.
"I found a place!" she exclaimed.
"What?" he said a second time.
Corrine dug into her bag producing a folded paper. She handed it over to Vaugh. "Isn't it perfect?"
"I'm telling you, you're gonna wish you lived there," added Greg. "I already do,"
Vaughn unfolded the paper and looked down at the computer printed photo and floor plan. He was in too much shock to really take notice of anything. After giving the paper a quick scan he nodded his head and folded it back up. "It's perfect," he said handing it to Corrine.
"I can't wait to move in," she continued. "Oh, just imagine, I'm gonna have my own place Vaughn!"
Vaughn tried to fake a smile, but he knew it wasn't very convincing. "So when are you moving?"
"Not for a few weeks," she answered. "But don't worry, you'll get your room back to yourself very soon."
"That's great," Vaughn added.
Corrine smiled at Greg and then and Vaughn. "I'm gonna go call my mom and dad and tell them all about it!"
After she disappeared into Vaughn's room, Greg looked over at Vaughn shaking his head. "Looks like someone's not very happy,"
Vaughn glared at Greg. "What?"
"You know," Greg motioned to the closed door with his eyebrows.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Vaughn put his hand on the door knob and gave it a turn, ready to leave before the conversation went any further. "I'll see you later," he glanced over at his bedroom door, then walked out.
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Lucas had been waiting 30 minutes when Marshall came bounding up the stairs and into his room. His surprised face let Lucas know Grant didn't mention him being up there.
"Hey, Lucas?" it was more of a question than a greeting. He noticed what Lucas was holding between his fingers and knew exactly what was coming.
It wasn't what he had come to talk to Marshall about, but now it had become more important. "Care to explain this Marshall?" he asked holding up a plane ticket in the air.
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