"Wish" update! *finally!*5-12-10

[mellie]

Romantic or as my niece used to say it's romantical. Patiently waiting for more.

[Mars]

I didn’t realize it at the time but trouble was on the way. Looking back, though, it makes sense. I mean, things had been relatively smooth for months. Something had to go wrong eventually.

The morning started off innocently enough. I was attempting to peel an orange while he munched on cereal. After a few minutes I abandoned the task and attacked some scrambled eggs. Nothing was said, but it was an easy, comfortable silence.
At least it was until something caught his attention. He frowned for a split second then went back to his cereal. Out of curiosity I glanced in that general direction and immediately several mental alarms sounded.
“What is she doing here?”
“Ssh. She might not notice us.”
Too late. Bar Chick sauntered in front of us, pausing long enough to say two words in a tone that made my blood boil.
“Hi, Apolo.” She winked, which only made the situation worse, then walked off. I retrieved the orange and smacked it onto the table in an attempt to blow off a little steam. The orange’s skin split open and juice splattered everywhere. His gaze shifted from the fruit to me, and he raised an eyebrow.
“Marlise?”
“Yes?”
“Calm down. Please.”
“I’m calm. Just a little twitchy, that’s all.”
“This isn’t ‘a little twitchy.’ You’re pissed off. I can tell.”
“Can you blame me? I mean, some skank just eye-groped my boyfriend!”
“You know she doesn’t matter.”
“Yeah, but this is SUPPOSED to be our time.”
“If it is, why are we arguing about pointless crap?”
“I…I don’t know.” I sighed, frowned, looked down at the table and wiped up the splattered juice mess. “..Sorry.”
“It’s fine. Listen,” He gently, almost discreetly touched my hand and I looked up. “I think that we both need some down time. Y’know, to think and blow off a little steam for a while. What do you think?”
“Good idea.” I sighed and chewed on my lip. “So, um, d’you want to meet in our room at, like, five thirty?”
“Yeah. That sounds great. See you then.” A moment of hesitation. Then he lifted his hand from mine.
“Gotcha..” Barely a whisper. I waved and he waved back with no hesitation. There was a trace of a smile on his face and the barest hint of a nod as he walked off.
Yeah, I thought, he was right. A little thinking time was all we needed.
…God, I sure hoped so…

(ah, cliffhangers! fear not, i like writing this fic too much to end it like this. a little resolution's coming soon! )

[mellie]

Uhoh...problems in paradise. I knew bar chic would cause problems. It's good to read about a fight because making up is the best. Er I hope there is a make up. Patiently waiting for more.

[Mars]

post removed - it's weighing on my conscience, contrived, and ridiculous *sweatdrop*
i'll edit and re-post soon! sorry about that!

[Mars]

(It's a blurb, but more's on the way.)
The day passed slowly.
I went back to the room to change shoes, and the first thing I saw was my sketchbook lying on the floor by the suitcases. I picked it up, leafed through it, frowned, and sighed. There was a time and place for drawing, and it sure as hell wasn’t right now.
I was mad. I was mad at him, and I was mad at myself.
A little time to think could solve everything…or it could make things worse. I set the book down and decided that I was going to try and avoid the latter possibility.
The problem with that decision was simple. I’m more than just ‘kinda’ stubborn. If I’m mad I fume for a while, and this time was no exception.
So I vented in the best way I could think of, by repeatedly punching a nearby pillow. Then I took a deep breath and regrouped.
Okay. Fine, I thought. I could do this.
I kept that thought in the forefront of my mind as I headed out of the hotel. Positive visualization never hurt anyone, as Apolo would say.

[mellie]

Short but to the point. Marlise is still mad...things will be okay. Visualation is a good thing...it works.

[Mars]

Finally! This chapter feels like it took forever to get right. Yikes.


I couldn’t stay mad for long. The weather was bright and sunny, with a trace of wind, so I spent the afternoon outside. I explored, shopped, and generally cleared my mind.
Finally, at around five, my phone rang. A few passers-by shot me annoyed looks, but I just ignored them.
“Hi, Apolo. What’s up?”
“Aah, nothing, besides chilling.” An exhale that might have been a sigh, then… “...and thinking about you. D’you feel better?”
His voice was soft, genuinely concerned. I imagined the barest trace of a smile. Sweet, very sweet.
“Y-yeah. It’s hard not to on a day like this.”
“Agreed. Listen, I have an idea.”
“Um…okay. Shoot.”
“Let’s meet out by the boardwalk in, say, ten minutes. We can talk and enjoy the afternoon.”
I paused for a few seconds, then agreed and we exchanged farewells.
I took a deep breath and headed to the boardwalk. He was leaning against the railing, gazing casually round. The crowd, the view…then his gaze shifted over to me, and he smiled a little. I felt a tingle of hope, and took another deep breath just to stay focused before walking over to him.
“Hey. You said you wanted to talk, right?”
“Yeah. I think we need to.” We walked to a picnic table and sat down. “Are you alright?”
“Huh? What do you mean?”
“You’ve been acting different lately, and I don’t mean just this morning. It’s like something’s bothering you. Whatever it is, it’s messing with the girl I know. And love.” He took my hand and waited for me to respond. I almost couldn’t.
“I..It’s nothing. Really…”
“No. It’s something, and we both know it. Please, tell me.” To emphasize this he ran his thumb over my fingers. The gesture clearly meant ‘trust me’.
“Okay..” I sighed. “Something has been bothering me, but it’s not about us. It’s about…me.”
“Go on,” he whispered gently. Reassuringly.
“Well, I found out a few days ago that I got the chance to have a real gallery show. I’m excited, but at the same time I’m kind of scared. It feels like one little mistake could screw everything up.”
He blinked slowly for a moment, then his eyes brightened. Like suddenly everything made sense. Like the wall that had been between us for the past several hours had been torn down in a heartbeat.
“Wow. So that’s why…” He let the thought trail off, then glanced up at me. “If it’s any consolation, you don’t have anything to worry about.”
“You really think so?”
“I know so. I’m your fan too, y’know.” A genuine, sincere smile as he reached over and poked my nose. “Trust me. You’re going to be fine.”
“Thanks. Sorry for not telling you sooner, though.”
“Don’t worry about it. I understand completely.”
“Y..you do?”
“Yeah. I get how it’s stressing you out.” His hand stroked over mine gently, emphasizing every word. “This is kind of like the Olympics for you, isn’t it?”
“M-hm. It’s crazy. I haven’t been this nervous in a while.” Or since I met him, but that was totally besides the point. “Anyway, I was wondering..Do you want to go to the opening party with me?”
“I wouldn’t miss it. The media might follow me there, though.” His tone was teasing, but also a little apologetic.
“That’s fine. I guess I’m used to that by now.” I squeezed his hand and managed a small smile.
“Glad to hear it. So,” He tapped my hand and quirked his head at me. “Is there anything special you want to do tonight?”
“I kind of want to do something simple. Y’know, maybe chill out here, get a pizza, and just talk. It’s just an idea, though.” I shrugged, trying to come across as nonchalant, casual. It worked for about ten seconds. Then I glanced at him, trying to see how he would react. The problem was, for a moment his expression was totally unreadable. Then…
“I like that. Let’s do it.” The poker-face was discarded. In its place was a totally relaxed, laid back expression that laid any remaining worries to rest. At that moment I was convinced that nothing would go wrong that night. Even if it did, so what? I was determined not to let it ruin anything. No way.
---
More soon!

[mellie]

Cool everything is back to normal. I like how Apolo is totally supportive of Marlise in her art. I will wait patiently for more.

[Mars]

Sorry about that..Copying error, so had to re-paste. Ugh..
More's coming after thanksgiving break. Taking some time to write through the week...hopefully! =D

We ended up talking for hours. The conversation ranged from the day's activities to the show and even what we thought about the pizza. I barely noticed time passing. A while later, though, I turned to face the setting sun and sighed.
"Wow.."
Apolo didn't say anything, just slipped his arm around my waist. Understanding and protective, all at once. Holy crap, I thought. I guess actions really DO speak louder than words…
A few minutes later I got an idea. I made sure he wasn’t looking, then blew at his ear. He turned and quirked his head at me with an adorable, definitely amused expression. In the space of a couple heartbeats I scooted closer and kissed him on the cheek.
“You’re crazy, y’know?” He poked my nose and that little smile widened.
“Yeah, I know. It’s good though, isn’t it?”

“Definitely.” He kissed my cheek. I sighed happily and rested my head on his shoulder, letting the conversation continue onto another random track.
It amazed me that so much could happen in the span of a single day, but I didn’t mind. Life had never been predictable, but ever since we’d gotten together something strange had happened. I was beginning to embrace the unexpected, maybe even love it.
Being in love definitely had its benefits..

[mellie]

Short, but sweet. Will wait for you to get over your writer's block.

[Mars]

The next day was Friday. Since it was the last full day of the trip we treated it like a Sunday. No phones, no interruptions, just peaceful relaxation. Well, as relaxed you could get on a jog, I mean.
At first I fought to keep up, until he looked back, frowned, and stopped.
“You okay?”
“Y..Yeah.” I paused, taking a breath. “Thanks.”
“No problem.” He grinned and took a second to kiss my fingers before taking off again at a considerably slower pace. I followed, privately glad his ‘gentleman’ side wasn’t limited to parties or social outings.
We walked, jogged, talked, and explored the area for most of the afternoon. After a while I realized the seemingly random twists and turns he led me on WEREN’T random. He was leading me somewhere, and I knew better than to ask where. I just followed him, trusting that wherever it was we were going would be awesome.
I wasn’t disappointed when we arrived at a cliff overlooking a small cove. It was open, untouched, and pretty. Very pretty. The strange thing is, I didn’t want to draw it. I was perfectly content with sitting, chilling, and enjoying the scenery.
So we sat on the cliff. He perched, while I let my legs dangle off the edge. He examined the scene intently, then took a few pictures. I leaned in to get a closer look, draping my arm across his shoulders as he inspected the shot.
At first his expression was unreadable, but after a minute a soft, pleased smile took over. He put the camera away and pulled me into a side-hug. Sweet, unspoken, relaxed understanding…Aaah, I loved it. Simply loved it.
After a while his soft voice broke the silence.
“Ready to go?”
“Huh? Oh..Yeah. Definitely.” I scrambled to my feet. He grinned, took my hand, and we walked on.
---
more really soon =)

[Mars]

A while later I was sitting across from him in a cozy restaurant booth. It was nice and casual. Perfect, I thought, even though a group of girls nearby kept giggling and trying to get his attention. He waved, nothing more than a polite gesture, then turned back. When he looked at me I saw at-ease amusement. If he didn’t care, neither did I. I was perfectly fine enjoying his company no matter who was around.
His expression softened, he covered my hand with his, and that old feeling of being extremely blessed returned. We’d known each other for a little less than a year, and the touch of his hand still gave me butterflies every single time. I thought about that for a moment, and didn’t realize I’d spaced out until I heard his voice.
“What’s up? Daydreaming?”
“Nah. I’m just reminiscing.” A one-shoulder shrug and a small smile. He smiled, squeezed my hand. I took it as a cue to go on. “I mean, so much has happened. It’s nice to take a little time to reflect every so often.”
“I agree, but tonight I don’t want to think about the past.” A pensive expression as he let his thumb glide over my palm. “Right here, right now…that’s all that matters. Why worry about what can’t be changed?”
“True, true.” I replied, trying to keep a straight face before failing and dissolving into giggles.
“Whaat? What’s so funny?” If the sparkle in his eye was any indication he knew. He HAD to. I took a moment to regroup before responding.
“You do realize how corny that sounded, right?” Here the sparkle gave way to a smile.
“Yep. I knew it’d make you smile. That’s always a bonus.” He squeezed my hand again gently, sweetly. God, such a small gesture, yet it was enough to send those butterflies flitting away again.
If I needed any more proof that he was right, this was it. So what if we had to go back to the real world tomorrow? That was tomorrow, not today. All I really cared about was enjoying our time while it lasted.
----
Heads up! Christmas break's coming up. Going to -try- to get another post done before next Friday, but if I can't...there'll be one up in January. Hoping for the best with that..Yikes.

[Mars]

another shortie. more coming soon...very soon! as soon as it's all edited up. Yikes!!!

Everything seemed to go pretty well after that. The annoying cameramen that had followed us throughout the week were gone. Apparently they were off bothering someone else, I mused privately. Still, their absence made for a peaceful walk back to the hotel.
As soon as we got back to the room, though, I broke the silence.
“What d’you want to do now?” He glanced at me, deep in thought for a few moments, then smiled.
“I’m changing and hitting the hot tub. My mind and body need to relax a bit. You can too, if you want.”
“Sounds good to me. Go ahead. I’ll grab some towels.”
“Alright then. Meet ya there.” With that he grinned, kissed my hand, and left before I had the chance to respond. Honestly? I was pretty worn out and thought a good soak would be perfect. Nice, relaxing, and just plain sweet. I liked that.

[mellie]

Okay all caught up, and now patiently waiting for what's to come.

[Mars]

Sorry this took so long. Had to almost completely re-write this section - yikes! More's coming soon, if the heap of notebook paper beside me is any clue
--
After I got ready and had the towels in hand, I ventured forth. I moved slowly but not just because I wanted to avoid falling. There wasn’t any reason to rush, not really. At first I thought he had fallen asleep. He sat totally still, breathing evenly with his eyes closed. Looking perfectly at peace, in other words. The sight was enough to make me smile.
I kneeled down beside him and put my hand on his shoulder. He stayed still, but his lips curled into a definite smile.
“Sleeping?”
“Nah. Meditating. I was actually waiting to hear you fall and splash.” Teasing, definitely. His eyes were open and a wicked gleam lit up his eyes.
“Heyy, I’m not –that- clumsy!” Five seconds later I proved myself totally and completely wrong just by trying to move into the water. My foot slipped at the last second, right when it should have been safe. I landed, awkwardly, next to him and my hand landed right on his knee. Oh, crap! “Sorry..”
“S’alright. No harm done.” His smile softened and for the millionth time I lost my mind by staring into his eyes. The soft smile remained as he slipped his hand over mine and stroked it gently. So sweet, so comforting…I didn’t mind at all. Hell, who would?
Then a nagging thought crept in, one I couldn’t ignore. He was always being sweet like that, whether it was necessary or not. Suddenly I wanted to do something just as nice for him, but didn’t really know what. Or how.
I thought about our conversation from earlier and an idea hit me. Tired? Needed to relax? Okay. So what if I’m not exactly an expert on helping people relax? I was at least willing to try.
“Hey, um, could you scoot up a little?”
“Sure. Hold on.” He shifted forward and I moved into an almost awkward sitting style behind him. “So..what’s going on?”
There was no anger or irritation in his voice, only casual curiosity. Even so, I couldn’t help feeling a little tingle of nervousness.
“I guess you could call it payback. Karmic retribution. Something like that.” I was trying pretty hard to sound calm and casual. Why the hell was I so jittery? I wasn’t doing something crazy, like trying to seduce him or anything. The feeling made no sense.
After I made myself chill out I relocated my hands to his shoulders. At first each touch was more than a little tentative, mostly because of personal uncertainty.
“Nice…” Barely audible. I thought I was hearing things until he moved his shoulder forward a little. “Thanks, ‘Lise.”
“No problem. Just show me where you’re tense, alright?”
“Okay, start going left.” His voice was gentle. Guiding rather than commanding. Then his tone became more conversational. “So, are you still worried?”
Huh? Oh. The show. Right.
“Nah. Just a little nervous. Next week’s going to be hell, though. Finishing a painting, making sure every single detail’s finalized…” I exhaled, blowing a loose strand of hair out of my face. “..Joy.”
“Sounds fun. Let me know if you need anything…even if it’s just a shoulder to snore on.” A soft laugh, as close to a giggle as a grown man could get.
“I’m definitely taking you up on that.” I let my fingers work their way from his shoulders to the base of his neck. “…am I doing this right? I don’t want to, like, make you dislocate something by accident.”
“You won’t. Don’t worry. I think you’re doing an awesome job.”
…Amazing? “Really?” Whoa. I wasn’t expecting that.
“Yeah. It’s not hard to believe. Artists are supposed to have strong hands.” For a few seconds his words made me go totally still. Then I felt his hand brush against mine and some of the shock wore off. He meant it casually but I couldn’t help being touched by the comment.
“Thanks. Maybe I could work on your legs sometime. I mean, if you wanted me to.”
“Not a bad idea. I’ll keep that in mind.” I couldn’t see his face but had the feeling he was smiling. “I really appreciate this, but you can stop if you want. It’s your holiday too, y’know. Relax a little.”
He gestured for me to move next to him. For a second or two I considered, then shrugged and went along with it. Then he scooted back and wrapped an arm around my waist.
This sweet silence lasted for a few minutes, broken only by a content sigh.
“I’m gonna miss this. Having so much free time with you, I mean.”
“In that case, let’s enjoy it while it lasts.”
“I agree. Completely.” Another happy sigh turned into a yawn. I smiled and rested my head on his shoulder, perfectly happy to enjoy his company as well as the peaceful night.
**
Unfortunately, the next day came way too quickly. There was a noticeable hint of reluctance in the air as we went to the airport. The whole time I clutched his free hand, not wanting to let go, not for anything. He noticed, all right, but didn’t say anything until the plane took off. That was when he lifted my hand and kissed my fingers, enough to make me relax considerably.
“Thanks..” I whispered. “I really needed that.”
“I figured. Want to watch the movie?”
Aah, Ohno-enthusiasm. Every bit as addictive as caffeine, chocolate, or his smile. In other words there was no way I was going to say no. So I nodded, leaned back, and enjoyed the feeling of his hand against mine. Time flew by but that feeling of being protected and (more importantly) loved remained. Even if the next week really was going to be chaotic, it wouldn’t matter as long as I had one beautiful, amazing man bringing some sense of balance into my life.
He was good at that.