bethlevesque

[bethlevesque]

Mia Isaac photographed by Stephanie Diani for The Hollywood Reporter

[bethlevesque]

TMI Sunday!

Please send whatever to my babies!

Bethany Levesque

Jackson Cohan

Michelle King

[bethlevesque]

"Do you not want more expectations or were you just not prepared for the changing ones?" One of her favorite things about them and now their ability to sneak away was they could at least be honest. When else could she worry about how he actually felt about this next season. "I mean with all the stars coming back, I think I'd be nervous. Then again, I should not be trusted in front of a camera."

"To season two," she repeated, taking swig. Beth brushed the seat before settling right next to Frankie. She ducked her face, looking at the bottle to hide back her blush. "Thank you. It's nothing compared to you. You definitely make Vampire look good."

She put the bottle on the ground besides them, replacing the bottle with a canape. "No offense and I really do like being in there with you but I prefer being out here with you." She shrugged. Though what else could they do. And it wouldn't really make sense to their arrangement if they mostly hung out without others around.

Cute. He'd heard it, he couldn't help smiling about it. The quiet moments they managed to have at events like this meant a lot to him. They'd whispered together, laughed and shared secrets. Frankie could let himself be with her. They'd talked about their families, their favourite books, their hopes for the future. In a lot of ways, Beth had become his closest friend. There was that word again... Friend.

"Ha... right," he breathed as she pushed the bottle back. "I might still be trying to process that. I mean, don't get me wrong, the first season was amazing. But with this one, I don't know. It's been like... There's more expectations. Sequel syndrome, I guess. Anyways- Let me just---," POP!

Frankie moved the bottle to avoid splashing her, letting out a laugh. He took the first swig, face scrunching at the bubbles (or the taste). "To season two," he added, handing the bottle to her, their fingers brushing. He grinned again, before taking a seat and gesturing for her to join him. Taking a breath, he said- "You look beautiful, by the way."

[bethlevesque]

She clicked her tongue against her teeth at his promise. "I would know who to hunt down." Though if she were honest Sam would get the bulk of her feelings, as usual. They were slowly becoming more and more comfortable with each other, some would say it was a given but it was different. He was different. It was weird to say, she was dating a movie star but at times like this, he was just Frankie. Her friend. And boyfriend, but that thought she was still swallowing.

Beth giggled, "He really couldn't, could he? I guess that's my saving grace. He might start making me look bad if he ever finds his words." Who knew Sam would be such a fangirl? Well she did but still it was hilarious to witness. She bit down on her lips as he tried very hard to navigate the right words. For a writer, the man seemed to be out of words. "Cute." Well that slipped out. "I mean of course." Nothing to see here but her own embarrassment mentally hitting her.

He had actually meant it. They were both more than happy to get away, it made sense. Though if anyone asked she would take the blame, he had a reputation to uphold. Yet the way he led the charge outside proved otherwise. Once they were free, Beth let out a breath. glad from the cool respite of inside's crowdedness. She laughed, realizing they'd just have to share the bottle. Beth shook her head, her free hand pushing the bottle back towards him. "Your night Frankie, you should open the bottle."

Frankie smiled back at her and wished he could muster up the perfect words to express how she made him feel. If there was a script, he'd be able to deliver. But left to his own direction? Not so much. 'Thank you' felt so pitiful in the face of what she was saying, what it meant to him. All Frankie had ever wanted was to been seen. To be supported. He wanted it so bad that he couldn't speak about it. Hearing Beth say it...

He respected her opinion, a lot. He respected her. If there was anyone he could trust to be real, to be honest, with him- it was her. Ironic really considering their situation but it worked. They worked. "I'll keep my lips seal, I promise. Besides, I don't think Sam could handle a full conversation with me just yet," Frankie teased. He swallowed back his feelings and said quietly, "Thank you, Beth. That really means a lot to me, I-- You mean-- I mean, it means a lot that you're here."

"Yes," he grinned. Frankie loved the limelight and he wanted to escape. He really wanted to keep holding her hand. Frankie and Beth had a thing about roofs. It's where they had their first, fateful, date. The first time he'd let his guard down, dropped his damned act and let himself be honest. Himself. So, he kept holding her hand and made a show of sneaking them out the back. On the way, he made sure to grab extra canapes and a bottle of champagne. They were on the roof of the venue in no time, the fresh air hitting him.

"I should have grabbed glasses as well, right?" he realised before holding the bottle out to her, "Do you wanna do the honours or will I?"

[bethlevesque]

When had Beth turned into the Sam whisperer and when had it become her job to read Sam and have him be honest. Even the idea was tiring but if she were honest, her friend deserved to have a bit of weight lifted off his back. Even though the idiot undoubtedly brought it upon himself. "I have a decent tutor, and you know, my boyfriend is in the cast." Though if you asked her to actually explain Friday Night Bites, she might only last a few seconds. "Says the expert in love triangles right?" His history was never far enough, he had to know that. Especially when she could tease him about it. Beth gave him a small smile. It didn't really matter if he broke his promise. Gracie would make sure he hurt for ruining her night and she would be right behind her cheering her on. Rolling her eyes, she narrowed at him before not so softly elbowing him. "I hate you for the record." Though it was nice to see him smile. It would've been better if it wasn't at her fault. "Pretty cool is the tamest adjective I've heard about him. Bestie? I think I said something along the lines of there's an irritating noise around me named Sam." In truth, she had told Frankie Sam was family. And that if he ever let Sam know, he'd be subject to Sam treatment. A worthy threat in her opinion."

Sam knew he couldn't outrun Beth, he'd have to face the music eventually. Deny as she might, they knew each other too well for games. But tonight was about Gracie, it was about Frankie. They were just the highly esteemed guests (well, Beth was more than that but y'know). "You know, you really sounded like you knew what you were talking about there," he teased before adding- "You would defend Diego, huh?" He let out a laugh at that, she was right as ever. Normally, Sam was the life and soul of the party even when he was in training. He didn't do 'wallflower', he didn't sulk (well). With that, he pulled on his best grin. "I promise, I will. Hey, c'mon... They could be talking about what you're wearing-," he paused, grinning for real- "When you're standing near him. I mean, you have to admit that your boyfriend is pretty cool. You have let him know I'm your bestie, right?"

[bethlevesque]

Beth couldn't help the fact that she enjoyed being able to make Frankie smile. It almost made her feel even a little bit flirty but it probably had nothing to do with her. Just them and the image they were projecting. Even if the crowd couldn't loudly hear their conversation. She couldn't be sure it wasn't just words. Though her heart felt like they were more than just words. "Well, I'm glad my words mean so much," she smiled.

He didn't have to tell her that she didn't have to watch the rest. No one else would know besides him and Sam anywhere but still. "Don't give him any ideas, he'll definitely enjoy that way too much." Beth reached out to grab his hand, squeezing. "I want to watch the rest. You worked hard and I want to support you."

"Could we?" She responded without thinking. Wasn't this his time to shine? Why did he want to leave. "Well if you don't mind, then yeah. Let's sneak away." Only a few people could make her act out of usual.

'I wouldn't miss it for the world'. Frankie couldn't help smiling at her before promptly looking down at his feet. Acting confident came easily to Frankie, he'd practiced it for years. He could charmingly shake off a compliment with ease but accepting one with sincerity? With her sincerity? He was still working on it. Instead, he let out a laugh and tried not to blush- "That's the biggest accolade of my career so far, being kinda a benefit."

It was easier than he'd care to admit forgetting about the rest of the world when he was with her. Even in this crowded room, Frankie could feel like it was just them. "You don't have to watch the rest, promise. If you need a recap though, I'm sure Sam'll give you the highlights," he joked.

Frankie looked over his shoulder, aware that their uninterrupted time together was precious. "Do you wanna sneak away for a bit? I think I can get away with an hour before they send out a search party."

[bethlevesque]

This was over her head and completely out of her comfort zone. That only seemed to characterize her relationship with Frankie. It wasn't their first PR event, far from their first event as a couple but this was different. For both of them. Friday Night Bites was his baby, she could tell by the way he talked about the show — Now if you asked her, she could give you a very simple explanation, but ask her to explain the dynamics of the show and she could utter one word confusion.

It had become a little more apparent to Beth, how much Frankie had become her shield in events like these. He was usually by her side, at least for most of the night. Now, she'd just be glad if he had time to acknowledge her. Of course they have to say hi, but how long could that be before he was being whisked away. She felt almost annoyed at herself for the idea. He deserved to enjoy it.

Frankie definitely saw her before she saw him, but she could spot that voice from far away. "Hi," she grinned in response. She shrugged, there wasn't going to be an argument from her. It was a lot. "I wouldn't miss it for the world. I had to see how the season started. And I guess you're a benefit too."

By now, Frankie and Beth had been to a lot of PR events. The premiere though? It was the biggest one to date. He was nervous. Beth hadn't known the show before they'd started this thing (her friend Sam definitely did but that was a different story). The point was, she'd never really seen him on screen like this before. Live. And with the whole cast in the room while it happened. Then came more photos, flashes, interviews, handshakes... By the time he'd untangled himself, years could have gone by.

He spotted her easily though. His stomach flipped. He ignored it, as always. He and Beth had a good thing going. They were friends, they were doing each other a favour. They might have been 'fake dating' but they were real friends. (How many more times was he going to think the word 'friend'?). Taking a breath, Frankie adjusted his 'Dracula' costume and made his way over to her.

"Hey you," he smiled, voice soft as he leaned over to kiss her on the cheek. "I know it's a lot-," he started (whether he meant the party, the premiere or that kiss, he didn't know)- "Thank you, for coming with me." @bethlevesque

[bethlevesque]

Sam side stepped the question as if his life dependended on it. Fortunately for him, this was not the time nor the place and luckily for him she knew better than to address it here. Now after today, he had to watch his back if he was still planning to still avoid the conversation. "Well, I mean a love triangle is needed in every important show but I don't know, that kiss with Victoria and Diego gave them a fighting chance." She couldn't tell anyone, especially at this party but she still didn't completely understand the show. It was everyone's favorite. "I've never seen you not feel it but it's Gracie's pride and joy you better let her enjoy." His costume was without mention at this point, only if she wanted to cause more issue. Beth laughed, shaking her head. "They most definitely aren't talking about me and if they are it's definitely not about what or who I'm wearing. It's about who I'm dating and well him."

Sam immediately perked up when Beth came over even if he knew he was in danger of having his entire life dragged. With love, of course. On the other hand, he wasn't very good at lying to her so he tried another tactic. "What can I say? You know that I think William and Victoria are meant to end up together, not Diego. It is what is-," he smiled before letting out a sigh. "I don't know. Maybe I'm just not feeling it tonight but you know how Gracie is." There was no way Sam could have missed this and he had to dress up. Unfortunately, the only thing he had last minute was an old couple's costume. So here he was, Flynn Ryder minus Rapunzel. "I don't know why we're talking about me though when you're the talk of the red carpet. Who are you wearing?"

[bethlevesque]

Standing in the corner like an outsider was her role, especially in their duo so Beth was more than surprised to notice Sam taking her role. Then again, this wasn't his event but Sam had a talent, or maybe a curse, to socialize anywhere he could. "Wow, who rained on your parade?" Beth spoke, stepping in front of Sam. She took a quick sip of her drink, the only way she could convince herself to not run at the sight of flashing lights "I don't think I've ever seen you this dry."

Sam was determined to have fun tonight. Okay, so, he was kinda under strict instruction to 'have fun' tonight. His little sister, Gracie, had joined the show for this season and she wasn't going to have anyone rain on her parade. Least of all her mopey big brother. So, here he was. Dressed up. Having a drink. Trying not to check his phone.

"Alright, talk to you later-," he shouted after Gracie who was being pulled away as expected. With that, he let out a breath and leaned against the wall. Fun. @tfrstarters

[bethlevesque]

Back when they were actually in high school, no one would catch Beth with a drink nevertheless one actually in her hands. "Thank you," she nodded, before shaking her head. She told him too much and this was how he repaid her? Damn. Beth rolled her eyes, nudging him lightly. "Have I told you that you're a bully Frankie?" He wasn't but it wasn't fair. "They're actually not as bad as they used to be."

"There you go-," Frankie smiled as he handed her over a drink (in a real glass, thank you very much). The smile felt real. Funny how Beth could make him feel like he wasn't putting on a performance when most of the time, he felt like he was. "Between you and me, how much are you hating these parties with your former high school besties?" he teased. @bethlevesque

[bethlevesque]

She was probably one of many who wanted to know but the best thing about their agreement and well them, was the lack of detail they gave around. "I'm sure it does." If Sam couldn't get everything out of her, Bella sure wasn't going to get much. Beth shrugged, "I like him too much. I wouldn't do that to him." That had to be the truest statement she had said all night. Not for Hazel Levesque's lack of trying though. A formal meeting would only make things worse. "Ah, I see. I'm claiming it true then."

“Now that sounds interesting,” she teased, very clearly hungry for more information on this pairing. Perhaps if Bella could see them together, she’d learn all she needed to. People often gave too much away when they thought no one else was looking. “Has he formally met your parents yet?” Bella let out a laugh at her comment (it was supposed to be a scoff). She shook her head, fighting off a smile- “I am not going to justify that with a response.”

[bethlevesque]

“Probably a lot more than I give him credit for.” Hottest 30 under 30 was such a weird reference. Beth had to remind herself that the Frankie everyone else saw wasn’t exactly the one she knew. She liked her version of Frankie more, but then again maybe she was just biased. No, she was definitely biased. There was no doubt there. Beth let out a soft snort, "Absolutely not, someone will catch a picture the moment you do. I think that's a cop out. You aren't mean. Maybe you just pretend to be."

“I can only imagine. What else has ’hottest 30 under 30’ taught you?” Bella smirked, mentally jotting down Beth’s little smile when they talked about Frankie. She’d had her opinions, of course. Was it some PR relationship? Hazel Levesque could do anything after all. But that smile hinted at something more. “True, there’s no room for weakness around here. Not even in Logan Hunter’s bachelor pad. You’ll always hold the moral backbone between you and I, Beth. Maybe I’m just mean.”

[bethlevesque]

"Yeah, he's definitely expanded my vocab. I think he's proud of himself there." Beth couldn't help but smile to herself, before shaking her head. "I don't think anyone in the UES could survive if they went soft, Bella. It doesn't mean you should call anyone else not iconic."

bethlevesque:

“Definitely iconic.” That had to be the first time Beth had used that word, maybe all her life. “Ouch, that’s an unnecessary attack. The photos are great though.”

“I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard you say ‘iconic’ unironically before. Is your celebrity beau finally rubbing off on you?” Bella asked with a salaciously quirked brow. “What do you expect, Beth? It’s me. Not everyone went soft after high school.”

[bethlevesque]

"Definitely iconic." That had to be the first time Beth had used that word, maybe all her life. "Ouch, that's an unnecessary attack. The photos are great though."

“Look at this photo though–,” Bella said, pointing again for full, dramatic, emphasis. “Ugh, she is so iconic. Unlike some, obviously.” @tfrstarters​

[bethlevesque]

Beth wasn't ready for the sound of the click, especially when she had no intention of being in a photo with veronica. not when she actively tried her damn hardest to stay out of anything involving Sam's relationships. Rolling her eyes, Beth shook her head. "I'm not frowning, I just didn't want to be in the picture."

Veronica was almost insulted with how late the invitation came, then again did she really care enough about Ceren to bother going to the party in the first place? It wasn’t like THEY were friends, and if they were well she certainly didn’t remember it. With her personality she was used to stepping on some toes, and making enemies wherever she went. It was out of uncertainty about herself however, a low self-esteem, and she tried to be better now that she had her daughter.

“Well what a nice party it is.” She said as she kicked away a balloon that was lying on the floor. “Smile.” she said as she took a photo of someone looking absentminded. “Don’t worry, we’ll get that frown upside down.”

[bethlevesque]

samuelswatts​:

Sam couldn’t help the mega sized grin that hit his face when she muttered that she’d missed him. Ha! He knew it. But you know what? He was going to stay cool. And humble. See? That was growth right there. “Hey, if you need a minute to let out a tear ‘cause you’re so happy to see me again, you go for it. I’ve got time,” he teased (okay, maybe not major growth). Sam laughed though when she talked about Frankie Vives. Sam liked to think he’d be able to play it cool but there was a very real chance he’d nerd out, big time. Frankie was a really good actor. ‘Friday Night Bites’ was it. “Excuse you, I’d be perfectly calm, cool and collected. Sure, he might need to sign a little something for me but that’s just standard. Maybe a picture too.” Sam scrunched up his face when she said ‘sex talk’ like they were tweens again- “No, not that. That’s your business. But this guy is your boyfriend, right? And as your best friend, who you missed so much, it’s my job to make sure that he’s going to be good to you. That he knows that if he messes up, he’ll have to answer to Rocky-,” he held up his left fist, then his right- “And Apollo. I don’t make the rules, Levesque. I might not be great in relationships but this is standard stuff. I’ve got this.”

It was too late to deny what she said and honestly Beth figured at this point, that move would only cause her more to deal with. So she settled for rolling her eyes, even when the urge to hit him simply increased. “You’ll be lucky if I don’t wring your neck by the time summer is over.” If she ever shed tears because she missed Sam, it would be the end of her life and sanity as she knew it. He was making it real easy to not miss him when it came when the summer came to an end. That was now besides the point though, it would be a few weeks until that happened. Ha, if Sam already acted like this and they were only talking about celebrities, she could imagine how Sam acted if he actually met them, Frankie was one thing, Beth had settled on the knowledge that the two would eventually meet (it was a surprise they hadn’t met yet but Beth had been working overtime to not let it happen), but to give him access to others? “I was going to say y’all should meet but then you said sign things and you took it too far. You maybe can have a picture, maybe.” Beth let out a much needed sigh, no sex talk, thank God. “You’re...” Beth let out a laugh, he was serious. “Do I get to know the content of this unneeded speech? If he messes up, he messes up. That’s just relationships, Sam.” It was impossible for her to get her heartbroken, they weren’t real but Sam didn’t know that.

[bethlevesque]

starring-frankie​:​

This place really had its drama. That, of course, coming from the star of a supernatural soap opera was saying a lot. There was no such thing as bad press, right? A smile tugged at his lips when Beth looked up from her phone, successfully looking on the bright side. He couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh, it could always be worse. It’s not like TMZ has a hold of this. Some ‘young, hot, Hollywood’ podcaster. They’re who you really have to look out for,” he teased, leaning a little closer to Beth. “Anyone you know?”

It wasn’t that UES was ever normal, Beth knew better than that she grew up with these people. Even if she had become a pro at changing the subject, but of all the days that GG decided to return back why was it today. They just couldn’t let her have this could they? How annoying. Beth shook her head, fighting the smile on her face. “I’m not sure TMZ would be that interested.” Realizing he was closer than she thought, she cleared her throat. “uh yeah. old friends.”