goodnightsimmers

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 6 - Strike

Over the next few days, Finn had gone the extra mile to make Serena feel like the only girl on the planet. At work, he brewed her coffee, bought her lunch from the stand across the street, gave her kisses when no one was looking, and spent his breaks listening to her vent about all the work Kolton had started giving her. The two grew closer and agreed to go out Friday night. They were both excited and nervous to see where their newfound relationship would take them.

Thursday evening, Serena invited Janet to the mall. She needed her advice on what to wear for her first date with Finn. She still had no idea where they were going or what they were going to do. All she knew was that she had to look GOOD.

Janet held up a skimpy top with jewels embroidered on the sleeves. It had a low cut and was a little too revealing for Serena’s liking.

Serena: You don��t think that’s too much?

Janet: You mean sexy? His jaw will drop when he sees you.

Serena: Exactly. I don’t want that. I want him to smile when he sees me.

Janet: In that case, wear those overalls you have stashed in your closet. That’ll make him smile. You’ll probably get a laugh out of him also.

Serena gave Janet a playful shove.

Serena: *laughing* Come on Jan, be serious!

Janet: I am!!

Serena was about to give up hope when she came across a bright pink skirt with a velvet feel. She took the skirt off the hanger and held it against her hips.

Serena: What about this? I know I have something in my closet that’ll look good with it.

Janet: Well, well, well. Looks like you do have good taste in fashion!

Janet gave Serena a high five and together they walked to the counter to pay.

The next night, Serena got ready and put on her favorite perfume. Anytime she wore Good Girl by Carolina Herrera, she would get compliments from both genders. There was a knock at the door. That must be him. She took one last look in the mirror before going to open the door. There he was. Finn looked relaxed yet very handsome. He was dressed in a pink flannel and nice jeans. Serena was glad she didn’t take Janet’s outfit suggestions and went with something more subtle. Finn took Serena’s hand and walked her to the car.

Finn: *smiling* You look amazing, you know that?

Once they were in the car, conversation was easy. Butterflies were still flying around in Serena’s stomach, but she felt a certain ease when she was with him, as if she could be herself. Eventually the car pulled up to a neon-colored building. Where are we? Finn stepped out of the car and walked around to open Serena’s door.

Finn: Hope you know how to bowl.

Serena: Me? Bowl? Psh. I’m a pro.

Finn: *laughing* I thought you said you were good at bowling!

Serena: I am!

Finn: You’re using bumpers. You’re cheating!

Serena: *laughing* Oh quit crying, you’re still in the lead.

Finn: Okay let’s make a bet. Loser has to cook the winner a meal. And hey, I’ll even let you use bumpers.

Serena: It’s on!

Serena and Finn continued their game, but in the end Finn won. The two hugged and finished up their drinks they had ordered before leaving the bowling alley.

Once they returned to Serena’s apartment, Serena made a casserole dish and poured them some drinks. She was having so much fun she didn’t realize just how late it was getting. Time just flew when she was with Finn. After dinner, Serena and Finn brought their drinks to the living room and put on Netflix. She laid her head on his lap while he played with her hair and within minutes Serena fell asleep. She felt so comfortable and so right being next to him. She just hoped he felt the same way.

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 5 - Games Pt. 2

All night, Serena had been tossing and turning during her sleep. She couldn’t figure out if it was caused by her cheap bed or if was due to her excessive thinking. By the time Serena had fallen asleep, it was time to wake up for work. Sunlight began to crawl through the blinds in her room before her alarm went off. BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! Serena groaned as she smacked her alarm off. I’m sooo tired, she thought, I need coffee if I want to make it through the day.

As soon as Serena made it to the office, she scanned the room for Finn. He wasn’t there. Where is he? She fixed herself a cup of coffee and went straight to work. As expected, Kelsi had left another stack of papers on her desk that needed to be edited. It’s going to be a long day, Serena thought to herself. Without skipping a beat, Serena started on the pile, forgetting all about her coffee.

Kolton: Serena? Serena?

Kolton gently tapped on Serena’s shoulder, causing her to jump and knock over her coffee. 

Serena: Oh shoot. I’m so sorry, I --

Kolton: When you’re done with your nap, I need to speak to you. In my office.

Kolton shook his head in disappointment and left Serena to clean up her mess.

How embarrassing. And how rude is he? He’s always cutting me off before I can finish my sentences. *sigh*I probably jeopardized, if not destroyed my entire career. I can’t believe I fell asleep like that. She quickly cleaned up and poured herself another cup of coffee. I’m glad Finn wasn’t around to see that.

Serena: Before you start, I just want to apologize once again. This is very unlike me to doze off.

Kolton looks up at Serena and holds his gaze for a brief moment before dropping his head.

Kolton: Serena, the reason I pulled you in here, is one of our best Advice Columnist quit today. I was going to ask if you were interested in taking over her position, but it seems like the work is already too much for you.

Serena covered her mouth in utter shock.

Serena: N-n-n-o. I can do it. I swear. Please give me this opportunity, I won’t let you down, Kolton.

Kolton: I hope you’re right. There’s a lot on the line here. I’m depending on you.

Kolton stands up and walks to the door to let Serena out.

Serena: Thank you so much.

Kolton: Sure. And one more thing, Serena.

Serena turns around only to find him grinning this time.

Kolton: You snore.

Serena: And then he told me I snore!

Janet: *laughing* He was totally flirting with you! OMG!

Serena: Very unlikely. Yesterday I saw him and another woman at the flea market. They were pretty close if you ask me.

Janet: Was it the red head? I bet it was. I’m not surprised. He’s had an on and off relationship with her ever since I can remember.

Serena looked down and checked her phone.

Janet: Serena? Is everything okay? You’ve checked your phone 5 times already since we sat down.

Serena: I’m okay. Hey, have you heard from Finn? 

Janet: Finn? Yeah. He took the day off. He always takes Mondays off....Wait a minute...is this what’s bothering you? What’s going on between you two?

Serena: We kissed. Saturday night after karaoke, we kissed. And I’ve been trying not to overthink, but I can’t help it. We had a connection I thought, but he hasn’t even texted me or anything.

Janet placed her hand on Serena’s shoulder.

Janet: You like him, don’t you?

Serena: Is it that obvious? I mean, I always thought he was attractive, but that night I saw a different side to him, and I don’t know. Am I crazy for having feelings already?

Janet: You’re not crazy *giggling* you just have a crush. Look, he’s a great guy. I’m sure there’s a valid reason why he hasn’t reached out yet.

Serena: You’re probably right. Anyway, I need to get back to work before Kolton comes out here and lectures us again.

Janet: Oh yeah. Good luck on your first column! And congratulations on the promotion! We’ll celebrate soon, okay?

It was almost time for Serena to pack up and leave for the day when Kolton came by her cubicle. 

Serena: Hi. I sent you a copy of the advice column I worked on today and I managed to finish editing for Kelsi.

Kolton: Impressive. I’m looking forward to reading it.

Kolton began walking away when Serena called out to him.

Serena: Kolton? Thanks again.

Kolton: Don’t mention it.

Kolton winked at Serena and walked away while she sat there with butterflies in her stomach. How does he do that to me every time?

Later that evening, Serena made herself some dinner and had a slice of apple pie Ms. Beverly had made for her. She opened the back door that led to the balcony of her apartment and sat down. It felt so nice out tonight. There was a slight breeze, but it wasn’t cold. It was perfect. Just then Serena’s phone lit up and displayed two notifications. The first one was an e-mail from Kolton, and the second one was a text message from Finn. Oh. My. Gawd. Make him wait, Serena thought. She opened up the e-mail from Kolton first. It was probably important.

Serena,

Come to work prepared tomorrow. I will need 2 columns ready by lunch.

P.S. I can’t buy the entire office ear plugs, so try not to snore tomorrow. Better yet, try not to fall asleep during work hours.

Even though Kolton wasn’t physically there, he still had a way of making Serena blush. Snap out of it, Serena, he’s your boss. Serena closed the e-mail and opened up Finn’s text.

Finn: Hi Serena. Have any plans Friday night?

Serena jumped up and danced a victory dance even though there was no music playing. Yes! Yes! YES! She began typing something but remembered what Jackie had told her, and quickly erased the message. She began typing again, but this time she wrote, “I’ll have to check my schedule. I’ll let you know tomorrow.” Serena turned her phone off and leaned against the wall. Serena-1, Finn-0.

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 4 - Games Pt. 1

The next morning, all Serena could think about was the kiss she shared with Finn. Was it genuine? Or was it more of an in-the-moment kiss? Do I like him? What happens now? Although she had the time of her life last night, she couldn’t help but feel confused and nervous to return to work now. What if he regrets it? Should I call him? Serena picked up her phone and began to dial.

Jackie: Hey girl! How are you?!

Serena: Oh Jackie. I wish you were here! I have so much to tell you..

Serena began telling Jackie all about her night out. The lounge, the karaoke, and the kiss.

Jackie: Ok so what you need to do now, is pretend that nothing happened! Don’t call. Don’t text. Let him come to you.

Serena: Are you sure? I feel like I should at least send him a text?

Jackie: NO! Have I taught you nothing? This is a game, you hear me? You need to play your cards right, and trust me, this is an expert move played by only the best. Let him come to you.

Later that afternoon, Serena decided to visit the local farmer’s market. After her long phone call with Jackie, she needed to clear her head and get some fresh air. Plus, she was out of groceries, and if there’s anything that her mom taught her, the farmer’s market always has the best produce. The thought of her mom caused her to flinch in pain. No matter what happened between them, that was her mother, and she would always love her. Serena gathered her items and waited until it was her turn to pay. As she was leaving the market, a tall man in the distance caught her eye. Kolton, her boss, was walking with a woman linked to his arm. I’ve never seen him outside of work. Huh. I wonder if that’s his wife? Serena kept her head down as she walked pass him and suddenly bumped into an elderly lady.

Lady: Oh!

Serena began to apologize and pick up the produce that fell from her bag.

Serena: I am so sorry. I wasn’t looking where I was going. Here let me help you with those.

The elderly lady smiled and let out a small laugh.

Lady: They were bound to fall out one way or another. My nephew usually comes with me to the market and helps me take my groceries back home. Would you be a dear, and help me? I don’t live far.

Serena: Of course!

Lady: Wonderful. Follow me, dear.

Lady: You can set those on the counter. Sit down and make yourself at home.

Serena put the lady’s groceries in the kitchen and walked out into the living room. The home was a tiny townhouse with lots of character, and lots of history.

Lady: I must thank you again for helping me. You can call me Beverly.

Serena: It’s really no problem, Ms. Beverly, I’m Serena.

Beverly smiled and followed Serena’s eyes that were fixed on an old picture.

Beverly: That’s my late husband, Robert. He had a temper, that man, but he could be very charming.

Serena: He was very handsome.

Beverly: Oh yes. All the women around town thought so, too. They were always following him around like a lost puppy dog.

Serena giggled and moved onto a picture of a young toddler.

Serena: And who is this cutie? Your grandbaby?

Beverly glanced at the picture and quickly looked away. She began taking ingredients out of the pantry and mixing them in a bowl.

Beverly: That’s Charlotte. One day in the middle of Spring, she went outside to play with her ball. I always locked the gate so she couldn’t get out, but that day Robert and I had an argument and he left without locking up.

Beverly set down the spoon and walked to the window. She looked out as if she was replaying an old memory.

Beverly: I was in the kitchen preparing supper when I heard a crash outside. She was only three years old, my baby.

Serena: Oh, I’m sorry. That’s terrible!

Beverly wiped her face and returned to the kitchen where she placed a pan in the oven. for the rest of the afternoon, Serena listened to Beverly share stories about her past.

Beverly: Here, darling. Take this pie home with you for your troubles today.

Serena: Thank you, but it’s really not necessary, I enjoyed myself and loved listening to all your stories.

Beverly: Don’t be silly. Take it. Besides, that means you’ll have to return my dish and spend more time with a lonely old lady.

Beverly walked Serena to the door and gave her a hug. What a sweet old lady. She reminds me of my grandmother. As Serena walked back to her apartment, she couldn’t help but feel a little sad for Ms. Beverly. She has been through so much during her life, it makes all my problems seem so irrelevant.

Later that night, while getting ready for bed. Serena checked her phone in hopes to see a message from Finn, but unfortunately, he still had not reached out. Serena sighed. She was trying not to overthink their situation and set her phone down. The weekend was coming to an end and tomorrow she would see him at work. Everything will be better tomorrow, Serena thought. It has to be.

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 3 - Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

It was half past 10 and no sign of Janet. Maybe she changed her mind, Serena thought. Maybe I can have my cozy night in after all. A rush of relief washed over her as she took off her earrings and heels. She walked to her bedroom and slipped out of her dress she had planned to wear and put a towel on while she started the tub. Just then, there was a knock at her door. There’s no way that’s her. Serena opened the door and immediately Janet barged in.

Janet: Serena! Why aren’t you ready?!

Serena: It’s nearly 11, I thought you cancelled. I was fixing to take a bath..

Janet: What? I told you to be ready by 10! We’ve been outside waiting in the car. I called your phone AND sent you a text! You know what, doesn’t matter. Just hurry up and get dressed.

Serena: I didn’t hear my phone ring, I’m so sorry! It’ll take two minutes!

Serena went to her room and quickly got dressed again. She checked her phone and realized it was dead. That explains why I didn’t hear her call. Serena placed her phone on the charger and grabbed her purse.

Serena: I’m ready.

Serena wouldn’t need her phone where they were going tonight.

Serena: The view up here is amazing! How did you convince the bouncer to let us all in?

Janet smirks and gently nudges Crystabel. 

Crystabel: *blushing* I’m close friends with the bouncer. His name is Mark.

Janet: I wouldn’t exactly label your relationship with him as friends. He’s totally in love with you!

Feeling embarrassed, Crystabel tries to escape the awkward conversation by offering to get everyone another drink.

Janet: Girl you don’t gotta ask twice! I’ll even help you bring them back.

Serena: I just can’t get over this view. It’s breathtaking.

Finn: *staring intently at Serena* It is, isn’t it?

Serena turns around only to find Finn watching her. Almost instantly, Serena could feel her cheeks get hot and immediately looks down at her feet.

Finn: I’m really glad you decided to come out with us tonight, Serena. I’ve been wanting to talk to you ever since you started working at the office.

There’s a slight breeze in the air that causes Serena’s hair to blow out of place. She gently pushes back a strand of hair behind her ear and began to rub her arms due to the sudden temperature drop.

Finn: Here, take this.

Finn removes his jacket and places it around her shoulders.

Serena: Are you sure? What about you?

Finn: Nah I’m fine. *laughing* The girls will bring us shots and I’ll warm up with those anyway.

Finn fixes his gaze towards Serena again.

Finn: How are you liking it so far in the city?

Serena: I haven’t really been out to be honest. This is my first time since I’ve moved in.

Finn: *winks at Serena* I’ll have to change that.

Janet and Crystabel come back with drinks and a smirk on their faces as if they had been up to no good.

Serena: What happened?

Janet and Crystabel look at each other and squeal with excitement.

Janet: KARAOKE!

Crystabel: Chug your drinks because we signed everyone up for karaoke! AND YOU’RE UP NEXT! Don’t worry, we partnered you two together.

Crystabel flashed Serena a grin. Suddenly, Serena began to sweat nervously and removed Finn’s jacket. Karaoke? I’ve never sang in front of a large audience before. I can’t even keep a tune if my life depended on it!

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” blares through the speakers of the lounge. Finn grabs Serena’s hand, leading her onto the stage. He nods at her, as if he were saying, “let’s do this,” and with that they start singing along to Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, skipping over parts they don’t know and laughing in between. Once they were done, they hugged each other and right before they pulled away, Finn lifted Serena’s chin and gently placed his lips on Serena’s. Though the crowd was going wild, Serena paid no attention to them. She was lost in Finn’s arms and intoxicated by his kiss.

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 2 - Routine

As the weeks went by, Serena found herself slowly developing a new routine. Sleep, eat, work, come home, and repeat. She was content with that. Now that she landed a job at San Myshuno Post, the main source for breaking news and entertainment articles, Serena had become too busy to miss Newcrest or reminisce about her old life. Unfortunately, without a degree, Serena had to start at the bottom of the ladder. A wristers assistant. She didn’t exactly have free rein to write, but what she did have was an endless pile of articles to edit. This isn’t exactly what Serena had pictured herself doing, but hey, gotta start somewhere.

Janet: So I told him to take his lame apology and stick it up his --

Man: *coughs* Excuse me ladies, break time was over 10 minutes ago.

Startled, Serena pushes back her seat and stands up almost immediately.

Serena: Yes sir. I was just ask--

Man: Get back to work.

Without another word, the man exits the cafeteria leaving both Serena and Janet speechless. Once the initial shock wore off, they bursted into laughter.

Janet: *laughing* I can’t believe that happened! Do you think he heard me?!

Serena: How do you think he found us to begin with! *laughing* Who was that guy anyway? Kinda rude if you ask me. Barging in on our conversation and walking around like he owns the place!

Janet: Uhh Serena..That’s because he does.

Serena: Oh my gawd..is that..is that Kolton? The Kolton?

Janet: Yup. Kolton Brenner. 

Serena had exactly 4 hours left until the end of her workday, and she was determined to finish editing the stack of papers Kelsi left on her desk. Serena began to think she shouldn’t have taken that extra 10-minute break, but quickly pushed that thought aside because Janet’s gossip today was totally worth it, not to mention she finally got to put a face behind Kolton’s name. A hot one at that, but that attitude of his has got to go.

4 Hours later, Serena managed to finish editing and began to pack up for the day. I can’t wait to go home and take a long bath, Serena thought. I should probably give Jackie a call, too.

Janet: Serena! Wait up!

Serena: Hey! Did I leave my computer on again? I swear I turned it off.

Janet: Huh? No! Me and a few other assistants are going out for Single’s Night. Have you been to the Rooftop Lounge in the Uptown District? 

Serena: No..No I haven’t.

Janet: Oh you’ll love it! I’ll swing by at ten to pick you up, okay?

Serena: Ten?! Oh no I’ll be sl--

Janet: Great! See you later, babe!

Serena: ..Yeah..Great.

As soon as Serena returned home, she headed straight for her bedroom to find something to wear for the night. This would be the first time she experiences the night life in San Myshuno, so whatever she chose had to be special. Serena glanced at the clock. 8:45. How did I get sucked into this? So much for sticking to a routine.

[goodnightsimmers]

Episode 1 - Change

Ever since I can remember, I have always been under my mother’s hold. Mom says jump, and I jump. Mom says wear a dress; I wear a dress. 20 years old and I have not made one decision for myself up until now. Breaking the news to my parents was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I knew the consequences would be bad but not this bad. After I told them I was dropping out of law school and moving to the city to do what I love, they kicked me out and completely cut me off. “You’re going to regret this, Serena. Writing stories will only get you so far.” 

Jackie: Good news Serena! This is the last box. Now can we pleeease take a break from everything and order takeout or somethin’?

Serena: *laughing* Yes girl, you read my mind. Hey, I think I saw some food stalls across the street earlier? Wanna go check it out?

Jackie: SAY LESS.

Jackie: Mmm I’m so hungry I don’t know what to order. Oooh! I’ll take a bowl of curry please!  

As Jackie turns around, she spots some eye candy across the way and begins to giggle. She turns around and starts to mouth something to Serena. *Oh my gawd, look behind you. Total. Hottie.* 

Serena: *rolls eyes* Hi, I’ll take a bowl of curry, too.

With full bellies, the girls return to the apartment and say their goodbyes. 

Serena: Thanks again for helping me move. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you today, really.

Jackie: Oh please, and miss out on a chance to see Mr. Hottie across the street?

Serena: I wish you could stay longer, Jackie.

Jackie: Look, I promise I’ll come visit for the holidays. You are my best friend Serena Farrell, and just because you moved doesn’t change anything besides your zip code.

Serena: *starting to cry* I know. I’ll just miss you is all.

As Serena laid in bed that night, she thought of all the things she would miss from Newcrest. Back home, she had family and friends that she could count on at any time of the day. She knew all the streets by heart. All the great food places. All the fun hangout spots and what time traffic started. Now that Jackie had left, she felt lonelier than ever. She didn’t have the comfort and familiarity of her hometown. Change is hard. Change is scary. But all though every inch of her was wanting to load up the truck and drive back to Newcrest, something deep inside of her knew this was the right move, and that her story has just begun.