#✧ * º • – running with the shadows of the night. [ sienna & landon ]

[angelslaain]

MIDNIGHT ANGEL >> landon & sienna // spotify @wynterlanding

[angelslaain]

Sienna felt her insides turn to flames for two reasons. First: the feeling of Landon's hand on her back, his skin a nice chill that sent shivers up her spine. But the sweetness of that was trumped by Emeline; her sharp voice cutting through the atmosphere like it was warm butter, no match for her. Even Lavinia shrunk away and left the conversation as if Emeline was a sort of fungus that would take over everything if it wasn't smart enough to pick itself up and leave. Sienna wondered: What if someone couldn't break away?

It seemed as if Landon had been close, close to being a permanent victim to her parasitic presence. Emeline burned; not like a flame you'd lean into for warmth, but like the blaze that almost burned her house down just a couple of years ago. Sienna never thought she'd feel that sort of suffocating heat again, but here she was.

Except, she wasn't afraid of it like she had been. Strangely, she sensed that she needed to be stronger than it, to be the chemicals that put it out. As if she had the only way to stop it before it swallowed up an entire neighborhood. That bravery had only come into play because she felt Landon's fear through his fingertips on her back. It wasn't sweet; it was cold. Protective. Like the steel of a shield.

Sienna had had enough when Emeline placed her hand on Landon's chest and kept the pair from leaving the situation. She glared, big brown eyes once doe-like shifting to daggers, weapons she didn't know she still had. That killer made her afraid of what she didn't know, but it also made her brave enough to withstand that fear and fight against it. So she took Landon's hand hastily in her own and wedged herself between him and Emeline, as if protecting him right back.

"I don't know who you are—" the words were stretched out just a tad so that they could pierce. What was more painful to an actress than being unrecognized? "—but you seriously need to get the hell out of my face." Past Emeline's shoulder, Sienna could see her date—was that Mark?—beginning to suck face with someone else at the party. So, she added, "Before your little pet runs away from you. But then again, I wouldn't blame him." She hit the blonde where it hurts: "I wouldn't be caught dead near you in that cheap fucking costume."

Let her stick her tongue down your throat. Suck on that little angel. What's the matter? Don't you want it, Landon? Don't you want it?!

Glassy and distant dark eyes settled across the room on his ex while that voice jostled back of his mind. Hardly directed to the blonde in Helen of Troy costume. It spoke about Sienna. In a very crude and disrespectful way. The kind of voice that almost sounded like his own but an odd disembodied echo he sometimes experiences while tired. Far too exhausted with all these story ideas in his head. Tonight wasn't meant to fade off from a good time. No, he's meant to enjoy this for once. For one goddamn night he's here at this Halloween party finally ENJOYING himself for a fucking change.

Nah. It's not right of you to. Think about it. Isn't this all so coincidental. How close you're getting to this girl. Yet there's the reason it'll go nowhere. Won't even get a kiss on the cheek. Cause there's nightmare fuel on two legs.

Emeline spotted him. Equally surprised he even appeared there. In full costume. Scarlet glitter creating a sinister effect on a styled beard. Mimicking a devil's goatee. Sinful red. Satan with his little angel.

The blonde's expression soured when it was obvious. That he wasn't alone. On his arm. Another woman. A date in the eyes of the public and if nobody would have said anything at first, it'll surely spread through media. After all Emeline never kept her mouth shut. When they were together she kissed and told. A thousand times. Spread untruths. Made his reputation soiled. Even if he's on the up and up currently that voice is still in his head. A strange one. Building up. And it tells him how pathetic he is. It shows that twisted smile on miss ingenue's face as she laughs with her companions. Landon never thought he could hate her. He hated what she did to him. The abuse. But truly hate her?

Landon turned sharply to Sienna as her words finally filtered through whatever is going on in his head. Over stimulated. Over creative. Wrapped up in the moment. This moment. For them. It's meant to be. Now it's ruined. He's ruined it by feeding this beast. "Sienna, I need a minute. just…"

"Landon." Already too late. Emeline is there. Quick to interrupt. Approach with eyes taking in Sienna's appearance with a barely there sneer. "You're actually here. Imagine you attending for once."

"Yeah, imagine…" he cleared his throat, placing a hand against Sienna's lower back. In a way it's to protect her from what's going to come out of Emeline's mouth. To keep her believing coming here with him is a good idea. He has nothing to hide. That doesn't mean it'll go smoothly. When does it ever? "Come on, we-"

"Wait." Emeline held up a hand, pressing a palm to his chest as a brace. The flinch in his body is noticeable only between this triad. Even so she does little to distance. Almost feeding off his reaction. "Introduce me to your new squeeze, Landon. I'm sure she knows all about the stories. The ones I've told."

Landon's jaw clenched. "Enough, Emeline."

"Oh, please don't get upset." She turned to give Sienna a forced smile. Plastic. Pretty. Pristine. Perfected by an actress of course. "He always gets upset over small things. Have you noticed that? But I am so surprised he's actually here with someone. How old is she anyway, Landon? Quite on the young side don't you think?"

"Knock it off," he hissed under his breath. Shifting forward to face her directly, he swallowed. Been a long time since he got away from this shit. Now he's back in those hellish years in a blink. All it takes is one comment. She always had a knack for that. "Just go on back to Mark," Landon added with a glare. "If you're still with him anyway." Cut down on her snide bitch of a smile didn't it? This is a waste of time. All of it. What he needs is a drink. @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

Who's watching? Tell me, who's watching? Who's watching me?

I'm just an average man with an average life I work from nine to five, hey, hell, I pay the price All I want is to be left alone in my average home But why do I always feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone?

LANDON & SIENNA & ART THE CLOWN.

// @wynterlanding

[angelslaain]

A good time. When was the last time Sienna had one of those? She'd like to think she was doing well, all things considered. How many people could say they survived a murderous clown and came out of it, save for a few scars, unscathed? Though it didn't feel right to brag about. She'd seen the grisly pictures of Allie and her mom in pieces. Every victim that night was identified, and who was left alive to do it all? None other than Sienna Shaw. She couldn't, not in good conscience, allow her brother to see any of them. (Though God knows what the hell that boy googles when she's not around. For all she knew, the Shaws were on some FBI watch list.)

And yet, as she felt Landon's arm snake around her waist, fabric of his sleeve brushing up against her bare lower back, she wanted to take his word for it. She had to. In the name of continuing to live the life everybody who died that night deserved. One that was fulfilling, purposeful, and safe. She had a privilege here, attending no doubt one of the most prestigious, most buzzed-about events of the year. An upscale Hollywood Halloween party. And with one of the most famed directors of her generation. It was almost picture-perfect.

Inside, Sienna did well to follow the director as he made his rounds. Funnily enough, she didn't think about the obvious: Who would she recognize behind their masks and makeup? After all, she wouldn't have known it was Heidi Klum underneath that grotesque worm costume if a headline didn't tell her. Maybe she was passing by icons and she didn't know it. She preferred it that way.

Well, seeing one of the Kardashians was a little cool. Sipping on her themed cocktail (some sort of Deep Red-inspired sangria; that decked-out bar was one of the highlights of her night so far), she listened to Landon bring her into his world. As a newbie on set, she was careful not to step on anyone's toes, especially his. She was in charge of making his vision come to life. Beyond her audition and small talk, there was a line there that she and Landon would've never crossed if it weren't for that fateful night he drove her home. Now, she was stepping past that line. And it felt good.

She giggled whenever he told her of Tobias Fairchild. ...rather stick his tongue down my throat. Maybe it was the sangria bubbling, but she quipped: "Who wouldn't?" And she said it with confidence, too.

The A-list corner made her roll her eyes. Who was too good for horror? Even the queen Meryl Streep herself dabbled in Death Becomes Her, not quite the blood-and-guts horror but horror adjacent. Horror was cool now. "Give it a year or so after Silent Scream comes out," Sienna told him. "I wouldn't be surprised if, like, DiCaprio asked to be your next Bruce Campbell." Saying both names in one sentence made her scrunch her nose. Her teeth closed down on her lip when she felt Landon joking around in her ear.

But she couldn't relish that flirtatious sensation for much longer. A second later, she was wearing a smile—one that was maybe outwardly artificial to the sober eye, but with all the haze from the smoke machines and hookah and booze, she was hoping this lady wouldn't notice. "I'm Sienna, so nice to meet you." She reached out to shake the other woman's hand. Might as well be nice so that Landon can see that Sienna's able to play along. "I've seen a few clips. I think you just came out with that interview with Layla DeLong? I love her."

The conversation went on somewhat shallowly, Sienna taking the backseat while Lavinia gushed about her current projects. Maybe she would've shared more about herself if Lavinia stopped for a second to breathe. When the topic finally shifted to her, she shared, "I'm on the special effects team for Silent Scream. It's coming along really well, right, Lan?"

Sienna's smile dissipated when she noticed Landon's gaze was somewhere else, somewhere far away. Not because he wasn't paying attention, but because she could sense that something was off. Knitting her brows, she asked him quietly, "Hey you. Is everything okay?" // @wynterlanding

Cheesy is a last resort kind of word for anything that Sienna Shaw is giving right now. When he first saw her when he came to her place it took a whole lot of willpower to pick his jaw up off the ground. She was smokin in that costume. He's got no clue how the hell she even agreed to come here with him. Looking that way? Fuck he's jealous of his own self for pulling her on his arm for this party. People like to assume. It's bound to happen here. But since when does he care? Flaunting her as his date is gonna be an empowered form of moving on with his life. He sees this 'date' as an opportunity for something more. Sienna's got nothing to worry about. Does she even know how gorgeous she is? Cheesy is hardly the word for it.

Landon's eyes are hugging her hips much as his fingers were suddenly itching to do. "You look great. Don't even worry. I'd probably sell my own soul to get a dance with you." Half joking, half hinting to what he'd like to do at this shindig; his fingers came up to stroke his beard, which he gave an added red sparkle to. Very fitting for his attire. Red. Black. Velvet. Donning a full on cloak trailing him behind in an ominous sweep. He admits he likes the added horns protruding from his forehead, his main attachment much as Sienna's is her wings. Make up departments are swift in their line of work. Easier when they've got a full thing working. Vintage devil. Nobody can argue with classics.

Sliding a hand against her arm while she fiddled with the collar, his gaze softened. Just enough. Oddly feeling as if he was meant to be here with her. Shit he hasn't even drank yet. Where is his mind? "Come on. I'll show you a good time," the husky promise drew a smile, heading up to the entrance. Music teemed out into the foyer to greet them. Pulling in an atmosphere filled with bodies, booze and Hollywood class on a dime of crass.

Plethora of guests. Monsters. Mayhem. And beyond! Quite a title for a documentary he might have done once upon a time. Mainstream success means mingling with other influencers he'd never think to rub shoulders with. Usually his crowd is more keyed to his genre. Then he does have a few oddball connections here and there. Which prompted him to force a smile as he was waved and called attention to. "Hi, Kim," he said, quickly bypassing that particular crowd with a hand to Sienna's lower back. Most appropriate place below her wings but also dangerously positioned considering. "We don't talk about Kanye." He murmured, adding a touch of humor to this run through.

Elaborating on who else is there might ease her into this type of crowd. It also is in his nature as a freshly minted fame monster to talk shit about the elite. In all good fun of course. "Mm, I see one rival producer from Majestic Studios. Standing out looking as pompous as his colonial attire screams. Tobias Fairchild, resident British snob. Total dick. Thinks we'd make a great production together. Think he'd rather stick his tongue down my throat," the director hardly minced words, relaying an obvious fanboy affair whenever the Brit tried to bribe him to jointly make a picture. "The legion of too good for horror. Right over there." Pointing out typical A-listers he scoffed in a laugh. "You can tell since their costumes look like shit." Breathing those words playfully beside Sienna's ear, he paused, straightening as someone approached.

"Landon! Look at you Mister Devil." Lavinia Cortez, horror hostess and toxic gothic queen of the Frightful Follies Network. In the flesh dolled up like a serpent. Except she's got no rainbow. The medusa headpiece must have cost her an arm and two legs. Right kind of currency in their genre. "Who is this? Your girlfriend?"

There's mischief in that question. He can see it sparkling in the woman's eyes. Landon rolled his own, giving a slight cough. "She's - something," he answered coyly.

"Oh please. I'm not going to say anything to those roaches with cameras." Lavinia tilted her head. Really! "You look stunning," she turned compliments to his mystery angel.

"Sienna, this is Lavinia Cortez. I'm sure you've probably seen her on Toxic Talk." Or maybe she hasn't. Who knows at this point but at least he can count on the horror personality NOT saying anything. The last he needs is Sienna caught up in media. Shoulda thought of that before inviting her out you jackass. Fuck it. He wants her… to impress her. Introductions to friends is a good move. What could go wrong, right? Landon might have jinxed himself with such a thought. Clearly he's in over his head to think he wouldn't spot his ex but finally he had. Dressed up as a Greek goddess from what he can tell. Blonde hair in waves. Perfected smile. Miss ingenue who never did anything wrong in her life. His smile is already gone. @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

Brown eyes watched him as he leaned forward, closing the distance between them just so. Normally she'd be skittish, looking around for any sign of this all being a prank, a figment of her imagination. But it all felt real to Sienna. Even if this was nothing but a small fling, a bout of flirtation between the two, she felt brave enough to pursue it. Her therapist, Mrs. Bates, would tell her to seize such an opportunity—go back to making decisions and living life the way she would have before the incident. And Sienna before her life was destroyed would definitely be all over this.

So, fueled by a bit of bravery, she played coy, moving her fork around her food a bit before looking back up at Landon. "It depends, are you asking me to come with you, Mr. Wynter?" She was only teasing, pointing to the fact that he hadn't properly invited her out. Warmth returned to her expression before she gave him a nod. "I've gotta put some finishing touches on it, but... it should be good to go before the party. I'll try not to upstage you." A wink was sent his way.

She relaxed back against the chair before addressing her little brother, who undoubtedly would be happy to hear she was spending Halloween night out. As scarred as he was from that night those years ago, Jonathan did a good job at regaining strength, finding his stride back in life again. He had more to be excited about, more growing up to do, than Sienna did. Though she supposed things were looking up... weren't they? "Oh, he loves monster movies. He always begs me to tell him secrets from set every time I come home. He'll be stoked just to hear I'm going to this party, though."

Her phone buzzed in her pocket and that reminded her of one thing. "Before I forget, let's exchange numbers? In case of a costume emergency."

In a private corner he's had enough time to think without company on most days. He truly felt it a necessity to isolate at times. Creatives juices will flow no where if he doesn't. Yet the director's hardly been vibing by himself. Call it some weird twist of fate. Chalk it up to coincidence. Or maybe it's him becoming a little too attached to a young woman who would just as soon to tell him to take a hike. No such luck in losing her yet. He smiled then, visibly attentive to their conversation.

"Mm," he hummed, chewing his food thoughtfully. "Valkyrie outfit." Sienna's portfolio had impressed him at the onset. However his mind is probably playing tricks on him. Did he remember it subconsciously or was this truly divine coincidence? Either way he's watching her across the table. Tapping his foot lightly on the gray carpet beneath their seats; he stared a moment longer taking in her words.

Landon leaned forward, sliding a hand against the table. "Are you agreeing to come out with me, Sienna Shaw?" Playful even. Look at him. Trying to go with the flow of this unexpected chemistry. He won't deny that she's pretty. Or that he feels an odd connection. Really IS IT so odd? She just hits different than most he meets. In a very good way. The type of fresh breath that he's been missing.

"Vintage devil needs his Valkyrie so - I'd love to see you in it." An honest confession. Landon's not mincing words when he says so. The man is content with her humoring him for lunch as it is. However things are definitely heading more directly. "Does your brother like monster movies? Maybe I'll snag a prop we won't miss for him. I'll bring it when I pick you up for the party." @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

"Really? Thanks, Mr. Wynter, but you don't have to."

Sienna could hear Deborah's words in her ear now as if she was standing right in front of them, accusing her of schmoozing the boss. The thought of it almost made Sienna roll her eyes and outright reject Landon's offer, figuring that gambling out here would be better than dealing with whatever lecture her coworker would have in store for her tomorrow if she ever found out. But these days, it was more important for her to get home safe than to base her actions on future judgment.

So, a beat later, hoping she wasn't too late, she wore a hesitant smile and added: "I mean, if you're sure. It would mean a lot. My brother's, uh, learning how to drive so I've been letting him use the car for lessons and stuff like that." She nodded. "Thanks." Another quick text sent to Jonathan that she'd be on her way home soon. Catching a ride w boss.

Readjusting the strap of her backpack on her shoulder, Sienna waited to follow after Landon as they headed to his car. It wasn't out of the ordinary for a boss to offer a ride to their employee, but that didn't mean she appreciated it any less. Los Angeles—the City of Stars—it wasn't always filled with the kindest of strangers or the best of friends. Back in her small town in New York, everyone had each other's backs. Maybe it was a little too invasive for some, with overly polite neighbors offering unsolicited favors left and right... At least she could rely on someone if she needed. These days, she had no one. So, Landon's efforts—especially since she knew he was more exhausted than she was—would not go unnoticed.

"So, is that true? Nobody asks you how you're doing? What about your assistant?" she asked. Then, a soft scoff left her. "That's honestly kind of messed up."

Uber this late? Might not be witching hour but it's in that odd twilight time when things go to hell in most horror fare. Ask him. He knows it well in his real life. Except his real life horror movie starring the phony and abusive Emeline Entwistle ended several years ago. Lucky for him. Not so lucky for the next guy. All thoughts aside he had to laugh at her question, truly. A weird almost prickish reaction he's sure. "Sorry, Miss Shaw. I don't mean to laugh it's just - a little ironic. Nobody asks me how my day is." She's really not taking anything said about him to heart is she? Well, it's nice. It's refreshing. Thank fuck he doesn't have to dance around any lingering questions. "But it was as good as it's gonna get. Tight schedule and all. Though I do agree with you on that last scene. Drenching my leads in blood and bits is always a highlight." On that the director is a hundred percent honest.

Landon glanced to her phone when it went off. A lighted ping middle of the night. Beacon of hope lost here after hours. Dead of night. Shitty to wait around for a ride when it's an unsettling time. He'll admit it does feel a particular way out here. Maybe it's why he doesn't mind. Nobody else is around to bother him at this hour. He can leave without fuss. Not counting Deborah's little stunt.

"Maybe we can talk about the production on the way home." Leaving that to settle for a moment, he nodded towards his vehicle. Sitting alone now that most everyone has left. The only left over cars are those working night shifts in a few surrounding buildings. Cosmic Vault Productions is always teeming with life somewhere. "I mean if you want a ride. Don't see why you gotta wait for an Uber. Especially this late. Could wind up with some creep. That's not me." Adding it to ease his offer, he realizes it's probably weird. Still she's probably one of the few who doesn't have proper transportation just to get out of here in a timely manner. @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

Even one of the most revered people in Hollywood was a little self-deprecating. It humanized him. She'd have to Google his Halloween looks from previous years. Despite his humility, she knew they had to be amazing given the kind of movie they were all making now.

Sienna was mid-bite of her granola bar when his words caught her off guard. She slowed her chewing, before finishing up and ultimately letting out a chuckle. That first part had to be one of those coincidence things. He couldn't possibly have remembered that she had included her old Valkyrie costume in her portfolio when she applied for this job. And he couldn't possibly have known that she had a new and improved one waiting for her at home. It was just... uncanny.

Those other parts, though? They threw her for a loop.

She felt like an idiot, like a child holding a granola bar. All the other girls—like the leading ladies—were graceful, pretty. Had a poise to them that Sienna could never really figure out for herself. "Thanks, Lan," she told him, her gaze falling to her feet as she hid her blush. Before she could address anything more, he invited her to sit with him. There was only a slight hesitation before she nodded. "Yeah, sure thing."

-

It wasn't every day Sienna had the chance to eat more than a granola bar between her daily tasks. Once she sat in the lounge with Landon, she opened up her own meal. "So," she started, mustering up some courage, "this is gonna sound really weird, but. That thing you said earlier about wanting to be a devil for Halloween, except you needed an angel? I have this... costume at home. It's a remake of this Valkyrie outfit I put in my portfolio, if you remember.

"Anyways, Jonathan's probably going to ditch me first for his own plans, so if you did want to go to that party and wanted somebody to come with you... it kind of works perfectly for me." She bit her lip.

Debbie Loomis is a brat and a half. He'd tell anyone that from how he's overheard her tone and language with people. She'll never make it anywhere in this business. If she doesn't knock it the fuck off he'll make sure this is her last time with Cosmic Vault. Then he realizes most will move onto other projects. Including Sienna. Well, if he let's it happen anyway. There's always contracts and partnerships.

Gaze lingering on her for a moment, he produced a little smile of his own. With a shake of his head, sidestepping to reach for an empty food container; he chose to fill up from their little buffet style banquet. "Really think I can pull off grotesque worm couture? Hardly. Take a look at me, Sienna." An obvious joke but maybe some quiet self deprecation kicking around in his head. The kind only sinking him every time miss ingenue ex makes shitty comments. One thing about this Halloween party is the potential to run into her. "I was planning on it but I usually back out. Even if I live for this holiday."

Often enough Landon used to be THAT kid who went above and beyond for a good costume. Gone are those innocent days. Instead of teeming in excitement for All Hallows Eve he's left to remove himself. His choice sure. But if it means missing confrontation from liars then so be it. "The cliche costume choice would be dressing as Eddie from Rocky Horror yet again." Again meaning third time's the charm. He has no idea if Sienna's seen that revamp a few years ago but he doesn't usually bring it up. Not out of dislike. Just because he isn't a bragging sort. He does what he loves and that's that. "I could roll with a devil this year. If only I had an angel on my arm at the party for contrast."

Landon scoffed at himself. Closing his container, filled with a plethora of rice and beef from the stir fry tray, he shifted to face Sienna. "I'd go if you were interested," the director confessed. "But you don't need an invite to a Hollywood party to be 'cool' or stand out for people like Debbie. She is jealous. That you're a better designer than her." Throwing out compliments isn't for nothing. He means that. "And come on. All this food here? Grab something and join me in the lounge." @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

The ghost of Landon's touch lingered where he'd held her to make sure she didn't fall, making Sienna stumble on her words a bit when she finally got the guts to respond, butterflies in her throat. Her eyes followed Debbie as she walked away, annoyed by something—most likely the way that the director was giving her special attention again. The look from Landon was completely missed.

Sienna felt a bit stupid that she actually tried to be civil with her coworker. All that buddy-buddy talk was just filler, and it was naive for her to think they were turning over a new leaf. It seemed that her only ally on this whole set was someone so unlikely: the so-called tyrant director. However, Landon was the only person who ever made her feel comfortable on set. She didn't have some new girl complex thinking that everybody should be nice to her because she's a rookie in the biz or anything like that, but damn. It wouldn't hurt for people to be nice.

She chuckled. "Thanks, but... it's no big deal." Back home, she and her friends would be plotting for a way to serve justice, going along with what Landon was saying, but Los Angeles Sienna wanted to live under the radar as much as she could. She didn't need anyone finding out about Miles County and how she was involved in all of that. After the whole thing with Debbie, a lot of the crew was already staying away from her as it was. So, Sienna said the right thing. "I think she's just jealous. Plus, we wouldn't stop hearing about how we ruined her haircut until, like, wrap party." But she paused for a second. Was she jealous of Sienna's interactions with Landon, or Sienna's skills? She didn't want to imply either and seem arrogant, so she turned around to get what she initially headed over here for.

There was a cornucopia of decadence behind them on the craft table, but Sienna often skipped all the fancy stuff. She reached for a granola bar—noting that it was one of those expensive ones she'd never pick up at the grocery store—and unwrapped it before taking a bite. After a second, she remembered: "So, are you really going to the Halloween party?" Or did you just want me to look cool in front of Debbie? A little smile adorned her lips as she thought of him in a goofy costume, hiding her amusement behind her $6 granola bar. "What are you wearing? I bet you have access to Heidi Klum's worm costume from last year."

To say these last few weeks were entirely positive was a load of bullshit. The kind he began drowning in outside of his production. At least things were relatively cool there. More petty issues from a few staff but he's not here for this Gossip Girl drama shit. What a fucking terrible series that was. No blood. No grit. Definitely not something he wants on his damn set.

Maybe he shouldn't have paid attention to Deborah. Nor let her sit eating lunch with him that one time cause now she's firmly planted up his ass. Attempting to be and since his blow up over her playing games with Sienna, the girl's seemed to lay off. Odd to see them speaking together right now. Probably best not to look a gift horse in the mouth. Cause lord knows he needs somebody to put reins on problem people.

Landon moved in on the pair. Aware his presence typically causes immediate questions, he isn't trying to performance review anybody. Leave it to the higher ups here with Cosmic Vault. He's mainly nosy. A little too much but eavesdropping on his own set is hardly a fair description.

He caught onto Sienna's waist when she twisted around into him. The nickname isn't lost on him. Neither was it on Debbie who once again showed some true colors while glaring at their brief contact. He slipped hands off the younger woman, producing somewhat of a smile. Usually forced when he has to make appearances. Rather smile when a genuine fan approaches him or - reserved for people who are on his good list. "Don't tell me I have nobody to talk to at this Halloween party," he hinted to possibly attending. Possible is a major what if. Favorite holiday. Better still when he's got someone to go with, right? Is he really going for that?

Landon cut a look at Deborah silently pushing her to move along. She took the hint and got lost with her lunch. He shook his head, scoffing a bit. "She bothering you again? If so just say the word. I'll put her in as an extra and cover that new hair cut in blood. Carrie style." Playful banter? Fuck him he's been abducted hasn't he?

Maybe he's been working too hard at home. If he's not kicking it around with Silent Scream, Landon's drawn up in writing about something that's been giving him nightmares. The fear of the unknown. Uncanny valleys. Drew him back to their discussion on phobias. That night he drove her home. Watching her get out to head in - only for her to have glanced back just once. Over her shoulder. He remembers the weirdest or most mundane shit. That night he had a night terror. Sweaty. Shaking. And he just happened to wake up to Sienna's voice. Can't imagine telling her all this. She'll think he's a fucking creep. @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

EXT. HALLOWEEN PARTY. SOMEWHERE IN THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS.

Sienna wished she had two heads. One that could face the window of the car and watch the sandy dunes and the city lights mesh together like a kaleidoscope as they cruised, and another that could keep Landon in her line of sight in the driver's seat at all times for fear that this might all fade away and be a dream. Most of her dreams ended up bloody. This one, she wanted to end in a blaze of fireworks, if it really had to end at all. It seemed more and more that it was all real. She gave Landon a smile and reached out to turn up the volume of the radio. Feeling the ridges of the knob under her fingertips told her she wasn't asleep.

Even though we're goin' through it And it makes you feel alone Just know that I would die for you Baby, I would die for you, yeah

They were only a minute or so now from the house that this Halloween party was going to be held in. She'd never been anywhere fancy, and never even drove up here in the Hills for that matter. All she knew back in Miles County were dingy garage and dingy warehouse parties. She kept thinking back to what she'd joked about with Landon; that Heidi Klum worm costume. Would she be there, having her photo taken by swarms of photographers, showing off her latest...

Hmm. What was that weird, gross thing that Jonathan was drawing a couple of days ago?

It's a wendigo, Sienna. Jeez, haven't you ever played Until Dawn?

She remembered rolling her eyes and finishing up making dinner while he scribbled at the table.

Anyway, about Heidi Klum's wendigo costume. Sienna wondered if there was going to be somebody famous at this party. She wouldn't put it past Landon to only hang with the elites in the city. If she were in his shoes, she'd do the same, wouldn't she? But then she thought, as they rolled up to one of the free parking spots, about how Landon sometimes hated all the glitz and glamour that came with what he loved to do. And if he was hanging out with her, maybe that meant he didn't only associate with the rich and famous.

She got out of the car and cleared her throat, visibly nervous, though trying her best to seem confident. Seeing her reflection in the car window, she checked herself out. Sienna purposely rushed past the mirror in her bedroom, not wanting to be triggered by the sight of herself in the Valkyrie getup considering... well, what happened the last time she wore it.

This was a revamped version with wings that she made herself and were kept away from anything that could set on fire. (She kept them off during the drive, though, and slipped them on as soon as she got out of the car.) It was the same concept of a battle angel, except, instead of the pristine armor she'd made before, she intentionally weathered it. Gave it more details. She couldn't, however, give up on the golden makeup and the braids in her hair that she actually loved so much.

As many bad memories as the outfit harbored, Sienna thought that this could be a chance to make some good ones. To redeem (and in many ways, avenge) the way that he had destroyed the strength behind it.

She looked over her shoulder at Landon, realizing she'd been clocking her appearance in the mirror for at least a minute. She chuckled, probably seeming so vain. "I just wanna make sure I don't look cheesy," she spoke earnestly. "You, though? You look amazing." Now that she could actually see him standing up, she admired all of the effort put into his devil costume. She closed the distance between them to fix something on his collar.

Sienna Shaw? Flirting right in front of his non salad? Oh hell he must have hit the jackpot today. He smiled, gradually allowing himself to step down from being guarded. If she's vibing the same way then he can be less caged up. Just enough to pique more of her interest cause he's not gonna lie one bit. He likes the young woman. Really does. Never mind that odd dream he had with her calling his name. Got nothing to do with it.

"Put those finishing touches. Cause I AM asking you to go with me. Officially. I'm asking you out, Sienna. Away from this production." Anybody whose a fly on the wall would immediately run to press. They'd start creating stories. Director and graphic designer start affair on set. Landon Wynter snags younger side chick. Emeline blowing more smoke painting him a fucking toxic asshole. All those instances popped up in his head. Nearly ruining this moment but he pushed it down. He didn't realize how vivid all these things were swirling around in his brain until the last few weeks. Working on this film might have just amped up his frustration. Yet right now he feels relaxed. Settled in a way. Able to be somewhat human with her not treating him like an unapproachable troll under a bridge.

"Mm," the director hummed, sliding a hand into his pocket. Setting his phone onto the table, his eyes danced up to Sienna's face. "Saves me asking for your number, huh? Not sure what the standard protocol is for a director to not come off weird asking you know?" Clearly he's teasing. Playful in tone. Dipping his head aside with a grin to watch her.

Debbie might have dropped dead on the spot watching him give coy smiles to THAT girl. But there she was hovering outside the door. Trying to see what's happening. Like a jealous high school girl attempting to ruin the weird girl's run for prom queen. "Hey, Debbie, what are you doing?" She turned at another one of their creative team, hushing them immediately. "Look at that slut. I knew she got this job by fucking him. Such bullshit!" @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

Sinking into a conversation with Landon distracted her, made her feel more at ease, made that looming presence seem more like a harmless figure by the second. He said it himself: Probably just paparazzi trying to get the latest details on his film. Sienna had no clue how he could live this way, especially since it was often probably worse than photographers hiding in the shadows. She had seen countless videos of celebrities getting hounded and then getting pitted as the bad guy when they tried to defend themselves. Either way, the notion of the strange silhouette being another case of that is much better than what she initially thought.

Her nose twisted up, apologetic once she'd heard his phobia. "I'm sorry to hear that. If it makes you feel better, I have that thing where you're scared of holes—gosh, I can never pronounce it correctly—trypophobia or something like that?" She chuckled. "Crazy how the brain works sometimes." And she knew he was from New York just based on what she read about him and the conversations she'd heard on set. As much as she would've liked to connect with him over it—how the pizza was so much better and how the people were meaner but at least they were competent and how the changing of seasons just made it feel all worthwhile—she couldn't. As far as he knew, Sienna Shaw was born and raised somewhere else in California.

She could tell that he liked talking about his mother's accomplishments. It made her miss her own mom. "I have definitely heard of her," she told him. "That brother of mine, he blows through books so fast and his favorite genre is thriller. He has one or two books from her, I think."

The rest of the drive was smooth, Sienna engaging in something a bit deeper than small talk with Landon. She'd never had that sort of interaction with him before; he was always behind that glass veil that was being her boss. It felt good to feel like you had a friend at work, and she left his car with a friendly wave and a heartfelt thanks in the hopes that this meant they could be something like friends. It made her miss her own friends back home.

-

About two weeks passed of smooth sailing on the set of Silent Scream. It was a few days before Halloween, once a holiday that Sienna loved to bits and now something that harbored devastating and bloody memories for her. Not only that, but she was also on edge more than usual, fearful that the Miles County Clown would somehow find his way to Hollywood and finish what he started. Surprisingly, ever since the encounter with paparazzi with Landon that night, she hadn't seen anyone or anything suspicious.

There was talk of some Halloween party somewhere in some celebrity's house in one of the gated neighborhoods of Los Angeles. All the A-list celebs are gonna be there, Debbie told her. And then she went on and on about some stupid nurse costume, finally ending it with: "You should come."

Sienna chuckled. "Thanks for the invite, but I'm just gonna hang back and watch horror movies with my little brother." So unlike her, but this was her new life now. At least she had a costume in progress at home; a revised version of the Valkyrie get-up she created all those years ago. Her therapist advised it might be a good idea to remake it as a sort of healing process. Sienna didn't know how to feel about that.

She turned around, heading to grab a snack from the craft table, but then nearly bumped into Landon instead. "Oh, shit," she said, taking a step back. "I'm sorry, Lan, I didn't even see you there."

Could it be his imagination or is she nervous? Due to a wandering creep or - being alone with him? More likely the former but Landon gets it easily. Most would think he's trying something. Honestly there are plenty of people in Hollywood with a sordid reputation. Those types take advantage without consent all the time. Something he himself would punch said sleaze for doing. While he's very much an auteur of cinema who knows he has fame, Landon is foremost a human being. He's stayed true to himself. As best as he can. Especially when lies are placed on his shoulders. If anybody ever indulged in behavior below the standards of common decency they'd be gone in a heartbeat. Still him here with a young woman, who happens to work on his production, might seem off kilter.

Choosing to start up his engine and roll out of the studio lot will save his mind drifting. Or coming up with reasons as to why that person was loitering. Guess it's good he DID offer a ride. What if he left and Sienna was still there while that asshole lurched up? Couldn't even forgive himself something happening to her. Well, anybody really…

"Uh, family? Grandmother back in New York. That's where I'm from. Miss it honestly. Never gets as cold here. Can't do proper Christmas out here in Californ-IA." Cutting a snide remark about their current location keeps him sane. An east coast man tossed out to west coast wilds. He's been kicking it around way too long since his days at NYU. "She's not pleasant. Period. Gave me a nasty case of pediophobia when I was a child actually." Typically not what he starts off with especially chatting with a lady but it's not like Landon ever said he's conventional. Fear of dolls. Terror of uncanny deformities. A lot of his personal fear thrives in his films now.

"Mother is here though. She's a writer. Mysteries and thrillers. Florence Anton. Maybe you've heard of her. Last book she put out was called 'Violet Dahlias: Murders Among Lights.'" Talking about his mom's foray into best sellers takes some heat off him. "Honestly think it should have been called Hollywood Siren but who am I to judge?" It was meant as a joke. @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

His footsteps may have been obvious to someone paying attention, but Sienna was a bit too preoccupied with figuring her phone out—which still had no fucking signal even as she typed out a text to her lttle brother—to foresee her director's presence until his voice cut through the silence. Startled, Sienna gasped, so on edge that she almost dropped her phone on the concrete. Upon recognizing it was her boss, Landon, she broke out into a soft chuckle, eyes closing for a second of relief before she opened them back up to give him a gentle smile.

"Sorry, Mr. Wynter, I was, uh—I was totally spacing out there," she said, shaking her head at herself. All of her few months' work appearing normal on set was at risk of slipping away because of this stupid day. Her phone pinged as it regained signal. Quickly letting Jonathan know that she'd be home late, she glanced up at Landon, feeling a lot more at ease. "Yeah, my Uber app was totally glitching. Looks like I have to wait another twenty minutes for my ride to get here." Curse the faraway lots these sets were on; and also curse the late-night drunk riders that ran rampant around the city. Her driver was likely too busy cleaning off bodily fluids to get to her on time.

"Did you have a good day?" she asked. Except for the three minutes they talked today, Sienna hadn't spoken to Landon much. They weren't exactly that close in the totem pole in the first place to have much interaction but she wasn't afraid to converse with him like others were. She was familiar with his reputation when taking the job, but she was firstly, too broke of a college graduate to be too picky, and secondly, interested on giving the director the benefit of the doubt and seeing his greatness up close. Besides, this far into production, she was coming to the conclusion that if she had to deal with all the mishaps on set, she might not always be the most pleasant person. "I thought the last scene we did was great."

"Why did she take over? I was doing perfectly fine. And you let her take my job for today! Landon, she's a slacker."

"It's Mr. Wynter," he hissed back with a finger jab. Slicing through the air like a knife, his motion caused more stress. More pressure to get things done. Instead he has more petty bullshit! "Every fucking time we work you cause a problem. I'm tired of it, Debbie. Keep it up and you're off this damn picture."

"In favor of her?" Throwing hands up she scoffed. "That girl has no experience. I'm the experienced one here. I have two other films under my belt!"

"Enough of this. Go home, Miss Loomis! I'm tired. I've worked all day and I wanna get drunk and pass out on my goddamn couch." Taking it out on her is probably not a great move. However she reaped and sowed that whole confrontation. The fact she stayed later than she should have just to corner him ticked him off. Moody is his middle name. Miserable is his personal article. Ask people in the media and he's a monster. Those closest to him know differently but that never sways opinion. Gladly he'll take a day off, forget this shit and pass on the FX girl who keeps trying to get free kiss ass points. Obviously that's why she's mad. He could care less while walking off through the studio lot. Only a few vehicles remained. His midnight blue mustang is in his usual designated parking spot right next to a small security building. Directly on site in case of problems. Landon carried his bag with him. Heading towards a figure, his eyes narrowed. Moving off the lighted path to draw closer, the director's footsteps were obvious. Scuffing sounds beneath soles. His pace only stopped when he came up behind. "A little late to be night prowling isn't it?" Asking with a dip of his head to check the loiterer's face for closer inspection, he did smile a little. "…Miss Shaw." @angelslaain // prev

[angelslaain]

"Yeah, he turns fifteen and suddenly thinks he's the king of the world," Sienna responded, chuckling. If there was anything that could put her at ease it was talking about her brother, Jonathan. ....Which was strange, because there was a time where they despised each other. All siblings had a rivalry, she just didn't think it would end the way that it did, with trauma bonding them eternally and all. It was hard to believe that just a few years ago, she'd been eagerly anticipating the moment she could move out and live on her own. Now, she couldn't imagine being without her brother. "I didn't get my learner's permit 'til I was 17. He doesn't get how lucky he is."

She slipped inside Landon's car, already feeling safer just by the confines of it. This was all going well: She was no longer waiting for the Uber That Might Never Come in the middle of the night and she was on her way home.

Listening to his words, she gave a nod of understanding, and at the same time, she felt bad. There was no telling what the environment was going to be like whenever you walked on a movie set, but for Sienna's first ever gig, she was hoping there was more of a family atmosphere. Save for her few nice interactions with some of the craft people and, of course, her boss, there wasn't much of that going on. Was it always that way? She was about to say something until Landon's voice cut through her thoughts.

Furrowing her brows, Sienna looked out in attempt to see what he'd been seeing. There was a shadowed figure in the distance, and it made her heart absolutely stop. She couldn't make out their face, but their frame was tall, certainly menacing... and the way they lingered for a second before ultimately walking away felt rehearsed. How long had they been waiting there? Could they have been there the whole time, silently watching Sienna? The thoughts nearly paralyzed her in fear. It couldn't be...

Fucking vultures.

Landon's words yanked her out of her thoughts and made her laugh a bit nervously. "Yeah, I... I don't know how you could ever get used to that sort of thing." She went along with it. She had to. "So, um... Do you have lots of family nearby?"

Moving ahead of her after she agreed left Landon in a direct stride for his vehicle. Digging into his pocket for his key fob, he punched it to flash headlights. Indicating the lone Mustang several feet up towards the security building, he glanced back. "Learning to drive? He must be young then." It was the first he realized she had a brother. Usually he isn't one to ask people their personal business. As far as giving his own out? Media has a way of showcasing his shit. Dirty laundry aired in a less than truthful manner. Honestly? Fuck his ex girlfriend.

"My assistant does her job. The usual: 'How are you, Mr. Wynter. Here's your coffee, Mr. Wynter. Did you know you have an appointment with that dickhead from Majestic Studios?'" He paused after ticking them off. "I'm kidding - I'm the one who calls that guy a dickhead not her." Landon snorted, laughing just enough under his breath. Nobody cares about any rival studio talk.

Shifting over to pull open his door, Landon made eye contact with Sienna. Everything is already unlocked so she should be good to go. If she would have turned down the ride home he probably would have pushed it. No sense for her staying out here middle of the night. While they're on lot doesn't mean much if she has to wind up walking home. Creeps come out at night. In LA? Shit it's worse off knowing some of the more sinister history. Hollywood has its dark side. Just as any other so-called 'where the magic happens' staple. "But no. I'm not asked by other people. She's paid to say that to me. Doesn't exactly have the same sincerity to it. Not that Maya is vindictive. Just doing her job."

Landon slid his bag from his shoulder to load inside the car. He paused, looking past Sienna at a figure loitering back near the main studio. "Hey! Private property. If you don't work here get moving!" They seemed to hear, freezing in place for several minutes. Just standing there staring. Can't exactly tell who in the darkness but they gradually took a hint and move on. "Probably some paparazzo camping out. Fucking vultures." He tsked, sliding into his seat. @angelslaain // prev