#( interactions : layla saxena. )

[jaydenlucas]

TO: @laylcsaxena

"As my agent, I got a question." Jayden stood before Layla, his nerves shot at the direction this conversation was about to go. Leave it to Jayden to find himself in some nonsense like this. "How bad would it look, professionally speaking, if some fan came out talking about she had my kid." He held up his hand, "I'm pretty fucking sure this is not my kid, considering I'm not a complete idiot. And I suited the fuck up. Plus -- this wasn't exactly a... duo experience." Damn if this woman didn't think he was dirt before, she's about to. "It was over a year ago, things got a little out of hand. Everything was consensual, but I guess I'm being dragged up for a DNA test." Because of course he was. "There were two other dudes, but I am the only one who's technically a brand name, if you will. So, I'm assuming that equals payday in her mind."

[milesbellingham]

WHO. @laylcsaxena WHERE. fright fest

Not that he was the biggest fan of Halloween, but when something included a funny name, drinks, and entertainment; why would he refuse? It was how he found himself at Hell’s Bar, two drinks in his hands to make his way back to Layla. “You would not believe the kinds of drinks that they came up with here. One of them was made to look like brains. Even had an eyeball as a garnish.” There would be no hiding the sound of his overly dramatic gag, as if he had actually tasted the drink. No bet, no money, no bribe in the world would grant him to stomach one of those. “So i got us these. Apparently they're called zombie's revival. Whatever that means.”

[jaydenlucas]

At the risk of being slapped, although, what a surprise its yet to happen, but -- I think someone might need to get laid. I'm a kick ass wingman. Just say the word, Lay, and we'll have you good to go. Adulting is an optional decision. It was created by people who wanted to strip the world of all its wonder and fun. I rebuke it in the name of Jesus. Life is too short, you got to learn to have some fun, Lay. This big shot agent thing has soured you out.

If you were actually getting high, I'd need something a lot stronger than wine to deal with the headache you'd give me. Right, because you're just that good at covering your tracks, aren't you? I've seen toddlers lie better than you, Jay. And for the record, I'm not old, you overgrown man-child. I just have the misfortune of dealing with clients who think 'adulting' is an optional activity. Your 'silly goofy mood' is what most people call 'Tuesday afternoon at the playground'.

[jaydenlucas]

TO: @laylcsaxena

Mami Layla, just so I'm 100% clear -- if another sports agent ever tried to scout one of your clients; you'd skin both of them alive, right? Asking for a friend. --- Also, have I mentioned, you look so pretty today... did you do something different with your hair? It looks great.

[ryatnavarro]

Ryat was one to find the best of most situations, and this one was no exception truly. In his mind, this meant the ability to try out some free samplers. The store manager and most of the employee were already trying to ring in the chaos, which meant, he had a little more free range. He found himself in the freezer aisle first, deciding on popsicles, he'd bring the open box with him under his arm while unwrapping one in his hand. Just as he turned the corner, he'd nearly run into a girl, but froze when she spoke. His eyes glancing down at the mess of broken glass, and back up at her. "Want a popsicle?" He asked, holding up the box of fruit popsicles, seeming as through he had no care left in the world.

OPEN STARTER

capped at (0/4) location: nash's supermarket during the blackout

Layla reached for a jar of strawberry jam on the top shelf at Nash's Supermarket, her fingertips barely grazing the glass. Just as she was about to grab it, the lights flickered and went out, plunging the store into darkness. A loud crash echoed through the aisle, followed by the distinct sound of glass shattering. Realizing some jars had fallen, she winced. “Shit!” As she stood there, disoriented, the sound of approaching footsteps caught her attention. "Be careful!" she called out, concern clear in her tone. "There's broken glass on the floor."

[jaydenlucas]

"Would you really have a job if they weren't?" He asked, wiggling his brows at her, more than aware that this wasn't apart of the job she signed up for most times. "Well, thank ya for that vote of confidence. It's always appreciated." He meant that, most people enjoyed to see if they could tear him down, but truth was -- he was much stronger than one thought. "Yes, ma'am." He replied, nodding, "Whatever you need." He pulled out his phone, opening up the messages he had received early. "Kayla Nelson." He began, "The date was March of last year. The kid is a couple of months old." Then holding over his phone to the thread of messages from this Kayla woman. "The guys were Michael Jones and Issac Harrison. They're also on the team."

“People are idiots,” she said, crossing her arms. Her eyes studied him with concern. “That doesn’t mean we let those assumptions define you.” Layla pressed her lips together, noting how he dodged around certain topics. “I know you’re smarter than what people give you credit for. That’s why I need you to think this through.” She paused, running her fingers through her long black hair. “Wipe that smirk off your face. I’m trying to be serious.” The words came out exasperated but she still cared. Otherwise she wouldn’t be here. “Consensual fun is fine, but we need to make sure there’s no chance of this coming back to bite us. I’ve dealt with enough PR nightmares this year.” She reached for her phone, already planning damage control strategies. “I’m going to need names, dates, and any messages between you two. And next time? Maybe consider that your agent would appreciate fewer heart attacks.” She shook her head, but a small smile played at the corners of her mouth.

[jaydenlucas]

Damn, Lay -- you're aiming for the gut today. But it's alright, because no matter what you say, I know I'm your favorite. Just look at my face, how could I not be? Listen -- I gotta get my fun where I can. All work and no fun makes Jayden a very dull boy. Plus, I think coach will have my ass before it even gets back to you. He might be a little tired of me, but he knows I'm one of the best. You say that like that isn't the coolest thing. I might even take up that nickname. 'Human Cannon, Jay'. It sounds good.

I'm eternally grateful for the constant throbbing in my temples. It's a real joy. And let's get one thing straight, hotshot. The only thing I'm 'overjoyed' about is the paycheck I get for dealing with your shenanigans. Don't push your luck. As for the overthrows, I'm sure your receivers are just ecstatic to be chasing after balls in the stratosphere. Really keeps them on their toes, right? Look, Jayden, I know you think you're invincible, but trouble has a way of finding even the most careful people these days. Just... watch your back, okay? And for the love of all that's holy, work on those passes. I can't have my star client turning into a human cannon."

[jaydenlucas]

"I mean, most people just assume it comes with the territory, honestly." There weren't many people who looked at Jayden and remotely thought of him as smart. He was, but biases could be a bitch. "Isn't it? I mean, most people wouldn't blink twice if they thought some shit like that was happened." Shit, most people probably expected him to be on his 4th baby momma by now. But that just wasn't the life he wanted for himself. He shook his head, "Nothing at this moment, no." Truth was, he wasn't even sure of what he did have to be even bring it up. If anything, that was more family personal then career driven. He arched his brow and smirked, "Lay my pipe in?" He shook his head, "Really? To answer your question, she isn't really a friend. And it was just a night of consensual fun. I know better then to knock some stranger up." At least, he'd like to think as much.

She rolled her eyes at Jayden’s attempt at humor. “Only you would want people to think you’re an idiot,” Layla said, shaking her head. His casual attitude was getting on her nerves. “This isn’t a joke, Jay. Your ‘playboy image’ isn’t going to help if this blows up in our faces. We need to take this seriously.” She leaned back, studying him. His nonchalance seemed off. “I get it. You’re a star, and drama follows you guys. But this affects your career, reputation, and mine. Are you sure there’s nothing else I should know?” She watched him closely. “If there is, and it comes out later, it’ll be harder to fix. I’m here to help, but I can’t if you’re not honest.” Not wanting to keep nagging, she added, “So, is this woman a friend of yours or someone you decided to lay your pipe in one night?”

[jaydenlucas]

So, what you're saying is that you are grateful for the headache I give you then? Don't know about you, but that usually how you know a party was a success. When you wake up needing to recover from it. So, in my book, that means me equals hell of a party. You are so very welcomed. One day I'll get you to admit that you are over joyed to have me on this team. And we both know I make you more then enough money. Anymore and it'd be robbery. Me? In trouble? Never. I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm sure if I've overthrown anyone, they more then deserved it. Don't believe everything you heard through the grapevine.

The only thing I'd miss if you switched agents is the constant headache you give me. Don't flatter yourself, hotshot. You're not the light of the party, you're the reason I need to keep the aspirin industry in business. You clearly haven't been paying attention, Lucas. I'm already the epitome of both. Dream on, quarterback. If anything, I should be charging you extra for all the stress you put me through. But seriously, just... be careful, alright? I can't have my client getting into trouble. Is that why I keep getting reports of you overthrowing your receivers during practice?

[milesbellingham]

And because Miles is anything but dramatic, he countered with an exclamation that feigned he was insulted at this accusation. "I am not!" He retorted. "I picked something tropical as to signify that you probably need a vacation. When's the last time you've been on one? And it doesn't count if you went with a client." His brows raised with her alerting him that she'd be on her way to get the next round. Patiently waiting to see what her chosen drink would entail. And as the mixture of purple was placed before him, his dark gaze shifted between her and the glass. "Is it gonna be quite a fright?" He joked, the play on words rather lame as it left his tongue though he hadn't thought much of it as he raised the glass to her. "Cheers." And half the drink was swallowed within a second as his face twisted into a look of faux disgust. "What on earth is that?" Though it weren't all so bad, he were playing it up.

Laughter bubbled over at his reaction to the eyeball garnish. She found his squeamishness about Halloween decorations hilarious. Such a tough guy getting worked up over fake eyeballs in a drink. “You’re so dramatic,” she said, taking another sip of her fruity cocktail. “And hey, at least you picked something tropical. Very on brand for you to avoid anything scary.” His first American Halloween deserved to be memorable, even if he wanted to skip the spookier options. “Fine, no brain drinks for you,” she teased, rising from her seat. “You’re in for a treat. We’re buddies, I promise I won’t let you down.” Standing up, she made her way through the crowd, she approached the bar to order their next round. She selected a purple potion for him and a smoking cauldron brew for herself. Nothing too frightening, but still festive enough. When she came back, she slid the glass over to him. "Try that."

[jaydenlucas]

Jayden simply shrugged at the question, "I mean, I have taken plenty of hits to the head, so I'm sure one would think I was an easy sell." There was an ounce of humor in his words, but one could be aware that there was also truth. "You're welcome, I figured I'd help keep a friend informed." He replied, smirking at his agent. "Wouldn't be a star without one finally coming to light, now would I?" A little shake up on his image sounded like it could be interesting. His only concern about this probably making headlines was Soren. He shook his head at her remark, "Nah, this is the only thing right now." He replied, "If you think about it, my playboy image only makes more sense now."

“You're telling me someone's trying to pin a kid on you? Do they think you’re stupid or what?" She shook her head. "And thanks for the update on Amos. As if I didn't know this already." She fixed him with a stern look. The difference was, Amos didn't know his daughter existed. Jay on the other hand...well, she couldn't be sure if the situation was the same. "Listen, Jay. I don't care how careful you think you've been. This situation is a PR nightmare waiting to happen. We need to handle it discreetly and quickly." The last thing she needed was another scandal. "Why do I get the feeling you're not telling me everything? Look, I need to know if there's anything else that could potentially blow up in our faces. I can't protect you if I don't know what I'm dealing with."

[jaydenlucas]

I call bullshit. It's in your eyes. Plus, have you met me? Everyone misses me. I'm the light of the fucking party. Gray hair is in. Makes you look smart and mature, you're welcome. I expect a discount. Guess we're just going to go in blind together and see what surprises are to be hold. I think this was an insult, but I have you know, my aim is A1 in and off the field.

Then stop giving me a headache, and I won’t give you more mommy issues. Miss you? Ha! I'd throw a party if you switched agents. But you're right about one thing—I'd miss the money. Oh, is that what you call it? Here I thought you were just trying to give me premature gray hairs. You better not fail a drug test. Maybe we should practice your aim during training sessions too?

[jaydenlucas]

What if I was? Would you need to have a seat? Maybe a glass of wine? Relax those nerves first? It wouldn't be the worst thing to happen to me, you know? I piss clean anyways. See-- that's the problem with getting old, Layla -- when you're old, you think someone just having some fun is childlike. I just be in a silly goofy mood.

Like we do on a lot of things. Uhm... Why does it sound like you're trying to tell me something here? Have you been getting high or something. If you are, you better fess up. And let's hope your team is not doing random drug testing. You might as well be. Hate to break this to you, Jay, you have the personality of a 5 year old. Great point there—you're you.

[jaydenlucas]

I mean, adding coats to this mommy issue thing, why not? And wow, just over here breaking your best player's heart. If I ever switched agents you'd miss me. Or more importantly, the money. It's all one and the same, LayLay. I keep you on your toes, your life would be boring as shit without me. You say that like pissing in a cup is hard work.

I could smack you with my chappal like your mother too. Then, I'd really remind you of her. You're full of yourself if you think I'd miss you. But yes to the money. You do give me that. Hence, here I am putting up with your crap. Joy? More like annoyance inducing. You joke about that like I'm not going to make you get a drug test.

[milesbellingham]

Eyeball garnish; nope, Miles did not like the sound of that. Layla could phrase it however she deemed fit, he would not be ingesting anything of the sort. "Or maybe that’s just what they want you to think." His eyes widened as if to convince her of the conspiracy spinning within his own mind–and unlikely anyone else's. He was more than content with his choice of fruity cocktail. Something to do with pineapple and coconut sounded pleasant to him at the time. Whatever was in this thing was unbeknownst to him, but it surely didn't resemble a human body part. "Oh you make it sound so appetizing. Who could pass up the chance to indulge in that?" He would be the one passing up that chance. "Seeing as it's my first year celebrating Halloween in America, I'll allow you to pick the second round. No brain drinks."  

She watched him make his way back with the drinks, her lips curving into a grin at his dramatic reaction. Layla snorted at his description of the brain-themed cocktail, rolling her eyes. "Oh come on, you big baby. The eyeball garnish is probably just a lychee or something," She teased before grabbing a zombie revival drink. "But thanks for not getting me anything with floating body parts. Although, I’m willing to bet those brain cocktails are actually pretty good." She took a small sip of her drink, pleasantly surprised by the fruity kick. "You know what? Next round is on me, and I'm definitely getting one of those brain drinks. Maybe we can both try it? Unless you're too scared," she added with a challenging smirk, knowing full well he'd probably refuse.

[jaydenlucas]

"No -- I'm trying to tell you that someone is trying to pin a child on me." He corrected, "Ain't no way in hell I'm that kid's dad." Maybe that was a deadbeat thing to say, but he just knew. In his gut, he knew. He arched a brow, and flashed a smile, "What? You're not loving your clients popping up with secret love children? I heard Amos de Leon has a daughter." He commented, "Fortunately for you, that's the only client of yours with one." He crossed his arms, "And I did listen in sex ed, okay? I'm even more careful now that my name is in lights." The smile dropped slightly as she asked him if this was the only skeleton in his closet, his thoughts wandering to the other things that were left in the dark. He cleared his throat, and nodded, "Sure, yeah -- of course."

Layla's eyes widened as she listened to Jayden's rambling explanation. She felt a headache coming on, wondering if she'd ever catch a break with her clients' antics. "Are you trying to tell me in a roundabout way that you've fathered a child?" She rubbed her temples, looking up at the ceiling and wondering why God was testing her so much these days? "Have none of you," him and Amos, "not taken safe sex classes back in the day?" She sighed heavily, her mind already racing through damage control scenarios. "Okay, let's take this one step at a time. First, we need to confirm if there's any truth to this claim. I'll arrange for a private DNA test before things escalate. In the meantime, keep your mouth shut about this. No comments to anyone, got it?" Her tone softened slightly, realizing he was probably freaking out too. "We'll handle this, Jay. Just... please tell me this is the only skeleton in your closet?"