#Los Angeles Limousine

[laxviplimo]

Limousine Service in Los Angeles: Luxury for Every Occasion

Los Angeles, a city known for its glitz and glamour, is the perfect backdrop for a luxurious ride. Whether you're attending a glamorous event, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to travel in style, a limousine service in Los Angeles provides the ultimate experience. This blog explores the various aspects of limousine services, the benefits they offer, and how they can enhance your time in this vibrant city.

What is Limousine Service?

Limousine service encompasses a range of transportation options that feature luxurious vehicles, typically driven by professional chauffeurs. These services are designed to provide comfort, elegance, and convenience, making them ideal for a variety of occasions—from weddings and proms to airport transfers and corporate events.

Types of Limousines Available

Los Angeles limousine services offer a variety of vehicle options tailored to different needs and preferences. Here are some popular types:

1. Stretch Limousines

Stretch limousines are the quintessential choice for luxury travel. These elongated vehicles can accommodate larger groups, making them perfect for weddings, parties, or night outs. With plush interiors, mood lighting, and high-end sound systems, they provide an extravagant experience.

2. SUV Limousines

For those who desire a larger vehicle with a rugged feel, SUV limousines are a great option. These vehicles offer spacious interiors and can comfortably seat up to 20 passengers. They are ideal for group outings, such as bachelor or bachelorette parties.

3. Classic Limousines

Classic limousines, often vintage models, add a touch of timeless elegance to any event. These vehicles are perfect for weddings or formal gatherings, providing a sophisticated aesthetic that is sure to impress.

4. Exotic Cars

For a unique twist, many limousine services in Los Angeles offer exotic cars like Lamborghinis, Ferraris, or Bentleys. These high-performance vehicles are perfect for those looking to make a statement and enjoy an exhilarating ride.

Benefits of Using a Limousine Service

Choosing a limousine service in Los Angeles comes with a multitude of benefits. Here are some key advantages:

1. Comfort and Luxury

Limousines are designed for comfort. With spacious seating, climate control, and amenities like minibars and entertainment systems, you can relax and enjoy the ride while a professional chauffeur handles the driving.

2. Professionalism and Safety

Reputable limousine services employ experienced chauffeurs who prioritize safety and professionalism. They are knowledgeable about the best routes and traffic patterns, ensuring that you arrive at your destination on time.

3. Convenience

Limousine services offer door-to-door service, eliminating the hassle of parking or navigating through traffic. This convenience is especially valuable in a busy city like Los Angeles, where traffic can be unpredictable.

4. Special Occasions

Limousines add a touch of class to any special event. Whether it's a wedding, anniversary, or birthday celebration, arriving in a limousine creates a memorable experience that enhances the significance of the occasion.

5. Cost-Effective for Groups

When traveling with a group, a limousine can be a cost-effective solution. Instead of multiple cars and parking fees, a single limousine can accommodate everyone, allowing for shared costs and a more enjoyable experience.

Popular Occasions for Limousine Services

Los Angeles is a hub of events and celebrations, making limousine services a popular choice for various occasions. Here are some of the most common events where people opt for luxury transportation:

1. Weddings

Weddings are perhaps the most iconic occasion for hiring a limousine. The bride and groom can make a grand entrance, and the luxurious ride adds to the overall experience of the day. Many services offer special wedding packages that include decorations and red-carpet service.

2. Prom Nights

Prom is a significant milestone for high school students, and arriving in a limousine can make the night even more special. Parents appreciate the safety of a professional chauffeur, while teens enjoy the luxury and style of a limousine.

3. Corporate Events

For business professionals, arriving at a corporate event in a limousine exudes confidence and professionalism. Limousine services can also accommodate airport transfers, ensuring that clients and executives travel in comfort.

4. Concerts and Sports Events

Los Angeles is home to numerous concerts and sporting events. A limousine service allows you to avoid the stress of parking and navigating traffic, making your experience more enjoyable.

5. Birthdays and Anniversaries

Celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary in a limousine adds an extra layer of excitement. Whether you're planning a surprise party or a romantic dinner, a limousine can enhance the experience.

How to Choose the Right Limousine Service

With numerous options available, selecting the right limousine service in Los Angeles can seem overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you choose the best service for your needs:

1. Research and Reviews

Start by researching different limousine services. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of service. Websites and social media platforms can provide valuable insights into the experiences of others.

2. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

Ensure that the limousine service is properly licensed and insured. This is crucial for your safety and protection in case of any incidents.

3. Vehicle Options

Check the types of vehicles available. Depending on your needs, you may want a stretch limousine for a wedding or an SUV for a group outing. Make sure the service can accommodate your requirements.

4. Pricing and Packages

Inquire about pricing structures and available packages. Some services offer all-inclusive rates, while others may have hidden fees. Understanding the costs upfront will help you avoid surprises.

5. Customer Service

Evaluate the level of customer service provided by the limousine company. A responsive and professional staff can make your experience much more enjoyable and stress-free.

Conclusion

A LAX VIP Limousine limousine service in Los Angeles represents the epitome of luxury and convenience, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a wedding, attending a corporate event, or simply enjoying a night out with friends, a limousine adds a touch of elegance and comfort to your travel experience. By considering the various types of limousines available, the benefits they offer, and how to choose the right service, you can ensure that your time in Los Angeles is unforgettable.

[mega-insurance-brokerage]

Our team of experienced brokers works closely with clients to ensure they receive the most suitable and affordable insurance solutions

[lagroundbreakers]

luxury chauffeur service, Los Angeles

Experience the pinnacle of luxury travel in Los Angeles with our premium chauffeur service. Whether you're looking for a stylish black car service for business meetings or a reliable car service with hourly rates to explore LA, we offer top-tier options to suit your needs. Our LA prom limousine rentals ensure a glamorous arrival for your special night, while our LA luxury travel packages make your journey unforgettable. At LA Ground Breakers, we pride ourselves on providing the best luxury transportation in LA, combining elegance, comfort, and professionalism. From corporate events to city tours, our chauffeurs deliver a seamless and sophisticated experience. Book your ride today and elevate your travel with our unparalleled chauffeur services in Los Angeles. For the ultimate in comfort and style, choose LA Ground Breakers – your gateway to exceptional luxury transportation in LA.For More info please Visit our website -https://lagroundbreakers.com/hourly-rate/

[limorentalnyc101]

Experience Luxury with NYC Limousine Rentals

When it comes to luxury transportation in the bustling streets of New York City, nothing beats the elegance and sophistication of a limousine. We offer top-tier limousine services tailored to a variety of needs and occasions. Whether you need a classy ride for a special event or a comfortable journey for a business trip. Our fleet of luxurious vehicles is ready to provide you with an unparalleled…

[pittsburghlimoservice]

Choose Pittsburgh Limo Service for your Best Travel Experience

Are you looking for reliable and luxurious transportation in Pittsburgh? Look no further! Our Pittsburgh Limo Service is here to provide you with top-notch service for all your transportation needs. Whether you’re traveling to the airport, attending a special event, or exploring the city, our fleet of limousines and professional chauffeurs ensure a comfortable and stylish journey every time. Why…

[empirelimosine]

Luxury Transportation in Los Angeles County - Empire Limousine Service

Experience the epitome of luxury transportation with Empire Limousine Service in Los Angeles County. Whether you're attending a glamorous event, planning a corporate outing, or simply seeking a stylish ride around the city, our fleet of impeccably maintained limousines and professional chauffeurs are at your service. From sleek sedans to spacious stretch limos, we offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs and preferences. With a commitment to punctuality, comfort, and unparalleled customer service, Empire Limousine Service ensures that every journey is as exceptional as the destination. Book your ride today and indulge in the sophistication and convenience of our premier limo service.

[viewmonde]

[limousinelink]

Experience Luxury with Our Limo Service Los Angeles for Hollywood Playnight

Elevate your Hollywood Playnight with our premier Limo Service Los Angeles. Arrive in style and sophistication, as our fleet of luxury vehicles, driven by professional chauffeurs, ensures a glamorous entrance to your desired destination. From red carpet events to exclusive nightlife, our limo service guarantees a seamless and opulent experience. Book with us for a touch of elegance that complements the allure of Hollywood's vibrant nightlife. Make your night unforgettable with the epitome of luxury transportation in Los Angeles."

[southcoastlimousines]

Top 10 Destinations for Group Travel in Los Angeles

Visit the top 10 group travel destinations in Los Angeles ! From the sunny shores of Santa Monica to the iconic Hollywood Sign, an adventure awaits. Ready for the full experience? Dive into our complete blog and book your charter or shuttle bus today!

[newyorklimo25]

Luxury and Convenience at Its Finest: Limousine Service in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, is known for its glitz, glamour, and fast-paced lifestyle. When it comes to transportation, nothing quite matches the elegance and prestige of traveling in a luxurious limousine. If you're seeking a premium limo service in Los Angeles, look no further than LimoxTransportation.

At LimoxTransportation, we specialize in providing exceptional limousine services that cater to a variety of needs. Whether you're attending a red carpet event, celebrating a milestone, or require reliable transportation for business purposes, our fleet of high-end limousines is at your disposal.

Our fleet features a wide range of vehicles to suit your preferences and requirements. From sleek and stylish sedans to spacious SUVs and lavish stretch limousines, we have the perfect option for every occasion. All our vehicles are meticulously maintained and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious ride throughout your journey.

What sets LimoxTransportation apart from other limo services in Los Angeles is our commitment to customer satisfaction. We go above and beyond to provide a seamless and personalized experience for each of our clients. Our professional and highly trained chauffeurs are not only skilled drivers but also courteous and attentive professionals who prioritize your safety and comfort.

Planning a wedding? Our wedding limousine service is tailored to make your special day even more memorable. We understand the importance of punctuality and attention to detail, and our dedicated team will work closely with you to ensure a flawless transportation experience. From picking up the wedding party to whisking you away to your reception venue, our chauffeurs will handle every aspect with precision and care.

LimoxTransportation is also the ideal choice for corporate transportation needs. Whether you have an important business meeting or need to impress a client, our executive limo service guarantees a professional and sophisticated experience. Our chauffeurs are well-versed in navigating the city's busy streets and can assist with last-minute schedule changes, allowing you to focus on your business objectives.

When it comes to luxury transportation, LimoxTransportation is the name to trust in Los Angeles. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, from the moment you make your reservation to the final drop-off. Experience the pinnacle of style, comfort, and professionalism with our premier limousine service. Contact LimoxTransportation today and let us elevate your journey to new heights.

[laxviplimo]

Luxury on Wheels: The Best Limousine Services in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, a city synonymous with glamour and sophistication, offers a myriad of luxurious experiences that cater to both residents and visitors. Among these, limousine services stand out as a premier option for those seeking to travel in style. Whether for a wedding, corporate event, or a leisurely night out, a limousine adds an element of opulence and comfort. This article explores the best limousine services in Los Angeles highlighting their unique features, offerings, and what sets them apart in a competitive market.

The Essence of Luxury Travel

Limousine services have evolved significantly over the years, moving from being merely a mode of transportation to an experience in itself. In Los Angeles, where appearances matter, a limo ride can elevate any occasion, making it memorable and stylish. Luxury travel is not just about the vehicle; it’s about the entire experience—from the moment a client makes a reservation to the final drop-off.

Key Features of Quality Limousine Services

High-quality limousine services share several key characteristics that enhance the overall client experience:

Diverse Fleet: A wide selection of vehicles allows clients to choose the perfect ride for any occasion. Whether it’s a classic stretch limo, a luxurious SUV, or a spacious party bus, variety is essential.

Professional Chauffeurs: Experienced and professional chauffeurs are the backbone of any limousine service. They not only ensure safety but also provide a level of service that enhances the luxury experience.

Customizable Packages: The best limousine services offer customizable packages tailored to specific events, whether it's a wedding, prom, corporate event, or airport transfer.

State-of-the-Art Amenities: Modern limousines come equipped with a range of amenities, including high-end sound systems, mood lighting, complimentary beverages, and even Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Top Limousine Services in Los Angeles

1. LAXVIPLimo

LAXVIPLimo is renowned for its top-tier service and commitment to customer satisfaction. This company specializes in airport transfers but also caters to various other events. With a diverse fleet that includes everything from luxury sedans to large party buses, LAXVIPLimo ensures that every travel need is met.

Key Offerings: Airport transfers, corporate travel, weddings, and special events.

Why Choose: Exceptional customer service, reliable on-time pickups, and a commitment to providing a luxurious experience.

2. Royalty Limousine

Royalty Limousine has built a strong reputation in Los Angeles for its luxurious fleet and outstanding service. The company's offerings include a range of vehicles, from classic stretch limos to modern SUVs, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Key Offerings: Proms, weddings, corporate events, and city tours.

Why Choose: Experienced chauffeurs, a focus on client comfort, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

3. LA Limo

LA Limo is known for its modern fleet and high-quality service. The company prides itself on providing a seamless booking experience and ensuring that clients enjoy their ride to the fullest.

Key Offerings: Airport transportation, special events, and hourly charters.

Why Choose: A user-friendly online booking system, flexible packages, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

4. Luxor Limousines

Luxor Limousines stands out for its luxurious vehicles and comprehensive service options. With a focus on providing a premium experience, Luxor caters to both individual clients and corporate accounts.

Key Offerings: Weddings, airport transfers, corporate transportation, and private tours.

Why Choose: A wide selection of high-end vehicles, professional chauffeurs, and a reputation for excellence in service.

5. Blacklane

Blacklane offers a unique approach to luxury transportation with its global reach and professional services. While based in Los Angeles, the company operates in numerous cities worldwide, making it a great option for travelers who require consistent service across locations.

Key Offerings: Airport pickups, business travel, and hourly rentals.

Why Choose: A focus on sustainability, high-quality vehicles, and a commitment to customer service.

What to Look for in a Limousine Service

Choosing the right limousine service involves considering several factors to ensure a high-quality experience:

Reputation and Reviews

Researching a company's reputation is crucial. Online reviews, testimonials, and ratings on platforms like Yelp and Google can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and customer satisfaction.

Fleet Quality

A well-maintained fleet is a sign of a reputable limousine service. Prospective clients should inquire about the age and condition of the vehicles, as well as the types of amenities available.

Pricing Transparency

Understanding the pricing structure is essential to avoid unexpected charges. Clients should ask about all potential fees, including gratuities, fuel surcharges, and additional costs for special requests.

Customer Service

Excellent customer service is key to a positive experience. From the initial inquiry to the final drop-off, clients should feel valued and well-attended. A responsive customer service team can greatly enhance the overall experience.

The Benefits of Choosing a Limousine Service

Opting for a limousine service in Los Angeles comes with numerous benefits:

Stress-Free Travel: Clients can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about traffic, navigation, or parking.

Enhanced Comfort: Limousines are designed for comfort, providing spacious interiors, luxury seating, and a smooth ride.

Impressive Arrivals: Arriving at an event in a limousine makes a statement and adds an element of prestige to any occasion.

Safety and Security: Professional chauffeurs prioritize safety, ensuring clients arrive at their destinations securely.

Conclusion

For those looking to experience the pinnacle of luxury travel in Los Angeles, choosing the right limousine service is essential. With options like LAXVIPLimo, clients can enjoy a seamless and sophisticated transportation experience tailored to their needs. Whether attending a corporate event, celebrating a special occasion, or simply exploring the city, riding in a limousine provides an unmatched level of comfort and style. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, anyone can select a limousine service that enhances their Los Angeles experience, making every journey memorable.

[natswife-marvelicious]

Not so common Premiere Reveal

Plot: The rumor mill has been churning for weeks. What if Scarlett doesn't walk the red carpet alone shortly afterwards for the big "Jurassic World" premiere, but with someone the world has yet to see?

Warnings: none

Word count: 2,3k

Masterlist

The sky over Los Angeles was painted with hues of pink and orange as the sun set, casting a warm glow over the world premiere of 'Jurassic World: Dominion'. It was the biggest event of the year, a red-carpet spectacle drawing stars, fans, and media outlets from around the globe. The premiere had everything you’d expect: dinosaurs, Hollywood icons, and endless flashes of cameras. But tonight, there was one name on everyone’s lips, Scarlett Johansson.

For months, rumors had swirled about her personal life, only escalating after her year-long silence following her high-profile split from Colin Jost. Scarlett had famously guarded her privacy throughout her career, carefully choosing when and where she would appear in public.

Lately, however, the media had latched onto the mystery woman photographed with her. The paparazzi shots, taken from afar, showed the two in casual moments: dining together, walking through the park, and sharing soft, intimate glances. The internet had exploded with speculation, and fans worldwide had dissected every angle of the story. Yet Scarlett remained silent, fueling the mystery even further.

Now, at the premiere of one of the most anticipated movies of the year, the world waited to see if she would address the rumors. There had been no official statement from Scarlett, no interviews, no social media posts. The only thing people knew was that Scarlett Johansson was set to arrive on the red carpet tonight.

The atmosphere outside the theater was electric. Hundreds of fans lined the barricades, holding signs and chanting her name. Reporters from every major outlet stood ready with microphones and cameras, hoping for an exclusive scoop. Photographers jostled for position, desperate for the first shot of Scarlett as her limousine pulled up to the curb.

The door of the sleek black limo swung open, and there she was, Scarlett Johansson. She emerged with effortless grace, her long, shimmering black gown hugging her figure. The material sparkled as she moved, catching the lights of the paparazzi cameras, and her blonde hair was styled in loose waves, falling perfectly over her shoulders.

As soon as she stepped onto the red carpet, the crowd erupted into cheers and shouts. “Scarlett! Over here! Scarlett!”

But something was different tonight. Scarlett paused for a moment, scanning the crowd with a soft smile, before stepping aside slightly, her hand reaching back toward the limo. Another figure emerged, and this time, the gasps from the crowd were audible.

It was a beautiful and slightly younger girl, y/n.

You stepped out, looking stunning in an emerald-green gown that flowed elegantly as you moved. Your hair was pulled back into a sleek bun, your expression one of both awe and nerves. This was your first time in the spotlight, and the cameras immediately began clicking, capturing the moment the world had been waiting for.

Scarlett smiled at you, her hand slipping yours hers with a reassuring squeeze and suddenly, the rumors were confirmed. Scarlett Johansson wasn’t just attending the premiere tonight, she was making her relationship with you public for the first time.

As you walked side by side onto the red carpet, the world seemed to freeze for a moment. The flashes of cameras intensified, creating a wall of light that surrounded you. The noise was deafening. Fans screaming Scarlett’s name, photographers shouting for their attention, reporters trying to get in a quick question. But amidst the chaos, Scarlett remained calm, her hand never leaving yours.

“Stay close,” Scarlett whispered to you as you moved forward. She could feel the nervous energy radiating from you, but her presence was grounding. You looked over at Scarlett, offering a small appreciative smile. This wasn’t your world. You had spent most of your life away from the glare of fame, but tonight you were diving headfirst into it.

As you walked, Scarlett paused every few steps to wave to the fans, their cheers growing louder every time she acknowledged them. But it wasn’t just her they were cheering for. Scarlett was a beloved figure, adored for both her talent and her down-to-earth nature, but tonight the fans seemed just as excited to see you beside her.

The moment was already going viral. Social media was exploding with real-time reactions, pictures flooding Instagram and Twitter within seconds of you stepping onto the carpet. The hashtags #ScarlettandY/N, #ScarlettNewLove, and #ScarlettPremiere were trending worldwide.

You reached the center of the red carpet, where you were to pose for official photos. Scarlett turned to you, her eyes warm and reassuring. “You’re doing great,” she whispered. You nodded, trying to steady your breathing. You weren't used to this kind of attention, thousands of eyes watching you every move, every glance. But with Scarlett beside you, you felt grounded.

The cameras captured every moment, the way Scarlett kept a protective hand on your waist, how you exchanged soft, knowing glances, the slight but affectionate touches between you. You were nervous, but you also felt a quiet confidence in Scarlett’s presence, as if you could get through this as long as you two were together.

After the photos, Scarlett guided you toward the row of interviewers waiting for their chance to talk to the couple. Both of you were greeted by a reporter from 'Entertainment Tonight', her excitement barely contained.

“Scarlett! You look absolutely incredible tonight, as always. And y/n, welcome! It’s so great to see you both here.”

Scarlett smiled warmly, her hand never leaving yours. “Thank you. It’s good to be here,” you said, your voice steady despite the madness around you.

The reporter, clearly hoping to dig into the heart of the night, quickly moved on to the question everyone was dying to ask. “Scarlett, you’ve always been very private about your personal life, and yet here you are, at the premiere of one of the biggest movies of the year, with y/n. Can you tell us a little more about your relationship?”

Scarlett looked at you, a soft, affectionate smile playing on her lips. The crowd behind the barricades was silent, waiting with bated breath for her answer. “Yes, I can,” Scarlett said, her tone gentle but firm. “Y/n and I have been together for a while now. She’s... someone very special to me.”

You blushed at Scarlett’s words, your smile growing despite the attention. The reporter’s eyes gleamed with excitement, knowing she had just gotten the quote that would make headlines around the world.

“Y/n,” the reporter said, turning to you, “this must be overwhelming for you. How are you feeling, being here tonight in the spotlight?”

You glanced at Scarlett, a little unsure but clearly trying your best to navigate the newness of it all. “It’s... a lot,” you admitted with a soft laugh. “But Scarlett’s been really great. She’s been helping me through it.”

Scarlett smiled proudly, leaning in to kiss your temple, her affection so clear and unguarded. The cameras flashed wildly, capturing the tender moment between them. Fans on social media were already losing their minds, the images of Scarlett and y/n together spreading like wildfire.

They moved down the line of interviewers, answering questions about the movie, Scarlett’s role, and the technical aspects of 'Jurassic World'. But inevitably, the questions kept circling back to them as a couple. Each time Scarlett was asked about you, she answered with calm confidence, and her eyes always gleamed with affection.

“Scarlett, what made you decide to go public with your relationship tonight?” a reporter from 'Variety' asked, microphone poised.

Scarlett paused, her hand still on yours. “I’ve always valued my privacy,” she began, the weight of her words carefully measured, “and that hasn’t changed. But this, what you see here, is important to me. Y/n is important to me, and I wanted to share that, in my own way. We’ve been together for a while, and at some point, it felt... right not to hide it. We’re happy.”

Y/n looked over at Scarlett, her smile soft but full of emotion. The nerves she had felt earlier were melting away, replaced by a sense of belonging, belonging beside Scarlett, and being embraced by the world, even if in an unfamiliar and overwhelming way.

A follow-up question came almost instantly, this time from a reporter with 'E! News': "Y/n, how has this experience been for you? Being in the public eye like this?”

You hesitated briefly, clearly still adjusting to the media frenzy. “It’s... definitely new,” you admitted, laughing lightly, “but I have Scarlett by my side, so it feels... easier than it might otherwise.”

Scarlett’s hand squeezed yours gently, that soft touch anchoring you both in the chaos. There was something special about the way you two interacted, so natural, as if you had always belonged together. The media might have been focused on the two of you, but for Scarlett and y/n, they were only focused on each other.

The interviews continued, with more questions about the film, Scarlett’s portrayal of her character, and her future projects. But each time they tried to steer away from the personal, the audience could sense the undercurrent of interest, a curiosity about this new chapter in Scarlett's life. Every camera flash, every whispered comment, was about her relationship with you.

The energy on the red carpet was palpable. Fans outside continued chanting, hoping for a glimpse of the couple. Scarlett waved again, this time pulling your hand up so the crowd could see it clearly, you were here together, no hiding, no secrets. The crowd’s roar intensified, echoing around the street, and you felt a slight rush of adrenaline. You weren't used to the public adoration, but something about this moment felt incredibly freeing.

The two of you eventually made their way inside the theater, where the excitement of the night finally began to settle. Once you were away from the flashing lights and endless interviews, you let out a slow breath.

“Are you okay?” Scarlett asked softly, her thumb brushing your hand as you walked together through the foyer.

You smiled, leaning in closer. “I think I am,” you said with a soft laugh. “I just wasn’t expecting... all of that.”

Scarlett laughed, her voice warm and gentle. “You handled it like a pro,” she teased. “Honestly, I’m so proud of you.”

You found your seats, surrounded by the rest of the cast and crew, and you took a moment to appreciate the quiet intimacy of sitting beside Scarlett after such a public spectacle. You could feel the weight of the day start to lift as the film's opening scene began to play.

The roar of the dinosaurs on screen seemed to echo the roar of the outside world, but within the theater, it was as if Scarlett and you existed in your own private bubble. Scarlett’s hand rested on your knee beneath the armrest, a small but constant reminder of her presence. For you, this moment wasn't about the movie or the premiere, it was about being part of Scarlett’s life in a way you hadn’t before.

As the movie progressed, you stole glances at Scarlett, watching her reactions to key scenes. You admired Scarlett’s confidence, her strength, and the way she seemed to navigate the complexities of fame with such grace. But more than that, you admired her for how open she had been tonight, how unafraid she was to show the world exactly who she loved.

After the film ended, the audience erupted into applause, and Scarlett turned to you with a wide smile. “What did you think?”

You beamed, your eyes sparkling. “You were incredible,” you whispered back, leaning in to press a soft kiss to Scarlett’s cheek.

You lingered for a few more moments inside the theater, mingling with other celebrities and industry figures, but soon it was time to leave. The thought of facing the media again, even if briefly, caused a flicker of nerves in your chest, but Scarlett was right beside you.

As you stepped out onto the street, the flashing cameras began again, though this time they seemed less overwhelming. You held your head a little higher, your hand never leaving Scarlett’s. The premiere had been a whirlwind, but it had also been a defining moment for you two as a couple.

By the time you reached the limo, the media frenzy was still in full force. Scarlett paused just before stepping into the car, turning to face the cameras one last time. She glanced at you, her expression filled with nothing but love, and then turned back to the crowd, her voice strong but sincere as she said, “Thank you all for coming tonight.”

As the car door closed behind them, you let out a soft sigh of relief. Scarlett chuckled, reaching over to take your hand again. “We made it,” she teased.

You laughed, leaning into Scarlett’s side. “I can’t believe we did that.”

Scarlett’s eyes softened, and she brushed a strand of hair away from your face. “I’m so glad we did,” she murmured. “I’m glad everyone knows. I’m glad I can finally show the world how much you mean to me.”

Your heart fluttered at her words. “You’re not worried about what they’ll say?”

Scarlett shook her head, a small smile playing at her lips. “They’ll say what they want, like they always do. But at the end of the day, what matters is us. I’ve never been more certain of that.”

Your eyes welled with emotion as you nodded, feeling the truth of Scarlett’s words settle deep within you. “I love you,” you whispered softly, the words almost lost in the gentle hum of the limo.

Scarlett’s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “I love you too,” she whispered back, leaning in to press a soft kiss to your lips.

The world outside was still buzzing with excitement, but inside that limo, it was just the two of you. It didn’t matter what the tabloids would write tomorrow, or how many photos would circulate on social media. All that mattered was this, the love you had, the bond you shared, and the fact that, from now on, you were facing it together, hand in hand.

And for the first time, you felt like you truly belonged.

Sooo that's my first Scarlett x reader fanfic!! I like it :)

Oh and I really love Colin and Scarlett together, i have nothing against him (despite the fact he stole my wife). But I love seeing her happy and being with a man who truly loves her. It just fitted the story!

[angelwithdemonictendencies]

i could never be lost, all the street signs read your name; is this the same place you once kissed me?

make yourself at home; chapter one.

6.5k. no warnings besides tension and parental disapproval and mentions of beauty standards (and tedious amounts of exposition).

(a/n: okay, favorites. to those of you that remember my tyson story, this chapter will look very familiar. i added this beautiful gif in honor of that. i promise that the other chapters (like, from three onwards) will be practically entirely new. with that being said, it is my pleasure to introduce you to olive and russell. you'll see as we progress, but do not be fooled by the "she's not like other girls" potential this story has. i hope to prove to you that the kind of beauty that i'm talking about is all about kindness and patience and thoughtfulness. all i ask is that you give this is shot. if it's not for you, if you can't look past the lack of x reader or direct hockey relationship, that's completely okay. olive, at one point, was simply "kid'" - the way some of my characters have been sugar or baby or doll. and russell was once tyson. i am incredibly nervous to share this with you, to embark and commit to sharing more with you in the future. as such, i hope you will respect and honor my vulnerability. but i'm also excited! very much so! to you and your snakes. thank you thank you thank you. and i still want to gush about hockey with you - just send me an ask! love you always).

it had probably been too long since olive fleming had been home.  it had probably been too long since she’d last ventured back to granite falls, new york, but, in her defense, the trek from los angeles was long and daunting.  olive made the trip as infrequently as possible, so each time she found herself back in this town, part of her expected it to look unrecognizable.  it never did.  

it was impossible not to recognize the slow-moving streets, lined by pine trees and the same storefronts, same quaint buildings, same lightposts that needed repairing.  every time she drove through, olive felt a stab of guilt in her chest that she swallowed down dry, like some hefty pill.  

the directions displayed on the screen of her phone were more a comfort than a necessity - she would know the route to her street blindfolded, maybe dead, but it was sort of nice to think that she needed help getting there, to think that she had grown up so much that she no longer knew this place the way you know the songs that your that dad used to play in the car on the way to school when you were young - entirely and wholly, if not a little senselessly.

in what felt like a blink, olive had already made it into the driveway, her subtly luxurious suv suddenly feeling much too big and attention-seeking.  she felt as if she might as well have been driving a limousine, maybe one of those sleek borderline race-cars painted some flashy color.  something entirely out of place, something desperately screaming look at me, even though she didn’t want anyone to see her at all.  even her reflection in the rearview mirror above the dashboard made her flinch.  meeting her own eyes was recognition enough to be jarring.

olive finally shifted her car into park and unbuckled her seatbelt, her hands still gripping the wheel hard enough that her knuckles paled.  "arrived at home," the robotic voice from her phone said, which made her choke out a short laugh, ugly and tired.  in all ways but the ones that mattered, yes, she supposed, this was home, at least for a little while longer.  just until she packed up all her things from her parents’ house, just until she drove her life back to los angeles and stayed there, this time for good.

would it be frowned upon to leave the car running? just in case she needed to make a quick exit, like some blockbuster-movie spy, tucking and rolling from a plane mid-flight?  olive groaned, laid her head down against the steering wheel, careful not to press her forehead down hard enough to honk.

this was exactly what coming home always felt like - frustration to the point of madness, self control to the point of lunacy.  home left olive crazy, either way.  

“you must be so excited to get out of your favorite city,” her manager, celeste, had said to her over the phone just before she left.  celeste was something of a close friend, after a few years of partnering and working together.  she was fully aware of olive’s subpar relationship with her hometown, but she also knew olive wasn’t the biggest fan of los angeles either.  olive had entertained the possibility that she was just hard to please on multiple occasions.

olive had laughed at this comment.  “oh, for sure,” she had agreed, “but out of the frying pan and into the fire, you know.”  Into the longest-burning fire she’d ever known.  she was thinking about that conversation with her manager when a sharp knock on her car window forced her head to snap up.  

olive’s mother, danica, was looking warily at her from the other side of the glass as she rolled down her window, blinking at the woman she hadn’t seen in a while, registering her presence while attempting to summon a normal reaction.

“hey, mom,” was the lackluster greeting olive landed on, internally cringing at her tone.  she realized she was still gripping the steering wheel and dropped her hands to her lap as if she’d been burned, the way you’re taught to when caught in a lightning storm.  

her mother let out a soft laugh, but her gaze was sharp.  “going to wait out in the car all day, are you?” she asked.  olive could feel her heartbeat in her head, the kind of pressure she always felt when on this end of her family’s disapproval.  “come in, olive, not like we get to see you every day.”

olive felt a smile stretch across her face, false and heavy like a waxy halloween mask, like her lip gloss weighed something severe.  “yeah, i’ll be right in,” she said, willing any shake out of her voice.  “it’s good to see you.”

her mother murmured her agreement before turning to head back inside, which olive supposed was better than nothing.  an important reminder that things could be so much worse, that she could be grateful for what she had, that someone better probably would be.

olive took a last stabilizing breath before finally getting out of the car, pulling her suitcases from the trunk and entering her childhood home through the front door.

she’s back? the doorbell seemed to whisper to the bushes by the porch steps, it’s been a while, no?

the bushes shook their heads in condemnation, she’s so unappreciative, they said, so selfish and vain.

“you don’t know me,” olive muttered as she lifted her luggage into the doorway, the wheels on the bottom making a clicking noise as they made contact with the hardwood of the mudroom.  she could hear her mother humming quietly in the kitchen.

“who are you talking to?” 

olive recognized that slow and deliberate voice as her father, jerry, and quickly turned to greet him, eager to change the subject away from her talking to inanimate objects and plants.  “dad,” she said, smiling at him despite his sour expression.  “how’s it going?”

“is that a new car?” he asked, bypassing a hello, his gaze already wandering from her, straying to her vehicle through the window.  her stomach turned.  she knew what was coming.  “how’d you afford a new car?”

olive laughed, like he’d said something tastefully funny, waved him off.  “my job pays me for what I do, dad,” she clarified, “you know how jobs work.”  olive regretted it immediately.  she realized how patronizing she sounded.

her father’s grimace and grumbly voice wasn’t lost on her.  “right,” he said, “your job.”  his voice took on a slight sarcastic tone at the last word, even though she supposed that was to be expected.  it still stung, just as it had before she left for college, just as it had during every venture back to granite falls before this one.  

“let her put her things away, jerry,” danica called from the next room over.  he started to roll his eyes, then appeared to remember he had an audience midway through, his annoyance dissolving instantaneously into something like boredom.  

he nodded to olive.  “off you go, then,” he said, phrasing odd and stiff, like some black-and-white film actor, making olive scrunch her nose up in distaste as she lugged her bags up the staircase and rolled them into her bedroom, the last door at the end of the hallway.

upon entering, her gaze flickered to her bed, low to the ground, the comforter a pastel pink, the sheets printed with a pretty tulip pattern.  it was every bit the bed of a child, but there was something she liked about it, even now.

olive sighed, pushed her suitcases to the closet door and left them there before sitting down on the edge of her bed, letting herself fall back until she felt the softness of her sheets on the back of her neck.  travel always took it out of her, but this fatigue went deeper than just jet lag.  it was a tiredness she felt in her chest, on the roof of her mouth, coating her throat like a lemon ginger lozenge.  

olive wanted to enjoy being home more than anything.  the desire ran so deep it felt like it had infected her bloodstream.  she wanted to feel comfortable and welcome, like she belonged here, but she didn’t, not really.  she hadn’t felt that way in a while, probably not since she was a teenager.  at twenty-two, that felt scarily long ago.  

she exhaled and rose again, looking around her room with displeasure.  the space was just so cluttered.  even her bedside table was practically overflowing with trinkets and picture frames, old books and school binders.  sorting through everything and packing it up was probably going to be quite the laborious task, could take longer than she anticipated.  was this room smaller than she remembered it?  the walls closer together, the ceiling lower, perhaps?

“dinner’s ready!”

her mother’s voice once again shook olive from her thoughts, her eyelids fluttering.  “coming!”

family dinners at the fleming household had taken on many shapes and sizes over the years.  When danica had been in the thick of her corporate law career, as demanding as anything, such events had not existed on a consistent basis.  instead, olive and her father would scramble to put together something like cereal, or pasta with butter, or if they were feeling fancy, tomato soup and grilled cheese.  olive’s mother always ate at her firm, or on the way home.  

danica, thanks to her hard work, was able to retire quite early, not into lavish wealth or anything resembling it, but early enough and into a general sense of comfort.  it was then that family dinners became a bit more frequent in the household.  after jerry got home from work, he would call olive down from her bedroom, and then the three of them would sit around their small table, chatting about whatever had occurred during the short time they had spent apart.  

of course, once olive reached a certain age, she wasn’t always around for dinner time, and her parents didn’t require her to be.  it did mean that they grew sort of out of practice though, as olive was home less and less.  when olive went to college across the country, that lack of familiarity wasn’t really felt, but whenever she was home from school, when they were all forced together again, the walls felt to olive as if they had some tripwire hidden within them, some explosive ticking regularly, louder each time that she did something that amassed disapproval.

as olive walked down the stairs now, her steps light enough to not make a sound, she attempted to mentally prepare herself, then shook her head, almost laughing.  it was funny, mentally preparing oneself for salad and roasted chicken.

“is this a new wallpaper?” olive asked cordially as she pulled a wooden chair out and sat down, folding her napkin and placing it in her lap.

“no,” danica responded.

olive had never really been able to miss the slight pinch in her mother’s brow, minute but telling in its distaste.  “same wallpaper as always.  you don’t remember?”

olive forced the corner of her mouth to turn up in a smile, but her stomach was churning with something other than travel-induced hunger.  “it looks great, was all i was going to say.  like new.”

unfortunately, such awkwardness did not evaporate as the dinner progressed, the lack of ease sitting atop the table as naturally as the floral centerpiece.  olive expertly tried to veer the conversation away from herself as gracefully as possible, instead oversaturating the discussion with questions directed at her parents.  

olive was usually quite good at saying the right thing.  it was a huge part of her job, of her success.  she knew what to say in different situations, with different people, in front of different audiences.  home left her deft tongue fumbling though, left words feeling out of reach in her mind, like her mouth was not her own.  

she asked questions about her father’s work and cooking endeavors, her mother’s home renovations and volunteer work at the daycare, but whenever they asked her about her own work, olive would clam up, maybe give that nervous laugh that she disliked so genuinely, make some joke at her own expense.  

by the end of the meal, olive was thoroughly exhausted, socially drained in a way she hadn’t been in a long time.  it didn’t really make a lot of sense to her - she could work a crowd of thousands at an awards show, craft a post palatable for millions, but a simple dinner with her family was where she stumbled?  

“thanks for having me,” was what she said to her parents after she had placed her plate and silverware in the dishwasher, drying her hands with a rag before making to head up to her room.  

this was the wrong thing to say, if her father’s voice and the twitch of his mouth was anything to go off of.  “this is your house,” he said, simple, plain, and olive didn’t even look at her mother, for fear that she’d see some kind of sadness or disappointment that would keep her awake that night.

“right, of course,” she tried, “i just mean thanks.  for, you know, letting me stay here on such short notice.”

“what, like we’re a hotel?” danica said, almost humorous, but there was a shake in her voice that olive read as a storm siren, scarily close to something disastrous.  

olive sighed.  it wasn’t her parents’ fault, and she knew that.  olive knew her wording could be taken as offensive, but she just couldn’t see it until after the words were already out, until they were of no use to anyone.  “no, just,” she tried, then gave up, figuring maybe she just needed some sleep to make her brain work again.  “goodnight.  love you both.”  she’d try again tomorrow.

danica and jerry seemed to soften a bit at this, each quietly returning the sentiment in harmony with olive’s soft footsteps up the staircase, wooden panels giving a comforting creak under her socks, some reminder that she was a physical body, that her weight could be felt.

tomorrow will be better, olive thought as she unzipped one of her suitcases, pulled out her pajamas and got changed.  what she really wanted to do was sink into her bed, sleep the day off and start fresh in the morning.  

“fifteen minutes,” she murmured to herself, her bag of skincare products in one hand, phone and ring light clawed in the other.  “just fifteen minutes.”

after several years of practice, olive could crank out a get unready with me video in just a few moments, but something about setting up her tripod and lighting mechanisms in her childhood bathroom was intimidating, the crossover of worlds leaving her sluggish and self-conscious.  

her apartment in los angeles was practically built for this kind of thing, all ample storage and spacious countertops, and this room was built to be exactly what it was: a child’s bathroom.  it offered not much other than backlighting and cramped corners, faded wallpaper and shower curtains yellowing towards the corners.

olive quickly set up, took a deep breath and summoned a smile, the one reserved for this - the one for video and film and interviews and social media posts.  just big enough to appear genuine, just subdued enough to be sexy, mysterious.  once the camera was rolling, she ran through her nighttime routine, highlighting the moisturizer she was being paid to endorse, before quickly cutting the clips and typing out a caption: get unready with me at home!  She sent the video to her management to be approved by the brand before turning off her harsh light and setting it next to her bag on the closed toilet lid.

even after several years of working in social media, several years of visiting home every now and then, it felt weird to mix the two of them together, almost like a middle school science project with oil and water, like no matter how hard she tried for it to be a natural fit, the two would always make their repulsion known.

olive brushed her teeth, her phone buzzing as she spat into the sink.  With so much of her life existing on her phone, such an occurrence was mundane, but the name that lit up her screen made her blink at herself in the mirror, made the overhead light feel hot, simmering.

are the rumors true? read the message, is the starlet back in town?

olive sighed, couldn't help the tiny smile that pulled at the corner of her lips, regardless - even though she was no starlet, even though the thought of small-town rumors made her breath feel short and shallow.

as much as coming home made her want to tear out her hair extensions one by one, as much as the monotonous judgment from this town made her almost dizzy, there was one thing, or one person rather, whose relentless sameness olive looked forward to, every time, without fail.

that person was russell mcIntyre.

olive had known russell practically forever, or at least for what felt like forever, ever since he and his family moved next door the summer before they started middle school.  she still remembered seeing him for the first time, watching from her big bedroom window as he carried boxes from his mom's minivan up his driveway.

it had started as all lovely things did - so naturally it was hard to pinpoint how exactly it had started.  olive swore she could remember his green eyes meeting her brown ones through the window, his unruly curly hair in his face, like he’d only just woken up, the easiest smile she’d ever seen slanting across his mouth, only barely visible above battered cardboard flaps.  still, she didn't dwell on what exactly had been the beginning of her and russell, knowing it didn’t really matter how it began, only that it was.

all olive really knew was that throughout middle school and high school, russell had been her everything.  her school bus seat buddy, her locker neighbor, her smile shared across the classroom.

he was the one who cheered the loudest at her tennis matches, and she never missed one of his baseball games.  he was over hers doing homework every weekday, she was the first person he picked up when he got his license, when he finally could drive his old truck without his anxious mother holding on tight in the passenger seat.  russell was her secret language spoken between opposing bedroom windows, curtains pulled far apart so as not to intrude one’s view of the other while they talked.

of course, as he shed his baby face and she got her braces off, things changed a bit, but not really.  olive was still his stop it, rus, giggled under her breath when he'd make goofy faces in class, just to get her to laugh.

russell was still her you'll be there, right, kid? spoken so earnestly on the morning of a playoff game, something like worry clouding his usually relentlessly bright eyes. worry that had floated away when she’d hugged him close, mumbled her of course into his chest.

his constant support, his never-wavering smirk of a smile, it had been exactly what she needed during one of the most turbulent times of her life.

high school is weird for everybody, but it was especially weird for olive.  she was a people pleaser, an approval seeker, and at some point she began to realize that others weren't always as forgiving as she was, that other people may not give her the benefit of the doubt, as she tended to afford them for free.

it got worse when olive realized that she was pretty.

sometimes, olive felt as if she had been beautiful since she could listen, since she could first turn her gaze on someone and make them feel heard, make them feel seen.

that was a big part of it all - her quiet kindness, combined with that lovely smile, with that careful posture and easy laugh - it seemed that others had become acutely aware of her beauty long before she had.  She caught on, eventually.

olive was sixteen when she started to feel the weight of male attention on her in the hallways, when her bare legs in the warm weather started to feel heavy with expectation, when she started to notice how groups of girls would turn and giggle behind their hands when they thought she was just out of earshot.

it was exciting, at first.  girls wanted to talk to her, to be close with her.  guys wanted to hang out with her.  people wanted to give her things, seemingly for nothing.  she distinctly remembered one humid night, in russell's bedroom, just after he had driven them both home after his practice.  his hair had been damp at the roots, his face still a bit flushed in that rosy way she loved.

he'd been scrolling on his phone while she worked on a geometry problem set, half-focused, the other half telling him about the senior in her economics class who had asked for her snapchat.  olive could still picture russell’s narrow gaze, barely looking up from his screen.

"you know he doesn't want to, like, marry you, right, ol?" he'd said, and it was so flippant that it made her pause.

olive had looked up, blinked, felt suddenly so embarrassed she thought she might be sick. "what?" she asked, "yeah, of course, I just-"

"like, he knows nothing about you besides you being hot," russell finished, almost coldly, rolling onto his side on the beanbag he was sprawled across.

and he was right, obviously, but it still felt really mean, felt like tiny drops of flame were pricking at her cheeks.  olive felt that she actually might cry.

"why do you have to say it like that?" she’d asked, hating how pathetic her voice sounded, how it broke towards the end.

this must have gotten his attention, because when russell finally looked up, his eyes flooded with gentle apology.  he let his phone fall to the side, opened up his arms in invitation.

"i’m sorry," he mumbled into her hair when she joined him on his beanbag, let him wrap his arms around her. "'m sorry, ol, know that was mean.  i'm just jealous, i think."  his tone was so matter-of-fact, not trying to hide anything. olive supposed he had always been like that.

she laughed softly into his breastbone, felt the warmth of him all over her face. "you're jealous?" she asked, "what do you have to be jealous about?"

then he gave olive her favorite kind of smile, the one that gave her butterflies even now, even just at the memory.  "maybe 'cause you're in my room, and you're smilin' 'cause of some other guy," he mused, which made her look up at him, find his gaze drenched in completely genuine adoration.

she hummed.

"and i've been trying to get you to see that i like you, and it hasn't been working-"

her heart stuttered, because of course she liked russell.  how could she not, when he was her everything?  when he had been the one who had declared her special, before everyone else had seemed to catch on?

"you like me?" olive had repeated, almost like a prayer, and his big, beautiful eyes had shimmered with something lovely, something almost bashful.

olive swore she could feel something rumbling against his chest.  "well, yeah," he said, "but i don't wanna lose you, kid, so if you don't feel the same way-"

she’d cut him off by pressing her lips to his in a kiss that felt like sunshine, like a sigh of relief, like pillow forts and fall foliage and sunday morning waffles.  so, from then on, not only was olive the beautiful girl, she was the beautiful girl dating the budding baseball superstar, her best friend, her everything.  

as such, olive was seventeen when she realized that as much as it may have seemed that people wanted to give her things, they wanted to take things from her more.  much more.  still, as long as she had her small group of friends, and her grades, and her parents, and russell, she told herself she didn't really need everyone to love her.

as long as she was kind and generous and empathetic, everything would be fine.

it grew tough to turn the other cheek all the time, though.  especially when guys didn't seem to respect that she was in a relationship, when people were starting rumors about her sleeping around, when girls tried to get with her boyfriend just to prove they could take him from her.  they were never successful, but it hurt nonetheless. 

still, she would go to every one of russell's games, as long as he would jog to the fence afterwards to give her a goofy kiss, like he'd missed her, even for just the few hours he'd been playing.

olive would ignore the snide comments in the stands about her outfits as long as he'd whistle afterwards, wrap his arms around her waist, pull her back against him and tell her that he almost dropped an easy ball in the third because she had looked so distracting.

she’d let people assume that she was dumb and obnoxious and entitled as long as he'd ask her about her advanced calculus tests, her data analytics internship over the summer, her speech and debate competition. and that was enough.  for high school, that was enough.

inevitably, it became clear that people wanted what olive had, no matter what it was, no matter how hard she had worked for it.

olive was eighteen when she realized that she could make a career out of people wanting things that she had.

as much as her parents didn’t seem to believe her, social media was something olive stumbled upon accidentally.

just a random post one day, a couple of pictures of her on the tennis court, a few of her in the stands at one of Russell's games, and rather suddenly, olive was flushed with followers and likes, more than she knew what to do with.

of course, this only made the rumors worse, but her real friends thought it was funny, and russell thought it was awesome, so she didn't mind.  she just continued posting exactly what she always did - her outfits and weekends and dinners and the like - nothing crazy, always tasteful, always genuine.

it was only a matter of time before brands were reaching out to her, before she suddenly had the need for management, before her social media accounts actually started to become a source of income.

even at the very beginning, olive recognized how lucky she was for this to even be an option for her - how it was mostly because of something as shallow as appearances, how there was nothing more vain, more potentially vapid than social media.

she never cared about the numbers of it all though, never looked twice at pictures of herself, never scrolled through her comments.  russell was always the first to like her posts anyways, always commenting first! followed by a string of incoherent emojis, usually including the flame one.  once it started to become a business, olive let it be just a business, trying her absolute hardest not to invest any personal stock into her work, making sure to turn her phone off as often as possible.

russell would text her, too, after she posted, something like love the filter on the second photo! or quite the handsome hand in the fourth :) about a picture of her coffee that he was holding.  enough to let her know that he looked at every picture, that he supported her unconditionally, even though olive herself sort of thought the whole ordeal was kind of suspicious, that social media was dumb and not worth anyone's time.  her skepticism of her own work was something of an obstacle then and something of constant now.

given the flash-flood-like nature of her success, olive was at a bit of a crossroads towards the end of high school.  she wanted to get a college degree, that was non-negotiable, but it seemed too good to be true that she could be paid just for being herself online, just for developing a personal brand.  it seemed too good to pass up.

before she knew it, it was time to apply for university, and it only made sense for olive to aim at schools in los angeles, across the country, but right in the arrhythmic heart of her industry.

olive was a good student too, and a hard worker, a quick learner, so she was accepted to her top choice, a school that her parents could brag to their friends about, if they wanted to.  

everything about olive’s choice made logical sense.

just as it only made sense for russell to play for the state school, the reigning champions of their respective league and only a forty-five minute drive from granite falls.

he’d been getting recruited since he was a freshman, and even though he offered every day, the thought of russell changing his whole plan and future for her made olive nauseous.  

long distance loomed over the two of them like a thunderous cloud, and the weight of it felt more deadly than just calling it off, even though splitting up with Russell was still the most painful thing olive could remember enduring.

she vividly remembered him dropping her off at the airport, insisting on carrying her suitcases all the way to security, even if he had to leave his truck idle in the departing flight zone, even though he was definitely going to get a ticket about it.

of course, she still remembered how his bright eyes had gone glassy, how he still tried to smile despite his slightly quivering bottom lip.  how he'd shuddered in her embrace when she hugged him goodbye.  how small his broad shoulders had seemed.

"you'll come back, kid?" he'd asked, almost pleaded, into her neck.

"of course, rus," she’d said, but even the memory of the words felt weightless. "don't forget to call me, okay?  every day, if you can."

he had laughed, short and choppy, wiped at his nose with the sleeve of his sweatshirt, like the child that he had been.  his voice was wobbly.  "i’d never forget," he said, and it had felt true then.

and so olive and her everything went separate ways.  she fell into a routine in california, balanced school and her relatively new job as an influencer.  russell had a routine of his own, too, practice and lifts and games and the odd class here and there.

she called everyday, in the beginning, heard about how everyone was really good on rus’s new team, how he was nervous on the field for basically the first time ever, how classes were hard and everything was hard without her.

olive told him about how smart and cool the girls in her classes were, how she really, really wanted them to like her, how she found herself going to baseball games in the fall just because it felt familiar, something to recognize in an unfamiliar fairytale land.

he'd gotten a sad sort of tone in his voice at that.  "how's their shortstop?" he had asked, and her stomach had flipped, because that was his position, and she had a feeling she knew what he was looking for, the only answer that would satisfy him.

"i've seen better," olive had whispered into her phone, the weight of missing him like an anvil on her chest.

even though she and russell weren't together, at that time, in the technical sense of the word, it still sort of felt like they were.

there were guys, sure, and she could only guess what a hit russell was with the sorority end of greek row.  olive wasn’t typically a jealous person, but something sickly rolled through her body at the thought of russell being someone’s class crush, of someone looking him up on the roster after seeing him play.  it was a jealousy that she wasn’t necessarily entitled to, but it was there nonetheless.

olive pretended not to notice, over facetime, when there would be purplish bruises on the column of his throat.  she pretended not to notice how angry it made her that someone else knew what his pulse felt like under their lips, especially when it was that feeling in particular that had made its way into her dreams.

just as russell probably pretended not to notice when the back of some other guy's head would make an appearance in one of olive’s posts, just intriguing and secretive enough to run up the comments, to make her interaction data spike.

even during those years apart, russell still liked every single one of her pictures, still texted her about almost every one of them, but for those ones, the ones that shimmered with someone-else-ness, he was notably silent.  during those times, olive would find herself checking her phone even without a ping-like notification, like her want alone could will his name onto her screen.

neither of them seemed to like the notion that one had an entire life away from the other.  both of them seemed to agree that what they couldn’t see right in front of them couldn't hurt them, as long as they didn’t let it.

every school break though, without fail, the two of them would come home and fall back into whatever they were, without explicitly saying what that was.

What olive knew was that when they were home for thanksgiving, or christmas, or a week in spring, or whatever else, her phone would light up with a text like heard you're around?

usually the night that followed would involve huddling together on the massive bean bag that was still in his room, pretending to watch a movie for a half-hour or so before his lips found hers and her hands found the warm plane of his chest.  the air would be hot with the unspoken truth of just one more time, just until i leave, just for a second because i missed you.

he never treated her differently, never made fun of her job, even though it would have been so easy to, never was anything but supportive.  he was the same gangly boy walking up his driveway, and she was the same shy girl looking at him from her bedroom window, even if that shy girl now had hair extensions and a bit of lip filler and received invitations to black-tie events.

russell never seemed to care about all of that, anyways, even as years went on, and they both returned home less and less, texts and calls becoming less frequent, the distant presence of the other like the lull of a fan at night, a relaxant, a constant white noise, a standard off of which to judge everything else.

now, as olive turned the light out in the bathroom and walked towards her bed, she stared out her window, could almost make russell out in the one just across from her if she tried.  the image of him wasn’t particularly hard to evoke, always waiting just in the wings of the playwright’s perfectly scripted performance in her mind.  olive leaned back against her headboard, stared at the text.  there was a bittersweet sort of taste in her mouth, because this actually would be the last time.

olive and russell had both graduated about a month ago, and after being picked in the draft by the team he had grown up cheering for, he had moved back home to play for their minor league affiliate, not even twenty minutes from his parents’ house, hoping to gain enough traction to eventually earn a spot in the big leagues.

this time would be olive's last routine visit home, one she hoped to spend packing and shipping all of her stuff back to la.  the move only made sense.  she had an absurd amount of followers now, and all her biggest partners were located in southern california.  olive couldn’t really afford to make decisions that didn’t make sense, at this point in her life, in her career.

this would be her last routine visit home, and then upstate new york wouldn't be home anymore.  los angeles would officially occupy that space in her life.  the thought wasn’t as comforting as she hoped it would be.

olive pulled her blush-colored comforter up to her chin, thinking about what to respond, if she even should respond.  the last time she’d seen russell, the last time they’d both been home, they’d done what they always did - fall back into each other so easily it felt like falling asleep.  but that couldn’t happen this time, olive reminded herself.  when she left granite falls this time, she was leaving for good.  her exit would be smoother if she didn’t follow russell into any territory other than the friendly kind.  

they had been friends at first, all that time ago, after all.  how hard could it be to go back to that?

i'm home but we can't fuck because i think i’ll cry if we do! olive typed, then promptly deleted.  she sighed, exhaled some of her anxiety, willed herself to just be normal.  barely in the driveway, she sent instead, how did you already know?

got eyes and ears everywhere, russell sent back almost immediately, and she could practically see his smug smile.  it lit up her dark room like a night light.  told dyl at the library to watch for your car.

olive had no idea who dyl was, but figured she’d probably meet him.  she softened to russell’s message, but it made her feel sort of guilty too, with the knowledge that she would be blindsiding him some time soon.  yet he was, telling his friends to watch for her car, like her arrival was something special, something worth waiting for.

she didn’t know what to say then, so olive just set her phone on her bedside table and tried not to let visions of deep green eyes drown her while she slept.

fin. until next time.

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“Leaving for Winter Break”

Bianca, Wednesday, Enid, Xavier and Enid’s brothers were all out by the pick up area. First pulled up Lou-Anne Walker with her son Lucas.

Lucas: heyo! -getting out of the car as his mother popped the trunk- I’ll take your bags, B. -putting them in the trunk he turned to Enid- December 27. We still on for Zoom and watching the games?

Enid: yes! Our poor Sharks and Devils wallowing in last place. Have a great Christmas, Lucas, Bianca

Next came a limousine sent by Vincent Thorpe.

Xavier: you’re welcome to come with me, Wednesday.

Wednesday: No thank you. Lurch will be arriving shortly. Most of my extended family will be arriving for Christmas and I must be there. And of course it will be the first time seeing many of them since the news dropped about one of my stories being adapted for the Netflix series and my first novel. It will be absolutely dreadful. So no thank you.

Xavier: your driver is so creepy

Wednesday: do not insult Lurch like that. He is very sensitive

Enid: I still can’t believe that. How long have you known?

Wednesday: since June?

Xavier: oh come on! Since it will be so dreadful? Why not come with me? The weather in LA is so nice! Not this awful freezing weather here on the east coast! Also Netflix headquarters is in LA!

Wednesday: Actually headquarters are in Los Gatos, California. They have a main office in Los Angeles. As well as New York. If they need me in person? I travel to the New York office. And I enjoy the cold weather. Goodbye

A shuttle honked behind the limousine. Xavier got in. The shuttle pulled up. Enid’s brothers lugged their bags into the van.

Eifion: Enid, get your bag

Euryn: yeah, you useless doormat

Eigion: Or is it too heavy for you? Mom will be mad if you make us miss the flight.

Enid: I’m not going on the shuttle. Wednesday will be driving me to the airport

Elgan: I’m texting mom!

Eifion: already did, Elgan. She says get your ass on the shuttle or don’t bother coming home.

Wednesday took Enid by the hand.

Enid: okay. Tell mom I said ‘Merry Christmas’

Eifion: what the fuck, Enid!

Enid: you heard me. If she’s going to be like that? I’m going to spend Christmas with the Addams. Wednesday has already invited me to spend New Year’s and paying for my flight.

Evan: okay. -shoving his brothers on the shuttle- We can’t delay. If Enid’s not coming? She can freeze here! - he hugged his little sister. Whispered in her ear- I’ll try to keep mom calm.

Enid: -whispering- thanks. Don’t get yourself in too much trouble or ruin your family status. Love ya, Evs

Evan: back at ya, Nini

Evan got on the shuttle.

Enid and Wednesday waited a few more minutes. Other students were picked up. Finally they saw the Addams family hearse pull up. Lurch exited.

Enid: um, was that okay? I kind of invited myself over for Christmas?

Wednesday: Lurch. No need to go to the airport. Enid will be coming home with us.

Lurch groaned acknowledgment and placed the bags in the car.

Wednesday: I am glad you got my subtle hint. It will be okay. My father loves a big party on Christmas. He will be more than happy to welcome my ‘little ray of sunshine’ for Christmas. And your presence will make the dreadful experience of the big party more tolerable

Enid smiled as the got into the car and sat close together for the six hour drive to Westfield