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chincilla-on-the-moon · 5 years ago

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“Nice To Meet You Too”-Connor Murphy X Reader (Soulmate AU)

Word Count: 4,164

A/N: Hey everyone! It’s been a hot minute but here’s my second fic, I made the reader gender neutral so more people could enjoy it! Thank you to everyone who reads this and everyone who read my last fic, it is very much appreciated! Hope you have an amazing day! :)

Everyone was born with a tattoo on their inner left wrist with the first words their soulmate would ever say to them. These tattoos would disappear after the words had been said. Some people just had a simple “Hello!”s or “Excuse me!”s and nothing else, others had things such as totals from various purchases and what not but you were lucky, yours included your soulmate’s name. It read, “Uh, I’m Connor, nice to meet you too.” Connor. It was a lovely name but there were also a lot of people named Connor which led to you constantly getting your hopes up. You always went out of your way to introduce yourself to people named Connor and probably looked a little insane while doing so. A few of your friends had met their soulmates in elementary school but as high school went on more and more people were meeting their partners for life while you were still alone. You became a little discouraged but knew that yours was out there and you were going to meet them eventually. Then came some of the best and worst news of your life. You were moving out of state at the end of junior year a couple of weeks after school got out. You were partially overjoyed because you had already interacted with every single Connor in your area but it also meant you were leaving your home of almost eighteen years. Your junior year went by faster than you would have liked and the time came to say goodbye to your childhood best friend Quinn. They came over to help your family pack as they were like the second child your parents never had and once the last box was put into the U-HAUL truck the two of you broke down crying and gave one another the biggest hug.

Once the breakdown was finished you gave each other one last tear-filled smile before you got into the front seat of your parents’ car and pulled out of the driveway of your childhood home. As you were sitting in the passenger seat with your earbuds in you though of Quinn and how you met. The two of you were in the same preschool, on the first day during playtime you were sitting alone and they came up and declared you two were going to be best friends for forever and the rest was history. You were indeed best friends and were almost never seen without the other. You soon became sad so decided to try and think of something else. You knew Quinn was going to be okay because they had recently met their soulmate so they weren’t going to be alone during this transition period for the two of you. You, on the other hand, were not so sure how you were going to cope. Sure facetime was a thing that existed but it definitely wasn’t the same as Quinn just busting into your house at random times and your parents just being okay with it. You slowly fell into a dreamless sleep for the majority of the rest of the trip.

When you woke up again your mom informed you that you were just about two hours from your new home. You got out at the gas station you were currently stopped at and went to the bathroom and got a few snacks for you and your mom to share. You started to stare out the window and soon your thoughts went to your soulmate, Connor. You hoped that you were going to get to meet him soon as this was currently the only thing keeping you going. You finally arrived at your new house about an hour before sunset. You and your parents began to unload everything from the U-HAUL truck. It took a lot longer without Quinn and you ended up having to finish in the dark. While your dad was returning the truck you and your mom decided to unpack the necessities then leave the rest for tomorrow. When your dad came back the three of you decided to get something to eat and just drive around the town.

You got food from Mcdonalds and took in the sights of your new home. It was a nice town, not too big or small, it looked like there were a lot of things to do and places to eat. The last stop on your sightseeing tour was the town’s high school. It looked a lot bigger than your previous school and you thought that building was hard to navigate so you could tell this was going to be a nightmare. On your way home you noticed a park right by your house. You could tell just by looking at it that it would be the perfect place to walk to at 3 AM when you couldn't fall asleep and just wanted to forget about all your troubles. Once you got home you found the box with your sleeping bag and pillow in it and found your new room. You set up your sleeping bag in your empty room, your furniture wasn’t supposed to arrive for a few days so you were stuck sleeping on the floor for the time being. You stared up at the textured ceiling and tried to fall asleep because you knew tomorrow was going to be filled with loads of unpacking but for some reason, you just couldn’t so you were going to call Quinn to just check in but decided against it since you remembered they were hanging out with their soulmate tonight. So you did what you always did when Quinn wasn’t available, imagine what your soulmate looked like. You really didn’t care what ‘Connor’ looked like it was just fun to try and put a face to a name. Slowly you fell into a dreamless sleep.

Your mother came into your room at about 8:30 so you could start unpacking. You finished the living room, kitchen, and bathroom before lunchtime. You finished doing the rest of your house just before dinner time. You stood in your room, it was painted a nice light grey and you had hung up some of your posters and pictures and strung up your lights which made you feel more at home. Your dad called upstairs to tell you that he had picked up dinner on his way home from work. While the three of you were eating he talked about his new job, he was a lawyer and had gotten an amazing opportunity at a pretty well-known law firm, which is why you guys moved. He told you about his new office and some dick named Larry he worked with. Once dinner was finished the three of you talked for a couple of hours about how everyone was feeling about the move, as the conversation was winding down you felt yourself growing tired, you bid your parents goodnight went upstairs to bed. Thoughts of how you were going to arrange your room filled your head, the furniture was supposed to arrive the next afternoon and you couldn’t wait to finally finish setting up your room. That night you had a weird beauty and the beast-esque dream filled with talking furniture.

The furniture truck arrived around 12:30 that afternoon and you finished setting up your room at about 3, you decided to facetime Quinn to show them your new room. They helped you decide where to put a couple small things then after that the two of you just caught up, they told you all about how amazing their soulmate was and you couldn’t help but feel a small pang of jealousy, they asked about ‘Connor’ and you told them you hadn’t found him yet. You lied and told them your mom was calling so you could stop talking about soulmates cause it was making you upset. After you got off the phone you and your mom decided to get lunch at a locally owned diner which made you feel a lot better about not finding Connor yet, before you went home you stopped at the grocery store and picked up somethings so you could begin making food in your own kitchen. Once you got home you decided to take a nap until dinner was ready. You woke up around 5:15 and saw that Quinn had sent you a message so you responded and told them about your lunch, just as you hit send on your message you heard your dad come in and your mom called up to you to tell you dinner was ready. Dinner was good and your dad said work was good which made you feel like maybe this move was a good thing.

The next morning your mom barged into your room and told you to get up and get ready to go tour your new school. You begrudgingly got up and dressed, you then went downstairs to meet your mom. The two of you headed out to her car and on the way put you grabbed some fruit so you wouldn’t be cranky during the tour. Once you arrived and found the main office you met your principal and she gave you your schedule and then introduced you to your tour guide, Alana Beck. She was very pretty and you could tell she was smart just by looking at her. Once your principal set you loose so the tour could actually begin Alana became much more talkative, not in a bad way, of course, it was nice to not have to worry about keeping the conversation going. As the tour progressed you felt your anxiety melting away, the building actually wasn’t that hard to navigate and your classes were easy enough to find. You and Alana found your way back to the principal’s office but before you went in Alana gave you her number that way if you had any questions about anything you could always text her. It was nice to know you already knew someone at school and wouldn’t be going in with a completely clean slate. You went into the office and said good-bye to Alana and your new principal. You walked out of that building feeling oddly calm. You and your mom went out to breakfast and you got one of your favorite diner foods. Your mom dropped you off at home after breakfast because she had to go to her first day at her new job.

You decided to walk down to that little park you saw on your drive around the town. You put in your earbuds and started walking. It took a little while for you to find it but you did eventually. When you arrived you saw that there was another person there. They were sitting on the swingset. You decided to walk around the block to try and avoid human contact at all costs. When you looped back around to the park you saw the tall figure still sitting on a swing. You were tempted to take another lap around the block but there was a feeling in your gut telling you not to. So you didn’t. You decided to just sit on the farthest swing from the person. You decided to sneak a peek. They had wavy brown hair that reached their shoulders and were wearing all black, just like you. You chuckled to yourself, maybe a little too loudly cause the person turned and looked at you. FUCK! FUCK, FUCK, FUCK! Why did I have to fucking do that! It wasn’t even that funny!” you thought to yourself. They continued to look at you. ��Wow, they’re pretty. WAIT, not the time you idiot! Holy shit what do I do? Should I say something?! I should say something. Right?” before you could even contemplate what to do you felt yourself opening your mouth and saying “Sorry, I just noticed we’re both wearing black and thought it was kinda funny. Anyways, I’m Y/N. Nice to meet you.”, you awkwardly stuck your hand out for them to shake.

They hesitantly took it and said, “Uh, I’m Connor, nice to meet you too.” You swore you died right then and there, you could not believe your ears. The two of you just realized what happened and said “Holy shit” in perfect unison.

“HOLY SHIT!” you squealed. You ran over to Connor and gave him a gigantic hug, you could tell you scared him with this sudden physical contact but eventually hugged back just as tight as you. At some point, you had started crying out of pure happiness because OH MY GOSH you just met your soulmate! The two of you eventually pulled apart and you just looked at him and soaked in his beauty. You noticed that half of his left eye was a rich dark brown while the other half and eye were a light blue. You noticed how angular his face was and how nice his lips were.

“Soooooo,” he said in a very dragged out manner. “What do we do now?”

“I don’t know I’ve never met my soulmate before,” you say, hoping to lighten the tension. “I guess get to know each other if that’s cool with you.”

“Yeah sounds good. What do you want to know?”

“Why have I never seen you before?”

“I just moved here a couple of days ago with my parents. My dad got a good job opportunity at some law firm around here so we moved.”

“Wait is your last name L/N?”

“Yeah? How’d you know?” you asked, suddenly growing very aware of the fact you and Connor were alone in the park.

“Holy Shit, calm the fuck down. I’m not a creep I swear,” he said getting kind of angry with you, you guessed your internal freakout was showing on the outside. “My dad works at that law firm and mentioned something about a new hire.”

“Oh okay. Sorry for freaking out dude. It was just kinda weird that someone I just met knew my last name regardless if we were soulmates or not.” you said in a very sincere manner, you really didn’t want to mess up your relationship in the very beginning.

“It's all good, don't worry about it,” he says, tension leaving his body. “My last name is Murphy if you were wondering.”

“Well nice to finally meet you, Connor Murphy.”

“Nice to finally meet you too Y/N L/N.”

You and Connor sat in the park until dusk just talking about anything and everything. He told you about his family and how school was hell for him and you told him how anxious you felt moving here. Maybe it was because you were soulmates but the two of you just felt so comfortable around each other already. Before you left he gave you his phone number and you gave him a promise to text him. On the walk home, you felt as if you were walking on air. You quickly whipped out your phone and texted Quinn telling them all about Connor. They let you rant over text about him for most of your walk home, they were so happy for you. You decided to text Connor before you went into your house. As you were walking in the front door he texted you back and you had a gigantic dopey grin on your face. Your parents stopped talking as you walked into the living room, your mom asked, “What’s got you so happy?”

“Oh nothing,” you said over dramatically. “Just met my soulmate that’s all. No biggie,” you said shrugging your shoulders and biting your lip in an attempt to hold back your smile.

“Oh my gosh honey!” your mother said practically jumping over the couch to reach you. “When? How? Where? What does he look like?” she asked, barely breathing while doing so. You wanted to keep them in suspense for a little bit but decided against it as you didn’t want your mother bursting a blood vessel.

“Earlier today. After you dropped me off and went to work I decided to walk to that little park not that far from here and that's where I met him,” you said suddenly feeling shy about the whole thing, you weren't a fan of being bombarded with all these questions from your mother. Once you satisfied your mom with adequate answers you went up to your room and continued to text Connor. The two of you were planning your first date, well more like Connor was planning your first date because you didn’t know anything to do. Connor suggested getting dinner and seeing a movie in the town next to yours and you thought that was a lovely idea. The date was set for Saturday which was still a few days away from now lucky for you because it meant you had a couple of days to figure out your outfit and get advice from Quinn. You and Connor were texting for hours before you looked at the clock on your nightstand and realized that it was four in the morning, you bid Connor goodnight and went to bed with a stupid grin on your face.

When you woke up you immediately texted Quinn to tell them about your plans for this weekend. They were so happy for you and they agreed to help you pick out an outfit. You were on facetime for hours modeling different outfit choices before you picked one, it was casual but still looked like you were making an effort. Once the outfit situation was figured out you started talking about the actual date, you started freaking out a little bit because ‘oh my god’ what if he didn’t like you but Quinn was quick to reassure you that he was literally your soulmate and you two were meant to be together. You spent the next few days texting Connor and waiting for Saturday.

Finally, after much anticipation, Saturday arrived! You could barely sleep the previous night you were so excited. It was like the night before going on a big field trip in elementary school, you had your clothes laid out and made sure literally everything was perfect. You woke up early to get ready, you showered, did a face mask and painted your nails to kill time while waiting for Connor to pick you up. Once the time that was decided upon rolled around you saw a black truck pull up in front of your house. You didn’t even need the text saying he was here to know that it was Connor’s. You said goodbye to your parents and practically ran out to Connor’s truck. Once you reached it Connor told you to wait while he got out and opened the door for you with a blush on his face. He quickly went around to the driver's side and got in, he reached into the back seat and pulled out flowers which you found very sweet. “Ah so chivalry isn’t dead,” you said while laughing lightly.

“No it isn’t,” he said while smiling. The drive over was filled with the sound of a playlist Connor made, conversation was scarce as both of you were scared to mess this up. You pulled up to the restaurant and Connor quickly got out and opened the door for you again. You thanked him and fixed your disheveled outfit. The restaurant was a nice little diner with an ice cream place attached to it when you walked in Connor got the two of you a booth. The booth was in the back corner of the restaurant, the seats were a little worn down but still comfortable. Once the two of you got settled in, a nice middle-aged woman came over and got your drink orders, you guys looked over your menus and silently decided what you were going to get to eat. You decided you had enough of this awkward silence and started a conversation.

“Soooo, how was your day Connor?”

After that, the ice was broken and conversation between you two came naturally. You talked about things such as your favorite TV shows, movies, and books. The service was fast and soon after placing your order the food came and it was pretty good. Once your waitress dropped off the check at your booth Connor insisted on paying much to your dismay, after that two of you got some ice cream before heading to the movie theatre. This time Connor let you have the AUX Cord and you played some stuff from your favorite artist, he had only heard a couple of their songs so he asked you about them which resulted in you rambling about them for almost the entire 15-minute car ride to the movie theatre. Once you were done you had realized how long you’d been talking and started apologizing and blushing immensely. Connor only laughed and told you it was fine with a huge smile on his face, what he didn’t tell you is that he found it extremely cute. Once you arrived at the theatre you bought your tickets and headed in. Although you two just ate dinner you decide to get some stuff from the snack bar. After getting your snacks you found your theatre and settled into the somewhat uncomfy seats just in time for the previews to start. Neither of you were particularly interested in the movie but you still watched it nonetheless. About halfway through the movie Connor “smoothly” put his arm around your shoulders and you leaned your head into him. Now neither of you wanted the movie to end now but alas it had to, on your way out you grabbed Connor’s hand and didn’t let go until you had to to be able to get in the car but once you clicked your seat belts Connor reached across the center console and put his hand out for you to hold if you wanted to, and you wanted to. On the way home you talked about the movie then somehow you got on the topic of soulmate tattoos.

“Do you know how insane I went going out of my way to introduce myself to every single person named Connor?” you say while laughing. “I literally introduced myself to every single one of them in my old town and even the surrounding counties!”

“I’m sorry my parents named me something so basic I’ll be sure to scold them for it,” he says while pretending to be serious.

“I think I’ll have to fight them when I meet them!” you say still laughing. This is what cracks him and he begins to laugh with you.

“Oh my god please do!” he says with a gigantic smile on his face.

After that, the two of you calm down but still have dumb grins on your faces.

“How did you feel walking around with the stupid thing I said to you on your wrist for seventeen years?”

“It was comforting knowing my soulmate was an emo piece of shit like me,” he says with a grin.

“Hey! I’m not emo! I just happen to like the color black,” you say pouting.

“Okay whatever helps you sleep at night sunshine,” he says with an overdramatic eye roll. After that, the two of you fell into a comfortable silence which was nothing like the one on the ride over. Sooner than you would’ve liked Connor pulled up in front of your house.

“Here we are”

“Yup,” you say, not wanting to get out just yet. “Thank you for tonight I had a really amazing time.”

“Of course,” he says, turning to look at you. Once he does so a small smile appears on his pretty face. You decided this would be a good note to leave on, you reluctantly let go of his hand and began to collect your things. You look at Connor and don’t know what possesses you but you give him a kiss on the cheek.

“I’ll text you tomorrow, okay?” you ask, your cheeks on fire from what you had just done.

“Mhm, sounds good,” he says, barely above a whisper. Face beat red, he puts his hand up to the place you had just kissed. “Good night Y/N.”

“Good night Connor,” you say while opening the door of his truck. You shut the door and smile at him and walk up to your front door. You wave at him to let him know you got in okay and as a final goodbye for the night. Your parents were out for the night so you didn’t have to deal with your mom’s bombardment of questions about the date until breakfast the following morning. You went upstairs and changed into your pajamas, still smiling. You texted Quinn and let them know how perfect the date went, making sure to let them know every single detail. That night you dreamed of Connor, your future together and how happy you were to meet him.

#connor murphy #Connor Murphy x Reader #connor murphy fanfiction #connor murphy fanfic #dear evan hansen fanfic #dear evan hansen #dear evan hansen x reader #alana beck #broadway x reader #musical x reader #Broadway #musicals #broadway fanfic #musical fanfic #x reader #character x reader #character x you

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dee-vine · 7 years ago

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Shutter Speed Ch. 14

This chapter sucks (writing wise) and I struggled so much but it’s a good chapter I swear, and it’s extra long because I felt bad for not getting it out sooner like I planned. I hope you guys enjoy it!

PLEASE like and reblog and comment, it makes it easier for me to write if I actually know you guys like it.

xx Dana

Ch 13 | AO3

Betty is tired. She got to work at 7:30 this morning, and didn’t even get a break until her shift ended at 3:30. All she wants to do is go home and nap, but she promised Jughead that she would go over there after work. She sighs and makes her way towards his apartment building, which is only a few blocks away thankfully. When she reaches it, she presses the button for his apartment number and waits a few seconds until the buzzer goes off, unlocking the door. She makes her way up the stairs, thankful he’s only on the third floor, and texts Veronica that she’s here and should take the car here so they don’t have to walk back home.

Before she knocks on the door, she smooths down her shirt and takes her hair out of its bun, running her fingers through it. She lets out a deep breath before knocking on the door, hearing the “come in” yelled from the other side. She opens the door and is met with an unpleasant sight-- Toni sitting on the couch next to Jughead, laughing with him and Archie about something.

“Hey Betty! It’s been a while,” Archie comments when she walks in, grinning at her. She smiles and closes the door behind her, hanging her purse up on a hook next to it.

“Yeah, my schedule has been insane, I haven’t had a chance to see anyone. Veronica’s on her way, also, I came straight from work,” Betty tells him. She glances at Toni before sitting in the armchair beside Archie, pointedly avoiding Jughead’s stare.

“It was your long day, right?” Jughead asks. Betty just nods, still avoiding making eye contact with him. She can feel Toni’s stare and feels a little self conscious, shrinking into herself. “You’re probably exhausted. We could’ve rescheduled, you know.”

“No, it’s fine Jug. I actually feel better now that I’m sitting down,” Betty amends, finally meeting his eyes. He looks concerned, his fingers tapping on his knee. He’s about to say something when Toni speaks up, clapping her hands against her thighs.

“Jones, we’ve been sitting here for hours doing nothing. Entertain me with something,” she says, poking him in the cheek. Jughead averts his eyes and flinches away from her with a laugh, Betty’s back stiffening.

“You’re asking the wrong guy, I’m not fun,” he answers, turning his head away from her. She pouts out her bottom lip and then, with a small smirk forming on her lips, sets herself on Jughead’s lap, wrapping her arms around his neck.

“But I always have fun with you,” she says lowly, almost purring. Archie’s head snaps up at the same moment Betty stands up from her chair.

“I’m going to get a glass of water,” she mutters to Archie, and all but runs into the kitchen. She feels angry, the image of Toni on Jughead’s lap stuck on repeat in her mind. She leans over the kitchen sink and turns on the faucet, letting the water run as she takes a few deep breaths. After a few moment she hears someone walk in, so she quickly grabs a glass from the dish rack and fills it halfway with water. She takes a sip before turning around, only to be met with the sight of Toni leaning against the fridge, arms crossed with a smirk on her face.

“You ran out so quick I almost didn’t see you,” Toni says. Betty’s free hand clenches into a fist, but she tries to keep her composure, gently setting her glass down.

“I’ve had a long day, needed to wake up. Plus, you didn’t seem to mind my absence,” Betty remarks, dragging her gaze back to look at Toni. She’s still smirking at her, but stands up straight and makes her way over to Betty.

“Is that...jealousy?” Toni asks in a taunting voice. She steps into Betty’s space and leans against the counter next to her, which makes Betty want to shrink away. She doesn’t though, instead stands her ground and levels her with a look that she hopes is intimidating.

“It’s clear we don’t like each other, so why don’t we be outright and say it, Toni,” Betty says. She turns to face Toni, their fronts aligned, and Betty can’t help but feel a sense of pride at the way she towers over her. Toni doesn’t seem phased, however, looking up at her with a fake smile.

“Props to you for your honesty,” Toni says. She holds eye contact with Betty, neither of them willing to back down until she smiles, taking a step back. “I think you should tell him.”

“Excuse me?” Betty asks, thrown off by the statement.

“I know you’re not dumb, Betty. And you’ve gotten my approval,” Toni tells her, walking away from Betty. She’s about to walk out of the kitchen when Betty stops her, still clearly confused.

“What are you talking about?” she asks, stepping away from the counter. Toni turns back around, rolling her eyes and sighing.

“Listen, you’re clearly gone for Jughead, and I think you should tell him,” she says with a shrug.

“But, you and him…” Betty starts, confusion clouding her face. It worsens when Toni laughs out loud, shaking her head.

“You’re so naive, that’s so cute,” Toni laughs. “If I didn’t already have a girlfriend, I’d definitely try to win you over.”

And with that, she’s walking out of the kitchen, leaving a confused and slightly annoyed Betty in her wake. Betty stays in the kitchen for another few minutes before making her way back out by everyone else. Toni seems to have left, instead being replaced by Veronica who is already cuddled up to Archie. Jughead is on the couch alone, a game controller in his hands.

“Did Toni leave?” Betty asks. They all turn their heads to look at her, startled by her sudden appearance.

“Yeah. She came back from the kitchen saying ‘I miss Cheryl’ and walked out, who I am assuming is her girlfriend,” Jughead says, pausing his game and turning back to her. “What were you guys doing in there that you were gone for so long?”

“Oh. We were just...talking. Getting to know each other,” Betty says, walking over to the couch to sit next to him. Jughead looks at her strangely, but she ignores it, turning to Veronica and Archie instead. “V, how is your cleanse coming along?”

“Really great. I’ve never felt more amazing, so I think I’ll keep it up,” Veronica says, leaning her head on Archie’s chest. Archie groans and throws his head back against the chair, Veronica shushing him in response. Jughead snickers from beside her, resuming his game. Betty turns away from the two lovebirds to look at him, watching as he focuses on the game. She thinks about what Toni said to her, considers taking him to someplace quiet to tell him the truth, like Veronica would want. If only she had the confidence to do that.

“Can I play?” she asks him. He whips his head to look at her, his player getting killed in the game as he does.

“Dammit! Um, yeah, sure. Let me get the other controller, I can teach you as we go,” Jughead says, getting up from the couch and grabbing the second controller from the tv stand. He sits back down by Betty, handing her the remote as he does. “So it’s pretty difficult at first, but I’ll walk you through it.”

“We just have to kill everything in sight, basically?” Betty asks, turning the remote over in her hands.

“Yeah, we’ll work as a team to do that. It’s really not that hard, press this button to hit or shoot, this to move, and that’s really all you need,” Jughead explains. Betty nods, running her fingers over the buttons as he starts the game. Right away, she’s off, killing everything she needs to before Jughead even has a chance to. She even catches the attention of Archie and Veronica, both staring at the game until they finish the level, looking at her dumbstruck. She looks from them to Jughead’s own surprised face, his mouth ajar.

“Would you believe me if I tell you that was beginner’s luck?” Betty asks with a small smile. In truth, she’s played a lot of video games with her dad, but they don’t need to know that. Jughead shakes his head and turns the game off, throwing his remote to the side.

“Remind me to never play against you in anything,” he comments. Betty giggles as Archie and Veronica stand up, Veronica dragging him away from the living room and towards his bedroom.

“We’re gonna have a chat. Don’t get too crazy out here,” she says, throwing a wink over her shoulder. Betty feels her face heat up as the door slams behind them, leaving a weird silence behind. Betty and Jughead sit there for a moment, until Betty remembers something.

“Didn’t you have a surprise for me?” she asks. His head shoots up to look at her, his face brighter.

“Oh yeah, I almost forgot,” he says, angling his torso so he can face her. “So my boss at the magazine came up to me the other day and said she wanted to do a feature on me, as an upcoming photographer to look out for.”

“Jug, that’s so cool!” Betty exclaims, her hand falling onto Jughead’s knee. He smiles bashfully, adjusting the hat on his head.

“Yeah, I wasn’t really expecting it. And she also wants you to be featured in some way, because she says you have ‘progressed in front of her own eyes’ and might be a little bit obsessed with you. She wants a full feature, but if you don’t want that I completely understand,” he tells her. She stares at him, mouth slightly agape, completely shocked.

“Jug, that’s...why would she want to feature me?” she asks.

“Because of your progress. She says you have real potential to be big in the fashion world,” Jughead states with a shrug. Betty ponders his words, considering the offer she’s given.

“I don’t want to do it. You’re the one that should be featured, not me. You’ve worked so hard all your life and you deserve an entire magazine written about you,” Betty tells him, a genuine smile on her lips. Jughead looks up at her through his fallen piece of hair, an appreciative smile spreading across his entire face.

“Thanks, Betts. It means a lot,” he tells her, placing his hand atop hers. There is a moment where neither of them move, but they both realize how close they suddenly are. The air feels thick, and Betty can feel the words in her throat, but they get interrupted by Archie’s bedroom door opening, Veronica emerging. She has a few hairs of place, but everything else seems to be intact as she gives them a weird look.

“Did I interrupt something?” she asks, arching her eyebrow. Jughead doesn’t make a move to take his hand off of hers, so Betty doesn’t try to either, slightly shifting her body to look at Veronica.

“No, we were just talking about Juggie’s internship,” she says. Veronica stares at her for a beat longer, then nods and walks into the kitchen. Betty turns back at Jughead, who she notices has taken his hat off, and opens her mouth to speak when Veronica pops her head back in the doorway, calling out Betty’s name. When she turns around, Veronica is grinning wildly at her.

“Just so you know, I’m sleeping here tonight. So maybe Jughead can be the great gentleman he is and walk you home in place of me,” she says, winking at Jughead.

“What happened to your cleanse?” Betty asks, slipping her hand out from underneath his.

“Consider it a cheat day,” Veronica says, and then she disappears again. Betty looks back at Jughead, who has a look of disgust on his face.

“Do those two ever stop?” he asks, glancing towards the closed bedroom door.

“They’d go all day if they could,” she adds, shuddering at the thought. Silence falls over them, and when they hear the distinct sound of a giggle, Jughead jumps up.

“I’ll walk you home now,” he says quickly. She stands up to follow him, practically running out of the door to avoid the moans sounding from the bedroom.

The door closes with a slam, Jughead still looking disgusted. Betty can’t help but laugh at the entire situation, even as Jughead glares at her, shaking his head. “I need to find a new roommate.”

“Don’t be so dramatic, let them live,” she tells him. He doesn’t seem to be amused, but shrugs anyways, walking towards the stairs. They walk down and out of the building, Betty giving him a weird look when he holds the front door open for her.

“I’m being a gentleman,” he grins. Betty rolls her eyes and walks through the doorway and down the stairs, Jughead catching up to her once she reaches the bottom. They walk side by side down the sidewalk in a comfortable silence, their hands brushing against each other at one point. Betty looks up at him, but he’s still looking forward as if he didn’t notice. She glances down at their hands, then back up at his calm face, watching as he moves his hair out of his eyes.

“Where’s your hat?” she asks. He looks at her, patting the top of his head as if oblivious to the fact that it was missing.

“It’s too warm out for it,” he shrugs, looking forward again. Betty knows that’s not the actual reason, because she has seen him with that hat on some of the hottest days of the summer. She doesn’t press the subject, though, because they finally reach her apartment building.

“Do you want to come up for a drink? In celebration? We could watch a movie or something, since I’m sure you don’t want to go back to your apartment,” she asks, turning to him. He looks troubled for a moment, as if he doesn’t know if he should or not. Betty is reminded of Veronica’s party, then, and the unfortunate ending to night, regretting even asking. “Nevermind, it’s a silly suggestion.”

“No, no! I’d love to celebrate with you, I really would,” he finally says. Betty smiles with relief, taking her keys out of her purse and leading him up to her apartment. He’s quiet as she leads him inside and into the kitchen. Veronica keeps the cabinets fairly stocked, so she pulls out a few different bottles and sets them on the counter.

“Pick your poison,” she tells him. He looks over the three bottles, making a humming noise as he reads the labels of each one. He picks up the white moscato last, holding it out to her.

“The only wine you’ll ever find me drinking,” he says, a crooked smile on his lips.

“Great choice,” she says, getting the wine glasses out of the cupboard. “Take it out to the patio, we can watch the sunset.”

“Betty Cooper, are you trying to romance me?” he smirks, taking the glasses from her and holding them in one hand.

“Yes of course. Now go, I’ll be right out,” she tells him. He obeys without a word, Betty letting out a large exhale of breath as soon as he’s out of sight. She can’t get Toni’s words out of her head, and it’s making her see things in a different light. If Jughead truly does have feelings for her, will something happen tonight? She thinks she’s being as obvious as she can be without saying the words out loud. Liquid courage might be what they both need.

Grabbing a blanket from the back of the sofa, she makes her way out into the patio to find Jughead making himself at home. He’s pushed two of the lounge chairs together, the wine and glasses on a table next to one. He looks up at her as she opens the door, a pillow in his hands.

“Is this okay?” he asks hesitantly, setting the pillow down on the chair.

“It’s perfect,” Betty answers, and that warm feeling creeps up her spine when he smiles at her.

They settle down on the chairs, Jughead handing her a glass of wine and leaning back on his own chair. Betty watches as he takes a cautious sip, making eye contact with her while he does.

“Do you think we can finish off this bottle?” he asks when he swallows his sip.

“Easily,” she answers, taking a sip. “And that’s as far as we’ll go, because wine drunk is not a good look on me.”

“A lot of experience?” he asks.

“Not a lot. Veronica once declared we celebrate Wine Wednesday last year, and we each had about a bottle each. Let’s just say it got a little fuzzy and I had the worst hangover the next day,” she laughs, sipping from her glass.

“Wow, I can’t believe you are such a party girl,” he jokes. Betty rolls her eyes in response, swirling the wine in her glass.

“Veronica may be a bad influence sometimes, but I am in no way a party girl,” she settles.

“You guys were random roommates, right?” he asks, earning a nod as an answer. “Do you ever think about what things would be like if you hadn’t been paired with her?”

“My life wouldn’t be as exciting, that’s for sure,” she smiles softly. She had thought about it quite a few times, and had come to the conclusion that she never wanted to go back in time and change things.

“You guys are really great friends. You both care so much about each other,” Jughead comments. Betty nods, because it’s true. Veronica has kept her grounded so many times in the short time that they’ve known each other, even when she doesn’t know it.

“She keeps me sane, most of the time,” she says. She realizes that this conversation has gotten a lot more serious than planned, and for once she doesn’t feel like she has to stop it. Jughead looks at her like he’s studying her, but she doesn’t feel uncomfortable. Even when he takes one of her hands in his, running his thumb over her palm gently. She knows that he’s noticed it before, but he was smart to not comment on it before. Betty doesn’t like talking about that, especially with someone she hasn’t known for that long. But Jughead deserves to know. “I was doing okay, for a while. But a few days ago it happened again, not as bad though.”

“Why? Why does it happen?” he asks quietly, looking up at her with earnest eyes.

“I get anxious. Like a lot. And I don’t want to be, so I try to calm myself down, and this seems to be the only thing that works sometimes. And it doesn’t happen all the time, just in times when I’m really nervous about something. Or upset,” she tells him, letting out a breath of air she didn’t know she was holding.

“What made you upset this time?” he asks, running his thumb over the small crescents on her palm. She hesitates, because she can’t exactly say the sight of him and Toni made her upset. Instead, she smiles softly at him, bringing her glass up to her lips.

“That’s not important. I’m happy now,” she says, and she’s not lying. He smiles as she sips her wine, giving her hand a squeeze before letting go and leaning back again.

“I’m glad. I don’t like when you’re sad,” he says, finishing his glass of wine and grabbing the bottle. “Some more?”

Betty finishes the last sip and nods, holding her glass out to him. He refills hers first before his own, and they both settle back in their chairs. The sun is starting to set, so Betty grabs the blanket to drape over her legs. She looks back to see Jughead staring at her, and tilts her head in confusion.

“Sorry, I just- can I borrow your phone? Mine sucks and the lighting is just right,” he says. She grabs her phone from the table beside her, handing it to him.

“I don’t think I look good enough for a photoshoot right now,” she says, taking a quick sip of her wine.

“Not a photoshoot, just a prime photo opportunity. And you look perfect,” he tells her, opening up the camera and holding it up. Betty tries to hide her blush by glancing away and taking another sip of her wine. “Just hold your glass and look that way.”

He points in the direction he wants her to face, and is glad only half of her face will be seen. She’s starting to feel the wine hitting her, her head a bit lighter and she’s sure her face is getting red. Her lips quirk up in a smile just when he snaps the picture, and then a few more right after. She turns to him with a smile, and he angles the phone towards her so she can see the pictures. The lighting is perfect, glowing around her figure like she is an angel or something.

“Are you going to post this?” she asks him. He takes the phone back and sends the photos to himself, shrugging.

“Maybe. Is that okay?” he asks as he hands the phone to her. She nods and finishes her glass of wine, causing him to smirk at her. “Another one?”

“Only if you have one too. I’m not going to be the one responsible for finishing the bottle,” she says. He laughs and pours them both another glass. She talks to him about a book she finally finished as he edits the pictures on his phone. He eventually finishes, putting his phone to the side and wordlessly refilling her glass. She feels warm inside, and happier than she has felt in a while, and it’s not just the wine talking.

They finish the bottle as the sun goes down and the air gets colder. Betty covers more of herself with the blanket, unintentionally shifting closer to Jughead at the same time. He takes notice of it, looking down at her struggling with the blanket.

“If you’re cold we can go inside,” he says.

“No, I want to stay out here. I’ll be fine,” she answers, finally getting the blanket to completely cover her legs.

“Here, come here,” he says, and she looks up to see his arm open for her. She smiles softly and leans into his side, his arm draping around her shoulders. She adjusts the blanket so it is covering both of them, and then settles back happily. “Better?”

“You’re like the sun,” she mutters, taking another sip of her wine. She can feel the laugh reverberate through his body. “How are you so warm?”

“I’m not sure, I’ve only been described as ‘cold’,” Jughead answers, tightening his arm around her and rubbing her shoulder.

“You’re not cold. You’re the sweetest,” Betty says, jokingly pinching his chin. He laughs again, snatching her hand and moving it away from his face.

“Only for you,” he says, his voice quieter. Betty can almost feel the heaviness to his words, but doesn’t say anything about it. She instead rests her head on his chest, letting him gently pet her hair and talk about nonsense. She feels so at ease, so at home, like she could really get used to this happening all the time.

She loves Jughead Jones, and she’s not afraid to admit it anymore.

#bughead fanfic #bughead au #bughead fanfiction #bughead fic #riverdale fanfiction #shutter speed #my work

27 notes · View notes

artificialqueens · 7 years ago

Text

Teal Post-its, sale Greenies and artsy portraits can build something resembling the Sun (Sashea) - Nox

A/N: Hi! I’m Nox, a loooong while ago I used to post here, and I’m back from the dead. I’m obsessed with anything Sashea right now and I stumbled with this prompt: “i hired a dog walking company and i’ve never met the person who comes to my apartment but they leave me really cute notes and they give my dog presents and i kind of love them because my dog does and ALSO one of the artists at this gallery opening is hella cute and i want them to paint me like one of their french girls, plot twist is the same person all along AU” and all the sudden I had a 6k+ words written down, so yeah. This is dedicated to all the WONDERFUL Sashea writers here, you are all awesome and this doesn’t make you any justice but is my small contribution to the fandom.

I apologize if this doesn’t make any sense, and for any grammar mistakes. Hope you enjoy n.n

A post-it note should not put her world upside down.

Humble letters shouldn’t go through her like the flight of butterflies spreading from the tip of her pointer finger to her chest, words shouldn’t make her stomach do uncomfortable flipflops, small phrases shouldn’t mirror the effects of a long walk on the beach which burnt slightly her cheeks and tinted them red. A small, teal piece of paper probably shouldn’t be important, nothing more than a simple reminder tool, an office supply anyone could buy at any supermarket. Words laid out in simple handwriting were probably not meant to go beyond a simple greeting, a good vibes wish, a polite gesture.

Yeah, a teal post-it stuck on her fridge probably wasn’t meant to be a big deal.

But it was.

Vanya, the Italian greyhound, napped in Sasha’s lap after being satisfied with the welcome home he had provided his owner with. The day had surely being a very active one for him, as he had fallen asleep with barely 5 minutes of fussing around her feet. She had gathered him off the floor and brought him to her bed, the teal note tightly clutched on her left hand. A new smile formed in her ruby lips as she scratched his back. Who knew this little dog would get her in such a roller coaster of emotions?

Her grey-blue eyes returned to the note, scanning it for the eleventh time. She had already memorized the message, words carved into her being, every syllable for some reason enticing to her.

–Hey darlin’. Vanya was super excited about his walk, such a good boy! Hope your day was as good as ours, you’ve been working like crazy this couple of days. Vanya told me ;) Give yourself a treat today. Love, -Shea

Shivers went and came in erratic patterns, travelling up and down her spine as every word made white noise in her mind. She shaked her head a little bit, trying to fade the haze she was submerging into. Sasha sometimes wondered if she was a bit crazy. Sure, moving across the Pacific to an unknown country just by the desire of becoming an artist and live openly as a queer woman was bold. Moving from Urbana to Brooklyn out of a hunch and the need to have brighter lights and stranger people in the city she called home was somewhat risky. Leaving her shitty paid job as a receptionist for a shittier paid job as a assistant curator was kind of nuts is you considered her rent, but hey, she was slowly accomplishing the life she set her mind into many years ago as she boarded that Aeroflot flight, on the heavy russian winter.

However, it was moments like this, when she arrived home and kicked her shoes out of the way to make a beeline to her fridge in the raw hope of finding a new note on it, that she really questioned her judgement on sanity.

Because Sasha was obsessed with a stranger.

She placed the note inside her sketch pad on her night stand, with all the others she had received in the lapse of three months, safely storing them to re-read later. She rubbed her hands together, fingers twitching, aching to do anything right now as she was high on emotion and sensations. This obsession, or however she could call it, wasn’t something that she could quite explain, couldn’t quite pinpoint where it came from and where it was going, but oh it was all so very strange and uncommon that it became addictive to her.

Three months back, when she first adopted the mischievous dog from an animal shelter, the last thing she imagined was she might find someone to fantasize about thanks to dog walks.

She knew she would adopt Vanya the second she laid eyes on him. His long face and skinny legs make him look like a cartoon, dark orbs wide open when they met. She had taken him home without much hassle, just to start freaking out the second she remembered the insane amount of time she spent outside her apartment in between meetings, exhibits, late curatorial processes and overall mayhem a gallery generated. After an all nighter making schedules, budgets and a few calls, it was obvious she would need to hire someone to entertain the poor little pup as she was away. She had called a walking dog company first thing next morning as a solution. They assigned her a walker, one that usually worked with little troubles like Vanya was promising to be. Her name was Shea.

They had never met in person, and they haven’t really talked since the day Shea sent her her number over a text and asked for her to leave a spare key somewhere she could fetch it every time she went to walk Vanya. Her avatar didn’t tell Sasha much about her physical appearance, as the picture was something between a photograph and an illustration, outlandish colors flying in quirky organic figures and toon body parts (breasts, Sasha thought) covered some of the features of a woman’s face- supposedly, Shea’s.

(She did try to analyse this better, but the tiny resolution for it made it quite impossible. Maybe this should have been hint number one, as she quickly became obsessed with the picture.)

She left that morning on a rush and returned home eight hours later, feet sore and swollen in her shimmery red pumps, completely depleted and a bit discouraged as the gallery owner, a southern belle called Trinity, changed last minute the queer exhibition she and the chief curator had been collecting for months for some kitschy landscape showing. The change brought not only tons of extra work but a low blow to Sasha’s ego as she had designed herself the museography. It felt very disrespectful to throw away a subject so dear to the russian.

She closed the door behind her with a sigh as she stepped into her small studio in Brooklyn, Vanya’s paws scraping over the floor in his dash to get to her. She leaned down and petted him, making then her way to the kitchen to get him some food and water, and stirring something up for herself to calm her growling stomach.

As she was about to open her fridge to get some fresh water for Vanya’s bowl, she noticed something- a note, a post-it note adhered to the door of the fridge, next to some polaroids of her and a few friends from Illinois she kept there.

–Hey girl! Vanya loved me. We had tons of fun today. Love,

-Shea

Ps. Hope you smiled a lot today. You look cute smiling in your polaroids ;)

The immediate heat that spread across her fair features was inevitable as she read the note. Vanya ran around her ankles, occasionally propping himself on his back legs, paws against her chins trying to get her attention back on him, as Sasha seemed to have spammed out of this universe completely, eyes wide and a blushed dusting her face and neck. The russian blinked in quick succession, mechanically opening the fridge and pouring water to the dog, who drank happily. Walking towards the small island that served as the dining table, Sasha felt the warmness of her face taking over her entire body.

Sasha was usually lonesome, sometimes too outside-the-box to fit in with the crowd. Brooklyn had proven to be a tad more open-minded to receive her, but still, there were few people that saw in a petite woman with blond wild hair, thick brows, a mind full of thoughts and opinions and a love for clothes with striking patterns and odd accessories as someone they wish to have close to them. She was opinionated, clumsy and most of the times what she said was perceived as overly academic and pretentious, which was exactly the opposite of her intentions. But Sasha didn’t know any better as to how to express herself. She wanted to be heard and she was going to be, no matter what.

Sasha wasn’t good with people, so she mostly kept to herself.

And maybe that’s why coming home from another day without real human contact, having lunch alone on a room cramped with stored paintings and sculptures, a lot of disastrous meetings and having ideas and opinions crushed under someone else’s feet, that she found this little piece of paper as something that had her at the verge of tears. This unknown woman, who walked her dog once, wished she smiled a lot during the day, just because she thought her smile was cute.

Sasha thought of writing Shea a text, thanking her for the note, but thought better of it. The last thing she needed was to scare off her dog walker just because she came on too strong, thinking too much about a simple gesture of courtesy.

The notes didn’t stop though. That was the first of many, many notes, and very, very much awareness over this person she couldn’t even put a face on. This random woman, who she might’ve never meet on the outside world, made her feel treasured and special with simple silly messages written down on a post-its that kept appearing on her fridge. Was she like this with other owners? Sasha liked to think that she wasn’t, that this was their special little thing. Sometimes, when she felt bold enough (probably after a couple glasses of wine late at night too), she would leave a magenta post-it on the fridge, with a silly cartoon or doodle, some message maybe answering whatever Shea had written, sometimes a lame joke, sometimes a simple “Thank you”.

The magenta post-its were always gone and replaced with teal ones, with new messages and new cute non-sense. It wasn’t exactly conversations, as more of signals out in the world that acknowledged both their existences.

Was this borderline insane? Yes, probably. But long ago had Sasha lost the sight of what might be real and what might be her mind playing her over her loneliness. And goodness knew this was the kind of love infatuation someone like her would find irresistible: dramatic, impossible and psycho-ish. It was art at it’s best.

It would make a great book.

A friday night Sasha came home soaked to the bone, a mild storm catching her off guard. After closing her door, she stripped to her mismatched underwear, trying not to get water everywhere as she definitely didn’t feel like cleaning. She could hear Vanya barking, probably on the kitchen. She skipped her way down there, her clothes and shoes in one hand, looking for the reason her little one was so distressed. Usually, Vanya was well behaved, and for him to bark inside the apartment was quite odd.

She found him propped on his rear legs, eyes set on a paper bag over the counter of the island in her kitchen. He barked stubbornly to it. Her sculptural eyebrows shut up almost to her hairline, that wasn’t there on the morning. More surprising (and what made her heart do a painful summersault) was to find a teal post-it stuck to it. Her stomach did something resembling to a cartwheel, her knees felt quite wobbly. What was this? She threw her clothes to the floor, be damned the puddle of water that she’ll have to clean later, and with shaky hands, she took the note.

–So, I thought giving Vanya a treat today was a good idea. Turns out, he really like them and won’t stop crying if I don’t give him one very couple of hours. My bad :( I’ll work on it with him, I promise! For now, these should last him a couple of weeks. Didn’t meant to spoil him, Xx, -Shea. Ps. Who am I kidding? I love to spoil his pretty face.

Sasha read over and over again the note, feeling way dizzier each time she did. The white fuzzing in her brain seemed to stop time as her eyes scanned the piece of paper as if she was a robot. Vanya’s barking eventually brought her back, for her to realize she was steadying herself gripping the counter. With her eyes open as wide as she could, she opened he bag and emptied it, two bags of Hickory Smoke flavour Greenies were inside. The dog began jumping at the sight of the bag, whimpering, running in circles in excitement. Sasha opened one bag and grabbed a treat, tossing it to the impatient dog. Vanya beamed and catched the treat, later to nudge his face against his owner chins in appreciation.

She crouched to the floor, taking the note with her as she let Vanya lick her face. The dog looked at the paper in her hand and touch it with a paw, barking once.

Yeah, you know who wrote this, don’t you?

Vanya barked again and she giggled. It seems like he really liked his walker. And Sasha couldn’t blame him. She really liked her as well.

Another whole bunch of thoughts invaded her mind, never a moment of utter happiness lasting long. Was this a normal thing walkers did with their assigned clients? Why did that woman bought the treats? Were the double X meant to be kisses? Why did she love spoiling Vanya? Why did Sasha love the fact Shea cared so much about her dog?

It was less than likely that walkers went around buying treats for the dogs they took care off, and them just giving the bags to the owner because the dog liked them a little bit too much. Also, anywhere on the contract Sasha signed obligated the woman to do so, she could just have let her know Vanya would cry all night if he didn’t get a treat before sleep and let her deal with it. It would be the normal thing to do, as Vanya wasn’t Shea’s dog. Shea seemed to be very fond of Vanya as she just thought of spoiling him herself today. That made Sasha’s heart flutter. Sasha had never given a treat to Vanya as she wasn’t sure if that was a good idea, or even which would be a healthy one to give him. But Shea did know about this things, and Shea wanted to spoil little Vanya. Anyone who treated Vanya this good had a special space on her heart, and Shea seemed to be adding points in her favor on the imaginary score Sasha kept.

Nonetheless, the blond felt uncomfortable to leave it like this, after all, she was paying Shea to walk Vanya. If the dog needed anything, it was Sasha who needed to pay for it. She took her phone, and shaky fingers looked out Shea’s contact.

She’s had the woman number all along, but had never gather enough courage to message her ever since Shea asked her to leave a spare key for her to use. Unsure of how to even begin a conversation, she just plainly greeted her with a simple hi and asked her how much she owed her for the treats.

Txt from Shea: Hey girl! Don’t be silly, those are on me ;) Vanya quite liked that flavor.

Sasha giggled again. Indeed, Vanya seemed to be really into the Hickory Smoke flavor (of course her dog would like such kind of fancy named taste). She insisted a couple more times on returning her the money, not wanting to put the other woman in the obligation to pay for the treats. Shea refused.

Txt from Shea: I mean it, don’t worry about it, Anything to keep the smile on my special boy. But, if it makes you feel any better, those were for sale.

Txt from Shea: I really think he is the only dog that likes that flavor.

The blond grinned to the screen of her phone. Shea calling Vanya her special boy make her feel giddy. Was it creepy she ached now to have walks on the park with her dog and a woman she didn’t even know besides the fact she was a dog walker and had pretty handwriting?

Yes.

Sasha sat laying her back against the island, shivering as she did so as she was still in her underwear. She was giggling at her phone like a highschool girl with a crush. Vanya took his opportunity to wiggle his way into her lap, resting there with his head in between his paws. He seemed to be very happy to see his mom laughing and smiling, and Sasha wondered if he’d like to have two moms to spoil his little bonny ass.

Knowing Vanya, he’d love it.

Bright eyes scanned paintings and sculptures on the O’Hara Gallery opening on a Thursday night. Sasha clicked her black heels against the marble floor, red fringy dress swaying and messy blond hair bouncing on her shoulders at the compass of her strut as she walked among the pieces that were exhibit, examining them and taking notes about the different techniques and authors. The artists featured were all former students of the Arts School of Brooklyn College, and Trinity had sent her to the exhibition to get some new contacts for their own gallery. The southern woman would rather die before placing a high heeled feet on her eternal rival’s gallery, so Sasha had filled in the Yes RSVP in Trinity’s behalf.

Sighing, she wrote down the name of a landscape painter she knew her boss was just going to love -a style somewhere between Aivazovsky and Coubert- , and moved on without paying too much mind to the painted canvas.

Most of the pieces, even though great in the technical display, were lacking uniqueness for her taste. Thinking on the easel with yet another unfinished painting she had back in her apartment, she sighed, somewhat jealous. Most of the former students featured on the exhibit were likely to find more galleries to feature their work- a prestigious college and regurgitated yet popular thematics endorsing them. Sasha, having studied Arts and Art History under a less known art college and using heavy discourses as gender and deconstruction to sustain her heavy analytical references to make portraits that haunted her mind, struggled a bit placing her work in big galleries like this one or Trinity’s.

Strolling past yet another hyperrealist pen-drawing she didn’t even bother to look closely -really, how many Juan Francisco Casas-like drawings can one display?-, something caught her eye. At the end of a hall, on the photography section, a splash of colors and figures make her turn around. She stepped up to there, gawking at a series of photographies- no, a series of digital work, something between photography and illustration. The models were posing on the most colorful streets Brooklyn had to offer, Sasha could recognize, all dressed in fashions belonging to subcultures and overall queerness, heavily influenced all by color blocking. Every picture was intervened with figures and comical illustrations, sometimes interacting with the model, sometimes just hiding parts of them out of sight. Every picture was weirder than the previous one, the illustrations taking over the picture as the series went on. Sasha stared at each picture in admiration, the overall visual effect was an explosion of diversity among all the other artists that mirrored each other.

This was something Trinity would never in her life show on her gallery, but the kind of art that screamed at Sasha. Her ruby tinted mouth was slightly agape, wondering eyes trying to catch every single detail each work had to offer. Little new details were found wherever she took a deep look: the portrait of the tall, asian girl dressed in Harajuku fashion had small lolitas and Hello Kitties dancing around her modelesque pose, splashes of lavender, teal and yellow surrounding her in an echo effect, eyes crossed out and augmented with a heavy black wave over each orb, to the likes of very dramatic eye liner. Next to it, the barbie-doll like blonde woman posed next to a old teal Chevy, dressed in a pin-up swimsuit, jewels and 80’s plastic dolls doodled over her, arrows and smileys pointing at her wide hips and tits, over drawn lips covering her natural features, a cartoony big ring draping one of her fingers. A blond drag queen, with heavy leaded eyes and dressed in a feathery white gown with teal accents had smoky waves of color around her, weed leaves forming a halo around her head, a blunt sketched lit on her hand. Her cleavage was overdrawn with a dark chocolate color that contrasted with the pale skin, her legs were draw out exaggerating them to the point they were twice their length. These last three were Sasha’s favorites, as they seem to have something to do with the author’s life, the small additions maybe too clear in reference and meaning, probably implying whoever was behind this knew very well these those models.

Her trained eyes started looking for a signature, not wanting to wait till the last picture on her right to read the whole information about the artist. A small inscription on the corner of the pictures rewarded her: Couleé.

Vaguely familiar, she thought, maybe I have read the name somewhere on the Internet.

Sasha was mesmerized, moving several times over the first seven pictures, not wanting to get to the last one just yet, as that would mean this series would be over and she’ll have to move on. She didn’t want to, she desperately thought that perhaps, she could fit between those models. She could devise herself, maybe laying on an old couch, perched on the middle of a traffic filled road, posing like one of those french models Ingres and Delacroix painted back in the day. She would probably wear a gown, see through, with lots of sparkles and adorned with patterns and beads typically Russian. Her hair would be down, teased out of it’s curls, frizzy, clad with a head wrap of extravagant-printed fabric and feathers and beads. She would probably had giant eyes with thick lashes drawn over her natural ones, maybe a bushy brow. She could picture crowns and very Mondrian-esque lines around her. She smiles, dreaming what might be.

However, as she saw people approaching she felt the pressure to hurry up not to bottle up the hall. As her eyes landed on the last picture, her knees felt weak and her jaw dropped.

It was the portrait of a black woman, looking directly at the camera lens, her hand delicately touching her right shoulder. Her face featured her pouty lips slightly ajar, eyes a bit overdrawn on the inner corners, making them look bigger. Around her were drawings of tits and asses, melting on some kind of gooey matter, odd cartoony eyes popping up everywhere, completely deviant and strange. Orange, purple, white and teal took over the picture, both the illustrations and the colors contrasting the sensual and provocative look on the woman’s face.

This was the most stunning piece of them all, and Sasha gasped in both shock and annoyance at herself. She had already seen this one. She could not believe she hadn’t associated the style before.

What kind of art curator are you Sasha!?

This was the profile picture she has checked at least twice a day on her texts ever since the Greenies incident. She had analysed a very lower resolution version of this on her phone, over hours of meditation and clutching a teal piece of paper in her left hand like a lifeline while doing so because it was loony stalking.

Couleé. As in Shea Couleé. That’s were she knew the name from.

She saw that name the day she signed the contract with the dog walking company. Of course Shea had to be the artist behind these amazing artworks. Sasha’s evening had been way too normal up until now. How many people on New York could have a last name like Couleé?

Sasha backtracked a bit, stepping clumsily backwards as her heart stammered loudly on her ribcage. So Shea seemed to be a photographer. And she was exhibiting her work. Here. At the very same gallery Sasha was at. And it was opening night. She might be here. That would make sense. Was that last photograph a self-portrait? Maybe, as Shea used it as a profile picture, it might make sense as well. Not that anything else on this very moment made sense to Sasha, as she kept stumbling with her not so anonymous dog walker everywhere. She kept walking, until her body felt a pair of hands stopping her by the arms.

“So, you like’em?”

Sasha yelped, turning around to her right, to find the most stunning woman she had ever laid eyes on. The woman from the last picture was standing in front of her, small skittish smile on her pouty lips, eyes shining under thick dark lashes. Her hair was slick, dark and barely grazing her shoulders, parted in the middle, framing her face giving her a supermodel twist with her high cheek bones. She was wearing a rosé sweater dress with a belt, which hugged all her curbs, from her ample bosom, her tiny waist and thick legs, hitting right below the knee. She played with her hands, left middle and pointer finger clutched nervously on her right fist. However, her stance was secure, planted firmly in both of her feet, wearing gold sandals that sparkled with the light of the gallery.

“Hey Sasha. I’m Shea, your dog walker. How’s Vanya?.” Shea said, her voice a bit timid.

Sasha’s mouth felt like a cotton ball, she could barely swallow as her eyes scanned up and down Shea’s body, shamelessly. Shea towered her a few inches, even with Sasha wearing pumps higher than Shea’s sandals. She seemed to notice Sasha’s wondering eyes, although she didn’t comment anything about it. Sasha knew she should say something, as she might look really stupid at her complete loss of cool. Her mind betrayed her though, as it sped on a turmoil finally putting a face to the name she had all but worshiped for months, a hundred questions maken her overthink.

How was this happening? Was all this really possible? Why was Shea talking to her so casually? Why was Shea so damn gorgeous? Why hadn’t Sasha worn the black and white dress Trinity often told her she good look with? Was her hair even combed? What was Shea thinking of her? Why did it matter so much?

Sasha opened and closed her mouth a couple of times, like a fish out of the water, making Shea smile widely, crooked rows of teeth showing. The taller woman turned her body to face her photographs, feeling Sasha’s anxiety. She crossed her arms under her chest, tilting her head a bit to the left.

“You know, I studied photography because I really thought I was going to be this famous fashion photographer for Vogue and Marie Claire. Adolescent Shea Couleé, filled with fierceness and big dreams, ready to fight anyone on her way. It turns out that you need one of them fuckers with long ass careers with the magazines to either endorse your work or die to leave a slot open for new talent. And before you ask, some of them had call my work a bit to banjee for high fashion so they don’t think they can mentor me.” Shea spoke, to Sasha, to herself. The blond woman looked at her with doe eyes, her mouth finally shut close, body angled towards Shea. The taller woman’s voice was soothing and enticing to her ears. She was trying to talk to Sasha as if they knew each other, confidence exuding from her like water down a waterfall. Sasha could feel herself relaxing into the situation, a strange feeling of familiarity blooming in her chest.

After all, they technically had talked before.

Shea leaned in a bit towards her left, her voice lowering a bit in a conspiratorial tone, “And I haven’t managed to take out anyone yet, but I’m working on it. So, for now, I’m stuck photographing my friends.”

Sasha snorted, the comment so out of place and ironical that she couldn’t help it. Shea smiled again, still looking forward.

“So, you are kind of a dog walker on the day, fashion photographer at night?” Sasha asked, looking at Shea’s side, trying to follow Shea’s coolness.

“Well, I’m sending books everywhere now and then, however one does need to pay bills, and I happen to like dogs a lot, so I get a buck and pet cute dogs while at it. It’s a win-win situation really.”

Sasha nodded, understanding Shea’s point perfectly. That was the reason she worked as a curator for now, until -hopefully- she kickstarted her career as an artist.

“Yeah, I know the feeling.”

“Work keeping you that happy, huh?” Shea asked, taking a small step to the side, getting closer to Sasha.

“I’m here for business actually, “ Sasha said, shaking her notepad a bit, trying to purse her lips not let Shea know she saw her move towards her, “talent hunting.”

“Oh! You work on a gallery right? Taylor’s Gallery?”

Sasha glanced at Shea, raising a brow and looking how the woman flinched. Her face scrunched up a bit and she sank her head between her shoulders, probably acknowledging it might sound a bit creepy that she knew what Sasha did for a living and where she worked.

“Ok, I read that on your file after you signed with the company, I swear.”

Icy eyes twinkled, Sasha biting her inner cheek to avoid grinning like an idiot. She fancied the idea that Shea was just as nervous as she was in this utterly weird situation. The photographer’s hands, though resting in her forearms as they were crossed under her chest, shifted warily, fingers drumming against her sleeves.

The coy smile on Shea’s lips make the whole room seem a hundred times brighter, the golden sparkle from expensive gallery lights dusting her features, making her look like a magical creature who’s glow tinted her surroundings. And maybe she was a magical creature, as Sasha instantly understood she was falling in love with this woman, this mysterious woman she knew a lot of and nothing about at the same time, who seemed to be linked to her life in the most ridiculous ways possible, the universe throwing them together at every chance at hand.

Sasha was not upset about any of that.

The russian woman took a small step towards Shea, the distance between them closing.

“I do work on a gallery” Sasha smiled, looking at the portraits in front of her, “I’m surprised you actually remembered reading that.”

“I have a great memory, girl.”, Shea half chuckled, half said. She dipped her head a bit, aiming to disguise the dark blush spreading across her cheeks. “In all honesty though, your apartment is filled with paintings and canvas. You had to do something related to art. I thought you were a restaurator, with all the fresh stuff you keep around.”

Sasha smiled amused, “Actually, I’m a curator. Assistant curator. That’s why they send me off to the exhibitions neither of my bosses want to attend. The paintings back home are actually mine.”

Shea’s face beamed at that answer, her ebony eyes back on the russian woman, “You are really talented. You should be featured here.”

“I don’t really think I fit here, with all… this…” Sasha waved her hand, dismissively, “and honestly neither do you. Your work is fantastic, like seriously genius. Everything else here is so boring, I’ve been studying these for at least half an hour now.”

“Genius? Why you think they place my portraits here, and not on the main hall? The curator here hated all of the portraits. They were not going to let me show anything, but some dude cancelled last minute.” The taller woman smirked, “And don’t go all flattery on me. I might start believing you!”

“They are good! Extremely so! I’ve been obsessed with your profile photo for quite some time. I actually felt real dumb that I didn’t matched the styles until the very last picture.” Sasha admitted, unblinkingly.

Shea seemed to be a bit taken aback. Shyly, she tilted her face a bit

“Why didn’t you text about it? I mean, if you liked it that much. We could’ve talked about it, you know?”

“I didn’t want to, uhm- be creepy?” Sasha excused herself, feeling lame.

“You wouldn’t have been creepy at all girl. I mean, I left you post-it notes every day. I couldn’t get worst than that.”

They stared at each other for a moment. Sasha could see Shea slightly nibbling her lower lip, something crossing through her eyes she couldn’t quite name.

“Can we, like, talk about that? I mean, why did you do that? Do you, uhm, leave notes to every dog owner or something?” Sasha tried to pick her words carefully, trying to sound purely curious instead of extremely clingy.

Shea bit her lips, pursing them, avoiding eye contact again.

“No, I don’t leaves noted to… anyone else.” She sighed, “You are gonna think I’m crazy.”

“Well, we are here at an opening night, talking like we were old friends when this is the first time we have actually seen each other. You didn’t even needed to tell me your name for me to know who you were, and the other way around. I think we’ve long past the line of crazy here.” Sasha shrugged, trying to sound reasonable within possibility.

After a few bits of silence, Shea spoke again.

“I- I feel like I know you, you know? Like, I read your file and saw your photo there, the one that you have to give to make sure I can recognize you in case you try to jump me or something, and- it was like I’ve already seen you? I could read there where you lived, where you worked, but something about you just… clicked with me. And then I got to your apartment, and to your dog, and I can kind of pieced together a life for you. How you keep very few pictures of you with other people on display, how everything is extremely organized except the living room that is a mess of paintings and brushes, how this little guy is always near your bed when I arrive because he misses his mom. I didn’t know if any of the stuff I imagined was real, but it felt like it was getting to know you without actually meeting you. And then I started leaving you notes because I wanted to talk to you and you started answering back some of them and I just kind of saved them because they had cute drawings and-” Shea covered her mouth with her hand, eyes completely opened. The word panic was written all across her face.

“Oh god, I’m sorry I don’t want you to think I’m a stalker or something I just-”

Sasha took both of Shea’s hands in between hers, pulling them down from their frantic parade as Shea tried to explain herself. The russian had a shit eating grin plasttered on her face, her teeth showing, that confused Shea, as she had stopped rambling at Sasha’s movement. Sasha slid slowly her thumb over Shea’s skin in small circles, liking the velvety sensation of it under her touch.

“I keep your notes too. I sometimes read them before I sleep because they are very relaxing to me, I mean the idea of someone actually talking to me because they wanted to. I thought I was going crazy, asking Vanya about you, as he seemed to like you a lot and honestly so did I, more of what I was supposed to,” she laughed, not letting go of Shea’s hands, “I was very obsessed with you- No, I AM really obsessed with you, that’s why I was panicking when you found me. Because you clicked with me too…”

Sasha’s smile was sincere, and she could see how something inside Shea melted away, her breathing going back to normal, her hands relaxing in between Sasha’s. The blonde took a step forward, the distance between them almost gone by now. Sasha could feel the heat radiating from Shea’s body. She liked the feeling of it against her skin. She wondered if, perhaps, she had never gotten Vanya, if they had met somewhere else. Maybe on an art exhibition, maybe on the train home, maybe on a bar in which they might be sitting alone and decided to keep each other company. She was almost sure that yes, they somehow would have met, as this was the kind of bond the universe works very damn hard to build.

Shea’s eyes scanned Sasha, a new full smile spreading in her face. Sasha liked the sight of it, she wanted to make Shea smile more, she had a cute smile.

“So maybe… We can get to know each other? Better? Like we know a lot of the other and nothing at the same time. Maybe we could go to the park and get some ice cream, it’s still not that chilly like for ice cream to be a terrible idea and I’m free tomorrow, and the leaves are beautiful this time of the year, all shades of orange and yellow contrasting with the sky. Vanya might have to tag along, however, as he gets cranky if I don’t spend the whole weekend with him. But it’s not like I want you to feel you are at work or something! Oh dear, it’s a terrible idea, that’s basically what you do in your work and-”

The pull on her hands stopped her mid sentence, plush lips softly touching hers, asking permission. Sasha let go Shea’s hands and placed them on her waist, pulling her flush against her body, lips parting a bit to kiss Shea deeply. The taller girl’s arms snaked around her neck, playing with her frizzy curls, as she sucked a bit on Sasha’s upper lip.

The kiss didn’t last long enough, in Sasha’s opinion, but it was a promise. Shea’s smile as she kept her hands on Sasha’s shoulders was smouldering, bright like a hundred suns, warming every cell in Sasha’s body.

“I’d love to go to the park with you and Vanya tomorrow. I can’t say no to either of you.”

Sasha beamed and she felt childish as to be this happy about a simple date. As Shea’s hand slipped through her arm into her hand, fingers intertwining as if this wasn’t the first time they have done so, Sasha knew that yes, this was the kind of love she ached: uncanny, passionate, unique and oh so very them.

#Teal Post-its sale Greenies and artsy portraits can build something resembling the Sun #sashea #sasha velour #shea coulee #fluff #lesbian au #prompt fic #Nox #rpdr fanfiction

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wfmaqh · 5 years ago

Text

Jeannette

INT-Scene opens with Abby on the floor of her bathroom curled around the toilet. Playing with the palm of her hand.

ABBY (V.O.)

Jeannette... That's all you remember, Her name. You don't remember why it was so special but if tracing out the ink on the palm of your hand was any indication of the gooie tingly feelings you woke up with, then hell yes it was important. And more important that the last two digits of her phone number had smudged off.

Camera pans to Abby’s hand and back to her face. Suddenly, she realizes how drunk she is and shakes a grimace.

ABBY (V.O.)

If only I could get off this floor and-

Abby is cut off by Max entering the bathroom with a bag of McDonald's and gatorade in his hands

MAX

Jesus, girl. You're a hot mess. Here.

Max passes the bag and drink off like a hot potato. Abby immediately tears through the bag. Cramming fries in her mouth.

ABBY

Sometimes I wish I could marry you.

Max stands akimbo sashaying his hip- Leaning on the door

MAX

I wish the feeling was mutual. When was the last time you got me McDonald’s when I was hungover?

ABBY

When was the last time you were hungover like this?

Groggy arguing back

MAX

That's not even the point.

(waving hands)

You seemed pretty out of it when you got home. You kept going on about this “goddess” you met. I wish I had snapped it. Girl, it was funny.

ABBY

Well I got her number but…( shows Max her palm. With a look of desperation )

MAX

Okay, I have a plan but let me finish my coffee and bring a pen and paper.

Abby looks back confused then feels like vomiting. Max turns to leave the room.

MAX (Cont.)

This is your problem so,you can be my assistant but it looks like you need to pull yourself together.

Abby slowly gets ready still a bit drunk trying to get a hold of herself, leaving the bathroom she enters the kitchen. The apartment has a lofty open feeling to it there is an island that Max is sitting at sipping from a paper cup scrolling through social media faster than he can even comprehend. Abby places the paper and pen near him. He slides it closer to him. Abby sits next to him.

ABBY

So what’s your plan, oh great master.

MAX

If you don’t want my help then…

Max flashes a sparkle in his eyes that is devilish and Abby acquiesces. Max starts to scribble numbers.

ABBY

Well, we can’t call 100 different combinations. That could take all day.

MAX

No, that’s insane. Look the first number looks like a 5. It could be a 3,7 or 2. The second number looks like a 6, which could be an 8 or 0. So that leaves us with 12 options. I’d say that’s progress.

Max begins typing the numbers

MAX(Cont.)

Hi, this is Maxine from the Human Rights Campaign do you have a couple of minutes to talk about gay rights?

(pause)

No, okay would you like to be put on the do not call list?

(pause)

Can you verify your name?

(pause)

...Have a blessed day sir. Homophobic piece of shit.

ABBY

I mean what did you expect? No one wants give money away for free. And why are you pretending to be ‘Maxine?’

MAX

Oh my little Abby. So sweet.

Max continues with the calls.Finally down to the last number we both took a deep breath as the phone rang. This time Max puts the phone on speaker.

MAX

Hi, my name is Maxine I work with the Human Rights Campaign. How are you today?

JEANETTE

(quizzically)

I’m good. How are you?

MAX

Good. Thanks for asking. I’m calling to see if you have a moment to talk about gay rights. Is now a good time?

JEANETTE

Not really. But I already contribute and I’m not going to increase it at this time. Thank you.

MAX

So would you like to add to your contribution?

JEANETTE

I just said no.

Both Max and Abby are perturbed by this response.

MAX

I’m terribly sorry. Can you confirm your name for our records?

JEANETTE

Jeanette Issing, 602 W 185th Street, New York.

MAX

Thank you.

(hangs up)

Sounds bitchy to me.

ABBY

(nervous)

I wouldn’t say that. You did just cold call her.

MAX

Whatever...Now you have her number so get to texting girl. Work some lady loving magic. I’m going to read my book and take a nap.

Max leaves. Abby sits staring at the number catatonically trying to figure out if what to do next. She punches the number in her contacts.

Fade to black “The Next Day”

INT-Music store that Abby works at. It’s around 4 PM Abby stares at her phone trying to figure if she should send a text. The store if virtually empty but abby cautiously looks around. Abby starts typing

“Hey. It’s Abby I just wanted to see what you were up to tonight?”

Then deletes the whole text.

“Hey, sorry to bother you”

Then deletes the whole text.

“Hey, This is Abby from Steamy Bunny. I had a good time ;)”

ABBY

You don’t even remember that night.

(Types again)

“This is ABBY from the other night. I wanted to see what you were up to?”

Her finger hovers over the send button, wincing she presses send. And lets out a breath of relief. Dots begin appearing. 5 seconds passes.Jeanette’s message.

“Hey ;)”

ABBY

Holy shit!

Abby looks around the store. Blushing. dots appear again.

“I’m teaching until 5:30 we could meet up for happy hour. Do you know Mel’s on Broadway?”

Abby’s hands are a bit shaky she exits pulls up google maps and types in Mel’s

ABBY

111th Street! That’s gonna take me and hour.

Her manager pops up behind her.

MANAGER

Hey.

Abby jumps slamming the phone down. Manager follows it with his eyes.

MANAGER(Cont.)

It’s fine if you’re on your phone. No one’s in here anyways.

ABBY

Sorry, thanks.

She doesn’t even know why she’s apologizing.

MANAGER

So.. Anyways. I was just going to let you off early.I’ll close up See you tomorrow.

ABBY

I can stay if you need me to?

MANAGER

Avoiding plans you made?

Manager turns and leaves visibility

ABBY (Cont.)

Shit.

Sighs and texts back

“Sounds great. I’ll see you around 5:45?”

Dots appear

“Works for me.”

Abby goes to the back of the store and grabs her backpack and bike and begins montage.

EXT-��Greenlight” by Lorde is playing. Abby bikes from Williamsburg with headphones. She riding across the bridge leisurely while speeding hipsters pass her but she doesn’t care. As she get on Houston she is cut off by a car song stops as she yells at them. Then continues on. Jumps to her biking on the west side highway at the chorus. Jumps to Abby staring at the large mountain cliff sighs has she struggles to bike up it. Finally arriving Mel’s She rushes inside a bit sweaty. She walks into the bar

ABBY

Can I get a water?

BARTENDER

ID?

She sighs and hands him her ID, He rolls his eyes and gets a very fast non icy water

ABBY

Thanks..

Abby looks around the bar pretty busy with college students. In slowish motion Jeanette walks in. She has this gorgeous aura and Abby instantly remembered why she woke up with tingly feelings. Jeanette walks in and doesn’t recognize Abby and heads to the bar. She orders quickly and starts to look around. And spots Abby Then waves to her. Abby eagerly walks over.

JEANETTE

Hey.

Jeannette instantly hugs Abby catching her off guard.

ABBY

Sorry I’m a little wet.

JEANETTE

(laughs in a sultry tone)

Well aren’t you forward.

ABBY

(nervous laugh)

No! No, I biked here. I’m all sweaty and gross.

Abby avoids eye contact. The previous bartender walks up with Jeanette’ drink, vodka tonic

BARTENDER

Here you go Jenny. You know, we missed you the other night.

(winking)

JEANETTE

Ha, you’re just saying that to tease me. Anyways, Abby, first round's on me. What do you want?

Bartender sneers

ABBY

Um, what kind of whiskey do you have?

BARTENDER

(sighs)

Jack, Jameson, Wild Turkey...

ABBY

Mmmm...I’ll just have a beer. Stella?

Bartender leaves. Jeanette is sort of looking Abby up and down.

JEANETTE

You like whiskey?

ABBY

Yeah. Most places don’t have what I want. But there’s this great place in Brooklyn-

JEANETTE

(cuts off Abby, sarcastically.)

There’s always a ‘great place’ in Brooklyn.

ABBY

You know, it’s not all hipsters. It’s actually owned by this nice guy named Steve. Plays great music. The food is awesome too.

JEANNETTE

I guess you’ll have to take me some time.

She takes a sip of her drink. Abby nervously gulps.Bartender returns with beer. Slamming it down a bit. There’s an awkward silence. Both women sizing each other up.

ABBY

So if I’m being honest, I don’t really remember the other night.

JEANETTE

Well, I’m not surprised.

ABBY

Wait, what happened? You make it sound bad.

Jeanette laughs whilst Abby swoons.

JEANETTE

Well…

(puts drink down)

I was going to the bathroom and there you were. You were on the floor , I think waiting for a stall but you were pretty out of it. So I sat down next to you and we chatted. You looked like you were going to throw up but you didn’t. Anyways, you asked if we could hang out sometime and I gave you my number. Now here we are.

ABBY

Wow, sorry about that. That bathroom floor is not clean. You didn’t have to take care of me.

JEANETTE

(laughs again)

That’s what you said then too. Listen, I don’t think you would have gone home if I hadn’t found you. But I wouldn’t call that a proper introduction.

(holds out her hand)

I’m Jeanette, you can call me Jenny. Nice to meet you

ABBY

(shakes her hand)

Abby-Nice to meet you sober.

(chuckles)

JENNY

So, Abby who drinks whiskey and lives in Brooklyn. What do you do for fun?

ABBY

Fun?

JENNY

Yes, that thing people occasionally indulge in.

ABBY

Um...I play guitar. So I like doing that when, I’m alone.

JENNY

You don’t like an audience?

ABBY

(earnestly)

I have a hard time palying when there are people around. It’s distracting.

Jenny is distracted staring across the room at another woman.

ABBY (Cont.)

Jenny?

JENNY

(shakes her head)

Sorry about-.There’s just someone I- I’ve just seen them around recently.

ABBY

Oh which one?

Jenny points to a woman far away.

JENNY

(wanton)

Her name is Jeanie.

ABBY

She kind of looks familiar. How do you know her?

JENNY

I’ve just seen her around before.

Jeanie catches to Abby looking across the room and begins to walk over. Jenny begins to act nervous. Abby is rather unfazed.

JEANIE

Oh my god Abby!

Jenny looks at Abby with confusion.

JEANIE (Cont.)

Shit it is you. Jeanie, we went to Pace together. Max and I acted together.

ABBY

Oh? I think I remember you and Max did ‘Stop Kiss’ or something? You looked a little different. I guess I didn’t recognize you right away.

JEANIE

(look of disappointment)

Yeah, I chopped off my hair. Who’s your friend?

JEANETTE

(interjects with her hand)

Jenny, pleasure to meet you.

JEANIE

The pleasure is mine.

There is an awkward amount of hand touching, then Jeanie turns to Abby.

JEANIE (Cont.)

Abby we should hangout sometime. Max still has my number. Anyways I won’t keep you. See ya.

JENNY and ABBY

Bye!

Jenny turns back to Abby.

JENNY

Sorry, you were saying... you played guitar?

Music plays over them talking “tip of my tongue” Civil Wars. They continue talking as fast paced people move past them. Seemingly hours past.

ABBY (V.O.)

I don’t think I knew it then but this was the start of something truly...messy.

INT-Abby is asleep in her bed. Sunlight is pouring into the room. The decorations are miss mashing of odd strange things that don’t particularly match. In the room bursts Eliza high energy and jumps on the bed effectively pouncing on Abby. Abby tries to hide underneath the covers and escape.

LIZA

Wake up sleepy head.

ABBY

It’s a Tuesday at 8:00 AM. Why are you here? Don’t you have work?

LIZA

For your information I have the evening shift and Max told me you were out late with a lady love and I want to hear all about it.

ABBY

(defensive)

She’s not my ‘lady love’

LIZA

Whatever...Are you gonna tell me about it or not?

ABBY

(pulls off the covers)

Will you buy me coffee from downstairs?

LIZA

(rolls her eyes)

Fiannneee if you insist. Get up you lazy bum!

INT- Coffee shop. Both are seated Abby is cradling her coffee with sunglasses on. Liza is fast away texting a mile a minute.

ABBY

(disdainfully)

New boy toy?

Liza is still paying attention to her phone.

LIZA

Maybe you’ll find out. Maybe you’ll never know.

ABBY

Hmmm. Well you know I have to pre-vet him before you bring him around the boys. We can’t have a repeat of Michael. Jake near ripped his head off.

LIZA

Yeah yeah. Jake won’t do anything stupid. I hope.

(Places phone down)

Why are you wearing fucking sunglasses inside?

ABBY

I had a long night and I don’t give a fuck.

LIZA

Because you were up all night with your new lady love?

(bats eyelashes)

ABBY

(glows with embarrassment)

It’s not even like that, number one. And we were just talking most of the night. She’s nice, her name is Jenny.

LIZA

That’s not how Max describes it. Gimme your phone?

ABBY

What for?

LIZA

Cause. Now hand it over.

Abby passes the phone over reluctantly. Liza types in the passcode

LIZA (Cont.)

I don’t even know why you bother with a passcode, when I know all of them.

scrolls through Abby’s texts.

“Hey winky face?”

LIZA (Cont.)

I wouldn’t call that nothing.

Abby snatches back her phone.

ABBY

Stop looking through my texts. It’s nothing, Okay?

LIZA

(puts her hands up defensively)

Okay! Jeez. Look I’m happy if your happy. If y’all are just friends I’m cool with it. Just don’t bring her around until you’re sure.

ABBY

What’s that supposed to mean?

LIZA

Remember Angie? Max harassed her all night.

ABBY

I remember. I’m still mad at him for that. She was nice.

LIZA

She was weird and you know it.

ABBY

Maybe not a healthy relationship but it worked at the time.

LIZA

Anyways, if you like this person, Jenny, then get to know her first. Okay? I don’t want you writing some love sick song about her and presenting it to her.

ABBY

That only happened once. And you know I’m sensitive about that. Listen, I will be careful. I’m fully aware of the fully beating heart on my sleeve. Mom!

LIZA

I’m just looking at for you Tabs. Now, I’ve got to go make myself look presentable for Juan. I look like a damn bird lady.

ABBY

(shakes her head)

No you don’t. You look fine.

LIZA

Thanks for the complement. Real confidence booster.

ABBY

You know what I mean.

LIZA

I know. I’m just teasing.

ABBY

(stands up and hugs Liza)

Love you Liza. I’ll see you later

LIZA

Love ya Tabs. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.

ABBY

Like that means anything.

Liza shrugs

INT-Scene opens on Max playing video games in their living room. Abby enters through the front room discarding her sunglasses and hoodie. She vaults over the back of the couch and sits next to Max leaning back and sighing.

MAX

So how was Liza?

ABBY

(indifferently)

Good. Why didn’t you come?

MAX

Coffee isn’t my thing

ABBY

I literally saw you drink coffee yesterday.

Max pauses the game and passes Abby the remote and they both begin to play “rayman”.

MAX

You know,Liza and I haven’t exactly been on the same page since the whole thing with Jake.

ABBY

(very focused on the game)

You have got to let that go. I know Jake is your brother but that was forever ago and we All need to move on.

MAX

It’s not that simple. Jake says he’s fine but he’s not. I haven’t invited him over in sooooo long. I just don’t want him to cause a scene. But I can’t cut him out of my life. He’s the only family I have. Besides I still think I can keep them separated for at least another 2 months.

ABBY

Oooo go back. secret level

Tapping controllers.

ABBY and MAX

Yes!

ABBY

You know I love all of you guys but this has got to stop. This isn’t healthy for anyone. And I can’t be a buffer anymore.

(pause)

Why don’t we all get together for my birthday? We can invite John.

MAX

Ugh John.

ABBY

You know you love him.

MAX

Not since he started dating what’serface. I see them all over facebook all gross and shit. When is the last time he hung out with us. Just us.

ABBY

Exactly my point. We should all get together. It will be hella fun. Pleease it’s my birthday!

MAX

Fine, fine fine. But there better be lots of booze or I am not entertaining. This is my house too.

Abby’s phone buzzes in her pocket she pulls it out to inspect it. Text from Jenny

“I get out of class in at 12 would you want to grab lunch? I had a great time last night. :)”

Max shuffles in his seat realizing that Abby is still just staring at her phone. Abby doesn’t move for about 3 seconds just looking over the words.

MAX

Ah Mah Gawd just say yes. Jesus! Let’s get on with our live’s

Abby protectively pulls away her phone and feigned a shocked look.

ABBY

Ah! What have I said about over the shoulder text reading?

MAX

(mockingly)

It’s an invasion of person space and boundaries and isn’t fair.

ABBY

Yeah! The fact that you know how I feel about it should say something.

MAX

I’m just a curious cat. Now, are you going to text her so we can beat this level? I want a perfect 100 and no less.

Abby types away fast then throws the phone to the other side of the couch.

ABBY

(slightly demonic voice)

Let’s do this!

INT- Barnard College. Students are filing out of the lecture hall. Jenny is putting her books in her bag. She’s sporting fake reading glasses. Abby slowly tip toes into the lecture hall trepidatiously. Checking the students as she walks past. Abby walks up to Jenny.

ABBY

Hey.

(looking down at a syllabus)

When you said you were a teacher I wasn’t expecting this. “Women’s studies a look through an intersectional lense.”

JENNY

It’s just an Intro class they won’t let me teach anything above a 100 level until I’ve been here for a couple more years. But I like it.

Jenny smiles sweetly, a student walks up and stand patiently with her book to her chest, Jenny notices and looks towards the girl and the girl blushes.

STUDENT

Professor Issing, I was wondering if you might have some time to chat about the mid-term paper. I wanted to run an idea past you.

JENNY

(cocks her hip and stares at her knowingly)

I am more than willing to discuss it at office hours. They should be listed on the syllabus. Or you can talk to My TA Gerardo

STUDENT

(looks down)

Oh okay. I’ll stop by this week. See you then.

She smiles and looks up as she leaving then frowns at Abby.

ABBY

(flustered)

So… should we get a sandwich?

Jenny pulls her bag over her shoulder. And they begin to walk out.

JENNY

Don’t worry about her. I’m the youngest professor at Barnard. So they all think I’m available.

ABBY

(nervous)

But you aren’t seeing anybody though?

JENNY

Of course not! I mean I’m not available to them. I’m so not doing a student/teacher thing. I’m trying to get a promotion. And I’m not going to fuck that up. Anyways, there’s great cart I like to go to. We can sit on the library steps since it’s such a nice day.

ABBY

Sounds great to me.

EXT- at the cart. Abby and Jenny are grabbing their boxes of food

JENNY

Thanks Sammy. I’ll see you around.

SAMMY

Okay habibi. Stay safe, these people crazy out there.

JENNY

Always.

Jenny and Abby stroll along Broadway quietly before entering the campus. Abby looks around amazed. Enjoys her bewilderment. They climb to the top of the steps and sit opening their food.

ABBY

Pace never had a campus like this or really even one at all.

Abby opens her box and pokes food.

JENNY

Well that’s what you get with a $9 billion endowment.

(takes a bite)

But that doesn’t make it any better. Education is what you make it. You put in the effort then you’ll make out pretty well. Some of the people who go here don’t even have a clue.

Abby looks down at her food. Sad.

JENNY(Cont.)

I’m sorry did I upset you?

ABBY

No I just think sometimes I’m not on the right path to what I want to do. I have this expensive degree and I’m working at a music store for just over minimum wage. It’s just silly.

JENNY

Are you happy? Like on a day to day basis.

Abby thinks for a moment.

ABBY

I’m happy with what I’m doing. I just don’t know about everything else. You know?

JENNY

(puzzled)

I think that was the most vague nondescript answer I’ve ever heard.

ABBY

(laughs)

Sorry. You don’t want to hear about my melodrama. It’s not even about me.

JENNY

(sits facing Abby)

See this is the problem today. Women think ‘oh my problems aren't valid because they don’t speak to some higher purpose’. We can’t elevate the world around us without elevating each other first. So, tell me.

ABBY

(takes a deep breath)

I guess I want to play music, which is what I’m doing. I don’t want to be famous or anything I just like playing. Being at the store does give me some time to mess around. I used to be inspired but I was bad at writing things down. By the time I figured that out a system the lyrics kind of left me. But I also feel like I let my parents down because I’m not running some successful business. Which I don’t want to be doing. On top of that I’m trying to hold the balance between my best friends. They’re my family, I love them but they constantly make mountains out of mole hills and in some ways it’s valid but like they just can’t seem to move on.

JENNY

(nods head and hums)

So you’re friends can’t get over small bullshit?

ABBY

Not exactly.Long story short my roommate's brother dated this girl in our friend group. It wasn’t exactly healthy, but we didn’t mind. The problem was Jake, the boyfriend, would get drunk and try to cause fights or get angry and leave, yell at his girlfriend for no reason. Of course Jake's brother is my roommate, Max, so, like I can’t avoid him. And honestly Liza, the girlfriend, did nothing wrong. She just broke up with him and it wasn’t mutual. So Jake is upset, still, this was a year ago. And Max blames Liza for breaking up with him. URGH! It just drives me crazy.

JENNY

Wow, that sounds messy. So you’re stuck in the middle? Trying to be friends with all of them.

ABBY

YES! And the worst part about it, is no matter what I say it’s like ‘yeah you’re right but that doesn’t change anything. And I’m just like ‘Damn can you just step back and look at your actions’. Like everyone is physically stressed out by this situation.

JENNY

I mean people can’t exactly change their feelings that’s what makes things like this messy. It’s illogical but it doesn’t matter because it just is. You can’t fix everyone’s problems, Abby.

(reaches for Abby’s hand)

Sometimes you have to take care of yourself.

ABBY

(nervously swallows hard and stills)

You’re ...Right. I just want...things to go back to normal. If I had a time machine.

JENNY

(smiles)

Again you can’t fix everything. Even if you want to-

(looks at her watch)

Shit I’ve got to get to class. But if you ever need to talk I’m here for you.

Jenny Embraces Abby in a deep hug.

ABBY

Thanks.

They hug for a long moment and Abby nuzzles into the crook of Jenny’s neck. Jenny pulls away and looks at Abby then kisses her cheek.

JENNY

Maybe we can hang out in Brooklyn tomorrow I don’t have class then.

ABBY

That would be nice.

Camera pans out and up into the sky and fades into Abby’s notebook, she is writing words to song lyrics at the counter of the music store. While humming. The manager walks up to her peeking over her shoulder.

MANAGER

Are you going to show me what you got there?

Abby pulls away some not totally recoiling.

ABBY

Maybe. It’s a work in progress. I’ll show you when it’s done.

MANAGER

You know I can always lend an ear.

He laughs a little at his own pun.

ABBY

Cute Ed.

(Pause)

Fine but, I’m not singing I’ll just show you the guitar parts.

They walk over to the stands, Abby pick up a cream colored Telecastor.And plugs it into the amp(fender deville) she plays a soft finger plucked song humming softly. Ed picks up a guitar. He lets her play a bit before for joining in. He plays the harmony that she is singing. Abby smiles and stops humming. They play one round and Abby starts to sing some of the lyrics. After a verse Ed stops from the ding of the door.

Hey, feel free to take a look around.

Ed looks down at Abby and whispers.

ED (Cont.)

She looks cute.

Abby turns around in her stool. revealing Jeanie. Abby places the guitar down and turns off the amp.

ABBY

I got this Ed.

(Pause)

Hey Jeanie. Are you looking for something in particular that I can help you with?

Jeanie pulls out a small Ukulele

JEANIE

I broke a string on this.

Abby steps closer to inspect the ukelele.

ABBY

Got it. You want me to replace it for you? There’s no extra charge.

JEANIE

That’d be great. I don’t really know how anyways.

ABBY

Sure.

Abby walks over to the wall of stings and grabs a pack and places the uke on the countertop. Then starts replacing the string.

ABBY (Cont.)

I didn’t know you played the Ukulele.

JEANIE

Not really. I know a couple of songs. I actually need to for a prop.

ABBY

(playfully)

Oh another play. You starring on Broadway or something?

JEANIE

I wish. I’m doing this black box thing not too far from here. I mean not many people go to Brooklyn to see a play

ABBY

(sarcastically)

There is culture and things here. And not just in Williamsburg.

JEANIE

(does not pick up on the sarcasm)

I love Bedford ave. They have such cute stores. And there’s this little gem.

Abby finish stringing the Ukelele and plays a little diddy.

ABBY

All done. The strings will slip out of tune for a little bit so you may have to tune it a couple of times

Jeanie looks puzzled.

JEANIE

I don’t have a tuner actually. I don’t think I’ve ever actually tuned it.

Abby scratches her head.

ABBY

Um..well.Someone told me you can just remember this.

(sings while plucking each string)

‘My dog has fleas’. I’m those aren’t the notes but it’s the tones. It’s easy enough to remember.

JEANIE

I think I can remember that.

(smiles and places her hand over ABBY’s on the neck of the uke)

You know I don’t remember you being this cute in college.

ABBY

(eyes dart down in embarrassment)

I guess I just grew into myself more. Here

Abby holds out the uke and Jeanie takes it.

JEANIE

Listen you should come to the show it’s suggested donation.

Jeanie holds out card. Abby takes it.

JEANIE (Cont.)

Show starts at 8.

ABBY

I might stop by later if I have time.

JEANIE

Well we’re playing all week so you should stop by st some point.

ABBY

I will.

JEANIE

Great I’ll see you around.

Jeanie exists through the front door. Abby takes a deep breath.

She’s a piece of work, ain’t she.

ABBY

Ed!

What? Oh please fix my Ukulele. Did you even charge her?

ABBY

You know if that was a regular you wouldn’t have charged her.

But she’s not a regular. And she caught you off guard with that little hand thing.

ABBY

I am so not in the mood for this conversation

Whatever. I’m just pointing out the obvious.

ABBY

Which is?

This is why you don’t have a girlfriend. She was flirting with you. She came into this specific store to fix one string. And she wants you to go to that show. So go!

ABBY

Even if she was flirting I’m sure she’s into someone else.

So! Seize the moment. You just have to go for it. Rip the band aid off. Jump in the deep end. Swim with the sharks

ABBY

OK! I get it. Lay off with the analogies. I’ll think about it.

Well don’t miss an opportunity because you’re holding out for something better. If you get a call about a gig you take it then worry about the set list.

ABBY

Yeah yeah. Sage advice from my guru

(points finger)

You know I’m right which is why you’re deflecting.

ABBY

I think you should have been a psychiatrist because you love this shit.

What can I say. I’m a good read of people.

8. EXT- Abby is standing outside smoking a cigarette checking her phone before placing it in her pocket.There are other groups of people standing around talking. Jeanie walks up behind Abby and taps her shoulder.

JEANIE

Hey. I’m glad you could make it.

ABBY

Yeah, well you said to. Couldn’t pass it up.

Jeanie check behind her. ABBY shakes her head mouthing ‘what the fuck’ to herself, Jeanie turns back to face her

JEANIE

You think I could bum one of those.

Abby is taken aback reaching in her pocket and pulls out a pack.

ABBY

Sure.

Pulling out a cigarette and Jeanie places it in her mouth and leans forward for Abby to light it. Jeanie cups her hand around Abby’s looking up at her with hooded eyelids. Then pulls back.

JEANIE

What did you think of the play?

ABBY

Um I thought it was interesting and uh….

JEANIE

You didn’t like it huh?

ABBY

(laughs)

No. It was hard to follow for me. The whole nonlinear thing didn’t make sense at times.

JEANIE

Well that’s the point. To make you question what’s really going on when.

ABBY

I’m not a theater person I guess.

JEANIE

(places her hand on ABBY’s bicep)

That’s okay at least you showed up. That’s more than I can say for some of my friends.

ABBY

I’m glad I could help be supportive.

JEANIE

You’re are always so sweet Abby. I think that’s what I remembered the most about you. Max always said such nice things about you.

ABBY

Well I’m glad he did because he could say worse.

JEANIE

I highly doubt that

ABBY

I probably should be getting home.

Abby starts unlocking her bike next to the pole].

ABBY(Cont.)

Where do you live?

JEANIE

I live on the upper west side where you saw me the other night. I’m just going to the train.

ABBY

Let me walk you to the stop. It’s on my way.

JEANIE

Thanks I appreciate that. Maybe I won’t be verbally harassed today.

ABBY

One can only hope.

They continue to walk down the street.

JEANIE

Speaking of the other night, who was that woman you were with? Jenny?

ABBY

Yeah what about her?

JEANIE

Just curious. You know what her deal is?

ABBY

She’s a friend. She works at Barnard. She’s a professor

JEANIE

Ah. So you two aren’t together?

ABBY

No, no, no

(quietly)

But...

Jeanie cuts her off without hearing the but

JEANIE

Is she single?

ABBY

Um yeah I think so.

JEANIE

Do you think...if it’s not too much to ask, maybe get her number off of you?

ABBY

Um what?

JEANIE

If that’s not too weird. Or anything.

ABBY

(take a second to think about it.)

I mean sure why not. Here

Abbyr pulls out the phone from her pocket pulling up the contact.

JEANIE

Wow! Thanks a lot I really appreciate it. I’ll text it to myself so you can have my number too. Maybe you could teach me some of your music skills.

Jeanie passes the phone back.

ABBY

Yeah sure no problem.

They arrive at the train stop.

ABBY (Cont.)

I’ll see you around sometime.

Jeanie pulls Abby in for a side hug.

JEANIE

Yeah I’ll see you around. Thanks for the walk.

ABBY

No problem.

Jeanie leaves down the stairs while Abby turns around doubling back the way she came.

9.EXT. Roof of the loft apartment. Max and Abby are smoking a joint on the roof listening to music and drinking a few beers. Ratatat’s song Nostrand is playing in the background.

ABBY

I feel played man.

MAX

What did you expect It’s Jeanie fucking Thompson. She’s manipulative. She was like notorious for that shit.

ABBY

I had totally forgotten about all that drama. I just thought like she was being nice. She said I was ‘cuter than she remembered’. Like I’ve always been cute. Look at this face.

MAX

Tabby, I don’t want to burst your bubble but... you used to wear cargo shorts.

ABBY

That didn’t mean I wasn’t cute

MAX

They had holes in the butt.

ABBY

Maybe I didn’t have a fashion sense but that is conceded to say that I wasn't cute.

Max raises his hands, in defense.

MAX

Alright. You were cute. But this is coming from the man not attracted to women.

ABBY

True. I just can’t believe it. If you were there you would have seen it.

MAX

I’ve seen you around girls, Abs. She probably wasn’t actually hitting on you.

ABBY

She totally was! I swear it was just so she could get that number out of me. Fucking cunt.

MAX

So you’re telling me you actually gave her the number. I spent a good time on figuring that out. I’m gonna give her a piece of my-

ABBY

Maaax.

MAX

Ok fine I’ll leaver her alone. But if she comes over here I’m doing something.

ABBY

What are you gonna do?

MAX

I don’t know lick the top of her chapstick. Fart in her bag.

(shruggs)

ABBY

You are straight childish. But I support it.

Both laugh

MAX

Alright. So like what’s the deal with this Jenny? Are you going to take her on a real date because this weird grab a drink/ lunch is not sexy.

ABBY

(sighs)

I haven’t figure that out yet. She’s smart for god sake. Where am I going to take her? I can’t take her to the ale house.

MAX

NO! It needs to be romantic.

ABBY

I could take her to a performance something at the Met.

MAX

You have gone to Manhattan too many times. Let her come to you.

ABBY

Fine I’ll take her to BAM

Abby pulls out phone typing away.

MAX

Ew Ew you should take her to 5th Ave they have some little places right by there. Have a drink in a quiet secluded bar, dark mysterious like our little Tabs.

ABBY

Okay- The Principles of Uncertainty. I’m getting them. Done

MAX

Impulsive much?

ABBY

It was almost sold out and it’s like the premiering night. And it’s next weekend so timing is everything.

MAX

Whatever. I do have to meet her at some point. Approve her potential status.

ABBY

For all the mothering I do for your guys. This is the thanks I get.

MAX

(places hand on Abby’s shoulder)

Love blinds. And you are very weak.

ABBY

Like I said the thanks I get

MAX

It comes from a good place.

10. EXT- Abby is waiting outside the Barclay’s center waiting for Jenny. Jenny is slowly coming up the escalator.

ABBY

I’m glad you found your way. I know it’s a bit of a trek

Abby rubs the back of her head.

JENNY

It was fine although without the helpful tip about the back of the train I might have gotten lost in the station

ABBY

I have literally been lost in there for like 30 minutes, before. So tips from a pro. Shall we go.

JENNY

Where will we be going to first?

ABBY

There’s a little strip of bars on 5th. All of them are pretty good so, which ever one sticks out to you.

JENNY

You don’t have a special place picked out ?

ABBY

Maybe ?

They walk down the street when Abby begins to slow down in front of the place she wants to go. Jenny smiles and takes the hint.

JENNY

Very subtle.

ABBY

I have no idea what you’re talking about

JENNY

So you want to go to this one

(points with finger)

ABBY

You said it not me.

Jenny shakes her head and opens the door. It’s a small dark bar with a few older couples drinking wine quietly. They both walk up to the bar and sit.

BARTENDER

(places napkins on the bar)

What are you ladies having to drink to night?

JENNY

Vodka tonic.

Abby stands on the edge of the chair looking behind the bar. For 3 seconds. Jenny looks confused.

ABBY

Ooo yeah Blanton’s

BARTENDER

How do you want that?

ABBY

Neat.

Bartender leaves.

JENNY

So Blanton’s is your kind of whiskey? Neat, how very sophisticated of you.

ABBY

It’s good. And I don’t want it watered down by ice. It’s pretty expensive.

JENNY

If you work at a music store then how do you afford a $20 drink?

ABBY

I have other business ventures.

JENNY

And what would those be?

Drinks are placed down. Abby passes her card to the bartender. Then passes a business card to Jenny.

JENNY

(laughs)

You teach music? That’s so cute! Are they like little 10 year olds learning chopsticks?

ABBY

That’s piano and more like 40 year old single men. Some younger hipster guys who walk into the shop but, once they realize they aren’t as good as me , a girl, they get pissed and don’t come back.

JENNY

Sounds shitty. Do they come to your apartment?

ABBY

Worse, I go to theirs. I’ve seen things that can’t be shared with regular people.

JENNY

(Jokingly)

I’m just regular.

ABBY

Of course not!

In a realization of what she just said her eyes dart down. Jenny searches Abby’s face. They both take drink separately to avoid further conversation.

JENNY

(calmly)

Do I ever get to hear you play?

ABBY

Maybe. I haven’t done an open mic thing in a while.

JENNY

You should. I bet you’re great.

ABBY

Thanks. Encouragement is appreciated.

JENNY

And tips.

ABBY

That’s actually what it says on my jar

JENNY

Really?

ABBY

No. They don’t let you put jars out at open mics

JENNY

Oh I’ve never been before. I’ve been to some poetry slams but those are very different.

ABBY

Some people do poetry

JENNY

Really?

ABBY

Some people dance. I’ve seen comedy before.

(with disgust)

There’s this one guy with puppets it’s not great.

JENNY

(playfully)

What’s wrong with puppets?

ABBY

The bit is about creepy old men with audience participation.

JENNY

Ah. Well I’d like to hear some of your works.

ABBY

Right now?

JENNY

Is that possible?

(leans in closer)

ABBY

I- um...It’s well

JENNY

That’s a yes. Show me. Please

(claps hands together)

Abby sighs and finishes her drink, reaching for her phone slowly. Mumbles in a low voice.

ABBY

Don’t judge me okay.

JENNY

(earnestly)

I won’t.

Abby passes the phone the Jenny looking down at the hands clasped in between her legs. Jenny has the phone cupped to her ear. We can’t hear the music. Jenny bobs her head dictating a slow rhythm. Jenny’s face turns loose and limp. Sadness takes over. The song ends and she passes the phone quietly to Abby.

ABBY

(concerned by the silence)

Did you like it?

JENNY

I did. But who is it about?

ABBY

It’s about my grandpa. He died when I was in highschool. It wasn’t exactly sudden but, my parents weren’t very forward the fact that he was on his deathbed. I just didn’t get to say what I wanted to say to him.

JENNY

I’m so sorry .

ABBY

(straightens up)

This was years ago, there’s not too much to be sorry for now. But I needed that song, then. It just poured out of me. I wrote it in about 15 minutes. Which is crazy. Everything I’ve written that is actually good it is just in these spurts. And I don’t even see it coming. I just pick up my guitar and there it is. I’m lucky if I can grab a pen in time.

JENNY

Wow. So why aren’t you out there writing songs?

ABBY

If only that were so easy. I have only about 5 of those moments in 13 years. And I remember them, distinctly. But there are so many songs that just get lost or unfinished. Sometimes I can’t find the thing that the song is about. So they just lay there in my 2 minute recordings.... I’m sorry I’m babbling

JENNY

No, No! I want to hear this. I never thought-

(stops herself)

ABBY

Thought what?

JENNY

That -

(pauses to choose a particular word)

You were so deep?

ABBY

(angry)

What did you think?

JENNY

I don’t know. You worked in a music shop and you’re funny and cute. I don’t know what I thought.

ABBY

Listen don’t get me wrong here but there’s more to me then how I act. I don’t open up to people, easily. I’m more often hurt than helped and...I just want to honest about who I am. That’s all I’ve ever been.

JENNY

(confused)

There’s not anything else you want to be honest with.

Abby stares off looks up a clock-sudden shock. Turns towards the bartender.

ABBY

Oh my god is that the real time?

BARTENDER

Why else do I hang a clock on the wall?

ABBY

Shit we got to go.

“Queen Bitch by David Bowie starts playing. Grabs Jenny’s hand and runs out of the bar. Running through the streets on green lights skillfully running around people with Jenny trotting behind.

JENNY

You left your card!

ABBY

Forget it. I’ll come back tomorrow. The show starts in 5 minutes. I got too caught up there.

Stops at a busy intersection. ABBY looking left and right bouncing a bit.

JENNY

It’s okay if we’re late. I’m sure they’ll seat us.

Break in traffic Abby starts to run again.

ABBY

It’s opening night we can’t be late. Also BAM is hella strict on closed door policy.

They run up the stairs outside bam. Pulling out the tickets quickly. Getting them scanned and sitting at the house lights close as they take their seat

11.INT- Abby and Jenny are walking side by side talking about the show. Abby sees a restroom and excuses herself. Camera follows Jenny outside she walks up to a bike rack and leans against it. Camera pans out showing her playing on her phone. A group of men walk past. One of them pats the other and walk towards Jenny.

GUY

What’s a pretty girl like you doing all alone?

JENNY

(looks up from her phone)

I’m just waiting for a friend so…

GUY

If I was him I wouldn’t leave you out here in the cold.

JENNY

Well that’s not gonna happen, okay? I have a boyfriend.

GUY

Then where’s he at?

JENNY

(Snarky)

On his way so scram!

GUY

(turns back to his friends)

I like em feisty. What’s your name beautiful

JENNY

Nonya….Nonya bussiness

GUY

How very 90’s of you. Listen if your boyfriend don’t come out here in 5 minutes. You have to give me your number

JENNY

In your dreams.

Jenny begins to walk away. Abby is coming down the stairs. Man is following her. His friends are about 10’ away.

GUY

Come on! Give me a chance

Abby walks faster to Jenny once she sees the bastard. Jenny walks a bit faster catching up. Abby cuts off the guy and stumbles bumping into him.

ABBY

OH I’m soo sorry. Are you hurt?

Guy tries to get around her.

ABBY (Cont.)

No seriously I didn’t mean to

GUY

Dude get outta my way!

ABBY

But really though? I don’t want you to sue me.

GUY

Jesus lady I’m fine. Now will you move.

ABBY

(Feigns shock)

You are so rude.

FRIENDS

Let it go man she’s gone. Come’on let’s go. You’re being annoying. She’s a bitch anyways

GUY

Yeah yeah, Whatever.

They all turn and walk away. Abby looks to see where Jenny went. She checks her phone. ‘Around the corner’. Abby walks on a quiet secluded street and is standing waiting impatiently.

ABBY

You okay?

JENNY

I hate that I can’t go out one fucking night without some fucking comment. Did you tell him off?

ABBY

No. I don’t want to piss off the angry/ horny bear.

JENNY

(broods)

Sorry, I didn’t mean that. I’m just angry.

(looks at Abby)

Thank you, you didn’t have to do all that falling business.

ABBY

Well better then running away.

Jenny looks down with her arms crossed.

ABBY (Cont.)

I mean that’s why I’m here. I’m sorry the night ended on a bad note. I had a good time, though.

Jenny still looking at the ground quietly.

ABBY(Cont.)

You alright?

JENNY

I just hate that this shit gets to me.I teach feminism at an all women's college, for god sake. Now I’m all pissed and shit. And it’s an hour train ride. Probably longer because the trains are all fucked up. And I am not sitting in a cab with a strange man after that.

ABBY

I totally understand . Listen, I live about 30 minutes from here. If you don’t want to go home. I have a nice couch you can sleep on?

JENNY

Really? What train to do live off of?

ABBY

Well um, the M or L but we would take the bus it’s faster.

JENNY

I don’t think I’ve ever taken the bus before.

ABBY

It’s not glamorous but it is direct and you get cell service. But I guess you’re used to that in your fancy Wifi manhattan stations.

JENNY

I didn’t say I was opposed to the bus just hadn’t taken one before.

ABBY

Then let’s be on our way.

They are waiting at the bus stop as it pulls up. Abby let’s Jenny enter first. Jenny tries to sit in the front. Abby pulls her to the back. And sit down in the back.

ABBY

You always take the back seats first. Bus etiquette.

JENNY

Oh sorry. Why ?

ABBY

It’s hard to move around. Plus a bunch of older people take the bus and they sit in the front for easy access.

JENNY.

I see.

Abby pulls out her phone and headphones and passes a free earbud. Quietly takes it. Better Times by Beach house or dramamine by modest mouse comes on Jenny stares out of the bus window as they pass through narrow streets. Some people are walking about Abby is looking forward not wanting to look at Jenny. Jenny’s hand twitches towards Abby’s leg just as she’s about to touch it. Abby get’s up and presses the button.

ABBY

This is our stop.

Jenny gets up quietly and follows Abby out the doors. Abby holds the doors open for a little old lady and her cart

ABBY (Cont.)

Want a hand?

LADY

Oh yes.Please

Abby grabs the bottom of a cart and carries it down the stairs

LADY (Cont.)

Thank you sir.

ABBY

No problem. Stay safe

LADY

You too.

Abby and Jenny walk past.

JENNY

(jokingly)

Such a chivalrous young man.

ABBY

I’m not gonna shove my white privilege in people’s faces and I was misgendered for 2 seconds, I don’t mind.

Jenny finds the gesture endearing and sweet. Abby is focus on the street ahead. They walking into a building and stop up the stairs. Only hear the jingle of her keys. Jenny leans against the wall while Abby unlocks the front door.

ABBY

Well here it is. In all it’s glory

Jenny looks around curious

JENNY

It’s cute.

Abby goes to the kitchen and fixes two glasses of water and passes one to Jenny. Jenny looks down at drink.

JENNY

I’m sorry that I was being a little crazy back there. Normally that stuff doesn’t bother me.

ABBY

It’s totally okay. You should be upset. That guy was an ass hat. I’m just sorry that you have to sleep on my couch. Which by the way-

Abby walks over to find a Jake (Max’s brother) sleeping on the couch fully dressed. Abby turns back to Jenny.

ABBY

Looks like we have a problem.

Jenny peaks over the edge of the couch.

JENNY

Oh.[pause] Well I can just sleep in your bed.

Abby blinks a few times.

ABBY

I-could sleep on the floor

JENNY

I meant we could both sleep in the bed. You don’t need to sleep on the floor.

Jake begins to stir. Abby leads Jenny to her bedroom. Abby starts sifting through her drawers trying to find spare pajamas for Jenny. Meanwhile Jenny is undressing to her underwear and T-shirt. Abby turns around as Jenny is bent over. Abby blushes and turns around and puts the clothes on top of the dresser. Jenny has already climbed into bed.

JENNY

Sorry I’m just so tired

(yawns)

Abby slow follow’s Jenny’s lead and strips to her underwear and shirt. Quickly dart under the covers. They’re backs are facing. Abby is still rustling a bit to get comfortable.

JENNY

Abby?

ABBY

Yeah?

JENNY

Can we cuddle?

Abby stills, breathless. Jenny stirs but doesn’t roll over. Abby reluctantly turns over and scoots closer. They are close but not touching. Jenny reaches for Abby’s and pulls it around her.

JENNY

Is this okay?

ABBY

(barely audible)

Yeah.

JENNY

Good.

“Run All Night” by Rachael Cantu plays. Jenny pulls Abby tighter. Abby lays awake. Somewhere between terrified and excited. But petrified.

INT-Abby’s Bedroom. The sun is barely up but Abby didn’t sleep at all that night. She quietly gets up not to wake Jenny and goes into the kitchen and starts to make coffee. She rubs her head in frustration. She slams the coffee cup down hard. It wakes Jake.

JAKE

(Incoherent mumbles)

Abby?

Abby takes another cup of coffee and walks it over the the couch. Passes it to Jake who sits up. They both sit on the couch.

ABBY

So what happened?

JAKE

Why do you assume something happened?

ABBY

Your knuckles have cuts on them.

Jake tries to hide his hands.

ABBY (CONT.)

I don’t care what happened. Just let me know if I shouldn’t open the door.

JAKE

I wouldn’t. But for the record it was self-defense.

ABBY

Didn’t say it wasn’t. Listen I have a someone over so if you could-

Jenny is holding her coat over her arm and is quietly leaving the room. Her path is aimed towards the door.

JENNY

Thanks for letting me stay over. I have to get going I have a class in a few hours. I’ll text you?

ABBY

Yeah no problem.

Abby stands up

ABBY (CONT.)

I can walk you down?

JENNY

No it’s okay. I’ll be fine. I’ll text you. Bye.

Jenny leaves and the door slams a bit. Jake lifts his brows in surprise.

JAKE

That was rude.

ABBY

She had to leave.

JAKE

She didn’t even hi to me. Bitch

ABBY

Can you not?

JAKE

Sorry. Just saying man.

ABBY

Yeah, well it’s not cool. Anyways. You coming to my party next weekend?

JAKE

I wouldn't miss it for the world Tabs!

Scruffs Abby’s Hair. Abby pulls away and adjusts it.

ABBY

Just be chill okay?

JAKE

I’m always chill

Abby looks down at Jake’s hands.

JAKE (CONT.)

Okay. I’ll be chill. Just don’t be lame and puss out. We gettin you fucked up!!!!

ABBY

I won’t puss out. You just worry about yourself.

Both sip coffee at the same time.

INT-The Apartment. Party night with the gang. Abby is prepping the house with drugs, booze and tunes. Max idly helping out but also playing different music than Abby wants. Door knocks Abby goes to get it group of Jake, Eliza, John and John’s girlfriend. Liza enter first and pinches Abby’s cheeks

LIZA

Oh Tabby!

Jake does a sort of dab hand shake

JAKE

Hey man what’s going on.

John does the same hand shake

JOHN

Hey Abb’s this is my girlfriend. I hope it’s cool I brought her.

ABBY

Of course. Nice to meet you nameless girlfriend.

(Abby smiles)

DENISE

Oh, uh my name is Denise. Nice to meet you.

Chaos ensues. All the pre-party planning destroyed in one fell swoop.Jake is poking through the drawers looking for something. No one knows. Max and Liza are cackling and making weird cooing noises at Abby’s efforts to maintain calm while John and Denise are make themselves a drink being disgustingly cute. Abby hangs her head.

ABBY

Jake, stop looking for drugs. They’re all laid out on the table for you.

Jake puts on Abby’s sunglasses

JAKE

I’m not looking for drugs. But these sunglasses are awesome. Can I have them?

ABBY

No!

Jake ignores Abby and sits on the couch next to his brother, sunglasses on. Abby walks behind Liza fiddling with the music.

ABBY

You know I did make a playlist. Guys.

LIZA

Oh Mama Abby.

(pats Abby’s hand)

You know I got to play my boy Bob before John plays his weird ass dubstep

John walks over to the couch, Denise follows

JOHN

You guys don’t like my music?

ABBY

No one said that. Liza just wants to be the DJ for once. alright?

LIZA

Yeah! Fuck you male privilege!

(fist to the air)

JOHN

Let’s play Medusa!

ABBY

Do we have to jump right in? Can’t we enjoy each other’s company for 5 minutes.

LIZA & MAX

(Talking over each other)

Come on Tabby Abby get in the game! It’s gonna be a long night. You don’t even have to work tomorrow. Or drive or get home. Pleeaaasee.

ABBY

Fine.

MAX.

(Mimics Abby)

Fine

(then smiles)

JOHN

(to Denise)

Okay so, the game works by everyone putting their heads on the table. When I say go we all look up. Whoever is looking at someone and they are looking back at you they have to drink. Kay?

DENISE

Um, I’ll sit this round out and watch until I figure it out.

John gives her a reassuring side hug

MAX

I mean it’s pretty simple game.

JAKE

Yeah, even Abby is doing it.

ABBY

Wow. Didn’t know I was setting the standard.

LIZA

Abby Tabby (shake head)

JOHN

ANYWAYS! Get your drinks so we can get started.

Jake and Max run to the refrigerator as if they were racing. Abby and Liza follow behind and return with their drinks.

JOHN

Head’s down

Everyone but Denise puts their heads down.

JOHN (CONT.)

1,2,3 GO!

Max and Abby make eye contact

ABBY & MAX

Damnit!

ABBY

We must be in sync. Fuck.(both drink)

MAX

I don’t have a vagina so. Don’t know how that’s possible.

Montage of lots of drinking few rounds, everyone has had a turn except Denise. Door knocks( music stops). Abby gets up.

MAX

Who’s that?

ABBY

I invited Jenny.

Liza puts her finger in his open mouth and gags, Max laughs both Denise and John are clueless. Abby opens the door to reveal Jenny in a fancy trench coat holding a bottle of wine.Very much dressed for a dinner party.

ABBY(CONT.)

Hey, come in.

Abby opens the door further and lets in Jenny. Once the door is closed Jenny pulls Abby in for a firm, long sensual hug.

JENNY

Hey

Everyone else is watching this for the entire length of the hug.Shocked and taken aback at how Abby and Jenny do not seem to realize they are still in the room. Jenny pulls back and turns to the room noticing the drinking is already taking place.

JENNY (CONT.)

(Awkward)

I brought wine but I don’t think anyone wants it. So I’ll just put it in the kitchen.

Liza springs up from couch and runs towards the kitchen.

LIZA

Oh I’ll have some. White wine spritzer!

Abby stares coldly as Liza takes the bottle from Jenny.

JENNY

Sure, go for it.

She passes the bottle at an arm's length distance.Liza opens the bottle and pours nearly to the brim of the glass before returning to the group.

ABBY

I do have vodka if you want that?

JENNY

Sure. You know what I like by now.

ABBY

I suppose. Go and sit down make yourself comfortable. I’ll fix it for you.

Jenny approaches slowly, careful to not feel too comfortable. She sits awkwardly in a single chair.

JENNY

So what game are you guys playing?

Liza is sprawled lazily drinking her wine regally.

LIZA

I’m done playing. I have a headache. But I’m interested in hearing about you Jenny. Abby hasn’t told us too much about you.

JENNY

There’s not much to tell really. I’m a professor at Barnard. I teach women's studies but mostly intro classes. I only started working there last year.

LIZA

And what were you doing before that?

JENNY

I was getting my master’s at Barnard.

MAX

So you like all women’s schools?

Abby returns from the kitchen and hands Jenny her drink.

ABBY

No interrogations before midnight.

Abby winks at Jenny. Jenny ignores it, still focused on Liza.

LIZA

Well we just wanted to get to know Jenny your...friend here.

ABBY

Well like she said she teaches women’s studies and you all know how we met. So what more is there to know?

LIZA

But how does she feel about Bob Dylan?

Everyone in the friend group eye rolls and sighs. Denise and Jenny are lost. Jenny searches Abby for any indication of the right answer.Abby won’t answer.

JENNY

I guess he’s alright?

Liza passes her glass to Max and leans forward.

LIZA

He is possibly the great musician that has ever existed. He is more than alright.

Stands up abruptly and walks to the speakers.

LIZA (Cont.)

If you are not converted after this song. Then I don’t know what.

Abby knits her eyebrows and rubs her head.

ABBY

Really? Do you have to do this?

LIZA

Tabby, don’t be such a downer. You know you like him too.

Liza puts on “going going gone” by Bob Dylan. While the friend group rolls their eyes again as they have hear this song for the umteenth time. Denise being on the outside looks at Jenny and they share an awkward exchange as if to say “is she for real right now?”

Abby sits at the table and rolls a joint, some how in a way to bridge a divide. Once finished rolling she lights it and passes it to Jenny

ABBY

(while holding in the smoke)

Guests first.

Jenny Semi-reluctantly takes the joint and takes a baby puff and passes to Max.

MAX

(Earnest)

We do puff-puff pass. If you want.

Max passes it on to Liza who is still very much into the song. Once finished, she passes it to Jake. They share a devilish look. Jake stands up before passing it to John.

JAKE

I’ll be right back.

Abby and Max exchange a knowing look and follow their eyes to Jake going to the bathroom. John and Denise are whispering over how Denise hasn’t really smoked before and John is assisting with the joint. Max leans over to Liza to have a side conversation. Abby turns to Jenny

ABBY

(in a whisper) I’m sorry about Liza she can be...forward.

JENNY

It’s okay.

Jenny wants to say more but John leans in a passes the joint to Abby.

JOHN

I’m John by the way. This is my girlfriend Denise.

DENISE

Nice to meet you. Abby, thanks for having us over. I’m glad to finally meet you. John talks about you alot

ABBY

No problem. I just want to be around people I love on my birthday. I hope John hasn’t told you any horror stories.

JOHN

Tabby I would never.

JENNY

Why do you guys keep call her Tabby?

Max and Liza overhear this and jump over to where Abby is sitting and pinch her cheeks and rub her hair.

MAX and LIZA

Because she’s cute Tabby cat

MAX

She’s soft and cuddly

LIZA

Gets all angry and flustered when you don’t do things her way.

JOHN

She’s just Tabby. Don’t know how to explain it any other way.

ABBY

(disheartened)

I’ve learned to accept it.

LIZA

You know you love it.

Abby grunts. Meanwhile (in the background) Denise has left to use the bathroom. The bathroom door swings open. Jake appears to be doing something secretive and closes it. Denise asks to use the bathroom.

DENISE (from across the room)

Can I just get in there for a minute?

JAKE (from across the room)

Give me a second.

DENISE

I got to go (Opens the door knocking into Jake.)

JAKE

What the fuck, Bitch! I said wait.

DENISE

You did not just call me a bitch!

All the friends have been alerted by this time. Abby and Max share a frantic look. John turns into ultra protective mode and stands up. Jake emerges.

JAKE

John, you need to keep your bitch in line!

Denise pushes Jake’s back

DENISE

You are not gonna let him talk to me like this? You call this guy your friend?

JAKE

John Seriously, no manners.

John is now chest to chest with Jake

JOHN

Dude, you need to calm down.

JAKE

Me? she’s the one acting all crazy and shit!

JOHN

I’m serious man. You need to chill

Jake pushes John. John lunges into Jake and grapple each other. Max and Abby spring from their seats. Abby pulls Denise away, who is in shock. Max prys the two of them apart grabbing Jake by the shoulders and leading him to the front door. John still angry tries step forward Abby steps in front of him.

ABBY

He didn’t mean it. You know that.

John looks at Abby and steps back and walks to Denise and asks if she’s alright.

MAX

You need to leave now.

Max is livid but calm. He’s done this many times. Jake steps back and sniffles his nose and pinches it.

JAKE

Com’on I’m family. You’re not gonna kick me out, are you? Look I’m cool man, I’m cool. I swear.

MAX

You need to leave, go home calm down. Ride it out.

ABBY

Jake, just go and cool down.

Jake looks around the room expecting someone to defend him. Just silence.

JAKE

Fuck you! I’m outta here.

Jake leaves and slams the door. Abby nods to Max who follows Jake out into the hall. Abby turns back to John and Denise.

ABBY

I am so sorry Denise. Jake can lose his temper,sometimes. I suggest you guys wait a bit, if you want to leave. If you need some space,you can use my bedroom.

Denise looks at John.

DENISE

Thanks.

John and Denise walk off into Abby’s bedroom. Abby looks at the front door, murmurs of yelling are going on in the hallway. Abby goes to sit down next to Liza and downs her drink

LIZA

God, I hate it when he does this.

Abby is too afraid to acknowledge Jenny’s presence she is embarrassed and remorseful, that all of this is happening.

ABBY

Yeah. I think he’s had a rough couple of days.

Jenny looks at both of them curious

JENNY

You’re not seriously defending him? He just did blow in the bathroom and yelled at that girl for no reason!

ABBY

I’m not defending his actions. But he’s still my friend.

JENNY

Friends don’t have angry bursts of rage at someone else’s house on their birthday.

Abby wants to rebuttal but Liza cuts in

LIZA

Listen. It’s complicated I wouldn’t try to understand it. Don’t think you can just come in here and get.It.

ABBY

Liza, please. Jenny, I don’t expect anything sort of understanding but Jake is our friend no matter what. I don’t like what he did anymore than you do. Neither does Liza. But we have to support him.

JENNY

Why? He doesn’t seem to support you?

Door opens and enters Max.

ABBY

Hey, did he leave?

MAX

Yeah. Do you have a cig I can bum?

ABBY

Yeah I’ll come down with you.

(turns to Jenny.)

Do you want to come?

JENNY

I think I should leave.

Liza and Max exchange a look, as though they realized they messed this up. Abby is disappointed but knows she can’t fix it.

ABBY

Yeah sure. Whatever you want.

Max, Abby, and Jenny grab their coats down stairs. Outside it’s cold Abby lights a cigarette and passes the pack to Max They are standing next to each other and Jenny is across from them. Jenny doesn’t know how to talk to Abby while Max is present.

JENNY

I wish I could stay but I think you guys should enjoy your night without me.

MAX

I’m sorry about my brother. But, honestly it doesn’t have to ruin the rest of the night.

Max elbows Abby’s side.

ABBY

We can just listen to music.

JENNY

Another time. I’ll text you?

ABBY

Yeah sure. Get home safe.

Abby and Max take a long drag and exhale, standing in silence. Shortly John exits with Denise behind.

DENISE

I’m sorry things got messed up on your birthday.

Denise nudges John.

JOHN

I’m sorry I got physical in there. I’m a little tipsy.

ABBY

It is by no means your fault. Jake lost it and you responded like anyone else would have.I’m just sorry it happened.

JOHN

Anyways, we’re gonna get home. I’ll see you guys around.

MAX & ABBY

See ya.

Shot from across the street. “Let it go” by James Bay starts to play. Max finishes his cigarette and leaves Abby outside. Abby leans against the wall alone, cars and people pass. She’s reflecting on everything. Why Jenny left, why Jake has to ruin everything, why is she still alone. It feels futile. She checks her phone and starts to type then stops. She looks at her phone then stops and puts her it in her pocket and goes back inside and enters the apartment. Max and Liza are sitting on the couch. Abby sits and places her head in her hands. Max and Liza wrap their arms around her.

ABBY

I like her. And I fucked it all up.

Max and Liza look at each other over Abby’s back and rub gently.

EXT-roof of Abby’s apartment Abby and Max are sitting in lawn chairs wrapped in blankets. Max is fast asleep. Abby is watching the sunrise. She’s moves to stand near the edge of the building with the blanket wrapped around her. She pulls out her phone and calls Jenny. Jenny’s hand slams the phone, she pulls it under the covers.

JENNY

Hello?

ABBY

Hey. Sorry to wake you.

JENNY

Are you okay?

ABBY

I’m fine. I’m just...watching the sunrise.

(pause)

It’s beautiful.

Jenny shuffles to get out of bed. We can see a lump but it’s unclear if it’s a person or just covers.Jenny walks over to her window and manages to get to the fire escape and see the sun rise.

JENNY

It is. You didn’t call me at 6:00 AM to tell me the sunrise was beautiful did you?

ABBY

I did.

Both laugh

ABBY (Cont.)

I guess I was sitting here thinking about being another year older. Realizing that things can change in an instant. Given what happened last night. And I just feel sorry-

Jenny cuts her off.

JENNY

You don’t need to be sorry about anything. Last night wasn’t your fault in any way.

ABBY

I should have just talked to Jake-

JENNY

I bet you apologized to everyone at that party?

(pause)

You shouldn’t go around apologizing for a man’s action. That is so classic just make everything about fixing the situation without it even being caused by you.

ABBY

Jenny, don’t get all theory on me. I just wish things had gone differently but there’s something-

JENNY

This isn’t theory. Sexism isn't a theory it’s a reality we live in everyday. And you aren’t helping Jake be a better person.

ABBY

That’s not what I meant. I don’t even want to talk about this I just wanted to tell you-

JENNY

That’s the problem you don’t want to talk about it. Jake has clearly had this problem before but you and your so called “friends”. Who‘ by the way’ seem to take advantage of you and demean you with that little nickname.

ABBY

Hey! You’re totally out of line. You met them for ,not even, an hour and you’re already judging them. You know what, I’ll talk to you later.

Jenny tries to speak but Abby hangs up. She throws off the blanket and carries it back to where Max is sitting and sits next to him.

MAX

Why are you yelling so early?

ABBY

Just cause. How you holding up?

MAX

I’m fine.

ABBY

I know when you're lying

MAX

Well I don’t want to talk about it.

Abby looks off in the distance.

ABBY

I think I’m gonna take a break for a bit. Take a minute. Just not worry about anyone else... besides you

MAX

Aw thanks Tabs. You know I love you... I just hope Jake didn’t ruin whatever you have going on with Jenny.

ABBY

I think it’s beyond repairable.

MAX

Well I’ll give him a piece of my mind

ABBY

I just hope Jake can get off coke soon. He’s already in trouble. After last night I don’t know what’s gonna happen to him.

MAX

He’s grown. He can make his own choices. Unfortunately, the ripple effect is wide. I am going to talk to him later today. He was being a dick and you didn’t deserve that.

ABBY

Or Denise.

MAX

Yeah, yeah.

Abby stands up and stretches.

MAX

And where do you think you’re going?

ABBY

I am going to bike a bit . Clear my head, get some exercise, be productive.

MAX

Gag! Exercise.

ABBY

I wasn’t asking you to come with me. I already know the answer.

EXT-Abby is biking across the Williamsburg bridge with headphones on.”Land of a Thousand words” by the scissor sisters. Very slow and dragging. It early morning the city is waking. Abby isn’t really sad but enjoys the moment. She Bikes up the east river and parks her bike against the railing near southstreet seaport and watches ships. She returns back to the apartment and picks up her guitar and starts writing a song furiously. The song is written over several days back and forth between the apartment the shop and over again. Tolling over the details.

INT- Abby is in the apartment watching TV with Max. Jake enters

JAKE

Hey. What are we watching?

MAX

Downton Abbey

ABBY

Because it’s relatable

JAKE

How’s that?

Max and Abby both giggle

ABBY

Because it’s my name

JAKE

Wow...Been partaking in a little wake and bake?

MAX

Loosen up a bit. It’s good. I just love Mary and Matthew they are too perfect. I love them.

Abby tears up

ABBY

So beautiful.

Jake looks down at Max and Abby who are enthralled in this british melodrama.

JAKE

So…. Anyways, I have a surprise for you Tabby.

Abby turns around, confused and holds out her hands.

JAKE (Cont.)

Not like that. I signed you up for the open mic night at the Underground.

ABBY

Wait… What?

JAKE

I got you in. I heard you playing your guitar again. And I thought you should show everybody your new song.

Abby fully turns around on the couch.

ABBY

How do you know about that?

JAKE

Because I have ears. You’ve been playing it like every day.

Abby turns back around in a flop.

ABBY

Well you shouldn’t have.

JAKE

Come on Abby! You got to get out there. You are so good people need to hear you.

MAX

You’ll be be fine. Just picture everyone in their underwear.

ABBY

You know that stresses me out.

JAKE

Well you can’t puss out. It wasn’t cheap.

MAX & ABBY

You paid?

JAKE

Not like that. Listen don’t worry about the details.

(pause)

Listen, let me borrow your phone for a second. I think I misplaced mine.

ABBY

Here.

(hands phone)

I’m mad at you, by the way.

Jake takes the phone and waves Max over.

JAKE

Max help me out I think it’s on vibrate.

Jake gives Max his phone. They pantomime there conversation

Max: What are you doing?

Jake: go with it.

Jake pulls up Abby’s contact for Jenny and sends her a text. “Underground tonight at 8PM. No questions.”

Jake and Max give each other a thumbs up.

MAX

Oh here it is in my pocket.

Jake mouths ’what?’

MAX (Cont.)

Anyways, let’s pick out your outfit tonight.

ABBY

I don’t want to.

MAX

I want to dress you up. Can I put makeup on you ?

ABBY

NO!

MAX

I’m just going to go through your closet.

ABBY

No! I don’t know what you’ll find

MAX

A big pink DILDO. Oh my!

Max runs to her bedroom and slams the door shut. Abby follows but it’s locked.

ABBY

Open up Max!

MAX

Oh it is big.

ABBY

I know you’re lying

Max opens the door with one of Abby’s sports bras over his shirt.

MAX

Such a party pooper.

ABBY

That doesn’t even fit you.

Abby and Max are bickering. Jake still has Abby’s phone. Text appears from Jenny “I’ll be there ;)”

INT- Open Mic night. Abby is nervous holding her guitar as Jake and max stand tall behind her. She nervously walks up to the stage and places the guitar down then returns to stand next to the boys. Jake passes her a drink.

JAKE

To ease your nerves.

Max starts messing with Abby’s hair. Abby swats at his hand.

ABBY

Thanks dads! Jeez there’s a lot of people here. I don’t know if I can go up there.

MAX

Trust and believe. You are gonna do just fine.

JAKE

Yeah. You’re not playing until the middle so it doesn’t even have to be great.

Max slaps Jake’s arm

JAKE (cont.)

I mean, no pressure.

A few people get up to play. They're all fairly good. Abby is less tense but still nervous. Jeanette walks in and slips in the back she can’t see Abby over the boys. Finally it’s Abby’s turn. She get’s on stage and keeps her head down and focuses on setting up her guitar. She pulls out a small metronome and places it on a still next to her.

ABBY

This is a new song I wrote. It doesn’t have a name.

Abby starts the metronome and starts to sing “stranger things have happened” by the foo fighters or new song

“It's like the river and the rocks always fighting back

It's like the sky and clouds always moving past

It's like daydream that’s always out of grasp.

Will the moon and sun ever meet?

Or spin round looking down at their feet

It’s Lonely feeling being so meek. Staring straight into the sun

You make me angry and worthless.

I make you feel nothing or less

And I'm laid bare for you

And means nothing at all”

Abby never looks up from her guitar but Max and Jake look on proud. Jenny stares impassive, not really understanding the song is about her until the end. Abby finishes the song and looks up and sees Jenny. It’s upsetting, frustrating and whemling. Abby walks off stage and returns to Jake and Max. Who suddenly realize Abby is pissed.

ABBY

I can’t believe you invited her.

JAKE

I wanted to help.

Jenny is walking over.

ABBY

Well don’t.

Abby begins to storm towards the front door. Trying to get past Jenny. Jenny grabs Abby’s arm.

JENNY

Hey? Where are you going?

Abby pulls away.

ABBY

Leaving.

JENNY

Well you invited me. I was hoping we could talk.

ABBY

Well that wasn’t me. And I don’t really feel like talking.

Abby pushes past and walks out onto the sidewalk. Jenny looks at Max and Jake then follows Abby.

JENNY

Abby wait!

Abby turns around. Jenny pauses.

ABBY

Well?

Jenny doesn’t know what she was going to say.

JENNY

I just wanted to catch up.

ABBY

Catch up? Really?

Jenny steps closer and and grabs Abby’s hand.

JENNY

I miss you.

Abby looks down.

ABBY

I know but...

JENNY

What?

Abby looks up.

ABBY

Nevermind.

Awkward silence.

JENNY

Just come with me to Steemy Bunny on Friday. Please?

Abby just nods and Jenny hugs her a little non-consensually. Abby isn’t exactly a fan.

EXT- Max and Abby are waiting to enter “Steamy Bunny”. Abby is anxious and Max doesn't want to be there.

MAX

I hate lines. Especially with a bunch of horny lesbians. I can smell the pheromones from 4 blocks away.

ABBY

Well you only have to bear it for a little bit. You can leave after Jenny gets here.

MAX

Why didn’t you just come with her?

ABBY

She lives super far away. I don’t want to be waiting by myself like a fool.

MAX

Well you better be buying my drinks.

The line starts to move forward.

ABBY

2 drink limit.

Max crosses his fingers emphatically.

INT- “Loophole” by Etta Bond - Slow motion dancing. Abby and Max are dancing with each other and actually having a good time. Others are dancing around them ignoring their bad dancing. Time passes.The slow motions stops as a slow jam song comes on. “Don’t go” by Reece. Max looks at his phone.

MAX

It has been an hour. Where your girl at?

Abby pulls out her phone. No notifications.

ABBY

Don’t know. But maybe she’s here already. Go grab us some drinks.I’m gonna look around.

Max disperses into the crowd. Abby stares at the women dancing slow with each other with melancholy. She weaves through the crowd to get a better look from upstairs something catches her eye so she turns. Her face turns white. Shot moves to Jenny dancing with Jeanie very closely. Abby is frozen in place. Jenny moves into kiss Jeanie, it’s slow and sensual. Abby watches in horror. Once, their kiss breaks Abby shakes her head and storms upstairs. Max at the bar sees a flash of Abby rushing out the front door. He’s confused but stays. Abby is outside smoking a cigarette.Just as she puts it out, Jenny comes outside stumbling.

JENNY

(to herself)

Shit, I’m drunk.

Abby! What, um ,how long have you been here?

ABBY

Long enough.

Jenny ignores the comment.

JENNY

Oh my god. I just kissed Jeanie. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I don’t even like her.

ABBY

(beyond frustrated)

I saw.

JENNY

I need to get out of here.

Looks like she’s going to hurl.

ABBY

Do you need me to get you a cab? You don’t look good.

Jenny is a bit shaky. Abby looks around and sighs. She walks to the corner and waves a cab down. She pulls Jenny over and tosses her in a cab. Abby goes to leave but Jenny pulls her in.

JENNY

Take me home.

There’s a moment of indecision. But it’s too late the door is closed and Jenny has given the driver the address. Abby acquiesces as Jenny leans on Abby’s shoulder. The driver steady’s on. Abby shoots a text to Max that she’s left. The ride is quite. Abby stare catatonics out the window until Jenny’s hand wraps around her. Abby looks down and places her hand over it.

EXT-On the corner outside Jenny’s apartment. Jenny stumbles out of the cab. Abby follows suit. Jenny fumbles with her keys, as she’s opening the door and turns to Abby and places a kiss on her cheek.

JENNY

Thanks for taking me home. You always take such good care of me.

Abby blushes averting her eyes.

ABBY

It’s no problem. It’s kind of late do you think..

Abby looks up to see Jenny closing the door behind her.

ABBY

Jenny?

(realizing that she’s left her)

Jenny!

Abby turns to see if the cab is still there it’s not. The street is dark and quiet. Abby looks at her phone it’s 12 something. Throwing her head back she starts to walk. “Pendulum’ by FKA twigs plays as Abby takes the train. Taking the C train downtown. Waiting for her transfer on the platform next to sleeping people on benches and couples holding hands. Finally she is walking down her block and opening her front door slowly trudging up the steps. She opens the door to her dark apartment. She plugs in her phone it’s now 2 something.There’s a text from Jenny. Abby ignores it and flops on the bed.

INT-Eliza’s dirty messy apartment clothes all over the floor. Fluffy cat perched on the kitchen table. Abby is sitting on the couch while Liza flings her clothes about.

ELIZA

(from a closet)

Well, if you want my opinion…

ABBY

Not really

ELIZA

She’s a bitch! Like what the fuck?! If that were me I would just venmo request her for that cab ride there and back. Why didn’t you take a cab again?

ABBY

I have no money and I wasn’t exactly in the mood to be in a car with a stranger for an hour back home. She practically lives in washington heights.

Eliza comes out of the closet in a thrift store dress with a few holes in it.

ELIZA

You can’t see my nips in this?

ABBY

No but your ass is hanging out.

Eliza looks in the mirror, shrugs and pulls off her dress with no bra on. Abby’s hands fly up.

ABBY

Give a girl a warning.

ELIZA

It’s nothing you haven’t seen before.

Eliza returns to her closet.

ABBY

I’m just looking forward to this concert.And I’m looking for your support. Okay? I haven’t talked to Jenny in like two weeks so it would be great if we could just drop the subject.

Eliza comes out of the closet in a sequin dress looking in the mirror.

ELIZA

I don’t know. I look like whale in this.

ABBY

Oh my god! If I have to tell you one more time that you look great I’m literally going to tackle you.

ELIZA

Tabbs I know you’re just saying that. But thanks.

ABBY

(sighs)

Girl you look fine as fuck. Now can we go we need to pick up Max?

ELIZA

Why didn’t he just come here?

ABBY

Because he has no patience for this

(pointing to Eliza)

like I do.

ELIZA

(rolls her eyes)

I didn’t know I was such a burden.

ABBY

Can we just go?

(melts into the couch)

ELIZA

Fine. Fine. Let me say bye to snugglepuss

Picks up cat.

ELIZA (CONT.)

I love you boo boo kitty.

(kiss)

Abby walks over cat to try and pet it. Hisses.

ABBY

I love you even if you don’t love me.

INT-Abby and Eliza are knocking on the apartment door.

ABBY

Max! Hurry yo ass up.

No response. Abby looks a Eliza. Abby pulls out her keys and opens the door. Max is talking to Jeanie on the couch. Abby clears her throat.

ABBY

I didn’t know you were having a party without me.

Max mouths sorry. Abby is a little perplexed until she walks in further to find Jenny is there too.

JENNY

That’s not a pleasant greeting to a friend.

Jenny gets up to hug Abby. Jeanie has a smirk that isn’t pleasant.

ABBY

Sorry, I wasn’t really expecting you.

JENNY

I’m just messing with you.

Eliza walks in with a stank face.

ELIZA So what are you doing here? We’re on our way to the concert in Prospect Park. So…

Abby’s eyes widen she looks at Eliza

ELIZA (CONT.)

Sorry. Just curious. Max are you ready?

MAX

Actually no, come help me pick out a shirt.

Max nods his head nonchalantly to his room. Eliza and Max leave turning to check on Abby who could quite possibly petrified.

ABBY

So?...

Jeanie stands up from the couch.

JEANIE

We just happened to be in the neighborhood. I hadn’t seen Max in a long time so we thought we would stop by.

ABBY

Cool. Well, Liza was actually right. We were literally here just to pick up Max.

JENNY

Well we were just talking to him and it sounds like a fun concert. Would it be cool if we came with you guys?

Abby looks as Jeanie. Jenny looks at Jeanie. It’s Awkward.

ABBY

I mean, its free so… It’s up to you. It’s kind of far from your house.

Jeanie steps forward and wraps her arm around Jenny’s waist.

JEANIE

You can always stay at my place.

Jenny nods then looks at Abby, who is fidgeting.

JENNY

So is that what you’re wearing?

Abby looks at her clothes.

ABBY

What’s wrong with this?

JEANIE

There is definerlty going to be some queermosexuals there.

JENNY

Yeah, we want you to get some ladies.You got to gay it up.

ABBY

I mean, I’m fine like this. Just really want to be comfortable.

Jenny starts towards Abby’s bedroom. Jeanie follows.

ABBY (CONT.)

Um, where are you going?

JENNY

Going to pick out an outfit for you. Duh?

Abby rushes to stop them but it’s too late they are going through her clothes.

JEANIE

Ooo...Yes these pants! This is going to make your butt looks so good. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in skinny jeans.

Abby shuts the drawer.

ABBY

Really it’s fine. And I don’t really wear those pants too much. There’s no pockets!

JENNY

Oh! This hat is so cute.

Jenny comes out of the closet, standing close to Abby while putting on the hat. Jeanie hangs the pants in front of Abby.

JEANIE

See won’t these look so good.

Jenny steps back.

JENNY

Oh yeah. Put them on.

Abby looks confused.

ABBY

Right now?

JENNY

Yes?

Abby takes the pants and is holding them waiting. Jeanie and Jenny wait in anticipation. Abby twirls her finger for them to turn around. They do. Abby checks to make sure no one is looking and slips off her pants. The door opens as her pants are at har ankles.

MAX

Damn girl! I leave you for one minute and you on some voyeur shit.

Abby falls to the floor. Jenny and Jeanie see her exposed.

ABBY

EVERYONE OUT!

They all scurry as the door shuts. Back to Abby on the floor face covered.

ABBY (CONT.)

Can someone come shoot me now?

Leaving the apartment. Abby, Max and Eliza stay to lock the door. Jeanie and Jenny are ahead.

ABBY

Not a word.I don’t want to hear it.

Max and Abby raise their hands and walk away.

INT- at the music store. Abby had her hand placed on her hand place on her chin and is staring out the window.

MANAGER

Now I know you’re not sitting here because the new loop pedal doesn’t interest you.

Abby turns to face him.

ABBY

Sorry, just lost in thought.

MANAGER

I can tell. Listen,I’m not gonna pry into your personal life but, if it’s something serious I hoped you know I can be a person to talk to.

ABBY

Ed, I know I can talk to you. I just don’t want to talk about it. It’s all my friends want to talk about. It’s all I focus on. Like a vicious cycle.

MANAGER

Hung up on a girl.

ABBY

I never said that.��

MANAGER

Okay. Fine. Just know your are worthy of time and respect. If you’re not getting that then they’re not worth your time.

ABBY

Mmmm…

INT-Abby is pulling out her keys to go into her apartment after work. She is visibly tired. Before the key enters the lock the door cracks open, stretches his neck out.

MAX

Um… What are you doing here?

ABBY

I live here?

MAX

Didn’t you get my text?

Abby pulls her phone from her pocket showing Max’s text.

ABBY

I’m sorry. I didn’t see it. Can I just be in my room?

Loud talking erupts from the living room. Max leaves into the hall closing the door behind him.

MAX

Look you can’t be here right now.

ABBY

Max, I live here. You can’t just tell me to leave whenever. Who do you have over, anyways?

MAX

(Sighs)

It’s my parents. They… (in a whisper) they want to put Jake in rehab.

ABBY

Oh my god what?! Your parents are here? What the fuck Max?

MAX

Look I’m just trying to get this all figured out and I don’t want you involved. Okay?

ABBY

Max..

MAX

Please just let me work this out. I’ll text you.

Max backs up into the apartment. Abby lingers. Shouts are muffled through the walls. She turns and walks down the hall.

EXT- Abby is out on the sidewalk at night. She’s aimlessly walking. She finds a coffee shop and goes inside. There is one lone barista. Not very tall, friendly face charismatic in energy. ”Medley:Kendrick Lamar” by Jessica Domingo is playing softly in the background, to an empty store. Abby walks up to the counter.

BARISTA

What can I get you?

ABBY

Can I have a latte, for here?

Barista looks at the clock

BARISTA

Actually, we’re shutting down here soon. I can get you a drip?

ABBY

Then why didn’t you just say that?

BARISTA

Sorry habit. So a coffee or no?

ABBY

Sorry, that sounded rude. Yeah a coffee is fine.

Abby pulls out her wallet shaking her head to herself. Feeling ridiculous.

BARISTA

Here you go. Did you you want any milk or sugar?

ABBY

Yeah, both. I can get it-

BARISTA

I just put it away. I’ll grab it.

Abby looks around anxiously.The barista returns and starts to pour.

BARISTA

How do you like it?

ABBY

(cooly)

Light and sweet.

BARISTA

Like your women?

Abby blushes while the barista laughs at her own joke.

ABBY

Oh no, no…

BARISTA

Which part?

ABBY

Huh?

BARISTA

The color or women?

ABBY

(stammers)

I uh, you know, like not like..

BARISTA

So both.

ABBY

I didn’t say that.

BARISTA

She speaks!And in sentences.

ABBY

I don’t appreciate the taunting.

Abby picks up her coffee and sips it and passes money.

BARISTA

It’s okay. It was the bottom of the thing so. No worries.

ABBY

Well, thanks. That makes up for the comment.

BARISTA

Uh huh. Sure. Anyways, we are closing so…

ABBY

Oh. Shit. Sorry I uh, just need to not be at home of a bit and-

BARISTA

Nothing else is open.

ABBY

Yeah…

BARISTA

Well I mean technically, you could just be here while I clean up?

ABBY

You’d be cool with that?

BARISTA

I am here alone and clearly you have a silverfish infestation that’s out of control.

ABBY

I wish it were only that. Thanks, I’ll just sit over on the couch. If you don’t mind.

BARISTA

I don’t.

Abby walks over sheepishly to a couch and sits. The barista follows her with her eyes, then proceeds to start closing up shop. She finishes behind the bar and begins to start wiping the tables down making her way back to Abby who is sipping and playing with her phone. The barista is within ear shot.

ABBY

Is this a cover of Kendrick Lamar?

BARISTA

Ah someone was paying attention.

ABBY

I like it. I’m always down for an acoustic guitar mash up.

BARISTA

Especially a woman with a guitar.Mmmm

Abby blushes furiously and has no idea what to do with her body.

ABBY

So do you want me to give you a hand? I know I’m not supposed to or what ever but I feel bad just sitting here doing nothing.

The barista stands for a moment thinking then tosses the rag to Abby and walks away.

BARISTA

Start wiping the tables. I’ll flip the chairs.

They both work together cleaning and closing up the shop occasionally getting near each other but focused on the task at hand.

BARISTA

Thanks for helping out. You didn’t have to.

ABBY

Thank you for letting me stay. I just hope I can actually go back now.

BARISTA

I hope so too. It’s too late to be not at home in bed.

Abby shrugs.

ABBY

True. It was nice to meet you…

BARISTA

Shawna. It was nice to have a helping hand.

ABBY

Well with an awesome playlist like that, wasn’t a trouble at all.

SHAWNA

I’m glad you liked it.

[pauses]

Wait a sec.

Shawna reaches over to a cup and pulls out a pen and starts writing on it. Then passing it to Abby.

SHAWA (CONT.)

Just in case you have another invasion of roaches.

Abby reveals the number on the cup and nods.

ABBY

Will do.

They both get ready to walk out the door awkwardly weaving until both outside. Shawa locks the door while Abby waits.

ABBY

I guess I’ll see you around.

SHAWNA

I guess you will.

They both go to leave but end up walking the same direction, continuing to walk.

SHAWNA

You’re going this way?

ABBY

Well this is awkward.

SHAWNA

Nah, nah. I’m not going that far. Just to the bus stop.

ABBY

Yeah, I just live a couple of blocks away.

SHAWNA

It’s weird I’ve never seen you around.

ABBY

I suppose. I don’t really buy my-

Abby freezes.

SHAWNA

What? What it is?

Abby darts over to a wall looking down the street. Jake is walking out with his parents and getting in a car while Max stands by the door. Abby looks back at Shawna.

ABBY

It’s nothing. You can go ahead. I’ll just wait here a minute.

Abby looks on silently while Shawna watches it all unfold. Max is standing by the outside door, eyes fixed on the sidewalk.

SHAWNA

You know him?

Abby is still silently focused on Max.

ABBY

Huh? What, oh yeah… um it’s a long story. Seriously you don’t have to wait for me.

Shawna looks back and forth. Disappointed.

SHAWNA

Okay...I’ll see you around.

Abby still focuses let’s Shawna leave. Pivoting back around the corner she stews in frustration, for a moment then walks up to Max.

ABBY

So what the fuck happened?

MAX

I-I tried to convince them but…

Max looks down.

ABBY

Max… I

MAX

Can we just go inside? It’s been a long day.

ABBY

Sure whatever you want. I got you.

Fade to black. Text across the screen. “Three months later”

INT- The gang in playing settlers of catan together. Jake is back and healthy. Liza is getting along and is excited to play together.

LIZA

Ha-ha! Give me longest road bitch!

Liza celebrates

JAKE

You know the game isn’t over. Right?

LIZA

I don’t care. I win fair and square.

MAX

We haven’t even moved the thief. Liza that’s not how the game works.

ABBY

Unfortunately, they’re right.

LIZA

Whatever.

Sits with a plop. There’s a knock on the door.

GROUP (coos together)

MAX

Must be Shwana….

Abby rolls her eyes to get the door as she shushes them. He opens the door.

ABBY

Hey.

SHAWNA

Hey, yourself. You ready.

ABBY

Yeah. Let me grab my stuff. Come on in.

Shawna enters quietly and looks at the coffee table.

SHAWNA

Oooo. Catan. Who’s winning?

LIZA

Well that depends on who you ask.

MAX

I didn’t say you weren’t actively winning just that you hadn’t won.

SHAWNA

Well, someone has the longest road. I would say that’s winning.

LIZA

I knew I’d like you.

Abby returns to the living room.

ABBY

Ready?

Shawna nods. Abby turns to the group.

ABBY (Cont.)

I see you guys later then. Don’t burn down the house.

IN UNISON

Yes… Mama Abby

EXT- Abby and Shawna are walking hand in hand.

SHAWNA

Jake looks good. How’s Max holding up?

ABBY

He is. He’s been back a week or so. We’ve been trying to keep him close. Max is doing a lot better. I think her felt like everything was falling apart. But now he’s sort of realized he can’t control Jake and Jake wants the best for his brother. We had a little talk about it.

SHAWNA

That’s good. He probably needed to hear that from you more than anyone else.

Abby smiles

ABBY

It’s just good to have things a little calmer. For while I thought it was all going to fall apart, there for a minute.

SHAWNA

Mhmm. When you’re trying to stop smoking and your best friend goes to rehab, being stressed out is pretty normal. Speaking of which.

Shawna holds out her hand.

ABBY

What?

Shawna lifts her eyes brow.

ABBY (Cont.)

I have to ween myself off.I can’t just quit cold turkey.

Shawan waves her hand. Abby pulls out a pack of cigarettes.

SHAWNA

See that wasn’t hard.

She takes them and throws them in the nearest trash can.

ABBY

You’re cruel sometimes.

SHAWNA

You’ll thank me when you don’t have lung cancer.

(Pauses)

I’m going to go ahead and get our tickets from will call. Wait here.

Shawan kisses Abby on the cheek. Abby waits and pulls out her phone. There’s a text. She’s opens it to see that it’s Jenny. “Hey.” Abby looks up a Shawna getting their tickets and looks back at the phone. She pulls up the keyboard, fingers hovered over. Then stops. She taps the contact button thumb hovering over the delete contact. Shawna walks over.

SHAWNA

Who’s that.

Abby looks up.

ABBY

Oh. It’s nobody important.

She presses delete and puts the phone in her back pocket. She wraps her arm around Shawna’s waist and walks into the venue. “Somebody that I used to know” plays the outro.

THE END BITCHES.

#oc #screenwriting #queer #lesbeans #mine

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