xcelestialdreamingx

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"Everything about me is hardcore. Look at me." She half laughed, leaning against her own car. "See now i've talked you into having a quiet night in with netflix... netflix and chill and all that shit." She chuckled, shocking her grocery bags into the back of her car.

Gray laughed gently as she opened the door, placing the bags into her car. "Hardcore movie marathon, I can respect that," he grinned, he liked that. He didn't do anything by halves. "Yeah, I was just deciding what to grab for myself tonight. Nothing as exciting as turning yourself into a ginat Twizzler though." he laughed as he leaned against her car door for a moment.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

With a groan, Celeste rolled over, clutching a pillow over her face. She felt like she’d danced until her bones were sore, and judging by the vague memories of loud music, spilled drinks, she wasn't far off. Her phone buzzed, lighting up with a text from her friend who’d apparently made it home in much better shape. Celeste managed a weak laugh at the message, typing back a single word: “Coffee.”

A few hours later, Celeste shuffled down the path to the Aspen Creek gazebo, still feeling slightly fuzzy from last night. She’d managed to shower, find something comfortable to wear, and pull her hair under a questionable bucket hat. But the lingering headache and queasy stomach reminded her of the questionable tequila shots that had seemed like such a good idea last night.

Her friend was already there, holding out a steaming coffee. Celeste took it gratefully, sinking onto the bench beside them and wrapping her hands around the cup.

“You look better than I feel,” she muttered, taking a careful sip as the caffeine started to work its magic. She closed her eyes for a moment, letting the warmth settle. After a pause, she sighed, a small, reluctant smile forming. “Tell me I didn't do anything too stupid last night?” @aspencreekextra

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Cel glanced down at the bags in her hand before letting the man take some of them. Suddenly she regretted her choice in clothes for this quick trip to the store. "I don't do anything unless it's hardcore." She clicked open her car door. "I appreciate it. I was about to turn into a giant twizzler. Are you on your way home?"

Gray laughed, looking over the tower of snacks and DVDs the small woman held. "Supplies? You look like you're prepping for a hardcore movie marathon or maybe even a whole weekend hibernating,” he teased lightly, nodding towards her pajama bottoms. “That is a very fancy night in. I approve.” He stepped closer, reaching out a hand. “Here, let me help you before you’re buried in snacks."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"You mean my entire family sat at one table awkwardly until someone finally gives in and snaps? Yeah. Can't wait."

"Anyone else looking forward to Thanksgiving and then Christmas?" @aspencreekextra

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Celeste had a stack of groceries in her arms, she didn't get many days off or many days alone in the busy farm house. Her arms were full of snacks, a bottle of wine and a large stack of DvDs. She was going to have the night alone she deserved. She could barely see over the brown food parcels when a voice called out to her. Peering over the bags at the tall man as she attempted to click open her car. "Oh…" She blushed. "No, it's my day off… " She gestured to her pjyama bottoms under her long cardigan. "I'm just grabbing supplies for a night in." 

Outside Willow Creek Art Gallery Open to all @aspencreekextra

Gray let out a tired sigh, he could feel the slight chill of the approaching winter air against his skin. He’d just finished an evening class and was locking up the gallery. He felt exhausted but it had been a good evening. Many of the adults really enjoyed the later classes.

He'd thought about stopping to get some food but remembered he had some leftover pasta in the fridge and he knew he could easily put some life back into it with some fresh herbs and cheese. Cooking was a comfort to him, even when he was tired.

He headed around the corner to his car, his boots echoing on the ground in the quiet street. He looked around, hearing footsteps, offering a smile at the other person. “Hey, have you just finished work too? Just out and about? Busy day?” he asked, making conversation as he unlocked his car door.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Celeste didn't tend to frequent bars, in town or anywhere else. But with her dad back on the dating scene, she did her best to make herself scarce from the large farm house whenever an older lady started to grace the living room. Moving in with her dad wasn't all bad and she didn't feel like she was in the position to complain.  It was one thing to third wheel your friends, but third wheeling your parent seemed slightly more pathetic. "Mmmmm I don't know if there's enough time to explain this situation." She chuckled to herself. "What about you? I don't see anybody ever ditching you." 

* 𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚗 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚎𝚛 + ❮ @aspencreekextra ❯

it's well enough known amongst friends and peers that hiro doesn't really drink. (the reason for why that is, that part isn't so well known) he pulls his old pick-up truck into park outside the building where he knows his companion might be. he arrived exactly the time he said he would when he texted that he was on the way. the car door sound ushers them into the toasty, comfortable passenger seat and he gives his likely drunk cargo a quick glance. "it's good you called. sorry for the wait." he says it nonchalantly, putting the vehicle into drive, peering out onto the road, "do you have a habit of drinking alone, or were you ditched by somebody?" there's amusement on his tone, however muted.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

kit, 29, she/her, gmt. self harm. // hey, isn’t that CELESTE SMITH, who looks a little like ASHLEY MOORE? i hear SHE/HER is/are a 32 year old CIS WOMAN who works as a COMMUNITY MIDWIFE  who has been in town for THIRTY TWO YEARS IN ASPEN CREEK. they AREN’T a member of one of aspen creek’s founding families. you can usually find them at the EVERGREEN FARMS. if you ask me, they remind me a lot of Stargazing on the Aspen Creek gazebo, Warming Tea, Tarot Cards and Pug puppies. just keep an eye on them & see if their true colors shine through!

Celeste was born and raised in Aspen Creek. Her father, a Catholic man, and her mother, Anna, a free spirit, met at a music festival and shared a weekend of passion—a weekend that resulted in a pregnancy and, soon after, a wedding. Celeste grew up in Aspen Creek and had a close relationship with both her parents. For a few of her early years, she was homeschooled by her father, who was dedicated to her education. But as Cel got older, she wanted to spend more time with other children, so her father gave in and sent her to a mainstream middle school.

She appreciates everything her parents did for her, recognizing the dedication it took. Family is incredibly important to her, and she has never felt the urge to leave Aspen Creek. When she was a child, her parents got divorced, and her mother left town. Now, she rarely sees her mother, aware that she’s off following her latest whim. Because of this, Cel is a practical person who always thinks before acting.

Celeste also has a half-sister through her mother, named Sadie. A few years after Cel’s parents divorced, Anna had moved on with her life and, during one of her many adventures, had a second daughter. Celeste met Sadie when she was still a young girl, and though they don’t see each other often Celeste feels a strong, quiet bond with her.

This complicated family dynamic has left a lasting mark on Celeste. While her father and the community of Aspen Creek have kept her grounded, the presence of Sadie and her mother’s sporadic attempts at reconnecting have deepened Cel’s sense of loyalty and responsibility. She’s fiercely protective of those close to her and works hard to maintain stability in her life, possibly as a response to the volatility her mother represents.

As a teenager, Cel was always taught the meaning of hard work and held several jobs in town. She moved out of her family home at 25, settling into a small apartment.

Cel attended college locally and initially trained as a nurse. However, after a few years of work, her ambition began to show, and she retrained as a midwife. Her work is extremely important to her, and she takes her responsibilities seriously. No matter what is going on in her life, Cel gives everything to her patients when she’s at work. In her teenage years, she had a fiery spirit and a close-knit group of friends who often got into trouble together. Cel believes in star signs and fate, and her decisions are often influenced by the horoscope page in the newspaper.

Her belief in fate ties closely to a recent event where she left her fiancé at the altar. Celeste and Tristan met at work, and their relationship blossomed quickly. Everything she’d ever been taught suggested that she was truly in love. Tristan was romantic and wanted to do things traditionally. He proposed, and feeling the pressure from those around her, Cel accepted. But as the wedding day drew nearer, she kept staring at the wedding dress hanging above her bedroom door, feeling uncertain. She couldn’t go through with it. Cel called her aunt and best friend, letting them know she was calling the whole thing off. She spent the next two weeks canceling flowers, caterers, and the honeymoon. She knew her father was disappointed, as was the rest of her family, but Cel is certain she did the right thing for herself.

She has no idea what the future holds for her in Aspen Creek, but she can’t wait to find out.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Days in Aspen Creek for Celeste tended to blur together. Not that she didn't love where she lived, there were lots of things about the town she loved. But she had lived there going on three decades now and it was just a fact that things tended to become a little bit stale. Sometimes she craved excitement, something different. Yet, here she was on her day off work - living to the same routine she had since she'd become an adult. She took in feel good records, flicking through records, a warm cup of tea in a paper cup in her left hand and a newspaper tucked under her arm. Cel glanced over as the stranger pulled out a record. She pulled a small unimpressed face. "I don't know... i think it's probably too heavy for fall vibes. You should really be checking the pop rock soul section" She gestured behind her with her spare hand. "What kind of thing are you into?" 

with the arrival of autumn, jade felt it was time to treat herself to a new record. her collection needed something that would capture the essence of the season's crisp air and even crisper leaves. she thought of the sound and feeling of crunching on a big, dry leaf on her way into feel good records. the child in her clapped with glee. none of what she was flipping through promised her the same amount of charm. then again, she knew maybe one out of fifteen of the titles she came across. she plucked out one whose art intrigued her and turned it so it now faced the individual across from her. "are you familiar with this band? does this give fall girl vibes to you?" // OPEN @aspencreekextra

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Francis was just heading to his car door. He'd been out late working on the case. He wasn't getting much sleep, but there always seemed to be something to review. Another news outlet from another timezone that wanted another statement. He was making his money out of it. That was true. But sometimes he questioned his own morals. He had known Emily in life and now was making money out of her disappearance. He kept telling himself she'd want him to. But truth be told, he didn't know her well enough to say if that was true or not. "I'll drink to that." he sighed, not even realising he'd spoken. He paused. "Sorry, am i blocking you in?"

Sometimes Imogen wondered why she even bothered dating. She found herself walking faster as she made her way towards her car. "Thank god," she breathed to herself, letting out a breath when her car came into view. She just wanted to be back home, out of this dress and cup of tea in her hand. "People are dicks," she said out loud, leaning against her car door.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Fida was in love. Or at least, she figured this was what love felt like. It was certainly what it sounded like when she'd read about it. And that was the same thing right? She couldn't do anything but laugh as the woman before her quoted a classical philosopher. She couldn't believe real people existed that would do that. But of course if anybody did exist it would be a Bennett. Her father had the most amazing brain of this decade. So, of course Allison would too. it just made sense. Fida's fangirling was spiralling out of control and she had to pull herself out of the situation quickly. "I really like beefsteak" Was all that she managed to utter. "I mean... i read that Nietzshe really enjoyed beef steak." She coughed. She had meant to amaze the girl with her knowledge. Instead, she'd come across a little bit like she stalked dead men.

She paused. Amazed that the daughter of Mr Bennett hadn't read his books. "Ok well... let me recommend one to start with then. It doesn't have to be recent." She started to walk towards the shelves. "The trick is to ignore any that have movies. Hollywood ruin everything they touch."

Allison found herself nodding along. "I know he was a questionable person - and I hated his take on Zarathustra - but Friedrich Nietzsche once said All good thoughts are conceived while walking, and I must say he found an ounce of truth with that one." She had read her fair share of European philosophers while being abroad. Allison had never found an in to the works of Kafka and the like, but she could not help but feel their stances on writing.

Allison's eyebrows shot up as the topic of conversation changed so fast after her introduction. She had only been back in town a few weeks, getting used to the stares was hard. Some people remembered her from before, some could only think of her sister. But her father? Hearing him mentioned was a surprise. "Really?", Ally herself was not a fan of her father's work - in part because she was not a big fan of her father most days, "Yes, that's my dad. But I must admit I haven't read any of his books lately. I try my best to find my own style, outside of his influence. In writing and in life. I am sure though he'd enjoy hearing this. Glad to hear you enjoy those books."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Francis didn't know if being this close to one of the people he was defending was a good idea. But it was difficult to say no to the guy when he seemed so... sad? "Oh barely, Iook at me. I'm ageing but I'm ageing gracefully." He gestured over his freshly pressed suit. "Please tell me you're talking about the new one and not the pixel one."

Eddie knew people probably felt as awkward around him as he did around them right now. He was the guy with the missing twin sister... it lingered between every conversation and every look. Though he was trying his best to act normal. "I mean, the kid is a tween, yeah. Starting young. And he is mine," he laughed, nodding with his drink.

"You're younger than me, you can't say anything," he nodded. His birthday without his sister, that he didn't want to think about. "Me? Nah, I'm a Tomb Raider guy."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Fida grinned, moving across the corner and leaning on the side. "You loved it, you know it was peak comedy." She folded her arms, smiling with a little pout. "Aw and I bet mom and dad would love that. I can't drag you for food then?"

Alex was certain that he'd seen his parents walk away and it wasn't that he didn't love his parents, he was close to them. But that didn't mean he wanted to be invited for dinner on his weekend. He quickly turned at the voice, hand on his chest. "Not cool," he laughed, they're gone. "You got me for a second there. Asshole," he said with a smile. "I mean, I am awesome. But I'm not getting dragged for Sunday lunch today."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"I knew it, i can just see it when i close my eyes." She pretended to close her eyes, smiling to herself. "You have no idea how fast I can move Bennett." She shook her head, although the guilt began to wash over her. Emily's eyes crossed over her mind. Had she ever felt for her? Or was it just a drunken night? She didn't even know.

She just prayed for Emily to show up so that all of these thoughts could just go away with the wind. "Right... no sorry. I don't think i've played video games since 2007." She glanced down at her phone. "What way are you heading to pick him up? I'll walk with you." She didn't know what had got into her or why she'd put herself through it. But maybe she just wanted to know that the Bennett's were okay.

"Oh, I put on my princess wig and I'm good to go," he said with a laugh, the random conversation felt so normal for a moment. So like a conversation he enjoyed having with a beautiful woman. "Ah, you're already thinking about me grinding. You move fast," he gave a grin. "I have no idea. I think the last song I know is Look What you Made Me Do. Fortnite is a kid game."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Fida was used to a small town and normally she'd do anything to help someone avoid their parents. She believed in cosmic karma and there was every chance that not helping would result in a knock on her door from her own parents. She wasn't going to risk that. Still, this was Alex telling her this and she couldn't resist. She peered her head around the corner curiously. Subtly wasn't her middle name. "Oh my god Al! You didn't tell me your parents were in town." She brushed down her clothes. "These are the people who made you, they're responsible for your awesomeness. You have to introduce us."

Alex stood behind the wall, letting out a breath as he waited for his parents to go out of view. He turned, noticing someone behind him. He knew he must have looked a little weird. “Should I admit that I am 28 years old and I am hiding from my parents?” he said with a laugh.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

welcome to pine hurst, [Kit]([28]/[BST][she/her]). in town, you’ll find [Francis Benson] ([Kendrick Sampson), who [he/him] is/are a [38] year old [Cis Man]. they work as [a lawyer/partner at ] at [Benson & Breeze], but they live in [Woodland Walk]. originating from [Pinehurst], they have made pine hurst their home for [Most of their life]. when it comes to emily bennet, their relationship is [FAMILY FRIEND], and the mystery of emily echoes has left them feeling [confused and worried for his own family, but also legally representing the Bennett family].

Francis was born and raised in Pine Hurst, a small town that shaped much of his early life. Francis was a bright and determined child. His father, a well-respected member of the community, passed away when Francis was still young. This loss pused him to step up and help his mother care for his younger brothers.

Being the first in his family to attend college, Francis's journey to an Ivy League school was emarkable. His intelligence and dedication earned him a full scholarship, allowing him to pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer. After graduating, Francis decided to return to Pine Hurst. Upon his return, he gained most of his work from his father's old friends. Early on he began working with the Bennett family, NDAs and royalty contracts. Francis's hard work built up his reputation, helping him be promoted to partner at Benson and Breeze, a local law firm struggling.

Francis never anticipated the turmoil that would come with Emily Bennett's disappearance. The media frenzy has kept him busier than ever, writing statements and trying to manage the chaos that has descended on Pine Hurst.

Francis has always put his career before his personal life, resulting in short-lived relationships. Despite this, he remains a romantic at heart, hopeful that one day he might find a balance between his demanding career and a fulfilling private life. Francis cherishes being close to his family again

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"I see it, you'll be singing to all of the woodland creatures next." Sammi smiled, leaning back on the bench. She did her best not to look at him still. "Yeah it's ok don't worry, i'd still slip a dollar to you to see you grind." She laughed to herself. "Fortnite? Isn't that a Taylor Swift song?" She quirked a brow.

Eddie turned his head before letting out a small laugh. "Oh, the whole animal connection. I mean, I have the pale skin and dark hair," he laughed gently. His eyes glanced up, he was glad for the easy conversation... things were tough right now. He knew that. He knew what everyone was thinking when they looked at him.

"It sounds creepy? Shit, now I really do know I'm old," he gave a small laugh. "Experience points in his game. Fortnite and all that stuff. I say like I know and sound like a total dad."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"You'd be surprised how helpful it is" She clicked her tongue. "Or at least how helpful it can be to pass the time rather than staring at the paper." She laughed, hoping the stranger would understand their writer's plight. She chuckled, tilting her head with a smile. "My process sounds a lot like that, but add in long walks and avoidance of anything I've been writing for more then two weeks." She laughed, flicking the pens in her hand nervously.

Although her jaw dropped as the woman introduced herself and she could feel her heart flutter. "Bennett?" Of course, her head went immediately to Emily. But Emily wasn't the only famous one in their family. Soren Bennett's books had inspired Fida from a young age. They had also bonded her and her dad in ways that nothing else could. As a kid she'd waited all night for a showing of one of the movie adaptations. She'd then spent the next week chatting about it. "Like Soren Bennett?" She smiled slightly. "I'm a big fan. I love his novel's i re-read them at least once a year."

"A robot?", Allison's eyebrows shot up and her smile brightened, "I haven't thought about that. Maybe I should try it next time." Allison reached for one of the notebooks now in front of her, it seemed to fit perfectly for the challenge ahead and yet she could not help but feel weird in doing so. Everyone grieved differently, right? And it was not as if she was trying to turn her sister's disappereance into content. She was just trying to make sense of it.

"I can assure you", tilting her head to the other side she lowered her voice in a conspiratory tone, "At least half of writing is staring at a blank screen or at the ceiling. I have been doing it professionally for years - writing, not staring at ceilings - and sometimes it is more of the first, sometimes more of the later. Call it process and be done with it." In her years on the road, Allison had learned that sometimes the words could not be forced. Sometimes they needed to be felt first.

Allison held up the journal in her hands to give it one last look. She wasn't really feeling it, but yet she hadn't felt anything since coming back to town. "Serious notebook for a true story, I fear. A personal story. I recently moved back to town and I need to clear my head of some things, family things." Then she reached out a hand to introduce herself, "Allison Bennett, nice to meet you. And thank you for the help."