xcelestialdreamingx

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Liz continued to walk, Theo walking beside her. "See, you ask that but your tone is loaded with judgement if i say i haven't seen any." She smiled, opening the coffee shop door with her back and holding it open for him to walk past. "I think my mom took me to see little shop of horrors when i was a kid. That was okay?" She laughed to herself. "I don't know something has always bothered me about musicals. Like... why can everyone sing? Why can everyone dance? I want to see a realistic musical where someone just opens their mouth and they're tone deaf."

@heartfordstarters

Open to all Around the City Centre

Theo had a quiet sort of confidence, he was talkative, warm but still slightly reserved. He had to be for his job. His work revolved around talking to people, listening to opinions and ideas and he loved it. He enjoyed engaging with others. He smiled, leaning on the wall gently as he approached the other. “Okay, quick question. What is the best show or musical you have ever seen on a theatre? Or TV? Or have you never seen one at all? I swear I will not judge you if you say you haven’t,” he said with an encouraging smile.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Liz had done a degree in English back in the day and yet the man's question hit her hard. She'd settled down with some tea, typing her next blog post furiously when he had turned politely and asked the question. The longer she thought, the more frustrated she became. This one was going to bother her for a long time.

"R-ay-in." She paused, realising how ridiculous she looked. "Jar..." She laughed gently at her own stupidity in that moment. "Jars." She added. "I've got nothing." She lifted her tea, sipping it bashfully.

open @heartfordstarters location: Cedar Bean

It was in the norm for Patrick to find himself taking a late lunch at the small coffee shop. Especially now since they just debuted their holiday flavors. While Patrick had some constraint at Sweet Nothings, he indulged his sweet tooth everywhere else.

Blueberry scone already finished, he occupied himself like he always did - with his small worn out book of crossword puzzles. It was a hobby he could enjoy at his own pace, proven by how most pages were in different stages of being complete. He’d only scribbled down two answers so far, in between sips of his gingerbread flavored coffee. The hit of caffeine no doubt failing him today.

Patrick stared down his glasses at the next clue, only looking up to offer a friendly smile of acknowledgement to the other patron as they took a seat near him. "Oh, thank God you're here. You wouldn't happen to know a four letter word for 'water container', would you? Ends with R…"

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Liz smiled, nodding gently as the stranger spoke. She didn't always get people who spoke to strangers in the street, she'd much rather be hidden in her headphones. But she nodded politely nonetheless. "Holiday photos? Like... kids dressed as elves and candy canes?" She raised an eyebrow. "Oh... yeah... i was just waiting for my uber. I think it's delayed though."

Parker gave the girl an easy smile, leaning slightly against his car as he spoke. “Yeah, long day, but a good one. Just finished some stuff at the studio, lots of families seem to be getting their holiday photos done early this year. Keeps me busy, so I can’t complain.”

His eyes glanced over her face, she was being polite, even when he'd disrupted her evening. “Can I help with anything?"

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Liz wasn't often out late at night. If she was it was with a car that she had already called from work. Her life had changed a lot since she was a teenager and it was crazy to think that her opinions had got here there. Sure, it was just a seat on a local news show. But it was still more then she ever thought she'd amount to. Still, she'd had her earbuds in the whole way around the grocery store hoping to avoid polite conversation from the local busybodies.

She'd just reached her car when she finally got caught. "Oh..." She took one headphone out. "Sorry? Huh?" She blinked, not really because she hadn't heard him. But because her thoughts had been so far away that it took her a few moments to piece them together. "Oh... yeah always is." She smiled politely, bouncing as she waited for her uber. Yet, she got the impression the man wanted to be asked back. "And you? Long day at work?" She spoke with her hands.

@heartfordstarters Outside Ellis and Lillies Photography Studio / Heartford City Centre Open to all

Parker let out a tired sigh, adjusting the strap of his camera bag over his shoulder as the cool bite of the evening air hit his skin. He’d just wrapped up a late photoshoot and finished tidying up the studio for the night.

He thought about grabbing a quick bite from one of the nearby places but remembered he had some leftover stir fry waiting at home. Cooking always helped him unwind, even on nights like this when his legs ached from being on his feet all day.

As he stepped out and locked the studio door behind him, his boots hit softly against the cobblestones. Heading toward his car, he caught the sound of approaching footsteps. Parker glanced up and offered a friendly smile to the passerby. “Hey there, just finished up work? Long day too?” he asked, his tone warm and easy as he unlocked his car door.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Kass wasn't one for flowers. But she'd got this note at her door saying she'd been delivered a bunch of flowers. Or rather, she hadn't been delivered a bunch of flowers. It was a joke. Even if she did like flowers she would always go to The Petal Pixie. At least she knew she was going to get surface with a very handsome smile there.

She sighed, not quite getting into the store before someone bumped into her. Although the quirk in her brows changed when she realised who she had bumped into. Her brother in law. A smile graced her lips. "Ah, in the dog house?" She asked, nodding towards the flowers. "I haven't been married for a long time, but i certainly only got flowers like those when he did something wrong." 

Location: Outsider of Hearts and Flowers

Status: Open

@heartfordstarter

Lucian had a long day at work and all he wanted to do was get home to his wife and kids. But he wanted to stop and get Kiara something first. She deserved it and besides this was just because. There were times that he often did this. Bringing her chocolates and flowers just because. It was one his many charms. Besides he wanted to do the small things for her.

Moving into Hearts and Flowers, he started to look around some. It seemed like they were out of her favorites. Which sucked but he would somehow make it happen to get her some different flowers and probably some chocolates as well. Maybe the seasonal flowers that were in stock. That was what he decided on getting her, and her favorite chocolates. At they had those. Which was perfectly fine. Walking out of the store, that was when he instantly bumped into someone. "Oi..I'm sorry." He told them. "Are you okay? That was my bad, I wasn't paying attention."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

"My mom thinks i'm a genius." He mumbled, popping down the easy listening record. "Magic… or raw…" he blinked, suddenly confused by the conversation. He was completely lost.

"A boost of life?" he chuckled, she was starting to sound like the well-being advisor at work. "I don't know about a boost in life. Most of the time in the evening i like to just grab a pack of doritoes and have a 3 hour nap." 

Lena glanced up from the album in her own hand, her lips turning into a soft smile at the sight of the two records. She'd been looking for something new to play during her next yoga class. But a good music debate was hard to resist... that and teasing a man.

“Hmm…” she said, stepping a little closer and giving each album a glance over. “That’s a tough call. Are you a genius? Do you like history? Do you know where the magic of raw energy lives?" she rambled on, a grin on her features.

She glanced over Archer’s face, he did look a little tired but she wasn't going to say it. “Depends on what you need tonight. If you’re looking to wind down, go genius. But if you’re craving a boost of life, go rock-and-roll all the way.”

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Archer’s hands lingered on the record as a wave of exhaustion mixed with warmth settled over him. His eyes glanced over the record, he couldn't say that the man was wrong. He clearly knew his music. After his night shift—twelve hours of relentless alarms and lives hanging in balance—music was his escape. It had always been, ever since his dad introduced him to vinyl. He remembered the crackle of the turntable in their small living room, his father’s voice brimming with enthusiasm as he explained why each track mattered. This man’s intensity, the way he spoke about music like it was life itself, brought that all rushing back. It wasn’t just about sound—it was about meaning. " God, You remind me of my dad," Archer admitted chuckling, shaking his head with an amused smile. "He used to talk about music like this too." 

He placed the easy listening back on the shelf, tucking one vinyl under his arm and starting to look for another. "Where did you learn all that stuff?" 

the record store was quiet, the kind of quiet damiano liked. just the soft shuffle of sleeves sliding against each other and the occasional scratch of a needle testing a turntable in the back. he stood near the middle rack, flipping through the rows of vinyl with the same deliberate care he gave to his bookshelves. no rush. no agenda. just killing time before work. then he caught it—the murmuring. a man, standing a little too close, holding a pair of records. damiano looked at him from the corner of his eye. he shifted slightly, his jaw tightening. he knew—knew—where this was going.

sure enough, the words came. he turned his head just enough to glance at the two records. miles davis’s on the corner in one hand—timeless, pure brilliance, the kind of genius that redefined music. in the other, a well-worn record bearing the name of some 60s rock-and-roll band he couldn’t bother remembering.

"miles," he said flatly, his voice gruff as he tapped the better record with a finger, then went back to flipping through the stack without another word. but his mind wasn’t on it anymore. it lingered for a moment, circling back to the exchange. "look," he said, his tone sharper now, "pick miles because it’s not just music. it’s a blueprint, the kind that rewired how everything after it sounded. what’s in your other hand? nostalgia? not even in the same league." he straightened, flicking through another record with more force than needed, picking it up. his antisocial ways always contrasted with the built-in urgency to open people's eyes. "this one," he added, shoving kind of blue toward the man. "is the choice you make if you actually care about what you’re hearing."

[xcelestialdreamingx]

Archer chuckled, the exhaustion of his night shift softening into a warm grin. "Solid advice. I think I’ve earned a little self-spoiling after twelve hours of chaos." He knew that made his life sound more exciting then it probably was. Although working in the ER of Heartford could be an experience. 'Kick out the Jams it is" He flipped over the back, admiring it for a few moments. "I almost feel bad i beat you to it." He gave the woman a charming smile. He nodded to the records at her finger tips. "Are you a fan or just an admirer? You never know these days." 

Music was something that had always helped Kelsey whenever she had to figure out something. So naturally she would come into the record store to see what all they had in stock and what was new that she liked. Yeah, she had her Apple Music but it wasn't the same as a CD or a vinyl record. Nothing compared to those actually. The vinyl records. They were classics and well Kelsey loved them. Entering the record store, she started to browse. Noticing just one other person inside besides the cashier.

Finding herself next to the man, she had been just looking through the records when she heard him. Looking up from what she was looking at now. Seeing what he was holding up. "Personally I would just spoil myself and get both actually. But that is also your call if you want to spoil yourself. If you don't I would go with the rock-and-roll history." She told him with a small smile on her lips.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

@heartfordstarter

The bell above the door jingled softly as Archer Chen stepped into the record store. His scrubs were hidden under a well-worn hoodie, although he felt like everybody could see from the bags under his eyes that he was exhausted.

He wandered to the "Classics" section, letting his fingers graze the edges of the sleeves. Archer held up a familiar record, admiring the artwork. His dad had had one in his study when he was a child. Perhaps that's where Archer's obsession with music came from. A lifetime obsession built from just a glimpse of a memory. He wasn't even sure it was real.

“Man, which one do I pick?” he murmured to himself. Then, glancing toward the person browsing the shelf next to him, he held both albums up and asked with a lopsided smile, “What do you think? Timeless genius or rock-and-roll history?”

[xcelestialdreamingx]

❤️ We’ve got our eyes on: [Archer Chen]([Manny Jacinto]), and rumor has it that [he] is/are a [35]-year-old [cis man]. Our records say they work as [nurse @ heartford General Hospital], but they’ve made their home in [Southpoint]. Word around town is that they were born in [Heartford], but they’ve been calling Heartford home for [35 years]. We can’t wait to see how they grow in Heartford. ❤️

Archer Chen is a warm-hearted and kind, raised by his devoted single mother after the loss of his father. With no siblings, Archer formed a tight bond with his mom and to this day is something of a mommy's boy.

A self-proclaimed nerd in high school, Archer found joy in Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop games. His downtime often involves listening to vinyl records or playing games with his friends.

Archer pursued a nursing degree at the local community college, wanting to stay close to his mom. Yet, the empathetic career really suited him. Now living in a shared flat with fellow medical professionals, he balances his busy career with frequent visits to his mother’s home. He never says no to a home-cooked meals and is always there to lend a hand around the house.

[xcelestialdreamingx]

❤️ We’ve got our eyes on: [Kassandra Hamilton]([DeWanda Wise]), and rumor has it that [she] is/are a [42]-year-old [cis woman]. Our records say they work as [Professor at Heartford University], but they’ve made their home in [Southpoint]. Word around town is that they were born in [Boston], but they’ve been calling Heartford home for [10 years]. We can’t wait to see how they grow in Heartford. ❤️

Character profile

Character Name: Kassandra Hamilton Nickname (if any): Kass, Kassie Age: 42 Face Claim: DeWanda Wise Gender/Pronouns: She/her Neighbourhood: South Point Length of time in Heartford: 10 years Occupation: Professor @ Heartford University

Character information

Kassandra Hamilton is a 42-year-old professor of technology at Heartford University.

Kass was raised in Boston by a wealthy family, Kassandra enjoyed a life of privilege but was never content to simply follow the expected path.

Though her parents ensured she received an elite education, Kassandra was a fiercely independent and rebellious teenager. She was always challenging authority and questioning why she had to do things her mother’s way. Yet, they always remained in contact and she has always been respectful to her parents despite behind their backs taking every opportunity to be snarky.

When Kass was 17 she had a daughter with a boyfriend her own age. Although her parents supported her in having the child, it added a new level of strain into their relationship.

Kass moved out when she could and at first married the father of her child. Although this marriage didn’t work out, she admits she wouldn’t be where she is today without his support.

[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.