It was a Sunday at Thrifty Foods, a busy Sunday. The day had started off with a bit of staff reshuffling as Melissa had to call off sick from her normal post deli serving. Paul had been covering it in rotation with Owen who had some basic training in the department. Neither of them were as efficient as Melissa but they made it through. Mitch got worried about her halfway through the day and so he stocked up the meat cooler and went home early. Paul and Owen tag teamed in the meat department after that but the whole staff was a little concerned about the butcher and the deli server.
Ziggy was on deliveries which were thankfully minimal today so she could assist Cory with stock and produce as well. Pixie and Lydia were both on cash with no baggers. Thrifty’s was feeling a little short staffed.
One thing it was never short on in this town was customers. The door was left unlocked now and the public had been mostly trained to still distance. As things relaxed there were a few less masks and more people actually talking to one another instead of avoiding eye contact and taking the long way around the aisles.
In the front door came a happy go lucky looking man with glasses and a grey brown beard. He grabbed a cart and bounce walked through to the produce, sneaking up on Cory with a “Boo!” As soon as the two stood beside one another it was obvious they were related.
“Dad!” Cory said with a jump “What are you doing here?” Cory turned several shades of red at once.
“Shopping for your birthday stuff kiddo….” He started picking out some fruit.
Cory hissed at his father “Keep your voice down!”
Cory’s Dad laughed and got louder and Cory retreated to the back with a bin of lettuce as his dad bellowed “You mean no one knows it’s YOUR BIRTHDAY! Aw come on you should invite some coworkers...let’s kick it up a notch.” Now he started walking around towards the meats department “Paul! Owen! Did you know it’s Cory’s birthday? He’s 21 today…..we’re having a little party….everyone's invited….in fact can I steal some paper and write down our address?”
Paul, Owen and Lydia knew Cory’s dad and happily greeted him as Colin and took his little pieces of paper and stuck them up at the cash, meats and in the staff room. Colin continued to shop, chat and pretty much invite everyone in sight. It was turning into a bit of a block party. People were bringing food, lawn chairs and wine and instruments to play. Clearly the town needed a party after being in lockdown and Cory’s birthday was as good an excuse as any, even to folks who didn’t know the young man.
And …. From the area of the Claremorris apartments came the sound of music ….
India Tor heard the music and stepped out of her house long enough to walk to the corner and peer down the block. Her eyes grew large and, feeling the vibration in her pocket, she checked her phone, smiled and headed back into her house.
Stacy Henshaw was double checking the setup. She placed a folding banquet table on the sidewalk and was looking around the area at everything. While Kagiso Jackson had set up something of a portable DJ station, he left right afterwards. But as he left, Quentin Tyrell arrived. The men shared a complicated handshake/hug and then one left while the other remained. As Quentin began to play music, Stacy smiled. Her plan was coming together. She headed back in the building to start laying out the food.
Cory is hiding in his room, hoping his parents will forget he’s in there. He can hear the music as the sound system gets tested. He’s heard his parents dragging stuff out of their apartment and barely resisted the urge to stuff himself under his bed. He’s skinny. He could fit still. He’s wearing his usual black jeans and a waffled long underwear shirt under his puking gnome t shirt.
Colin Henshaw is icing a giant cake and looking super stoked about it. As his wife comes back in he makes a sweeping gesture at it “Look at that! Is this what you had in mind babe? This is going to be awesome!” The cake looks like a game map from one of Cory’s little MMORPGs. It has a few D&D figures on it even to give it some flare and in the centre is a slightly tacky plastic orange mini garden gnome. He sets the mixing bowls in the sink and starts soaking them. He’s still wearing his same clothes from the grocery store, plain cargo shorts and a grey shirt, now covered in flour.
Paul McLeod had popped home to change and told his family he was just doing a drop by at Cory’s party to be polite. He liked the young man for sure but he was tired after a long day and really just wanted a night on the couch with his wife and girls. The girls were begging to go with him though. Lucy was both whining and begging and she had already been yawning. As he was about to negotiate about how appropriate it might not be for his young girls to be at a party for a 21 year old which likely would have alcohol, Daphne got a text that Tony was live recording and the girls forgot their father even existed. With a helpless shrug Paul laughed and headed off alone to pay his respects to the begrudging birthday boy. He had on a pair of old jeans and an REM t shirt under an black button up shirt. During his walk, he bumped into Lydia who was walking with Ziggy and carrying a large bowl of something with tin foil wrapped on top of it. “Hello Alvins...whatcha got there Lydia? And look at you tonight...you clean up nice. Now I feel like a bum.”
Lydia grins at Paul and also her daughter. She’s switched her uniform out for a surprisingly knockout one shouldered dress. Clearly she was happy to have a little night out. Her ever present hairband matches the dress’s fabric and she’s even...wearing a touch of lipstick. “It’s my chicken ceasar of course. And Paul you are a bum….always have been.” She teases. “Paul, you didn't bring anything? You figure since you sign the kid’s cheques you’re off the hook?”
Owen rushes home and only changes his shirt to an old Star Wars t shirt, giving his hair a quick ruffle in the mirror and then sending off a quick text to Slaine telling her their face time call might be a little delayed if he ends up at the party past the time. As he’s heading out of his room and pulling on a hoodie he listens at Seamus’s door and then knocks “Hey man I’m going to a party. It’s Cory’s birthday. In front of the Claremorris if you want to catch up and hang out…” He doesn’t wait for an answer and dashes down the stairs and then looks around. He should have some kind of present maybe or a card. He rifles through the junk drawer in the kitchen and frowns at it. They must have used up the stash of generic cards. With a sigh he opens a few cupboards and his eyes settle on a small and unopened bottle of Jamieson whiskey. “Bingo...sorry Dad…” He shoves it in the pouch pocket of his hoodie like a drunken kangaroo in the making and hits the street..
Quentin tests the sound and then settles the early part of the night into a mellow mix as people start to arrive. He’s in full DJ dress and looking fine in his silky black pants slim fit white and crisp long sleeved t shirt and a funky patterned vest. He’s wearing his little flat cap as he sometimes does for outdoor gigs. Quentin looks around at the good folks and then asks the crowd “Hey where's the birthday boy?”
Pixie giggles as she goes home thinking of what to wear.. She didn't want it to be too obvious she liked him but she wanted to test if he liked her. ‘Hmm something to get his attention.. ‘
She goes into her flat ditching her work shoes at the door peeling off her clothes as she made her way to the door of her close . It's full of pink and purple. She finds a non pink but just as cute sexy pale yellow peasant top and pears it with a black short mini skirt that just barely covers her curvaceous backside and highlights her ample hip. She parts it with matching pale yellow heels. She goes to her craft drawer seeing what she had made that cory might like .. she picks out a simple leather wallet that a dragon crest ‘ i think he'd like this .. it's all medieval and stuff ‘ she looks around her kitchen going to her cupboards and pull out big Jar of some mature homemade honey mead. It was big enough to feed a small army . she sets it down and touches up her now natural makeup . she picks the hug jar back up and goes out the door to share some birthday cheer
Sadie is in the store looking for Mitch to visit him and stock up .. she goes back to look for Mitch but doesn't see him . she goes up the aisle looking for Paul “Hey paull have you seen Mitch or Melissa.. she say in her usual squeaky but loud voice . she say while going around the store in search for him. Paul sees Sadie and goes over to her, pulling her aside for a brief conversation that reveals nothing to either of them about what Melissa is sick with and why Mitch left so worried. She overhears the about the party and goes to pick up some stuff for her legendary 5 layer dip and some chips. She concern about her brother and sister in law
She arrives at small apartment and starts to fix her dip, pressing the number for her brother and putting it on speaker. She chat him as she fixes the dip then head to the party dress in a simple white flowing sundress and flat to match beaming big
Ziggy waves at Paul After she puts the chicken caesar on the table. She’s in clean white leggings, and one of her many scarf tops, with a long sleeved yellow underneath. The scarf on her torso has a nice pattern of yellow flowers. On her head, covering her hair, is a wrap of yellow checkered materials. She looks over at Quentin and the others and waves, looking bemused. Crossed over her chest is a camera on a strap.
Seamus is on his bed with a myriad of things in front of him. When Owen knocks and tells him about the party, he calls back “Sure meet ya there!”. Cory’s birthday. What to get Cory for his birthday. He considers his bedspread, but thinks that might be a tad much. Hopping off of his bed, he bolts downstairs. He remembers seeing a bottle of Jamesons on the cabinet a couple of nights ago. Yet, when he gets to the cabinet the bottle is gone. “Damn Dad … we haven’t been THAT taxing.” he sighs and blots back upstairs. He changes his shirt to a blue henley that matches his eyes and decides that his black jeans were fine. He wasn’t trying to impress Cory. Then he turns his eyes back to his bed and surveys the potential gifts. He sorts through a collection of sample condom boxes, with one of each size, picking out five, then looks at them in his hand and thinks about Cory. He tosses two back on his bedspread and leaves his room, closing the door behind him. His parents were strange enough without them having to see the new stock that his boss had given him for testing.
Stacy hears people beginning to gather and turns her head in the direction of her son's room. “Cory! Your guests are arriving! Go and greet them.” she is encouraging no, but he should know that she will not hesitate to take him by the hand and bring him downstairs. She would have sworn her son was a turtle who would die if he came out of his shell. Then she hears her husband and gives her attention to the cake. “Oh babe! It’s fantastic! Exactly how I imagined it!” and she gives him a big ol smooch right on the lips. “Let’s leave it up here for now. I’ll tell you when to bring it down. For now… she nods to the garden salad, rack of ribs piled on a plate and covered in foil, and the potato salad, made without mayonnaise or anything that might offend some of the vegans she knew lived in town and may even show up for the party. “Bring those down and I’ll come with the pitchers with Cory.” She has made both iced tea and lemonade which could be mixed with alcohol if anyone bought any.
Cory hears his mother and knows all too well he better get out there. Or at least make it look like he’s heading that way. He weighs the difference between his fear of crowds and his fear of his mother. The internalized matriarchy ingrained in his being wins. Cory slouch walks past his way too cheerful parents to the door only to be handed a pitcher by his mother “Oooook.” His tone is very Eyor-esque and he shuffles down the hall with her after their father who’s practically juggling ribs and potato salad. They emerge from the front of the building and to his chagrin he’s immediately greeted by about 10 people, the first of them neighbours, but then the last few he has no idea who they are. How many people did his parents invite? He searches the crowd for a friendly face he knows as he awkwardly sets his pitcher down.
Colin is bounce walking, laying out food and greeting everyone with enthusiasm. He was so glad Stacy liked the cake and he stood proudly beside her and Cory “Our boy is 21! Hell he could drink in the States now if he wanted to…..” He slaps Cory on the back merrily as Cory nervously smiles.
Paul laughs at Lydia as they all walk up. He sees Cory and his family a few minutes later and says “Hey, Happy Birthday!” reaching to shake Cory’s hand firmly. He looks apologetically at Cory’s parents “I’m sorry I didn’t bring any food. I’m probably just here for a short drop in. Hell of a day….”
Lydia smiles at her daughter as she puts the food out. “Ziggy you look so nice in yellow honey.” She gives Quentin a friendly nod and then greets some other locals with waves, hellos or even hugs. She sees Paul head to Cory and follows him, stepping in to give Cory a great big hug after the handshake “I know you’re shy….but I’m gonna hug you anyways Cory.” From Lydia, Cory accepts the hug and hugs back because Lydia is everyone’s work mom.
Owen saunters up to the party scene looking impressed by how many people came out for this. Taking in the crowd he surmises it’s gone beyond a birthday party. People are filling all parts of the street now, people who are completely unconnected as far as he’s aware to shy Cory. He sees Pixe before he spots Cory and walks up to her “Whoah….you’re wearing heels. How do you walk in those things? And what’s in that jar Pixie?” He takes in her outfit with a kind smile “You look nice...sunny…” Owen spots Ziggy and waves “Was there a yellow theme? You have food….” He drifts to the food like some sort of party buffet zombie. Seeing Cory now he grins at him but as Cory is surrounded by people he just plunks down the bottle of Jamieson like an offering “Birthday greetings from the Irish part of my family Cory.”
Two figures emerge from the house right on the corner. It’s Michelle Kim and her son Brayden Kim. Brayden hasn’t been out and about in town since a while before the lockdown. Some people thought he went back when the ferry was still open to stay with his Dad. A few knew the truth. Today he was here, walking towards his friend Cory’s building with his mother almost hovering beside him. Michelle was chatting, keeping the mood light. Brayden laughed along, looking a little apprehensive. The pair looked related but different in some ways too. Michelle had shoulder length black hair and she was wearing a fun pair of tights with a baggy pair of jean shorts on top and an old off the shoulder white Hard Rock Cafe t shirt over a black tank top. She often dressed younger and funkier than her son. Brayen had a shock of dyed blonde hair with black brown roots and was thin and gangly a bit like Cory in build, but shorter. He had on a baggy brown hoodie and a pair of old jeans. They were greeted by some warmly. Others stared a bit too long and a few had momentary looks of discomfort. That was until the last of their household joined with the kind of epic flare only Gareth Dunham could bring to a day.
Gareth came barreling out of the house to catch up with the mother and son he roomed with. He was dressed for a bar night because to him clubbing and partying were interchangeable. Today that meant a black mesh shirt that showed off his tattoos and a fair bit of skin. And of course paired with a sleek pair of black leather pants and hsi standard bar boots. He was carrying a giant sports style thermos in each hand and he had a sleeve of plastic cups sticking out of his back pocket. “Wait up bitches...it’s margarita time!!” He half sang as he caught up. Eyeing Quentin as they made their approach he offered the good DJ the first pour “Libations for the music man...looking delicious as always….” After he poured one cup he called around “Who wants a margarita? Pass this down to the birthday boy! Hi Cory!”
Quentin cracked up at Gareth and took the drink “Thanks man...you’re too much.” He greeted others around him as he danced and started taking requests.
Pixe beams at Owen as she goes to look around placing the jar on the table ‘oh it's just some honey mead i make myself ‘she beams as he compliments her outfit ‘why thank you . she says as she pats her hair a bit looking at the party ‘wow.. What a great turn out ‘she says excitedly and looks down at her heels ‘practice .. i love these heels lengthens the legs .. abit ‘she say softh as she giggles at gareth coming in snagging a cup of margarita on the way over to ziggy “ywe match you look good hun ‘she beams and ducks out abit texign sajani
Sajani party at corys …looks like a blast .. need back repeat need back up.Claremorris building or corner of central and 3rd need bestie back up .. so i dont put my foot in my mouth again .. looks like the half the town got wind .. .
She hasn't made it to Cory yet but she waves at him ‘hey great party !’ she says happily as she drinks her margarita .. ‘
Sadie walks over to the party with her dip careful not to spill it on the way over with her clutziness .She comes up and squeaks 'who's up for dip .. ‘she tries to manage to say over the crowd in her loud but squeaky voice . she waves to cory ‘happy birthday ‘ she squeaks then gets into the groove of the music. She loves the way Quentin spins‘ she smiles as she dances along with the music making her way over to Quentin as she snags some booze on the way after placing her dip and chips down “you never fail dj man alway got me rocking ‘ she says loudly . she waves to Gareth ‘hey ‘ she say softly dancing around
Ziggy smiles at her mother's compliment. "Thanks mom." She notes that a lot more people than she’d thought had shown up. His dad knew how to get the word out, that's for sure. She sees even not one, but two Reinhardts and nods to both of them. Then Gareth comes by and she runs to him, all but knocking him and his drink over to hug him. Despite Ziggy’s good looks, the hug is far more a ‘little sister to big brother’ sort of a hug. “I haven’t seen you in forever!” she proclaims. She gets on tip toe and kisses his cheek, looks him up and down, hugs him again and moves off a bit, knowing Gareth is likely going to hunt, if he sees anything to capture his fancy.
Seamus arrives looking, for the most part, empty handed. He sees a mass of humanity and arches his brows, but he is guessing that since his parents decided to have their kids party literally in the street, perfect strangers were bound to show up. He notes women in yellow, which also amuses him. Ziggy he knows because she knows his brother and sister and works with his other brother. The other one he thinks is the Pixie chick he told Owen in jest to give his number to. But looking ... she doesn't look half bad. But he has a mission, and picking up a lay is not it. However, he does pick up on what she says to his brother and he rumbles his own reply. "They certainly do that..." he agrees about her legs. He's not blind, her legs look fantastic. At the buffet table, he spots the missing bottle of Jameson. Owen is faster than him in far too many areas these days. He grins at his brother and moves over to Cory. "Happy birthday, Cory." he claps him heartily on the back, then reaches into his pocket. "I don't know what size you are, but these have one of each. XS, S, regular, L, XL and Magnum. We have a new line of flavorings in, so that's mango, peach and pineapple. Tropical options." he takes Cory's hand, if he doesn't offer it freely, and sets the three slim boxes of condoms in the middle of his palm for anyone in view to witness. "I'd say don't spend them all in one place, but congrats if you do." he smiles and turns back to the buffet table, seeing if there's anything there that he wants to eat. “Come by the shop when you’re out. I’ll set you up with more.”
Stacy smiles at her son and husband as they leave the building to greet their guests. She smiles at Paul. "It's OK, I think we have enough..." although she isn't sure now as she looked at the mass of people. She is looking at her son as he gets gifts, but smiles the most when Seamus gives her son condoms. She walks up to him just as Seamus turns away. "Now that's a good friend. Cory. Looking out for your health!" she looks around and sort of dances in place a moment before going back to the table to keep an eye on the volume of food, lest they begin to run out.
Owen looks a little dense about the leg lengthening comment. Weren’t Pixie’s legs always the same length in any shoes? Sometimes he didn’t speak girl…and he definitely didn’t speak fashion. He smiles awkwardly between his Pixie and Ziggy and is suddenly handed a margarita in a plastic cup “Uh thanks…” He mutters to the person who’s familiar but not known to him. Seamus walks up and seems to be more in tune with the ways of shoes and legs. He has to laugh and slaps Seamus on the back. As the crowd presses in dancing. Owen seks the edge of it and runs almost smack into Brayden Kim and his mother Michelle. He hasn’t seen Brayden in a long time “Hey man how’s it going? Hi Michelle.”
Michelle greets Owen warmly “Hey Owen…..almost didn’t recognize you with short hair now” and then she gets waved over by someone she knows in the crowd “Good to see you, excuse me a second…” She looks at Brayden like she’s almost asking permission and he nods.
“Go Mom. I’m cool.” He turns to Owen “Uh it’s going. Heard you got my old job. How’s that been?”
Owen tilts his head side to side “I like it. We’re short again it seems. You should come back.”
Brayden tenses up visibly and shakes his head “Thanks but no thanks….thinking about applying at the pharmacy actually.” Brayden is looking past Owen and suddenly starts cracking up “Dude your brother just gave Cory condoms. I think they’re a gift…..this should be good.”
Owen turns to see the end of the interaction and his eyes go wide “Oh god…” He laughs too.
Gareth toasts Quentin and a few others and then gets bumped into by Ziggy and hugged “Ziggy!” He chirps as she kisses his cheek. “I’m loving your recent art….” He lets go of Ziggy just in time to be suddenly side hugged by Lydia. “Lydia!” He exclaims and hugs her back hard. She chides him about behaving himself and swats at the mesh of his shirt. “Of course I’m not behaving. But I’m a grown up now and you don’t need to listen to my hangover in the morning. Damn you look hot in that dress. Do you have a date or something?” He teases and then twirls her into a dance.
“No I don’t have a date. I came with Ziggy so don’t say that too loud and make her feel like she’s obligated to nights out with her poor lonely mother. My kids hardly call enough as it is. You included Mr. Margarita.”
Gareth protests “I call…sometimes. I’m sorry Lyds…let’s uh…let’s do lunch. I don’t want you to be lonely. Dance with me…have a .drink or 4….”
She seems to play along but then lets him dance away into the crowd where he mixes and mingles with as many human bodies as it seems he can in 10 minutes. He sidles up to Sadie, hearing her squeaky little voice and her offer of dip. Putting a light hand on her back he leans in and asks suggestively “What can I dip?” And then dances away from her with a wink as she puts down the dip on the table. He unabashedly scoops Sajani Singh into a twirl as he sees her wander through.
Sajani sees the text and suits up. Her bestie needed a wingwoman. Backup would be provided, for as long as she could stand it. She hoped it wasn’t too boozy over there. She was in yoga clothes from teaching that day so she threw a cute little denim dress over her top and tights and dashed to the bathroom to quickly fix her hair and retouch her makeup. She frowned at her chipping nail polish. No time for that now but it was now on the grooming priority list. She shoved her phone into her big colourful purse and headed for her bicycle to make haste. Within minutes she was pulling up, locking up and in a crowd of dancing drinking humans. Ugh…ok. Where was Pixie? Her pink hair had faded but she caught sight of her friend’s curves poured into a sweet little outfit. Ooooh she must like this boy. Ouch to the shoes Cinderella. She danced her way through and got hijacked and spun around by Gareth Dunham as he danced by her wearing hardly a shirt. He sure smelled nice though and it was momentarily distracting “Oh hi there Gareth…I’m actually looking for someone…” She gently put her hands on his arms and extracted herself politely. Gareth unexpectedly let out a cheer which confused Sajani until she saw Seamus Reinhardt handing Cory condoms. The whole party was chaotic but past Seamus she could see Brayden Kim and tried to catch his eye and smile. She hadn’t seen him in ages. He didn't seem to notice her in all that was going on so she shrugged and tuned back into Pixie.
She made it to Pixie and exhaled, giggling a little at the gifting of condoms “Sorry, momentarily abducted by an almost half naked man…” She beams at Pixe “Ok you look extra cute. Go talk to him! Looks like he’s ready for anything now.”
Quentin keeps spinning tunes and gives Cory a thumbs up about the condom gift and then makes sure Seamus sees he’s giving him one too. This town was never boring and he loved it.
Paul had seen it all and laughed out loud. Cory was having a hell of a night. He was mentally preparing himself for opening the store solo if this party kept on the track it was on. He had seen Brayden Kim and they had exchanged a little nod. Lydia had caught his eyes with a look. Paul looked pained after. Quietly he said a few farewells, thanked the hosts from afar and started walking himself home. He really was seeking some peace and quiet but he was happy for the good time the folks were having. The town needed it.
Colin looks delighted by all the love and attention being showered on Cory as well as the great party energy. As one of his boss’s son’s gives Cory condoms as a gift he says “Wow…” with a big grin. He turns to Stacy and concurs with her words “You know son, if you need the apartment to yourself anytime…you’re an adult. We respect your choices…..”
Cory looks overwhelmed by all the attention but is politely thanking people for drinks, cards, hugging and handshaking as required. He’s handling the pressure with what he feels is alarming ease. He sips at a margarita that was put in his hand slowly and then his pupils dilate as he catches sight of Pixie in her outfit hugging her curvy body. He tries not to stare but his eyes linger on her face and then travel down all her curves to her legs which seem to go on longer to a pair of high heeled shoes. He swallows hard. It had never dawned on him that shoes could make him react this way. She’s waving at him and saying words “Hey great party” he hears and smiles back, dribbling his drink all the way down his chin. Quickly he wipes at it and takes a deep breath, looking away.
A moment later Cory sees….holy shit it’s Brayden. Brayden came to the party. Cory feels a sudden lump in his throat at the sigh of his old friend and then Owen steps up and starts talking to Brayden as his mom Michelle steps away. Cory is winded by the whole thing and then shifts his gaze as Owen’s brother walks up to him and gives him a very unexpected present. Seamus Reinhardt pushes condoms into his hand and starts talking about sizes and flavours and using them all at once and getting more. Cory sways in place. It’s not even the booze, He just stares at Seamus “Uh……thank you?” And then to top it all off, his parents start fawning over it. He shoves the condoms into his pocket and steps back from them “Please stop talking now…” he quietly begs. Was it possible to die of embarrassment?
Pixie giggles softly as she sees a very handsome half clad man spin her best friend. she watches a bit eyeing the interaction as Seamus hands over what looks like is a box of condoms . she raises her eyebrows at the also very handsome brother of owen.. Those looks sure did run in the family and it shows. . she blushes at corys reaction but seeming intrigued by it thinking a bit dirty . She really did love tropical flavors . She looks a bit relieved as the thoughts race and Sajani her batwing woman is by her side encouraging her. She exhales ‘Oh eem gee Saj,, she whispers ‘ he got condoms.. Good flavor choice. Owen’s brother has good taste ‘ she says ‘ she looks at her as she gets her abit of a verbal push and calms herself pulling herself together pull out of her purse the handmade leather wallet running her fingers on the simple leather burned dragon crest ‘Here goes nothing”
She walks over to a now embarrassed Cory in her usual feminine walk her hips sway her ample chest bounces just a bit ‘ the outfit seems to amplify her curves and staunger . as she walks to Cory ‘Hey birthday guy .. i got ya this ‘ she holds out the wallet to him ‘I made it .. thought you like it ‘she say cheerfully
Sadie chuckles softly as she dips look up at the handsome mesh clan man ‘ well just depend .. what ya want ‘ she double implies she say back in sensual but matter the fact why . she smiles at him simply raising a brown manicured eyebrow as she is let up and goes back to the dance floor for a bit before going back to table for some chicken still swaying to the music.. She was a tiny little dancer of a thing .Her ballet gave her some grace only on the dance floor. It was structured and organized. She overhears as she dances wildly around the party Mikes’ nephew giving cory condoms ; she just chuckles softly but looks sympathetic at him knowing how shy he was and watches Pixie sashay to him ‘Oh brother .. this will be good.. Poor cor ‘she whisper softly to herself . She watches the sympathetically to the whole thing cory being on the spot.Brayden catches her eyes and she glances at him compassionately before turning back to watch Cory's reaction to Pixie's walk.
Buck is on his run as he turns the corner seeing a party .. ‘he looks at his watch knowing he still had a lot of time to himself since Arthur was busy playing the neighborhood children. God he was glad the shut down had lifted ..He loved Arthur but he was a lot of energy and need space to run around get tired.. ‘ he smiles as he goes to gate crash though looking out of place in his shirt and running shorts and trainers.. He goes to the table for some booze .. enjoy the music as he comes up
Ziggy cheers at the gift that Seamus gives to Cory and gives both man a thumbs up of approval. she watches the people dancing and arches a brow. One of the tiny woman was a cop, she was sure. It makes her laugh to herself. She heads in Cory's direction, seeing he seems close to one of the girls. "Happy birthday Cory." she says having waited. "Give me a call and I'll paint your portrait .. or photograph you. Free of charge."
Seamus smiles and gives a thumbs up to those thumb upping him. He did catch Cory looking at that Pixie chick, but with those legs, who could blame him. Watching her gift her present, he watches casually, curious on if she plans to ask him out and more ... if it will make him faint or not.
Stacy smiles at her husband's offer. "Yes. We can go see a movie and have a nice long dinner. It would be romantic for us." and then her son asks them to stop talking. They were embarrassing him, the poor shy dear.
Colin beams at his wife “Yes yes a date! I love dates!” He’s not picking up as quickly on Cory’s anguish and then he kisses his wife in plain view of the crowd after Cory says please stop talking.
Cory just throws up his hands and steps away from his parents. He nods at Ziggy and smiles “That’s cool...thanks…” He’s never felt very photogenic but maybe she could make him look like less of a gome. And then Pixie walks up to him with everything bouncing and swaying. He blinks at her like a deer in the headlights and then grins stupidly as she hands him some kind of what looks like a wallet with a cool dragon on it. He’s actually pretty impressed with it “Hey this is really nice. Thank you Pixie. You didn't have to...everyone’s so generous…”He’s so clearly self conscious. Someone waking by firmly pushes another margarita into his hand. It’s his third now and he’s not much of a drinker. He holds the wallet in his other hand still and looks at the glass and then up at Pixie forgetting all the words. What are words anyway? Instinctively he downs the drink and then with liquid courage he loudly and awkwardly blurts out “Will you go out with me?” It’s almost a battle cry but it’s also a little …..sad. There’s a sudden awkward hush in the crowd.
Sajani watched her friend walk to Cory with an inner chat going on for her. Cory was truly one of the most awkward boys she’d ever seen. There was only one other from high school who might compare but right now she focussed on where this was going for her dear friend. She watched Cory take the wallet and then a drink and chug it back and then when he hald screamed asking out Pixie Sajani’s eyes went wide and she started giggling Dear god Pixie could pick them. She wished she had brought the popcorn and was gearing up for the who when he phone rang and she winced and stepped aside to answer it. Terrible timing. “Papa…. are you there? Papa are you ok?!” She got cut off and her father had sounded in distress. Ever since her mother died her worst fear had been her father dying. Sorry Pixie...she thought. Pixie of all people would understand. Sajnai dashed around the crowd to her bike, unlocked it and took off riding towards home.
Owen moved closer to Seamus by the food, conversationally bringing Brayden with him as they continued to talk. He was mid sentence as they connected with Seamus “Well my haircut is from this guy..” he thumbed at his brother.
Brayden looked impressed “Nice...Shay do you do colours?” He joked and then they all heard Cory ask out Pixie like someone had smacked it out of him in a wallop. Both Brayden and Owen just turned to stare.
Lydia was filling a plate with food, mostly her own salad because she loved her own chicken ceasar. She took the tinfoil from beside her bowl and wrapped up her plate. She sees one of the local firemen just run up and help himself to a drink and laughs. “Want some chicken cesar to go with that? I’m taking mine to go…” As soon as she said it Cory was having some kind of episode and it seemed to be directed at Pixie “Oh dear lord……” She caught Ziggy’s eye “I’m not gonna watch the rest of this…” She said laughing.
Quentin just clapped his hands and laughed and laughed. Then he picked up his phone and sent off a group text, giving a knowing look to Cory’s parents after when he saw them read on theirs.
Gareth laughs at Cory’s awkward ask out and watches Sadie move as he makes his way around too, flirting and dancing as he’s prone to do. At some point he ends up circling back to Sadie after she retorts to his dip comment. He reaches out for her with the intention to pull her into a dance, close and swaying if she allows it and grins “Is that a question or a statement?” He says bluntly. Out of the corner of his eye he vaguely notices Buck join the party from what looks like an evening jog.
Michelle watches her son from a distance and shakes her head at Cory’s antics with a smile. She’s trying not to hover. Casually she walks over to the drink table just as Buck runs past her and pours for himself. She can hear Lydia Alvin talking to him and Ziggy steps up to them both “Hey Buck. Hey Ziggy. Hey Lydia. I’ll take some salad....I love your chicken caesar. Where’s the little guy Buck?” She pours herself a drink after he’s got his.
Ziggy looks at everyone around her as he dances happily in place. She freezes and stares when Cory asks Pixie out and then absently waves at her mother. She wouldn't miss this for a lifetime's supply of paint. Hopefully Michelle takes the wave as aimed at her, because it is .. and Ziggy feels like she is watching a potential accident in progress.
Seamus watches Pixie walking and bites his lip. He looks at Brayden, then at his hair when Owen explains about his new brother barber. "Yup, I can dye, even though I don't do my own. I can give...." and then Cory yells and, with his brother and Brayden turns to stare.
Stacy kisses her husband ... Cory wasn't going to stop her. But she hears her don screech about a date and nearly gives herself whiplash to see who her shy baby boy is asking out. Shaking herself out of the amazement she looks at her text and elbows her husband to get the cake … it’s time …. She knows he will be back before the surprise. She smiles and hopes for a good outcome for Cory’s … request.
India Tor walks out of her house and down to what, to her city bred mind is a block party in progress. She is dressed in comfortable, clean jeans and a nice thin top with squares of every conceivable color. She isn’t clashing with anyone. On her feet are dead simple white flats. She approaches Quentin, smiles and nods as he makes an adjustment. She clears her throat, and the sound comes through the speakers. "May I have your attention, please." she asks. "I understand that today is someone's birthday." She looks at Cory, who looks a bit distracted. But that doesn't stop her. "Cory Henshaw. This is for you." Quentin begins to play the music from Destiny's Child's 'Birthday' ... but the voice ... all India Tor. She sings and walks around the crowd, but clearly sings to Cory, giving him a damn good performance, considering she barely knows the boy. A little more than five minutes later, she finishes, having walked back around to the DJ stand and Quentin. Finally she looks at Cory. "Happy Birthday, Cory." she bows and stands beside Quentin, smiling and watching the reaction of her impromptu audience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R92GsH5rSSY
Pixie smiles at him sweetly putting a hand on her curvaceous hips and waves her hand ‘just something made when i was trying out leather burn . and though you like it ‘ she say happily waving her hand cutely then placing it on her ample bosom over her heart as she is touched that he liked it . she watches him down his cup curiously chuckling abit ‘ glad you like it. wow you're thirsty.. ‘ she say ‘its good h.. ‘ she starts then freezes as he blurts out and the party goes silent . she feels all eyes on her . she doesn't know whether to cry or run so she just freezes like some roman statue with all those curves. . she doesn dare to look around .. she was hoping he would make a move.. But not in front of half of alexandra . Her baby blues eyes blink a bit her heart beats almos so hard she didn't know if it was her chest heaving or her heart about to burst that moving under her hand . She gulps and nods, not being able to talk due to having so many eyes on her . she is relieved as the attention shift on cory looking from cory to India .. she enjoy her singing and it sorta help her snap out of ‘Yeah.. she say abit in a choke voice to him as India sings to him. ‘I'll go out .. with you’’ she manages.. In a choke and embarrassed tone but has a smile.
Sadie winces as she watches the train wreck of a date proposal but watches eagerly like one of her favorite slasher flick .. ooo that was painful ‘ she coos softly before getting swept by Gareth. She chuckles as she is spun into Gareth's arms dancing along with him . “it was a question ..she said like she was interrogating him but she was very seductively looking up at him with her small brown eyes.. ‘Now what's the answer handsome.. ‘ she says in a low voice still squeaking. Very sensually biting her lip. . She watches briefly Buck the fireman run by in his short but looks back at gareth. Then looks up as india sing still swaying in Gareth's arms to it
Buck starts to pour himself a drink starting to down it as Michelle walks up . ‘Hey Michelle how..are.. ‘ he stops as he hears the commotion whistling softly shaking his head for the poor kid.’ that's gotta hurt.. ‘ he says softly then continue.s on after a bit ‘Arthur.. Is somewhere. With the neighborhood kids playing street hockey or tag .. or something.. .. so glad this lock down is over .. he was going nuts inside without his friends ‘ he say continuing like the emotional train wreck of the year didn't just happen to not add to the humiliation then stop as India sings .. glad that some heat would be off that crash site.. For a moment . he smiles listening to her
Lydia catches Ziggy’s wave and smiles and then watches Pixie freeze up and sighs. She had to work with these damned kids. This could be a disaster in the making. She looks away to the dancers in other direction. Gareth looked to be sweet talking one of the local cops. She rolls her eyes and is about to leave when India Tor shows up. So she hangs on the edge of the crowd to watch as she was a fan. She closed her eyes and appreciated the music and when it was done she shifted her packed up salad under her arm and began to clap loudly.
Cory had been watching Pixie with mortified focus. What had he done? He wanted to ask her out but this was insanity and surely any woman in her right mind would just run screaming away. Pixie looked like she was going to say no. His heart sank as he waited and then suddenly the crowd turned and India Tor showed up and started talking to him, using his name, and then singing to him. India Tor knew his name? She was like famous. He was distracted by the bizarre nature of this situation. The song was amazing of course and he was touched. No one had ever sung to him aside from his parents when he was small. What strange new world had he woken up in where people gave him condoms and sang to him. Alexandra was not Thunder Bay. that was for damned sure. At some point in the song he heard Pixie’s answer as she quietly choked out that she would go out with him. He was both happy and crippled by self doubt and anxiety. Had she just said that because he put her on the spot in front of all these people on his birthday? Was she just being nice? He felt his panic rising but tried to focus on how nice the song was.He looked at India and mouthed “Thank you.” with a look of absolute sincerity, clapping along with the crowd. Then he looked at Pixie with a look of absolute confusion.
Quentin closes his eyes and sways as India starts to sing. Music just moves through him. He’s just one of those humans and he loves and respects the work and the person of India Tor. When she finishes he claps with his hands over his head looking around as if daring the audience to try and outdo his enthusiasm. Then he turns to her picks up the mic and says “The fantastic India Tor!” Adn starts the clapping again. When it all dies down he’ll speak into the mic one more time and say “Alright all you beautiful people we’ve definitely got some lovers out there tonight so let’s play a few real slow ones…..” He starts off the set with Ocean eyes by Billie Eilish and slowly sways in his spot as it begins.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g42EghapeOc&list=PLmutmqXZwzEAGs5WBfKfbDZqjUZEzxKLC&index=4
Owen had been watching Pixie and Cory with a series of winces broken up by laughter. As India comes out and starts singing he’s totally blown away and claps as loud as anyone. He’d always liked her music but mostly he’d known her in an extended family kinda way. When Quentin slows the music and starts to play Ocean Eyes he can’t stop thinking about Slaine and feels compelled to head home and connect with her. He gives his brother a little squeeze on the arm and waves and then reaches to do the same to Brayden on the other side of him and accidently startles Brayden. Brayden awkwardly laughs it off after and waves as well. Owen gives a little grin to Pixie and Cory as he passes but doesn’t interrupt.
Michelle blows out a breath at the continued scene between Cory and the girl who she’s now heard is called Pixie from the gossip surrounding in the crowd. Romance was rough for the young. She smiles when she sees India come up to sing. She remembered catching India and Ryan’s baby. She remembered them all but when she heard India sing she thought of that epic traffic jam and the fast fast crowning and laughed. That had been a good birth. Now India was sharing her talents and Michelle felt connected to her. She wondered if they’d have another. Occupational hazard. She shook it off and clapped and gave a big hoot at the end. As the slow song came on she noticed Brayden react to Owen and resisted the urge to just run right over to him. Tonight was about staying in range but letting him be him. The Reinhardt brothers were safe after all. She kept a distant watch still by the table and sipped her drink.
Brayden had been watching Cory and Pixie. He knew Pixie’s name because Cory had told him in texts. It dawned on him he hadn’t even gotten to greet his old pal yet because of the chaos. That was the problem with a party. You sometimes didn’t get to talk to who you came to see. But the two brothers were pretty amusing. He smiles a bit as India comes out. Man Cory was having quite the night. He watched Cory take in the song and then clapped along. As Quentin switched toa slow song he suddenly felt a hand on his arm and jumped, panic rising. It was Owen. Sweet harmless Owen. Brayden tried to joke it off but as Owen left he instinctively folded his arms at the elbows protectively and stepped back further from the crowd. He was still hoping to catch a word with Cory but he might not make it that long.
Gareth swiveled and swirled with Sadie and grinned at her question. He was aware that there was still a scene going down for Cory and his intended date, if she went for it but his focus was on Sadie. He swayed with her as India sang and stepped back briefly to clap and hollar his appreciation. When the music got slow, he pulled her hip so their bodies met again and then leaned in and said “You want to know what I want?” He pulled back and wiggled his eyebrows and then leaned back in “I want to know just how high you can squeak Sadie Taggart.”
Colin had watched Cory with baited breath. He sighed as his son reminded him a little of himself at that age. Thank god for Stacy’s patience. When India came out and started to talk and sing he practically jumped up and down. Talk about giving the kid the best birthday ever. He clapped and yelled “Thank you India! Thank you so much!” He beamed at Stacy and pulled her close when the music slowed “Want to embarrass the kid one more time?”
Ziggy's heart nearly stops while Pixie deliberates her answer. India starts singing and, as Ziggy loves India's voice she forgets all else as the star sings to Corey. If it were her, she'd probably be in tears of hero worship. Then Pixie accepts the date and she can't help but begin to applaud more than just the song.
Seamus watches the Cory/Pixie show with the fascination of watching an accident he knows he can't stop. Pixie accepts the date and he is impressed with her courage ... or his. India's singing always makes him smile and he applauds it more than Cory's getting a chance to possibly enjoy his birthday condoms. When Owen squeezes his arm, he knows it is in farewell. Must be near time to call Slaine.
Stacy almost dies for holding her breath waiting on Pixie to accept or reject. But she finally does and only then can she enjoy the song India sings. Quite a happy birthday for her baby boy. Beaming at her husband's joy, she nods and is pulled into his embrace. "Damn right I do." she replied and started dancing with her husband.
India missed the whole anyone asking anyone else out on any kind of date. When she sang she noticed very little. She accepts the applause with good grace and laughs when Quentin calls her 'fantastic'. "Oh shut up, boy." she teases and pokes him in the hip with her elbow. She is comfortable with Quentin and his son and a few others in town. The Yamada's, naturally but also the Reinhardts. Others as well, but to most of the town she was 'India Tor'. She is brought out of her thoughts by Quentins next song. She hums softly, not taking from the music playing.
She was drawn by the music. In her left hand, she carried a black plastic bag. Her right held a hamburger that could well have come from the trash, to those who knew her ... and everyone knew the equivalent of Alexandra's town drunk and drug addict. Some may even know her original hair color, but that is hidden now in the dirt and grime of her tangled tresses. But she pauses only through the song and then begins to shuffle down third street, speaking to no one, looking at no one. Just existing ... if you could call what she was existing.
Pixie claps at India as she finishes turning slightly then back to Cory as she watches his confused face . she pouts cutely . she didn't want to hurt him, she liked him . He was sweet and could tank and spank in game.. She cocks her head and smiles as Ocean eyes plays. ‘Cory .. i love this song ‘ she goes to take the cup out of his hand and just places it on the ground giving him a good view of the canyon that is her cleavage and if permitted. She takes his hand and looks to the dance floor. ‘i really like this song. She say to him as if to prompt him
Sadie smiles as the song changes to a slow song .. slower meant closer and she gladly allows the sexy paramedic to pull her to him . she raises her eyebrow as he answer her question her small mouth goes into as smirk but she answer with her eyes and body getting close to him and leans into his ear and squeaky say. ‘Only one way to find out Ambulance man.. ‘ she say seductively her voice full of desire.. She didn't know if it was margarita , India singing or just the way he looked at her .. ‘ she looked at him lifting an eyebrow as she grinds a bit on him .
Buck just places his fingers to his lips and whistles as India finishes .. he looks at his watch downing his booze and makes a to go plate .. ‘Michelle .. I better go .. Arthur will be going home soon hungry as bear.. ‘ he says ‘Nice party Colin . he shouts to Colin then say happy birthday Cory as he goes to run off
Cory watches Pixie set down his cup, catches his eyes wandering to her cleavage and blushes before looking out at the still unbelievable crowd. He feels her hand take his and his heart skips a beat as he nods to her and lets her lead them to the dance area. Then there’s that awkward moment where he stops and tries to figure out how to place his hands, how they dance. Cory’s tall and his reach is long, He eventually just puts his hands on her waist and then slides them slightly around her low back, close but not too close. He hoped his feet wouldn’t betray him and cautiously began to sway “Pixie I’m really sorry I put you on the spot…” He starts with. He doesn’t notice the “homeless” woman with her hamburger as he’s watching Pixie.
Colin revels in the slow dance with Stacy and just makes out with her like they’re still ridiculous teenagers.
Gareth bites his lip at the little grind and then leans in again and asks directly “Would you like to get out of here then? Fair warning I have roommates….” He glances around momentarily for Michelle and Brayden and then goes to look back to Sadie and catches a glimpse of the disheveled vagrant woman. He knows her face and form. She’s well again at least. He looks away from her trying to stay off duty and focuses on Sadie.
Quentin ses the folks coming together and outs on another slow one with a little eyebrow wiggle. He switches to Lord Huron’s The Night We Met. His eyes drift to a troubled woman on the fringe of the party eating what looks like a dumpster burger. He looks worried for her and quietly he prays for her.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGF7PswOENQ
Brayden starts to edge away from the crowd without saying any goodbyes. He would catch Cory later. As he walks a bit further his mother catches up with him and he just gives her a nod. Home is almost in sight when Braden catches sight of someone in his peripheral vision and does a double take.
Michelle can see her son is now not doing so well so she abandons her food and drink and catches up with him. He stops and looks strangely at a woman who she’s seen around town. Clearly her life path has been troubled but Michelle doesn’t know the tale. “Hey, you ok?” She asks her son.
Brayden makes eye contact with the woman and then looks away and closes his eyes whispering “Kira…..” Before his mom can ask anything more he bolts for home and is up the stairs in his room with the door closed.
Michelle stands in her doorway looking at the woman. Kira? She looks again and shakes her head. Brayden had known a Kira but this looked nothing like her. He was probably just overwrought from all the activity. She goes in and puts on a pot of tea.
Ziggy watches the crowd and then turns to her mother. "I'm gonna head home." she waves to Cory, but he looks .. preoccupied. So she heads on home.
Seamus sees people starting to pair off. "That's my cue." he murmurs to himself. He starts walking off, seeing the form on the fringes. Always on the fringes. He pauses to let her go ahead of him on the other side of the street and heads home.
Stacy dances with Colin. Happy as she is for her son, she is in her husband's arms, completely content.
India enjoys listening to the music instead of singing it. She also sees the woman shuffling away. This is the woman who's been to every one of her concerts almost, and when she wasn't she'd found out she was in the clinic. But she seemed healthy now and she was glad for it. She pats Quentin on the arm. "Imma bounce. See you. Love to Tony." and she turns and heads home.
She stops again to listen to more music and then she begins to shuffle up 3rd street. Seeing a movement out of the corner of her eye she stops and looks up. She and Brayden Kim make eye contact and then, as if the weight of the world was on her, her head drops ... and she begins to shuffle again.
Pixie smiles as she leads Cory to the floor looking up at him beaming helping find his way around her . she giggle softly as he finally places his hand on her hip her belly fills with butterflies in a good way ‘ she looks up encouraging as they slow dance she leans in lay her head on his slender chest as they sway and looks up at him ‘its okay. I was hoping you would ask me .. not mad you did.. Just blurt it out .. was hoping for a more quiet way not in front of everyone .. but ‘ she leans up to kiss his cheek ‘im not upset .. you're a sweet guy and i don't care who knows you asked me . ‘ she smiles up at him look deep into his bespeckled brown eyes
Sadie chuckles softly as he looks over at his roommate.. ‘Well i dont mind to get fuck out of here .. and we can go back to my place.. Only room mate i got is mr meepers. he's a grumpy old persian.. ‘ she chuckles then watches him look over to the vagrant with concern then back to him . She likes that look in his eyes . the look of someone that cared about people. . then looks back up at him. ‘Okay dunham .. lets go piss off mr meepers with my squealing ‘ she say softly grabs his tight ass pulling him if he allows her to her flat .
Quentin kept the slow tracks on and grooved as he drank his last margarita. The sun was sinking into the horizon. There was a sweetness to the end of a party, a melancholy sweetness he reveled in. Some of the crowd drifted away while others drifted closer, holding onto one another in the cooling air of the night. Quentin loved the lovers in his crowds the most. When music brought them together he knew he’d done good by them. It wasn’t just him of course but he felt he and his music had a hand in it. He thought of his own love and his heart swelled. And he looked at the birthday boy; put on the spot by his loving and slightly overbearing parents, gifted with all manner of amusing and challenging offerings, sung to by the angel India. Now with his arms wrapped around a girl and looking happy. Happy Birthday Cory Henshaw.
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