Moments of Clarity, Moments of Insanity
Disclaimer: Switched At Birth is owned by Lizzy Weiss and ABC Family. No
copyright infringement is meant. I am using the characters for entertainment
purposes only.
Disclaimer: There will be "M" rated themes in later chapters......
#-----------
Chapter 9-episode 11
Just when I thought my life was going to be some level of normal….
Regina dropped the bomb on us this morning, that Angelo was going to stay in
Kansas City. Not that I'm complaining. Oh, no! Far from it. I just knew that
Daphne would be unhappy and I really didn't want to deal with her. Plus, I knew
that Dad was furious about it.
And, unfortunately, I'm caught in the middle. So what do I do? I really
wanted to talk to Emmett about it. Get his input. So, I pulled out my new phone
with Video Chat and pulled up his information. It said he was available. Yes!
I called up Emmett. He answered right away.
"Hey, Beautiful!" Emmett signed. Is it sad that they have been gone less than
a day, and already I missed him terribly?
"Hey! You guys made it okay?" I asked. Emmett nodded. Thank you for video
chat phones!
"Wilkie wanted to drive, but Toby said, "No," Emmett told me. I laughed.
Good, glad Toby listened to me.
"So, what's up?" Emmett continued. Okay, then. Right to the point….
"I just found out my father, Angelo… He's moving here," I signed slowly.
Emmett waved his hands for me to stop. "I'm sorry. I can't see you. What'd
you say?" he asked. Damn it…
I held the phone higher. "Uh, Angelo. He's moving to K.C," I signed again.
Emmett still looked confused. Was I not signing it right or something? "Moving…
is that right? Can you see me?" I asked him.
Suddenly, Daphne came up from behind me and said, "Here," before she grabbed
my phone. Okay! Knock much? She started signing silently to
Emmett. Hello, MY boyfriend! Fortunately, I could mostly follow her.
She told Emmett what I had just tried to tell him about Angelo. Emmett asked
if she was okay. Apparently, she thought that gave her permission to start
having a long conversation with him. I hated the fact that she could converse so
easily with him, and I suddenly felt left out. I wouldn't be left out! Enough
of this….
I grabbed my phone back, effectively cutting off the rant I knew she was
doing. I hadn't caught everything, but I knew she was talking about Angelo. And
the look on her face told me it wasn't something nice.
"Okay, it's my conversation!" I told her, irritated. Daphne was non
pulsed.
"There's a family meeting downstairs, right now. Living Room," she told me
woodenly. Oh, joy!
"Okay, give me a sec," I said, rolling my eyes. Geez!
Daphne actually scoffed before turning to go back out the door. Well,
excuse me for wanting to say goodbye to my boyfriend in private! I
brought the phone back up to my eye level. Emmett looked confused again. Once he
saw me though, he smiled again.
"I gotta go. But, I miss you," I told him, smiling back. Daphne was still
standing in the doorway. I'm coming! I closed the door in Daphne's face.
Sorry, not big on you hovering!
"Miss you, too. Bye," Emmett signed before hanging up.
Taking a few deep breaths, I opened the door to see Daphne had miraculously
left. Thank you! Now, for the real fun to begin…..
I headed downstairs, feeling like I was walking into a firing squad. This
was not going to be pretty….
#-------------------------------
We finally arrived at the festival. Wilkie had been pestering Toby to let him
drive for the last 2 hours. He even tried to talk me into letting him.
Apparently, since Bay's my girlfriend, he thought she wouldn't get mad at me if
I agreed to let him. Nuh- uh! No way! I like all the parts right where they
are, thank you very much!
I looked around me. There were a lot of people. I could only imagine
the noise around me. I was glad I couldn't hear it actually. Had I been hearing,
It would probably have made me go deaf! I laughed at my personal joke. I
had to remember to tell Bay that one. She would get a kick out of it.
My phone vibrated in my pocket. Pulling it out, I saw that Bay was calling
me. Speak of the devil! Not even gone a day, and she missed me already, huh? I
pulled up the video chat and saw Bay's gorgeous face.
"Hey, Beautiful!" I signed. I already missed her terribly. I really wanted to
be back in K.C. with her.
"Hey! You guys made it okay?" Bay asked. I nodded. Thank you for video chat
phones!
"Wilkie wanted to drive, but Toby said, "No," I told Bay. She laughed. I knew
she would be happy about that. Now, onto other things….
"So, what's up?" I asked, knowing there was more to her call.
Bay accidentally moved her phone and I couldn't make out what she told me. I
waved my hands. "I'm sorry. I can't see you. What'd you say?"
Bay still wasn't holding the phone right. I caught "Angelo" but couldn't make
out anything else. I started to tell Bay to just text me what she was trying to
say, when the screen moved and Daphne was there.
"Angelo's moving to K.C," she told me. Okay, that's big news!
"Seriously? Like forever?" I asked. Had this been what Bay was trying to tell
me? "Are you okay?"
"No, I'm not okay! He thinks he can trade one daughter for another? Like,
"you weren't good enough, so…" Daphne ranted before the phone was pulled away.
Presumable by Bay. Why did I even ask?
I waited for a minute or two, before Bay's face came on again. I smiled,
happy to see her again.
"I gotta go. But, I miss you," she told me, smiling back. She looked up and
frowned at something. Hmmm?
"Miss you, too. Bye," I told her before hanging up.
Now, we get to unload everything….oh joy!
#----------------------------
When I got to the Living Room, I saw everyone sitting there. Daphne
wasn't kidding when she said "family meeting." Apparently, it also involved the
Vasquez's as well. Dad stormed in, like a freight train. Let the fun begin…..
"Okay, we need to go over some ground rules! Daphne, ground rules," Dad said,
getting Daphne's attention. She nodded. I sat down on the couch, next to Daphne
and Regina. Adrianna sat in the opposite chair, and Mom was hovering at the end
of the couch.
"Number 1. He cannot come to this house. Number 2. He cannot be alone with
Bay or Daphne. Number 3. All phone calls with him will be monitored," Dad
ordered. What the hell is he, a prison warden?
"He's not on parole," I said, irritated.
"He is with me," Dad returned promptly.
Regina stepped in at this point. "I just want to say, I had no idea that he
was going to do this," she said, as Daphne spoke up at the same time.
"I don't know why he has to be here at all!" she whined. What does this whole
freaking family have against me spending time with my biological freaking
father? Holy Shit!
"What do you want to do? Ban him from the city?" I asked, pissed at how my
family was trying to dictate my relationship. Now I know how Emmett feels with
his Mom!
Mom intervened. "Girls, stop!" Yeah, that helps…
"I just don't understand why you can't do anything?" Daphne
complained again. Why does she have a freaking say in any of this? He's
my FATHER!
Mom started to tell Daphne something, but I wanted answers! "You're not
seriously going to hover every single time I go out with him?" I asked
Dad.
"Yes, I am. I know nothing about this guy," was his immediate response.
Really!
"But, Regina does," I told him.
"Nothing she has said so far has put us at ease," Mom put in. Oh my GOD!
Get me out of here before I rip out my hair!
Adrianna finally put in her 2 cents. "I know him too. I'm happy to help.
Anything you need from me, John."
Well thank you so much for being on my side….NOT!
Of course, Dad was happy about that statement!
Thankfully, Regina stepped up. "Ma! You're gonna give him the wrong
impression about him," she said, annoyance in her voice. Finally!
"I am on John's side on this one," Adrianna retorted. Who isn't?
"So am I," Regina fired back. Great!
"There are no sides," Mom said sharply.
"Oh, there are sides!" Daphne and I said at the same time. I think the world
just stopped turning….
After that remark, it was blessedly silent for a moment. Finally, I could get
a word in.
"Well, he invited me to a Jazz Club, and I'm not canceling," I told them all.
"Fine. Make it a table for 3, because I'm coming," Dad said. You can't be
serious!
Dad walked out to the Kitchen. Guess that's the end of the meeting.
As we all went our separate ways, I looked at Regina. She gave me a
sympathetic look before walking to the guest house.
I am SO screwed!
#--------------------------------
Toby drove out to the stage that Wilkie said we were playing on. As we drove
further away from the crowds, I realized something was off. Why the hell are we
way out here? This was further than I thought we would be.
As soon as Toby parked the car, Wilkie immediately jumped out and started
unloading the stuff. Geez, in a hurry much? Toby and I got out at a slower pace.
"Why is he in such a rush?" I asked Toby. Toby shrugged and started to really
look around him. Looking at the schedule in his hand again, Toby frowned.
"Something- wrong- opening- kids- way out here," was all I caught of Toby's
speech.
Wilkie was worst. He kept talking as he was walking back and forth, so I
caught even less of his answer. "Freak out," was all I got. Freak out?
"Dude!" Toby said. He doesn't look happy… "You tricked me to get us out
here?" What the hell am I missing? "That is not cool man!" I'll second
that!
Wilkie just kept unloading equipment, not caring about anything. "Not this
weekend," was all I got, because he was walking away, again! Stand still,
will ya!
Toby was definitely pissed off. "When am I going to stop believing your
crap?" He vented. Turning to face me, he told me, "We're not opening for the
"Cold War Kids." Finally!
I glanced at Wilkie, before looking at Toby again. Then he started to repeat
his statement in sign. "I got it," I signed, cutting him off.
Wilkie and Toby began to verbally spare. Since I wasn't inclined to join
them, I merely stood and watched.
Wilkie, from what I could follow, was saying how it was good experience and
good exposure. Then he tried to make it better by talking about how the sun was
shining. What a jackass!
Toby was furious because our time was against "Arcade Fire" who were playing
on the main stage. He talked about how we were on "D" stage.
Wilkie wanted him to see the bright side. Glancing at Toby, I got the
impression he wasn't seeing it.
Finally, Wilkie stopped moving and said, "You really believed we had the spot
before "Cold War Kids?"
Toby sighed and said, "Yeah," before walking away.
Well, this just got more interesting…
I sent Bay a quick text. "Wilkie is an ass!"
A minute later, I got the reply. "Couldn't agree more."
I laughed. Leave it to Bay to not want details.
I watched Wilkie keep unloading. Well, he's almost done anyway…..
#-----------------------------------
I couldn't let my dad come to the Jazz Club! He would totally ruin it! I had
to figure out a way to get him to not go!
Suddenly, an idea started forming in my head. Could it work? It might. Have
to ask her. Would she agree to help me? One way to find out….
With resolution, I walked up the stairs to the guest house. Ringing the bell,
I waited a moment before Regina opened the door.
"Bay? What are you doing here?" she asked me, clearly a little shocked.
"Hey, Regina. I, uh-" totally don't know what to say! Think, Bay. Think!
Suddenly, a light went off. "I was wondering if you could help me? I, uh,
want to paint my nails, but I want them to look awesome." Yeah, that's
good! "Could you help me out?" I asked her.
Regina looked skeptical. "Uh, sure. Come on in," she finally said, before
standing aside. I walked into the Living Room. Regina closed the door and
followed me.
"So, do you have a color in mind, or did you want me to pick one?" Regina
asked.
"You're the expert. You choose," I decided. Regina nodded and headed for her
bedroom. A few moments later, she returned with a couple different bottles. One
was a red of some kind, and one was clear and sparkly. "This is called,
"Ravishing Rouge," she told me, holding up the red.
"Perfect!" I said. Just perfect! Regina set them on the table and then
went into the bathroom for the cotton balls and polish remover. After she had
everything ready, she grabbed my hands and cleaned off the old polish. Once that
was done, she started applying the "Ravishing Rouge" polish.
We talked about mundane things as I bided my time, waiting for the right
opportunity. Finally, she was done painting the final nail. Finally!
"Thanks. I can never get the right hand. It's always a disaster," I told
Regina, trying to sound convincing.
She held up my hand to show me, and said, "Perfect." Then she grabbed the
polish and walked over to a low table. Here goes nothing….
Trying to be nonchalant, I said, "So, it looks like my Dad was actually
serious about tagging along tonight."
"He's just being protective," Regina tried to reassure me. You mean, OVER
protective!
"It's humiliating, like I'm 5 years old. I mean, how are Angelo and I suppose
to get to know each other, if my Dad is just sitting there, glaring at him?" I
asked, hoping I was hitting the right buttons.
"He's not gonna do that!" Regina insisted. Yeah, right…
"Well, then what's the point? Angelo's not going to kidnap me. You now that,"
I stated.
Regina was still picking up the nail supplies, and trying to avoid where she
probably knew I was going with this.
Make it or break it….. "So, can you tell my Dad, that's it unfair, and
unnecessary, and kinda creepy?" I begged.
"This is between you and John. I can't interfere," Regina said point blank.
Now just wait a freaking minute here….
"Daphne gets access to my dad every single day, but I have to schedule time
through my parents? And then, their monitoring him like he's in prison. How is
that fair?" I asked honestly.
I could see Regina's resolve wavering. I was so close!
"I just don't think my opinion matters much to anyone. Especially, your dad,"
Regina said, sounding apologetic. Damn it!
"Can you at least try?" I gave her puppy dog eyes.
Regina sighed. "Okay, I'll try to get him to not go tonight."
Jumping up, I hugged Regina. "Thank you!"
Maybe this can work after all…..
As I made my way back to my studio, I got a text from Emmett. Reading it, I
laughed. "Wilkie is an ass!" it read.
What the hell had Wilkie done now? I typed my reply. "Couldn't agree
more."
I'll get details later on. Right now, I had to plan for my meeting with
Angelo tonight. What am I going to wear?
#--------------------------------
We had been passing out stickers for what felt like hours, touting "Guitar
Face." We weren't playing until tomorrow, but Toby and Wilkie wanted to get
people interested now apparently. A few times someone tried to ask a question,
but I pointed to my ear, indicating I couldn't hear them. They nodded and moved
on.
I had turned off my phone so I wouldn't be interrupted by video chats or
messages that I couldn't stop to answer. I wasn't too worried about anyone
trying to get a hold of me. Bay and Daphne both had Toby's number. Besides, why
would either of them have a reason to call?
I was standing near Wilkie, when he started chatting up a girl. Really,
Wilkie? Can he not keep it in his pants? I mean, yeah sure, the girl was
pretty enough. But, compared to my Bay, this girl paled in comparison. I
continued to hand out the stickers to random people.
Toby walked up to us. He started to eyeball the girl too. I am so glad I'm
taken! I loved being able to think that way. Bay was the best thing in my
world right now. I knew I had made the right choice. Bay was the one. The kiss
with Daphne was a distant memory, pushed to the darkest corner of my mind. I
never planned on telling Bay about it. I just hoped that Daphne would do the
same….
Toby started talking to the girl. I got the impression that he knew her.
Looking at the girl, her body language told me that she was flirting with Toby.
His body language was telling me he was oblivious to her flirting.
Dumbass….
Toby finally decided to introduce us. "Simone, this is Emmett," he said. I
reached out my hand to shake hers.
"Hello, nice to meet you," Simone said with a smile. I nodded and smiled
back.
"Emmett is actually Bay's.." Toby started, before facing me more fully and
asked, "Can I say it?"
I nodded, showing him the sign for "boyfriend." Toby nodded.
"Boyfriend," he finished saying and in sign.
Simone looked shocked. Was it because I'm Bay's boyfriend, or because she
figured out I'm deaf? "Oh, no kidding?" I saw her say. Her shock had worn off
to curiousity now, apparently.
I nodded again. I probably just got a whole lot more interesting to her.
"Simone is one of Bay's good friends," Toby told me, signing "Bay, good and
friend."
I nodded, but then he continued with, "Well, used to be good friends." Okay,
I get it. Then Toby gave up and signed, "I don't know." Me either….
What was the deal with Bay and Simone? Now I was curious. I'd have to
remember to ask Bay once we got back home…
Toby, Wilkie and Simone continued to chat for a few minutes. Wilkie made a
weird face that vaguely resembled my drum front. Either that, or he was suddenly
constipated.
Simone asked where we were going to play and Wilkie told her the D stage. The
look on Simone's face proved that we were definitely thrown into no mans land.
Wilkie tried telling her is wasn't that bad, but Toby interjected, saying it's
in Timbuktu.
Simone said something about someone's cleavage playing, before walking away.
I know it's a band, but not sure who's?
Wilkie watched Simone walk away. He nudged my arm. "Great view, huh?" the
perv said.
Nah, I've got a much better "view" back home. And, I better never
catch Wilkie checking Bay out, or there will be blood! I nodded just to shut
him up.
We went back to passing out the stickers. How many of these suckers had Bay
made?
#-----------------------------
I spent half the day trying to find the right outfit for my meeting with
Angelo. Jazz club = sexy. But, I didn't want to give the wrong impression
either. I wanted Angelo to like me, not think I'm a slut.
I finally decided on a black dress with a corset top and short skirt. I
paired it with a sassy red belt and a long, chunky gold necklace. Black nylons
and 3 inch black heels completed the ensemble. I almost took a picture of myself
to send to Emmett. I knew it would make him drool.
Even though I knew Emmett was mine, I was still insecure. Daphne had made no
bones about the fact that she didn't like us together. I knew she would try
anything to break us apart. Any little thing in my favor couldn't be a bad
thing, could it?
Suddenly, my phone beeped, letting me know I had a message. I looked and saw
it was from Emmett. Giddy, I opened it. "Just letting you know I miss you and
wanted to see how everything is going?"
I swear that boy is just too sweet for words sometimes! Quickly I typed back,
"I miss you too. Regina and I are going to a Jazz club to meet Angelo. I hope
it goes well…."
"It will. I can't wait to see you in a couple days. I miss having you in
my arms," was the reply I got.
"I miss having your arms around me. XO" I couldn't wait for them to
get back!
Deciding I was as ready as I would ever be, I headed downstairs. Regina had
called me earlier to let me know that she had talked to Dad. She also told me
that she would be going to the club instead of Dad. I was so relieved, I
did a happy dance around my room. Regina was definitely better than my
father. At least now, I could see how my biological parents act around each
other. Wonder if there are any sparks left?
Mom was tiding up the Living Room when I walked in. Does that woman ever stop
cleaning?
"Okay," I started, getting Mom's attention. I held up the necklace. "So,
like, is this too much or too weird?" I really wanted to make a good impression
on Angelo.
"Oh, honey. You don't have to impress him," she told me. Yeah, right….
"Mom, didn't you want Daphne to think you were cool when you guys met?" I
asked her.
"Yeah, but, he's not going to be judging you. You're his…..daughter," Mom
said hesitantly.
"Mom," I started, but she asked, "You're not going to call him "dad" are
you?"
"Mom!" I said again. No, I'll call him Angelo, just like I call Regina by her
name. I have a mom and dad. Why can't they get that I just want to get to know
the people that gave me life?
Dad walked in then. "You're not wearing that," he interjected. Okay…
"Fine, I'll just take it off," I said, reaching for the necklace. Dad stopped
me, however.
"No! I'm talking about the studs aplenty, belted leather micro…" Really!
"He's not going to look at me like that! He's my dad," I told him. Dad's face
fell. Shit….
"You know what I mean…" I finished lamely. You sure put your foot in your
mouth that time, Bay!
Awkwardness ensued. Neither my parents or I knew what to say after that
remark. This is not how I wanted this to go….
Finally, Mom said, "Well, I think you look fantastic." Dad reluctantly
agreed. "And if you need me, you text me," he added.
"I won't need you," I told him. Sometimes they are way too protective!
Dad growled and walked away. I knew I had hurt his feelings with the "dad"
comment. I didn't know anyway to fix it though.
Mom looked like she wanted to say something else, but then, Regina walked in.
She had on a pretty greenish teal dress. Trying to score points with Angelo?
Mom told her she looked beautiful and Regina said she just dressed like that
because it was a club and that's what you're suppose to wear. Sure,
Regina…..sure!
Before anything else got way too awkward, I hustled us out the door.
Time to meet Angelo. Properly this time….
#------------------------------
Finally, the pile of stickers in my hand was dwindling down. I swear Bay must
have made a few thousand of these things, because that's how many it's felt like
I've passed out. I love her to pieces, but good grief!
Finally, the guys and I started walking around the food booths. I knew Wilkie
and Toby were probably talking to each other, but I had stopped paying attention
to them.
Then, a large sign caught my eye. "Beer. $7.00," it read. I turned and tapped
Wilkie.
"$7.00 beer? That's crazy man, right?" I mimed. Wilkie nodded.
"I know. $7.00 beer. Crazy right?" he replied. Glad I'm not drinking it!
He said something about the line, but I stopped paying attention to hand out
another sticker. I had gotten my point across. That suited me for now.
I turned back around in time to see Toby saying something about "D" stage.
Suddenly, Wilkie stopped in his tracks. By the look on his face, I would have
sworn he had just had his first orgasm or an epiphany of some kind. Either way,
I was a little concerned.
Toby said, "No!" to Wilkie. I could only look between the two, confused.
"That is -the smartest thing -have said," was what I caught of Wilkie's
response.
Toby was talking about…false advertising? Okay, now I was seriously
lost. What the hell were they talking about?
Wilkie was now talking about laughing and sound. Then he started writing on
the back of one of the stickers. Toby got my attention.
"Don't listen to whatever he is going to write," he told me. Then he started
talking to Wilkie again. "That is a bad idea," I think he said. Wilkie looked
like a kid in a candy shop. Finally, he held up what he had written.
"Free Booze. D Stage. Tomorrow," it read. Even I had to get a laugh
about that one. Admittedly, it's not one of Wilkie's best ideas, but it will
definitely draw a crowd. I gave him a thumbs up.
I probably shouldn't be encouraging him. Oh, well…..
We wandered around the grounds some more. I watched Wilkie hit on all the
girls in short skirts. I think a few of them even gave him their numbers. A
couple girls tried to talk to me, probably flirting. I pointed to my ear and
kept walking. There was only one girl I was interested in talking to.
Speaking of….I pulled out my phone and turned it back on. As I waited for it
to load up, I saw that Simone girl again. She waved when she saw me. Not wanting
to be rude, I waved back.
I had a couple of texts from Daphne. I didn't even bother opening them.
I'll answer her later.
Pulling up Bay's info, I sent her a text. "Just letting you know I miss
you and wanted to see how everything is going?"
A few minutes later, my phone vibrated with her reply. "I miss you too.
Regina and I are going to a Jazz club to meet Angelo. I hope it goes well…."
"It will. I can't wait to see you in a couple days. I miss having you in
my arms," I sent back. Sappy, yes, but I really didn't care.
My phone vibrated again. "I miss having your arms around me. XO"
Now I really couldn't wait to get back home!
#----------------------------
The drive to the Jazz Club was subdued. Regina and I talked about mundane
things. Nothing really important. I couldn't tell at this point which of us was
more nervous. We both seemed pretty wound up.
Finally, the Jazz club came into view. I almost expected Regina to drive
around the block, but she pulled straight into the parking lot.
After we got out of the car, Regina said, "Angelo really is a great guy. I
hope this goes well for you."
I gave her a half smile. "Me too," I replied.
After we made our way inside, I say Angelo sitting at a booth toward the
back. He stood up at our approach. He had on a nice shirt and jacket.
Apparently, he wanted to make a good impression as well.
He smiled at me as soon as I was in front of him. Then his face turned to
surprise as he took in Regina.
"Hi. Gina? I didn't know you were coming," he said to Regina.
"No, no. Just pretend I'm not here. I'm just chaperoning. This is your night.
The two of you," she said, touching my shoulder. I think she's more nervous than
I am! "I'm not gonna say a word," she finished.
"Hi!" I said giddily. Angelo smiled back at me.
"Hi! Beautiful necklace," he commented.
"Oh, thanks!" I said, holding it up for him to see. I knew he would like it!
Angelo looked between Regina and I. "Look at us. We're a family," he said.
I couldn't agree more!
"Um, I'm starving," Regina said hastily. She sat down in the booth. Angelo
and I just looked at each other. Interesting start we have going here…
#------------------------------
God, my feet are killing me! I don't think I have ever walked so much
in my life! All I want to do is crash. Of course, that means I have to get my
tent put up first…
As I was setting my tent up, I noticed Wilkie was setting his up right next
to mine. Granted, there was about 10 feet between us, but still. Wilkie? I'd
rather have Toby nearby. At least him, I can tolerate.
Wilkie was…complicated. He seemed like a decent guy, but I wasn't 100% sure
of him. I knew he was into Daphne. I could still remember the night I picked her
up and she was with him. I still couldn't understand that one! I really didn't
want Daphne to get hurt. She was still my friend, even though things were a
lot more complicated now.
Realizing I was over analyzing, I finished getting my tent set up. Then, I
laid out my sleeping bag. Crawling in, I got comfortable. The last thing in my
head before I fell asleep was the face of my beautiful girlfriend. I wonder what
she is doing right now? I know what I'd like to be doing! Groaning, I
closed my eyes.
2 more days!
#---------------------------
Angelo had a great sense of humor! I knew it from the last time we talked,
but now it was really coming through. Angelo was currently telling me stories
about when Regina was pregnant with me.
"Your mom ate the crab cakes here by the dozen, when she was pregnant
with you. I was afraid you were going to come out with eight legs," he said,
laughing.
Even Regina laughed. Watching the pair, I could see the pull that was there.
I didn't know the whole story, but I felt like they were starting to get to a
better place.
"So, you guys came here a lot?" I questioned.
Angelo and Regina both nodded. "Yeah, there was this horn player that was
completely obsessed with her. What was his name? Zeke? Zeb?" he asked Regina.
"Zane," she replied.
"Zane," Angelo repeated dryly, rolling his eyes. Now I know where my sarcasm
comes from….
"And it's only because you were always late, that he came by so much," Regina
countered.
"She was stunning back then," Angelo stated.
"Back then?" Regina stated, looking affronted. I couldn't help laughing.
"Gina, you're still gorgeous," Angelo said, causing Regina to blush slightly.
They shared a smoldering look. Oh, yeah! The spark is definitely still
there.
"Okay. Enough about the old times. I want to hear about you. Boyfriend?
Girlfriend?" Angelo said, drawing my attention again. Well, he is certainly open
minded!
"Uh, boyfriend," I said quickly. I glanced at Regina. She looked at me,
expectantly. Here we go. "It's this guy. His name's Emmett," I told them.
"Emmett," Angelo said. I nodded my head.
"Wait, Daphne's Emmett?" Regina asked. I am getting a little tired of that
response.
"He doesn't really belong to her," I answered peevishly. He's MY
boyfriend!
"No! Of course not. Wow! I never would have guessed that," Regina said. Why
is our being together so difficult for people to get? First his mom, then Toby
and now Regina. Thankfully, Angelo didn't have an opinion, yet..
"I'm happy for you," Regina said, hesitating a little.
"Thanks," I replied.
Just then, the waitress came with Angelo's drink. It was a red wine of some
sort. He saw Regina looking at it and held it out.
"It's the Pinot. Do you want to try it?" he asked. Didn't he remember me
telling him Regina didn't drink anymore?
"I don't drink anymore," Regina said forcefully.
Angelo's eyes went wide. "Oh, right. Bay told me. I forgot," he said.
Regina suddenly looked like a thundercloud. "Bay told you, and you forgot?"
she said irritably.
"Well, I guess I never saw you as the AA type," Angelo returned.
Mayday! Mayday! Abort, abort!
"What type is that?" Regina practically snarled. Suddenly, I would have
preferred Dad here. This is not going like I thought it would.
"You know. The rules, the meetings. The higher power. You know, it's not
really you," Angelo said honestly.
One look at Regina's face and I knew this night was ruined.
"What can I say?" she asked him.
Angelo tried to gain back control. "Sorry, um," he said, signaling the
waitress. "Can you take it back?" he asked her.
Regina turned quickly. "No, no it's fine. I'm around it all the time."
Angelo turned to me. "She says she doesn't mind, but she really minds."
"If I say I don't mind, I don't mind," Regina countered. Oh no!
Suddenly, this meeting turned into a contest between the two. I watched
helplessly as everything shattered.
"Okay, this is a test. She does that. And then, if I don't send it back,
she'll say I'm being selfish," Angelo was now peeved. Now I see where my temper
comes from too….
"What are you talking about?" Regina asked, clearly confused. So am I!
"Don't tell me you don't remember all those times, you were telling me it was
okay to go out?" Angelo stated.
"If I say something, it's true! You don't have to question it. Look where
that got us," she said angrily, looking at me. Okay, so maybe this was a
really bad idea!
I think Angelo realized he had gone too far. They both looked at me. I stared
at them, wide eyed.
"Excuse me," Regina said, getting up from the table. Angelo touched my
shoulder, before saying, "Excuse me," He took off after Regina.
I sat there, dumbfounded. This was a bad idea!
10 minutes passed before they returned to the table. Regina was shaking and
Angelo looked pensive. They sat back down.
"Sweetheart, sorry about that. Your mom and I just, push each others buttons
sometimes," Angelo told me.
"We made this about us and it's suppose to be about the two of you. I'm
sorry," Regina added.
I just nodded at them. After that, it was fairly quiet. We ate and Angelo
told me more stories. Regina was absolutely silent. Well, hell!
As we got up to leave, Angelo hugged me. "I am so very glad we got to spend
this time together. I am so happy you agreed to come."
"Me too," I replied, even though I was thinking how horrible this had gone.
Suddenly, I really wanted to see Emmett. An idea formed in my head. I would
drive up and surprise him!
"Regina, it was good to see you again," Angelo continued.
"You too," she replied.
Thank God this was over with. I don't think I could stand any more surprised
tonight!
#------------------
Bay and I were tangled on my bed. Her legs were intertwined with mine. My
hands were traveling up her back, pulling her shirt up as I went. Her hands were
pulling on my shirt. I leaned back and allowed her to take it off.
My hand found her bra. In one swift motion, I unhooked it. Her perfect
breasts spilled out. My mouth practically watered. I wanted to pull one into my
mouth and taste the sweetness.
Bay was panting now. I could feel the quickness of her heartbeat. Urgently,
my hand traveled lower, toward her stomach. I could feel her start to quiver
with need. My body was responding in kind. I pushed against her. I could feel
the moan that escaped her lips.
Quickly, I removed her pants. Her hands clawed at my jeans….
I suddenly smelled peaches. Peaches? Bay always smelled like Strawberry. I
also had the unconscious feeling of someone beside me. I was too tired to care,
though. I wanted Bay next to me so badly….
#----------------------------
Well, that was a disaster! How did those two ever end up a couple? Let alone
have me? The options were mind boggling!
The car ride home was silent. Regina seemed to be in her own little world and
I was thinking about my plan to surprise Emmett. If I left first thing in the
morning, I could be there by noon. They weren't playing until the later
afternoon, so that would give me plenty of time to spend with Emmett.
I couldn't wait…..
After we pulled into the driveway, Regina stopped the car and turned to me.
"So, I'm sure that was strange for you?" Regina said, more commenting than
asking. I stared at her. Nah, not at all. "He just pushes these buttons
with me, and I lose it, which I'm not proud of," she continued. Yeah, we covered
that already.
"I mean, I don't know if you're like that with anyone, but…" Regina continued
hesitantly. Yeah, your other daughter! I just wanted to spend time with
and get to know my real father. Was that really so hard to do? Why was this so
much harder than it really had to be? Was this my life now?
"Anyway, um, if you want to do that again…" Regina started to say, but I cut
her off.
"Maybe I can ask my mom to come," I told her. Regina looked a little ashamed
about her actions from earlier. Good….
"Right," she said, sounding a little hurt. We got out of the car and stood
looking at each other for a few seconds. A hundred things that could have been
said. A hundred things that should have been said. The few crazy things that
were said…
"So, why didn't you tell me about you and Emmett?" Regina questioned.
Great, now we're back to that.
"I don't know. I guess I just assumed Daphne told you," I told her honestly.
I was actually surprised that Daphne hadn't told her. But, it made sense
too, in a weird and twisted way. The less people who knew, the better her chance
at trying to steal him away were.
"Daphne knows?" Regina said, the surprise evident in her voice.
"Of course," I replied, barely keeping my sarcasm in check. "Besides, it's
not exactly like you and I tell each other everything," I finished. That's what
you have Daphne for!
Regina actually looked a little hurt at my statement. "Right," she said.
Okay, this is really awkward now. "I better go. Good night," I said, heading
for the house. I heard Regina reply, "Night."
As I made my way into the house, I felt like the whole evening was a
disaster. My only saving grace, was that I would see Emmett tomorrow!
Dad was in the study as I came through. I just wanted to go to my room, but
he said, "Hey, sweetie! You okay?" Knowing he would want a report, I reluctantly
stopped to talk.
"Yeah Dad! I'm okay," I said irritably. I wanted this night to end
already!
Dad sat back in his chair and stared at me, assessing me. "Angelo called. He
wants to take you to the "Kemper" tomorrow. I guess everything went great, huh?"
The "Kemper" was a semi-fancy restaurant on the other side of town.
"I guess," I told him. Not really!
"I know your mom is busy tomorrow. Maybe Adrianna could take you?" he said,
trying to plan my day for me. I was really tired of the adults in my life
treating me like I was incapable of making a good decision.
"Or, you could just low jack my phone, or chip me like a dog," I told him,
sarcasm dripping from my words.
"Hey," he started, but I wasn't finished.
"Dad, just admit you're trying to make it hard on me to see him," I said
testily. Why is everyone against this?
Dad stood up. "No, I am trying to do my job as your father." Yeah, you've
definitely got the overprotective, pain in my ass part down!
Realizing I wasn't getting anywhere, I told him, "Okay, I'm going to bed."
Need to get up super early in the morning! I turned to head upstairs.
"I assume this means you do not want to go to the "Kemper" tomorrow, right?"
Dad asked from behind me.
I wanted to go, but at the same time, I needed to see Emmett so badly. I
needed to share all of this with him. He wouldn't judge me, which is what I
really needed right now. My decision was made.
"Right," I said, turning to face Dad again. Angelo would have to wait for
another day.
"Maybe you'd like to spend the day with me?" Dad asked, hope in his voice.
Why is it that now he wants to be a loving father?
Not wanting to hurt his feelings, but needing to get away, I said, "Actually,
Toby just texted me. He really wants me to go out there and support him, so, I
think I'm just gonna head out tomorrow morning." Early! I only used Toby
as the excuse, since my parents didn't know yet about Emmett and I. I really
didn't want to get into that discussion tonight.
My father's next words, however, had me rethinking that plan.
"Oh. I wish I'd known. I would've had Daphne wait for you," Dad told me.
What the….?
"What?" I asked, dread slipping down my spine. That little bitch! She
didn't…
"Daphne went out to the "East West" thing tonight," he continued cluelessly.
Oh, I'm gonna kill her!
"Why?" I asked, even though I already knew the answer. She's gonna pay for
this!
"I don't know. To see Emmett, I guess," Dad stated.
Suddenly, my plans changed from "early tomorrow" to "What the hell
are you waiting for, dumbass? She's trying to steal your man!"
I wondered if I could function on 3 hours of sleep? I was about to find out.
Watch out Daphne! The claws are out and you will get scratched!
I hurried up to my room and packed a bag. I made sure to toss the t-shirt I
had been planning on wearing on top. I had painted another surprise for Emmett,
this time on a shirt. I had painted it to surprise him when they came back, but
now would work too. I wanted everyone to know he was mine! Especially Daphne!
Setting my alarm, I fell into bed fully clothed. Watch out, Daphne!
#-------------------------------
Bay and I lay in bed together, our bodies flush to each other. Her gentle
breath on my chest told me she was asleep. I pulled her closer, running my hands
gently up and down her spine. Her breathing didn't change. I smiled and kissed
her strawberry blonde hair….
Wait, what? Bay has black, curly hair. I pulled back, only to see Daphne
staring at me. Where the hell was Bay? And what the hell was Daphne doing in my
room, on my bed?
"What the hell is going on?" I asked Daphne angrily.
She looked at me with sorrow filled eyes. "This is the way it's suppose to
be."
"No, this is wrong. I love Bay! She is my everything. She is the only girl
I want."
Daphne was confused. "But, the kiss…?"
"Meant nothing. It was a mistake. One I wish everyday I could take back. I
should never have done it. It was impulsive and wrong."
"But, what about us?" Daphne asked.
"There is NO US! Bay is the only one I will ever want for the rest of my
life," I told her harshly.
"You're wrong, Emmett. You're wrong," Daphne said, starting to fade away.
#-------------------------------------
Try to horn in on my man, will you? I know your game, Daphne! It won't
work!
I was now 2 hours into the 4 hour drive to St. Louis. Having left at around 3
am, I was working on very little sleep. And, I was furious. How dare she try to
sneak up there and spend time with Emmett! Did she think that by catching him
alone, she stood a better chance of winning him back to her side? Was she really
that childish, thinking going behind my back will win points in her favor?
I had no chance of beating Daphne up there, but hopefully, she doesn't have
time to do a lot of damage. I wonder where she plans on sleeping? WHOA! Hit
the brakes! Where WAS she planning on sleeping? I had a pretty good idea,
but I really hoped I was wrong. She better be sleeping with Wilkie or Toby!
There will be blood if I find out she snuck into Emmett's tent!
I sped up a little, trying to get there even faster. Damn it, why did I take
Mom's pokey car? I should have borrowed Toby's….
#---------------------------
The brightness of morning started creeping through my eyelids. I wondered
what time it was? Felt early. After those dreams from last night, I really
wanted to call Bay. But, it was probably too early.
As I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes, I was again overwhelmed with the sense
that I wasn't alone. Turning to look, I came face to face with Daphne! Holy
HELL! When I say face to face, I mean she was literally less than a
foot from my face. I shot upright abruptly.
Daphne looked confused by my reaction. She sat up as well. Her confusion was
nothing on mine. Just what the hell was she doing here? In my tent? ON MY
PILLOW!
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" I asked her, still getting my bearings.
Something made her drive all the way here. Why didn't she just call?
"You didn't answer your phone. I really needed to talk to you," Daphne
replied. I've had my phone back on since yesterday afternoon. Had she tried to
call when I had it turned off? I realized I never did answer her texts from
yesterday, either. Now, I felt bad. But, that still didn't explain her crawling
into my tent!
"Wait, so you drove out here and just crawled in?" I asked her. She does
realize we aren't kids anymore and that I have a girlfriend now, doesn't she?
She can't do stuff like this anymore!
"I've crashed at your house a million times…" she started. Yeah, but never
where I was sleeping! "Sorry, I didn't think it was a big deal." Well, you
thought wrong!
"That I wake up and you're sharing my pillow?" I threw out. Was she nuts or
something? Bay would rip her hair out by the roots, if she found out about this.
"Don't make me feel like a stalker," was her comeback. Well, you kind of are
acting like one…
"My dad just moved here. I thought I could talk to you. I guess I was wrong,"
Daphne finished, a pained look on her face.
First off, talking with her isn't as simple as before. Especially about
family stuff. Bay was my priority now. I don't think Daphne has truly figured
that out yet.
Secondly, anything to do with Angelo, I really didn't know a lot about. I
needed to meet the man myself, before I could make any kind of judgment call on
his character. Bay had filled me in on some stuff, but, she was still learning
as well.
"I want to talk to you. I always want to talk to you. But…" things just
aren't the same anymore…
"Things are different now. I get it." I swear, if she were speaking, she
would have an edge to her voice. How the hell did everything get so damn
complicated? Never mind, I know the answer to that…
Daphne must have had enough, because she unzipped the tent door, and climbed
back outside. I couldn't react fast enough to stop her. I was still in shock
that she was here at all.
I grimaced as I saw Toby walking toward my tent, just as Daphne was climbing
out. Great!
I saw him ask what was going on. Dude, really? Think I'm stupid enough to
cheat on your sister? I ignored the tiny voice in the back of my head, telling
me I technically already had.
"Nothing, man. Relax!" I signed. Toby looked unconvinced. Did he even know
what I said to him?
"Dude, you're with Bay," Captain Obvious said. No, really? I thought I was
imagining our whole relationship!
I saw him ask Daphne what she was doing. I tried to get his attention, but,
Daphne started talking.
"Nothing. I just came to talk to him," she said, anger and disbelief on her
face.
"It's 7 in the morning. You're coming out of his tent?" Toby said, clearly on
the warpath.
"It was late. I was tired," Daphne told him, defending her actions. Then, she
got angry.
I didn't catch whatever else she had to say. She stopped signing and was
facing away from me. Then, Daphne stormed off. Toby turned back to me.
"What'd you think? Come on…" I told him.
Toby looked indecisive, but then ran after Daphne.
Well, this is a wonderful start to my morning. I wonder what else can
possibly happen?
#------------------------
Finally! I arrived at the festival around 7:30 am. I looked around me,
seeing the mass of people. How the hell was I going to find Emmett in this
throng? And, what kind of lunatic was really up this early?
I started walking around aimlessly, searching for his red hair. I found out
quickly, there were quite a few red heads here. Okay, time for a new strategy.
Try the tents. Maybe, he isn't even up yet.
I made my way toward the multiple tents I saw in the field. I walked through
them for a few minutes. Finally, I spotted very familiar red hair. Yes!
Thankfully, Emmett had his back to me. He was sitting on a large boulder. From
the way he was hunched over, presumably putting on his shoes. Perfect!
I snuck up behind him and put my hands over his eyes. Unfair, I know. Emmett
paused for a second, probably wondering what lunatic was behind him. Did he
think it was Daphne?
Emmett's hands came up and covered mine. He felt my hands for a second.
Suddenly, Emmett turned around and saw me. A huge smile erupted on his face.
Good sign…
"Surprise!" I signed. He grabbed me and hauled me in for a kiss. When he
pulled back, Emmett asked, still grinning, "What're you doing here?" Making
sure Daphne stays away from my man!
"I missed you," I told him, semi-truthfully. I had missed him, but….
"You missed me?" Emmett said, clearly glad to see me. I smiled and we
nuzzled.
I was getting ready to say more, but then I heard, "Well, hey!" I looked up
and saw Toby and Daphne heading our way. Toby was surprised. Daphne just looked
pissed. HA!
"Hey!" I said brightly. Two can play this game Daphne!
Looking directly at Daphne, I made sure she got the full force of my next
words. Keeping a posessive arm around Emmett, I said, "Oh, yeah! I heard you
were coming here. I thought I should stop by. It's a party, I should come too."
I had slowly been creeping my other arm around Emmett while I spoke.
Daphne couldn't hear the sarcasm and venom in my voice, but Toby could. He
looked between us, trying to figure things out. Then, he seemed to get it. Big
bro, you know me too well…
"Just came to support the guys," Daphne told me, shrugging as she did so.
Uh-huh! Rrrriiiigggghhhtttt…. Tell that to someone who's man you AREN'T
trying to steal!
From behind me, I heard a tent zipper open. Turning to look, I saw
Wilkie…with full on bedhead! The sight made me want to laugh.
"Just couldn't stay away, could you?" Wilkie said to Daphne. She snickered
and smiled.
That's right, Wilkie! Distract her, please!
Emmett pulled me close, and snickered softly into my hair. I understood that
just because he had spoken to me before, didn't mean he was going to continue
doing it. I loved the small sounds that would escape him periodically though.
A chuckle, a sigh…
I loved those moments….
#----------------------------
After Daphne and Toby walked away, I used that opportunity to change my
clothes and brush down my hair. I put my gel in and grabbed my shoes. Looking
around, I didn't see Toby or Daphne. Good….
Sitting down on the boulder in front of my tent, I started to put on my
shoes. I had one on and was starting the other, when suddenly, hands covered my
eyes. Confusion set in. Who had their hands in front of my eyes? Wasn't Daphne,
she knew better. Reaching up, I felt the hands tentatively.
Hmmm, small and dainty. Short nails. Definitely female. Soft hands that
smelled like paint….
Paint! Could it be? Whirling around, I came face to face with Bay. Now
her, I didn't mind being this close to! I smiled widely.
"Surprise!" she signed. You bet! In the best possible way…
I was so excited to see her, I grabbed Bay and hauled her in for a kiss.
Pulling back, I asked her excitedly, "What're you doing here?" Not that I was
going to complain in the least….
"I missed you," she signed. Me too!
"You missed me?" I replied jokingly. She smiled and we nuzzled.
I think she wanted to say more, but then she turned her head . Looking in the
same direction, I saw Daphne and Toby returning. Toby looked pleased to see Bay.
Daphne didn't. I shrugged it off. Probably still angry about the whole tent
deal…
"Hey!" I saw her say. Toby must have been talking to Bay.
I saw Bay, still grinning, say to them, "Oh, yeah! I heard you were coming
here. I thought I should stop by. It's a party." Definitely!
"Just came to support the guys," I saw Daphne tell Bay. Why does she look
unhappy?
A movement to my side caused me to look in that direction. Bay also turned to
look. I saw Wilkie…with full on bedhead!
"Just couldn't stay away, could you?" Wilkie said, presumably to Daphne.
I pulled Bay closer, and snickered into her hair. Wilkie looks worst than I
do in the morning. I couldn't not laugh at it!
I felt Bay's answering laugh.
I love these moments….
#------------------------------
After that bit of awkwardness with Wilkie and his hair, everything seemed to
lighten up. Wilkie flirted outrageously with Daphne. Daphne was thoroughly
distracted, and Toby was busy making sure his buddy didn't try to cop a
feel...and that was just fine with me. The further she stayed from my man, the
happier I would stay. Emmett and I were still wrapped around each other.
Resisting the urge to yawn and rub my eyes, I turned back to Emmett, who was
watching Daphne with a sort of concerned look on his face.
So he doesn't trust Wilkie? Smart man. I was actually dying to ask him
about his Wilkie text from yesterday, so I tapped him to get his attention. Once
Emmett looked at me, I signed "Come on! Why don't we walk around and search for
food."
Emmett nodded and signed to the rest of the group, "We'll be back in a
while."
Daphne translated to the boys. They nodded and winked at us. I fought the
urge to roll my eyes. Immature brats….
I disentangled myself slowly from my boyfriend. The lack of sleep was
starting to get to me. If I got some food in my system, it would help a lot.
Standing up, I thought, So far so good, until my world spun slightly and
became blurry at the edges. Somehow, I managed to stay on my feet. I just hoped
he didn't notice me almost falling back on top of him.
I watched him get to his feet to stand beside me. He didn't seem to notice,
but there was a look in his eyes. He was studying me, almost as if he was
cataloging me. The last time he looked at me like that, was when I showed him my
bruises...crap, gotta distract him.
Not giving him too much time to ponder anything else, I grabbed his hand,
heading in the direction of the fairway. Please, don't let him notice me
swaying!
As we walked around, I put my arm through Emmett's for better balance. He
looked down at me, concern on his face. I smiled and pulled him forward. I
just need some food…and coffee!
We came up to a tent that was selling pancakes and eggs. Perfect! Best
of all, they even had coffee!
"Do you want to eat here?" I asked Emmett. He nodded and signed, "Those look
good," meaning the pancakes. When we got to the front of the line, I ordered two
pancake breakfasts and two coffees.
"$7.00," the guy told me. Emmett pulled out his wallet and handed him the
money before I could. Once we had food in hand, we found an empty table to sit
at. I dug right in, hoping the food would make my head stop spinning.
Emmett watched me wolf down my food, smiling slightly. Sheepishly, I slowed
down. Great Bay! Now he probably thinks you eat like a vaccuum!
"Hungry?" Emmett asked.
"Starving. I haven't eaten since last night," I told him, starting on my
coffee.
Emmett looked concerned again. "Is that why you almost fell back on top of me
when you stood up earlier?"
Drat! I was hoping he hadn't noticed that. I forgot Emmett notices
everything, no matter what.
"I didn't get a lot of sleep last night," I admitted. "I really wanted to see
you, so I left at 3 this morning."
Emmett scowled. "You could have got in an accident." I blushed slightly. He
was right. I could have.
"But, I didn't. I'm here in one piece," I told him, smiling widely.
Emmett stared at me dubiously. "Why did you want to get here so early anyway?
We aren't playing till later."
I almost choked on my coffee. Watching him carefully, I signed, "Can't a girl
surprise her boyfriend without 20 questions?"
Emmett silently chuckled. Holding his hands up in surrender, he signed,
"Okay, I'm sorry. You're right. I missed you too, by the way."
Inwardly, I blew out a breath. That was too close!
Deciding the subject needed to be changed, I asked, "So, what was the deal
with Wilkie yesterday?"
Emmett shook his head. "He tricked us to get us out here. We aren't getting
anywhere near "Cold War Kids." We are on a stage that sucks and Wilkie thinks it
will be good publicity. Hence, the text."
I had to agree with Emmett. Wilkie was an ass! Why the hell is my
brother still friends with that reject?
"Wanna head back and cuddle in your tent?" I asked Emmett.
He stood so fast my head spun, and not from lack of sleep!
We dropped our plates in the garbage and walked hand in hand back toward the
tents. Now that I had food in my system, I didn't feel nearly as lightheaded as
before. Of course, being around Emmett always made my head spin, anyway!
When we got to his tent, thankfully Daphne wasn't around. Maybe Wilkie
dragged her off somewhere. I could only hope.
We crawled in and Emmett zipped it shut. Before I could blink, Emmett grabbed
me and pulled me on top of him. He kissed me passionately. I returned the kiss
just as passionately.
We ran hands through hair, hands over body parts, hands everywhere. I could
feel Emmett's arousal through his jeans. I pulled my legs up on either side of
his hips, straddling him and ground against him, causing him to pull back.
"We can't. Not here," he signed.
I understood what he was saying, but that didn't mean I wanted to stop.
Huffing, I instead cuddled up to his chest. Closing my eyes, I listened to the
steady rhythm of his heart.
#----------------------------
After Wilkie's hair laugh, everything calmed down. Wilkie was flirting
outrageously with Daphne. Toby had the "big brother" look. The one that said he
would kill his friend if he did something inappropriate. Bay and I were still
wrapped around each other.
I couldn't help but be concerned that Wilkie would hurt Daphne. He's
definitely a player, and I certainly didn't want Daphne coming out the loser. As
I was watching Daphne, I saw Bay turn. She tapped my arm. Once I turned my focus
to her, she signed "Come on! Why don't we walk around and search for food."
Sounds good to me. I nodded and signed to the rest of the group, "We'll be
back in a while."
I saw Daphne translated to the boys. They nodded and winked at us.
Immature jackasses….
Bay disentangled herself from my arms. Standing up, she seemed to sway on her
feet. I put my arms out slightly to catch her if she fell. But, she regained her
balance. Was she alright?
I stood up next to her. I looked her over closely. Bay had dark circles under
her eyes, and she was very wobbly. She kept fighting yawns. I doubt she knew she
was doing it. Hadn't she slept at all?
Suddenly, Bay grabbed my hand, and started heading in the direction of the
fairway. As we walked around, Bay put her arm through mine. I looked down at
her, concerned. Bay just smiled and pulled me forward.
We came up to a tent that was selling pancakes and eggs. Bay stopped in front
of it.
"Do you want to eat here?" She asked me. I nodded. Looking at the menu I
signed, "Those look good," meaning the pancakes. When we got to the front of the
line, Bay ordered two pancake breakfasts and two coffees. Normally, I didn't
like when someone did that, but I let it go.
"$7.00," the guy said. Being a gentleman, I pulled out my wallet and handed
him the money before Bay could. Once we had food in hand, we found an empty
table to sit at. I watched Bay dive in, practically inhaling her food. I ate
mine at a slightly more leisurely pace. I smiled at her enthusiasm. Bay noticed
and slowed down, blushing as she did so.
"Hungry?" I asked jokingly.
"Starving. I haven't eaten since last night," she told me, starting on her
coffee.
That might explain earlier. "Is that why you almost fell back on top
of me when you stood up earlier?" I asked her. She flinched slightly.
"I didn't get a lot of sleep last night," she admitted. "I really wanted to
see you, so I left at 3 this morning."
Was she crazy? I scowled at her. "You could have got in an accident."
Bay blushed again.
"But, I didn't. I'm here in one piece," she said, smiling widely. That did
not appease me in the least!
I stared at Bay dubiously. Why the big rush? "Why did you want to get here so
early anyway? We aren't playing till later."
I watched her face. She was hiding something. Something she didn't want me to
know.
My suspicion was confirmed when she signed, "Can't a girl surprise her
boyfriend without 20 questions?"
I silently chuckled. Okay, have it your way! Holding my hands up in
surrender, I told her, "Okay, I'm sorry. You're right. I missed you too, by the
way."
Suddenly Bay asked, "So, what was the deal with Wilkie yesterday?"
Changing the subject now, huh?
I shook my head. Where do I start? "He tricked us to get us out here. We
aren't getting anywhere near "Cold War Kids." We are on a stage that sucks and
Wilkie thinks it will be good publicity. Hence, the text."
Bay nodded. She's known Wilkie longer than me, so doesn't need a long
explanation, thankfully.
Bay looked at me, mischief in her eyes. "Wanna head back and cuddle in your
tent?"
Hell yeah! I stood so fast, I almost knocked off the plates sitting on
the table.
We dropped our plates in the garbage and walked hand in hand back toward the
tents. Bay was definitely steadier on her feet now. That was a good sign. She
needs to take better care of herself!
When we got to my tent, thankfully no one else was around. I didn't need Toby
pulling his "big brother" glare on me!
We crawled in and I zipped it shut. Before Bay could react, I grabbed her and
pulled her on top of me. I started kissing her passionately. Bay returned the
kiss with equal vigor.
We ran hands through hair, hands over body parts, hands everywhere. I was
getting painfully aroused feeling her body against mine. I wanted release so
badly! Bay pulled her legs up on either side of my hips, straddling me. Then she
ground herself against me. Okay! Have to stop before this gets out of
control. I pulled back to look at Bay. She was flushed and panting.
"We can't. Not here," I signed. My arousal was still hard and throbbing.
Stopping was the hardest thing I've ever done. But, we had to…
Bay looked irritated, but she nodded unconsciously. Then she cuddled up to my
chest. I watched her close her eyes. A few minutes later, I could feel Bay's
breathing slowing down. I glanced down and found her asleep. Good…
Holding her in my arms, I thought back to a few minutes ago. We haven't
discussed that part of our relationship yet. I wanted her. Lord, how I
wanted her. But, it had to be at the right time. Not here.
Someday…..
#------------------------------
I opened my eyes feeling more rested than before. Emmett still had his arms
around me. I noticed more people moving around outside. Had I fallen asleep? I
looked up at Emmett and saw him smile. I smiled back.
"Feeling better?" he asked.
Feeling sheepish, more like. " I fell asleep?" I asked.
Emmett grinned at me. "5 hours ago." 5 hours! That would make it close
to 1pm!
"You stayed here the whole time?" I asked him, incredulously.
He nodded. "You're so cute asleep. By the way, you drool," he said, mocking
wiping saliva off his shirt.
Affronted, I hit his chest. "Do not!" I countered. Emmett just kept grinning.
Jerk!
Sitting up more, I shook my hair back and straightened out my clothes, which
had gotten twisted up at some point. Emmett sat up as well, and adjusted his
clothing as well. Looking more closely at his shirt, I thought I saw a slight
damp spot. Maybe I do drool….
Suddenly, my stomach growled loudly. I blushed bright red. Glad he didn't
hear that!
"I'm gonna need some more food," I told him.
Emmett chuckled. "Your wish is my command," he signed cheekily.
I rolled my eyes at him. He's been around Wilkie too much here….
We made our way out of the tent and found some restrooms. After that, we
headed toward the food again. We got in line at a Mexican Food stall.
While we waited, I told him about the disastrous meeting with Angelo. Emmett
pulled out his phone and was typing his order.
"Regina talked Dad into letting her go with me, instead of him. So, we all go
to this jazz club and it goes from a family reunion, to like, a total meltdown,
in like 3 seconds!" I told him. He continued typing, but smiled at my
description. "Apparently, I am the spawn of not 1 hothead, but 2!"
Emmett smiled at this. "You're up," I told him.
The vendor asked what Emmett wanted. He showed him his phone. As the guy
turned to get our order, he asked what kind of sauce he wanted. Emmett just
stared at him, waiting for the food. He turned back toward us and asked again.
Emmett tried to tell him he couldn't hear him and to slow down and ask again,
but the guy was getting impatient.
I tried to let Emmett handle it, but, panic set in and I froze with fear. I
could hear people behind us growing impatient as well.
"You know what? He'll just take the green," I told the guy quickly. I swore I
could feel Emmett's eyes burning into me. I was just trying to help!
Emmett paid the guy and then turned towards me. He didn't look happy.
"I'm on in 10. I gotta go," he told me, handing me the bag. I watched him
walk away from me, feeling like I had just screwed up royally.
He couldn't be that mad, could he?
#------------------------------------
5 hours later, Bay began to stir. She opened her eyes and looked around,
before looking up at me. I smiled at her. She returned the smile. She really is
adorable when she first wakes up.
"Feeling better?" I asked.
She blushed. " I fell asleep?"
I just grinned at her. "5 hours ago." I saw the horror cross her face.
"You stayed here the whole time?" Bay asked, clearly shocked.
I nodded. "You're so cute asleep. By the way, you drool," I said, wiping
saliva off my shirt.
Her jaw dropped. Suddenly, she hit my chest. "Do not!" she countered. I just
kept grinning.
Sitting up more, Bay shook back her hair and straightened out her clothes,
which I may have helped get that way. I sat up as well, and adjusted my own
clothing as well.
Suddenly, I saw Bay blush bright red. What happened?
"I'm gonna need some more food," she then informed me. Ahhh! Her stomach
growled…
I couldn't help the chuckle that escaped me. "Your wish is my command," I
signed cheekily.
Bay, of course, rolled her eyes at me. What?
We made our way out of the tent and found some restrooms. After that, we
headed toward the food again. We got in line at a Mexican Food stall.
While we stood waiting, Bay told me about the disastrous meeting with Angelo.
I pulled out my phone to type my order.
"Regina talked Dad into letting her go with me, instead of him. So, we all go
to this jazz club and it goes from a family reunion, to like, a total meltdown,
in like 3 seconds!" she was telling me. I kept typing, but smiled at the visual
her description caused. "Apparently, I am the spawn of not 1 hothead, but 2!"
I really had to smile at that statement. She certainly is…. "You're
up," she told me.
The vendor asked what I wanted. I showed him my phone. I had typed, "two
chicken tamales." He turned to fill the order. I just stared at him, waiting for
the food. He turned back toward us and asked something, but his lips moved too
fast for me to catch. I pointed to my ear, to tell him I couldn't hear him. The
guy spoke too fast again. This time he held up two containers. One had red stuff
and one had green stuff.
Read my lips! I can't hear you, asshole! I mimed talking and tried to
get him to slow down.
Suddenly, I saw Bay tell him, "You know what? He'll just take the green." I
glared at her hotly.
I was irritated now. How dare she step in like that! I don't need help! I
paid the guy and then turned toward Bay. I needed to get away from here.
"I'm on in 10. I gotta go," I told her, handing her the bag. I walked away,
leaving her standing there.
I'm not freaking disabled, ya know!
#----------------------------
After Emmett walked away, I felt terrible. I really wanted to talk to the
tamale guy and tell him what a jerk he was. But, honestly, had I been much
better? I had only been trying to help. I didn't understand why Emmett got so
upset. Doesn't he like help?
I made my way over to the stage the boys were playing on. There was a large
crowd gathered, and quite a few looked like they were already wasted. Toby was
announcing the band. I saw Emmett looking out into the crowd. Was he looking for
me….or Daphne? The boys started their set. I situated myself where Emmett would
see me. He finally saw me. I smiled up at him. The crowd was really loud and
obnoxious. They kept throwing things on stage. The boys just kept on playing
though.
Time for my surprise! I pulled the sweater I had on off. Underneath, I
had painted a shirt with the words, "I'm with the drummer!" on it. I signed, "I
love you" to show my support of the band as well. I pulled the shirt down, so
Emmett could read it. He smiled after he saw it, and went back to focusing on
the beat.
"This band sucks!" I heard a guy say behind me. Turning to look, I saw a guy
who was definitely three sheets to the wind. He had a beer in his hand. I was
nauseated by the beer smell emanating off of him.
"Shut up! They're awesome, you jerk!" I told the guy. He looked at me in
surprise.
"I'm with the drummer?" the guy said, reading my shirt. He then laughed. "Ha!
He's the worst one up there. You should find a real man, girlie," he said,
licking his lips.
"Screw you, asshole! You wouldn't know talent if it bit you in the ass!" I
retorted. Outside, I was brave. Inside, I was quaking.
"Whatever," drunk guy said, walking away.
I looked up on stage to see if Emmett had noticed. He had. His face was
concerned. I waved at him, showing I was okay. He nodded.
I knew he would ask later.
The boys finished their songs. ¾ of the people took off before the 3rd song.
Only a handful was left at the end. I looked around, but didn't see Daphne. Had
she taken off too? That was surprising…
#---------------------------------
After walking away from Bay, I made my way to "D" stage. I wasn't mad so
much, as disappointed. I thought Bay knew me well enough to realize I don't need
someone to help me. I've managed fine for years before she even came along.
Maybe, I owed her an apology….
"Hey, there you are, man!" Toby said when I got close enough to read his
lips.
"Sorry," I told him.
Toby just brushed it off. "No problem. Are we ready to rock?" he asked.
Wilkie made the rock out sign. I returned it and got on stage.
There was already a large crowd gathering below us. I looked for Bay and
Daphne in the crowd. I saw Daphne below us, and she smiled when she saw me. I
gave her a small smile back, but, my eyes still searched for Bay. Even though we
just had that happen, I knew she would still come to support us, support me….
I couldn't see what Toby was saying, but, apparently the crowd didn't like
whatever he was telling them. They started throwing things on stage. Toby
quickly turned to me. I clicked the beat off, and we started playing. The crowd
still looked restless.
Finally, I saw Bay. She was smiling, so I guess she wasn't mad about earlier.
I smiled back.
I kept my eyes on Bay. She pulled the sweater she had on off and I saw her
sign "I love you" up at us. I was shocked for a second. I thought she was
directing it at me. We haven't had that talk either. Not that I didn't
love her, cause I do. She pulled the 2nd shirt down. "I'm with the drummer!" was
on it. I smiled at her thoughtfulness. I went back to focusing on the beat.
I saw Bay turn toward a large guy behind her. They looked like they were
arguing. I watched them closely. If he did anything to Bay…..
Finally, drunk guy walked away. Bay looked shaken. I was going to find out
what was said…
Bay looked up at me. I asked with my eyes if she was okay. She waved, so I
guess that meant everything was fine. I nodded to let her know I understood.
By the time we finished the songs. ¾ of the people had taken off before the
3rd song. Only a handful was left at the end. I looked around, seeing Bay still
there, but no Daphne. Had she taken off too? That was surprising…
#--------------------------------
After the boys finished, the crowd dispersed. Now it was time to pack
everything back up. They had planned to stay tonight and head home in the
morning. What they hadn't planned on was 2 roommates.
Where were Daphne and I going to sleep? I assumed I would be with Emmett,
but, didn't want to make him uncomfortable. What if he didn't want me in with
him? I could always share with Toby if I had to, I supposed. Wilkie was
definitely NO!
I didn't mention my thoughts to Emmett as they packed up. I was too nervous.
Plus, after earlier, maybe he was still upset. I figured I'd let him make that
move. If it came down to it, I would sleep in the car.
Finally, they had everything loaded again and ready to go. Emmett came up to
me. He took hold of my arm and looked me over from top to bottom.
"Are you okay?" he asked me, still holding my arm. I knew what he was asking
about.
"I'm fine. Guy was just being a jerk," I told him. He looked unconvinced.
"Really! Everything is fine."
He pulled me closer. "Come on, let's walk," he said. He looked irritated.
We made our way through the booths from earlier. As we passed the tamale guy,
Emmett froze. I watched him closely. He looked angry, but then kept walking.
Okay…..time for a distraction.
"You guys were awesome today!" I told him, animatedly.
Emmett looked at me, unconvinced. "Why did so many people leave then?" he
asked.
"The good news is that the, uh, people who stayed are your "hardcore fans," I
told him brightly. Emmett chuckled silently. But, it wasn't a happy chuckle.
What else can I tell him?
Behind us, I heard a guy start talking loudly. He sounds familiar….
Suddenly, drunk guy was right behind us, and said, "Hey! I know you. You're
the drummer from that band that sucked!" He came around to the front of us.
Emmett saw him and kept walking past. Then the jerk grabbed Emmett's shirt and
said, belligerently, "Hey, buddy I was promised a drink!"
The fear I felt from dealing with the jerk before, compelled me to jump in
front of Emmett and break the guys contact. I wanted to protect Emmett from this
asshole any way I could. "Whoa, he is deaf, you moron. Leave him alone!"
Emmett looked between the two of us. I knew he recognized him.
Drunk guy backed away like we were contagious or something. "Seriously?" he
said, before making a quick exit.
Emmett turned toward me. His eyes were blazing with anger. "What'd you say to
him?" he asked.
Right away, I knew I had screwed up, again. This time I knew I was in
trouble. I stared at him, trying to find the right words.
Emmett asked again, "What did you say to that guy?" He was staring me down.
"I said you were deaf," I said finally.
Instead of answering me, Emmett got a disbelieving look on his face and
walked away. I let him go, knowing he wouldn't want to talk to me. Better to let
him cool off.
What a fine mess this is…
#--------------------------------------
After the set was finished, the crowd dispersed. We needed to start packing
up to get ready to leave in the morning. Now, however, we also needed to find
places for 2 unexpected guests.
Bay would most definitely be with me. Daphne? Probably with Wilkie, if he had
his way.
As we packed up, I thought about earlier. If Bay was with me, I could talk to
her about earlier. Maybe, if she understood why I didn't like people doing stuff
like that, it wouldn't happen again.
Finally, we had everything loaded again and ready to go. Immediately, I
walked over to Bay, who had been waiting patiently. Daphne was still MIA, but
she wasn't who I was concerned about right now. I took hold of Bay's arm and
looked her over from top to bottom. Good, drunk guy hadn't touched her.
"Are you okay?" I asked, just to be sure.
"I'm fine. Guy was just being a jerk," she told me. I was not convinced.
"Really! Everything is fine."
I pulled her closer to me. "Come on, let's walk," I told her. I hate when she
doesn't give me straight answers!
We made our way through the booths from earlier. As we passed the booth with
the tamale guy, I froze. I could feel Bay's eyes on me. Not the time….
Angrily, I kept walking.
"You guys were awesome today!" she told me, grinning.
Scoffing, I replied, "Why did so many people leave then?"
Trying to make me feel better, I'm sure, Bay replied, "The good news is that
the people who stayed are your "hardcore fans," I chuckled silently. If only
she knew what was really on my mind…..
Suddenly, to my left, I saw the drunk guy that was harassing Bay earlier. I
caught the words, "drummer from that band that sucked!" Belligerent asshole!
I kept walking. No way was I dealing with him right now. Suddenly, I felt my
shirt being jerked back and I was being pulled around. I shoved the guy off.
Next thing will be my fist! I caught, "promised a drink!" before black curly
hair impaired my vision.
I looked between Bay the drunk guy. Suddenly, he backed away, stating,
"Seriously?" before beating a hasty retreat. What the hell had she told
him?
I faced Bay. Anger oozed out of my pores. "What'd you say to him?"
Bay just stared at me. Answer me, damn it!
"What did you say to that guy?" I asked again, anger barely in check.
"I said you were deaf," she finally stated.
My fury reached a whole new level. Knowing if I didn't walk away, it would
get ugly, I gave her a disgusted look and walked away. I knew she wouldn't
follow me.
#-----------------------------
I wandered around the festival aimlessly for hours. Should I just go back
home? I've caused so much damage with Emmett. He probably doesn't even want me
here anymore.
I saw Toby chatting up some girls and headed his way. He smiled and waved at
my approach.
"Hey, sis! Where you been?" he asked me.
"I'm going to head home. I need to get out of here," I told him.
Something in my face must have alerted him, because Toby told the girls,
"Nice talking to you. Family stuff, ya know?" before talking my arm and pulling
me toward some trees.
"I didn't want you to stop talking. I just wanted to let you know I was
leaving, so you didn't worry."
"Talk to me, sis. What happened?" Toby asked with concern.
"I don't really want to talk about it. It was stupid and I messed up badly,"
I told him.
"With Emmett?" Toby said softly.
I scoffed. "When don't I mess something up with him?" I replied instead.
I talked Toby into practicing ASL with me. His signing was weak, but getting
better. We practiced for a little while, before I decided to go find Emmett. I
hoped he had time to cool down. I know Emmett was angry as hell earlier. Please,
don't let him be angry at me anymore….
#-------------------------
I wandered aimlessly, my anger mounting. Didn't she know anything about me?
Didn't Bay realize I hate when people treat my deafness like a shield?
"It's okay. He's deaf. He doesn't know anything."
Granted, I knew that's not what she said, but still…..
Maybe I'd find Daphne. Yeah, she'd know how to handle this. I needed someone
with more experience dealing with hearing people than I had.
I texted her phone, but got no reply. Where is she?
My wandering took me down by the lake. I saw two people playing in the water.
I almost walked away, when I realized it was Daphne in the water,
with….Wilkie? That didn't take long. Realizing I wouldn't get to talk to
her now, I headed back toward the tents.
Maybe, I can get Mom to come get me? I knew I didn't want to stay here
anymore. I was walking past some trees, when curly, black hair caught my eye.
Hiding behind a tree, I saw Bay and Toby. What were they…? Oh! Bay must be
helping Toby with ASL. There is just random words going between them.
I take a good look at Bay's face. She is sad with a hint of loathing on her
features. I almost wanted to talk to her, but not in front of Toby. I didn't
know what, if anything, she had told him. Backing away, I left them alone.
Making my way back to my tent, I again contemplated getting a hold of Mom. I
pulled out my phone to do so, but stopped. The picture of Bay that I use as my
phone background was displayed. I stared at it.
No, if I leave again, it would be the end. I knew that. We had to talk about
it. I was still so angry though….
To distract myself, I started straightening out my tent.
#-------------------------------------
It's now or never….
I made my way to Emmett's tent. If he wasn't there, I would wait for him. As
luck would have it, he was straightening his sleeping bag, totally focusing on
that. He didn't see me coming. I tapped his shoulder. Emmett glanced up and
froze. Then he stood up fully, and stepped in front of me.
How to start? Start simple….
"I'm sorry, okay? I was scared and I didn't know what to do," I told him
simply.
Emmett still looked angry. Maybe he hasn't calmed down yet. Suddenly,
this felt like a bad idea.
"Don't you think that's happened to me a million times? Don't you think I can
handle it without my hearing girlfriend coming to the rescue?" Emmett asked,
anger and hurt evident on his face.
"Okay! Which part bothers you? The hearing or the girl?" I asked him. Was he
really that pissed off that I helped him? I was now angry as well.
"Both," he answered. I almost walked away right there. Really? That's how you
feel, huh?
"You may have had this happen before, but, I haven't. And you cannot get mad
at me for not knowing what to do!" I realized my signing was matching my mood.
"Don't use my deafness as a defense," was his comeback.
I deflated. Did he really think I did that? Is that what he thought of me?
Two can play this game.
"But, as a sales hook it's okay?"
Emmett looked confused, so I elaborated. "You didn't care when Wilkie sold
you guys as the band with the deaf drummer."
"That's different," he retorted. Different!
"So, how am I suppose to know the rules?" I responded.
Emmett deflated. "Stick around, I guess." Was he afraid I would leave?
Did he really think I would give up that easily? I ignored the voice telling
me I had tried to.
"I will," I told him honestly. I wouldn't be going anywhere. I pulled him
into a hug. I missed his arms around me. I hate fighting with him…
I realized we needed to talk about tamale guy, too. Pulling back, I said,
"Okay. I have another question."
Emmett watched me, not responding. Taking a deep breath, I asked, "The
tamales? I know that you were mad that I ordered for you. But, I was just trying
to help. Why is that not okay to help?"
Emmett grabbed Daphne, who just happened to walk by at that moment. I heard
her say, "Excuse me." Emmett looked at her and signed, "Will you interpret for
us?"
Daphne nodded and stood waiting. Great! Let's get Daphne involved…
I watched Emmett as he began signing. I listened to his words through Daphne.
"Pointing and texting and gesturing is how I connect to the world. So, that
guy had to stop and figure out how to engage with me without talking. So what?
He'll survive. If he's uncomfortable with me, that's his problem. But, most
people aren't. They figure it out. I'm different. It's okay."
As Emmett stood waiting for my response, I came to a realization. Daphne had
been right before. I really didn't know him. I didn't know just how much things
like this bothered him. I just barreled into his life without looking at things
from his point of view.
I needed to do that, or we were doomed.
"Okay," I said simply. Tears threatened, but I wouldn't give in to them.
Emmett thanked Daphne and she walked away. He continued to watch me. I knew then
that our relationship just got more complicated. When I can't even have a
personal discussion with my boyfriend without Daphne translating, I know I'm
screwed.
I walked around Emmett and sat in front of the boulder by his tent. Emmett
gave me a long look.
"I wish we didn't need Daphne," I told him, angry at myself.
Emmett walked over and sat down beside me. "Someday, we won't."
I wasn't convinced. He took my hand, and I leaned into him. We looked up at
the night sky.
In the background, I could hear Wilkie telling obnoxious jokes and these
drunk girls near us laughing loudly. I scoffed at their rudeness.
"Peaceful, isn't it?" Emmett asked a few seconds later. If only you
could hear what I hear, you wouldn't be thinking that…
"Not really," I said shortly. He looked at me, clearly wanting me to
elaborate. "Wilkie's making fart jokes, and there's some drunk girls over there.
They're being idiots."
Emmett shook his head. "How do you do it?" Do what?
"What do you mean?" I asked, confused.
"I can't imagine a world in which I couldn't check out sometimes. Seems like
it's gotta suck."
"Yeah. It actually does," I agreed.
We sat back and continued to gaze at the stars.
#---------------------------
I had just started straightening my sleeping bag, when I felt a tap on my
shoulder. Looking up, I froze. Bay stood there. Guess I ran out of time…
Standing to my full height, I moved in front of Bay and waited.
She seemed to gather her thoughts, before she said, "I'm sorry, okay? I was
scared and I didn't know what to do." Do? She didn't have to do anything!
Angry and hurt, I asked, "Don't you think that's happened to me a million
times? Don't you think I can handle it without my hearing girlfriend coming to
the rescue?"
"Okay! Which part bothers you? The hearing or the girl?" she asked him. I
could tell she was now angry as well.
Honestly? "Both," I flung at her. She looked like I slapped her.
"You may have had this happen before, but, I haven't. And you cannot get mad
at me for not knowing what to do!" Bay replied, her signing quick and precise.
"Don't use my deafness as a defense!" I told her, angry at her stupidity.
Don't use it as a crutch or something to hide behind!
Bay stepped back and glared. "But, as a sales hook it's okay?"
What the hell? She continued with, "You didn't care when Wilkie sold
you guys as the band with the deaf drummer."
"That's different," I retorted. Those were special circumstances.
"So, how am I suppose to know the rules?" she asked.
I stared at her. Would this be what pushed her away? Was this relationship
too much for her to handle? Hesitantly, I said, "Stick around, I guess." I held
my breath, waiting for her answer.
"I will," Bay said, honesty radiating off her face. I let out the breath. Bay
pulled me into a hug. I missed her arms around me. I hate fighting with her…
I knew we weren't done talking yet, when Bay pulled back, and said, "I have
another question."
I stood waiting. Then, she said, "The tamales? I know that you were mad that
I ordered for you. But, I was just trying to help. Why is that not okay to
help?"
I saw Daphne coming toward us. I was going to need her help. As she walked
by, I grabbed her arm. I asked her, "Will you interpret for us?"
Daphne nodded and stood waiting. Okay, now to make Bay understand things
from my point of view.
Bay watched me and listened to Daphne.
"Pointing and texting and gesturing is how I connect to the world. So, that
guy had to stop and figure out how to engage with me without talking. So what?
He'll survive. If he's uncomfortable with me, that's his problem. But, most
people aren't. They figure it out. I'm different. It's okay."
As I waited for her response, I came to a realization. We had entered this
relationship without really understanding each other's cultures and values. We
never took the time to see things from each other's points of view.
I especially needed to do that, or we were doomed.
"Okay," Bay said simply. I could see her eyes shimmering with tears. I
thanked Daphne and she walked away. I continued to stare at Bay. I knew, in her
mind, that things were more complicated. I didn't want to bring Daphne into our
business, but Bay had to understand how I felt.
Bay walked around me. For a second, I panicked. Was she leaving now? Did this
push her over the edge? I turned around hesitantly. I breathed a sigh of relief
when I saw she had just sat in front of the boulder.
"I wish we didn't need Daphne," she said, clearly angry at herself.
I walked over and sat down beside her. "Someday, we won't."
She didn't seemed convinced. I took her hand, and she leaned into me. We
looked up at the night sky.
Staring at the night sky, I realized how different it was from home. No
street lights, just open sky. Very calming to the nerves. I looked at Bay.
"Peaceful, isn't it?"
"Not really," she said shortly. Okay, I missed something, apparently.
"Wilkie's making fart jokes, and there's some drunk girls over there. They're
being idiots."
Can't she ever just relax and let go? I shook my head. "How do you do it?"
"What do you mean?" she asked, confused by my question..
"I can't imagine a world in which I couldn't check out sometimes. Seems like
it's gotta suck."
"Yeah. It actually does," she agreed.
We sat back and continued to gaze at the stars.
#------------------------------
Later on, we discussed sleeping arrangements. Emmett didn't find it funny
when I suggested I might bed down with Wilkie. He all but hauled me into his
lap, and tickled me till I relented to sleep in his tent with him. That had been
my plan anyway. He he he!
I got ready for bed in the restrooms and headed back toward Emmett's tent. He
was already inside, waiting for me. I saw Daphne getting her bag ready to go.
She was sharing Wilkie's tent. Toby had told him if he didn't behave, he'd put
his balls in a vice.
Wilkie promised to stay on his best behavior.
As I started to walk past Daphne, she stopped me. "Hey! How did it go with
Angelo and my mom?"
Really? "It was incredibly weird," I told her.
"What do you mean?" she asked, clearly confused.
Next, I did what I always do when nervous or panicked. I rambled. I started
talking about how our lives would have been like this, but not really. How
everything was so messed up no matter what family we were in and how screwy
everything felt.
After I finished my ramble, I asked Daphne if she caught any of what I said.
I really didn't feel like repeating it if she hadn't.
"Yeah, I got it," she answered, surprising me.
We shared an understanding moment before bidding each other good night and
heading into our separate tents for the night.
After I climbed in, Emmett pulled back his sleeping bag and I crawled in next
to him. I cuddled, facing his chest. His arms were tight around me. I felt him
kiss my hair.
Pulling back, I signed, "I really am glad I came today."
He chuckled. "I'm glad you came today, too." Then he leaned in and kissed me.
And, I knew then, that everything was okay.
We fell asleep, wrapped in each other's arms.
#------------------------------
Much later, we discussed sleeping arrangements. When I asked if she was
sharing my tent, Bay made the suggestion of her sharing Wilkie's tent. I was
NOT amused by that. I grabbed her and hauled her into my lap, tickling
her until her face turned red and she finally agreed to sleep in my tent with
me. The devious look she gave me made me think she had planned that.
She went to get ready in the restroom, while I threw on sleep pants in her
absence. As I waited for her to return, I saw Daphne getting her bag ready
outside. She was the one sharing Wilkie's tent. Toby had told him if he didn't
behave, he'd put his balls in a vice.
Wilkie promised to stay on his best behavior.
I saw Bay stop in front of Daphne and they started talking. Bay's signing
became erratic. Something told me she was rambling. Hope Daphne knows what she
is telling her. They finished their conversation and Bay opened the tent door
and crawled in.
Once she had zipped it shut, I pulled back my sleeping bag and Bay crawled in
beside me. She cuddled up to me, facing my chest. I wrapped my arms tightly
around her. I kissed her hair softly.
Pulling back, Bay signed, "I really am glad I came today."
I chuckled. "I'm glad you came today, too." Then I leaned in and kissed her.
And, I knew then, that everything was okay.
We fell asleep, wrapped in each other's arms.
#-----------
Disclaimer: Switched At Birth is owned by Lizzy Weiss and ABC Family. No
copyright infringement is meant. I am using the characters for entertainment
purposes only.
Disclaimer: There will be "M" rated themes in later chapters......
#-----------
Chapter 9-episode 11
Just when I thought my life was going to be some level of normal….
Regina dropped the bomb on us this morning, that Angelo was going to stay in
Kansas City. Not that I'm complaining. Oh, no! Far from it. I just knew that
Daphne would be unhappy and I really didn't want to deal with her. Plus, I knew
that Dad was furious about it.
And, unfortunately, I'm caught in the middle. So what do I do? I really
wanted to talk to Emmett about it. Get his input. So, I pulled out my new phone
with Video Chat and pulled up his information. It said he was available. Yes!
I called up Emmett. He answered right away.
"Hey, Beautiful!" Emmett signed. Is it sad that they have been gone less than
a day, and already I missed him terribly?
"Hey! You guys made it okay?" I asked. Emmett nodded. Thank you for video
chat phones!
"Wilkie wanted to drive, but Toby said, "No," Emmett told me. I laughed.
Good, glad Toby listened to me.
"So, what's up?" Emmett continued. Okay, then. Right to the point….
"I just found out my father, Angelo… He's moving here," I signed slowly.
Emmett waved his hands for me to stop. "I'm sorry. I can't see you. What'd
you say?" he asked. Damn it…
I held the phone higher. "Uh, Angelo. He's moving to K.C," I signed again.
Emmett still looked confused. Was I not signing it right or something? "Moving…
is that right? Can you see me?" I asked him.
Suddenly, Daphne came up from behind me and said, "Here," before she grabbed
my phone. Okay! Knock much? She started signing silently to
Emmett. Hello, MY boyfriend! Fortunately, I could mostly follow her.
She told Emmett what I had just tried to tell him about Angelo. Emmett asked
if she was okay. Apparently, she thought that gave her permission to start
having a long conversation with him. I hated the fact that she could converse so
easily with him, and I suddenly felt left out. I wouldn't be left out! Enough
of this….
I grabbed my phone back, effectively cutting off the rant I knew she was
doing. I hadn't caught everything, but I knew she was talking about Angelo. And
the look on her face told me it wasn't something nice.
"Okay, it's my conversation!" I told her, irritated. Daphne was non
pulsed.
"There's a family meeting downstairs, right now. Living Room," she told me
woodenly. Oh, joy!
"Okay, give me a sec," I said, rolling my eyes. Geez!
Daphne actually scoffed before turning to go back out the door. Well,
excuse me for wanting to say goodbye to my boyfriend in private! I
brought the phone back up to my eye level. Emmett looked confused again. Once he
saw me though, he smiled again.
"I gotta go. But, I miss you," I told him, smiling back. Daphne was still
standing in the doorway. I'm coming! I closed the door in Daphne's face.
Sorry, not big on you hovering!
"Miss you, too. Bye," Emmett signed before hanging up.
Taking a few deep breaths, I opened the door to see Daphne had miraculously
left. Thank you! Now, for the real fun to begin…..
I headed downstairs, feeling like I was walking into a firing squad. This
was not going to be pretty….
#-------------------------------
We finally arrived at the festival. Wilkie had been pestering Toby to let him
drive for the last 2 hours. He even tried to talk me into letting him.
Apparently, since Bay's my girlfriend, he thought she wouldn't get mad at me if
I agreed to let him. Nuh- uh! No way! I like all the parts right where they
are, thank you very much!
I looked around me. There were a lot of people. I could only imagine
the noise around me. I was glad I couldn't hear it actually. Had I been hearing,
It would probably have made me go deaf! I laughed at my personal joke. I
had to remember to tell Bay that one. She would get a kick out of it.
My phone vibrated in my pocket. Pulling it out, I saw that Bay was calling
me. Speak of the devil! Not even gone a day, and she missed me already, huh? I
pulled up the video chat and saw Bay's gorgeous face.
"Hey, Beautiful!" I signed. I already missed her terribly. I really wanted to
be back in K.C. with her.
"Hey! You guys made it okay?" Bay asked. I nodded. Thank you for video chat
phones!
"Wilkie wanted to drive, but Toby said, "No," I told Bay. She laughed. I knew
she would be happy about that. Now, onto other things….
"So, what's up?" I asked, knowing there was more to her call.
Bay accidentally moved her phone and I couldn't make out what she told me. I
waved my hands. "I'm sorry. I can't see you. What'd you say?"
Bay still wasn't holding the phone right. I caught "Angelo" but couldn't make
out anything else. I started to tell Bay to just text me what she was trying to
say, when the screen moved and Daphne was there.
"Angelo's moving to K.C," she told me. Okay, that's big news!
"Seriously? Like forever?" I asked. Had this been what Bay was trying to tell
me? "Are you okay?"
"No, I'm not okay! He thinks he can trade one daughter for another? Like,
"you weren't good enough, so…" Daphne ranted before the phone was pulled away.
Presumable by Bay. Why did I even ask?
I waited for a minute or two, before Bay's face came on again. I smiled,
happy to see her again.
"I gotta go. But, I miss you," she told me, smiling back. She looked up and
frowned at something. Hmmm?
"Miss you, too. Bye," I told her before hanging up.
Now, we get to unload everything….oh joy!
#----------------------------
When I got to the Living Room, I saw everyone sitting there. Daphne
wasn't kidding when she said "family meeting." Apparently, it also involved the
Vasquez's as well. Dad stormed in, like a freight train. Let the fun begin…..
"Okay, we need to go over some ground rules! Daphne, ground rules," Dad said,
getting Daphne's attention. She nodded. I sat down on the couch, next to Daphne
and Regina. Adrianna sat in the opposite chair, and Mom was hovering at the end
of the couch.
"Number 1. He cannot come to this house. Number 2. He cannot be alone with
Bay or Daphne. Number 3. All phone calls with him will be monitored," Dad
ordered. What the hell is he, a prison warden?
"He's not on parole," I said, irritated.
"He is with me," Dad returned promptly.
Regina stepped in at this point. "I just want to say, I had no idea that he
was going to do this," she said, as Daphne spoke up at the same time.
"I don't know why he has to be here at all!" she whined. What does this whole
freaking family have against me spending time with my biological freaking
father? Holy Shit!
"What do you want to do? Ban him from the city?" I asked, pissed at how my
family was trying to dictate my relationship. Now I know how Emmett feels with
his Mom!
Mom intervened. "Girls, stop!" Yeah, that helps…
"I just don't understand why you can't do anything?" Daphne
complained again. Why does she have a freaking say in any of this? He's
my FATHER!
Mom started to tell Daphne something, but I wanted answers! "You're not
seriously going to hover every single time I go out with him?" I asked
Dad.
"Yes, I am. I know nothing about this guy," was his immediate response.
Really!
"But, Regina does," I told him.
"Nothing she has said so far has put us at ease," Mom put in. Oh my GOD!
Get me out of here before I rip out my hair!
Adrianna finally put in her 2 cents. "I know him too. I'm happy to help.
Anything you need from me, John."
Well thank you so much for being on my side….NOT!
Of course, Dad was happy about that statement!
Thankfully, Regina stepped up. "Ma! You're gonna give him the wrong
impression about him," she said, annoyance in her voice. Finally!
"I am on John's side on this one," Adrianna retorted. Who isn't?
"So am I," Regina fired back. Great!
"There are no sides," Mom said sharply.
"Oh, there are sides!" Daphne and I said at the same time. I think the world
just stopped turning….
After that remark, it was blessedly silent for a moment. Finally, I could get
a word in.
"Well, he invited me to a Jazz Club, and I'm not canceling," I told them all.
"Fine. Make it a table for 3, because I'm coming," Dad said. You can't be
serious!
Dad walked out to the Kitchen. Guess that's the end of the meeting.
As we all went our separate ways, I looked at Regina. She gave me a
sympathetic look before walking to the guest house.
I am SO screwed!
#--------------------------------
Toby drove out to the stage that Wilkie said we were playing on. As we drove
further away from the crowds, I realized something was off. Why the hell are we
way out here? This was further than I thought we would be.
As soon as Toby parked the car, Wilkie immediately jumped out and started
unloading the stuff. Geez, in a hurry much? Toby and I got out at a slower pace.
"Why is he in such a rush?" I asked Toby. Toby shrugged and started to really
look around him. Looking at the schedule in his hand again, Toby frowned.
"Something- wrong- opening- kids- way out here," was all I caught of Toby's
speech.
Wilkie was worst. He kept talking as he was walking back and forth, so I
caught even less of his answer. "Freak out," was all I got. Freak out?
"Dude!" Toby said. He doesn't look happy… "You tricked me to get us out
here?" What the hell am I missing? "That is not cool man!" I'll second
that!
Wilkie just kept unloading equipment, not caring about anything. "Not this
weekend," was all I got, because he was walking away, again! Stand still,
will ya!
Toby was definitely pissed off. "When am I going to stop believing your
crap?" He vented. Turning to face me, he told me, "We're not opening for the
"Cold War Kids." Finally!
I glanced at Wilkie, before looking at Toby again. Then he started to repeat
his statement in sign. "I got it," I signed, cutting him off.
Wilkie and Toby began to verbally spare. Since I wasn't inclined to join
them, I merely stood and watched.
Wilkie, from what I could follow, was saying how it was good experience and
good exposure. Then he tried to make it better by talking about how the sun was
shining. What a jackass!
Toby was furious because our time was against "Arcade Fire" who were playing
on the main stage. He talked about how we were on "D" stage.
Wilkie wanted him to see the bright side. Glancing at Toby, I got the
impression he wasn't seeing it.
Finally, Wilkie stopped moving and said, "You really believed we had the spot
before "Cold War Kids?"
Toby sighed and said, "Yeah," before walking away.
Well, this just got more interesting…
I sent Bay a quick text. "Wilkie is an ass!"
A minute later, I got the reply. "Couldn't agree more."
I laughed. Leave it to Bay to not want details.
I watched Wilkie keep unloading. Well, he's almost done anyway…..
#-----------------------------------
I couldn't let my dad come to the Jazz Club! He would totally ruin it! I had
to figure out a way to get him to not go!
Suddenly, an idea started forming in my head. Could it work? It might. Have
to ask her. Would she agree to help me? One way to find out….
With resolution, I walked up the stairs to the guest house. Ringing the bell,
I waited a moment before Regina opened the door.
"Bay? What are you doing here?" she asked me, clearly a little shocked.
"Hey, Regina. I, uh-" totally don't know what to say! Think, Bay. Think!
Suddenly, a light went off. "I was wondering if you could help me? I, uh,
want to paint my nails, but I want them to look awesome." Yeah, that's
good! "Could you help me out?" I asked her.
Regina looked skeptical. "Uh, sure. Come on in," she finally said, before
standing aside. I walked into the Living Room. Regina closed the door and
followed me.
"So, do you have a color in mind, or did you want me to pick one?" Regina
asked.
"You're the expert. You choose," I decided. Regina nodded and headed for her
bedroom. A few moments later, she returned with a couple different bottles. One
was a red of some kind, and one was clear and sparkly. "This is called,
"Ravishing Rouge," she told me, holding up the red.
"Perfect!" I said. Just perfect! Regina set them on the table and then
went into the bathroom for the cotton balls and polish remover. After she had
everything ready, she grabbed my hands and cleaned off the old polish. Once that
was done, she started applying the "Ravishing Rouge" polish.
We talked about mundane things as I bided my time, waiting for the right
opportunity. Finally, she was done painting the final nail. Finally!
"Thanks. I can never get the right hand. It's always a disaster," I told
Regina, trying to sound convincing.
She held up my hand to show me, and said, "Perfect." Then she grabbed the
polish and walked over to a low table. Here goes nothing….
Trying to be nonchalant, I said, "So, it looks like my Dad was actually
serious about tagging along tonight."
"He's just being protective," Regina tried to reassure me. You mean, OVER
protective!
"It's humiliating, like I'm 5 years old. I mean, how are Angelo and I suppose
to get to know each other, if my Dad is just sitting there, glaring at him?" I
asked, hoping I was hitting the right buttons.
"He's not gonna do that!" Regina insisted. Yeah, right…
"Well, then what's the point? Angelo's not going to kidnap me. You now that,"
I stated.
Regina was still picking up the nail supplies, and trying to avoid where she
probably knew I was going with this.
Make it or break it….. "So, can you tell my Dad, that's it unfair, and
unnecessary, and kinda creepy?" I begged.
"This is between you and John. I can't interfere," Regina said point blank.
Now just wait a freaking minute here….
"Daphne gets access to my dad every single day, but I have to schedule time
through my parents? And then, their monitoring him like he's in prison. How is
that fair?" I asked honestly.
I could see Regina's resolve wavering. I was so close!
"I just don't think my opinion matters much to anyone. Especially, your dad,"
Regina said, sounding apologetic. Damn it!
"Can you at least try?" I gave her puppy dog eyes.
Regina sighed. "Okay, I'll try to get him to not go tonight."
Jumping up, I hugged Regina. "Thank you!"
Maybe this can work after all…..
As I made my way back to my studio, I got a text from Emmett. Reading it, I
laughed. "Wilkie is an ass!" it read.
What the hell had Wilkie done now? I typed my reply. "Couldn't agree
more."
I'll get details later on. Right now, I had to plan for my meeting with
Angelo tonight. What am I going to wear?
#--------------------------------
We had been passing out stickers for what felt like hours, touting "Guitar
Face." We weren't playing until tomorrow, but Toby and Wilkie wanted to get
people interested now apparently. A few times someone tried to ask a question,
but I pointed to my ear, indicating I couldn't hear them. They nodded and moved
on.
I had turned off my phone so I wouldn't be interrupted by video chats or
messages that I couldn't stop to answer. I wasn't too worried about anyone
trying to get a hold of me. Bay and Daphne both had Toby's number. Besides, why
would either of them have a reason to call?
I was standing near Wilkie, when he started chatting up a girl. Really,
Wilkie? Can he not keep it in his pants? I mean, yeah sure, the girl was
pretty enough. But, compared to my Bay, this girl paled in comparison. I
continued to hand out the stickers to random people.
Toby walked up to us. He started to eyeball the girl too. I am so glad I'm
taken! I loved being able to think that way. Bay was the best thing in my
world right now. I knew I had made the right choice. Bay was the one. The kiss
with Daphne was a distant memory, pushed to the darkest corner of my mind. I
never planned on telling Bay about it. I just hoped that Daphne would do the
same….
Toby started talking to the girl. I got the impression that he knew her.
Looking at the girl, her body language told me that she was flirting with Toby.
His body language was telling me he was oblivious to her flirting.
Dumbass….
Toby finally decided to introduce us. "Simone, this is Emmett," he said. I
reached out my hand to shake hers.
"Hello, nice to meet you," Simone said with a smile. I nodded and smiled
back.
"Emmett is actually Bay's.." Toby started, before facing me more fully and
asked, "Can I say it?"
I nodded, showing him the sign for "boyfriend." Toby nodded.
"Boyfriend," he finished saying and in sign.
Simone looked shocked. Was it because I'm Bay's boyfriend, or because she
figured out I'm deaf? "Oh, no kidding?" I saw her say. Her shock had worn off
to curiousity now, apparently.
I nodded again. I probably just got a whole lot more interesting to her.
"Simone is one of Bay's good friends," Toby told me, signing "Bay, good and
friend."
I nodded, but then he continued with, "Well, used to be good friends." Okay,
I get it. Then Toby gave up and signed, "I don't know." Me either….
What was the deal with Bay and Simone? Now I was curious. I'd have to
remember to ask Bay once we got back home…
Toby, Wilkie and Simone continued to chat for a few minutes. Wilkie made a
weird face that vaguely resembled my drum front. Either that, or he was suddenly
constipated.
Simone asked where we were going to play and Wilkie told her the D stage. The
look on Simone's face proved that we were definitely thrown into no mans land.
Wilkie tried telling her is wasn't that bad, but Toby interjected, saying it's
in Timbuktu.
Simone said something about someone's cleavage playing, before walking away.
I know it's a band, but not sure who's?
Wilkie watched Simone walk away. He nudged my arm. "Great view, huh?" the
perv said.
Nah, I've got a much better "view" back home. And, I better never
catch Wilkie checking Bay out, or there will be blood! I nodded just to shut
him up.
We went back to passing out the stickers. How many of these suckers had Bay
made?
#-----------------------------
I spent half the day trying to find the right outfit for my meeting with
Angelo. Jazz club = sexy. But, I didn't want to give the wrong impression
either. I wanted Angelo to like me, not think I'm a slut.
I finally decided on a black dress with a corset top and short skirt. I
paired it with a sassy red belt and a long, chunky gold necklace. Black nylons
and 3 inch black heels completed the ensemble. I almost took a picture of myself
to send to Emmett. I knew it would make him drool.
Even though I knew Emmett was mine, I was still insecure. Daphne had made no
bones about the fact that she didn't like us together. I knew she would try
anything to break us apart. Any little thing in my favor couldn't be a bad
thing, could it?
Suddenly, my phone beeped, letting me know I had a message. I looked and saw
it was from Emmett. Giddy, I opened it. "Just letting you know I miss you and
wanted to see how everything is going?"
I swear that boy is just too sweet for words sometimes! Quickly I typed back,
"I miss you too. Regina and I are going to a Jazz club to meet Angelo. I hope
it goes well…."
"It will. I can't wait to see you in a couple days. I miss having you in
my arms," was the reply I got.
"I miss having your arms around me. XO" I couldn't wait for them to
get back!
Deciding I was as ready as I would ever be, I headed downstairs. Regina had
called me earlier to let me know that she had talked to Dad. She also told me
that she would be going to the club instead of Dad. I was so relieved, I
did a happy dance around my room. Regina was definitely better than my
father. At least now, I could see how my biological parents act around each
other. Wonder if there are any sparks left?
Mom was tiding up the Living Room when I walked in. Does that woman ever stop
cleaning?
"Okay," I started, getting Mom's attention. I held up the necklace. "So,
like, is this too much or too weird?" I really wanted to make a good impression
on Angelo.
"Oh, honey. You don't have to impress him," she told me. Yeah, right….
"Mom, didn't you want Daphne to think you were cool when you guys met?" I
asked her.
"Yeah, but, he's not going to be judging you. You're his…..daughter," Mom
said hesitantly.
"Mom," I started, but she asked, "You're not going to call him "dad" are
you?"
"Mom!" I said again. No, I'll call him Angelo, just like I call Regina by her
name. I have a mom and dad. Why can't they get that I just want to get to know
the people that gave me life?
Dad walked in then. "You're not wearing that," he interjected. Okay…
"Fine, I'll just take it off," I said, reaching for the necklace. Dad stopped
me, however.
"No! I'm talking about the studs aplenty, belted leather micro…" Really!
"He's not going to look at me like that! He's my dad," I told him. Dad's face
fell. Shit….
"You know what I mean…" I finished lamely. You sure put your foot in your
mouth that time, Bay!
Awkwardness ensued. Neither my parents or I knew what to say after that
remark. This is not how I wanted this to go….
Finally, Mom said, "Well, I think you look fantastic." Dad reluctantly
agreed. "And if you need me, you text me," he added.
"I won't need you," I told him. Sometimes they are way too protective!
Dad growled and walked away. I knew I had hurt his feelings with the "dad"
comment. I didn't know anyway to fix it though.
Mom looked like she wanted to say something else, but then, Regina walked in.
She had on a pretty greenish teal dress. Trying to score points with Angelo?
Mom told her she looked beautiful and Regina said she just dressed like that
because it was a club and that's what you're suppose to wear. Sure,
Regina…..sure!
Before anything else got way too awkward, I hustled us out the door.
Time to meet Angelo. Properly this time….
#------------------------------
Finally, the pile of stickers in my hand was dwindling down. I swear Bay must
have made a few thousand of these things, because that's how many it's felt like
I've passed out. I love her to pieces, but good grief!
Finally, the guys and I started walking around the food booths. I knew Wilkie
and Toby were probably talking to each other, but I had stopped paying attention
to them.
Then, a large sign caught my eye. "Beer. $7.00," it read. I turned and tapped
Wilkie.
"$7.00 beer? That's crazy man, right?" I mimed. Wilkie nodded.
"I know. $7.00 beer. Crazy right?" he replied. Glad I'm not drinking it!
He said something about the line, but I stopped paying attention to hand out
another sticker. I had gotten my point across. That suited me for now.
I turned back around in time to see Toby saying something about "D" stage.
Suddenly, Wilkie stopped in his tracks. By the look on his face, I would have
sworn he had just had his first orgasm or an epiphany of some kind. Either way,
I was a little concerned.
Toby said, "No!" to Wilkie. I could only look between the two, confused.
"That is -the smartest thing -have said," was what I caught of Wilkie's
response.
Toby was talking about…false advertising? Okay, now I was seriously
lost. What the hell were they talking about?
Wilkie was now talking about laughing and sound. Then he started writing on
the back of one of the stickers. Toby got my attention.
"Don't listen to whatever he is going to write," he told me. Then he started
talking to Wilkie again. "That is a bad idea," I think he said. Wilkie looked
like a kid in a candy shop. Finally, he held up what he had written.
"Free Booze. D Stage. Tomorrow," it read. Even I had to get a laugh
about that one. Admittedly, it's not one of Wilkie's best ideas, but it will
definitely draw a crowd. I gave him a thumbs up.
I probably shouldn't be encouraging him. Oh, well…..
We wandered around the grounds some more. I watched Wilkie hit on all the
girls in short skirts. I think a few of them even gave him their numbers. A
couple girls tried to talk to me, probably flirting. I pointed to my ear and
kept walking. There was only one girl I was interested in talking to.
Speaking of….I pulled out my phone and turned it back on. As I waited for it
to load up, I saw that Simone girl again. She waved when she saw me. Not wanting
to be rude, I waved back.
I had a couple of texts from Daphne. I didn't even bother opening them.
I'll answer her later.
Pulling up Bay's info, I sent her a text. "Just letting you know I miss
you and wanted to see how everything is going?"
A few minutes later, my phone vibrated with her reply. "I miss you too.
Regina and I are going to a Jazz club to meet Angelo. I hope it goes well…."
"It will. I can't wait to see you in a couple days. I miss having you in
my arms," I sent back. Sappy, yes, but I really didn't care.
My phone vibrated again. "I miss having your arms around me. XO"
Now I really couldn't wait to get back home!
#----------------------------
The drive to the Jazz Club was subdued. Regina and I talked about mundane
things. Nothing really important. I couldn't tell at this point which of us was
more nervous. We both seemed pretty wound up.
Finally, the Jazz club came into view. I almost expected Regina to drive
around the block, but she pulled straight into the parking lot.
After we got out of the car, Regina said, "Angelo really is a great guy. I
hope this goes well for you."
I gave her a half smile. "Me too," I replied.
After we made our way inside, I say Angelo sitting at a booth toward the
back. He stood up at our approach. He had on a nice shirt and jacket.
Apparently, he wanted to make a good impression as well.
He smiled at me as soon as I was in front of him. Then his face turned to
surprise as he took in Regina.
"Hi. Gina? I didn't know you were coming," he said to Regina.
"No, no. Just pretend I'm not here. I'm just chaperoning. This is your night.
The two of you," she said, touching my shoulder. I think she's more nervous than
I am! "I'm not gonna say a word," she finished.
"Hi!" I said giddily. Angelo smiled back at me.
"Hi! Beautiful necklace," he commented.
"Oh, thanks!" I said, holding it up for him to see. I knew he would like it!
Angelo looked between Regina and I. "Look at us. We're a family," he said.
I couldn't agree more!
"Um, I'm starving," Regina said hastily. She sat down in the booth. Angelo
and I just looked at each other. Interesting start we have going here…
#------------------------------
God, my feet are killing me! I don't think I have ever walked so much
in my life! All I want to do is crash. Of course, that means I have to get my
tent put up first…
As I was setting my tent up, I noticed Wilkie was setting his up right next
to mine. Granted, there was about 10 feet between us, but still. Wilkie? I'd
rather have Toby nearby. At least him, I can tolerate.
Wilkie was…complicated. He seemed like a decent guy, but I wasn't 100% sure
of him. I knew he was into Daphne. I could still remember the night I picked her
up and she was with him. I still couldn't understand that one! I really didn't
want Daphne to get hurt. She was still my friend, even though things were a
lot more complicated now.
Realizing I was over analyzing, I finished getting my tent set up. Then, I
laid out my sleeping bag. Crawling in, I got comfortable. The last thing in my
head before I fell asleep was the face of my beautiful girlfriend. I wonder what
she is doing right now? I know what I'd like to be doing! Groaning, I
closed my eyes.
2 more days!
#---------------------------
Angelo had a great sense of humor! I knew it from the last time we talked,
but now it was really coming through. Angelo was currently telling me stories
about when Regina was pregnant with me.
"Your mom ate the crab cakes here by the dozen, when she was pregnant
with you. I was afraid you were going to come out with eight legs," he said,
laughing.
Even Regina laughed. Watching the pair, I could see the pull that was there.
I didn't know the whole story, but I felt like they were starting to get to a
better place.
"So, you guys came here a lot?" I questioned.
Angelo and Regina both nodded. "Yeah, there was this horn player that was
completely obsessed with her. What was his name? Zeke? Zeb?" he asked Regina.
"Zane," she replied.
"Zane," Angelo repeated dryly, rolling his eyes. Now I know where my sarcasm
comes from….
"And it's only because you were always late, that he came by so much," Regina
countered.
"She was stunning back then," Angelo stated.
"Back then?" Regina stated, looking affronted. I couldn't help laughing.
"Gina, you're still gorgeous," Angelo said, causing Regina to blush slightly.
They shared a smoldering look. Oh, yeah! The spark is definitely still
there.
"Okay. Enough about the old times. I want to hear about you. Boyfriend?
Girlfriend?" Angelo said, drawing my attention again. Well, he is certainly open
minded!
"Uh, boyfriend," I said quickly. I glanced at Regina. She looked at me,
expectantly. Here we go. "It's this guy. His name's Emmett," I told them.
"Emmett," Angelo said. I nodded my head.
"Wait, Daphne's Emmett?" Regina asked. I am getting a little tired of that
response.
"He doesn't really belong to her," I answered peevishly. He's MY
boyfriend!
"No! Of course not. Wow! I never would have guessed that," Regina said. Why
is our being together so difficult for people to get? First his mom, then Toby
and now Regina. Thankfully, Angelo didn't have an opinion, yet..
"I'm happy for you," Regina said, hesitating a little.
"Thanks," I replied.
Just then, the waitress came with Angelo's drink. It was a red wine of some
sort. He saw Regina looking at it and held it out.
"It's the Pinot. Do you want to try it?" he asked. Didn't he remember me
telling him Regina didn't drink anymore?
"I don't drink anymore," Regina said forcefully.
Angelo's eyes went wide. "Oh, right. Bay told me. I forgot," he said.
Regina suddenly looked like a thundercloud. "Bay told you, and you forgot?"
she said irritably.
"Well, I guess I never saw you as the AA type," Angelo returned.
Mayday! Mayday! Abort, abort!
"What type is that?" Regina practically snarled. Suddenly, I would have
preferred Dad here. This is not going like I thought it would.
"You know. The rules, the meetings. The higher power. You know, it's not
really you," Angelo said honestly.
One look at Regina's face and I knew this night was ruined.
"What can I say?" she asked him.
Angelo tried to gain back control. "Sorry, um," he said, signaling the
waitress. "Can you take it back?" he asked her.
Regina turned quickly. "No, no it's fine. I'm around it all the time."
Angelo turned to me. "She says she doesn't mind, but she really minds."
"If I say I don't mind, I don't mind," Regina countered. Oh no!
Suddenly, this meeting turned into a contest between the two. I watched
helplessly as everything shattered.
"Okay, this is a test. She does that. And then, if I don't send it back,
she'll say I'm being selfish," Angelo was now peeved. Now I see where my temper
comes from too….
"What are you talking about?" Regina asked, clearly confused. So am I!
"Don't tell me you don't remember all those times, you were telling me it was
okay to go out?" Angelo stated.
"If I say something, it's true! You don't have to question it. Look where
that got us," she said angrily, looking at me. Okay, so maybe this was a
really bad idea!
I think Angelo realized he had gone too far. They both looked at me. I stared
at them, wide eyed.
"Excuse me," Regina said, getting up from the table. Angelo touched my
shoulder, before saying, "Excuse me," He took off after Regina.
I sat there, dumbfounded. This was a bad idea!
10 minutes passed before they returned to the table. Regina was shaking and
Angelo looked pensive. They sat back down.
"Sweetheart, sorry about that. Your mom and I just, push each others buttons
sometimes," Angelo told me.
"We made this about us and it's suppose to be about the two of you. I'm
sorry," Regina added.
I just nodded at them. After that, it was fairly quiet. We ate and Angelo
told me more stories. Regina was absolutely silent. Well, hell!
As we got up to leave, Angelo hugged me. "I am so very glad we got to spend
this time together. I am so happy you agreed to come."
"Me too," I replied, even though I was thinking how horrible this had gone.
Suddenly, I really wanted to see Emmett. An idea formed in my head. I would
drive up and surprise him!
"Regina, it was good to see you again," Angelo continued.
"You too," she replied.
Thank God this was over with. I don't think I could stand any more surprised
tonight!
#------------------
Bay and I were tangled on my bed. Her legs were intertwined with mine. My
hands were traveling up her back, pulling her shirt up as I went. Her hands were
pulling on my shirt. I leaned back and allowed her to take it off.
My hand found her bra. In one swift motion, I unhooked it. Her perfect
breasts spilled out. My mouth practically watered. I wanted to pull one into my
mouth and taste the sweetness.
Bay was panting now. I could feel the quickness of her heartbeat. Urgently,
my hand traveled lower, toward her stomach. I could feel her start to quiver
with need. My body was responding in kind. I pushed against her. I could feel
the moan that escaped her lips.
Quickly, I removed her pants. Her hands clawed at my jeans….
I suddenly smelled peaches. Peaches? Bay always smelled like Strawberry. I
also had the unconscious feeling of someone beside me. I was too tired to care,
though. I wanted Bay next to me so badly….
#----------------------------
Well, that was a disaster! How did those two ever end up a couple? Let alone
have me? The options were mind boggling!
The car ride home was silent. Regina seemed to be in her own little world and
I was thinking about my plan to surprise Emmett. If I left first thing in the
morning, I could be there by noon. They weren't playing until the later
afternoon, so that would give me plenty of time to spend with Emmett.
I couldn't wait…..
After we pulled into the driveway, Regina stopped the car and turned to me.
"So, I'm sure that was strange for you?" Regina said, more commenting than
asking. I stared at her. Nah, not at all. "He just pushes these buttons
with me, and I lose it, which I'm not proud of," she continued. Yeah, we covered
that already.
"I mean, I don't know if you're like that with anyone, but…" Regina continued
hesitantly. Yeah, your other daughter! I just wanted to spend time with
and get to know my real father. Was that really so hard to do? Why was this so
much harder than it really had to be? Was this my life now?
"Anyway, um, if you want to do that again…" Regina started to say, but I cut
her off.
"Maybe I can ask my mom to come," I told her. Regina looked a little ashamed
about her actions from earlier. Good….
"Right," she said, sounding a little hurt. We got out of the car and stood
looking at each other for a few seconds. A hundred things that could have been
said. A hundred things that should have been said. The few crazy things that
were said…
"So, why didn't you tell me about you and Emmett?" Regina questioned.
Great, now we're back to that.
"I don't know. I guess I just assumed Daphne told you," I told her honestly.
I was actually surprised that Daphne hadn't told her. But, it made sense
too, in a weird and twisted way. The less people who knew, the better her chance
at trying to steal him away were.
"Daphne knows?" Regina said, the surprise evident in her voice.
"Of course," I replied, barely keeping my sarcasm in check. "Besides, it's
not exactly like you and I tell each other everything," I finished. That's what
you have Daphne for!
Regina actually looked a little hurt at my statement. "Right," she said.
Okay, this is really awkward now. "I better go. Good night," I said, heading
for the house. I heard Regina reply, "Night."
As I made my way into the house, I felt like the whole evening was a
disaster. My only saving grace, was that I would see Emmett tomorrow!
Dad was in the study as I came through. I just wanted to go to my room, but
he said, "Hey, sweetie! You okay?" Knowing he would want a report, I reluctantly
stopped to talk.
"Yeah Dad! I'm okay," I said irritably. I wanted this night to end
already!
Dad sat back in his chair and stared at me, assessing me. "Angelo called. He
wants to take you to the "Kemper" tomorrow. I guess everything went great, huh?"
The "Kemper" was a semi-fancy restaurant on the other side of town.
"I guess," I told him. Not really!
"I know your mom is busy tomorrow. Maybe Adrianna could take you?" he said,
trying to plan my day for me. I was really tired of the adults in my life
treating me like I was incapable of making a good decision.
"Or, you could just low jack my phone, or chip me like a dog," I told him,
sarcasm dripping from my words.
"Hey," he started, but I wasn't finished.
"Dad, just admit you're trying to make it hard on me to see him," I said
testily. Why is everyone against this?
Dad stood up. "No, I am trying to do my job as your father." Yeah, you've
definitely got the overprotective, pain in my ass part down!
Realizing I wasn't getting anywhere, I told him, "Okay, I'm going to bed."
Need to get up super early in the morning! I turned to head upstairs.
"I assume this means you do not want to go to the "Kemper" tomorrow, right?"
Dad asked from behind me.
I wanted to go, but at the same time, I needed to see Emmett so badly. I
needed to share all of this with him. He wouldn't judge me, which is what I
really needed right now. My decision was made.
"Right," I said, turning to face Dad again. Angelo would have to wait for
another day.
"Maybe you'd like to spend the day with me?" Dad asked, hope in his voice.
Why is it that now he wants to be a loving father?
Not wanting to hurt his feelings, but needing to get away, I said, "Actually,
Toby just texted me. He really wants me to go out there and support him, so, I
think I'm just gonna head out tomorrow morning." Early! I only used Toby
as the excuse, since my parents didn't know yet about Emmett and I. I really
didn't want to get into that discussion tonight.
My father's next words, however, had me rethinking that plan.
"Oh. I wish I'd known. I would've had Daphne wait for you," Dad told me.
What the….?
"What?" I asked, dread slipping down my spine. That little bitch! She
didn't…
"Daphne went out to the "East West" thing tonight," he continued cluelessly.
Oh, I'm gonna kill her!
"Why?" I asked, even though I already knew the answer. She's gonna pay for
this!
"I don't know. To see Emmett, I guess," Dad stated.
Suddenly, my plans changed from "early tomorrow" to "What the hell
are you waiting for, dumbass? She's trying to steal your man!"
I wondered if I could function on 3 hours of sleep? I was about to find out.
Watch out Daphne! The claws are out and you will get scratched!
I hurried up to my room and packed a bag. I made sure to toss the t-shirt I
had been planning on wearing on top. I had painted another surprise for Emmett,
this time on a shirt. I had painted it to surprise him when they came back, but
now would work too. I wanted everyone to know he was mine! Especially Daphne!
Setting my alarm, I fell into bed fully clothed. Watch out, Daphne!
#-------------------------------
Bay and I lay in bed together, our bodies flush to each other. Her gentle
breath on my chest told me she was asleep. I pulled her closer, running my hands
gently up and down her spine. Her breathing didn't change. I smiled and kissed
her strawberry blonde hair….
Wait, what? Bay has black, curly hair. I pulled back, only to see Daphne
staring at me. Where the hell was Bay? And what the hell was Daphne doing in my
room, on my bed?
"What the hell is going on?" I asked Daphne angrily.
She looked at me with sorrow filled eyes. "This is the way it's suppose to
be."
"No, this is wrong. I love Bay! She is my everything. She is the only girl
I want."
Daphne was confused. "But, the kiss…?"
"Meant nothing. It was a mistake. One I wish everyday I could take back. I
should never have done it. It was impulsive and wrong."
"But, what about us?" Daphne asked.
"There is NO US! Bay is the only one I will ever want for the rest of my
life," I told her harshly.
"You're wrong, Emmett. You're wrong," Daphne said, starting to fade away.
#-------------------------------------
Try to horn in on my man, will you? I know your game, Daphne! It won't
work!
I was now 2 hours into the 4 hour drive to St. Louis. Having left at around 3
am, I was working on very little sleep. And, I was furious. How dare she try to
sneak up there and spend time with Emmett! Did she think that by catching him
alone, she stood a better chance of winning him back to her side? Was she really
that childish, thinking going behind my back will win points in her favor?
I had no chance of beating Daphne up there, but hopefully, she doesn't have
time to do a lot of damage. I wonder where she plans on sleeping? WHOA! Hit
the brakes! Where WAS she planning on sleeping? I had a pretty good idea,
but I really hoped I was wrong. She better be sleeping with Wilkie or Toby!
There will be blood if I find out she snuck into Emmett's tent!
I sped up a little, trying to get there even faster. Damn it, why did I take
Mom's pokey car? I should have borrowed Toby's….
#---------------------------
The brightness of morning started creeping through my eyelids. I wondered
what time it was? Felt early. After those dreams from last night, I really
wanted to call Bay. But, it was probably too early.
As I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes, I was again overwhelmed with the sense
that I wasn't alone. Turning to look, I came face to face with Daphne! Holy
HELL! When I say face to face, I mean she was literally less than a
foot from my face. I shot upright abruptly.
Daphne looked confused by my reaction. She sat up as well. Her confusion was
nothing on mine. Just what the hell was she doing here? In my tent? ON MY
PILLOW!
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" I asked her, still getting my bearings.
Something made her drive all the way here. Why didn't she just call?
"You didn't answer your phone. I really needed to talk to you," Daphne
replied. I've had my phone back on since yesterday afternoon. Had she tried to
call when I had it turned off? I realized I never did answer her texts from
yesterday, either. Now, I felt bad. But, that still didn't explain her crawling
into my tent!
"Wait, so you drove out here and just crawled in?" I asked her. She does
realize we aren't kids anymore and that I have a girlfriend now, doesn't she?
She can't do stuff like this anymore!
"I've crashed at your house a million times…" she started. Yeah, but never
where I was sleeping! "Sorry, I didn't think it was a big deal." Well, you
thought wrong!
"That I wake up and you're sharing my pillow?" I threw out. Was she nuts or
something? Bay would rip her hair out by the roots, if she found out about this.
"Don't make me feel like a stalker," was her comeback. Well, you kind of are
acting like one…
"My dad just moved here. I thought I could talk to you. I guess I was wrong,"
Daphne finished, a pained look on her face.
First off, talking with her isn't as simple as before. Especially about
family stuff. Bay was my priority now. I don't think Daphne has truly figured
that out yet.
Secondly, anything to do with Angelo, I really didn't know a lot about. I
needed to meet the man myself, before I could make any kind of judgment call on
his character. Bay had filled me in on some stuff, but, she was still learning
as well.
"I want to talk to you. I always want to talk to you. But…" things just
aren't the same anymore…
"Things are different now. I get it." I swear, if she were speaking, she
would have an edge to her voice. How the hell did everything get so damn
complicated? Never mind, I know the answer to that…
Daphne must have had enough, because she unzipped the tent door, and climbed
back outside. I couldn't react fast enough to stop her. I was still in shock
that she was here at all.
I grimaced as I saw Toby walking toward my tent, just as Daphne was climbing
out. Great!
I saw him ask what was going on. Dude, really? Think I'm stupid enough to
cheat on your sister? I ignored the tiny voice in the back of my head, telling
me I technically already had.
"Nothing, man. Relax!" I signed. Toby looked unconvinced. Did he even know
what I said to him?
"Dude, you're with Bay," Captain Obvious said. No, really? I thought I was
imagining our whole relationship!
I saw him ask Daphne what she was doing. I tried to get his attention, but,
Daphne started talking.
"Nothing. I just came to talk to him," she said, anger and disbelief on her
face.
"It's 7 in the morning. You're coming out of his tent?" Toby said, clearly on
the warpath.
"It was late. I was tired," Daphne told him, defending her actions. Then, she
got angry.
I didn't catch whatever else she had to say. She stopped signing and was
facing away from me. Then, Daphne stormed off. Toby turned back to me.
"What'd you think? Come on…" I told him.
Toby looked indecisive, but then ran after Daphne.
Well, this is a wonderful start to my morning. I wonder what else can
possibly happen?
#------------------------
Finally! I arrived at the festival around 7:30 am. I looked around me,
seeing the mass of people. How the hell was I going to find Emmett in this
throng? And, what kind of lunatic was really up this early?
I started walking around aimlessly, searching for his red hair. I found out
quickly, there were quite a few red heads here. Okay, time for a new strategy.
Try the tents. Maybe, he isn't even up yet.
I made my way toward the multiple tents I saw in the field. I walked through
them for a few minutes. Finally, I spotted very familiar red hair. Yes!
Thankfully, Emmett had his back to me. He was sitting on a large boulder. From
the way he was hunched over, presumably putting on his shoes. Perfect!
I snuck up behind him and put my hands over his eyes. Unfair, I know. Emmett
paused for a second, probably wondering what lunatic was behind him. Did he
think it was Daphne?
Emmett's hands came up and covered mine. He felt my hands for a second.
Suddenly, Emmett turned around and saw me. A huge smile erupted on his face.
Good sign…
"Surprise!" I signed. He grabbed me and hauled me in for a kiss. When he
pulled back, Emmett asked, still grinning, "What're you doing here?" Making
sure Daphne stays away from my man!
"I missed you," I told him, semi-truthfully. I had missed him, but….
"You missed me?" Emmett said, clearly glad to see me. I smiled and we
nuzzled.
I was getting ready to say more, but then I heard, "Well, hey!" I looked up
and saw Toby and Daphne heading our way. Toby was surprised. Daphne just looked
pissed. HA!
"Hey!" I said brightly. Two can play this game Daphne!
Looking directly at Daphne, I made sure she got the full force of my next
words. Keeping a posessive arm around Emmett, I said, "Oh, yeah! I heard you
were coming here. I thought I should stop by. It's a party, I should come too."
I had slowly been creeping my other arm around Emmett while I spoke.
Daphne couldn't hear the sarcasm and venom in my voice, but Toby could. He
looked between us, trying to figure things out. Then, he seemed to get it. Big
bro, you know me too well…
"Just came to support the guys," Daphne told me, shrugging as she did so.
Uh-huh! Rrrriiiigggghhhtttt…. Tell that to someone who's man you AREN'T
trying to steal!
From behind me, I heard a tent zipper open. Turning to look, I saw
Wilkie…with full on bedhead! The sight made me want to laugh.
"Just couldn't stay away, could you?" Wilkie said to Daphne. She snickered
and smiled.
That's right, Wilkie! Distract her, please!
Emmett pulled me close, and snickered softly into my hair. I understood that
just because he had spoken to me before, didn't mean he was going to continue
doing it. I loved the small sounds that would escape him periodically though.
A chuckle, a sigh…
I loved those moments….
#----------------------------
After Daphne and Toby walked away, I used that opportunity to change my
clothes and brush down my hair. I put my gel in and grabbed my shoes. Looking
around, I didn't see Toby or Daphne. Good….
Sitting down on the boulder in front of my tent, I started to put on my
shoes. I had one on and was starting the other, when suddenly, hands covered my
eyes. Confusion set in. Who had their hands in front of my eyes? Wasn't Daphne,
she knew better. Reaching up, I felt the hands tentatively.
Hmmm, small and dainty. Short nails. Definitely female. Soft hands that
smelled like paint….
Paint! Could it be? Whirling around, I came face to face with Bay. Now
her, I didn't mind being this close to! I smiled widely.
"Surprise!" she signed. You bet! In the best possible way…
I was so excited to see her, I grabbed Bay and hauled her in for a kiss.
Pulling back, I asked her excitedly, "What're you doing here?" Not that I was
going to complain in the least….
"I missed you," she signed. Me too!
"You missed me?" I replied jokingly. She smiled and we nuzzled.
I think she wanted to say more, but then she turned her head . Looking in the
same direction, I saw Daphne and Toby returning. Toby looked pleased to see Bay.
Daphne didn't. I shrugged it off. Probably still angry about the whole tent
deal…
"Hey!" I saw her say. Toby must have been talking to Bay.
I saw Bay, still grinning, say to them, "Oh, yeah! I heard you were coming
here. I thought I should stop by. It's a party." Definitely!
"Just came to support the guys," I saw Daphne tell Bay. Why does she look
unhappy?
A movement to my side caused me to look in that direction. Bay also turned to
look. I saw Wilkie…with full on bedhead!
"Just couldn't stay away, could you?" Wilkie said, presumably to Daphne.
I pulled Bay closer, and snickered into her hair. Wilkie looks worst than I
do in the morning. I couldn't not laugh at it!
I felt Bay's answering laugh.
I love these moments….
#------------------------------
After that bit of awkwardness with Wilkie and his hair, everything seemed to
lighten up. Wilkie flirted outrageously with Daphne. Daphne was thoroughly
distracted, and Toby was busy making sure his buddy didn't try to cop a
feel...and that was just fine with me. The further she stayed from my man, the
happier I would stay. Emmett and I were still wrapped around each other.
Resisting the urge to yawn and rub my eyes, I turned back to Emmett, who was
watching Daphne with a sort of concerned look on his face.
So he doesn't trust Wilkie? Smart man. I was actually dying to ask him
about his Wilkie text from yesterday, so I tapped him to get his attention. Once
Emmett looked at me, I signed "Come on! Why don't we walk around and search for
food."
Emmett nodded and signed to the rest of the group, "We'll be back in a
while."
Daphne translated to the boys. They nodded and winked at us. I fought the
urge to roll my eyes. Immature brats….
I disentangled myself slowly from my boyfriend. The lack of sleep was
starting to get to me. If I got some food in my system, it would help a lot.
Standing up, I thought, So far so good, until my world spun slightly and
became blurry at the edges. Somehow, I managed to stay on my feet. I just hoped
he didn't notice me almost falling back on top of him.
I watched him get to his feet to stand beside me. He didn't seem to notice,
but there was a look in his eyes. He was studying me, almost as if he was
cataloging me. The last time he looked at me like that, was when I showed him my
bruises...crap, gotta distract him.
Not giving him too much time to ponder anything else, I grabbed his hand,
heading in the direction of the fairway. Please, don't let him notice me
swaying!
As we walked around, I put my arm through Emmett's for better balance. He
looked down at me, concern on his face. I smiled and pulled him forward. I
just need some food…and coffee!
We came up to a tent that was selling pancakes and eggs. Perfect! Best
of all, they even had coffee!
"Do you want to eat here?" I asked Emmett. He nodded and signed, "Those look
good," meaning the pancakes. When we got to the front of the line, I ordered two
pancake breakfasts and two coffees.
"$7.00," the guy told me. Emmett pulled out his wallet and handed him the
money before I could. Once we had food in hand, we found an empty table to sit
at. I dug right in, hoping the food would make my head stop spinning.
Emmett watched me wolf down my food, smiling slightly. Sheepishly, I slowed
down. Great Bay! Now he probably thinks you eat like a vaccuum!
"Hungry?" Emmett asked.
"Starving. I haven't eaten since last night," I told him, starting on my
coffee.
Emmett looked concerned again. "Is that why you almost fell back on top of me
when you stood up earlier?"
Drat! I was hoping he hadn't noticed that. I forgot Emmett notices
everything, no matter what.
"I didn't get a lot of sleep last night," I admitted. "I really wanted to see
you, so I left at 3 this morning."
Emmett scowled. "You could have got in an accident." I blushed slightly. He
was right. I could have.
"But, I didn't. I'm here in one piece," I told him, smiling widely.
Emmett stared at me dubiously. "Why did you want to get here so early anyway?
We aren't playing till later."
I almost choked on my coffee. Watching him carefully, I signed, "Can't a girl
surprise her boyfriend without 20 questions?"
Emmett silently chuckled. Holding his hands up in surrender, he signed,
"Okay, I'm sorry. You're right. I missed you too, by the way."
Inwardly, I blew out a breath. That was too close!
Deciding the subject needed to be changed, I asked, "So, what was the deal
with Wilkie yesterday?"
Emmett shook his head. "He tricked us to get us out here. We aren't getting
anywhere near "Cold War Kids." We are on a stage that sucks and Wilkie thinks it
will be good publicity. Hence, the text."
I had to agree with Emmett. Wilkie was an ass! Why the hell is my
brother still friends with that reject?
"Wanna head back and cuddle in your tent?" I asked Emmett.
He stood so fast my head spun, and not from lack of sleep!
We dropped our plates in the garbage and walked hand in hand back toward the
tents. Now that I had food in my system, I didn't feel nearly as lightheaded as
before. Of course, being around Emmett always made my head spin, anyway!
When we got to his tent, thankfully Daphne wasn't around. Maybe Wilkie
dragged her off somewhere. I could only hope.
We crawled in and Emmett zipped it shut. Before I could blink, Emmett grabbed
me and pulled me on top of him. He kissed me passionately. I returned the kiss
just as passionately.
We ran hands through hair, hands over body parts, hands everywhere. I could
feel Emmett's arousal through his jeans. I pulled my legs up on either side of
his hips, straddling him and ground against him, causing him to pull back.
"We can't. Not here," he signed.
I understood what he was saying, but that didn't mean I wanted to stop.
Huffing, I instead cuddled up to his chest. Closing my eyes, I listened to the
steady rhythm of his heart.
#----------------------------
After Wilkie's hair laugh, everything calmed down. Wilkie was flirting
outrageously with Daphne. Toby had the "big brother" look. The one that said he
would kill his friend if he did something inappropriate. Bay and I were still
wrapped around each other.
I couldn't help but be concerned that Wilkie would hurt Daphne. He's
definitely a player, and I certainly didn't want Daphne coming out the loser. As
I was watching Daphne, I saw Bay turn. She tapped my arm. Once I turned my focus
to her, she signed "Come on! Why don't we walk around and search for food."
Sounds good to me. I nodded and signed to the rest of the group, "We'll be
back in a while."
I saw Daphne translated to the boys. They nodded and winked at us.
Immature jackasses….
Bay disentangled herself from my arms. Standing up, she seemed to sway on her
feet. I put my arms out slightly to catch her if she fell. But, she regained her
balance. Was she alright?
I stood up next to her. I looked her over closely. Bay had dark circles under
her eyes, and she was very wobbly. She kept fighting yawns. I doubt she knew she
was doing it. Hadn't she slept at all?
Suddenly, Bay grabbed my hand, and started heading in the direction of the
fairway. As we walked around, Bay put her arm through mine. I looked down at
her, concerned. Bay just smiled and pulled me forward.
We came up to a tent that was selling pancakes and eggs. Bay stopped in front
of it.
"Do you want to eat here?" She asked me. I nodded. Looking at the menu I
signed, "Those look good," meaning the pancakes. When we got to the front of the
line, Bay ordered two pancake breakfasts and two coffees. Normally, I didn't
like when someone did that, but I let it go.
"$7.00," the guy said. Being a gentleman, I pulled out my wallet and handed
him the money before Bay could. Once we had food in hand, we found an empty
table to sit at. I watched Bay dive in, practically inhaling her food. I ate
mine at a slightly more leisurely pace. I smiled at her enthusiasm. Bay noticed
and slowed down, blushing as she did so.
"Hungry?" I asked jokingly.
"Starving. I haven't eaten since last night," she told me, starting on her
coffee.
That might explain earlier. "Is that why you almost fell back on top
of me when you stood up earlier?" I asked her. She flinched slightly.
"I didn't get a lot of sleep last night," she admitted. "I really wanted to
see you, so I left at 3 this morning."
Was she crazy? I scowled at her. "You could have got in an accident."
Bay blushed again.
"But, I didn't. I'm here in one piece," she said, smiling widely. That did
not appease me in the least!
I stared at Bay dubiously. Why the big rush? "Why did you want to get here so
early anyway? We aren't playing till later."
I watched her face. She was hiding something. Something she didn't want me to
know.
My suspicion was confirmed when she signed, "Can't a girl surprise her
boyfriend without 20 questions?"
I silently chuckled. Okay, have it your way! Holding my hands up in
surrender, I told her, "Okay, I'm sorry. You're right. I missed you too, by the
way."
Suddenly Bay asked, "So, what was the deal with Wilkie yesterday?"
Changing the subject now, huh?
I shook my head. Where do I start? "He tricked us to get us out here. We
aren't getting anywhere near "Cold War Kids." We are on a stage that sucks and
Wilkie thinks it will be good publicity. Hence, the text."
Bay nodded. She's known Wilkie longer than me, so doesn't need a long
explanation, thankfully.
Bay looked at me, mischief in her eyes. "Wanna head back and cuddle in your
tent?"
Hell yeah! I stood so fast, I almost knocked off the plates sitting on
the table.
We dropped our plates in the garbage and walked hand in hand back toward the
tents. Bay was definitely steadier on her feet now. That was a good sign. She
needs to take better care of herself!
When we got to my tent, thankfully no one else was around. I didn't need Toby
pulling his "big brother" glare on me!
We crawled in and I zipped it shut. Before Bay could react, I grabbed her and
pulled her on top of me. I started kissing her passionately. Bay returned the
kiss with equal vigor.
We ran hands through hair, hands over body parts, hands everywhere. I was
getting painfully aroused feeling her body against mine. I wanted release so
badly! Bay pulled her legs up on either side of my hips, straddling me. Then she
ground herself against me. Okay! Have to stop before this gets out of
control. I pulled back to look at Bay. She was flushed and panting.
"We can't. Not here," I signed. My arousal was still hard and throbbing.
Stopping was the hardest thing I've ever done. But, we had to…
Bay looked irritated, but she nodded unconsciously. Then she cuddled up to my
chest. I watched her close her eyes. A few minutes later, I could feel Bay's
breathing slowing down. I glanced down and found her asleep. Good…
Holding her in my arms, I thought back to a few minutes ago. We haven't
discussed that part of our relationship yet. I wanted her. Lord, how I
wanted her. But, it had to be at the right time. Not here.
Someday…..
#------------------------------
I opened my eyes feeling more rested than before. Emmett still had his arms
around me. I noticed more people moving around outside. Had I fallen asleep? I
looked up at Emmett and saw him smile. I smiled back.
"Feeling better?" he asked.
Feeling sheepish, more like. " I fell asleep?" I asked.
Emmett grinned at me. "5 hours ago." 5 hours! That would make it close
to 1pm!
"You stayed here the whole time?" I asked him, incredulously.
He nodded. "You're so cute asleep. By the way, you drool," he said, mocking
wiping saliva off his shirt.
Affronted, I hit his chest. "Do not!" I countered. Emmett just kept grinning.
Jerk!
Sitting up more, I shook my hair back and straightened out my clothes, which
had gotten twisted up at some point. Emmett sat up as well, and adjusted his
clothing as well. Looking more closely at his shirt, I thought I saw a slight
damp spot. Maybe I do drool….
Suddenly, my stomach growled loudly. I blushed bright red. Glad he didn't
hear that!
"I'm gonna need some more food," I told him.
Emmett chuckled. "Your wish is my command," he signed cheekily.
I rolled my eyes at him. He's been around Wilkie too much here….
We made our way out of the tent and found some restrooms. After that, we
headed toward the food again. We got in line at a Mexican Food stall.
While we waited, I told him about the disastrous meeting with Angelo. Emmett
pulled out his phone and was typing his order.
"Regina talked Dad into letting her go with me, instead of him. So, we all go
to this jazz club and it goes from a family reunion, to like, a total meltdown,
in like 3 seconds!" I told him. He continued typing, but smiled at my
description. "Apparently, I am the spawn of not 1 hothead, but 2!"
Emmett smiled at this. "You're up," I told him.
The vendor asked what Emmett wanted. He showed him his phone. As the guy
turned to get our order, he asked what kind of sauce he wanted. Emmett just
stared at him, waiting for the food. He turned back toward us and asked again.
Emmett tried to tell him he couldn't hear him and to slow down and ask again,
but the guy was getting impatient.
I tried to let Emmett handle it, but, panic set in and I froze with fear. I
could hear people behind us growing impatient as well.
"You know what? He'll just take the green," I told the guy quickly. I swore I
could feel Emmett's eyes burning into me. I was just trying to help!
Emmett paid the guy and then turned towards me. He didn't look happy.
"I'm on in 10. I gotta go," he told me, handing me the bag. I watched him
walk away from me, feeling like I had just screwed up royally.
He couldn't be that mad, could he?
#------------------------------------
5 hours later, Bay began to stir. She opened her eyes and looked around,
before looking up at me. I smiled at her. She returned the smile. She really is
adorable when she first wakes up.
"Feeling better?" I asked.
She blushed. " I fell asleep?"
I just grinned at her. "5 hours ago." I saw the horror cross her face.
"You stayed here the whole time?" Bay asked, clearly shocked.
I nodded. "You're so cute asleep. By the way, you drool," I said, wiping
saliva off my shirt.
Her jaw dropped. Suddenly, she hit my chest. "Do not!" she countered. I just
kept grinning.
Sitting up more, Bay shook back her hair and straightened out her clothes,
which I may have helped get that way. I sat up as well, and adjusted my own
clothing as well.
Suddenly, I saw Bay blush bright red. What happened?
"I'm gonna need some more food," she then informed me. Ahhh! Her stomach
growled…
I couldn't help the chuckle that escaped me. "Your wish is my command," I
signed cheekily.
Bay, of course, rolled her eyes at me. What?
We made our way out of the tent and found some restrooms. After that, we
headed toward the food again. We got in line at a Mexican Food stall.
While we stood waiting, Bay told me about the disastrous meeting with Angelo.
I pulled out my phone to type my order.
"Regina talked Dad into letting her go with me, instead of him. So, we all go
to this jazz club and it goes from a family reunion, to like, a total meltdown,
in like 3 seconds!" she was telling me. I kept typing, but smiled at the visual
her description caused. "Apparently, I am the spawn of not 1 hothead, but 2!"
I really had to smile at that statement. She certainly is…. "You're
up," she told me.
The vendor asked what I wanted. I showed him my phone. I had typed, "two
chicken tamales." He turned to fill the order. I just stared at him, waiting for
the food. He turned back toward us and asked something, but his lips moved too
fast for me to catch. I pointed to my ear, to tell him I couldn't hear him. The
guy spoke too fast again. This time he held up two containers. One had red stuff
and one had green stuff.
Read my lips! I can't hear you, asshole! I mimed talking and tried to
get him to slow down.
Suddenly, I saw Bay tell him, "You know what? He'll just take the green." I
glared at her hotly.
I was irritated now. How dare she step in like that! I don't need help! I
paid the guy and then turned toward Bay. I needed to get away from here.
"I'm on in 10. I gotta go," I told her, handing her the bag. I walked away,
leaving her standing there.
I'm not freaking disabled, ya know!
#----------------------------
After Emmett walked away, I felt terrible. I really wanted to talk to the
tamale guy and tell him what a jerk he was. But, honestly, had I been much
better? I had only been trying to help. I didn't understand why Emmett got so
upset. Doesn't he like help?
I made my way over to the stage the boys were playing on. There was a large
crowd gathered, and quite a few looked like they were already wasted. Toby was
announcing the band. I saw Emmett looking out into the crowd. Was he looking for
me….or Daphne? The boys started their set. I situated myself where Emmett would
see me. He finally saw me. I smiled up at him. The crowd was really loud and
obnoxious. They kept throwing things on stage. The boys just kept on playing
though.
Time for my surprise! I pulled the sweater I had on off. Underneath, I
had painted a shirt with the words, "I'm with the drummer!" on it. I signed, "I
love you" to show my support of the band as well. I pulled the shirt down, so
Emmett could read it. He smiled after he saw it, and went back to focusing on
the beat.
"This band sucks!" I heard a guy say behind me. Turning to look, I saw a guy
who was definitely three sheets to the wind. He had a beer in his hand. I was
nauseated by the beer smell emanating off of him.
"Shut up! They're awesome, you jerk!" I told the guy. He looked at me in
surprise.
"I'm with the drummer?" the guy said, reading my shirt. He then laughed. "Ha!
He's the worst one up there. You should find a real man, girlie," he said,
licking his lips.
"Screw you, asshole! You wouldn't know talent if it bit you in the ass!" I
retorted. Outside, I was brave. Inside, I was quaking.
"Whatever," drunk guy said, walking away.
I looked up on stage to see if Emmett had noticed. He had. His face was
concerned. I waved at him, showing I was okay. He nodded.
I knew he would ask later.
The boys finished their songs. ¾ of the people took off before the 3rd song.
Only a handful was left at the end. I looked around, but didn't see Daphne. Had
she taken off too? That was surprising…
#---------------------------------
After walking away from Bay, I made my way to "D" stage. I wasn't mad so
much, as disappointed. I thought Bay knew me well enough to realize I don't need
someone to help me. I've managed fine for years before she even came along.
Maybe, I owed her an apology….
"Hey, there you are, man!" Toby said when I got close enough to read his
lips.
"Sorry," I told him.
Toby just brushed it off. "No problem. Are we ready to rock?" he asked.
Wilkie made the rock out sign. I returned it and got on stage.
There was already a large crowd gathering below us. I looked for Bay and
Daphne in the crowd. I saw Daphne below us, and she smiled when she saw me. I
gave her a small smile back, but, my eyes still searched for Bay. Even though we
just had that happen, I knew she would still come to support us, support me….
I couldn't see what Toby was saying, but, apparently the crowd didn't like
whatever he was telling them. They started throwing things on stage. Toby
quickly turned to me. I clicked the beat off, and we started playing. The crowd
still looked restless.
Finally, I saw Bay. She was smiling, so I guess she wasn't mad about earlier.
I smiled back.
I kept my eyes on Bay. She pulled the sweater she had on off and I saw her
sign "I love you" up at us. I was shocked for a second. I thought she was
directing it at me. We haven't had that talk either. Not that I didn't
love her, cause I do. She pulled the 2nd shirt down. "I'm with the drummer!" was
on it. I smiled at her thoughtfulness. I went back to focusing on the beat.
I saw Bay turn toward a large guy behind her. They looked like they were
arguing. I watched them closely. If he did anything to Bay…..
Finally, drunk guy walked away. Bay looked shaken. I was going to find out
what was said…
Bay looked up at me. I asked with my eyes if she was okay. She waved, so I
guess that meant everything was fine. I nodded to let her know I understood.
By the time we finished the songs. ¾ of the people had taken off before the
3rd song. Only a handful was left at the end. I looked around, seeing Bay still
there, but no Daphne. Had she taken off too? That was surprising…
#--------------------------------
After the boys finished, the crowd dispersed. Now it was time to pack
everything back up. They had planned to stay tonight and head home in the
morning. What they hadn't planned on was 2 roommates.
Where were Daphne and I going to sleep? I assumed I would be with Emmett,
but, didn't want to make him uncomfortable. What if he didn't want me in with
him? I could always share with Toby if I had to, I supposed. Wilkie was
definitely NO!
I didn't mention my thoughts to Emmett as they packed up. I was too nervous.
Plus, after earlier, maybe he was still upset. I figured I'd let him make that
move. If it came down to it, I would sleep in the car.
Finally, they had everything loaded again and ready to go. Emmett came up to
me. He took hold of my arm and looked me over from top to bottom.
"Are you okay?" he asked me, still holding my arm. I knew what he was asking
about.
"I'm fine. Guy was just being a jerk," I told him. He looked unconvinced.
"Really! Everything is fine."
He pulled me closer. "Come on, let's walk," he said. He looked irritated.
We made our way through the booths from earlier. As we passed the tamale guy,
Emmett froze. I watched him closely. He looked angry, but then kept walking.
Okay…..time for a distraction.
"You guys were awesome today!" I told him, animatedly.
Emmett looked at me, unconvinced. "Why did so many people leave then?" he
asked.
"The good news is that the, uh, people who stayed are your "hardcore fans," I
told him brightly. Emmett chuckled silently. But, it wasn't a happy chuckle.
What else can I tell him?
Behind us, I heard a guy start talking loudly. He sounds familiar….
Suddenly, drunk guy was right behind us, and said, "Hey! I know you. You're
the drummer from that band that sucked!" He came around to the front of us.
Emmett saw him and kept walking past. Then the jerk grabbed Emmett's shirt and
said, belligerently, "Hey, buddy I was promised a drink!"
The fear I felt from dealing with the jerk before, compelled me to jump in
front of Emmett and break the guys contact. I wanted to protect Emmett from this
asshole any way I could. "Whoa, he is deaf, you moron. Leave him alone!"
Emmett looked between the two of us. I knew he recognized him.
Drunk guy backed away like we were contagious or something. "Seriously?" he
said, before making a quick exit.
Emmett turned toward me. His eyes were blazing with anger. "What'd you say to
him?" he asked.
Right away, I knew I had screwed up, again. This time I knew I was in
trouble. I stared at him, trying to find the right words.
Emmett asked again, "What did you say to that guy?" He was staring me down.
"I said you were deaf," I said finally.
Instead of answering me, Emmett got a disbelieving look on his face and
walked away. I let him go, knowing he wouldn't want to talk to me. Better to let
him cool off.
What a fine mess this is…
#--------------------------------------
After the set was finished, the crowd dispersed. We needed to start packing
up to get ready to leave in the morning. Now, however, we also needed to find
places for 2 unexpected guests.
Bay would most definitely be with me. Daphne? Probably with Wilkie, if he had
his way.
As we packed up, I thought about earlier. If Bay was with me, I could talk to
her about earlier. Maybe, if she understood why I didn't like people doing stuff
like that, it wouldn't happen again.
Finally, we had everything loaded again and ready to go. Immediately, I
walked over to Bay, who had been waiting patiently. Daphne was still MIA, but
she wasn't who I was concerned about right now. I took hold of Bay's arm and
looked her over from top to bottom. Good, drunk guy hadn't touched her.
"Are you okay?" I asked, just to be sure.
"I'm fine. Guy was just being a jerk," she told me. I was not convinced.
"Really! Everything is fine."
I pulled her closer to me. "Come on, let's walk," I told her. I hate when she
doesn't give me straight answers!
We made our way through the booths from earlier. As we passed the booth with
the tamale guy, I froze. I could feel Bay's eyes on me. Not the time….
Angrily, I kept walking.
"You guys were awesome today!" she told me, grinning.
Scoffing, I replied, "Why did so many people leave then?"
Trying to make me feel better, I'm sure, Bay replied, "The good news is that
the people who stayed are your "hardcore fans," I chuckled silently. If only
she knew what was really on my mind…..
Suddenly, to my left, I saw the drunk guy that was harassing Bay earlier. I
caught the words, "drummer from that band that sucked!" Belligerent asshole!
I kept walking. No way was I dealing with him right now. Suddenly, I felt my
shirt being jerked back and I was being pulled around. I shoved the guy off.
Next thing will be my fist! I caught, "promised a drink!" before black curly
hair impaired my vision.
I looked between Bay the drunk guy. Suddenly, he backed away, stating,
"Seriously?" before beating a hasty retreat. What the hell had she told
him?
I faced Bay. Anger oozed out of my pores. "What'd you say to him?"
Bay just stared at me. Answer me, damn it!
"What did you say to that guy?" I asked again, anger barely in check.
"I said you were deaf," she finally stated.
My fury reached a whole new level. Knowing if I didn't walk away, it would
get ugly, I gave her a disgusted look and walked away. I knew she wouldn't
follow me.
#-----------------------------
I wandered around the festival aimlessly for hours. Should I just go back
home? I've caused so much damage with Emmett. He probably doesn't even want me
here anymore.
I saw Toby chatting up some girls and headed his way. He smiled and waved at
my approach.
"Hey, sis! Where you been?" he asked me.
"I'm going to head home. I need to get out of here," I told him.
Something in my face must have alerted him, because Toby told the girls,
"Nice talking to you. Family stuff, ya know?" before talking my arm and pulling
me toward some trees.
"I didn't want you to stop talking. I just wanted to let you know I was
leaving, so you didn't worry."
"Talk to me, sis. What happened?" Toby asked with concern.
"I don't really want to talk about it. It was stupid and I messed up badly,"
I told him.
"With Emmett?" Toby said softly.
I scoffed. "When don't I mess something up with him?" I replied instead.
I talked Toby into practicing ASL with me. His signing was weak, but getting
better. We practiced for a little while, before I decided to go find Emmett. I
hoped he had time to cool down. I know Emmett was angry as hell earlier. Please,
don't let him be angry at me anymore….
#-------------------------
I wandered aimlessly, my anger mounting. Didn't she know anything about me?
Didn't Bay realize I hate when people treat my deafness like a shield?
"It's okay. He's deaf. He doesn't know anything."
Granted, I knew that's not what she said, but still…..
Maybe I'd find Daphne. Yeah, she'd know how to handle this. I needed someone
with more experience dealing with hearing people than I had.
I texted her phone, but got no reply. Where is she?
My wandering took me down by the lake. I saw two people playing in the water.
I almost walked away, when I realized it was Daphne in the water,
with….Wilkie? That didn't take long. Realizing I wouldn't get to talk to
her now, I headed back toward the tents.
Maybe, I can get Mom to come get me? I knew I didn't want to stay here
anymore. I was walking past some trees, when curly, black hair caught my eye.
Hiding behind a tree, I saw Bay and Toby. What were they…? Oh! Bay must be
helping Toby with ASL. There is just random words going between them.
I take a good look at Bay's face. She is sad with a hint of loathing on her
features. I almost wanted to talk to her, but not in front of Toby. I didn't
know what, if anything, she had told him. Backing away, I left them alone.
Making my way back to my tent, I again contemplated getting a hold of Mom. I
pulled out my phone to do so, but stopped. The picture of Bay that I use as my
phone background was displayed. I stared at it.
No, if I leave again, it would be the end. I knew that. We had to talk about
it. I was still so angry though….
To distract myself, I started straightening out my tent.
#-------------------------------------
It's now or never….
I made my way to Emmett's tent. If he wasn't there, I would wait for him. As
luck would have it, he was straightening his sleeping bag, totally focusing on
that. He didn't see me coming. I tapped his shoulder. Emmett glanced up and
froze. Then he stood up fully, and stepped in front of me.
How to start? Start simple….
"I'm sorry, okay? I was scared and I didn't know what to do," I told him
simply.
Emmett still looked angry. Maybe he hasn't calmed down yet. Suddenly,
this felt like a bad idea.
"Don't you think that's happened to me a million times? Don't you think I can
handle it without my hearing girlfriend coming to the rescue?" Emmett asked,
anger and hurt evident on his face.
"Okay! Which part bothers you? The hearing or the girl?" I asked him. Was he
really that pissed off that I helped him? I was now angry as well.
"Both," he answered. I almost walked away right there. Really? That's how you
feel, huh?
"You may have had this happen before, but, I haven't. And you cannot get mad
at me for not knowing what to do!" I realized my signing was matching my mood.
"Don't use my deafness as a defense," was his comeback.
I deflated. Did he really think I did that? Is that what he thought of me?
Two can play this game.
"But, as a sales hook it's okay?"
Emmett looked confused, so I elaborated. "You didn't care when Wilkie sold
you guys as the band with the deaf drummer."
"That's different," he retorted. Different!
"So, how am I suppose to know the rules?" I responded.
Emmett deflated. "Stick around, I guess." Was he afraid I would leave?
Did he really think I would give up that easily? I ignored the voice telling
me I had tried to.
"I will," I told him honestly. I wouldn't be going anywhere. I pulled him
into a hug. I missed his arms around me. I hate fighting with him…
I realized we needed to talk about tamale guy, too. Pulling back, I said,
"Okay. I have another question."
Emmett watched me, not responding. Taking a deep breath, I asked, "The
tamales? I know that you were mad that I ordered for you. But, I was just trying
to help. Why is that not okay to help?"
Emmett grabbed Daphne, who just happened to walk by at that moment. I heard
her say, "Excuse me." Emmett looked at her and signed, "Will you interpret for
us?"
Daphne nodded and stood waiting. Great! Let's get Daphne involved…
I watched Emmett as he began signing. I listened to his words through Daphne.
"Pointing and texting and gesturing is how I connect to the world. So, that
guy had to stop and figure out how to engage with me without talking. So what?
He'll survive. If he's uncomfortable with me, that's his problem. But, most
people aren't. They figure it out. I'm different. It's okay."
As Emmett stood waiting for my response, I came to a realization. Daphne had
been right before. I really didn't know him. I didn't know just how much things
like this bothered him. I just barreled into his life without looking at things
from his point of view.
I needed to do that, or we were doomed.
"Okay," I said simply. Tears threatened, but I wouldn't give in to them.
Emmett thanked Daphne and she walked away. He continued to watch me. I knew then
that our relationship just got more complicated. When I can't even have a
personal discussion with my boyfriend without Daphne translating, I know I'm
screwed.
I walked around Emmett and sat in front of the boulder by his tent. Emmett
gave me a long look.
"I wish we didn't need Daphne," I told him, angry at myself.
Emmett walked over and sat down beside me. "Someday, we won't."
I wasn't convinced. He took my hand, and I leaned into him. We looked up at
the night sky.
In the background, I could hear Wilkie telling obnoxious jokes and these
drunk girls near us laughing loudly. I scoffed at their rudeness.
"Peaceful, isn't it?" Emmett asked a few seconds later. If only you
could hear what I hear, you wouldn't be thinking that…
"Not really," I said shortly. He looked at me, clearly wanting me to
elaborate. "Wilkie's making fart jokes, and there's some drunk girls over there.
They're being idiots."
Emmett shook his head. "How do you do it?" Do what?
"What do you mean?" I asked, confused.
"I can't imagine a world in which I couldn't check out sometimes. Seems like
it's gotta suck."
"Yeah. It actually does," I agreed.
We sat back and continued to gaze at the stars.
#---------------------------
I had just started straightening my sleeping bag, when I felt a tap on my
shoulder. Looking up, I froze. Bay stood there. Guess I ran out of time…
Standing to my full height, I moved in front of Bay and waited.
She seemed to gather her thoughts, before she said, "I'm sorry, okay? I was
scared and I didn't know what to do." Do? She didn't have to do anything!
Angry and hurt, I asked, "Don't you think that's happened to me a million
times? Don't you think I can handle it without my hearing girlfriend coming to
the rescue?"
"Okay! Which part bothers you? The hearing or the girl?" she asked him. I
could tell she was now angry as well.
Honestly? "Both," I flung at her. She looked like I slapped her.
"You may have had this happen before, but, I haven't. And you cannot get mad
at me for not knowing what to do!" Bay replied, her signing quick and precise.
"Don't use my deafness as a defense!" I told her, angry at her stupidity.
Don't use it as a crutch or something to hide behind!
Bay stepped back and glared. "But, as a sales hook it's okay?"
What the hell? She continued with, "You didn't care when Wilkie sold
you guys as the band with the deaf drummer."
"That's different," I retorted. Those were special circumstances.
"So, how am I suppose to know the rules?" she asked.
I stared at her. Would this be what pushed her away? Was this relationship
too much for her to handle? Hesitantly, I said, "Stick around, I guess." I held
my breath, waiting for her answer.
"I will," Bay said, honesty radiating off her face. I let out the breath. Bay
pulled me into a hug. I missed her arms around me. I hate fighting with her…
I knew we weren't done talking yet, when Bay pulled back, and said, "I have
another question."
I stood waiting. Then, she said, "The tamales? I know that you were mad that
I ordered for you. But, I was just trying to help. Why is that not okay to
help?"
I saw Daphne coming toward us. I was going to need her help. As she walked
by, I grabbed her arm. I asked her, "Will you interpret for us?"
Daphne nodded and stood waiting. Okay, now to make Bay understand things
from my point of view.
Bay watched me and listened to Daphne.
"Pointing and texting and gesturing is how I connect to the world. So, that
guy had to stop and figure out how to engage with me without talking. So what?
He'll survive. If he's uncomfortable with me, that's his problem. But, most
people aren't. They figure it out. I'm different. It's okay."
As I waited for her response, I came to a realization. We had entered this
relationship without really understanding each other's cultures and values. We
never took the time to see things from each other's points of view.
I especially needed to do that, or we were doomed.
"Okay," Bay said simply. I could see her eyes shimmering with tears. I
thanked Daphne and she walked away. I continued to stare at Bay. I knew, in her
mind, that things were more complicated. I didn't want to bring Daphne into our
business, but Bay had to understand how I felt.
Bay walked around me. For a second, I panicked. Was she leaving now? Did this
push her over the edge? I turned around hesitantly. I breathed a sigh of relief
when I saw she had just sat in front of the boulder.
"I wish we didn't need Daphne," she said, clearly angry at herself.
I walked over and sat down beside her. "Someday, we won't."
She didn't seemed convinced. I took her hand, and she leaned into me. We
looked up at the night sky.
Staring at the night sky, I realized how different it was from home. No
street lights, just open sky. Very calming to the nerves. I looked at Bay.
"Peaceful, isn't it?"
"Not really," she said shortly. Okay, I missed something, apparently.
"Wilkie's making fart jokes, and there's some drunk girls over there. They're
being idiots."
Can't she ever just relax and let go? I shook my head. "How do you do it?"
"What do you mean?" she asked, confused by my question..
"I can't imagine a world in which I couldn't check out sometimes. Seems like
it's gotta suck."
"Yeah. It actually does," she agreed.
We sat back and continued to gaze at the stars.
#------------------------------
Later on, we discussed sleeping arrangements. Emmett didn't find it funny
when I suggested I might bed down with Wilkie. He all but hauled me into his
lap, and tickled me till I relented to sleep in his tent with him. That had been
my plan anyway. He he he!
I got ready for bed in the restrooms and headed back toward Emmett's tent. He
was already inside, waiting for me. I saw Daphne getting her bag ready to go.
She was sharing Wilkie's tent. Toby had told him if he didn't behave, he'd put
his balls in a vice.
Wilkie promised to stay on his best behavior.
As I started to walk past Daphne, she stopped me. "Hey! How did it go with
Angelo and my mom?"
Really? "It was incredibly weird," I told her.
"What do you mean?" she asked, clearly confused.
Next, I did what I always do when nervous or panicked. I rambled. I started
talking about how our lives would have been like this, but not really. How
everything was so messed up no matter what family we were in and how screwy
everything felt.
After I finished my ramble, I asked Daphne if she caught any of what I said.
I really didn't feel like repeating it if she hadn't.
"Yeah, I got it," she answered, surprising me.
We shared an understanding moment before bidding each other good night and
heading into our separate tents for the night.
After I climbed in, Emmett pulled back his sleeping bag and I crawled in next
to him. I cuddled, facing his chest. His arms were tight around me. I felt him
kiss my hair.
Pulling back, I signed, "I really am glad I came today."
He chuckled. "I'm glad you came today, too." Then he leaned in and kissed me.
And, I knew then, that everything was okay.
We fell asleep, wrapped in each other's arms.
#------------------------------
Much later, we discussed sleeping arrangements. When I asked if she was
sharing my tent, Bay made the suggestion of her sharing Wilkie's tent. I was
NOT amused by that. I grabbed her and hauled her into my lap, tickling
her until her face turned red and she finally agreed to sleep in my tent with
me. The devious look she gave me made me think she had planned that.
She went to get ready in the restroom, while I threw on sleep pants in her
absence. As I waited for her to return, I saw Daphne getting her bag ready
outside. She was the one sharing Wilkie's tent. Toby had told him if he didn't
behave, he'd put his balls in a vice.
Wilkie promised to stay on his best behavior.
I saw Bay stop in front of Daphne and they started talking. Bay's signing
became erratic. Something told me she was rambling. Hope Daphne knows what she
is telling her. They finished their conversation and Bay opened the tent door
and crawled in.
Once she had zipped it shut, I pulled back my sleeping bag and Bay crawled in
beside me. She cuddled up to me, facing my chest. I wrapped my arms tightly
around her. I kissed her hair softly.
Pulling back, Bay signed, "I really am glad I came today."
I chuckled. "I'm glad you came today, too." Then I leaned in and kissed her.
And, I knew then, that everything was okay.
We fell asleep, wrapped in each other's arms.
#-----------