Mouse (to River): Hey River, I see you're back from your excursion around the world... Looking to get your job back?
River (to Mouse): Yeah, if you don't mind. I'm pretty broke at the moment & could really use the money.
Mouse (to River): Fine... But, you're washing dishes. We had a big pastry order this morning, so dishes are piled up & Yvonne called out sick. So, go see Lisabeth, she's in the back with Nate. She'll tell you what to do.
River (to Mouse): Okay... and thanks, Emma.
Mouse (to River): Don't thank me yet... I'm still a little mad about how you left, but I'm not going to hold too much of a grudge.
River (to Mouse): Heh. Fair enough. I'll go get to work.
A few minutes later:
River (to Nathaniel): Hey... Are you Nate? Lisabeth told me to come help you with the cookies before I went back to the dishes. Whatcha need?
Nathaniel (to River): Jesus Christ's hairy balls! You scared the shit out of me! God... Uh... timer on the molasses cookies is about to go off. Could you stick them on the cooling racks? Oven mitts are hanging above there. Thanks.
River (to Nathaniel): Sorry about that. Didn't mean to scare you. I think I can handle doing all that.
Nathaniel (to River): Thanks. I, um, yeah. I think everything else is under control for now. Oh. Yeah. I'm Nate.
River (to Nathaniel): Hey Nate, I'm River... Hippie parents. Don't ask. You must be fairly new here? I've been out of the country for the past eight months.
Nathaniel (to River): Could be worse. I'm a Nathaniel Zachariah. Yeah. I've been here just about four months, I reckon.
River (to Nathaniel): Heh. River Jude... So, it seems we both have sadistic parents in the naming department. We should start a club… So, how you liking it? I mean, working here, not the name.
Nathaniel (to River): Uh, fine, even if it is ass-fucking early. Emma's great, the work is good, customers are alright... Um, can you move? Pastries behind you need to come out.
River (to Nathaniel): Oh yeah... I should probably get to the dishes, anyway. Um, you haven't met Mars, Emma's daughter, by any chance?
Nathaniel (to River): Mars? Yeah. Heh. She's the only person I know who can cuss me out.
River (to Nathaniel): Heh. That sounds like her... Is she doing okay?
Nathaniel (to River): Uh, she's having some trouble with dickhole teachers at school, but as far as I know.
River (to Nathaniel): Oh good. I mean, not good that she's got a dick for a teacher but good that she's okay. I should really get to those dishes.
Nathaniel (to River): Yeah. See you later.
An hour or so later:
Marlena (to Oliver): Oliver, I need the biggest fucking coffee you can make me. Hell, maybe use a pitcher or a bowl.
Oliver (to Marlena): Heh. I don't think we have a pitcher, but there's a mop bucket in the back. ;-) I'll see what I can do.
Marlena (to Oliver): Heh... You know, I was fucking kidding right? The mop bucket is totally going to kill the taste of the coffee.
Oliver (to Marlena): If you insist. I'll have something for you with multiple shots in just a minute.
Marlena (to Oliver): Thanks, Oliver, you're a fucking saint.
Oliver (to Marlena): I don't think I'm eligible for canonization considering... Oh. Heh. Because of the coffee. Of course. Here you are.
Marlena (to Oliver): Heh. It looks perfect... I'm going to sit in my favorite spot & do some homework.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Hey! Jesus. You look like fucking hell. Do you wanna a brownie? They came outta the oven like 15 minutes ago. Your mom put chipotle and some other damn spice in these... which I should probably know. They smell amazing.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Well, hello to you, too... and yes, I would love a fucking brownie.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh. Sorry. You look like a beautiful fucking flower. Better? Rough day at school?
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah. Not to mention I spent all night working on the triptych. I couldn't sleep until I got to a place I felt like stopping, which was not a good idea but when inspiration strikes, you sometimes just have to fucking go with it.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. Yeah. Must be tough being stupid talented. Oh. Yeah. There's a new guy washing dishes in the back asking after you. Well, new to me. Said he worked here before.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Really? ... Fat fucking Christ, it's not River, is it?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. That'd be the one.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... Well, shit. Could this day possibly get any work? ... Don't fucking answer that.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): I take it you're NOT real happy to find out he's back in town.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): No... Remember when I told you that I tried to date girls & it didn't work out? Well, he would be the reason why I gave it a shot.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Fat fuck! No wonder Lisbeth pawned his frat-boy ass off on me. That fucking sucks. Sorry.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... Is he still dressing like Dean fucking Winchester?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): You mean like he's about to do a photo shoot for an underwear company dressed as a "construction worker?" Yeah. Pretty much. Please. Please tell me he doesn't ride a motorcycle.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... I'm afraid so. I know, it's such a fucking cliché.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Ha ha ha! We all do cliché, shit. It's just when someone is being all *manufactured* about it that it drives me nuts. Heh. I should get back to work. Lemme know if you need anything. And, uh, would it be alright if I stopped by later?
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah, sure... you wanna come seen the paintings, huh?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah. Kinda. If that's OK. Heh. If you're gonna be flashing my man tits at your whole class, I wanna know what to expect.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Of course, you can fucking see them... But, I'm not using these for school. I wanted to get a nice collection together & try to get a gallery show.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Yeah? Shit, girl. You've got way more guts than I do. Fuck! I've gotta go. Lisbeth's giving me a look that could burn tar.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): I'll see you later.
A little while later:
Nathaniel (to River): What? Don't fucking hover. It's creepy. Tell Lisbeth I've got everything under control. I don't need any extra help.
River (to Nathaniel): Sorry. She keeps sending me over here... I think she might be pissed at me.
Nathaniel (to River): Well, go hover elsewhere.
River (to Nathaniel): Are you pissed at me, too? Did I take the wrong cookies out front or something?
Nathaniel (to River): Calm down, princess. I'm not mad at you; I don't even fucking know you. You're making me nervous looming over there.
River (to Nathaniel): Sorry. I'll go up front & see if Oliver needs any help then.
Nathaniel (to River): Please do. Thanks.
A moment later:
River (to Oliver): Hey, Oliver, you need any help up here?
Oliver (to River): Hello, River. I didn't realize you were back. No, I believe everything is under control. Don't you usually wash dishes?
River (to Oliver): Yeah, but I got them all done & I just figured I could help up here for a little while.
Oliver (to River): Oh. Well, in that case, the airpots need to be cleaned, the area around the tamp box is a fright, and the bathrooms can always use a good scrubbing. Trying to get back into Emma's good graces, are you?
River (to Oliver): Yeah, she was nice enough to give me my job back, but I don't want her thinking it was a mistake. I'll go work on the bathrooms.
Oliver (to River): Thanks, River! I'm sure Emma will appreciate it. (to Marlena) Pssst! Mars! I wanted to warn you. River is back.
Marlena (to Oliver): Yeah, I know, Oliver. I found out from Nate earlier.
Oliver (to Marlena): OK. I just didn't want you to get caught unaware. I'll do my best to keep him busy. There's PLENTY that needs to be cleaned.
Marlena (to Oliver): Thanks.
A short time later:
River (to Marlena): So, did you come to watch me scrub the toilets?
Marlena (to River): Fuck no... Are you done in the ladies room?
River (to Marlena): Yeah... You haven't seen me in months and that's seriously all you're going to say to me?
Marlena (to River): Yes... Look, you're the asshole who took off when things got serious & I wanted to finally tell my parents we were dating. So, don't fucking cry to me, like you're the wounded party here. And DO NOT try and lay all of this in my lap. You could have come & talked to me before you took off or hell, called me to let me know you were okay. And, instead I find you here, eight months later... You know what? I'm going the fuck home.
River (to Marlena): Wait, Mars! … Damn it!
Meanwhile, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Zoe (to Vincent): Dad! Any word from the school, yet?
Vincent (to Zoe): Not yet. Patience is a virtue. ... One that neither of us possesses. Do you want me to call them?
Zoe (to Vincent): Yes, please. The waiting is killing me.
Vincent (to Zoe): Heh heh. Alright. I'll go call.
a few minutes later:
Victor (to Zoe): What? What? Why are we dancing in place?
Zoe (to Victor): Oh. Dad's calling the school. I'm hoping for good news.
Victor (to Zoe): It'll be OK. Don't worry.
Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): Well, I spoke to the administration office.
Zoe (to Vincent): And?
Vincent (to Zoe): And, on Monday you and I will go to the school to fill out all the proper paperwork, and decide what courses you want to take. You tested in at least a senior level, but because of your age, they want you to stay a sophomore.
Zoe (to Vincent): Oh my god! Oh my god! This is so exciting! I can't wait to tell Colin.
Victor (to Zoe): Congratulations! I knew you could do it!
Vincent (to Zoe): Hee hee! Oh, we're so proud of you, sweetie. I can't wait until we can tell your mom.
Zoe (to Victor): Thank you, big brother! (to Vincent) Oh, when do you talk to her again?
Vincent (to Zoe): I wish I knew. It will depend on when it's safe for her to make contact and when she has chance to do so. Don't worry. She'll check in as soon as she can.
Zoe (to Vincent & Victor): Okay... I'm going to go call Colin.
Vincent (to Zoe): Go ahead, sweetie.
A moment later:
Zoe (to Colin): Hey Colin! Are you done with your grounding yet?
Colin (to Zoe): No, not yet. Since I've been suspended for a week, I'm grounded for two. But, Da snuck me my phone, and Dad keeps taking me "errand running" which starts with us getting lunch or going to the coffeehouse or the movies and THEN going food shopping.
Zoe (to Colin): Heehee, well that's a shame. I was hoping we could celebrate this weekend with a night out. I've been accepted to the school & I'm going in on Monday to fill out paperwork & pick my classes.
Colin (to Zoe): WHAT?! That's outstanding! Oh my god! Woo! Are you excited?
Zoe (to Colin): I'm super excited & nervous as hell... Well, if we have to wait until you're not grounded anymore, I don't mind.
Colin (to Zoe): If I can get out early, I will. Don't be too nervous. You'll be brilliant! I really like the mixed CD you made me, by the way. I like it a lot.
Zoe (to Colin): I'm glad you liked it... Heh. I was a deejay in a past life.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. I believe it. Oh, my parents want you do come over for dinner some night. So, when do you want to be embarrassed?
Zoe (to Colin): Oh. I'd like to see you sooner rather than later. How about tonight or tomorrow?
Colin (to Zoe): That would be great! Not about the embarrassment part, I mean, but the seeing you part. Don't your parents want to do something with you tonight to celebrate?
Zoe (to Colin): Oh... I didn't think about that. My mom is out of town right now. How about tomorrow night then?
Colin (to Zoe): Oh! It sucks that she's not here. Tomorrow night will be great. Oops. I'm getting a look. I'd better go. I'll see you tomorrow.
Zoe (to Colin): See you later!
A few hours later, at Marlena & Yukiko's apartment, West Piedmont:
Marlena: God... Who the fuck is knocking on my door? I was trying to take a nap.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh. Hey. Uhhh, did I wake you? Shit! Sorry. I should've called.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): It's okay, I'm just glad it was you... Come on in.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Um, you alright? I can come back later if you want.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): I'm fine. Just being a dumbass about River. I thought I was over it... Let's talk about something else. Wanna see the paintings?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): I know the fucking feeling. Yeah, I do. Then I'll get outta your hair.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): You don't have to leave... Honestly, I wouldn't mind the company.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): I don't mind hanging out. Heh. You must be desperate if you're settling for me. Wow. Holy shit... These are... Damn, Mars. You are incredible. These are really, really good.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Thanks. I think having a good subject matter & model helped... And, I don't think of it as settling, hanging out with you. It's been kind of lonely here with Yoyo gone and if I'm left to my own devices I have a tendency to get morbidly depressed.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh. Well, I'm actually kinda glad to know that. I like hanging out with you. Even if I do tend to run at the fucking mouth.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... Yeah, you're a regular fucking motormouth. So, interested in some food or something to drink?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Are you kidding? For three fucking years, I had, Jesus, I don't even know how many Very Fucking Concerned doctors trying to get me to "trust & open up" in therapy or group or some shit. Apparently, all they had to do was look vaguely disdainful. Heh. No food for me just yet. If you've got coffee or juice, that would be great.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh... I'll make some coffee. Then, you can tell me more about your childhood... I'm just kidding.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Ha ha ha! Believe me, you don't wanna hear about it. What isn't awful, is just pretty fucking boring.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh. I think I'll settle for coffee & a movie. Sound good to you?
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. Yeah. Sounds good. Anything else, and I'll have to pay you an hourly rate. You pick the movie. I'm not fussy.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Alright... Let me just get the door. Apparently, my apartment is now fucking Grand Central Station.
Aiden (to Marlena): Greetings! Is Nate here?
Marlena (to Aiden): Yeah... you know he is. Come on in. (to Nathaniel) You got a visitor.
Nathaniel (to Aiden & Marlena): Aiden? Hey! What the fuck are you doing here?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I was given leave to visit by your aunt. But, if I'm interrupting, I can head back.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Don't you fucking dare! You're not interrupting! We were just watching a movie and being miserable bastards together.
Marlena (to Aiden & Nathaniel): Nate, you don't have to hang out here if you wanna go spend time with Aiden. I wouldn't blame you.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. I'm sure you don't wanna see me being all gooey. Shit. *I* don't wanna see that. So who do you want?
Aiden (to Nathaniel & Marlena): I'm fine with staying and watching a movie.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Huh? ... What do you mean, who do I want?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm not leaving you here by yourself to fucking mope. Who do you want? Zoe or Victor? You could have both, I'll bet.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... Tough fucking decision. Both, I guess.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Alright.
Aiden (to Marlena): I'm sorry for intruding on your time with Nate.
Marlena (to Aiden): It's not a fucking big deal. I know he's been a wreck.
Aiden (to Marlena): The feeling has been mutual.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Hey. What are you up to, shortie?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Pigging out on a celebratory hot fudge sundae. Why? What's up?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Your cousin's had a shitty day. Come get her, and cheer her up. We were hanging out, but, um, Aiden showed up and I think I've already traumatized her with our relationship as much as she can stand. What are you celebrating?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Oh yeah, I can totally keep her company... I'm celebrating because I got accepted to school & start next week.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): What?! That's awesome! Wow. Congrats!
Aiden (to Zoe): Thanks! I'll be over in a second... You go spend time with your spy.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. I will. Thanks. I'd feel like an asshole if I just left her to her own devises, you know?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): I know... Oof. (to Marlena, Nathaniel & Aiden) Hello there! Heehee...
Marlena (to Zoe): Fat Christ!
Nathaniel (to Zoe): JESUS! You know, you think by now, I'd be fucking used to that...
Zoe (to Marlena): Alrighty, Miss Mopey, you & I are going to go to our house and watch a movie. (to Aiden & Nathaniel) You two go do whatever it is you do.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Please don't grin when you say that. It's disturbing. (to Marlena) I'm already sorry.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): ... I am so going to remember this.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): What? You asked me to come over here.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): We're just teasing. Calm down. Thanks, Shortie. I appreciate it. Honest.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): You're welcome. Now, seriously get the hell out of here.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Going! Yeesh! (to Aiden) Wanna get outta here?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, if you insist. I was looking forward to a movie… I'm just kidding. Lead the way. (to Marlena & Zoe) Thank you.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Hey, if you wanna stay, don't let me stop you. I was just gonna kiss you when we got outside.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I would much rather have the kiss.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. Me too... (to Marlena & Zoe) Later!
A short time later:
Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I have to say that I've really missed you, Nate.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): God, I missed you too. Like crazy. Heh. In case you hadn't noticed. I was ready to smack you when you said "Oh. I'll leave. I didn't mean to interrupt." What the fuck do you think you're interrupting? I've wanted nothing more than to see you ALL DAY.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, I was worried that I was being intrusive showing up unannounced at your cousin's apartment... I was just looking forward to seeing you. I hadn't realized how much until I saw you.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, well, your hoity-toity manners can go fuck themselves. I'm glad you showed up.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... Of course, I showed up the moment that I could get away. If I had to listen to McGillivray insult or ask me questions one more time, I probably would have been sent over here for good. It's quite infuriating.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I don't think I've ever seen you peeved before. Who's McGillivray?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): She's an agent & one of Miss Kobayashi's former classmates & friend. She seems to revel in "cracking my shell" to see what's underneath. It's quite annoying. Yesterday, it was questions about you. Today it was questions about my taste in books. I'm beginning to really miss the whole ISS rules of conduct.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Questions about me and your taste in books, huh? Heh. Bet she has a crush on you.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... That's just ridiculous. Besides, I'm very happy with the boyfriend I have. Thank you very much.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): It's not ridiculous. In case you haven't noticed, you're kinda hot as shit. I wouldn't be surprised if... Wait... I, uh, I thought you didn't wanna be my boyfriend. Just yet, I mean.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry... I know, you think of the term differently than I do. I was hoping to wait a little while, but I know it's been bothering you. I had a very awkward conversation with Miss Kobayashi while she explained the differences to me. And, she told me that I was an idiot & that I should reconsider my stance on it... which I have. Nate, would you be exclusive with me? Not that we haven't been, but I guess in a more official capacity.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh... Yeah. I would like that. I would really, REALLY like that. Heh. But, I'm guessing you already knew that. Heh. Honestly, if you hadn't asked me to be your boyfriend, I was gonna kind of demand that you let me call you my boyfriend, I mean, I knew it meant something different on your side of reality, and we don't know each other SUPER well just yet, but that's kinda how I already thought of you, but... OH MY GOD, just shut me up already.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... To put it rather bluntly, hell no, I like it when you're excited about us being together.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Good... Oh... Good ass ramming God... I shouldn't... I REALLY shouldn't do that. We're in public.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh, so we are... We should really correct that.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... Yeah, we should. Fuck! My house is full, and you don't have that hotel room anymore. Do you?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): No, I don't but that can be easily rectified.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Um... Yeah. If you want to. I mean, that's more than OK with me. WAY more than OK with me...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... Alright, a hotel it is, before you start stripping me on the street. You may want to call your uncle to let him know.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Sorry. Sorry. Shit. You're right... I'll, uh, I'll be right with you.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'll call and get us checked in somewhere.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... God... This is always so fucking awkward. (to Vincent) Um, Uncle Vincent?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Hello, Nate. I was wondering when you'd call. Zoe and Mars are here and about to start watching movies with Victor. I already know Aiden showed up.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Oh. Um, yeah. He, uh, he did. He, uh, he asked me to be his boyfriend, and has to go back, and I was wondering...
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Heh. It's alright, kiddo. You don't need to say anymore. You two aren't out in public are you?
Nathaniel (to Vincent): No. We're being careful.
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Alright, hun. Be careful. In EVERY way, and have Aiden walk you home whenever he has to head back to Britannia, OK?
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Yeah. We will. Um... Thanks, Uncle Vincent. (to Aiden) Hey. I spoke to my uncle, and everything is... Oh! ... Heh.
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Don't mention it, kiddo. Seriously, don't mention it to your Aunt. We'll see you later.
A couple hours later, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, are you there? Can you hear me?
Vincent (to Poppy): Hello, lover! I read you loud and clear. are you alright?
Poppy (to Vincent): Yes, honey, everything's fine here... We have need of the Dandy's services. I was hoping I might be able to persuade you to do a run for us... and, perhaps throw in a visit with your wife.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm. Well, when you put it like that, lover, how can I refuse?
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee. I have no idea, lover... How's everything at the old homestead?
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, even if we're missing you, hun. Zoe was accepted into high school. We're going to fill out the paperwork Monday.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, that's fantastic, honey! Please, tell her I'm very proud of her. I knew she could do it.
Vincent (to Poppy): I will, hun. I knew you would be. We wish you could have been here for the news, lover. Anyhoo. What do you need me to do?
Poppy (to Vincent): I do, too... I need you to deliver Yoyo to Rangoon & pick up a shipment of supplies while you're there, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): And after I get back? What do you need me to do then?
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I am hoping to keep your attention occupied for a day or two, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm. I think I could handle that, and I'm MORE than certain you can keep my attention for much longer than a day or two.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, well I didn't want to brag, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmmm, if memory serves, you have every reason to brag.
Poppy (to Vincent): When you talk like that, lover, it makes me want you to visit before you run off to Rangoon.
Vincent (to Poppy): You say that as though that weren't my plan from the very beginning.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh honey, I have this whole rebel alliance to run. I have to set a good example. Heehee. Who am I kidding? I miss you.
Vincent (to Poppy): I miss you too. We're no good at being apart, are we? So, do you want me to visit for an hour or five before I pick up Yoyo?
Poppy (to Vincent): Yes and then yes, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. That's the answer I like to hear. I'll leave shortly. It's safer to travel by night, I think. And, no, it's not because I'm impatient! The very idea!
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I'll see you soon, lover. Be careful.
Vincent (to Poppy): Aren't I always. Wait. Don't answer that. I'll see you soon, lover.
Marlena (to Victor & Zoe): Thank you for the movie & company. I should really get home.
Zoe (to Marlena): Oh, no problem... Do you want me to take you via the shortcut?
Victor (to Marlena): Good night, Mars. Give us a call if you need us.
Marlena (to Zoe): No thanks, I was going to smoke & think on my way. I'll see you guys later. (to Victor) I will... I really want to finish the paintings I'm working on. Thanks again.
Victor (to Marlena): You're welcome. Take it easy!
A few minutes later:
Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): Your mother needs me to run some supplies for her, kids. (to Victor) Victor, keep an eye on your sister. (to Zoe) Zoe, make sure your brother doesn't do something stupid. I'll be back as soon as I can. Incidentally, your mom is very proud of you, Monster.
Zoe (to Vincent & Victor): I had no doubt that she would be. And yes, I'll watch Victor like a hawk. :-P
Victor (to Vincent & Zoe): Hey! I'm not the troublemaker in this family!
Zoe (to Victor): Are you implying that I am?
Victor (to Zoe): Have you met our parents?
Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): Heh. Very funny, you two. Please behave. We love you both. Call if you have any issues.
Zoe (to Vincent): We will. Give mom our love, please.
Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): I will. Give me a hug. BOTH of you. I'll be back soon.
An hour or so later, at Marlena & Yukiko's apartment, West Piedmont:
River: Damn... After all that, she's not even home.
Marlena (to River): Fuck me with chainsaw! What the hell are you doing here? Stalking is not sexy, no matter who you talk to... I could call campus security on you... Hell, I SHOULD call campus security on you.
River (to Marlena): Calm down, Mars. I'm not here to stalk you or fight. Honest. Can we please just talk?
Marlena (to River): ... Fine. We can stay here on the steps... You have ten minutes. It's been a long fucking day & I'm tired.
River (to Marlena): ... Right. I wasn't really prepared for you to agree so quickly... Look, I know it doesn't mean much, but I am really sorry that I left the way I did & that I hurt you. It was fucking stupid & cowardly of me. I panicked. I saw our possible future & it scared the hell out of me, so I ran...
Marlena (to River): Uh huh... Are you fucking done?
River (to Marlena): Yeah, I guess I am.
Meanwhile, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Zoe (to Victor): Woohoo, house to ourselves!
Victor (to Zoe): Ha ha! And what do you propose we do?
Zoe (to Victor): I have absolutely no idea.
Victor (to Zoe): Well, we may as well celebrate. Hold on... Here. Seph left this behind for "emergencies" when she went back home. She SWEARS Uncle Bernard has gotten better at brewing whiskey. Whew! It sure doesn't smell like it.
Zoe (to Victor): Heehee, I'm willing to give it a go.
Victor (to Zoe): You're a brave soul. Here you go. Trust me. You don't need more than that.
Zoe (to Victor): Oh my god, I think it singed my eyebrows... Here goes nothing... Bottoms up!
Victor (to Zoe): Bwah! God! That is VILE! I suppose it's "improved." Neither of us is blind. You're not blind, are you?
Zoe (to Victor): I don't... is it supposed to be dark in here?
Victor (to Zoe): You're kidding. TELL ME you're kidding.
Zoe (to Victor): Heehee, of course, I'm kidding... But, woo boy, I have no tolerance.
Victor (to Zoe): Honestly? I think straight rubbing alcohol would have less of a kick. Yikes!
Zoe (to Victor): ... I should probably go to bed before I do something stupid. Good night, big brother.
Victor (to Zoe): Heh. Good night. I'll see you in the morning, Little Sister.
A short time later:
Zoe (to Colin): Colin, are you awake? If you're not, I'm so sorry...God, this stuff is sneaky. I feel weird... Oh, I'm still talking... I just wanted to say that I think you're wonderful & that I'm glad you're my boyfriend... And, I would really like to-- No... Not going to say that out loud-- I am not that stupid.
Colin (to Zoe): Oh! Well, thank you. I'm glad you think I'm wonderful, and that you're my girlfriend too. Heh. Are you OK?
Zoe (to Colin): Oh... Hi Colin... Right. Night owl. I'm fine. I had a taste of my Uncle Bernard's moonshine & it's stupid strong.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh heh. Underage drinking?! Of MOONSHINE? I'm shocked and appalled!
Zoe (to Colin): Yes, I also smoke, curse & probably several other things that are terrible... I'm a horrible person...
Colin (to Zoe): Cussing? SMOKING? Oh. My poor, pure soul. I don't think I can stand it. Excuse me. I think I may have to faint in horror. Heh. Somehow, I think I'll survive your awful, terrible influence.
Zoe (to Colin): Oh... am I the bad girl you're using to rebel against your parents with? I mean, I'm fine with that but I should really up my game, if that's the case.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. Hey! How do I know you're not using *me* to rebel against your parents? Mom. Dad. Here's my super nerdy boyfriend, ask him about algorithms.
Zoe (to Colin): Um, you have met my dad, right? He still wears Star Wars pants & sometimes batman footie pajamas. Nerdy things do not upset them.
Colin (to Zoe): He does not! No offense, but I kinda figured your dad slept in, I don't know, black silk loungewear or something. He is... Heh. He's something else. Both your parents are.
Zoe (to Colin): Speaking of pajama pants... Are you wearing the fluffy ones, right now? And, yes, Dad also wears a black silk kimono on occasion.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. Does he wear it WITH the footie pajamas? Oh, PLEASE say yes. And, I *may* be wearing my softy, fuzzy pajama pants.
Zoe (to Colin): Heehee, I have yet to see that, but he might... I am still incredibly jealous of those pants.
Colin (to Zoe): I may also be wearing them with super manly abominable snowman slippers.
Zoe (to Colin): I am now picturing the pants slipper combo in my mind... You should count yourself lucky I'm not there.
Colin (to Zoe): Well, they ARE super cool. If you're really lucky, I MAY wear the slippers to dinner tomorrow.
Zoe (to Colin): I think I may swoon.
Colin (to Zoe): I'm sorry. I don't mean to expose you to all this raw manliness.
Zoe (to Colin): Heehee, you should really have a warning label.
Colin (to Zoe): I ought to get a t-shirt. I can't have people blundering into my masculinity. Who knows what kind of problems that'd cause?
Zoe (to Colin): Heehee, too true... I should go & get to bed. I'll see you tomorrow.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. I'll see you tomorrow, Zoe. Get some rest.
