A Strange New Day: Day 32

Vincent: The only time I seem 2 4get I am a man of tiny stature is when I go out drinking. Good gracious!

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, are you feeling okay? Need me to play nurse for you?

Vincent (to Poppy): I wld b 4ever grateful. Esp if u wear a nurse's uniform.

Poppy (to Vincent): I have just the thing... It'll make everything better, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): I have 2 admit, I wasn't expecting u & Ripper 2 drink me so thoroughly undr the table. I bow 2 greater talents. :-P How did ur nite end, sweetness? I admit I'm fuzzy on details.

Poppy (to Vincent): The teensiest of makeouts & then I made my way home alone after Ripper & I tucked you in. I behaved myself, I assure you. It's no fun, if you're not involved. ;-)

Vincent (to Poppy): Oh 4 Heaven's sake! That's not embarrassing at all. I hope I wasn't 2 big a buzz kill.

Poppy (to Vincent): Trust me, honey, it was nice to have the excuse. I could have very easily gone further... that Ripper is quite a kisser. I think I'm going to have to keep my distance, that boy is trouble.

Vincent (to Poppy): Well, he certainly is deliciousness wrapped in a steaming shell of hotness, & on the rebound. It's hard 2 resist squared.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, honey, he certainly likes YOU. I think the only reason he made out with me was for your benefit.

Vincent (to Poppy): Rlly? Huh. He didn't look like a fool, but what other explanation is there? Wanting 2 makeout w/ a nubile creature like urself 4 some1 else's benefit is sheer blasphemy. Esp if I'm 2 drunk 2 appreciate it. ;-}

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, honey, I don't think we realized you were too drunk to appreciate it until it was over... and I may have mentioned that you'd like it. :-)

Vincent (to Poppy): Ooo! U naughty little thing! I love it when ur crafty.

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, I do what I can... I mean, I hate thinking that your only boy on boy fun has been with that Asher creep.

Vincent (to Poppy): Lord, don't remind me. But, I think maybe I shld try 4 some1 w/o a family history, don't u? ;-}

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh honey, he told me all about it. It was one time, he actually asked your sister out on a real date afterwards & she said no. She didn't give him any explanation, but knowing Mouse's history I'm sure I can guess, and it was like 5 years ago. And, honey, look at him... if I wasn't dating you, I'd jump him.

Vincent (to Poppy): Sweetie, I have 2 ask. How wld seeing me w/ some1 else make u feel? As far as I'm concerned, I'm dating u 1st & foremost.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well honey, honestly, if it was another girl, I don't think I'd like it at all... in fact, I know I wouldn't. But, I also know that you like boys & I worry a little that you'll get bored with just being with me... So, I don't mind sharing with a boy, as long as I get a say in who the boy is.

Vincent (to Poppy): Of course! I'm a bit stunned, sweetness. I wasn't expecting that 2 b ur answer. Tho w/ the way u were pouring drinks into Ripper & I, I guess I shldn't b. ;-} 2 b totes honest, I don't know what 2 do w/ Ripper. The fiasco w/ Asher brought up some insecurities I thought I was ovr.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, honey, I've been doing a lot of thinking about this, and, you know how much I hate to do that... I'll stop trying to mush you two together, then, I certainly can't stand to see you uncomfortable.

Vincent (to Poppy): Dreadful isn't it? Male sexiness personified is keen on me & I go all Laura Ingalls abt it.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, after the whole roofie thing & making out with everyone, I have to admit that I've got a few hangups myself. And, as hot as I think it would be to see you & Ripper together, I'm touched that you were concerned about my feelings. If I keep on honey, I'm going to say something sappy...

Vincent (to Poppy): Of course, darling. Y don't u head ovr here & keep both of us frm embarrassing ourselves further? ;-}

Poppy (to Vincent): I was on my way, honey, I just stopped at the store to fill up my nurse's bag with some essentials. Be there in a jiffy ;-)

Ripper (to Vincent): Hey, how are you feeling? Did you by any chance find my scarf at your place? It didn't seem to make it home with me.

Vincent (to Ripper): Ugh. Like dragging me out in the street & shooting me like a dog wld b a kindness. I don't think I've seen ur scarf, but I haven't ventured 2 far off my chaise lounge yet. Any idea where u may have lft it?

Ripper (to Vincent): Sorry about that, I didn't realize Poppy was going to keep refilling our glasses until I lost count... I was mostly in your living room & then I helped carry you to your bed & uh, I think that was the last place I saw it.

Vincent (to Ripper): Mmm. Don't let her sweet face fool u. I've seen her out drink men bigger than u & I. I shld have known better. Good gracious. I swear I usually don't need 2 b CARRIED home. I'm vry nearly embarrassed. TY 4 the gallant behavior. & yes. I found ur scarf, no worse 4 its adventure. Want me 2 hang on 2 it til I see u nxt?

Ripper (to Vincent): That would be great if you could hold on to it... so, there will be a next time?

Vincent (to Ripper): Well, I'm keeping my fingers crossed 4 u that u can pick up some deejaying gigs @ Drac's Daughter. I heard abt Inga firing u.

Ripper (to Vincent): Yeah, I'm just glad that DJing isn't my full-time job. I met with Sasha last night & he seemed pretty happy to hire me.

Vincent (to Ripper): Excellent! Sasha is as reasonable as his sister is horrid. I'll b seeing u @ the club, then.

Ripper (to Vincent): Yeah, see you at the club...

A few hours later:

Mouse (to Eep): Hey there, handsome, thank you once again for the coffee. If you keep spoiling me like that, I'm going to start expecting it. :-)

Eep (to Mouse): No problem. I figure it's like the very least I can do for being such a grumpy dick in the morning.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I certainly like sharing my morning with you, even if you are a grumpy ass.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. I do too. Though I wouldn't blame you if you hated me just a little in the morning. God. I'm really sorry I told you to fuck off when you were trying to tell me my alarm was going off. I feel like such a dick.

Mouse (to Eep): Actually, I'm not a good morning person, either... that's actually why I always wake up before you, so I have an hour to adjust to be awake. So, it's ok. I probably would have done the same if you had tried to wake me. I shouldn't have kept you up so late. Oh... and speaking of which, I stitched your buttons back on your shirt. That'll teach me to try and be sexy.

Eep (to Mouse): Um, I wasn't gonna complain. I REALLY wasn't gonna complain. And, uh, I thought you did pretty damn good at being sexy. Did I mention how I wasn't complaining?

Mouse (to Eep): Um... thanks. I didn't realize buttons could explode off shirts like that. I thought it only happened in movies. :-P

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. That WAS pretty damn funny. Especially since one hit me in the glasses and one hit you in the forehead.

Mouse (to Eep): I think I'll stick to my tried & true sexy moves from now on... which is mostly awkward fumbling & getting mildly flustered. Awww, yeah, I'm soooo sexy. :-P

Eep (to Mouse): Pfffft! Well, I think you're hot. Of course, it's me, so yeah. Take that into account.

Mouse (to Eep): Awww, when you say things like that, it makes me want to confess my undying affection for you & make grand romantic gestures...

Eep (to Mouse): Oh, heh. I think last nite counts. So, uh, wanna join me for a fuck the Super Bowl dinner? Robert & Wanda have fucked off to a sports bar to watch the game.

Mouse (to Eep): That sounds wonderful! Would you like me to bring anything?

Eep (to Mouse): Whatever you want. Should we invite the rest of the football hating assholes we know?

Mouse (to Eep): That's totally up to you, it's your apartment. :-)

Eep (to Mouse): Well, I don't wanna get in trouble with the landlord. :p

Mouse (to Eep): Hey, don't put this on me... I just wasn't sure if you had thought this through & really wanted to hang out with Vincent & Poppy.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Sorry. I thought it was funny. Eh. I'm, uh, I'm OK with it. Provided they don't get gross. Then I'll just kick them out to the porch. I mean, provided they wanna come. It might just be you and me. I think I could handle that.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, we can ask them. I wouldn't mind hanging out with them, if they're going to behave.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah, OK. Sounds good. (to Delia, Ripper & Leon) Uh, hey guys. Mouse & I are gonna make some food, drink & watch a dumb movie. Anyone else interested? The roomies are off watching the game at a bar, so we're football free.

Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Hey, would you like to come over to Eep's & join us for Anti-Super Bowl gathering?

Delia (to Eep): sure! I'm not sure if Leon is back yet.. he was goin to see his parents today to get the gun. I have the feeling that's not goin the best.

Eep (to Delia): Jesus! Yikes. Well, head over if you wanna. We'll probably have enough food. Correction: we WILL have enough food. I just realized Robert picked up a shitton of stew meat that needs to be eaten.

Delia (to Eep): Sure! I'll hop the bus and be over shortly.

Eep (to Delia): Cool. We'll see you went you get here. Just head in. I'll probably be in the kitchen.

Ripper (to Eep): Thanks for the invite. I've actually gotta go make an appearance at my folks house. If I don't my brother & Dad give me hell. Maybe, I could stop by afterwards? It'll give me an excuse to leave.

Eep (to Ripper): Christ. Tell me about it. I used to catch hell for not giving a shit about the World's Cup. But, yeah. Head over whenever if you wanna. We'll have plenty of food. You might have to bring your own beer, though.

Ripper (to Eep): Good to know. I'll pick some up on my way back into town.Yeah, They watch the World's Cup too. My Dad is a firm believer in paying homage to our english roots & our present homeland.

Eep (to Ripper): My dad and brothers are Argentinian. Nuff said.

Ripper (to Eep): No more explanation needed.

Eep (to Ripper): Yeah. Tell me about it. Anyway, we'll see you then.

Ripper (to Eep): Sounds good. See ya later.

Vincent (to Mouse): We might head ovr later. Rite now Poppy is seeing 2 my delicate condition.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh god, do I even want to know? What did you do? You were fine, when I left the bar last night.

Vincent (to Mouse): I let Poppy take me out drinking.

Mouse (to Vincent): Why on earth would you do that? That girl has an inhuman capacity for alcohol..

Vincent (to Mouse): By the end of the evening, apparently, ur DJ friend had 2 carry me 2 my bed.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh?

Vincent (to Mouse): U can lower ur eyelids, hun. Nothing happened. :-P

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, I'm sorry about what I said last night... It was a bit of a dick move. If you like him, go for it.

Vincent (to Mouse): Mmmm. That's what Poppy said 2.

Eep (to Mouse): Looks like Delia is gonna join us & Ripper might head over later. Leon's MIA, tho. Any word from the Wonder Pervs?

Mouse (to Eep): The perv twins are being pervy, as per usual... I'll probably get a straight answer out of them, eventually. (to Vincent) Really?

Vincent (to Mouse): Mmm hmm. She said she felt bad the only experience I had w/ a guy was th creep. So I have a boy pass, provided she OKs him 1st.

Eep (to Mouse): Typical. Anyway, I'm gonna start cooking. Head over whenever you want. I'm making either beef stew or goulash. Whatever we have ingredients for. Robert bought a shitton of sale stew meat.

Mouse (to Eep): Ok, I'm gonna make a dessert. (to Vincent) Well, Delia is on her way, Leon is MIA, & Ripper might stop over later... I'm sure everyone would love to see you both.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Awesome! I can't say I'm disappointed to hear that.

Vincent (to Mouse): Awww, it's like a little Drac's Daughter get 2gether! Look @ u 2 being SOCIAL! B still my little heart!

Mouse (to Vincent): Yes, it's a miracle... I'm making a boston creme pie & Eep is making Beef Stew or Goulash. We're so fancy. (to Eep) I'm gonna make a Boston Creme pie... it's like a cake & pie had a baby.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Oh God. That sounds... Christ. I'm SO gonna end up fat dating you, aren't I?

Vincent (to Mouse): I barely know either of u.

Mouse (to Vincent): Is that a good or bad thing? Besides, you wanted me to be more outgoing, so here you go. (to Eep) Ummm, I have no response , that's not going to end with perv, so I'll just go back to making dessert. :-P

Vincent (to Mouse): It's totes adorbz! & vry nice 2 see, actually. U DID need 2 get out & socialize more. U can't tell me ur not in a good mood. But, if Ripper is going 2 b there, I think I'll prolly stay home.

Mouse (to Vincent): What!?! Why? This was Eep's idea & I think his feelings would be hurt if you didn't make an appearance. Besides, just because Ripper is here doesn't mean you have to do anything but be social. You hardly know him. And, if you don't come, that means Poppy probably won't come... wait. am I trying to talk you into coming or not?

Vincent (to Mouse): Oh, OK. If ur all going 2 b DEVASTATED w/o me... :-P

Mouse (to Vincent): Little brother... you are TOO easy, sometimes.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hey. That's not fair. I make SOME ppl work 4 it, u know.

Mouse (to Vincent): I know, I was just referring to the fact that you changed your mind so quickly. But, it's true we'd love to see you. Look, get your butt over here & bring the little perv princess with you. If Ripper comes over & you feel uncomfortable, I give you permission to duck out.

Vincent (to Mouse): Yes, ma'am!

Mouse (to Vincent): Yeah, that's right... uh, don't ever call me, ma'am, again.

Delia (to Eep): Alright! Here with the booze! I sent Leon a message, hopefully he'll swing by when he's done at his parents.

Eep (to Delia): Cool! In the kitchen. Head in & make yourself at home. You can head in here as long as you don't try to cook. Apparently, I get aggressive when I'm cooking & hit people with spoons.

Mouse (to Delia): Watch out for Eep if you do go into the kitchen, he's very territorial. :-P

Delia (to Eep & Mouse): Oh, I remember the stories. I'm staying safely away from the stove.

Eep (to Delia & Mouse): Yeah. Yeah. The stew is almost ready to simmer, so then you'll both be safe from my wrath. Then we just wait.

Delia (to Eep & Mouse): I'm just here to provide the booze and off color jokes.

Eep (to Delia): If Poppy & Vincent show up, they'll probably give you a run for your money.

Delia (to Eep): yes well. Hard to compete with that pair save for this. With me you got the buddy telling questionable jokes with them you have the feeling that if there's the slightest indicator you're into it, what they said is serious. Take that as you will, good sir.

Eep (to Delia): God.... That makes me want to crawl into a hole and never come back out.

Leon (to Delia, Mouse, Eep & Vincent): I'm in pretty rough shape, so I'm just heading home to put some frozen veggies on my face.

Delia (to Eep & Mouse): alright sooo.. I'm going to head over to leons and see what the hell happened and see what I can do to help.

Eep (to Delia): Jesus! Yeah. Don't worry about it. Let us know if he's OK.

Mouse (to Delia): Of course, if you need anything, let us know.

Eep (to Leon): Holy shit! What the fuck happened?

Mouse (to Leon): What the hell happened!?! Are you okay?

Leon (to Mouse): I'll be fine. Just a bad scuffle with my dad. No worse than playing hockey in high school. Seemed fine until I was walking out. (to Eep) My Zulu Princess mom had to knock my dad out with the butt of a spear when I tried to leave with great grandad's pistol.

Eep (to Leon): Holy shit! Jesus Christ. I'm sorry. That fucking sucks. Let us know if you need anything, OK?

Mouse (to Leon): This has to do with the dreams?

Leon (to Mouse): Yeah. Had a long talk about the gun. Five generations of suicide had been covered up and lied about. Z men had all been shot. Never put the pieces together, but my dad knew the whole story. I'm having the damn thing melted down. Screw this curse. (to Eep) Now that I'm home and have my snake and girl's coming to comfort me, I'll be fine. Thanks, man. See you guys soon.

Mouse (to Leon): God! I'm sorry... According to Greg, melting it down should end it.

Eep (to Leon): Yeah. No problem. Take it easy. (to Mouse) OK. Jesus. I hope Leon is OK.

Mouse (to Eep): Yeah, me too.

Eep (to Mouse): Shit. I guess there's nothing we can do right this second, huh? Jesus... Why is family so shitty sometimes? Anyway, head over whenever. Stew's simmering, so there's nothing to do except watch shitty movies and drink. (to Vincent) So, where the fuck are you two?

Mouse (to Eep): Sorry, I had a phone call from Sasha... I'm heading over right now.

Vincent (to Eep): We're coming, Impatient Betty. Calm urself.

Eep (to Vincent): Gross. We don't wanna know that.

Vincent (to Eep): WHAT? U've been drinking, haven't u?

Eep (to Vincent): No. ...Yes.

Vincent (to Eep): Oh my. 2nite is going 2 b INTERESTING, isn't it?

Eep (to Vincent): Jesus! No. I'm just a little tipsy. For fuck's sake. What do you think is gonna happen that's "interesting?"

Vincent (to Eep): Well, if memory serves, u ended up wearing my underpants. See u soon!

Ripper (to Eep): Heading your way, stopping to grab beer. You guys need anything?

Eep (to Ripper): Nah. We've got plenty of food. Delia and Leon had to head out, so there's an epic shitton of stew. And Mouse brought some kind of unholy cake/pie hybrid.

Ripper (to Eep): God, that sounds amazing. I should be there in 10 minutes.

Eep (to Ripper): Yeah, based on the rest of her cooking, we're gonna have to starve ourselves for like 10 days to keep the svelte goth mystique.

Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, we did a travel gig together with another DJ & she made the whole venue crew breakfast. I think we all died happy that day. :-)

Eep (to Ripper): God, TELL me about it. She's a pretty great lady. (to Mouse) Pssst. I'm bragging about you.

Ripper (to Eep): Uh, she certainly seems like it... So, how long have you guys been dating?

Eep (to Ripper): Since October. Course, it's been a really, uh, intense 5 months... Yeah. We can go with intense.

Ripper (to Eep): Well, the intensity seems to work on her. She seems a lot happier then when I saw her last.

Mouse (to Eep): To who?

Eep (to Mouse): To anyone who will listen! Actually just to Ripper. Shit. Sorry. Um, looks like this beer had a little higher alcohol content than I was expecting. (to Ripper) Yeah. Guess that's good to hear, cause I'm kinda a moron. Shit! Speaking of which. Stew's done. Just head in whenever.

Mouse (to Eep): Ummm, I'm gonna step outside for a clove.

Ripper (to Eep): Cool. Food sounds good. I had to pretend that I had already eaten to avoid my Mom's cooking. She boils everything to death.

Eep (to Ripper): Shit. That sounds... Wow. That sounds horrible. Hopefully, this isn't as bad. (to Mouse) Oh. Uh, OK.

Mouse (to Eep): I'll be back in a minute... just getting an update from Delia.

Ripper (to Eep): I'm sure it'll be great. I seriously doubt Mouse would let you cook, if you were terrible. :-)

Eep (to Ripper): Pfffft! Probably not. (to Mouse) Hey. Stew's ready whenever you are. Is everything OK? How's Leon?

Mouse (to Vincent): Please kill me now... (to Eep) Delia says Leon's in worse shape than he led us to believe, she's taking him to the doctor's in the morning.

Eep (to Mouse): Fuck. That's terrible.

Vincent (to Mouse): What's wrong, sweetie?

Mouse (to Vincent): Just get over here. please. Eep has been bragging to Ripper about me. Can you say awkward?

Vincent (to Mouse): Oh Jesus... He's been drinking. Y does he always get so bloody chatty when he's been drinking? OK. But.... U OWE me. Don't ask y rite now, just know u owe me.

Mouse (to Vincent): Fine, I owe you...

Ripper (to Mouse): You know, you don't have to worry, I'm not going to say anything to Eep. Clearly, he's smitten with you & I'm not an asshole. At least, I try not to be one.

Mouse (to Ripper): Thanks.

Ripper (to Mouse): No problem, besides Eep seems like a nice guy & I know how I'd feel if roles were reversed.

Vincent (to Mouse): Bah. Don't wrry abt it. It's not like I don't owe u a million times ovr. (to Ripper) Rumor has it I'll b seeing u ovr at Eep's 2nite. Want me 2 grab ur scarf or will u chance letting me hang on 2 it longer?

Mouse (to Vincent): No, it's fine. Ripper just told me to calm down. I think he saw the look of panic on my face.

Ripper (to Vincent): Yeah, there now. I wouldn't mind you holding onto it for another time, if you let me take you out to dinner, just dinner.

Vincent (to Ripper): Wow. I... I'm rlly tempted 2 say yes. Rlly, RLLY tempted 2 say yes.

Ripper (to Vincent): No pressure, just think about it. If you don't want to, I won't be offended. I'd just like to get to know you better. That's all... it doesn't have to mean anything other than dinner.

Vincent (to Ripper): OK, then. Yes. That wld b nice. I'll bring ur scarf. :-P

Ripper (to Vincent): Great! Looking forward to it. :-)

Vincent (to Mouse): Oh God... What did I just get myself into?

Mouse (to Vincent): What's wrong?

Vincent (to Mouse): ... Nothing... Goodness, don't worry about it, sweetie. I'm just having a moment. It's nothing.

Mouse (to Vincent): So, this wouldn't have anything to do with why Ripper has a big ass grin on his face, would it? And, why you & Poppy are still not over here?

Vincent (to Mouse): ... Maybe. Maybe I just want 2 make an entrance. :-P

Mouse (to Vincent): Whatever... I'm going to curl up on the couch & watch some crap horror movie that Eep picked out with him & Ripper. Join us, don't join us... I don't care, anymore.

Vincent (to Mouse): Ripper asked me out & I'm freaking out abt it a little bit. That's what's going on. Kay?

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, sweetie... let me go out onto the porch... Ok, I am away from prying eyes. Why are you freaking out? Do you not want to go out with him? You don't have to do anything you don't want to do.

Vincent (to Mouse): I know that, sweetie. Ripper seems like a nice guy. He seems fine. He LOOKS fine 2. I certainly can't fault his tastes. All he did was ask me 2 dinner, & just dinner, he said. And it's not like I DON'T want 2 spend time with a nice gorgeous thing who wants 2 get 2 know me better.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, then, what's the problem? I mean, you've got a cute girlfriend that's apparently willing to let you date men and you've got a gorgeous man who is interested in you... this sounds like your dream scenario. I mean, do you just want to be with Poppy? Because if that's the case, you're going to need to tell her or I have a feeling, she's going to be finding you men...

Vincent (to Mouse): I'm srry, sweetie. I just have a hard time admitting this. Ever since that whole thing w/ the Creep. It just brings up a lot of insecurities I thought I was ovr & done w/, that's all. It's EASY w/ Poppy, but... I'll b OK, sweetie. I don't want 2 ruin ur nite.

Mouse (to Vincent): Look, fuck ruining my night... I'm your sister, I can't help unless you tell me what's wrong. Besides, I hate horror movies.

Vincent (to Mouse): U sure do. What were those 2 dumb boys thinking putting that on?

Mouse (to Vincent): I think you answered your own question... dumb boys. :-P And, changing the subject isn't going to work.You have been boy crazy ever since I met you & now when there's someone actually interested in you, even after you & Poppy perved all over him, you become shy. So, what gives?

Vincent (to Mouse): I don't know how 2 verbalize it, sweetie. I know u know I'm not as worldly as I let on. This whole situation is making me confront some old outdated ideologies I didn't know were still rattling arnd in my brain. I spent a lot of time growing up hearing a lot of things abt what kind of ppl have same sex attractions. I was SO SURE I wasn't like that, & then Asher... Well, I didn't act exactly like the gentleman I fancied myself 2 b. I'm... I'm a little insecure abt my sexuality, sweetie. Which I know is just the dumbest think I've evr said.

Mouse (to Vincent): Sweetie, I hate to break it to you, but most people are, even people who claim to be sure of themselves, there's always a little nagging voice called doubt.

Vincent (to Mouse): U mean I'm NOT a unique & special snowflake? Perish the thought!

Mouse (to Vincent): You are & always will be a special snowflake to me... Look, you can't be the King of the Pervs & be a stodgy gentleman bachelor of old... they kind of contradict each other.

Vincent (to Mouse): Hee. I shld hope so. I know I'm being ridiculous, sweetie. I rlly do. I'm just... Well, I feel like I had 2 fight SO HARD 2 b who I am...

Mouse (to Vincent): And, you've suddenly discovered that you're more like what you were fighting against than you realized?

Vincent (to Mouse): Mmmm. That's certainly part of it. I also wasn't expecting 2 b as easily bowled ovr by the Creep as I was. The other part is that I've been knocked off base. I think I'm just scared & that isn't something I was expecting AT ALL.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, the way I see it, you have 2 choices - #1 Run away, hide, & be scared of having a "real" relationship with anyone. And, as I have experienced this for myself, I can say that it sucks, or #2 is to put on your big boy pants & be scared. Sure, it's risky, you might get hurt, you might discover that you don't like it... but you'll never know otherwise. And, you're luckier than most, because you've not only got a girlfriend that is willing to help you with all of this, but an awesome sister, and friends, too.

Vincent (to Mouse): Damn straight I do. ;-} And, I know all this, sweetie. Which is y I said yes 2 Ripper. Which I figure u already knew.

Mouse (to Vincent): No, I actually didn't know what was going on... I was totally guessing. I just figured something was going on between you two, since you wanted to avoid him.

Vincent (to Mouse): He's been flirting w/ me & I felt kinda guilty, I suppose. I didn't want 2 lead him on.

Mouse (to Vincent): Well, I think he's in a similar boat... I think his ex threw him for a loop & his confidence is a little shot.

Vincent (to Mouse): I know he's on the rebound. It's y I didn't have the heart 2 keep turning him down.

Eep (to Mouse): Hey sexy lady. I didn't mean to drive you out with the horror movie. It's just Ripper had never seen Evil Dead... Are you OK?

Mouse (to Eep): Army of Darkness is one of my all time favorites, however, I can't do the first one... I'm ok. Just dealing with family stuff. How's your male bonding time going? (to Vincent) Trust me, he can handle rejection. He gets momentarily pouty & then he moves on fairly quickly. Besides, he's too pretty to stay single for long.

Vincent (to Mouse): Good gracious, how true is that? I'll go out 2 dinner w/ him & let him down easy. Or not. Depending on how the evening goes. ;-}

Eep (to Mouse): We're mostly just drinking watching shitty movies with lots of blood. Heh. I'd like it better if you were here, though. We can put in Army of Darkness. I promise I won't quote the movie too much.

Mouse (to Eep): heehee, I'm not sure I can make the same promise.... :-P

Eep (to Mouse): Oh God! We should do an Army of Darkness drinking game. Cause I've seen this movie like a million times. And I'm already tipsy... And by that I mean drunk. Heh.

Mouse (to Eep): We probably could, I've seen it at least that many times... what's your favorite line from it? (to Vincent) Feel any better? Because the gauntlet has been thrown & I've been challenged to an Army of Darkness Drinking Game.

Vincent (to Mouse): I do. TY, sweetie. I'm sorry I'm such a dolt sometimes.

Mouse (to Vincent): Sweetie, it's fine I love you, anyway.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh man. Aside from the whole Boomstick speech? Probably a tie between "Right now you're the king of two things: Jack and shit." And the whole, "Who wants a little" speech. Heh.

Vincent (to Mouse): Thank God 4 that. And what fool wld challenge U to an Evil Dead drinking game?

Mouse (to Eep): The boomstick speech is definitely my favorite, but I like the scene with the final line "Good, Bad, I'm the one with the Gun." (to Vincent) That would be Mister Surly.

Vincent (to Mouse): That fool! Is he TRYING 2 kill himself w/ alcohol? Want me 2 head ovr & utterly decimate him?

Mouse (to Vincent): I don't know... Ripper is still here, they've apparently watched & bonded over Evil Dead.

Vincent (to Mouse): I think I can brave it. Bsides, Eep's asked me 2 or 3 times if I was coming over. I'd hate to flake out on his vry 1st social gathering. Poor darling.

Eep (to Vincent): Hey Pervy, uh, McPerviton! Are you still coming over? WE have SO MUCH food left and we're about to watch Army of Darkness.

Vincent (to Eep): I heard a rumor u've challenged the Potter family 2 an Army of Darkness drinking game. U know ur going 2 lose, right?

Eep (to Vincent): Big talk from a little man.

Mouse (to Eep): Oooooh, those are fighting words, Legs. (to Robert) Did your team win? Eep made a ton of stew, if you two are still hungry & there's some nice eye candy sitting on your couch.

Robert (to Mouse): My team wasn't playing, but it was a good game, even if the Giants did win. nd eye candy on my couch? How'd THAT happen?

Mouse (to Robert): Eep & I asked a couple people we work with to come over to watch movies & the club's newest DJ is here. He's probably a little too pretty for you, but Wanda will probably want to lick him.

Robert (to Mouse): Far be it from me to refuse the company of pretty men. I'll try to keep Wanda on a tight leash. ;-) EEP invited people over? I'm in shock. You're sure this is my roommate and not some alien impersonator, right?

Mouse (to Robert): Fairly certain... though, he has been smiling, drinking, & has only had a couple cigarettes. It may, indeed, be an alien. No leash necessary. He's recently single & presently seems to have eyes for Vincent, though you never know...

Robert (to Mouse): Clearly it's alien. But if it means handsome men on my couch, then I'm willing to chance alien invasion. We'll see you soon.

Eep (to Mouse): LEGS?

Mouse (to Eep): What? You're tall... and it was lame, I know. (to Eep, Vincent & Ripper) Every time Ash is hurt, injured, hit in the head, including self inflicted chainsaw wounds… Drink.

Eep (to Mouse): Ha ha ha. Really. You could have gone with Stretch, 4-Eyes, Ichabod Crane, Gothtard... (to Mouse, Ripper & Vincent) Every time someone quotes a line wrong, drink.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I didn't actually wanna insult you... (to Eep, Ripper & Vincent) Any time you see something anachronistic, drink.

Vincent (to Mouse, Eep & Ripper): Oh God. We'll all be blitzed before we're 30 minutes into the movie!

Mouse (to Vincent): Are you backing down from the challenge, Short Round?

Vincent (to Mouse): U shld know better than 2 ask that, woman! I'll be seeing u in a few. :-P

Eep (to Ripper): Heh. I think these tiny people are implying that they know Army of Darkness better than us.

Ripper (to Eep): Which is absolutely ridiculous... I had to play the king in a RHPS style stage version.

Eep (to Ripper): Oh! With the blood Splash Zone! Oh shit. I've saw a production of that in Florida. We are gonna kick their asses.

Ripper (to Eep): Yeah, we are!

Mouse (to Eep): So, before we destroy you... can I get a goodbye kiss out on the porch?

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. Your unfounded confidence is one of the things I love about you. And, yeah. I'll see you in a second.

Mouse (to Eep): Oooh, you hot, sexy, lanky bastard... I will miss you most of all.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Yeah. Save it for the game, Killer. Now... Gimme some sugar, baby!

Several minutes later:

Ripper (to Vincent): Uh, you may want to pour a bucket of water on your sister & Eep when you get here.

Vincent (to Ripper): Oh dear. I'm pulling up now & am woefully bucket free. How long have then been out there?

Ripper (to Vincent): Almost 15 minutes. I heard Eep say 'Gimme some sugar baby'... and then it went quiet.

Vincent (to Ripper): Oh Lord. Those 2 r like teenagers sometimes. I hooted @ them & told them 2 get a room. We'll see if that embarrassed them enough 2 come inside. (to Mouse) Get ur hands out of Eep's pants & get in here. We're starting the movie w/ or w/o u!

Mouse (to Vincent): We're coming right now... and, my hands weren't in his pants.

Ripper (to Mouse): Ummm, I think your shirt's on backwards. :-P

A Strange New Day: Day 31

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, you'll never guess who I saw sitting in the café with Ripper this morning... Satanica. She looked haggard.

Vincent (to Poppy): Well now, isn't that interesting?

Poppy (to Vincent): Yeah honey, the discussion looked pretty heated... Plus, She looked like hell & a million years old.

Vincent (to Poppy): I know I said I wasn't the vindictive type, but GOOD.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey, I took a picture of the scene with my phone, so we could cherish it for posterity. A bit cruel, I know but I think she deserves it, after everything she's done.

Vincent (to Poppy): Darling, I cldn't agree more. I've been trying not 2 let it vex me quite so much, but I'm still livid @ her.

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, it's quite understandable & I think you're quite justified in being vexed with her. Vex away!

Vincent (to Poppy):Vry true. Ignoring the fact that I had 1 of the most hellish weeks in recent memory... it just burns me up that she tried 2 hurt ppl I care abt ovr something as dumb as a club rivalry. It makes me want 2 throw makeup remover in her face & smash out her car windshield. & that is SO not like me. LOL

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, I know it's not really the right time to say this... but it's sexy when you're all macho & vengeance.

Vincent (to Poppy): Darling, I don't think there's ever a WRONG time 2 tell me I'm sexy. Wld u like 2 catch a late lunch w/ me & see what else u can get fired up ovr?

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh honey, why don't you come over to my place, order chinese, and we'll see what happens? ;-)

Vincent (to Poppy): I'll b there in few. In my Chinese dressing gown. ;-}

Poppy (to Vincent): I'll just have my chinese fans. ;-)

An hour later:

Ripper (to Mouse): Hey, you wouldn't, by any chance, need a third DJ at Drac's Daughter? Satanica just propositioned me a few hours ago and when I said no thanks, she fired me. So, it looks like I'm out of a gig...

Mouse (to Ripper): Oh god, I am so sorry, that really blows. I warned you about her... I can ask Sasha. It would actually be nice to have a 3rd.

Ripper (to Mouse): If not, I can probably get my gig back at the Metro... but, I was really enjoying not spinning any dubstep, you know.

A couple hours later:

Mouse (to Eep): Hey handsome, how's your day going?

Eep (to Mouse): Not too bad. I've spent most of it sketching. What're you up to today?

Mouse (to Eep): I went grocery shopping & I cleaned my house... It was very exciting. Whatcha sketching?

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Um, just doodles and stuff. You know. I'm actually wondering if I did get another tattoo, what I'd get. I think visually, so, um sketching. I don't know why I feel embarrassed by that ...

Mouse (to Eep): You shouldn't be embarrassed about that. Tattoos are very personal and permanent, all of mine represent something important. Not, that I have a ton of them or anything... but you SHOULD think about them.

Eep (to Mouse): Yeah. Mine too. I waffled on getting another one for a long time.

Mouse (to Eep): Speaking of tattoos, I didn't mean to put you on the spot about drawing me one. I totally understand if you don't want to.

Eep (to Mouse): No. No. It's not that I don't want to, it's just that, um, well I be afraid to fuck it up. And, I guess I was just a little shocked you'd want me to do something you were gonna ink on your body forever.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, you're important to me & I'd like to commemorate that fact.

An hour or so later:

Delia (to Mouse & Eep): so have either of you heard if satanica is going to be charged?

Mouse (to Delia): She was indeed... Ripper said the detectives came for her on opening night & her partners are renegotiating her part in the club.

Delia (to Mouse): huh.. I wonder how strong their evidence is? I hope she gets what's coming to her for that shit... I heard about her getting hauled away. Didn't hear much after that. I've been preoccupied with moving. Ripper is her DJ that the wonder pervs were trying to maul?

Mouse (to Delia): Yeah. Satanica fired him today, because she propositioned him & he refused.

Delia (to Mouse): Um... he can sue her and her club for that shit.

Mouse (to Delia): Yeah, but it didn't happen at the club & there were no witnesses.

Delia (to Mouse): huh. Smart of her. But THAT is exactly why I would use the newspaper on her. To keep her from getting dracs sued. well that sucks. What's he going to do now?

Mouse (to Delia): He asked me about spinning at Drac's, we could use a 3rd DJ, since I take out of town gigs from time to time but, I don't know if it would be a good idea with the perv twins.

Delia (to Mouse): Yeeeah. I could always bring the newspaper back you know. Sasha thinks its funny.

Mouse (to Delia): Well, I'm gonna ask Sasha & see what he says. I mean, having 2 hot boy DJs can't possibly hurt.

Delia (to Mouse): Seriously. Ripper is nice to look at. He's got this pretty but still masculine thing going. Which is nice.

Mouse (to Delia): Yeah... god, we need some more women working at the bar.

Delia (to Mouse): ha! Yeah.. we've only got 2.5 now...

Mouse (to Delia): We need a slightly younger girl who is cute but not as pretty as either of us. :-P

Delia (to Mouse): I concur. We don't need to be upstaged by a newbie.

A few hours later:

Delia (to Vincent): So, sugar butt, you ready to get up and dance on the bar again tonight?

Vincent (to Delia): Honey, I'm ALWAYS ready. I'll be sure 2 wear something saucy. ;-}

Delia (to Vincent): Yeah I'm not sure what to wear myself. I know its been awhile but should I pull out my leathers?

Vincent (to Delia): The answer to leathers is ALWAYS yes. Ooo! I'll get mine out 2. We can match. :D

Delia (to Vincent): I think maybe you need to bring some clothes over here and help me root around and figure something out. If we're gonna make this a regular thing we might as well look damn good doin it!

Vincent (to Delia): Of course! There's no other way 2 do anything.

Delia (to Vincent): Here, I'll shoot you my new address. Then we can play dress up lol

Vincent (to Delia): Faboo! See u in a few. (to Mouse) Does ur boy own leather pants?

Mouse (to Vincent): Um, I believe so... Why?

Vincent (to Mouse): We're going 4 a theme. Wear something sexy & leather!

Mouse (to Eep): Hey, do you have a pair of leather pants?

Eep (to Mouse): Uh... yeah. Why?

Mouse (to Eep): Apparently, Delia & Vincent are planning something... I'm wearing my NY pants. :-)

Eep (to Mouse): Oh Lord. Why am I filled with dread?

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I figure dressing the part isn't that big of a deal... Anything else they're on their own.

Eep (to Mouse): Seriously. After Thanksgiving, I really don't trust ANY of Vincent's "themes."

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I appreciated the fact that you played along... I thought you looked hot.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Uh, yeah. I, um, remember. Heh.

Mouse (to Eep): Though, I will say that what you wore for NYE was my favorite. I wonder if leather pants with a shirt & tie would work?

Eep (to Mouse): Fucked if I know. Uh, I can try it you think it wouldn't look really stupid.

Mouse (to Eep): If you do it, wear a vest, too.

A few minutes later:

Eep (to Mouse): OK. I'm on the porch grabbing a quick cigarette. Do you mind sticking your head out here and telling me if I look like a dick?

Mouse (to Eep): Well, if I do that & I like it, we run the risk of not making it to work on time... or at all.

Eep (to Mouse): Oh. Um... heh. I'll just have to run the risk of looking like a dick then.

Mouse (to Eep): Well, I'm sure you look great & if you want a ride I'm heading out right now...

Eep (to Mouse): Oh yeah, that'd be awesome.

45 minutes later:

Mouse (to Vincent): Alright we're both wearing leather pants per your request...

Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo! Perfect! Just wait. U'll love this. We're doing a Cabaret theme 2nite. :-D

Mouse (to Vincent): How does leather pants go with Cabaret? Wait. Do I want to know?

Vincent (to Mouse): SEXY Cabaret. U'll see. Just b glad we didn't go w/ the song from Oklahoma.

Delia (to Vincent, Mouse & Eep): we're doing the dancing on the bar again tonight since it went over so well last week.

Mouse (to Delia): Well, if we're going to do Cabaret, we should totally do 'Two ladies'. :-p

Delia (to Mouse): Well since there isn't 1.5 ladies it'll do I suppose.

Mouse (to Delia): i suppose could come & do it with you two.

Delia (to Mouse): that might work! It'd force Leon to stay behind the dj booth and not drag me away in the middle of it lol

Mouse (to Delia): Though I feel way over dressed in comparison to what you're wearing...

Delia (to Mouse): I... have all the important bits covered. Granted electrical tape had to come to the party but still!

Mouse (to Delia): Well, it is hard to compete with electrical tape.

Delia (to Mouse): It was your brother's idea. He almost insisted on putting it on himself lol.

Mouse (to Delia): Yeah, be careful with him... He's still a dude, no matter how swishy he acts.

Delia (to Mouse): Oh I'm aware. It was the smarmy smirk that gave him away this time. Really... still. He did a good job picking it all out.

Eep (to Vincent): Dear God... What the fuck have you got on?

Vincent (to Eep): Aww, sweet. Don't b jealous. U look cute 2. If a little conservative.

Eep (to Vincent): Go die in a fire.

Mouse (to Vincent): Oh, look your girlfriend is here... And your boyfriend. :-p

Vincent (to Mouse): Ooo! Woman! Ur lucky ur so adorable. ... Course I DO look esp tasty 2nite. No harm in causing their hearts 2 flutter a bit. :-P

Mouse (to Vincent): Ummm well, good luck with all of that... & if you ever see Ripper's tattoo, please don't tell me about it.

Vincent (to Mouse): Aaaaaand where wld that tattoo b located that wld offend ur sensibilities & y do U know where it is, sister dearest?

Delia (to Mouse): if you tell him he's just going to want to look.

Mouse (to Vincent): uh, it's on his right hip & never you mind... It was a long time ago. (to Delia) oh god, it's true... Shit.

Delia (to Mouse): have you MET your brother? It'll be a pervy where's waldo.

Mouse (to Delia): I forgot who I was talking to...

Vincent (to Mouse): Whaaaaaaat? Oh my fucking God. Mouse! I'm... I'm impressed. Just when I thought I knew all there was 2 know... Of course, I RLLY wish u hadn't told me abt that tattoo. I'm going 2 b SO distracted all nite now.

Mouse (to Vincent): it was right before you started working here... I don't tell you everything, that would be weird. I'm sure he'd show it to you... He's not shy, despite his recent behavior.

Vincent (to Mouse): I'm going 2 throw a lemon @ u if u don't behave!

Mouse (to Vincent): Actually, I'm making all of that up & he doesn't actually have a tattoo. I just wanted to mess with you.

Delia (to Mouse): Well looks like its going to be a busy night. You don't think its because the video went viral do you?

Mouse (to Delia): Probably... You two are internet sensations.

Delia (to Mouse): weiiiiiiird. But hey! More biz more money. I think sasha did us a favor taping it.

Vincent (to Ripper): OK. Odd question, but humor a lad. Do u happen 2 have a tattoo on ur hip?

Ripper (to Vincent): hmmmm, do you wanna find out?

Vincent (to Ripper): U do know how 2 RLLY distract a lad, don't u?

Ripper (to Vincent): I've been told it's one of my best qualities. (to Mouse) Is there a reason why your brother is asking about my tattoo?

Delia (to Vincent): Do you need me to use this glass of ice water I have here? I can...

Vincent (to Delia): U may! Keep it on standby. :-P

Delia (to Vincent): heh.. alright. Imma watchin' you young man.

Mouse (to Ripper): I was just tormenting him.

Ripper (to Mouse): Uh ok. But if I remember correctly you were the one who turned me down. So, why do you care what he does?

Mouse (to Ripper): I'm sorry, I shouldn't be using you to shock my brother. Sometimes my ego can't handle his ego... I'll stop.

Vincent (to Delia): What time r we dancing, darling?

Delia (to Vincent): hmmm... its still picking up. Don't want to make it too late. How bout.. round midnight? we should be round the peak of the night and everyone will be liqoured up but not too much. (to Ripper) So... since you've had a rough day all things considered. I feel that warrants a free drink. Just lemme know what you want.

Vincent (to Delia): Sounds good 2 me, hun. We r WORKING the tips.

Ripper (to Delia): Your choice, my only request is to make it strong. I'm having a bit of a shit day.

Delia (to Ripper): well.. is there anything you absolutely don't like? I wouldn't want to make it worse. (to Vincent) Skill, celebrity and being nearly indecent will do that. Not complaining. I might make most of rent if this keeps up.

Ripper (to Delia): Not that I can think of, I trust you.

Delia (to Ripper): you flatter me. Hmm.. something strong... something happy as well. Absinthe and lemonade with extra absinthe?

Ripper (to Delia): Sounds perfect.

Vincent (to Eep): I take it back. U r WORKING those pants. Bend ovr some more.

Eep (to Vincent): Yeah. Right. Go die in a fire.

Vincent (to Eep): Hey now. I'm just trying 2 earn u some xtra tips. It's called working it, hun.

Mouse (to Eep): So, I really like what you're wearing...

Eep (to Mouse): Oh... heh. Thanks. Yeah. I, uh, really like what you're wearing too. But you already knew that.

Ripper (to Vincent): So, I really like what you're wearing tonight.

Vincent (to Ripper): TY. Who doesn't? ;-}

Ripper (to Vincent): So, you said there was wiggle room in your relationship... How much wiggle is there?

Vincent (to Ripper): Mostly makeouts.

Ripper (to Vincent): Oh... Need a break?

Poppy (to Vincent): Hey honey! I'm feeling terribly neglected over here.

Vincent (to Poppy): Aww, sweetie. I'm srry. I seem 2 b a popular lad 2nite. Head ovr 2 the bar & I'll make it up 2 u. (to Ripper) Ask again after Delia & I dance.

Ripper (to Vincent): Well, while you're dancing what is Poppy up to? I could go keep her company, if that's alright with you?

Poppy (to Vincent): Well see, this is why I think you should go out with Ripper, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): What? Y is that, sweetie? (to Ripper) U'll have 2 ask her, hun.

Poppy (to Vincent): Because your sexiness is just too much for one woman...

Vincent (to Poppy): I'm not the only 1. Ripper offered 2 keep u company while Delia & I do our bar dance. ;-}

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? How you do feel about that?

Vincent (to Poppy): Honestly? I don't think it wld bother me. Wld it bother u? Tho I'm not sure how. I'd feel abt making out w/ Ripper since sister dear seems 2 have already tapped that ass.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh honey, I wasn't bothered about it until you mentioned your sister... Are you sure she wasn't just messing with you?

Vincent (to Poppy): Usually, I can tell if she's fibbing. I don't think she was.

Ripper (to Poppy): Want any company while Vincent is dancing?

Poppy (to Ripper): If you just want to sit with me, sure... So, honey, did you have a thing with Mouse?

Ripper (to Mouse): So, does it count as cockblocking if the person doing it doesn't have one? You know two can play at this game? Not that I'm going to do that... (to Poppy) If, by thing, you mean one night & when I asked her out, she said no... Then yes we had a thing.

Mouse (to Ripper): look, that was not my intention...

Poppy (to Ripper): Oh honey, I wanna kiss it & make it better... She's an idiot.

Delia (to Vincent): So you ready to shake it all steamy like sugar butt? I just got the go ahead from Sasha.

Vincent (to Delia & Mouse): Of course. Showtime, ladies!

Delia (to Mouse): I think we broke your bf. And maybe half the crowd.

Eep (to Mouse): That was... wow. You were really... uh, that was good.

Mouse (to Delia): heehee, I guess that's a good thing. (to Eep) Thank you.

Eep (to Mouse): Heh. You're welcome.