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The Wild & The Wicked

The Wild & The Wicked

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In a city where feast or famine can easily swap in an instant, how will twelve young adults under the same roof fare?

2,964 readers have visited The Wild & The Wicked since hoodrattt created it.

Introduction

Deep in the heart of New York exists a life unlike any other. Where vice and virtue wage perpetual warfare, the young psyche blossoms - or implodes. Big dreams often lead to big cities. Finding oneself isn't an easy journey, especially when there are so many distractions and life-altering road blocks along the way. So when high school is over, and local colleges just aren't cutting it, where will you go?

ImageSome claw their way up a cooperate ladder, while others just ride on their luck and high hopes. Whether it be thoughtful planning, luck, fate, or money, well... It's brought these twelve adults together in a twisted tale of serendipity. The imbalance of identity is bizarre, tenants ranging from drug dealers to high end, white-collar workers.

Some kids come here to chase pipe dreams, some folks move out this way for a new beginning. In the Bronx, lively colorful shops speckle the busiest roads, children play and shout along sidewalks that are embellished with chalk. But this isn't to say these parts of New York are always so moralized and sweet. In fact, what goes on down below or in the next alley over, even the cafe that is reputed for its family business can paint a far more sinister, feral way of life. Of course it's best to assume that everyone here is just like anyone else - normal people, just trying to get by.

But what happens when honorable and despicable come together in one unusual chance? In a world where clashing cultures and the night life rule all, there are any number of outcomes possible. Buildings torn down along with their stories, murders and drug busts reduced to dust and rubble. Fresh new buildings in the place, housing business offices, quaint boutiques to appeal to the budding youthful culture. Ever evolving the city adapts to new times, smothering the ghosts of it’s past. One building will never change, it’s industrial walls giving the distinct charm that a true New Yorker can not deny. Lofty ceilings and spacious units, fate has pushed these twelve young adults to share the same roof, each their own brand of unique.

Combine good with evil, the beauty and the beast. Wander into town with a sparking curiosity as to 'what there is to do around here'. As a new or old resident, the curiosity seems to be a never ending span. Between the underground nightlife, clubs, infidelity, treason and all the substances in the space separating, will you be honorable? Despicable? Or will you be the perfect hybrid?

Friends and enemies collide. Preexisting notions are put to rest. Secrecy and publicity execute otherwise faultless lives. Wild and wicked people blow through the complex daily, some even going out with a bang.


So let's meet them.

Character #1
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Jaylene Sullivan β–Ό 22 years old β–Ό Fashion slave β–Ό 7th floor β–Ό Taken by hoodrattt

Character #2
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Kaleb Dean Sivaj β–Ό 23 years old β–Ό Store manager β–Ό 6th floor β–Ό Taken by RPGRosa

Character #3
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Hudson Hawthorn β–Ό 23 years old β–Ό Mixed Media Specialist β–Ό 5th floor β–Ό Taken by Bleedinglover

Character #4
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Adam Banksys β–Ό 22 years old β–Ό Dealer β–Ό 5th floor β–Ό Taken by hoodrattt

Character #5
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Juliet James β–Ό 21 β–Ό Bartender β–Ό 6th floor β–Ό Taken by Charlotte V

Character #6
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Corey Delgado β–Ό 24 β–Ό Private operative β–Ό 4th floor β–Ό Taken by Naught

Character #7
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Dominique Norwood β–Ό 22 β–Ό Retail minion β–Ό 2nd floor β–Ό Taken by Jaybt9

Character #8
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Patrick Murphy β–Ό 24 β–Ό Freelance writer β–Ό 2nd floor β–Ό Taken by RPGRosa

Character #9
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Alexandra Kaersson β–Ό 22 β–Ό Secretary/auxiliary weapon vendor β–Ό 3rd floor Taken by AmbrosiaVAC

Character #10
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Spitz Rollins β–Ό 24 β–Ό Mechanic/Dealer β–Ό 1st floor β–Ό Taken by hoodrattt

Character #11
Female 6 β–Ό AVAILABLE

Character #12
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Lee Harris β–Ό 24 β–Ό Sous chef β–Ό 3rd floor β–Ό Taken by Syaqeera

Character #13
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Amil Sheffield β–Ό 22 β–Ό Suicide girl β–Ό 1st floor β–Ό Taken by RPGRosa

Character #14
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Elliot Monroe β–Ό 26 β–Ό Chef de cousine β–Ό 7th floor β–Ό Taken by usernamesareadrag



The Complex

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-Seven stories
-Elevator and stair access
-Free wifi with apartment lease
-Central laundry room on third and seventh floor
-Small caf/coffee area on second floor
-Animal friendly
-Patios on every floor
-Central AC



DISCLAIMER:
This is an 18+ oriented story. Explicit language and content is involved.

Toggle Rules

Rules:
1. Please exhibit originality and creativity with your characters. Your characters are subject to approval by the strict discretion of GMs.
2. We highly stress dedication to your role/character. If you don't have any real intention of sticking with the story or aren't sold on it, don't inquire or feign interest. In essence, don't waste our time.
3. Be respectful of fellow role-players and their characters. Collaborate accordingly. In other words, don't play anyone's role but your own and don't start bitch fights.
4. Inevitably some of these characters will be drawn into somewhat romantic relationships, but take it to PM if it starts to stray away from the plot. No one wants to be reading details that aren't really central to their character.
5. Never hesitate to ask GMs questions.
6. When submitting posts, no less than three paragraphs is acceptable.
7. Always exercise basic literacy.

The Story So Far... Write a Post » as written by 9 authors

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
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Dark velvet drapes covered the bay windows, the only illuminate in the entire apartment being the flickering television that had been on the same channel since the night before. Amil had begun a criminal minds marathon, only to fall asleep and wake up to a house marathon, which only the humorless could say no to. She had only gotten up from her couch to piss and to grab some snacks from the kitchen. Her hair, varying shades of a rich teal, was starting to become greasy and had been thrown into a sloppy ponytail on top of her head, face stripped of makeup and with an expression that read β€˜I don’t give a fuck’.
She had been holed up in her house for a few days, enjoying the time to herself. Spending all last week at a shoot for some skate brand, Amil was burnt out on forcing smiles and having to maintain the image of an β€˜inked doll’. She returned to the Bronx, went to the grocery store to stockpile goodies, then dressed in her comfiest clothes to begin her mini vacation in the comfort of her own home. Her lean frame still sported the same, shapeless sweats and tee, most likely trophies from some friend who left them behind. Half empty glasses and dirtied plates stacked on the leather coffee table, like children waiting after school for their mother who always took to long to pick them up.
Seth Greene and the boy from Home Alone lit the screen, dressed in ridiculous outfits and wearing obscene make up. Also set in New York, Party Monsters was about a group of kids who were famous for no reason, just for throwing great parties and being fabulous. It seemed like a ridiculous movie to some people, but the dark pieces that showed the plunge into drug addiction and being caught into the current of parties was intoxicating. Watching the self destruction of someone who would have been her age the time the movie was made. β€œWe are who we make ourselves to be.” Her grandpa would say when talking about his son, never making excuses for his absence.
The Bronx had been kind to Amelia all these years, compared to others. She knew what blocks to cross and what blocks to avoid. Most loud pop noises were from a car backfiring, and in general the violence seemed to avoid her area. When she moved into Empire Heights several months ago she had just finished a lease with a roomate in a cramped space in Manhattan, a horrible decision. She could barely afford to save money and hated the atmosphere of the area, preferring the laid back edge of the Bronx.
Glancing at her watch, the slight femme sighed, figuring it was time to allow herself into the world again. Stripping as she made her way to the shower, she ran the hot water before stepping in. The bathroom started to smell like fresh citrus’ and shea butter, going through her beauty regimen meticulously. Emerging fresh and rejuvinated, Amil piled her hair into a turban on top of her head before going into her bedroom. β€œFuuuck.” She cursed to herself as she open the doors to her closet and a couple of drawers, shuffling through to see what might catch her eye. When nothing did she took a seat on the edge of her bed, facing the closet. Often when she felt stuck about what to wear that was what she did, just stare blankly into the abyss of her clothing. Deciding she just wanted to run to the cafe, she threw on an oversized retro black sweater and leggings that neatly tucked into a pair of boots.
Normally she would have done her make up, but she just powdered her nose and brushed on a little mascara, grabbing her book on her way out. Since she lived on the first floor, the cafe would be only one flight up. She took slow measured breaths, asthma always reminding her that her breath capacity was laughable. When she made it to the cafe, the barista already rang up her order, calling out, β€œOne big eggnog latte, coming up!” with a smile. Amil had a soft spot for eggnog anything. She smiled and paid, taking a seat in a comfy, plush couch, using the arm as support as she buried her nose in the book until she would receive her latte.

In the corner of the lounge another occupant of Empire Heights sat, Patrick Murphy clicking away into his lap top, then angrily deleting whatever he had written and starting over, a writers cycle. His hair strewn in all directions from him tugging at his shaggy dark locks while he worked. Dark bags under his eyes showed he was under stress, his vivid gray blue eyes mimicking the look of a corpse. He had been pressed for a dead line, and article about an undergoing political scandal that had yet to hit the light, he was the exclusive, or he would be if he could get the damn article right in time for the deadline. He wore the same thing he would to sleep, navy fleece sweat pants and a dark gray thermal shirt, hugging at his wrists snuggly. Even his feet wore the same red and black checkered house shoes he sported around his unit. Going to take a drink from his mug, he realized it was empty, finally making himself aware of his surroundings. He noticed he wasn’t alone anymore, and specifically that Amil had taken refuge on the couch with a book which read Haunted across the top.

Clutching his mug with dear life he first went to the counter, smirking as he offered the mug, as if wordlessly to say β€œDo your job, bitch.”
The woman smiled back and filled his mug, not even bothering to ask if he wanted sugar or cream, he liked his coffee like his views on life, bitter. The woman knew by now Patrick wasn’t much of a people person, so she was surprised when he stopped to sit in the chaise lounge chair across from Amil, grinning with amusement. β€œWhy, Amelia Sheffield you are ever full of surprises. Who on earth knew that you knew how to read?” He said, a glint in his eye as he went to sip from his mug.

Yet to have received her latte, before even acknowledging Patrick’s presence, she lazily looked over her book to the woman, who’s mouth seemed to have fallen open, appalled by Patrick’s comment. Raising her eyebrows in question, the woman then seemed to have realized what Amil was only concerned about, and returned to making Amil’s drink. Smiling to herself, she dog eared a page in her book before looking at Patrick’s expectant expression. He was such a man, desperate to always be so crude and have to feel the need to be an alpha, the only reason she knew him really was through Kaleb. Although she had to say that he grew on her a little.

Clearing her throat, she sat up straight, setting down her book as the woman finally brought her latte. Gently thanking the lady, Amil turned to face Patrick as she went to take a sip of her drink, both of them staring each other down. Finally, Amil looked away to set her drink down gently, ladylike. Then brushing off herself, she then looked back at Patrick, β€œDusting the hate off.” She said casually.

He rolled his eyes, flicking her off as he leaned back.
β€œHehe, well fuck you too, Trick!” She said, adding hand gestures for emphasis, simulating an explosion of fireworks ..or whatever else.
Once again he rolled his eyes, smacking the air as if it was her, blowing a heave of disapproval over his shoulder. β€œThat’s right motherfucker, know you’re place.” She added.

Patrick couldn’t help prodding Amelia, she was comical. She had a small, sweet voice, but spoke so many profanities he couldn’t keep up. Her persona was a blend of hip-hop, rocker and bubbly, an odd mixture - but she was a weird girl. Kaleb and her had hooked up once or twice, he wasn’t sure. He remembered Kaleb claiming he and his girl were on a break, but the timing didn’t make sense to Patrick. Unfortunately Patrick knew Kaleb wasn’t the most loyal boyfriend. Either way when he first met Amil, he thought for sure she would make him want to boil and serve his own brains for dinner. After about an hour of hearing so many swear words twisted into so many phrases, he felt a little better about being forced to hang out with her when Kaleb would try to get him out of his apartment. He quickly realized her best form of communication was arguing, and it became a constant thing between them, although a fraction of the animosity began as real, they really are good friends now.

β€œWhat are you doing out of your shell, Herbie?” Amil asked, calling him Herbie after a pet hermit crab she once had. She claims he died from neglect.

β€œTrying to get this article done, it’s due at midnight and I haven’t got anything but the title, which I’ve changed 7 times.”

She nodded, taking a sip from her latte again. β€œSounds like you’re trying to procrastinate.” She winked playfully.

Wilting, Patrick rolled his head back, tugging at his hair once again. β€œOkay, just go Dr. Phil on me Amil.” He stood up, cradling his mug. β€œI’m going to retreat to my corner. You can stay here and sell tickets to the freak show, you’d be the perfect representative.”

This time it was Amil to flick him off, raising her book back up and curling up once again on the sofa. Chuckling to himself, Patrick took his place back behind his laptop and decided that before he wrote another line, it was time for a title change.


β€œFor me, the Doors is always the best way to go. From what you’re telling me about that person, I feel like they have the same music taste as me and I would go crazy if someone bought me one of their vinyl records.” A brown skinned boy said, escorting a straight edge suburban middle aged white couple around the overstocked, crazy chaos of the record store. They were dressed to go to dinner at the club, he was dressed to go to a concert. However for once, Kaleb didn’t look like the one out of place, this was his ground, this time it was the well off, put together one that looked misplaced. They wearily looked at each other, looking Kaleb from his aged black vans, straight leg dark wash jeans and old Ramones black and white tee under his red and black flannel worn over as a jacket. As far as professionalism goes, Kaleb had none, but he seemed to know his shit about music. The couple bought the record, and a couple other ones he suggested. As he rang them up they said that he reminded them a lot of their son, and he laughed and thought to himself how pissed they must be about that. Instead he smiled and gave them their receipt, invited them back. She said they would be back, but he doubted it.

Most of their income was from regulars anyways. Taking his seat behind the counter, Kaleb checked his phone. Only a couple hours until he could go home, or go get laid, or go see a movie. He felt like being anywhere but in the too-small shop that seemed to drain most of his days away. Kicking his feet up, he reached over for his bass guitar and began strumming it, practicing for his gig coming up. That was what Kaleb loved about this job, at least here he was encouraged to make music his life.

8 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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ImageThe distant violin, a component of one of Lana Del Rey's songs, hummed airlessly from an ajar window on the seventh floor. Jaylene, the occupant of 7C, laughed in spite of the wintry mix that danced among the maximum height of the complex in which she lived. Heat would always ardently rise regardless of the seasons, causing her to irritably jam her fingers under the small window helve and crack it wide open. Faint tottering resounded on the floor she shared with other tenants. An oversized, black polished clock above her kitchen sink read '10:37AM'. Still 'Born to Die' looped from the night before, whirling from the bedroom door where a sleepy, blond-haired woman growled into her pillow then turned and threw her wrist over face.

The young woman's jade eyes glistened like fatigue smeared on glass. Her abundant mess of blond hair was tied wickedly to one side of her head, stray tresses here and there. After pulling together about two centimeters worth of motivation, she got out of bed. An unorthodox ache in her long fingers had them craned, pointed acrylics close to her palm. It was always the winter that had her so sore and exhausted, but she did a damn good job of waxing all of the above clear from view with cosmetics and a smile. Her slightly tanned skin glowed under the soft luminescence of her energy-efficient bulbs. The foot of her cotton pajama pants dragged on the linoleum as she drudged towards her coffee maker, turning over the itinerary for the day in her mind. In less than an hour she'd have a small complex assembly to attend on the second floor - something about new residents and potential upgrading, reconditioning and reiteration of 'house regulations'. The concept so often made her ironically amused but she did keep in mind that the building was absolutely filled to the brim with twenty-something's and addicts. They did need to be reminded how normal human beings worked and lived to coexist fittingly.

After a quick shower and a black coffee with a pinch of espresso, Jaylene seated herself comfortably in front of her vanity. But the look on her face was less than enthused as she pressed the pads of her index fingers to skin just below her eyes. To her, bags were setting in deep. To everyone else they weren't visible. And she knew it wasn't the makeup - it was more of a placebo effect sort of thing. She believed they were there, so it appeared that way. With hesitation she dabbed her finger into some tinted moisturizer, only slightly applying it to her naturally aglow face. She put in a quick set of rollers, only held for maybe twenty minutes before she worked in about five different hair products and pulled them out again.

The rest of her process went by in a blur. After the meeting she'd return to her apartment and throw herself together proper. For now, supple nude lips rolled leisurely to spread chapstick. Flowing waves of blond hair stopped at her waist which significantly narrowed before widening again just at her hips. Her unadorned eyes were wide, radiant and emerald with newfound energy. Lack of interest led her directly to faded floral leggings, knee-high leather boots and an oversized cream-colored cardigan. She knew Elliot would say some sideways remark about the absence of her false eyelashes when entering a room full of people, then follow it up with some 'you're beautiful without it' save line. His turnaround humor never failed to enliven otherwise boring events. Since their first encounter, dappled occasions brought them closer over time. He was easily her best friend in the city, if not her only best friend at all. The solidity that came enclosed was something Jaylene always needed. Especially while living in the same complex as Kaleb. One could say that Elliot was Mr. Right - just more in the context of unfaltering friendship. Walking arm-in-arm so often had a lot of questions popping into the air. Elliot and Jaylene always giggled about it quietly. They enjoyed the suffering curiosity they imposed on their audiences.

'How long have you two been together?'
'Such a sweet couple!'


A small smirk spread across her lips as she stepped into the hallway, locking her door and leaning against the aged frame. Just across the way, Elliot lived in 7D. He'd be out any minute. When he finally emerged, Jaylene padded across the foyer and immediately melted into him, her head pressed to his chest as she made some unearthly, grumbling noises, "Haven't we been living here long enough to be excused from these shitfest meetings?" With an exaggerated sigh, she softly beat on his chest like a tantrum driven child and added innocently, "Also, heh. Would you kill me if I told you I needed last minute party favors for an event at Manhattan Tower tonight?" She simpered sweetly up at him. After a drawn out silence, and him staring back down at her in a sort of scolding way, she countered, "Okay, listen. I'll throw in some Herrera goodie bags for little Marie, and a new Valentino suit for you. Please?"

In the back of her mind flickered the last chance meeting with Kaleb where they directly interacted. Mick's bar, editorial celebration and model recruits. His band played and he was way less than pleased to have run into a ghost from his past. Especially since she was the one paying out. Seeing him wasn't so painful anymore but, knowing that he was so close yet completely intangible caused a perpetual ache in her soul. And she was sure that the drugs he pumped himself with only escalated his hatred for her. So to be put plainly, she kept her distance. Who knows if he'd even show up to the little 'union' on the second floor.






Image


"Ayo Banks!"

A thundering string of pounds on Adam's already rickety door sent his bloodshot eyes shooting open. Another connection with someone's fist would probably split the damn thing in half. A large palm slapped across his face, dragging downward and pulling his lower lip away from mostly straight teeth. He sat up, half expecting to see a random curled up next to him. But the only thing in sight was a roll of hundred dollar bills, rubber banded and tucked slightly under his pillow. That alone was enough incitement to spin a grin and get him to his feet to answer the door.

Another day, another dollar. Though his stage of life and sufferings circulated in cold azure eyes, his face was younger than his factual age itself. He still looked like he belonged in a juvenile correctional facility with the exception of his looming height and well spoken intellect. Unfortunately for most circumstances he involved himself in, not many got to see the intellect part of his personality. Sometimes he partially wanted to get to know some of the females from the complex just to lay his insight bare. So they knew he wasn't just a drug dealing, silent but violent type. But as it were, Adam never felt like he had to prove shit to anyone. Especially girls. Besides, he pulled enough into bed with him without having to so much as recite a hook line. The only thing that bothered him was that for whatever reason, he went to bed alone the night before.

Unlike other tenants, Adam pulled open his door without indecision or curiosity as to who was on the other side. The building had good enough security and well, he was always prepared to say the very least. As expected, the outside margin presented his good friend and technical 'business' partner. Still shirtless, Adam itched tiredly at his right shoulder and grunted, "Wassup man?" The two exchanged a quick handshake before Spitz strolled in casually, sinking into the couch like it was his own house. Adam crossed the distance of the compact living room. He kicked open the bathroom door, sweatpants half sagging off of him to show a pair of symmetry lines at the extremity of his toned abdomen. The sink needed to be cleaned, it was obvious that a woman's touch was never at hand. Drops of water rolled from the rusty faucet which was turned off. Lazily he jammed a toothbrush loaded with paste into his mouth and unintelligibly called to Spitz, "Is that deal at Manhattan tower still on tonight or what?" Next, he spit out a wad of bloody phlegm and toothpaste to repeat slightly, "That thing your girl on the seventh floor is doing… some fashion shit." Momentarily he peered into the mirror, met with a yawning face that couldn't be bothered to take orders from anyone or anything.

"Yeah she puttin' on some party for an editor or whatever she do." Spitz lit a blunt.
"Alright alright." Adam beamed and rubbed his hands together, "After party?"
"True. Get a new whip up in that old ass garage."
"I'm saying!" Adam acclaimed.
"Finna see if I can get shorty from my floor to come kick it, uuuuuuh uh."
"Got a mouth on her."

The two men laughed. Adam snagged the blunt from Spitz to take a hit, letting the stimulant dilate in his abused lungs. He held his breath, passing the joint back to his friend and finally letting out an abrading cough. Hopping up and down, Adam shook his shoulders and hawked, "Train wreck sweet? Damn, good shit. I'm gonna' need that for this fuckin' council shit they have going on on the second floor." For a moment the two got quiet, looking at each other and realizing it was a mandatory meeting. Spitz held the joint in his mouth, eyes wide as he rushed towards the door and called out, "I'll see you up there bruh!"

Adam was left to hastily wash himself, throw on a spray of Axe which, normally he wouldn't do but, he was too lazy for anything else. The landlord would watch him with her bird ass, beady eyes when he snuck in late. But it wasn't too big of a deal, Adam had lived at Empire Heights for more than six months. He knew how everything worked. He fought his way into a Supreme hood and a pair of khakis, almost forgetting his Airmax 90's on his way out the door. As he jogged down the stairs he near tripped as he blew past a blond from the third floor, someone he'd seen a few times but never caught her name. He knew she was kush friendly. At least, that's what he heard. She looked younger than himself but he never got the chance to really converse with her. Maybe her name was Alex? Ally? Something like that.

When he finally spilled through the double doors into the lounge area, half of the complex was already seated. Eyes shifted towards him, some with disapproval and some with amusement. With a straight face, the young man shrugged and loudly yanked a chair to sit besides the light-skinned girl he had stolen more than a few glances at in the past. As surmised, the landlord looked ready to snap at the sight of Adam. Without shame he raised his hand high and called out, "Don't worry Ms. Furman, I'm here. You look stunning." He heard Spitz hoot in response, followed by a few chuckles.






What was left of Spitz' little treat from the deal he had the night before was almost gone already. At the crack of dawn he always had a wake and bake session, but cut back on this particular morning so he had some left. 'Train Wreck Sweet', one of the most intense mental highs he ever felt. He usually kept his hands out of the coke and various narcotics he dealt anymore. Only once in a blue moon would he dabble for fun. Besides, he was more than capable of attaining any type of weed he wanted at a great price if not for free. With the assistance of Banksy, another Empire Heights resident, Spitz never went without good kush. The connections the two had gave them the eligibility of king pins. And life was good.

ImageSpitz didn't have any complaints anymore. He was at a steady place in a secure home, mostly surrounded by friends and good business. Whatever came in never left without him getting a good look, which was the pleasure and mass of his income while living on the first floor. Wasn't a bad gig at all. He had a spacious place, two bedrooms and a large bathroom. The only drab thing about it was the white walls which were strictly forbidden from being painted, part of EH edict. A black and white scheme of contemporary portraits and photos were methodically hung from his walls. Reflection of brisk sunlight scattered across their surfaces from large windows. In the center of the living room was a large LED flatscreen, just adjacent to a black leather sofa that Spitz sat on to play some video games and make phone calls in the early morning.

After making more than enough business calls, Spitz tucked his iPhone into the pocket of black slim jeans. He kicked down at the heel of his Vans, securing them and deciding to get a coffee from the second floor before all the bullshit started on it during the meeting.

Snugly perched in plain view was Amil, another EH tenant he had the satisfaction of knowing and bumping heads with. Something about her outstanding wits and sailor's mouth always had him peeping her but never getting too close. He figured she was smart enough not to fuck around with his type, what with her nose in books and her priorities seemingly together. The only problem with the equation was that she was exactly his type. The length of her lean body was graced with perennial artwork, her skin taut and tawny. He was always fighting the urge to lick his lips like some animal in her presence. He simply nodded towards her, unsure if she acknowledged him or not as he made his way to order a coffee from the regular cafe counter attendant.

A short distance away was another local, Patrick or something was his name, as Spitz vaguely remembered. He was looking tired as usual, typing away on his computer like all he knew was work. Spitz looked down into his wallet at the counter, minding his own business and smirking slightly. After tipping the barista he peeled the lid off of his coffee and tossed it into the trashcan. He hated the taste of plastic. As he sat down he looked around the second floor lounge area. Not many people inhabited it despite the space being actually pretty affluent. There was a coffee area, couches, two TVs and a dart board. The other half of the room was bare, usually utilized for meetings. He knew mostly everyone from the building by heart and was sociable with all of them, so sometimes meetings weren't half bad. Some people just didn't want to be within so much as hearing distance of him. And he got it, he understood. He never took it as disrespect. It was all good with him no matter what.

The warmth from the coffee filled his body to the point that his camo jacket and hoodie almost had him sweating. "Ooowee," he mumbled, grasping the cup with one hand and straightening the bill of his hat with the other. He finished off the liquid and made his way to the fifth floor to wake Banksy's lazy ass up.

After beating on the door for five minutes straight the fool finally got up and answered the door without a shirt like some crack fiend. Spitz strolled in and plopped right onto the couch and lit up a joint to unwind for a little before he had sit and listen to Furman ramble on and on about keeping the halls clean and not filing complaints about construction noise. Banksy's living room was dark, the curtains were pulled shut haphazardly and the walls were bare. Things weren't utterly disorganized but the dude definitely could have used a morning maid or something. Everyone lived differently, but sometimes Spitz just didn't understand how.

After sharing his blunt with Banksy he suddenly remembered that it wasn't so early anymore. The two of them seemed to conclude it at the same time which had Spitz power hitting the train wreck sweet and running out of the door to make it to the meeting at a punctual time. Only a few minutes before it began he was snagging a seat in the center row of carelessly placed chairs, waiting for the rest of the crowd to arrive. And one by one they made their way in, some looking asleep still, others like Jaylene and Elliot looking like they were ready to go shopping or some shit. He saluted the two, walking in the way they always did, while Ms. Furman stood in front of all of them, beginning humorlessly, "I don't want to have to hold these meetings anymore, so I'll make it quick."

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan
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For the first time in a long time, the occupant of room 7D woke up in a different sort of way. The usual suspects- his alarm clock placed strategically across the room from him in an effort to force him to choose between shrugging off slumber and starting the day or dealing with its shrill scream and his phones, both cellular and landline- remained disturbingly silent. Instead, it was a stray sliver of sunlight that woke him up, stretching through a small gap in the blinds over his window and traveling over his bed until it fully illuminated his face, forcing him to wake.

Elliot Monroe blinked slowly, staring up at his ceiling, but did not otherwise move, simply because he didn't have to. There were no appointments to make, nothing tugging incessantly at his attention that couldn't be dealt with later this week, nothing to drag him from under his plush covers and into the bizarrely empty day that stretched before him, so different from the jam-packed days he normally dealt with. Today was an odd day, a rare, once-in-a-blue-moon occurrence in the twenty-six-year-old's life. He had the day off work at the owner's insistence, his other job blessedly didn't need his attention, and his bills had been handed in the day before, not just the normal every day bills of rent and car payments, but also his monthly check to less reputable debt collectors. Still, the feeling of relief and accomplishment that would overtake most people in his current situation failed to show itself because he knew that today was just a slight break in the tedium that had become his life, and tomorrow he would be thrown right back into it. Some might call that pessimistic, but he felt he was being optimistic about the whole thing. After all, anyone without hope in his situation would have blown their brains out ages ago.

But for now he had other decisions to make, like whether he really wanted to get out of bed. The mattress was so enticingly soft, and the covers and comforter fit so snugly over him, cocooning him in a cuddly warmth. Besides, it wasn't like he had anything to do today… Yeah… His eyes began to flutter shut, the seductive charm of sleep lulling him into complacency. That is, before reality set in. His face twisted into a pout. Oh, right. There was a meeting today. Ugh. Wonderful.

With all of the willpower he could summon, Monroe slid out of bed, shivering lightly as the winter air that had been kept at bay by his warm bed quickly made its presence known. Oh, it wasn't nearly as bad as outside, but it was a stark difference from his warm, little cocoon of blankets. He stretched widely with a big yawn, his black t-shirt with the name of some band printed across it in faded letters riding up to expose fair skin that was abruptly interrupted by a nasty almost star-sharped scar between the gap and his dark blue boxers. Thankfully it was cooperating today, not even a twinge of muted pain pulsating from it as he relaxed and padded into the bathroom attached to the master bedroom.

Without much thought at all, he went about his daily ritual, stepping into the steaming hot shower, standing for about ten minutes under the spray as it gently beat across his back, finally fully waking up and actually getting some washing done, and, after drying off, inspecting himself in the mirror. His hair was a mess- God, he really needed a haircut- but was quickly dealt with with a brush and a bit of product to smooth it down into its usual impeccable state. He gave his face a quick once-over, dark shadows prominent under tired looking eyes, but there was nothing to be done about it, and the stubble. Well… He rubbed his hand over his chin. Nope. He could definitely wait until another day for that.

It was all routine after that, getting dressed with his usual lack of care- he entertained the thought of throwing on the hideous bright, lime green shirt with orange polka-dots Marie had insisted on giving him for his birthday despite her father's numerous apologies just to annoy Jaylene, but eventually gave up on it because the only reason she'd yet to burn it was because he'd promised not to wear it in public- pulling on a simple pair of jeans and a plain white shirt paired with an olive-colored coat. He checked the clock and, somehow doing well on time, had a quick breakfast and a cup of tea before he was out the door and off to the meeting.

Or, rather, he would be off to the meeting if it weren't for the warm body currently wrapped around him like a straightjacket. If anyone else- family excluded- had tried that, Monroe would have wiggled out of their grip in mere seconds, but this wasn't just anyone. It was Jaylene, his partner in crime, life, and sanity these past few years. So, instead, he simply wrapped his arms around her, chin rested on her shoulder.

"You know we have to go to be good examples for the children," He tutted teasingly. Children. Ha. He might be the oldest one in the building and Jaylene one of the youngest, but in an apartment of lost souls and drug dealers, they might indeed have more maturity than the lot of them thrown together. And, considering just how mature Monroe and Jaylene could be when together, well, that was a very scary thought.

"Also, heh. Would you kill me if I told you I needed last minute party favors for an event at Manhattan Tower tonight?"

Really? Monroe's lips twisted slightly downwards, eyes narrowed slightly. She was really asking him this on his one day off, and at the least minute at that. Sure, he was going to say yes because it was Jaylene and he could say no to her as easily as he could say no to someone giving him a billion dollars, which is to say not at all, but that didn't mean he wasn't going to make her squirm for putting him out like this.

"Okay, listen. I'll throw in some Herrera goodie bags for little Marie, and a new Valentino suit for you. Please?"

"I don't know…" He drawled, a look of fake contemplation taking over his face for a moment before he grinned, tapping her on the nose in such a way that did nothing to stop perpetuating their image as a sickeningly sweet couple. "Oh, all right. But only because you offered me nice things. Bribery will get you everywhere. Well, except out of this meeting. Come on, we wouldn't want to be late."

He looped his arm lazily with hers and with a mock bow escorted her to the elevator because this was his day off, darn it. He could afford to be a little lazy and skip the five flights of stairs.

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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Juliet stared lazily at the ceiling, waiting for any feeling of guilt or self-loathing to sink in, but it never did. She squinted slightly at the glued on stars decorating the area above her, something that would have made her laugh if she didn't know the person they belonged to. Quirkiness was a trait she could admire, she supposed. Which meant she wasn't numb to feelings...she just didn't feel...gross. Didn't someone once tell her whores were filthy and degradable? Huh.

With a sigh, she finally heaved herself out of bed, missing the comfort and the warmth already, even if it wasn't her own...actually, it was better than her own, she couldn't afford anything that nice. Finding her clothes was a harder feat, she found her underwear over the dresser, shorts on the ground next to it, bra hanging off the ceiling fan, and tugged on her favorite over sized plaid shirt after that. "Fuck," she muttered softly, realizing one of the buttons were broken...she'd have to fix that.

"Leaving already?"

She looked up at the soft voice, smiling at the girl that sat up in the bed, sheets drawn to her chest, brown hair in complete disarray. She crossed the room as she tugged buttons back into place and gently grasped the girls chin, pulling her close before their lips met. It wasn't a soft, good morning kiss, but much more passionate, one that left the girl stary eyed and probably weak kneed. "I'll be back, Ali, you know I always am."

Alison smiled at her before falling back into bed, cuddling up to the warm male body still beside her. Juliet couldn't remember his name, but she didn't feel like she needed to nor did she care. She found her boots relatively close to each other, and smiled when Alison mumbled a weak, "I really wish you could stay."

"I know," Juliet replied as she stepped into one shoe after the other, not bothering with socks. She ran both of her hands through her hair before stepping into the bathroom. The only make-up she'd worn the night before was around her eyes, which was still mostly in place, and with a little work from Ali's own supply she managed to fix away any signs of how tired she actually was. She figured she got maybe an hour two of sleep? Work consisted of her staying up all night long, then play time had taken up most of the day. She could sleep it away if it wasn't for that damned meeting.

Juliet stepped out of the room running both hands through her messy hair before letting it fall where she pleased, and leaned over the bed to steal one last, soft kiss with Alison before she grabbed her keys of the nightstand and made her way out of the building.

It was already eleven by the time she got in her car, which was way too fucking early for her taste. She sighed as she closed her eyes for a moment, resting her forehead on the steering wheel, then made the decision to go grab some coffee before she had to get back to Empire Heights. Thankfully, both were fairly close, and no one was going to like her if she didn't get some Starbucks.

Thanks to being an off time of the day, she made it to her own building by 11:15, and sighed as she drug herself upstairs. Juliet had lived there for a little over two years now, and she'd decided the meetings were always pointless. Always about new residents, the same potential upgrading they'd been discussing since she moved in, and more 'house regulations'. It really never seemed any different, and she hated them all. But no matter how many times she tried to find an excuse--even trying her work schedual once--it never worked. Mandatory meant mandatory.

She made it to the second floor lounge by the time a couple of tenants were already seated. She picked a red chair, the bowl type, and fell into it comfortably, resting her head on one of her palms.

Spitz walked in right after she did, saluting those he knew before sitting down. She only recognized him because he frequented the club alot, and she'd heard his name one too many times to really forget it. After that was a kid she'd decided was always late, brown haired and blue eyed -- he was cute, and probably her type, not that she'd ever find the energy to get up and seek that option out. "Don't worry Ms. Furman, I'm here. You look stunning."

Juliet snorted, along with a woot from Spitz and a collective chuckle from some of the others. She shook her head, dropping her hand and pulling her feet up into the chair with her as she sunk down a little lower.

"I don't want to have to hold these meetings anymore, so I'll make it quick."

"Hood," she muttered under her breath, "because the rest of us are sick of being here."

8 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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Kaleb Dean Sivaj
Most people were just waking up, but Kaleb had to be at the record shop at the crack of dawn to open the record shop until one of the associates made it in to hold down the fort. The owner of the store had grown to be a father figure of sorts to Kaleb, having been the man to take Kaleb under his wing a couple years back, giving him a job and a cot to crash on for $35 a month - it was a sweet deal compared to being homeless. Dan was probably the only person that Kaleb still associated with from his days as a vagabond. After so long of seeing Kaleb grow as a person, and offering guidance along the way, Dan had basically left his store in the hands of the young man. He had a wife, although they didn’t have any children, and they were currently in California visiting family. In the meantime Kaleb had to open and close every day, since he was the only one with keys to the store. It was cool because he only had to work 3 hours at a time, twice a day, but it sucked because every day he had to wake up at 5 AM. Admittedly he had already called the other workers a couple of times to say the shop would be closed for the day, but hangovers were a bitch to battle.

β€œDueces.” He said on his way out to Mitchell, throwing up a peace sign on his way out.

Unlike most people his age, Kaleb still hadn’t owned a car. Even when he lived in Canada in the posh side of Belleville in a spacious 4 bedroom home with his father, the surgeon, he had never been allowed to drive. Mr. Sivaj was a man of very strict standards, but unfortunately he never had the time to implement his discipline, and Mrs. Sivaj had died during child birth. So instead Kaleb would be grounded, left alone in the house, with his friends living only minutes away - his best friend being his neighbor - and access to vast amounts of money. Needless to say Kaleb was a bit of a wild card, which was half of the reason why he ran away. Now, Kaleb only contacted his father and sister on holidays and birthdays, they always asked if he was doing well but never asked for details. His father definitely never offered any kind of financial support, so until he could save up, he would take the bus as usual. Luckily this time he didn’t have to wait long for the bus to arrive.

He chose to stand, the only seats available blocked by grocery bags or purses of unwelcoming neighbors. He took out his phone, seeing he had missed a call from Kaycee, sighing heavily as he deliberated wether he should call her back or not. Kaycee was undoubtedly the most important person in his life right now, but she was so terribly insecure and never gave him any trust, it seemed - although thinking back he hadn’t done much to deserve it either. Frowning, he punched the call back key, waiting three rings until she picked up.
”Hey hott stuff.” she answered.
β€œHey, what’s up?”
”Just wanted to chat...” He could imagine her scrunching her short hair, as she would usually do when she was on the phone, maybe leaning across the counter of the trendy boutique she worked at as costumers browsed over priced jewelry. ”what are you up to?
In reality Kaleb knew she had waited until the exact moment she thought he would get off work to know exactly what her plans for the day was, she did the same thing every time, so predictable and not the least bit slick in her tactics. He shrugged her shoulders as if she could see him, glancing around at the strange faces as he thought up an answer. β€œJust on my way back to my place, there’s some weird meeting for all the tenants...then I’ll probably just kick it at Patrick’s until I have to swing back to the shop.” It wasn’t entirely a lie, it probably would end up being true, but he didn’t have any set plans really. So long as Kaycee thought she knew what was going on, she’d be happy. β€œHow about you?” He added, for good boyfriend affect.
”Here until 7, wanted to see if you’d be up for thai..”
β€œSorry babe, I go in at 7.”
”Yea I know, but I could bring it to you...”
He couldn’t help but to smirk, despite her annoying quirks, the girl was undeniably cute. The familiar store fronts and buildings passed by, signaling to Kaleb. β€œI’ll text you later, babe, I’m at my stop.”
She sighed with disappointment, ”Okay...love you.”
β€œLove you, too. I’ll text you, promise.”

ImageThe bus stop was only a block down from Empire Heights, a minute walk at most. Glancing at the face of his phone, he saw that he was late, picking up his pace to a slow jog as he neared his building. It seemed a bit ridiculous that their landlord would be having a mandatory meeting as if they were students at some weird boarding institute. However Ms. Furman was obviously a control freak, and wanted to keep her tenants in line. It was strange how most of the tenants were in their twenties, but considering that Empire Heights was one of the few places that didn’t run a background check and offered moderate security and luxuries that may have had something to do with it. He took the stairs to the cafe, seeing it was already pretty cramped. Amil and Patrick had taken refuge on one of the couches, but all the other plush seating was taken. A quick scan told him that Jaylene had managed to make it, hanging off that stocky little mother fucker from 7D.

One of the few spots left was next to Juliet, a girl Amil had brought around a couple times. β€œWhat did I miss?” He asked, smirking with mild curiousity.





Image Amil had a problem with being alone, she hated sitting on her own in her apartment unless she was burnt out after traveling or being drowned with back to back shoots. Although the past few days spent in solitude had been nice, sitting in the cafe with Patrick in the corner and the barista behind the counter was fulfilling. Her latte was warming and tasty, filled with all the festive cheer she needed in her life at the moment. Setting down her book momentarily, she cupped her drink with both hands as she finished the last of it, savoring the beverage. It was still some time before their mandatory meeting started, which she had forgotten about until the woman behind the counter mentioned it, yet Spitz rolled in much earlier than she would’ve suspected. He nodded to her in greeting, and she smiled warmly back, although he didn’t seem to let his eyes linger long enough to see if she would respond at all. A facetious smile tugged at the corner of her lips as she brought her book back up, watching him with mild amusement.

Amil was no dummy, she could tell when someone was physically attracted to her. In actuality, all egoism aside, most people were on some level attracted to her, it was her job to attract people to her. Despite her and Spitz never having spent much time together, they had crossed paths numerous times. He would usually run his eyes down her shape, pausing twice if her clothing was provocative enough. It was no secret he was a dealer, he and Bansky ran a fine operation together. Not much of a partier, however, Amil rarely dabbled in drugs. Occasionally if she was running low she’d take a bump off of some other model’s stash, or if she felt especially high strung she’d smoke a joint - but she never actually bought any drugs. She figured the only reason she hadn’t hung out with the residential drug dealers was because she never needed their services, and it seemed like that was all they really cared about. They were both appealing in her eyes, luckily neither of them had encountered her drunk - Kaleb was always around for that.

Yet instead of lingering, Spitz disappeared and Amil buried herself back into her book, lost in the pages until she felt someone sit on the left of her, leaving her in the middle. She looked up to Patrick, who had gotten comfy beside her, his mug in one hand and his other protectively shielding his laptop that sat, closed, on his lap. β€œPeople are starting to filter in, out of the lot I’d rather be next to you.” He said, the usual bitter edge to his tone.

Amil rolled her eyes, dog earing her place in her book and going to the cafe counter once again to this time order a tea and a delicious pastry, taking both back with her to her spot. β€œYou can have some if you’d like.” She said, motioning to the pastry.

Patrick looked at her with a deadpan expression, β€œI’d really prefer not to get herpes.”

She punched his arm, tugged his ear and lightly smacked his face. β€œDon’t be a jack ass.” She said simply, pointing a finger in his face. Anyone else, Patrick might’ve began a verbal slaughtering of a lifetime, but his comment had been severely crude - and the fact that he felt oddly aroused was a bit off putting. So instead he smirked mischievously, taking a piece of her pastry and slowly putting it into his mouth. She nodded with approval, β€œMuch better.”

By then a couple people had begun to stare at the two, although most were probably surprised that Patrick was being friendly with anyone at all. It seemed like a good percentage of the tenants had actually shown, although a couple were late. It was no surprise that Bansky was among them, adding a snide comment to counter Ms. Furmans surly attitude. She couldn’t help but to laugh a little, receiving a stare from Patrick of course who didn’t find it the least bit entertaining. Amil rolled her eyes, Patrick had listened too much to Kaleb, who outrightly slandered Spitz as well as Bansky, especially the pretty blonde from 7C. Amil preferred to make judgements on her own though instead of listening to others. Luckily Ms. Furman promised to be quick, carrying on with her point to the meeting. Kaleb drifted in belatedly, taking a spot next to Juliet, as Amil locked eyes with the girl across the room she smiled and waved excitedly, earning yet another stare from Patrick. Frowning she nudged Patrick with her elbow, huffing dramatically.

Ms. Furman cleared her throat, looking down to Amil and Patrick both with obvious disapproval. The two took humbled expressions, waiting until she looked away to glance at each other from the corner of their eyes, resisting the urge to laugh. Patrick opened his laptop, pulling up a text document and typing out the word HEATHENS, making it harder for Amil not to laugh. She could just imagine their landlord referring to them all in such a way. Before Amil could respond, Ms. Furman’s stern voice brought her attention back to the woman that stood before them all in a meeting that seemed to be so urgent.

9 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys Character Portrait: Lee Harris
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The music that blasted from the surround system that was placed methodically around Noellen's room made his whole body and the desk he was seated at reverberated to the beats and strums of Atreyu's mix of heavy metal, rock and scremo, though not the type of person to chose the former or latter genre, the band blended the three well enough for him to enjoy the music. The black velvet drapes were pushed back, leaving only the shades to filter the early rays in an ethereal orange glow in his room, a bright change compared to the usual dark morning Noellen would be having if he didn't have the mandatory meeting the landlord sprung up from time to time, though he was used to it after god-knows how long he had been here. Now plague with the forgotten period of his arrival to the present moment, he sat back in his seat with narrowed eyes that gazed over his laptop screen, words and numbers blur into each other as he tried to hot-wire his brain into remembering. Unsuccessful after racking his brains for the answer, he gave up on the search but left it to fester in the back of his mind, unnecessary thoughts were of no importance as last night activities surfaced for the first time since he had woken, his rendezvous was only a mere three hours ago and he shook the thought away.

Shutting down his device that held information that could shame any government records on underground activities and subject records, he took his time to freshen up for the day, which wasn't much but occupy the bathroom for hygienic reasons seeing as he was already up and would most likely not get the chance to sleep till late afternoon. A short rinse, dental care and fingers raking through his hair, Noellen picked up one of the few shirts that found their place on the floor, a grey mid-sleeve v-neck, and a very worn and very faded pair of jeans, the mocking oil stains lied to anyone of its true nature. Thank god it didn't smell though, he didn't want to smell like cooper to anyone and giving them a chance to guess why.

It was still early, much too early to walk down to the meeting, considering having a short nap but knew if he did, he wouldn't wake up till later. Cursing to himself and the landlord for messing his sleep, he lowered the sound system enough that it didn't shook throughout his place and went about checking his security as to assure his belongings safety from prying hands and eyes. It was a chore but he didn't get this far in life slacking off and using shortcuts, even if he wished he could, there was too much at stake for half-ass attempts.

Not knowing what else he could do in this morning hour, Noellen gave a tired sigh as he left the comfort of his room and headed down to the second floor. "Might as well sleep a little when I get there," he grumbled to himself.

Preferring the stairs over elevator so he didn't have to pass by anyone, it gave him time to think if this was it. Was he stuck here? Was he ever going to reach his goal? Was he going to finally find what he had been looking for? All these questions had settled themselves heavily in his mind and life, all he want is to get back to a normal life but he knew he couldn't if he didn't do this, all the things he did would've been for nothing if he quit now. Goddamn was his life depressing, shaking the unsettling feeling off him as the smell of coffee catches his scent and couldn't understand how people could stand the morning, it was horrible and boring as hell.

Glad that there was a few couches were placed around the place, Noellen unsuspectingly choose one near the back corner as not to bring too much attention to himself when he laid down on the seat, one arm over his eyes but kept his auditory senses on high alert since being one to collect information and secrets, he learned how to listen for things and one of them was identifying whoever is coming in and out of the room, if he knew them well enough that is. There was of course voices themselves, especially one of the teal model and the writer that could be heard over every other noises here. It wasn't long until he began to drift in and out of consciousness, eavesdropping a bit when he was aware of new footstep entering and then going back under.

When people began to pour in and taking up the seats, Noellen stayed as he were, not caring about those who wanted a seat and not being able to drift off again, just laid there listening to conversations and and identifying people he had significant interest in though not long until the ungodly voice of Ms.Furman grated through his concentration, wanting her to get to the point already.

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Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn
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"Ok, we're going to sing The Wire. Got it?" Hudson asked as she slid her guitar strap around her shoulder before looking at the rest of her band as they nodded their heads. The band's dummer , Luna tossed her cigarette on the stone floor before stepping on it to put it out. The guitarist, Jackson cleared his throat. "Okay. One, two..."

And with that he began strumming the song followed by Luna. Hudson grabbed the microphone and watched her band from the corner of her eyes before clearing throat. "You know I'm bad at communication, it's the hardest thing for me to do. And it's said, it's the most important part that relationships will go through. And I'd give it all away just so I could say that. I know I know I know I know that you're gonna be OK anyway. You know there's no rhyme or reason for the way you turned out to be. I didn't go and try to change my mind. not intentionally. I know it's hard to hear me say it but I can't bear to stay and. I just know I know I know I know that you're gonna be OK anyway..--"

Hudson looked down at her guitar for a brief moment before looking back at the microphone and the imaginary crowd that they were pretending was in front of them. They had a gig the next day and it was in front of a big name producer, meaning that they had to be perfect. And for most of the song it was, until they all heard the bass start messing up. But, it wasn't until she heard Luna yell and throw here drumsticks on the ground that the Australian had to stop and look at Luna. "Dammit Leo!"

The black haired girl let out a deep groan before turning her glare to the bassist, Leon. Who just let out a nervous chuckle before putting his bass down. Hudson was about to say something but before she had the chance, Luna had already jumped in. "Leo! We have been practicing this song for two months, two fucking months. This is the best song we have and you mess up." Luna walked over to the bassist who at the moment had a smug smirk on his face as he looked down at his girlfriend of three years. Hudson rubbed her temples as the drummer continued to yell at her boyfriend. After awhile of knowing the couple, you learn to just sit back and let them work out whatever issue they had with one another. Hudson just sat on one of the amps along with Jackson as they watched the couple. Leon put his arms around the short girl's waist, in an attempt to make her be quiet. "Babe, this is our big chance and we need everything to be perfect. And if you mess up like that on stage we'll never get signed to a big name label."

"Luna, you need to relax. Everything will be fine. Alright?" He moved one of his hands to her jaw before bringing her into a kiss. Hudson and Jackson just watched before pretending to get sick in order to get the lovebirds focused again. "Great, everything's all good again. Now, can we please get back to practicing? Please." The whole band just groaned in a childish way. "Hudson, c'mon. We've been practicing since nine in the morning. We're tired."

"And hungry."

"And bored. For the past week this is all we've done is practice, practice, and more practice. Let's go do something!" Jackson said as he tossed his arm around the lead singer's narrow shoulders. Hudson rolled her eyes before getting up a setting her guitar down softly next to Jackson's. "Do what? It's noon so, what do you want to do?" Jackson just shrugged. "Let's go do anything. The guys can go somewhere and we can go somewhere else, just to clear out minds. You know? C'mon, Hud.... please." The other girl had a fake puppy pout on her face as she looked at her close friend who looked pretty annoyed at all of her friends. Hudson looked down at the ground before finally giving into her band mates' request.

"Ok, fine. But, we are meeting up at nine. Got it?" The guys just nodded as they slipped on their leather jackets. "I'm going to go get my wallet." Jackson said as he exited the garage that was in his apartment building. Leon gave Luna a small but passionate kiss before pulling away and kissing his cheek. "I'll call you later, babe." Luna let out a small smile before nodding. The two girls watched the two guys of the group leave before looking at each other. "So, what do you want to do?"

"We can go look at some music. Maybe do a cover of a song or get more vinyls for our wall." Luna suggested as she looked at the wall of vinyls that the four have collected over the years. Most were from older bands but, they had a few newer bands on the beloved wall too. Hudson shrugged and grabbed her black coat before zipping it up. "Sure, why not?" Hudson fixed her jeans before looking in the mirror the girls put into the practice space when they first started the band. Luna grabbed her coat before walked towards the door into the chilly New York air. Hudson put her hat on before exiting the building and walking down the street with her friend right next to her. She slipped on her glasses just as Luna put on her black Ray Bans. It didn't take long for the pair to get to the local music shop.

The girls spent the next few hours looking through the store before buying twenty of them and making their way to get something to eat. It wasn't until Hudson looked at the time that she started freaking out. "Dammit, I got to go. Apartment meeting." The girl had forgotten all about that stupid meeting. "Tell the guys I'll meet up with them soon."

Luna just chucked before waving her off. It didn't take much time for the girl to get back to her building before walking inside and looked around. She wasn't close to a lot of people in her building and the people she was close to were sitting next to people already. She just took a seat away from most of the people before looking through her phone, thinking of what songs to play for their show.

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Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado
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Rubbing his hands to get rid of the cold air that brushed against him, the friction his hands had received from rubbing against each other and created heat. He was waiting on someone though he knew nothing of who the person was. He was out here, early in the morning working on a case this person should have gave him in the afternoon, yesterday. Well, it was better than being in that 'building' he was currently staying at. But, it was the only thing he could afford when first coming around here.

"Thank you so much I really needed this."

He heard a feminine voice coming out of a odd looking building with tons of graffiti sprayed across it. Corey waited for a little while before slowly following the brown headed girl down the crowded street. He tried the best of his ability to try to look less suspicious, and more worldly and normal. Well, he wasn't and he wasn't at home. Looking up as the girl crossed the street he crossed the street a few minutes after the female had walked towards the corner of the street.

"Where is she going today?"

Staring at the girl as she turned into an alleyway, he leaned against the wall and waited for a minute before peeking around the corner little by little. She was gone.. He had lost her once again. He hoped she hadn't figured out that she was being secretly watched because, of some specious activity seen by multiple friends and family. If they would've did that around the mob they all would've been killed in a matter of minutes.

But, this wasn't the mob, this was a whole new place. He has his chance to forget the things he left behind. His family, his father's death and the mob. Sighing heavily as he pushed himself off the wall and headed towards the apartment or whatever they called it.

"Empire my ass." The only thing that was like an empire was he didn't have to share a room or get to know anyone.

Walking into the building he really didn't know many people and if he did he only seen them around once in a while. He almost forgot that there was a certain meeting going on today. He only been there for a couple of months, and he wasn't used to his surroundings just yet. Though some of the things were a bit interesting, he had still gotten confused at some things.

Shaking his head for a moment or two, he walked and sit down by a few people not really enjoying the crowded group around him he was just trying to get used to it. This meeting wouldn't that long anyways.

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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The morning light that shone through Alexandra's closed but thin curtains pissed her off. Not in an actual irritated way, but in an amused way. It was almost as if the sun itself was set upon waking her up when she could sleep in. She only remembered that she couldn't sleep in when her phone let loose its loud and hard-to-miss reminder sound.

Alexandra had already remembered what she had to go to that morning, which made even checking the reminder pointless. She simply slid the covers off of her frame and placed her feet on the rug-covered floor to begin her morning routine. She moved quickly to her kitchen, setting a pot on the burner filled with water and then leaned against her countertop to wait for it to boil. Her apartment was very modern in its design. Practically everything was black, white, or some shade of gray in between. Only a few things, like the underpart of the counter that separated the living room and the kitchen, shone brightly in some colour. In particular this colour was mostly a bright blood red. Red cushions on the white couch, red covers on her white bed. Even a few of the walls were painted red. The small fireplace in her living room was even modern (Something her landlord had only agreed to because it was easily removed). It might have looked radically different from many of the other apartments, but everything that needed to stay the same had stayed the same.

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The water began to boil and Alexandra slid a carton of eggs from her refrigerator, placing two into the boiling water. She knew she could leave them, so she walked back towards her bathroom. Sliding a (naturally) red towl from the rack in her personal bathroom, she stripped out of her flimsy cotton shorts and tank top. She turned the water on and placed the towel over the sink. She enjoyed the steaming shower for only as much time as was necessary, reluctantly forcing herself to shut off the water when she was done. She stepped out and quickly dried herself. Her wet hair hung down against her back and she wrapped the towel around herself, pushing it together just above her breast.

Walking out into her bedroom she took a look at the sound system that sat right on its own short stand. It was connected to strategically placed speakers that she had set up herself around her apartment simply because she couldn't live without her music. Her iPod was still hooked up to it, and turned it on. Jason Derulo's "The Other Side" began to play throughout the apartment, at a volume that was loud enough for Alexandra to still be immersed in it but still quiet enough for her to not earn any noise complaints. The blonde went back into her kitchen to turn off the burner, removing the pot from the hot burner and placing it on an inactive one so that it could cool down.

ImageShe went back into her bedroom, taking a seat in her chair in front of her mirror and dresser (though in her opinion it was more of a table). She took the time, as with her shower, only to do what she felt was necessary. She hadn't even been paying attention to the song, but it was on repeat so by the time she had finished with her grooming it had began again. Shifting through her closet she frowned. Nothing in there appealed to her for that day on the hangars, and she crouched down to the shelves inside to pull out a pair of dark jeans and a smaller cotton shirt. She slipped both articles of clothing on after her underwear. Looking at her mirror, with the room still illuminated only by the sunlight slipping in through the curtains, she smiled and it was only then that she began to focus on the music emanating through the apartment. It made her want to dance. And she might as well have as she made her way back to the kitchen, singing along.

"Tonight, take me to the other side! Sparks fly like the Fourth of July! Just take me to the other side!"

It was uplifting, and she peeled the shells off of her eggs over the sink quickly. Sprinkling a little salt and pepper over them she ate in record time. Once more she practically dancing back to her bedroom. Her phone was pulled off the charger and thrown into her bag. She pulled on a pair of simply converse sneakers and grabbed a white sweatshirt that she folded over her forearm. She opened her bedside drawer and looked inside. Three folding knives and one handgun. Feeling rather uplifted and happy that morning, she only drew one of her knives and clipped it to the inside of her jeans. She grabbed her blue Beats Studios and slid them over her ears, sauntering over to her sound system and detaching the iPod. The music in the apartment stopped, but it continued for her as she plugged the headphones into the iPod and placed the small device in her pocket. She walked back through her generously-sized apartment to her front door opened it, stepped through, and locked it behind her.

The hallway was a pretty big switch from the sheer white in-your-face brightness of her apartment, but the music that was now off repeat playing in her ears kept her mood upbeat. She had her small bag slung by its long strap across her body, and continued down the hallway to the stairs. Her shirt clung to her body, seeming to not want to move away. It, combined with her tight jeans, showed off her irresistible curves perfectly. Just the way she liked it. She reached the stairs, going down them quickly and fluidly. Naturally, this fluidity in her steps was halted as a younger guy in khakis nearly tripped in front of her. She knew his name was Adam, that he was in the business of above-the-law fun, and that was about it. He practically shot into the lounge and she shook her head and followed.

She didn't care to notice if any eyes followed her as she walked into the lounge. If any did, Alexandra presumed that they were male. She walked over to one of the few couches in the room that wasn't occupied and laid herself out on it in such a way that nobody would actually try to sit there. Her hand slid into her pocket, pulling out her iPod so that she could shut off the music. Once done she slid it back into her pocket and pulled her Beats off her ears, sliding the headphones down from over her ears to around her neck. She was still singing under her breath.

"So tonight, kiss me like it's do or die... and take me to the other side..."










12 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys Character Portrait: Lee Harris
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The woman’s deteriorating height, a product of age and unyielding scoliosis, stiffened when one of the newer tenants commented on her appearance. Maybe inwardly she welled with strange pride, but her near black eyes twitched at his cry for attention. At least, that’s how she saw it. Adam picked up on it straight away, sagging in his seat with his knees wide and his hands folded between them. A satisfied smirk beset slightly dried lips only to briefly flash a pair of canines. Elise Furman narrowed her gaze, briefly touching a hand to silver hair by her ear as she waited for the evident amusement in her audience to fade away. She was by no means humored by tawdry young men that lived in the complex. But they all paid their rent on time, which only left her to remind them of their place in the world, rules and common courtesy.

Adam tilted his head at the mirth escaping a nearby femme’s throat. This widened his gratified smile, but he looked straight ahead to maintain at least a sense of false attention. He knew her. Juliet. Platinum hair framed her round face and unceasingly blue eyes that peered out like toxin dripping away from shadows. She probably looked down on him; a girl who regularly worked behind a bar and dealt with shit slinging from junkies and alcoholics might not have the tolerance for his type. On top of his less than admirable ways, he was a new tenant. A young one at that. He already knew most of the other residents thought he was brazen. He couldn’t be fucked to give a damn about any of them - with a slivering exclusion where tail was involved. Luckily for Adam, he didn’t have a type. He just liked women. And the building was full of them. Beautiful, all of them. None of them a day over twenty five. But there were always those few diamonds in the rough. The ones that meant or shone a little more than the others. Truly, he had trouble identifying if anyone from Empire Heights fit into that tier, but he never necessarily bothered trying to find out either. Life had become less of a romantic conquest and more of a crooked hustle.

Or, life had never yielded any real romance to begin with.

After sweeping his gaze shamelessly over the girl next to him, Moni - something or another, Amil, and Juliet once again, Adam smugly tuned into Furman’s speech. It droned. Furman stood, a curving spine making her look ready to drop like a fly. She fought the urge to take a seat as she paced across the anterior of the room. Her creaking voice stuck to stoic walls, causing the uninterested turnout to groan and shift in their chairs like sophomores listening to scientific theory.

β€œI know we’ve been talking renovations for months but in a few days painters are coming in to fix up the main foyers. Some drywall construction will follow, so I’ll need you all to be patient with the noise and temporary chaos. As per usual you’re expected to abide by EH regulations, your leases…”

A distinct shuffling noise was heard as Spitz grabbed his snapback and twisted it in his hands, rocking on his chair. They’d all grown bored. Behind Spitz, the diva from the seventh floor hung her head back and closed her catlike eyes. Her arm was rested behind Monroe’s neck who was equally as passionless about the meeting as anyone else. Adam slipped away from his position in the back and crept towards the couple, making his presence known once he threw himself between them, half on each of their laps. Furman finally rolled her eyes and threw her hands up, β€œJust pay your rent okay?”

Before they could throw him off, he grabbed both of their faces and smeared a sloppy kiss on their cheeks, β€œBeautiful couple. Really.” With a mock tipoff, he turned his focus to Jaylene whose cheeks had significantly drawn in with disapproval. β€œSo, Jasmine, what kind of treats you got planned for me and my friends tonight? I’m sure good old Monroe will help you fix everything up real nice.”

β€œIt’s Jaylene, moron.” She sighed.
β€œJaylene Monroe you said? See that’s what I thought I heard.”
β€œSoon to be.” She countered, batting long lashes at Elliot with mock adoration.
β€œGo getting married to strangers you find in the big city and you might end up on dateline. You never really know anyone.” Adam messed up Elliot’s hair and got to his feet again.
β€œJust be at Manhattan Tower around nine, that’s when shit will get real, so to speak.” Jaylene drawled, interest lost on whatever Adam had to ramble about.
β€œShould I wear a tux to compliment your Dior, barbie?”
β€œYou’d have to know what Dior is in order to compliment it, grease monkey.”
β€œI’ll keep that in mind when your BMW needs a tune up.”

The blond shrugged, playfully rubbing at Monroe’s shoulder before she stretched her long legs and slithered away from Adam. All the while she still wore this convincing smile as though she were talking her way through a business meeting and not a cat-and-mouse conversation. She made quick work of scuttling towards the front of the room, straightening her unduly large cardigan and wrapping it around herself for a moment. Adam raised his brows, ultramarine eyes feigning interest. He glimpsed towards Monroe, β€œYou’re fucked up, b. Leading a pretty thing on like that. She has no idea what she’s gotten into.” Clownishly the young man showed a few teeth to signify slim sarcasm. Spitz and Adam had a bad habit of heckling the guy, but if Monroe knew anything, he knew that they meant no harm. If anything they had his back.

Adam dug his hands into the pockets of his khakis. His weight rocked back and forth from his knees as he peered toward Jaylene and then back down at her consort, nodding in preparation to roam lazily back to Spitz. He’d only looked over his shoulder once or twice in delay to glance at the selection of femmes in the room.





It wasn’t long before the room filled. Amil was already present, bantering with Patrick which made the slumlord at the head of her EH circus sighed with irritation. Spitz sympathized with the senescent woman. She bit off maybe more than she could chew, welcoming a swarm of young adults with the gleaming luxury of no background checks. All in all, the old broad wasn’t so bad. She was subtly maternal. She gave homes to the desperate and the crestfallen. When her speech concluded, she’d risen her white flag with her arthritic hands and disappeared.


ImageSpitz glanced around, expecting an applause to commence. Instead he heard sighs of relief and a few explicits, all together mashing up in his brain like cerebral stuffing. The train wreck sweet had his mind flying and his face eternally glazed with this ridiculous, smitten look. Cocoa eyes seemed to squint as they took in his surroundings. Natural light flooded the open room to forcefully push tired tenants into its submission. Meanwhile he sat kind of slouched, his hat in his hands, simpering. Behind him he could hear Banksy harassing Jaylene and Elliot about the party at Manhattan Tower, which honestly didn’t actually need to be discussed. Once the sun dipped down, it was all gonna’ pop off like the party of the century and everything else would fall into place. Banksy’s main mannerism was always needing to know precise details. But Spitz was never easily irritated at irrelevant matters. Usually he’d smirk and listen to the bullshit, nodding absentmindedly. Because it was, and would continue to be, all good.

Finally he let out a yawn that he’d been squashing for the past hour. New breath stretched in his sternum and was just in the midst of encouraging him to stand up when Jaylene was evidently preparing for a small speech. So, Spitz adjusted his posture even if only a little and gave her his full attention while Banksy shamelessly yanked a metal chair across the floor and plopped into it beside his partner in crime. Giving him a sideways look of fraud disapproval, Spitz mumbled, β€œAin’t you got manners homie?” In response, glassy blue eyes narrowed and Banksy just shrugged looking out of his mind.


Despite wanting to take a better inspection of the room and its inhabitants, only because he expected Kaleb to exit as soon as he saw Jaylene prepared to talk to EH leaseholders, Spitz stayed in place and maintained focus. He still got guilty pleasure out of watching men squirm around his homegirl he met back in Canada. It was funny they’d all bumped heads in a sort of lamentable coincidence. She’d grown significantly since then but Spitz was always a maddening reminder of what she used to be, do, and play. He respected that she was a strictly business type anymore, but he knew how fiends were even after some time off. Underneath they were just dying for a hit. Thinking about it, Spitz grinned and lowered his eyes as she started to speak, itching at his braids.

Alexandra had taken a seat far from the EH crew, blatantly occupying the last couch and claiming it as her own. One of the new tenants Spitz regretfully didn’t know too well took a seat betwixt other residents. Corey, was his name. He seemed perplexed most times, or intrigued. Something in Spitz’ intuition screamed, ’Red flag!’ every time he saw him though. But he was willing to give the benefit of the doubt.

Faintly drifting off he contemplated potential risks of the night. He’d have to worry about undercovers who were always trailing him in some way. To date none of them quite caught on. Rookies from the local department would get close, find some contacts, but never get to the overlord, so to speak. The cycle was unending and fruitless for law enforcement. Spitz was a proud, cocky man at times. But he wasn’t stupid, and he stopped leaving his tracks a long time ago. He could pawn off a lot of business as friendships effortlessly anymore. They could try as hard as they wanted, that shit always went cold.

When Jaylene finished, he became vertical and called out loudly, β€œBring your girls, bring your girl’s girlfriends. Lessssss be honnnnest. We’ll treat y’all real good.” The feedback he got was under-the-breath laughs and a few of his neighbors blushing and beaming.




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”Come on, we wouldn't want to be late."

Though Jaylene picked up on the apparent dismay in Elliot’s face at the thought of having to β€˜work’ on his one day off, he didn’t have to be wooed too meticulously. At least not when it came to her. She could chalk it up to her charming personality if she was feeling narcissistic but… She wasn’t going to give herself that much credit. And if anyone knew that the young woman wasn’t so truly charming and well-mannered, it was Elliot. Indicting the young woman with being a maneater was a knee-slapper. In fact sometimes she felt more than a little rusty at the dating game. Of course rumors circulated. But she hadn’t taken anyone home in a long time. The truth of the matter was, Elliot was her second self. People could believe what they wanted and, at the end of the day, the two were just great friends who had trouble saying no to each other. Being worn on his arm gave her a sense of pride and vindication.

Throughout their wait during the elevator’s descent, Jaylene flexed her fingers with disappointment. Her joints were sore. Mildly she muttered, β€œI’m catching up with Furman.” She drew in deep breaths through the nostrils of her straight nose, trying to work with what caffeine was in her body.

A somehow pleasant β€˜ding!’ welcomed the duo to the second floor. The pleasantry however was vastly overshadowed by the frayed subject matter that would be vomited onto EH renter’s in just a few moments. But by this time, Elliot and Jaylene were regular equerries of Elise Furman and almost like teacher’s pets. They’d held up their ends, kept tidy, didn’t complain and stayed to themselves for the most part. Jaylene couldn’t necessarily speak for her friend, but she knew that she hardly mingled with her neighbors. Quiet and observant suited her best. In addition to less than kind vices, she wasn’t just going to dive headfirst back into her history. It was an ongoing battle within herself. Maybe it was better to be looked at as the stuckup bitch than the coke whore? She almost laughed when the designations resounded in her head. Nope, she wasn’t going back to that persona any time soon. Clean for four years, give or take. Soda Pop was a ghost. A memory floating in Belleville, Canada. Where teens were so bored that they hit lines endlessly, fucked the friends they’d grown up alongside, and shot cops that tried to tell them they had a substance problem.

Jaylene strolled into the cafeteria area, towards the side of the room that was designated for gatherings. The poise she corroborated with Elliot was almost laughable considering the two were by no means a couple or nimble. Spitz was already seated a few rows ahead, and the seizure of plush seating was clutched by the pretty alternative model, Amil, and Patrick. The way the two got on kind of reminded Jaylene of Elliot and herself but tweaked in more ways than one. As expected the last couch was snagged by Alexandra, a young beautiful woman. Jaylene commonly recognized her as the blond head that bobbed down the hallways with Beats in her ears.

The walls were painfully bare, an uncanny reflection of the color in nearly every apartment in the building. Because of the size of the room, the air was a little more brisk than anywhere else in Empire Heights. Jaylene wrapped herself in the cardigan as she took a seat beside Elliot. After a while, she sluggishly slung her arm around his shoulder and zeroed in on Furman’s diction. It all pulped up after a while, it was all the same. So far the Sullivan girl had no problem following the rules and keeping her land lady happy, so she confidently let the meeting fade from emphasis.

Its conclusion was ungracefully brought to hand when Adam, a prior delinquent, fell right into Jaylene and Elliot’s lap. His Supreme hoodie was thick with the scent of body spray. He rambled about Jaylene being Elliot’s fiancee, the event at Manhattan Tower, and some other completely insignificant shit that the young woman didn’t care to read into. She batted her dark lashes, rolled her green eyes and affirmed the time and the place to Spitz’ protege. Shortly thereafter she politely excused herself, wearing a twinkle that could fool America’s greatest conartist. Before anyone could escape she cleared her throat and slid into place at the head of the room. She could feel the irritation of bored and exasperated young adults, but what she had to say, she felt, was worth it for them to stay.

β€œHey, guys,” she began, her voice pygmy in the room, β€œI’m Jaylene. Seventh floor.” Her eyes grazed the audience and skittered over Kaleb which made her swing her focus back onto anyone else. β€œI usually don’t do this kind of thing, but I’m busting open a huge deal for my agency and we’re having a banger at Manhattan Tower tonight. Everyone has to pay a cover charge but I’ll let you all in for free because honestly, I’d just love not to be surrounded by anorexic models all night. And, Elliot is going to be helping with the catering - he’s a great chef as some of you may already know. Listen, if nothing else, the bar will be loaded and you’ll get party favors. Everyone is seriously welcome. Like I mentioned, your cover charge is on me. Just come out and have a good time. Oh and Hudson, we would kill for a live act. I’d pay you. So, yeah. Thanks.”

Awkwardly she side stepped, ran a hand through her wavy blond hair and weaved her way back to Elliot. With a groan she continued, β€œJesus Christ, the way some of them looked at me you’d think they wanted me dead.” She screwed up her face, squinting over her shoulder at Corey and then Lee. The two were so unearthly and quiet. Rolling her shoulders, she looked at Elliot and proposed, β€œShall we?”

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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Juliet couldn't say she was surprised when people were still spilling in much after the designated meeting time. Honestly, no one could expect people their age to make a meeting on time...if at all. She wondered momentarily if anyone had skipped but then decided she really didn't give a fuck.

No one gave the same entrance as Adam, which was mildly disappointing, but she figured no one else was really that crazy. She felt his eyes on her for the quickest second after she'd laughed at his comment, and she'd spared a glance herself. He had a cute smile, she'd give him that, but she knew his type...they made her tired.

A new body beside her caused her to tilt her head back on her shoulder, and she smiled softly when she saw Kaleb with a curious little smirk on his face. She'd met him through Amil after being thrown together a couple of times, but she didn't really know him well. Just that she liked his stupid long hair and that he knew what he was talking about when one brought up music. β€œWhat did I miss?”

"Not much," she answered, blue eyes swinging over the crowed until they landed on her friend, who had just looked up when Kaleb entered. The tattooed beauty grinned at her, waving excitedly. Juliet offered a half grin and a peace sign, shaking her head slightly when Amil's seatmate gave her an unamused look. "The usual dragging intro. Boy's are already giving Furman a hard time," she mentioned, nodding towards Adam absently.

She fell silent as Furman started her speech, but it honestly wasn't something Juliet hadn't heard before. Renovations were more than often the reason for these meetings, but the few times they had actually happened hadn't been much of a bother. Then again, she had Ali, who was always more than willing to share her bed if things were too noisy at home. And anyway, not being able to use the elevator had never been a problem for her.

Juliet found her thoughts drifting the longer they stayed there, thinking about the other people in the room. She really didn't know any of them, just Amil and Monroe. She'd actually known the latter longer, about two years now, he was her closest friend...probably more like family, not that she'd admit that out loud. Kaleb she only knew briefly through Amil, and Jaylene kind of through Monroe. Everyone else she either knew by name or not at all.

Her eyes narrowed slightly on the fashion queen at the thought of her. Jaylene was beautiful, no dobut about it, but something about her just irked Juliet. Maybe she was just...too much business or...too high class for her. Before she could think any more about that, Adam's voice took her out of her thoughts and...speaking of, he was currently teasing the devil on her mind. She missed most of it, but caught the end: β€œYou’d have to know what Dior is in order to compliment it, grease monkey.” Yeah, Juliet didn't even have a fucking clue what a Dior was...point proven.

Or maybe it was all bullshit and Jaylene only irritated her because Juliet was a little possessive of Monroe. My Ellie, mine, she thought, a little pout forming on her lips. Even if there wasn't anything romantic there, she hated sharing him. At all. Even a little.

She'd been so lost in her thoughts for so long that she hadn't even realized the meeting was over, except that the blonde diva was up and crossing the room next. Juliet exhaled through her nostrils deeply, falling back into her seat. Might as well just wait it out. She was too lazy to climb three flights of stairs right now anyway. It was that same laziness that was keeping her mildly polite throughout this entire ordeal.

Blah blah, weird name, blah blah fancy company, blah blah models, blah blah -- wait. Juliet sat up a little straighter. Did she say free? Catering? Elliot's food? Aw shit. Loaded bar and party favors. "Mother of fuck," she muttered under her breath, "Ima have to be sociable tonight..."

β€œBring your girls, bring your girl’s girlfriends. Lessssss be honnnnest. We’ll treat y’all real good.” She chuckled under her breath along with the others, but honestly the idea didn't sound too terrible. Maybe she'd ask Alison to come...they could have some fun. And it'd been awhile since she'd been to a bar she wasn't working behind.

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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Alexandra sighed and lifted herself up from the couch when she sensed the last sentence of Jaylene's short and sweet speech inviting them all to her... whatever one might call it. Party, gathering, banger. Her eyes flashed over to the dark-haired Hawthorn as Jaylene mentioned her and more or less signed off with a little thank you. She chuckled at Spitz' promise to them. As the congregation of Empire residents began to rise and exit the lounge, Alex took the chance to snag an apple from one of several in a bowl sitting on a table off to the side.

She flipped out her knife, the blade locking into place to cleanly slice off a thin piece of apple from the whole. Alex popped the slice into her mouth as she walked over towards Spitz. Scully was someone that she knew on a mostly business level. They offered two different products to the same customers. It was a win-win for both of them. Though she'd yet to secure him to buy one of her top-notch firearms despite her promising to snatch up some grass from him in return. He looked about ready to tell something to Adam, who she hadn't yet had the pleasure of conversing with and due to his reputation, preferred to keep it that way simply because his attitude wasn't the sort she liked to work with.

Regardless, she always gave herself a pat on the back over the dealers. Running and dealing guns seemed like a much more satisfying job, and it also required a much more organizational and multitasking touch. It had also become one of the ways she had the almost laughable pleasure to meet Spitz. Drugs were a competitive business. And nothing says "Don't fuck with me" more than an AK. That was where she came in, and she had never failed to satisfy and then some.

Slicing off a smaller chunk of apple, she lightly tossed it at Spitz' head.

"Spitz Rollins," She began in an almost playful tone of voice. She sat her lithe form in a chair right next to him, brandishing her knife once more to cut off another thin slice from her apple. "I was hoping you might have something a little fun in stock for me. Are you going to her party?"

With the last statement she gestured with the tip of her knife in the general direction of where she assumed Jaylene to be. She twisted her body around into a more comfortable and rather provocative position, looking at Spitz with her signature sultry smirk.














12 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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#, as written by Jaybt9
Next to a queen sized-bed, a loud buzzing sound of a cell phone on a dark cherry stained night stand. The stereotypical introduction of an proactive city's morning. The calls of roosters couldn't strike one's ears in New York since they migrated to the South. The alarm boosted his ego during the winters, lasting longer than rooster calls. An irritant sound that could continue unless it's purpose was achieved, which was catching the attention of a person, forcing them out of the subliminal cloud above them and into the real world.

The phone continued its vibrating hum until a tan-shade hand with white nail polish came forth from under a fluffed white comforter, quickly grabbing the phone to silence it. Whose hand was this? It was not soon after that the covers folded outwards to reveal, from the waist up, a young woman as complected as the hand. A black scarf was tied her head, covering the majority of her hair, but blonde and black peeked above her forehead. Her eyes felt like they were freed from being glued together.

She figured she would listen to some rhythmic therapy to shake the cobwebs away. The volume taking a break away from silent. From a playlist of random selections, the first song to makes it way to the top was an alternative Szjerdene. The dark ethereal introduction began as she strolled towards the small bathroom by the balls of her feet. She lifted her arms to the ceiling. Her clavicle getting a soft pop to relax after 7 hours of stiff tension and busy work, and if stretching didn't work, then the warm shower would.

However, the warm shower had to be brief. Why? A mandatory meeting at 11:30 am, and it was less than an hour and a half away. The landlady could have arranged a better time. Work was at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, and Dee couldn't afford to miss even a second of it from her landlady talking on and on in her β€œMob Wives” Brooklyn accent. For her third day in the apartment, Dee figured her landlady wasn't lenient, or assumed that all of her tenants were young and wild. With her wide curves and large eyes, this gave off the semblance of a daunting predator, and Dee was already one of her prey who made the first mistake checking out the apartments and signing her blood on the lease.

Because of the predator, Dee couldn't be belated to the mandatory meeting either, especially when it was 10 seconds of walking distance. Why make an excuse to be late or absent? Why even attempt it? Why already start the many days in Empire Heights on a negative note? Dee had to make this meeting on time. Even with the thought of boarding a subway in order to get to work. The time to walk and take the subway felt like eternity.

But until then, she had to start the day. She traveled to her scarlet hued curtains to separate them, lifting the blinds and her lips for a wide yawn. Chilly and snow white were the characteristics of New York's November through February days and nights. The large hot ball of plasma tried it's best to shine in the apartment, only for clouds to block its way. Instead, the wintery mix dominating the city the night before caused the aftermath. The entire setting illuminating in bright honeydew hue. Dee's apartment affected by this brightness, and also nearly blinded her. Her eyes squinting, but her raising hand saved the moment by blocking her view. Once her eyes began to adjust to the abrupt transition in lightness, she witnessed every second of life outside her window. People socializing as they dug their boots into the white layer above the sidewalks. Some sidewalks covered in dirty snow from being plowed to the side by a plowing machine, while what was left on the roads melted from the large packs of organically shaped Sodium Chloride thrown around. Since they didn't have machines for sidewalks, residents had to shovel a pathway from their doorsteps. The landlady was no different. A heavily-built man of middle age decked in flannel did the heavy work for her, pushing the shovel with ease as the landlady stood at the stoop with a cigarette in one hand and a grip of her long black coat with the other, trying to keep warm from the freezing climate.

Dee's nose felt the cold winds freezing her window, attempting to slither inside of her apartment and snatch all of the moisture from her clean body. Fortunately, it fell submissive to the knob-controlled heat circulating in the homely air, mixed with warm cinnamon apple pie fresh out of the oven. This was an illusion, and the Glade plug-in beside the window was the magician. However, a chill pierced at Dee's collar, and a reminder that Dee's belt was loosening from her waist.

But all Dee would hope for was the meeting to equate to skimming the many pages of a novel until the main points were discovered. After lowering the shades to prevent any lewd public acts, she practiced her morning ritual, like any female. It was prepared and unluckily long: Aloe Vera moisturizer on her limbs and face, winter clothing with undergarments underneath, ample pink plushgloss on her lips, black eye liner, and others in between that can't be mentioned. Her five10-hour long braids loosened from her fingers, flowing curly and wild above her chest. Her appearance was finished, but later than her expected time. 11: 10 am, which she proceeded to sigh over. The thought of her landlady being a rather strict woman over lateness of any kind. Dee couldn't let that strict side emerge, so her gait began to quicken.

Her breakfast had to be quick, so a banana, two slices of toasted cinnamon bread, and a cup of orange juice could fill her up temporarily to prevent the lion in her stomach to growl at the meeting. The plate and glass cup was empty. This time? 11: 24 am. She was ready to go to the meeting....

Wait...she had to brush her teeth, but the meeting was getting closer. She couldn't brush her teeth in time, but she couldn't cause a gas of β€œfood and morning” breath to smother the room. People may think she's exaggerating, but she was a woman. That was more than enough.

Instead of brushing her teeth, she ran to her bathroom to search for mint mouthwash under the sink, rushing to pour a dose into her cup and pour into her mouth. The gargling wasn't as directed because of the time, but it got the job done. Spitting the mouthwash into the sink, she exited the bathroom to see how many minutes left until the meeting. 2 minutes.

What was left? Leather boots, purse, money, identification, keys. She thought this would take 30 seconds because of her rushed pace.

Now she was ready for her day. She snatched a black coat from her closet, turned her music off, and headed towards the door.

Behind the stairway, she could see people already sitting in the lounge, but no heavy lady in a gown. Dee didn't have to experience her strict landlady, or so she thought......

β€œ11: 32 am. Fashionably late aren't you?”, a voice crept behind Dee. A voice that suffered from mucus down her neck, or future throat cancer.

The fear was beginning to happen. Only because Dee was two minutes late, she had to endure being thrown under a bus, or a finger bit off. Dee just had to deal with the pressure and reply with a nod.

β€œHmmm..” the landlady continued as she scanned Dee's neutral winter style,β€œSince this is your first meeting, I'll be easy on you this time, but do not be late again.”

Dee's heart quickly dropped. In her mind, she was shocked over the landlady giving her a warning. Just a warning for being a new tenant. To prevent judging her landlady, she couldn't express it with her face. A warning. This thought conflicted with her motor skills. She wanted to freeze like a snowman at the door.

β€œGo ahead and a take a seat.”, the landlady quickly commanded Dee, causing her nerves to function again. Dee left her a grinning nod before heading to her seat. An improvised seat near a window, since the other seats were taken.

12 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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While Ms. Furman continued, Kaleb’s mind drifted before he could even realize it was happening. His eyes kept scanning over the crowd, jumping across all the faces. There was Juliet beside him, the bar vixen. He had played at a couple gigs she’d tended, and she had always slipped him a few drinks now and again. She always seemed to have someone tailing behind her, like a lost puppy begging for attention. They had never fooled around, much to his own surprise seeing that if given the opportunity he would probably do so. He had a soft spot for blondes though.

Especially a specific blonde that lived on floor 7. As much as he would resist, Kaleb time and time again found himself stealing glances at Jaylene. Kaleb didn’t see her as often as he had initially feared, now when he did find himself around her, he’d often find himself hiding from her, peeking through much like an amazed explorer. Everything about her had changed, the way she carried herself, the way she talked. Perfectly manicured head to toe, dressed like New York Barbie. It was freaky.

Plus he felt a twist in her gut every time he saw her.

He forced his mind to wander, his gaze following. A pair of full lips immediately distracted him. Her dark, full eyes read BORED in bold font and her body language mirrored the message. There was something familiar about the girl, a memory stirring in the back of his mind, framed in filtered sunlight from where she sat, making herself comfortable in a makeshift seat in the window. She was gorgeous, creamy mocha skin and a full shape. He entirely blocked out anything Ms. Furman could be saying, enraptured by the pretty young thing before him. He narrowed his gaze, sure that he knew who she was. It was on the tip of his tongue, he could taste it.

He was digging through his memory, watching the young woman, just on the edge of making the final connection. Just as he could feel her name crawl out of his mind, the startling interjection of a much too familiar voice spoke. Where his landlady had just stood, instead it was the devil herself, poised and perfect. Despite his usual urge to leave as fast as possible, seeing her so open and vulnerable to the stares of others left him enraptured. It was funny to him how despite how much she had changed, he could still read her like a book. Standing tall and confident before them all, Kaleb saw her squirming from within. She looked onto the faces of each one of the EH tenants, skipping over Kaleb’s curious eyes, it was like he didn’t exist. ”...listen, if nothing else, the bar will be loaded and you’ll get party favors. Everyone is seriously welcome. Like I mentioned, your cover charge is on me. Just come out and have a good time. Oh and Hudson, we would kill for a live act. I’d pay you. So, yeah. Thanks.”

He chuckled to himself, β€˜You mean you don’t want my band to play?’ He thought to himself, resisting yelling the question across the room to her, put her on the spot, make everyone else see her squirm like he could.

Then he rethought, startled by his malicious thoughts. It had been years since Kaleb had been visited by the darkness, somehow going through the struggle of homelessness and finding a way back on his feet had given him a sense of wholeness and happiness. There was something about having Jaylene around that made him feel like the ghost of his demons fought to resurface, rekindling old emotions and inner rage. Of course she couldn’t have meant that he was invited as well, or she could just be just assuming he wouldn’t shown even if given the opportunity. Throwing his arms over the back of his chair, he leaned back, glancing to Juliet beside him who’s reaction to the invite had been comical enough to warrant a chuckle.

β€œYea, I don’t know how I feel about being around that crowd, free drinks or not.” He mumbled, leaning forward and resting his elbows on his knees, clasping his hands together as if in deep thought. His eyes watched as Jaylene walked off the stage and wrapped her arm through Monroe’s once again. β€œShiesty people, you think that they’d be above pettiness but most of the time that’s how they trick you.” He left his words hanging in the air, his dry tone letting his quip be interpreted as either a joke or insight. Getting to his feet, he slung his knapsack over his shoulder, walking to where the light skinned shapely vixen had remained, by the window.

He couldn’t help but to run through a variety of greeting, scratching one after another. It almost felt like a movie, his mind in frenzy as he approached the pretty girl, going to overdrive in the last few seconds. Finally he stopped before her, feeling his charm turn on like a switch. He felt smooth, relaxed, pushing his hair back from his face and a handsome smirk lighting his features. He pointed a finger to her as he spoke, β€œDon’t I know you?” He asked, and as he spoke the words, her face flashed in his mind once again, but instead this time it was in a sketchbook, drawn with charcoal. It had been in the hands of his beloved friend Mordy once when they had spent a night in the cove after a night of doing drugs and drinking too much.

β€œDee?” He said, more in a tone of recognition than as a question, a dark shadow passing his expression briefly as he felt the loss of an old friend tug at his heart. He had only met Dee once, after Mordy’s funeral Kaleb had invited her to the cove with him and their friends to mourn for their loved one together in a place where he had been for so many great memories. Even with only having met the girl that one night, Kaleb understood why Mordy had fallen so deeply in love with her. She was beautiful and down to earth, and her smile lit everything up. Was it strange that Kaleb felt a connection with her when he recognized her grief from hopelessly lost love?


He set down his bag, gesturing to himself, β€œI’m Kaleb, remember I invited you out after Mordy’s...erm..yea.” For some reason he couldn’t spit out the words, then shuffling his feet and looking around as if to find the words to say hanging before him. β€œSorry, I just...I knew that I knew you, I just couldn’t figure out how.” He laughed awkwardly. Silence hung between them briefly before he asked, β€œWhat are you doing in America?”

ImageIn any other circumstances, Patrick would have completely disregarded Barbie’s offer, even if Amil or Kaleb would beg him for hours, but feeling the weight of the unwritten article burdening his beloved laptop, Patrick found the idea of a distraction enticing. Amil finished her pastry beside him, watching Kaleb and Juliet exchange words and then Kaleb straggle to the new tenant that had caught his eye. It was obvious she had to resist rolling her eyes, the same for Patrick. For claiming to love his girlfriend enough to consider proposing to her, he sure sought out other girls often. Amil never minded being a casual fling, there was absolutely nothing romantic between the two. However after the second week Amil had been at EH and Kaleb took her out for drinks, the two would occasionally wake up in one another’s bed. The first month the boundaries were a little fuzzy, but they had worked everything out and considered each other’s friends first. Now and days their encounters happened as few as once every one or two months. The only downside was that Patrick always knew when something had happened between them, somehow sensing it in the air, often calling them out on it. It had become a bit of a joke between them.

β€œWhore.” Patrick said to Amil, gesturing to Kaleb. Mouth full of pastries, she stifled a laugh, shoving him gently. She nodded in agreement, finishing her tea and taking her dirty dishes to the counter, Patrick following suit. Watching as she walked, Patrick asked himself why he seemed the only one that hadn’t submitted to Amil’s charm. He watched her deep teal hair, slicked into a high ponytail, swish in count with her hips, the tip of her mane tickling the tawny divot along her back from where her slouchy knit sweater had slid. Her mannerisms were endearing, and her crude sense of humor was refreshing. Perhaps it was just that they had never been in a situation to find sexual interest in one another, Amil always seemed to have someone else in her paws, Patrick would usually play the role of wingman.

Tugging her arm, he swerved her in the direction of a mutual friend, Corey. Perhaps it was slight egoism, but he enjoyed having Amil at his side, so that everyone else could see that the pretty tattooed asian girl had decided to hang with the craze haired cynic from 2C. It was like he was sporting the jewel of the ball, anyone who knew Amil liked her, she was friendly and easy going - for her to choose to stick by him over anyone else made Patrick feel just a few ranks higher than the other tenants in a almost humorous way. β€œWhat do you think?” He said once they came to Corey, Patrick leaning against the table and holding his laptop under his arm like a book.

Amil plopped in a seat across from Corey, looking to Patrick with an annoyed expression, β€œYou can’t just start a conversation like that, idiot. You’re a writer, use complete sentences.” she bitched, rolling her eyes.

Narrowing his eyes, Patrick stared her down briefly before looking back to Corey with exasperation.”What do you think - about the invitation to the banger?” he said, almost mocking Amil.

Amil crossed her legs delicately, answering before Corey could. β€œI don’t see why we shouldn’t go, I never go out with people from Empire Heights besides the recluses that barely venture to a dive bar.. oh, and Juliet.” She said with mild humor, referring to Patrick, Kaleb and Corey, all either very busy or a bit of a homebody, although Amil wasn’t sure what Corey would be doing most of the time. She watched him from the corner of her eye, the way the fabric would stretch across his muscles. Smirking, she rested her elbows on the table and leaned forward, folding her hands together like a hammock to prop her chin up. Corey had never been dissapointing to Amil, although the whole act of mystery got old quick.

β€œWell I wasn’t asking you Amil.” Patrick said as she batted her eyelashes at him playfully. Throwing up her hands in exasperation, Amil stood, backing away from the pair.

β€œStop talking shit, man.” She said simply, turning on her heel as she walked away, Patrick then taking her spot. He gestured over his shoulder, shrugging mildly, β€œAlways has shit to say.” He joked, remembering why Amil and himself hadn’t been intimate, ever. They’d probably end up killing each other in the process. Shaking his head, Patrick set up his laptop as he peeked back at Corey. β€œSo what’s the verdict, are you going?” He asked.


ImageAmil was planning on swing back to Juliet, maybe the two could help each other pick out outfits and how to do their hair. Out of the lot, Juliet probably was the only one who had similar taste in fashion, so Amil knew if she couldn’t find anything in her own closet, she probably could in Juliet’s. However she had to walk past the notorious dealers of the complex, and in passing it was difficult to avoid eye contact with either boys, although it was when she locked eyes with Spitz a smile cracked across her lips. The blonde who’s name Amil always forgot sat nearby, twisting seductively from where she lain, looking over to Spitz. Turning a chair, Amil sat facing the two, sitting sideways on the seat so that one arm could go over the back of the chair while her legs crossed over one another. β€œWhat’s wrong, you can’t say hi to me anymore or something? Your boy got you on a leash that’s too short?” She joked, gesturing to Banksy and winking playfully.

She stuck her thumbs through the holes of her sweater, folding her elbows against her side and gently cupping her own face delicately as she leaned forward with obvious amusement. β€œSo when you say you’ll treat us good...” So close to the two, she playfully trekked her finger tips along Spitz’ leg, mocking foot steps across his jeans. β€œDoes that mean your own product is in the goodie bags as well?” She joked, looking between the two. At the moment of silence, she leaned back in her chair. Aware that as far as they knew, she was clean cut, but she wondered if they would take her words as a joke as she intended. Although depending on how the night went, she wouldn’t exactly turn down a bump or two.

Amil hadn’t gotten on the level of comfortability with Banksy as she had with Spitz, something about his cold eyes left her a little at ill ease. She had heard enough about his violent history and tendencies that had left him with a cloud of danger that was both alluring and left her cautious. Still despite his somewhat friendly demeanor, Amil had played it safe and normally did her share of joking around with Spitz.

10 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy Character Portrait: Hudson Hawthorn Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Adam Banksys
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Notable agitation lingered in the air of the cafe. Spitz didn't give a fuck, and he knew Banksy didn't either. But Jaylene, despite the swing in her hips and the confidence in her smile, probably felt a twinge of self consciousness. Spitz never pegged her for the insecure type. If anything she was the exact opposite, even when she was a teenager back in Belleville. Her slip-ups were few and far between. Since reaching adulthood the only thing that changed was the height of the heels she wore, the amount of words she spoke freely and the termination of her drug use. From where she stood at the front of the room, all eyes on her, she seemed to speak softly. It wasn't like she wasn't used to public speaking, Spitz had seen her give spiels about everything from political campaigns to fabric tailoring. But she didn't really socialize with many of the residents and she was unrehearsed at best. Spitz heard Juliet shifting when Jaylene spoke, like the sound of her voice was making the bartender see red. One quick peep at Elliot confirmed the substance of Juliet's pique.

Part of Spitz wanted to laugh at the common resentful female psyche. Another part of him wanted to shake his head and mutter something along the lines of, 'Aye, if you wanna' trade off Monroe…' But that thought in itself made him want to be rolling on the floor.

Putting the thoughts of bedding Jaylene to rest, Spitz pushed off of his seat and turned around to face Elliot. The dude looked pleased to have his usual company. And what man wouldn't? Spitz guessed that he garnered more than just a little envy wherever he went with Jaylene. In spite of that, though, Monroe wore twenty six years like a champ. Especially in her presence. Otherwise arcane and malicious activity was more than likely a well kept secret where she was concerned. Best friend or girlfriend, there wasn't a shot in hell Jaylene knew what was really pooling in Monroe's dark eyes. What went on in that dude's top would blow Spitz's highest thoughts out of the water. But he still worked his ass off and kept a potent disposition. Spitz had a high opinion of that. That's why Spitz and his crew backed Monroe so hard.

"Aye man," Spitz began, "You need any help with anything let me know. We got all day."
"Can't cook for shit though." Banksy admitted.
"This bull will burn cereal." He pointed to the tall malefactor a short distance away.
"It's true but uh, if you need assistance with alcohol." He winked towards Juliet.
"Chill with that, thirsty."

Spitz's head dipped as he pulled his snapback on again. He gently moved past Jaylene who was returning to Monroe and approached the couch where Amil and Patrick sat, rubbing his hands together with a plotting smirk on his lips. The sunlight caught his eyes and lit up the mischief enclosed. He ran his hands down the length of his camo jacket and glanced back and forth between the two, "So maybe y'all can take some time off from work and come party tonight?" Before they could answer, Spitz pivoted to the side of the loveseat that Amil occupied, lowering himself and whispering in her ear, "I'd spoil you rotten, bae." His voice was resonant and toothsome. He could have scooped her up right there. But he didn't. And just like that, he opened the distance between them again, always respecting a woman's space. Not to be taken as contempt in any way, Spitz followed up his own comment and pointed towards Patrick's computer, "Man everybody need to take a break once in a while. You finna' get spoiled by some of these females if you show up tonight, boooooooy!" Quickly Spitz let his eyes dart back to Amil, curious about her reaction. He could still smell the eggnog coming off of her supple lips even with the breadth between them. And those dusky eyes just about had him grabbing her up.

But he relinquished the forethought. He had to commemorate himself on his amount of control. Even if Kaleb hit, it didn't really keep Spitz at bay. Certainly didn't when it came to Jaylene, either. In a way maybe it was some sick competition to see who was alpha. In that field, Kaleb was a fierce challenger. Moments of recollection confirmed that much. Kaleb was never gonna' let someone swoop in on any of his ladies, not without a fight at least. Spitz had a lot of it in the bag, though, most of the time. Jaylene wasn’t a match anymore, not for either of them. But Amil. Amil was shrewd. She might have needed a little work and courting than most girls. Good thing Spitz had no intention of treating her like most girls. He still wanted to make Kaleb sweat.

"Spitz Rollins..."

Spitz whipped his head in the direction of an opposite couch, where Alex was getting up from her position with an apple in one hand, a blade in the other. The girl was dangerous. But she pulled his attention right from the goal at hand. Money was money; contacts were more important when there were events with potential for trafficking. Alex was just the right girl to talk to. She slung a slice of fruit towards his head, only allowing his slow and under-the-influence reaction in response. He watched it bounce off of the bill of his hat. His point of convergence caused black pupils to swell and eclipse what color was in his eyes before he haphazardly caught the apple in his hand, wearing a dumb grin as he padded towards her, β€œMy homie.” The apple disappeared into his mouth while he snaked his arm around Alexandra’s shoulders and kissed her hair, β€œWhere else would I be? Come on, you know me better than that.” For a moment he pulled her tight to his chest, then messed with her hair and countered, β€œHol’ up, who said it’s all about you? What’s in it for me ma?”

He peered suspiciously into her cyan eyes. Alex was in the springtime of her life. The wage labors were just the icing on the cake for her. With her wild mind, her effectiveness in the legal and illegal, and the looks of a French mannequin, she was integral in nearly any situation. Not just dealings with Spitz. With that being said, she was the only female he dealt with in an ex cathedra way. She was real about her business and she wasn’t a fuckaround.

The sweet rescinded its high. Full color was less vibrant now. Unaffected and unfazed at the end of his altered state of mind, Spitz adjusted his sobering eyes to the light. β€œLet’s talk to the director,” he toyed and started towards Jaylene.

The first thing out of her mouth was partially expected. One thing Spitz learned from his mother was to never doubt a woman’s intuition. As the conversation carried on, he was pressed to interrogate about other company showing up at the party. But it was Jaylene’s gig, not his. He kept comments and unecessary questions to himself, looking to Alex from time to time and finishing off the account by letting Jaylene know he’d have her back and help out with some goodies. He started towards the door, wearing Alex like a pretty trinket from his arm and inquiring, β€œWhen you gonna’ come through about buying some sweet, huh?” He grinned an ivory smile.







ImageThe espresso had worn thin and filtered itself out of Jaylene's brain as much as it had her blood pressure. An unforgiving headache ensued as she rubbed a palm to her forehead, exhaling smoothly. Dips in her cheeks amplified as she shook her head back and forth with the theories on how her evening would go. She wondered what the turnout would yield as far as inviting neighbors and randoms she'd yet to even shake hands with at Empire Heights. It was her fault for lack of planning, and she knew that. Deadlines were getting more and more sloppy where her work was concerned but somehow she just kept moving up at the agency. Even if the majority of agenda planning and design went to her, she couldn't ever take full credit. Elliot was always there to underpin the final workings and come through for her. If she were an attendant and had to choose between his nutriments and her rambling on stage and payout - she'd totally take the food and run. She owed him big time. No Herrera, Gucci or Valentino was ever going to properly do him justice for his work and unwavering friendship.

There was slight friction amid Jaylene and Juliet with Mr. Monroe, though. Juliet was another friend of Elliot's, a pretty girl that worked at the bar and seemed to have a strong hand. If it weren't for the comfortable silence, maybe either one would have snapped at each other. Luckily Jaylene was mostly negligent to the same sex, but was known for cutthroat bitchcraft when fucked with to a certain degree. And if anyone heard about the little run-in that wound up in Jaylene shattering a cop's kneecap back in Canada she was sure most people would steer clear. As luck would have it, no one but Kaleb and Spitz seemed to know about that. Even if she didn't necessarily keep either of them close, anymore, she could count on some of the uglier parts of her maturation being kept hush-hush. Juliet seemed to have some poise as well. Besides, Jaylene was more than likely to dust off any animosity and just carry on because she figured on life being too short. She just wished she was stronger with that philosophy when it came to other people, ones who had dappled her past and changed who she was forever. He swam in the marrow of her bones.

From her peripherals she could see Spitz putting the mack, or trying to, on Amil. She was foreign and exotic looking, painted in beautiful body work that Jaylene would otherwise cringe at. But somehow, it worked for her. Jaylene could appreciate beauty in most shapes, variations, and colors. Amil was no exception. In fact, she could have been just the right candidate to change things up and diversify the agency. Jaylene zoned for a moment, contemplating a new method of comeup. Patrick who sat beside Amil also could have assisted Jaylene's stratagem for increase in vendings and rag trade. He had great eyes. If only she could peel him away from the computer and get him to agree. Somehow she knew it wasn't going to happen though. Kaleb and Amil weren’t a secret and it had all the promise in the world to go horribly wrong.

But she wasn’t bitter anymore, not the way people probably thought. In fact, she thought so little of it. Unfortunately faculty of sight kept her a prisoner. Burnt sienna eyes. The unforgotten lines of a consummate body, fashioned by God himself, if he were really extant. Protracted redolence of ash and flame. He was a hybrid, an alloy of the things she feared most and loved dearly. But beautiful creations rarely had more virtues than vices. A weathered history landed him in her lap emblematically and with denial and unease, dumped him right off again. He could have been her soul mate, something tailored by fate. She shouldn’t have left the way she did. Remorseful or not, Jaylene’s position on the matter wouldn’t make him any less angry or tepid. They were two completely different souls now.

Acceptance of the karma slammed into Jaylene’s brain. She sighed unhappily, green eyes following Kaleb for a moment where he was speaking to the second floor resident until Spitz broke the foreground with Alex close in tow. And so the woman slid back into her cordial skin, beaming a certain warmth as they approached.

β€œTonight the night?” Jaylene prodded with humor.
β€œJust might.” Spitz looked over his shoulder at Amil and gave Jaylene a shrug.
β€œIf you get a chance to snag her, bring her my way, I have a proposition.”
β€œThat’s some messy business.” Spitz subtly added with a shake of his head.
β€œSo, Alex, are you coming?” She plainly dismissed Spitz’s caution. Life was about risks.
β€œHell yeah she comin’,” the handsome devil stated further, β€œgonna’ turn up.”
β€œI can drink to that.”
β€œI’ll pull together some treats for you, Jay. I’ma catch up with you later.” He wrapped an arm around Alex and strolled toward the exit.

Jaylene stood in his wake, watching him go and waiting for Elliot. Sangfroid began to waver as she contemplated her next bold move. Inviting residents was a huge step - a huge risk, even. And as much as she was sure that she made herself clear about anyone being welcome, she wasn’t positive that Kaleb saw it that way. She glanced at Elliot, the cry for advice digging from behind her teeth. Pulling the fabric of her cardigan tight to fluid curves of her frame, she winced in anticipation of his reaction, β€œDo you think I should tell him it’s okay? To come?” Her tone was hushed, the look on her face muddled with concern and daze. Elliot knew enough, maybe not all of the story, but, enough. Enough, that he may encourage her to keep the silent treaty consistent and just move along with original plans.





Image
The room drained slowly as though something were clogging the channel. That something in question was Jaylene, AKA 'Barbie', AKA 'Bitchface Syndrome'. The last nickname, Adam knew, was a complete contradiction due to her changeless smile. Behind her straight grin her knew there was a sensation of ongoing irritation. Call it whatever one will, but it was a gift of instinct that Adam always had about people. Which, was also always ironic considering the crowd he so commonly ran with. With the exception of the first two epithets, Adam would never call Jaylene anything else to her face. Or even anyone in the building. She was an adult, carried herself as such, and he wasn't gonna' fuck with her. Even if she did call him a grease monkey, insult his intelligence plainly, and roll her eyes when he spoke. She had every reason to feel the way she did. He didn't know her and the feeling was mutual with just a little more inhumanity on her end.

Abusive and thuggish were not short-handed ways when it came to the young man. One thing he wasn't was an abuser of women. Fuck that. Never in his life would he lay his hand on a female. He'd had hundreds of tempting moments but always at least acted in accordance with the bodily respect of a woman's well being. Punishment in the clink had no sympathy for a man who'd beat on the opposite sex. Because of the stipulated jailhouse scripture, Adam got himself into more than a few optional fights. Zero tolerance.

By the time he'd made it over to his colleague, Spitz was still in a momentary vegetative state. Until Alex chucked fruit at his face and it sprung back from the bill of his hat. Adam watched it all in half-time, used to the effect but, a little more sentient than Spitz. Even if the dude was a big time dealer, he hadn't seen or dealt with half the shit that Adam had. It showed in their contrast of resilience to narcotics and stimulants. Adam would shake it off sooner than Spitz would take his eyes off a black and white painting he'd been staring at for hours. Most of the time it was funny, other times it was grating when they had shit to get done. Faced with a few small discords, they were still pretty good friends and business partners. If a situation got sticky neither of them would go in on the matter single-handed. That's what they maintained above sphere.

Adam's indigo gaze followed the path from which the apple came and landed right on the bewitching figure of Alexandra. She was a regular with Spitz, not so much Adam. He didn't play with the girls of any trade unless it were to buy a coffee or getting assistance at the Supreme shop on Lafayette Street. In her expression and delivery, it was unmissable that she didn't care to deal with too many people either. That's the way the transactions typically went in a more professional style of street exchange. Only stupid kids freely sold their merchandise to people they didn't really know, roaming alleyways with one hand in their pocket and the other with the index finger extended to strangers. There wasn't time for premature bullshit in Adam's world and it was refreshing to know that other people carried themselves in the same sense. In wake of the disinclination of breaking bread with strangers, Adam kept Spitz's company in silence, following him for further detail about Jaylene's carouse.

But it yielded nothing of much importance. At least not to Adam. Just the typical rambling of promise, inebriation, chasing tail and who else would be coming. Spitz yawned and wrapped his arm around the blond arms dealer, esoteric as always. Adam cracked his knuckles, lack of bias dancing on the tip of his tongue. He rubbed one hand against his chiseled jawline, noting to himself that a visit to the barber wouldn't be such a bad idea. Still unmoved in a sort of awkward lingering, he could hear the whispers of Jaylene a small distance away, slightly arched over Monroe.

β€œDo you think I should tell him it’s okay? To come?”

Spitz had disappeared through open double doors. Adam remained, a-flicker with curiosity and halfassed interest as he took visual catalog of the room before deciding to speak again. He glanced downward at his leggy shadow.d His concrete jowl softened as he tugged softly at the neck of his hoodie, electing his venerated soundlessness. It would have been fun to stir things up and loudly get a fix on who she was talking about, but for once, he decided against fanning the flames of stupidity. Even if he was comfortable making some sideways remark with Monroe around, it just wasn't appropriate and he'd keep the water under boiling until at least Barbie's party was over. The road less traveled could sometimes prove to be a little safer.

Juliet had gone to Amil, where a lot of ribbing was sounding from. Patrick sat somehow comfortably in the depths of it, joking with the tattooed goddess. It was a rare sight to Adam. He didn't fraternize a lot, but had picked up on the common behaviors of most of EH. Seeing the severely assignment brain-washed computer hugger enjoying a joke or two with some beautiful girls was unusual. Of course, stranger things had happened in Adam's dust devil of a life.

He snorted, suddenly bored by it all. Despite living moderately in his friend's shadow, he wasn't that kind of lost puppy dog. In fact he really preferred to do things on his own. If everyone was else was doing their own thing, strange or not, he figured he deserved some excitement too what with going to bed alone the night before and all. He slunk towards Hudson, the sable-haired virtuoso that Jaylene had sought out for party entertainment. The girl sat alone, preoccupied by her phone and nothing or anyone else in the room. The way he saw it, his pursuit could just help Jaylene out so that he could be on her good books. Also, it could help him out too. A smirk tugged at the crook of his mouth. He saw everything in his life as a fleeting moment filled with opportunities.

Shamelessly he pulled up a chair beside her, sinking into it and glancing over at her with the constitution of a harmless neighbor. He'd seen her around before, trademarked her as the bright smile of the building. As far as memorizing her, he mentally noted the nose ring and the development of her sleeve. He waited for her to pull her attention from her phone and notice him then began, "Hey I've seen you around at some bars, haven't I? You play guitar?" For once he sounded maybe genuinely interested in what someone else had to say, not a hint of sarcasm or detachment in his voice. He ran his hands down the length of his straightlegged khakis, mentioning, "Man if you decide to play for the party tonight your band will make big stacks. That girl can pay out. Plus she'll put your band up anywhere she can."

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Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Juliet James
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Juliet had to tilt her head in consideration to what Kaleb said. She kind of agreed, perhaps free drinks and food really wouldn't be worth the company of the people that attended. They really weren't her crowed. But the more she thought about it, the more she knew Alison would enjoy it, so she knew she would end up going. She kind of owed the girl anyway.

She gazed at him momentarily, eyebrow lifted, not sure if he was joking or speaking from experience. She kind of figured the later, but Kaleb was gone before she could say anything about it. She stayed in her seat for awhile, lack of motivation to get up mostly, as she watched the other meal about. Honestly, she probably would have been hopping up to bother Monroe by now, but Jaylene was with him so she didn't bother.

Juliet finally got up when she watched Amil move from her group, assuming that the tattooed beauty was coming her way to begin with before she was distracted by the dealers of the building. Juliet didn't mind such company, so she crossed the room to where her friend was crashed in a love seat and plopped herself on the arm of the couch, pulling at one of Amil's dark strands of hair to absently play with. Everyone knew she didn't have any boundaries whatsoever. In fact, she probably would have fallen right on Amil if the girl hadn't been in the middle of a conversation.

Juliet stayed silent, running her fingers threw strands of dark hair while she waited. She didn't care much about what they were talking about, just waited for them to finish so she could have her friend. She was sure one or both of them was going to end up digging through the others closet for the night.

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The cafe had began buzzing with excitement and confusion, it seemed. No one had ever believed the ethereally beautiful doll from 7C would ever invite the slovenly crowd from Empire Heights that it seemed like she either had mild disdain or total indifference to. This being a point that Patrick had to make, his words cut short as Spitz cut in front of them, encouraging them to show. Amil watched him with amusement, smirking impishly. Juliet had taken a seat on the arm of the chair Amil had chosen to occupy, and instinctually Amil leaned into the girl. Juliet and Amil weren’t so different in a lot of ways, they both lacked boundaries and bordered on intimate. Along with their crude attitude and lack of sexual reservations, they were practically two peas in a pod, although Amil might think she had her life in order a wee bit better than the beautiful bartender. Resting her arm into Juliet’s lap, Amil looked up to the girl briefly to smile as a greeting as Juliet began to play with Amil’s black and teal tresses.

She looked back to Spitz, but was pleasantly surprised as he swooped down, bringing his lips just inches from her ear. The skunky aroma of his new product mingled with the musky scent of his cologne, which made her wonder how his sheets smelled. Her lips pressed together as she fought the urge to smile like a fool, humor twinkling in her eyes. Spitz straightened back to his full height and Amil glanced to Juliet from the corner of her eye, resisting the urge to laugh. Juliet was the only girl friend Amil had ever had that understood Amil so well. Surely Juliet would figure out how Amil’s night probably would go, either Spitz would end up babysitting her or Juliet would be stuck with it. There was always plan B if anything would go wrong, either way Amil would not spend that night alone.

Amil never saw the glamour in lush, expensive parties every week and clubbing every other night. She had never been in the drug scene or gone binge drinking, for as long as she could remember her social life, Amil had always either been β€˜the pretty asian’, or β€˜so-and-so’s girlfriend’, or the best of them all β€˜the teacher’s slut’. Maybe it was because of her dad’s horrible drinking habit, but Amil really only partied when her job required it or if someone really talked her into it. Then despite being confident in her own skin, spending the night with a dozen or so people awkwardly staring at you from across the room was anything but fun - so she had the tendency to have a few too many drinks until she forgot that she was being watched. Inappropriate could be one way to describe Amil when she got trashed, belligerent wouldn’t be too far off either. Most of the time if she didn’t have someone taking her home to babysit her, the duty would fall on her manager or whatever friend she had dragged along. Kaleb never was upset if he was given the role as babysitter.

Playfully pinching Juliet’s leg, Amil started to giggle, then playfully tickling the girl until she fell into Amil’s lap, both shrieking with laughter. Slowly their laughter died, and Amil looked up to see Patrick giving another of his signature deadpan expressions. She stuck out her tongue childishly, giggling once again as she looked down to Juliet who had made herself comfortable on Amil’s lap. Gently, she touched her finger tip to the tip of Juliet’s finely shaped nose, β€œBoop.” Amil said with a smile.

After a moment she giggled again, causing Patrick to shake his head with dismay. β€œI thought women were supposed to mature faster them men, I’m only two years older than you Amil and you act like a seven year old whore.”

This ensued another stream of obnoxious laughter from Amil as she wiggled from underneath Juliet’s weight. Earning stares from the other tenants who might’ve initially believed she were in danger if they didn’t see the head of blue hair being the source of the ruckus. Finally catching her breath, she peeked out from behind her fingers at Patrick, β€œI cannot.” was all she managed to breathe before slumping to lay her head beside Juliet, pushing her own hair back from her face before speaking to Patrick, β€œI may act like a fucking seven year old, but even if I acted my damn age I would still be hella years behind you, you have the enthusiasm and the floppy dick of an 90 year old man.”


Patrick didn’t really know Juliet, the girl had come around a couple times, but Patrick never saw here without Amil around, and he only hung out with Amil two or three times a week - most of the time it’d be just Amil, Kaleb and Patrick. Most of the time Juliet just seemed to be a silent observer, much like himself, but then she’d talk and he realized she was much like a younger version of Amil. He was surprised when he heard she was 21, a barmaid and supporting herself though, she had come off as a daddy’s girl for some reason, but she and Amil were appealing next to one another so he wouldn’t be the one to say anything.

Spitz however was an easy decision to make, Patrick just didn’t like him. While Amil did speak crudely, she still had a way to sound educated, where as Spitz with his obnoxious own sound effects on words when he could just speak simply was just vomit inducing. He had to fight to appear civil and not wear an expression that read β€œplease just drop dead” as Spitz spoke, especially as he and Amil played the usual ring a round in the game of attraction. Reading the look on her face as he said something into her ear, it was enough to make her smile like an idiot briefly before pressing her lips together.

Rolling his eyes, Patrick looked over to Corey briefly, who had also had his own share of Amil, although if memory served right it was a slightly more serious fling that Amil and Kaleb had ever had. Luckily no one ever told Patrick about any of the details, he just knew when someone was fucking and when someone wasn’t. It was so obvious in the body language and in the eyes, it had become a bit of a hobby to him, he’d gotten so good at it he started playing the game with strangers, at the employees in the Wendy’s while he waited for his Spicy Chicken Sandwich. Just as he meant to say something to Corey, Spitz once again went into one of his tangents, pointing at the love of Patricks life - his laptop - for emphasis in his point. Almost maternally, Patrick wrapped his arms around his laptop as if to protect it, shielding it from Spitz’s dirty drug dealing hands. Looking dead on, Patrick just nodded to show he had comprehended the man’s spiel well enough, breathing a sigh of relief when he walked away.

Then like school girls Amil and Juliet erupted into a marathon of laughter, as if booming with excitement from talking to the most popular boy in all of Empire Heights - the drug dealer. He had stare on in disbelief, to which Amil only further proved his argument on her level of maturity by sticking out her tongue and giggling once again. Unable to resist, he jested at her, calling her a seven year old whore. Her laughter was infectious, and even staring straight ahead he couldn’t help but to smirk. However her response had pushed a full on geniune surge of laughter, burying his face in his hands as if to hide from the shame of the joke. β€œAnd people say I’m bad.” He mumbled, shaking his head and looking over to Corey beside him. β€œThis is what happens when we move in with a bunch of kids as neighbors, we’re antiques compared to the rest of them.” Patrick whined.

β€œOh shut up, there’s a two year difference.”

β€œIn birth years, but by sense of mannerisms and culture, we’re years ahead.”

β€œFuck you.”

β€œAgain, I’d rather not have herpes.”

If Juliet hadn’t been laying across her lap, Amil would’ve reached to slap Patrick without hesitation, as she always did when he would joke about herpes. Amil had never had any STI, she always used protection and was somewhat safe, but after mistakingly confiding in Kaleb after a scare, Kaleb then told Patrick and she never heard the end of it. What Patrick couldn’t understand was why she was so sensitive about it, when really it was just that the rumor could be easy to believe to others they wouldn’t question if Patrick was joking. So instead of slapping him, she gave a look that could kill, her eyes just slits as they narrowed, β€œPatrick Murphy, if you don’t stop.” She said dangerously, wagging her finger.

He threw his hands up in defeat, β€œWhatever, it’s not you actually have it so what’s the issue...?”

Exasperated, Amil threw her arms up, β€œIt’s just not something you joke about, TRICK.” And that ended that conversation, Amil curling up against Juliet and mumbling, β€œWe should start picking out our outfits now.”

Patrick sighed heavily, rolling his head against the couch to once again look to Corey. β€œI don’t understand why I’m always the villian!” He said with vindication.

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Lee Harris
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Always expecting a change in the meetings Ms.Furman always insist on having, Noellen drifted off again once he realised the routine of her speech, nothing of importance to him that he hadn't already known. There was of course the occasional murmurs and conversation running underneath the old hag's drone, though it was expected with what it being a room full of twenties, who not that long ago were teenagers doing god-knows-what and still do keep the old habits. His habit is to keep tabs on the people around him who had a history worth exploiting or status of all manner that suited him, often using those history as blackmail and bribes for legal and illegal clientele. He didn't much care for them on a personal level. Business was business and he preferred to keep it that way. Personal attachment is a taboo for him, seeing as it's his kryptonite in a way that bothers and unsettles him.

Just as Noellen was about to fall asleep, the sudden sensation of falling and a shock striking his muscles made him jolt into wakefulness as his hands instinctively grabbed onto any surface it could grasp, which was the seat itself. Heart beating faster than usual with a whispered curse, he let one leg slip off the seat and propped himself up with one hand whilst the other ran down his face then through his hair, his body protesting for a rest that lasted longer than the three-four hours he gave it. Years of lack of sleep really did a number on him internally, though having done it routinely meant he would live his life without a problem but the occasional disturbance of that flow was a bitch to his already battered body to which the repercussion of his negligence had to be endured before he could reset his body's sleep regulation.

A much smoother voice with an undetectable shaky undertone to the untrained ears washed over the room, making him snap his head to the source. The Try-Hard Blonde, a nickname he gave her for his own uses, was giving and oral invite to her little soirΓ©e though why invite the entire Empire Heights tenants was more intriguing to him than the thought of mingling with a crowd of people he didn't want to interact with. It sounded a tad last minute to him but knowing her bond with Monroe, anything is possible. A small smirk tugged at his lips as the thought of the Chef de cousine being in the mids of many affairs and chaos of connection was rather incredulous, if it was him in the mids, he would've been ecstatic to be in the heart of it all, but he wasn't. A tired sigh escaped his lips, knowing that he was better off observing from the outside in.

Remembering his own line of work, Noellen blocked out most of the conversation about him as he fished his phone out his pocket to check his work schedule, the morning meeting fried his ability to recall simple memory that he can access easily on any other day. His phone told him nothing on whether he was on duty today or not, frustrated at the lack of flow to his day, he laid back down on the seat, massaging the bridge of his nose with furrowed brows. At the very moment, he couldn't give a damn care about people around him, a bit pissed off at how un-controlled the day was starting off for him.

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins
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Alex broke out into an almost smug sort of smile as Spitz wrapped his arm around her shoulders, his lips touching the top of her head. She ended her sentence as he pulled her tight to him and tussled her smooth hair.

"... something a little in stock for me."

β€œHol’ up, who said it’s all about you? What’s in it for me ma?”

The only thing that had her attention for the next few moments was the half-questioning, half-amused stare of his dark eyes piercing into her bright baby blues. The next thought that crossed her mind was that he was high, at least somewhat. It really wasn't that hard to tell. She couldn't see herself, but Alexandra supposed that her expression was somewhere in between amused and curious. One of her eyebrows was raised and she held back a chuckle. As his eyes cleared up, Spitz suddenly drew her towards the direction of the resident barbie.

β€œLet’s talk to the director."

And with his arm wrapped tightly around her torso, Alex couldn't do anything but follow along.

β€œTonight the night?”
β€œJust might.”
β€œIf you get a chance to snag her, bring her my way, I have a proposition.”
β€œThat’s some messy business.”


Any attempt to understand their conversation was lost on Alexandra. She had failed to catch Spitz' glance over his shoulder at another occupant of the room. Seeming to disregard Spitz, Jaylene caught Alex off guard with her question. Though, as she opened her mouth to answer, the man who's arm was was wrapped snugly around her waist answered for her.

"Hell yeah she comin’,”

The young blonde sighed to herself, unintentionally missing the rest of what Spitz and Jaylene said to each other. With the last words shared between the two friends, Alex was once more pulled along Spitz' path. He looked only slightly down at her, seeing as she was only a few inches shorter, and flashed her one of his bright white smiles.

β€œWhen you gonna’ come through about buying some sweet, huh?”

"When you come through about buying some heat," She replied smoothly, smiling at the rhyme she'd made. It was an honest answer. They'd yet to push their relationship past business and close acquaintance, and so she would keep her answer to that. It's not that she was against smoking or sex, or even both at the same time; she just tended to be picky about who and where she did either with. Not that she had as much experience with the former. As every Arms Dealer villain and target on TV and in the movies would suggest, they preferred to stick to their high-end expensive cigars, expensive clothes, and aged alcohol. Which was partly true, simply because they were able to afford all those things. As Alex liked to think, guns were a much more lucrative business than drugs for the individual. Which wasn't always true. She'd met some very wealthy dealers in her relatively short life. Her looks, guns, money, and contacts were what made her such a popular, beloved, profitable, and sought-after business partner in the underworld.

4 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
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Juliet simply shook her head at the way Amil's lips thinned when Spitz got so close to her, and the look Amil gave her out of the corner of her eyes was more than enough to back up what she was already thinking: someone was going to end up babysitting her tonight. Juliet didn't mind, the few times she had actually gotten Amil to party with her included a lot of 'here drink this', 'now this', 'how's this taste'. Amil was fun when she got trashed, like the few boundaries she actually had completely disappeared with each new shot.

She scowled when the girl pinched her, but it didn't last long because then she was being tickle attacked. Amil was probably the only person in the world who could get Juliet to laugh like that. She fell off the arm of the couch, right into Amil's lap, squealing and begging for mercy which she was soon granted. She took it upon herself to get comfortable in her friends lap, which is when she finally saw the look Amil's friend was giving them. Patrick, if she remembered right.

β€œI thought women were supposed to mature faster them men, I’m only two years older than you Amil and you act like a seven year old whore.”

β€œI may act like a fucking seven year old, but even if I acted my damn age I would still be hella years behind you, you have the enthusiasm and the floppy dick of an 90 year old man.”

Juliet snorted out a laugh, because hell that was funny. "I'm still a child at heart," she muttered with a grin. Actually, seven year old whore wasn't a bad description for them. A little morally wrong, in the scheme of things, but it fit.

She didn't know Patrick well, if at all. Amil had introduced them once or twice, but Juliet wasn't the type to really hang out with a group. The few times she had been in his presence it'd been the three of them and Kaleb, and she'd easily gotten along with Kaleb better than Patrick. She figured they were too much alike, silent observers occasionally biting out a remark.

The other male she didn't know at all, though he looked about Patrick's age. Tall, strong features, dark brown hair and eyes. She didn't feel the need to put her two cents into the conversation so she curled up against Amil more, pressing her face into the girls shoulder. She was still tired, otherwise she would probably join in on the banter. Instead she just chuckled under her breath on occasion. β€œWe should start picking out our outfits now.”

Juliet looked up, knowing Amil's words were directed towards them. "Mm...but that means I have to get up...and you're so soft."

10 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood Character Portrait: Scully 'Spitz' Rollins Character Portrait: Lee Harris
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After Dee settled for a wide window sill as her seat at the tenants meeting, the landlady decided to start with a cut short introduction about how blunt her words would be, since she understood that many of these young adults had jobs to keep. Dee grabbed the edge of the sill to keep her balance, and resist laying her back onto the cold glass pane. Her long legs pressed together.
β€œI know we’ve been talking renovations for months but in a few days painters are coming in to fix up the main foyers. Some drywall construction will follow, so I’ll need you all to be patient with the noise and temporary chaos. As per usual you’re expected to abide by EH regulations, your leases…”

Furman paused after witnessing what she knew she was going to see in front of her. Few individuals causing a scene to express how uninterested they were. A rather bold move on their part, but she tolerated it. This may have not been their first tenant meeting since they've been here. Since she was new, Dee was trying her best to listen to the landlady's plans to improve the apartments, but she also had dancing on her mind. A recital coming next Saturday and she had to practice all she could since she reduced her daily work hours for this day. She couldn't practice consecutive mornings last weekend because of moving to Empire Heights.

Dee used her 20/20 vision to glance around the room, observing the new tenants of the house. A colorful crew the Empire Heights had under its roof, including Dee herself, and a variety of body languages. Dee's β€œjudging the book by its cover” habits were kicking in the double doors. She could honestly see herself communicating with them, but not on a friendly basis. Some seemed too flamboyant. Others seemed too cynic and anti-social, especially one of them, sitting with a cold blank look on his face. His entire frame was small. His medium brown hair combed to the back of his head. Dee wondered who this individual was. He seemed like someone from a glooming background.

Dee, however, shifted her attention from him to everyone else, trying to seek for comparisons. The obvious one being ethnicity. Only very few minorities within this group of career and thrill seekers. One man in particular, with a darker skin complexion than Dee, pushed his way onto a pair of women sitting on the couch together. Ever since Dee went to New York she had seen many men like him flirting with the blondes who could make it in a covergirl commercial. Not that Dee actually minded this behavior. She just found this amusing, since this wasn't such mainstream activity in Belleville. Everyone liked anyone they could connect to. The hair and skin color was never a preference. In New York, or better yet U.S.A., statistics were involved. She didn't understand this until her sorority sisters educated her. Bad idea. Let's just say that the word β€œprivileges” are involved.

And this girl he was pushing his appeal on was not the only blonde in the lounge area. The majority of girls were blonde, whether born or dyed. Even bleached to rich platinum. One of the blondes in the back of the lounge had a boyfriend she was clinging to. So much that she could constrict him if he ever mistreated her, but from how much of a gentleman he seemed by the way he looked into her eyes before going in for a quick kiss, arguments would never occur between them. How this blonde stuck out to Dee? Her extravagant fashion sense. Name brand clothing from all around Europe. With how this blonde carried herself into the front of the lounge, Dee would assume that she took a trip or two there.

This woman and her boyfriend went up to the front of the room to introduce themselves to the new tenants, but based on some of their reactions, they were familiar with her. Some more than others. Dee reminded her of a blonde in Belleville who was at a house party once for one of the football players. The dirty blonde was slipping and falling in every room that day, including their garage. She remembered a brunette hanging around with her. The brunette was at a worse drunk state than she was. She wondered what ever happened to them.

Back to the tenants meeting, this particular blonde, who Dee now knew as Jaylene, invited the new tenants to a party she was hosting with her boyfriend that the new tenants, including Dee, could be interested in attending.

β€œI usually don’t do this kind of thing, but I’m busting open a huge deal for my agency and we’re having a banger at Manhattan Tower tonight. Everyone has to pay a cover charge but I’ll let you all in for free because honestly, I’d just love not to be surrounded by anorexic models all night.......”

By that time, Dee's cellular phone vibrated on her palm, nearly causing her to jump in fright. She wondered who would give her a message at this time, but since her friends and sorority sisters are all working in jobs or careers in the morning, it was no surprise that one of them would contact her. She proceeded to investigate, needing her ears to multitask.

β€œYou've received a video message from: Erica”

Dee smiled to herself in delight. Her best friend from high school. The one that was cautious about her little β€œcave trip” in honor of Mordicai. After high school graduation, they split separate ways: Dee heading to the United States, and Erica moved to Toronto to pursue a career in Criminal Justice. Dee hadn't heard from her best friend until her senior year, thanks to social media. After giving Erica her number, they talked for three hours that day, reminiscing on old memories and sharing new ones.

Ironically, Erica had married a Muslim Physical Therapist at the college she went to, and she was expecting a baby boy soon. The same month of graduation to be exact. The husband wanted to name the boy Kareem, which Erica found to be intriguing. She thought it was named after a grandfather of his, but it was actually named after the American basketball legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabar.

Now to present time, Dee wondered what the video sent from Erica could be. She opened the small envelope icon. A video of baby Kareem in Erica's living room. The climax was Kareem already walking, adding his own manner of communication by waving to the camera with only his fingers. Not even a year old and he's already moving his legs. Dee's smile lit even more. Who knew something so enlightening could control her emotions, and have her day at a great start? It even calmed her tensions of potentially being late for work.

β€œ.....would kill for a live act. I’d pay you. So, yeah. Thanks.”

That was the last she could hear from the blonde in front of her, but at least Dee got the location. She wasn't so sure about the time, since she had to work the whole afternoon to closing at night, but the day was on a weekend.

She could see a slim lower body heading her way. Someone wanting to speak to her? Who knew what this persona wanted to say? She didn't know the tenants too well, so she couldn't have them in her personal business just yet. She closed the video of Baby Kareem on her cellular phone before turning it around. Once the person was finally standing across from her, she lifted her head with a warm smile to whoever the lower body belonged to.

A young man piercing her with his dark eyes. His handsome face surpassed his eccentric sense of clothing. Comparing him to the blonde from earlier, they were complete opposites, further complimenting the varieties of Empire Heights, and after brushing his dark hair back with his fingers, he had a coolheaded charm that many women loved. He proceeded to speak to Dee, and she was curious over what he would begin the conversation with.

β€œDon’t I know you?”

A rather odd introduction. She quickly wanted to respond with a shaking head, but then it got even more strange when he said her name.

β€œDee?”

Her narrowly gazing eyes began to widen, and by the way she had responded, this man was right. How did this man know her name? Better yet, her nickname. Only friends and family know her by β€œDee” rather than β€œDominique”. Maybe she had seen this man in a distant memory. The more her eyes was drawn to him, the more his appearance seemed acquainted to her. His black strands of hair sprouting wildly from his scalp, and above his eyes. The light fawn shaded skin, with hints of stubble on his chin. Before she could ask him the obvious β€œhow do you know my name?”, he quickly gave her the answer after placing his bags down to the crowd.

β€œI’m Kaleb, remember I invited you out after Mordy’s...erm..yea.”

His name was only said once, and Dee felt gravely affected by it. A soft catch of her breath. Her eyes widening more. She didn't know whether to feel dumbfounded, or ecstatic over a long-lost mutual friend reuniting with her after only hearing about him once, and seeing him from time to time in high school. These past few years have been a trip to the past for Dee. First her best friend, and now her beloved and dearly departed Love and what was left of his legacy. Was this fate wanting her not to forget about Mordicai? No, Kaleb staying in the same apartment building had to be a coincidence.

These many thoughts couldn't distract her for long. She had to respond to Kaleb.

β€œKaleb! Hey! It's nice to see you again.”, Dee responded in her distinctively light, raspy tone, greeting him with a handshake. From what Dee could remember of Kaleb, every part of him remained the same. Even his stubby facial hair. Only exception was his height, which was a slight upgrade. Dee was, regardless, still shorter than him.

β€œSorry, I just...I knew that I knew you, I just couldn’t figure out how.” He added a laugh into the sentence that he may judge as awkward and timid. Dee could imagine how he still felt that way. Even after meeting each other for the first time, their diaries were still locked tightly to their hearts. They were not as open to each other as they were with Mordicai, and since they lived in Empire Heights together, the cliffhanger had another opportunity to raise itself up to the ground.

β€œWhat are you doing in America?”, he finally asked after a moment of muteness to gather up the letters in the alphabet to form words, and finally a sentence. That was an excellent question to ask. Of all places, they both managed to migrate to the United States. What was the fascination over the United States?

β€œI go to college here in NYU.”, Dee easily responded. β€œI've been here for more than four years now, and I'm working on getting my graduate degree.

Dee's future in dance had to involve one of the greatest schools in the country. In a location where many aspiring dancers lived, wanting to compete to the lead roles on stage, or the television screens.

So how about yourself?, Dee questioned in turn, I didn't think America was such a common place for Canadians to live.”
Dee sneaked in a lighthearted joke to mellow their awkward encounter, and secretly Kaleb's diffident mannerisms. His current status after mourning Mordicai's death was still a mystery to her. even the other friends Mordicai left behind, or rather joined him in the case of the student who allegedly succumbed to a terminal disease. From Kaleb's warm skin complexion, Dee assumed that he moved on from the past like Dee had to.

8 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe Character Portrait: Jaylene Sullivan Character Portrait: Juliet James Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
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Kaleb Dean Sivaj:
Fate always played funny games with Kaleb, although maybe it was karma - he lived life in disarray, so life had a fucked up way of unfolding. He could see a light go off behind Dee’s light eyes when he said his own name, bittersweet fondness mingled with grief. He figured the image of Mordy had popped in her mind, as it had in his own. When they shook hands, he almost flinched at her soft touch, his warm mitt clasping her cool docile paw. Gliding his fingers across the palm of her hand as he pulled away, he couldn’t pull his eyes from her as she feigned excitement in them reuniting all these years after a brief encounter.

He could feel his phone buzzing in his pocket, a text, most likely from Kaycee - not many other people texted him throughout the day. Fidgeting, Kaleb looked over Dee’s shoulder as she answered his question to where Amil and Patrick had been sitting. Still attentive to her words, Kaleb almost did a double take when from the corner of his vision it seemed as if a certain cap wearing individual had stooped down to be so brave as to kiss a familiar head of blue hair. He felt as if something had twisted from his throat to his chest, his tongue heavy. A few choice words threatened to slip out, and he felt his stare darken. From what he could see, Patrick didn’t offer any strong reaction, so Kaleb dismissed his former presumption, although it didn’t put him at ease. Amil hadn’t pushed Spitz back like Kaleb would of preferred, instead Kaleb could tell even from afar she was sizing up her prey.

First and foremost, Amil was a good friend of Kaleb. She was wild and sassy, alluring and seductive. Amil was like a product of some perfect woman cyborg a inventor rock star would create, with very few program flaws. The two had their share of intimate moments, although not as many were with their clothes off as other people liked to assume. Still, even with Kaycee always reminding him of his presence, Amil was an important lady in his life. Ironically she gave him a lot of advice about Kaycee, and she never would be the one to initiate anything between them. It wasn’t that Kaleb knew he would sleep with Amil again, but it just always seemed to come up again. The nights would come from out of nowhere, a perfect cocktail of drinks, location, laughter, stolen glances and magic. They would wake up confused, share a laugh and grab breakfast from the cafe and most likely be busted by Patrick, who would openly call them out. They knew they had no romance between them, maybe it could just be described as an animalistic attraction.

The fact that Spitz was even around her made his blood boil, but he didn’t seem to linger long, walking away carrying Alex on his arm. He didn’t know the girl very much, she almost reminded him of Jaylene sometimes, how she seemed dismissive of most people. As Jaylene popped into his mind, she popped into his vision, predictably hanging off of Monroe. Before he could let his blatant disdain betray his expression, Kaleb turned his attention back to Dee before recognizing her questioning eyes. His reaction was a bit delayed, not comprehending her question until after she asked it, nodding his head and saying β€œoh,” under his breath, as if reminding himself to answer her. Clearing his throat, Kaleb coughed into his fist before shoving his hands into his front pockets.

ImageShe had no way of knowing the weight of her question, the story of how Kaleb had ended up in New York. He had forgotten pieces along the road, he definitely wasn’t going to open with how he had to hitch hike from New Jersey to New York alone after leaving his once best friend and was homeless for months. Shrugging, he chuckled to himself as he reached to grip the back of his neck, as if he were almost nervous to answer. β€œI was actually born in New York, I moved to Belleville in middle school. So, I’m actually American.” He laughed again, dropping his hands to his side.

When a silence fell between them, he offered a weak question, β€œAre you going to that party you think?” Choosing to ignore that Jaylene was behind the banger, someone who Dominique might know by name, it would just make the entire conversation easier if it were like Jaylene was just a insignificant detail. From over Dominique’s shoulder, he could see Juliet and Amil fall into fits of giggles. He looked back to Dee’s searching eyes, down to her full painted lips. Smiling, he looked back to her eyes, awaiting her answer.

Image

Amelia Sheffield


Juliet made no effort to move, only further making herself comfortable in Amil’s lap. Huffing with false annoyance, she rested her head once again, looking over to Patrick and Corey. Both of them usually spoke in low voices, their words inaudible to Amil’s ears. She frowned, assuming they must be talking about her. Biting her lip out of habit, she watched them with curiosity. Patrick and Corey had always gotten along well, so Amil had been told. No one really noticed when Amil and Corey started seeing one another, if that’s what someone wanted to call it. It mostly consisted of late night visits, infrequent lavish dinners and many unanswered questions, which was what clued Patrick in eventually, her curiosity being what betrayed her. But it was pointless to even ask Patrick about Corey, he made it clear he didn’t know anything either.

There had been something in the way he carried himself, possessing culture and tact unlike most people Amil crossed paths with. To say that he made her nervous sometimes wouldn’t be too much of an exaggeration, something in his eyes that showed much more than he meant to let on. There was some dangerous edge to him that was intoxicating to Amil, although the mystery he seemed to hold so close drove her crazy. She and Corey hadn’t ended on bad terms, just sort of drifted away and loss the initiative to see one another. If he had been affected by her at all, he never let on, and vice versa. It had been an adventure while it lasted, and Amil would never out rule him from her pool of options.

Her mind had drifted, realizing she had been watching Patrick and (mostly) Corey as long as they had been talking when Corey looked over to her and Juliet, locking eyes with Amil. At first Amil felt startled, as if she had been caught sneaking through her mother’s purse. Then her expression softened, offering a weak smile and a little wave, head rested against the arm of the chair. Patrick had said something to break Corey’s eyes away from Amil’s, but she didn’t bother to look away. Her fingers played with Juliet’s locks. β€œMy legs are falling asleep.” She whispered, almost affectionately, wiggling her legs from under Juliet.

Laughing more to herself, Amil used her arms to hoist herself from beneath Juliet, sitting on the back of the couch to have Juliet lay as she had fallen into the cushion of the love seat. Her eyes glided across the cafe, most of the tenants had gone to hide away, but the social ones remained, and one not so social tenant who seemed to be falling asleep in his seat. Giving Juliet a look that said be right back, Amil swung her legs over the arms of the couch, sliding down to stand on her own two feet, Juliet undisturbed. Amil looked over to Noellen for Juliet to understand.

Noellen had been a project of Amil for quite some time, the guy was eerily quiet, and had the a similar mixture of danger and mystery that allured her to Corey, but there was something about Noellen that made Amil aware that he was thrown a little off-kilter. He never seemed to show any kind of genuine emotion or interests in anything anyone had to say, and was rarely seen talking to anyone, let alone laughing. Running her hands down her sweater as if to smooth it out, she primped her hair once before turning before Noellen. β€œWow, did Furman have to bribe you with a month of free rent to get you to make it to the meeting?” She joked, taking a seat across from him and crossing her legs delicately.

Noellen had the perfect chisled features of an American Hollister God, a pretty boy cut and piercing eyes. Grade A meat, but such a fucking weirdo. His apathetic expression put her ill at ease as she wrapped her arms around herself, her smile growing weaker. β€œYea, I just wanted to say you should go tonight, I’m forcing Patrick, and he’ll probably force Corey and Kaleb, it’ll be a whole table of disturbed insociable minds.” She joked nervously, her humor bordering inappropriate, her awkward tendencies forcing her to make a fool of herself. Looking across the room, she looked to Juliet pleadingly, as if asking her to save Amil from saying something that might actually offend someone. Even sober Amil could make herself look like an asshole. It was as if she was missing a layer of a filter that other people seemed to have that kept those random pieces of grit from slipping out. Smiling, Amil shook her head, looking down to the floor and pulling at the hair at her temples. β€œSorry, my mouth likes to run ahead of my mind.” She said, wincing slightly and hoping her joke was not in bad taste.

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Taking in deep and even breath, Noellen emptied his mind of the clutter that consumed his concentration to no end, removing the unessentials from his thoughts that festered on his limited patient and energy, requiring them to get through the morning he was not meant to meet in the first place. There was of course the recent announcement of a party that seemed to creep it's way into his thoughts, wanting attention that he knew had caught his interest. The prospect of all or most of the tenants attending tantalised him like a predator to the prey, bodies and minds all concentrated into one space. It's an easy picking for him, especially it being at night if he had heard the oral invite correctly, he wouldn't have trouble blending in with the rest of the herd.

With that being on the forefront of his thoughts, it took him off-guard to feel the presence of a company that he had assumed was just another passing body that took no notice of the still body that laid silently inside his own space, the air that held around him rather foreboding to close in on.

Weary yet almost delicate voice finally emerged from it's host, Amil's usual easy demeanor seemed to have fled her as with her colourful vocabulary that caused a minute quirk to Noellen's lips, finding it rather amusing how in front of the right person, anyone can change how they present themselves to others and with this exoctic specimen, it was him. She was an odd mix of social butterfly and reclusive cat, not afraid to push the line but never daring to cross it, fluttering close to whatever she likes but slink away when it gets too much. He may be wrong in every aspect, though he has the time in the world to find the true Amelia. "I wouldn't say bribe, more of...an immediate evacuation for not abiding to her 'laws'," Noellen simply stated, slowly yet smoothly removing himself from the cushion and leaned back against the seat, arms crossed over his chest as he stared at her indifferently.

Hair that reminded him of a captivating jaybird, the fluttering ink doll had perch herself across from him with an intention that he is not privy to, silky arms wrapped around her lean frame with admirable legs crossed against one another, her body closed off to him, suspecting that it was him personally that had seem to reel her in. "I was considering of attending if I were free tonight, but then again, I may as well absent myself from it entirely," he told her of his watered-down thoughts, eyes noticing the subtlety of Amil's nervousness, her wavering smile seems to prove his early notion as her eyes seek out for a rescue from her rambling, an inscrutable smile emerging effortlessly from him as he watched her fidget in her seat.

Noellen could see how uncomfortable Amil seems to be sitting across from him, his apathetic nature wasn't helping the situation and he knew that she meant no harm at all, only he himself causing the odd atmosphere to sustain between them. Closing his eyes slowly and taking a slow deep breath, he spoke to her once more with more...feeling and expression to them, though with him being tired in the early morning, it took a lot for him to not snap back into his unsocial ways. "You're fine Amil, take deep breaths and relax a little. We're not in an interrogation room here," he assured her very easily, slipping into the many persona he has made himself to wear over his cold and frozen core. He was very curious as to what she wanted with him though, even if that had an obvious answer, he would hear the truth from her sooner or later.

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Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield Character Portrait: Juliet James
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Amil Sheffield


Noellen seemed in comparatively good spirits, joking back somewhat, although his tone seemed borderline apathetic. It seemed like behind his bored expression, there was a glimpse of amusement, a dark smile lighting his handsome features as she began to fidget. Smiling back, Amil buried her face behind her hands as if to shield herself from his gaze, leaning so that she was doubled over in the chair as he said "You're fine Amil, take deep breaths and relax a little. We're not in an interrogation room here,"

She laughed, peeking through her fingers to Noellen with amusement. β€œDon’t do that, you’re just making me feel worrrseee.” She whined, once again hiding her face into her hands and shaking her head at herself. After a moment of collecting herself, Amil straightened herself up, her arms resting across her lap as she leant forward, closing the distance between herself and Noellen. β€œHow do you always do that...make me feel like I’m making myself look like an idiot?” She joked, smiling up to Noellen, eyes searching his face for any kind of reaction.

He was supposedly just a chef, but there was something daunting in the way he carried himself that left Amil uneasy, yet curious. The less he seemed interested in her, the more she wanted to challenge why?

Pulling her hair so it all rested over one shoulder, she began to play with the ends of her hair, braiding some pieces and then letting them fall apart on their own. As her eyes looked Noellen over in the brief silence, her lips stayed slightly parted, as if she had been planning to say something but stopped herself. As she ran up from his form fitting shirt to his face, she grinned, catching his eye and winking playfully. β€œI don’t think you’d want me to relax anyways, I tend to get a little...unmanageable[/].”

Looking back to her group, she had seen no activity, gathering that Juliet had no intention of swooping in. Smiling to herself she looked back to Noellen, scooting forward so that her leg bumped his, leaning in even closer than before. β€œI think that you should go tonight, and if it ends up being a bust we can find a more [i]fun
way to spend our time.” She said, almost innocently, smiling sweetly to Noellen. Perhaps it was wrong for Amil to play her options carefully, she didn’t see it that way. Men didn’t care, they never cared about what she did with her life. She was never the girl that people worried about who’s feeling would get hurt, she was the one who would hurt feelings, ruin relationships and not give a fuck about others...

She leaned back into her seat, resting her hands in her lap politely. β€œI promise I won’t try to make you dance.” she added for good measure.

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School girl. That was what Noellen had termed Amil's strange yet familiar behaviour as she sat across from him, how her cheeks redden at her own words and the way she hide away in herself from him in an almost shy-nervousness way. Even though he would never admit it verbally, but she was rather adorable to watch, the way she placed herself so boldly in front of him and only to squirm around in her seat, looking for words that seem to slip away from her grasp, it reminded him somewhat of his past that held some memorable moments. It wouldn't be so bad if he indulged her with his attention, a change of pace from his seclusion and isolation from the society that surrounds him, a way to further refine his mutability with the diversity of the world he lives in.

Noellen could see that even though Amil's words suggested her discomfort, the distance between them lessened as she leaned in towards him, her neck stretched enticingly and exposed to his gaze as her sweater revealed to him more than an eye full, another subtle tug at his lips. With the slow celerity of his gaze and micro motion of his smile, he told her "I think the more important thing to ask is why are you reacting strongly towards me?" a small chuckle emitted from him as he answered her question with his own question, never one to give straight answers so soon or so commonly, preferring to keep the other guessing for as long as he can and learning the answers from the questioner themselves.

It was unusual how easily he was conversing with anyone, let alone a female, in this time of day or anytime for that matter, having been cut off from the one person he had worked hard to keep in touch with and reaching the point in his life the way he did, he was a little surprised to learn that he was still in control of every fibre in his body.

Concentration on Amil's words have wavered as he hasn't realised how close she had move until he felt her legs pressed lightly against his, seeing something else in the way her eyes and smile told him than from her tone of voice, Noellen narrowed his eyes slight with a small tilt to the head at her request from him, ever cautious towards the words spoken from someone who has no boundaries, even if their outward appearance said other wise.

A last minute addition to her request had brought out a genuine half-smile from him as with a short chuckle, the idea of him dancing at a party is ridiculous. Truth be told he was more of an old fashion kind of person when it comes to dancing, but turning down Amil meant that he'll lose an opportunity to get closer to some of the other tenants. Whatever her plan was for him, he wanted to see who would give out first.

"When you put it that way, how can I say no." Noellen stated simply, crossing his leg over the other as he leaned forward in one smooth motion, head resting against his fist as he looked at her dead on with a small spark in his eyes. "Tell me this though...are you asking me on a date?" He drawled out his last word with a sly smile only visible to her.



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View All » Add Character » 16 Characters to follow in this universe

Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado
Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj
Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson
Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield
Character Portrait: Lee Harris
Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood
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Elliot Monroe

"Sometimes we can't just live our lives for ourselves, no matter how much we want to."

Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood
Dominique Norwood

"You can be shattered and repaired so many times."

Character Portrait: Lee Harris
Lee Harris

"My hands are bloodied and it'll stay that way" [WIP history]

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield
Amil Sheffield

"Sweeta than a swishaa"

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson
Alexandra Kaersson

"So how about you and I go somewhere a bit quieter..."

Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
Patrick Murphy

Cyanide & Arsenic Candy (WIP)

Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj
Kaleb Dean Sivaj

"Nicotine and sarcasm."

Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado
Corey A. Delgado

"It's very easy to be difficult. But, very difficult to be better.." WIP History

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Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe
Elliot Monroe

"Sometimes we can't just live our lives for ourselves, no matter how much we want to."

Character Portrait: Lee Harris
Lee Harris

"My hands are bloodied and it'll stay that way" [WIP history]

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson
Alexandra Kaersson

"So how about you and I go somewhere a bit quieter..."

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield
Amil Sheffield

"Sweeta than a swishaa"

Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj
Kaleb Dean Sivaj

"Nicotine and sarcasm."

Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
Patrick Murphy

Cyanide & Arsenic Candy (WIP)

Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado
Corey A. Delgado

"It's very easy to be difficult. But, very difficult to be better.." WIP History

Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood
Dominique Norwood

"You can be shattered and repaired so many times."

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Character Portrait: Elliot Monroe
Elliot Monroe

"Sometimes we can't just live our lives for ourselves, no matter how much we want to."

Character Portrait: Lee Harris
Lee Harris

"My hands are bloodied and it'll stay that way" [WIP history]

Character Portrait: Patrick Murphy
Patrick Murphy

Cyanide & Arsenic Candy (WIP)

Character Portrait: Alexandra Kaersson
Alexandra Kaersson

"So how about you and I go somewhere a bit quieter..."

Character Portrait: Amil Sheffield
Amil Sheffield

"Sweeta than a swishaa"

Character Portrait: Kaleb Dean Sivaj
Kaleb Dean Sivaj

"Nicotine and sarcasm."

Character Portrait: Corey A. Delgado
Corey A. Delgado

"It's very easy to be difficult. But, very difficult to be better.." WIP History

Character Portrait: Dominique Norwood
Dominique Norwood

"You can be shattered and repaired so many times."


Fullscreen Chat » Create Topic » The Wild & The Wicked: Out of Character

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Most recent OOC posts in The Wild & The Wicked

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

So, ah, I take it that the role play's is still kind of active? I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get back- international trips turned to work and school so that I barely had time to sleep. If the role-play still has a pulse, I'd be glad to post starting next week.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Okay so again, sorry I haven't found the time to post on the OOC board.

So here's the plan, as of now it is the following characters:

Girls:
Dominique
Juliet
Amil

Guys:
Noellen
Patrick
Kaleb

As of now there is an even ratio, of six total characters - which is definitely enough to keep a plot line flowing. If any of you 3 want to make additional characters, you could add information to your current character sheets so it would be multiple characters on one page. Final plot line points are vague, but I have some ideas for what could come, and we could build off of those!

First and foremost: THE PARTY
this is important to exposing all our characters to each other in their worst kind of element, which will establish an initial tie between all of our characters. Given that none of the characters have any users, I say it would be fair if he godmoded some of the ownerless characters, so they'd be free game as a NPC.

AFTERWARD: still in the air?
LULZ so I am not well put together, but I suppose after the party we can establish fine points we want to hit. Each character has their own stories, and therefore has their own plot points the individual writer wants to make. Feel free to collaborate in ooc if any ideas strike you. Just know I will be making an active effort to extend my three characters into others lives in every which way, so don't feel like you will never have someone to interact with!

xo, stay GOLD guys

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

For the record, I am still here ( o3o)/)

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

so whats the plan here anyway? Just keep posting and figure out who's still around?

(not that I mind either which way just curious ^^)

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

HELLO! So sorry about the delay, I have been CRAMMED with reading assignments and work, not to mention ATTEMPTING to have somewhat of a social life. Good news is things will calm down and I can be much more attentive, I kind of cranked out my post in a last minute rush so I could just have something out there, I intend on adding something for Amil very shortly. My next post will accelerate to everyone being at the party - I have been out of touch with hoodratt but I know she leaves for Miami soon - who knows maybe we'll kick this rp up to full swing by the time she comes back! (:

I've been considering options for additional characters, the only thing is I don't have administrative power so if someone wanted to do that they would have to conjoin their character pages which would be weird but could work. Any questions or suggestions feel free to post them here.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Meow.... ΰ²₯-ΰ²₯

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Once upon a time....I was watching Dance Moms and the doorbell rang. Curious, I strolled to the door and opened it.

It was my muse.

"Get your lazy ass up and type", it said, and in fact, I did.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Ok so I know i promised to post today but i had a SHIT day. So I am eating ice cream and going to bed. xoxo.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

RPGRosa wrote:Jaybt (even though you piss me off because you take too long) :p.
You can't rush perfection.

Image

Not sure why others aren't posting as well. I'm not naming names, but......

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

There there Rosa it shall be ok. I start back tomorrow to but we all know how much of a life I don't have and how I procrastinate on this site.

If you want, I don't mind making another character either. I have some back up ones I can use so they already have storylines and everything.

With that being said, I WILL post tomorrow after work. It'll be late but eh still.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

LOL Ambrosia those memes >>>> LOVE EM

I will be so sad if hoodratt leaves, and will totally disown her (jk I love the betch)

I'm just going to be honest here, I only give my approval of the following users:
charlotteV
syaqeera
AmbrosiaVAC
Jaybt (even though you piss me off because you take too long) :p

Everyone else can go fuck themselves, yep I said it. You guys toyed with my emotions, pretending to be committed but just flitting off like any other rper. Broke my heart guys, and I am a BITTER woman.
I'm starting school tomorrow, so things are going to be a little more stressful, but I intend to still post soon, I wanted to give a break to those who haven't posted.

@charlotte, I will have Patrick interact with Juliet in my next post.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

How Ambrosia Feels When She Sees a New Post:

Image

-

How Ambrosia Feels Without A New Post:

Image

-

How Ambrosia Cheers Everyone Up:

Image

-

True story, guys. True Story.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Maybe there are just too many players? Maybe if we lock it down to those of us who are still around this could survive?

Just an idea...:)

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Hi everyone.

I might surrender all ownership rights to Rosa, that or I'll start clearing out slots.
Not sure yet. I'll have a decision within three days.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

That sounds like you're talking to yourself, but there's three of you, but added with your own self, that makes four XD

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

I'm a crabapple. merp.

I will keep posting, legit. lol. Even if I have to be all alone just interacting my three characters!!

..lulz that's weird.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Lol. Calm down hun. I'm still here. I've just been extremely busy as of late.

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

I've PMed a couple of you, but please come back. My little heart hurts every time I check and I see the same people haven't noticed. You guys worked so hard to get the position and create the character, you deserve to roleplay in a fun and enthusiastic roleplay. We are a community of writers, meant to uplift and help each other grow as creative beings.
Bunches of love,
xo, Rosa

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

Try prewriting! Predicting what others might say and writing bits of a post that help character development. It sounds like hocus pocus but I swear it makes writing easier and also helps add length and quality to a post!

Re: The Wild & The Wicked

I tend to try and get a post out as soon as possible due to time constraints and whatnot. Occasionally I have time to sit and actually write it out. Usually, though, whatever is in the post is what I think up on the spot.