so I cross my heart & I hope to die//open

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn has spent all day setting with a bride going over the designs for her gown. The feeling she got gave her a rush. Brooklyn loved designing what a bride saw in her mind. If she just went global, she wouldn’t get to do this-one on one contact. When she went into designing, this is what Brooklyn had imagined; designing for the individual, not the masses. Which is why Hope Harbor was perfect for her to open her shop up at. She could design on a person to person basis and know each bride got aunique gown. Anything she designed for a bride was never replicated. Sure, a bride could take pieces from other gowns and combine them with their idea but that was it. Anything else Brooklyn wouldn’t do. Brooklyn didn’t go out to the Pub often but when she did it was usually on a busier night. There was a better chance of her being able to find a hook-up to just take care of her needs. Well, maybe. Hopefully it was just a tourist because she could not handle sleeping with someone in town and having to see them. She wasn’t one of those girls looking for a relationship. No, Brooklyn was avoiding one at all costs. She’d rather focus on her work and spending time with her grandmother then anything. It wasn’t so bad. She never got attached and risked having her heart broken. Her parents may have the perfect marriage and both sets of her grandparents were married for decades upon decades, but that didn’t mean she wanted love. Times were different for her generation. Guys were always looking at the next piece of tail and she didn’t want to be caught up in that. Nope, she’d rather be lonely and happy with her career then divorced and miserable. As she pulled up to the pub, she threw her car into park. As she stepped out, she made sure she had plenty of cash since she hated to use her card when drinking. The cab company was on speed dial if she needed it. The bartender working tonight was a friend of hers. As she walked in and saw him she pulled herself upwards and leaned across the counter. ”Hey! Does ya’ man know ya’ come here looking all sexy each night?” When the pretty red head came over and swatted at Brooklyn she chuckled before moving backwards. She tossed her keys to Claire before she found on of the higher bar tables and slipped onto the stool. Brooklyn wasn’t sure if she wanted beers, cocktails or straight up shots. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by maroon 5

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] he placed his order. As he sat waiting for his drink, he took a general look around him. Unlike most of the people here, Tristan was not looking for a hook up, or one night stand or anything of the sort. He wasn't even really looking to socialize. That is not to say however, that he was opposed to it. Socializing that is. Tristan was a very social person. He liked people and enjoyed the company of good friends. He wasn't one that would be described as socially awkward. Well unless there was a girl around. Than he was generally a little disheveled, sometimes even a complete mess.

Many said this was why Tristan had never really had a girlfriend. At least a serious one. But Tristan would have begged to differ. After all, he knew himself better than anyone. The reason Tristan had never had a serious relationship, was because he was waiting for that one special girl. The one he could look at and know '"she's the one". "that's who I'm going to spend the rest of my life with". If he'd have said that though, people would have said he was just trying to follow in his brother's footsteps and just because things had worked out that way for Oliver, didn't mean they would for him. Well no, he wasn't just trying to follow Oliver. And yes, he knew that things may not work out that way for him. But he certaily hoped they would.

As he faced the bar once again, his drink was placed in front of him. Tristan nodded a thank you to the bar tender, raised his glass and took a sip of the Scotch. It wasn't a particularly expensive brand, like what he was used to, and definitely not a proper British brand. But it wasn't terrible. It would do for the time being and he would drink it without comment. He could possibly be pursauded to order another.

Tristan was rich and British (arguably two of the best qualities in a man), but he wasn't a picky, posh, snob. His Gran and Oliver would never have allowed it. The whole Welcott family were quite grounded in that sense.

Tristan watched the tv. A football game, as American's called it, was on and though it interested him, he'd have found a soccer game (as American's called it), much more pleasing. He finished his first Scotch while this went on, and occupied himself for the span of about 15 minutes before ordering another. As his second drink was placed before him, he saw, out of the corner of his eye, a tall attractive young woman with dark hair and palish skin enter and sit down on the stool next to him. This made him wish he had the power to become completely invisible to her, that way she wouldn't talk to him. He already felt a lump growing his throat as his anxiety began to well up within him.


Tristan felt the need to move down a seat or two, but that would have been rude and improper and not like a gentleman at all. So he stayed put and hoped for the best. And above all, he made sure not to look or move in the young woman's direction, at all costs. [/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn was already regretting leaving her jacket in the car. Honestly, she was in such a hurry to just get out for a night that she rushed from her car into the bar. There was no one in particular she was meeting nor any agenda. Brooklyn was a woman content with her life in every way. She had a business which was beginning to pick up and though she lived with her grandmother, it wasn’t because of money-it was her choice. And she didn’t have a guy in her life. No, she wasn’t into lady loving(not that there was anything wrong with it!) but she just didn’t feel like she had to have a guy in her life. She had dated on and off throughout the years but the time was nearly two years ago. Sure, it sometimes got frustrating on the sexual front but even that had died down. Brooklyn had hooked up with guys in the past but that was when she was young. Now, if she was with a guy, it would be the real deal. They were committed to one another in a relationship. Since she didn’t have that, then nothing was going on. And for her, that was fine. As she looked over her menu, she scrunched up her nose in thought. It was an old habit of hers. ”Claire-Bug!” The one good thing about spending half her life in this town is that she knew at least three quarters of the people who live here. When the red headed bartender came over, she leaned over the bar to chat a moment before ordering a mudslide. She did have to actually go into work tomorrow so she though she’d take it easy on the drinks. As she waited, she tapped her thumbs on the bar top. Her eyes looked at the screen for the football game to check out the screen. Being a Marine’s daughter, it was instilled in her to love football. After all, there was the annual Army-Navy game and her father was on the Marines football team. ”Oh come on! The was a bull call by the ref and everyone knows it. Just proves that everyone is out to get the Pats, my deary.” Brooklyn pointed at her friend as she brought her drink over. ”Yeah, but to be fair, Brady and Gronk are both out. That team cannot survive without those two.” Brooklyn sighed as she nodded. ”Yeah, true, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a bull call.” After taking in a few sips, Brooklyn closed her eyes and sighed. Since opening her shop, she had been severely stressed out. Not all of it had to do with the shop, honestly. Alex was having a hard time dealing with the fact that his sister and his friend were together. Plus, she had been supportive of a new friend Kylie, dealing with her own family issues and trying to get Oli to leave his house. Brooklyn had met Oliver when he first came here and she was visiting her grandmother. At the time, she was coming up here every other month and during that time she split it between her grandmother’s house and all her friends. To be honest, she gave Oliver most of it because he was having a really rough time since his wife had passed. Brooklyn tried to do things to get him to laugh or just leave his bed or couch in general. More then once she walked in on him in a less then decent state. At least he wasn’t completely naked. Being a designer, she had gotten past being embarrassed around anyone in a state of undress. When she opened her eyes and sighed, she finally look a look around. And the first person she laid eyes on was a familiar face. No, they had yet to meet but she had seen plenty of pictures of him. This was Tristan Welcott which was Oliver’s brother. Brooklyn straightened her back and smiled. ”So I see we finally meet. Unfortunately, your brother doesn’t have manners anymore or else he would’ve introduced us long ago.” She swiveled her bar stool so she faced Tristan fully. ”I am Brooklyn. I’m friends with Oli. I see he’s home. Again.” She said that rather flatly as she rolled her eyes. As she wrapped her hand around the base of her glass, she brought it to her mouth so she could sip from the straw. ”Oli usually tells me when you’re coming so I don’t barge in while you’re indecent. When did you get in?” She didn’t care if they were only just meeting, Brooklyn would be as friendly as possible. It was old ways instilled in her by her grandmother. While Brooklyn kept her own emotions aside in everything, she was always energetic and friendly. Though the friendliness was because of how energetic she was. Until you got to know her. Then you saw her extremely blunt and often frazzled side. Still, no one had seen any fragile side of her in years. No tears that weren’t of joy, no angry outbursts and no love. Perhaps that was part of her issue of not finding a guy-Brooklyn just didn’t give guys the kind of relationship most wanted. She didn’t do public displays of affection often nor was she one full of sweet words. Part of it was the environment she grew up in. While she knew her parents loved each other, they never showed it unless he was being deployed. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] Tristan found this all so curious as Oliver never went out, unless it was to the grocers or on very, very rare occasion the park. He wasn't social. He didn't speak to new people, unless it was to ask them what isle the tea was in, and he didn't let people call him Oli, outside of himself and Gran. Furthermore, how did this Brooklyn know who Tristan himself was? And why had Oliver never mentioned her? It was very unlike his brother not to bring up such things. But than again, Oliver wasn't the person he used to be.

Tristan continued to look at Brooklyn with just about the most bewildered face you've ever seen on a human being. I-I got in a couple days ago....I'm sorry...I don't mean to be rude....I just don't understand this....Oliver hasn't mentioned you....b-but you know who I am[/b] Tristan pointed to himself How? He doesn't...he doesn't speak to people Tristan starched his head than looked down to wait for the answer. If he looked at Brooklyn any longer, he wouldn't be able to stay upright.

She was gorgeous. Everything from her dark hair and sparkling eyes, to her hour glass figure was absolutely perfect. It was obvious that Brooklyn was one of those girls who could never look even remotely unattractive. Tristan bit his lip and still keeping his head down, raised his eyes only to look at her again. It felt as though his heart was beating out of his chest and the hair on the back of his neck was definitely standing on end. He reached back and scratched it gently, hoping to alleviate the unnerving sensation. Tristan had felt strange around girls before. But he'd never felt quite like this. This was a whole new level of nervousness. Poor Tristan felt so overwhelmed by the different senses he felt like he couldn't breath. W-would you excuse me for a moment....Brooklyn...I-I think I just need some...air....Yes some air.[/b] Slipping down off the stool he exited the bar and went around to the side of the building. Bending his knees and placing his hands on them, he was now in a leaned over position, heaving for air. What as wrong with him?![/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn smiled. ”Ah, yeah I can see how that’s confusing because he’s sort of a shut in no one really knows him.” Truthfully, Brooklyn had sort of forced herself on him. At first, Oliver really wasn’t welcoming of her coming around. After he admitted about his wife dying, she sort of fit the pieces together that he just wanted to be alone in his grief. That and maybe because she was a girl. Though Oliver was cute, it wasn’t like that for her. Accents may be hot but sometimes, all someone needed was a friend and nothing more. And Brooklyn was content just being a friend. Maybe she never thought of him romantically because of her “dry spell” or there was just nothing there. She knew some people didn’t think just guys and girls could be friends. With Brooklyn’s, career though, often times that’s how it had to be. Her head titled to the side while she sipped at her mudslide. She could tell there was confusion and nerves etched on Tristan’s face. When she asked Oliver about the man in some photos with him, that’s when he explained Tristan. He also explained that he just didn’t handle bubbly people like Brooklyn as well. So, usually, when Tristan was over Brooklyn avoided Oliver’s home out of respect. She’d have to check her phone to see if she had any messages about the fact he had flown in because for the life of her she couldn’t remember him mentioning it before. Hopefully she hadn’t forgotten that he had told her. That wouldn’t be a surprise with how busy she had been lately. Once her drink was nearly gone, Brooklyn set it aside. ”Yeah sorry, I should explain that.” She chuckled nervously. ”See, my grandmother and some others around town have sort of made themselves the unofficial welcoming committee. Except gram can’t get out much anymore so I go in her place. I welcomed Oliver when he came to town and when I saw how sad he looked when he first came, I sort of kept visiting him.” Hopefully that cleared up some of it. Most of Brooklyn’s friendships were confusing. Honestly, she had a tendency to thrust herself into people’s lives. Not with every personal thing but if she met someone interesting who needed help, she liked to be there for them. It was a small town-and Marine daughter’s-thing. Despite her having a hard time letting people be there for her, she’d never leave someone’s side who needed it. If Brooklyn would ever open her eyes, she’d probably notice that Tristan was cute. Most people wouldn’t think so but Brooklyn had never really cared about other people’s ideals for attractive. After all, she upset a lot of people who she put what most considered a plus sized model in her advertisements for her shop. Of course, the accent was always a bonus as most girls loved it. Then again, how Tristan avoided looking at her and seemed to stumble over his words sort of masked how attractive he was physically. And Brooklyn also never really cared too much about nerves. She was friends with Oliver in a sense so she felt like she needed to try to get to know Tristan a little. Especially if they had more run ins like this. When he excused himself, she felt like crap. ”Shit!“ Standing, she threw some cash on the bar top. She remembered how much she used to tick Oliver off by stopping by to check on him and bring him food either her or her grandmother had cooked. Of course, she knew her grandmother had the secret agenda of wanting Brooklyn to find a guy. The issue with the way her grandmother went about it was that her granddaughter just wasn’t really looking. She had stopped to focus on starting her business. Nothing else has really mattered. Moving through a group that had just come in, Brooklyn pushed through the doors. ”Holy shit!” she exclaimed as the cool air hit her skin. Her arms crossed over so her hands could rub the opposite upper arm. Ok, she was really regretting forgetting her jacket now. After she spotted Tristan she tried to compose herself before going over to him. ”Hey, Tristan?” She bent forward so she could look into his eyes which were facing downwards. ”I’m sorry. I tend overstep my bounds before I really explain myself.” Brooklyn shivered as she bounced form foot to foot, trying to keep herself somewhat warm. ”Come back inside, let me buy you a drink and I’ll explain everything. After that you can run from me like I’m Medusa all you want.” A wide grin broke out as she tried to show that she genuinely wanted to make things right. She felt bad that she had scared him off. Some people couldn’t handle her peppiness. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] He wasn't at all trying to sound or be rude. Tristan was just very protective of Oliver. He didn't like the fact that Oliver kept everyone out anymore than the next person, but he didn't allow people to say anything against him. Tristan was loyal and sensitive. Few people could really relate to what his brother was going through, so until they could, as far as Tristan was concerned, they didn't have the right to have an opinion on it.

I-I see.[/b] Tristan nodded, still looking a bit out of sorts. It's just that...He...Oliver never mentioned....you.[/b] Tristan and Oliver were close. They still told each other pretty much everything. That was why he was so very surprised to find out that anyone here knew who he was. For as frequently as Brooklyn said she stopped in to see Oliver, he could have at least said he had a friend of sorts. There was no need for Brooklyn to be a secret....Unless of course she was stopping in for something more than a casual chat. Tristan put that out of his mind right away. Oliver had never been one to sleep around. In fact, as was very rare, he'd been a virgin until his wedding night. Tristan planned to be too. Yes, that's right. This 24 year old had never "made love" to a woman. Why? Because again, he was saving himself for the one that he truly loved. Why did people call it "making love" when they didn't even love the person they were laying with (as was the cases with one night stands and friends with benefits and all that sort of thing). That was just having sex, not making love. To Tristan, making love was when you cared for a woman so very much that the only way to get close enough to her, was to make love to her. Call him old fashioned, but at least he had his standards and convictions, right?

It was...kind of you to.. y'know....look in on him and all...Gran and I worry about him....quite a lot.....Thanks It really was kind of her to keep an eye on Oliver. It wasn't an easy job to be around him most time these days. Oft times he could be just plain rude. Tristan had, had his falling outs with Oliver over his attitude towards others at times. Tristan understood that Oliver was going through a hard time (That was an understatement), but he didn't have to lash out at the people around him. Oliver had agreed and apologized after a while. But it still happened from time to time.

After Tristan had excused himself, to "get some air", all he could think about was Brooklyn. She was in his head. He could see her in his minds eye. How could anyone be so beautiful. This must have been how Oliver felt the day he met Lilian. They way Tristan was acting was ridiculous, he knew. But he just couldn't help it! This was how he'd always been and he felt like a fool for it. After a few seconds, he heard Brookyn's voice behind him, which startled him a little, making him stand up straight, rather quickly. He turned towards her and shook his head in the negative at her comment. No...it's not you..[/b] He assured the woman I'm just....not good with....people[/b] he sorta lied and than swallowed hard.

Tristan stood there, hands on his hips, still breathing a little heavily. She offered to buy him a drink. He really debated on whether or not to go home or to sit and try to get to know the girl, without making too much of a jackass of himself. Tristan decided that he couldn't mis this chance to speak with her. After all he already admitted to himself that he felt quite different about her than he had about any other girl he'd met. Perhaps she would be the one, or maybe it was just a fluke. But if he let his moment pass by and another one never came up with her, he had the feeling he would sorely regret it. Perhaps for the rest of his life. Yah....okay

Tristan found himself walking in stride with Brooklyn, back to the bar. He opened the door for her and returned to his stool. Taking another deep breath, he was determined not to stutter or say anything stupid. He ordered a beer this time. Too much Scotch in one night wasn't good for him, or anyone for that matter. S-so.....Oliver lets you call h-him Oli?[/b] Tristan put his head in his hand for a brief second, frustrated that he sounded like a stuttering idiot. How was he ever going to get a wife if he couldn't even hardly talk to a girl![/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn’s face flushed slightly in shame. She had issues with her being a bit too blunt at times. Many people told her that. She tried to keep a reign on it but sometimes it didn’t work. More often then not she stuck her foot in her mouth. ”Yeah, I know he told me. Well, yelled it at me.” She looked over Tristan’s shoulder for a moment as she tried to gather herself. With her not being allowed to say much when on base so she didn’t embarrass her father, now she sort of let loose. It was a problem that many people told her about. There were times she just let it pass over her but now, with her business, she had to try to get control of her loose tongue. Not everyone liked someone who was so opinionated. What also didn’t help is Brooklyn was an only child in a military family. She never had to worry about feelings. A knowing nod graced her head. ”Yeah, well it’s not like we hang out where people can see. And I avoid the place while your there so you’re not uncomfortable. I tend to be brash with him.” As she thought about the words coming out of her mouth, she realized how wrong they sounded. Despite her knowing their quirky friendship wasn’t that way, others didn’t. ”I sort of thrust myself into his bubble, he didn’t invite me in. that might be why he hasn’t mentioned me.” Yes, again with her bluntness and not thinking of others. Yes, she was sensitive to the fact that his wife had died. Brooklyn never forgot that. She may not have met the woman, but what person who passed away wanted their loved ones to be miserable? No matter how little time they got together, usually they wanted to be happy. Or that was her experience. Brooklyn was one who believed in God(if anyone could believe it) and knew God also wanted people to lean on one another in their times of grief. That whole “God doesn’t give you more then you can handle” was kind of bull. No, no one could really “handle” grief but if they had people who cared around, maybe it wouldn’t be so hard for them. Brooklyn started to slightly notice how nervous Tristan was. Oliver said his brother wasn’t good around crowds but she thought he was exaggerating. Siblings often teased each other, right? But the way his words came out and he seemed to not look in her directly in the eyes often made her feel guilty. Here she was just talking to him like she did anyone else and she was probably freaking out. She didn’t even want to know what he thought of her. Though she acted like she didn’t care, Brooklyn cared what most people thought about her. Which is why when we went out the door, she felt bad. She just wanted to be on decent terms with him because of Oliver. After all, she was just trying to help the elder Welcott, as she was sure his brother and grandmother had tried to do too. As she stood watching Tristan before she walked over, she felt bad. He didn’t chose this life. He didn’t chose to have a brother who was fairly depressed and pushed people away. Tristan didn’t ask to have to travel so often. If she knew Oliver, Oliver probably never asked Tristan to come. Hell, she was the one who bothered him. Oliver usually wanted her to leave but she’d put her foot down and refuse to. Just from what she saw, Tristan looked just as defeated as his brother but she knew it was for a different reason. Trying to get Oliver to open up was an uphill battle. That‘s why she figured she had to have a different approach this time around. Brooklyn kept a small distance between them and she tried to really think over what she said.”Yeah, your brother said something along those lines. It’s why I’ve never come over.” While they moved into the bar, she peeked out at him sideways. She could see the similarities between them but Tristan was a little more slender then Oliver. Without her wedges on she’d have to guess they were a lot closer in height then one might first suspect. He had a classy appearance, like his brother, but it fit him well. Maybe because he didn’t have this dark cloud surrounding him. Brooklyn wished Tristan would at least smile, though. Since they started talking, she couldn’t recall giving even one. As he proved that gentlemen still existed, she nodded before uttering, ”Thanks.” Maybe it was his British upbringing but she liked that he was still respectful enough to open a door. She never relief on a guy to do that nor relaly anything else for that matter. Still, when he did that, it made her feel good inside. As warmth spread across her skin, she felt happy. Before calling a cab, she’d have to get her jacket. Ordering the same thing as Tristan, she leaned one elbow on the bar. Her head rested in the palm of her hand as she shook her head. ”No not really. I sort of do that on my own? Whenever I go see him I call him Olly Olly Oxen Free. You know, for when you play hide and seek? I do it to try to get him to actually do something besides wallow around.” When her beer came she just played with the rim of the glass. ”I know he hates when I call him Oli and I know why but at least when I do that, he actually shows another emotion besides just despair. Even if it’s him being frustrated with me, I don’t care. He needs to feel something else.” Brooklyn shook the thought out of her head before she took a long sip of her beer. ”See, I sort of just barge into his. I bring him food and try to get him out of the house. Half the time, we sort of end up butting heads. At first he thought I wanted something else from him but that wasn’t it.” Brooklyn felt tears start to well up but she blinked them away. No one ever saw her cry and she was careful about that. ”My grandfather had died only a couple months before Oliver came to Hope Harbor. So I know grief. It may not have been a boyfriend or husband, but I’m really close to my grandparents. I just know how destructive letting yourself sit in those emotions can be. Though, I acted out, not sat around.” When her grandfather had passed, Brooklyn drank quite a bit and that’s when she did most of her sleeping around. Now she regretted it but those were the only activities that made her feel anything at all. She was glad that only her mom knew about that. Of course, another reason made her stop sleeping around. One that no one outside of her family knew about. ”I think he just puts up with it now. Though I don’t give him much of a choice.” Brooklyn laughed as her nail scratched at her jeans. ”And I’ve seen a picture of you. That’s how I know who you are. He said you were his brother and that it’s best if I don’t visit when you’re around. Another reason why I don’t think he cares. He usually texts me when you’re about to fly in and roughly how long you’re staying. There are times I come in when he’s in his skivvies and throw clothes at him. I don’t think he wants me to freak you out if you’re in that same state.” One shoulder went up in a shrug as her mouth pressed together flatly. ”So that’s pretty much the story in a nutshell. Is there anything else you want to know?” it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] he responded to Brooklyn's statement that Oliver yelled at her. Oliver did a great deal of yelling, always had. But these days he yelled for different reasons. Back before Lilian passed, Oliver would have yelled about the football (soccer) game or the rugby match. He would have yelled to Lilian that he loved her. He would have yelled funny things to make people laugh. But he never yelled when he was angry. These days, Oliver had a short fuse and so if things irritated him, his response was to yell at the thing or person who was the source of the irritation.

Tristan wasn't surprised when Brooklyn said she'd had to force her way into Oliver's life. Yah...he doesn't generally invite...people in.....Especially s-strangers. Tristan couldn't decide what he thought of this girl. Should he be angry at her for making Oliver mad, or should he approve of her method of forcing her way in? Tristan really wasn't sure what was best for Oliver. But he was pretty much of the mind set, that some people took longer to heal than others and Oliver just needed to heal at his own pace. When one broke their leg, they couldn't force it to heal faster. So why should one try to heal a broken heart faster. The results would be the same as the leg. Both would heal in their own time!

Look...of all the things that you could do to him....T-that's probably the most h-hurtful. Tristan was being gentle and not abrasive. He had learned that most times, if you took a gentler, kinder approach, you got through to people better. I know you say you know....But that's what his wife c-called him. Lil gave him that nickname....W-we never called him that until she came along.....So just...give him some breathing r-room...at least on that.[/b] It was very evident that Tristan as extremely protective of Oliver. Especially now. He didn't want anyone to do anything that was going to push Oliver further down into this hole he had created.

Tristan laughed cynically and shook his head a little as Brooklyn said she often barged in on poor Oliver while he was in a less than presentable state. You A-Americas...are so rude.[/b] He bit his lip squinting a bit and looked down. A-and...nosy. Tristan lifted his arm as he said this, a single finger pointed towards the roof. N-no wonder he t-thought you were coming o-on to him....The only people who barge into your house in Britain are proper ones...like the p-police or-or Kissograms....Not n-nosy neighbors who thik it's their place to...to heal you.[/b] Yes Tristan was a bit frustrated with the woman. Yes as irritating as he was finding her, he still couldn't get over how attractive she was. Furthermore, he thought it was kinda...hot....how she'd not cared what people, or Oliver for that matter thought and had this insistence that she was going to help him. Tristan's emotions were quite confused.

When Brooklyn started to tear up, Tristan felt bad for being a bit harsh. He generally wasn't like that. He was kind and compassionate. I-I'm sorry about your grandfather....Truly I am....Loss is...d-difficult....there's an understatement for you. Tristan and Oliver had experienced more loss in their young lives than some experienced all growing up. My g-grandfather passed away before I was born....B-but Oliver and I....w-we lost our parents as young boys...I was 6 and Oliver was 10.....I-It was a boating accident on the T-Thames.[/b] It was Tristan's turn to get a bit emotional now. People...a-asume, that because I-I was so young at the time, I-I probably don't remember them....But I-I do. I haven't forgotten a single solitary detail about them a-and who they were and how much they l-loved Oliver and I.....We were the center of their lives....T-they would have loved Lilian.[/b] He cleared his throat and took a deep breath and shook his head a little, so as to clear the unhappy thoughts from his mind and return to conversation with Brooklyn

Tristan huffed and smiled a little when Brooklyn again mentioned that Oliver made her stay away when he came to visit. Crossing his arms he looked at her out of the corner of his eye. If O-Oliver wants you to be there, than you can c-can come....whether I'm there or not...I-I think rather he's being ridiculous and using m-me as an excuse to g-get a break from you.[/b] He winked at her. Not flirtatiously, no. Just a wink to let her know he was teasing. Over the course of this conversation, Tristan's thoughts had become a bit clearer in his own head and he wasn't stuttering quite as much. Though he still wasn't sure quite what to make of Brooklyn, he was starting to feel a little more....at ease with her. That was indeed a rarity for the handsome young Brit.


Tristan thought about Brooklyn's question. Did he have anything else he wanted to know? Oddly, nothing came to mind. She'd answered everything quite clearly for his taste and nothing really stood out. But he felt obligated to ask something to keep the conversation flowing. If he said no, than they would just sister there awkwardly staring at their drinks and trying to make small talk, which would all come out wrong. So after a few brief moments of silence, Tristan thought up a question. So...just how long do you plan to keep on pestering Oliver anyway?[/b] He gave her a playful grin, but he did wonder how long her persistence would carry on before she grew bored of the whole scenario. [/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn nodded as she mulled over Tristan’s statement about him not letting strangers in. now, hearing it from his brother, she sort of felt bad. With her she never really thought of these things before acting. When Brooklyn saw someone she thought was special-even just as a friend-she sort of just acted upon it. That’s how she had always been. A heavy feeling formed in her stomach while Oliver’s brother talked to her. Especially about the whole Oli thing. Oliver never really explained ot her why he hated it. She sort of had her own conclusions about why he did. Perhaps, maybe she should have talked to him about it more. TO try to ease the weight in her stomach, she took a long swig of her beer. Screw being proper and sipping like some girls did. Brooklyn wasn’t that kind of girl. Once she was done, she grasped her glass as she turned her bar stool so she was facing forward. ”He never told me that. I figured it’s because it had connections to a child’s game.” Ok, Brooklyn was going to need a lot more to drink. Especially with how this conversation seemed to be going. More and more she felt like crap. That was something Brooklyn needed to feel, though. No one aside from her parents was ever honest with her. Nobody tried to tell her what she should and shouldn’t be doing or saying. It was about time someone did. Sure, people had said that she should be more sensitive or learn to filter but that was about it. They never really said much else to her. Despite feeling bad about everything Tristan was pointing out, she was glad he was telling her this. Maybe she could start to understand things more. Things like how to approach certain topics with people and how to handle their feelings. Where she locked her feelings so deep inside, she hardly ever felt anything. So empathy wasn’t the way to go for her. When he laughed at her, Brooklyn pursed her lips together to keep from laughing herself. Of course, she looked funny herself because the corners turned up just slightly and her eyes sparkled in mischief. ”Hey! To be fair he thought that before I started to barge in. That was more recent, when he stopped complaining after I showed up. If he doesn’t answer-and I haven’t heard from him in awhile-I use skills my father taught me to make sure he’s ok. That is all.” Now, unless Oliver was having a really bad day he’d usually open the door. Yes, there was grumbling on his end and complaints about one thing or another but she started to wonder if he just wanted someone in his place with him. People could be funny like that. There were moment Brooklyn got like that. After some things had happened with her family, she ad wanted to be alone in a sense. Having her grandmother’s presence was soothing. ”You’re brother can be great on the rare occasions we’ve had more calm discussions but he’s not my type.” Ok, Brooklyn didn’t have a type but no one knew or had to know that. ”Wait a Kissogram? Is that what is sounds like? Someone goes around a lays one on you?” Brooklyn glanced sideways and this time Ronald poured her another glass of beer. Here they knew well enough how her patterns and cues went concerning what she liked to drink. As it was placed back in front of her, she straightened her body and placed one hand in her lap. ”I’m not trying to heal him. Yes, I try to get him to feel something else but I just feel bad. I know you can’t come all the time as I don’t get that text often. No one in town gives him a second glance because he always seems to have a scowl on his face when out of his place. If I had a family member in that kind of state, I’d feel reassured knowing someone was even just making sure they were alright.” See? In her own twisted sense at times she could actually feel something. Brooklyn’s lips pressed together in a line. The ends turned up slightly but more out of nervousness. ”Thank you.” This was...odd. She had never lost her bearings around anyone. Even with her family she was able to keep her walls up. She brushed it off as it being because she finished off a mudslide, a beer and about a third of her second beer. Normally she could hold her alcohol but for some reason tonight that didn’t seem to be the case. At least listening to him talk she could get her own issues back at bay. There was plenty of time for her to cry and be angry later-maybe stop at the shooting range. Firing off the gun her father had given her always helped when things got a bit out of control. ”Oliver never told me that. At least not that in depth. He did tell me your parents had died but usually he gets that look like when he mentions his wife. So I leave it alone.” Brooklyn could be pushy but she knew some bounds. That is, if they were pointed out to her or fairly well evident. ”I know you think I’m nosy but I push him to tell me anything. I bring him some food, talk about stuff going on in town or at my shop, or I bring a movie. Not that he always pays attention but I just don’t like knowing he’s there alone all day.” Tentatively, she reached out for Tristan’s arm and gave his wrist a light squeeze. He wasn’t looking at her but she tried to catch his eye. Even if she wasn’t successful one side of her mouth softly turned up. ”I’m sorry about what happened. I can’t imagine losing a parent, let alone two.” As soon as she was done speaking she pulled her hand back and set it back in her lap. While she sipped at her beer, she chuckled, sending bits of beer up towards her face. She used a napkin to wipe the moisture away as she nodded. ”Oh if he’s using you as an excuse he’ll never hear the end of it. Trust me. I can be very loud when I want.” With an amused look still on her face, she nodded slowly. She was glad to have run into Tristan. Now she understood more about Oliver that he wouldn’t tell her. Perhaps she could go about things a little differently. ”Thank you for being honest with me. No one ever really is.” With her family they just tried to protect her. With her friends, well, they were all over the world since most were military brats like her. The ones she had here didn’t know her well enough so they approached things nicely. Not Tristan-he was brutal with her. Or, as brutal as a stranger could be. But she figured that’s because he loved his older brother. Honestly, Brooklyn had to think that one over. She wasn’t one who usually took no at face value. Except for alcohol, sex or her designs. That was about it. ”I think when her truthfully doesn’t want me around. He says he wants me to let him sit in silence but never tells me to leave him alone. For good I mean.” Her brows knitted together as she looked at him. ”Unless you think I should stop or if he says something when you go back to his place. If that‘s the case just grab my number from his phone. Or grab it if you ever want to chat.” Brooklyn was a bit careless with her number at times. So far she hadn’t had any troubles as she was a good judge of character. Tristan didn’t seem like someone who would bring harm to anyone-male or female. ”So, dear Tristan, what do you do for work that allows you to come see Oliver as often as you do?” Brooklyn figured if Oliver hadn’t worked since being here, he had some money saved up from working as a doctor. His brother on the other hand was a mystery to her. Was he a doctor like his older brother? Some families were like that where several people went for the same career. After Oliver had said the man in the photo was his brother she didn’t press further and she honestly wouldn’t be able to guess his career based on the facts Oliver had given her. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] When Lilian had started calling Oliver 'Oli' he hadn't been very fond of it. But his liking of it grew significantly more as he and Lilian had grown closer. He grew to like it so much, he preferred she call him nothing else. To everyone else he was Oliver. But to Lilian, he was her Oli. Really she was the only one Oliver had allowed to call him that. On occasion Gran had ventured to use the nick-name. She'd just barely gotten away with it. He's just p-private about that stuff....h-he'd probably be upset that I-I told you....So don't let on you know....Just let him tell you i-in his own time...if he w-wants to.[/b] Tristan wasn't being rude or demanding or trying to tell her what to do. His advice was all kindly met. Tristan knew better than anyone how to deal with his big brother.

Well I'm sure...if he h-hasn't thrown you out, he likes something about having you around. He smiled at her. Tristan of course didn't mean anything inappropriate by the statement. It was all meant to be taken at face value. Tristan wasn't one to beat about the bush, or say something that needed to be interpreted or read into. Tristan said want he meant, most of the time, and liked others to do the same. He hated to be forced to read between the lines. Tristan chuckled softly at Brooklyn and Oliver having a civil conversation. He does have his moments where he turns back to his old self...But yah, they're rare, as I am sure you have experienced....He really doesn't mean any harm to others by the way he acts....It's just...people can o-only take so much y'know?[/b] He looked down. Before they reach their breaking point I m-mean.[/b]

Tristan laughed out loud, head back slightly, at Brooklyn's reaction to the word 'kissogram'. Y-yeah....It's exactly what it sounds like. It's a girl or a guy that you can hire to go and kiss a certain person or persons. Usually they dress up as a cop, or a bunny, or any number of things r-really....Just depends on h-how much you are w-willing to pay.[/b] Tristan explained. It's just a-another one of those...British things.[/b] he shrugged. Tristan guessed that many of the British customs, terms, and even their comedy, was quite different and maybe even ridiculous to the Americans. But he didn't care. He was proud to be British and didn't care what American's thought of him or his countrymen.

I don't like him being there alone all the t-time either...So thanks....really.[/b] Tristan placed a hand, (which quivered slightly from nerves), atop her own and gave it a gentle squeeze. I am sure O-Oliver is...better off for your attentions to him.[/b] Tristan believed that whole heartedly. This girl obviously had a sweet heart. One that was sensitive to those around him, much like his own. It was obvious she wasn't trying to mistreat Oliver or take advantage of him. Her heart was to help, he could see that plain as day. T-thanks[/b] he replied to her apologies about their parents.

N-no indeed...he will not....N-not for using me as an excuse...and n-not for not telling me a-about you...his little "caretaker'[/b] Tristan laughed and took another sip of his beer. He smiled at her when she thanked him for telling her the truth. No one had ever done that before, thanked him for "putting them in their place", not that, that had been his intention. This really made Tristan respect her as a person though and further indicated to him that she was a woman of character. Well I a-always say....H-honest isn't the best policy...i-it's the only policy.[/b] He raised his beer to her. Y-your're welcome Brooklyn.[/b]

Tristan couldn't help but smile when she inquired about his work. He was so very fond of his work. Singing and acting in the West End and he'd been one of the fortunate few who had accomplished his dream of being a lead there. Though he felt that the West End was better than Broadway, and so did many others who knew anything about musical stage productions, he hoped one day to do something on Broadway. I s-sing...and act...In the West End...i-if you can believe it.[/b] Tristan wasn't sure if Brooklyn knew what the West End was. He didn't want to insult her by explaining if she already knew. Tristan didn't want her to think he viewed her asan uneducated, uncultured, small town bumpkin. So he left it to her to ask if she didn't know what it was.

A-and what is it that you do...for a living? Tristan asked the question because he was genuinely interested, not because he felt like he had to, just because she had asked him. Tristan wan't that kind of person. He said what he meant and asked only about what he truly wanted to know. Nothing more, nothing less. [/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn nodded. She knew Oliver didn’t tell her everything and had come to accept that. She wasn’t exactly forthcoming with everything in her life after all. Not that Oliver nor anyone realized that. She made it seem like things were pretty nice in her life aside from her grandfather passing away. Then again, she never told anyone anything different. He right hand crossed over her body to rub at the upper part of her left arm nervously. ”Yeah don’t worry about it. I’ll think of some other nickname for him. Like Raggedy Man. I mean seriously you two have the same crazy hair. It’s amusing.” She looked at the top of his head and shook her own. She knew siblings often looked alike but the same unruly hair that went every which way. Sometimes Brooklyn just wanted to run her hand through it to see if it could be tamed. A soft smile formed on her lips. It’s nice to know that there was a chance Oliver didn’t dislike Brooklyn as much as she perceived he did. Her face screwed up as she shook her head. ”Nah it doesn’t bother me. I grew up on military bases so bad attitudes were the norm for me.” Hence her own attitude problem she had going on from time to time. She learned from the best how to carry her own since her father was a CO and could tear down any soldier. She herself had seen that side of him a couple times. That was a side no one wanted to see and she avoided it at all costs when a child. Still, children often break rules whether they meant to or not. Just as she got older, she got better at hiding when she misbehaved. Especially once she had the ability to drive. Her eyes widened slightly as her face took on an amused look. ”Interesting. When on bases out that way I never heard of it. Then again the last time I was in Europe I was ten or eleven.” Their stay at Camp Panzer Kaserne was brief-only a few months-before they moved on their way to the base in Iwakuni. Japan had been her favorite though those months in Germany were memorable. While her father worked, her and her mother visited plenty of the European countries. The UK, France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Sweden and Ireland. All the major ones really. Her years growing up on the bases filled a large chest which nor resided in her room. Maybe one day she’d show Oliver as another tactic to distract him. He’d probably get a kick out of the silly things she did to her photo albums to help preserve the memories. Brooklyn made a mental note to pull some of those items out to bring by one day. When Tristan touched her hand she sat a little straighter. Despite him shaking it felt...different...then when another guy had touched her no matter if it was a friendly or romantic gesture. She brushed it off as another effect of the alcohol. It made everyone’s thoughts a little fuzzy. Since her hand was down turned she didn’t squeeze back. ”Thanks. I hope so. But, like you said, you know him better so you’d be the better judge of that.” To her he didn’t seem any different then when they met. He didn’t complain as much when she came by but that was about it. And she didn’t know him before he came to Maine so she really couldn’t interject any other opinions on the matter. The confusion on if he was better off, and Tristan’s hand touching hers, was wiped away when he called Brooklyn a caretaker. ”Oh, God, when you say it that way you make me sound so old. Then again any other nickname would probably make me sound like a slut or something along those lines. Oh the issues with this country.” Brooklyn was used to be called names. After all, who didn’t in this country now a days? Still, she didn’t want this newcomer to think any less of her. It was like that with anyone since coming back to Maine. She had made mistakes in her past but she wanted to change for the better. ”Yeah I do too but I guess my honesty goes a different way. Not the way most people like.” She never eased into things like Tristan at least tried to. Or maybe it was his nerves to where it seemed like he was easing into it. Ah, the West End. Brooklyn hadn’t been in awhile. She went obviously with her mother a few times and then again with some friends in college. That’s when she saw the play she loved by Agatha Christie. ”That’s just what it is. A madman’s joke. That’s just what makes it so deliciously macabre.” There was a slight glimmer her in eye as she thought over the memories she had gathered over the years. ”Is there any particular theatre you usually perform at? Or plays you love to do.” In a sense, they both had creative minds. With hers she used it to design gowns that made women feel beautiful on certain days of their lives. Homecoming, prom, military ball, wedding... ”I own a dress shop in town, Once Upon A Dream. I also do designs, mostly on a client to client basis.” Brooklyn finished off her beer and set the glass aside, finished for the time being. She figured she needed to keep a slightly clear head despite her original intent on getting a little wasted. Nervously she shifted and put on a smile. Normally she could get conversation flowing just fine. With Tristan it was different she didn’t want to come off to strong and overwhelm him like she felt she did before. ”So, um do you tend to stay in with Oliver when in town or have you gotten to explore it some?” Not ever before had Brooklyn stumbled over her words like she did now. This was all a new, and confusing experience. If she wasn’t trying to be careful on how much she drank for at least a little while, some shits would be in order to help her calm her mind that was racing a mile a minute. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color] Tristan agreed And somehow....I don't think Oliver would mind it so very much either.[/b] In fact, Tristan was quite sure, though he would probably try to hide it, that his brother would quite like the new title. O-ohh yes...T-the hair.[/b] Tristan ran his long, thin fingers through his thick mop, though it was not nearly as thick and moppy as Olivers. Yah....I-it's always kinda been....this way.[/b] Smiling he shrugged.

Well it's not really surprising that you haven't heard of them.[/b] Tristan replied, in reference of course to the Kissogram They are a V-VERY British...thing....A-and even then, only in certain circles really....I mean only certain circles h-hire them....generally.[/b] Tristan was tripping over his words like usual and probably had just sounded very arrogant and condescending, saying that only "certain" circles hired Kissograms. When in fact he had been trying to imply that he wasn't a party animal. And generally it was the partier type that hired them, for ruckus parties usually.

Tristan shrugged lightly. I don't think it makes you sound...old p-per say....Just...caring I guess.[/b] he gave a small laugh. Tristan was quite intrigued by the fact that Brooklyn "took care" of Oliver without wanting anything in return. Sexually or otherwise. It impressed him that she truly was there just to be his brother's friend and support when he needed it. At least that was how it appeared to be. Tristan figured either it was true or Brooklyn was a very, very good actress. He found it hard to believe that one could fake sincerity....in this session at least. Tristan was, after all, an actor by trade and often had to "fake" sincerity on stage. His own ability to act, helped him in spotting others who did what he did. Only not on stage, but in real life. No. He was quite convinced that this Brooklyn was not acting.

Tristan shook his head in the negative when Brooklyn inquired about whether or not he had a favorite theater. Not really...W-when the lights go down, I don't get to see it anyway....I just enjoy the shows. A good s-script is something that sets my heart on fire....A good score and lyrics and amazing fellow performers....I live for it.[/b] He gave a somewhat embarrased grin and looked down at the floor cocking his head slightly. Oh I don't mean t-to go on so...Oliver tells me I ramble w-when I start discussing my work....But to answer your question, it's the story not the venue t-that draws me in, whether I'm watching the play, or in it.[/b] He explained.

Tristan smiled knowingly when Brooklyn said she designed formal wear. I knew i-it![/b] He said pointing at her, though not in an accusitory manner. I had you pegged as a creative mind. T-That's really cool...I-I love art in a-all it's different forms...Yes I consider clothing...well g-good clothing, an art.[/b] Tristan loved to see people do things with their lives that was a bit out of the ordinary. It wasn't everyday that one met a formal wear designer who owned her own Bridal shop. Especially in a little town such as this. She was yet more intruiging to him now.

Tristan nodded to her question Yah...I usually do. I can only come between shows....So if t-the show runs for 6 - 8 weeks....than I c-can come here and stay f-for the same before I start r-rehearsas for the next one....And rehearsasls go anywhere from 2-4 months...Fortunately, I-I usually don't have to audition anymore.....I just get the script sent to me and r-review and give the director my answer....l-like in the movie business.....And if I know there's a particular show that is c-casting that I want to b-be a part of...my agent arranges it for me.[/b] Tristan shook his head. I'm s-sorry...I don't mean to get on work again....My point i-is....I don't get to see him very much sometimes....So when I come, I like to spend all my time with him. Or at least at his house.....But tonight, I just had to get out....I duno. I was just stir crazy for some reason. Doesn't usually happen to me....I'm usually ready for the down time.[/b] He shrugged.

S-so....we talked....Oliver a-and life and work...what else can we t-tackle?[/b] For other's this might have been the "Jumping off place" in the conversation, since there didn't seem much else "surfacy" to talk about. But Tristan found that he just couldn't end the conversation here. He had to go on. He had to talk to Brooklyn longer.[/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn nodded, a pleased look on her face. ”He better because I will use it all the time to annoy him.” She looked over his head of hair, finding it very amusing. The way the two of them looked similar was really uncanny. Well, mainly the hair. Oliver’s features were harder then Tristan’s which, to her, sort of fit his personality at the time. They weren’t super chiseled but Oliver’s appearance just fit him. Maybe as he healed more he’d be able to mot look as rigid. And his brother was so opposite. His gentler features fit his nervous demeanor. A very cute demeanor. Ok, the alcohol really was setting in. Either way, the Wescott brothers were polar opposites. ”It’s cute. It fits you.” Brooklyn cleared her throat to recover. ”What I mean is it fits each of you in your unique ways.” Yes, a great cover up for her alcohol slip up. ’Well maybe someone should send me a Kiss-O-Gram,’ she thought. No she wasn’t particularly slutty or anything though one might have once classified her that way. Just after two years of no guy showing any serious interest besides a casual hook up. Even if she wasn’t actively looking for someone to be with, it was nice knowing that maybe someone somewhere was interested in her. ”Ah, yes it isn’t surprising.” Her hand went up to brush some hair behind her ear. In response to him saying it didn’t make her sound old “per say” she let out a half shocked half laughing sound. ”Per say? Wow? Really? That makes me feel so much better.” Caring. When was the last time someone had called her that outside of her family? It caused her to give him another glance, one of confusion and intrigue. He was very kind, not a trait she was used to. Yes, she knew sweet guys but they were long gone from her life. Most of the ones she still knew were jerks, unavailable, gay or just didn’t make her think they could be something more. Brooklyn rolled her eyes and leaned forward, clasping her hands together. ”No I know but before you perform, maybe even before your career started to pick up, was there any specific theatre that just took your breath away? Like Wydnham’s Theatre is just magical to me. I don’t know, when I went there it was like everything else I knew could be forgotten. Until that curtain comes up and I’m transported to yet another place.” Yes, Brooklyn loved books and plays and movies much for the same reason she loved to design gowns: she could escape this place for somewhere else. Each gown told a story about that bride and that couple, their journey there. Or, she liked to imagine it that way. As she listened to Tristan to shook her head. ”No you’re not rambling. It’s...refreshing to have conversation flowing with a Wescott,” she teased. ”But yes, I get what you mean. Now I dare you to find which theatre catches your eye for more then their performance.” A silly little thing but just something fun to throw into the conversation. ”I do have to admit I’m surprised. Oliver said you tend not to be big on crowds such as this. I didn’t think you’d stick around to talk to me for so long.” Brooklyn wasn’t trying to be rude just she was confused. Was Oliver lying? He had no reason to unless he wanted to keep Tristan and Brooklyn distant for some reason. That didn’t make sense either since it’s not like she was a gold digger or someone just out to sleep with everyone in sight. She’d have respect for the fact she was a friend’s brother after all. That was a delicate place to cross in any situation. Brooklyn pulled back a little as he pointed at her, her arms remaining on the table while she sat upright. Her eyes narrowed. ”How did you “peg” me as a creative mind? Most people wouldn’t guess it.” Usually because she had no admirations to go global or even national. Nope, she was content staying local. her body began to relax as he retreated back to talking about his own job. He really was passionate about it and she liked that. That’s why she had always preferred doing “creative” things because of the passion that one who did those various things had. For him to get shows so easily he must be really well respected. Brooklyn’s hand did a single wave as she sighed contently. ”No, I like hearing you talk about it. I’ll have to find time to go out to England and see you perform. I mean if you’re that good you can brag about not auditioning I guess it might be worth it. Plus, maybe I can drug Oliver and force him home to visit.” Another one of Brooklyn’s amused smirks played on her lips, one she often held when she was joking about something. ”Stir crazy, huh?” Brooklyn nodded slowly, her lips pursed in thought. She glanced at Claire before she turned back to Tristan, holding one finger up. ”Hold on one second.” She hopped off her stool and went to the opposite end of the bar to talk to her friend. After she handed over her credit card, Claire gave Brooklyn her keys and the brunette ran outside. After she was done, she came in, a coat finally on her before she gave Claire her keys and retrieving her card. ”Come on, lets go for a walk. I’m guessing if you usually spend it in his house you haven’t seen the town much. I’ll show you my favorite spot.” Brooklyn wasn’t even sure what was coming over her. Maybe because it was Oliver’s brother? Or she just liked making friends that much? Either way she was up for the adventure. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[TRISTAN FREDERIC WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] Tristan agreed Oliver's really fit him before....L-Lil passed away.[/b] He sighed softly. I w-wish you could have known him then.[/b]


Tristan nodded and smiled as she spoke about the Wyndham theater It is very beautiful..I-I've performed there.[/b] He smiled I suppose come to think of it, I've always thought the Noel Coward theater rather attractive...B-But it's still more the performance that the place for me I'm afraid.[/b] Tristan wasn't sure why he'd never been partial to any particular theater. He supposed it was that he was more one to think that any theater could be beautiful, if the living art taking place for the entertainment of the audience, was beautiful.

Tristan had to laugh when Brooklyn said that the flow of the conversation was a welcome change. I can r-relate he replied. Don't forget, Tristan was Oliver's brother. He knew what it was like conversing with the man. And it wasn't easy, that was for sure. I-I will work on t-that.[/b] Tristan promised, in reference of course, to finding a theater that he looked for more than just the show being held within. Brooklyn wished him to try and so he would and hopefully, he would succeed as well.

Tristan shrugged at what Brooklyn said Oliver had told her about him and crowds. I-in social settings, yes....I-I have a bit of an....i-infirmity.[/b] He didn't know what else to call it without coming out and saying he was a stuttering fool. But when I'm on s-stage....I dunno. It just all fades away and I feel so much m-more....alive....and like n-nothing else in the world matters or e-exists for those few brief moments....If I have problems....i-it's only the problems that the character h-has.....When I-I'm on stage.....I'm not T-Tristan Welcott....I'm Raoul or M-Marius....Or R-Romeo....A-and talking to you....I-is a bit like being on stage...I-I's more comfortable....Accept on stage I don't s-stutter.[/b] Tristan looked at her and laughed a little. That probably sounds quite silly.....B-but I don't know how else to express it.[/b] Tristan had really just put himself out there, something that he struggled with at times. But with Brooklyn, he didn't mind telling her those things. Even if they did seem silly.

Tristan smiled and eyed her whens he asked how he'd pegged her. Your hands[/b] he said with an amused smirk, as he knew his answer would puzzle her. They're slightly worn....n-not haggardly or anything.....J-just....[/b] Tristan was trying to come up with a way to describe it that she could understand. This was often times a problem for him. I can see where the t-thread rub across your f-fingers and lays across your hand, and where you've poked yourself with a needle...you don't use a thimble do you?[/b] Tristan was a very observant person. It's quite obvious you don't get that just from darning your socks....So I knew you m-must have been one to c-create things.[/b]

Tristan had been about to defend himself about her "bragging" comment, when he saw the playful look on her face. Laughing he narrowed his eyes. Ahh....I am o-on to you.[/b] he told her. Tristan was relieved that she was only teasing. He hadn't met to brag. If had been bragging truly, he would be quite ashamed of himself.

Tristan gave Brooklyn a confused look as she told him to wait and left the bar. He watched her through the glass windows, going to her car, leaning over and fetching an item from the seat, than returning. Meanwhile he paid his tab and when Brooklyn suggested they go for a walk, he grinned and nodded. I'd love to[/b] and slipping down off the bar stool, he followed the young woman outside.

[/ul]

[BROOKLYN MARIE SAWYER]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=style, width: 400px; background-color: #464646; padding:20px; border-top: 10px #7D0000 solid; border-bottom: 10px #7D0000 solid;] there‘s a fire starting in my heart ( TAGGED ) OPEN ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn nodded knowingly. Oliver had only just started to open up to her a bit more about his late wife. She was glad he was but was careful not to push his buttons too much. She tilted her head. ”He was actually goofy once? I thought that a myth, like unicorns.” She had seen some humor from him but nothing stage worthy. She figured all those genetics went to Tristan. Even if he couldn’t make up jokes on the spot, he was an actor. He had to be a bit better at making people laugh then Oliver was. ”OK, if it’s the performance then tell me-what’s your favorite play you’ve done?” Brooklyn did not have any acting genes in her but she loved watching people perform. It was fascinating how people could change character so easily. She observed the little things about Tristan carefully. No, not just appearances, but the differences between him and his brother. Yes, it was weird to do but it fascinated her. While she could talk to Oliver well enough this was different. She was having gun talking to Tristan. She found herself actually thinking up random questions that one may not think of. While she was always one who liked to get to know people, she still was in no rush to go home. She knew she should be but really she wasn’t. This sort of scared Brooklyn. She had been doing good since she ended her rebellious streak. Really, it wasn’t a rebellious streak she was just grieving. Just the way she grieved death was not the best way, she now knew that and was very careful before diving into any relationship of any sorts. Next time she did anything like that with someone, she wanted it to be for the right reasons and not because she felt numb. Brooklyn sort of felt bad when he explained about his stutter. Here she was, throwing herself at him practically demanding a conversation and she was obviously making him uncomfortable. She really had to start thinking about these things before she started to talk to someone. ”Well there’s no reason to be nervous around me. I don’t judge. I’m one of the people who feels like we shouldn’t judge one another. Mainly because I’ve been judged myself.” Being a military brat in a different country, you were always the odd one out. Especially if you were someplace where English wasn’t a prominent language. You had to learn not only the customs but also a whole new language. Often times one looked like a fool. It’s hwy she lost herself in her designing because it was better then dealing with petty kids. ”But is that why you got into acting? So you don’t have to be yourself for a bit of time?” That’d be heartbreaking because, despite meeting him a couple hours ago, she liked what she knew about Tristan so far. He was sweet, humorous, a great brother and quirky but in a good way. Yes, Brooklyn really liked that. Brooklyn brought her hands up and turned them over to observe them. Honestly over the years she had grown to ignore all the marks made from her sewing. Looking she noticed she even had a couple calluses from all her years with a needle. ”You have a really good eye.” She rubbed her palms together in circles as she nodded her head. ”No I usually don’t use a thimble though working with white fabric now I have to be extra careful.” She dropped her hands to her lap and couldn’t help but glance at them occasionally. He picked up on that from her hands. That was really surprising. She wondered if he was like this all of the time. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned forward. ”Oh you may think you’re on to my schemes but you really aren’t.” Brooklyn was one who was always full of surprises. Like when she popped out of her chair and grabbed her coat. as they left the bar, she looked over her shoulder and grinned. ”It’s not that far I promise.” She led him about thirty feet down the road then turned right around the corner. It was difficult in her wedges but she managed to move along. The bar wasn’t far from the park which is where they were headed though not where one might expect. To the left were some bushes then trees that led down to the water. People usually didn’t go in there but Brooklyn loved it. Squinting she found the small path and led the tow of them down it. Once about fifty or sixty feet she took another right and moved through a barely there path. ”Careful. This path isn’t as good.” This time it was only fifteen feet before they reached their destination. It was a tiny clearing, maybe ten feet all around. Through a couple trees you could see the ocean and the lighthouse beyond that. But when you looked straight up all you could see were stars. This is why Brooklyn loved to come here. ”Most people don’t come off the trails because they think there’s too many trees. Which is alright with me. I found this when I was a little girl and it’s one place I loved to hide. Especially on the Fourth of July. I can see the fireworks without worrying about crowds. It’s amazing.” She dropped her body down so she was sitting on the Earthy floor. She placed her hands behind her then eased onto her elbows so she could look upwards at the clear sky. ”I love looking at the stars. No matter where I am in the world I can look at the stars and know it’s ok because at some point in time, I’ll see those same stars here when I visit my grandmother.” Sort of childish and corny but it was something that was very comforting to her. Especially when young and traveling so much. it‘s edited to fit the current setting

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele