Leave me to die - Brooklyn

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn was on her way back from a meeting. Today her shop was closed while a new heating system was put in. The one the building came with was awful and she wanted it updated before it got too cold. The next day it would be closed as well which worked out while she finalized having more tuxes available. They’d also start selling suits for weddings that weren’t as formal or dances in the case of the teenagers. The shopping outlets had decent ones but not as stylish as the ones she’d carry. And it would bring in even more clients for her. That made Brooklyn very happy. Though she wasn’t all about the money, it was nice to have business that thrived. Especially in a small town such as this. Here business could either succeed beyond belief or die within a year. So far, it seemed like she’d get past that year mark. And she hadn’t been open even six months yet! That made her feel even better. On her way back from the meeting she stopped at the bank the transfer money around to make payments. By the end of the her stomach was growling so she decided on some fries and chicken fingers for lunch. She called ahead to one of the local restaurants before she stopped in to grab her food. That way it would be ready and she could make her way over to the park to enjoy it. Honestly, she couldn’t remember the last time she had sat outdoors and just enjoyed the afternoon. Usually something or someone interrupted her so she would end up back at the shop or the bank. Not today, though. There was nothing stopping her from spending her time outside. Even when she got home her and her grandmother could sit outside and chat until it got cooler out. Though, as she looked up, Brooklyn had to admit the sky didn’t look too kind. This time of year who knew if it would rain or snow. Maine had seen snow in September before. Even April! Now that was crazy, she had been very young then so she only vaguely remembered it. Snow days sort of blended together. After she parked about a block form the park, Brooklyn adjusted her vest and rolled her sleeves down. There had been a soft breeze earlier and even if there wasn’t one now, having no coat made things difficult. Good things she chose a long sleeve for the day. If only she had picked out warmer boots instead of her pretty floral ones. Her grandmother had teased her about them as she left the house but she brushed it off. Not everyone got high fashion these days. Thankfully Kylie did and they could shop together. Or she could pay Kylie to design her something as well. Brooklyn could if she tried but she was strictly formalwear, nothing casual or even semi-casual. She hated keeping up with general fashion trends. They changed with the drop of a hat it seemed. As she walked along the paths, Brooklyn munched on her fries. Her bottle of soda was tucked into her back along her many other items. That thing was a bottomless pit of things she thought she needed but probably never would. She paused a moment to find a place to sit. And then, she spotted the perfect spot to sit. Whether he wanted her company or not didn’t matter. Despite the newspaper covering most of his face, she could recognize that hair and the tops of those glasses anywhere. She approached him cautiously, like he was a skittish animal. Which, truthfully, Oliver was like one. He seemed easily upset by her bothering him. Then again, she did it very often; even when he didn’t want her around. Brooklyn just hated knowing he was still stuck in this funk. She hadn’t known his wife but she knew grief. And this seemed to be going on forever. Brooklyn knew it had been since she had known him about a year and a half prior. Her grandmother didn’t even grieve Brooklyn’s grandfather in such a way for as long. And they had been together for almost fifty years. Once by the bench, she didn’t bother asking if she could join him. Brooklyn plopped on the bunch and pulled out her carton of fries followed by her chicken. ”I see you have ventured out of your natural habitat. I bring food so you don’t have to scavenge for it out in the wild.” She pushed the containers towards him as she pulled out her bottle of Dr. Pepper and took a swig. Now she was settled in and Oliver wouldn’t be bale to get rid of her so easily. sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[/color][/b]

Looking at the food out of the corner of his eye, he spoke again I don't....scavenge.[/b] Sniffing the food a little bit, he put his finger on one of the chicken fingers, than liked the tip. Shaking his head, he pushed the container away from him, than picked up a fry. Biting into it, his face turned sour, much like that of a child who was being forced to eat his vegetables. Opening his mouth, he let the processed fry fall out onto the ground in front of him. Those aren't proper chips.[/b] Oliver shuddered. Doesn't anyone serve decent fish fingers...or custard around here?[/b] He grumbled more to himself than Brooklyn.

Rolling his head over he looked at Brooklyn, his big mossy eyes, bore into her unblinkingly. The very moment I am most enjoying my solitude, you always pop in...Why is that? Do you have some sonic detecter that says 'Oliver really can't stand companionship right now...let us drop in on him? Shaking his head, Oliver ran his fingers through his thick dark brown hair. Letting his chin rest on his chest, arms still crossed, he looked as if he was pouting. In fact, he probably was! Have you no one else to creep up on and bother?[/b][/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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Truthfully, Brooklyn didn’t mean to be so rude. That’s just how she came off when showing concerning for those she cared about. That had always been her nature. Well, her nature since she had left the base. When with her parents she had to keep a lid on pretty much everything she thought and felt. Now she liked being able to speak her mind. Well, for the most part. She had to be careful about what she said concerning the military and her father’s time in it. Especially since he was going up for a promotion. that’s another reason why all this family drama was difficult. What was happening could affect his career if he chose the wrong way to go. And Brooklyn couldn’t talk to anyone outside of her family about it because it was a hush hush subject in general. That was a bit bull in her mind but that was a whole other thing. Brooklyn bite into a fry and tilted her head sideways. ”Yes, who else would it be? Or did you actually make friends and haven’t told me yet!” That was very much a long shot and Brooklyn knew it. Still, she was hopeful. Yes, she could be harsh on him sometimes but that’s how Brooklyn was. Maybe it was her natural state. Or maybe it was how she was raised. Or perhaps it was because of everything else going on in her life she had to deal with. Either way, she was blunt, sometimes rude and spoke her mind even when one didn’t want her to. The problem was Brooklyn herself didn’t always realize it so couldn’t completely filter herself like people suggested she should. With raised brows and eyes the size of the moon, she watched Oliver’s every move. When he put aside the chicken finger and spit out the fry she groaned. Why must he be so stubborn? ”Oliver Welcott! That is perfectly good food!” Ugh! The man could really get on her nerves. But she remembered why she kept going around him. One, he seemed like he needed a friend and two, she figured he may have been a good person once before. Sometimes she saw bits of that. Right now he may be hurt and angry at the world but she was hopeful that could change. ”Maybe you should open a restaurant then. You won’t work as a doctor that all those degrees I saw lying around are for. So maybe you can cook this so called “proper” and “decent food you talk about.” Brooklyn knew what he meant though. Her father had been stationed in Europe once. She wasn’t uncultured like most people in this town but he didn’t need to know that right yet. She leaned back against the bench and tore off a piece of chicken, chewing it quickly. Typical Oliver-always wanting to be alone. ”It’s a public park and a public bench. I am exercising my rights as an American to roam and sit where I wish.” She peered sideways out of her eyes. He always seemed so sad. She had tried to be delicate with him(the best way she knew how) and tried being just bubbly. Now she combined that with being probably a bit too forceful. ”And no, I don’t. we’re both lonely souls. Plus, my store is closed. So you get to enjoy my company all afternoon.” She purposely dragged out the word ‘all’ as she half smirked. After she finished off her piece of chicken she took a napkin to wipe at her mouth. ”Anything good in the paper today? I haven’t been able to read the paper in awhile because of work.” sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] Oliver always spoke so deliberately. Even when speaking hurriedly, he still took, what to other people would be awkward pauses. To him, it was all quite normal and sensical. Even before Lilian had passed away, Oli was, in all likelihood, quite different from any other person you'd ever met. But no...if you must know...I haven't any other friends...around....here. He moved his head once again, to look outward, rather than at Brooklyn. Oliver didn't like looking at people for too long, never had...unless it was Lilian. He could have stared at her all day every day and never tired of it.

That is not good food...It's disgusting.[/b] Oliver insisted. In his opinion, 99% of American's wouldn't have recognized truly good food if it came up and stuck it's finger up their nose. They were uncultured heathens, many of them. That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard you say Brooklyn....open a restaurant?! It would fail....And you know why? Because no one here knows good food, unless they're a transplant...like me....How could a culture that's entertained by one...Honey Boo Boo, and Hussy or Sneezy or Snooki or whatever the her name is[/b] Oliver spat their names with indigent
disgust And who thinks...McDonalds...[/b] he wrinkled his nose to show is displeasure And ...hot...dogs are delicious, decent items to consume, could possibly appreciate the fine food I would offer at my establishment....therefore....Brooklyn...you can see that my time and effort would be quite wasted. [/b] Oliver finished his rant with a huff and looked in the complete opposite direction of Brooklyn.

You Americans and your miss-application of individual...freedoms.[/b] He rolled his eyes. Very well...you have the freedom to sit here and I have the freedom to ignore you while you do.[/b] Lifting his paper quickly, the edges crinkling in his hands, he began to pretend to read once again. After a moment, he realized he had neglected to put his reading glasses, which had once belonged to Lilian, back on. Practically ripping them off his shirt, he opened the frames and shoved them on his face. Brooklyn had once again succeeded to fluster the poor man.

Oliver failed at his decided effort to ignore her when she spoke about them being two lonely souls. Well...I enjoy my...loneliness...thank you very much.[/b] After a few brief, treasured moments of silence, Brooklyn's voice sounded in his ear once again. Sighing he gritted his teeth and let out a little growl. Taking a page of the newspaper he thrust it into her hand. Here...see for yourself...And if you find something that interests you...keep it to...yourself...I've read the whole dull thing already.[/b] He hoped that the paper would buy him a few more minutes of silence.

Though it may have appeared so to a bystander, Oliver did not hate Brooklyn. In fact, he found that he liked her quite a bit...in a friendly sort of way. But somehow, he just couldn't bring himself to have a normal, fun, friendship with someone. It just wasn't hte same without his best friend, Lilian and he just didn't enjoy things like friendships and such anymore. [/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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn nodded as she sighed. She knew Oliver didn’t tell her everything because that took wanting to be able to communicate. That was something he didn’t do these days if he did it ever. ”I know. I wish you would, though.” She looked at him sideways as she said this. As she sipped at her soda, Brooklyn softly shook her head. She felt bad for him. There was no one here for him. From what she understood, his brother sometimes came to visit and his grandmother really couldn’t. he was truly alone. ”Well, if you hung around the hardware shop you could meet some people. They love debates. Even about our American food.” Her lips pursed together as she listened to him. With deliberate movements, she chewed her food slowly to try to keep from biting his head off. The fry that was in her hand, she tossed onto the box and grunted. ”You know not everyone is that way Oliver. I wouldn’t know of half those people if it weren’t for my clients or employees. And you seem to forget I have traveled the world. I‘ve tried authentic foods from all over the place. I actually cook it with my grandmother when home.” She shook her head before she ground her teeth together. Despite trying to help him, sometimes he could be just as stubborn as her. Two combustible elements shouldn’t be around one another yet, somehow, their friendship worked because of it. At some point in the future it would possibly explode and that would be interesting. And possibly dangerous for anyone around the two of them. ”You could cook for me. It’d be a nice change up from me barging in with tons of food.” Mostly she knew it was a lost cause but no reason not to try, right? Maybe she could eventually poke the bear into doing something besides sulking around. Once she ate her fill, she put the food back in the brown bag and rolled the top. Her grandmother loved Madelyn’s food from the café so she’d appreciate what she had left. Especially the fries. They were just as good reheated in the oven as when you first got them. It was hand cut and didn’t have all the preservative crap other places put in their food. It’s what set her apart in this town but apparently Oliver couldn’t tell that. ”You really, really need to learn to take a joke as it is and not seriously. Like this,” she said before changing her ton. Brooklyn put on a smile and took on a sugary sweet tone. ”Oliver, I think you are the sexiest man alive and I think we should have sex.” Obviously she didn’t think he was. Sure, he had his qualities. His quirkiness was cute but he just wasn’t for her. She didn’t have a type but when a guy did something that showed he was different, even just a little, he caused her to take notice. There was nothing specific any one could do, it was something only she could pick up. Even if Oliver did something like that, after seeing how much they butted heads nothing would change how she saw them. Just friends. After she wiped off her hands and put the used piece on top of the brown bag to throw away later, she fiddled with her purse. She wanted to make sure her phone was on in case the contractor called. As she slipped it back in her bag she shook her head. ”Say that all you want but you never try very hard to kick me out whenever I come by. So try again.” When she straightened her back, she felt the paper make contact with the skin on her hand. ”Seriously Oliver! I swear if you’re not nice I will start calling you by your favorite name.” She knew he hated it when she called him Olly Olly Oxen Free but usually it got him to either hush up or yell back, depending on the situation she was in. and, hopefully, he wouldn’t cause too big of a scene out here if she had to use her “secret weapon” as she called it. Brooklyn folded the paper and set it beside her. ”So what are your big plans? Are you actually going to have a night on the town and,” she made an exaggerated gasp, ”maybe talk to people. Make some new friends. Not all of us Americans are as bad as we seem. Plus, I can be your wing woman. Tell you which of the townspeople are idiots looking for a dumb, drunk brawl, which just want to get in your pants and which are awesome. Like me.” sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] Brooklyn's statement I wish you would though had made Oliver curious and a bit nervous. Why would Brookly want him to tell her everything. What right had she to know everything that went on in his life? None. None at all. The only other person that had said anything remotely like that to him was Lilian and that was when they were just getting to know each other. It was a statement similar to that of Brooklyn's that had given him the courage to ask Lilian out.

Brooklyn....now honestly. Why would I ..."hang out"...[/b] dramatically he made quotations with his fingers, while rolling his eyes. At a hardware store? I don't know the first thing about hardware...I'm a doctor....or...was...Anyways, I don't fix things...I hire people to do it for me....Always have. Inevitably, someone would inquire after this or that that required some....bolt....or screw or something that I've never heard of...and than I get stuck there looking like a fool, all because you thought I should go there.[/b] Crossing his arms, he shook his head. No...there's nothing for me there.[/b]

Oliver was a bit surprise by Brooklyn's agitated response to his little rant. Though it didn't seem like it to her apparently, there really had been an element of humor in it. Somehow it was lost on her and he was left with a grumpy Brooklyn, which he didn't like. Ohhhh....Brooklyn![/b] Oliver sighed and hung his head for a moment before looking at her. YOu should know by now that all such blanket statements excuse you and your grandmother....Now stop being grumpy...[/b] he paused for a moment before continuing on. That's my job.[/b] Oliver made it sound as though him being "grumpy" was a choice he'd made. But he hadn't meant to do that and really he didn't choose to be "grumpy" per say, it was just the phase he was currently going through. Perhaps the phase would end, perhaps it would linger on forever. Only time would tell.

Oliver wasn't sure what he thought of the prospect of cooking for Brooklyn. Not because he didn't enjoy cooking, he did very much actually, though not as much as he once had. And it wasn't that he was afraid she would't like the food. It just, first she wished he'd tell her everything and now she wanted him to cook for her sometime?! It all seemed rather fishy to him the young once doctor. Well ah...[/b] he hesitated. Yes...sometime...perhaps....We shall have to...see....about that...the cooking for...you...that is. [/b]
Oliver rolled his eyes when Brooklyn said he needed to learn to take a joke. And you....dear Brooklyn....Must understand that I also...joke Of course he'd been joking about her and miss-applying her freedoms. Oliver guessed that he must have had such a dead pan way of saying things sometimes that people didn't understand he was joking. That and, it was very rare that he did so, so they probably never knew quite how to take him. I can...tease...Brooklyn. he winked and actually gave her a playfully grin. But it disappeared just as quickly as it had come and Oli was back to his old glum self.

When Brooklyn began to tease in her silly, un-Brooklyn-like tone, about Oliver being sexy, he leaned back away from her, brows furrowing. Oh...Brooklyn really....At times you are so inappropriate.....Get back and behave.[/b] He insisted, holding his large hand out, spindly fingers waving at her as if she were a fly. Of course he knew she was joking and he was too. Hopefully Brooklyn understood that this time. After a moment, he resumed his upright position on the bench and folded his hands in his lap.

Brooklyn was right. He never had really tried to throw Brooklyn out in earnest. Because really, part of him liked having her around. Oh no, not because she was a woman. Her being a woman a the worst part of her being around. A guy would have done just as well, though some might have thought he was queer. No it was just that, though he didn't like to admit it, he did need companionship now and again. From time to time yes, Oliver felt that he needed a friend. And most times, when he had begun to feel that way, Brooklyn would pop up. It was like she had a radar or something. Other times, she popped up at the absolute worst time she possibly could.

Oliver held up his hands defensively as Brooklyn threatened him about being nice. Oh come now....I am....nice. I am a very nice...sort of person...often times.[/b] he stated slowly. You just...fail to see it...Yes that's it Brooklyn....You are blind.[/b] Squinting he got close to her face, looking into her eyes as if he would find something wrong with in. Uh-huh...Just as I expected...It's that one.[/b] Oliver pointed to her left eye, indicating that it was the defective eye that didn't allow her to see his kindness.

Oliver grimaced at her question about plans. I don't...make plans Brooklyn.[/b] he said quite seriously. Oliver sat quietly, hearing her out about getting out and doing things. He knew she was right and that time he would indeed have to do that. But he was simply not ready yet. Truly he wasn't. Brooklyn....I-I....appreciate it...I really do...you coming and encouraging me and all...But I'm just....not ready....not yet...truly.[/b] Oliver looked at her with those giant, mossy green, sad puppy eyes, biting his lip.
Putting his arm on the back of the bench, behind Brooklyn, he allowed his large, thin, hand rest on her shoulder and give it an affectionate squeeze, than a light pat before he retracted it. You're...good to me Brooklyn....you're a....a lovely....friend.[/b] He gave her a quick smile, than returned to his paper.

[/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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn shrugged. ”I don’t know. Because I care about my friends, including you?” Even if it wasn’t a two way friendship that didn’t matter so much to her. She was used to that from being on one base after another. Eventually you just expect to help with nothing in return. Plus, their friendship was volatile. They butted heads so often that when it eventually peaked and exploded they’d either be really close or hate one another. They were always going at it with their words. Another reason they’d never work out as more then friends(not like she was looking to) but she knew her grandmother’s intentions. The woman wanted great-grandchildren but they just wouldn’t come from Brooklyn anytime soon. Especially with Oliver. That sent a shiver down her spine. He wasn’t bad looking just...not for her. ”You don’t have to know about hardware to hang around here. I don’t know shit about it either but I go sit with them. It’s just what you do in a small town.” She bite on her lip to try not to laugh. ”Well, you sort of do fix things. Bones or organs or whatever. That’s what doctors do right?” A shiver went through Brooklyn’s spine. Doctors were not a great memory for her with traveling to Germany whenever her father got hurt. That and when her grandfather died. That day at the hospital was the worst day of her life emotionally. She knew hospitals weren’t always supposed to be filled with happy memories but being in the military, hospitals could make or break a soldiers career. Sometimes it made her father push him past his boundaries in order to get better faster and back out there. That she’d keep from Oliver for awhile as that was a sensitive debate for anyone. Brooklyn’s face went blank before her brows drew into together and her lips turned down in thought. ”I’m grumpy? I’m grumpy? Seriously?” Apparently he hadn’t looked in the mirror in awhile. Oh there were so many things she could say but she tried to keep it in. She clamped her mouth shut, her lips disappearing in towards her mouth as her teeth clamped down hard. After a few breaths in and out, she figured she was calm enough to keep talking to him. At his place, the two of them could butt heads all they want. If he could get past his grumpiness and nerves that is. A brow went up as he stumbled after saying he wasn’t sure about the cooking. Brooklyn shook her head. ”Oliver, I’m just saying we should hang out, you cook and I eat it. Sort of like we do now except I’m not the one bringing food and we can try not to argue. It’s not a date or anything.” Honestly, what had gotten into Oliver that moment? He would usually do a flat out no when complain-never stumble over his words like he was nervous. If Brooklyn wanted to date someone she told them flat out, no dancing around and waiting to see if they asked her out. Similar to how she made friends. She shifted around so her legs crossed over one another and the foot that was higher up wiggled around. While they continued to chat, she looked around the park for a moment to see who was around. It really had been awhile since she had come this way. ”Yeah well I guess we both have to figure when the other one is joking.” When her attention was back on Oliver fully she noticed his smile-one of his truer ones. It was a rare sight but she liked when he did it; made her think there was hope for him still. Perhaps one day he’d snap out of this funk. Or he’d start to draw out of it quicker. She had no idea. Her own “phase” post her grandfather’s death was opposite of his. She drank and slept around. After about seven months of that, she woke up next to someone she didn’t know for the umpteenth time and realized this wasn’t how he taught her to live. Her grandparents always taught her to respect herself and find someone she could love for life. So she cleaned up her act, packed her life she had with her parents and moved up here to Maine for a fresh start. So far it had proven to be a good change for Brooklyn. ”Yeah, just another fault of us American’s I guess.” A sarcastic curve of the right side of her mouth first. ”Either way, don’t worry about me behaving. If I did want to do that with you I would have taken the opportunity by now. I’m not exactly a sidelines kind of girl.” Nope, friendship was it here. If not, she would be a little gentler with him and his emotions. When he pulled near her face she moved back and put her hands up. ”Oh seriously, Oliver! You have nice moments but not often.” Her own hand waved around as he moved backwards and she let out a less then lady like grunt. ”What is it with people in my life saying I’m blind to certain things?:” First her grandmother and now Oliver. This was annoying. Probably more annoying then Oliver being a recluse. She shouldn’t take it to heart because that’s “who he was” but she wanted to try to get him to open up more. Maybe there was someone else out there made for him. Or maybe he could make a friend in a similar situation. Who knew unless he went out? Still, he was adamant about not doing so. So when he said he wasn’t ready she wasn’t too surprised but felt a little defeated. With a nod, she sighed. ”Alright I’ll stop mentioning it. For now.” A soft grin formed as she looked ahead of her. To have that kind of sadness in your heart must be torture. Brooklyn hoped to never have that type of hurt but one could never know. She truly felt bad for Oliver When he squeezed her shoulder, she was actually surprised. Enough to where her mouth hung open slightly. Not wanting to ruin the moment she nodded but left her hands in her lap. ”It’s no problem.” Being here, in a new town, she felt like no one should have to be alone. Even if they said they were a recluse, sometimes, some people, just wanted someone to see past that. Her body moved forward so her hands could grip the edge of the bench. For a few minutes, almost ten perhaps?, she let Oliver read in peace. When she wanted to attempt some other conversation she looked over her shoulder at him. ”Have you talked to your grandmother lately?” sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[/b][/color] Oliver replied in a soft, solemn tone. He did know and deep down he truly appreciated the fact that she cared about him. He just hoped it wouldn't turn into her caring for him because the two of them...well they could never work. Not just because Oliver didn't want to be with anyone, but because they were too much a like, in the sense that they were both about as stubborn as they came. They would end up killing each other.

Oliver shrugged when Brooklyn said that Doctors fix things. Yah...at least they're...supposed to.[/b] His eyes glazed over as he was thinking of how he'd been unable to "fix" Lilian. Oliver wished to God he had been able to fix her. Shaking his head he came back to the conversation with Brooklyn. Fixing people makes more sense then....fixing...things when they get all....wibbly wobbly.[/b] Slowly he shook his head No...putting together drain pipes...[/b] He made motions as if he was trying to put two pieces of pipe together And fixing water heaters and all that rot...just not....what I do.[/b] Pulling a toothpick from his pocket he stuck it in his mouth and began to chew on it.

Yes! Grumpy...I said Grumpy and I meant Grumpy....And that is what you're being....Grumpy[/b] She was being so in Oliver's view. But truth be told, he didn't mind it so much. It was just that Brooklyn was normally cheerful. He'd gotten used to her being that and when Oliver got used to something he didn't like for it to change. For the most part he was and always had been a creature of habit. Though that deviated from time to time. It all depended on the subject.

Oliver looked at her with that slightly nervous look he got sometimes. A date?! Of course it's not a date...Who said anything about it being a....date[/b] Oliver ran his tongue across the top of his opened mouth, again like someone would do if they didn't like what they had tasted. Oliver actually chuckled softly when she said she wasn't a sidelines girl. Well of course not, I don't think anyone could ever accuse you of that....You're a...go getter. Oliver nodded Yes....Brooklyn the....go getter.[/b]

Oliver chose to ignore what Brooklyn had to say about him and only having nice moments. She was right. There was a time when he had been a genuinely nice person and deep down inside of him, that person still existed. He was just on a little, shall we say, vacation? Oh he'd pop in now and again, say hello, and leave as quickly as he came.

Brooklyn's next comment was just too good to pass up. Well if other's are telling you as well...than it must be true, eh?![/b] he nudged her gently. Or is this one of those things where the whole world could be telling, yet...you still...wouldn't....believe them?![/b] He gave her along sideways glance before turning his eyes upwards to observe the fellow human beings strolling the park.

Oliver was happy when Brooklyn told him she wouldn't pester about going out, at least for a while. Thank you...Brooklyn.[/b]

Oliver nodded and smiled about talking to his Gran. "Yah...last night actually.[/b] He told her. She's well...Wants me to come back to England....at least for a visit. I don't think I can go back there yet though....It's just too......Well, too much right...now[/b] Oliver didn't expect people to understand. They put up with him and he was grateful for that. But understand was something that they probably just couldn't do. [/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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn felt bad. She didn’t know every detail of his wife’s passing but knew she had been ill and no one could cure her. She had stepped over a line and that was a line she didn’t realize until after. That happened to her very often yet she still didn’t learn any better. She pursed her lips as she tried to get past the tension she felt in her own body. There was some awkwardness coming from Oliver too but that was fairly normal when anything that reminded him of his wife happened. Thankfully, they could move past it so there wasn’t much else to worry about. For now at least. Who knew when Brooklyn would seriously slip up again. Usually sooner rather then later. ”Hang around old Victor long enough and he’ll tlel you everything you need to know. And I mean everything. I’ve had my ear chatted off but let it slip right through me. Like you do when I talk to you.” One of her sunniest-yet fakest-smiles went on as she laughed. ”Well, at least you have connections if you need something fixed. I know just who to call that you’ll get the best work for the best deal from.” Her face returned back to it’s even guise as she readjusted herself. Once settled she humphed before she glanced at him. If he was someone like Dominic he’d get a good slug in the arm but that wasn’t the kind of guy Oliver was. ”Ok if I’m Grumpy what does that make you? Emo?” She wasn’t sure what American slang terms Oliver knew but it fit how he acted sometimes. Then there were the moments she saw the guy she sort of imagined him to be with the goofiness. Brooklyn rolled her eyes as she shook her head in frustration. ”Again, it was a joke.” Her brows furrowed together as she tiled her head. ”Wait, you’re nervous…whoa whoa whoa hold it.” Brooklyn’s eyes closed tight as she shook her head while pivoting her body. ”Oliver, do you think I’m bugging you to cook because I’m interested in you?” Just saying that left a weird taste in her mouth. They were not compatible at all. Nothing about him exactly made her think he was a guy she wanted to date. Then again, she wasn’t looking for anyone, but if Brooklyn sat and thought about it, Oliver wasn’t close to someone she wanted to be with. No, they were too similar. In this case, Brooklyn did need someone the complete opposite of her to compliment her, just like that saying goes. ”Pft. Brooklyn flicked her wrist sarcastically as a slightly smug look formed. ”It can’t be true. Just none of you like when I tell you what I’m thinking.” Gently she nudged his shoulder before she heard her phone go off. With a befuddled look on her face, she reached down the grab it. There was a text on there from her grandmother’s tenant. Apparently he found something wrong with his closet and wanted to try to have it fixed. Brooklyn replied to him about coming by alter that evening as she was currently busy. Truthfully, she just didn’t want to deal with him at that moment. His lease was up in two months and then they could be rid of him. her and her grandmother had no interest in renewing his lease which was within their rights so they would look for someone else. Her fingers pushed some hair back as she listened to Oliver. She could see his grandmother’s side of things. And then she saw his viewpoints as well. ”Is there a particular reason she wants you back or is it just because she misses you?” sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele

[OLIVER SEBASTIAN WELCOTT]

[/color][/b] he drew out the "O' at the end. What is this Emo? Of course I'm not....Emooo[/b] Yes it as true that Oliver didn't quite know what Emo was. He'd never heard of it, therefore he determined that he must not be. Because if he truly was, someone would have "diagnosed" him as such previously. American's an their silly terminology! he thought to himself.

Of course I don't think you're interested in me....Brooklyn....please.[/b] Oliver rolled his eyes. Why would...you...be interested in..meee?[/b] Was his query. I'm not interested in you....and you're not interest in me....And we're not interested in each other and neither of us wants to be....interested in each other I mean....right?[/b] Oliver nodded. We're just....friends, which is perfectly fine and acceptable to all involved parties I believe.[/b] Oliver was by no means interested in Brooklyn and he was glad to know that she had no romantic interest in him. The last thing he wanted was someone falling for her. Oliver didn't think he'd ever want that.

Ohhh I wouldn't say...that. Oliver said as Brooklyn teased about him not liking what she was thiking. There are a great many things you think, that I don't mind hearing Brooklyn.....I just can't think of what they are right now[/b] He teased her and nudged her back, a coy smile playing on his lips. If there was one thing that Oliver enjoyed these days, it was the occasionaly desire to tease Brooklyn and be teased by her. Their relationship was more of a brother/sister type thing than anything else. Though he hid it pretty well most of the time, Oliver did care a great deal for Brooklyn, again, just not romantically. You know it's rude to look at your phone and reply to....texts.....while one is talking to you....Gives one the impression that you're not listening to them.[/b] He reproached as he leaned over to try and look at the text. Of course he had no interest in what they said, he only wanted to annoy Brooklyn.

Oliver shrugged at the question about his Gran. No I don't think so....just seems to be that she misses me[/b] He leaned forward, place his elbows on his knees and his chin in his hands. His legs bounced lightly as if nervous energy were pent up inside of them. I miss her too....But like I said....I just can't go back there....Not yet.....It would be miserable....for everyone, I think.[/b] He sighed. She said she might try and come this summer, if she eels up to traveling....She's in good health....she's just getting on in years now and it exhuasts her.[/b] Oliver ran his hands through his hair and held them clasped at the back of his head. I must seem so...selfish to everyone....I don't mean to be...I...[/b] He stopped, unable to keep speaking. Lookin the oposite direction of Brooklyn, he bit his lip and sniffled, trying to stay the tears.

I don't know who I am anymore...Brooklyn.[/b] He sounded rather distraught as he spoke, but still didn't face her. I know Lilian wouldn't want me to be this way....But I don't know how to pulll myself out of this....[/b] a stray tear spilled down his face as his eyes welled up. He couldn't hold them back any longer. Oliver hated to cry in front of people, which was why he couldn't look at Brooklyn. He stood up, resting his hands on his cheeks and put his head down. Reaching up with one hand, he wiped the tears away with the back of it, than returned it to his hip. I'm stuck....I don't know how to go on without her.....I don't know if it's right to go on without her....But everyone keeps pushing me to.[/b] He shook his head and said no more, just stood there. [/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 ) OLIVER ( OUTFIT ) CLICK! ( STATUS ) COMPLETE Brooklyn often forgot the slang between the two countries was vast. ”Emo is someone is over emotional. Sometimes they wear way too much black and mope around.” If they were teenagers, he’d fit that terminology to a T. but they were adults, she knew the back story, and knew he was just hurting. Bad. Which is why she was doing everything she can to cheer him up. A half sigh half, half grunt left her lips as she rolled her eyes. ”Yes, Oliver, we’re just friends. Just you seem more nervous when I say we should do certain things. I just wanted things to be clear.” Her shoulders shrugged up as she looked straight ahead of her. Brooklyn brushed some hair back as she tried not to just explode. ”Even if I’m not interested in you I know someone else could be. If you let them in. I’d say I’d help you find someone but I know the answer to that already.” Today is a lost cause in getting him to do anything besides being his usually mopey self. Hey, at least he had ventured outside. She knew he had done it before but when she found him out of his apartment, it was still nice. There were times she had seen him at a pretty low point, purely on accident. Her heart broke seeing him that way. She may not have known him before he became such a sad man, but she still wished she could take this pain of his away. Brooklyn wished she had met him before his wife had died, just so she could see what kind of man he was before. And have met her. The very, very rare times he spoke of her for more then a fleeting moment the amount of love he had for her-even still-was amazing. It was pure, the type of love that came into your life only one in your lifetime. Brooklyn hadn’t ever felt that way before. Brooklyn poked at Oliver’s arm as she puckered her lips in amusement. ”Hey I am very amusing. You are just used to that awful, dry British conversation so don’t know a fun conversation when you hear one.” She liked this side of him and tried her best not to aggravate him when he got like this. She enjoyed it because it felt like maybe there was hope that’d he’d snap out of this fairly soon. ”Huh? What’d you say?“ Brooklyn frowned, feignin annoyance. ”Yes I realize that. If you’ve got a clever way to get our tenant off my ass then have at it. Though be careful, you may see more of me then you want if you push the wrong button.” A sugary sweet smile went on her face as she extended her hand out, the phone sitting on her palm. ”Well that’d be nice! If she came here. Hey, I’m sure my grandmother would think of a million things for all of us to do. Well, the three of you. Or four of you if that brother I never get to meet comes as well.“ When the conversation turned from his grandmother to Lilian, she shifted her eye from side to side. It was like seeing a unicorn. Oliver never talked like this to her. Yes, he talked about how sad he was and liked being in this sad place but that was it. He hardly ever talked anymore in depth then that. Then again, she was usually trying to make him laugh in ways that might also annoy him. Brooklyn was very patient and eerily quiet(for her that is). She wasn’t sure if she should reach out a soothing hand or hug him so instead she kept her hands clasped in her lap while she did her best to keep from interjecting too soon. When he seemed like he was done what he had to say, Brooklyn sat and counted to twenty-five before she spoke. In this instance she wanted to choose her words very carefully or else he might get really mad and storm off. This was a defining moment in their friendship honestly. Gingerly she stood but kept a bit of distance between them, only setting her hand on his shoulder. ”Oliver you’re not selfish. You’re still grieving is all.” She may say she was frustrated with how he moped around but who was she to judge? When her grandfather died she went on a sex spree. She had a couple “friends“ on speed dial when she felt like forgetting everything and one usually responded. Yeah, that’s how she dealt with her grief. Her hand squeezed at his shoulder reassuringly as she tilted her head to try and get a look at him. Oliver really wasn’t doing so well right now. Brooklyn wasn’t even sure what triggered it. A pang of guilt went through her as he talked about people pushing him to go on without her. ”Oliver, all of us close to you know you can’t pull out of it on your own. Losing the love of your life…I can’t imagine it.” She paused for a few second before continuing. ”I’m sorry I push. I know I do it because I care as I’m sure everyone else in your life does. But, no one’s asking you to forget about her. You can live your life with her in it per say. Keep a memento that reminds you of her around or a photo. I carry a seashell I’ve had since I was like eleven that I found with my grandfather around with me everywhere. And my grandmother wears his wedding ring on a chain. Sometimes, when she thinks I’m not around, I see her holding it and talking as if she’s talking to him. He was the love of her life.” Brooklyn dipped her head and shifted her weight around. ”I may be a pit pushy and speak my mind too often but I wouldn’t make you do anything you didn’t want. Still, like you said, you know she wouldn’t want you to be this way. So maybe baby steps. When you’re ready. We could have lunch here in the park. Then maybe outside one of the restaurants but out of the way of other people. Take a walk around the shopping outlets, update you to some stylish American clothes.” Ok, she couldn’t help but try to ease his tensions. ”Or I will come by with popcorn, awful British comedy dvds and I will try not to catch your kitchen on fire as I cook.” Brooklyn really, really hated to see her friends upset. She’d rattle off anything she thought might help ease their mind just to help them feel even a little bit better. Maybe it was the military kid life still in her or maybe it was just how Brooklyn was but it was a hit or miss when she tried to be helpful. Hopefully in this case it was a hit because Oliver really needed support from what Brooklyn could tell. sorry if this is rushed

table by CALIFORNIA DREAMING of CAUTION 2.0, lyrics by adele