• The Stars Stay Up •

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

Temptation was threatening his heart so much right now. It was damn near impossible to control the desire to bend down and capture her lips with his, taste her kiss. If he could, he’d be kissing her with so much affection he’d probably break. The closer they were in the embrace they shared only encouraged his heart to skip rapid beats and force up emotions that Romeo hadn’t experienced in the longest of times. He wanted to show Zoe just how much she meant to him and words could not convey such a feeling. It was that age old quote proven in the tender moments they’d been sharing all evening: actions speak louder than words, but what do you do when the actions are not appropriate for the scenario?

Hearing that he made her happy made Romeo’s heart swell. It was a start, right? Surely that would count for something in Zoe’s mind. If he could make her happy then that opened the doors for something deeper than friendship in the long run; maybe a relationship wouldn’t be far off for them. There was still a lot to consider though, and he struggled to contain the flurry of excitement that threatened to bubble up inside of him. He was starting to feel like a nervous school boy talking to his first crush. “Really? Then I guess that’s one thing I can cross off me to-do list!”

[/color] He joked before moving his emerald gaze down to let Zoe see the sincerity in his eyes when he spoke again, “but seriously love, it means the world to us that you think that.”[/color] Romeo brushed the locks of blonde from her eyes and smiled down at her, getting caught up in the moment and forgetting about everything else that had brought them to this point in time.

He felt awful for not being honest with Zoe about his past. The truth was, that if Ellie hadn’t been born, his life would be completely different and there was a strong chance that he wouldn’t even have a college education at all. His sister had given him a purpose in life since her birth and that had kept him on the right path in order to protect her and give her someone to turn to when the fights in their family home broke out. It hadn’t been easy and Romeo didn’t want to sound arrogant, but he believed that, given the unusual circumstances, he had done a pretty good job in saving his sister from some of the things his own infant eyes had seen and had continued to make sure that none of their past affected her future negatively. The whole history was still a sore subject and one that both Jervis siblings avoided as much as humanly possible. Sure, people questioned why Romeo had guardianship over Ellie and then it was difficult to find a lie that fitted nicely with their situation. However, they didn’t speak about their family if they could and whilst Romeo trusted Zoe to keep it quiet, he simply couldn’t betray Ellie like that. One day he’d tell her everything, regardless of how hard it was, but for now, there was still a journey for them both to go on before he could let her in completely. “Ta, love. Anf you already know you can talk to us whenever you need to. Doesn’t ma’er what time of day or night. I’ll be ‘ere for you.”[/color]

Romeo rolled his twinkling eyes playfully. Her lectures about his habit were so adorable, he found it impossible not to smile at them. “Yeah, well, I was keepin’ me eye on you. If I’d been on the fire escape when you’d woken up, y’ wouldn’t know where y’ were and I didn’t want that to ‘appen.”[/color] He kept his hands on her arms as he smiled down at her. “I know you don’t like it and I know it’s a bad ‘abit, but I never do it so that someone else gets sick. I’m always on the fire escape normally. I’d die of guilt if my smoking’ ‘urt someone else.”[/color] The nasty habit wasn’t going anywhere, but ever since his first cigarette he had always smoked away from others to prevent second-hand smoke clogging up their lungs in the way that health advisors are always trying to explain.
He feigned a hurt expression and then pouted, putting on his best ‘puppy dog’ expression. “You wound me, Miss Tylers.”[/color]

A boyish smirk crossed his slightly less swollen lip and he glanced down at his ‘gory’ hand. “But it’s me battle scar. I thought the judy’s went crazy for this sort of thing.”[/color] He knew it wasn’t the truth, but every time tonight’s events came up, he felt the need to lighten them with a childish joke and a slight playful tone. If he could replace the horrors of tonight with something better, then he would do just that. If it were at all possible, he would erase the events of tonight from her mind completely and leave his country mouse with only the thoughts of their tender embraces and affectionate moments.

He laughed, shaking his head. He never expected the quiet girl to omit a sound loud enough to cause tinnitus in his ears, but then she was full of surprises. He hadn’t expected her to land a solid punch on that jerk earlier either, but she had done.
His eyes widened and looking down at the young blonde girl, he shook his head. “Nu-uh! She was the one doin’ all the name callin’ tonight. I’m tellin’ ya, some of the things she came out with were too crude for such innocent ears like yours. She would’ve corrupted you with slanderous tongues.”[/color] His act of purity and innocent wouldn’t last for long, but it was fun to try and blame the banter on his sister who was capable of doing exactly what he had just told Zoe…if she wanted to earn a week locked in the apartment and no allowance.

Her shy smile almost stopped his heart completely. Zoe looked up at him with such chaste look that it almost turned him into a gooey mess on the floor. He knew what he should be doing, but his emotions and desires were winning over logic, who became nothing but an almost silent whisper in the back of his mind. “Yeah…we should be goin‘,”[/color] his voice was slightly huskier than normal and his eyes were lost in hers as he realised just how close they still were. His hand travelled up her arm softly, his fingers barely touching her skin as they came to rest near her jaw line, thumb caressing her soft cheek. Alarm bells should have been ringing in his head as he slowly found himself lowering his face to hers, intent on succumbing to the only desire he’d had all night; to kiss her. “Zoe…”[/color] He was mere inches from her lips when the loud ring of The Young shattered the silence. Romeo blinked and moved away from Zoe as he fumbled for his phone, heart pounding in his chest as he mentally slapped himself for what had almost happened. He answered the call with a shaky voice, clearing his throat in order to reassure Ellie that they were out of the door and moving back to the car. His hand ran through his hair as he tried to calm his emotions and regain control of everything.
Finally, he hung up and turned back to Zoe with a nervous smile. He hoped he hadn’t freaked her out too much and that she’d still accompany him to the apartment. Honestly, he didn’t know what had come over him just then, but part of him was screaming profanities at his sister’s terrible timing. “Well, shall we?”[/color] He offered her his hand, wiggling his good fingers as he opened the door and stepped half out into the hall.
[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size][/justify]

• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 1379
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! “Ta” is thanks. (I may have mentioned that before!) <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Zoe didn't know what was going on. Everything was so... confusing. He'd basically admitted to being head over heels in love with a girl earlier this evening, and now he was flirting with her. Or, was it really flirting? Zoe had no idea what it was. She'd never flirted, or tried to win anyone over before. She'd never really wanted to until now. Romeo made her want more then their innocent embrace, and their playful conversation. Yes, that's what it was. Playful conversation. Not flirting. Though, Zoe's heart sure as heck wished she'd let herself call it that.

She couldn't help a soft giggle at Romeo's words, but she noted the hint of shock that seemed to creep over his handsome features. And was that... excitement? Her heart fluttered at the thought. Maybe it was a good thing she was opening up more. Now, she just had to find out how much was too much. Zoe met his eyes easily, smiling herself and watching the beautiful swirls of color that made up Romeo's eyes. Had she mentioned lately that he was handsome as all getup? "I don't just think it. I know it," she countered playfully, smiling more up at him as he brushed the remaining hair from her face. Zoe liked how he kept playing with it, or moving it out of her eyes and tucking it behind her ears. Each time, a line of sparks would soar through her body, and she loved each and every one of them. And she craved more. When their eyes met again, however, all Zoe could think about was how handsome he was, how the happiness seemed to be reflecting back at her in his eyes. It was perfection in her innocent eyes.

Zoe wondered if she'd ever get to find out about the history behind the Jervis siblings. She only knew extremely vauge details, and she'd never dared to press Ellie for it. If one of them was going to tell her, it would be Romeo. She didn't want Ellie getting herself into trouble by saying something she wasn't allowed, and Zoe didn't really want to hear it from her. She wanted Romeo to be comfortable enough with her, and trust her enough, to tell her about whatever it was that had cause him and Ellie to come to New York. He knew her story already. Or at least, 99% of it. She wasn't one to keep secrets about herself, unless they were something she'd rather not let people know. Like the fact that she'd only been to the city a few select times before moving to New York, or that she'd only ever wore "designer" clothes while living here. Things that made her more abnormal than she already seemed were what she tended to keep hidden. But, then again, Romeo even knew about most of those. "Ya already proved that true tonight. It should be me thankin' you, nawt the other way 'round," she smiled softly up at him. Zoe really did appreciate what he was doing for her tonight. He'd saved her in the alley way, put up with her little stunt here, and was now taking her out to ice cream. He'd definitely done more than enough to take care of her, and Zoe hoped that, one day, she'd be able to return the favor. Even if he wouldn't let her make promises about doing so now.

"I was pretty zonked out. Maybe it was the smell of yer smoke that woke me up," she smirked up at him jokingly. Zoe tried to push the memories away that had caused her to be 'pretty zonked out' and keep things light. She didn't want to have a relapse again and go through the entire beginning of their evening now. That would be saved for when she was alseep and dreams were vulnerable to the cruelties her own mind would so willingly invent. Shaking her head slightly, she focused on his words, shaking her head at him again but with the smile still remaining on her lips. It was like him to say that. Her hatred for hurting people was shared by him, and she knew it. It was one more thing she had to fall in love with. Zoe patted his cheek softly when he pouted, smirking herself at his puppy dog expression. Gosh, he was so adorable. "Well, y'know, smoking tends to annoy me. So she's got you beat there, anyways," she joked, trying not to laugh as she grinned at him again.

Zoe couldn't help pouting up at him now as he said Ellie was less innocent than her, and that she shouldn't be allowed to understand what they were saying. Actually, she found the way they talked to be interestingly confusing. True, she could still only pick out certain words or very small, common phrases, but she was learning. And she hated it when she couldn't make Romeo explain to her what he'd said. "I think I have a right to know, seein' as ya were talkin' 'bout me!" she pouted at him more, giving him the puppy dog look now. If she did it enough, maybe he'd give in and explain while they were heading back to his place. Maybe, just maybe. "And, 'sides, yer older. Ya get all the blame," she smirked coyly at him. But, older siblings did tend to take the blame for everything. Including starting little fights.

Her eyes widened more as he continued to stare into them, but she couldn't help it. He was so close to her... Zoe blinked slowly, standing completely frozen as his warm fingers traveled up her skin. Sparks radiated through her body at an alarming rate, and she had to work to not faint again. And then he was leaning even closer to her, causing her heart to start racing even faster than it already was. She couldn't help herself from leaning towards him as well, the desire to taste him coming back with full force. He whispered her name, and her entire body seemed to long even more for him. Zoe wanted him to touch her, kiss her, make her feel like she was walking on air. And it looked like she was going to get just that. Her eyes slipped closed as his breath washed over her, and she waited for the anticipated feeling of his lips brushing hers.

And then his phone rang, crashing Zoe right back into reality.

She gulped as he stepped away from her, and she had to work hard to keep herself from falling apart of doing something else stupid. He'd been right there, almost, almost about to kiss her. It was what she wanted with all her heart, and now it'd been taken from her because of a stupid phonecall. Had that been her only chance to really win him over? Part of Zoe died at the mere thought.

Sniffling softly and looking down at the floor as he finished his call, Zoe mustered up a smile and nodded at him. Her fingers laced easily with his, and she scooped up Tessie and her blanket before heading out of the apartment.

But, she was still thinking about how close he'd been, and how his breath felt washing over her nervous, excited face. And, she couldn't help wishing they'd still been in there, kissing instead of heading out for ice cream.

• • •

WORDS: 1304!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Trying Not to Faint, Her Apartment
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

The joke from earlier this evening about the girl Romeo liked was far from his mind. He couldn’t even remember saying anything of the sort now that he was wrapped in everything about Zoe. Yes, he had been talking about her and in the corners of his mind, he’d remember that eventually, but right now, he had forgotten everything else that they had been talking about all evening. They were so close, so damn close and yet still so far away. He couldn’t really recover from what was happening between them both and not even one of his jokes could ease the heart that was pounding hard beneath his ribcage, simply threatening to burst from his chest out of both affection and anguish.

Things were changing fast between the two young adults. Nothing or no one could deny that now, especially considering a few hours ago they were casually chatting in Borders, laughing and teasing each other like only friends could do. Then, somewhere between that and Zoe fainting in his arms, things had changed; things that were more than just some idiot trying to mug the wrong girl. Romeo’s anger had been evidence of that, especially seeing as how he usually had a strong handle on the unwanted emotion. Tonight, however, he’d been unable to hold back his rage as he rescued Zoe from the thief and that had only ever happened once before and that was when he was defending Ellie. He only saw red when he was defending those who he cared deeply for and Zoe was now one of the few on that list. Did she feel the same though? Would she ever feel the same? There really couldn’t be a worst time for these emotions to become known, but there was no ignoring them now. They were constantly there; like Ellie when she wanted something.
He smiled softly down at Zoe, just appreciating the moment with a warm, comfortable silence. He could crack a joke or two, but for one of the only time in his life, he didn’t want to.

His smile turned slightly lopsided as he composed himself enough to speak again. He was so used to protecting everyone else, hearing all of their worries, that he’d completely forgotten what it was like to have someone there for him. Yes, he had other friends, but none of them wanted to be weighed down with his problems when they had their own to deal with. Romeo wasn’t the type of guy to spill his problems on the first person who asked him how he was. He knew that the question was just a polite acknowledgement, not really an offer of a shoulder to cry on. Then, there was Ellie. He spent so much of his life protecting his sister that he wasn’t about to make her feel guilty by confessing all the problems that had come with doing just that. He didn’t blame her for anything, but there was nothing he could do to convince her otherwise if he opened his mouth and confessed everything from giving up teenage dates to babysit her to putting his education on hold deliberately for her. Ellie only ever thought that Romeo was taking a few years out to relax, not to keep her safe. Hearing Zoe saying those words though had broken him though, in a good way, and the first of his defences began to crumble. It was like he finally realised that he was allowed to have problems and flaws and that he didn’t have to bottle everything up just because he thought it was better or safer that way. “When the day comes, love, you’ll understand why it’s us thankin’ you. Then you’ll see why it never ‘as to be the other way around.”

[/color] His voice was soft, almost shaky as he realised that, one day, Zoe may be the first person outside of the Jervis family to ever hear the story of his youth and how exactly they had wound up in New York and a few years later, how Romeo had become guardian to his sister, when both parents were still very much alive and in the same bustling city as them.

He didn’t want them to be talking about the darker events of the evening. He wanted to try and forget about them as best as they could, even though their injuries would speak louder than their words when it came to remembering. So, instead of thinking about it, he cracked one of his infamous jokes, hoping that it would make the situation better. “Aw, Zoe, I didn’t realise I ‘ad this effect on judy’s! I guess I’m more ‘andsome than I thought.”[/color] He smirked and winked, pretending to smooth out his clothes and act ‘sexy’. He probably looked goofier than anything, but if it worked, then it was worth it. He knew that in his current state he was probably far from attractive, with his bloody hand, swollen lip and limp hair that was starting to look as exhausted as he was beginning to feel.
“Ah, but surely I get points for ‘avin’ the cooler name. C’mon! I’m Romeo and she’s Eleanor! I definitely win there, right?”[/color] He grinned, waiting for her answer as he wiggled his eyebrows.

Romeo chuckled, shaking his head. Zoe was definitely persistent, that was obvious, but she was really pushing this language thing. He was, in no way, about to translate the details of his conversation with his sister for her, even if she was mentioned throughout the interesting exchange of words. Besides, what was the point in speaking in native tongues if he was going to explain it all anyway? “Nope. We were barely talkin’ ‘bout you anyway, love. Most of it was just us exchanging insults and arguing over the dishes.”[/color] He casually lied, not about to embarrass Zoe with the truth of what his sister kept implying and what he kept trying to avoid.
He laughed at the older sibling comment; in their house it had never been like that. Their father always tried to blame Ellie and it was Romeo who tried to take the blame – he was older and more used to their father’s temper than Ellie ever needed to be. However, he didn’t want Zoe to grow suspicious over their childhood just yet, so he forced away the sadness and anger behind his green eyes and smirked. “Exactly. So it’s ‘er turn!”[/color]

He couldn’t believe how close they had come to kissing and he didn’t know whether he wanted to kill or hug his sister for her ‘impeccable’ timing. He had been determined to get through the night without ‘making a move’ on the young country girl, but then he had been right there, about to kiss her, and she hadn’t moved away! That had to mean something, right? Swallowing hard, he tried to push the thought away, knowing full well that he couldn’t go back and try to kiss her again without the moment being right, regardless of how much he wanted to do just that.

Romeo led Zoe back down to the car and opened the door for her before rolling over the bonnet in a boyish fashion to reach the driver’s door. It was a habit he really had to break, but he had so much fun doing it that he simply didn’t want to. Starting up the engine, he pulled his car back out onto the busy street and began to move leisurely towards the diner where he always took Ellie for ice cream. “So what flavour and how many scoops?”[/color] He asked her, smiling as the neon sign caught his eye in the distance as they made the final approach to the small 50’s style diner that he found peace within.
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• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 1339
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Zoe, though she didn't like him getting hurt, loved the calm waves that had swam through her body when Romeo had said he'd always be there for her, always make sure she was safe from the harms she wasn't as oblivious to as she pretended. He was, in every sense of the word, her Superman. Romeo had proven it tonight as he'd basically beat the living crap out of her attacker and, Zoe had to admit, she loved him all the more for it. Even now, as she sat curled up in his lap, she felt safe and warm and perfectly comfortable. It was like nothing could go wrong as long as he was holding her in the protective circle of his arms. It was so perfect, Zoe was still having a hard time believing she wasn't still zonked out on his couch and having a very vivd dream.

Her head fit under his chin almost as if it was made to, and she couldn't help noticing the way their bodies molded to each other. His chest was warm and strong, and his arms locked around her so naturally, it was as if they'd been doing this forever. Before she knew it, her eyes were slipping closed and her body was relaxing even more as she accepted the fact that she was safe and nothing would be hurting her as long as she was right here, cuddled up to Romeo in their single moment of perfection. And, Zoe was loving every damn second of it.

Zoe hadn't thought twice about asking Romeo to trust her. They'd always been very honest and open with each other, at least in her eyes. So why should any of that change now? Well, their whole relationship, friendship, or whatever the heck they had was slowly evolving into something grander, and Zoe knew it, but shouldn't the same levels of trust remain, if not increase? Besides, she wanted him to open his heart up to her. She didn't want to be left out in the dark if he was hurting, both physically and emotionally. It was in her nature to want to help anything in pain, but it was different with Romeo. Talking, laughing, helping him was as easy for her as breathing, and she almost craved it as much as she did air. He was like some missing piece of her that she'd always been looking for, and if he was hurting, it pained her, as well. She didn't like it. Nobody had ever had that much of a pull on her heart, not even her family. Sure, they went through hardships and whatnot, typical family things. But, Romeo? Romeo was different. He brought the happiest smile possible to her lips, made her feel like she was hooked up to some electrical current every time their skin brushed, and he made her feel like the princess she'd always secretly wanted to be.

Gently and hesitantly, as always, Zoe reached up her good hand to stroke his cheek. Her oceanic eyes were still drowning in his, and there was a tender smile on her lips now as she looked at him. "You'll never have to thank me for that, Romeo," she whispered, shaking her head lightly at him. "Ya can't always be Mr Superman. Even he needs his shoulder ta cry on," she added softly, her voice matching his whispery done as her fingers trailed down his strong jawline before retreating back to resting on his chest. Zoe left them sitting over his heart, though not on purpose, and she tucked her head back against his shoulder. He was her shoulder to cry on, and she only wished she could be his. But, not many people could say they were Zoe's strong support. There were really only two other people. Ember and her mother. And, she'd never opened up to a guy before, especially not one she was falling this crazily for. But, then again, Romeo was her exception for everything.

She giggled quietly, shaking her head at him but smiling none the less. Zoe didn't know about any other "judys", but for her, he definitely was the handsomest guy on the planet. And he had quite an effect on her poor, simplistic heart. "I knowa one girl who definitely agrees with you," she said, biting her tongue the moment after. Well, heck. Why didn't she just blurt out he was the most amazing, gorgeous guy on the planet and she was falling harder for him by the second? Stupid, Zoe. So freakin' stupid! she screeched at herself, looking away from Romeo again as her cheeks flushed pink. He was making her say such obvious things this evening, when she knew she shouldn't be. Tonight wasn't their night... and part of her doubted they'd really ever have "their" night. "I will give ya that. But, she does get cool nicknames," she beamed back up at him with a laugh, her head resting comfortably on his shoulder again as she looked at him. This was exactly what she needed to feel better. She needed her Romeo.

"Mhm," she snorted sarcastically up at him. "I'm not as blonde as ya think, Romeo. And I dun appreciate that lyin'," she smirked teasingly up at him, laughing softly and rolling her eyes. Zoe wanted to know what they'd said, and why Ellie had looked so pissed when they'd parted. And, she'd picked out words she knew here and there, so it wasn't like she didn't know part of the conversation. She was just missing the big, important pieces that had been what the meat of their discussion was about. Besides, she liked when Romeo explained his complex language to her. It was fun to watch him talk, especially when it was about anything involving Liverpool. And when he was talking just for her alone. "Why duncha tell me what y'all said and lemme pick," she said, trying to weasle out of him the answers she wanted. "Please?" she gave him a cute puppy dog look, hoping she'd break him yet.

As Romeo ushered Zoe out the door, she couldn't help from falling into a dazed state. They'd almost kissed. Right there, in the middle of her apartment... they'd almost kissed. And then Ellie had ruined their almost moment. Well, she clearly just won the "Who Annoys Zoe More?" contest. With a shake of her head, Zoe pushed the thoughts away. She needed to focus, and not on the beating of her nearly exploding heart.

She climbed into the car with a mumbled thanks, setting Tessie in her lap while she buckled up. Zoe laughed as she watched Romeo, giving him a large smile as he got in. "Yet gunna hurt yourself more!" she scolded playfully, laughing all the while. Her good hand stroked an almost-asleep Tessie as the drove and she couldn't help smiling as they pulled up to the diner. "What do ya think's good?" she questioned, smiling over at him.

• • •

WORDS: 1256! 8-)
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Romeo's Car, NY Streets
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

If Romeo could remove the danger element of tonight, then it’d be one that he’d never want to end. Everything was going so well, despite the earlier events of the evening and he would be really ‘gutted’ if, after they fell asleep later, everything went back to normal between him and Zoe, where they only saw each other when coincidence allowed them the chance for a short chat in Borders. He knew that they were good friends, even before tonight happened, but their busy lives always kept them from spending prolonged periods of time together, something that he wished that he could change.

He could relax around Zoe and there were no games of pretence around either of them. Ellie liked her, from what Romeo could tell, which was a good thing in his books, as it meant that if anything ever did happen, romantically, between this city boy and his country mouse then he wouldn’t have to worry about them clashing or Ellie hating her; one of the biggest things that held Romeo back from dating anyone else since obtaining guardianship over his little sister. She was the most important person in his life and it was his responsibility to make sure that she stayed on the right side of the law and of everything else tempting to a sixteen year old girl. One of his biggest fears was that he would start falling head first into a relationship would ruin that and that Ellie would start rebelling in an attempt to get his attention once more.
As crazy a theory as it seemed, the social worker who had spent a year assessing their situation had been the one to insinuate such a thing could potentially happen, and that was the reason why Romeo placed everything about his own life on the backburner to make sure that Ellie would always be okay and that he was always there for her whenever she needed him.
He may have, in retrospect, overreacted slightly.

Romeo flashed a grin as he pushed the door to the diner open, holding it back and allowing Zoe to walk under his arm into the quiet, but welcoming diner. Classic fifties rock music came from an authentic jukebox in the corner and the place was heavily decorated with black and white photos of the great musicians, guitar clocks and posters of movies from the time period. Romeo loved this place and had been coming here since the Jervis family had moved to New York, which meant that he was already well acquainted with most of the staff who worked here.
“Well, that all depends on what kind of ice cream girl you are, love. I don’t have a single flavour ‘ere that I dislike.”

[/color] He handed her one of the laminated menus. “El loves the chocolate macadamia nut biscuit flavour, won’t even think of having anything else. Amedei chocolate is a nice one, but only if you’re cravin’ chocolate, like. Frosted strawberry and gingerbread never fails to explode in my mouth either.”[/color] The place did so many flavours that it was impossible to comment on them all, but they had a wide choice that he doubted Zoe would be disappointed. Toffee, coconut, mint choc chip, coffee, pineapple, banana, stem ginger and honey…there were too many choices for the scouser to dwell on for too long. “I think I’m gonna ‘ave black cherry and Canon Frusac. Treat meself tonight. What do you like? And don’t hold back, go crazy; my treat.”[/color]

One of the waitresses, dressed in the classic poodle skirt and cute button up blouse came over to take their drinks order and politely asked how Ellie was doing as well as making conversation about a few things the Jervis siblings had mentioned to her previously. “Ah, Zoe, this is Clara. She’s usually the one who deals with our El when she’s stressin’ out over how the ice cream will ‘go to ‘er ‘ips…that she doesn’t even ‘ave.”[/color] He introduced them quickly, continuing his playful conversation for a moment with her before turning to Zoe with a soft, caring look in his eyes. “What you wantin’ to drink, love? You picked a flavour yet?”[/color]
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• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 754
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! I couldn’t think of what to do, so I’ve just moved them on a little bit! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Zoe was too scared to make a move that would push this relationship forward. She was afraid of the heart break that might come, of what could happen if this lasted until she graduated. But... it really could only last until then, couldn't it? She'd be returning to Adams then, to the life she always talked about missing. So what would become of Romeo? Part of her knew she could make up some excuse about wanting to take extra classes or work under a professional for awhile, just to buy herself maybe a year or two, three if she was lucky. But, classes would cost money. Staying in her apartment would, too. And, honestly, Zoe didn't have the pockets deep enough for it. She barely had enough to survive as it was, and she often found herself sneaking leftovers or "incorrect" meals from the kitchen at work. College cost more than you could guess, and so did books, entertainment, Tessie... Zoe was swamped as it was. What would it be like stretching her wallet even more as unplanned for years became reality? Well, if they ever did. Zoe would do it, though, if this night turned out to be the turning point in her and Romeo's friendship. If they did end up in a romantic relationship, and it laste that long, then she'd live tightly until they could figure something out.

But, that was for another time and place. Zoe left all thoughts of past and future locked away as Romeo opened the door to the little diner. He was all she needed to focus on right now. This little moment, their moment, was all that mattered. And Zoe had to keep reminding herself of that every time the dark demons of earlier began to creep into her mind, or the heartbreak tightened its clutches on her poor little heart. She smiled up at him, lightly grabbing his hand and pulling him inside. Zoe liked holding his hand; his fingers felt warm and tingly between hers. And it also reminded her that her other hand was beginning to throb with pain again, now that the earlier effects of the ice had entirely worn off. She tried to shake it off though as Romeo led her to a table, reminding herself that she could worry about it later when they were back at his and Ellie's apartment.

She laughed quietly as he went off into a ramble about the ice cream flavors, her eyes looking over the menu as he spoke. He seemed to be very taken with the little diner, but Zoe could understand why. It wasn't like the big, fancy places New York was full to the brim with. It was simple and welcoming... and she liked it without even having ordered yet. Looking at the menu, however, reminded Zoe that she hadn't eaten in half of forever. Maybe they should've had some of that Chinese before dashing off to her apartment, the drama that had been. Well, too late now. "I dunno; there's so much to pick from," she smiled back at him, shaking her head as he told her to go crazy. Zoe didn't want to be racking up a bill for him, not after everything else he was already doing for her this evening, and probably would be doing for a good portion of tomorrow. "I feel like I should be payin' for you, 'steada the other way 'round," she said with a dramatic sigh, playfully twinkling eyes meeting his over the top of her menu.

Zoe watched the waitress come up to the table, smiling slightly at the poodle skirt and blouse. At least she didn't have to wear that for her waitressing job. She listened quietly to the conversation the young woman and Romeo had, her eyes staying on the menu as they spoke. Was this... was this the girl Romeo had been speaking of earlier? She was pretty, seemed nice enough, and he definitely knew her, and she him. Was this Zoe's competition for his heart? Her fingers gripped the menu tighter as the thoughts of how this girl was better than her flooded her mind again. But, she couldn't think about them; not right now while Romeo could probably sense the moment anything changed in her mood. She mustered up a smile as he introduced the two of them, forcing a laugh at his Ellie joke. "Pleasure ta meet ya," Zoe nodded lightly at the waitress, only flicking her eyes up for a quick moment before looking back to her menu. If she really looked over the young lady, Zoe knew she'd be pointing out every difference between the two of them in an attempt to find out what might be better than the little country mouse.

"Just'a glass'a water will do. And chocolate chip cookie dough," she smiled at Romeo, delicately setting her menu onto the table top. "And some ice for my hand, maybe?" she added quietly, biting her lip as she took in the dark bruises that had spread across her slim fingers. It was starting to get worse by the minute, and Zoe wondered how much more pain would flare up before it finally decided to shut up and let her focus on Romeo and the "date" that they were on.

• • •

WORDS: 933!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Behind a Menu, '50's Diner
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

Romeo had never really been the kind of guy to dwell on the possibilities of the future. In his opinion, people spent too much time worrying about what could be in store for them five or ten years down the line and by doing so, missed out on some of the best opportunities they could ever have. No one knew how their life would turn out, so why waste the time worrying about it when the ‘now’ is what should be embraced? Sure, goals and dreams were things that he had planned for his future, but they were things he wanted to work for, but he wouldn’t sit back and spend hours thinking about the problems that may come his way or whether, by the age of thirty, he’d be married with kids, a job and a big old house. That sort of thing led to disappointments and further worries when that ‘deadline’ passed. There were too many unpredictable events that had already cropped up in Romeo’s life for him to appreciate prolonged thoughts of the future, when he knew that he had little control over half of the things that would happen in it.

For example, he had never planned to develop such strong feelings for Zoe, but it had happened. Now he didn’t know what to do, or if anything could ever happen between them. It was totally unplanned, unpredicted and unexpected for the young man and there was a lot he needed to consider once this night was over so that he could make a coherent choice about whether or not he should approach Zoe to move their relationship to another level, beyond just friendship. Yes, they had nearly kissed not so long ago, but it was still somewhat delicate and their situation today was a little unorthodox, with Zoe being vulnerable to things Romeo couldn’t fathom, as he had never been in her situation; he only played the hero.

Romeo had never been a big fan of the major corporate chains that extended far beyond New York City and he found a lot of the restaurants and coffee shops a little too overrated for his liking. He was used to the tiny, quaint little cafés and shops up the side streets in Liverpool. Most of his free time was spent in them, laughing with the owners until closing time and eating their ‘specials of the day’. That was the reason why this diner had so much appeal to him. There was just something just so cute about it that he couldn’t resist. Plus, it was run by a family who owned this diner and not a single one more, which made him feel more loyalty to the place than he did to the likes of Starbucks or Planet Hollywood.

He smiled at Zoe, watching her with an affectionate twinkle in his olive eyes as she looked over the menu with a cute expression on her already pretty face. He loved how comfortable they were together, like the fact that he could hold her hand like he had been doing all evening, hug and cuddle her, even kiss the top of her head without her tensing up or freaking out on him. If nothing more was to come from their relationship, Romeo was thankful for the small gestures of affection that she allowed him to get away with. “Take your time, love. Decisions over ice cream should never be rushed.”

[/color] He joked, winking playfully again as he slipped his menu back in the holder and leaned back in the padded booth seats. “Nonsense. I’m the gentleman ‘ere.”[/color] He waved her suggested off with his hand, refusing to listen to anything of the sort. This was his treat to her to make her feel better.

As Romeo chatted to Clara, his wrapped his arm around Zoe, just to remind her that he was still there with her. He laughed at some of the stories she told him and he didn’t realise when he pulled Zoe a little closer to his side. Clara had been someone he knew from pretty much day one in NYC and it was just common for them to joke and laugh like old friends, simply because that was pretty much what they were.
He smiled as she made her order, adding his own choice of the black cherry ice cream that was his all-time favourite of this place and a coca cola. “Aye, some ice would be smashin’ too, ta Clara.”[/color] His hand wasn’t hurting to much now, but there was still a dull throb that would probably benefit from the cooling ice. Romeo turned and gently picked up Zoe’s injured hand in his, examining the bruising with a not-so-expert eye. “At least it’s bruising now. First sign of ‘ealin’ after all.”[/color] he said, smiling before gently brushing his lips across her fingers, as though it would heal them completely.
[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size][/justify]

• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 856
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Why did Zoe love the idea of forever staying with Romeo? Because it was dangerous, unexpected, and against everything she'd ever had planned for herself. It tore apart all the plans she'd had since before high school, all the promises she'd been counting on fulfilling once she returned home to Adams. Staying here, though... all that would be lost. And, for what? For love, for happiness. To her, it was a fair trade, it really was. She'd been doing things for everyone else all her life; why couldn't she take this one chance and use it for something selfish? Not that she had anything to worry about yet. Maybe she never would. But, just the idea thrilled her. Zoe wanted to spend her days playing housewife, curling up to Romeo at night, being cuddled and protected like only he could do. All of it was the opposite of what she'd always wanted, yet it seemed so much better now that she thought about it.

Sitting in the diner with him reminded Zoe just how much she loved being with him. Romeo never failed to make her smile, even when she was snotting all over him because she'd found out she wasn't the girl he was falling for. He could make her laugh about almost anything, and simply talking to him was enough to brighten up her sometimes weary days. She was comfortable around him, moreso than almost anyone else she knew. There was no need to be somebody else, or to hide the "country-fied" side of her that lots of people thought was strange or annoying. Zoe could be Zoe, and she could enjoy every moment of it while looking into those insanely handsome olive eyes.

She could feel Romeo's eyes on her as she looked over the menu, and she had to bite her lip to keep a smile off her face. It was an automatic reaction, as were the butterflies the flopped around in her stomach. Zoe liked thinking that maybe, just maybe, he thought she was pretty and worth looking at. It made the butterflies in her stomach even worse. "Ya make it sound likea life'er death decision," she teased in return, giggling as he winked at her. Zoe ducked back behind her menu, smiling softly to herself but shaking her head at him in the next moment. "Yer my gentleman who def'nitely deserves a treat after savin' me tonight," she countered, smiling warmly at him. Zoe did think she should do something for him tonight. Even if it was the teenist, tiniest thing on the planet, she wanted to. This was still strange for her, and she couldn't fight the urge to need to repay him somehow, even if he kept telling her he wouldn't accept her offers.

Zoe chewed her lip, forcing her eyes to stay on the menu while Romeo and Clara talked. She felt out of place, to put it nicely. Part of her hoped she was the only girl Romeo joked around with like that, that she was the only one special enough. Obviously, he had to have other friends, though. Before she could go into a full panic over those un-named friends, Romeo's arm was wrapping around her shoulders, pulling her tiny frame closer to his. It stopped Zoe's heart for half a second, but, in the next, she was hesitantly cuddling up to his side, her head leaning lightly on his shoulder. The conversation him and Clara were having entirely faded away as his touch sent sparks coursing through her body. It was almost like back at her apartment but now, they were out in public where everyone could see them. Zoe hoped someone might think they looked cute together, that they really were a couple. Too bad she couldn't read minds and find out.

The smile played with her lips as Romeo ordered and she shifted closer to him, enjoying the warmth of his body. It was cold outside, and the chill still lingered on Zoe's skin, despite the flame-like sparks he kept sending through her. They picked up again as Romeo picked up her bruised hand, and she couldn't keep herself from watching him as he looked over her skin. Zoe wished she could hold his hand, lace her fingers through his, or do something, anything. "I just hope it ain't too bad," she whispered, breath stopping as his lips touched her tender skin. They felt warm and soft... and the temptation to kiss him slammed into her even harder than before.

Why had Ellie picked such a sucky time to call him?!

• • •

WORDS: 809!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Under Romeo's Arm, '50's Diner
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

Right now, keeping his heart and feelings in check was harder than Romeo had ever imagined. In his mind, he was picturing coming to the diner with Zoe plenty of times after tonight, trying all the flavours and spending hours in the booths just enjoying the feeling of being together, laughing and joking about the fun times they had shared, not including the earlier events of this particular night. He had to knock the dreams on the head though before he got too carried away and had envisioned an entire lifetime in the bustling city with Zoe. If he let himself to do that, then he was only building himself up for heartbreak, for sorrow and for regret when the day came when she returned to Adams, and in Romeo’s head, that day was one that would come sooner than he could be prepared for. It was also one that he knew would definitely come, for the young vet-to-be adored her hometown too much to leave it all for a city where she could be lost just as easily as the needle in the proverbial haystack.

Because he was terrified of losing her to the country one day, Romeo was determined to at least make the most of their friendship whilst they were here, together, in New York. The times they spent together usually kept him in a good mood for a few days at least and with Zoe he could be himself and act the way he did when he was with Ellie. With most people, Romeo had to act with a little more control, a weaker accent and hold back on the language he was so used to using when he was at home, or when he was in Liverpool. It was like he had to be someone else in the rest of the world, but with Zoe, he could be the Romeo he wished everyone else had the chance to get to know.

He was shocked. “Ice cream is a life an’ death decision! The wrong flavour can ruin your love of the stuff forever.”

[/color] He said, keeping his expression deadly serious. There were times in his life when an all ice cream diet had appealed to every area apart from the cost of sustaining it for more than a day or two. At least he had this diner for when the urge came for him to comfort eat himself into a sugar coma for a few days. However, sincerity won control over the young man seconds later, when in a quiet, soft voice he spoke to Zoe. “It’s a treat enough, just bein’ ‘ere with you now, love.”[/color] Well, he did love spending time with her, so that’s not saying too much or risking their friendship, right? He can say something like that to her without much of a fuss being made, right?

As she leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder, Romeo smiled a smile that didn’t fade the whole time she was there, practically cuddled up against him in the diner. This public display of affection was something Romeo wished could happen more often between them. He wanted to be able to walk down the street with his arm around Zoe and when he was paid from Borders, he wanted to be able to take her to the movies and cuddle up with her in front of the large screen whilst they shared a couple’s popcorn and drink.
He began to close his conversation with Clara once Zoe had chosen a flavour, but his hand that was over Zoe’s shoulder began to subconsciously stroke her upper arm over and over, his fingers dancing across her skin in a delicate motion until they began to tingle from the persistent contact with the girl who was currently twisting his stomach into knots and who he had happily taken a hit for, even if it hadn’t been the way he had hoped they would get closer.

He grinned as Clara’s eyes flicked happily between the two before she walked off to prepare their order. Maybe it wasn’t true and they weren’t really a real couple, but for tonight and for someone who was sort of a stranger, they could play pretend and he could indulge his imagination and wishes just for one night, that was almost over. Then reality could have its wicked way and he would go back to being just another guy in a store. “I think it’ll be a bit better come mornin’, love. It doesn’t seem as swollen now, so hopefully it’s just bruised.”[/color] He said, hopefully reassuring her just a little about her injury.
[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size][/justify]

• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 822
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Zoe was letting herself hope. Again. Hope for what, though? For Romeo to fall head over heels for her, much like she was discovering she'd done for him. She wanted him to want her as much as she wanted him; to admit that he loved her, that she was special and pretty. A large portion of her heart was craving it so badly, it was inevitable to hope for the impossible outcome. And, Zoe knew it was impossible. Nothing could happen between them; she knew that. Or, at least, she'd known it when they'd become friends. It had been like that with every single male she'd ever met, both here and back in Adams. None of the relationships could go far because, well, Zoe wasn't looking for love, she never had been. She was set on finishing school and returning home to start up a very cushy practice. A boyfriend just didn't factor into that equation. And, honestly, Zoe had never found one who was worth it. That is, until she'd realized her heart was slowly becoming Romeo's.

But, nothing could happen, especially not between them. He was neon lights and honking horns, she was backroads and fields of corn. And, Zoe was going home. That right there put a damper on her feelings. How could she fall in love, but know it would only last until gradution, a day that wasn't entirely far off for her? It wouldn't make sense. Besides, she'd promised to be a "good girl" and not fall in love with someone while off here in New York. It was supposed to be strictly studying and working, not falling in and out of relationships like it was some sort of petty game. Not that Zoe had ever done that in her life, because, well, it just wasn't in her innocent nature to break hearts left and right, or have hers broken in return. But, none of it mattered anymore, not after she'd fallen so easily for Romeo. The promises crumbled, along with her resolve. Zoe wanted something to happen between them; she wanted to finally have that love every girl dreamed about.

Zoe shook her head playfully at him, smiling nonetheless at his dramatic take on the whole business of choosing an ice cream flavor. She wasn't very adventurous when it came to foods, and that included ice creams. That was why she'd chosen a safe flavor, one she knew nobody could mess up. Vanilla ice cream and cookie dough, how safe and boring was that? But it was simple, just like her. And, simple was how most things went in her life. "Then let the payin' part of it be my treat, too," she smiled softly back at him, tender affection sparkling in her eyes as they met his. Part of Zoe wanted to reach out and touch him, make sure that he was really here and this wasn't some dream. It was like they were on a date... and they were almost flirting. Almost. The way they were cuddled up to each other sure helped the theory that this all really was a dream. Zoe had wanted to believe that earlier when... no, no. Just earlier. She couldn't ruin the moment with thoughts of what "earlier" technically included. At least, not yet. Her teeth chewed the inside of her lip sharply, and she tried to focus on what Romeo and this Clara girl were actually saying. Anything had to be better than thinking about what had brought her and Romeo here. Sparks tickled her skin as Romeo's fingers continued to trace it, making her nearly melt inside. This was so perfect to her... Cuddling in a booth with his arm protectively around her, ordering food like this was nothing new for them. It was perfection in every single way, and Zoe was loving every moment of it.

Clara's gaze didn't escape Zoe, though she was half-high off the feeling of Romeo's closeness, and it made her heart flutter slightly. Maybe the waitress really thought the two of them were a couple. It made Zoe smile to herself, nestling her head closer to Romeo as she walked off to go get their order. "Yer still holdin' me hostage, so we'll both find out tomorra," she smiled back, letting him keep her hand while she scooted a bit closer to his side. He was nice and warm and comforting. And, most importantly, he made her feel safe, something she definitely needed for the time being.

• • •

WORDS: 782!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Romeo's Couch, Jervis Apartment
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

There was always that old saying that Romeo found so clichéd that he often rolled his eyes and gagged at it; “you’ll find it when you’re least looking for it”. His mother had used it on him and Ellie for as long as either of them had been dating and he hated hearing it. Neither of them had been to her with romantic issues as of late and as far as Romeo knew, Ellie wasn’t dating in general and he sure as hell hadn’t been. However, it was now he realised just how true that stupid saying that irritated him to no end actually was. He hadn’t been looking for romance or love, but here he was, struggling to keep his feelings at bay around Zoe, who was having a dangerous effect on his heart with every second they spent together. The last thing he wanted was to ruin what they already had, but at the same time, he was encouraging himself to eventually take the risk and see if she felt the same. It seemed way too sudden for him to plausibly be the only one who felt like this, regardless of the dramatics of the evening and how the rest of the events had played out up until this moment.

However, there was a small voice in his head; one that was concerned with the fragility of his heart and the delicacy of Zoe’s. They were practically polar opposites in every sense, other than the one aspect of books and literature – it had been the foundation that their friendship had formed on and the thing that came up in almost every conversation they had, but other than that, their opinions were opposites, their dreams and goals contradicted the others…surely that meant there was little hope for a relationship between them to ever last? At least, that’s what Romeo’s little voice was telling him, keeping his feet firmly on the ground so that he didn’t float Cloud 9 over the thought that he was close to Zoe and that they almost kissed earlier on.

Romeo knew that his playful nature, boyish jokes and slightly dramatic flair were all things he’d picked up in the city of Liverpool when he was still a little kid. It was also something that had stuck with him, despite everything that had happened in his life. He was just glad that, right now, it didn’t seem to annoy Zoe. He had a habit of joking around more when he liked someone and in the past it had made girls think the complete opposite of how he really felt.
Keeping on that tone of playfulness, Romeo placed his hand over Zoe’s mouth, refusing to let her speak again. “There shall be no talk of such things! I will tell Clara not to accept your payment and to only let me pay for this. It’s my treat Zoe and that is the end of it, so shush, my little country mouse.”

[/color] He smiled softly, slipping his hand over hers. “I am paying, now no more poxy arguments with me over it. You’ll find that I’m very stubborn when I wanna be.”[/color] He refused to hear any more of this. Romeo would pay and there was nothing she could do about it. It was his treat and whilst this may not be an actual date, it could also be the closest they’d ever get to one, if she didn’t reciprocate his feelings and he wanted to make sure that it all went well, so that it was something to remember, even if was a sad sort of memory.
However, sitting here, cuddling in a booth made it seem impossible that this would never happen again and as much as he tried to quell the butterflies going wild in his stomach, it wasn’t doing his hopeful heart any good.

Romeo enjoyed the sensation of Zoe snuggled against his side and it took him a second to actually realise that she had spoken to him again. A small little grunt like noise left his mouth as his brain finally kicked back into action and he thought up a fast reply. “True. I ain’t lettin’ you go until I’m sure you’re alright, love. But please, I ain’t kidnappin’ y’”[/color] He laughed, using his spare hand to move his hair back again, as he settled into his seat, just enjoying being so close to Zoe again. He was about to drift off into his own world again, where everything was perfect, when Clara came back over with their ice cream, drinks and small bowl of ice for them. “Ta, Clara. Brilliant timing as usual.”[/color] He grinned, picking up a napkin and starting to wrap some of the ice in it before gently placing it over Zoe’s bruising hand. “Dig in. I’m sure the ice cream will make you feel be’er too.”[/color] He picked up his spoon next and took a mouthful of his scoops, moaning in fake bliss as the taste slid over his tongue.
[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size][/justify]

• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 875
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

If she was being honest, Zoe didn't know what it was about Romeo that kept pulling her heart back to him. They were complete opposites; two different sides of the universe. She was backroads and mucking stalls, he was '50's diners and back alley street fights. Polar opoosites at their best. But, that didn't cloud Zoe's mind at all. In fact, she kind of liked it. They were from two different worlds, yes, but they were each other's key into a new life entirely. Zoe had never been a fan of the city, not until Romeo had subtly convinced her it wasn't just the devil's playland. And, at least in her opinion, he'd never been a big fan of the countryside she loved so well. She hoped he'd altered his view of it, at least slightly. But that was the attraction between them; the differences. They made it nearly impossible for them to turn into one of those cliched, "perfect" couples because they were so different. They each had clashing ideas of the world, totally opposite personalities, unheard stories that would always be fresh to the other's ears. It was what would make them, eventually, work. Or, Zoe was hoping that. Again with the hope...

Tonight was enough proof for her that a relationship would work. He'd stepped in and protected her when it wasn't his responsibility, he'd dried her tears after her breakdown back in her apartment, and now he was cuddling her as sweetly as possible in a booth at a diner. Not once had they argued, except with their normal banter. They'd given into the other's "demands"; her staying with him for the night and him letting her play doctor, though she was still banged up herself. They brought out new sides in each other. And, Zoe liked it. She wanted more of that, despite the uncharacteristic risk it would be for her. A broken heart wasn't her hope, but she knew it'd probably happen one way or another. Eventually. And, who knew when eventually would happen? So, why shouldn't they live in their moment now, take a chance on this?

Zoe's pale eyes glared playfully up into his as his hand closed over her mouth, and she couldn't help laughing, though she was trying to keep a straight face. She didn't get to goof off with people, only when she was with Romeo. He was her relief from the rest of the world. "Yer spoilin' me too much as it is!" she sighed back at him, smiling at her new pet name. Zoe loved hearing him say it, and it made her stomach flutter with butterflies each time. "Thank ya, then. You and Ellie'll have to come over and lemme cook you a big country dinner as payment," she smirked back, very hesitantly twining the fingers of her good hand with his. The feeling of his skin on hers tickled with sparks, but Zoe loved it. She really just loved being with him.

With her head resting innocently against his shoulder, the world slowly began to fade from Zoe's view. It was just here and him, and every place their skin was subtly touching the others. This was their one moment of pure perfection. She rolled her eyes jokingly at him, gently butting her shoulder into his playfully. "If yer decidin', I doubt I'll ever be 'llowed to go home," she laughed back as he pushed his hair out of his face again. Zoe almost scolded him for it, but let it go as she cuddled back up against him and drowned in his amazingness once more.

She reluctantly moved when Clara came back, giving her a smile of thanks as Romeo grabbed her bruised hand again. Zoe winced slightly as he pressed the ice to it, thanking him with a pained smile as she nodded and picked up her spoon. She scooped up a little, mouse-like bite as he moaned, making her giggle. "If ya keep eatin' like that, maybe," she teased, smirking at him and eating another spoonful again.

• • •

WORDS: 720!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Cuddling, '50's Diner
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

Romeo could recall some really irritating song from the 90’s about how opposites attract. It was as clichéd as the band was and Romeo remembered the song playing constantly throughout his childhood as the girls on the state pretended to be popstars, inventing dances and then falling out when the one on the left couldn’t remember to step the right way when the chorus started up.
However, he was starting to see the logic in the cheesy nature of the song and the repetition of the phrase ‘opposites attract’. Him and Zoe were from other ends of the social chain and both of them grew up loving the things that were opposite. He was surprised at how much time they could spend together, talking about things that, at some point, the other wasn’t remotely interested in. That didn’t mean that he hated Zoe talking about the country; in fact, he loved hearing her tales of the country and that, blue grass, was it? He hated that he couldn’t remember, but he did want to know more about where Zoe was from and prove to her that the city could be just as beautiful as the country, if she gave it half a chance and tried to forget how terrifying it could be, though the latter would be rather hard after tonight.

He wanted to try it though. Somewhere inside, he knew that he could change her view on city life and he wanted to do it holding her hand, cuddling her in the park and kissing her under the neon lights of the New York nightlife. Just because they were different, it didn’t have to mean that they couldn’t be romantically involved; some of the best relationships were based on differences and they had plenty of them to keep them intriguing for years to come. And there he was again; getting ahead of himself and envisioning a life with Zoe where they were happily married or something…that was never good to be imagining when he wasn’t even in a relationship with her in the current present moment. He tried hard to not let that happen and right now he was mentally slapping himself for doing it. Things were just currently so perfect at this very second and Zoe’s blonde locks of hair tickled his neck as she rested her head on his shoulder. If he didn’t want this to end though, then surely he had to do something to make it happen, but what?

Romeo loved that he could fool around and laugh with Zoe like there were no problems in the world. There was just something so peaceful about their time together that made him forget about anything and everything that may have been playing on his mind. He could hear her laugher behind his large hand and his grin just widened a little more as he noticed the playful glare in her pale eyes. “Yeah, well maybe that’s just me sin. And you deserve to be spoilt, so…nyah.”

[/color] He probably didn’t sound like the educated twenty four year old that he actually was, but Romeo had always had a childish quality about his sense of humour and it was definitely shining on through right now. “Fine by me, love. I’m sure our El will love the idea too. Girl eats enough to feed a starvin’ family at times.”[/color] And yet, she still looked like the gangly kid Romeo had always known. It was a mystery that would probably never be solved, but that would eat away at his paycheque until Ellie eventually moved out in future years.

He chuckled softly at what she said and momentarily tilted his head to rest against the top of hers. “Don’t tempt me, Zoe.”[/color] He said softly, only half joking this time. He didn’t want to let her go, not now and not ever, but that was a little too much to say after the short time they had spent together, regardless of how close they had been for the majority of that time.

Romeo took another spoonful and made the same moan that accompanied the first bite. He closed his eyes in bliss as he felt the ice cream melt against his tongue. “Aw, but this is the best, by far, of all the ice cream in the world, love. It does things that nothin’ else could ever do.”[/color]
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• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 768
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! <3

[Zoe Diana Tylers]

Zoe had never flirted before. Never, in all her twenty-two years, had she wanted to. Getting a boyfriend had never been her goal, so it was understandable why it'd be a lost lesson for her. Now, however, now she was regretting it. Sitting here with Romeo in what was obviously, or at least she thought, supposed to be more than a simple, "friend" date. Friends didn't almost kiss each other. Friends didn't cuddle in booth seats like this. Friends didn't get sparks from touching each other. And, Zoe wanted to step this up. She wanted to be able to flirt with him, like all her friends did when they were out somewhere and trying to nail some pretty boy or other. How many times had she watched Ember work a guy for a free drink? Why couldn't she do that, minus the alcohol reward? It was too hard, that's why. Zoe wasn't flirty or good at pretending to be; so it wasn't one of her talents. But, man, did she want it to be. Maybe then Romeo would like her. Maybe he'd flirt back, and maybe it'd lead to something more. There she went again with the "maybe" after "maybe" thing. So many possibilities loomed before her though, and Zoe kept trying to find a way to reach for them. But, her small fear of getting her heart broken kept pulling her back from taking a risk.

She nipped playfully at his hand befoe he pulled it away, smiling at his grin. A laugh bubbled from her lips at his words, but they brought a very light blush to her cheeks. He thought she deserved to be spoiled? Zoe bit the inside of her lip, her smile still bringing out the tiny dimples in her cheeks. "Y'know I'm not gonna let you spoil me too much," she smirked softly up at him. But, if she was as intoxicated by him as usual, she probably would let him get away with spoiling her, as long as he kept cuddling her like this. Then again, she'd probably let him get away with anything if he smiled at her enough. "Obviously, ya've seen how big a country dinner is," she laughed in return. "And, I think I promised her cookin' lessons sometime back, so we can test her skills on ya," she grinned at him, eyes sparkly playfully. Zoe could vaguely recall telling Ellie she'd give her cooking lessons whenever they found some spare time. Plus, she was 99% sure Romeo would eat whatever they made without complaint, and she hated seeing food go to waste, even if it was slightly crispy from being in an oven too long.

Zoe couldn't keep her eyes from closing in contentment as his head rested on top of hers. "But it's so much fun," she teased back, not daring to move as her heart beat picked up. If it'd been up to her, she probably would've stayed with him for quite awhile, snuggled up to each other like this. But, reality kept reminding her that that was impossible. Or, at least, it was supposed to be. Right?

Shaking her head at him, she ate another bite of her ice cream to keep herself from giggling at him. His jokes were doing wonders to brighten up her dark mood and their usual banter was slowly bringing Zoe out of the frightened state she'd been in earlier. As his eyes closed, she smirked wickedly and quickly went to scoop up a bit of his ice cream, popping the spoon into her mouth before he had a chance to stop her. "Mm, it is good," she continued to smirk, giggling up at him before setting her spoon down. Biting the inside of her lip, Zoe adjusted the ice on her hand, fighting against the urge to wince as she let the cold numb her pain away once more. She seriously wanted those pain killers now. But, no, she couldn't. She'd put them off for as long as he'd let her, then take them before she went to bed for the evening. Tessie could watch over her then, and maybe, just maybe, she'd get to enjoy the comfort of knowing Romeo was close by, ready to protect her from even the slightest threat. Again with the unrealistic maybes.

• • •

WORDS: 768!
TAG: Wherefore art thou, Romeo?
LOCATION: Romeo's Side, 50's Diner
OUTFIT: this classy sass!
LYRICS: "Twisted" by Carrie Underwood
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Romeo Jackson Jervis]

Romeo had been told numerous times that he had a charming quality about himself and the young man was far from shy most of the time. So whilst he didn’t think that having a girlfriend was the be all and end all of life, he was no stranger to relationships of various kinds, both short term and bordering on long term. He never set out with the intention of bringing a girl home, but it had happened only once or twice in the past, and he never really thought too much about settling down with a girl or sweeping her off her feet; they were just things that had simply happened in the past. However, as he sat there with Zoe snuggled under his arm, Romeo found himself silently hoping that he’d get the chance to do all that with her; ‘woo her’, as his grandmother would have said, sweep her off her feet and show her that the love and romance in the fairytales that she probably grew up with, did actual exist and could be found in a simple city boy like himself.

He knew there wasn’t all that much for a girl to find appealing about him, but Romeo hoped that Zoe’s simple personality extended to what she looked for in a man too. It wasn’t exactly a turn on for most women to hear that after graduation, Romeo still worked at Borders only moving from a general assistant to a supervisor in the five years he’d been there for, or that he was the legal guardian of a sixteen year old girl who happened to be his younger sister and who he spent more time with than most people ever did with their siblings, and not just because they lived together, but because he genuinely enjoyed Ellie’s company and considered her to be one of his closest friends in his life.
She didn’t seem to have a problem with it so far, but then they had been very safely in the friend zone for a long period of time when Ellie first had been introduced into their relationship. What if that was the card that would keep them as ‘just friends’ when Romeo wanted more; so much more? Could he live with that?

He laughed and playfully looked disgusted when she nipped at his hand. “You don’t know where that’s been!”

[/color] He joked, in mock horror at her actions. “I think you’ve been around that ‘orse of yours too much, love. Bitin’ people isn’t usually somethin’ we do in the city.”[/color] He said, relaxing back into the leather seat some more as he joked around with the blonde girl who he was becoming more and more comfortable with; dangerously so.
“Ah, but that’s only if you know I’m spolin’ y’”[/color] He pointed out without missing a beat. In Romeo’s mind, spoiling someone didn’t mean showering them with gifts and surprises so much. It was more about watching a movie they wanted to watch or letting them steal the duvet on a cold night, giving them the last chocolate in the box or just doing the little things that would make them happy. Most of them things went unnoticed, but Romeo still did them purely because he liked to see them smile.
He shook his head as he sipped his drink. “Last time Ellie was left in a kitchen, I ended up with a new oven and mam made sure she ‘ad to spend ‘er allowance on a new set of pans.”[/color] Granted, she had been thirteen back then and Romeo had been asleep on the sofa, but that was part of the story that Zoe could remain oblivious too until Ellie decided to tell on him like the little sister she was.

“You little minx you.”[/color] Romeo smirked a lopsided smirk and let out a sigh of contentment as he enjoyed the simplicity of the moment they were sharing in a place he had never brought anyone to aside from Ellie. That meant a lot to him, even if Zoe didn’t know about it.

He opened his eyes just in time to catch Zoe putting the spoonful of ice cream in her mouth, his olive pools just catching the dark hue of the ice cream and allowing him to realise that it wasn’t the ice cream she had ordered, but his. “Chief! Ice cream chief!”[/color] He shouted, pointing at her, his eyes wide as he feigned shock and horror.
Soon, they’d be able to head back to his apartment for the night and finally Zoe would be able to rest, get some sleep and put the horror of the day behind her. It would be good for them both to finally relax after the night they had shared and then maybe tomorrow, Romeo could think more clearly about what he wanted. However, ice cream that was this good could not be rushed.
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• • •

TAGGED! Romeo's little country mouse
WORDS! 861
OUTFIT! This Little Number
LYRICS! Lonesome Swan - - - Glasvegas
NOTES! “Chief” is “thief” <3