All Hype, No Heart.

Jake cast her a look as he blew out smoke, a straight and narrow stream that filled the moment with something other than silence. His features didn’t budge from the scowl even when he dove his hand into his pocket for his lighter, which he held out to her without any fanfare. “Here,” he said gruffly, gaze sliding away already.

Ari noted his expression, rubbing her cheek as if to wipe the bitterness away. Some people were just angry, she supposed. Plucking it from his fingers with enough care to not graze the flesh, she lit up, tipping her head back so the smoke drifted above her. “Thanks.” They didn’t have to speak, it was comfortable enough to just sit somewhere, and the brunette offered her hand back to the boy, the lighter in her palm. “I’m Ari, by the way.”

You’re doing all the right things to stay alive. 

Most of them, anyways.

I’ve never been, so I couldn’t confirm nor could I deny who beautiful it is. I’ve never really been outside of the U.S. much. What makes Morocco your favourite? 

That’s a shame, there’s so much of the world to see. The culture, by far. Also the heat, I do love the warmth.

Oh, isn’t that the way deal with the snow. Not deal with it at all. Just leave to somewhere the air won’t hurt your face. I’ll have to try that out this year. 

It’s always sunny in Morocco, but it’s a personal favourite so I may be biased.

At the time I thought moving across the country was going to be the best option and Brookline seemed like a good school. I hadn’t even factored in how much I’d miss the warmth. 

As an east coast girl, I’ve never seen it as too bad-- besides, when a blizzard’s suppose to hit, I’m already planning to jet set somewhere warm.

It’s weeks like this one that make me wonder why I ever left California for Massachusetts. Everyone back home’s bragging about the hundred degree weather and I know we’re just amping up for a frozen winter.

Why did you leave California for Massachusetts?

Hopefully it’ll be a younger model.

I don’t think you’re in the position to turn down a model of any age.

How’s that going?

I’m breathing, my pulse is racing and I’m grinning wide.

Live a little. 

I’m doing my best.

Well, then I’ll see you back at Phi Iota probably. You shouldn’t miss your session twice in a row. They’re going to think you’re doing it on purpose.

Oh please, I’m the most dedicated in that studio. I never miss a day, I deserve a little me time now and then.

Take me into your darkest hour. And I’ll never desert you? No? No? Okay. 

This is not a duet, Crown.