born in 2000

January 30th 1959

“Thanks again for picking me up!” Mary smiled as Lamar and Red loaded her two big suitcases into the trunk of the black Mercedes-Benz, parked on the side of the cobblestone street.

“No problem.” Lamar huffed. “Jesus, what do you have in here? A rock collection?”

She gasped and gestured around wildly. “Try fitting your entire life into two bags! I’m a woman, I need my stuff.”

He smirked at her the way men always did when they thought a women’s antics were amusingly beneath them, before opening the door for her. “Are you ready for crazy town?”

“No?” She laughed awkwardly as she slid into the backseat. It was drizzling slightly and the train station in Friedberg looked as dull and lifeless as always, a stark contrast to the excitement running through her body whenever she was there. It meant she was gonna see him again.

As her eyes flitted over the now familiar narrow streets she now wandered, once again. She still couldn't believe she’d managed to pack up nearly all of her belongings, to move in with a famous singer. Only crazy people did that, right? She wondered what she was getting herself into right now and how she – of all people – ended up in this situation. How had she found a way to sneak into his life? Or was it the other way around?

For Elvis things were always easy, it seemed. He wanted her to be with him. So, on Christmas he’d asked her to work for his father for the first time. “Moving in with them would only be logical,” he’d argued. That is just how it was with him – she had gathered that by now – whenever he had a crazy idea he wanted it done. Now. No delays. No second thoughts.

She’d been flattered by his insistence to keep her around, keep her close to him, but she also couldn’t deny that the whole thing was a bit overwhelming and now she was a jittery mess, her mind going a thousand miles per hour. Mary had been hesitant when he first asked her to come to Bad Neuheim, not sure if she could just drop everything right there to be with him. She was “over complicating things, overthinking too much” – that’s what he told her on the phone on multiple occasions after she’d gone back to Frankfurt. Her final decision had been uncharacteristically impulsive.

“Cherry, ya had plenty of time to think it through real good. What do you say?” He put his hand on the door frame next to her, his body towering over her. So close the heat was distracting.

Somehow she had raised her eyes to meet his. “It’s been a week since I was last here, Elvis. Not even.”

“It’s what I’m saying. Plenty of time.” His thumb brushed over her chin and his tone softened. “Also, what’s there to think about?”

She sighed, shifting from one foot to the other. “Where do I begin?”

“Nah, don’t start this again. Please. Do this for me.” He stepped closer and lowered his head. “As my birthday present.”

“Not fair! That’s manipulation.” She gasped, jutting an accusatory finger into his chest.

“Is it working?” His lip curled as he shrugged casually, completely unaffected by her distress.

“Give me another week.” She pleaded.

He clicked his tongue and rolled his eyes. “Cherry, what’s gonna be different in a week?”

She began stammering helplessly. “I don’t know?”

He reached out to brush a strand of hair behind her ear. “Exactly.”

“I’ll be a week older and more mature?” Mary knew she was being silly when she said that. What exactly was her problem? All the things holding her back didn’t truly matter if she thought about it enough - mostly it was her own insecurity.

He narrowed his eyes as he held her arms, his thumb stroking over her bare skin and his gaze calculating. He cocked his head, his jaw quickly clenching and unclenching before nodding. “Okay. Take your time.”

“Elvis...”

“No, I get it, honey. I won’t push you.” He mumbled and brushed his lips over her forehead.

He hadn’t paid her much attention for the remainder of the evening and didn’t bring up the topic again, true to his word. She’d wandered the party, only half listening to the conversations happening around her, going back and forth in her mind. Taking a risk might actually be good for her. What’s the worst that could happen? It was about two hours later that she pulled him aside again to inform him of her decision.

A half smile had tugged at his lips and he gave a self-satisfied nod. “I knew you’d come to your senses.”

She opened mouth making a sound somewhere between a gasp and a laugh. “Watch it, before I change my mind again!”

He shook his head, still smiling down at her. “No, You won’t.”

So – on Monday she’d start a new job. Ultimately because he’d used cheap reverse psychology on her. She was so easy to manipulate it was almost laughable, she realized when she’d gone to bed that night wondering what had just happened. It must have been the two glasses of champagne she’d snuck while he was giving her the cold shoulder.

She was happy about the prospect of spending more time with him, being around him, being a real part of his life. That’s what she’s wanted for the past few months now. But as she watched the rain drops race against the car window there were these stubborn, persistent doubts creeping back into her mind. Her mother told her she was probably rushing into this because she’s in love. Her father liked Elvis, bonded with him over their shared love of music, but even he was critical and urged her to give it more time.

They trusted her to make good decisions, that’s what they always said. Her parents weren’t strict, like some of her friends’, but then she’d never given them cause to be. For the first time in her life Mary wondered if she was truly making the right decision.

She took a deep breath to calm herself but the uncomfortable silence in the car didn’t help. No one had uttered another word after leaving the train station, indeed, Lamar and Red avoided even looking at her or acknowledging her existence. After arriving at Hotel Grunewald she nearly sprinted inside eagerly looking for anything to occupy her mind. She quickly greeted Vernon and Dodger and felt some of her anxiety fade away, as if just entering his world was a magical remedy, a strange sort of sanctuary. It was a weird sensation each time.

She was sitting on the sofa in the lounge when Cherry the poodle– her namesake - cuddled up right next to her. Scratching the dog’s ears, she began to wonder where he was. He’s been off for nearly two hours now and there was no sign, not even a call from him. Even though he’d been the one who insisted that she’d take an earlier train so she could be there on time when he got there.

It was 7pm when she finally heard a commotion outside. She didn’t even need to turn her head to know what was causing it, she just grinned. Unable to help herself. Then got up and crossed her arms, before changing her mind and putting them on her hips. Since when did she have trouble deciding how to stand? In a final effort to pull herself together she just clasped her arms behind her back, heart nearly beating out of her rib cage.

“My sweet Cherry is back. God I’ve missed you. Let me look at you honey, can’t remember what you look like.” He cooed as he grabbed her, drawing her close and cupping her cheeks as he pressed his soft lips against hers.

Mary couldn’t help but giggle. “It’s been three weeks. Remember? Your birthday? I was here. Does that ring a bell?”

“Hmm, yeah, speaking of ringing, you were the one out of tune while everyone was singing Happy Birthday, I remember now. My ears were ringing for days.” He muttered while raising a hand to his ear with an exaggerated painful expression.

“Glad to be back.” She deadpanned while trying to make the corners of her mouth stop twitching.

Elvis snorted, seeing right through her as he always did. “Aww, Cherry don’t be like that. I enjoyed your cute outta tune singing. Been thinking of it ever since, missing it. You. Feels more like three years, decades, since I’ve seen you.” His grin turned into a rather dramatic pout when she didn’t answer straight away. “You’re saying you didn’t miss me at all?”

Her breath hitched, feeling caught. Elvis was, in fact, the only thing she’d thought about since she last saw him. Pretending otherwise wasn’t gonna work, no matter how hard she tried, especially with his psychic abilities. “I did.” Mary admitted.

He smirked as he pecked her lips again, briefly so he could stand back and admire the intended effect – a rosy blush spreading on her cheeks. “Yeah, I know, Cherry. I know.” He nodded to himself with a self-assurance that was almost frustrating.

There’s no doubt he knew exactly what he was doing when he leaned in closer, causing the burning sensation on her cheeks to creep further towards her neck. “I see it in your eyes. Don’t lie, honey, I know you’re on cloud nine.”

Mary narrowed her eyes, still trying to appear cool and collected. Not like she was about to die from a heatstroke. “Ready to jump into the abyss.”

“Right into my arms you mean.” His arms crept up on her waist, squeezing the soft flesh there.

“Stop.” Mary put a hand over her eyes with a smile at his corny joke. “...But also yes.” She peeked at him through her fingers.

He hummed with a knowing smile on his face before reaching out for her wrist. His fingers danced over the silver bracelet dangling there, a gift from him.

“And you’ve been good these last three, what was it, years?”

She playfully rolled her eyes at him and nodded.

“No eye-rolling here.” He tutted.

“Is that in the contract?” She joked.

“Should be at the damn top if you ask me.” He mustered her for a second, looking behind her too. “You are here to stay, right Cherry? Couldn’t bear to have you leave me here all alone again.”

She followed his gaze, realizing he was referring to the lack of luggage. Apparently he didn’t realize she’d been here for a few hours now, as if she’d just materialize out of thin air when he arrived and was ready for her. Even though he was the one telling her to come on the earliest train possible. “Yeah, no, your grandmother helped me move my stuff and get settled in earlier. The room is really nice.”

“I didn’t mean to keep you waiting all day, honey. Had to stay at the Barracks for this interview with, uh, American Bandstand.” He explained. “Ol’ Dick was asking some deep questions, let me tell you.”

“Oh?” She inquired, wanting him to carry on.

“’Do you ever miss home?’” Elvis imitated, a goofy expression on his face. Still, his clipped tone betrayed hurt and annoyance. “Cherry, by god, I- I didn’t know what to say. Stuttered around like a fool.”

Mary put a comforting hand on him in understanding. Of course she also missed the States but at the same time she always felt like she was able to cope better than he did. His dependency on familiarity made it almost unbearable for him. He was always on edge, never able to fully let himself go.

They’d talk on the phone for hours, sometimes well into the night, when he had trouble falling asleep. Mary mostly listened, because if she tried to reason with him or cheer him up he’d accuse her of not understanding or not taking him seriously. He’d get so worked up he’d hang up out of nowhere only to call back a few minutes later to apologize.

“At least he had the decency to acknowledge that it was a damn stupid question.”

Mary nodded, still stroking his arm. “Rest of the interview went well though?”

“I guess so. Colonel just thinks it’s good to remind people that I still exist. He wants me to do a few more interviews with Dick.”

She clicked her tongue and put a hand on his cheek, her thumb caressing his soft skin. “As if anyone could ever forget you. Don’t be so hard on yourself all the time.”

“Yeah.” He trailed off and looked to the ground, his mouth a thin line, even as he now leaned into her. Mary could see that he wanted to say something else but then decided against it. She hated when he did that.

“I’m sure everyone at home will be excited to hear from you. They miss you.” She tried again.

“Honey, I need some damn food, I’m about starved. You need to eat too.” Elvis decided for her and pulled her with him, effectively ending the conversation they just had.

He sat down around the table with Red and Lamar and started chatting away as if nothing had happened, while Mary shuffled over to help Minnie Mae with the plates, the comforting smell of home cooked dinner filling the small kitchen.

“Vernon has taken that Stanley woman out for dinner somewhere. He’s doing that every Friday now.” Minnie Mae informed her when she saw Mary counting plates and looking back and forth between the dinner table and the cabinet.

She nodded slowly and opened the drawer behind her to get cutlery for everyone. “Elvis told me she’s becoming quite a regular around here.” Glancing over she found him grinning as he wrestled poor Lamar into a headlock, unaware of their conversation. “He hates it.”

“Can’t blame him.” Minnie Mae grumbled, loading up the dinner plates with mashed potatoes.

“What’s for dinner, honey? And how are the kids?” Elvis asked as Mary began to set the table, looking up at her expectedly.

Mary frowned and put her hands on her hips, lips pursed in thought. “Kids? Must be your other wife.”

“Multiple wives? You’re in demand!” Red chuckled.

“Nah, man, one’s enough work, I’ll tell you that.” He grumbled, before breaking into a grin as the other two men at the table started cackling.

Mary let out a dreamy sigh and put a hand over her heart. “That was my favorite part in your wedding vows.”

“I’m an honest man, what can I say?”

The conversation flowed easier now, Red and Lamar seemed to have remembered how to talk once Elvis was here, leading the way. Red and Lamar were planning to a bar after dinner and jokingly suggested that Minnie Mae will join them. The old woman adjusted her sunglasses with raised eyebrows and muttered something about “spending the night alone in her room where no one can bother her.”

They’d turned towards Elvis, wanting to know if he’d want to go out with them, their glances drifting towards Mary, who was busy staring at her plate. She really didn’t want to intrude on a boy’s night out, even if they’d ask her to tag along she knew it was only out of obligation towards Elvis. Going out with Red and Lamar was something she wasn’t too keen on anyway. So she kept quiet, busying herself with pushing around the peas on her plate.

Elvis shook his head and glanced towards Mary with a knowing look. “Little Cherry here doesn’t need to see you two making absolute fools outta yourselves. She gets jumpy when people ain’t behaving right.”

“I’m not jumpy!”

He tilted his head, his lip curling mischievously. “You and I remember New Years very different then. I remember a certain blonde hiding behind me, screaming Elvis!!” He imitated her calling out for him in a high pitched voice before laughing.

Mary fought a grin. That impression was pretty accurate. “Not me. You’re confusing me with someone.”

“Flinching every time a little firecracker went off.” Elvis continued and poked at her waist, making her jump slightly. “Yeah, just like that.” He announced with a proud smile.

Mary felt her cheeks redden at him being able to prove his point so easily and took a sip of her water in an attempt to cool down. “Okay fine, I used you as a human shield. I call that resourceful.”

“Honey, no need for a shield. We knew what we was doin’.” He assured her in a muffled voice, mouth full of food.

“Remember that one rocket that actually went crazy though? Damn near scorched Rex’s eyebrows.” Lamar chimed in.

“Or Red’s if he had any.” Elvis quipped. Lamar snorted, while Red chose to ignore the comment. “I told y’all the bottle was at a weird angle.”

“Well, turns out snow is not as sturdy as asphalt.” Lamar stated. “Still, no one got hurt.”

Mary smiled, cringing inwardly at the flashback to New Year’s Eve. It had been truly enjoyable at first, the boys were so eager and excited. But then after a few beers rendered their critical thinking skills completely useless she’d become increasingly concerned that someone would get hurt. Or worse.

“Still not as stupid as this dummy here who thought he should aim for the damn streetlight.” Elvis shot Red a pointed look while waving his fork in his direction.

“It never actually hit.” Red defended himself with his hands raised.

“It was damn close, son.” Elvis insisted, his smile not quite reaching his eyes anymore.

“That light was too damn bright. Couldn’t see the explosions.” Red continued, bringing up the same argument he did that night, as if it would help his case.

Elvis forcefully dropped his cutlery on his plate, the sharp clattering noise making everyone at the table jump. “Man, will you just shut up? I already told you that was bullshit.”

Minnie Mae coughed in their direction, and, like three school boys, they all shot up in their seats and continued eating. Except for Red, who yelped out as if someone had stepped on his foot.

Elvis turned to Mary, who had been watching him carefully. He reached out under the table to pat her knee, one corner of his mouth raising slightly. She put her hand over his, noticing the tension in his fingers as she entwined them with hers. With a gentle squeeze she spoke up again, reminding everyone of how Charlie got so drunk he lost his room key and tried to unlock the door with his guitar pick, relieving some of the unease that had settled at the table.

“Dumb ol’ Charlie, still looking for that key.”

Mary was doing the dishes after dinner when Elvis came to find her at the sink, snaked his arms around her waist while he rested his chin on her shoulder. “Let’s go out. Just me and you.” He whispered next to her ear.

“Uh, sure. Where?” She turned her head, meeting his impossibly blue eyes.

“I don’t know, let’s just go.”

She nodded as she dried her hands. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Move it, Cherrypie.” He countered with a light tap to her butt, earning a swat from the towel in her hand in return.

Elvis stopped his car in the driveway to shake hands with some of the fans waiting there and sign whatever was presented to him. His interactions with fans was always a fascinating thing to watch. It seemed natural for him, even with a language barrier he seemed to always understand what they needed from him, and their faces lit up in response to his dazzling smiles and easy charm. It was like watching the sun finally peeking through the clouds after heavy rainfall.

“I don’t think I could ever get used to this.” Mary remarked once they turned the corner, leaving the crowd behind.

“Trust me, honey, I’m not. Don’t think I’ll ever will be, sometimes I feel like I’m livin’ someone else’ life.” He mumbled as he fiddled around with the radio before settling on a station that he liked.

“It’s unreal. They almost didn’t let us through earlier today, when I arrived. They were pretty disappointed when they saw Red and Lamar in the front seats instead of you.”

“Glad ya don’t have to go out with those two morons?” He chuckled as he rested one arm comfortably over the headrest behind her.

“No, would have been fun to see them dancing on the table and falling off, like two seconds later.”

“Told ya that story, huh?”

“No, that’s just what I assume their Friday night looks like.” She joked. “No, you told me.”

A beat of silence, then Mary opened her mouth again. “You really didn’t want to go with them?”

His fingers drummed on the steering wheel. “Nah, honey, uh, that’s not really my thing, you know.”

She raised a skeptical eyebrow at him but didn’t get a chance to speak before he turned his head towards her. “And I’d much rather spend time with you.”

“Elvis, the road!” She shrieked when the road ahead curved and he didn’t seem to realize, gaze still fixed on her.

He veered the car sharply with a laugh. “Cherry. don’t always get your knickers in a twist. I know what I’m doing.”

Why was it, when she got in a car with him he was always actively trying to kill her? She clung to him, wondering if he drove like a maniac just so get her closer to him.

“So where exactly are we going?” She breathed, squeezing his arm at another turn.

“I don’t know, just figured I’ll just drive around.”

After thirty minutes and at least four moments she had been sure they were about to crash and her life had flashed before her eyes, he finally decided to pull over at the end of a dark, empty street at the edge of the line of trees.

They got out of the car and Mary quickly spotted a body of water behind the trees and pulled her coat tight around her body, her breath escaping as a cloud of mist into the frigid air. Upon noticing her shivering Elvis opened the trunk to retrieve a blanket before reaching out for her hand again. There was a sign in the grass, an information board providing information. “Hattsteinweiher.” She read out loud, picking up bits and pieces in the small text. She’d been practicing German more and more, but longer paragraphs like this still made her struggle a bit.

“Whatever that means.” Elvis commented with a shrug.

She gave a small snort as they continued their way through the wet grass towards the lake.

“It’s a nice place.” He said quietly, his gaze lingering on the water. “Peaceful.”

“It is.” She agreed. “Have you been here before?”

He shook his head, looking around. It was a small lake, you could probably swim to the other side in about ten minutes. It was surrounded entirely by trees, only with a small strip of dark sand right on the edge of the inky water. It was perfectly still, reflecting a mirror image of the clear night sky above with the moonlight shimmering over the surface.

“I’m sure it’s beautiful in summer. We’ll have to come back here.” Mary marveled, already picturing herself spread out on a towel in the sand, basking in the warm afternoon sun after a swim.

“If that means I get to see you in a bathing suit, count me in, honey.” He winked with an ease that made her knees weak.

“Well, I get to see you in your trunks, I guess it’s a win for both of us.” Mary replied and reached out to grab a handful of his butt, making Elvis jump. She let out a loud laugh before he narrowed his eyes at her with a smirk that promised no good. “Now, you wait, you little-“

She didn’t even let him finish and took off with a yelp, narrowly escaping his arm already reaching out for her behind. It was way too dark to see where she was actually going, so she made a beeline towards a nearby bench, plopping down to spare herself the embarrassment of tripping over her own feet. Plus, there was no way she’d actually be able to outrun him. “Time-out, time-out.” She panted, forming a “T” with her hands.

“Already giving up?”

“Just resting.” She countered, clutching her side.

He sat down as well, scooting close to her. “Man, you sound like you just ran a damn marathon.”

“Never been a runner.” She laughed, still trying to catch her breath. “No Olympics for me.”

Elvis snorted and put an arm around her shoulder, tilting his head towards her. “I sure would love to see that, though.” He spoke in a low voice and a waggle of his eyebrows.

Mary gave him a knowing look. “I have no doubt you would. Just so you can laugh at me being the opposite of athletic.”

“I’d never laugh at you, Cherry.” He stated, his eyes twinkling with mirth and his mouth twisting, barely able to contain a grin.

“Can’t even keep a straight face, cuz you’re laughing at me right now. Liar.” She stated in mock offense. “You’re talking to the girl who, when she finally got her turn to pitch in middle school softball, managed to launch the ball behind her. They took me off the team after that.”

Elvis let out a loud laugh, reached towards the ground, picked up a few rocks and carefully placed them next to him on. One after the other he began hurling them into the lake with a grunt, each landing with a loud splash. “What’s so hard about that?”

“Okay, show-off! I guess it just takes special talent to defy laws of physics.” She chuckled. “Also, now you’re ruining the peacefulness.”

“Cherry, I ain’t ruining nothin’, you know damn well you’re the one who started it, running around here like some crazed wanton woman. Peace was already disturbed.”

“I restored it by requesting a time-out.” She formed a “T” with her hand again, as if to remind him.

He leaned his head back. “That’s how it’s gonna work, huh? I’m the disturber of peace, you’re a party pooper. What’s new?”

As if to prove a point Mary grabbed a rock and threw it as far as she could. Which wasn’t even half the distance Elvis had reached. Elvis gave a low whistle for comedic effect until it hit the surface of the water. “Look at you, honey. That was plum pitiful.”

“Don’t you ever think you’re hitting a poor fish on the head?” Mary mused. “It’s what the dinosaurs must’ve felt like when the asteroid hit.”

Elvis turned and gave her a weird look, one eyebrow raised in a mix of confusion and disbelief, as if she’d grown a second head.

“Keeps me up at night.” She shrugged.

Elvis looked towards the water as if actually contemplating her words before snorting and affectionately leaning his forehead against hers.

“What??” Mary exclaimed with a small laugh as his cold nose bumped against hers.

He pecked her lips. “Nothin’. You’re just weird. And silly. Silly, silly girl.”

“Glad to hear I amuse you.”

“You do, that’s why I keep you around. You make me feel normal by comparison, I look downright sensible standin’ beside you.”

“Ha Ha.” She did her best to sound as sarcastic as possible. “Only for that?” She asked, rubbing her hands together, her fingers slowly getting numb from the icy wind.

Elvis casually spread the quilt he brought over them, making sure she’s fully tucked in, like he was putting her to bed. “Nah, you’re also sweet when you pretend to be annoyed with me.”

“Pretend?” Mary asked, pulling at the coarse fabric.

“Yep.” He replied, popping the “P.” “Admit it. You love me.”

“...I do.” She nodded, again, there was just no way she could deny that. “You know, this reminds me of that night on the USS Randall.” Mary whispered fondly, the memory of them sharing a blanket the night before they arrived in Bremerhaven replaying in her mind. It was one of her favorite memories for sure, the kind that you think about over and over again when you can’t sleep.

Elvis exhaled with a whistle as the memory flashed before his eyes. She knew it was a conflicting memory for him. She vividly remembers the fear in his face after his carefully crafted mask slipped off in the most unexpected and intimate way, exposing a scared, deeply vulnerable boy under all the self-assured, charming smiles and witty comments. “It sure was cold that night. Glad I wasn’t alone. Found this real cute girl at the show, trying to get autographs for her little friends.”

“Ready to risk anything. I still have that you know? That autograph you gave me. I honestly didn’t think I’d ever see you again.” She confessed.

“The one you begged me for after kissing me?”

“That is not what happened.” She objected with a decisive shake of her head.

He bit his bottom lip and smirked at her blank expression. “Hmm, whatever you say, honey.”

Mary playfully shoved at his shoulder only for him to put both his arms around her and squeeze her, his eyes softening. “I think it’s really sweet you still have that.” He cooed into her ear. “I think you’re sweet too.”

She leaned into his touch and threw another stone, watching the reflection of the moon ripple in the water. “Seems like ages ago.”

“I don’t know, you still look the same to me. Nah wait, is that a gray hair?” His brows furrowed in mock concentration as he twirled a strand of her hair in his fingers.

“Must be. See what dealing with you is doing to me?” She joked. “In three weeks I’ll look like Dodger.”

He chuckled in response “Give or take”. His head dropped back on her shoulder and he took a deep breath before speaking up again, his tone growing more somber. “I really couldn’t do this without you, Cherry. I-I hope you know that.” She hugged him back and pulled him closer to her, his body warm and solid against hers.

“I’m serious, honey, meeting you that night-“ He shook his head, searching for words that never came easy to him in situations like these. “I-I don’t know what I’d do without ya. I’m just real glad you’re here now. And you’re not leaving.”

“I know, I’m staying." She confirmed, her fingers combing through his hair. “I’m glad to be here too. I like it better here than in Frankfurt anyway. The city is so loud. And you know how much I liked living in that small apartment with my family.”

“Heard you complain about it once or twice.” He tilted his head to look up at her, eyes searching hers intently. “But, let me tell you, you’ll miss it. It’s a big thing for a little girl like you. Moving away.”

“I’m almost nineteen, I’m not little.” Mary countered with furrowed brows.

But Elvis wasn’t having it. “Yes you are. And I promised I’ll take good care of you, but family is important, Cherrypie. Don’t want you forgetting that.”

“I won’t.” She reassured him. “Besides, they’re only an hour away. It’s not like I’m on the other side of the world.”

“And that’s good. You’re gonna call them everyday. And they can come visit as much as they want. I want you to tell them that.” He spoke in a tone that didn’t leave any room for arguments.

“Anything else, Boss?”

“I’m serious, Mary. You need to stick close with your folks. It’s why I brought my people with me.” He explained, his tone urgent. “Even Lamar and Red, they can be annoying dumbasses, but deep down they’re good boys and I trust them. Like family.”

She held his intense stare, fully aware why he was pressing the topic so much. “...I know. And I do appreciate the offer.” He nodded and dropped his head on her shoulder again. “I just think I’m not realizing that I’m actually staying this time. No going back home. Hasn’t registered yet.” She tapped her temple with an apologetic smile.

His hand wandered over her thigh soothingly. “Are you scared? You don’t have to be scared, honey.”

“I’m not, promise. Got you to take care of me, right?” She echoed his words from earlier and felt him grin against her shoulder.

“That’s right, Cherry. You got me, and I got you.”

“I don’t know why I made such a big fuss.” She sighed.

“Told ya, you’re overthinking it, should’ve listened to me more.” He tapped her knee. “But I knew you wouldn't leave me out in the cold.”

A gentle curve touched her lips. “Speaking of cold. Is it normal I can’t feel my legs and arms?”

“Okay, honey, time to go.” He snorted, nudging her to get up from the bench.

They huddled close once they were in the car, and she spoke up again. “God, I can’t wait for summer. One day I’ll live on a tropical island, I swear. I hate the cold.”

“Hmm, I think it’s cozy.” He mumbled as his breath ghosted over her neck, making her shiver even more. His hand rested comfortably on her hip and squeezed, urging her to move even closer to him. The heat radiating off his body gave her goosebumps as it spread through her skin and down her spine. “Of course summer also has it’s, uh, perks. Seeing my cute Cherrypie in a swimsuit.” His plush lips pressed against her pulse point, making her close her eyes with a sigh. “Making love to her in the water.”

She let out a scandalized squeal and he playfully bit her earlobe. “Nah, don’t go all prim and proper on me now, honey, you still owe me one.” His fingers now grazed the back of her thigh, drawing tauntingly slow circles there. Suddenly she didn’t feel cold anymore. At all.

“I’ve really missed you. Missed you bad.”

Mary buried a hand in his hair in response, gripping tightly and relishing the softness of it – she’d never grow tired of running her fingers through his hair. He seemed to agree, sighing contentedly before brushing his lips over her cheek only to stop at the corner of her mouth.

“Thought ‘bout you so much.” He whispered, his hot breath ghosting over her lips. Mary angled her body towards him, the black leather beneath her creaking with her movement, and caught his full bottom lip between hers.

“I missed you too.” She whimpered between kisses, the familiar comfort of his touch wrapped around her like a cocoon, her heart aching with longing for him. Tasting him was like a drug, an addiction she was sure she’d never be able to overcome. Her head started spinning when his soft tongue ran over her lip and she clutched him tightly, holding onto him like a lifeline.

After a few seconds she had to pull away from him to catch her breath, already missing the feeling of him on her lips. Still panting heavily, Mary tilted her head and started kissing down his jaw, towards his neck. The smell of gasoline and sweat filled her nostrils as she continued her gentle trail over his soft skin, sucking and licking wherever she could. It was as if she couldn’t get enough of him, trying desperately to get as close as possible, like she would suffocate without him.

He moved his hand from the back of her thigh towards her butt, urging her forward. Promptly she lifted one of her legs and swung it over his lap, her chest now pressing against his. He slowly slipped her coat from her shoulders, his touch lingering as he skimmed her arms. She gave a small shimmy to help it along, making the fabric pool at his feet. He made a small noise in the back of his throat and began tugging at her blouse. Once he’d freed it from her skirt he slid his hand in, his fingers sprawled over her bare back, pressing her even closer against him. He traced the line of her spine until he reached her bra strap, deliberately hooking his thumb under it.

Mary pressed herself down on his sturdy thigh, the circular motion creating a wonderful friction. It was like a magnetic pull originating down between their bodies, her fingers brushing against the waistband of his pants on their own accord. With slightly shaky hands she started fiddling around with the button, eager to feel more, to feel him.

“Woah, Cherry, slow down.” He rasped, his hands grabbing her hips before lifting her off his lap, back onto the seat next to him, the sudden motion leaving her disoriented for a second.

“Why?” She blew some hair out of her face and attempted to climb on top of him again before she lost her courage.

He held her by her shoulders before letting out a snort at her pouty face. He cupped her chin softly, a glint in his eyes at her obvious impatience. “There’s no need to rush anything, baby.”

“Yes, there is. Please let me.” She grabbed his hand and held it between hers before leaning in to press a few kisses to his cheek until she reached his ear, brushing her lips right behind the shell of it. Then she let his hand fall on her chest and began undoing the buttons of her blouse.

“Honey, be good.” He chided, a slight edge to his voice.

“I’m not doing anything.” She murmured, withdrawing just the slightest bit.

“Not doing anything, my ass.” He jumps slightly when she started nibbling on his earlobe. “You’re not playing fair.”

“If it gets me what I want I don’t care.” She quoted him, speaking in a low voice she hoped sounded seductive, while shaking off her blouse in the process.

His eyes flickered down to her bra. “Ha! Nah, Cherry, baby, see t-that is a lie. You’re just a sweet itty-bitty thing that doesn’t even know what’s good for her.”

She raised her eyebrows and brushed over the short hair on the back of his neck. “And you do?”

“Mhm, I know. I-I keep telling you, but you’re damn stubborn sometimes.” He murmured accusingly.

Before she could protest he slipped his soft tongue back into her mouth, his hand that was sprawled over lower belly started wandering lower, toying with the hem of her bunched up skirt. It would be so easy to let herself fall into his touch again, but she was a woman with a mission. She swiftly placed his hand on her hip and went back to nuzzling his neck, inhaling deeply as his pulse fluttered wildly beneath her lips.

Her tongue ran over his neck, savoring the tasting of salt on his skin, and she reached downward once more, palming him though his pants, feeling the bulge there. This time he didn’t stop her, quite the opposite, his hips thrust up slightly, meeting her hand. A quiet gasp escaped her, a familiar ache building between her own legs. He watched her closely, studying her, his chest heaving, as if daring her to carry on. Only the subtle jiggle of his knee betrayed him, a small, nervous rhythm that matched her own fluttering heart.

With a deep breath Mary slowly began to undo his zipper, willing her hand to finally stop shaking, while he watched her with dark eyes, the air thick and buzzing with anticipation. He stared, eyes unwavering, just his lips curling slightly as he saw her fighting her nerves. She met his eyes again, holding his piercing gaze, challenging him. With a flick of her wrist she cupped him, feeling his weight in her palm, warm and velvety.

A strangled grunt escaped him and Mary squinted at him in the darkness, trying to determine his reaction. A soft pink hue touched his cheeks and his eyes fell shut as a shudder went through his body and he bucked up into her hand again. Carefully she wrapped one hand around him, holding still for a moment, relishing the unguarded expression on his face and how she was the one causing it. She bit her lip, stifling the grin that tugged at the corners of her mouth at her small triumph. Slowly she began pumping her hand up and down, watching his Adam’s apple bobbing as he leaned his head back.

“Damn it, Cherry. Don’t stop.” He whispered, his voice failing him. His lips parted and the only sound she could hear was his heavy breathing between them. It made her whole body tingle, a slight tremor electrifying her muscles as if struck by a thousand tiny lightning bolts. Spurred by that energy she increased her pace despite the ache already forming in her wrist.

“God damn.” He breathed before biting down hard on his glistening bottom lip, a sheen of sweat covering his forehead. With every jerk she gave he grew more uninhibited, his restraint melting away like candle wax over an open flame. It was exhilarating, having that kind of power over him. Usually he had her writhing beneath him, completely at his mercy. Now it was he whose hands fumbled clumsily over her body, kneading and groping whatever he could reach. His neediness was intoxicating, and she had to clench her own thighs to focus over the throbbing between her legs.

Then all of a sudden he groaned, loudly and bucked forward as he coated her hand in white, creamy liquid. His hands dug harshly into her hips, in an effort to hold her still, or just holding onto her, she wasn’t sure. It didn’t matter. Mary couldn’t tear her eyes off him as she watched his body involuntarily twitching and jerking to a rhythm only he could hear. His dark eyelashes fluttered against his still reddened cheek, his swollen lips closing as he swallowed hard. No, looking away from him felt physically impossible, Mary thought - she saw the most beautiful man in the world in front of her. She carefully wiped the sweat off his forehead and ran a hand through his disheveled hair, trying to ground him again.

“Hey, baby.” She whispered with a small smile.

He just hummed and licked his lips, not looking like he registered anything at the moment.

“Uh… Do you have any... napkins?” She awkwardly held up her other hand.

“Huh?” He replied, clearly still in a daze, eyes half-lidded.

Mary nodded to herself with a snort and quickly looked around the car before opening the glove compartment and fishing out a piece of cloth kept there for the windshield. Well, she thought and quickly wiped her hands before reaching down to clean him up too.

He let out a hiss and frowned. “Careful, honey, I’m sensitive.”

“Sorry.” She smiled bashfully, quickly finishing up.

“S’okay.” He slurred. “Come here, where are you going?” He muttered as she moved over, his arms blindly reaching out for her. “Stay right here.”

She settled right next to him again. “I’m right here.”

“Yes you are. My wittle baby is right here, where she belongs.” He cooed as he pressed his cheek against hers.

“Elvis!” She giggled as he shifted his weight and leaned over, pushing her back until she was almost laying down, with him on top of her.

“You’re so cute, I could eat you up.”

“Ow!” She yelped with a small laugh as he bit down on her clavicle.

He just laughed, quickly kissing the spot he just sank his teeth into. “Now, where did you learn how to do that?” He murmured into her neck.

She shrugged. “I improvised.”

“Need to let ya improvise more often.” He nodded against her.

“If you’ll let me.” She laughed as he hummed in agreement.

Back at the hotel late that night Mary moved as quietly as she could, though he hardly bothered. Once they were upstairs he pulled her into his room with such ease that she wondered if she’d ever use her own. It already felt so natural to get undressed and crawl into bed with him. She’d stopped asking about the small orange prescription bottles constantly residing on his bedside table and waited patiently as he retrieved a few white pills and dry swallowed them without another word. Then pulled her against his chest, his heartbeat right beneath her ear and she felt herself drifting away with his arms securely around her.

After what felt like only a few minutes of sleep there was a harsh knock on the door, startling both Elvis and Mary out of their embrace, limbs tangled together beneath the comforting warmth of the crumpled sheets. “Your friend is here, asking for you.” Minnie Mae’s voice sounded from the other side of the door.

Elvis let his head fall back against the pillow and closed his eyes, while Mary squinted at the window, trying to figure out what time it was. The room was bathed in a soft orange glow and she figured it must be morning already.

“What friend?” Mary asked with a yawn.

His eyes remained closed as he frowned, as if trying to remember himself. Keeping up with his own schedule wasn’t necessarily a strength of his, Mary quickly learned.

A few seconds passed with her looking expectedly at him, only for him to let out a snore. She lightly touched his shoulder, making him jump a little and close his mouth. It was pretty adorable and she had to contain a giggle. “Elvis?”

“...Uh, I think Elisabeth and Rex wanted to stop by today.” He muttered, his words barely intelligible.

“Oh.” Mary leaned up on her elbow. “That’s nice.”

He hummed and craned his head to place a kiss to what he probably thought was her mouth. His lips however ended up on her elbow – not that he noticed in his half asleep state. “Why don’t you go say hello to them for me, hm?”

“And... you’re not coming?” She asked, a bit perplexed.

He sighed and covered his eyes with his arm dramatically. “Honey, it’s Saturday, I work all week, let me sleep a little longer. I’ll be with you soon.”

“Seriously?”

He nodded. “As serious as it can be. They’re trying work me to death here.”

Mary shook her head with a small smile and pressed a proper kiss to his lips. “Wouldn’t want that. All right, Sleeping Beauty.” She threw her pillow at him before getting up and going to the bathroom, successfully dodging the same pillow that came flying her way only a moment later.

“Next time.” He mumbled as she closed the door behind her.

That man was way too persuasive, Mary pondered as she made her way downstairs, on her way to greet his guests. He didn’t even have to do anything except ask her – once – and bat his pretty eyelashes at her. She was a lost cause, truly.

She did like Elisabeth and Rex but still felt a little uneasy with her presence. The fact that Elvis apparently kept inviting her over just didn’t sit right with her, even though he’d assured her multiple times that there’s no reason for her to worry. Rex seemed to hang around most of the time as well, so they weren’t even alone. Mary shook her head at herself. Stop worrying so much.

She quickly spotted Elisabeth in the breakfast room adjacent to the hotel lobby and called out for her.

“Oh, hello Mary, it’s nice to see you again.” Elisabeth smiled and reached out for a brief hug.

“Nice to see you too. It’s been a while.” Mary replied politely.

“Yeah, that’s true. Where is Elvis? I saw Mrs. Presley earlier, she said she’ll look for him. She never came back.” Elisabeth shrugged.

“Oh, he’s, uh, busy, he’ll be here soon though.” Mary offered with a reassuring smile. Something about telling Elisabeth that he preferred to sleep and sent her instead just didn’t seem right. Why was it that her brain couldn’t cough up at least one halfway-smart excuse though?

Elisabeth only nodded.

“...So you just got here this morning? From Grafenwöhr?” Mary blurted after a few seconds of awkward silence.

“I arrived very late last night. I’m a bit tired to be honest. I’ll get some coffee, do you want some?”

“Tea please, thank you.” Mary answered took a seat in one of the dark wooden chairs, smoothing down her skirt as she did so. So far so good.

“So, you arrived yesterday as well?” Elisabeth inquired as she joined her a few seconds later, setting two steaming mugs down on the table.

“Yeah, I got in around noon.”

“Elvis told me you’re gonna start working for him? That’s certainly exciting.”

Mary reached for a cube of sugar, dropped it into her tea and started stirring. “I know. I’m not sure what I’m getting myself into here.” She let out a small chuckle.

Elisabeth eyed her intently for a second before scooting closer with her chair and speaking in a hushed tone. “But, you two are, like a thing right?”

For a moment Mary was taken aback by Elisabeth’s directness and started fidgeting under the table. She took a deep breath as she processed the question. If she only knew what exactly they were. She’d love to provide an adequate answer. For herself, too.

“I, uh, guess we are. You know how he is.” Was she oversharing now? What was it to Elisabeth anyway? The two women hardly knew each other. On the other hand she couldn’t deny that the prospect of talking to someone who actually knew Elvis and understood what he was like was something Mary craved deeply. Even though she didn’t know if she could fully trust Elisabeth, she felt a strange sort of kinship towards her. Talking to her friends back in Frankfurt about her love life was tricky, maybe she finally found someone to confide in. “I do care deeply about him.”

Elisabeth gave her a knowing smile. “You looked very much in love when I last saw you two at the cinema in Grafenwöhr.”

“That obvious?” Mary let out a snort, overplaying the bashfulness she suddenly felt.

Elisabeth nodded with a grin. “These girls outside would love to trade places with you.”

“To be honest I’m not quite sure what he sees in me. Sometimes I wonder if I was just in the right place at the right time.”

“Does it ever bother you?” Elisabeth nodded towards the fans waiting in front of the hotel nearly every hour of the day.

Mary looked down, watching the tea bag swirl around the steaming water. “I know he has a reputation. I want to trust him. But I’m also a realist.” She glanced up again, right into Elisabeth’s sympathetic face. “According to the media his current girlfriend is this Margit Bürgin.” His German girlfriend at least, Mary thought. Of course there was also the American, Anita Wood. And god knows who else.

Elisabeth opened her mouth only to close it again. There was something she wanted to say and Mary cocked her head in curiosity.

“I met her before. Margit.” Elisabeth clarified.

“She was here?” Mary asked, not really surprised. Still, that sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach, a nasty mix of jealousy and disappointment, made her swallow hard.

“About two weeks ago. I was here for the weekend.” Elisabeth hesitated again. “Elvis asked me to translate, poor girl doesn’t speak a word of English. I don’t want to be mean, Margit is nice, but she seems like a little airhead… We went to that bar that the boys visit every weekend. It was all a bit awkward.”

So much for Elvis’ claim that this wasn’t really his scene. Not that Mary had actually believed him, but still. Why would he just lie to her like that? He should know that he didn’t need to hide or pretend anything from her, at least that’s what she hoped.

“I’m sure it’s just a publicity thing.” Elisabeth finished her story with a nonchalant shrug, indicating that it is probably no big deal. Her tone, however, sounded like someone who’d said too much and was now trying to salvage whatever they can.

Mary appreciated the sentiment and nodded along. “It probably is.” She replied, her smile indifferent.

Still, Elisabeth sensed the tension now hanging over them, yet unable to do anything about it.

“So, do you visit often?” Mary asked in what she hoped was a cheerful tone, anything to make the woman sitting across from her stop watching her with that pitiful expression on her face.

Thankfully Elisabeth got the hint and started chatting away, just as desperate for a change of topic. “I’m visiting every other weekend. It’s quite a journey from Grafenwöhr. Takes me nearly eight hours to get here by train. Rex is here most days. He and Elvis became quite close the last few weeks.”

Mary cleared her throat. “Speaking of, where’s Rex? Elvis told me he’d come as well.”

Elisabeth lowered her gaze to the delicate silver watch on her wrist. “Oh yes, he should be here any minute now.”

Just as Mary wanted to reply there were thundering footsteps approaching, followed by Elvis’ booming laughter.

“Elvis, what’s going on?” She called as he ran towards her, a bottle of shaving cream in his hand. He stopped next right to her, completely out of breath and suddenly bent down to spray some shaving cream right onto her nose, making her scrunch up her face.

“Got some cream there, Cherrypie.” He grinned widely, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes, paying no mind to Elisabeth.

“You-“ Mary gasped with a playful smile and raised her hand to wipe the foam off her nose. She was about to reach out to smear it on his face when Red and Lamar entered as well, wild looks on their faces, huffing and puffing while they both clutched their own bottle of shaving cream. So, that’s what he was running from. They could be such children sometimes.

Other guests already began leaving the breakfast room at the chaotic scene in front of them, not eager to witness or be involved in whatever Elvis and his strange entourage was up to. Mary raised her eyebrows.

“Maybe request a time-out?” Mary joked, half hoping they’d actually stop.

“Nah, honey, this is war, no time-outs here.” Elvis countered, his gaze fixated on the two men across from him as he moved behind her.

“Okay, but don’t use me as a human shield now. Only I’m allowed to do that to you.”

“So, that doesn’t really sound fair, now does it, Cherrypie?”

She turned around, still eager to wipe off the foam still covering her hands, preferably on him. “Well, I have nothing to do with this, I’m just an innocent bystander.”

“Innocent, my ass.” Elvis dodged her attack with ease, jumping backwards.

“Elvis!”

“Sorry, honey, still don’t have a napkin for ya.” He snickered with am impish smile, making her close her eyes in concentration, forcing away the blush that threatened to explode on her cheeks, especially when she heard Lamar and Red snort at the comment.

When she faced them with as much grace as she could muster a big splash of white foam came flying in her direction, landing right on her blouse. She gasped and looked up into Lamar’s face, who looked just as shocked as herself. Man, his aim was bad. So much for her dignity right now.

“Now look what you did, you incompetent-“ Elvis stopped himself before he could curse and decided to just glare at his friend, who now looked visibly uncomfortable. For a few seconds nobody moved a muscle, not even Mary dared to say anything. Upon seeing the terror on Lamar’s face however, Elvis couldn’t take it anymore, suddenly erupting into loud laughter. He used the fact that his friend was still staring at him like a deer caught in headlights to his advantage and took off, rushing back towards the lobby which lead to the staircase, still cackling like a madman.

Red quickly followed Elvis while Lamar blinked, taking a second longer to get his bearings again. “Asshole. Sorry Mary.” He muttered under his breath before taking off as well.

“You’re fine!” She shouted as he turned the corner, not even sure if he’d hear it.

“Oh dear.” Elisabeth breathed after a second and handed her a serviette she pulled from her dress pocket.

“Oh dear, indeed.” Mary agreed, dabbing the cloth against her chest. “He did use me as a human shield, can you believe that?”

Elisabeth grimaced slightly, not sure if she should actually laugh or not. “They can’t seem to stay out of trouble.”

“I know.” Mary agreed. “I’m actually kind of worried. They almost got kicked out the day after Elvis’ birthday after having a water fight in the hall.”

“Rex told me about it. He also said Elvis has been paying Herrn Schmidt double since that…uh incident.”

“He never mentioned that.”

“I’m not sure if Red and Lamar are aware of it, to my knowledge only Rex and Mr. Presley know.”

Only a moment later there was a shrill scream echoing through the hotel, making both women jump. Mary threw away the neatly embroidered napkin, while Elisabeth hit her knee on the table in shock. They shared a brief look, eyes wide and mouths open. “Oh my god, what are they doing now!?” Mary gasped as she jumped off her seat, nearly knocking over her half empty mug in the process.

Elisabeth got up just as quickly, looking equally alarmed. “Doesn’t sound good.”

The two women made their way towards the lobby, with Elisabeth nearly colliding with a very confused looking Rex Mansfield. “Elisabeth!” He gasped, holding her by her shoulders.

Mary paid them no mind, dashing past them to see what the commotion was about. As she rushed upstairs the smell of smoke entered her nostrils, getting more and more intense with each step she took.

“What the fuck, you stupid fucking asshole?!” Elvis’ eyes were raging as he was seizing up Red, he didn’t even notice Mary standing at the edge of the stairway. “You tryin’ to get us killed? Use your damn brain.” He barked as he pointed his finger towards his temple and shook his head, still glaring daggers at his friend. “Nah, ya just don’t have one, t-that’s what it is.”

Mary spotted a piece of what appeared to be a small piece of burned cloth on the floor next to them, the source of the slight smoky haze surrounding them. Otto Schmidt, the hotelier, suddenly appeared right behind her as well, red-faced and breathing heavily. “Raus, raus!” He screamed so loud that Mary was sure the entire hotel, or rather the entire town of Bad Nauheim could hear it. And even though Red and Lamar didn’t understand a word German they got the gist and quickly bolted, brushing past her without sparing her a look. Mary saw Elvis turn away, facing the wall and taking a deep breath in an attempt to steady himself.

“Mr Presley, enough is enough.” Herr Schmidt spoke up again, his accent heavier than usual.

Elvis turned towards the hotelier, but instead his eyes landed on Mary, who watched him, pale as a ghost. “Honey, no, you stay outta this!” He pointed his finger in her direction before coming up to her and putting a hand on her shoulder, lightly pushing her away from the scene. “Get outta here. Let me handle this.”

Hurt flickered across her face at the way he spoke to her and she froze. Being the target of his anger even for a split second was too much for her. Shame filled her, heavy and suffocating like a child being scolded by a parent after a stupid mistake and she lowered her gaze.

Even in the heat of the moment he seemed to notice and his face changed, looking more pleading as if he was actually concerned for her well-being. Mary willed herself not to take it personally as she gave a curt nod and made her way downstairs again. “Now, Mister - Herr - Mister Schmidt Herr - sir. Now listen...” She heard Elvis mutter just before he was out of earshot.

“Mary! What in god’s name is going on up there?” Elisabeth waited at the bottom of the stairs, a hand over her chest.

Mary took a shuddering breath and gestured upstairs helplessly. “Honestly, I don’t know myself, someone just tried to commit arson, I guess.” She stated, not quite believing it herself.

“Rex is talking to Red and Lamar right now, they’re outside.”

“I really think this might’ve been it. Herr Schmidt is really upset.”

Elisabeth’s mouth formed a thin line before she put an arm around Mary, pulling her towards the sofa nearby and sat down with her. When Rex came back inside he lowered himself onto the armrest next to them. “At least they’re smart enough not to come back inside for a few hours. They’re off, causing problems somewhere else.“ He muttered as he gestured away.

It was a few hours later already and Mary hadn’t seen Elvis all day. Vernon came to talk to her and Elisabeth, assuring them that they could stay and that she shouldn’t worry, everything would be taken care of. He even apologized for the whole ordeal.

After saying goodnight to Elisabeth and Rex she went back upstairs. She wanted to go to him. Talk to him right now. But he hadn’t sought her out all day and her own childish pride and insecurity now prevented her from knocking at his door. Instead she opted to hide and sulk alone in her room.

It was only after the sun had set, when the room felt dim and heavy and the deafening silence endlessly stretched around her that she began to eye her suitcase over in the corner of the room. No, she wasn’t gonna go back to live with her family, and now she was angry and annoyed at herself for even considering it. But she also couldn’t shake the feeling that she was just setting herself up to get terribly hurt by Elvis. Margit. Elisabeth. The throng of girls always waiting outside. She’d always be looking over her shoulder. Or worse, be alone, shut out of his world altogether, like she was right now.

She picked up a book but after she’d read the same paragraph eight times without processing any of it she sighed and chucked it aside, pursing her lips. Maybe a good cry would help, but as much as she wanted no tears would come and provide relief.

She was gonna get up and talk to him, see if he was alright, not just for him but for herself. There’s no way she could fall asleep before that. Then, right as she sat up, there was a knock on her door. Before she had a chance to answer she heard a harsh creaking sound, with Elvis appearing in the doorway, his brows knitted and his lips pressed in a thin line. Seriously, how does he do that all the time?

He softly closed the door behind him and cleared his throat. Carefully, tentatively he made his way towards her, the mattress sinking under his weight as he lowered himself on her bed. Without a word his arms snaked around her middle, pulling her body flush against his.

“You okay?” She whispered.

He just gave a non committal hum and tightly gripped her waist, effectively answering her question. She cooed and wrapped her arms tightly around him as well and began softly stroking his back. He practically melted into her touch, his face now smushed against her neck, his breath warm and moist on her skin.

“I know, Elvis, I know.” Mary murmured, running her fingernails over the soft fabric of his sweater.

They remained like this for a few minutes before he raised his head, propping his chin on her chest. “Cherry, baby, I shouldn’t have yelled like that earlier. Wasn’t right.”

“It’s okay. I’m not upset.”

“It wasn’t you.” He dragged a hand over his face and sighed heavily. “It’s just... those damned idiots. Never learned any manners or right behavior. If I don’t lay down the law, they’ll never learn.”

Mary bit her lip, preventing herself from blurting out that he had started this whole thing. Instead, she nodded. “Idiots. Yes. You had every right to be mad.”

“Almost lighting this whole place on fire. Assholes.” He mumbled with a shake of his head, a stern expression on his face.

Mary furrowed her brows. “What were they trying to do anyway? With the fire?”

A humorless laugh escaped him. “Smoke me out – I- I locked the door behind me and that’s what these half-wits came up with. God damn it.”

He eyed the spot on her blouse where Lamar had gotten shaving cream all over her. With a click of his tongue and pitiful eyes he placed his hand over it. His thumb stroked the cool fabric sitting on her burning skin. Only he could ever get away with touching a girl’s chest so casually. “And your pretty little blouse.” He commented before returning his gaze to her face.

Mary shrugged - this was really the least of her problems right now. Or his. “It’s really not-“

He interrupted her. “Gon’ make that sonofabitch Lamar walk to the post office for that.” A conspiratorial smile appeared on his face. “Imagine him treadin’ through the snow with bags and bags of fan mail.”

Mary giggled, relieved some of the tension in him seemed to fade away – at least for a moment. “That would be fun. He would slip on the ice like a cartoon character. Bang!” She clapped her hands together to emphasize her point.

Elvis let out a loud laugh. “Would serve him just right.” His eyes twinkled with mirth before they both settled into silence. His hand continued wandering absentmindedly over her shoulder, his thumb stroking her collarbone, comforting her. Maybe himself too.

Elvis swallowed hard next to her and – after tearing her gaze away from the veins on the back of his hand anyway – she looked up at his face again. She could see the gears turning in his head, a deep frown now back on his face. “Him and that other sonofabitch. Don’t do nothing but make my life harder all day. Gettin’ drunk and fightin’, making everyone in this whole hotel hate us.” He mumbled with another shake of his head.

“You know how many times I had to fuckin’ smile and nod and apologize t-to keep the damn peace.” He gestured around, his voice agitated.

“I understand you’re frustrated with them. But you did good earlier. With Herrn Schmidt.” She tried to console him, genuinely admiring the maturity he could show when it mattered.

He waved away as if it was no big deal. “Jus’ trying to keep a roof over our heads.”

“And you did. He looked ready to kick you out for good. Like, in that very moment.” She emphasized.

“He was, is, can’t blame the man.”

“What do you mean ‘is’?”

Another heavy sigh and more lines forming on his forehead. Mary felt his hesitation to speak up as if not wanting to share his burden with her. She continued running her fingers over his back, hoping it’ll encourage him to keep talking. It seemed to work.

“Gonna have to look for a new place sweetheart-“ He lowered his eyes, apparently not able to meet her gaze, looking almost ashamed. “Sooner rather than later. I know you just got settled in here, I'm sorry honey. But he won’t listen to sense. Even after all the goddamn money I gave him, pardon the expression.”

Mary shook her head so hard, the bow in her hair almost came undone. "No, no, no don't worry about me. I'm fine. Seriously." Mary looked at him intently, trying to reassure him. She couldn't believe him sometimes. He was now worried about her being uncomfortable? Sometimes the last person he'd worry about was himself. She reached out to caress his warm cheek. "As long as I'm with you."

He leaned into her touch like a cat, looking up to her through his long, dark lashes. "You really always know what to say to me, don't ya, Cherrypie?"

She shrugged helplessly. "I just want you to be happy."

"Aw, little baby. You make me happy.." He drawled before pressing a quick kiss to her palm.

Pleasant warmth began to spread through her whole body at the sincerity in his voice. "I love you." She whispered, not quite trusting her own voice.

"Love you too. More than anything."

The way he looked at her in that moment made her believe it.

"You're so sweet."

"And she's calling me sweet again." He sighed, trying to sound annoyed at the mere thought, however the way he was still nuzzling her hand told her otherwise.

"You are!" Mary grinned and then put a warning finger on his chest. "But if you ever yell like that at me again I'm gonna kick you."

“Who me? I could never yell at my baby. Must be mistaken. You're mean sometimes, you know that? I should be the one trying to kick you.” He pouted.

“Elvis stop, you’re crazy, you know that?”

“Me, honey, you’re the one who’s crazy.” He whined, still pouting. "How's a man ever s'posed to know what's going on in that head of yours?"

Funny, she thought, when he always knew exactly what was going on in her mind. "Sorry, next time I'll bring a manual." She offered with a careful smile.

He blew out some air, his lips puckered, as if the mere thought of that already exhausted him. "Nah, don't even wanna see the size of that book. It's more liable to give me a headache, trying to read all that."

“Then I can’t help you.” She murmured, squeezing him tight.

“Sure you can. Stop thinking, and be real sweet to me, Cherrypie. Like the sweet girl I know you actually are.”

Before she could think of a retort, he was nuzzling his nose against her cheek and lifting her up to carry her back to his room once more. Mary wondered if she would ever end up sleeping in her own bed.

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