tehya nic

Concept: 1. Poppy moves back to London to study. For high school she studied in Sydney, staying with her aunt and uncle at her wish. She didn’t like the high-life of Chelsea and found it overwhelming. But at age 18, the agreement was with her parents that she would come back to London to continue her education at Cambridge. She stays in Chelsea with her parents; rich, posh British socialites with connections everywhere in the UK. Good friends with the Buckley’s (high class family from Chelsea). Makes friends at university (based off Lana, Bec and Georgia). After a few weeks in London, her family decides it’s time for her to be introduced to the social scene, much to her disagreement, but a party is hosted in her honour. This is where she meets Charlie; cool, charming and handsome. She resists him at first, determined not to get roped into his world and forget about her studies and dream to be an architect, but over time and with his persistent attempts to get to know her, Poppy finds herself falling into Charlie’s reality of partying, romance and scandal. But what she didn’t bargain for was to fall in love as well. Meanwhile her younger sister Jesse is on drugs lol. Boy name ideas - Harry Styles - Charlie - River Montague Name ideas (lead): - Poppy - Zara - Freya - Phillipa (Pip) - Flora Friend names: - Matilda (Lana) - Gwendolyn (Georgia) - Libby (Bec) SCENE IDEAS: - Charlie teaching Poppy to play guitar - Going for a ride in his Porche - they leave London for a week together. Spontaneous and irresponsible. Charlie abandoning his band and poppy leaving her university. The drive to the sea and camp together along the way. - Charlie begs her to go on tour with him. She has to say no after what happened last time. And on a drunken night he sleeps with another girl. They nearly break up, poppy struggles to stay okay. Charlie is broken too, and when they bump into each other, they have a big fight in the rain. Poppy starts to run away, and he chases her, grabbing her wrists. They both stand and look at each other, poppy has tears in her eyes. He kisses her. He promises her he'll never leave. - Charlie gets Jesse off drugs. *Chapter One* Dear Mum, I’m looking forward to seeing you soon. I can't believe that in few days and I’ll be back in Chelsea, just like old times. Thank-you for looking after the flight, British Airways seems very fitting. Is Hansel picking me up from the airport? I haven’t seen him in years; hopefully he still has the same bushy moustache! I hope you understand that when I arrive back home, I expect not to be put under any sort of false pretence of entering the socialite fantasy which you and dad have for me. After all, one of the main reasons I asked to study in Australia was to escape that whole façade. Mum, it’s just not me ~ I never want to be changed into some Princess in Prada. So please, no parties, no dinners. I just want to come home, see my family and begin my course at Cambridge. Thank-you, mum. I love you. I hope you are well, give Jesse a big hug from me. Much love, Poppy xx I clicked send on the last email I would send to my mother as a part of our correspondence whilst I lived with my Aunt and Uncle in Australia. Closing my laptop screen, I scoped my room. A few items of clothing strewn across the floor and on the bed; not having yet made their way into my suitcases which were piled messily in the corner. I lifted my legs off the bed and placed my feet on the floor, padding out to the living room where my Uncle was sitting reading something on his iPad. “Jasper, I sent the email.” I sighed. My uncle’s eyes flicked up from his screen to me, “Good, Poppy. Your mother will understand.” I made my way to the sofa and sank down into the cushions. I pulled my long blonde plait around to my front and played with the strands. “I hope so. I just-” I exhaled again. “I don’t want to go back and be put into some ridiculous Gucci dress and made to talk to airhead 20 year olds. It’s all so boring.” Jasper reached out and placed a hand on my shoulder. “Hun, don’t worry too much about it. You’ll get back, see your sister, and start your course. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to…We’re going to miss you, though.” He smiled. “I’m going to miss you more than you know. You’ve been so good to me over the last 6 years. It’s like you’re my real dad now.” I frowned. “What are me and your Aunt going to do with you around?” Jasper laughed. “I suppose Woofs will become the centre of attention.” “Oh, like he already isn’t!” I looked over to our dog, sleeping peacefully on the opposite sofa, toys scattered around him. I wondered if he’d miss me. Jasper chuckled beside me. “You all packed?” he asked. I hesitated, thinking of the number of things I had neglected to pack. “Mostly. Only a few more bits and bobs.” “We leave in just under an hour, make sure you’re ready.” “I will be.” I said as I sat up, making my way back to the room that would soon be empty, holding only six years-worth of memories. *Chapter 2* The flight was comfortable, first class affording extra leg room and complimentary cocktails along the route. Twenty-four hours later, I had touched down in London and been picked up by my family’s chauffer, Hansel. He did indeed still have his moustache, but the sign holding my name he was waving around would have given me a clue anyway. “How are you, Ms McQuillen?” he asked in a Yorkshire accent. I had almost forgotten what he sounded like, and his words grated my ears. “A bit tired, Hansel, if I’m honest. Looking forward to a hot bath and a sleep. I can never sleep on planes.” I said. Hansel took my luggage in both hands and led us to where the Rolls Royce was parked. I swung my duffel bag over my shoulder and trailed behind him, hunching up against the cold London winds I certainly hadn’t missed. “Your mother and father are eagerly awaiting your return, Ms McQuillen.” Hansel said to me as he opened the passenger door. “And I, them. Oh and please, Hansel, it’s just Poppy.” I said, smiling at him. “Of course, Poppy.” He returned my smile, before sliding into the driver’s seat. We pulled away from the curb and made our way into the sluggish traffic of London. I rested my head against the door frame, watching the city roll past. The sky was a dullish grey with rain falling in slates against the window, a stark contrast from the sunshine I had just left behind. I let out a low breath and tried to prepare myself for seeing my mother and father for the first time in almost a year. A lot had changed in my life since they visited last; I’d had my first relationship, studied until I thought I’d be classified brain dead and passed school with flying colours. I wondered if, in their minds, I’d still be the girl they sent away, for I knew I certainly wasn’t. “Shouldn’t be long now, Poppy.” Hansel said, breaking me out of my thoughts. “We’re almost in Chelsea.” The buildings had transformed into polished, elegant architecture lined with perfectly sculpted trees and bushes. I had to admire how well-kept Chelsea was. Its residents certainly took pride in their homes, and brought a sort of life to the buildings. The car veered to the left and took us along a cobblestoned side-street. It eventually came to halt outside a large two-story house that immediately brought back a burst of memories; my childhood home. I stared at it from inside the car. It looked exactly the same, but smaller, although that was only due to the fact that I was now bigger. Everything as a child is twenty times bigger than it actually is. I felt a smile wash over my face as I thought of who was waiting for me inside – my younger sister who I had not seen in the flesh for two years. She was the one person I missed most. Leaving was only hard because of her. I wondered how big she would be now. Sixteen years old, probably through puberty with her pretty blonde hair now combed elegantly. Jesse had always been the feminine sister; she loved dressing up as a princess and had gold locks well past her middle. I, on the other hand, had my hair in an un-styled bob. Whenever my mother would take me to the hairdresser in an attempt to sort it, I’d always attack it with scissors later that night. To say I was the unruly child would be a kind way to put it. Today, however, I had dressed in slim fitted jeans, a navy t-shirt and knit sweater, and had my hair parted neatly down the centre in two plaits. I thought, at least, I should make some sort of effort to make the transition back to this world a little easier. The door was opened suddenly and cool air gushed into the car. I stepped out onto the pavement, my heels clacking against the stone. Hansel brought my suitcases around and waited for me to make my way up to the front door. I had to take a large gulp of air to steady myself before pushing forward. My knuckled rapped on the red wooden door and I could almost feel my heart in my throat. “She’s here!” I heard my mother’s voice call from inside. “Robert, get down here!” Her noisy footsteps echoed down the hallway as she rushed to the front door. She pulled it opened hastily, and I was greeted by a mixture of happiness and shock. My guess was she was glad to see me, but didn’t expect me to look so well groomed. “Mum!” I smiled weakly. Her arms were around me in seconds, pulling me into a back-breaking hug. “Oh, Poppy! I’m so happy you’re home.” I wrapped my arms around her and patted her on the back. “I’m happy to be back too.” She withdrew and gripped my shoulders, studying my face. “Eighteen becomes you, my dear.” She sniffed. “Mum…please, I haven’t changed that much.” I chuckled. “Robert! Come down and see your beautiful daughter!” she called behind her. My dad’s footsteps could be heard treading down the stairs, and then he was next to mum, a one-sided smile cracked over his face, deep lines in the corners of his hazel eyes. “Poppy…” he began. “Hey, dad.” I said. “Come inside, dear. Quickly.” He said, taking my duffel bag from my shoulder. “You too, Hansel.” "Thank you, David." Hansel said, brushing his feet off on the mat. "Carol." He tipped his hat to my mother. Dad led us down the passage, my mother behind him, muttering something about dirty shoes. He placed my bag on the hook in the hallway, and moved into the drawing room, beckoning me to the armchair beside him. “How are you, darling?” He asked. “I’m good, dad. It’s good to see you both.” I suddenly realised that there was someone missing. “Where’s Jesse?” I asked, looking around the room. “Uh…” Mum began. “Jesse’s out at the moment.” My dad cut in, looking at my mother seriously. I looked from him to her, a quizzical expression on my face. The Jesse I knew would be here for my return. “Out where?” “She has some business to take care of. A meeting.” My dad said bluntly. I knew immediately they were keeping something from me. A meeting? Not only was it a Sunday, but Jesse would not blow me off for a meeting. “We can talk about that later. You must be starving, Pops. Come into the kitchen, Phillipa made lemon tarts. Or perhaps something savoury? I think there's still some cheese platter left over from last night..." my dad trailed off as he made his way to the kitchen. I followed him. Phillipa, the part-time chef my parents have employed for as long as I can remember, was an extraordinary cook, and I hadn't had her legendary lemon tarts for six years. “A tart for me please.” I said, sitting on the barstool opposing the kitchen bench. Our kitchen could be described by most as "extravagant", much like everything in this house. It was enormous, with marble countertops and sleek silver finishing’s. The perfect architectural blend of old and new. My mother was busying herself with the kettle and china tea-set while dad prepared my food. I swung absent-mindedly on the stool, thinking about Jesse and how I was home after all these years. It seemed like nothing had changed except me. Dad slid me a silver platter with a tart on top. I began eating it, chewing slowly and letting the tangy flavours burst over my tongue. My memory hadn’t done them justice. “Darling your course begins next week, and your mother and I have arranged for all your text books to be delivered tomorrow morning. You should try to get some reading done before your first class. I’m sure all the students at Cambridge will have read them twenty times by now, so you’re at a slight disadvantage.” My father said, frowning. “No matter, no matter. We’ll get you at their level in no time. And if you feel that you might need a tutor, there’s a fabulous woman down in Kensington with a sterling reputation as an architect...” “Dad.” I interrupted. “Honestly, I’m going to be fine. I’ve been doing plenty of studying over summer. I don’t need a tutor.” For as long as I could remember, my dad had wanted me to the best at everything. Hence why he was making me study at Cambridge. If it had been up to me, I would have stayed in Sydney and trained there. “Of course, dear. Of course.” He said, smiling at me. “You just let me know if you need anything.” “Thanks. I think I’m going to go take a bath. Tell Phillipa I said the tart was delicious.” I jumped off the chair and made my way down the hallway to the stairwell. It was great to see my parents, but I already needed some space. The soft white carpet flattened beneath my feet as I relearnt the upstairs space. To my left was Jesse's and my area; two bedrooms, a rumpus room, two bathrooms and walk-in-robes. I entered my old room. It was now painted a warm white, with a double bed and white sheets. A desk stood in the corner of the room with a few plants lining the shelves, a vanity opposing the bed, and my favourite part of the room – the window seat. I ran my fingers across the vanity before making my way into the ensuite. The claw foot bath looked as inviting as ever. I began to run the water, testing its temperature. I took a few candles and a box of matches from the drawer beneath the sink, and laid them at the edge of the bath and along the stone counter, lighting them. A warm glow settled over the room and my eyes grew hooded. I stripped from my old clothing and cautiously placed my toes in the water. I slowly sunk my sore body into the bath, letting the warm and the soaps soothe my dry skin. Bubbles formed in little islands around my body and I leant my head gently against the headrest. It had been a long while since I'd had the luxury of a bath. I felt my mind float slowly away; worries about my course, my parents and my new life drifting into a far off reality. *Chapter 3* I was well and truly settled by my second week in Chelsea. My closest were full of new clothes thanks to my mother forcing me out shopping with the credit card she gave me, and my belly full with hearty winter meals. I had had my first week at Cambridge, the orientation. To my surprise I had managed to get an adequate understanding of the grounds, and I had even met a girl my age studying law. Like me, she lived in Chelsea and came from a wealthy family called the Buckley's. Her first name was Gwendolyn, but people called her Gwen. I had met her during our welcoming lecture for all the new students; she had sat next to me and we starting chatting, bonding over our mutual appreciation for a handsome boy sitting opposite us. Since then we had spent most lunches together, getting to know one another. However, even after two weeks back in my family home, I had barely seen my sister Jesse. When she finally came home on the first Monday morning after I arrived, she had given me a hug and vanished into her room for the rest of the day. Most days I was at university, and when I came home she was nowhere to be seen. I had guessed she was staying at her best friend Millie's house, but my dad has told me she had taken to spending every moment with her new boyfriend Harley. By Friday evening, I was sitting at home with my laptop, watching a movie when there was a rapt on my bedroom door. "Come in." I called, pausing my film. Both my parents poured into my room, large smiled planted on their faces. My mother was clasping her hands together in excitement while my dad went and sat down on the armchair in the corner. "Can I help you both?" I asked cautiously. "Darling," my mother began, "we have some extremely exciting news." Her smile widened so even her back teeth were showing. I eyed her suspiciously. "Tomorrow night, there's going to be a special event that your father and I have had planned for a while." "Mu-" I began, my mouth agape. "No, no, shhh! It's not negotiable. It's going to be fantastic, darling! Everyone who's everyone will be there to meet you and welcome you home. I scarcely think they'll recognize you for the scrawny little thing who left six years ago!" She said, grinning madly. "Dad, you can't let her do this!" I exclaimed, my eyes desperately searching for understanding within his. "Don't act like we're sending you to jail. It's a party, that's all." he said, a firm expression on his face. I could feel my mouth still hanging open. This was exactly what I had asked my parents not to do, the one thing I wanted most was my own privacy. "I can't believe you two." I said, my voice raising. "I ask one thing of you. This is exactly why I left. Don't you get it? I hate this world! I hate Chelsea, I hate the people and I hate how superficial you both are!" I yelled. Tears began to brim in my eyes, and I brushed them away with my fist, determined not to look weak in front of them. "You don't really mean that." my mother stuttered, her smile finally fading. "Just save it." I hissed, storming past them and down the stairs. I headed straight for the door, grabbing my coat along the way and stepped out into the freezing air. It whipped my hair into my eyes, and I brushed it away, letting my tears fall. How could they be so self-centered? They only wanted to exhibit me as some trophy child, come back from a foreign country and finally looking like a woman. I hated it. I stormed down the deserted street, not even looking where I was going. It was dark except for the scattered pools of light emitted from the street lamps above. My thoughts raced through my head and my stride quickened, as if my subconscious was trying to outrun my conscious. "Where you off too so late, love?" a voice called from behind me. I jumped, frightened half to death by sudden sound. I spun around, searching for the source. "Who's that?" I asked, trying to sound as calm as possible. The person chuckled. "Don't worry, I'm not going to hurt you." They walked into the pool of light near me, with their hands in the air. It was a guy about my age, maybe a few years older and standing easily over six foot tall. He was wearing a dimpled grin, and had bright blue eyes. "What do you want?" I asked defensively. I was not accustomed to being harassed in the streets, especially not on nights I had stormed out of my house. "Is that any way to talk to someone you just met?" The man asked, smiling. "I don't know you." I said, my jaw set tightly. I didn't like this guy's cheek. What was he playing at? "I'm River." he said, extending his hand to mine. I eyed it sternly, not flinching. He gave another chuckle. "Alright then." he withdrew his hand and placed it in his pocket. "Can I at least have your name?" "No. You can't. You can leave me alone." I said before turning around, and continuing my walk. I heard his quick footsteps behind me. "What do you want?" I asked venomously. "To know your name." He said, smirking. "And why would you want to know my name?" "Because I gave you mine and that's only fair. A name for a name, I always say." He shrugged. "Fine. It's Poppy. Now can you leave me alone?" I glared at him. "Poppy..." he said, rolling the word around his tongue. "Nice name." He smiled at me. I huffed, and continued walking but he was hot on my heels, keeping pace with me. "So you never answered my question." He said, puffing a bit from my pace. "What question?" "Where are you going to so late?" he asked. "I could ask you the same thing." I said, my voice thick with sarcasm. "I just finished a gig, needed a walk." He replied, completely unphased by my tone. "Okay, now you have to tell me." I sighed. "I had to get out of the house." "Ah," he said understandingly "family troubles?" "You could say that." "Don't worry, I'm sure they don't come close to how bad mine are." he laughed. I looked at him from the corner of my eye. Who was this guy? He caught my glare, and stopped laughing. "Sorry, I don't mean to disregard your problems." He said seriously. "Yeah, whatever." I snapped. "You can leave me alone now." For the second time that evening, I stormed off from someone. "Maybe I'll see you around, Poppy." He called from behind me, his voice deep and gravelly. I rolled my eyes knowing I never would, and dug my hands into my coat pockets, taking longer strides than before. I chose to head back home and crawl into bed as the cold was beginning to penetrate my coat. My phone's GPS guided me to my house, only to find the front door locked. Determined not to have to wake my parents and do the walk of shame back to my room, I climbed the fence to the back of the house, and managed to slide through an opened window. I crept upstairs to my room, closing the door softly behind me. The lamp beside my bed flickered feebly, casting a soft yellow light through my room as changed into my pajamas. My bed was warm from my laptop, so I snuggled in, ready to drift off to sleep when I heard a very disturbing sound. My eyes flickered open, and I instinctively strained my ears, trying to hear where it had come from. There was another one, this time of a lower pitch, definitely from a boy. I sat up, pushing my duvet away from my body, an expression of bewilderment on my face. There was another, and then suddenly they were filling the whole upstairs. I kicked the sheets away and jumped out of bed, leaving my room. I padded over to Jesse's room, and pressed my ear against the door. Sure enough, they were coming from in there. My breathing hitched as I became totally cognizant of what was happening. Before I could stop myself, I was knocking roughly on her door, ready to shout at her. There were gasps from inside, and the rustling of sheets. "Shit!" Jesse whined from inside. I could feel my brow setting in an unhappy expression. After a few seconds I figured they would have organized themselves, I yanked the doors open to find Jesse sitting in bed, alone. "Where is he, Jesse?" I asked sternly. She looked at me with doe eyes. "Where's who?" "Don't play dumb. Your boyfriend, make him come out and he can go home without any trouble." I said, my voice deadpan and eyes burning into her. "He doesn't have to come out. And he doesn't have to leave. This is my room." she said defiantly. I sighed. So she was going to play it this way? "Jesse this is our parents house. I'm trying to sleep right next door. Have some respect." "No one complained when you weren't here!" She spat, her eyes sending daggers into me. I faltered, her words ripped into me. She was the one person I wanted to come back for, and she didn't even want me here. "It was better when you weren't here." She said, her voice deathly low. Against my will, I could feel tears swelling in my eyes. How could she be so insensitive? I turned on my heels and sped out of her room, back to the safety of my bed. Tonight couldn't have been any worse if it tried. I wiped my eyes on my pillow, and wondered what on earth I was doing back here. *Chapter 4* I awoke to a ray of sunlight piercing through my curtains and into my room. My hair was a mess and my eyes were red, but still looked better than I felt inside. All I wanted to do was stay in bed and sleep through tonight, hope that someone else would attend the party in my place or my parents would cancel it all together. Perhaps if I pretended to be sick they'd let me stay home. I groggily lifted my arm to check the time on the phone screen left beside my bed. 11am. Sighing, I hoisted my weight up onto my elbows and scanned my bedroom. My eyes flicked over something out of place; a dress hanging from the back of my door. I swung my legs to the side of my bed and crossed the room to look at the garment. I had never seen it before and my guess was my mother had purchased it in hopes that I would wear it tonight. Sure enough, it was a Christopher Kane dress - short, black and with a psychedelic sort of print of a human brain. It was different, but it was surprisingly me. In spite of the circumstance, I admired my mothers choice. I ran my hands over the fabric, it was like black water slipping through my fingers. Beside it was my dressing gown which I tugged on along with my slippers, and headed downstairs for some breakfast. My dad was sitting at the kitchen bench with a newspaper and a cup of coffee, my mother nowhere to be seen. "Morning." I said in my raspy morning voice. He looked up, and craned his neck around a vase of flowers to see me. "Morning Pops. Feeling a bit better this side of the night?" I poured a cup of tea from the pot on the counter. "A bit. I'm still angry at you though." "I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe a new pair of shoes will make you feel better?" He picked up a bag on the floor beside him, and placed it on the counter top. It had Jimmy Choo printed on it. "Dad...I don't want these." I said, a look of defeat on my face. It was like no matter how hard I tried, my parents couldn't seem to realise I wasn't like the daughter they had in mind. "But you used to love shoes. Your mother picked these out especially for tonight, she said they'd match your dress perfectly." He reasoned. "I appreciate it, I do, and I don't want you to think I'm being rude, but dad honestly this whole thing is just awful to me. It feels like you're just dressing me up like some doll and displaying me to everyone you consider important." My dad sighed, looking down at his newspaper in front of him. "I understand, Poppy. I don't want you to think its for my benefit, it's just something your mother thought you might enjoy. I'd ask that you'd go, for her sake at least." I considered that. If mum had wanted me to go because she thought I'd like it, I figured I owed it to her in some way. After all it had been six years since I was here, I may as well go to one event and then leave it for good. Besides, I wasn't inclined to enjoy it. "Well...if it's only for a few hours, I'll go. For mums sake. And I'll wear the shoes too." I resolved. Dads eyes lit up at my words and he rubbed his hands together. "Great news, great news. I'll phone your mother. Oh, and I think she said something about a hairdressers appointment for you and Jesse at midday, so make sure you're ready by then." "With Jesse?" I asked, more accidentally than intentionally. I wasn't keen to spend any time with her after how rude she'd been last night. Dad sensed my tone, and his eyes flicked up from his newspaper to meet mine. "Is there something wrong with that?" "Don't worry about it. I'll be ready by then." I said, taking a croissant from the bowl on the bench, and shuffling back to my room. I showered and dressed in my winter clothes, dabbing on a bit of makeup for the day. Jesse was lying on the couch, waiting for me to drive us to our appointment. She avoided eye contact, and followed me silently to the car. I slid into the drivers seat and punched into the GPS the address dad had given me. The awkwardness rose as the silence in the car became increasingly obvious. "Did you mean what you said to me last night?" I asked, finally breaking the tension. She sighed, clearly what she had been avoiding was now an inevitable conversation. "No..." she mumbled. "Then why would you say it? You've changed so much, Jesse. I would have never thought you'd be so mean." I said, my brow furrowed. "I'd never of thought you'd be so stupid. Of course I've changed Poppy! It's been six years since you've really seen me." "Even so, you've become everything we used to laugh about in girls your age. You're only sixteen and I caught you having sex in our house." I argued. "I have a boyfriend who I happen to love. We waited for six months before I felt ready, and he was kind and gentle and everything you could want." Jesse snapped, her green eyes locked on me. "This whole things is as much a change for me as it is for you. It's just been me with mum and dad for ages, and now you come back and expect everything to be just the way it was? Wake up, people change." She said hotly. I faltered. Her words we're far more truthful and mature than I had expected. They cut deeply, shaking me into her reality and out of mine. Somewhat ashamed of myself, I kept my attention to the road. My eyes following the separated white lines of the approaching road. Moments past before I mumbled, "You're right...I'm sorry." "I shouldn't be so naive. Of course your different, I guessed I had just been living in the past." I sighed, locking my eyes onto my knuckles as they slackened over the steering wheel. "Poppy I still love you, that hasn't changed. And I'm sorry for what I said, I didn't mean it. I am glad you're home, big sis." She said, her voice a lot softer than before. I felt a weak smile break over my lips, which was replicated on my sisters face. Before I knew it I was laughing, and she was too. A chuckle at first that soon turned into deep, chest-heaving bursts of laughter that made it difficult to concentrate on the road. Our cackles bounced off the car walls for what seemed like hours. A tight knot in my chest could be felt loosening with each laugh, like I was finally being cured from the haziness that had clouded me since I left Australia. I managed to maneuver the car into what could be justified as a parking position outside the hair salon, but the occasional tremour of laughter plagued me throughout my appointment. Like I had suspected, the male hairdresser was appalled at the state of my hair and took almost four hours to try and rectify it. I walked away with a beautifully cut silky mop of soft curls that managed to keep a smile on my face. I ran my fingers through it incessantly; the strands slipping through my fingers like water. Jesse had gone for something similar, but had a sort-of half braid through the top of her head, almost like a crown. "No one is going to believe it's you tonight." Jesse said as we climbed back into the car. I looked at her with a smile on my face. "What makes you say that?" "No offense, but when you left you looked like a boy." She laughed. My opened my mouth to try and rebut her, but I had nothing to say. It was true. "But somehow you got attractive. With your hair and the dress mum picked out...everyone's heads will be turning." I felt myself blushing. Despite myself, the prospect of looking nice actually excited me. Maybe my inner "girly girl" was worming her way out of me. "Well thanks, Jess. You don't look too rough yourself." I said, smiling. Once we had arrived home, I was ushered urgently upstairs by my mother who continuously muttered about how little time there was before the party began. To me, another three hours seemed like plenty of time but apparently there was still mountains of things to be done. I shimmied effortlessly into my dress, applied my makeup with Jesse's help and was ready to leave within the hour. I was sitting on the edge of my bed, working on my laptop when my mother bustled in noisily. She looked at me and gasped, scaring me half to death. "What?! What's wrong?" I asked, my face aghast. "You look beautiful!" She exhaled. Her little footsteps trotted over to where I was and she picked up my hands in hers. "Oh Poppy, you look simply divine." I forced a grin. "Thanks mum." "And the dress fits perfectly! Have you tried the shoes yet?" She asked. "Everything's just right. You got it all right." I said gently. "I'm so pleased, dear. Hansel will be here soon to take you and Jesse to the bar, make sure you're ready." She said, brushing my cheek as she left the room. "I will be." I said, more to myself than her. I stood up, slipped on the shoes and looked at myself in the mirror. Rearranging some strands of her and flatting my dress, I exhaled deeply. "Here we go, Poppy." *** The black Land Rover swiftly parked on the curve of the road, and Hansel made his way to the back of the car to open the door for Jesse and I. My heels clacked on the ground as I walked to the entrance of the bar. It was covered in purple neon lights and had a purple carpet rolled out the front that was roped off. Hoards of well-dressed men and women were stood lined up, their ID cards ready to be presented to the man standing guard of the entrance. One look at Jesse and I and he had unlinked the rope. "Jesse." he said politely, extending his hand to greet her. He then faced me. "And Poppy. The guest of honour!" I smiled at the man and shook his hand before cautiously making my way into the bar. A royal welcome indeed. I took a deep breath to prepare myself for the hours of talking and smiling ahead. Just as I had suspected, the bar was full of twenty-something year olds all dressed up in their designer outfits talking about this that and the other. None of which seemed to interest me but I kept nodding and laughing where it was required. After half an hour, my mouth was beginning to become sore, so I took my leave to the bar to get a drink. "A vodka and cranberry, please." I spoke to the bartender. He busied himself with the alcohol and glasses as someone came and sat beside me. I sighed internally, having hoped I could have at least a few moments to myself. "Hello, love." A voice said. It was gravelly and deep. I turned my head to see the curly headed guy from last nights walk smiling a very humored smile. What on Earth, I mentally cursed. "H-hello... What are you doing here?" I asked, my tone defensive. "I was invited. The question is about more what you're doing here." He smirked. "Well this is my party so it would be a little silly if I wasn't here." I cocked my eyebrow. River was clearly surprised by my response, his eyebrows knitting in together at the centre. "You're Michael McQuillen's daughter?" "Yes, I am. And frankly I don't know who you are or why you're here but I'd appreciate it if you left." My eyes locked with his, a confident expression on my face. His shocked expression vanished and was replaced with a smirk, his blue eyes twinkling. "Oh really? Well, Poppy, I'm sorry to disappoint you but I'm staying. And you're going to get to know me." Before I could react, River had taken my wrist and pulled me away from the bar. He dragged me swiftly through the groups of people and towards the private booths lining the side wall. "Let go of me!" I yelled, trying to pull my wrist free of River's firm grip. But his strong hands held me captive and I was forced to follow him. "You're crazy!" "Some say so." He shrugged, looking back at me momentarily. He guided me in front of him and into one of the booths, closing the door swiftly behind us. "Sit." he commanded. I looked at him disbelievingly, my mouth agape. He rolled his eyes and gestured to the couch. "Sit." he repeated. I shuffled my body backwards and sat on the edge of the couch, crossing my arms tightly around my chest. "What the hell is your problem?" River simply chuckled as he rested one side of his body against the wall next to me, exposing the door but blocking my body. He followed my eyes as they eyed my escape. "You're not going to try and run away, are you?" He said. It sounded more like a statement than a question. I glared at him. "No." "Good." he smiled, dimples popping. He moved over to the opposite couch and sat down, leaning his weight onto the table between us. "So," he said, smirking. "what do you want to know about me?" "Is your mental state okay?" I snapped. River laughed deeply, throwing his head back and shaking his chestnut curls. "I don't know." he chuckled. "Is anyone's?" "Ugh." I rolled my eyes. "You're so pretentious." He leaned in closer to me, directing his gaze straight into my eyes. I felt his hot breath fan over me and suddenly my skin felt like it was on fire. He looked at me seriously, his eyes dark. "And you're so challenging." I stared at him, unable to say anything. The intensity of his gaze completely bewildered me. "Good thing I like a challenge." He said before leaning back, resting his hands behind his head. I didn't realise I was holding my breath until I let it out. I wrung my hands together, feeling their clamminess. "Why?" I heard my voice speak. He cocked his eyebrow, looking down at me. "Let's just say it's not often I get one." I gulped. His tanned skin seemed to glow in the darkness of the small booth, and only now was I becoming aware of how godly handsome he was, his Adam's apple poking out tantalizingly and dark curls pushed back loosely from his forehead. My eyes trailed down his body, admiring his white t-shirt clinging to his torso and black skinny jeans that hung lowly around his hips. A small section of skin was exposed between the two and I could see small writing tattooed over the tanned skin. My teeth unconsciously took my bottom lip captive. "Like what you see?" he spoke darkly, pulling me out of my daydream. "Shit, yes." I stumbled. "I mean, no. Fuck." Suddenly River was beside me, his body only inches from mine. I felt the heat from his skin radiate to mine, goosebumps forming on my arms. He placed his hand on my thigh, gripping the soft skin firmly. I felt my heart jump at his touch, a breath hitching in my throat. "S-stop it." I mumbled weakly. In my mind I wanted to resist him, but he was so close and intoxicating, my body struggled to fight against his touch. He ran his hand up my slowly, my eyes following nervously. He took my chin with his free hand and turned my face slowly to meet his. "I want to bad things to you, Poppy." he whispered. I whimpered softly at his words before he pulled my lips onto his. His plump lips moved desperately slowly against mine, kissing me. I kept my lips closed, trying weakly to resist him. He persisted, his tongue dancing over my bottom lip. His hand grazed gently against my crotch, making me shudder. I placed my hand over his, pulling his touch away from the sensitive area. "No." I croaked. He kissed me more deeply, pushing his tongue towards the back of my mouth. His curls brushed against my face, tickling my skin. I pulled back, but he caught my lip between his teeth. "No." I repeated, shaking my head."I have to go." He looked at me, his brow furrowed and eyes a deeper shade of blue. "But we're only just getting started." I stood up and shuffled out from the couch. "You're insane." I said more confidently than I felt inside. My hand clasped the door handle, pulling it and letting myself out. I walked briskly back into the party, leaving River alone in the dark booth. *** I wormed my way through the maze of people, not stopping for those eager to begin conversation. I pulled my hands through my hair anxiously, trying to think over the situation which had just unfolded. I needed to get away from this party, but most importantly away from River. "Poppy!" I heard someone call from behind me. I turned around to see my mother waving for me to come over to her. I exhaled and walked to where she stood with a small gathering of people. "Mum, I need to get some air." I said to her quietly. "In a moment dear, I want you to meet Julian." she smiled. A man dressed in an expensive looking suit with combed jet black hair extended his hand to me. "Poppy, such a pleasure to finally meet you." He paused. "Carol has told me so much about you." I shook his hand firmly. "You too. How do you two know each other?" I raised an eyebrow to my mother. "Oh, Julian is an old friend of your fathers. They used to work together, didn't you?" My mother spoke. "Michael and I were in the same law firm a while ago, but I moved to the music industry. I manage artists now." He said plainly. "In fact, one of the singers from a band I manage is here tonight. He's the same age, I shall have to introduce you." I really wasn't up for conversing with any other males. I needed to find my escape before River could find me again. "Oh, I-" I began, but Julian's eyes were already scouting the room for him. "There he is." he mumbled. "River!" I felt my heart drop. River's head turned to where I was standing and a smirk crept over his face. He waved to Julian and left the woman he had been talking to, striding over to us. Julian clapped River over the shoulder. "River, this is Poppy McQuillen, the daughter of Michael, an old friend." My stomach churned as River's eyes ran up and down me. This couldn't be happening. He took my hand in his and lowered those awful pink lips to the skin. "Lovely to meet you, Poppy." He smirked. It took all my strength not to pull away in disgust. "You too." "You two are the same age, so why not have a chat. I'm in need of another drink, what about you Carol?" Julian trailed off, taking my mother with him. I felt my mother squeeze my upper arm tightly, no doubt gleeful at the prospect of me talking to River as she walked away. As soon as we were alone, I wiped my hand on my dress and narrowed my eyes on him. "Why can't you just leave me alone?" I asked hotly. River laughed and closed the space between us, drawing my body firmly towards his. I was entirely in his shadow, his tall frame guarding me from anyone else. "Stop trying to fight me. It's only making me want you more." He spoke darkly, looking down at my lips. "I bet you're so used to getting what you want. I'm sure that Julian falls to every wish of his favourite rockstar." I said cynically, my eyes sending daggers up to him. He huffed, hot breath fanning over my face. "You're right, I always get what I want. But I get it because I go after it." He paused, licking his bottom lip. "I'm taking you out tomorrow night. Eight o'clock, wear something sexy." I stepped back from him, letting some light fall on to my face. "I'm not just going to let you 'take me out'." I declared. "Your mother seemed pretty excited. I'm sure when I arrive she'll have a cup of tea and a biscuit waiting for me." He cocked his eyebrow, a smirk playing over the corner of his mouth. "I-" I mouthed. "You can't-" "See you at eight." River winked, before turning on his heels and disappearing into the crowd. *** The next day I had woken up with a cup of tea on my bedside table and an excited-looking sister bouncing up and down on my duvet. "What?" I groaned, turning away from her and the sunlight. I pulled the covers over my head, wanting nothing more than to go back to sleep and forget everything that had happened last night. "Poppy!" Jesse said, pulling the covers out of my grip. "You have to get up, we have so much to talk about!" "No." I grumbled. "I just want to sleep, go away." "But River Montague! I saw you too last night, what happened?" She quizzed, her voice bubbling with excitement. How I wished she would just leave, and that that was all just some awful nightmare. "It's nothing, he's nobody." "Poppy, I don't want to alarm you but he's possibly one of the biggest musicians at the moment. Haven't you heard of The Snipers? He's the lead singer!" I turned my head towards her. "What?" I asked, frowning. Of course I had heard of The Snipers, but had no personal interest in any of the band members. To me, River was just some other try hard musician nobody. "You're such an idiot! You had no idea, did you?" Jesse cried. "This is huge! I'm so jealous. Did you get his number?" "You don't understand. He's a jerk, no matter about what band he might be in." I said, shaking my head. Jesse's brows knotted together in the centre like she couldn't fathom how he couldn't be anything but wonderful. "He can't be a jerk. He left you this." She reached down to the side of the bed and placed a black box with a white ribbon tied around the centre on to the bed. My mouth hung open as she began to untie it. Just as she began to lift the lid, I snatched it from her. "No!" I yelled. "It's for me, I'll open it alone." Knowing River, I would stake money on the fact that the gift was not going to be one to open in front of your family. "Poppy..." Jesse whined, her palms outstretched for the box. "Let me see what the rock star gave you." I shoved the duvet away from me, and climbed out of bed, taking the box with me. "Out you get." I said, pushing Jesse off the bed and out of my room. She whinged, unhappy that she hadn't got her way. As soon as she was safely outside, I locked my door and ran back to my bed. I sat cross legged and carefully removed the ribbon before slowly lifting the lid. What was inside was, in fact, no surprise. Black lace. A scowl crossed over my face as I picked up the little bit of material. Matching bras and underwear, both perfectly my size. How he knew that, I had no idea. I turned them over in my hands before quickly throwing them back into the box. "Total jerk." I mumbled. As I was replacing the lid, however, I noticed a note tucked under some tissue paper. My fingers fumbled as I went to pick it up. I unfolded the piece of card to see a small message scribbled on the inside; Thought these would look sexy on, Wear a dress with them tonight. See you at 8, R. x I scrunched my fist over the note and threw it back into the box. This guy was completely mental if he thinks I'd ever wear lingerie given to me by anyone, let alone by him. I climbed back off my bed and made my way to the shower, letting the hot water scold my skin as I tried to think over what I am going to do at eight o'clock tonight. Unluckily for me, I leave the shower just as confused as I entered. I pull my wet hair in a bun and put on some dark skinny jeans and a navy blouse, as well as swiping some mascara over my lashes. I take the stairs two at a time, hungry for the smell of pancakes that had wafted upstairs. "Morning." I say. My mother and father are sitting at the breakfast table while Phillipa serves them pancakes with fruits and other delicious smelling things. "Good morning, dear." My mother chirps. "Come have some pancakes." I take a seat next to my father and Phillipa places a plate in front of me. I smile at her and say hello, noting that I'll have to have a longer conversation with her later. Right now, my stomach is grumbling so I cover my pancakes with Nutella and banana before scoffing them down greedily. "Someone's hungry this morning." A voice says from behind me. I crane my neck to see Jesse and her boyfriend Harley walking together hand in hand towards the table. I swallow my food quickly and give Jesse a mocking smile. She takes a seat next to me and Harley sits opposite her. My mother and father seem to take no notice of the newcomer, so I suppose he must come for breakfast often. I can't help but glare at him. I've only ever met him while he was in bed with my little sister, and that doesn't grate well with me, despite what Jesse thinks of him. "Hi Poppy" Harley says in a confident voice. He must have caught my glare. "Hi." I say briskly, before taking a long sip of orange juice. I feel Jesse kick me under the table. "Are you glad to be back home?" He questions. As much as I don't want to talk to him, I feel that I should probably makes some sort of effort. "I'm happy to see my family again. But there's some things I'm not happy about." I say honestly. My fathers eyes flick up from his paper. "What do you mean by that?" He asks. "Last night." I shrug. "I thought you had a lovely time?" My mother says, her voice small. "If you think I had a lovely time, you know me less than I thought you did." I speak, more harshly than I intended. My mother looks like she's been slapped in the face. "But, you were with that handsome boy? He even came around this morning with a gift for you." I scoff. If only they knew what kind of gift he gave me. "Let's not talk about this now." I declare, my eyes glancing towards Harley who simply looks down to his plate. My mother takes another bite of her breakfast and everyone sits in silence for a few moments. "Harley and I are going out to a party tonight and I'm staying at his place afterwards, so I won't be home." Jesse states, breaking the silence. "Okay, who's party is it?" My mother asks. "Just a friend from school, you don't know them." Jesse shrugs, her fingers twirling her blonde hair. I finish the last of my pancakes and take my plate to the sink. I leave the kitchen without saying anything else. It seems ridiculous that my parents just let Jesse stay out all night without any idea where she will be, and yet they force me to go to horrible parties and care so much about who talks to me. I take the stairs two at a time and lock my door behind me. I need some peace and quiet today, away from my family, especially my mother. I spend most of the afternoon reading through my textbooks for university and doing a few assignments that are due within the next weeks. I think about how I practically know no one at university, I will have to try and make more friends next week. Before I know it, the sun has vanished from the sky and I am still trying to sketch the house I've been working on for hours. I pick up my phone from my bedside table to check the time. 6.30pm. Shit. River said he'd be here at 8, and I haven't come up with a plan to get rid of him. I pull my hands through my hair and pace around my room. I take my phone and turn in over in my hands. I don't even have River's number to tell him not to come, or that I'm sick, or anything really. I find myself walking into Jesse's room to ask her what she thinks I should do, even though I already know she'll just tell me to meet him. "Jesse." I call, poking my head into her room. She's sitting on the floor with her head resting in Harley's lap. I can't help but cringe. "Hey Poppy." She said, lifting her head. Harley shifts uncomfortably beneath her. "I'm sorry but I need your help." I say, making my way to her bed and sit lightly on the covers. "Is it about River?" She asks brightly. I see Harley's eyes widen. I frown. "Yeah. I don't know what I should do. He said he'd be coming to the house at eight to take me out to dinner." I say, using air quotes. "Wait" Harley announces. "Are we talking about the River Montague? As in the lead singer from The Snipers?" His tone is disbelieving. "Mm-hmm" Jesse nods. "He was at mums party last night. I had no idea that dad knew his manager...anyway he's all about Poppy." Harley's mouth drops open and he looks from Jesse to me. "Are you fucking kidding me?" I sigh. This really isn't what I need right now. I want to tell them that he's just some obnoxious guy with an ego too big for his own good, but instead I just shake my head. "What should I do? He'll be here in an hour." "Well as much as I'd love my sister to be dating the River Montague, if you really don't want to go, I'll cover for you when he arrives." Jesse concludes. "Why don't you just go? He's a legend!" Harley says, waving his hands in the air. I cock my eyebrow at him. "Why would I go on a date with someone just because you think he's a legend?" I snap. Harley looks taken aback and Jesse puts her hand on his knee before glaring at me. "Don't talk to Harley like that. You can get out of my room now." She sneers. "Oh, and don't expect me to cover for you." "Fine." I bark. I stand up off her bed and storm towards the door. Anger is already bubbling inside me, as well as frustration that I still haven't solved my problem. "Have a nice time!" Jesse jokes as I slam the door. How do I always manage to get in a fight with Jesse? Just when I think we're getting along, she just turns. I really don't like her boyfriend at all. I plug my phone into the speakers in my room and blast some of my favourite songs from Jake Bugg, trying desperate to drown out my thoughts of the upcoming hour. My plan is to stay in my room and refuse to come out even when he arrives, but even I know that plan will not work. Before I know it, there the sound of an engine stopping and a knock on the front door. "I'll get it!" I hear Jesse call from her room, followed by the thundering of her footsteps racing downstairs. I bolt out of my room to try to catch Jesse before she can get to the door, however she manages to pry it open before I can reach her. "Don't!" I shout. My hands fumble for the door, pushing Jesse aside but a force keeps the door open. A strong arm pushes it back and I am standing face to face with River, no doubt looking like a deer caught in headlights. "I thought I said wear something sexy?" Is the first thing he says as his eyes rake up and down my jeans and blouse. I was not prepared for this. "I'm not going anywhere with you." I spit, already trying to close the door on him. He rests his tall frame against the door and an obnoxious smirk covers his face. I hear Jesse giggle beside me, reminding me of her presence. "Jesse go upstairs." I say through gritted teeth. She snorts and waves at River before skipping back upstairs. I sigh before staring back at the smug-looking guy in front of me. "Your sister?" He said, nodding his head towards the upstairs. "Yeah." I say bluntly. "How did you even find out where I live?" I ask, the thought only just crossing my mind. River shrugs. "My manager knows your dad." "Now can you go upstairs and change? I don't like waiting." He adds. "You can't just do this! Come to my house, demand me to change my clothes so you can take me out. You kissed me without my permission last night and for that I think you're a jerk." I shout, waving my hands at him. No part of me knows how to deal with this situation. Granted, I think he's probably one of the hottest people I've ever seen with those piercing blue eyes, perfectly plump lips, mop of brown curls, inked tan skin and snug black skinny jeans...oh God I'm getting distracted... The fact is if he thinks I am just a piece of meat, then that makes him a jerk. "Don't act like you didn't enjoy it. Just have some fun." His expression is unreadable. "I bet you'd actually have a good time out with me." I laugh. "You really want to bet on that?" I don't know why I'm challenging him, but I feel like he needs to be for the way he was last night. The smirk on his face grows and I swear there is a twinkle in his eyes. "I'm a gambling man, so yes, I do." He extends his hand to mine. "If, by the end of the night you aren't begging for me to kiss you again, I lose and you never have to see me again." I laugh again and wrap my hand around his. This is going to be too easy. I begin to shake but River stops and pulls back slightly. "-but if I win." He continues. "You have to come out with me again. And, you have to wear the lingerie." I hesitate slightly. The thought of wearing that lingerie for him makes my head spin. Before I can think twice however, I am shaking his hand and returning his cocky smile. "Good luck." he chuckles. *** After refusing to go change clothes, I follow River to his car across the street. He walks to the passenger side and opens the door for me. I climb in and give him a sickly sweet smile. He just chuckles as he slides into the drivers seat, igniting the engine. "So where is it you've conned me into going with you?" I say, half laughing. River glances towards me briefly before focusing back on the road. "Can't you just trust me for a second?" He say, his tone clipped. I really laugh this time. Trust him? He must be completely insane. "I don't think you've done one thing to make me trust you since you met me." "Jesus. Why are you so snarky all the time?" He snaps. I lift my head to face him. What? I didn't see that change in mood coming. Why would he react so strongly to that little comment? "I'm not snarky. You're just insufferable." I retort. I can't deny that I'm offended by his words. I knew I was strong minded, but I'd never been called snarky before, and never by someone who was almost a complete stranger. He lets out a huff and his grip on the steering wheel tightens. I hear him mumble something under his breath but I can't quite catch it over the sounds of the traffic. "Are we there yet?" I say after an unpleasant span of silence. I know I shouldn't be behaving so child-like but this entire situation is out of my depth. "Almost." River says, leaning his head against the chair. His voice is a lot more calm than it was moments ago. We turn down a side street and pass a series of restaurants with orange and yellow lights twinkling. The car slows as River scouts for a parking space. He settles for one near a busy bar and walk around to my door, opening it again for me. "Thanks." I mumble, pulling my handbag over my shoulder. I feel River's arm snake around my waist, pulling my body closely into his. The same electricity I felt last night jolts through my skin and I instinctively flinch away. "Come on, Poppy." River complains, keeping his large hand wrapped securely around my waist. I can't be bothered fighting him so we walk that way until we reach a cosy looking restaurant tucked away in a small alley. Once again, River opens the door for me and a gush of warm hair swirls around me. We are greeted by a waiter and escorted to a table by the back wall. I sit down before River does, honestly a bit uncomfortable with all the gentlemanly gestures he has made so far. It earns me a raised eyebrow but sits down without any protests. "I'm starving." I say, eyes already scanning the menu. Now that I had thought about food, I realised I hadn't eaten since breakfast. My stomach growled perfectly almost perfectly on cue. "Yeah, I can hear that." River smirks. I roll my eyes at him. It seems like he has that smirk permanently plastered over his flawless face. God, I can't decide how to think about him. He has tattoos poking out the top of his white t-shirt, but I can't see them completely. And I have to admit he is impeccably dressed, a loose grey pullover hanging from his tanned chest and a leather jacket to protect against the cold. Not to mention the cross chain hanging from his neck. "You're going to have to stop doing that." River remarks, pulling me back to reality. "What?" I stutter. I'd definitely been staring too long. "Running your eyes all over me while I'm trying to decide what to eat. It's distracting." My words hitched in my throat so I just buried my head in my menu. "I wasn't even..." I mumbled quietly. My eyes stare at the lists of foods but nothing was being processed in my brain. "Nothing here looks good." I blurt before jolting my head back up to look at River, taken aback by my own bluntness. I expect him to say something sarcastic or tell me I'm wrong but he just smiles widely. "Fuck dinner. Come to the Corner Hotel with me, I'm playing at ten." "But aren't you hungry?" I ask seriously. "I'd rather eat something else." He says, quirking his eyebrow up. A heat rushed through me instinctively, but I push it back before it can reach my cheeks. "You're such a pervert." I seethe. "You don't even know the half of it." He jokes, pushing his hair off his face. His eyes are glistening, creased in a knowing smile. "Come on, my band is pretty good." The part of me that is educated, proper and stubborn wants to say no, leave him here and go back for a home cooked meal, but that other part of me that has laid dormant for years is being pulled along by River and his volatile personality. "You better not play any fucking jazz." I hiss as I push my chair back. *** I should have worn something cooler. I think as I step into the Corner Hotel, admiring the signed photos of rock legends adorning every inch of wall. The place is packed with people, some old, but most young guys and girls exuberayting effortless cool. I wonder if they appreciate the signed poster of Mick Jagger hanging at the entrance as much as I do. River greets the man who I suppose is the manager waiting at the entrance, giving him a quick hug before diving into rapid talk about the sound system that has been set up for his gig. Instead of hanging around awkwardly while I wait for him to talk, I make my way to the Mick Jagger poster, admiring my favourite rock artist belting out a high note. My eyes scan over the signature and read the adjoining message. "Ronny, The Corner Hotel was a gig I'll never forget - thanks you old bastard." I smile to myself and wonder idly who Ronny was. I feel a tap on my shoulder before I can think too deeply, and turn around to see River. "We're going backstage." He says briefly before turning and worming into the crowd. I nod, glancing back at Mick before I follow him. I notice River has his jacket collar pulled up around his face and now has donned dark RayBands to shield his eyes. He looks like an idiot wearing sunglasses inside and at night, but I choose not to say anything. Nervous butterflies shoot through my stomach suddenly without my permission. I have no idea why I should feel nervous. I shouldn't care at all about River and his band, should I? I repress them until River leads us into the green room backstage. I say green room, but it was only a lounge with a group of tables pushed together in the centre covered with snacks, and vinyl records hanging quietly on the walls. There were about twelve people within the room, some chatting on the sofa and others tuning instruments. River shot me a smile as he grabbed a handful of chips, and then passing me the bowl. I took a few gratefully as I still had an empty stomach. "Salty." He winked at me. How does he manage to make everything flirtatious? "River! Nice of you to show up mate." A voice spoke from the other side of the room. I spun my head to see who had made it. He was sitting in the centre of the couch, arms spread wide and legs splayed open. He was dressed similarly to River but had a lip piercing as well as a few tattoos poking out of his collar. River simply laughed as he strode to where the man was sitting, exchanging a handshake fist-bump type thing. "Xavier you know I'd never miss a gig." He sat down beside the man, Xavier, and picked up a guitar resting against the sofa. I had become so immersed in watching the situation happening, I had forgotten I was a part of it until Xavier's eyes rested on me. "Who's this pretty little thing?" He smiled, flashing me a set of perfect teeth. It seemed River had forgotten about me too as he had to scout the room before he realised who Xavier was talking about. His inattentiveness annoyed me but I pushed it aside, smiling back at Xavier. "I'm Poppy. It's nice to meet you." I say, out stretching my hand to his. Xavier stood up from the couch and clasped my hand. He eyes me curiously and I couldn't help but look away slightly. "River didn't tell me he was seeing anyone." He said, directed more to River than me. "Oh God, I'm not seeing him." I scoff. "I'm only here because he for-" "She's a fan, that's all." River interjected, his eyes looking on me like stone. I can't help but gape at him. Not only was he interrupting me, but it was a complete lie. I had never listened to any of The Snipers music. "Ah, okay, cool. It's always sick to meet fans." He says in his thick Manchester accent. "Especially the good-looking ones." Obviously River and Xavier hung out with each other a lot. They had the same cocky exude and complete obliviousness to social norms. I give him a half laugh to relax the tension in the air. Beside him, River's face has set in an unreadable expression. He turns his attention back to the guitar and starts plucking at the strings then turning the knobs. I sigh awkwardly. "Sit down love." Xavier offers, tapping the spot next to him. I oblige and sink into the sofa. So far coming here was a total mistake; with River acting like a jerk and me being trapped in a room with no one I know, and only old posters of rock idols to comfort me. "Where are you from Poppy?" Xavier questions, facing his body towards mine, his head resting on his arm draped over the back of the couch. He has grey eyes, which are nice, but not nearly as striking as Rivers. "Here. I live in Chelsea, but I only just moved back." I say politely. Xavier's eyes widen. "Where were you before?" "Australia, for high school. I needed to get out of Chelsea before it turned me into a posh airhead." A crackly laugh erupts from Xavier's chest. "Too right! Those Chelsea birds haven't got a clue." "Don't fucking generalize." River's voice intervenes. His tone is icy. What? River puts the guitar back into its position before standing up and walking away. "Alright, cranky pants." Xavier mocks. He looks at me apologetically. "River's got a bit of a temper." "You're on in ten, lads!" A mature voice calls. It is the man who I guessed was the manager, now tangled up in headphones and microphones. Cheers could be heard loudening from the main stage. Everyone in the room flurries into action, some scurrying out to the audience, others gearing up into headphones and and picking up clipboards. Before I can blink, there's only me, Xavier, River and two other guys in the room. "Jake, Smith, have you checked your mics?" Xavier focused. The two men look at each other before cursing and leaving the room. "Useless..." Xavier groans as he picks up a bass guitar resting in the corner and swings the strap around his neck. He plays a small tune and starts singing to himself. The only one who isn't completely flustered is River who is leaning against the table taking a swig of his beer. "Should I go out to the audience?" I call to him. Honestly, the way he has been so stony since we arrived here is angering me more than I want to admit. As much as I didn't want to come on the date to begin with, I did expect him to be charming, or at the very least friendly. He looks over at me with his brow furrowed but quickly replaces it with a smooth expression. "If you want to see the show, then I would suggest so." Sarcasm drips from his voice and a flush of anger floods through me. I hate this guy. Why the hell did I even agree to come here? He is so hot and cold, one moment acting like a gentleman, the next being a complete asshole. "You know what, I'm fine." I say decidedly. I push my bag over my shoulder and make my way to the door. "Where are you going?" River snaps. "Home. I don't know why I even agreed to come here with you. You are the biggest jerk I've ever had the displeasure of meeting." I snark. The fact that I ever could have momentarily been interested in him amuses me now. He smiles. He actually smiles. "Don't leave just yet. I want you to stay." "You should have thought about that before you started behaving like a jerk. Goodbye, River." I march towards the door and slip out of the room. I follow along the corridor and hear his footsteps behind me. "Hold up Poppy!" River yells. I spin around ready to give him a verbal battering about how much of a pretentious, rude, bipolar muso he is, but before I can even prepare he has captured my wrist in his hand and dragged me towards him. His voice has dropped to a deadly whisper. "Stay." My mind turns to mush with his tall figure so close to mine. My eyes are bound to his blue ones, completely unable to think of anything else but their overwhelming stare. A stare that says 'I'm going to make you stay even if you don't agree'. "Okay..." I stammer blindly. His grip slackens on my wrist and a slight smirk plays over his lips. "Cool." He says simply. "The audience is that way." I follow where his fingers is pointing and nod. Before I can even process what just occurred, he is striding back backstage. God damn it. I need to have more self control. I am not the type of girl that goes brain dead where attractive guys are concerned. No, I am an intellect, studying at Cambridge who can handle herself no matter what. Nevertheless, I wander into the crowd and assume a position at the back. Bodies crash into me repeatedly and there's not so much of a slurred apology. The scent of alcohol is thick in the air, along with the smog from cigarette smoke and probably weed too. If I was drunk, this would be fun for me too, but I'm not and I just feel claustrophobic. "How are we doing tonight?!" A British accent calls from the stage. I hadn't even seen the band enter, but there was now four bodies waving and adjusting their instruments. A cheer erupts from the audience and I find myself clapping too. "Thanks for coming out tonight! We're gonna play a little tune called Golden Bones for you." Xavier shouts into the microphone. River is standing behind a mic of his own, and is placed slightly in front of the others. I can see hands reaching up and grabbing ahold of his jeans. The room fills with a guitar riff, followed by the rest of the band. And then River sings. His voice catches me completely off guard. It's deep, really deep and has a serious rocky quality to it. The song is actually really cool, and has an old school rock feel, but with a modern alternative twist. I smile and sway to the music, enjoying the feeling it gives me. For most of the songs, I find myself watching River. His stage presence is startling; up there in skinny jeans, hair pushed back with a guitar and lights, he looks like pure sex. Not that he isn't sexy normally, but something ignites when he's performing. The atmosphere of the room is snug, and I am able to go unnoticed in my lonely appreciation of the band, swaying silently to myself. A jerking feeling in my chest arises whenever River looks at me and I have to smile to myself. It's almost like the man on stage is a different person to the one at dinner, and when I watch him my controlled self is abandoned. It feels like a physical magnetization whenever we make eye contact, and it shoots adrenalin through me. But it isn't until he's singing the last line of a love song that I had become resolute that he was probably the most attractive yet confusing individual I'd come across. This conclusion made my head, and unfortunately my heart, spin. *** The crowd roar in ferocious appreciation as River and the band finish their encore, and I feel electric inside. The energy in the room vitalizes me and I practically bound back through the passages and into the lounge room with the records. "River!" I shout, scanning my eyes across the room. His tall frame stands out amongst the rest, and I can see a bottle in his hand. He turns his head at the call of his name and a smile spread across his face. "Hey, Poppy! Come here." River beckons. "What did you think?" he asks, draping his arms across my shoulders as I approach. "Well it wasn't jazz so that's good." I say with a smirk. River laughs and Xavier joins. "Jazz can stay in the late night bar