𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒛𝒍𝒖𝒌

BASICS.

full name: sanem yasemin pellisier - reid

nickname(s): san, sannie ( by landon ), meleğim/aşkım ( by alli )

d.o.b. / age: march 15th, 1991 / 30

zodiac: pisces ( ☼ ), pisces ( ☽ ), libra ( ↗ )

gender: cis woman

pronouns: she / her

nationality: turkish + american

ethnicity: turkish

sexuality: pansexual

romantic orientation: panromantic

relationship status: married to allison pellisier - reid

hometown: izmir, turkey

current residence: goldfinch valley, crescent harbor, wa

occupation: choreographer & dance entrepreneur

children: none at the present time

pets: 2 ( cairo: shiba inu & milo: akita inu )

Cheeks flushed slightly at the suggested pick for the ceremonious first dinner in their new space. As her hands braced against the coolness of the kitchen island, she couldn’t help but tease, “9 out of 10 times you know that’s my pick, but if you ever grow tired of the cuisine I’m open to expanding my horizons.” Regardless of what was chosen however, she felt like she was settling into a new chapter of her life in the way she had always dreamed of. A part of her knew she was jumping way ahead from the simplicity of moving day, but she couldn’t help herself. This house was technically the first one she could call an authentic home, one that she hoped would be filled with joy over sadness, or any unidealistic expectations to have set for her that she felt she could never reach. Though the flow of the home was warm, inviting, with plenty of natural light, there was another part of Alli that had a bit of paranoia still for any potential lurking. “Is the security installation today too or are we running out for emergency curtains?” Allison asked with a bit of ease in her voice. 

It’d been a long road, one that Sanem had graciously stood by the lawyers side for, and despite the promises they’d kept to each other, Allison couldn’t help but feel that there would never be enough that she could do to repay her for her patience, for her worry, for her choice to weather whatever came next. She could her brows twinging into place to where she knew the dancer would question her emotions, and she held up a hand to signal she was processing. “Not a thing to worry about,” She assured the woman. “This wave was a lot shorter this time around too.” She took a step towards Sanem, arms briefly wrapping around the woman’s waist when the sound of the new doorbell rang through the space. “Right on time,” Allison murmured, before she laced a chaste kiss against her lips. “Let’s see who gets stern with them first.” She challenged. 

The furniture delivery along with the plethora of boxes they had packed between Sanem’s old home in Gold Finch and from the shared manor in Sunstone was like trying to figure out one’s next move in tetris. Thankful for large french doors, Allison found that a lot of the heavy duty work was in the receiving their living room couch, the new bed frame along with their mattress, and of course boxes and boxes of Sanem’s clothing. “Melegim, is that all from here or things you had shipped back from our trip?” Allison exclaimed. 

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Leaning against the island herself beside Allison, she let out a delicate chuckle with a small shake of her head. ❝ Hey, as long as there’s at least one time we switch it up then I don’t mind the other nine. Besides — non puoi sbagliare con l'italiano — remember ? ❞ Head cants to the side then as both corners of her lips twitch into a broader smile, the words a callback to an evening spent at the penthouse after a fairly difficult visit at her mother’s grave. Made better only because of the attentive care and presence of the blonde, effortlessly making her smile as they shared in the Italian she happened to pluck from a variety of offers. ❝ Though maybe when we actually get some food stocked, we could attempt to recreate a recipe from the cooking class in Bali. ❞ Suggesting as she subconsciously took one her hands from the counter, tracing no particular shapes into the palm before peering around the kitchen. They certainly had plenty of space for it. Brows knitting together a bit on the inquiry concerning their security system, returning her focus tender mocha hues. ❝ I’m pretty sure, might have to double check but it should be today. On the off chance it’s not, I think we’d be okay for tonight. ❞

Of course Sanem knew where even the slightest worry could’ve stemmed from and why should there be a need to make a quick run for curtains, she’d do so at the drop of a hat. The absolute euphoria of the past weeks spent away and current peace that filled the walls of their new home, one she’d always ensure held strongly. Didn’t completely put her off guard to the fact of what, or who, could be lurking around the metaphorical corner, though unwilling to let that sully this moment, and any going forward. Concern that etched partly on her face taking in her wife’s demeanor, cast aside at the soft reassurance, instead giving way to a more fond look, especially as arms wrap around her frame. Sighing contently as she cupped her face. ❝ I hope you know how proud I am of how far you’ve come aşkım. ❞ Returning the kiss, vision flickers between Allison and the door with a quirked brow, smirking. ❝ You’re on. ❞ 

Even as someone who’d had all the experience in the art of moving, didn’t make it any less an ordeal process. In the middle of lugging in boxes, she’d also helped direct the movers in where the furniture needed to go, doing her best to hold back the indecisiveness on exactly how they should be situated for the time being. It was already enough they were in the right place, with plenty more still to be done, they could deal with it later. Thankful much of the heavier lifting portion was being taken care of. Making her way back into the bedroom with another box she carefully stacked onto another, hands rest on her hips, puffing out an exhale then glancing around. ❝ Uh — possibly both, I mean in fairness you did have a magnificently large closet built at the manor, should I have not taken it as a dare to try and fill ? ❞ Questioned with a laugh, before playfully adding. ❝ Just wait till we get to all your suits next though. ❞ Sticking out her tongue.   

“He does, doesn’t he? I only hope that we look as good in our forties.” What did Lily see in Matheus that made her think there was potential? She didn’t even really know him on that level yet. “He’s on the same page as me about a lot of things. He has a career, ambition, he’s a genuinely kind person.” She knew that Sanem was still in contact with Bash, and Lily did not expect that her best friend would sever those ties. “I’m ready to close the Bash chapter of my life, and I think it’s been that way before we officially ended things. Maybe one day we can be friends again, but as of now the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach might be best.” Lily was lying to both Sanem and herself by implying that she’d forgotten about her former partner now that it had been weeks since they’d last spoken. A laugh escaped her as Sanem hinted at Landon’s peculiar antics, shaking her head. “You say that like your brother doesn’t already know what hospital Matheus was born in, what airline he flies with. Or whatever information he arbitrarily decides he needs to know about an individual. How much does he know about you through these, um, practices of his?”

Enough about the past, time to talk about the present. “How’s it being Mrs. Pellisier-Reid now? Have you done the whole legal name change?” Lily knew secondhand how extensive the process was, fully intending to keep the Whittaker name when and if she ever got married but supporting the unification of Sanem and Allison through a shared last name. Following her best friend through the house, Lily sighed as she thought about how lovely it must’ve been to get away for a while following their nuptials, to escape the small town of Crescent Harbor. “I want to know all about it, Sanem. I still feel kinda guilty for the whole Paris thing, even though I convinced Landon to back off a bit,” the brunette winced, brown eyes surveying the architecture and interior design of the Pellisier-Reid home before stopping, admiring Sanem’s home dance studio. “Babe, this is incredible. It truly does have your energy coursing through it!” Lily explained, carefully gliding along the floors. “Teach me something, or re-teach me an old move. Let’s break in the studio,” the brunette pleaded, moving to tie her long waves into a messy bun. 

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❝ I don’t know if I can think about my forties right now having finally accepted being thirty, ❞ Stating in an overly dramatic, though not at all serious, exasperation. ❝ that being said though, am manifesting that we both continue to look incredible going into the next decade. ❞ Listening intently then while Lily highlighted all the promising aspects about Matheus. She may not be one to ever judge people right away, however there were still few reservations to be had on the final verdict, at least until she got to know him a bit herself. ❝ So he ticks off majority of the boxes, which is good, and you certainly seem to enjoy the times you’ve gone out so far. ❞ Unable to help but tease, faintest twinge of somberness hit steady soft features momentarily with the mention of her and Bash’s conclusion. At the end of the day what she hoped for and mattered most in all this, was seeing the other woman live her very best life, happily. ❝ He probably knows more than the FBI even do about themselves, ❞ Rolling her eyes at the lengths her brother goes to. ❝ Since we grew up together and I’m positive he’s done prying otherwise, more than most, but definitely not everything. ❞

Walking through the house, pointing out small details here and there for Lily, bright smile plasters across her face at the question. ❝ We have officially gotten all the paperwork filed and done, the name change has been a slight adjustment, just from being so used to only having Reid, which I’ve kept as like a stage name for work. But all in all, it feels complete having both now. ❞ The statement also holding true to the fact of how everything had fallen into place for herself and Allison over the last year and a half. Warm chuckle bubbles up, waving off the unintentional honeymoon crashing. ❝ Please, even having Landon there couldn’t diminish the amazing time we had. But okay so Cappadocia was our next stop, and the hotel was this beautiful combo of modern and Ottoman design built into the caves. We got to eat breakfast on the roof and watch all the hot air balloons go up during sunrise, somehow I even managed to convince Alli to get in one. We also went horseback riding and toured an underground city. ❞ Recounting fondly. ❝ And Bali being a first for both of us, not only was it incredible but there was so much I wanted to plan in not enough time. To name a few more memorable ones, we went snorkeling, walked through the monkey forest one even climb up my back to get a piece of fruit, visited Uluwatu Temple. I also arranged a private dinner for us in the rainforest for our last night. ❞ 

Dark hues scan around the home studio, gradually coming together as she envisioned. ❝ You haven’t seen the coolest part yet ! ❞ Grinning excitedly, Sanem pulled out her phone tapping through before a vibrant canvas of panel lighting came to life on the walls. ❝ They can be set to any sort of color pattern, or can even change and light up rhythmically to whatever music is playing. ❞ The request to teach Lily new dance moves not one she’d turn down. Throwing her own hair into high ponytail and picking out a song, she moved onto the middle of the floor with her best friend. ❝ How about we do part of one of my newest routines for class. ❞ Deciding to go with the chorus part, since it was the most fun, starting up the music she began to go through each step till they were both essentially going in sync. 

   Not being the one dragging Sanem on the roadtrip for once he was still pretty quick to sober up before getting on his bike. He knew she had been quite busy, first with the wedding and then the honeymoon and she’d mentioned something down at the dance studio being renovated or built somehow. In all honesty, the past month had been a weird fog for him, even Canada. Nate coming to get him felt like it happened in another dimension at this point. Why were all of his friends so close to Lily? It didn’t feel like that before they were dating. Now, he tried his best to subtract her from the equation. It was just him and Sanem and it wasn’t weird, it never had been. Her question prompted a shrug as he swallowed a bite of his sub. ❛ It was fine, pretty chill, ❜ he said with a slow nod. Bash hadn’t started any fights from what he could remember, he’d just been sitting there, or walking around. A small smirk tugged at his lips as he pulled the wrapper down a little more from his sandwich. ❛ Not yet… Ended up in Kamloops. What the fuck kind of name of a town is that? ❜ he chuckled quietly, taking a bite of his food, talking through his chews. ❛ I mean, guess there are worse names. — They also had a bar called On the Rocks though… That was a bit o’a mindfuck when I’s wasted. ❜

with: @bashlandry​​

Even just the idea of being able to hover board around had Mack beaming with excitement, a glint of trouble surfacing in her eyes. It would be something incredibly easy for the both of them to do something stupid with, but also something that Mack would consider worthwhile. “I better be the first to know. If there’s anyone that deserves to be hoverboarding around town with you, it’s me,” Mack grinned, reaching over to nudge slightly at Sanem’s shoulder. Mack could already see them now, the new terror of the streets as they haphazardly zipped around on their boards. “I’m pre-challenging you to a race around downtown once we get our boards because you know I’m absolutely going to buy one the second that you send me that name.” It was possibly a stupid purchase, but one that Mack would be making regardless. Giving a goofy salute to Sanem as they both slid their helmets on, Mack was fully in the game then. As much alcohol as she had in her system, it was easy to let herself get caught up in the fun and games of it all. She was rolling around looking like a complete fool, though in her head she was pretty positive she looked like she was right out of an action movie. Keeping posted at the edge, Mack watched a few paintballs fly by her, nodding as Sanem made a plan. “Deal. Count of three we both charge out there and start firing?” she suggested, eagerly bouncing and ready to start catching people up in her crossfire. Plan set, Mack started the countdown from three, two, and one… Immediately she flung herself out there, spraying paintballs in every direction wildly. Most of them went to nowhere, but the sheer volume of the attack hit at least two of the guys on the other team. The rest of their squad had shifted up with them, all of them running and putting themselves right in the middle of things. “Let’s fucking go!” Mack yelled out loudly, hollering with excitement as she rolled down to the ground, army crawling up towards where she thought another one of the enemies were hidden.

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❝ Of course, couldn’t think of anyone better to fly around town with first. ❞ Since their friendship had initially blossomed back in high school, Mack had always stood at the very top of her favorites list. Even more especially as someone who’d join her on any wild but entertaining adventures, with rarely any questions asked. So in the notion of just possibly hoverboarding around the streets of Crescent in the near future, she was the perfect person to join the shenanigans. ❝ Oh you’re absolutely on. ❞ Instantly agreeing before they, along with the small crowd of both teams were fully in the thick of the action. Dark eyes peering all around before landing on the other woman pulling off a variety of moves that while probably wouldn’t be all the much help if this were an actual battlefield, had to admit seemed to be working in her favor. The sound of a paintball whizzing right past her above the rest of the commotion pulled Sanem’s attention back, unable to tell if it clipped the helmet, but sent her scrambling no less. One firm nod given before Mack was counting them down before running back out from their cover in a boozy and now equally, if not more, adrenaline fueled rush, paintball guns blazing. Attempting not to pelt any of her teammates as they run up beside them, while targeting as many of the opposing as she could, managing to hit at least a coupe herself. Twirling out of the path of one shooter akin to a ballerina, her dancer agility paying off in other aspects at least, however as she continued forward trying to keep low just as she was about to fire off on another two more came out getting her a split second first, hitting her side and directly on the visor of the helmet. ❝ Shit ! ❞ Cursing as she essentially stumbled back, inching behind the next nearest cover, Mack soon making it over to her again. ❝ Fuckers tag-teamed right back — how many you think are left, might have to finish them off without me. ❞

Alli found her eagerness truly infectious though she was quick to catch her playful cadence as it pertained to the time. “There’s barely any furniture in here, aşkım. We should consider some self restraint for the first couple of days.” She chuckled. The sound of the door opening and Cairo and Milo pitter pattering into the foyer was enough for her to feel at peace with the newness of it all. For months she had fallen into a routine with the golden manor in Sunstone but it always felt like something so much grander than her general style would ever allow. Did she love having the balcony with the ocean view? Absolutely. Was the garden beyond her wildest dreams? Of course. Was the kitchen so perfectly curated that many begged for the floor plan? Of course. But this home was less flashy while still having the ambiance of something more than people could ever imagine. 

The open floor plan was one of Sanem’s absolute must haves. The modern look with updated appliances and systems was important to Alli, and while the search had been hard at times, landing on their new forever home was like a breath of fresh air. She stood in the middle of what would be their living room, thankful for the aid of both of their individual assistants for helping them secure the movers and the furniture deliveries in tandem with each other. “Well, let’s think about it for a second here,” Allison said as she rested her hands on Sanem’s shoulders. 

“We only settled on one couch for in here, then we’re getting our bedroom set today along with our boxes. What other accents do you want to see in here?” She swiveled around to stand behind the woman, chuckling as they moved together almost in a spinning motion to get a good 360′ of the room. “Of course don’t worry about dinner tonight either, it’s only fair that we have take out on the counter top, which by the way I think I was able to get them to change out that ghastly marble for something a little more refined.” 

Grabbing Sanem’s hand she led her into the kitchen, marveling the stainless steel appliances, the kitchen island that had a built in sink and gas range for cooking and indoor grilling, the huge pantry that nestled in the corner. “I think we might have enough space to finally feed an army of people.” She joked, as she reveled at the interior of the home. “I was wondering if Lily actually might have any recommendations for interior decorating or if she has expertise in it?” 

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She couldn’t help but let out a mellow snicker with a quick nod as bright features shift into an expression of ‘fair point’. ❝ I guess we did also spend the last few weeks very blissfully abroad, to hold us over – for a little bit at least. ❞ Letting one more tease fall from her lips, sending a wink in the other woman’s direction before the subject of their concentration landed fully on the brand new dwelling around them. Even as bare bones as it was presently, in terms of interior décor anyhow, taking her next breath a strong feeling of contentedness began to wrap around her being. Akin to after the official presence she’d undertaken at the manor, yet different because this was truly meant to be their forever home. Despite having spent a lifetime growing used to moving far more than most did, she was beyond ready now to finally set roots.

Head cants to the side when Allison planted both hands on her shoulders, listening as she continued, simultaneously allowing herself a moment of thought to what else could be added. Though before anything concrete could form, she curiously watched the other woman slip behind her, following the movements until they were both twirling around. Giggle easily billowing out along with her, coming to a halt. ❝ Since we do already have the couch, we could use that as a base for the rest furnishing, make everything cohesive in design, ❞ Suggesting as eyes sweep through the living room, attempting to visualize a potential set up, motioning with her hands adding then. ❝ Maybe a couple chairs that match, or even a chaise — coffee table of course, accent tables too, and if we wanna keep the sleek modern look a floating entertainment center would be perfect. I think the wall space is enough for something like a painting, along with other personal décor we’ll shelve or hang up. ❞ Mocha hues flit back to connect with green ones, gauging Alli’s own reaction to the ideas so far.

❝ Takeout is a staple for any moving day sevgilim, at least that’s been my experience, plus I figured as much since we’re pretty sans groceries right now — Italian ? ❞ Sanem asked while being whisked away into the kitchen this time. ❝ I don’t think it was.. completely awful, ❞ Words hardly convincing to herself, nose scrunching faintly, remembering the stone slab, not the worst but peering at what it’d been replaced with, couldn’t deny this was much better. Stepping around the island, fingertips brush across the polished surface delicately, inspecting the space in awe, from the appliances to cabinetry and how it was all ideally situated.

The comment caused her to quirk a brow, fond grin etching itself across her face, before puffing out a small exhale. ❝ Careful, otherwise we may find ourselves entrusted with every family dinner here on out. But, more room is also good news for testing out a bunch of different recipes, and you know sometimes I do dance around when I get into it. ❞ Moving closer to the woman once more, lacing both hands, a hum emanates at the mention of her best friend. ❝ The answer to both is almost probably yes, considering her work and moving herself not too long ago. I can ask her the next time we get together, I know she’s gonna wanna check out the house ASAP. ❞

closed starter for @sanempellireid location: sanem & alli’s new home, goldfinch valley

“Okay, this is him,” Lily encouraged, pulling up Matheus’ Tinder profile and passing the phone to Sanem so she could see photos of Lily’s latest interest. “Okay so he is eleven years older than us, but I think some life experience is good to have and the age gap between thirty and forty-one isn’t that big in the grand scheme of things. He works in tech, and he’s probably the only guy I like who my parents would also approve of.” It was as though Lily was trying to convince herself more than Sanem that Matheus was a good fit for her and that dating again was the right move. “It’s too early to be sure, but I can’t help but feel as though there’s potential there. I’m seeing him again tomorrow after work, I’ll keep you updated on things. Of course you’ll get to meet him before anything official.” It had only been a month since Lily ended things with Bash, but it also felt like their separation was a long time coming. Maybe she was ready for this new relationship after all.

“Enough about me and this new guy, take me on a tour of the house! I want to see everything, and also hear about the rest of the honeymoon once Landon and I were back stateside,” the brunette prompted, clapping her hands excitedly at the prospect of seeing the new Pellisier-Reid residence. Although she’d purchased her own home impulsively, Lily couldn’t deny that having a space to make her own certainly had an appeal to it. “Show me your favorite area of the house, or your favorite piece of décor. Something that makes you feel like it’s your space.”

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Taking the device as it was passed to her, Sanem focused on the profile of the current man in question — Matheus — her best friend had been seeing. Intrigue mixed with a moderate scrutiny flashed in dark eyes, gleaning what she could from the info written and scrolling through a few pictures. ❝ I can see another reason why you don’t mind the age gap much, he definitely wears forty-one pretty well. ❞ Teasing the other woman with a smirk easily tugging, nudging her a little. ❝ But in all seriousness — it does sound like there’s a lot of pros thus far, which I’m happy for you on, what’s got you feeling that potential about him ? ❞ She inquired, passing the phone back over to Lily, still unable to help feel a faint underlying ambivalence mainly as far as the other was concerned. Of course she’d always be ready to support whatever endeavor was made, in and out of love, nor did she ever put her judgement into question. Maybe it was simply a factor of having Bash in mind, also a good friend of hers, the two ending things not all that long ago. But it’d been mutual as far as she was aware, plus like she’d said, things were still early. ❝ Oh he will absolutely be meeting me before, I won’t run a background check like someone we know, but passing the best friend test is law. ❞

Light laugh billows out, smile widening at the animation Lily had taken on then, both about the new house and honeymoon. ❝ Honestly it might take the whole house tour, possibly then some to even go over the highlights of the rest of our trip, between Cappadocia and Bali alone. ❞ Difficult to contain the the way the lilt in her voice graduated in brightness. ❝ But okay — I mean the backyard is at the top in favorite spots, as far as my own though, ❞ Motioning excitedly for her best friend to follow along before reaching the space in the house that was meant as a practice room for her routines. ❝ Positive this will come as no surprise, little at home dance studio, still putting some finishing touches on it including the soundproofing. ❞   

location: Their New Forever Home in GoldFinch ft. @sanempellireid​

The glory of jetsetting around the world was an experience that Alli never thought she’d get to witness first hand. For the most part, she had grown up reading about international adventures, seen pictures of terrains she never in her wildest dreams would have ever thought she’d step into, but that all changed when it came to the woman she’d chosen to be with for life. The glow of the wedding and the picture perfect day was futher celebrated as the newlyweds embarked to their first destination in Paris. She hadn’t accounted for running into her brother-in-law as well as her good friend and wedding planner, but being from a town as small as Crescent Harbor, sadly Alli had to succumb to the facts that anything was possible always. 

She couldn’t help but wonder if something was wrong with Lily, though the brunette was adamant that she wanted the brides to enjoy their time together in newly wedded bliss, it didn’t stop the lawyer however from questioning her wife to confirm what she was sensing. Then there was the topic of Landon whom had often threatened Alli with visions of him lurking around in Sanem’s best interest but with her history she would have hoped the man would have chosen a different route, luckily in this scenario he had, it was just a serendipitous timing. 

The rest of the trip was a blur filled with photos that she needed to carve out time to get printed somewhere local. The sights, the food, the company she kept, it was all she could have ever wanted – the joy of knowing she was living her best life with the person who made her the happiest. No matter where they went, Sanem was the guiding light, one that she would follow without question, and this stood true as they stood in front of their new home in the quiet neighborhood. It wasn’t as vast as the manor, but it was still robust enough for everything they needed from stationing a home office for Alli, having a practice space for Sanem, enough guest rooms to cater family and friends, a kitchen that could support both women as they battled about who would cook for the day, and of course, a large and luscious backyard that could have fulfilled any four-legged animals dream. 

She squeezed Sanem’s hand gently as she smiled over at the woman, her wife. “The truck should be here in about a half hour, should we head inside and make sure everything’s still exactly as we left it during the initial inspection?” She teased. 

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Sanem was someone imbued with a wanderer’s soul, fueled by a childhood of bouncing across the globe and her mother’s vision in discovering all the beauty that was out there ingrained in the core of her consciousness. Why even when Lawrence had settled them in Crescent years ago, she still ventured as far and often as possible. Though she’d always been fairly content in solo expeditions, one major takeaway from their honeymoon — and truthfully she could say going back to the very first trip to Turkey — was the profuse vibrancy it all took on, simply because she was able to experience it with the woman standing next to her now. The missing piece she now had a lifetime ahead of journeying with. 

Aside from the very unexpected run in with her best friend and brother, their multi-destination trip had gone beyond what she hoped and thoughtfully planned out. While glad to have been able to celebrate Lily’s birthday in person, especially learning why else she jetted off to Paris. She’d still been just a little bit skeptical of Landon’s full reasoning behind going. Not one to usually make an itinerary, this was a special occasion after all, plus a couple locations were firsts to her as well, such as Bali. So it’d been a mixture of sharing previously discovered spots and activities with Allison she’d been excited to, and experiencing new ones together. Creating a plethora of memories in the wake.

In quite the similar vein of building together, today they were officially able to settle into their new home, dark hues scanning the exterior with an indescribable elation flooding through her. Peering over at her wife as she spoke up, gleaming grin extended across her features for a moment before a soft expression shifts into something faintly more mischievous. ❝ Only a half hour huh, ❞ Cadence dipping with an obvious playful tone, vision drifting over the lawyer slowly, while a honeyed chuckle followed soon after. ❝ Come on, we can do another walk through and just enjoy the new home bliss before the unpacking process dawns on us. ❞ Already heading towards the front door as she spoke, tugging the other woman along with the hand still woven securely in hers. 

Practically darting in with an eagerness that rivaled the marvel of entering Disneyworld for the first time, Cairo and Milo who’d been playing around on the lawn happily trotting behind them. Stepping in through the foyer, she looked around the interior, which in truth already had pretty much everything that’d been on their must haves list, both respectfully and jointly. Between the space; both inside and out to host parties or dinner — or even the possible extension of their own little family one day. Which also included the open concept layout and style to be checked off, though there were a few things she’d consider changing around, mainly cosmetic so they’d have plenty of time to play with ideas. A waterfront view, that sure may not be the ocean, but just as serenely picturesque to have close by. However the most important aspect, was the fact that it’s all theirs. ❝ So what are we thinking, DIY the whole look of the place just us, or hire someone to help pull the vision together ? ❞

As Sanem listed off some of her other recent great ideas, Mack nodded at each, lifting a finger with every one as if tallying up all the brilliance. “Whoa, whoa, hold on now. You’ve invested in a flying hoverboard and we haven’t gone out to use it yet?” Mack accused, head whipping towards Sanem with wide, excited eyes. It sounded like just the kind of stupid, reckless thing that she would have a blast doing. Mack got to do a lot of crazy, insane things with her job when she was out filming, leaving her feeling bored to death half the time when she was home. It led to Mack finding new and increasingly more ridiculous ways to find that same level of thrill. “If Alli finds out and fusses, just let me know and I’ll buy it myself. We’ll have a hoverboard one way or another, girl. I got you.” Rubbing her hands together eagerly, Mack followed out to the course, eyes already darting around to find a good place to move to when the bell sounded the start of their round. “Little fuckers won’t know what him them, San. They can’t be mad that we’re just better than they are,” Mack shrugged, tossing her hands up in the air, one hand curled around the paintball gun. When the bell chimed and signaled the start, Mack took off at a wild sprint, the drunken energy fueling her forward in a zig zagging pattern until she reached the edge of one of the barriers. Flinging herself to the ground in a slide, she came to a stop right behind it, signaling that it was clear for Sanem to join her. Not that she actually looked to check, but she was willing to assume she got there before anyone from the other side could get anywhere close.

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No surprise the most daring of her recent ideas is what stood out to Mack the most, for one she’d technically accented on it, however the other woman was nothing if not as, or possibly more intrepid than, herself. ❝ Please, you know me, if I had that thing already I would’ve been taking it around town, ❞ Stating pointedly while finishing up getting all the gear on herself sorted. ❝ I just made a deposit, but the guy who created it is gonna start production soon. Once I actually do have it in hand though, you’ll be the first to know, promise. ❞ Unable to help the amusing grin that displayed across her lips, she knew that on the chance her wife said no at the idea, it came purely from a place of concern for her well being, and of course she loved her for it. But that ever present thrill seeker within was firmly all for this happening one way or another. ❝ Deal, remind me to give you the guy’s info later, if it all works out we’ll both be flying through town. ❞ Snorted laugh escapes her throat, nodding in agreement. ❝ All’s fair in paint and war right. ❞ Responding mostly in jest, while unsure about being quite as no mercy, it was simply all part of the game. Slipping the helmet on finally as a ding echoed through the air, signifying the start. The dancer certainly less graceful in her movements here as she ran for a spot to the closest cover, alcohol largely to blame, glancing over at Mack not far motioning her to follow. Making a break for it, a whiz of paintballs rushed by her, miraculously not hitting yet a solid thud banged against the barrier now protecting both from the rest. ❝ Pretty sure there’s a few in front of us – maybe if we each take a side we can get ‘em ? ❞ 

location; paint of heart tagged; @sanempellireid​

The fact that her and Sanem were the only two adults amid a crowd of teenagers didn’t at all deter Mack from being ready to rumble when it came to their paintball shenanigans. Afternoon drinks had gotten them well and drunk enough to think it was a great idea to up and head over to the paintball course for a round of fun. “Girl, this is the best idea you’ve had in a long time,” Mack grinned, bouncing eagerly as they suited up in the pads that they’d rented for their adventure out into the paintball course. They’d been placed in a team with a few others, but Mack wasn’t there to play on a team, she was there to crush anyone and everyone. The competitive flair was already coming out as she loaded up the paintballs into her gun, eyes flickering towards their competition with a steely gaze. “I’m going to absolutely fucking destroy these kids. San, I love this and I love you. Drinks were great, but this? Peak entertainment.” 

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Some people got their best ideas going for a run or even in the shower — and then others, like herself, tended to have them while half drunk. It could probably be argued that this wasn’t entirely one of her finest, though at the current moment and with the greater enthusiasm coming from Mack, she’d surely say it was. It hadn’t taken long after the suggestion before the duo found themselves at paint of heart, vision peering through the younger crowd around them, before dark hues land back on her friend. ❝ Hey, I think I’ve had some other pretty great ideas lately,  like getting tattoo right after walking into the shop, expanding the business... investing in an actual flying hoverboard, ❞ Stating pointedly with a smirk, while throwing on the jumpsuit they gave out all the players, and securing her gun as well. ❝ Don’t tell Alli about that I still need to figure out how without her immediately getting the deposit back. ❞ Snorted laugh falls then, no stranger to the other woman’s very determined competitive side. ❝ And I love where your head’s at, I’m with you. Think some of them might take my classes.. hopefully they don’t hate me too much after this. ❞ She joked, as they were being told the rules and such before heading out onto the course itself. 

No matter where they went, Crescent Harbor was always going to be home and the places within it would always hold a special place in their hearts. After all, it’s where Lily and Sanem’s friendship started and truly blossomed. “I wouldn’t be surprised if European Starbucks is better, maybe I’ll get some tomorrow to test it out myself. But then again, who am I to deny myself the right to true Parisian cuisine?” At Sanem’s question about Lily’s teenaged self seeing her present one, the woman leaned back in her seat and blinked a few times, as though to see the past. “I think she’d definitely be surprised that her thirty-year-old self is unmarried and working outside of her family’s business, or her hypothetical husband’s. She’d definitely be glad the awkward phase is over, and that frosted lip gloss and blue eyeshadow are no longer a thing. But I think she’d be in awe of what she’s capable of.” While her family’s generational wealth was what had given her as many opportunities as she had had, there were many others who had the same support and didn’t accomplish what Lily had. “What about you? What do you think your past self would say if she saw you right here, right now?”

Sanem realistically could have assumed that Bash was unable to travel at the moment, or that he had another commitment that preceded Lily’s trip that would explain his absence. She tried her best to not cry, still having unresolved feelings about the breakup. She was convinced that it was the right call for them both, but it still hurt like a knife through her chest. “It wasn’t easy, but sometimes the right thing is the difficult one. I loved him and I know he loved me, but not everything’s meant to last forever. And just because he wasn’t the one for me doesn’t mean there’s not someone out there who is,” Lily reiterated, a forced smile upon her features. It was still too early to think about being with someone else, but she was optimistic that she’d find love again. After all, she fell in love with Bash after a harrowing breakup as well. “There was some yelling, and I sort of changed my tone after it. Told him I didn’t really want to hear anything else from him, so I guess that’s the end of that. But I don’t mind you still hanging out with him, really. I know he’s your friend too, and I respect that,” Lily assured Sanem, squeezing her hand across the table. Just because things had ended on a more complicated note than she’d hoped didn’t mean that she expected Sanem to forgo her relationship with him as well. “But I’ll be okay, I’ve had my heart broken before. You know me, I’d binge romcoms and maybe cut my hair but after that, I’ll be back on track.”

Lily recalled the night of Sanem and Allison’s wedding, after she and Bash had had yet another hushed argument and she ended up having a heart-to-heart with Landon on the balcony. “It was something Landon and I did in the heat of the moment, I told him I just wanted to get away. I had all intentions of cancelling it, but safe to say that didn’t happen. I love Paris though, and even though being here simultaneously with my best friend on her honeymoon isn’t conventional, I am glad we got a moment to catch up. Although it truly is more of your thing to plan impromptu trips. I was making an itinerary on the flight to the best of my availability.” Beaming as Sanem spoke about the beginning of married life, Lily was happy for her best friend’s newfound happiness even though she was still finding her special someone. “Are you going right back to work after the honeymoon?”

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❝ That’s a good point, though I think if you gave one a try it wouldn’t sully the whole experience. ❞ Pondering for a second, before she tuned solely into the other woman speaking about what her younger self’s reaction would be to life now. The smile on her lips, delicate but fond, especially picturing the previous choice in makeup look. ❝ Definitely a bold style choice, but I think we can all share in looking back and being slightly mortified. Do agree that she’d be proud of the woman she grew up into becoming. ❞ Inhaling a breath then as the query was returned, Sanem didn’t exactly have a clear outline of the possible future like Lily, but there were some things she hoped for. ❝ Well — she wouldn’t be surprised to find herself in another country and traveling still. Though stunned that she got to fulfill one of her biggest dreams by opening up a studio, and probably a little bewildered about the married status, especially to the girl she just met at the beach. ❞ Letting a soft chuckle billow out. ❝ Maybe a bit disappointed with how she handled some low moments, but still amazed all the same with how far she’s climbed. ❞ Peering down at the mug her hands wrapped around, forgoing the mention of how crestfallen 13 year old her would be to know that her mother wasn’t here to be part of it all. 

The dancer kept her hand gently clasped over Lily’s, she could tell how hurt she was because of the breakup, despite how much she kept a brave face. Feeling a pang in her own heart for the woman, yes she was resilient and she knew she’d eventually be okay it didn’t make seeing her go through something like this any less difficult. Was there partial bias in the line of thinking that she deserved everything good out of life — perhaps, but there were people who’d certainly agree too. Nodding along as she continued about what essentially went down between her and Bash upon calling it quits, which still caught her a bit off guard because they’d seemed to be doing so well. Maybe she just hadn’t noticed between them hiding it below the surface, and her own bliss growing, nevertheless she wasn’t going to push for the details. At least, not this point in time. ❝ I mean, so long as it didn’t escalate beyond the yelling, and it’s something you both thought was for the best.. ❞ Trailing off with a hint of a inquiry slipped into the undertone of her voice. ❝ Though if you need me to give him a very friendly swift kick for any reason, just say the word. ❞ Stated jokingly, light laugh accompanying her words, in effort to alleviate the heaviness that came with this conversation. ❝ As much as part of me wants to say don’t do anything too crazy with the hair, the more curious part would be interested to see the spontaneous new style. But when we’re both back home, we can binge a bunch of movies – or maybe the new season of The Circle. ❞

Both brows arch upwards once more upon hearing that it was in fact a plan her brother had a hand in impulsively ‘planning’. It was out of the ordinary. in spite of sudden upheaval to countries being a large part of their childhood. ❝ Seeing him here, my first instinct was it being because he can’t not check in on me, ❞ Dark eyes roll. ❝ So I threatened to call Interpol if he was invading my honeymoon, but he told me it was for your birthday week. I’m glad too though, cause we still got to be together for your thirtieth, although your gift is probably waiting for you at your place cause since I didn’t think we’d be here now, I had it sent ahead. ❞ Finishing off the last of her coffee, soft hum emanates out. ❝ I don’t think directly away, but soon because I have quite a few projects to start, the biggest being the reno and you know summer’s are always busy. But for now, I’m on full honeymoon mode, and should probably head back to the hotel to get ready for our reservations. ❞ Stretching a bit as they both got up, before moving to give her best friend a hug. ❝ Enjoy the rest of your birthday trip, with all the macarons and wine, and I’ll see you back home if we don’t bump into each other again. Oh also, if Landon starts getting to be too much, don’t hesitate to end an SOS. ❞