(and I really think we should)

Writing is more than a hobby

For most writers writing isn’t just a hobby. It isn’t just “a thing we do” it’s not “a recreational activity”, it’s something we dedicate days, months, years of our lives to.

And it’s not just writing, that’s the thing, it’s planning, it’s research, it’s asking the right questions, it’s philosophy, it’s ethics. There are so many things that come with being a write. It’s always so much more than just putting words onto a page

It certainly isn’t easy either, but that’s why we do it. We don’t write because it’s easy, we write because we enjoy it but it sure as hell aint easy, it’s the hard work and the dedication that makes it all worthwhile

Writing can take a toll

You won’t ever really see it because the writers that do put their work and process and behind the scenes online will only post the good stuff. Because it will get the best engagement

But I can’t tell you how many times my writing has made me cry and the thought of what my characters have been through, or are going to go through has made me feel horrible

Because we can’t help but get attached to these worlds and stories that we make, and we feel so deeply about every choice we make within our writing and that can really take a toll on the writer

Giving our work to the world isn’t easy

Most (but not all) writers write so that someone will see their work. So that someone can bare whitness to their hours and hours of creation

But it isn’t an easy ordeal. And I’m not talking about getting published. I’m talking about the fact that once you put your work out there, online, in book stores, on websites you are putting your work out into the world without any ability to determine or change how it effects things. You won’t be able to control how people interpret what you made or how they interact with it

And that is a scary thing, because for so long this peice of work is your life, it consumes your everyday and once it’s out there it’s out there. There is not a single thing you can do about it, and that is terrifying.

We don’t write for approval

We don’t write for approval. We writers know exactly how weird most people think we are, especially after reading what we write. We aren’t looking for approval to keep creating what we do

What we do love for is those who will walk beside us and enjoy our works as they are. We write for the other weirdo’s just like us who feel estranged from normalcy. I know in particular I write for a small group of people that exist based on very specific circumstances, that isn’t going to be for everyone.

But I don’t write for everyone, I don’t write for the approval of every single person who comes across my content. I write so that people like me get to know they aren’t alone

People who use AI aren’t writers

I‘m sure there are many people who will try to disagree with me but I will never be anything but steadfast in this conviction

Using AI, reduces the entire point of writing into a production. By using AI you are making a product, you aren’t crafting anything. Writing is a practice, a craft, a skill to hone and develop. It isn’t just a method for production. And those who use AI are just cogs in a machine making an item

Writing holds life, it breathes life, it seeps into the hearts of those who whitness it. How do you expect something without a heart make something full of soul? You can’t, you never will

AI writers will never be real writers. And you don’t belong to this community.

• Simple dialogue “I’m leaving.”

• Dialogue with a tag after “I’m leaving,” she said.

• Dialogue with a tag before She said, “I’m leaving.”

• Dialogue with an action beat after “I’m leaving.” She grabbed her jacket.

• Dialogue with an action beat before She grabbed her jacket. “I’m leaving.”

• Dialogue split by a tag “I’m leaving,” she said, “and I’m not coming back.”

• Dialogue split by action “I’m leaving.” She hesitated. “Don’t try to stop me.”

• Dialogue followed by description “I’m leaving,” she said, staring at the door.

• Dialogue with interruption “I thought you said—” “I changed my mind.”

• Dialogue trailing off “I just thought maybe…”

• Dialogue with a question “Where are you going?”

• Dialogue with multiple sentences “I’m leaving. Don’t follow me.”

• Dialogue with a question tag “You’re coming with me, right?”

• Dialogue followed by internal thought “I’m fine,” he said. I’m definitely not fine.

• Dialogue embedded in action She leaned closer. “You didn’t tell them, did you?”

• Dialogue that continues after narration “I told you,” she said. “This was a bad idea.”

• Dialogue that begins mid-action Opening the door, she said, “You shouldn’t be here.”

• Dialogue with an em dash interruption “I was going to tell you but—” “But you didn’t.”

• Dialogue with ellipses inside “I thought… maybe you knew.”

• Dialogue across multiple paragraphs (same speaker) “I tried to warn you.

“But you never listen.”

• Dialogue with emphasis “I said leave.”

• Dialogue with a beat replacing a tag “I’m not scared.” He folded his arms.

• Dialogue embedded within narration He looked at her and said, “We’re out of time.”

On ao3⬇️

Or if you’d rather read it here⬇️

Summary: Going light on the makeup because the suit is already, in your words “overdoing it”..or is it?

Finding Your Heart

Chapter 14: Steak and Wine

———

Journal Entry: November 7th

Robby surprised me this morning with breakfast at my door and the biggest hug. He said he was spending today with me to get ready for my date. Yes that’s right, I have a date with Larissa Weems tonight. That’s so crazy to even say. Scott is still stable with some improvement. His parents are there with him today so Robby could have a break.

I don’t know what to expect tonight, Larissa brought me tea this morning as well, they are sitting on the couch talking right now.

I heard from Harper by the way, I haven’t responded yet, I don’t know how but I know I should probably say something, right?

Signing off, TRH

You wrapped your hands around your warm tea cup and headed back to the couch to be with Robby and Larissa.

“Hey you, done already?” Robby asked scooting over

“Mhm, it doesn’t ever take long when I know what I want to say.” You shrugged with a nod

“So, I have to know, who asked who?” He asked excitedly

You and Larissa looked at each other and smiled

“She asked me” you said

“Robby it’s only a date.” Larissa smiled

“This is huge! Selene owes me money!” He said

“What?” You asked

“Oh a bunch of us had bets on if you’d ever go on at least 1 date. I won” he grinned

“You’re all terrible.” Larissa laughed as she stood up

Larissa stayed longer than she intended to, she has some things to do this morning. Morticia is no doubt already waiting for her at the office. She took her leave with a wave and a promise to see you later, causing you to blush and look away.

Once she was gone Robby turned to you,

“So, what are the plans for today?”

“I need to pick out an outfit, paint my nails and decide whether I want to wear heels or not.” You said

“Yes to the heels, have you seen the height difference?” He raised a brow

“Hey! I’m a solid 5’6!” You said defensively

“And she is 6’3 without heels, with heels it’s more like 6’6” he pointed out, “that’s a foot difference”

You had no argument to that so you stayed quiet. You knelt down to your stand and got out some nail polish, Robby stopped you

“Do her favorite color.” He said

“What?” You asked

“Do you know it?” He asked

“No…” you said

“Leave it to me.” He smugly said

Robert Sykes: What’s your favorite color?

Larissa Weems: I don’t have one, why?

Robert Sykes: No reason

She sat her phone down and looked at Morticia across the table,

“That was odd.” Larissa said

“What was?” Morticia asked

“Robby asked me what my favorite color was” she said

“Odd.” Morticia smirked

Your phone was vibrating across the room, Robby went to check it since you were busy.

Harper (Do Not Answer): Tristen

Harper (Do Not Answer): Tris?

Harper (Do Not Answer): Are you really choosing her over me?

You entered the room again and he looked at you,

“Uh, Tris?” He held up your phone

“What is it?” You quickly crossed the room

You grabbed your phone and saw that it was Harper again, you rolled your eyes and watched the messages continue.

Harper (Do Not Answer): Don’t you want someone your age? She’s like, gonna die before you

Harper (Do Not Answer): We were so good together

You looked at Robby and fake gagged,

“She’s so desperate, it’s gross” he stuck his tongue out

“Tell me about it, she’s been like this since last night. She knows I don’t want to take her back. She literally saw me leap into Larissa’s arms.” You shrugged

“You really did that?” He laughed

“It was very romantic, she even spun” you smiled

“So what are you wearing for this date Miss. Heart” he asked

“Follow me.” You said walking away

You walked back to your bed and pointed at what you had laid out. It was a velvet suit, in a nice black shade paired with your favorite black and white heels.

“Oh this is hot.” He said

“Why thank you” you laughed

“What’s going under the suit jacket?” He asked

You shook your head and his eyes got wide

“Nothing?” He blurted out

“It’s supposed to have a neckline like that” you smiled

“You’re bonkers. Larissa will lose her mind!” He shouted

“It’s either this or I wear a turtle neck under it, I haven’t made up my mind yet.” You smirked

“Which turtle neck?” He asked

You pulled out your white one, you’d chosen this a couple of years ago to get engaged in. You’d actually already made up your mind.

“I think I’m going with nothing under.” You said suddenly

“Are you trying to kill her?” He asked

“She’ll live. Promise.” You shrugged

Morticia crossed Larissa’s room and opened her wardrobe,

“What are you wearing tonight?” She asked

“Well I was thinking…” she walked to the end and grabbed down her silver dress

Morticia looked between the dress and Larissa and smiled.

“You’re going to look wonderful, Chèrie” she said

“Do we think it’s classy enough?” Larissa asked

“For gods sake, you’re going on a date not a family dinner.” She let out a breathy laugh

“Well I’m a bit old to dress below this” Larissa said carefully

“You are only 40” Morticia said

“I am almost 41” Larissa retorted

“When is her birthday?” Morticia asked

“January..” She said

“So a month from you?” She raised a brow

“You could say that.” Larissa said quietly

“Then I don’t see the issue, dress however you want” Morticia said with a shimmy

“You’re exhausting.” She said

“I know” Morticia blew a kiss

Larissa walked to a different dress and pulled it out, holding it up as she looked at Morticia.

“Perfect” she clapped

Larissa’s eyes widened,

“Are you sure?” She asked

“I’m positive!” Morticia grinned

Larissa looked at the knee length, off the shoulder sleeved dress and shook her head,

“I’m going to regret this.”

You were in the middle of painting your nails when Robby jumped up suddenly, scaring you,

“What’s the matter?” You asked holding your chest

“I just thought of something!!!” He yelled

“So you decided a circus act was the best way to tell me?” You laughed, “spit it out!”

“Give me your phone” he said

You slowly handed it over, looking at him

“What for?” You asked

“I’m texting Harper.” He giggled and sat down

“Oh dear gods, Robert..” you said in a cautionary tone

He was already typing away as you watched the whole thing unfold in front of you.

Tristen Heart: Harper, look, this isn’t going anywhere. I don’t like you like that, I like Larissa. Her age isn’t a deterrent for me. You desperately trying to get me back needs to stop, find someone or work on yourself.

The next person he texted was Larissa.

Tristen Heart: Can’t wait for tonight ❤️

And attached was a picture of your painted nails, hopefully Larissa appreciates a French tip.

He handed your phone back with a smug smile,

“You’re trouble.” You laughed

“The best kind” he winked

Your phone vibrated and it was a picture from Larissa, she’d painted her nails a deep shade of red, deeper than usual. You looked up at Robby who just shrugged and bounced away.

“Time check” you called out

“4:45!” He called back

“Crap! I have to shower!” You yelled and jumped up racing past Robby

“I’ll be here!” He said as he turned on your tv

You started by washing your face and turning on the water, cussing at how cold it was at the start. You stood there impatiently while it warmed up, shifting from side to side. Once it was warm enough you hopped in and picked out what scents you wanted to use.

Going with a vanilla scent tonight felt like the right choice, you took your time, you accidentally cut yourself shaving,

“Ouch ouch ouch” you hissed

“Pull it together, Tris.” You said quietly

You shut the water off and stepped out, you toweled your hair and then wrapped it around you, walking to the mirror and grabbing your hair dryer, and so it begins.

Robby knocked on the door,

“Tris? Can I come in?” He asked

“Yes you can” you said loudly

He opened the door and sat on the counter while you blowdried your hair, he looked on in amazement as you flew through your hair routine.

“How are you doing your hair tonight?” He asked

“I’m leaving it down.” You smirked

“Ohhhhhh that’s rare” he covered his mouth

You nodded and started on your makeup, you went light tonight. You didn’t want to overdo it, even though the suit was already doing that on its own.

“Time check?” You asked

“5:30” he said

“I have to get dressed!” You raced to your bed

“Tris, slow down” he raced after you

Larissa was pacing in front of the mirror, stopping to check her hair once more.

“Chèrie, you look wonderful, just breathe” Morticia said

Wednesday was in the corner unamused by the endearing tone her mother used,

“Can we go?” She asked

“We will leave with Larissa, which by the way, we need to go.” Morticia said

Larissa took a deep breath and grabbed her bag and jacket. Hands trembling slightly she opened her door and stepped out. Morticia gave her a hug and whispered,

“This is going to be amazing, let me know when you get home.”

She squeezed her once and walked away. Larissa looked down the hall towards your quarters and started walking. She could feel the trembling of her hands and the shakiness of her steps, a lump of nerves forming in her stomach. She reached your door and knocked twice, Robby answered.

“Hello- Damn” he said

Larissa laughed slightly,

“Is she ready?” She asked quietly

You were coming from the bathroom and Robby stepped aside. You looked up and saw Larissa standing there, her dress was almost as beautiful as she is. The beautiful off the shoulder sleeves and the way the fabric wrapped around her made you lose a breath.

“Larissa..” you said

“Tristen, you look absolutely beautiful” she said reaching out

You grabbed her hand and joined her in the hall,

“Have fun, I’ll be here when you get back.” Robby said cheerfully

You fingers intertwined with hers as you walked down the steps towards the teachers exit to the school.

“I’m very surprised you wore heels tonight” Larissa said

“I hardly ever dress up, so I thought maybe just go for it” you laughed a little

“Well it certainly paid off” she said going down the last step and stopping to look at you

Her blue eyes locked onto yours, she smiled and opened the door for you,

“Shall we, darling?”

“We shall” you said softly as you stepped into the cool November evening.

Robby was watching TV when morticia knocked on the door,

“Hello!” He said happily

“Have they gone?” She asked

“Yes, they just left!” He said

“May we come in?” She asked stepping aside to show Gomez just behind her.

“Sure!” He stepped aside.

You got into Larissa’s car and off you went,

“So, where are we going?” You asked

“There’s a nice steakhouse just on the other side of town square.” She said

“That sounds wonderful.” You smiled

The ride was full of comfortable silence, just the sounds of the radio playing as you watched the passing trees.

Larissa parked and walked around to open your door,

“Thank you, Larissa” you smiled

You walked arm in arm up to the door and someone opened it for you, Larissa walked up and gave her name for the reservation.

“Right this way.” The woman said

Larissa placed her hand on the small of your back as you walked to the corner table she’d gotten. The room was lit with candles and small twinkling lights. Heavy curtains hung against the windows, a deep emerald green. The scent of steak and wine hung in the air.

You took your seat across from Larissa, smiling at her as she looked at you over the menu. You crossed your legs under the table and let your foot rest against the calf of her leg.

The waiter came up,

“What can I get for the two of you?” He asked

“Can we get a Cabernet Sauvignon bottle to start and some water?” Larissa asked

You smiled at the suggestion, you will always trust her wine recommendation, her taste is impeccable.

“Of course, I’ll be right back.” He said with a bow of his head

“Do you have any ideas of what you’d like?” Larissa asked

“I’m not sure..” you said still looking

“Get whatever you want, tonight I am paying” she said

You shot her a look over your menu,

“Larissa…” you said

“Please, I’m the one who asked you to this date.” She smiled

The waiter came back with a bottle and glasses, pouring some wine into each of them for you and placing the bottle down,

“Are we ready?” He asked

Larissa looked to you and nodded,

“I’ll have the bone-in ribeye cooked medium rare with a wedge salad and the baked potato.” You said

He wrote it down and looked to Larissa,

“I’ll do the Filet Mignon cooked medium with a wedge salad and garlic mashed potatoes.” She said

“Wonderful choices, I’ll have it out to you” he said and walked away

You took a sip of your wine and looked at Larissa,

“What?” She asked sort of shyly

“This is a hell of a first date, Larissa.” You smiled

“I only aim to give you the best experience, darling.” She smiled back

She took a sip of her wine and nodded,

“So, tell me about you, besides the things I already know.” She said

“What do you want to know?” You asked

“Let’s start with childhood.” She said

“Oh wow, alright. Well, I would say I had a somewhat normal childhood. My father taught me about my abilities from a young age, he never hid them from me no matter how much my mother protested it. She wanted a normal child, a sane child is what she called it. I say the insanity was marrying an outcast and expecting your children to be Normies.” You chuckled

“She really thought you wouldn’t turn out with abilities?” Larissa asked

“Mhm, she almost got her wish. My brother is a Normie, just about as normal as they come.” You said plainly

“Do you have any other siblings?” She asked

“I do, I have a sister named Shania, she is also a Normie. I’m the only child who got an ability. They used to joke that my mom isn’t actually my mom even though I’m pretty sure I came out of her.” You laughed then

Larissa let out a breathy laugh before she could stop it.

“Then, when I was old enough to attend Nevermore, it’s where I was sent. Anything to protect my mothers social standing. An unruly witch was not her idea of a picture perfect family.” You mocked her tone then

“What did your father say?” She asked

“He just wanted to keep the peace, by then she was cheating on him and he didn’t want me in the middle of it. By the time I was 16 he filed for divorce anyhow.” You said

“I’m certainly glad he kept you out of it, divorces are nasty.” She said surely

“I’ve never had one and I hope I get lucky and never do.” You said, “Watching my father go through it was enough for me.”

“Speaking from experience, I hope that you never go through it either.” Larissa said

“I don’t mean to change the topic from me to you, but tell me about you.” You said with a sly smile

Your food had arrived by now and you both took your first bite, your eyes rolling back,

“This is seriously the best steak I’ve ever had” you said

“It is quite good, isn’t it?” She asked

You both continued to eat while Larissa talked about her childhood. How she used to ride horses with her cousin and her friend from school. How her parents held her to such a high standard that going to Nevermore felt like a break.

“Morticia and I became quite close once we got over how each of us lived.” She said

“I forgot that you were roommates.” You said

“We were, best friends even. We still are, but of course you are aware of that much.”

“You two do seem quite close, almost like Robby and I.” You said with a smile

By the end of the meal, you had finished the wine and the waiter came back,

“Dessert?” He asked

You and Larissa both shook your heads, far too full to fit anymore in yourselves. Larissa asked for the check and you felt yourself get nervous. Previously you’d always split the bill, especially with Harper.

You both stood to put your jackets on,

“Larissa, thank you for this.” You said quietly.

“It’s my pleasure” she smiled.

You made your way to the car and got in, Larissa looked at you for a moment before putting the car into drive.

Robby waved to Morticia and Gomez as they left, closing the door and checking the time. You’d been gone for about 3 hours by now, he wasn’t worried though.

You arrived back at Nevermore at 9:30, Larissa led you inside just as she’s done all night, with her hand at the small of your back. She walked with you up the steps and to your door, you turned to look at her,

“I had a wonderful time” you smiled

“As did I, we will be doing this again.” She said

“Let me plan the next one though.” You put one hand on her chest

Her face flushed slightly, eyes sparkling as she looked down at you. She placed one finger under your chin and nodded slightly,

“Alright then, you plan the next one.” She said

You both stood there for a moment, saying nothing but everything with your eyes. How much you both wanted this to work out, how you’d plan it together. When you finally broke eye contact, your heart was racing and skin flushed.

“It’s nearly 10, you should probably get to bed, darling. School tomorrow.” She said softly

“Right, school tomorrow.” You nodded slightly

She winked at you as she turned to go back down the hall,

“Text me when you get there!” You called

“I will!” She called back

You went inside and Robby rushed to you,

“TELL ME EVERYTHING” he yelled

⟡ Knows exactly what their damage is and has named it and introduced it to people

⟡ Can narrate their own spiral in real time with impressive clinical accuracy

⟡ Says 'this is a me problem' and then continues having the me problem at full volume

⟡ Has identified their patterns, knows when they're in one, and watches it happen anyway

⟡ Describes their own chaotic behavior with the tone of a nature documentary about someone else

⟡ Says 'I know this is irrational' and then presents the irrational thing with full documentation

⟡ Has done enough self-reflection to know they are going to do the exact thing they just analyzed

⟡ Announces their own red flags upfront as a courtesy and an efficiency measure

⟡ Has therapized themselves into understanding the behavior without being able to stop the behavior

⟡ Provides running commentary on their own decision-making in a way that is both useful and unhelpful

⟡ Knows which of their habits are coping mechanisms and uses them anyway with full awareness

⟡ Can explain exactly why they do the thing they do and cannot stop doing the thing they do

⟡ Says 'future me is going to hate this' and does it with eyes open and no hesitation

⟡ Has made peace with their most chaotic trait by giving it a name and some light boundaries

⟡ Diagnoses their own communication style mid-sentence and continues in the same style

⟡ Knows when they are projecting, names the projection, and finishes projecting

⟡ Has awareness of their avoidance patterns precise enough to predict their own behavior in advance

⟡ Catches themselves catastrophizing, acknowledges it out loud, and catastrophizes more efficiently

⟡ Can trace any of their current issues back to a specific formative moment and does so freely

⟡ Says 'I have a type and this is it' while looking at the very type they said they were done with

⟡ Knows the difference between their actual feelings and their performed feelings and shares both

⟡ Has insight into their own behavior that would be impressive if it translated into change

⟡ Is aware they overthink, thinks about how much they overthink, catches it, continues

⟡ Can explain their attachment style, recognize it in action, and proceed at full speed anyway

⟡ Knows their response to stress, predicts it accurately, and produces it on schedule

⟡ Says 'I'm going to regret this' and does the thing with full and informed consent

⟡ Has so much self-knowledge that it functions as entertainment for the people around them

On ao3⬇️

Or if you’d rather read it here⬇️

Summary: Going light on the makeup because the suit is already, in your words “overdoing it”..or is it?

Finding Your Heart

Chapter 14: Steak and Wine

———

Journal Entry: November 7th

Robby surprised me this morning with breakfast at my door and the biggest hug. He said he was spending today with me to get ready for my date. Yes that’s right, I have a date with Larissa Weems tonight. That’s so crazy to even say. Scott is still stable with some improvement. His parents are there with him today so Robby could have a break.

I don’t know what to expect tonight, Larissa brought me tea this morning as well, they are sitting on the couch talking right now.

I heard from Harper by the way, I haven’t responded yet, I don’t know how but I know I should probably say something, right?

Signing off, TRH

You wrapped your hands around your warm tea cup and headed back to the couch to be with Robby and Larissa.

“Hey you, done already?” Robby asked scooting over

“Mhm, it doesn’t ever take long when I know what I want to say.” You shrugged with a nod

“So, I have to know, who asked who?” He asked excitedly

You and Larissa looked at each other and smiled

“She asked me” you said

“Robby it’s only a date.” Larissa smiled

“This is huge! Selene owes me money!” He said

“What?” You asked

“Oh a bunch of us had bets on if you’d ever go on at least 1 date. I won” he grinned

“You’re all terrible.” Larissa laughed as she stood up

Larissa stayed longer than she intended to, she has some things to do this morning. Morticia is no doubt already waiting for her at the office. She took her leave with a wave and a promise to see you later, causing you to blush and look away.

Once she was gone Robby turned to you,

“So, what are the plans for today?”

“I need to pick out an outfit, paint my nails and decide whether I want to wear heels or not.” You said

“Yes to the heels, have you seen the height difference?” He raised a brow

“Hey! I’m a solid 5’6!” You said defensively

“And she is 6’3 without heels, with heels it’s more like 6’6” he pointed out, “that’s a foot difference”

You had no argument to that so you stayed quiet. You knelt down to your stand and got out some nail polish, Robby stopped you

“Do her favorite color.” He said

“What?” You asked

“Do you know it?” He asked

“No…” you said

“Leave it to me.” He smugly said

Robert Sykes: What’s your favorite color?

Larissa Weems: I don’t have one, why?

Robert Sykes: No reason

She sat her phone down and looked at Morticia across the table,

“That was odd.” Larissa said

“What was?” Morticia asked

“Robby asked me what my favorite color was” she said

“Odd.” Morticia smirked

Your phone was vibrating across the room, Robby went to check it since you were busy.

Harper (Do Not Answer): Tristen

Harper (Do Not Answer): Tris?

Harper (Do Not Answer): Are you really choosing her over me?

You entered the room again and he looked at you,

“Uh, Tris?” He held up your phone

“What is it?” You quickly crossed the room

You grabbed your phone and saw that it was Harper again, you rolled your eyes and watched the messages continue.

Harper (Do Not Answer): Don’t you want someone your age? She’s like, gonna die before you

Harper (Do Not Answer): We were so good together

You looked at Robby and fake gagged,

“She’s so desperate, it’s gross” he stuck his tongue out

“Tell me about it, she’s been like this since last night. She knows I don’t want to take her back. She literally saw me leap into Larissa’s arms.” You shrugged

“You really did that?” He laughed

“It was very romantic, she even spun” you smiled

“So what are you wearing for this date Miss. Heart” he asked

“Follow me.” You said walking away

You walked back to your bed and pointed at what you had laid out. It was a velvet suit, in a nice black shade paired with your favorite black and white heels.

“Oh this is hot.” He said

“Why thank you” you laughed

“What’s going under the suit jacket?” He asked

You shook your head and his eyes got wide

“Nothing?” He blurted out

“It’s supposed to have a neckline like that” you smiled

“You’re bonkers. Larissa will lose her mind!” He shouted

“It’s either this or I wear a turtle neck under it, I haven’t made up my mind yet.” You smirked

“Which turtle neck?” He asked

You pulled out your white one, you’d chosen this a couple of years ago to get engaged in. You’d actually already made up your mind.

“I think I’m going with nothing under.” You said suddenly

“Are you trying to kill her?” He asked

“She’ll live. Promise.” You shrugged

Morticia crossed Larissa’s room and opened her wardrobe,

“What are you wearing tonight?” She asked

“Well I was thinking…” she walked to the end and grabbed down her silver dress

Morticia looked between the dress and Larissa and smiled.

“You’re going to look wonderful, Chèrie” she said

“Do we think it’s classy enough?” Larissa asked

“For gods sake, you’re going on a date not a family dinner.” She let out a breathy laugh

“Well I’m a bit old to dress below this” Larissa said carefully

“You are only 40” Morticia said

“I am almost 41” Larissa retorted

“When is her birthday?” Morticia asked

“January..” She said

“So a month from you?” She raised a brow

“You could say that.” Larissa said quietly

“Then I don’t see the issue, dress however you want” Morticia said with a shimmy

“You’re exhausting.” She said

“I know” Morticia blew a kiss

Larissa walked to a different dress and pulled it out, holding it up as she looked at Morticia.

“Perfect” she clapped

Larissa’s eyes widened,

“Are you sure?” She asked

“I’m positive!” Morticia grinned

Larissa looked at the knee length, off the shoulder sleeved dress and shook her head,

“I’m going to regret this.”

You were in the middle of painting your nails when Robby jumped up suddenly, scaring you,

“What’s the matter?” You asked holding your chest

“I just thought of something!!!” He yelled

“So you decided a circus act was the best way to tell me?” You laughed, “spit it out!”

“Give me your phone” he said

You slowly handed it over, looking at him

“What for?” You asked

“I’m texting Harper.” He giggled and sat down

“Oh dear gods, Robert..” you said in a cautionary tone

He was already typing away as you watched the whole thing unfold in front of you.

Tristen Heart: Harper, look, this isn’t going anywhere. I don’t like you like that, I like Larissa. Her age isn’t a deterrent for me. You desperately trying to get me back needs to stop, find someone or work on yourself.

The next person he texted was Larissa.

Tristen Heart: Can’t wait for tonight ❤️

And attached was a picture of your painted nails, hopefully Larissa appreciates a French tip.

He handed your phone back with a smug smile,

“You’re trouble.” You laughed

“The best kind” he winked

Your phone vibrated and it was a picture from Larissa, she’d painted her nails a deep shade of red, deeper than usual. You looked up at Robby who just shrugged and bounced away.

“Time check” you called out

“4:45!” He called back

“Crap! I have to shower!” You yelled and jumped up racing past Robby

“I’ll be here!” He said as he turned on your tv

You started by washing your face and turning on the water, cussing at how cold it was at the start. You stood there impatiently while it warmed up, shifting from side to side. Once it was warm enough you hopped in and picked out what scents you wanted to use.

Going with a vanilla scent tonight felt like the right choice, you took your time, you accidentally cut yourself shaving,

“Ouch ouch ouch” you hissed

“Pull it together, Tris.” You said quietly

You shut the water off and stepped out, you toweled your hair and then wrapped it around you, walking to the mirror and grabbing your hair dryer, and so it begins.

Robby knocked on the door,

“Tris? Can I come in?” He asked

“Yes you can” you said loudly

He opened the door and sat on the counter while you blowdried your hair, he looked on in amazement as you flew through your hair routine.

“How are you doing your hair tonight?” He asked

“I’m leaving it down.” You smirked

“Ohhhhhh that’s rare” he covered his mouth

You nodded and started on your makeup, you went light tonight. You didn’t want to overdo it, even though the suit was already doing that on its own.

“Time check?” You asked

“5:30” he said

“I have to get dressed!” You raced to your bed

“Tris, slow down” he raced after you

Larissa was pacing in front of the mirror, stopping to check her hair once more.

“Chèrie, you look wonderful, just breathe” Morticia said

Wednesday was in the corner unamused by the endearing tone her mother used,

“Can we go?” She asked

“We will leave with Larissa, which by the way, we need to go.” Morticia said

Larissa took a deep breath and grabbed her bag and jacket. Hands trembling slightly she opened her door and stepped out. Morticia gave her a hug and whispered,

“This is going to be amazing, let me know when you get home.”

She squeezed her once and walked away. Larissa looked down the hall towards your quarters and started walking. She could feel the trembling of her hands and the shakiness of her steps, a lump of nerves forming in her stomach. She reached your door and knocked twice, Robby answered.

“Hello- Damn” he said

Larissa laughed slightly,

“Is she ready?” She asked quietly

You were coming from the bathroom and Robby stepped aside. You looked up and saw Larissa standing there, her dress was almost as beautiful as she is. The beautiful off the shoulder sleeves and the way the fabric wrapped around her made you lose a breath.

“Larissa..” you said

“Tristen, you look absolutely beautiful” she said reaching out

You grabbed her hand and joined her in the hall,

“Have fun, I’ll be here when you get back.” Robby said cheerfully

You fingers intertwined with hers as you walked down the steps towards the teachers exit to the school.

“I’m very surprised you wore heels tonight” Larissa said

“I hardly ever dress up, so I thought maybe just go for it” you laughed a little

“Well it certainly paid off” she said going down the last step and stopping to look at you

Her blue eyes locked onto yours, she smiled and opened the door for you,

“Shall we, darling?”

“We shall” you said softly as you stepped into the cool November evening.

Robby was watching TV when morticia knocked on the door,

“Hello!” He said happily

“Have they gone?” She asked

“Yes, they just left!” He said

“May we come in?” She asked stepping aside to show Gomez just behind her.

“Sure!” He stepped aside.

You got into Larissa’s car and off you went,

“So, where are we going?” You asked

“There’s a nice steakhouse just on the other side of town square.” She said

“That sounds wonderful.” You smiled

The ride was full of comfortable silence, just the sounds of the radio playing as you watched the passing trees.

Larissa parked and walked around to open your door,

“Thank you, Larissa” you smiled

You walked arm in arm up to the door and someone opened it for you, Larissa walked up and gave her name for the reservation.

“Right this way.” The woman said

Larissa placed her hand on the small of your back as you walked to the corner table she’d gotten. The room was lit with candles and small twinkling lights. Heavy curtains hung against the windows, a deep emerald green. The scent of steak and wine hung in the air.

You took your seat across from Larissa, smiling at her as she looked at you over the menu. You crossed your legs under the table and let your foot rest against the calf of her leg.

The waiter came up,

“What can I get for the two of you?” He asked

“Can we get a Cabernet Sauvignon bottle to start and some water?” Larissa asked

You smiled at the suggestion, you will always trust her wine recommendation, her taste is impeccable.

“Of course, I’ll be right back.” He said with a bow of his head

“Do you have any ideas of what you’d like?” Larissa asked

“I’m not sure..” you said still looking

“Get whatever you want, tonight I am paying” she said

You shot her a look over your menu,

“Larissa…” you said

“Please, I’m the one who asked you to this date.” She smiled

The waiter came back with a bottle and glasses, pouring some wine into each of them for you and placing the bottle down,

“Are we ready?” He asked

Larissa looked to you and nodded,

“I’ll have the bone-in ribeye cooked medium rare with a wedge salad and the baked potato.” You said

He wrote it down and looked to Larissa,

“I’ll do the Filet Mignon cooked medium with a wedge salad and garlic mashed potatoes.” She said

“Wonderful choices, I’ll have it out to you” he said and walked away

You took a sip of your wine and looked at Larissa,

“What?” She asked sort of shyly

“This is a hell of a first date, Larissa.” You smiled

“I only aim to give you the best experience, darling.” She smiled back

She took a sip of her wine and nodded,

“So, tell me about you, besides the things I already know.” She said

“What do you want to know?” You asked

“Let’s start with childhood.” She said

“Oh wow, alright. Well, I would say I had a somewhat normal childhood. My father taught me about my abilities from a young age, he never hid them from me no matter how much my mother protested it. She wanted a normal child, a sane child is what she called it. I say the insanity was marrying an outcast and expecting your children to be Normies.” You chuckled

“She really thought you wouldn’t turn out with abilities?” Larissa asked

“Mhm, she almost got her wish. My brother is a Normie, just about as normal as they come.” You said plainly

“Do you have any other siblings?” She asked

“I do, I have a sister named Shania, she is also a Normie. I’m the only child who got an ability. They used to joke that my mom isn’t actually my mom even though I’m pretty sure I came out of her.” You laughed then

Larissa let out a breathy laugh before she could stop it.

“Then, when I was old enough to attend Nevermore, it’s where I was sent. Anything to protect my mothers social standing. An unruly witch was not her idea of a picture perfect family.” You mocked her tone then

“What did your father say?” She asked

“He just wanted to keep the peace, by then she was cheating on him and he didn’t want me in the middle of it. By the time I was 16 he filed for divorce anyhow.” You said

“I’m certainly glad he kept you out of it, divorces are nasty.” She said surely

“I’ve never had one and I hope I get lucky and never do.” You said, “Watching my father go through it was enough for me.”

“Speaking from experience, I hope that you never go through it either.” Larissa said

“I don’t mean to change the topic from me to you, but tell me about you.” You said with a sly smile

Your food had arrived by now and you both took your first bite, your eyes rolling back,

“This is seriously the best steak I’ve ever had” you said

“It is quite good, isn’t it?” She asked

You both continued to eat while Larissa talked about her childhood. How she used to ride horses with her cousin and her friend from school. How her parents held her to such a high standard that going to Nevermore felt like a break.

“Morticia and I became quite close once we got over how each of us lived.” She said

“I forgot that you were roommates.” You said

“We were, best friends even. We still are, but of course you are aware of that much.”

“You two do seem quite close, almost like Robby and I.” You said with a smile

By the end of the meal, you had finished the wine and the waiter came back,

“Dessert?” He asked

You and Larissa both shook your heads, far too full to fit anymore in yourselves. Larissa asked for the check and you felt yourself get nervous. Previously you’d always split the bill, especially with Harper.

You both stood to put your jackets on,

“Larissa, thank you for this.” You said quietly.

“It’s my pleasure” she smiled.

You made your way to the car and got in, Larissa looked at you for a moment before putting the car into drive.

Robby waved to Morticia and Gomez as they left, closing the door and checking the time. You’d been gone for about 3 hours by now, he wasn’t worried though.

You arrived back at Nevermore at 9:30, Larissa led you inside just as she’s done all night, with her hand at the small of your back. She walked with you up the steps and to your door, you turned to look at her,

“I had a wonderful time” you smiled

“As did I, we will be doing this again.” She said

“Let me plan the next one though.” You put one hand on her chest

Her face flushed slightly, eyes sparkling as she looked down at you. She placed one finger under your chin and nodded slightly,

“Alright then, you plan the next one.” She said

You both stood there for a moment, saying nothing but everything with your eyes. How much you both wanted this to work out, how you’d plan it together. When you finally broke eye contact, your heart was racing and skin flushed.

“It’s nearly 10, you should probably get to bed, darling. School tomorrow.” She said softly

“Right, school tomorrow.” You nodded slightly

She winked at you as she turned to go back down the hall,

“Text me when you get there!” You called

“I will!” She called back

You went inside and Robby rushed to you,

“TELL ME EVERYTHING” he yelled

ᚑ      ᚑ

When the touch is gentle:

»-♡→ Brushed »-♡→ Grazed »-♡→ Caressed »-♡→ Stroked »-♡→ Patted »-♡→ Cradled »-♡→ Rested against »-♡→ Smoothed »-♡→ Trailed along »-♡→ Glided over

...or comforting:

➺ Squeezed ➺ Held ➺ Embraced ➺ Wrapped around ➺ Clasped ➺ Pressed gently against ➺ Rubbed ➺ Supported ➺ Steadied ➺ Cupped

...or affectionate:

➵ Ruffled ➵ Nuzzled ➵ Kissed ➵ Linked arms with ➵ Nestled against ➵ Curled around ➵ Leaned into ➵ Rested a hand on ➵ Laced fingers with ➵ Pulled close

...or romantic:

̗̀➛ Traced ̗̀➛ Ghosted across ̗̀➛ Brushed against ̗̀➛ Skimmed over ̗̀➛ Lingeringly stroked ̗̀➛ Ran a thumb along ̗̀➛ Tilted their chin ̗̀➛ Tucked a strand of hair behind their ear ̗̀➛ Pressed their forehead against ̗̀➛ Intertwined fingers

ᚑ      ᚑ