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Post by One Hit Wonder on Jun 8, 2019 3:08:32 GMT -5
Stacey was worried. And when Stacey was worried, she baked. The timer dinged and she dusted her hands off on her apron, grabbing the potholders to pull the cookie sheet out of the oven, then placing it on a rack to cool. She slid another cookie sheet into the oven. Double chocolate, Dave's favorite.
She smiled as she set the timer again and thought of Dave. It was good to see him getting out more. She had been delighted when he started to respond to her light flirting. Losing the love of your life is one of the worst things that can happen to anybody, and she had been concerned that he might not ever dig himself out of the dark hole he'd fallen into after Lily's death. She liked to see him smile, liked to see him being silly with that whole hug thing. He was healing, getting back on the horse, so to speak. Stacey giggled at the thought and murmured, “Justice Pony.” She giggled some more as she remembered the way his friends were practically throwing him at her, being ever so helpful. She didn't want to push him though. She'd be around when he was ready. And cheer him on if he found someone he could love as much as he loved Lily. She frowned again as she remembered his comment that some things should never change. She wasn't entirely sure what he had meant by that, but she had an idea or two.
She turned back to the bread she had been kneading when the timer went off. Bread was perfect for working off some of the frustration and worry, something tangible to punch and squeeze. This dough had had enough though. She shaped it into loaf pans and set them aside to rise. Next she decided to whip up a batch of brownies. She idly wondered if Sam liked brownies. She was intrigued by the new guy. Mr. Tall, Dark, and Mysterious. He'd seemed rather taken aback by her flirting at first, but it didn't take him long to start responding in kind. Though she still managed to surprise him once in awhile. Like getting him to give her his phone number. She wondered what his story was. He seemed to really dislike the Circle of Thorns, that was for sure.
Her thoughts turned to her family as continued to putter around the kitchen. Jenny was taking on a lot more responsibility as a Leftenant in the Dawn Patrol. It also put her at greater risk. One of the reasons Stacey had let her sister talk her into joining the prestigious supergroup was so she would be better able to watch out for her. Jenny tended to be a bit reckless when it came to defending others, not that Stacey was any different, she admitted to herself wryly. But Stacey was better prepared to handle the consequences, thanks to her healing abilities.
Her nieces seemed to be doing well. Lyrick had opened a restaurant in New York and was rarely home. Stacey went up to visit her occasionally, and the food was always fantastic, as was the company. She'd always been close to her, seeing a lot of herself in the girl. Not so much a girl now, all grown up at 28. Stacey had been worried when she'd broken up with Vic, but Lyrick assured her it was an amicable parting of the ways. They'd been really young when they first met, and time and responsibilities had caused them to grow apart. Stacey shrugged and thought instead of Jenny's other daughter, Kaydance. Kay had always been the serious one, and time hadn't really changed that. She was helping Grandmama run the company, and doing so rather well by all accounts. Stacey worried that Kay didn't seem to have a lot of fun, then chuckled as she realized that there always seemed to be one “good girl” twin and one “rebel child” twin in their family.
Erica and Heather were a perfect example. Stacey had a soft spot for Erica long before she realized she was an Ashton. She was just as serious as Kay, while Heather was just as free-spirited as Lyrick. She was glad they were both in the Dawn Patrol so she could keep an eye on them, too. They were really the perfect foil for each other, and had been pretty inseparable since they met.
But finally, she couldn't escape what was really worrying her. “What if they find out?”
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Jul 24, 2019 22:25:53 GMT -5
June 13, 2019
Stacey was happy. It was good to be home. She always forgot how much she missed it when she'd been away for an extended amount of time. She chuckled as she mixed up the dough for yet another batch of cookies. “Guess I'll have to keep making these if I'm going to be the Cookie Witch.” She shook her head, remembering how she'd accidentally saddled herself with that nickname. Making plates of cookies appear out of thin air in front of Nixie and Haley had had unintended consequences. And of course Dave was so helpful, saying she'd missed her calling and should have been a cookie mage. She hoped he was enjoying the double chocolate cookies and loaves of bread that had begun appearing on his kitchen counter.
She giggled as she remembered him telling her to stop putting images in his head. Of course, she would never use her powers on Dave like that, but it was amusing to know that he was thinking of her that way. He'd asked both Ness and Siren to protect him from her, though neither thought he really needed to be. She giggled again as she remembered his comment after Duke had called her Sugar, “She's more spice, I think. But definitely is nice.” Yeah, he was definitely noticing her.
She'd been working with Sam a lot lately, too. He'd been taking her to all the best places: the sewers, caves, the hospital. She kept telling him he needed to take her someplace nice to make up for it. They had a “date” tomorrow night, but she was pretty sure they'd end up in an abandoned warehouse or something, rather than a good restaurant. She'd keep working on that. She'd offered to help him with the measurements for his new Dawn Patrol uniform, too.
Her thoughts turned to her family. Kaylee and Michelle would be turning sixteen this weekend. Cassie was worrying herself sick over it, knowing they'd be getting their powers and afraid that something similar to what happened when she got hers would occur. So Stacey had suggested making a big family slumber party out of it, and Jenny was off to the races getting everything set up. Lyrick was coming down from New York, and Erica was even going to put her books away for the weekend. Stacey grabbed another mixing bowl and got started on the cupcakes.
“Still can't believe Cassie got a date before me,” she muttered. She was happy that her cousin and Linsey seemed to be getting along so well. Linsey had become a good friend; she was a ton of fun to hang out with. She felt only slightly guilty about Linsey's hangover after DJ Inferno's show, despite Linsey's assertion that Stacey and Cassie must be she-devils. “If the horns fit...” Stacey laughed.
She laughed again as she remembered Siren asking her how she'd been. “Oh you know me, staying out of trouble.” Siren had laughed and said, “Uh huh, sure, and I didn't set anyone on fire last week.” And then a fireman stripper had shown up. She wondered who'd sent him. Anyway, it was so good to see her old friend again; it had been way too long. She was looking forward to the pool party Siren would be throwing for her tenth anniversary as a DJ for The Cape Radio. Especially if it meant getting to see Dave in his swim trunks again. Holy hell that man was yummy. Hopefully the water wouldn't be as cold as it was in Kallisti Wharf, though she'd be happy to offer her services again. Maybe he'd take her up on that next time.
The timer dinged and she pulled the cookie sheet out of the oven, replacing it with a couple of muffin tins filled with cupcake batter. Her thoughts turned once again, this time to the new recruit, Nick. She'd only met him a couple of nights ago, but he was proving to be a lot of fun. She'd demonstrated her powers by putting the image in his mind of a slip of paper with her phone number written on it. He'd texted her, apologizing for running off to follow a lead on a case he was working on. Last night she'd texted him, saying she was bored and asking him to come entertain her. He'd shown up remarkably quickly. He was really quite adorable, especially the way he'd fished for information about her sexuality and relationship status. It was delightful the way she kept surprising him. “You are NOT Wondie.” Stacey giggled. She'd blown his perfect analogy out of the water, though it did still have some merit. She really wasn't the Ms. Liberty type of hero. And while she and Nick were both orphans, they'd had very different experiences growing up. She'd been lucky, she'd had Grandmama to raise her and Jenny, and all the advantages that money brings. Being a billionaire playgirl philanthropist had its perks.
It was a little embarrassing that Tania had found them asleep on one of the couches in the briefing room, but nothing had really happened beyond a bit of kissing. Maybe she'd text him again tonight to come entertain her again. And maybe they could find someplace a bit more private than the briefing room.
She stiffened as her phone emitted a particular ringtone. Wiping her hands off on a towel, she reached for the phone and put in the code to answer the call. “Yes?”
“Okay, but not this weekend. I have family stuff.” “That will work. Send me any info I'll need. Eidetic, out.”
Stacey hung up the phone and smiled in satisfaction.
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Jul 30, 2019 18:08:59 GMT -5
June 17, 2019
Stacey was miserable, but not because of a massive hangover that she so richly deserved. Her healing abilities had taken care of that while she slept, but they couldn't do anything for her roiling emotions. So once again, she was baking. She pushed the recipe for double chocolate cookies aside and thumbed through her index until she found one for apple pie. As she carefully peeled and cored the apples, she thought back over the events of the day before.
The day had started off well enough. She'd gone to the library to pick up some books for Kaylee and Michelle so they could read up on their new powers. Ness and Dave were there, discussing the new dress Ness had bought.
“Hey, Ness... now you can get Stacey's opinion.” Dave had said. Stacey had asked what her opinion was needed for and Ness had answered, “This new dress, David says it's too revealing.” Ness had looked at Stacey and added, “but it's not really compared to Stacey's outfit.” Stacey had been wearing a micro-miniskirt with slits up the side and a short tank top that revealed a great deal of cleavage, and when she stretched her arms up, a bit of underboob. She'd looked at Ness's dress, then down at her own and said, "Looks fine to me." Dave had replied, “...maybe Stacey isn't the one to ask after all.”
She chuckled a little at the memory, but frowned again as she remembered how Dave had been avoiding her, and had pretty much run out of the university to get away from her. She should have taken the hint then, but no, she had to keep pushing at him. Why couldn't she just leave him alone?
When he'd shown up to Arcade's show, he had purposely stayed as far away from her as possible, even going so far as to put Arcade between them as a barrier. Then Linsey had urged her to demonstrate the belt trick on Dave and Stacey had wanted to get close to him so she didn't listen when he said he wasn't okay with it. When he'd slapped her hands away it was like he'd slapped her face. She realized she'd gone too far and hated herself for it. So she'd left.
Coming back to the show in full armor was probably a bit childish, but she had wanted to somehow show Dave that he was safe from her. It had been unbearably hot though, so she'd had to change out of it. That's when she started drinking. Three glasses of scotch before she left the party, grabbing another bottle on her way out. She'd wandered around the city, looking for something to punch, finishing off the bottle and grabbing a second one from her stash. Then she'd stumbled into the spider den. Those things had hurt, and it probably would have been a lot worse if Frank hadn't been there, and brought some of his friends to help. And if Ness hadn't called her and convinced her to meet somewhere. She'd headed back to the D and got the bartender to top her off with another double.
Linsey and Ness had found her at the bar, slowly repairing some of the damage that the spiders had done. She'd gotten banged up pretty good. And she was actively keeping her body from “healing” her drunkenness, so healing the wounds was a little slow going. Eventually she gave up and went to the infirmary, with Linsey and Ness trailing her. Linsey had apparently messaged Nick, and he met them there. The three of them took care of her, getting some food and Gatorade into her system and letting the autodoc check her over. She'd fallen asleep and her healing abilities had taken over.
When she woke up, she was completely sober again, and didn't even have a massive hangover as her just punishment. So she was beating herself up mentally. For her own stupidity at going out to fight with that much alcohol in her system. What the hell was she thinking, doing that? But mostly she was angry at herself for hurting Dave. For pushing him too far, for not stopping when he said no, for not respecting his boundaries. She'd fucked up, big time.
She had to face the fact that Dave didn't want her. She wasn't sure why that hurt so badly. She put the pie into the oven to bake, then went into the living room and curled up on the couch as tears spilled from her eyes.
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 1, 2019 11:51:54 GMT -5
June 19, 2019
Stacey was on a task force, rushing to her next mission when she saw Dave leaning against the wall outside the gate to Eden, as if waiting for someone. He straightened up when he saw her. "Stace."
She paused, but had no idea what to say. She'd promised to stay away from him, and the rest of the team was waiting for her, so she decided not to say anything at all and went past him to go through the gate.
She was in the middle of a fight when Dave's voice came over the Dawn Patrol comm. "Stace! Did your movie extras go crazy?" "Huh?" she asked. "Getting attacked by zombies out here." "Oh. Sorry, dealing with Devouring Earth myself." "Well... okay then. Kick 'em where they hurt." "Trying..."
Once she was finished with the task force, she got on the comm again. "Well that's done. How's the zombie horde?" "Lying on the ground , all still like." Dave answered. "Good. Call me if you need me, I'm going to take a break."
Stacey went to the Pocket D to await the start of Sultry Siren's show. She was leaning on the rail, like she always did, when Lumena walked up. "Stacey." "Hi Lum."
Lumena made a point of leaning over the railing, peering down for a moment. "Did, uh, you and your friend have a fight?" "Huh?" "The one who wouldn't let you do the belt trick. What was his name?" "Oh. Dave. I promised to stay away from him."
Lumena leaned over the railing again. "Kinda defeats the purpose of that kinda promise if you hang out underneath her." Dave called up. "You know you intimidate me, right?" Stacey looked down over the railing. "What?" "I mean... you are rich, beautiful, a movie star, and a rather kick-ass hero." "Well, you're pretty kick-ass yourself, Dave." "What do you see in a guy like me? I'm a nobody." "I don't think you're a nobody." "You could have almost any guy you want... and probably have." Stacey leaned on the railing, looking down at Dave, listening. "I don't think I can live in that world... your world," he continued. Lumena called down to him, "...get up here, dude. Don't make me jump down there. I'm really not built for hard landings anymore."
Stacey spoke. "Dave... maybe we should go somewhere a little less... public... for this discussion?" Dave looked up at her. "No. Don't let me interrupt your fun time. I'll go." "No Dave, don't. I've got time. You're not interrupting anything." "Pretty sure I am. You just spent two hours kicking ass in every zone in the city, you need your downtime." "No, it's okay."
Lumena interjected, "...can I... note something? ....you know what, never mind, I'll fuck off. Good luck getting through to him, Stacey. I mean that, hoping for the best." "Thanks Lum." Dave sighed. "Guess I deserved that." "Tell you what, Dave. I'm going to go sit down and relax in the Briefing Room. You are welcome to join me if you want to." Stacey walked off to the base portal and proceeded to the Briefing Room, taking a seat on one of the couches. Dave followed, standing across from her, leaning on the rail.
"I must apologize for slightly interrupting you while you were dealing with that thing for Numina." "It's okay, Dave." "I caused you to hesitate. Hesitation may cost someone a life. I know better." "Well, it didn't so don't worry about it. I would have come to help with the zombies if I hadn't been already occupied." Dave mumbled, "I wasn't really asking for help... just wanted to talk to you." "Why?" Stacey was honestly confused. "I wasn't fair to you. I just cut you off without explaining why." "No, I was the one who wasn't fair to you, Dave. I kept pushing at you, and I shouldn't have." "Your world, your life... it isn't one I can live in. The heroing, no problem... everything else, I can't" He paused for a moment. "I don't know what else to say, Stace." "I'm sorry, Dave. This is all my fault." "No, it isn't. I could have said something earlier. Not returned the flirting, maybe." "I never wanted to hurt you, Dave." "Look, you haven't. I tried to stop it before you did... 'cause I didn't want to hurt you."
Stacey looked at him a little confused. Dave scratched the side of his head. "Right... guess I couldn't do that." "Well of course you could. Why couldn't you?" "How could I? Famous people don't get emotional ties to people like me. No tie... no hurt." Dave muttered, "Damn... went too far." "Dave... I'm an empath. Of course I care." "Being empathic just means you know what emotion the people around you are feeling, right?" "No Dave, it means I care deeply about the people I'm around. Especially those I -choose- to be around."
Stacey sighed. "What do you want from me, Dave?" "Guess I could ask you the same question, Stace." Stacey nodded. "That's fair. And honestly Dave, I don't know anymore." "I don't -want- anything from you, Stace. I would like to believe that we could at least be friends." "I hope so." "After that, I don't know what we would be."
Stacey took a deep breath. "I think... I think you're the settling down type, Dave. And I'm not. I can't. I can be fun, a good time, for as long as it lasts, but that's all I'd ever be." "I know. I think that is what has been weighing on me lately. I have never done 'casual'. I look at you and... you are just... wow. I start to wonder if I could be that guy. But I know deep down that I can't." Dave looked down at his feet. "I know, Dave. And I'm not someone anyone should fall in love with." "Why? Everyone deserves love." Stacey shook her head. "What makes you think that?" Dave asked.
"You said you couldn't live in my world. And I hope you never do. It's a terrible place. Everyone out to get what they want with no real regard for anyone else. Money. Power. Fame. By any means necessary. It's..." Stacey paused, then asked, "Dave, what do you know about how my abilities work?" "Not much." Dave admitted. "Okay. Well, basically, I can see what other people are thinking about, as long as it's a picture. I don't read thoughts or anything like that." "So you see a picture in my head right now?" Stacey shook her head. "I'm deliberately not looking, Dave. It took me a long time to learn how to do that. I have never looked inside your head. I want you to know that." "I hear a 'but' coming." "I didn't always know how to turn it off. And when I got to Hollywood when I was only 18..." Stacey shook her head, as if trying to clear it. Dave looked at her. "Don't... if it brings up bad memories, don't. I don't want you to hurt." "It was awful. But I... I learned how to use it to my advantage. How to be... exactly what they wanted me to be."
Dave frowned but stayed silent, listening. Stacey took a deep breath, not daring to look at him. "I knew what they wanted. And I... I gave it to them. You'd think being rich and beautiful it would have been easy, right? Just walk in and immediately get any part I want. But everyone is rich and beautiful in Hollywood. So I... I used my powers to work my way up the food chain. To... to figure out who I needed to sleep with, and how, to get the connections I needed. I rationalized that I wasn't really hurting anyone, so it wasn't bad, right? But I..." "Yes?" Dave tried to keep his face neutral as he processed the information. "I was a whore, anyway you look at it. And that's not how my powers should be used. I don't anymore, of course," she added hastily.
"Stace....you did hurt someone. You hurt yourself." "You deserve so much better than me, Dave." Dave frowned. "You haven't done anything that thousands of others haven't done for centuries... you just had an edge." "That doesn't make it right, Dave." "Dammit." Dave whispered, as Stacey finally met his eyes. "I wish I could wipe that out. Why do I feel like I am the empath?" Stacey chuckled. "I can't stand that you are hurt by this. Makes me want to wrap you up in my arms and tell you everything will okay." "I'm sorry Dave... I never told anyone about this before. I don't know why I told you, honestly." "I'm glad you did. I guess I am your friend after all." Stacey nodded as Dave gave her a little smile. "I... I hope you always will be." "Stace, nothing you have said so far tonight would stop that." "I'm sorry I can't be what you need for us to be more. I... I wouldn't even know how."
"And nothing I heard tonight makes me believe that you don't deserve to have love. Stace... you deserve love like anybody else. You just have to start loving yourself. ...and now I sound like a therapist." Dave shook his head. "I wouldn't know what to do with it if I got it, Dave. I've always hurt everyone who has ever come close." Stacey smiled sadly. Dave frowned again. "Guess this is the romantic in me but I am absolutely sure that if you found love, you would know what to do." "I'm not so sure. I thought I had once... and I... I ran away from it. Literally. Halfway across the world, even." "It scared you?" Stacey shrugged. "I guess." "I find love scary too." Dave gave her a little smile. "You will find it again....probably somewhere you least expect it." "I doubt it. I'm pretty set in my ways. I can't imagine changing myself in order to accommodate it." Stacey gave him a lopsided smile. "Love doesn't ask you to change." "Then I suppose I can't imagine anyone tolerating my lifestyle." Dave shrugged. "You never know. We will leave it at that."
"Most of the people I'm with know the rules. No strings. Enjoy the ride, for as long as it lasts. Love is never part of the equation." "Duly noted." Dave gave her another smile. "Thanks, Stace." "For what?" "For giving me a chance to talk, for laying it out and understanding my side, and most of all, for trusting me with your story." Stacey nodded. "And I really am sorry I was such a bitch to you. For pushing when you told me no. I should never have done that." "Well, I'm sure you are not used to someone rejecting you." Dave smiled. "Apology accepted if you forgive me for acting like a child and hiding from you." "It's a deal." Stacey smiled back. "So... friends?" "Friends." Dave paused. "I better let you get back to the gang before they think I stole your virtue." Stacey laughed. "They probably hope you are."
Dave grinned and leaned over to give Stacey a hug. Stacey hugged him back. "Thanks, Dave." "You're welcome and thank you. If you ever need anything from me, I will be there." "Same Dave. Anytime." Dave yawned. "Wow... I am all tired out now. All your fault." He winked at her. Stacey laughed. "I'll just tell that to the gang," she giggled. Dave laughed. "I'm going to head out....see ya tomorrow?" Stacey nodded. "I'd like that." "Done." "Good night, Dave." "G'night, Stace"
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 1, 2019 11:53:11 GMT -5
Later that same night
Stacey returned to the Pocket D and Siren's show. "Sorry I'm late, Siren." "Hello Stacey," Ness greeted her. "Hey Ness." "Hey Stacey," her cousin greeted her as well. "Hi Cassie." "How are things?" Cassie asked. "Things are... okay now." Stacey smiled. "It's good to have friends." Ness nodded in agreement. "Yes, it is, isn't it?" "And family too," Cassie interjected. "Yes, of course, Cass. So how are you lovely ladies tonight?" "I'm pretty good, just seeing if Caroline can make it here....though I should have something to say about you stealing my girlfriend earlier," Ness teased. "Sorry about that, Ness. Duty called."
The chatter continued around them. Stacey was unusually quiet, but seemed happy enough. Ness touched Stacey's arm "Do you want to grab a coffee or something, Stacey?" "Sure Ness. Anywhere in particular?" "I'm easy, as long as there's somewhere to sit that's quiet." "Let's order in and take it to the base. The couches in the Briefing Room are really comfy." "Okay, that sounds good." "You two don't get into too much trouble." Cassie admonished them, teasingly. Stacey feigned innocence. "Me? Trouble? Never." "Always and forever," Cassie replied. Stacey laughed. "See you later, Cass." "See ya."
Stacey and Ness grabbed their coffees and proceeded to the Briefing Room in the Dawn Patrol base. Stacey smiled softly. "Spending a lot of time in here today, it seems." She curled up on one of the couches, sipping her coffee.
Ness wandered over and sat down next to Stacey, turning a little to look at her friend. "You look a little happier. Linsey said you were at the D earlier but you had disappeared." "Yeah, I headed there after I finished the task force so I could relax and wait for the show to start... and Dave showed up." "Oh did he... what happened?" "I didn't even know he was there. He was standing under the platform. It wasn't until Lum came up and asked what was going on with us that I looked down and saw him. He... he seemed to want to talk. So I told him I'd be in here. He followed me. So we talked." "Is everything alright, Stacey?" Stacey nodded. "Yeah, I think so." "Do you want to talk about it?" "We're friends again, at least. I was afraid I'd ruined that, too." "I'd be surprised if that was the case. David's a big boy although he can act a little..." Ness sighed. "Let's not get into that. So, you're friends, that's great... did anything else come of this talk? You were certainly gone a while." "It was a long talk. We talked about how we come from different backgrounds, lead different lives, have different outlooks on... relationships." Stacey shrugged. "Sounds like you two really got into it in a good way.... Is there any chance that you and he will pursue something down the line?" Stacey shook her head. "I don't think so. One of us would have to change too much." Ness sighed "I know you have been wanting something to happen... I'm sorry it hasn't worked out, but I'm glad that you're still talking....you do have to work with him after all." Stacey nodded.
Ness gave her a little squeeze with her arm. "You really have been through it recently... but it's good that it sounds like this has been resolved... I was a little worried to be honest." "Honestly, so was I," Stacey admitted. Ness sighed. "It wasn't a good place to be in Stacey. But you know you can always come and talk to me, right? It is what I do for a living." "Thank you Ness. I appreciate it." Stacey pondered telling Ness about the rest of the conversation but quickly decided she was not ready to drudge it up again. Ness smiled. "That's what friends are for, hon." "I'm lucky to have such great friends." "Yes, I guess you are, 'cause it's not only me that's been worried. But you know that, of course."
Stacey nodded and made a sudden decision. "Can I ask you you something personal, Ness?" Ness blinked. "Sure, I guess. What do you want to know?" "You love Caroline, right? You're in love with her?" Ness nodded as a big grin spread across her lips. "Yes that's right, I am in love with her." "What's it like? Being in love, I mean." "Wow, not a little question.... it's like when you know you want to share everything with that one person... no matter if it's good or bad... personally on a physical level it makes me tingle all over when we touch each other. I'm excited every time I see her and I want to shout from the roof tops so that everyone knows and... honestly it hurts a little when we are apart... it's like a dull ache that won't stop till I'm with her again. It's hard to explain, I know... but I know that no matter what Caroline is there for me, whether I'm on cloud nine or if I've had the worst day ever, she'll stand by me and that's a wonderful thing to feel." Stacey nodded. Ness looked into her eyes, "why did you ask?" "I... I'm not sure I'm capable of it." "I'm fairly sure everyone is, Stacey." Stacey shook her head. "You don't feel anything... not even if someone kisses you, you don't get that rush of excitement?" "Oh sure, but that's lust." "Ok, maybe a little. I know it was when I first met Caroline but after the lust comes love, at least it did with her." "I think I might have come close once, but I... it didn't work out." "You might just need to give it time Stacey, those feeling have to grow... you don't have them instantly." Stacey shrugged. "I don't know that I'd even recognize it if they did." Ness shifted in her seat. "It's hard to explain if you have never felt it, Stacey." "Yeah."
Ness seemed to consider things for a moment before leaning in and pressing her lips to Stacey's cheek in a gentle kiss. "You think it over Stacey, we can pick this up later if you like. I'm happy to help you with anything like this." "Thanks Ness. It's good to have you as a friend." "Anytime Stacey, you only have to give me a call, you know, and we can talk about anything." Ness adjusted her skirt a little before standing slowly. "I should go and see if I can catch Caroline before I head home." "Good luck, Ness." "We will continue this later though. Night Stacey, take care." "You too, Ness."
Stacey leaned back on the couch. She had a lot to think about.
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 7, 2019 18:09:42 GMT -5
Morning of June 22, 2019
Stacey was brooding in her favorite spot in the Pocket D when Linsey walked up. “Hey Lins.” “Hey back at you! Did you get much sleep?” “No. Too much on my mind.” Linsey nodded. “I been thinking about this shape-shifter issue.” “Yeah, me too.” “Is it's abilities something that an ability dampener can affect?” Linsey looked around the D. “I don't know. Maybe when Ness gets her reports back we can figure that out.” Linsey nodded.
Stacey sighed. “Haven't heard from Nick since he stormed off last night.” “He will come skulking back around soon.” “I would say I hope he doesn't do anything stupid and rash, but it's Nick we're talking about.” Stacey sighed again. “I can't help but worry.”
“So you seemed to navigate the two fellas being on the same team.” “Yeah, that was... awkward.” “I bet!” “I... I didn't tell Dave about me and Nick.” “How about the opposite?” “That too.” “Smart of you. Last thing we would of needed was a measuring contest in the middle of a patrol.” “It was bad enough without them knowing.” “Though Dave doesn't seem the type for that.” “Maybe not. Though he can be just as reckless as Nick.” Linsey grinned. “No! you don't have a type at all!” Stacey laughed. “Confidence is sexy, what can I say?” She shrugged and grinned at Linsey.
“That was the first time I have seen Dog in a fight.” “Impressive, isn't he?” Linsey nodded. “Yes, he can scrap!” “Forgets he's not invulnerable anymore though. He's lucky I'm there to save his ass.” Linsey started to say something then just grinned and stayed quiet. Stacey chuckled. “Yeah yeah, I know.”
“By the way, I noticed you tried to curb Nick's ego fountain, it's a start.” “I've been trying to do it more gently but he pissed me off. Probably why he's not talking to me right now. Won't answer my texts.” Linsey shook her head. “Sounds like he is channeling his inner woman.” “More like his inner teenager.” Linsey nodded and Stacey sighed. "I really need to stop going for much younger men." “May want to switch hit!” “And go for much younger women, instead?” Stacey grinned. “Why yes!” “Alas, you are already taken, my dear.” Linsey smiled. “When and if the stars align, yes.” “Cassie is a lucky woman.” “You flatter me Stace, but we shall see. If ever there were two persons whose schedules are polar opposites!” “Yeah, that was Craig and I. Always seemed to be on opposite sides of the earth. Hopefully you and Cassie have better luck.” “Craig?” “Guy I dated several years ago. Super-soldier type. Haven't seen him in years though. Just couldn't get our schedules to match up.”
“Ok.” Linsey ticked off on her fingers, “Dave, then Nick. who was the third fella?” “Sam. You met him last night. Darkestrike. Not that that's gone anywhere. And Dave and I are just friends.” “So you're down to one.” “Simplifies your spreadsheets, at least.” “Why thank you for your concern of my writing hand.”
Stacey stiffened as her cellphone emitted a specific ringtone. She pushed herself off the rail and apologized to Linsey. “I gotta take this.” “Sure.”
Stacey walked off to a more private spot and punched in the code to answer the call. “Yes? Okay, I'll be there. Have Roger get the jet ready. Eidetic, out.”
**
Later that evening...
Stacey looked around the ballroom, taking in all the well-dressed men and women reeking with money. She was dressed in a designer original herself, red silk with a slit clear up her thigh and a plunging neckline that barely contained her breasts. She stood out a bit among the more conservatively dressed party-goers, but that was intentional. Finally, she spotted her prey and approached him. “Hello Senator.”
“Ms. Ashton. Always a pleasure to see you, though I'm surprised you're at a political fundraiser for the opposing side.” “You know I never let politics come in the way of a good party.” Stacey leaned in to kiss him on the cheek and whispered in his ear seductively, “or good sex.” She surreptitiously slipped her extra room key into his pocket and stepped back again, smiling at the images that flooded into his mind.
The Senator cleared his throat. “Yes, well, please enjoy the party. I'm afraid I must mingle, but perhaps I will have a chance to see more of you later?” “Oh, most definitely.” They shared a secret smile and then moved off to mingle with the other guests. Stacey made sure to be in his line of sight throughout the night as she talked and laughed with the other guests. Several times she caught him looking at her and smiled.
As the party began to wind down, she caught his eye again and made sure he saw her heading for the elevator. She entered her room and looked around to make sure everything was ready. Kicking off her shoes, she quickly stripped out of her dress and hung it up in her garment bag. She lit a few candles and turned on the CD player, then arranged herself in the middle of the bed. She didn't have long to wait. The Senator entered the room and quickly closed the door behind him. He stood staring at her for a moment before coming over to sit on the side of the bed. “Damn, you are gorgeous.”
Stacey smiled and pulled him in for a kiss.
**
She looked down at the sleeping Senator. He was a good looking man, and a great lover. Too bad he was such a bastard. Ah well. It was done. She got out of bed and took a shower, got dressed again and packed up her stuff. She only had the garment bag and a small carry-on, so it didn't take long. Giving one more glance toward the bed to make sure the Senator was still asleep – and he was – she let herself out of the room and headed down to the lobby to meet up with Roger.
Back on the jet, she slipped her earbuds in and leaned back in the seat. Trisha Yearwood sang in her ears. Not quite sure what's going on But all day through, and all night long I've been thinking about you
Stacey's thoughts turned to Dave. It was probably a good thing that they had agreed to be just friends. He was too smart, too observant. She'd made one little slip, and he'd caught it. And she'd already told him one of her biggest secrets. She still wasn't sure why she had told him, but it had been good that she had, as he'd been able to use it to verify her identity. Still, she was going to have to be more careful around him. He was just too easy to talk to. She felt... comfortable... around him. It was strange. She didn't know how to explain it.
Kylie Minogue's lyrics broke through her thoughts. See through me when I put up a fight, I'd like you to see the things I hide, Go deeper than I will let you know, I'm frightened but I won't let it show, I'm helpless about the way of me, And I'm thinking, Thinking about it all, I'm sorting everything inside
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 23, 2019 12:10:34 GMT -5
June 25, 2019
"Hey... you know there's chairs to sit in, right?" Stacey grinned at Dave. "I know, but this gets B going." He grinned back. "Ah, totally worth doing then." "I agree." He watched as she leaned up against the table next to him. "How was your day, dear?" He grinned again. "Deer? Did I grow antlers or something?" Stacey felt around on her head. Dave checked. "Well you do have some bumps on your skull..." Stacey winced as he touched one that was particularly tender. "Oops... sorry, Stace." "It's okay. Consequences of being a hero, I guess." He gestured to the beer on the table, causing one to slide to his hand. "Beer?" "Sure."
He handed her the beer and TKd another to himself. "Oh... Stace, before we keep going... show me your power, please." She waved a hand and gave Dave the cookies that appeared. "I think you just wanted another cookie." Dave snagged a couple double chocolates. "Whew. Good to know you are still you." "Uh huh, and how did I get in here if I wasn't? I'm on to you, Dave." She wagged a finger at him and grinned. "You could be Jenny pretending to be you. I wouldn't put it past her to do that to mess with me." He smiled. "Hmm... well you're safe, she's in the Bahamas with Max." "...and she passes test two." "Any more on this pop quiz? I didn't study." Stacey stuck her tongue out at him, then started giggling. "Nope, I am convinced that you are you."
They sipped their beers companionably for a moment, then Dave asked, "And how is Nick?" Stacey sighed. "I don't know. I haven't seen or heard from him since Friday night. I'm worried." "Now that is disturbing. Checked his domicile?" Stacey nodded. "He said he was going to try and convince her that he was going to join up with her, draw her out, and away from us." "His plan?" "I have no idea. I've been going through my contacts in the Isles but no one's seen or heard anything yet." "Cause it really is lacking on details like security, backup, and a general sense of self preservation... not that I am one to talk about that." "Tell me about it. Damned idiot's gonna get himself killed. And if he doesn't, he's likely to get himself kicked out of the Patrol for this little stunt. I know he means well, but..." she shook her head. "You are really worried." Stacey nodded and took another sip of her beer.
Dave lifted his communicator to his mouth. "Kinmount to Ramsey. Prep Team 4, get Lupe spooled up, and head to Intel. Ramsey... locate Patrol recruit Bloodshot and stand by for recovery. Wayward Angel protocols are in effect." Stacey looked at him. "What are you doing?" He looked over to her. "When I got into trouble with my old bosses, the Patrol started to implement procedures to recover our assets. If Nick and his ex are good as you say, I wouldn't hold my breath about Intel finding them but you never know." She nodded as he reached over and rubbed her back. "Don't worry, we will find him." Stacey sighed. "Thanks Dave."
He murmured, "Maybe I am actually good at this Captain stuff." She smiled. "I don't think you give yourself enough credit, generally." "Probably because I cause more trouble than I prevent." She shrugged. "You just need a good healer around to watch your back." "You are that but your other abilities help even more. When teaming with you, I feel like I can go a lot harder and further. You energize anybody that is near you." She waggled her eyebrows at him. "How did I know you were going to go there?" He smiled. She grinned. "Because you know me?" "Why yes I do. And if I was a different man, this table would need replacing." "Pity."
"...that was uncalled for... sorry." "It's okay Dave. I know where we stand. I'm not going to go getting ideas if you flirt back a bit." "I stand with you. Something behind to prop you up when you stumble. That's about all I can do." "Thanks Dave, I appreciate it. You're a good friend." "I try but I don't always succeed." "Same could be said for me." "Sort of two peas in a pod but not." Dave paused. "Well... that doesn't make any sense." "Opposite sides of the same coin, maybe?" "Something like that. We are probably closer to being alike than different. We only have one thing that is different." "Only one?"
"Well... two. But one disappears sometimes." Seeing Stacey's confused look, he continued. "My curse." "Curse?" "At times my gender flips... a dragon cursed me. Not something I really broadcast." Stacey blinked. "Well... that could get interesting in the bedroom, I guess." "Never happened yet." Dave glanced at her. "Don't get any ideas. It weirds me out." She giggled. "I bet." He glanced at her again. "Stop thinking that." "What?" Stacey was the picture of innocence. He facepalmed. "I am not going to ask. I will leave you your fantasies." "Mmmm." Stacey got a far-off look in her eyes while Dave rolled his. She smiled and took another sip of her beer.
"Luckily you have never seen me that way." "As a girl? Or in my fantasies?" "As a girl. I figured I was in your fantasies." He grinned at her and she grinned back. "And I hope you never do see it." "Why not?" "Ummmm... because." "We could go shopping together, get manicures, be BFFs..." She grinned at him. Dave was dumbfounded for a moment. "Never." He shoved himself off the table and stood up. "I should get going." Stacey nodded. "Thanks for the beer." She drained the bottle and made it disappear. "My pleasure. Thanks for... well... ummmm... being you?" She shrugged. "Don't know what else to be." "Good." Dave took a breath. "Good night, Stace. Be careful and use Ramsey and Team 4 if Nick needs help." "Thanks Dave." "No problem." Stacey watched him leave.
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 25, 2019 10:15:03 GMT -5
June 28, 2019
Stacey hugged Dave, as she generally did when they were out patrolling together and she was using her powers to boost the team's defenses. It had become a silly ritual between them. This time though, Dave gave her a peck on the cheek. Stacey tried to shake off her confusion and concentrate on the mission. She needed all her wits about her here in the Shadow Shard. Still, she took a hard hit near the end, and it took awhile to get herself back up. Dave offered her a hand. "You okay, Stace? That was quite the knock."
She took his hand and allowed him to help her up. "Yeah, I think so." She quickly let go once she was upright and brushed herself off. "I think I'm going to head to the show and relax." She took off quickly, not looking behind her for Dave's reaction to her blunt departure.
**
Ness found her relaxing under a tree at Tahquitz's show. "Hey Stacey. You alright after that?" She sat down next to Stacey on the grass. "Yeah, I think so. Just need to rest a bit." "That's fine." Ness glanced at Stacey, "Glad we went, in the end?" Stacey sighed. "He confuses me, Ness." Ness sighed and settled in next to Stacey. "I know, he's always been confusing." She stretched out. "You're not trying to over think this are you?" "Probably." Stacey admitted. "I thought so. You need a distraction, hon." "A few shots to the head wasn't distraction enough?" Ness looked closely at Stacey. "That was more of a wake up call. I mean something to take your mind off David. Just for an hour or two." "Like what?" Ness shrugged, "Search me." "I figured I'd relax and enjoy the music." Stacey teleported some tacos over for herself and Ness. "See, that's a good start." Ness grinned and took a taco. "Thanks Stacey." "You're welcome. And we totally deserve tacos after all that. Whatever the hell that was." "I've given up trying to explain that place. It's like David, that place." Stacey laughed. "So true!" "It's nice to have someone who's not complicated or confusing." "Yeah. I mean, I know where I stand with Dave, but he still confuses me." Ness nodded. "Yep, he's been confusing me for over a decade." "If you haven't figured him out by now, I have no hope." Ness grinned and rubbed Stacey's belly. "Don't worry, things will get better with Dave." Stacey shook her head. "I don't see how. It's an impossible situation." Ness shrugged "I... don't know, I was just trying to be positive" "I appreciate it, Ness." They ate their tacos and enjoyed the music. Near the end of the show, Ness gave Stacey a kiss on the cheek. "Mind if I head home, Stacey?" "Of course not, Ness. I'll be fine." "Promise me you'll call if that changes, and we can hang out again tomorrow." "I promise." Stacey gave her friend a hug. Ness hugged her back tightly, then slowly stood. "See you tomorrow, Stacey." "See you, Ness!"
**
Stacey settled her tab with the bartender and started to leave when she felt the presence of a chaotic mind. Turning around, she spied her sister, Jenny. Except it wasn't her sister, it was the shape-shifter, Monstra. "Hey!" Monstra greeted her. "You." Stacey said flatly, narrowing her eyes. "Sis. Though I've run into some legal trouble, it seems. Hope it doesn't hurt the Patrol. I care so much for them, y'know. Like family." "What the hell are you playing at?" "I just feel silly about before. I only had, like...60% of the picture. But I did some digging." Monstra extended her claws. "And got the whole picture." "Did you now?" Monstra nodded while Stacey looked her up and down. "Tsk. The boots are all wrong." Monstra grinned. "Close enough. Part of the plan. Just like it's part of the plan that we're here... with no cameras... but plenty of eyes. People will talk. On both sides." "No one who really knows her will ever believe you're her." "You're right. But that part doesn't matter. Everyone expects the Dawn Patrol to come to her defense." "Whatever you're planning, you're not going to get away with it." "Going pretty good so far. Even Kid Manticore is running around to trying to figure it all out. To protect you all. But he doesn't know the Isles like I do. He thinks he does... but he's just visiting. It's not HOME."
"You really think you can go up against the entire Dawn Patrol and win? That's pretty laughable." "It's an insurgency, babe, not a direct assault." Monstra grinned. "I really did nail the eyes. That's always the hardest part. Though you like the smokey makeup more than she does." "So you've figured out who I am, have you?" "Psh. Like... the NEXT DAY. I felt silly. I can get a little ahead of myself. But I'm planning better now. For example..." Monstra gestured around. "The Ashton twins of the Dawn Patrol. COLLABORATING. People will talk. That's all that needs to happen tonight." "I did tell you you didn't know me. You still don't." "No. I'm not the mind-reader. You are. But you struggle a little with me, huh? Don't feel bad. More powerful telepaths haven't had much better luck." "I'm not sure you even have a mind. Not a useful one, anyway." Monstra feigned injury. "OUCH." "So what's next? It's not unheard of that my sister and I would be seen out together. It happens quite often, actually." "Mm. But WONDIE has been keeping a low-profile while things get sorted out. It's enough for now." Monstra spoke a little louder. "It's been real fun, sis, but I'm not in a drinking mood tonight. Got an early morning." "You are not my sister." Stacey snarled. "Close enough for tonight though." Monstra laughed as she walked off, leaving Stacey swearing under her breath.
**
Stacey was chatting with her friend Daniel when Nick walked up. He observed quietly, then said, "Just wanting to say hi. Glad you're good. Hope you're having a good night." "Oh! Good, I need to talk to you." She excused herself from Daniel and turned to Nick. "Yeah? Sure. No problem." "Yeah, about the unpleasant person I saw earlier." Nick frowned in concern as Stacey continued. "If we could find somewhere... quieter... to talk?" "Yeah. Wherever." Stacey led the way to the base. They settled onto one of the couches in the common area of the quarters. "So... saw your ex." Stacey said without preamble. Nick's jaw dropped and he sighed. "Where?" "In the D." Nick threw up his hands. "Of course!" "Masquerading as Jenny." "She knew I was in the Isles. DAMN. I thought I had eluded her." "And she knows who I am." "Yeah, I figured she would learn all about you two... all the Ashtons... soon enough. Where's your sister now?" "Still in the Bahamas." Nick shook head. "That... won't do. The reality is... too convenient in this case. Sounds like an excuse.. She won't be "Monstra" in public. She'll just be everyone ELSE. But she can't hold anything other than her default form indefinitely. It's the one thing we have." "She knows you've been in the Isles trying to protect us." "That much is obvious. One step behind her."
Stacey sighed. "God what a mess." "I'm sorry, Stacey. Part of me realizes that... she'd hate the Patrol... and Wondie... anyways. That me joining wouldn't have made a difference." "It's not your fault Nick." "Still... I feel the connection through me hasn't made anything better. I just wanted her caught. I thought she was still little more than a wild animal. But... she's changed in the years since she fled Paragon. I'm... not up to the task. I'm not Manticore. Not One Hit Wonder. I... need help." "That's why you have us, Nick." "I thought... at the very least... she'd be pursuing me in the Isles if she knew I was there. Keeping her away from you and your family. Seems... she can handle both." "It's been a long time Nick. People change over the years." Nick sighed. "That's... for sure. Look... I... should go."
Stacey sighed and dropped her head into her hands. Nick moved closer, concerned, "Stacey..." "I don't know what to do, Nick. I don't know what she has planned. I don't know how best to protect my sister." "We... gotta figure all that out. I'm heading to the D. It's... where I go to think. With the non-combat protection, it's the only place anyone can be safe. There's the off-chance she's there and will confront me. If not... it's a place to clear my head. Contact me if you need anything." "Yeah, okay. I can understand that. Don't think it's going to work for me tonight though." she muttered under her breath. "Fucking nightmares." "It's... a tough place as far as the press and politics go... but your sister is still safe out of the country. Monstra is playing the long game. She won't do anything tonight or in the coming days. Small comfort." Nick put a hand on her shoulder as Stacey floated a bottle of wine over from the bar. "You... need anything else? Gonna be okay?" "Yeah, I'm safe in here." Nick nodded. "We'll talk soon. Stay in touch." "You know how to reach me." Nick smiled and nodded. "Yeah." Stacey began drinking as she watched him leave.
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 27, 2019 12:33:41 GMT -5
Stacey was confused, and her thoughts tumbled chaotically through her mind, mixed with memories and the occasional lyrics that penetrated from the music playing on the jukebox. She'd thought about calling Ness after Nick had left, but realized what she really wanted to do was to call Dave, and just ask him to hold her. What the hell? That wasn't part of their deal. Friendship was great and all, but did it really mean calling at 3am just because you wanted a hug? So she just sat there, drinking her wine and letting her thoughts wander. She smiled as she remembered how Dave had first approached her in the Pocket D. They'd known each other for years, but hadn't really talked much before that...
Do you really want to know me? Do you care what's inside? Can you ever really show me There's no secrets I must hide? If I bare my soul can you accept it all My darkest corners safe behind a wall Do you really want to know me at all?
I don't want to run away but I can't take it, I don't understand, If I'm not made for you then why does my heart tell me that I am? Is there any way that I can stay in your arms?
But you can say, baby Baby can I hold you tonight? Baby, if I told you the right words Oooh, at the right time You'll be mine
I've been spending all my time Just thinking about ya I don't know what to do I think I'm fallin' for you I've been waiting all my life And now I found ya I don't know what to do I think I'm fallin' for you
It's true I've become a skeptic How many couples really love Just wish I had a crystal ball To show me, if it's worth it all
But I guess I lied And I said I didn't care When all that I want is to turn around and find you there Gotta keep it all inside never ever let it show
Do you know what this is No, I don't But whatever it is It's very powerful Have you felt this way before Oh, I thought I knew
Sugar sweet, my sugar high The sweetest taste I'll ever try
You seem to know the way To turn my frown upside down You always know what to say To make me feel like everything's ok.
'Cause you are the one that started To make me feel this way And every night I'm thinking About the words you'd say 'Cause you are the one that i want
And I, keep my feelings to myself I've never reached for someone else But lately I'm thinking how cold I've been And now I begin to see that I should Dare to fall and with your help tear down the walls
I can't be held responsible This is all so new to me Just when I think I'm invincible You come and happen to me
I think of you in motion and just how close you are getting And how every little thing anticipates you All down my veins my heart-strings call Are you the one I've been waiting for?
I don't believe in fairy tales But I believe some things were meant to be Why should we be alone When we could have each others arms to hold
Everybody has to take a chance sometime And if I ever get back on my feet again I won't give you up oh-no 'Cause we can always look back on what should have been 'Cause you know honey right now I've got trouble in mind
And I'm missing you and nobody knows it but me
You say I'm a dreamer, we're two of a kind Both of us searching for some perfect world we know we'll never find So perhaps I should leave here, yeah go far away But you know that there's nowhere that I'd rather be than with you here today Hold me now, warm my heart Stay with me, let loving start
And so it never really ends You mend the hurts that never mend Come on, hold on to me It's all I need.
There's nothing more dangerous than a boy with charm He's a one stop shop, makes the panties drop He's a sweet talkin' sugar coated candy man
Have you ever needed someone so bad, yeah Have you ever wanted someone You just couldn't have
If you hold me in your arms We can brave this storm together
'Cause when I close my eyes and drift away I think of you and everything's okay I'm finally now believin' And maybe it's true, that I can't live without you Well maybe two is better than one There's so much time, to figure out the rest of my life And you've already got me coming undone And I'm thinking two, is better than one
How do I know when it's love I can't tell you but it lasts forever How does it feel when it's love It's just something you feel together
Is this love that I'm feeling Is this the love that I've been searching for Is this love or am I dreaming This must be love 'Cause it's really got a hold on me
I knew I liked you, I knew I cared And I knew that something was brewing in the air But I don't fall easily, too many betrayed me But maybe I love you, maybe I do Maybe this feeling inside me is true And if I love you, and if I do Then maybe baby, maybe you love me too
Holding you holds me together When holding on gets just a little too hard When this tight rope I travel Begins to unravel and I feel like I'm falling apart Holding you holds me together Whenever I hold you tight This crazy world of mine falls right in place Stacey sat up as her thoughts seemed to all collide together at once in a flash of light. Was that it? Did she love Dave? What was it Ness had said about love? "It's like when you know you want to share everything with that one person... no matter if it's good or bad... " Is that why she wanted to call Dave so bad? Why she wanted to just feel his arms around her, holding her, as if somehow that would make everything better? And if she did love Dave, what was she going to do about it? She sighed again. It was still an impossible situation. She didn't know how to be what he needed her to be. She didn't know how to love him. She was sure to make a mess of things. And he wouldn't want to fit into her world, even if he could. She should just forget about him, be content with just being friends. She should... but she couldn't. She wanted desperately to try. Maybe they could make it work... somehow.
Say there is something I can do If I can make it up to you For every time I let you down And I promise you to make it right Forget all the sorrows you bear within tonight Believe in me when I say Here and now, I want to be the one for you In everything you want me to Cause I couldn't live if we're apart Here and now, let's tear down the walls together It's better late than never I know that we could find a way, here and now I'll be there for you Here and now, I want to fall in love again And try to be the best I can So give me a chance to win your heart
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Post by One Hit Wonder on Aug 30, 2019 21:15:33 GMT -5
June 30, 2019
Stacey had spent all of Saturday patrolling and running missions for the Paragon Police Department, in a failed attempt to run away from her chaotic thoughts. Finally Ness cornered her Sunday morning. "What's got you all worked up, and don't deny it. I can see it... come on, I'm your BFF." "I saw Monstra again Friday night. Masquerading as Jenny." "Are... are you alright?" "Yeah, it was in the D so she couldn't do anything, but I'm worried about whatever she has planned." "Well that's understandable... you should have called me straight away." "I..." Stacey sighed,"Yeah, I probably should have." Ness turned to look at her. "Yes you should have... why ever would you not?" "I... I wanted to call Dave. I didn't. But I wanted to. I swear, my head is a worse jumble than Monstra's."
Ness sighed and pulled her close. "It's ok Stacey, we can deal with it together." "I should have called you. Or Linsey. Or even gone home and talked to Grandmama. But I just sat here wanting desperately to call Dave..." "Well, I would have rather you called me, but to call no one is just silly, Stacey." "I know." Ness shook her head for a bit. "I don't believe you did that." "I got some of my contacts working on it yesterday morning, then spent the day punching things." "And since then...you haven't rested..." "I'm fine." "You're trying to do it all again." "I don't really need much sleep. It's another perk of the healing factors, I guess. If I went to bed, I'd just lie there, thinking..." Ness smiled softly. "I'm not talking about just sleep, you need to relax and unwind, your shoulders are so tense." "Yeah of course they are. There's a madwoman after my sister. And I..." Stacey sighed, "I'm just so confused." "Confused about what Stacey?" "I don't know what I'm thinking, Ness. What I'm... feeling. What I'm going to do. Gods, what a mess." "You can talk to me if it will help." "I don't know that anything will help, Ness." "I'm here for you, Stacey" "I know Ness, thank you. I think I just need to work this out in my own head, you know?"
Ness sighed dramatically and flopped backward, her arm draped across her forehead. "But I'm dying here... I'm in desperate need of a hot brunette." Stacey laughed. "I guess you need to get Caro to dye her hair?" She smiled impishly. Ness peeked at her with one eye open. "Or maybe we can work something out?" "I don't really want to risk Caro stabbing me or something." Ness grinned impishly. "We don't have to go all the way, but I'd like to get to know you better." "You know if you want to get to know me better you could just ask some questions." Stacey grinned. "Go ahead, ask me what my favorite color is or something." Ness grinned up at her. "What's your favorite color?" "Blue." Stacey laughed. "See, isn't that better?" "Yeah. Thanks Ness." Stacey hugged her. "You're a good friend Ness. I'm sorry I didn't call you. I'm used to only relying on myself." Ness sighed. "It's ok, but I wish you would have. This is what I was talking about Stacey. You're not alone, you have me your slightly mad friend who is always here for you." "Slightly?" Stacey grinned at her. "Totally mad friend who is always here for you?" "That's better." Stacey hugged her BFF again.
She finally went home and managed to get a little bit of sleep, then got up to make cookies as she tried once again to process her thoughts. What would happen if she told Dave how she felt? How would she even go about telling him?
What if I told you (what if I said) That I loved you How would you feel What would you think What would we do Do we dare cross that line Between your heart and mine Or would I lose a friend Or find a love that would never end What if I said
She turned off her playlist and headed out to DJ Arcade's show. Haley greeted her upon her arrival. "Ohai!" Stacey waved a hand and a tray of cookies appeared beside Haley. Then she turned to greet her BFF. "Hey Ness." "Hey Stacey." Ness leaned close to Stacey and whispered. They were still whispering to each other when Dave arrived. He glanced at them when they started to giggle. Stacey grinned at him and he furrowed his brow. She went back to whispering to Ness. "He thinks we're talking about him..." "Oh isn't this good, let's wind David up." Ness grinned at Dave while Stacey giggled. Dave sighed. "....oh goodie..."
Stacey waved a hand and a bottle appeared. "Hey Dave, can I borrow your belt?" "No." Ness went into gigglefits while Stacey pouted at Dave for a minute before starting to giggle again. She opened the beer herself and took a sip. "Have I mentioned how nice your outfit is, Stace?" Dave asked. "No, but I'm glad you like it." Ness whispered to her again. "I wonder what he thinks we are talking about." Stacey grinned at her and she grinned back, then whispered again. "How long do you think we can keep this up before he cracks?" Stacey giggled and whispered back, "I don't know..." She glanced over at Dave and Ness laughed before slapping a hand over her mouth. Dave was obviously trying to ignore them.
"You can come stand with me, Dave. I won't mess with you." Satya offered. "Technically they aren't messing with me... yet." Stacey whispered to Ness. "He thinks we aren't messing with him." She started giggling again. Ness snerked and glanced to her left before turning back to Stacey and whispering. "I know, he's so serious..." Stacey nodded. Ness whispered to her again and Stacey laughed, then said "Naughty Ness." out loud. Ness giggled. "You bring it out in me Stacey." "Oh, you're going to blame me??" "Well I guess I could blame David." Dave shrugged. "Everyone else does." "Sure. Totally Dave's fault." Stacey finished her beer and made the bottle disappear. "So now I am the cause of Ness' naughtiness?" "Well, you are hot, Dave, that'd make a lot of girls naughty." Satya pointed out. "Got a point there." Stacey grinned at Dave. "What, don't know how to take a compliment?" Satya admonished. "I have problems with doing that." Dave admitted. "Doesn't seem fair... Ness is naughty due to me but she has never been naughty with me." "You're not her type. At the moment, anyway." Stacey pointed out. "Figured." "He's my type, but my type is pretty broad." Satya said. "Mine too." Stacey agreed. "You want to get naughty with me Dave?" "Maybe later."
DJ Arcade mentioned Stacey as the Cookie Witch on air. Paige finished the cookies she had taken from the floating tray and said, "They are good cookies." "Cookie Witch?" Satya asked. "Miss Imp--" Paige glanced at Stacey. "Her!" "Yes! She's the Cookie Witch! She does cookie witchcraft!" Haley said enthusiastically. Dave yelled. "SHE IS NOT A WITCH!!!!" Stacey blinked. "Dave... it's okay. I kind of am. I don't know a lot of magic, but I can do some." Dave mumbled, "Not okay."
Stacey wondered why Dave was defending her so vehemently, but decided to change the subject. "So what have you been up to lately, Dave?" "Not much. You?" "Spent a bunch of time out on patrol. No ill affects from that knock on the head I got the other night." "Good to know." "Had an unpleasant altercation with our shape-shifter friend." Dave turned his head quickly to Stacey. "Want to repeat that?" "I had an unpleasant altercation with our shape-shifter friend. Here in the D, so she couldn't touch me, but she's masquerading as Jenny." "Couldn't touch you just because you were here... unlikely." "I mean she couldn't attack me or anything. Don't think she wanted to though. She knows who I am now. Don't know what her game is yet, but I'm looking into it." Ness sighed. "I've already told her off for not calling one of us, David" "Well... good." "Although I would be worried if she started calling me David." "Wait... what... why would she call you David?" Ness shrugged while Stacey giggled and Dave started muttering. "What's that David?" "I said 'You girls are going to drive me crazy.'" Stacey grinned. "Going to?" Bounty Lass chuckled. "I may not have anything to do with it, but, aren't we all a little crazy in our own ways lad?" "I don't see how it's a good thing."
The chatter continued around them until Stacey had had enough and pushed herself off the rail. "Stacey?" Ness looked at her, concerned. "Something wrong, Stace?" Dave asked. "Sorry guys, I need to find someplace quieter. I'll still be tuned in, but I'm going to head to the base."
Once inside the living quarters of the base, Stacey rummaged around behind the bar. Ness walked over quietly while Stacey mixed up a drink. "Hey Ness." "Hey. Want to tell me what's going on?" Stacey shrugged. "I don't even know." Ness wandered around the bar and moved behind Stacey, giving her a hug. "You're my friend, I'm here for you... whatever you need." "Thanks Ness, I appreciate it. Can I get you a drink?" "Sure, a long island iced tea." Stacey mixed up the drink and handed it to her. Ness took it and asked, "is this running away, Stacey?" "Probably." Stacey sighed, then mumbled, "just like I always do." Ness sipped her drink. "Is it going to help?" Stacey shrugged. "Probably not." "You don't have to run away, especially not from me. I'll stand with you Stacey till the end if necessary." "I know Ness. I'm not running from you." Ness put her glass on the counter. "You're used to dealing with things like this alone, right?" Stacey nodded. "Are you scared?" "Yeah." "Do you need a hug?" Stacey nodded, then shook her head. Ness took her hand. "Come on, no one is going to know or care so you can cry if you want to, I won't tell anyone." "Everything alright?" Dave asked. Stacey was startled. "Dave!"
Dave blinked then came around the bar, reaching out to wipe away the tears on Stacey's face. "Stace?" Stacey looked at Dave, her eyes swimming. Ness took a side step and put her arm around Stacey, offering her other arm to include Dave. He wrapped both of them in his arms then whispered. "Somebody want to tell me what's wrong? It's okay if you can't, I'm here to be leaned on." Stacey rested her head against Dave's chest with a sigh. He lowered his head onto hers and whispered, "I'm here, hon." "I'm scared." Stacey whispered. Dave rubbed her back. "Don't worry, we are here." Stacey mumbled against his chest and he pulled her closer. Ness took a step back while Stacey wrapped her arms around Dave and he just held her. Finally she sighed and said quietly. "I wanted this... so bad." "I was always here." "I don't know why." "Why you want or why I am here?" "Yes."
Dave sighed and said quietly, "I can't answer for the first but as for the second... I care for you. I hate seeing you hurt. I will do what ever I can to protect you." He sighed again and hugged her tight. "I... yeah... ditto, Dave." Stacey said lamely. He smiled into her hair. "I feel like the Director has called "Action!" but I don't know any of my lines." "It's okay... it's an improv."
Ness looked between both of them. "My oldest mate and my BFF..." Stacey reached out an arm and pulled Ness into the hug again. "You two are really, really important to me. I want you to know that." Ness nodded. "I know and you're both important to me too... yes David you're important to me too, please don't go mad about it." Stacey giggled while Dave fumbled for words. "Huh... wha... why... Ness I wouldn't. I know the difference between a friend and a 'friend'." "I know you do... I was just messing with you." Dave mumbled, "Of course you are," then smiled again. Stacey smiled up at him. "And we were just messing with you earlier, with the whispering." He looked down at her. "Of course you were." He chuckled.
Ness sighed. "We can't help it, David." "So people keep saying." "We are just like that." "I am the perfect straight man." Stacey grinned up at him. "What about when you're a girl?" "I am not straight." He laughed. Ness gasped, "Then we can have a threesome!" Dave choked while Stacey dissolved into giggles. "Well I never found what triggers the changes so I don't think that will happen anytime soon." "Pity." Stacey took Dave's hand and lifted it up to inspect his fingernails. "You really need a manicure." Dave gently pulled his hand away. "I'm just fine the way I am right now." "Mmm yes, very fine." Stacey purred. Dave looked at Stacey and then Ness. "Don't we make quite the trio." Ness sighed, "Yeah... we are hopeless." "I got hope." Dave protested. "You do?" "Yeah."
Just then Caroline entered the room and Ness untangled herself from the group hug to go talk to her. Dave wrapped his arms around Stacey. "So what does this mean for us?" Stacey wrapped her arms around him, too. "I... I don't know. Line!" Dave chuckled softly. "Don't think the production crew can help you right now, Stace." "No, I'm afraid not." "I don't know what to say either. Line!" Stacey giggled and Dave smiled down at her. "Have things changed that much since we last spoke about this?" Stacey sighed. "Probably not. I don't know how to be what you need me to be, Dave." "Stace, the only problem I have is the lack of emotion or meaning. The fact that you only wanted me for the fun, not for anything else. I can't do that. I need something attached to it." "I... I don't think those are lacking." Stacey admitted. Dave looked down into her eyes. "Are you sure?" Stacey nodded slowly. Dave sighed, "Why is it we can jump into a pack of the nastiest creatures people can think of but we are scared spitless when stuff like this comes along?" "I don't know. I'm a bit out of my element here." "I believe everyone is out of their element when this comes along." "This... this is really scary. I don't want to mess it up."
Dave leaned in and whispered, "I want to try, Stace. I care too much to just let it go." "Me too, Dave." "Good." He mumbled, and kissed her. Stacey melted into the kiss, returning it. He held her tight as the kiss deepened, then finally came up for air. "Wow." Stacey gasped. "Yeah." "Not what I was expecting to do today when I woke up. I hoped but..." Stacey chuckled. "Guess it would be smart to say we should take things slow. Feel things out... see where things lead." Stacey nodded. "Yeah." "You know I like you for who you are, Stace. The flirting, the teasing... they are all a part of you." "I... I can't change that, Dave." He smiled at her. "Glad to hear. So what you want to do now?" He paused, "Besides that." She grinned at him. "I'm open to ideas." "Should we go and find some trouble?" "You don't have enough right here?" She winked at him. "Well... more than I've already found." He chuckled. "I think I can handle it." "You think so?" "Probably... maybe." "I hope so." She smiled at him and he smiled back.
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