Story: Love like Rain (all chapters)
Authors: AlexRiley
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Chapter 1
[Author's notes: I was meaning to post this elsewhere, but the other archive was down so I found this.]
As the music flowed from the speakers in the club, Riley and Willow began to dance at the upbeat tune. It was their regular routine to go clubbing at 'Twilight's Water' which was a club situated in the city centre of Faloway. It was Friday night, 11:00PM and the club was starting to get packed. The dancefloor looked to be a sea of bobbing heads, dancing to whatever the DJ played. The two friends were working up a sweat and as they looked around the club, there weren't many 'interesting' people and it was getting more and more crowded on the floor. The two decided to leave the floor, to the bar to get a drink each. Riley and Willow sat beside each other, ordering their drinks, hopefully able to get refreshed from all their hardcore dancing. Riley glanced to her left and saw a a cherry blonde sitting near her. She was looking at her phone, eager for someone to call her and somewhat save her from what hell she subjected herself to. Riley watched as the blonde look around, as if she was finding someone she actually knew. A man walked over to the blonde, which made Riley raise an eyebrow. The man looked partially drunk and the blonde looked completely annoyed, and somewhat scared. The man began to try and coax the blonde into dancing with him, but she continually declined, but the man was persistent. Riley inwardly sighed, knowing the next move she'd make would either congratulate her or haunt her. She stood up and walked over to the blonde and taller man.
"Be careful now, I don't want you to get caught in some kind of brawl again," Willow calmly stated, remembering the last time Riley stood up to someone bigger than her. The guy ended up on a hospital bed with a bruised you-know-what and practically dislocated groin, with the added fractured limb here and there. Riley shook her head and sarcastically smiled back to the redhead.
"Hi, what are you trying to do?" Riley calmly asked, looking between the blonde and the dark haired man. The man to her left looked down at the young brunette, then back to the blonde.
"Get out of here, this ain't your business," The man spat back, slowly increasing Riley's temper. Riley glanced over at the blonde who mouthed 'Help me' to her.
"It's all my business, I don't want you to hurt my girlfriend," Riley smirked, with a bit of a smile creeping at the corner of her mouth. The blonde was shocked, and the man stepped back from the two, but a hint of suspicion was in his eye. Riley realized she must have pulled them in a deep hole, because by now the 'harasser' would leave the 'harassed' with that comment. The partial drunk smirked and Riley inwardly scolded herself.
"If she is your girlfriend, kiss her," The man confidently stated, causing Riley to sigh and the blonde to open her jaw.
Chapter 2
Riley turned herself, facing the blonde, and away from the man. She closed her eyes and took a sharp breath. Opening her eyes, she mouthed to the blonde 'I'm so sorry' and without warning, Riley kissed the blonde. Riley slightly frenched the blonde, but quickly pulled back, knowing she might get a red cheek or a black eye right after. The blonde's eyes were half-lidded, and she was completely breathless. Riley turned to the man and looked up at him.
"She's always breathless after that," Riley half-smiled, inwardly cheering as the man walked away in defeat. Riley quickly turned to the blonde and pinched the bridge of her nose.
"Really sorry about that. Guys, or anyone would leave right after I say that the person is my girlfriend. Drunkies usually end up being hard to get away. Sorry for the unexpected kiss, completely unintention--" Riley's explanation was cut off when the blonde pressed her lips against her. The two were on the verge of a make-out session, but in all conscience Riley pulled away and subtly huffed. A smile slowly crept across her face, but she intended for it to not show.
"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry," The blonde began to apologize for her sudden action. Riley chuckled and waved it off.
"There's no problem, as long as you don't hurt me or hate me," Riley cooly answered, extending her hand to the blonde.
"My name is Riley; call me Kenn," Riley introduced herself. The blonde looked at the hand then to Riley.
"My name is Kimberly; you can call me Kim," Kimberly replied back, taking Riley's hand and gently shaking it. Riley felt a weird numbness drive up her arm, but she quickly waved it off as she released her hand from Kimberly's.
"So, you come here often?" Riley asked, waving for the bartender to get Kimberly a drink. Kimberly didn't know whether to feel glad or guilty with the kindness of this stranger.
"I'm new here. I moved here with my cousin from Mavory a couple of days ago. We decided to come here tonight, but I seem to have lost sight of her when we walked in," Kimberly explained, stirring her drink, stealing glances from Riley who smiled.
"That happens a lot when you come to Twilight's Water. It seems to be full 24/7, but I only come here with my friend on Fridays when there's a bunch of people," Riley explained back, taking a sip of her drink. Her phone began to vibrate in her jacket pocket, and as she pulled it out, it was a text message from Willow. It read "Kenn, we have a band practice tomorrow morning so we should go before you get a hangover". Riley looked over at Willow and shook her head. She turned to Kimberly and sighed.
"I'm sorry for leaving like this, but I have to go. I'll talk to you some other time," Riley smiled, as she finished her drink and got off the bar stool.
"Oh, um nice meeting you Kenn," Kimberly smiled, watching as Riley nod back to her.
"Nice to meet you too Kim," Riley replied back, giving Kimberly a slight wave of goodbye. Kimberly glanced at her drink, realizing she didn't even ask for Riley's phone number so they could actually talk.
Riley walked out the club with an excited Willow to her side. There was a light drizzle in the air, but the two dismissed it.
"Nice one, you kissed her," Willow chuckled, causing Riley to chuckle. The two began to slowly walk back Riley's house.
"Well, the drunkie asked for it, I just did it to keep him away from Kimberly," Riley simply explained, looking completely unfazed from what just happened. Willow lightly laughed and patted Riley on the shoulder.
"Someone's in love," Willow sing-songly responded back, getting a raised eyebrow from Riley.
"Well it isn't me," Riley bluntly answered, causing Willow to think twice.
"Are you implying something?" Willow suspiciously asked, looking at her best friend. Riley twitched her nose, and took a step away from the redhead.
"Not at all, loved and lost, I don't want to get in a relationship now," Riley explained, causing Willow to nod in agreement.
"That's true, but she did kiss you back," Willow grinned, causing Riley to partially smile.
"Sure she did, but that could have been an impulse not by love," Riley retorted back, turning at the block. Willow skipped along, poking Riley with questions that both amused and annoyed her.
Riley arrived home and headed up to her room, plopping down on her bed. She sighed and looked up at the ceiling, humming her guitar tune. A few words crossed her mind and she reached for her notepad at the bedside table, as well as a pen. She began to write words, and then phrases, becoming lyrics.
I wanna tell you I
Have a feeling inside
That I always tend to hide
My sweet little lie
Riley thought to herself and pondered whether this related to anything that happened that night. She sat up and reached for her guitar at the foot of the bed, playing the tune.
The next Friday...
The two best friends arrived at the practically packed 'Twilight's Water' which showed no sign of capacity decline anytime soon. The two took a seat the bar and looked around the club.
"For one, I have never seen this place completely packed like sardines in a can and two, do do do do..." Willow smiled.
"Hey Kenn," A familiar voice turned Riley's head to the source.
"Blondie, I mean Kim," Riley shook her head.
Chapter 3
"Well I'll be right back, I have to go use the bathroom," Willow lied, as a small smile crossed her face. Riley stared at the leaving redhead who went the other direction other than the washroom. She smirked and stood up, facing the blonde who softly smiled at her.
"Well, now how did you know I would be here tonight?" Riley rhetorically asked, remembering she told Kimberly that 'Twilight's Water' clubbing was on Fridays. Kimberly slightly chuckled, as she began to look down at her feet. Riley smiled and patted Kimberly lightly on the head, before looking over at the dancefloor. Kimberly momentarily shivered at the touch, but Riley didn't notice at all. Kimberly looked over at Riley and then towards the dancefloor, before taking Riley's hand, leading her to the dancefloor. The brunette lightly shook her head as she was being dragged onto the dancefloor. Kimberly had serious dance moves on her side, which amused Riley as she danced with her. The beat blaring from the speakers was Money Maker by Ludacris, and Kimberly was hitting it up against Riley. The brunette giggled at the hardcore dancing the blonde was doing more or less giving her.
"This is going to be an interesting night," Riley thought to herself as the blonde began to come closer to her. Kimberly was on the verge of grinding against Riley, but she knew they just met and she shouldn't cross the line between having fun with someone and annoying someone. Soon, Kim turned her back to Riley and began to dance against her.
"Either this chick likes to have fun, or she likes me," Riley thought to herself once again, realizing that her arms were around Kimberly's waist.
"What am I doing? I'm practically grinding against...a girl," Kimberly thought as her arms were behind Riley's neck. Thinking about what she was doing, Kimberly wanted to stop, but she began to release her inhibitions faster than she could stop herself from dancing. The tracks continued to blare and it continued to raise Kimberly's energy. Riley felt both odd and somewhat relieved dancing with Kimberly, but she knew this was in itself weird seeing that they just met a week ago, and they haven't actually formally introduced themselves to each other. They're dancing began to absorb them into a different world, until a fight broke out. Riley jerked her head towards the crash and saw two guys ready to duke it out. She laid her head on Kimberly's shoulder, whispering in her ear.
"I'll be right back," Riley whispered, letting go of Kimberly as she walked towards the entrance of the club. Kimberly turned around and watched as Riley head to the brawl. She slowly followed, weaving herself out of the sea of people on the dancefloor.
Riley pulled out a couple of gloves from her jean pocket, pulling them on her hands. She saw the tall built brown haired man punch down the shorter, not as built dark haired man. The shorter man began to cower in fear, and the taller man grabbed him by the shirt, lifting him off the floor into the air. Before the taller man could punch the dark haired man, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned around, only to get clipped across the face, dropping the shorter man back on the floor. The man on the floor scurried away, and Riley was up against someone a foot taller than her who looked completely pissed off.
"I either start the brawls or I end them...or I do both," Riley said to herself as she and the big guy began to circle around each other. The taller man threw a punch, but Riley easily dodged it and kicked the man forward onto his knees. The man growled and glared back at Riley who blankly looked at him. Kimberly finally made it to the brawl and saw the small ring of people surrounding Riley and the man. She quickly grabbed a beer bottle and ran at the taller man, smashing it over his head, but that had no effect on him whatsoever. Kimberly began to tremble with fear as the man began to inch towards her.
"For the love of," Riley inwardly sighed and tackled him away from Kimberly, trying to keep her from harm's way. She got up and looked over at Kimberly who looked frozen in fear. Riley raised an eyebrow and watched as her shadow began to get overshadowed itself. She groaned and turned around, only to get slapped across the face and onto the floor.
"Riley!" Kimberly shrieked as she saw Riley struggle to get up. She was ready to kneel by Riley, but Riley waved her off as she stood up on her own two feet.
"Dude, that was a bad idea. Kenn's mad at martial arts," Willow piped up, diverting the man's attention away from Riley who touched her lip seeing a drop of blood on it. Riley exhaled slowly and ran her hand through her hair.
"Oh, that's not a good sign," Willow said once again, causing the man to smirk and look at her.
"What is little Kenny going to run home to mommy?" The man mocked, looking around the crowd. Riley was in her own little world, concentrating her mind.
"Nah, I think you will," Riley smiled, as she began to throw punches by the second at the man, sending him back right to a beam. Every punch would connect and there would be a slight cracking sound, whether it be Riley's knuckles, the guy's bones or the friction of the gloves against the guy's skin. The whole crowd went silent, with the exception of the music, as they watched the short brunette attack the taller built man. Welts began to appear, blood began to drip and bruises began to darken as Riley continued to punch the guy. She finally stopped, knowing she did enough damage to scar him for life, so she stopped and walked away out of the club. She didn't want anymore trouble, so leaving was always the key.
Willow tagged behind and they began to distance themselves from the club. The two heard a clicking sound and looked back, seeing it was Kimberly who was trying to catch up after them. Willow and Riley stopped walking, glancing at each other. Willow winked and Riley subtly shook her head in amusement. Kimberly finally made it to them and looked over at Riley, who's lip began to swell.
"Come on, we should get you to my place, get some ice to bring down the swelling," Kimberly immediately stated as a couple drops of blood flowed from the corner of Riley's lip.
"No it's okay, my house is just around the block, we'll make it alright," Riley objected, seeing a glint of rejection in Kimberly's eyes which made her silent. Kimberly felt an odd sense of sadness in her, which completely confused her state of mind at that moment. She felt bad, but she didn't know why.
"Well, you can come along, keep an eye on Kenn," Willow suddenly said, seeing Kimberly's expression lighten up. Riley blankly stared at Willow, questioning her motives whether it was for Kenn's good or Kim's good. Willow looked at Riley who raised an eyebrow at her. The two friends looked over at Kimberly and continued their walk. There was a silence in the night, and the sky was pretty clear. The trio all walked in silence, not knowing what to say to each other.
"So, what brings you to Faloway Kimberly?" Willow randomly asked, trying to get a conversation going to kill the silence that hovered over them. Kimberly hummed and looked down at her feet.
"I'm originally from Mavory, and I wanted to find a place that supported dancing so I looked around, asked around and ended up at my cousin's doorstep. She said that Faloway was the leading supporter for dancers and that she was coming here for the music support. She's a singer, well attempting to hit it big someday, and I just tagged along. My parents were okay as long as my cousin would keep an eye on me, but she isn't doing a great job at the moment," Kimberly chuckled, realizing her cousin was barely at home to keep an eye on her. Riley and Willow softly chuckled as well, knowing this girl could be a lot more than they might expect.
"No wonder you could pull off those damn dance moves so well," Riley smiled, complimenting the blonde's incredible dance moves on the dancefloor. Kimberly began to blush at the compliment.
"Yeah, when I dance, it's my time, my world, my fun," Kimberly explained, watching as the other two nod.
"Wait, you said your cousin sings right?" Willow asked, watching Kimberly nod and seeing Riley's face turn pale.
"Riley here is an aspiring musician. She plays guitar, dances and sings. We're having a gig pretty soon, which is going to be awesome," Willow smiled, as she stopped walking. They all stopped, and looked up at Riley's house.
"Nice house," Kimberly said in awe as she stared at the white and red 2 storey house, with a front porch and unfenced lawn. Willow smiled and decided to take off.
"I better head home, tomorrow might be a long day cause of band practice," Willow grinned, realizing her departure was sneaky and it would completely irritate Riley. Riley stared at the redhead and had an expression on her face saying 'where-the-heck-do-you-think-you're-going?' which made Willow chuckle.
"Band practice isn't until the afternoon," Riley retorted, attempting to keep Willow with her. Riley's sudden change in mood internally startled her, which rarely ever happens.
"I know, but I like sleeping in and besides, I have an essay to write for Bio," Willow intelligently lied, causing Riley to smirk in disapproval. Kimberly looked over at the two friends and questioned herself being there.
"If there's a problem with me being here, you can say so and I can leave," Kimberly stated, causing the other two to look at her. Riley's mind scrambled, and so did Willow's.
"No, it's okay. If Will has to go do a Bio report, she can," Riley said, dragging the word 'has' making it sound completely hasty. Riley gave Willow the eye and shooed her off.
"Come on, my mouth is starting to throb," Riley sighed, as she lead Kim into her house. They walked into the house and it was completely clean and organized. They walked into the kitchen and Riley reached a chair before collapsing right on it. Kimberly rushed to Riley's side, thinking she actually passed out.
"I'm good, just really sleepy. Oh yes, ice," Riley shook her head as she stood up, only to get pushed back on the chair. Kimberly walked over to the fridge and pulled out the tray of ice cubes, placing it on the table. She also looked through all the drawers and found a towel to place a few cubes of ice in. Riley watched as the blonde began to take care of her. Wincing at the pain, as Kim pressed the ice against her skin, Riley took the towel and held it herself.
"Thanks," Riley smiled, holding the ice against her face. Kimberly smiled and sat beside Riley, placing her arms on the table.
"So why does it look like you live here alone?" Kimberly queried, looking around the partially large house. Riley softly smiled.
"I'm the kid of rich parents. I was what you called the perfect or so child, but I wanted to explore the world. Luckily my parents were accepting at my choices and let me come to Faloway for the same reason your cousin came here, for the music. I want to pursue music and maybe dance because that's my way of expressing who I am and what I feel. I have my band to thank for supporting me and Willow for putting up with me through all the crap we had to go through to make it this far. My parents bought me this house and they pay for it until I finally have a steady income to pay for it myself," Riley explained, telling Kim her story. Kimberly nodded and began to fiddle with her hands.
"Are you okay?" Riley asked, watching the blonde play with her hands. Kimberly nodded, but had this look of anxiety on her face. Riley placed her hand on Kim's and tilted her head.
"What's up?" Riley asked, looking straight into Kimberly's eyes.
"Those eyes...they look as if they can look into my soul," Kimberly thought, feeling as if she could hide nothing from Riley. Kimberly sighed and turned away.
"I just feel weird, after last week and tonight," Kimberly said, making Riley blink out of confusion.
"Oh, the kiss...and...the grinding I suppose?" Riley asked, watching as Kimberly turn into a shade of red once again.
"Yeah, I'm straight, but I let go of all my inhibitions when I was dancing with you," Kimberly confessed, turning darker and warmer inside. Riley chuckled, realizing the blonde was embarassed.
"It's okay, I don't mind. Nothing happened between us anyways, we're just acquaintances, unless you want to be friends," Riley said, seeing a spark go through Kimberly's eyes.
"Friends, but we just met," Kimberly stated in disbelief.
"Sure we just met, but something clicked and I know we can be friends," Riley smiled, watching the blonde smile as well.
"Hopefully we can just be friends," Riley thought.
Chapter 4
The two sat in the silence of the kitchen, looking away from each other. Kimberly glanced at the clock once, only to jerk her head and look at it again realizing it was completely late. Riley removed her hand from Kimberly's and wondered why she began to freak out. Glancing at the clock, Riley stood up and stretched causing the blonde to stand up as well.
"I have to get home, Ashley willl have my head if she finds out I'm gone," Kimberly freaked out, as she ran for the door. Riley rolled her eyes and trailed behind the running blonde. Once Kimberly opened the door, her mouth dropped open. Riley tilted her head and looked over the blonde, realizing that it was pouring rain. She bit her lower lip and realized that Kimberly would have to sleep at her place that night, or call her cousin which was probably the last thing Kim would do. Kimberly turned towards Kenn and huffed.
"I don't have a car, I'm in walking distance of the college, club, gym, arena, park, or I just take rides with Willow the rest of the crew," Riley explained, watching as Kimberly sank to her knees and groaned. Riley gulped and took a deep breath before she spoke.
"You can stay here for the night and we'll get up early so I can sneak you back to your room," Riley not-so confidently stated as she helped Kimberly back to her feet. Kimberly looked at Kenn and saw a sincere expression, but the tone of Kenn's voice made Kimberly question her.
"Are you sure, I mean, I don't want to be a hassle," Kimberly objected, trying to keep herself from sounding needy. Riley raised and eyebrow and laughed.
"It's okay, just wake up at the break of dawn or so and we'll somehow get you back before...Ashley was it, realized you were gone," Riley explained, watching as Kim began to smile.
"Um, there's a chance that I might suddenly attack you. I'm not the greatest morning person," Kimberly explained as she bit her lower lip. Riley chuckled and nodded, closing the door as they headed upstairs to Riley's bedroom.
They walked into Riley's room, and as Kimberly looked around she saw an electric and an acoustic guitar to one corner, a computer beside it, and a dresser in between. Across the dresser was the bed; covered in neutral beddings, side table with a dark coloured lamp and there was a stereo hanging on a wall adjacent to the bed. Riley flipped on the lights and walked over to her dresser. She pulled out an oversized shirt as well as a pair of sweatpants, handing the clothes to Kimberly.
"Hmm, I guess you can sleep in the guest room while I sleep here. Wait, nevermind I just realized that I had the bed moved down in the basement." Riley scolded herself for having that bed moved.
"I'll just sleep on the--" Kimberly started, only to get cut off by Riley.
"Couch, I'll take the couch and you sleep here. Besides, I have to change this block of ice," Riley laughed as she began to slightly wring the towel, causing drops of water to fall onto the carpet. Kimberly laughed and nodded.
"Okay, if you're sure."
"Yeah I'm sure. Head to bed, shower is down the hall and yeah, we'll go on from there," Riley nodded as she turned around and headed down the door.
"Thank you," Kimberly piped up. Riley chuckled and looked over at the blonde behind her.
"No problem, and goodnight," Riley answered back, watching as Kim nodded in return.
Riley walked down the stairs and to the kitchen, wringing the towel and leaving the ice cubes in the sink to finish melting. She looked out the window and watched the rain continue to pour.
"It looks like it won't let up anytime soon," Riley said to herself as she saw the consistency of the rain. She looked down into space and began to think.
"I hope this doesn't turn ugly like last time. What am I saying, it's not as if I'm in love with her. Then again, she reminds me of you and it scares me. I don't want the same horrible pain to come," Riley thought to herself as she walked to the living room, falling back onto the couch, looking straight up at the white ceiling.
"You remind me of a girl that I once knew,
See her face whenever I, I look at you,
Won't believe all of the things she put me through,
This is why I just can't get with you.." Riley softly sung, before closing her eyes, letting the rain lully her to sleep.
Kimberly changed into the shirt and sweats before slowly getting under the covers of the bed. She placed her phone beside the lamp and began to question herself as she felt confused and completely insecure.
"Why am I doing this? I let go of all my inhibitions faster than the speed of light when I was with her. Okay, we're just friends, it's not as if anything will come out of this. She doesn't seem that interested in me, she didn't want to be alone with me. What am I saying? I don't know what to do," Kimberly thought as she looked out the window, watching the rain fall.
"I don't want to make a mistake," Kimberly whispered, before drifting off to sleep.
The next morning, Riley woke up and saw the sun barely shining through the thick cover of clouds. She looked around and remembered why she was on the couch.
"Lovely, I hope she's up," Riley sighed as she glanced at the wall clock which read 6AM. She headed upstairs and slowly walked into her room, avoiding waking up the blonde. She glanced at the blonde who looked comfortable under the covers, looking calm and peaceful.
"If you only knew..." Riley whispered as she gathered a pair of jeans and a tank top before heading back out to go to the bathroom. She started the shower, quickly getting rid of her clothes, and standing under the hot water.
"Why do you remind me of her? Why do you look like her?" Riley sighed, as she let the water flow down her skin. Her mind began to run and she began to reminisce about the past.
/Flashback/
"You know I love you right?" The black-haired girl told Riley as she looked up in her eyes. Riley smiled as she held the other girl in her arms. The two sat up in a tree, feeling the love between them.
"Nothing can tear us apart," Riley stated, as she kissed the girl's hair.
"I love you Kenn," The girl said, looking up at Riley.
"I love you too--"
End Flashback
Riley snapped her head up as she heard something fall. She quickly turned the shower off and grabbed a towel, wrapping it around her before running to her room where she heard the noise. She snapped open the door and saw the lamp on the floor. Kim jerked her head towards Riley and began to pick up the pieces of the lamp. Riley walked over to the blonde and had her stand up, but Kim refused.
"I'm so sorry, I accidentally hit it when I reached for my phone," Kimberly stated, as she began to fumble with the pieces. Riley cautiously knelt down and took hold of Kim's wrists, causing her to drop the shattered porcelain pieces.
"It's okay, I was meaning to replace that lamp. I was just too lazy to go buy a new one, you did me a favour," Riley responded, as she took Kim's hands in her own. Kimberly looked at Riley and saw the soft expression across her face that made her feel warm. Kimberly looked down realizing that Riley already showered.
"I should go shower I guess," Kimberly softly said, as she immediately got up and headed to the bathroom. Riley stood up and watched the blonde walk away. She felt a sense of guilt in her, but she didn't know why.
"This lamp was her gift to me," Riley whispered, looking down at the broken pieces. She quickly pulled on her clothes and began to clean up the porcelain mess of a lamp. There goes the final blow, that relationship was over.
After Kimberly showered and dressed, the two headed out back to Kimberly's place. The two walked in a silence that both fazed and contented them. They barely looked at each other, directing their attention to something else, ignoring the other person.
"Why are we suddenly silent to one another?" Kimberly thought to herself as she continued to walk. The two began to match each other's pace, although it was a quick and rushed pace.
"What a silence," Riley thought, following Kimberly. They finally made it to the house and Kimberly led Riley to the back.
"My room is on the second floor," Kimberly stated, as she pointed to the window near the tree. Riley looked up and began to think.
"Where's your cousin's room?" Riley queried, looking at the blonde who looked at her.
"Second floor at the front though," Kimberly answered, watching Riley climb the tree.
"Pray she didn't see us," Kenn chuckled as she bent down and extended her arm to get Kimberly to come over to her. Kimberly walked over to Riley and reached for her arm, but was short.
"Two arms then," Riley said as she reached down with both her arms towards Kimberly. Kimberly grabbed both arms, and Riley lifted her onto the tree beside her.
"Thanks," Kimberly said, as she watched Riley continue to climb up the tree. They finally made it to the branch beside the window of the room. Riley tried to open the window, but it seemed to be accessible inside.
"Do you lock your windows?" Riley asked, looking behind at the blonde. Kimberly shook her head and Riley pulled out a pocket knife, which startled her. Riley went back to the window and attempted to pry the window open. Once there was enough room for her fingers, Riley opened the window. She stepped aside and let Kimberly get in. The two exchanged looks, before Riley waved goodbye as she climbed down the tree. Kimberly watched her scale down the tree, before heading under the security of the covers on her bed.
Riley jumped onto the ground, and began to walk back to the front lawn. She saw someone walking in the kitchen, so Riley decided to take a small peak to see who this cousin was. Riley peered into the kitchen and was shocked.
"Oh my gosh it's---"
Chapter 5
"Jessica!?" Willow cried out, as she stood up and stared at her best friend in disbelief. Riley called Willow over to her place because of this new news. Riley slowly nodded in disbelief herself. Willow sat back down on the couch of the living room, looking at her friend.
"Yeah, I can't believe it too. Kimberly's cousin is Jessica Steven," Riley replied back, groaning at the thought of Jessica. Willow patted Riley on the shoulder, showing her support.
"What are you going to do now that she's back in town?" Willow curiously asked, only to see Riley lie back on the couch and groan louder.
"What can I do? If I ever see her, wave, say hi and continue on," Riley answered, watching Willow blankly stare at her.
"You're so blunt about it," The redhead stated, as she leaned back on the couch.
"Well, we haven't talked for nearly a year, she just took off," Riley retorted, sitting back up. Willow nodded and agreed with that fact.
"So, what about Kimberly?" Willow asked, remembering the blonde. Riley fell back against couch and sighed.
"I don't know, we're just friends," Riley answered, looking up at the ceiling.
"Only friends? Are you sure about that?" Willow continued.
"Yeah. Oh shoot, I need to buy a new lamp," Riley said, as she sat back up, only to stand onto her feet. Willow raised an eyebrow.
"Kimberly accidentally knocked down the lamp Jessica bought me when I finalized my move here. The three women who originated in Mavory, only to all move to Faloway because they all wanted to pursue music and dance, what a coincidence," Riley sarcastically commented, throwing her hands up in the air in irritation. Willow stood up and placed her hands on Riley's shoulders. The two looked eye to eye and Riley calmed down.
"Breathe! Don't stress out about it, just talk to them and sort this all out. Of all lamps she broke, it was the one her cousin bought for you. Eerie," Willow shuddered, as she removed her hands from Riley's shoulders.
Kimberly glanced at the clock and realized that it was about time she would have woke up. She changed her clothes, and headed downstairs to get some food. Walking into the kitchen, Kimberly heard nothing, thinking her cousin was still asleep.
"Morning Kimberly," Jessica greeted, scaring her cousin out of her skin. Kimberly jumped and turned around, facing Jessica, holding her chest.
"Morning," Kimberly squeaked, as she tried to regain what was left of her composure. Jessica looked questioningly at her cousin, walking over to her and sitting on the island.
"You seem jumpy this morning," Jessica commented, pointing out the completely terrified expression Kimberly had when she greeted her. Kimberly began to search aimlessly through the cupboards to try and avoid looking at Jessica.
"I didn't hear you walk in," Kimberly replied back, as she felt her heart pound against her chest. She either got caught or she was just overreacting, but she knew Jessica would somehow figure something out, she always did.
"I see. Do you want to go for a walk later?" Jessica asked, looking out the window at the bright sunny sky. Kimberly inwardly groaned, but turned around and nodded.
"Alright, get something to eat and then we'll go out," Jessica smiled, as she jumped off the island and headed upstairs to shower. Once Kimberly saw Jessica out of sight, she leaned back against the counter and let out a deep breath.
"Thank you for not noticing I was gone," Kimberly whispered to herself as she continued on to find food.
Riley and Willow had called up the band and asked them if they could start practice early, because they had other things to do later in the afternoon. The two moved all the instruments to the attached garage and pulled up the garage door. All equipment was plugged in and sound check was in place.
"Alrighty, we're going to perform five songs at Twilight's Water soon enough. We just have to get this all worked out," Riley chuckled, as she looked back at the band behind her. This was another routine; before a big performance, she would usually have a garage performance and then the neighbourhood would come and watch. Riley began to pick a few notes, before she turned and looked at Willow who was at the keyboard. She began to play her solo and faded, letting Riley play the melody while Heather played the harmony on electric acoustic guitars with Parker on drums. Riley stepped up at the mic and began to sing.
"I wanna tell you I
Have this feeling inside
That I always tend to hide
My sweet little lie..."
Cory began to play the bass. Slowly a group of people began to walk to and around the garage, watching the band. Riley smiled at the crowd's positive response.
"People tell me that I'm
Gonna hurt myself with you
People tell me things
Will never work with us two.."
Riley continued, bobbing her head to the beat of the song. She and Heather continued to play until the end where Parker, Cory and Daniel had solo parts to fill in. After Daniel finished his electric solo, Willow came in with the piano solo, ending the song. A series of clapping followed right after.
Jessica and Kimberly began to wander along the sidewalk, walking aimlessly somewhere that would appeal to them. The two then turned at a corner, and Kimberly soon realized that they were walking towards Riley's house.
"Oh shoot, just act cool and pretend that you don't know her," Kimberly thought to herself. Jessica glanced at her cousin, seeing her preoccupied.
"Hey Kim, you okay?" Jessica asked, as she continued to walk. Kimberly looked at Jessica and nodded.
"Yeah, I'm alright," Kimberly lied, trying to take her mind off of Riley and the night before. Closer and closer the two walked, and faster and faster Kimberly's heart would beat.
"Hey, look a garage band," Jessica stated, pointing at the white house with the band in its attached garage. Kimberly began to sweat, and it was completely menacing towards her.
The band continued to play, and Riley was unaware of who were coming.
"You're just standing there,
Looking at me
And I wish that you were understand
How much I love you.."
Riley sang, letting the ballad show its true emotion.
The two walked closer, coming in contact of the beautiful lyrics and music. The two glanced over the crowd and saw who was playing. Kimberly caught Riley's eye and saw her smile, but when Riley looked over to who was beside her, her expression fell, but she continued to play.
"You'll be forever in my heart
Smiling down to me from above
There's so much I want to say
But I know I can't say it today.."
Riley softly sung. The band announced they finished their performance after they finished the song.
Kimberly glanced over to her cousin and saw there was a pained expression on her face.
Chapter 6
Jessica turned to her cousin and plastered on a decent unsurprised look, but it didn't fool Kimberly at all.
"Come on, we have more places to go," Jessica stiffly stated, causing Kimberly to feel a sense of anger in her cousin's voice. Kimberly stood still and took a glance at the band, and to Riley who had her back to them. Jessica had no patience at the moment and began to walk away, before Kimberly could even process what was happening.
"Kim, come on, we have to go," Jessica sternly said, slightly scaring the blonde. Kimberly turned around and began to follow her cousin, unaware of what the truth of the matter was.
Riley pulled down the garage door and headed back into the house. The band had dispersed out to their original schedules, except for Willow who checked up on Riley who ended up on the porch with her guitar.
"So, that was interesting," Willow calmly said, sitting on the bench beside the silenced Riley. There was just a silence, which was ended by the strumming of Riley's acoustic guitar. Riley's heart felt relieved, torn, angered, and saddened after seeing Jessica with her own eyes. Depressing notes were being plucked from the guitar, with the occasional high note here and there.
"So it was really her, what is happening? My past has come back to haunt me? This is freaking torture," Riley thought to herself, aimlessly playing her guitar.
Kimberly and Jessica continued to walk in silence, only to end up at the park. Kimberly felt a tension in the air and it began to faze her, but she didn't want that to show. Jessica on the otherhand was looking into space, with her fists visibly clenched and her expression was obviously cross.
"One year and she doesn't bother to contact me," Jessica thought, as she began to reminisce about the past.
/Flashback/
Mavory became a winter wonderland for Riley and Jessica. The two walked hand in hand as they made it to the park, holding ice skates in their free hands. Snowflakes gently fell from the night sky, making the park even more beautiful. The pond froze over and became a skating rink for everyone, especially the lovebirds. Riley and Jessica walked over to a nearby bench and pulled on their ice skates, replacing their shoes. Riley placed their shoes in a duffel bag that she had with her and placed it in a tree, making sure no one would get it but her.
"It's Christmas Eve, would anyone really steal our shoes?" Jessica asked, as she watched the brunette walk towards her in her skates. Riley chuckled and took Jessica by the hand with her to the rink.
"Who wouldn't? There's the odd person who would steal any day," Riley smiled, causing Jessica to stick her tongue out at Riley.
"Shut up," Jessica laughed as she released her hand from Riley and began to skate along the ice. Riley followed Jess, doing a series of jumps and spins. Jessica stopped skating, watching as her girlfriend gracefully skate across the ice. Once Riley stopped skating in front of Jessica, there was a blank look on her face.
"What?" Riley asked, looking at the unchanged expression across her girl's face.
"Show off," Jessica bluntly stated, watching as Riley's took on a fake shocked look. Riley leaned in close to Jessica, and both were eye to eye.
"Takes one to know one," Riley quickly said, quickly kissing Jessica on the lips before skating rapidly away from her. Jessica was stunned, but when she realized what Riley said, she rampaged after her.
End Flashback
Back at Riley's house, the two friends silently sat on the porch, listening to the guitar's music.
"Her hair, it's not black anymore," Riley randomly said, still looking out into space, and playing her guitar. Willow glanced at the brunette who looked to be completely surprised than earlier.
"Yeah, it's more brown. Are you okay Kenn?" Willow sincerely asked, watching as her friend slowly turn her head towards her.
"It's a bit too much to take in," Riley simply answered, and Willow knew that Riley wouldn't want to talk about it any further, so she left it at that.
/Flashback/
The two lovebirds went back to Riley's house and realized that they would soon have to part because they had to spend time with their families. They sat in front of the newly lit fireplace, facing each other.
"It's midnight, practically Christmas...do you want to open your present?" Jessica softly asked, pulling out a big box from behind her. Riley blankly looked at her for a split second, before nodding and smiling. She too had a box behind her, but a smaller box.
"You can go first since youu brought it up," Riley grinned, only to get slapped across the arm. Jessica pouted and nodded in agreement.
"You're really moving to Faloway right?" Jessica sadly asked, watching as Riley slowly nod in response. Jessica looked down and pushed the box towards Riley to open. Riley reluctantly opened the gift and saw it was a porcelain lamp that looked like bamboo. She then looked up at Jessica who began to tear up.
"Here's a lamp, you know, just in case your house has crappy lighting. Erm, I also got you a watch which is somewhere in the box," Jessica continued, watching as Riley sifted through the box, finding a box with diamond watch on a black satin strap inside it. Riley strapped it on her wrist and smiled, looking at the tearing Jessica.
"As time goes by, you know that I'll always be here," Jessica finished, wiping under her eyes. Riley went onto her knees and shuffled towards Jessica, holding her.
"You make it sound as if we'll never see each other again," Riley whispered into the girl's ear. Jessica leaned into Riley's shoulder, trying to keep the moment in her heart, but Riley pulled back.
"I also got you something, don't take me as someone mean," Riley chuckled as she reached for the box behind her, handing it to Jessica. Jessica opened the box and began to cry as she saw the gift. It was a gold chain with a pendant attached. The pendant was a gold heart frame with an emerald stone to the right, a citrine stone to the left, and a diamond inbetween the gems inside of it. Riley watched her girlfriend carefully pull out the pendant and Riley gently took the piece of jewellry and placed it around Jessica's neck. Jessica wrapped her arms around Riley, wanting to never let go, but she would have to leave eventually.
"Our birthstones represents both of us and the diamond to show how much I love you. The gold frame of a heart, it's to show that I'll be with you no matter what in your heart. One year together," Riley recited, holding Jessica in her arms.
End Flashback
Chapter 7
Nightfall came and Riley had no hopes of going to sleep, not after what happened earlier. She sat on her bed, in the still of the night, thinking about Jessica.
"There's so much going on. Kimberly is obviously of Steven blood, which makes things even more complicated. Jessica is back, she looked really pissed and sad. Oh jeez, help me," Riley said to herself as she reached for a pillow and held it in her arms. Thoughts were running through her head, faster than she could comprehend each one's meaning.
"Do I still love you? One year of no communication and I decided to try and move on, but you come back and my heart calls for you...what will I do?" Riley asked herself, longing for an answer only to come up with more questions. A tear rolled down her cheek, as she tried to figure out her feelings. Slowly, her eyes closed, letting her drift to sleep.
The next morning, Riley woke up to the sound of her alarm clock buzzing. She groaned and smacked the small clock, turning it off, but slapping it onto the floor. Feeling her face wet, Riley sat up and felt her pillow and face covered in tears.
"Come on, as if I cried in my sleep," Riley thought as she wiped her eyes and slowly got out of bed, heading to the bathroom.
She quickly showered, and pulled on a tank top, and cargo pants. Her cellphone began to ring and she reached for it from the sidetable, seeing it was Willow.
"Hey Will," Riley answered groggily, waiting for Willow to answer.
"Riley, hurry up we're supposed to be at the studio by now," Willow stated, hearing a silence on the other end.
"Good morning to you too Riley, how are you? I'm good thanks," Riley sarcastically remarked.
"Riiight, but come on, we're late," Willow quickly said, hearing Riley groan.
"Alright, bye," Riley said, hanging up after Willow responded back. She pulled on a black sweater, black military hat and a pair of runners before heading out the door with her guitar. Once Riley was out the door, there was Willow sitting in her car bobbing her head to a tune that was blaring out of the speakers.
*I'm bringing sexyback,
Them other boys don't know how to act
I think it's special what's behind
So turn around and I'll pick up the slack*
Riley twitched her nose before knocking on the passenger door window for Willow to unlock. Willow looked over at Riley and unlocked the door, letting her get in after placing her guitar in the back seat. The two drove off to the studio, late.
The two arrived at the studio and the band was all there, but Will and Kenn.
"Tut tut tut, they're late for once," Parker stated, watching the two women walk in 5 minutes after scheduled time. Riley glared at him, making him turn away in fear.
"Right, I slept in my bad. So let's get this started, pull out a demo and become rich and famous," Riley explained, as she set her guitar case down, taking the electric acoustic guitar out. The producer came in the studio, ready to record until someone knocked on the door. Everyone turned at the door and saw the president of the record label DFX Records walk in.
"Riley, what a surprise, what brings you here?" Willow asked, looking over at the corporately attired woman. Riley smiled and nodded her head.
"Last week, Riley suggested that another singer should be added because she thought something was missing," Riley explained, looking over at Riley who nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, did you find someone?" Riley asked, watching as the woman turned around, waving for someone to come in from outside. Once the person walked in, Willow and Riley fell silent.
"Rhythmic Confessions, meet your new singer, Jessica Steven," Riley introduced, seeing that Riley and Willow as well as Jessica were staring at each other. The blonde raised and eyebrow and looked between the trio.
"Have you three---" Riley started.
"Met? Yes we have, er Kenn and Jessica know each other, Kenn just talked about her to me," Willow explained, watching Riley nod in understanding.
"Well, best be off, I hope you get your new demo recorded," Riley smiled, waving goodbye to everyone before leaving. Silence had overtaken the studio, creeping out Parker, Cory, Heather, and Daniel.
"Righteo, I'm Daniel," Daniel greeted, extending his hand to Jessica who partially ignored him before landing back to reality and shaking his hand.
"Lovely, what a nightmare," Riley thought to herself, watching each of her bandmates introduce themselves to Jessica.
"Okay you guys, let's get started," The man said, breaking up what conversations were getting started.
"Here's a copy of the lyrics, just hang out here until you get familiar with the song," Riley explained, handing Jessica sheets of lyrics and notes. Jessica reluctantly took the sheets, before sitting down with the producer. The band went into the other side of the studio, getting ready.
"Soundcheck, Riley," The man said. Riley strummed her guitar and spoke into the mic. The man did this to everyone else, setting them up.
"Alright, whenever you're ready," The man said, letting the band know when to start. Willow began to play a few notes, before fading letting Riley and Heather play. The band started to record the song 'Sweet Little Lie' so that they could do a release of their album at Twilight's Water in roughly a month. Jessica watched them perform the song and there was a look on Riley's face that saddened her.
"Of course I can't stay mad at you forever," Jessica thought to herself.
The band finished recording that version of the song without Jessica, but soon enough she was singing. Her middle melodic voice balanced out Heather's rather higher harmonic voice, and Riley's rather deep melodic voice. Riley was exceptionally surprised at how great Jessica could sing, then again it has been a year since they last talked. Recording ended successfully, and the demo could be mastered. The whole band and Jessica sat with the producer and listened to the song in playback. Everyone liked what they heard, especially Riley because Jessica's voice filled in the empty void of the music.
"Nice, let's take ten before we record the next song," The producer said, and with that Riley walked out of the studio to the back parking lot. Jessica was the only one to take notice while the others headed to the washroom or what not. She saw Willow walk out of the room and over to a vending machine to buy a bottle of water, so she walked over to her.
"Um, hi, you said Riley talked about me," Jessica said, looking at the redhead who raised and eyebrow, then smiled and nodded.
"Yes, yes. I've heard a lot about you," Willow replied back, taking a sip of the water. The two began to talk, conversing about Riley and what their relationship was and how it 'ended'.
Finally, recording ended and they all dispersed to different directions. Riley declined a car ride with Willow because she wanted to walk and clear her head.
"Now she's in my band, I mean really now," Riley said to herself as she kicked a pebble across the sidewalk.
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