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Post by misssunflower on Feb 23, 2011 20:46:43 GMT -5
Since my last Ryan story is done I thought I'd begin this one now. Idea came to me when Paul first tweeted about staying with a state trouper in Boston last spring when he was stuck there. He didn't tell us the gender until some weeks later, so my mind wandered. And thus, I got this. Enjoy. What happened in Boston
Cleo Mahoney felt young. Well, to be completely correct, she felt her age. She was, when she thought about it, particularly young, one of the youngest state troopers in the whole, well, in the whole state. But she hadn’t had a chance to feel her age, to possibly feel how young she really was in years and years. So she felt strange, almost vulnerable, to be feeling her actual 23 years. Maybe it had something to do with the young man she had found herself looking at. Men had lost most all appeal for her around the same time she’d matured beyond her years, around the time Christopher had entered her life. So she saw men everyday, at her work, around home but she never really saw them, if that made any sense at all. They were just… men. Nothing worth her time or careful consideration. But he certainly looked… well, she didn’t know exactly how to phrase it. It was the first time in really most of her life that she’d really looked at a man allowing herself to think him attractive, so she didn’t have much to base him on in the scale of looks. But even without that, this young man couldn’t have been low at all on whatever scale there was. He was sitting at the café section of the bookstore, on her day off. Though seated, she could just tell he was tall, and well built. Not like a football player at any length, but strong enough looking arms stretched out over the laptop he was looking intently at. She was at an angle where she couldn’t see his full face or hair, but the blonde tipped spikes were visible from anywhere – it was the type of hair Cleo would have liked to see when it was wet, or free of it’s harsh gel, though it looked wonderful as was. His expression, from what she could see was best described as distraught, almost pained. Far from happy, to say the least. She wondered what he was reading that was ailing him so much, and nearly thought to walk over and ask. He looked uncomfortable, almost out of place there. Thankfully, he was positioned in a place where, when she was called to get her ordered beverage, she could sneak a quick peak at the screen. Maybe catch a glimpse of what was getting this reaction from the young man. “Cleo!” A voice called from behind the counter, to say her order was up. She pushed herself up, face a little red from catching herself on staring. What was she doing, checking some random man out in the middle of a bookstore? What if he had caught her? She had bad experiences with that kind of thing and she didn’t like that she was doing the same. She grabbed at the coffee she’d ordered, and despite her chiding herself a second ago, spared the computer screen a quick glance. The only thing she could really pick out was a chart, each with the word ‘canceled’ in large red letters. That was enough, however, for her to know that much more about him. So, he was European, here for one reason or another. And now, like plenty of others, he was stuck here. She glanced at a small bag he had with him. It looked casual, but Cleo wondered if that was all he had brought with him. She wondered if he had anywhere to stay… Once again she felt the overpowering urge to ask him. Talk to him. Offer some words of consolation for the situation some dang volcano had got him in. This time, it came on so suddenly she couldn’t stop herself from acting on it. “I’m sorry.” He turned to face her, his deep blue eyes a little startled, “Hm?” “This must suck.” She stated simply. His expression smoothed into a polite smile. Oh God… she’d never seen a smile like that. Her breath nearly caught in her throat. “You could say that.” He replied in a smooth voice, “Been here… oh I’ve lost track of t’e days at this point.” He didn’t sound nearly as dejected as she expected him to be, but already the optimism in his tone made his voice that much more charming. But WHAT in God’s name was she doing? She hadn’t thought this way about a man in, longer than she cared to remember. Cleo had enough to deal with without falling in… attraction with some random British stranger she’d never see a day after this. It was harmless on the outside, but it didn’t make her feel any better. “Any idea when the flights are coming back up?” He shrugged, “I’ve heard any where from another week to another t’ree weeks. Already been over a week everywhere from D.C to Chicago tryin’ to get back.” She smiled a little, “And where’s home for you?” His accent no longer sounded British but she couldn’t place it. “Dublin.” He gave another little smile. He seemed happy to be talking to someone about it. Cleo suspected he didn’t have many people he knew an ocean away in the U.S. She tried to think just about making him feel better, and not pay attention to how handsome this man was. “Well,” She said, “You could be in worse places. We do have a large Irish population, you know – surely you can find something to bring ya closer to home.” He laughed, “Now, that was exactly what I was planning on leaving here to do. Got a pretty decent list of t’ings to keep myself occupied. Any suggestions you want to add, miss…?” “Cleo.” She filled in, surprising herself with her own openness. She normally had to know someone a good few hours, at best, before even considering sharing personal information with them. “And I suppose I think you should just wander a bit – there’s plenty to keep you busy.” She shrugged, “I wouldn’t truly know. Not exactly head of tourism here.” He laughed again, “Well, thank you anyways. Do you want to sit?” He added, as she was still standing, coffee in hand, conversing. Cleo blinked. Oh, she wished to say yes, just as much as she wanted to say no. Finally, her contradicting mind gave way to one agreeing thought. “What time is it – do you know?” He blinked but glanced back at the laptop screen for confirmation. “Just a little after half t’ree.” “After 3:30?” She almost squeaked. “…yes.” Cleo cursed under her breath. Chris! Oh she couldn’t have him getting home if she wasn’t there. She couldn’t imagine what would happen with that. Oh curse her getting distracted by this handsome stranger. This is why she shouldn’t have gotten tied up in this. She sighed, “I really, I mean, I need to go. I gotta get home before… well, soon.” She gave him a long look, trying to take in all his features briefly as she’d probably not see them again. “It was nice to meet you, um…” “Paul Byrom.” He extended his hand. She shook it quickly, rushing now, “Yes, nice to meet you Paul. I do, do hope you get home alright and enjoy being here. Crap, I need to go!” “Goodbye, Cleo.” He said warmly, causing a mild blush from her before she finally was able to stumble out the door.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 24, 2011 8:20:19 GMT -5
Paul watched the young woman, Cleo, she’d said her name was, rush through the entry to the small bookstore, and laughed a little at just how fast she’d took off. He smiled as her tightly braided red hair bouncing against her back as she made her exit. That had probably been one of the most random occurrences of his life. But certainly not in a bad way. How many guys wished something like that happened randomly to them? Have some young woman, some STUNNING young woman, talk to them on a complete whim. And she had been stunning, he’d really been amazed she was in Boston for whatever reason and not in like NYC or L.A. as, like, a model. She had gorgeous porcelain skin that if in a magazine or something would be claimed photoshopped, and smooth red hair that was pulled tightly back, but still wisps fell most adorably in her face. She was dressed completely causally, and looked very young, but she gave off this strong don’t-mess-with-me, attitude at first. He was glad she seemed happy to talk with him. She’d been fun to talk to too, though the conversation wasn’t one normally started smiling during, but he had. It was the first full smile he’d given since Paul had found himself stuck in the states. Which normally, maybe, he wouldn’t have minded, but searching for somewhere to stay and finding more to wear than what he’d brought for what was going to be less than a day’s visit… it was not something he felt like doing. So, miss Cleo had gotten his mind off the situation he was in, but it didn’t change it. Finally, turning away from where he realized he’d been staring after her LONG after she’d been lost from view, he turned back to the laptop screen. Nothing had changed on the flights. But he didn’t really feel like being weighed down with it anymore. Getting off the airline sight he decided to update twitter for the people curious. He would never understand how something that simplistic got to be that addictive, but he liked it. It was simple and he could do it more often than a blog post. The fans seemed to like this way a lot too. With fans in mind, Paul grinned and looked up what replies he was getting about what he’d said about being stuck in the same country as them for an indefinite amount of time. There were dozens. “Awww Paul! That’s awful! Hope all works out!” “Have faith Paul, you’ll get home alright!” “Haha Don’t worry about housing. There are plenty of people in the area who could probably host ya! Just avoid the crazy ones!” That made him laugh. Stay with a Thunderhead? He didn’t hate the idea, not at all, as he knew most people with their fans would. But Thunderheads, for the most part, were very relaxed people, which he loved about them. Staying with any one of them would probably be nothing terribly awkward. But at the same time, he just didn’t really want to risk that, even causally, some fan stating that he’d stayed with them. That could end all sorts of ways, not so much bad for him but for whoever it was. Not good. He just wished he didn’t have to find a hotel, or anything of that sort. He just wished he wasn’t here. He did wish Cleo was back, so he could take his mind away from it again. But she had run out for one reason or another. “Hey!” Someone behind the café counter called to Paul. He blinked, and turned to the man working behind it, confused. He continued, “You know that girl you were talking to?” He blinked again, “Ehm… not exactly, I mean-“ He paused, deciding clarification rambles were beside the point, “Why?” The worker pointed to a table a little ways in front of him, “That’s her jacket.” Yes, lo and behold, a navy zippered hooded coat was hung from the chair he supposed Cleo had sat in before she came to talk to him and then ran off. He supposed the man thought Paul could do something about this. Like they were pals or something and he could just take it back to her like it was any ordinary thing. Like it was something they did regularly. He sighed, as that was far from the case. He hoped she’d get it back, someway or another. But heck, he thought, he had nothing else to do in Boston. Why not go on a wild goose chase trying to return a jacket to the gorgeous young woman who’d came in and out of his life with in a minute? That would keep him occupied while bored to tears waiting for flights to return. He laughed at himself, because these thoughts were absolutely ridiculous. “Yeah,” He said to no one in particular, though he supposed he was still talking to the café worker. ‘”I’ll –ehm… I’ll get it back to her.” It was good, insane, plan. But it never really saw daylight. He’d barely taken a step outside the bookstore, jacket under his arm, and coffee in his hand, that he walked right into someone practically running in, causing the coffee to fall. “I-I’m sorry.” She stuttered, already bending to pick it up, before she stopped and straightened suddenly, “Oh! Um… hi again.” Paul was startled into a smile, face to face again with the beautiful redheaded Cleo. “Hello again to you.” He grinned, “I guess I don’t need to be telling you you left this?” He held out her jacket, which now had a small coffee stain on it, now. She took it, a soft smile on her lips as well. “No, I don’t suppose you do. And thank you.” She straightened it out a little and attempted to pull it on, succeeding only to drop her own coffee to join his on the ground. She cursed mildly, and he laughed. He picked up the two spilt cups and grinned at her, “Well, may I offer you a replacement beverage for that?” “Oh but I should be offering one to you, for getting me my jacket back.” “You would have gotten it back either way, the way you were headed. I just got it messy for you.” He paused, “Or do you have time? You seemed pretty rushed a second ago…” Cleo’s smile actually grew a bit, “No, I’m good. Barely was gone a minute before getting a call that Chris is going to be home late. I’m good for another hour or so,” He had no idea who Chris was but took the words as confirmation, “So, plan is to sit and have coffee and converse an’ all t’at?” He asked, for clarification as well as to make her laugh – which he succeeded at. Her pale skin was a little pinker with a blush but she nodded. “Sounds like a lovely plan to me.” And once again, Paul’s situation seamed to slip from his mind, as he got to know miss Cleo over coffee in some bookstore café, while stuck in Boston.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 24, 2011 19:23:58 GMT -5
He does on some words, not that many but I know he says t'ink sometimes among other things. Not half as bad as Neil, tho. “What would you have done if I hadn’t came in right then? With my jacket, I mean…” Cleo was curious, and trying to keep from going speechless under the gaze of the handsome man she’d found herself conversing with, and enjoying it. He grinned, which she was slowly getting used to, “I really don’t know. Guess I figured I’d wander around all week hoping to run into you again.” He laughed but seemed entirely serious about what he was saying. “Cause, hey, it’d be for my benefit too, y’know? You’d be like my little adventure for the week.” She blinked, trying not to let her face heat up too much at the idea of being his ‘adventure’, “Well, you’re flattering.” She said dryly. “Now I feel bad for messing up your plans.” “I’ll live.” He replied, winking. She laughed a bit more. Something in his tone and attitude and smile and everything… she couldn’t keep up her usual impassive attitude. It was actually pretty disturbing, that she could be her self around someone she barely knew at all. It felt like the first time in a long time. So she beamed at him, “I should hope so. You still need to get home!” “Don’t remind me.” He said. Okay, then. “So, what did you come over here for anyways?” Hopefully this was a nicer topic. His smile did seem to brighten a little, and she exhaled, “Was the hired singer for a wedding in D.C.” He replied. “A wedding!” She laughed, “‘I love weddings-“ “‘Drinks all around!‘” He finished, laughing as well. Cleo blinked. Though she was sure anyone knew the quote, no one had ever finished it for her when she used it. She felt an urge to high five him. “Exactly!” She tried to smother the goofy grin she was surely giving him, “Though, I’m guessing you wish you hadn’t gone now.” Paul shrugged, his blue eyes contemplative, “Don’t t’ink I’ll ever know, really. Anyways, it’s what I’m paid to do, consequences aside.” Cleo was once again reminded how little she knew him. “So, you’re a professional singer then?” His voice was smooth enough when he spoke; she wondered how it would sound when singing. “That I am.” He replied sounding almost proud at the wonder she couldn’t keep out of her voice. “And this is something you’ve wanted to do your whole life- a dream of yours?” Now a touch of envy betrayed her tone. Paul caught that, but only nodded again, “Been singing since I could talk, so I’ve been told. …How old are you?” Cleo was confused but answered, “23.” He blinked and then mumbled something under his breath that Cleo thought sounded like “Geez – younger than Keith.” But then louder added, “Yeah, I’ve been singing, ehm, professionally since I was ‘bout 10 years young than you. Always been my dream.” “Oh wow.” She whistled. How great it must be to have followed a dream all your life and watched come true on you. She’d never had that pleasure, probably never would. Paul appeared to catch some of her thoughts, “So, what do you do?” She sighed a little, “I’m on the police force, here in Boston.” She could still say it proudly, at least. “Awfully young for that” He commented, “But that does explain t’ings.” “Explains what?” He laughed, “You just have this… aura of well, ‘don’t-mess-with-me’, you know? Like you’re sittin’ here casually enough but I’m bettin’ if I wanted to try anyt’ing at all I’d be on te floor before I was even fully standing.” That, despite her efforts, made her laugh again. He would never know how much that relieved her – she’d never purposely put on that front but it seemed people got it either way. Good. The last she needed were men thinking she was some little chick to flirt with. And that Paul had still spoke to her, despite all that, it was flattering. “You give me too much credit, I barely come past your shoulder.” He grinned, “Tryin’ to get me to underestimate you because of your height, miss Cleo?” She rolled her eyes but dropped it there, “Anyways, yes I guess my job explains that.” “So was that your dream then?” “No.” She smiled. “Well, I mean, I love my job. Some things have happened in lives of people close to me that always made me want to have a job to help prevent that. So that’s good. But no, it’s not what I dream – what I’ve dreamt of doing.” Paul nodded, and Cleo almost blushed at how interested he looked. What could really be interesting about her life and story? He was the famous one, the one who could probably tell her story after story about his career, and she’d have happily listened. But no, he was the one inquiring on her, and the one fascinated by her answers. She didn’t know what to think. “And you dreamt of…?” “I wanted to be an author. Made up so many stories when I was younger… always wanted to see one show up on a shelf someday.” Cleo sighed, “But that didn’t really work out for me, so this is my plan B.” “I’m sorry.” He said truthfully, smiling gently at her. This was becoming the kind of conversation that ended with a friendly hug of some sort. Awkward. He glanced around the café apparently noticing the time in that moment, “You still okay on time? It’s been almost an hour.” Cleo looked at the clock he’d seen. “Oh wow, it has! Yeah, I probably need to be going.” She realized she was much more hesitant to leave now, because now she wasn’t leaving some random hot stranger, but a wonderfully friendly and funny man she’d shared more with in less than an hour than she had with anyone in a month. She was leaving a friend. But just as she stood up she remembered more about him, and the question escaped her, “Have you found anywhere to stay?” “Not yet, no.” He replied, casually. “Would you like to stay with me? I mean-“ Oh God, Cleo. What on earth was THAT!? But she couldn’t very well take back that offer, “I mean, just for the week. I know you’d- I know I wouldn’t want to have to pay for a hotel. And my apartment – there’s enough room… if you want…” Paul’s eyes had widened throughout her rambling. But now he looked to actually be considering. “That wouldn’t- I don’t want to be trouble to ya.” “No, it’s not trouble at all!” She said quickly. “Alright, but would… whoever you had to rush to…. Chris was it? Would he be alright?” Oh. She hadn’t even thought of Chris at ALL right then. Her mind searched through scenarios of letting him stay, and in the end the good ones FAR outweighed the bad. “Chris will probably be fine with you. I wouldn’t know for sure, but I’m willing to keep up my offer no matter.” He grinned and stood, seeming to fully accept her offer. “You have a deal, miss Cleo. You have no idea how grateful I am here. That is,” He added, teasingly, “if you t’ink I’ll be fine with this Chris…” “Oh you’ll love him.” She laughed, “Everyone does.”
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 25, 2011 21:54:23 GMT -5
Even in the furthest reaches of his mind Paul would not have expected Cleo’s offer of housing. He had absolutely NO thoughts in his head for the longest moments after it, and really only agreed because she was waiting for an answer and he didn’t want to be rude. Not that, now that the full idea hit him, his answer would have been any different. Stay with her? With a woman he was already finding himself quite attracted to, with only having known her a little over an hour? It was strange, almost creepy, but she’d offered and how on earth could he refuse something like that? “Do you have internet connection at… at your home?” He hadn’t said much as he more or less followed her down the streets of Boston to wherever it was she was headed. He wanted to say something, anything, and usually could. He’d been told he could converse with a wall and not run out of things to say. But at this moment, he was busy conversing with himself in his head, about what exactly he was doing, staying with her. Cleo laughed, “What century do we live in, again?” He laughed in reply, “Fair enough, miss. No harm in askin’ I didn’t t’ink.” “No harm at all.” She agreed, mildly, “Why do you ask, anyways?” He shrugged, “Figured I’d let some… people… friends and fans know what’s going on.” “Fans?” She perked up, “Oh yes, you’re a singer, right… makes sense.” She paused her walking to glance at him, “And you’re going to tell them you’re staying with me? That should certainly start a little frenzy, won’t it? A handsome singer… do you have a girlfriend?” “Not at the minute, no.” She sighed, as though that took away from it, “Well anyways, a charming – single – young man trapped in the states is picked up by a young woman after meeting in a coffee shop. Oh dear, sounds like a romance novel. What WILL people think of that?” Paul laughed a little nervously. He’d been trying not to think of how easy it could shift that direction. “Ehm… wasn’t gonna give them that much detail you know. Don’t really even need to know your gender.” “I think you being picked up by a young man would spur more talk, you know?” Now his laughter was full out, “That’s right, that’s right. I’ll just tell them I’ve been ‘adopted’ by a state trouper. Sound decent enough?” She debated, then nodded, “Sounds lovely, Paul. We’re here.” She added, moving to enter a building he didn’t really get a chance to look at. He grinned, and followed her in. “It’s not much.” She threw in, upon entering. Truly, it didn’t look like much. The kitchen and living room weren’t really very separated, and a small hallway gave way to three rooms. “Two bedrooms.” Cleo stated, “I’m sorry, you’ll probably sleep on the couch. I’ll grab sheets. If Chris comes home… um… I don’t know.” She moved back into one of the rooms with that. Paul blinked after her. He was still trying to work out this Chris. At first thought he’d thought boyfriend, finace, husband even. But, wouldn’t they be… sharing a room then? He was still trying to pick through what little ideas he had, finding himself a seat on the couch, when the sound of the door opening was heard again. “Cleeeeeooooo!” A voice called, and the sound of feet pattered across the floor until skidding to a stop right before Paul, and staring. He stared back. The voice belonged to a boy, who barely looked old enough to have been at school, though straps at his shoulders showed that was indeed where he’d been. He had a messy almost over grown mop of rust colored hair over wide blue eyes. Was this- Could HE be? What!? Paul thought of Cleo. Maybe… did she have a husband too, just one she hadn’t mentioned? And this was their… son…? But his age, he had to be between 5 and 7, and Cleo was 23. No, no that wasn’t right. But who was he then… to her…? “Chris?” Cleo walked back in quickly, bundles of white sheets in her arms. She plopped them next to Paul on the couch and lifted the young boy up, “Hello, hun! And how was school?” “Who’s he?” Cleo laughed, not even having to look at Paul, who was still staring dumbfounded at the pair, “Is that how you talk to people?” He pouted, “Yes.” More laughter, “Is that how you’re SUPPOSED to talk to people?” “… No.” “Good,” She gave Paul a sheepish smile and set the boy down, “Now, do you want to introduce yourself, or should I?” “I can do it.” He said louder. He shuffled over to stand right in front of Paul, “Hellooo. I’m Christopher… um… Andrew Mahoney. What’s YOUR name?” He gave Cleo a look before replying, already smiling, “Paul Byrom. Cleo, here, invited me to stay here, while I wait to get home.” “Awwww yay Cleo brought home a guy!” Chris laughed. Cleo coughed loudly, and when he looked she was blushing. Chris was already continuing, “I’m gonna go play with legos now! Bye bye Mr. Paul!” He took off before either could say anything. There was a moment of silence. “He’s….” “He’s Chris.” She said simply, “Sweetie, isn’t he?” That wasn’t what he was getting at, “He’s ehm… He’s your-…?” He trailed off waiting for her to fill in. Cleo sighed, pushing back some wisps of hair, her smile losing its relaxed quality, “He’s what happens when daddy doesn’t feel like owning up to his affairs…” She said quietly. Paul blinked. Dad? Her dad? Affair? That would explain the age difference between her and her… half brother then? “And your mom?” He asked. “She, um, she passed away before learning about this little… mistake.” “So you’re stuck with him?” Cleo’s smile completely faded, “He is, without a doubt, the sweetest child I have ever come across, and that is not biased. I don’t consider myself ‘stuck with him’ in anyway.” “I’m sorry.” He said quickly, cursing what he just said, “I didn’t mean it like that, but just… I’m sorry that you had to be put in this situation.” The smile returned, bittersweet, “You can believe I sometimes wish I wasn’t. But I love him, and that makes everything alright at the end of the day.” She rested a hand on his shoulder, lovely eyes looking into his for a breathless second, but when she spoke she said something completely different, “Now come on, do you want to play legos?” One blue eye closed in a wink, and she’d moved past him to the child’s room.
Ladies, meet Chris Mahoney. Totes my favorite character in this whole fic. I hope you'll all adore him too.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 26, 2011 10:50:53 GMT -5
In her defense, Cleo was barely waking up when she heard a male voice echo from down the hall of her apartment. As the only male she was aware she lived with, at that moment, was a young child with no where near the same voice, she was predictably a little freaked. Stumbling out of bed, she pulled on a bathrobe quickly and, shaking a little, moved out to the hallway toward the voice. It wasn’t until she really heard the voice – the accent – that everything came back to her. Hah, Cleo, she sighed silently. Way. To. Go. So before showing her messy barely awake self to her guest she silently listened to his conversation. Obviously on the phone. “No, I’m serious.” He was laughing though, making him sound very not serious, “Very serious. Do I need her to confirm it before ya believe me – I’d rather not wake her up for yer sake.” It took Cleo a full second before it made sense. He was talking to a friend from home, probably updating him on the situation he was in at the minute, as well as who he was staying with. Apparently, no one could believe he was staying with her. She couldn’t blame him, it was a pretty unique situation she’d pulled him in. But so far he didn’t seem to mind it, and was enjoying this mini argument with his mate. She chose that moment to cough, and wander out from the hallway to where he sat at the tiny kitchen table, indeed on his phone. He sent her that charm filled smile of his, and continued, “Look, she’s up now mate, so I’m gonna go-“ “No, don’t go because of me!” She cut in fast, blushing. He laughed a little and she added, “Do you want me to talk to him?” Goodness, she was acting so, so, unlike her usual self, which wasn’t really herself at all. What was it about Paul that made her feel more relaxed and open? He laughed, louder, “I’ll ask. Hey, Ryan, yeah, still want proof of who I’m staying with?” A pause, “Then here.” He tossed the cell phone her way, and she caught it fast. “Hello?” A gorgeously accented voice asked in polite confusion on the other line. Cleo smothered an insane giggle. “Hello. I’m Cleo Mahoney. I believe I’m currently in possession of one of your friends?” Paul raised his eyebrows at her and she nearly cracked up. The man on the other hand chuckled, “Friend, co-worker… I suppose at this point it’s the same. How much did he pay you for this?” She giggled, “Well, actually I was the one to offer. Hm… Though you’ve given me an idea.” She teased, “How much do you think I should charge?” Paul shoved her, laughing, and attempting to look appalled. She giggled and gave up on the serious conversation, “Ah! I think I have to give this phone back before my guest kills me!” She broke down into giggles. “Well, I’d hate for that! Pleasure to meet you Cleo. Pray you make it through a week with him.” He laughed. She would have replied but the phone had been successfully returned at that point. So she collapsed into the chair besides Paul, and just laughed and laughed. “Cleo…?” Chris’s sleepy voice was heard. A second later, he wandered out in his pajama’s dragging a baby blue blanket an old friend had given them. Chris treasured it more than he liked to admit to. “You laugh loudly. I couldn’t sleep.” Cleo had to fight down more laughter, and helped the child onto her lap, making a motion for him to keep his voice low, “He’s silly.” She motioned to Paul, “It’s hard not to laugh.” He shook his head, smiling, “I like your laugh though… you should do it more often.” It hurt to think that he didn’t think she laughed enough… probably because it was true. So, she had little to say in reply to that. Chris, being the kid he was, knew how to say complicated things so bluntly. Sometimes she loved that, sometimes she didn’t. She wished she could be young and have that simplicity again. Thankfully, Paul had ended his call, so she didn’t need to reply. “Good morning, kiddo.” He said grinning, “How’d you sleep?” “Not good. I had nightmares.” “Oh? Well, t’at’s not good at all. Ever heard of a dream catcher?” Chris blinked, “Nooo…” “They catch bad dreams from you. Maybe you could make one.” He suggested, still beaming. Cleo watched the exchange in wonder. She’d never seen a man so good with children, at least that she could recall. Not only had he not found it even remotely strange that here she was living only with a 6 year-old boy, but he delighted in it? She felt a need to alert the press; she’d just found prince charming. But she wasn’t supposed to be thinking of him in that way… it was one of the rules she’d placed firmly in her mind when she’d invited him. This couldn’t ever… become… more. That only caused problems. He was gorgeous, kind, funny, and good with kids… he could be the perfect man, she just… didn’t need that in her life. She couldn’t. Chirs and Paul were discussing dream catchers when Cleo accidentally sighed aloud. Paul looked up at her, eyes full of question. “You alright?” She smiled weakly, “Still sleepy, that’s all. You woke me up, y’know.” “You woke me up!” Chris interrupted, “And I’m perfectly awake!” “Oh, what I’d give for your energy.” She gave him a fuller smile and tickled him a little so he squirmed on her lap. “Paul, could you watch him for a second. I’m going to… um… actually get dressed. Braid my hair an’ all.” He nodded, “Be happy to. But,” He added, smoothly, “I think your hair looks lovely down.” All the more reason to pull it up, she thought, blushing. She didn’t need him becoming attracted to her, any part of her. That would make it that much harder. She shrugged and stood up, setting Chris down. “It gets in my way.” she only half-lied. “I’ll be back in a second.” And with her face still a little flushed, she disappeared to get ready for the day.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 26, 2011 21:12:16 GMT -5
Paul felt selfish, but he was still bored. So, he’d a place to stay… that was only a place to rest his head at night – not much help for the majority of the day. He couldn’t help but feel he shouldn’t have Cleo do anything more for him either. He should be able to find things to do in the area. Supposedly. It was strange though, how he did want to see more of Cleo than he expected, and originally planned he would. When he agreed he’d expected to be just that, just a place to rest his head. But already his first morning he was feeling this wasn’t the case. Sure, she was only doing this to be polite, but she was also like a new friend… or the buddings of one. Paul could only assume that those buds would grow to be a lovely friendship by the end of one week. And if he couldn’t even get back then… And then, the same with Chris. Paul didn’t find that as strange, though. He’d always loved kids, even when he was a kid himself, and had always found kids to like him – which was always good. He had his niece and nephew who adored him to no end, and whom he spoiled more than his sister really much liked. He didn’t care. Chris was just, just adorable. For being raised by one single, very young, woman, he was probably the most well behaved child he’d ever seen. Something about that made Cleo that much more appealing to him, quickly adding to the total of things he liked about this woman. “What would you like to occupy today with?” Cleo’s voice interrupted his thoughts. She had left to change out of pajama’s he hadn’t even noticed she’d been wearing. In her casual attire – torn jeans and the same jacket tied at her waist – she hardly looked to be over 20. Her red hair was pulled ever tighter back than the first time he saw her, which he didn’t get. It had looked stunning, before, flowing freely down her back. He remembered she’d spoke, and had to pause then, trying to get her actual words to enter his mind again. That failed. “What?” She giggled a little, “Today. Did you find anything you wanted to see while you’re here?” She was phrasing as though she’d be involved. Chris, too. He blinked, “Don’t you have to work today or somet’ing?” “It’s Saturday, Paul.” She laughed a more. He blinked another time. Had dates really gotten that confused for him? “Unless, of course, you’d rather sight see alone… that’s- that’d make sense.” She was still smiling but Paul was certain he saw a little disappointment in her eyes there. He couldn’t have that. “No, no! It would be great to have a tour guide, and no, I did not decided on anything I wanted to do, so whatever you and Chris t’ink I’d like.” Cleo’s cheer was back just like that, she laughed a little and moved to sit back down – Chris had run off to get himself dressed, which he had been certain he could do by himself. She had a very open laugh, it greatly contradicted with the day prior’s attitude of ‘stay away’. Really, her whole being seemed more open with him than he’d ever guessed when he first met him. That was rather flattering. “So,” She continued, “what do you want to do today?” “I told you, I haven’t the faintest idea.” He grinned at her, “Whate’er works for you, miss Cleo.” “Well what do you like?” Paul paused, “I don’t really know. Anything historical, really. What do people usually do if they visit – do y’know?” “There’s a museum for JFK – he was Irish-American, too, wasn’t he?” “He was.” He replied, proudly, “But I don’t think Chris would find t’at very interesting. I have all week here, I could get out on my own for that later.” Cleo laughed a little, though not as easily as earlier, “I don’t think you should be planning all this to suit him. He’ll survive.” “Yes, but I don’t want him bein’ miserable on my account.” She was silent for a moment then, and he briefly wondered if she was speechless. When she continued her silence he finally asked it, “What?” “I just- you surprise me that’s all.” Her voice was quiet. “How so?” A small shrug, “Just how… how kind you are to Chris, how accepting of him and that.” Paul titled his head. That surprised her? That he was enamored with the cheerful silly young boy? Who wouldn’t be? How was that even remotely surprising? He decided not to ask any of that, “Well, it’s as you said, miss Cleo. He is, doubtlessly, the most charming, and well-behaved child I’ve seen. T’at’s very hard not to like, in my opinion. I guess I’ve always liked kids, though.” He shrugged. Cleo’s speechless face relaxed into an almost goofy smile at his words, like he’d just said something ridiculously romantic to her, and he almost blushed. She blinked out of it though quickly though, blushing quite enough for the both of them, “I’m – that’s great. It’s just… you’d be surprised how many people do not react so… um… calmly, when introduced to the fact that I have Chris. It has a, um… tendency to um… frighten people away…” She tried to smile again and it kind of failed. “It’s going to take a lot more t’an that if you want to frighten me away.” “Ah, I think I’d rather not frighten you away at all.” She laughed a little, trying to lighten everything up again. Paul was thankful for that, but before the awkwardness was completely away he had to open his mouth and bring it all back, “I really don’t t’ink you could.” Brilliant. She blushed again, deeper, “Um… thanks… I um…” She stood up, looking as though she was trying to find some obligatory excuse to leave. “I think um… that…” “Chris?” He suggested. “Um… yeah. I need to go… get Chris ready and things… he’s probably getting tangled together in his own clothes.” “Hate for that.” He replied, trying to smile convincingly at her. Cleo nodded, looking like she didn’t know if she should say something before leaving… but nothing came to mind apparently, and she gave a half smile turning to make her way to his room. Leaving Paul sitting at her kitchen table wondering to himself if the buds of friendship that had formed between them in a day were blossoming into something completely different.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 27, 2011 13:13:22 GMT -5
Goodness gracious, Cleo Mahoney. Get a gosh darn hold of yourself. Her mind continued yelling that and similar statements as she calmly helped a predictably confused Christopher pull on a t-shirt. Paul… good God, he wasn’t THAT amazing… he just wasn’t. He was great, of course, but really! He cou- shouldn’t be making her heart bang against the walls she’d built up every time he simply SPOKE to her. This was getting pathetic, absolutely pathetic. Cleo sighed. Was she just… boy crazy, then? Absolutely helpless when she was spoken to by someone with good looks and a charming personality? At only 23, that did seem like a likely option. But, no… she knew men long in between her last boyfriend, way back in high school, and Paul. None had ever been rude, some had been attractive in this way or that… but none had ever gotten that reaction from her heart. And NEVER had any made her shake on her wish to never have another man in her life. Not until him. “Where are we going, Cleo?” Chris interrupted. She smiled down at him, welcoming a reason to think of something else. “Wherever Paul wants to go. He’s out guest, sweetling.” She replied sweetly. A guest, yes that was all he was. God, it was a good thing she wasn’t working at like a inn, and had met him; she’d probably end up getting her self fired for her fraternization with her guest. Chris was pleased with this, “How long is he staying with us? She paused; she wasn’t entirely sure of that herself, “Well, a week or so, I think is what we agreed on.” She wasn’t sure of that either. “Only a week?” “What?” The young boy shook his head a little, “I like him, he’s funny. Why does he have to leave so soon?” Cleo stared at him, multiple emotions bubbling in her. Happy, sad, relieved, confused. So, Chris didn’t want the handsome Irishman to leave either. Until then, she hadn’t wanted to admit that she, herself, was already not looking forward to the opening of airspace for him. Which was ridiculous, insane, she should be wanting him to get home, how pathetic was it that she just wanted him to stay miles from home because of her attachment issues. “I don’t know, hun.” She said stupidly, then shook that away, “This isn’t his home though, his home’s in Ireland. I’m sure he wants to go home to the friends he has.” She sighed, “Now, you ready?” Chris nodded, and reached to be picked up, which she accepted and carried him out. Paul grinned at the pair of them, and she tried not to look directly at him, “Um… so, where are we going then, Paul?” He laughed, “Sightseeing will do just fine for me. Might as well get something from all dis. You lead the way.” She laughed a little, against all restraint and did just that. “Do you want me to carry Chris?” He added, later as the three wandered the tourist area of downtown Boston. The child was growing and was of course a little heavy, but she’d hoped she wasn’t showing the strain. “Oh, no, I mean, you don’t have to…” But Chris had interrupted her, “Oooh! Yes! I wants Paul to carry me! Pleaseee Cleo?” “Yes, pleeeeeaasee Cleo?” He teased her. She made a face at him, but obediently handed the boy over. Both cheered, and she rolled her eyes a little – hoping that balanced out her blush. “What do you do in Ireland, Mr. Paul?” He asked, happily, now sitting atop Paul’s shoulders. Oh, dear God, Cleo thought to herself, they looked like a- a family… Oh God. “I’m a singer.” He answered, laughing a little. “You do that for a living?” Chris asked, awed, “You can do that?” “If you’re good enough.” He said, “Luckily enough, that’s kept me from a real job this long.” Cleo had to laugh at that, “Well, Cleo can sing too! Can’t you?” “You’re a dear, but no, I cannot.” “Can’t I be the judge of that?” Paul teased her again, with no malice at all. She laughed a bit more, “Depends, would you like your ears to bleed?” Paul laughed quite a bit more, “If that’s all that would happen, I’ve heard worse.” He winked. “Oh, that’s flattering.” “Cleo! Cleo!” Chris was distracted, already. “There’s ice cream over there! Can I have some please?!” Cleo glanced in the direction being frantically pointed at. Indeed, an ice cream place appeared to have opened up in the large space of time since she’d last been out this way. “I don’t believe you need anymore sugar, honey. Besides, it’s probably more expensive than the cartons we have at home.” “Well, it can be on me, then.” Paul offered warmly. “Paul, please, you’re the guest. You should not be paying for-“ “Cleo, love, you’ve done a ton for me just by letting me stay. This is nothing. I’ll just get something for Chris, that’s all. Do you want something, too? Or we could share…” His words hit him as well as her the second he said them and he colored more than she’d ever seen him. “Sorry.” He muttered, “That was a little- I mean… never mind that then.” It took her that long to process a thought worthy to speak on, “Um, yeah.” Goodness, she needed to do something to get away from him a moment, so she could mentally smack herself. “Um… while you’re there, I’ll um.. I’ll be in there.” She randomly pointed to the store behind them. Glancing behind her, she was glad it was, in fact, a woman’s clothing store. Paul tilted his head like this surprised him. Which, well, it was surprising… so she didn’t blame him. “Alright, Cleo. Won’t take long though.” “I know.” She smiled as much as she could. “So, I’ll see you shortly. Be good Chris.” She gave a little wave and turned away. She was barely a few feet away from the pair, and about halfway to the store she couldn’t have cared less about, when she heard her name called. “Cleo! Cleo, that you?” Surprised, Cleo turned to the voice. Only to grow MORE surprised to be facing the lovely face of Madison Kilkenny. Madison who was her oldest friend, and Madison who she hadn’t seen or spoken to since Chris.
zomg who dis be?
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 27, 2011 22:55:54 GMT -5
Paul turned from buying the small child an ice cream cone, hoping it wouldn’t wind him up further than he was, and knowing it would, and looked out toward the store Cleo had made a run for. After he’d thoughtlessly suggested sharing ice cream with her. Great. Surprisingly, she wasn’t IN the store. She was a good few feet away, almost closer to where they were than where she’d said she was going. She was talking to a short, petite brunette, her hair long and straight and glasses bridged her nose. She was dressed in PJ pants and a graphic designed shirt. The girl was smiling warmly, but Cleo looked a little tense. And so, he was too. “You okay, Paulll?” Chris asked, licking experimentally at the dripping cone he’d been handed. Paul gave him a grin, before glancing out at the pair of girls, more curious than he really should have been. Really truly should have been. But Cleo’s expression still made him wonder. “Just fine, kiddo. Wanna eat this outside – nice day for it.” Chris debated but grinned, “Kay!!” Wandering out the door with their treats Paul found a table and seats the closest to where Cleo stood, without looking like that was on purpose. Trying not to try too hard he attempted to listen in on whatever he could hear from the pair of women. “So, where is he now, then?” The brunette girl was asking, “You must never be able to get out on your own if you’re always watching him.” “I rarely do.” Cleo said off-handedly, “And I did take him out here, he’s just with- with um… a friend of mine.” Paul smiled a little at that, and kept listening. “A friend? Cleo, you never were good at lying, you know. What, he’s a boyfriend? A lover? You used to be able to tell me everything…” “No.” He imagined she was blushing a fair bit, he nearly was himself. “No, no, Maddie, he IS a friend. He’s just, we met in an interesting way, that’s all.” “… and that was?” A pause, “He’s um… staying with me right now.” She pressed on before the girl, Maddie, could cut in, “He’s from Ireland, and is stuck here while the airspace is closed. So, I let him stay with me. Didn’t really expect to become as close to him as I have already…” She laughed stiffly. Maddie laughed, “And so you’ve left him to watch Chris, then? Charming.” “Oh, they love each other. It’s amazing. Really, he is the sweetest man I’ve ever met. And funny, and generous, and – “ “Handsome?” “Terribly!” She laughed a little more openly. All of Paul’s previous awkwardness about eavesdropping was about tripled right then. She thought he was attractive? Terribly attractive? And sweet and funny and… “You sound like you’re very nearly falling in love with him, hun.” “Maddie!” Cleo’s laughter stopped, and Paul, stealing a glance at her, could see her red face from there, “No! I mean, he’s great, but I just… I can’t. You know that.” “I know that. I still don’t know why, though…” Maddie sighed. “Chris.” “What does Chris have an- oh. Cleo, you’re still upset about his father?” Cleo sighed, “How can I not be, Maddie? Fine, if he didn’t want Chris that was fine, he could have been put up for adoption or anything, but no!” She cursed, “He has to abandon him and act like he doesn’t even exist! And abandon me with him.” She shook her head, “It took me about 3 years before I was able to believe that all men weren’t filthy unfaithful jerks. I don’t think I’m ever going to be able to go further than that, though.” He didn’t listen for her friend’s reply, and now was looking only at her. He remembered the day before asking her about Chris, and her situation. He’d always guessed she wasn’t as calm about it as she’d acted then. It didn’t make him feel any better knowing he had been right. Chris interrupted his thoughts, “What’re you looking at?” He followed Paul’s gaze and then… “Cleo!!!” He called, clueless. Before Paul could appropriately ‘shh’ him Cleo, and Maddie, had looked over. She gave a small smile and wave, and he returned it awkwardly. He was ready to not listen anymore, but Maddie’s next comment made that impossible. “Wait. Wait, wait, wait, wait… HE’s the man you’ve tak- CLEO!” She nearly squeaked, “That’s Paul Byrom!” Oh goodness… really? Cleo’s friend had to be a thunderhead? The remainder of this conversation was going to be interesting…. Cleo nodded slowly, “Yes, that IS what he said his name was.” She sounded confused now, very confused. “Do you know how many girls would KILL to be you!?” “Oh, I’m sorry. I wasn’t aware I’d taken in an Irish Jonas Brother.” Paul had to literally choke down his laughter. Poor Cleo was totally lost to all of this. He’d probably have to explain a bit more about his job to her later. An Irish Jonas Brother… really? Maddie was laughing again, “No, no. He’s just a part of this lovely, really lovely, Celtic group. I can see where you got handsome and sweet and funny from now. They all are…” Cleo laughed a little in reply and played with her braid. As the conversation had lightened Paul decided then to stop the eavesdropping and go back to paying attention to Chris again, feeling a bit guilty about not doing so. Good thing to, as he turned back just as Chris was attempting to stand up. And do what, Paul had no idea. All he knew was the moment he was up, his cone, still mostly new, hit the ground. He blinked at it for a moment, then let out an almost grown-up sounding sigh, and pushed himself to sit again. Pouting a little. Behavior that good deserved something. Paul smiled, “Here, we’ll get ya another one.” He paused, “Or do you want the rest of this?” He held out the cone he’d gotten and barely ate since he’d been occupied. He sniffed, but smiled and took the offered sweet. It wasn’t a minute later Cleo had returned, smiling much more than she had earlier. Good. “Well, don’t you two look like you’re having a good time.” She gave Paul a brief smile before returning her attention to the boy, “That looks good.” She smiled to him, “Mind if I taste?” Chris handed it over, and Paul tried not to think that, technically the two of them did just share ice cream like he suggested. That failed and he just hoped his thoughts didn’t show on his face. Cleo, at least, didn’t seem to notice and sent him another beautiful smile sitting at the table herself. Watching her talk to Chris, he replayed something she’d said to Maddie. She hadn’t expected to be so attached to him already. She wasn’t the only one with that problem.
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Post by misssunflower on Feb 28, 2011 20:42:45 GMT -5
“So, who was she?” Paul asked casually. “Who?” “The girl you were talking to. Clearly” Cleo sighed. She’d known this was who he was speaking of from the start, but hadn’t wanted to go into it really. “A friend, best friend of mine. Madison. I used to tell her everything, she was the first person to know about Chris, and one of the few people to accept it all. But after we both went different paths I didn’t see her until well, today.” He blinked, “I’m sorry.” “It’s nothing really.” She licked at the cone Chris had decided to just go ahead and give her, the sweetheart. “We just both went different ways. She knew about you, too.” “About me?” He laughed a little. She smiled. She hadn’t known he was popular in the U.S. as Ireland. But it was nice to know other people were as enamored with him, and understood how irresistible he truly was. Embarrassingly, though, it had almost made her jealous to know others, many others, adored him as she did. She was almost jealous of Maddie until she’d said her favorite was a younger blonde named Keith, and next a ‘insanely georgeous’ man named Ryan. “Geez younger than Keith.” Paul had murmured when she’d said her age. Ryan, the man she’d spoke to on the phone. So, he was definitely the same person Maddie was saying. “Yeah, some Celtic group you’re in. She was telling me about how millions of girls would kill to be me, now.” Paul chuckled and looked flattered, “Well, I’d say that would be much more likely if it were Ryan staying with you. I’m the one who always gets left in the end.” “Now is that in the show or in reality?” She giggled. “Must I answer this?” She laughed harder and took another lick, then tilting her head, “You didn’t get ice cream?” He opened his mouth of but Chris answered, “Oh he did! But then mine dropped.” “You mean his dropped.” She corrected. He shook his head, “No, mine.” He pointed, “That’s his.” Cleo’s mouth stilled on the cool sweet substance, and her eyes locked with Paul’s. Oh Geez, woman! what was so strange? She tried to think seriously… so her mouth was on where… his mouth had been. She wasn’t in elementary school. There was no such thing as cooties. Still, she set the cone down. “Well that was sweet of him.” She said softly, still looking at Paul, “Did you say thank you?” Chris nodded empathetically, then paused, “I thiiink I did. Um…” “Want to say it again to make sure?” She smiled the smallest bit. Chris was good at that. “Thank you for the ice cream, Paul!” He repeated, happily. “You’re really cool!” Paul, who had been looking at her the whole time as well, finally turned to beam at the boy, most charmingly. Cleo couldn’t believe it; his smile made her breathless and he wasn’t even LOOKING at her. “You’re mighty cool, yourself, lad.” He ruffled Chris’s hair. So endearing. Cleo sighed. He caught it, and looked at her – cheek resting in her hand, smiling like an idiot, and simply smiled that smile at her again. He looked happy, almost like he was a child like Chris. She wanted to giggle, but she wasn’t sure she could breathe. “Don’t you think Cleo is cool too?” Chris giggled, “Oh, she’s alright… I guess.” Cleo gave him a tiny push and he collapsed in giggles before adding, “Do YOU think she is?” Paul chuckled, “I t’ink she is quite cool, yes.” She blushed but made a face at him. The conversation was silly, but sometimes silly was good. Silly was amazing. She hadn’t felt truly silly in too long. “She’s got a cool job too.” Chris was continuing. “But she never let’s me go on patrol with her.” “T’at’s all with good reason, mate. Your sister doesn’t want you to get hurt that’s all.” He smiled. Chris blinked and looked confused but Cleo interrupted before he could speak, “Paul’s right, sweetling. I’ve told ya, m- my job isn’t somewhere for kids.” She sighed. Maybe Paul’s telling him would convince him more. He liked him – as everyone seemed to. He paused, “Well then, Paul should go on patrol with you! Then he can tell me aaaaaall about it! Wouldn’t you Paul?” “See no reason why not.” He laughed, “When’s your next shift, Cleo?” She stared. Take him on patrol with her? What if something happened? What if it was one of those awful nights with a car chase or a car accident or this or that or another thing? She didn’t want him seeing that! He wouldn’t want to see that! He didn’t know what he was asking. “Um… I don’t think I like the idea of you out in the danger zone anymore than Chris.” She kept her tone light, “I’d like to send you back to your fans in one, unscarred, piece.” He laughed, though, “You’re confidence in me is charming. You don’t think I could handle t’is?” “Would you like the honest answer or the one that would make you happiest?” More laughter, “What would make me happiest would be if those answers were the same.” He was smiling THAT smile at her, deep blue eyes unfairly persuasive, “Just one shift Cleo, I promise nothing is going to happen worth your concern. Flattering as it is.” She had to blink a time or two before all thoughts returned to her, “Don’t give yourself too much credit.” She said curtly. She knew that was rude, but she was being way too, too soft with him. He couldn’t start thinking she was weak under his looks – however true that may be. However, this also pleased him, “And there is that ‘back off’ attitude I thought had completely disappeared on me. Now I know I will be safe behind you, miss Cleo. You’re surely not one to mess with.” Dash it all, she couldn’t be mad with him. And she couldn’t say much with Chris sitting watching the exchange like it was his favorite show. She rolled her eyes at last, “Oh, whatever. Shift is tomorrow afternoon. If you really want to, you can come with.” “Oh I do.” He replied, “And I will.”
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 1, 2011 16:50:17 GMT -5
Cleo was small, and on her own did not look like much, but God! Did she ever look fierce in a cop uniform and her braid carefully twisted into a bun. He was glad he would be in the car beside her and not someone to have to face her. Geez. It was strangely unnerving sitting next to her, too, though. Paul wasn’t even sure why… She was so, so, unnaturally calm and serious and things… he wasn’t really too used to it. About two minutes into talking to her she had dropped all seriousness and acted like he imagined she would with a friend. And though he’d always admired the casualness in her, her humor, and all that – her being so… professional was strangely attractive. VERY attractive. Maybe that’s what was so awkward about sitting behind her. “Not too interesting is it?” She murmured to him, to break the awkward silence between them. He chuckled, “Not uninteresting, I think. I suppose not every patrol is very fun.” “Fun?” He nearly shivered – was it just him or had the temperature of that car gone down several degrees? THAT tone could have frozen boiling water. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean – I know it’s not-“ God, and he thought she was being uncharacteristic. He’d never been so inarticulate. She spared him a sheepish smile, seeming to have realized that she wasn’t acting herself, “No, you were trying to lighten the mood. Sorry.” She sighed a little, “Another reason I don’t want Chris coming along. I get very… I get very uptight, when I’m on my job. I’m sorry I snapped at you.” “No, it’s fine.” He exhaled silently. He had to admit it was a relief knowing that this was something that always happened with her, and it wasn’t entirely his fault. He made a mental note not to tease her, too much, when on the job. “I understand.” “No, really I’m sorry.” Cleo apparently was really feeling bad about this. Paul nearly laughed, and laid a hand on her arm, “No, really, it is okay, Cleo. I get it.” She looked at him for a moment, and probably would have held it much longer except she really was driving and was at least clear-minded enough to remember to concentrate on that. For his part, in that instant Paul had forgotten they were even moving. Since when had her eyes been that stunning, that deep blue color. Was it just the lighting? The evening light that washed the near ending of her shift? Was it just that he’d looked in them often, but never really SEEN them? He wasn’t sure. He just knew that for that moment, he wished she didn’t have to look away… Awkward. He needed something to say to stop thinking about her eyes or how attractive they were or how stunning SHE was in general. She was his hostess, nothing much more. Though, she was quite clearly attracted to him, as far as he could tell… that only made it worse, didn’t it? But things like this were hard to fight… especially when they came on so very FAST. Cleo was looking decidedly away from him, and was silent too, and from what Paul could see, was blushing too. A hint again at the Cleo he knew under the uniform. That was strangely comforting. “Well…” She began then went silent again. “Yeah.” He replied simply. She giggled, “You’re usually so talkative, this is unusual you know.” He laughed, losing his strange tenseness rather quickly with that, “Contrary to what some of my mates will say, I don’t particularly enjoy talking to myself. And I don’t want to distract you or anything.” “Don’t worry about that.” She replied, gently, “Besides, we don’t have much longer out here. Sorry you didn’t get a particularly… ‘fun’ night.” “I’m never going to forger saying that, am I?” “Probably not.” He laughed harder, “Aye, aye, I suppose I deserve that.” She giggled, “Now, how can I answer that without offending you?” “I’m not easily offended, or scared away.” He reminded her. “I’d rather not push that.” “Good plan” They both laughed. It was surprising, how comfortable he was with her, when he’d known her only two days…. Three? He’d always thought he made friends easily… but not THAT easily. Usually. “So, how much longer do we have out here?” He asked as the laughter faded, “Chris is probably in bed by now.” They had left Chris to a neighbor, who apparently watched him on numerous like occasions. “Probably.” Cleo sighed, “It’s sad how this job keeps me from seeing him some evenings. I like my day shifts, when he’s at school. That’s easiest, y’know.” “Makes sense.” He replied, “I’m sorry, but I’m sure he doesn’t mind all that much.” “I hope not. He has it so-“ “Don’t you dare say he has it bad Cleo, just because he has only you to watch him. He’s so happy with you, you may not be able to tell, so take it from me. He loves ya.” She turned a little to smile weakly at him. Stunning. “Thank you.” She said quietly, and nothing else. Another silence stretched on between them, before she cleared her throat and added, “Shift’s done. Shall we be headed home then?” Not wanting to end this time as much as he wanted to end it, Paul nodded, “Home sounds grand.” He didn’t even feel like specifying her home versus where he was simply staying. While only waiting for a plane to take him back to HIS home. He’d already felt at home in the tiny apartment. More so like it was a second home to him. Awkward. But Cleo said nothing to that, and the two headed back.
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 1, 2011 22:02:05 GMT -5
I've never seen Castle. Cleo promptly yawned upon returning to the apartment complex. She didn’t know why, it wasn’t like her job was tiring and it really wasn’t that late. Still she was lethargic. Paul laughed a little, “You okay, love?” She blinked. This was not the first time he’d called her that, surely it wasn’t. Nothing to flip over. Still she spoke before her thoughts caught up with her, “’love’?” “Ehm, yeah. I mean, it’s a friendly t’ing, nick-name. I understand if ya don’t want to be called that…” He trailed off. “N-no, it’s fine. I like being your love.” Well that had come out wrong. Or had it, really…. She couldn’t deny the phrase she’d just said, either. WHAT the heck was she saying!? Her face went red as soon as the words left her mouth. She needed to go to bed before she ended up saying anything else obscenely stupid and embarrassing. “I mean, I mean, I like the name.. I mean…” He looked a little stirred by what she’d just said still, but finally nodded, “Good, it’s a bit of a habit – would hate to have to change it now.” His smile was a little off but still gorgeous. She sighed a little and made a move for her door, when Paul’s hand was on her arm again. She turned a little to him, surprised, and he simply said, “Chris.” To her gently. Oh rigggggggght! She still had to pick up her Christopher from his baby sitter. She felt a wave of idiocy and guilt wash over her – and for good reason. How could she have forgotten! What if Paul hadn’t been there? ‘Course if Paul hadn’t been there she wouldn’t have been distracted to begin with. Trying not to think too much of that, she sighed and rubbed her temples. Her braid did nice at keeping her hair out of the way but at the end of the day seemed only to leave her with a rotten headache. “Right, yes. He would be rather important.” He gave her a sideways glance. “Cleo, you want me to grab him? You look ready to pass out.” She felt ready to pass out. Still. “No. Paul, it’s fine. It’s just next door, wouldn’t take over 5 minutes.” “That’s 5 minutes you could be resting.” He replied, rubbing her arm he still held softly. “You always this concerned about sleepy people?” She asked. “Would you like the honest answer or the one that would make you happiest?” She smiled goofily, unable to keep it hidden for two long. “Maybe, I’d be happiest if those two were the same.” “In that case,” He said, “I t’ink they are. Now go to bed before you collapse, miss Cleo.” “No ordering me, now. I’m still in uniform.” She yawned, though, ruining the effectiveness of it all. He laughed, and saluted, “Yes, ma’am. Would you please go to bed before you collapse?” She saluted back, beaming as much as she could in sleepiness. “Yes, sir. Tell Chris I love him.” “Will do, love.” Content with that she went into her own apartment. She wasn’t sure how late she slept in that morning, but it felt much too late. Especially when she recalled that it was a Monday. Chris rode the bus but she wondered if he were able to wake himself up on his own. Or any of that. Glancing at the clock she exhaled. It was 5:30 in the morning. She had about an hour and a half before even worrying about stirring the boy. Cleo laughed a little. Going to bed early had done her well, Paul had been right. Of course. He was so good to her, and Chris. Once again she depressed over when he would leave for his home. Him being there was like… having been missing a piece without knowing it, until it was finally there. Part of her just wanted to lay in bed for the next hour and a half, but decided she may as well get SOMETHING done in her odd early awakening. She yawned experimentally, and pushed herself out of bed, pulling on a bathrobe and wandering out to the living room and kitchen. What she was greeted with made her nearly laugh aloud. Chris, and Paul, were sleeping like rocks on the living room couch. Chris snuggled up on the man’s lap with Chris’s tattered blanket covering them as much as something that size could. The TV screen was blue and the VCR box for The Lion King sat on the floor. Cleo stared at the sight in total surprise. She stared at Paul and nearly felt her heart melt, just for his unwavering sweetness to her Chris. She’d never met anyone like him… and probably never would again. She let out a little sigh, and Paul was either a terribly light sleeper or was already waking up at the time. He groaned a little and then opened his eyes to meet hers. He looked a little discombobulated for a second but his expression smoothed into that smile of his. “Well good morning.” He whispered, “How did you sleep?” She beamed, “Beautifully, thank you. And you both?” He chuckled a little, “I don’t t’ink I need to answer that, do I?” “I don’t suppose you do. You two looked like a serious Kodak moment just now. Wish I’d found my camera before you woke up.” “Sorry I ruined it.” He winked. “I have a photographic memory. Good enough.” It was true. She wasn’t sure she’d ever forget that scene she’d walked in on. Chris groaned a little in Paul’s arms, and he turned that dazzling smile on the sleeping child. “Should I put him in his room?” He whispered, softer this time. “I can do it.” She answered, softly. With that she moved to lift the boy into her arms. “I’ll be back soon.” “Kay.” She moved into Chris’s bedroom and set him down on his bed. He shifted a little at the change of position, and then barely opened his eyes, “Cleo?” “Shhh… you can sleep a bit more, hun.” But he wasn’t done yet. “Does Paul really have to leave?” He murmured groggily. Cleo blinked at him. Oh right then she wanted to say no to that, but she would certainly, certainly be lying. Yes. He really had to leave. Soon, at that. Saying otherwise would lie to Chris, and to her. But she couldn’t confirm it aloud. So she simply tucked Chris into his bed, and he was asleep before she could have answered, anyways.
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 2, 2011 16:36:20 GMT -5
Paul was disturbed by how little he wanted to go home. Well, he did. He did a LOT. But, not as completely as he did before. It was more… 50-50… 60-40… something like that. Still, a rather shockingly large part of him was not looking forward to his return to Dublin. Without Cleo. Dear God, was he THAT attached to this young woman? Sure, she was beautiful, and sweet, and funny, and just all sorts of things he wasn’t sure he could even put into WORDS but… was that enough for him to not want to go home? Not quite. He still wanted little more than to be back in Ireland, with his home, and wardrobe, and mates. But, he didn’t want to leave Cleo. He’d gotten just too- too comfortable with her. It would never completely feel right to have her out of his life. Her or Chris. But what was HE supposed to do about that? There was no way on that earth he would think about staying in Boston forever. That was ridiculous at very best. He missed home way too much to actually believe a stunning young woman and her charming brother were enough to keep him from going back soon as he could. So… Paul had to leave soon. He knew he had to leave soon. Leave Cleo and her happiness whenever he was talking to Chris, her attempts to stay serious and impassive when he embarrassed her, or started an awkward moment, or made one worse. How on earth did he already have memories with a woman he’d known all of 3 total days? He had to leave Boston, he wanted to leave Boston, he hated to leave her, he l- “Paul? Are you alive?” He blinked into meeting Cleo’s hazel eyes. She was smiling, and only looking mildly confused at his apparently vacant expression. “Hm? Oh, yes. Quite alive.” She laughed, “Good. Want breakfast?” “T’at sounds lovely. What time does Chris need to get to school?” Her smile softened as always when he spoke of Chris. She didn’t appear to understand how irresistible that child was. A thought hit him, then. Had she never had anyone, other than him, really shown care about him? Obviously his father hadn’t, or his mother, if he was left with her. She said he ‘scared’ people away too. That was a depressing thought. That she didn’t really have anyone to help her care for Chris, who she loved to death as far as he could see. That he would probably never have a completely normal childhood, raised only by a girl too old to be a real sister and no mom or dad… Cleo once again had spoken, and he had spaced. She playfully tapped his forehead, “You SURE you’re alive, Mr. Byrom?” “Last time I checked, aye.” He shook his head a little, “Still tired I guess.” “I’ll get ya some coffee, then.” She beamed, “Or tea or… um what do you-“ “Coffee is lovely, Cleo.” Her smile grew and she pushed herself up to get that ready, and a second later he heard her sigh the tiniest bit. “Cleo?” He asked, confused. “Hm?” “You okay, love?” She paused, but, “Oh, yeah. I’m fine. Do you know when air space is opening up again?” He blinked. How long had it been since he last checked? Had he even checked the last time he’d been on a computer? Probably not – geez! What if it had been opened? What if he could go that day? What if he had to leave Cleo sooner than he’d expected? He nearly wanted to slap himself for that last thought, and decided not to think much more before he spaced on Cleo again. “No, I haven’t checked yet today, actually.” “Oh.” She seemed just as confused by it as she did. “Well, we can check after Chris leaves. Just check on it, and all…” “Sounds good.” And yet he felt tense getting his laptop set up about a minute or so after Chris had scurried out the door – not before giving Cleo, and him, a hug. He tried not to hope for… he didn’t even know what to be hoping or not hoping for anymore. “Canceled still?” Cleo read it first, quietly, from where she was leaning over the side of the couch where he sat. Indeed that was what the website said. God, he didn’t know how much longer he could stand being there and not home, Cleo or no Cleo. “I’d say it will be for a few more days, aye.” “I’m sorry.” Paul turned to look at her, possibly read her expression. And was met with cascades of her fiery hair falling over hear face as she leaned in to read. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t noticed, she had her braid undone since he’d seen her that morning. She was letting it fall in silky waves down past her shoulders, leaving him reacquainted with how much he loved it. He tried to remember her words enough to form a logical answer to them. All that came out was a breathless, “Yeah.” She turned to look at him, then, and giggled a little, “Well if your stuck here, we’ll need to find something else to do… I don’t work today and Chris is home from school at about 3:50.” She glanced at the clock. “It’s a quarter to 8:00 – what do you want to do?” Oh Lord, that question was left way too open ended for his mind, and he tried not to think to much about what he first imagined. “Ehm, I don’t really know. Whatever you want to do…?” He sounded ridiculous. “Paul, hun, I live here. I’ve seen everything here that I’ve wanted to see and then some. So this is really, all up to you.” She pushed her hair out of her face, and beamed most beautifully at him. He tried to think straight and failed. Still he was able to sound more intelligent upon replying. “We could always just wander again. You’ve seen everyt’ing, you said. Just show me what the highlights of Boston, then. I’m sure there’s more to have been shown than when we had a 5 year old tagging along.” He winked. “He’s six.” She cut in, but was laughing too much to be accurately ‘upset’, “And I suppose you’re right. Shall we have breakfast and be off then?” Paul grinned, almost helplessly, at her, “We shall.”
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 3, 2011 16:36:23 GMT -5
Cleo decided the denial of it all was officially a lost cause at this point. And so she admitted to it, to herself at least. Admitted that she was, ridiculously and impossibly and against all reason and precedents in her life, in love with him. With that charming, funny, sweet, handsome and delightfully irresistible Irishman. After all, denying it wouldn’t change that she was, just as denying that he would leave her in the end changed nothing as well. So, she had herself in a terrible situation but at least she’d accepted it at this point. May as well enjoy the time she had with him while she had it. And the time was great. She hadn’t spent time away from Chris in a long time, that wasn’t work. Not that she didn’t adore spending time with the child, but she was getting a chance to feel young and unburdened for the time being, and she was going to take advantage of it. “I’m glad you kept your hair down.” Paul mentioned at one point in their wandering of Boston. Truthfully, she was having more fun and seeing a lot more than when she had a 6 year-old boy to watch. Her hair? Her hand automatically went to find her braid, only to realize there was no braid to find. Whoops. She’d forgotten to pull it back. She’d also forgotten that her guest was awfully attracted to it. Awkward. “Oh, um… yeah. Forgot this morning I guess.” He laughed, “Like I said, I’m glad.” Cleo rolled her eyes a little, “You’re Irish. It can’t be like you’ve never seen red hair before.” “It certainly isn’t.” He nodded, “But I don’t t’ink I’ve ever seen it as stunning as yours.” “You’re a shameless flirt.” She said curtly, though she had to smile all the same. “And you’re a difficult woman to flirt with. Keep worrying I’ll go a step too far and end up in a great deal of pain, lieutenant Mahoney.” She was laughing now. Dash it all, he was too good at making her laugh. He really was. “You still give me too much credit.” “I still don’t want to risk it, love.” He replied. “Suit yourself.” She played with her loose hair. His flirting was making her confidant and accepting attitude disappear fairly quickly. God, she loved him so much and he was leaving her so soon. This was a worse situation than her last relationship. And that, God knew, had not ended well. But at least she’d gotten a good thing out of that one, in the long run. With Paul she’d just be left nursing a lonely heart for years later. Curse fate for showing her what it was like to have someone truly care, to have a real… family like situation… and then take it away. “Cleo?” She’d spaced out on him. She blushed, “Oh I’m so sorry, Paul. What did you say, again?” “No, it’s fine. Didn’t say anyt’ing.” Cleo tilted her head, questioningly. “You are a terrible liar, you know.” Paul laughed, “Well it’s better than being a good liar, isn’t it? … I may have to t’ink about that one…” “Don’t hurt yourself.” She replied, slipping back into laughter, “Now, really, what did you say?” “Not’ing important, really. Just figured we don’t know much about each other… well, not a lot…” “True…” Yep. She’d fallen hear over heels with a man she knew next to nothing about. Smooth, Cleo, smooth. “Was there something you wanted to know about me…?” She added slowly. He chuckled a little, “Not’ing specific. Was actually wondering if there was anyt’ing you wanted to know about me.” She giggled. It was just about half past noon in their days adventure and she was getting hungry. “Well, I don’t really either… but how about we get something to eat and give each other a generic interrogation?” “Works for me, love. Lead te way.” And so she did. A few minutes later the two of them sat outside a small deli restaurant, trying to figure out who would ask the first question, and what to ask. Finally Paul began, “What’s your favorite color?” She raised her eyebrows. “What?” A shrug, “I dunno. I suppose I was expecting something… deeper?” He laughed, “We have to work our way up to t’ose, love. Give us time to t’ink of them. Now, favorite color?” “Navy.” She answered, “Yours?” “Pink… what?” He laughed at her eyebrows, which had once again inched to her hairline, “I’m not saying like prom-dress-fuchsia or anything!” “I hope you realize your use of the word ‘fuchsia’ does nothing to help your cause.” He laughed and pushed her across the table, “Next question! Do you want to stay in Boston your whole life?” “That’s more like it.” She grinned, “No. Do I expect to, yes. My dream of moving to Europe died with my want to be an author.” “Ah you still have time for t’at. I can see the back of your first novel; ‘Cleo Mahoney resides in Dublin wi’ her husband and two kids.’” She cleared her throat, “Now, I said Europe, nothing about Dublin. Besides you’d have to add Chris in with that, and that’s assuming a man would be willing to marry me with him as a package deal.” He rolled his eyes at that, “Because no man would want a child that sweet. O’ course.” “Not everyone is as accepting as you, you remember. An exception, not a rule.” She sighed. Why couldn’t more men be like that… really? “Well then, you just have to marry yourself an exception. Easy fix.” It was safe to say there was considerable amount of blushing on both’s parts after THAT. An image of a family coming back to her – with her living in Ireland with hi- She shook it away. Cleo sighed, again, she was being ridiculous again. She’d accepted his leaving. She had! “Cleo, I mean-“ He chuckled awkwardly, and there was a silence, “Your turn.” “What?” “To ask the next question.” He replied with a smaller, sweet smile. She returned it, grateful for the change. She thought for a second, “Favorite singer, growing up?” “Stevie Wonder.” Cleo laughed, “Me too!!” “Really!?” He looked delighted, and she laughed harder, “What’s yer favorite song?” And just like that, the earlier awkwardness and embarrassment, and worry, and depression slipped away and left only casual warmth, and happiness. And while as they spoke she became more aware of what they didn’t know about each other, the more she felt she knew him for months, years even. And that she would know him, for years to come. But, that was hardly the case, and whether it would be accepted in her heart or not, he’d be back in Ireland soon. And she would have to live.
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 3, 2011 23:03:21 GMT -5
If Paul could replay one day for the rest of her life, it would be that day with Cleo. Seriously, trading off questions with her, learning a bit more about the beautiful girl, and seeing her reactions to his own replies… it was incredible. Strangely incredible, for only knowing her a few days. It felt like he’d known her for years. He wished he had, it would make his feelings far more explainable. As they headed back home from the fantastic day with her, her phone rang. She gave him a sheepish smile and answered. “Hello?” She said. A second later her face fell, and he looked at her seriously, “Oh. Um… well, no. No, it would be fine. Yes, I mean it, it’s cool. I can work things out, I promise. Yeah. Yeah. No problem. Bye.” He looked at her, as she hung up, “Who was t’at?” Cleo stopped her walk to look at him, “Work. I’m sorry Paul, but can you watch Chris tonight? I have to take someone’s shift tonight and it starts at about 4:00.” She looked away, “I’m sorry.” “Cleo, it’s fine!” He laughed softly, “I’d be happy to watch him tonight, don’t worry about it.” She smiled weakly and silently they continued home. “Cleo!” Chris called happily. He was standing outside the apartment door and while he didn’t look to upset, still seemed incredibly happy to have his sister home. “Hey, love! You wait long?” She scooped him up. Paul smiled a little at how she could be upset or sad one second and then completely sunny around Chris. Made sense of course. “Not reaaaaallly.” He replied, kissing her cheek happily. “You and Paul go out?” “We did indeed, kiddo.” Paul answered for her. “How was your day?” Cleo rolled her eyes a little but listened to the boy answer, “So great! I got invited to a sleep over tonight!” “Chris.” Cleo said seriously, “Did you agree without asking first?” He blanched, “Um… Can I go to a sleepover tonight?” She looked at him seriously before finally breaking into a grin, “You may. I have to work anyways, what times it start?” “6:30 I think…” “Well alright.” She replied, smiling. “Now go pack your things.” She unlocked the apartment door and the child took off inside happily. She sighed. “Cleo, you alright?” Paul asked following her in. She was silent, “Better knowing that he’d be gone either way tonight. I hate that I have to leave him so often.” “He doesn’t mind it.” “You don’t know that.” She said softly. “I alw-“ He put his hand on her shoulders, not allowing her to go on like this, “Love, you are better to that boy than I can imagine anyone in your situation could ever be. He has it amazing wi’ you. So just… relax.” He’d meant to keep going but it occurred to him suddenly that as he spoke his arms had slid further around her, like an embrace. And that her face was closer to his than it ever had been. Oh… God… She seemed to have realized the same thing, and had the same thoughts flash through her head, “Paul…” She began. He could feel himself leaning to her, without even thinking, “Paul, I- I need to-“ He could feel her leaning to him, contradicting her own words. “To?” He helped. “To go… to…” She was tilting her chin up to him, eyes closing, lips parting in invitation, “to…” Just as he felt the softest brush of her lips there was a crash of clothes hitting the floor from Chris’s room, and suddenly she had pushed herself off him several feet. She was breathing hard and her face was red. He probably looked the same to her. “I need to go get Chris ready… I um…” Not bothering to finish her thought she’d moved herself into the boys room in a near run. And by the time Chris was accurately ready Cleo had to leave to work. Of. course. Paul sat absently picking at legos while Chris pieced things together beside him as they waited for his sleepover crew to grab him. They weren’t really talking. He wanted to say something to the kid, but his thoughts, right then, were only on his sister. “Red.” The amber haired boy said in the serious tone of someone paying very close attention to what they were doing. He was, at least, thankful that Chris could distract him. He grinned, looking at the already large pile of red legos before him, “Really? You have a whole sea of red, mate. I t’ink the other colors are gettin’ lonely.” “They’ll live.” He said. His voice was SO serious. Paul almost didn’t want to offend him by laughing. “Another red.” “What’re ya even making there?” Chris didn’t even look up from his work, “A heart. Cleo needs one.” Now he did laugh, “I’m pretty sure Cleo has a perfectly good heart.” A perfectly good, lovely, shy, beautiful… his mind kept piling on the adjectives for her heart… or just her. The boy finally looked at him, looking almost exasperated. An expression he’d probably learned from his sister, “Well, yeeeeeeeesss, she HAS one. But Cleo always tells me that no one is complete until they have someone else’s heart too. So I’m gonna give her mine!” He broke into a proud smile at the end. Paul’s laugh softened. That was so like her to say. He ruffled Chris’s hair, grinning, “And I suppose you have someone else’s heart too?” “’course! I got Cleo’s!” He paused, and added “Can you give your heart to more than one person?” “I’d assume so.” Chris nodded, “I thought so, cause you have Cleo’s heart too.” Paul cleared his throat at that, but kids never got those hints, “Cleo doesn’t say a lot about you, but I wonder a lot. She really likes bein’ around ya, like all the time and is always REALLLY happy when you play with me. I think I got it though.” He paused for effect, “You’re my daddy!!!” He coughed again, this time from nearly choking. How on earth that child had put 2 and 2 together and ended up with 453 or whatever was far beyond him. And how on earth was he supposed to answer that? “Ehm… I think I’m a bit young to be your dad, mate.” “You’re older than Cleo.” He replied in a practical tone. Paul was about to ask what that had to do with anything, but Chris was continuing, “Anyways, you’re not my daddy then. But you like Cleo don’t you?” Happy to get away from that he answered truthfully, “Yes, I like her very much.” This pleased him, “Good! I like Cleo too, you know. Especially when she’s around you, ‘cause she doesn’t get me in trouble for calling her Cleo around you. Normally I can only call her that when we’re alone.”’ He blinked, “Oh? And what does she rather have you call her?” Chris beamed, and returned to his legoed heart. “Mommy.”
*innocent smile*
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Post by misssunflower on Mar 3, 2011 23:56:03 GMT -5
might as well give y'all this tonight too..
Cleo rubbed her temples as she returned from work. She’d pulled her hair back too tight that evening and her head was giving her heck in a hand basket, or however that phrase went. She wondered if Chris had left for his sleep over already. She needed a laugh right then, she needed to relax. Paul usually helped with that, but after well, what happened before work, she was hoping to go to bed without seeing him more than absolutely needed. But she was greeted with no call from Chris upon entering. No call from Paul either though. She wasn’t sure if she should be happy or upset… She sighed. That was all it took, “Cleo?” Paul’s voice came from the couch in the living room-kitchen area. “Who else?” She replied lightly, moving to greet him as causally as she could. Act like nothing happened, Cleo, she repeated to herself. “Chris left about a minute ago.” He said, turning to stand up from the couch. He was holding something in his hands. Legos? But in some shape that he was turning over in his hands. She supposed that’s what the two guys had done in her absence. “He was hoping you’d be back before then.” “I hoped the same.” She replied softly, still staring at the object in his hands. She knew what it was now. Paul stepped so they were close enough for him to hand it to her. Place the small lego heart into her hands. She blinked at it, then at him, in a little confusion. Her own heart pounding. He looked at her a long moment, “From Chris.” He added, gently. “Of course.” He wasn’t being his usual self, right then, and it suddenly worried her. What news could make him so… serious. So unlike him? He’d only been spending a couple hours with Chris. What could have been said? Cleo had no idea what to say, but thankfully Paul had decided to speak. “Cleo…?” He taken another step to her, and for a second Cleo wondered if he was going to continue with what they had almost done before her occupation had interrupted them. “…yes?” “Chris, he isn’t your brother, is he?” She blinked, and then her heart stopped. In all the comfortable closeness she’d spent with Paul in the last four or so days… she’d forgot he didn’t know. Or perhaps her mind and heart had played her into thinking he knew, just so she wouldn’t worry about possibly lying to him or anything of that sort. “I- I never said he was.” She whispered. She’d gone completely stiff at this. What would he think now? What on earth would he think of her!? Why did he have to find out!? He shook his head a little, “But you never denied it.” “You never gave me any accusation to deny.” “I wasn’t exactly in a position to accuse you of anything.” “Then you aren’t in a position to tell me I lied to you!” Paul’s hands were now on each of her shoulders, “Cleo.” He said softly, “I wasn't saying that, at all.” She stared at him, feeling her face heat up. Of course he hadn’t been, he hadn’t been saying anything rude or impolite about the situation she’d put herself in with Chris. He was so... perfect; of course he wasn’t being harsh to her. “I just… I just wonder why you didn’t tell me.” He added. Cleo sighed, resisting the urge to completely break down then. She hadn’t really talked to anyone about Chris… since well… since Chris happened. “I had not idea how you would react when I first met you.” She whispered, “How did I know you wouldn’t flip out on me – that certainly wouldn’t be the first time. And I – I liked you, I DO like you... I didn’t want that to happen.” “And after you knew me better?” “I still didn’t want you to think I’d lied to you, which I basically did.” She sniffed, “Part of me now still wishes you didn’t know.” He tilted his head a little, not looking offended, “Why?” “Paul, he’s 6, I’m 23 – do the math.” But she continued before he had the chance, “I was 17, Paul! 17 and an idiot who thought she’d found a guy who would stay with her forever.” Another sniff, “He finds out he got me pregnant, middle of high school, and decided to forget my very existence, deny the child was his and probably to this day deny that it ever happened.” “Cleo…” He began, but had nothing to follow that. She didn’t imagine he would. She’d dropped a pretty major bomb on him with that one. She took a deep breath, “I didn’t know how you’d take the news of my total idiocy. So far the only person to have taken it remotely well was Maddie. I’m still waiting for it to sink in for you…” “It has.” Paul replied, putting his arms further around her, and drawing her closer but carefully, like suddenly she was some breakable jewel. At the same time, it was probably the most loving touch she’d ever had. “It has, Cleo… I’m so sorry.” Her face was burning red, and her heart stopped once or twice. She had planned a lot of reactions from this. This was not one of them. “Did Chris tell you?” She whispered at last. She felt his shoulders shake in a small chuckle. “He wanted to know if I was his father.” She pulled back at bit to look at him, eyes wide. “And right now,” He added, “I really wish I could have said yes.” And as… as forward as that comment was, she knew he meant it. “Me too.” She said, or would have said if he hadn’t leaned in and softly kissed her then. Well, it started out soft, at least. But when it hit both of them exactly what it was they were doing, nothing was there to interrupt this time, and that she had NO desire to pull away it quickly became less so. With one of Paul’s hand’s still firm on her back the other found the band that held her braid, and worked to pull it out – then gently ran his fingers through her hair working out the tight and painful knot. Cleo all but melted then and there. It felt so… she wasn’t sure she knew the word for how she felt then. She felt eerily relaxed yet completely alive with the feeling of kissing him, and him kissing her. She felt her age again, young and open and free in the arms of someone who loved her. Yes, that was it. She felt loved. “Say when.” He murmured when he released her for obligatory air. “Hm?” She wasn’t thinking right at this point. It was impossible to think at all in her position. “When you want me to stop.” He explained. She pulled back so that she could look at him, so close up that she could really only see his gorgeous eyes. “But I don’t.” She whispered, and let him kiss her once again.
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