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Post by Mel Benett on Jul 18, 2022 23:32:33 GMT -5
Mel was actually enjoying herself more than she would have thought. The ceremony was gorgeous, Mar looked beautiful, and the ceremony itself wasn't painfully long. Mel rested her hand on the elbow of the best man as they walked back down the aisle after the ceremony. It was the senator's son that Martha had introduced Mel to at the gallery. He leaned over talking low as they walked. Mel let out a few small laughs in their brief conversation. A big genuine smile was on her face. He was not nearly as cringeworthy as his father. She had to give him that credit.
Once at the reception Mel would, of course, find the bar and order a drink. Once she had it she would take a sip and move back to the table. Her eyes roamed around the space before she leaned back a bit and took a sip. She hadn’t had time to write a speech in the flurry of activity this morning. So she was taking this brief respite to mentally run through what she could say. However, it wouldn't be too long before the bridal party was called to the floor. She took a quick sip of her drink and headed out.
She looked like she was floating on air as they danced. It'd been years but it felt like yesterday. Her years of ballet helped, of course. She glided gracefully through the movements. Even though she knew the song, the words were hitting her in a way she hadn’t expected. Her smile never faulted once. She'd curtesy at the end before heading back to the table. She watched all the dances as she sipped at her drink. She needed to pace herself even though she just wanted to drink the bar dry.
It was finally time for the toasts. Once everyone had their glass of champagne the best man would get everyone's attention and begin. He talked about how much he looked up to his brother, sharing some relevant memories, how happy he was for him, and how excited he was to finally have a big sister. The guests would toast. Mel would stand smoothing out the front of her dress before taking the mic from the best man.
"You'll have to forgive me, I didn't know I'd be the maid of honor when I woke up this morning." A soft smile formed and she'd reach out for Mar's hand, squeezing it gently. "I am truly honored to be standing here right now. Mar, you are the epitome of strength and love. You are loyal, sometimes to a fault, and you are one of the bravest people I know. You face everything head on and never run from anything." Mel felt herself getting a little verklempt as she continued. "Shakespeare once wrote, "The course of true love never did run smooth.” What you two have is true love. You will be able to weather any storm as long as you are together. Here is to a long marriage filled with more joy than sorrow, more laughter than tears, and more love than you know what to do with. Cheers."
Mel would raise her glass before taking a sip and retaking her seat. She'd remain seated and chat with the rest of the bridal party as they ate dinner. Mel would finish and excuse herself. She'd head to the bar and order another drink. Her elbows on the bar she leaned back a bit looking around the room again. A smile formed and she watched as some people headed to the dance floor, others were meandering about catching up with friends they hadn't seen on awhile. She hung out at the bar people watching as she sipped at her drink.
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Post by Erick Darcy on Jul 18, 2022 23:56:20 GMT -5
People were up and mingling and dancing as the DJ took over the dance floor tunes and soon there was plenty of people to people watch. He stood towards the back of the room near the door, wearing an extra groomsman mask and groomsman attire. But all the groomsmen were still accounted for. The face of the mask had been painted with black glitter paint. The eyeholes covered with fine mesh to keep the eyes and face from being detectable. He was also the same man who'd given pastor wilkes his personal donation back at the church. He stood there now at the reception, arms behind his back watching the crowd. But really his focus was on one person and one person only. Melissa Bennett. He would watch her from behind the crowd as she stood at the bar drinking her drink while people watching. Completely unaware it would seem of her own personal spectator.
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Post by Pastor Noah Z Wilkes on Jul 19, 2022 13:49:33 GMT -5
Pastor Noah Wilkes had joined the reception along with Ana, to make a grateful, if not slightly obligatory appearance. As she mingled with others, he made a beeline for the open bar, across from Mel. He kept to himself, but remained approachable, as a kindly preacher whose infallible charm just sloughed off him like sweat. He saddled up to the bar and slapped the top briskly with a genuine smile. The bartender was a member of the Northern Emmanuel congregation, but Noah couldn't remember his name.
"What can I get you, padre?"
"Whiskey, on the rocks. Thank you kindly, son."
The bartender, who was working for the family catering company, was hesitant. "Whiskey? Are you sure about that, Pastor? Doc Jenkins told me-"
Noah's Texas accent slipped as he showed a slight irritation. "NOW, you Nevermind anything Doc Jenkins told you! He doesn't know me as well as he thinks he does. You know what? Make it a double. I didn't stammer, boy."
His eyes grew wide in surprise. Noah's tone softened.
"Sorry I snapped, kid. It's not that big of a deal. It's just.... That doctor is out to make a name for himself in this town, and I think I should enjoy a drink or two before I begin my treatments next week... the medicine just doesn't mix well you know."
After all, this had been a wonderful day, and there was little anyone could do or say to ruin that. The bartender worked quickly, and presented a an unsealed bottle. Noah nodded and solemnly approved. "Yessir. Well, in that case, it might as well be the good stuff."
"God Bless You."
He chuckled as he savored the glass of high shelf whiskey, relishing in the irony as he watched his social butterfly of a wife. "Besides, who wants to live forever?"
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Post by Atraya Crowe on Jul 19, 2022 19:00:52 GMT -5
Atraya stood up from where she sat with Senator Huckabee and his wife, as well as some other close to the family individuals or big doanners, like Atraya’s father. She’d smooth down the front of her jade green dress that a slit on the left leg that went up to about mid thigh.The torso of her dress cut in a deep v cut with spaghetti straps, and covered in sequins. Her long black hair perfectly straight and her make up on point. A necklace made of gold and emeralds adorned her throat, an outward reminder to the other high rollers in the room. That despite her age. She too was one of them. Speeches had been made the dancing had been done, and people were mingling and getting in line at the bar. Atraya would start her evening off with the mingling in the crowd greeting other high rollers that she knew personally or knew her father by proxy her. She recognized Anna in the crowd. She’d offer the older woman a small finger wave and smile, as she found herself caught up in a conversation with the best man. He’d oggled her at the gallery opening as well, but since she was there…he figured he’d try. Again. She’d smile sweetly and laugh at his jokes, almost like she was enjoying his company. When she found every word out of his mouth as painful as chewing glass. But her smile never waivered. She reveled though in the look of disappointment when she broke the news that she was in a relationship with someone. Chad of course would glance around looking for ‘him’. But Atraya had already moved on. She’d glance towards the bar and note that the pastor was over there with a friend of Zaids.If memory served her name was Mel, and she was according to Zaid, dating his co-worker Landyn. Her violet eyes would rest on the girl for a moment before feeling someone tapping her shoulder for her attention. It was chad back for round 2. This was rather disappointing. As he started to point out that her date was not in attendance that evening. She’d gently pat him on the cheek in a condescending manner. ‘Guess you’re just going to have to take my word on it than.’ With that she’d turn away from and slip into the crowd. She’d and opening with Anna as she wrapped up her conversation with someone. ‘Mrs. Wilkes….its lovely and unexpected to see you at tonights event…’ She smiled ‘but what a beautiful wedding it was.’
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Post by Mel Benett on Jul 19, 2022 22:08:18 GMT -5
Richard would spot Mel and wander over. Martha and Mel had been fighting again; Richard didn’t really know what about but felt it safer to not ask. He’d order a scotch on the rocks and stand next to Mel. He wasn’t here to dig in, he was here to talk business. He’d move to stand next to his step daughter talking quietly.
“Have you thought more about my offer?”
Mel had caught sight of someone dressed like a groomsman, still in a mask. It sent a shiver down her spine, it just added to that feeling hadn't been able to shake all day. Her eyes moved back to the table and dance floor. She thought most of them were accounted for but maybe she had mistaken someone else for a groomsman that actually wasn’t? She shook her head taking a sip of her drink as Richard approached. She’d look up at him and nod.
“I have, though, I wasn’t expecting to talk business today.”
Richard took a sip of his scotch, looking at Mel. “You should always be prepared to talk business, especially at a gathering of this caliber. it won't always happen; but you should always be preapred.” Mel took another sip of her drink, idly murmuring. “Hm.” She turned a bit more so she was facing him. “i've thought about it. I will take you up on your offer.” Richard smiled and tipped his glass towards her. “We’ll talk about the details on Monday. Now, I better go find your mother before she thinks I've forgotten about her.” He chuckled. Richard would pause to greet Pastor Wilkes before heading on his way.
Mel remained in place as Richard moved back into the crowd. Her eyes wandering over to where the mystery masked “groomsman" stood before looking into her almost empty glass. She’d finish the remainder with no issue. She wanted another. She leaned forward on the bar resting her elbows on it as she patiently waited. She stared in front of her wondering what she was getting into with taking Richard’s offer but she wouldn’t back out. It wasn’t Quantico but it was more of a guarantee. She let out a sigh. Besides, she still had time but there was experience she needed that she lacked to even apply. She had plenty of time if she really did want to try for the FBI.
The pastor’s interaction with the bartender would pull Mel from her thoughts. She looked down to the other end of the bar. A curious brow raised. She didn’t necessarily always trust religious leaders but it was no reason to be rude. She knew his question was rhetorical about who wants to live forever.
“Heh. Not me.”
She had the decency to blush when she realized she answered aloud rather than in her head.
“My apologies.” She moved down closer to where the older man stood. She offered a smile as she held her hand out to greet him. “Pastor Wilkes, I don’t believe we’ve been formally introduced. I’m Melissa Benett.”
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Post by Danü Rèalta on Jul 23, 2022 20:54:12 GMT -5
-=Ana Wilkes=- Ana would turn, champaign flute in hand, to see the lovely Atraya Crowe standing near her. As usual, her smile would light up her face. "Why Ms. Crowe. It is indeed lovely to see you as well. I was unaware you knew the bride or groom, but I suppose it should not surprise me. Your connections are no doubt extensive."She'd motion in front of her and begin to walk, inviting Atraya to join her. "Tell me, how is your gallery? Are you still painting for yourself or only now have time to aquire for others?"
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Post by Atraya Crowe on Jul 24, 2022 18:16:47 GMT -5
Atraya would chuckle and nod at the mention of extensive connections. ‘Something like that’ She’d say keeping it vague. She’d pause to grab her own flute of champagne from a passing caterer. She’d take a sip of the bubbly and fall into step with Anna.
‘The gallery is quite busy these days. Certainly has been keeping me on my toes and busy. Unfortunately I find myself with only time to acquire art for others, and no time of my own to paint. While your offer still stands firm in my mind and I have every intention of taking you up on it…I just haven’t found the time. You know what its like I’m sure.’
She assumed being a pastors wife kept Ana just as busy as herself. ‘Tell me how is your husband? I don’t believe I got the opportunity to meet him at the opening…he did an impressive job at the wedding.’ She’d smiled ‘Most I’ve attended have…less…enthusiasim from the efficiary and I wanted to express to him, what a fabulous job he did of not boring us all to death.’ she’d lay a friendly hand on Ana’s to emphasis her point an endearing smile on her face.
‘The new Mrs. Huckabee made an incredibly beautiful bride….tell me was that Mel Bennet as the maid of honor? I had not realized she was a part of the bridal party. She is friends with my beaux and is ironically dating his co-worker. I met her briefly at the opening. But in my line of work you never forget a face or a name. Especially since her parents were so….’enthusiastic’ at the opening, her mother is a hard woman to forget.’
She’d glance around as she walked with Ana looking for familiar faces, and reaffirming her decision not to bring zaid as a good idea. But the idea did bring a smile to her face at the idea of Zaid chattering nervously with the first person he came across with even the slightest friendliest of faces. She did also regret he wasn’t there. Especially see her all dolled up for the wedding. But there would be time later for that. After all she did promise to let him see her in the gown…..later. She’d pause and quiet down giving Ana a chance to respond in kind.
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Post by Pastor Noah Z Wilkes on Jul 24, 2022 21:27:16 GMT -5
As Richard greeted him, Noah Wilkes took the time to put down his drink to shake his hand firmly. At this point, his cheeks were becoming slightly rosy. "It's so good to see you, Dick, I'll see you in church next Sunday won't I?" The pastor had remembered that Richard had gone by "Dick" when he was a child, but had probably forgotten that he preferred to be called Richard.
After a particularly long sip of some of the finest locally brewed Whiskey he had ever tasted, Melissa approached and introduced herself. “Pastor Wilkes, I don’t believe we’ve been formally introduced. I’m Melissa Benett.”
Pastor Wilkes shook her hand gently and made eye contact. He had a fire in his eyes as he did a double take. Those eyes would twinkle as he warmly addressed the young lady.
"I was about to say... why, if it isn't Martha Benett, ageless and beautiful as ever. I recall she had mentioned a daughter once or twice. Well, golly, this is an absolute pleasure to finally meet you! You happen to be the spitting image of her, if my memory serves. Although, do not be afraid to correct me, I still get foggy on a rare occasion I suppose. I am blessed in some other ways." he smirked, secretly hoping Ana could hear his every word.
Noah swirled his drink and gulped it down in a last sip. "MMMh. Like a lazy Sunday afternoon, in a glass." he was savoring it.
The pastor had caught the attention of the bartender as he gently tapped the bar for a discreet refill. The bartender would keep them coming, because the town doctor, Dr. Thaddeus Jenkins Jr., happened to be the most entitled asshole in the room, being the type of person that didn't tip and didn't like dogs.
He would tilt his head in a charming southern way and address Melissa with a genuine smile. "Sorry, I meant to ask, how is your mother doin' these days?"
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Post by Erick Darcy on Jul 24, 2022 22:27:29 GMT -5
The unknown groomsman would hold his place, but every movement mel made seemed to be observed by the silent observe at the end of the room. When she moved he moved. But was always in her line of sight, yet still close to the door. If and when she casted her gaze at the bridal party all the groomsman were in fact accounted for. So who was the stranger in black? He’d stay poised hands clutched behind his back patiently. Almost seeming to wait for something to happen. That something was for her to give him her full attention and head in his general direction.
He’d wait for to approach his direction before moving around the room slowly. Predator stalking prey. But always just far enough out of reach she couldn’t quite get to him. Having circled the room back to his original position.He’d make eyecontact with mel, raise a single finger against the lips of the mask as if to say ‘shhh’ before he would turn and walk out the doo of the dinning area and turning to walk down the long hall leading away from the wedding and the gathering.
If she was quick enough she’d catch him turning the corner before a door opened and softly clicked shut in the quiet stillness of the hall way.
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Post by Mel Benett on Jul 24, 2022 22:48:02 GMT -5
Richard nodded as he shook Noah's hand.
"Of course. If you'll excuse me, I need to go find my wife."
Richard gave a final grin as he disappeared into the crowd.
Mel smiled as she took in the older gentleman's features. She caught the man in the groomsman mask out of the corner of her eye and momentarily shifted her attention before turning back to Pastor Wilkes.
"Your memory is in tact. You'd be surprised how often people know who's daughter I am even if I don't know them."
She chuckled. She'd take a sip of her own drink.
"She's doing well. She's here somewhere. That's who Richard was off to find. And how are you? Ana mentioned you were having some health issues when I saw her at the gallery opening."
Mel would listen as he replied. But she felt distracted. She'd been keeping an eye on the masked mystery man as they spoke. Catching movement again she would reach out and rest a hand on Pastor Wilkes arm.
"I apologize but there is something I need to go check on - maid of honor duties. It truly was a pleasure meeting you."
She offered a sincere apologetic smile before taking her fresh drink and turning away. It wasn't a complete lie. If someone was here that shouldn't be then it needed to be addressed. They had security but someone dressed as a groomsman would be able to easily slip in.
She headed in the masked mystery man's direction. When she finally made eye contact he would make the sh symbol and head out of the dining area. Mel carefully but quickly moved through tables and people as she followed. She got out of the dining area.just in time yo see him turn the corner. She glanced back to the crowd before looking down the hallway. She sucked down her drink and put the empty glass on a table. Mel took a deep breath and squared her her shoulders. She moved down the hallway. seeing the door as she rounded the corner. She stopped in front of it and rested one hand on the door. The other hand moved to the knob and tentatively tried it. It wasn’t locked so she opened the door.
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Post by Erick Darcy on Jul 25, 2022 11:43:36 GMT -5
The room looked like a study with books on the shelves comfortable reading chairs spread out. It was clearly a ‘members only’ room. Crystal ashtrays rested on tables glistening clean waiting for the next round of club members to tarnish their clear surfaces.
To lure Mel further into the room she’d spot the mask and gloves resting on a table in the middle of the room with a note in an envelope with ‘read me’ on the envelope. Inside was a note with two words.
‘Don’t Scream.’
Behind her the door would silent shut a soft click followed by the distinct sound of the lock clicking into place. His footsteps were silent on the carpeted floor. He moved to stand behind her unmasked and exposed.
‘Lissa…’
So when she turned she’d only have a brief moment to see his face before his arms would wrap around her crushing her against his chest. His face burried into her hair. Breathing her in with a shaking breath, a trembling in his body as he whispered against. Her.
‘I can’t believe its you. I’ve dreamed of this day for so long…’ his voice was raw with emotion, and his arms tightened in his embrace. ‘All I’ve wanted for the past 5 years is to hold you in my arms again.’ There was even a catch in his voice that would tell Mel his words were genuine and real.
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Post by Mel Benett on Jul 25, 2022 12:26:02 GMT -5
Mel walked into the room slowly. Spotting the mask and gloves on the table she moved over to it. She stared at the envelope before picking it up. She recognized that writing. It'd been a long time but she knew it. Her chest tightened as she slowly lifted the envelope to pull out the note and read it.
‘Don’t Scream.’
Her head lifted when she heard the lock. She sat the note back down on the table, her hand trembling slightly. Nope, this wasn't real. She drank too much and was imaging things. Her heart picked up when he said her name.
"Erick…"
His name was barely audible when she said it. She mumbled more to herself than to him.
"You always did like to surprise me…"
She closed her eyes squeezing them shut as if he'd be gone when she opened them. Finally, she turned around to face him. Before she could say anything he pulled her into him. She rested her forehead against his chest as she tried to control her breathing.
"Erick..what, how.." She paused trying to collect her thoughts. "I didn't think you were going to be here. At least everyone said you weren't going to be here…."
It was good he was holding her so tightly, otherwise she was sure she'd crumple to the ground. She felt like the air had been sucked out of her lungs. She pulled back enough that she could look him in the eyes. She was filled with questions and he'd be able to see that along with all the emotions running through her. The easiest question to ask didn't involve their past.
"If you were here, why didn't you let Jory know? You should have been the one walking her down the aisle. She was really upset this morning about the fact that you wouldn't be her. Why go to all the trouble of sneaking around...?"
Her hands rested gently against his chest as she stood there looking up at him. Her eyes glistened with tears. Even though she was touching him and she could feel him, it still didn't feel real.
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Post by Erick Darcy on Jul 25, 2022 13:02:29 GMT -5
His own eyes glistened. ‘I couldn’t do it.’ he said softly. ‘She knows I’m here, when she went to the bathroom 20 mins ago I cornered her. So she knows. She’s mad but she knows and understands my motivations.’
He swallowed a little looking down at her, hardly able to believe he was able to touch her again.
‘I have missed you. So much. You’re all I’ve thought about.’ He took a deep breath. ‘I wish I could’ve made contact before now, our timing has always worked against us.’ he’d gently push a strand behind her ear. He was talking in riddles. There was so much he wanted to tell her. So much he needed to explain. A single tear slid down his face. He’d reach up to touch her face as he looked into her eyes and without hesitation he’d lean down and press a soft kiss to her lips. Whispering against them.
‘I’ve never stopped loving you.’ he’d pull back from the small kiss. ‘There’s so much I have to tell you, but it can’t be here. Its not safe for me.’ He hesitated ‘but I heard you were going to be here and I couldn’t stay away. My sister will forgive me. But I could not forgive myself for a missed opportunity to hold you again. Despite the risk it has put me at.’
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Post by Mel Benett on Jul 25, 2022 14:52:00 GMT -5
All she could do was stare at him. Nothing was making sense. How could he be here and not have walked Jory down the aisle or danced with her. Mel shook her head a bit.
Her eyes closed when he mentioned timing. It was never in their favor. She opened her eyes again and met his. He pushed the strand of hair behind her ear and she had a flashback to her 16th birthday party after he gave her the Tiffany's necklace.
"I've missed you too, but Erick…"
She had to swallow the lump in her throat. Timing still was a bitch. She reached up and brushed away the tear that fell. Before she could continue her thought she felt his lips against hers. Her eyes closed when he leaned in and she kissed him back gently. It was overwhelming after all these years. The small kiss was enough to make her melt. Her eyes slowly fluttered open as he continued to speak. She was still so confused. Her voice was quiet and her qords soft when she replied.
"What are you even talking about? I need some context because none of this is making any sense."
She sighed. It'd be so much easier to be angry right now. And part of her was but she wanted to give him a chance to explain before unleashing a tirade. Answers would come but not right now based on his cryptic words. She studied him for a moment. She moved from him to go over to the table. Picking up her wristlet she tucked his note inside and pulled out a key card. It was still in the little holder with the room number listed. Moving back over, she'd hold it out to him.
"The spare key to my room. I got it in case I had issues with the wireless key. I've got a nice big suite all to myself. We can use that to talk later, if you want…"
There was a fear that he wouldn't. That they would leave this room, part ways, and she'd never get her answers. She couldn't go through it again. The thought of him potentially ghosting her again made her stomach turn. She looked up at him and he’d see a few silent tears falling.
"Our timing still sucks, you know that?"
She dabbed at her eyes with the back of her hand. She'd have to confess to him about Landyn at some point. But right now she couldn't. Just the thought of saying the words to him was making her chest hurt.
"Anyway…since you're here and you have a mask and gloves, any chance I could convince you to do one dance on the dance floor with me? For old times sake?"
She wouldn't push it or be upset if he said no. But she knew she'd need to leave the reception sooner rather than later.
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Post by Danü Rèalta on Jul 25, 2022 20:12:59 GMT -5
-=Ana Wilkes=- Ana simply nodded at Atraya's words, musing quietly. Of course she understood lack of time. A Pastor's wife was there to support her husband, and Noah, well he was quite the busy man. On top of this, Ana herself could not stand idly by and busied herself with her own philanthropic works. "I do understand what it is like. I also know you must find moments of peace for yourself. Even if that is one second of each day. A breath of peace does wonders for the soul."She'd take a sip of her champaign, looking in Noah's direction as Atraya asked of him. "He is doing as well as can be expected. Chemotherapy takes a lot out of a person, and you know men. They musn't show their weakness." She chuckled lightly, and nodded. "He is a determined man. He will not let it slow him down."They'd continue walking, Ana smiling peacefully and looking around as the slowly progressed. "It was Mel Bennet. Your eyes do not decieve. A late replacement due to an unfortunate mishap as I understand it, but things have a way of working out the way they should. Speaking of..."She'd motion towards the bar where her husband stood, seemingly keeping it from falling over. "There is your friend."She'd say, just as Mel dashed away. Ana shrugged then, a light, almost musical laugh slipping passed her lips as she walked towards the bar. "Or perhaps not. Noah..." She'd call as she and Atraya approached. "Did you say something to frighten Ms. Bennet away?"
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