| Chapter 10: Hitomi's Story | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Jul 9 2013, 05:30 AM (165 Views) | |
| Jason Hawk | Jul 9 2013, 05:30 AM Post #1 |
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“I can’t believe I’m doing this,” Hawk hissed as he filled out information on his profile, jhawk74, on OKCupid.com. “I don’t *need* to do this,” he told himself. “I’m a virile, attractive, interesting and compelling man. I’m in shape, I have a great personality, I love wine, non-smoker (working on that), still have all my hair, no children, but I love children (some) and I like long walks on the beach.....so why aren’t they calling?” Hawk looked at his phone forlornly. He tried a singles bar, speed dating even made an attempt at a karaoke night. He flat-out refused to go to church, but he was open to a cycling group in Las Cruces. Three months had past since he last spoke with Jade. She had shown no sign of letting up her combined media tirade. Hawk had ceased checking his jhawk@gmail.com address a month ago, but Jade somehow didn’t notice and was sending on average a dozen emails per day. “Hi,” his profile began. He thought it completely lame to start his personal description....the window to his soul, in such a casual, noncommittal fashion, but he didn’t want to appear pretentious. “My name is Jason. I’m a self-employed world traveller....I mean, I’m employed by myself, not a professional world traveller...but I do like to travel. And I like children....not that I’m going to immediately force you to have children. I mean, I like most children, just not other peoples’. People say I hate kids, but that’s not true. Anyway, I’m coming off a bad long-term relationship with a woman who I thought I wanted to marry, but tried to kill me and rip my heart out and eat it for breakfast....kill being *figurative*, not literal.” Hawk thought it best not to delve too much into the truth about Jade, lest it frighten off potential dates. “I’ve lived the past few years in England, but I’m back in the United States and ready for that *perfect* woman to take long walks in the park with, who doesn’t mind my traveling for business at short notice, likes wine and is patient and kind and wants children and would never, ever, ever no matter how mad she got at me burn down our house and try to murder me.” “So, take a look at my pics. Some people say I look like young Nicholas Cage, but I think they’re being ridiculous. What do you think? Anyway, if you’re interested, send a PM or a wink. Bye!” *** “Fuck, Marcus.... You have to see what Hitomi just found!” Stefan barged into their bedroom where Marcus was asleep. He flopped on the bed, a glass of wine in one hand, a laptop in the other. He was dressed in black men’s yoga pants and a tight t-shirt that said ‘Zombies Make Better Boyfriends’. Marcus made an annoyed sound and rolled over. “I highly doubt it was worth waking me up for,” he replied rolling onto his side to face Stefan. “Oh, I think it is!” Stefan replied, stealing a kiss before turning the laptop around to show Marcus. “Why are you on a da... Is that really him?” Marcus asked, fully awake now. He pulled the laptop closer and read the profile, only making it through the first few sentences before he collapsed against the pillows in laughter. “I take it back. This was worth being rudely awakened.” Just then, Stefan’s phone rang. It was Hitomi, from the contact picture showing her in a tight t-shirt that said, “Warning: If Zombies Chase Us, I’m Tripping You.” She had a glass of wine in her hand, her other arm wrapped around Stefan and was sticking her tongue into his ear. “Oh my God! I just showed Marcus!” Stefan answered, dispensing with any formal greeting. “I’m putting you on speaker phone!” “Stefan! Marcus! Did you read it all?” Hitomi snickered. “I had to double-check, but look at the pic.....it’s HIM!” Marcus laughed. “I didn’t get past the part where he said his last girlfriend tried to kill him... Hold on..” He rolled over onto his stomach and propped the laptop on his pillow and scrolled through the profile, nearly dying of laughter when he got to the description of a ‘young Nicholas Cage’. “I don’t want to know how you found this, but I hope you saved a copy.” He re-read the profile again, laughing. Stefan sucked in a breath as he had a sudden inspired idea. He rolled onto his stomach next to Marcus, hitting his arm excitedly. “We so have to reply!” “Totally!” said Hitomi, pausing to catch her breath from laughing so hard. “I was just looking for guys on this site and I found him! I mean, I wasn’t looking specifically in the U.S., but I like to travel and I have that kind of cash, so I didn’t mind finding someone long-distance. Hell, I’d prefer someone who lived in another city who could spend a weekend of shagging, wine and then getting the fuck out of my hair. I browsed to the profile of this complete loser in the States. Just out of morbid curiosity I looked at his profile, then I saw it! It’s Hawk! He doesn’t even try to hide it!” Hitomi laughed and took a sip of her cocktail. “My favorite part is this: Ready for that *perfect* woman to take long walks in the park with, who doesn’t mind my traveling for business at short notice, likes wine and is patient and kind and wants children and would never, ever, ever no matter how mad she got at me burn down our house and try to murder me. “He even mentions Jade in a roundabout way!” Hitomi shrieked with laughter. “God, what a loser!” “He’s a complete fucking loser!” Stefan laughed. “Let’s make a profile! We can reply and lead him on! You know what he likes! Between the three of us, we can be his dream woman!” He grinned at Marcus who was rolling his eyes. “Come on, you know you want to. Think of how many times he’s fucked you over!” Marcus sighed. “Why do I let the two of you talk me into these things?” “Come on, Marcus,” said Hitomi. “This is just too good. This is your chance to even the score for all those years he was a pain in your arse. Let’s see, we can’t make the profile TOO good or he’ll see through the ruse. Hmmmm, what kind of woman does Hawk like? If Jade’s any example, she’s completely PSYCHO, but let’s give him the benefit of the doubt and assume he’s looking for stability. Thoughts, Stef?” Stefan grabbed the laptop from Marcus and opened a profile. “Okay, I’m making one.... “ Height: Average, Weight: Average, Hair... Brunette... He paused for a minute, to think. “Okay... How’s this?” “My name is Kelly. I’m a 34 year old divorced legal assistant. I like wine, chick flicks and scrap-booking...” He paused to laugh. “I grew up in an army family and travelled everywhere as a kid. I’m looking for a tall, dark man who will put down some roots with me. Prefer non-smokers...” As he finished typing, he reached over into the nightstand and pulled out a packet of cigarettes and a lighter, and lit one. He took a drag off of it and handed it to Marcus. “Okay, what do you want to add?” “We’ve got to make this believable,” said Hitomi. “Hawk’s an idiot, but he’s not stupid. This is good, but I want to make this airtight. Kelly has an eight year old son named Dylan. Her son comes first, and the man she’s with must love him as much as he loves her. She specifically likes Woody Allen films. She also volunteers for the SPCA. She also LOVES sushi! What else?” Marcus groaned. “Okay... I give in.... She’s also recently lost 60 pounds and is looking to continue to improve her health and well being. She’s looking for someone who wants to challenge themselves to get fitter and live longer with the support of loved ones.” Stefan finished typing. “We need to create a fake email account.” “Make it thirty pounds,” said Hitomi, directing the operation like a CEO. “Hawk appreciates determination and achieving a goal, but also has a superficial streak. Genetic disposition toward belly fat will turn him off. Make it a bit of excess baggage lost and he won’t raise an eyebrow. Now, pics. Stefan, check for women on Facebook who haven’t made their profiles private!” “This is so wrong,” Marcus moaned, taking a drag off of Stefan’s cigarette and stealing his glass of wine. “You’re enjoying yourself and you know it,” Stefan replied, laughing. He pulled up a few random profiles before finding one he liked. It was a woman in her mid thirties with shoulder length brown hair pulled back in a ponytail. She wore a nondescript red knit top and was in a random outdoor location. “What do you think?” he asked Marcus. Marcus shrugged. “Send Hitomi the Link.” “Perfect,” said Hitomi. “She looks.....what word I’m a looking for?” Marcus wrinkled his nose as he looked at the photo. “She looks... Normal...” “Not the word I’m looking for,” said Hitomi, assessing the woman’s picture. “Yes! I’ve got it! A peasant! She looks like a peasant! Am I right, Stef?” Stefan laughed. “That is a fucking ugly cheap sweater,” he admitted. “I wouldn’t want to be seen with her.” “You’re both incorrigible,” Marcus said, shaking his head. “So now, what?” “Now we answer his ad!” Stefan offered him a devious grin. “She looks like she has to work at a fucking supermarket!” Hitomi snickered. “Look at her hair! Look at her skin! Look at her head! Her whole head sucks! I’ll bet the poor dear had her hair cut at one of those barber colleges or maybe a Supercuts or a Top Cuts. She looks like she shops at Wal-Mart......maybe Target if she wants to splurge. God, how do people live like that? I’ll bet she drinks Yellowtail. It’s like that kid who was raised by wolves. I think people like that live like pigs, they don’t know how to act....someone needs to teach them some lessons in manners, etiquette and hygiene...and I say that in the nicest possible way. This profile pic.....she lives in Omaha, Nebraska???????” Hitomi shrieked with laughter. Stefan rolled around on the bed, laughing while Marcus buried his head in a pillow. “God, we’re all going to hell,” he mumbled. “If you’re worried about going to hell, it’s probably a little late, Stefan replied, laughing. I think we broke about 8 commandments last night alone,” Marcus hit him with the pillow. “Okay, who’s writing this reply?” “I don’t have the way with words that you do, Stefan,” said Hitomi. “Unless you want to coax Marcus into doing it. I’m sure you can convince him.” “If I can’t, I might have fun trying,” Stefan replied. He leaned over and kissed Marcus playfully, getting swatted away. “You two are on your own,” Marcus replied. “You’re no fun!” Stefan replied, pushing the computer in front of him. “Come on... I’ll make it worth your while...” Marcus sighed. “Fine... What am I writing.” Stefan gave him a satisfied smile. “I’ll dictate,” he replied. He paused to consider his words... “Hi! I saw your ad on OKCupid.com and thought I’d reply. My name is Kelly. I’m 34, divorced and a single mother. I’m looking for someone to date casually and maybe more. My profile is linked below. I hope you write back Kelly...Oh.. and add a smiley face...” “That is so incredibly lame,” said Hitomi gleefully. “It’s perfect!” Marcus checked the reply for spelling and then hit ‘enter’. “Okay, I’ve done your dirty work. I’m going back to sleep,” he said. “Are you sure?” said Hitomi. “Hawk’s still up. It shows he’s still online. He may reply. Are you sure you don’t want to wait for him to write back?” *** “This is pointless,” said Hawk. “I’ve tried Match.com, the newspaper personal ads, Craigslist. I’ve had exactly three dates. That first grade teacher who freaked out when she spotted the gun in my coat....like who *doesn’t* carry a Desert Eagle in their duster? The legal secretary who was also a Girl Scout leader and Sunday School teacher who walked out when she found out I was an atheist. Oh, and my favorite, the owner of that art gallery in Tucson who couldn’t stop talking about her fucking ex. I’m done with dating. Gay men have it so much.....oooh, a response!!!!” Hawk dashed to his laptop and saw the flashing Inbox(1) message in his browser. He eagerly opened his inbox and looked at the message from Kelly79. “She seems like a possibility,” said Hawk, reading through the profile. “Now, is she cute?” He looked at her profile pics and smiled. “She’s cute. Let’s see, she lives in Las Cruces, but has family in El Paso. Ooooh, it says she likes wine and sushi! Nonsmokers.....I haven’t had a cigarette in a week.....I’m nearly weaned onto misting. Ok, let’s think about this. I’m definitely excited, but I don’t want to come off as desperate. I’ll just play it casual.” Hawk began to compose his reply. “Hmmm, I could PM her, but that could appear to be coming on too strong. I’ll just send her an email reply. Ok, here goes....” “Hi Kelly, so nice to hear from you! I see you love animals and sushi! I love animals and sushi too! I also like wine and kids! Is Dylan in school? I mean, of course he’s in school, he’s eight, right? Does he like baseball? I like baseball! I live just east of Las Cruces, but I’ll have a car on Friday once the bank clears my funds from England. I’d love to hear back from you! - Jason” Hawk hit send. As an added pleasantry, he sent Kelly79 a wink. *** Stefan chatted with Hitomi and Marcus as they waited to see if Hawk would reply. He’d crawled back under the duvet and curled up against Marcus. He paused in the middle of a rant about how Star Wars was ruined as he heard a beep. He glanced over at the laptop. A message had come in. “Holy fuck, he actually replied,” he exclaimed excitedly. Marcus reached over and grabbed the laptop, resting it on his stomach. He read the reply aloud. Hitomi paused, then laughed out loud, “We have him! Hook, line and sinker! This can’t be this easy, can it? I mean, he can’t be *that* desperate? Jade was nuts, but she had a killer body! Surely he wouldn't be interested in this, this....potato! Look at what she’s wearing!” Marcus laughed. “Honestly, Hitomi. Do you think he would have slept with either of you if the two of you hadn’t initiated it? He peaked in his teens. He still dresses like it’s 1987. He’s awkward, and has to pretend to know about subjects he knows nothing about to make himself feel superior. His whole life is a farce!” “I’m going to reply!” Stefan said, propping himself up to reach the keyboard. “Hi Jason. So glad you replied! I love sushi, and pets! Do you have any pets? My son is going into 3rd grade in the fall. He likes baseball, but prefers basketball. I think it’s so cool that you used to live in England. I haven’t been there since I was six. Maybe we can go for sushi sometime.” He laughed as he read back through what he’d written so that Hitomi could hear it. “She hasn’t been there since she was six?!?!?!!” said Hitomi incredulously. “I go four times a year. I’m on a fucking first name basis with the maitre d’ of the Four Seasons in London. What a fucking peasant.” *** Hawk received the message and smiled. She was interested. He eagerly typed a reply. “Kelly, I didn’t know you’d been to England. I lived there on business for several years. I’d love to tell you about it and talk about your time there. You really do look beautiful, if I may say so. I would love to meet you and your son. I do not yet have my phone moved over to a U.S. number, but I will have that ready by week’s end. Yes, I would love to meet you for sushi sometime soon!” Hawk send the message. He thought for a moment, then opened the PM window to Kelly79. “Hi,” he began. “This is Jason. Thanks for your reply.” “He’s messaging us!” Marcus said, a mild panic to his voice. “Here, I’ll reply,” Stefan said, grinning. Kelly79: Hi Jason! How has your day been going? JHawk74: Oh, well it’s been very busy with the move and getting the new place ready. I’m working on restoring a rather unique historic property, so the fun never ends, lol. “THIS is a rather unique historic property,” Marcus said, looking around the master bedroom of his 300 year old family summer home. What is he restoring? A bungalow in the suburbs?” Stefan laughed and began to type a reply. Kelly79: Wow. Good with your hands, too. He paused to laugh at his own message.I moved here a few years ago, so I totally know what a pain that is. Do you know a good sushi place in town? JHawk 74: Well, across the way in El Paso there’s a great place called Hamachi Sushi. I know the guy Dave, who runs it. They have this thing called the Dragon Lady Roll that they mix wasabi with tuna and salmon. It’s out of this world! Does your son like sushi too? Kelly79: He’s not that adventurous. He prefers McDonalds. LOL I’ve never been to that place. It sounds great. JHawk74: Great! So, do you like fusion?....... Hawk talked with Kelly for another three hours and found her to be intelligent, friendly, witty and inquisitive. Not once did she hint at any psychosis nor threaten him with death. To Hawk, it was wonderfully refreshing. JHawk74: Kelly, I hope I’m not being too forward in saying that I’ve enjoyed our conversation immensely. I feel like hardly any time has passed at all. “God,” Stefan groaned. “That makes one of us. This isn’t even funny anymore. I feel like I’ve lost three hours of my life that I’ll never get back!” This actually startled Marcus from a light doze. “Wha? Oh...” He groaned. “You’re STILL chatting with him? Should I be worried?” he asked teasingly. “Not a fucking chance,” Stefan replied. Kelly79: I really enjoyed our conversation as well! I’m glad I found your profile! JHawk74: I’ll message you in a few days once I get the car and phone situation straightened out and we’ll go for sushi. My treat! Kelly79: That sounds great! I look forward to it. Good night! ![]() JHawk74: Nite, Kelly :-) Stefan logged off and closed the laptop. “Fuck, that felt way too much like work,” he groaned. “I don’t think I’ve typed that much since university.” “You have no one but yourself to blame,” Marcus replied, rolling his eyes. “What do you geniuses plan to do when he actually asks you out on a date?” “You are a biatch! I could have told you who Pat Metheny is,” laughed Hitomi. She paused at Marcus’ last question. “Oh fuck, Marcus has a point. Hawk’s going to want to meet at some point. What do we do? Set him up and dump pigs blood on him?” “God, I totally want to watch Carrie now,” Stefan replied, laughing. “Marcus, let’s watch a movie before bed,” he said, handing him the laptop as if he expected him to find the film. Marcus just sighed. “Ooooo. What if we set him up and then actually show up at the restaurant. What’s a few grand for that kind of entertainment?” “I’ll take video and post it on Facebook!” Hitomi offered brightly. “It’s just too good. Come on, turnabout is fair play. Remember when Hawk and Jade tried to extort money from you at gunpoint? What about when Hawk stole your credit card and maxed it out? Marcus, this is mild by comparison. It's just a bit of a practical joke, that's all.” “It’s cruel,” Marcus said, actually getting a bit annoyed. “Yeah, so is everything that he’s done to us,” Stefan replied. “He’s abused you, stolen from you, threatened your life, and nearly gotten you killed. I really don’t think he deserves your compassion.” “I don’t know...” Marcus replied. “Marcus, when we spring the trap I'm sure everybody will have a big laugh,” said Hitomi. Marcus sighed. “I don’t know. I just don’t like this. It seems wrong. Even when it’s him. I need to think about it.” “Think about what?” said Hitomi. “My god, Marcus it's not like we're putting a hit on him. We're just being a little devious. Admit it, he deserves it.” Marcus laughed softly. “You do make a compelling argument. I’ll need to think about it. Let me know if he replies.” “Oh, he’ll reply,” said Hitomi. “This is a done deal, Marcus. As certain as I am that the sun will rise in the morning and that there will never be a watchable Highlander sequel.....I am certain that he’ll reply. Just...think about it.” “I’ll think about it. In the morning... Good night, Hitomi,” Marcus said. Edited by Jade Anderson, Jul 11 2013, 05:48 PM.
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| Jason Hawk | Jul 16 2013, 04:13 PM Post #2 |
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Four days later Hitomi was lounging at poolside, christening her new Herve Ledger bikini and matching blue Prada pumps. She was nursing a morning cocktail and having her third cigarette since laying down for her morning sun worshipping / skin treatment. Life had been particularly difficult this week. Between having to split time with the ruse by taking over Stefan’s role in playing Kelly79, she had noticed an ever so slight imperfection in her waistline that necessitated flying down her favorite personal trainer from Sydney and spending an extra hour in the gym after her regular morning swim. She’d taken over the persona of Kelly79 for the morning to give Stefan some time with his new fiancé. Just then, an incoming message came in from Hawk. JHawk74: Hi, Kelly! Kelly79: Jason! I was just thinking about you. Hi ☺ JHawk74: I’ve got a surprise ;-) Kelly79: Oooooh! I love surprises! What is it? Hitomi saw an incoming file transfer request. The file was named “2Wycked.png”. With a moment’s hesitation, she accepted the request. “God I hope he’s not sending me a picture of himself naked,” she muttered, sipping her Cosmopolitan. “I’ve already seen that, after all…ooooh!” The picture was of Hawk standing next to a black, early seventies or late sixties Firebird. It looked to be in near-showroom condition. JHawk74: Like it? It’s a fully-restored 1971 Firebird! I bought it off a guy in Tucson yesterday! All the collectors want the ’70, but the ’71 has the more advanced engine. It’s a superior vehicle, I think. Hitomi had to admit that the car was very cool. Kelly79: Wow! That’s so cool! My big brother was really into Smokey and the Bandit and wanted one of those black Firebirds with the bird on the hood. Closest he ever got was a model car. He drives a Ford Focus now, lol! JHawk74: I’m glad you like it. Listen, I’ve really enjoyed talking to you these past few days. Kelly79: Me too ☺ JHawk74: We talked about going for sushi earlier. I realize it’s only been a few days, but I’m free this Friday. Now that I have reliable transportation I was wondering if you’d like to meet for dinner. If you’re ok, that is. Bring Dylan, if you like, I’d love to meet him! These were the words that Hitomi had been dreading. She hoped Hawk would give it another week before pressing a meeting. She could always make up an excuse….like having to work that Friday night, sick mother, Dylan’s scouting event, soccer game, summer camp. Hawk would just suggest another day and time. There was no getting out of this. Hitomi gritted her teeth and forced a fake smile, despite no one being there to see it. Kelly79: That would be great! I’m totally free on Friday night. Not sure if Dylan will be coming. I think he’s staying over with a friend that night, but I’ll check. JHawk74: Great! Maybe a movie after? Kelly79: Sure. I promise not to inflict any chick flicks on you ;-) JHawk74: No worries. We’ll find something we both like, though I warn you that if you leave the picking to me you may find yourself watching something with robots, lasers and karate ;-) Kelly79: Haha, I’m sure we’ll find something fun ☺ JHawk74: I have a confession…. Oh, god, thought Hitomi. Is he going to tell me what he really does for a living? Perhaps he’s going to pour his heart out about that loonie bird he lived with for years. Kelly79: Uh oh, don’t tell me you’re a Scientologist ;-) JHawk74: LOL, no nothing like that. It’s just that this is my first date in a long time. I’m a bit nervous ;-) Kelly79: Don’t worry. I also have a confession. This is my first date since the divorce. I’m a little nervous too…. JHawk74: Great! We can be lame and awkward together! J/K Kelly79: Haha! I’m really looking forward to meeting you, Jason…. JHawk74: And I you. Kelly79: Jason, I just got a call that Dylan needs me to pick him up. Talk soon? JHawk74: Absolutely. I’m looking forward to Friday…. Kelly79: Me too! JHawk74: Bye, Kelly. Kelly79: TTYL! With this, Hitomi logged off. “Fuck,” she hissed. She grabbed her phone and dialed Marcus. “Pick up the phone, Marcus. We’ve got trouble…..” Edited by Jason Hawk, Jul 17 2013, 06:41 AM.
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| Jason Hawk | Jul 17 2013, 06:06 AM Post #3 |
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Marcus awoke from a dead sleep as his phone buzzed. He groaned and reached over to grab it from the nightstand - a feat considering the fact that Stefan was draped over him like a second blanket. “Hitomi,” he answered, the displeasure at having been woken evident in his voice. Why do you always call me in the middle of the night? You know there’s a time difference, right?” “Marcus!” said Hitomi, her usual casual bravado replaced by a heightened tinge of panic. “You know I’d never wake you unless it was a emergency, but....I kind of think this little ruse Stefan cooked up with Hawk and the dating profile has gone a bit beyond what was intended. Hawk wants to MEET this girl. Can you imagine that? I didn’t think he’d ask her on a date so soon! You need to help me, Marcus! This could get out of hand!” Marcus groaned. “Firstly, you’re hardly innocent, so it’s a bit unfair to implicate Stefan in this. Secondly, I warned you two that this would happen.” He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose in exasperation. “You’re going to have to tell him the truth.” “Tell who the truth about what?” Stefan asked sleepily, reaching over to shift Marcus’s phone so that he could see who he was talking to. “Put her on speaker!” he said, seeing that it was Hitomi’s picture on the screen. Marcus complied, setting the phone down next to him on the mattress. “Hitomi!” Stefan greeted her, “what’s the matter? It’s the middle of the night!” he stretched and then re-wrapped himself around Marcus, contented to cuddle and chat with his friend. “Stef, hi!” said Hitomi, trying to be nonchalant. “What time is it there? It must be, well nevermind. Listen, I was just telling Marcus about a teensy little problem...nothing really. I knew you were busy what with the wedding planning and all...I decided to take over Kelly79 for you. Just for a couple of days, mind you. Well, I was chatting Hawk up just now and....I kind of made a date with him for Friday. What the fuck do I do now? I need input, guys! We’re all in this together, after all!” Marcus laughed bitterly. “Speak for yourself. This is your mess,” he said, stifling a yawn. “You want my advice? Be honest with him... Or since I know that’s not going to happen... Cancel the date and brush him off.” “You were chatting with him?” Stefan asked, still stuck on that detail. “I didn’t think we were seriously going to continue with this. That one night was mind-numbing. What the hell were you even talking about?” He winced and then pressed his forehead against Marcus’ chest. “On second thought... I retract the question. I don’t want to know.” “Stuff....” said Hitomi, hesitating. “Movies....music. He bought a Firebird. Look, this started as a joke, but he was just so....nice....and vulnerable. He can be a complete loser, but he’s been through hell and he’s coming off a bad relationship. He had to live with Jade for fuck’s sake. I....I....just couldn’t tell him no. I don’t *like* the guy, but I don’t know....I don’t want to completely destroy him either. That’s why you need to help, Marcus. I have the tact of a drunken whore in a synagogue, you know that. You have a way with people. You’re good with people! Hawk can kill with a spork! You can tell him that this was all just a harmless joke. I’m sure we’ll ALL get a good laugh out of it once this is out in the open.” “Absolutely NOT,” Marcus replied. “You dug this hole. You can dig your way out.” “Firstly, you *do* like him. I think you’ve actually got a bit of a crush,” Stefan said. He shuddered. “I don’t pretend to understand why, but then we can’t all have exceptional taste.” “Secondly, I actually think it would be better coming from you. He expects you to be tactless. And I mean that in the most loving way possible.” “Thirdly, will you be in our wedding party?” Hitomi seethed. “Stef, first off I’m quite capable of fucking people I don’t like. Don’t tell me you’ve never had angry sex. Hell, as far as I’m concerned there isn’t any other way. Secondly, if he puts a bullet in me then you two only have yourselves to blame. I hope you’ll feel terrible, by the way. Third, yes...I’ve already got the perfect gift picked out.” “A lot of help you two are,” Hitomi pouted. “You know he’ll throttle me with his bare hands.” “And somehow it’s supposed to be more appealing if he throttles me instead?” Marcus asked with annoyance. “If you’re not up to the task of telling him, you’ll have to find a plan B that doesn’t involve me.” Stefan rolled his eyes. “Fine. I’ll tell him. He already hates me anyways. But Hitomi, you need to be there, and don’t you DARE try pretending you weren’t involved.” “In person?” she said, taken aback. “The date’s in El Paso! El fucking Paso! Have you seen what passes for theater there?” She muttered a few choice Japanese curses. “Fine, I’ll be there....but not a second longer than I have to, m’kay?” “Let that be your punishment,” Marcus replied. “Now can you two discuss your little trip in the morning? I’m warm and comfortable in my bed, but for some reason I’m not sleeping. That fact is making me increasingly unhappy.” “Fine. I’ll be on the first plane out on Thursday. And thanks, Stefan. I really owe you big time. Ciao.” With this, Hitomi rang of and uttered an audible sigh. “I hate life,” she muttered forlornly. |
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| Jason Hawk | Jul 18 2013, 02:47 PM Post #4 |
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Hitomi stepped off the plane and into El Paso International Airport. It was a small airport relative to something like Heathrow or Narita International in her hometown of Tokyo. The airport had been originally built in the 1920s and had gone through several renovations and expansions to bring it up to modern standards, but it was still a symbol of a small desert city and not the world hotspots she was used to frequenting. “I can’t believe I’m doing this,” she muttered as she exited the airport and took in the dry desert air. Hitomi scowled as she felt the hot wind on her body. She dialed Stefan’s number. “It’s me. I just landed. The flight was intolerable; the air and heat less so. Why the fuck did Hawk chose to live in a desert? Anyway, I’m headed to my hotel room. Bye.” Hitomi hailed a cab and was soon on her way to her hotel. It was not easy locating a hotel that she would define as livable in a city where Best Western, Econolodge and La Quinta dominated the travel listings. There was the Lucerna in Cuidad Juarez across the border, but she would rather not be abducted and beheaded by a drug cartel. She finally picked the El Paso Marriott, which was far from her first choice in another city. “Stef,” she said, calling from her room. “I’m checked in and my bags were delivered. Small miracle, mind you, given the horror show that the rest of this trip has been. Oh, and don’t get me started on the hotel. The staff are all idiots, the room smells and what passes for a pool here is laughable. Call me.” Hitomi opened the curtains and looked out over the city. El Paso was a small desert town surrounded by mountains. To the south was Fort Bliss and to the west was New Mexico and the town of Las Cruces. “Maybe I’ll be abducted by a UFO,” she muttered. “They always seem to crash out here in the desert. Believe me, if one came I would go willingly and I wouldn’t be particular.” She disabled the smoke detector and lit a cigarette. El Paso was known as the safest city in North America, whereas a few miles to the south, Juarez, Mexico was the most dangerous city outside of an active warzone. She was sure there was some irony that Hawk had chosen to live here. Hawk…. The date was in a few hours. If she was lucky, Hawk would merely be angry. She could placate him with sex, she supposed. At least Hawk was rational, unlike Jade. “I’ll get this done,” she said to herself. “It’ll be easy-peasy, then I’ll be on the first plane back to civilization. All this will just have been a bad dream. Trust me, Hitomi, you’ll see…..” |
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| Jade Anderson | Jul 25 2013, 04:26 AM Post #5 |
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“Hitomi,” Stefan said, when she answered the phone. “I Think Hawk lives in the armpit of Hell. It’s hot, barren, and there are no decent wine bars or clubs. Not even a decent bookstore! Why the fuck would anyone live here?” As he spoke, he sat on the bed in his hotel room. He was still in the boxers he slept in, and was cradling his iPhone between his shoulder and his ear to free up his hands. He unscrewed the lid of a bottle of glittery black nail varnish and began applying it to his toes. “I’m at the Desert Palm Suites. Come meet me so we can figure out how we’re going to do this. Hawk’s expecting you… Kelly in a few hours. Oh, and bring coffee. Lots of coffee. I spent half the fucking night looking up information on how to check for bed bugs before I could lie down.” Hitomi grimaced as she listened to Stefan. She sprawled out on what passed for a queen sized bed and downed a scotch from the mini bar. “Oh god, I can totally relate. We’re in the armpit of hell. The ninth level of Dante’s Inferno. This is a place where Wendy’s is considered fine dining. You want to know something? Hawk moved into an abandoned motel out on the highway to Tucson. Can you believe it? I think the poor dear’s gone insane, or maybe Jade just made him want to leave the planet and this was the next best thing. I don’t know. Those two are just gluttons for punishment. Now, the place where we’re going to meet is....” Hitomi double-checked Google Maps Street View and rolled her eyes. “The place is in a strip mall wedged between a Volt Technical Resources branch and an H&R Block. I think the latter is one of those places where Americans go to get their taxes done. Whatever.” She lit a cigarette and took a long drag. “We get there at 7:30 on the dot. We have a chat, explain and we’re out by 7:35, tops. I’ve even booked the first flight out to Tokyo the next morning, so it should be easy. God, I hope Hawk doesn’t invite us back to that rat trap he lives in. I’m going to have to have myself disinfected and my luggage burned when I get back as it is.” Stefan groaned. “Don’t they have personal accountants here? God, this country is fucking backwards.” He fanned his foot, trying to get it to dry faster. “So are you coming to pick me up, or not? I don’t want to stay in this hell hole longer than I have to. I also need coffee before we get there or I’m going to stab someone.” “I’ll phone a taxi and swing by to pick you up in an hour,” said Hitomi. As she talked to Stefan, she perused the OKCupid site on her iPad. An incoming message popped up on her screen. JHawk74: Hi Kelly! I can’t wait to have dinner with you tonight. Kelly79: So am I, Jason! JHawk 74: Listen, I may be a few minutes late, so if I’m not there when you get to the restaurant take the first booth to the right of the door as you go in. I’ve spoken with Dave, the owner of the place, and had him reserve that booth for us. Kelly79: A dinner reservation! Very high class....and romantic :-) JHawk74: I hope you like it. Talk to you soon! “God, Stefan,” said Hitomi with distaste. “I just told Hawk he was high class. Listen, you have to promise not to laugh at him...too much, okay?” “I can’t make any promises that I know I can’t keep,” Stefan replied, rolling his eyes. “I’ll see you in an hour.” When Hitomi arrived, Stefan was waiting outside, smoking a cigarette. He wore tight black jeans and a tight black David Bowie t-shirt. He threw the cigarette to the ground and crushed it under his sneaker before sliding into the cab next to her. “Firstly, it’s hot as fuck!” he greeted her, leaning over to kiss her on the cheek. “Secondly, let’s get this over with so we can go home, and thirdly, YOU HAVE TO SEE THE RING!” He thrust his left hand in front of her face to show off his engagement ring. “Marcus has amazing taste!” said Hitomi, gushing over the ring. She gave Stefan a big hug. “Oh, I’m so happy for you guys! You’re like the Odd Couple but with classier furniture and better taste.” She stood before Stefan smiling happily. “My best friend is leaving me, please get me to a fainting couch!” She said with a mock dramatic flair. “You know I’ve been proposed to three times. It’s true. Let’s see, there was a Saudi prince...I have to say I nearly took that one up, except the whole thing about his sixteen other wives. There was also the Indian businessman who would not take no for an answer. And there was one other, ah Matsumoto. Young, dashing and oh so attractive. The son of a rival clan....it was forbidden love. Well, that and the fact that he was married with three kids. But still, it was a star-crossed affair. Now, are you ready to get this over with?” Stefan laughed. “No one is leaving you,” he replied. “And maybe you should stop dating married men, not that I’m one to give dating advice,” he added, rolling his eyes. “Alright,” he sighed. “Let’s get this the fuck over with,” he said as the taxi pulled up to a strip mall. They entered a Japanese restaurant located in a nondescript strip mall on the outskirts of town. It was decorated in a traditional manner with Japanese harp music playing through hidden speakers. A wall-mounted plasma television was showing a football game. A middle-aged Japanese man greeted them at the door. Hitomi and the man exchanged a few pleasantries and he showed them to the first booth to the right of the door. Hitomi started off with an order of miso soup, a Kirin and a roll of spicy tuna. “As much grief as I like to give Hawk, this place isn’t half bad for being in the middle of nowhere,” she said. “The fact that it’s in the middle of fucking nowhere and that nowhere is apparently hell-adjacent is ALL bad in my book,” Stefan replied, skimming the menu before ordering miso soup and a small plate of sashimi. “I think your soft spot for Hawk is skewing your perceptions.” He sipped a cup of green tea. “By the way, don’t think you’re bringing him as your date to my wedding. Then you will lose your best friend.” “He’s NOT coming to the wedding,” said Hitomi sharply. “You know, this has all the underpinnings of a bad romantic comedy. Two people online, one of them is pretending to be someone else.....the man falls for the ruse, then when he finds out the truth he realizes who the girl he truly loves really is. Ugh, absolutely sickening. A part of me hopes Hawk actually goes off the deep end so I’m not condemned to live out a bad Meg Ryan cliche. I hope....” Hitomi’s speech began to slur. “I hope....ugh, fuck me why are there three of you, Stef.....” With this, Hitomi’s face took a dive into her soup. As on cue, a pair of burly Hispanic men burst into the restaurant. They quickly came over to the table and lifted Hitomi up by her arms. One of the men shoved a pistol in Stefan’s face. “Stay where you are, gringo!” said one of the men in heavily-accented English. “What the fuck?” Stefan said, clapping his hand over his mouth to stop himself from saying something that would be punctuated by a bullet. He stared wide-eyed at Hitomi as the men dragged her out of her chair. The men dragged Hitomi’s limp body out of the restaurant as a black unmarked van screeched to a stop outside. The entered the back of the van and slammed the door. A second later, the van sped off. Stefan stood up, still in shock. He watched the van speed out of the lot, leaving a trail of dust in its wake. Then, as if on autopilot, he fished out his wallet, dropped some cash, still in Euros on the table and walked outside. He could barely notice the waiter yelling at him about paying in something he could actually use as he fished out his iPhone and called Marcus. *** “She was what??” Marcus asked, putting down the wine he had been drinking and sitting upright in his chair. He’d been having a glass as he read before bed when the phone had rung. “Yes, I heard you, I just...Okay, Just stay there... I’m calling Hawk. I’ll call you back.” Marcus sighed and dialled Hawk. The phone rang three times, then went straight to voicemail. “Hawk, it’s Marcus. Hitomi has been kidnapped. Call me when you get this, or call Stef. You have our numbers.” Marcus rang off, waited a few minutes and called again. Hawk answered on the second ring. “What?” he said tersely. “I’m kind of busy right now, Cavanaugh.” “Well, you’ll have to make time for me,” Marcus replied curtly. “Something’s happened to Hitomi.” “Is that so?” said Hawk, preoccupied with the array of torture implements arranged in a tray before him. It had been a while since he’d had to inflict pain to coax information out of a captive, but he was well-versed in the art of aggressive persuasion. “I’m sure Hitomi can handle herself. Give me the specifics.” Marcus sighed. This wasn’t going to go well. “Let me start by saying I’m sorry.” He said. “On behalf of her, and Stef. They’re incorrigible when they get together...” He tried to think of the right way to say it, and just couldn’t. “The woman you’ve been chatting with online was Hitomi... Well, the first night it was Stefan... and then he got bored and she took over. She was going to meet you tonight... I’m not sure what happened. Stef just called me in a panic. Something about kidnapping.” Hawk paused, contemplating what Marcus had just told him. He felt anger well within him, then suddenly burst out laughing. “Sorry, Marcus...I really don’t mean to make light. It’s not that I think it’s funny....” Hawk then let out another burst of laughter. He turned to the men beside him and said a few terse words in Spanish. He showed them the photograph of Kelly. “Is this the woman your men grabbed?” “Um....sure,” said another voice. “I think....” “What do you mean you *think*? It either was or it wasn’t her!” “I mean...I guess. We grab a lot of people. You said it was a dark-haired woman. Our men grabbed a dark-haired woman.” “Yes...who’s JAPANESE!!!!!” Hawk yelled. “Does *this* woman look Japanese to you???” “I....I don’t know...American women all kind of look the same to me. I mean....maybe she changed her look.” “Oh fuck me,” spat Hawk, rubbing his temples. “A woman changing her look does not go so far as to change her fucking ethnicity!” “Listen, Cavanaugh,” said Hawk, switching back to English. “Hitomi’s fine. Tell Stefan to get on the first plane back home.” ‘Wait... YOU kidnapped her??” Marcus asked. “Why?” “I didn’t know it was *her*!” Hawk retorted sharply. “What, did she think I wouldn’t do any research on this Kelly? I ran her background through all the usual channels and brought back nothing. I’m not stupid, Marcus. I know there are some very powerful people who aren’t very happy with us after the Cord affair. This could have been an Illuminati plot for all I knew, and after hearing what you’re telling me I actually wish it was.” “I just have one question, Cavanaugh.....why?” Marcus sighed. “I have no idea, Hawk,” he said honestly. “Hitomi found your profile, showed Stef, and suddenly they’re keeping me up at night while they chat with you online. Stef thought it had ended there, then we found out that she’d been keeping up communication with you.” He sighed again. “It was cruel and for what it’s worth, I’m sorry I let it go on.” “You’re a good man, Cavanaugh. All the same, Stefan should leave the country right now. Hitomi and I are going to have a little discussion. Thanks for being the only one to be honest with me.” Marcus nodded. “Alright. I’m sure he won’t object to my putting him on the next flight out. You really did pick the middle of nowhere to escape to. Promise me that all you’ll do with her is discuss? She may be a bitch, but I love her.” “You have my word. By the way, congratulations, Cavanaugh. Don’t ask how I know, but I have my ways.” “Thank you, I think.” Marcus replied. “And for what it’s worth, congratulations on making steps to move on with your life. I’m sure you’ll find someone, although you might want to try something other than internet dating,” he said. “Because I can’t promise Hitomi will learn her lesson.” “I can,” Hawk said flatly. “Goodbye, Cavanaugh. I promise to send you a nice gift even though I’m not invited to the ceremony.” Edited by Jason Hawk, Jul 25 2013, 04:39 AM.
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| Jason Hawk | Jul 30 2013, 03:14 AM Post #6 |
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“What the hell?” muttered Hitomi as she awoke to the harsh sensation of cold concrete underneath her cheek. As her vision adjusted to the dull light, she became painfully aware of a dull throb in her head. “What did I drink?” she muttered. She tried unsuccessfully to sit upright, but found herself unable to shake the feeling of vertigo. “I think I’m gonna be sick….” She became dimly aware of a pair of men across the room from her. Separating her from them was a set of black metal bars. Hitomi made an effort to focus her vision and discerned that the men were seated at a table playing a game of cards amongst themselves. “I can’t fucking believe this,” she hissed. “You’re too good for this, Hitomi. Hey!” The men looked at her and muttered some words to themselves in Spanish. “Hey!” she yelled louder. “Yo Hablo English? Look, I don’t know who’s paying you, but whatever it is, I’ll double it, okay? I’m a very powerful, very influential person and trust me, if you harm a hair on my head I’ll see to it that you pay, really high! So, if you could just let me out of here that would be super great, m’kay?” One of the men responded to her in English, “I’m sorry, if we were to let you out we’d all have to answer to El Fenix.” “El Fenix?” she said incredulously. “What is that, a third rate Mexican restaurant? Look, you work for some Mexican kingpin, I get it. We’re probably someplace in Mexico where he’s planning to ransom me or whatever. Listen, this El Fenix, or El Chicken, or whatever will be the LEAST of your problems once I call my people and let them know what you’ve done to me. Okay? Comprende? Does the ability to eat solid food appeal to you? Because trust me, whatever this El Fenix can do to you will look like a picnic once my people are through with you. Are you even listening?” The men did not respond, but continued their game of cards, talking and laughing. “Listen to me when I’m talking!” Hitomi shrieked. “I have a LOT of money, okay? A lot of money. What’s he paying you? All you have to let me do is make one phone call. Give me my phone now! Because if you don’t, I’ll see to it that you regret the day you ever set eyes upon Hitomi Asakura! So, give me my phone and I’ll pay you both a lot of money and my people will come here post haste….and as a bonus I won’t have them pull your tongues out while you’re still alive. So, have we got a deal?” One of the men threw and empty beer can at her cell. “You talk too much, lady,” he said with a laugh. “El Fenix wants to have a private chat. He’s going to take good care of you……” “Oh great,” said Hitomi. “He’s not getting any ideas, is he? I’ll bust his balls…” The men had already gone back to their game of cards, ignoring Hitomi. “Hey! Hey! What about me???” Hitomi yelled. “You can’t leave me here! There’s no place to go to the bathroom! I’ve got to pee!!!!!” “There’s a can in the corner,” said one of the men. Hitomi looked in the far corner of the cell at a rust and slime encrusted coffee can with some foul black substance inside. “Um,” said Hitomi, examining the can. “I don’t have to go anymore….” Edited by Jason Hawk, Jul 30 2013, 06:18 AM.
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| Jason Hawk | Jul 30 2013, 03:48 AM Post #7 |
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Time lost meaning in the dark, cold cell. Hours turned into days as she lay on the cold concrete, unable to sleep or even rest. Hitomi had made a thorough examination of her cell, but found no viable way out. She heard occasional voices far off in the prison. In regular shifts, pairs of men would come in to guard her. Hitomi had quickly lost track of the passage of time and was unable to discern any patterns to the guards’ shifts. The guards had stopped listening to her after the first few hours of cursing, threats, spitting and offers of bribes. Hitomi now lay defeated, dehydrated, hoarse from yelling and drenched in a cold sweat. Her makeup was smeared across her face and her hair was a frazzled wreck. “This is it,” she said to herself. “Purposeful sensory deprivation. No food, no water, no sleep. Even if I found a way to escape, how far would I get?” It was then that she noticed a lone shadowy figure at the table. Her eyes focused on the figure and it became apparent that she was now alone in the room with him. “El Fenix?” she croaked. The figure was silent. “Whatever you want, I’ll do it. Whatever your price is, I’ll pay it!” The figure remained silent. “Come on…work with me here!” she cried. “I don’t know what you want with me, but please! I’ll do anything!” “Anything?” the figure spoke. The voice was strangely familiar. “Yes…..” Hitomi paused. Her eyes narrowed and she grabbed the bars to her cell. “You……YOU!!!!!” “You were expecting someone else?” Hawk stepped out of the shadows, with a pleasant smile upon his face. “You….asshole!!!!! You fucking sadist!!!! You’re sick!!!!!! You’re insane!!!!!” “And you look….different from your profile pic,” said Hawk. “What are you doing here?” “Oh fuck, is this all about the online dating thing?” “You’re lucky Marcus tipped me off that it was you,” said Hawk. “Otherwise the men I hired would’ve been considerably more rough. Mexican mafia aren’t exactly known for their subtlety.” “As soon as I get some food, some water, some wine and a pedicure I’m going to rip out your heart while it’s still beating, Hawk!” Hawk chuckled. “Did you really think these high-school level antics would do….what? Make me feel bad? Break my heart? Did you really think I wouldn’t check out Kelly79? A Google search could tell you that she was a fake profile.” “So why did you go along with it?” “I naturally assumed it was a trap. I’m not exactly lacking in enemies.” “You tend to inspire that in people. Look, Hawk, I was coming to explain everything to you….and apologize. I never wanted you hurt.” “Hitomi, if it was anyone but you I’d find this too ludicrous to believe, but this is you we’re talking about. Somehow, from you and pool boy I can somewhat believe this. Now, the question is what do I do with you?” “Hawk, we’re friends, okay? Sure, I probably went a little overboard, but really…..we were just playing in fun!” “Playing in fun,” said Hawk ruefully. “You made me secure a safehouse in the middle of the White Sands desert, arrange for half a dozen Mexican mafia to cross the border, cook up a plan to capture and extract information…..and possibly a few teeth, from an Illuminati mole….all because you were playing in fun?” “I was going to buy you green tea ice cream,” Hitomi said glumly. “Did it really warrant keeping me here for weeks?” “You’ve been here for six hours,” said Hawk. “Half the time the entire safehouse could hear you." "It seemed...longer. So…..anyway, I’ve learned my lesson. You were right, I was wrong. I can leave now, right?” “Sure,” said Hawk. “But if you ever do anything like this to me again, no one will find your body. Understand?” Hitomi seethed and cursed. “Understand?” said Hawk more forcefully. “Yes….sorry,” said Hitomi sheepishly. “Just one question?” Hawk arched an eyebrow. “Yes?” “El Fenix?” Hitomi said incredulously. Hawk shrugged. “It’s a third-rate Mexican place in Dallas.” Hitomi laughed weakly. “So, I was right. The irony…it burns.” Edited by Jason Hawk, Jul 30 2013, 06:25 AM.
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| Jason Hawk | Aug 1 2013, 12:21 AM Post #8 |
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“I’m still not speaking to you,” said Hitomi resolutely. She put a cigarette in her mouth and started to light it. “I was just telling you not to smoke in my car,” said Hawk. He’d given Hitomi a ride in his new Firebird and was bearing the brunt of her anger and pouting as they rode down the lonely desert highway. “Though by all means go ahead and light it. I’ll leave you on the side of the road. You can walk back to civilization for all I care.” Hitomi scowled and put the lighter away. “Since when are you Mr. Politically Correct Nonsmoking Nazi?” “I’ll have you know I’m doing quite well with the e-cigs. I haven’t had a real cigarette in over a week. Misting fills that void for me now.” “Ha! You’re deluding yourself, Hawk. You’ll be back sucking down real tobacco into your lungs before the month’s out, trust me.” “You think so?” Hitomi laughed hoarsely. “I know so. I figured you out a long time ago. As long as Jade’s around, you’ll keep smoking.” “Don’t get me started on Jade.” “Have you talked to her?” Hitomi asked quizzically. “No, but it’s not for lack of her trying.” “What do you mean by that?” Hawk sighed, pulled out his phone and put it on speaker. He hit the playback button for his voicemail. Hawk? Sniff, I know you’re mad, but call me? I need you… BEEP Hawk? I know you’re fucking there! Pick up the goddamned phone. I NEED you! BEEP Hawk! You fucking son of a bitch! I know you’re fucking her. You know what? Just forget it. We’re through! BEEP Hawk? Are you there? I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have yelled… Call me? Hawk? Sniff, I know you’re mad, but call me? I need you… BEEP “Holy shit,” said Hitomi ruefully. “She’s really obsessing.” “Obsessing isn’t strong enough a term," Hawk replied bitterly. "Jade really doesn’t get the whole concept of subtlety. What you just heard, that was this morning alone.” “Why don’t you call her back?” “Why should I?” Hawk shot back defensively. “She’s the one who can’t move on. Engaging her at this point would be self-defeating. There’s nothing left to say that hasn’t been said a thousand times over. The woman’s deluding herself if she thinks things can go back to square one after all that’s happened.” “So what are you going to do?” “What can I do? Let this all play out, that’s what I’m going to do.” “Have you considered that Jade might not come back from this?” “That’s up to Jade. Now that you mention it, she hasn’t called in a few hours.” “Aren’t you concerned.” “She’s probably off somewhere getting drugged up. The point is that this isn’t a relationship anymore. One moment, she’s little miss fragile who just wants a hug, the next she’s raving bitch queen. It wasn’t always like this. For a while, things were really not half bad. But she’s always dependent on something, if not me then the smack. I can’t live that way, Hitomi. Can we please talk about something other than Jade?” “Fine,” said Hitomi. “I’m just saying you’ll have to deal with it sooner or later. Things are going to come to a head. Jade’s not simply going to let this fade away.” “Maybe,” said Hawk, sucking on his e-cig. Butterscotch-flavored vapor mist blew out from his mouth in a long stream. “I’ll cross that bridge when I have to.” “Oh, you’ll have to. Trust me. You know, out of all of us Marcus and Stefan have the closest thing resembling a normal relationship. Sometimes I envy them.” “So why don’t you get married?” asked Hawk. “And give up sex? No thanks! Anyway, the wedding’s going to be a big gala affair. It’s going to be in Paris at a very famous and very old palace, the Château de Maisons-Laffitte. It’s from the seventeenth century. Very famous. All the nobility of Europe is going to be in attendance.” “And I’m not invited.” “Don’t take it personally, Hawk. It’s not that they’re trying to exclude you, it’s that…..” “They don’t like me,” Hawk finished for her. “Well, there is that.” Hawk shrugged. “It doesn’t matter anyway. Cavanaugh’s an effete Eurotrash snob and his boyfriend is like fingernails on a blackboard. They’re made for each other. I hope they’re very happy together. I’ll get them a nice gift…..maybe one of those little porcelain Eiffel towers that they sell at airport gift shops for people you don’t give a crap about. ” “Tell me how you really feel, Hawk. Besides, I know it’s not true….not all of it, at least. Toward the end, you and Marcus were actually somewhat acknowledging the other’s right to exist. That was some measure of progress.” “Can I tell you something? After all this, not that watching you squirm wasn’t fun….” “Fuck you…I still haven’t forgiven you for that!” “….I’m back to being alone. In some small way, I wish Kelly79 did actually exist.” “Sometimes I forget you’re a human with feelings, Hawk.” “Yeah….just don’t let it get around, okay?” Edited by Jason Hawk, Aug 1 2013, 12:26 AM.
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7:27 PM Jul 11