Miranda had chose to walk and take in the rays of the sun today, It was that time of year when the annual trip was going to happen and Miranda was certainly looking forward to going once more, each time just seemed to get better and better and could be the biggest one yet. Sure Miri was up early this morning, she did her usual run this morning before freshening up and getting ready for todays activities as there was only a day left before the trip to the lake, She did love that lake. Miranda had spent the rest of the morning pretty much helping her parents get the garage ready for the day despite the insistance it was not need,After all Miri had a trip to get ready for and still had some packing left to do despite starting on that already, Her parent knew this and said she could have the day of early to do just that and hang out with her friends, but alas she still at least wanted to help get the place open and epically failed not to get dirty in the process, And with the funny loving look she got from Charles it was at the moment Miri realized it was her qeue to go home and get cleaned up and take their advice and leave them to it.

When Miri did get home she didn't waste time getting cleaned up, bathing in using a Blueberries and Lavender scented wash, She didn't know why but the blonde loved the smell of it but alas she would have to get out eventually despite the wish of just relaxing and bathing would last forever, it was a nice wish after all but she had people to see and places to go. Having got dressed into a light blue crop top and a pair of blue denim shorts and fixing up her wavy long hair, Miri put the other clothing in the wash before she heard her phone go of from recieving a text. Picking it up she smiled seeing it was from Lyssa, She is an awesome girl and one that Miri considers a great friend. She quickly textes back as she fishes for her car keys. 'definitely, Be there in few girl' Once she was ready Miranda put on her sunglasses and headed out the door and looked at her Camaro for a moment and contemplated, Venessa's cafe was not that to far away and decided she would walk instead, besides it was a lovely day after all and so putting the keys back in the house in a safe place Miri came back out and locked up the house before setting of towards the cafe.

It was a bit of a walk but that did not bother Miri, in that it allowed her to enjoy the peace of this that came with this town, She would probably be so stressed out in a massive city environment but what would of made it th more lovely was if it was raining, she loved the rain and could walk in it for hours just because she could and enjoyed it. Another nice feature of the town was people practicly knew everyone and it was common to hear a morning or afternoon when one went about their daily lives, But soon enough the teen arrived at Jake's cafe and Miri was in a positive and happy mood as she was about to see her awesome friends and of course Venessa, of whom she not seen in years, Would she even remember Miri? Running her hand through her hair for a moment and walked in through the door letting the chime go of, She saw quite a few people in here actually, A unknown girl, Jameson, Venessa behind the counter and of the Trifecta sitting in front of her chatting which made her smile no end. stepping in a little more Miri's smile remained before speaking up to get three's attention. " Hello Ladies."

---

Still full from the venison, Morgan had been wandering around town. Though she loved her family, she could only tolerate them oh so much. They were too chatty. Too talkative. Every single time she sat at the table with them, Morgan would be humming to herself rather than joining in on the rowdy bunch. Mom and dad were ... well mom and dad. Jeremy and Cassie weren't any better. Josephine teased her every opportunity she got. Kimberly saved her whenever she could. Kimberly. Twin power she thought to herself.

Taking out her android phone, Morgan readjusted her earbuds and changed the song to some good ole' Bill Withers. 'A Lovely Day' came on as she Morgan smiled. Moving her body to the rhythm, Morgan began to hum the melody as she walked down main street. Walking by an old couple, Morgan waved. "Afternoon Mr. Johnston. Mrs. Johnston."

"Hello! Out for a walk?" Mr. Johnston asked.

"Yup," Morgan said as she spun around and waved again. "Good seeing you."

Turning back around, Morgan shifted her messenger bag to the front. She peeked in. "When the day that lies ahead of me. Seems impossible to face." Shuffling her things about, she spotted her notebook. It was more sacred than the bible. The majority of her song ideas were sketched. Filled with chord progressions, hooks, and even some piano solo notes drawn in on a makeshift staff, Morgan would murder whoever ruined in. "When someone else instead of me. Always seems to know the way."

Feeling her phone buzz, Morgan pulled it out. She had several unread texts. Meh. She opened Kimberly's:

Fish and chips, Morg! Fish and chips!

Morgan smiled as she typed back:

You'll get fat >;p

A message came back:

You eat more than me >:(!

Morgan laughed and typed back:

Love you ;)

She put her phone away.

Looking about, Morgan's eyes were drawn to a yellow jeep. She rose an eyebrow. Red Lake was small enough to know pretty much everyone. Course there was the odd person out, but mostly everyone. In all her years growing up in this town, she'd never seen the jeep before. Her eyes moved to the music cases in the trunk. Her curiosity was peeked.

Seeing the jeep parked in front of the cafe, Morgan pushed her sunglasses up and walked in. Looking around, Morgan spotted Gage, Aron, and Charlie all doing whatever they did. She worked at the Red Lake Music Foundry. Kind of disconnected she thought to herself. She liked it that way though.

Spotting Officer Callaway and sweet Marlene, Morgan waved. "Hi Callaway. Marlene," she said before moving towards the cafe counter. She offered a brief smile to Charlie, Gage, and Aron. "Hey guys. Aron, could I get a coffee? Hazelnut. Um, could you add a dash of milk in there and maybe a sugar? I can do it too. If it's too much trouble." Pulling out the bills needed to cover it, she slid it over. "Right. Thanks."

Looking around, Morgan's eyes lit up as she saw Cassandra playing the guitar and singing. Forgetting about the three bros, she sauntered on over and stopped a good distance away. She made the 'okay' sign with her hand and mouthed 'awesome'. That was when her eyes drew towards the one person she didn't know in the cafe. Her curiosity reemerged.

She walked over to the table for two and sat down. "There's, um, a yellow jeep parked outside," she said. "It has music cases in the trunk. Maybe a saxophone for one of them? I don't know my brass. But, well..." Morgan was rambling, and she was probably annoying the stranger. Hell, she was annoying herself. She bit her lip. "Huge assuming happening on my part. Is that your jeep? Jazz?"

---

---

Catching Alyssa's comment about her bathing suit, Kimberly looked over and gave her the sexiest look she could muster. "I knew it. See Riley? This girl's going all out this time. Well, welcome to the bikini club," Kimberly said. She looked at Alyssa's hair and nodded. "Hot, Lyssa."

When Vanessa came over, Kimberly spun on her chair and beamed when she heard the coffee was on the house. "You're amazing, Vanessa!" she said. "Could I get the chicken sandwich? I'm trying to stop getting my default fish and chips. Though I love me some fish and chips." Pursing her lips, Kimberly sighed. "Actually, can I get the fish and chips? God, I suck."

Taking a sip from her coffee, Kimberly reached over for sugar packet and cream. When Vanessa said she was tagging along, Kimberly's eyes widened in surprise. Pleasant surprise. "Excited about hanging out with a bunch of teenagers? We might be too much for you to handle," she said. Kimberly chuckled. "I joke. But that's great! I feel like we don't see each other too often. Outside me pigging out here of course. Wow, everyone's really coming then."

Pulling out her phone, Kimberly sent a quick message off to Morgan:

Fish and chips, Morg! Fish and chips!

A few seconds later, Morgan's reply came back. "Rude!" Kimberly scoffed as she responded:

You eat more than me >:(!

Morgan's response:

Love you ;)

Putting her phone back into her purse, Kimberly thought of ways to get back at Morgan. She started it. It was on.

Hearing the door open again, Kimberly's eyes lit up as she felt her chest tighten ever so slowly. "Miri!" she said. When Miranda got a little closer, Kimberly stood up and pulled her into a hug. "Hello!"

---

---

Avalon was grinned as the three girls sitting together waved her over. One woman, who appeared to be the waiter or owner of the fine establishment told her to take a seat and so she walked on over to the girls, who'd by now been joined by another, and stood over next to the newly arrived blonde. With a smile on her face she gave a slight wave, and introduced herself. "Hi I'm Avalon Jones. Is this seat taken?" she said, gesturing to the seat she was standing in front of.

Despite her constant moving from town to town, Avalon had been popular wherever she went. She was always comfortable around people, maybe overly so in some situations, but making friends came easily to her. These girls seemed nice enough. Based on the body language between two of the brunettes, the ones exchanging a hair tie, they're was something going on there, some sort of weird sexual tension.

---

---

Riley would lean over stealing a glance over on Kim's phone seeing her texting her sister and giggled slightly they were twins and both of them were cute and adorable. She looked to towards Alyssa and then Kim once more she wanted to go out on a run with her two best friends and finally decided to go with it. "I'll go with you two on an evening run then, just text me whenever you decide to go and i'll be there." Riley said with a bright smile, then came the new guest Riley eyed Avalon up and down she was really sexy but decided to not say anything about that part. "Go right on ahead, we don't bite well maybe Alyssa here she likes biting the new girls." Riley said with a laugh as she gestured towards her fellow brunette.

"It's nice to meet you Avalon, pretty name by the way. I'm Riley, yes it is the name of the BnB just down the road my father decided to name it that after I was born. Vanessa here is the owner and a family friend of mine, over there is Kimberly." Riley said with a smile then she turned around as she heard the door open and saw Miranda entering Vanessa's restaurant and smiled at her friend as she approached them. "And the last member is Miranda, her parents own the auto repair shop about a block from here." Riley said as she finished her introduction.

---

The amazing taste of the sandwich filled her mouth as Alex took a bite, the sauce dribbling down her chin. A happy smirk spread across her face as she realised how much of a mess she was making, but the sandwich was unlike anything she’d ever tasted. The beef was so perfectly cooked and spiced, and the bread toasted just right. She placed the sandwich down on the plate and took a sip, the only words she could use to describe the food floating in her head “Oh my god.”

She looked down at the sandwich and picked it up once again, dunking the little piece of heaven in the broth cup and taking another bite, quickly wiping her face with a napkin. Before long, she had come to the last bite, which was both amazing and terrible because it meant the sandwich was no longer there to eat. She gobbled up the last piece as another girl walked in and savoured it for a good minute before washing it down with water. She made a mental note to leave an extra big tip. Damn was that good!

She pushed the plate back with the biggest grin on her face and wiped her face off with yet another napkin before looking up to see a new face approaching her. She smiled gently and listened to the little ramble she had before nodding slightly. “Yes, there is indeed a yellow jeep outside with music cases in it. Trumpet and tenor saxophone, the rest is in the moving van.” She looked back to the jeep and smirked to herself “If you give me a second here, I can show you if you want.”

Alex stood up and was about to walk over and pay her bill, but stopped. “Oh my god how rude of me!” She said, turning back to the stranger “Alexandria Robins, just call me Alex.” she smiled and put a few bills down on the table: one for the meal itself, the other two as tips for both of the twins. She called out to the pair before walking out the door to show Morgan her instruments “Thanks for the awesome meal guys. I will be back!”

She wandered outside with Morgan in tow and popped the clips holding the first case shut open. “This here, is my tenor sax. I was in jazz band before high school.” Inside was a beautiful black tenor saxophone with brass accents and patterns. The instrument had slight signs of wear, but was otherwise very well taken care of and almost looked brand new. Alex looked at it and smiled, remembering some of the moments she’d had with it.

She then moved over to the second case and opened it up “And here is my trumpet.” Inside this case was a standard brass trumpet, but with a twist. Covering most of it’s surfaces were engravings, showing Alex’s artsy side. “There’s also my drum set and keyboard in the van, I’ve gotta set up my studio in the new place. Lotta work to be done.” Alex looked up to Morgan “Do you play?”

---

Alyssa grinned at Riley's introduction, might as well play along, it wasn't like the new girl could find out she was gay in five minutes anyway. "I bite softly though, never had any complaints right girls?" She winked at Kimmy and Riley in turn.

Her grin widened as Mirianda arrived on the scene. Alyssa had be concerned she might be working, but was pleased to be wrong. "Hey Miri! Glad you could make it." She gave her a quick hug.

Alyssa grinned over at Vanessa. "So if you're coming are you gonna bring food? I'll go in for ingredients if you cook!" Alyssa was quite enamored with Vanessa's cooking, and was currently suffering from a beautiful delusion in which she got to eat it all weekend.
"Pretty please?" She batted her eyelashes.

---

Morgan perked up when her hunch had paid off. Why wouldn't it? She'd never seen the jeep, and this was the only person she didn't know in the cafe. Trying to keep the music nerd in her down, Morgan cleared her throat. She was about to give the stranger her name until the other offered to show her her instruments. There was no stopping the impending geek out. "A trumpet! And a sax? Right so you're either a band, marching band, or jazz geek. Definitely nothing wrong with that. You must have good breathing and blowing technique then," Morgan said. Her eyes widened. "Music. I'm talking about music. Specifically instruments ... I would love to see them."

Suddenly, the other stood up and started walking away. Morgan was about to scold herself for being too forthright. Maybe she came off too strong? It was always a problem with her. She didn't really care about talking about anything else. Right when anything musically inclined popped up, she went freakin' crazy. Cassie told her that's why she never got laid. But Cassie was a bitch so whatever that ish.

Then the stranger turned back.

Morgan was about to apologize for coming off too strong. Her worries subsided when she heard her new acquaintances next words. She beamed. "No. Not rude at all. Alexandria? Alex. I'm Morgan Thatcher," she said. "I ... don't have any witty nicknames. So ... Morgan?" Seeing Alex place tips on the table for the twins, Morgan grabbed her bag and followed Alex out. "Aron? Don't give away that coffee. I'll be back in a moment."

Following Alex to the yellow jeep, Morgan waited patiently as Alex unclasped the case revealing a magnificent beast of a saxophone. It was jet black with finely accented yellow markings. There were signs of wear, which told Morgan one of two things. Either Alex was careless with her saxophone or she played and fingered the hell out of it. Morgan was inclined to believe the latter. Then she saw the trumpet. How many instruments did Alex play?

Evidently four from what she heard from Alex.

Morgan smirked. "So I was right on the jazz. Musician's intuition," she said. She looked up at Alex. "I do play. Well I don't play these fine things. Keyboard and voice. I've ... been told my singing's pretty decent. YouTube, Soundcloud, around town. You know. Music. But backup. A home studio? I'm so jealous! I have to do so many things with my sound equipment to cancel out background noise and all that blah." Thinking she should reciprocate the courtesy, Morgan reached into her bag. She held her notebook in her hands. "It's only fair I share something too?" Morgan opened up to a swing tune she'd been working on. The chord progression as well as the rhythms were all written in for keyboard and voice, which she clearly labeled. All that was missing were the lyrics. She was going to do those later tonight. "Wanna take a look? If I had my keyboard, I'd offer to play it. I could sing the notes, but ... god I'm rambling again. Just ... take a look if you want?"

@Anima

Cassie smiled at Morgan, and for some time she continued playing, content to do so. While she didn't work long hours, she nevertheless worked every day and was always pleased to see people enjoying her music. It enabled her a little bit of independence. As she came to a close on her shift, she wound her music down to a soft close, before carefully putting her guitar away. Chances were she would play some more later, but for now, she could just enjoy herself.

As she packed up, she hesitated, looking over the cafe, wondering who she could hang out with for a bit. Even with knowing people, she was still shy-ish around people, feeling like she was intruding unless she was invited. Giving a soft sigh at herself, she went over to the counter, with a glass of water. She then settled herself, wondering if she should get something to eat or not.

Sighing once more, Cassandra decided she would head out soon, and collect what she was taking on the trip.

As Miranda walked further into the Diner, The place did look very nice as it was clear that Vanessa put a lot of effort into getting it all set up and ready once close to the girl's, it was Kim who was quickest to respond and stood up first to welcome her and pull Miri straight into a hug, Not that she would complain of course as she loved hugs and it was kim, Miri felt her heart quicken but would not waste anytime returning the hug to her lovely friend who pulled her in. "Hey Girl, looking lovely as always." Miri said as she gave Kim a kiss on the cheek before they finished hugging. During that time Avalon had come over and introduced herself to the group of girl's and Riley was speaking and introducing the group to the newcomer as the blonde offered a smile and a polite nod when she was mentioned.

Walking over to Alyssa went and gave her a hug and smiled. "Thank you for sending me the invite, I couldn't let my girls down, Love the hair by the way." She said releasing the hug, Miri was pleased that Lyssa texted her as she might of had to find something to do or finsh of the last of her packing, she only had a little bit to do so it was not a big deal and would be so ready for this years annual trip Finally the blonde got to Riley, her best friend that she has practically known her whole life being born and raised here in Red Lake, Opening her arms "So does the bestie get a hug?" Miri joked. "Come here girl." She added as she allowed Riley to move so she could get her hug.

Eventually Miri sat herself on a seat with the girls as she looked over to Vanessa letting her have a moment to pause before she would ask for a drink. Just looking at her for even a moment and Miri could see how different the older woman was from when she last remember them, she had turned out to be a beutiful woman and that her hard work getting this place ready had paid of as the diner looked very nice indeed, Miri had not the chance to really say hi to Vanessa since she had come back but heard to was one hell of a cook. Smiling she spoke up to make that order drink she was thinking of. "Hi Vanessa, you got fresh tea on? Would love a cup please." getting more comfortable in her Miri decided to find out who was more or less ready for the annual trip. "So you three lovelies ready for the trip tomorrow?, I am so going to be swimming in the lake" The thought made her smile more.

---

---

Charlie was working in the back once more, cleaning dirty dishes when he looked up and realized that Sophie was back from wherever she had been. He smirked, watching her pet the officer's dog for a moment. He took a moment to stop doing the dishes and walked out to further annoy her. "So, Soph. Are you gonna be coming on the lake trip? I mean, cause if you aren't, you should. Everyone's going. Me, Gage, Aron, Cassie, Morgan. Me. You should come," he said with a wink before walking back into the back of the restaurant and checking the clock. He still had a ways to go before his shift ended, but he figured after the comment he made, Sophie would have to come back and have the last word. She always did.

---

---

---

---

Avalon smiled and thanked Riley for the compliment. She got it a lot if she was being completely honest. It was a rather unique name. When Riley stated that her family ran the bed and breakfast she perked up. "Oh that's cool. Me and my dad are staying there right now. We'll be there until he can find us a place to stay that's a bit more permanent," she said with a smile.

What really caught her interest was when the blonde, Miranda, had mentioned a trip. Never one to miss out on a party, even if she wasn't invited, Avalon grew curious. "Wait is there some kind of party going on? I don't suppose you need someone who can dance to help kick it off. I don't mean to brag but I have a habit of getting a party going and keeping it that way," Avalon said with a wink.

---

Aron chuckles at the response from Alex and collects the money, before getting to work on cleaning the table. He gives the thumbs up to Morgan on the coffee and looks at Gage who nods. Sometimes gage's range of hearing is terrifying. Gage mashes up some hazelnuts and gets going on the coffee.

Suddenly, a very familiar voice echoes causing both boys to freeze. A pencil snap is heard...apparently aron broke his pencil, with a rush he gets another from his pocket."Oh boys!" the singsong voice belongs to a rather short woman with strawberry blonde hair and an outfit that looks like it was stolen from the step ford wives. She stands there with a look that shows she expects to be waited on by her boys.

And wait on her they do. Gage suddenly is out of the kitchen as Aron pulls a seat out for her to slide into. A glass of water is put just so then they both stand there. Waiting. "I'll just have a salad honey" "Yes M'am" Gage disappears into the back, while aron arranges the napkin and utensils. The air around them feels tense even.

Gage keeps the coffee warm for morgan and focuses on the salad. After a few moments he brings it out and place it in front of her before standing back. Once again both boys stand there while she eats. Time for them seems to have slowed down to a crawl until finally she pats her mouth puts down enough only for the food and stands. "That was lovely boys, you should cook at home gage. You could use more practice. Bye boys" "Yes M'am" The bye was paired with a finger wave as she turns and leaves.

Once she is fully out of sight, gage storms into the kitchen angry vibes pulsating from him and a plate breaking is heard. Then meat being tenderized is heard. Aron seems to release a breath he was holding as he puts the money in the register before going and cleaning the table.

Sophie was about to go give Charlie an earful when she felt a sudden tension in this air from the twins, the moment Sheryl had stepped in the café. While she had never talked to her personally, she could tell that the twins hated her. And personally, she didn't blame them either. If they had a reason to hate anybody, it was for a good reason.

Once Sheryl left, Sophie grabbed Aron's hand and dragged him behind the counter, took out the money Gage put in for the busted plate, put her own money in to cover the costs. "I'll deal with you later. But as you can clearly see, I am busy with matters that are far more important than you." She replied to Charlie with a look of digust, then grabbed Gage's hand and dragged them both to the back. Once the three of them were where the customers weren't watching, Sophie hugged both of them as tightly as her weak arms could. She then stopped for a moment and stuffed Gage's money back into his apron pocket, then hugged them tightly, refusing to let them go. "Keep the money... It's yours and you earned it... It's not your fault... It's not your fault... It's OK if you want to get mad... And yell, and scream, get it all out... You two can take all of your frustrations out on me... But if you're gonna get mad you gotta do it here and you gotta do it now... Don't take it out on anything else, got it? It's not your fault... And it's going to be OK... Alright? " She murmered to them in a comforting manor, hoping that she could calm them down, even if it is only by a little bit. Strangely, her voice trembled as if she was about to cry; crying for the twins.

For a while, the three just stood there in silence. Then Sophie finally released the two and took a step back and smiled at the two. " Why don't you guys take a breather to get collected? You guys can take your time and get back to work when you are ready, alright? " She told them, then got the broom and started to clean up the broken plate mess.

---

---

"I don't like this Jackson, there are wolf tracks everywhere then they just disappear. People have spotted the damn thing all around this region yet when push comes to shove, we haven't found shit. I mean, wolves just don't disappear do they? No scat, no animal carcasses. I don't like it." said a disgruntled Dave. He was crouched down just in some woods next to the famous Redlake. His eyes were wondering around a small patch of dirt were the wolves tracks abruptly ended. It was as if the damn thing just shot up and flew away.

he got up and turned to look at the rookie, Jackson. Just got out of training and fresh by all accounts. Jackson didn't even look like he had been paying attention, instead he was gazing out at the water.

"Jackson!"

Jackson jumped slightly before turning to face the Sheriff, "Ah shit sir, wolves are finicky critters I heard. Don't know much about em though. It'll probably run out of here eventually, just you wait."

Sheriff Colton sighed, as much as he wanted to disagree with Jackson, he was probably right. If on the off chance he was wrong though and the wolf did become a problem, well he let the though drift away as he gazed at the lake as well.

Finally he motioned for Jackson to move on, "Come on, lets get back to town. You have your patrols to do and I have paperwork. Joy."

---

After what seemed like an age, Sheriff Colton grudgingly filled out reports and other essential items of business. It was high passed twelve-thirty when his stomach began to grumble. Time for some lunch and a much needed break, his hands had began to cramp up.

As he left the building, he was thankful that not much had happened that day. Well not yet at least. Colton shook his head, boy oh boy did he enjoy quiet days.

After a short drive he reached the tne Red Lake Cafe, an old place that he enjoyed he enjoye and that meant it was alright in his books. He opened the door, to be greeted by the aroma of food. It made his mouth water.

Sheriff Colton walked up the the counter and took a seat at on of the bar stools and looked through the menu. He'd wait to place his order.

---

---

Riley smiled as she hugged Miranda rather tightly her friend was like a big cuddly teddy bear and always hugged her friend. She turned her attention towards Avalon as she said she was going to be in the BnB for a few days and then asked about the trip that she had been setting up for the past few months like they had done every year. "Well that makes us next door neighbors then, or roommates if you chose to sleep in my room, which I don't mind sharing." Riley said towards Avalon and then looked towards her friends for a few seconds and then smiled even more.

"Well every year we have a camping trip up to the lake every year around this time. If you don't mind ruffing it under the stars for a few days you are totally welcome to join!" Riley smiled wrapping an arm over Avalon's shoulder and then started to think about grabbing the RV now as well so that its out of the way. "We were about to go get the RV for the trip to if you want to tag along after we get some food?"

Alex looked at Morgan, then down to the book before gently taking it and flipping through, occasionally stopping on a page to hum the notes to herself. She broke out into a grin after humming a few notes and realised she was still in fact on planet earth and not by herself, and blushed furiously looking down at her feet. "I...you have some really good stuff in here.." she said, stumbling over her own words. "I've tried to write lyrics, but they never end up sounding very good.." she handed the book back, trying to (albeit failing to) hide the fact she was still as red as a beet.

Shuffling her feet ever so slightly, Morgan watched as Alex turned the pages of her notebook. Already she was going hypercritical. The notebook wasn't meant to be shared with anyone. It was where her rough draft stuff had a chance to stay hidden until she could clean things up. Namely, Noteflight on her computer. This was a rare exception. There wasn't enough folks in Red Lake to satiate her musical passion. Which was probably why she reached out to Alex.

When Alex finished looking through her notebook, Morgan tilted her head to the side and gave her an shy smile. "Words are hard," she said. "I suck at speaking. When I put words to music though and sing it? It makes all the sense in the world."

Taking the book back, Morgan noticed the shade of red spread across Alex's face. She arched an eyebrow. "So. You're blushing hardcore," she said tentatively. "Too warm for you? Weather?"

Alex could feel her heart stop for a moment as Morgan spoke up "U-uh....yeah. It's pretty warm." she stammered, turning around to close up her instrument cases begging her face to return to normal before Morgan realised why it was as red as it was. Of course this happened now, right when she had actually held a conversation with someone new.

But was it? Morgan watched as Alex closed up the instrument cases. To the best of her knowledge, it was a pretty average day for Red Lake. Humid, 80s-90s, and sunny. Well, maybe for a new comer, it was hot she supposed.

She looked up, an idea forming in her head. Alex turned around and tried her hardest not to blush - to her surprise it worked - and pulled her hair up into a ponytail. "So, would you wanna come over and hang out later, perhaps get my studio set up and jam out a bit?" she asked, hoping she didn't sound like the biggest nervous wreck. There was something that Alex admired about Morgan, whether it was how into music she was or how gorgeous she was, it was hard for her to stay.....normal around her.

Morgan was watching as Alex put up her hair until her attention was drawn elsewhere. Jam invite? She was down. Reaching into her bag, Morgan pulled out her phone. "Number swap? I'm most certainly down to jam. Do you need me to bring anything? Oh. I don't think it's exclusive, but there's this trip. It's tomorrow. Would you ... be interested in going?"

"Number swap." she pulled out her own phone and showed Morgan her number before quickly typing in Morgan's. She pocketed the device and looked back up at Morgan, her face now back to normal "I mean, once we get the studio set up I have my keyboard you can play, and I have two mics. If you wanna bring anything, feel free." She nodded to herself, content with how that had come out. As Morgan spoke again, her attention was piqued. "A trip? Where to? I mean I'll make sure Mum and Dad don't need my help but I'd love to go!"

Alex was thrilled. An awesome sandwich, a new friend, a jam session and an invitation to a trip of some sort within the first hour of being there. Living in Red Lake was going to be great.

Inputting Alex's number, Morgan nodded. "Right! A trip. Riley put it together. My sister - twin - and her are like this," Morgan said as she crossed her pointer and middle finger together. "Inseparable. But definitely try. It'd be nice to have someone go with me. Well, like, someone like me. Like, music. Someone who likes music like me. It makes it easier to talk." She laughed. "Sometimes I just sing lyrics. Impromptu. Have you ever had that feeling where lyrics kinda roll off the tongue easier? But I'm rambling. Short and skinny? My life is a musical."

Fidgeting her hands together, Morgan padded her bag. "I'll just bring my handy dandy notebook then. Other than pianos and keyboards - or singing - I'm kinda useless," she said. "Can't play four different instruments like you." Morgan smiled. "I'm kinda jealous."

"Hey, I'm down for a trip. Hell we could grab some CD's and sing the whole way there!" She laughed, shaking her head gently. "Sounds good, and if you wanted I could totally try teaching you one of them if you want. Your choice. I'm down for just jamming for a few hours." Alex smiled at Morgan, her own hands clasped in front of her. On this particular day Alex had decided to wear her lightweight tan pants, her regular boots and a white tank top, forgoing a fancy shirt for comfort during the long ride in the truck.

Morgan covered her mouth as she laughed. "Careful what you suggest. I take car jam session very seriously," she said playfully. "You'd be willing to teach my something? Well, I wouldn't be opposed. I warn you though, I'm terrible. Except the exceptions I mentioned before. I tried playing the guitar once. God. My mom never gets mad. She told me to quit that racket. But, um, just, uh. Crap. Okay. Right. I'd love to learn the saxophone. I have a soft spot for jazz. Chet Baker? Oh my god."

Though she could go on about the legendary jazz player, Morgan stopped herself from rambling. She hated that. Rambling. Why was talking so hard?

"I imagine my parents will have moved most of the bigger stuff in already so it's really just a matter of hanging all the sound foam up, setting up my drum set and the mics and quickly hooking my laptop up to the mics if we wanted to record anything." She looked to Morgan, trying to read what she was thinking "Of course we don't to record anything. Just for giggles, y'know?"

Morgan snapped her fingers. "I work at the local music store here. I kinda, sorta know my way around that stuff. If you wanted help, I'm more than happy," she said. When Alex mentioned they didn't have to record anything, Morgan grinned mischiviously. She pulled out her phone and opened Sound Cloud. Going to her page, she clicked on her 'Sia - Titanium' cover. She paused it. Hooking up her earphones, she offered them to Alex. "Want a teaser of what you're getting yourself into? Consider it a casual audition." She gave Alex a wink. "Hopefully it's not too horrendous. Just, um, well just take a listen. If you want that is..."

Alex carefully popped the earbuds in and hit play, the music filling her ears. She had to admit, Morgan had quite a pair of lungs on her. Man could that girl sing. Some of the notes in that song were really hard to hit consistently and Alex admired the raw talent Morgan had. After the song was through, she suddenly felt the need to reciprocate the "audition" and smirked to herself before turning around and pulling her trumpet case back up. She hopped into the back of her jeep and placed some sheet music up, out of sight to Morgan.

Alex inserted the mouthpiece into the trumpet and wet her lips a bit, quickly stuffing a mute onto the end of the trumpet before beginning to play the trumpet solo from "La Vie en Rose" by Louis Armstrong. She played the instrument fluidly and smoothly, closing her eyes a few notes in. She'd learned the song in ninth grade and had practically had it memorized. She lost herself in the song, swaying gently back and forth as the music filled the air.



Taking her phone back, Morgan watched Alex as she took out her trumpet. About to ask what Alex was about to do, she opted for silence. When Alex finished preparing her instrument and stuffing something in the trumpet, Morgan almost melted to her knees.

The lady was playing 'La Vie en Rose'. It was a wonderful classic to everyone who had cultured taste in music. While Morgan enjoyed contemporary music, she was an old soul stuck in a young body. She had no one to thank in her family for that, but her grandma and grandpa from dad's side. She still remembered the day they showed her the classics. Gramps told her to turn off her devil music and listen to real music. Hours later - the phonograph still playing - gramp's brainwashing was complete.

Tapping her foot to the impeccable rhythm, Morgan knew she'd found a gem. A female gem. Hearing the spot that the singer traditionally came in at, she took a deep breath as she started to sing:

Hold me close and hold me fast
This magic spell you cast
This la vie en rose...

When you kiss me heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see la vie en Rose ...

When you press me to your heart
I'm in a world apart
A world where roses bloom...

Taking a quiet, quick deep breath, it was time to add the Morgan flair. Morgan sang the next verse with her trademark vibrato as she took liberties with the notes while staying within key:

And when you speak, angels sing from above
Everyday words seem to turn into love songs

Recovering, Morgan came in to the last part of the song with a controlled, lullaby-esque tone contrasting her previous diva forte:

Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be la vie en rose...

Alex took a deep breath as Morgan came to the end of the song, the biggest smile on her face as she played the ending solo on her trumpet with remarkable accuracy. She continued to sway back and forth slowly as she played, and as she came to the end of the piece, she drew out the last note for what seemed like an eternity before lowering the trumpet. Alex could not get the stupid grin off of her face, especially with the small crowd of people that had gathered around them. That was surely one way to make a grand entrance.

After packing her trumpet back up, she looked back to Morgan, the big, warm smile plastered across her face. "Five o'clock, my place?"

Exhiliaration couldn't describe what Morgan was feeling in that moment. Her heart raced not out of nervousness but out of excitement. From having fun. She looked about and saw familiar faces in the crowd. She waved as Mr. and Mrs. Johnston stood amongst the crowd. They held each other close and only smiled at the dynamic duo. This ... was what online crowds couldn't bring. This only made her dream that much more real. Even if it was a small town crowd that she knew, who cared?

Turning back to Alex, she leaned against the yellow jeep. Hearing the invitation, Morgan smirked. "So I passed the audition?" she asked. "Five o'clock your place. I'll bring some sheet music. Originals mind you."

"I feel like we might have some recording to do together."

Morgan smiled. "Funny. I feel the same way."

Vannesa Von Strong

Location: First her appartment above the diner, then the diner ' Jake's Café '

Interacting with: Riley @Nallore, Alyssa @Meiyuki, Kimberly @Anima, Avalon @smarty0114 and Miranda @Damo021

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Vanessa looked at the girls and smiled while they talked about the trip and introduced themselves to the new girl. She smiled even more when Riley took the leading part in it, she knew that girl would always stand up first to help others out. When Riley mentioned a grilled cheese sandwich with jalapenos she shook her head with a giggle. ''You sure have a heart for spicy honey'' she said and smiled. She looked at Avalon with a smile. ''Nice to meet you Avalon, hope you and your dad will have a great time here in Red Lake... I would suggest to go look around town, some houses are for sale.. Most houses that are for sale or for rent are sold private because we mostly all know each other around here'' Vanessa said.

While she was talking to the girls, she did the cooking and when Kimberly asked for a Chicken sandwich at first Vanessa looked up surprised. Then the girl changed to fish and chips and she laughed some. ''Coming up, a plate of the best fish and chips of town'' she said jokingly and then looked back at Avalon. ''And one fresh tea'' she continued and putted on the machine and grabbed a glass for Avalon.

In the mean time, the door had opened again but Vanessa was a bit busy to notice Miranda at first. Just as the door closed and let in a soft breeze, Vanessa's nose wings winded smelling this very nice sent. She looked up and saw Miranda and Kimberly hugging. ''Good afternoon, Miranda.. Right?'' she asked. She had not recognized the girl at first, it was before her turning that they last had seen each other. She smiled at the blond girl and then laid the grilled cheese sandwich on a plate and placed it in front of Riley together with the cutlery. ''Alyssa, What do you wanna eat?'' She asked as she finished Avalon's tea and turned the fish for Kimberly.

She really was in her element in the kitchen. She then looked up as if she remembered something. ''Are you btw silly? I won't let you pay for the supplies, I've got enough laying behind to feed a army.. And if I tag along, I will have to check the dates and take that with me'' she said with a smile. ''Riley, I will show up a little later tomorrow so you guys go a head and I will follow with my own car. I do need to pack everything tonight and get stuff ready for dinner then too'' she said with a smile. She kinda had a hard time not to look at Miranda but she tried to hide it, especially for Riley because she knew the girl would know when Vanessa was crushing and probably would tease her with it a little.

_{A collab featuring @Anima}


Alyssa's delusion of Vanessa's cooking collapsed as Miranda pecked Kimberly on the cheek. It was a small, chaste gesture, but Alyssa felt black jealousy coiling through her anyway. It wasn't fair to Miranda or Kim, and Alyssa knew it, but she wished she could be so carefree with expressions of affection.

Alyssa walked a fine line. Be friendly, but not flirty. You can hug her, but not for too long. These and many more rules ensured that she didn't ruin Kimberly's friendship. Kimberly didn't need to know about Alyssa's pounding heart, or fluttering stomach. She felt her expression darken, and she fought to maintain her smile.

Still taken aback from the very small gesture, Kimberly bit her lip as a torrent of emotions stormed through her thoughts. Did Miranda just kiss her? Not kiss kiss her, but she most certainly pecked her on the cheek. Turning around, she didn't see Miranda do the same to anyone else in the room. She turned back around and faced the door. For once in a very long time, Kimberly didn't know what to do. How to react. It was ... a pleasant impasse.

"T-t-thanks..." Kimberly said to no one in particular. She turned back around and found her chair next to Alyssa still open. Her eyes trailing slightly on Miranda, she sat down and tried to process what'd just happened. She looked over at Avalon - the new girl. When Riley introduced her, Kimberly waved. "H-hey. Yeah, you should come out to the trip. Um, party."

Turning around in her seat to face Vanessa and the cooking magic, she turned to Alyssa. "You sure you don't wanna get something to eat?"

Alyssa's eyebrow arched as her eyes followed Kimberly's movements. Stumbling over her words wasn't something Kimmy did often. "Yeah, I'm fine." She leaned in to whisper. "Are you ok?"

About to ask what Alyssa was on about, Kimberly remembered who Alyssa was. She was her best friend. They told each other everything. Well almost anything. Kimberly bit her lip. She couldn't bring herself to tell Alyssa they were the same. Lady power.

"I'm ..." she leaned in towards Alyssa. "It was just kind of sudden. Did she give you a kiss too? Is that .. normal? I don't think Miri's done that before...?"

Alyssa shrugged. "I didn't get one this time, but it's not uncommon." Her voice lowered. "Did it bother you that much? I can talk to her about it privately if you want, I see her most mornings."

Hearing Alyssa's words clear as day, Kimberly couldn't help the pseudo-zoning as she thought about very recent past events. When Alyssa asked if it bothered her, Kimberly wasn't thinking. She answered on impulse. "I liked it," she said. Looking at Alyssa, she blinked before her face went pure red. Kimberly got up from her chair. "I need some air. I'll ... be right back."

Alyssa's heart went on a small roller coaster ride as Kimberly admitted liking the kiss. How did she like it? Was she a little curious then? Did she like Miranda....did that mean. Could Kimmy...maybe...like her then? Seeing the blush on her face as she stood only further confused her.

Alyssa stood with her, whatever was going on Kimmy was struggling with something. She'd been there for Alyssa through thick and thin, and she wanted to be there for her. "I could use some too." Her eyes silently offered Kimberly solidarity and support, she hoped. "You know how antsy I get around large groups."

About to tell Alyssa she didn't need to come with her, she saw the look. Sighing, she looked at the others. "We'll be right back. Riley? You better not scare the newcomer with your 'Red Lake Hospitality," she said sticking her tongue out. She looked back to Alyssa. "Yet here are you braving a crowd. Come on."

Leading the way outside, Kimberly took a deep breath in. The tension in her chest lessened ever so slightly. "Didn't mean to drag you out, Lys. I'm fine. I just need a moment."

Once they were outside, in the open air, Alyssa let out a sigh. She really didn't do well around large groups, that much was true. She stretched her arms over her head, enjoying the way the sun felt on her skin, and the relaxing sensation in her body, as she gathered her thoughts.

"Don't worry about it Kimmy, but your face." Alyssa took a deep breath as she decided to be a little direct. "Are you sure there's nothing you need to tell me? I-I don't want to push you, but...I've seen that face before."

Kimberly rose an eyebrow. "Like, on me? When?"

Alyssa looked away. "I've seen it...in my mirror. A long time ago."

Taking a deep breath, Kimberly ruffled her hair. She'd never felt this on edge before. Not with Alyssa, but this was new territory to her. Looking down at the ground, it was relatively clean of trash. Kimberly slid down and sat on her butt. She looked up at Alyssa. "Can you keep a secret?"

Alyssa joined Kimberly on the warm pavement. She leaned over, bumping their shoulders playfully. "Of course I can. Whatever you have to say stays between us. I promise."

Kimberly held up her hand. "It's childish, but pinky swear?"

Alyssa let out a small giggle. Her forefinger traced an X over her chest. "Cross my heart and hope to die Kimmy." She locked their pinkies.

While their pinkers were still locked, Kimberly stared into Alyssa's eyes. "... I ... I" She took a deep breath. "I don't like guys, Lys ... Now you promised! T-this is embarrassing..."

Alyssa smiled softly. "I know, and it stays between us for as long as you want, but do you feel a little better now?"

Kimberly smiled. "The only other person who knows is Morgan. But, seriously Lys. Please don't tell," she said. "I'm ... not sure how my folks will take it, if they knew. I'm pretty sure I'd take a mile of wind sprints over dealing with that."

Alyssa smiled and nodded her head. "I promise, but wind sprints aren't that bad."

Kimberly snorted. "Right, but a mile? Of wind sprints? Um, no thanks."

She looked at the ground. Alyssa just couldn't keep it in anymore, as much as she didn't want to ruin the best friendship she'd ever had she couldn't bear to push down the blooming feelings in her heart anymore. "So...Kimmy...I...uh...I" She took a deep breath and mustered the courage she'd been saving for a moment like this. I'm sorry Kimmy, but...I...think I kinda fell for you somewhere along the line."

Once again, Kimberly's heart tightened up as if someone were crushing it. From Miranda's kiss to Alyssa's building question. Was this really happening. It might be. Kimberly wasn't sure. She'd never been in this position before. Course, a ton of the guys from school asked her out, but she rejected all of them. She'd only dated some guy back in 9th grade for a month. She never went back nor regretted that. But this? She was scared. She was excited. Was this right?

Her eyes rose to meet Kimberly's again. "I like you Kimmy, and not just as a friend. I'm sorry." Her face turned red, and her heart pounded at a mile a minute as she awaited her fate.

Cognizant that their hands were still touching, Kimberly shifted it as she cupped Alyssa's hand in hers. She was sure she was blushing to the shade of roses. The previous assumptions were verified. Holy shit...

"Can ... you keep a secret, Lyssa?" Kimberly asked as she winked. "If you can, then my secret will become ours."

The strangest thing happened. Alyssa's heart, which had been pounding in a staccato rhythm of fear, anticipation, and a small amount of hope, lept into her throat. A bright and unreserved smile broke across her face, she was soaring. She nodded quickly. "I-I can!...D-does this mean we're..."

As scared about all of this as she was, Kimberly returned the smile. "I said it'll be our secret right? Give me some time. I'm still ... taking this all in. Are you okay with taking things slow?" she asked. Feeling her face burn - not from the summer day's heat - Kimberly picked at her shirt. She glanced back at Alyssa. "Are you okay if we don't tell people yet?"

Alyssa's smile remained bright, she wasn't sure anything could remove it at this point. "We can go at whatever pace is comfortable for you, and I'll keep my mouth shut. You'll need to tell me who you tell though." She blushed deeper - impressively enough - as she continued. "Just...being here with you is more than I had dared hope for."

Kimberly laughed as she nudged Alyssa with her shoulder. "See? You're not as stoic as you let on," she said. "I've only told Morgan. Not even Riley. I feel terrible. I just ... it's not something I readily talk about. You just happened to catch the slip up."

"Sometimes I think I'm not nearly as stoic as I'd like to be, but maybe I don't have to be." Alyssa could understand Kimberly's hesitation to tell anyone about her sexuality, it hadn't exactly gone well for her after all. "Trust me, I get it. You'll tell them when you're ready, and I won't let on until you give me the go ahead. I came out when I was ready, I'm not going to force you to do it before you're ready. Ok?"

"Thanks Lys," Kimberly said as she gave her hand a squeeze. "I like the non-stoic side of you. More laid back, happy, stuff." She laughed. "God my words are jumbled. One of the rare few times. Take it in while you have the chance."

"No problem, and I'm glad you like it...I might turn into a softy in front of you once in a while now." Alyssa returned the squeeze happily.

Looking back at the cafe, Kimberly gestured towards the doors with her eyes. "Should we head back?" she asked. "But Lyssa. Though I'm going to act like I normally do, don't forget what just happened. People don't know, but I know we're a thing. It's our secret, okay?"

Alyssa stood grinning. "I'll try not to get too jealous, but it'll be fine." She offered her hand and help Kimberly up. "It's not like we don't spend plenty of time alone, I'll just contain my lovey doveys for then." With a rare giggle she turned back towards the cafe. Her steps may have been the same, but she was weightless inside. "Thank you Kimmy." She added as a whisper just before pushing open the door.

Taking Alyssa's hand, Kimberly got to her feet. She looked back through the window at their group. She turned back to Alyssa as she rose an eyebrow. "Did you just giggle? Whoa, okay. First time for everything," she said. Walking back towards the entrance with Alyssa, she heard Alyssa's words as she fixed her the brunette with a quizzical stare. "You know? This is one of those instances where a 'thank you' doesn't really fit. This isn't like a BFF favor or something, ya know...? I ... wouldn't have said what I did if I didn't reciprocate, silly."

Alyssa paused. "If you hadn't had the courage to say what you did, I don't think I'd have been able to muster mine. I'm glad I don't have to keep this in anymore, I'm glad we understand each other." Her grin was still broad and her eyes steady as she turned to face Kimmy before they headed inside. "That's what I'm thankful for Kimmy. Thank you for telling me. Oh, and get used to my giggle, it might be a thing now."

Kimberly laughed. "Then you're most certainly welcome. That giggle's an incentive to stay," she said. A small smirk tugged at her lips. "So this trip just got a wee bit more ... interesting? But we'll cross that bridge when we have to. Let's not keep the others waiting. Annnndddd, my fish and chips are probably cold. Oh well. It was worth it."

With that, the two returned to the diner.

Cassie was still at the counter as the scene played out, and she hesitated as the woman left. The way the boys had acted, Cassandra could easily guess that this was their mother, for lack of a better word. She wondered, not for the first time, if there was some sort of abuse going on, but neither liked to talk about it, and Cassandra hadn't the guts to ask. Sophie reacted first, but Cassandra took the chance to paste te woman's face in her mind. She had a half-baked desire to chase after the woman and give her a piece of her mind.

What Cassandra really wanted to do was bundle the boys up and take them home with her, but that would result in all sorts of trouble. She just had to hope they'd be okay until they were legally old enough to get out of there. Still, she would try and figure out a way of getting them out as often as she could. She headed into the kitchen, careful not to tread on any broken pieces of plate.

She didn't know what so say, feeling like anything she could say would be inadequate. "Um. I'll wait on the tables, okay Sophie" She gently took notebook and pencil from Aron, giving him a smile, and even before she thought it, she reached up to stroke a hand over Gage's cheek, as if she could soothe away all the anger and agitation with such a simple touch "Come help me get the snacks after shift, for I'll surely buy too much that I can't carry it home otherwise!"

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Avalon grinned as Riley mentioned a possible slumber party. Internally, Avalon was blushing. She may be cool and collected and incredibly flirtatious, but pretty girls suggesting night time activities was still something that freaked her out just a bit. She smiled and winked. "That sounds like a fun time," she said with a wink.

Then Riley explained the trip to her and her face lit up. "And that sounds like loads of fun! I'd love to come. Sleeping under the stars is no bother. And I can help you guys get the RV too. It's not like I have anything else to do anyways," she said with a grin. "But first, I must eat. Or it's quite possible that I'll wither away to nothing." She reached out and grabbed a menu, opening it up and scanning it's pages. She eventually decided on the pancakes, and waited for Vanessa to come take her order.

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Charlie watched the twins interact with their parents, brows furrowed in confusion. He'd met their parents before, and they had seemed pleasant enough. Strange, yeah, and the twins didn't seem to love them, but they seemed to be alright enough. But those had all been brief, rather rushed meeting. This was the first time he'd seen them and the twins together for an extended period of time, and he was, to be frank, weirded out. He watched as Gage came back and began tenderizing some meat, and then as Sophie brought both of them in for a hug. He felt an irrational feeling deep down inside. He couldn't quite understand it, but he didn't much enjoy it.

When the sheriff walked in he figured he finally had a reason to get away from the twins and Sophie, and he walked out to the bar to greet him. "Hey Sheriff. What'll it be?" he asked, pencil and pad in hand, ready to jot down the sheriff's order. He'd met the sheriff a few times, but he figured he was on friendly terms with him. His mother was friends with him and had invited him over for dinner once or twice, after gun safety presentations at school that his mother had organized.