"Do you have a map? I'm getting lost in your eyes."
- Alexander Clarke
Name
Alexander (Alex) Oliver Clarke
Age
21
Gender
Male
Sexuality
Heterosexual
Job
College Student: Business Major, Music Minor Part-Time Waiter: Works at The Queen's Lane
“Then he said, 'Anyways here's Wonderwall,' and it was fucking awful.”
In-Depth Appearance
Alex has very striking light blue eyes, they're usually the first thing people notice. That and his white/silvery hair. He likes having his hair long, but it bobby pins it out of the way when it gets in the way. His skin is fairly pale since he was always inside when he was young. His parents never liked being outdoors more than they had to. He is taller than most at 6'2", and sometimes he teases those who are shorter than him if he gets a good reaction out of them. He's fairly physically active because his sister drags him to the gym every once in a while. However, he does prefer to binge watch Netflix and play music, so no six packs. Sorry ladies. If it makes you feel any better he does have fairly big feet. Alex wears a large variety of clothing, but he has a good sense of fashion from being out in the public quite a bit. He on a casual day, he'll wear fairly classy clothing.
Habits and Quirks
Frequently flips his hair
Bounces his leg a lot, especially when he's bored
Runs hand through hair
Likes
Chocolate
Music
Playing Guitar
Dislikes
Cleaning
Homework
Allergies
Biggest Fear
Alex's biggest fear is losing his sister. They've spent their entire life together through thick and thin, and he couldn't imagine his live without her. Especially now that they're so reliant on each other.
Personality
Alex is quite a people person, unlike his sister. He is fairly comfortable interacting with all types of people and is persistent in making friends. He's a nice guy who really just wants to get to know people better. However, if you say anything bad about his sister, he become very passive aggressive. It's a very slow transition. Usually, he'll give a warning to the person who did it, but if they continue he gets more and more savage. Many people perceive him as a player type person, but he teases everyone equally and it doesn't necessarily mean he has a crush on someone. He's also unintentionally good at attracting females, but he can be really dense when it comes to actual romance.
"You mess with my sister, you mess with me."
Background
Alex and his sister, Abby, are the twin children of two very prominent politicians. As young children, they'd move a lot and were in the public eye. So, they only really had each other since all their other friends left. Some parents even warned their kids to stay away from the twins because of their parent's political views. Alex is 17 minutes older than his sister and enjoys teasing her about it. He was always the one who dealt with people verbally. Abby was the one who dealt with people physically if it came to it. Once the two got to college, their parents decided to send them to Evergreen Academy. However, one day Abby got a hold of information and documents that their parents tried to hide. Their parents had just hosted a fundraiser for a charity. However, Abby found out that a large majority of the proceeds actually went into the Clarke's own pocket. After a large debate, the twins came to a conclusion that they needed to release this information. Since the charity was very well known, the scandal was devastating to the Clarkes. Alex and Abby were basically disowned by their parents because they were so furious. Since Evergreen received a lot of support financially from the Clarkes, they twins were kicked out. They ended up going to the cheaper college, Skyline University, and living in the best apartment they could afford. Now they both have to work hard for money, something they've never really done before. They are well known around town and in the university because of the scandal, but the two don't regret their decision.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father: George Clarke Mother: Martha Clarke Siblings: Abigail Clarke Pet/s: N/A Other: N/A
Alex loves his little sister. She may act all tough and mean, but she is actually just brutally honest. Alex knows she has trouble with others which is why he's trying to help her make friends and have a social life of her own. He knows that one day they'll go their own separate ways and he wants her to be prepared for that day. But for now, he'll keep teasing her and making sure she has actually has a future. One day she's gonna learn social graces the hard way.
Cassandra has quite the interesting character. She's a bit spastic, but it only adds to the entertainment that comes with her. Alex thinks it's really cool that someone like Cassandra lives in Eden Gardens. After all she is kinda famous right? He can't wait to tell people that he knew her before she was popular. (That sounds a bit hipster though) She's a bit all over the place, but that's fine. If everyone was put together the world would be a pretty boring place.
What a guy. Jack's basically the go to guy when Alex is having any problems with his stuff breaking. That guy just seems to know how to fix anything and everything. Alex is positive that he and his sister would have been broke a long time ago if Jack hadn't been around. Though the guy should honestly charge people at least a little bit for all the work he puts into fixing things. Since he refuses to take any money, Alex insists that he pays him back in deeds. Sometimes it's something as simple as providing food while he's fixing something. That guy is too nice (which is something coming from Alex). He hopes nothing bad happens to ruin his childlike innocence.
Kimberly is a bit shy, but that's why Alex tries his best to talk to him. That and he feels a bit bad for asking him to tutor Abby. She can get pretty whiny when she doesn't want to do something. He's a smart guy though and can handle Abby surprisingly well. He'd be lying if he didn't say that he hadn't thought about the two getting together. But let's just keep that a secret, yeah? Alex honestly thinks that the dude should spend a little time out and about though. Books are great, but living it is better.
Quinn seems like the person who has everything put together, but Alex knows better. He's been around enough people to know that no one has everything figured out. Not that he knows what's killing her on the inside. He hasn't gotten to speak with her much since both seem to have people who look up to them. It seems as though the two are both social figureheads at Eden Gardens, but in different way. Though, Alex would one day like to actually spend time with her, she seems a bit reckless.
Doris is a work of art. Some would call her crazy, but Alex prefers the word eccentric. He's listened to her on the radio before and some of the words that come out of her mouth are genuinely shocking. But he supposed that's what makes her interesting, every moment is a surprise. The two have talked, but there are times where Alex has a difficult time keeping up with her.
Max is one of Alex's closest friends. The two do a lot together and have even been mistaken as a couple frequently. It become a bit of an inside joke between the two. Alex enjoys the fact the he doesn't have to always be perfect around Max. He also doesn't mind it whenever Max goes on a video game craze. The way he talks about different games makes Alex actually interested in them. The two sometimes play together, but it usually ends up with Alex getting his ass whooped. (Not that he minds) There are times where Alex will win, but that's usually Max just being nice and letting him win.
Alex honestly doesn't know Nathan well. He's a bit ashamed, but it's difficult to naturally slip into a conversation with him. He is certainly a bit childish, but Alex doesn't really mind. To be honest, Alex just really wants to meet and play with all the animals that apparently live in Nathan's apartment room.
Clarence is the kind of person that motivates Alex when he's having a rough day. Not directly of course, but the idea that someone who is that determined exists, gives him hope for humanity at times. Also his little girl, Arianna is very cute. The twins baby sit her every once in awhile and Alex loves playing with her. He loves spoiling her and teasing her (not too much though), but does get a bit worried about her. He knows her family life is not the best since her parents are not together and hopes it doesn't affect her too much when she gets older.
Since Lewis is a bit new, Alex doesn't know a lot about him. He does try to speak with him, boy does he try, but he always seems to try to get away as fast as possible. Alex feels like he makes him uncomfortable, something he'd like to remedy. He usually seems a bit distant from others, but Alex is sure that there's a reason for it. He hopes to figure it out.
Boy, that guy sure is passionate about photography. Alex enjoys looking at whatever images Rucks has managed to capture and will even listen to him rant his heart out about them. Alex thinks the guy's images are at the same level as a professional, but then again, what does he know. Alex thinks that his images are absolutely breathtaking, and maybe one day he could rummage up the money to blow up one of those pictures and have it hanging on the wall of the twins’ apartment.
Alex thinks Vanessa is almost too good to be true. She's really nice and kind, however, she's a bit on the introverted side. She fits her role as a librarian perfectly, but no one can be that perfect, right? As much as Alex prefers to look at people in a positive way, he gets a bit suspicious of people who seem to be too good to be true. Spending his childhood in politics has taught him that everyone has flaws. He's mainly curious as to what Vanessa's are.
Fletcher is a really neat guy. As much as Alex loves kids, he couldn't imagine himself working with such a variety of kids as Fletcher does. Honestly, Alex would have gone crazy if he had to spend a week with such a mob of small children. However, Fletcher some how keeps it all together. Alex finds it interesting how different Fletcher is when he's with kids vs when he's not with kids.
College Student (Skyline University): Horticultural major, Personal Gardener: works at Eden Garden's apartments
"Sorry, am I speaking the truth?"
In-Depth Appearance
Coming to a height of 5’11, Abby is relatively tall for her age but has a slender build of only 135 pounds. She has light, blonde hair that extends all the way to her stomach, usually decorated in a high ponytail or occasionally curled. From her high cheekbones and mysterious, blue-green eyes, Abby has often been described as beautiful; although Abby could care less about the opinions of others. Most of her wardrobe consists of comfortable items such as hoodies, sweatpants, etc. While living with her parents, Abby was forced to wear fancy and ladylike clothes.
Habits and Quirks
Flipping people off
Rolling her eyes
Talking out of turn
Likes
Herbs/plants
Food
Music
Dislikes
People
Rules
Her Parents
Biggest Fear
Abby’s biggest fear in life is having her twin brother, Alex, taken away from her. She can't imagine a world without her brother for there’s no one she cares for more than him.
Personality
Abby hates people, their materialistic and obsessive nature drives her absolutely insane. She has witnessed families torn apart all because of simple greed, seen it consume individuals. Trusting anyone other than her brother has become nearly impossible. Perhaps it’s because of her upbringing, but Abby simply has only room in her heart for her brother. Alex claims it’s because she hasn’t given anyone a chance, but Abby would disagree. People have a habit of even betraying love when their greatest desires are offered on a plate. She finds it disgusting how easily one would take a bite.
Rebellious to the very core, Abby listens to no one. As she believes, people ought to make their own decisions and live with the consequences. Most of her time is spent away from society, and if it weren’t for her brother, Abby would have packed her bags and traveled to a place where she could spend eternity alone a long time ago. Because of her behaviour and large mouth, Abby has a nasty habit of getting in trouble. School and her never really got along. She hates rules and isn’t afraid to show her distaste for it, often being suspended or expelled. People hate hearing the truth, and Abby has gotten quite well in shoving it at people’s faces. Where her brother succeeds in social skills, Abby has always been the fighter. She stands up for what she believes, damning the consequences. Once she makes her mind on something, it’s difficult to stop her, even if she knows she’s doomed to fail. Abby is quite hardworking and extremely stubborn, traits she is proud of. Should things get physical, she still isn’t afraid to back down. While she is relatively weak, Abby’s greatest strength is her ability to never hold back.
"Do you even go here?"
Background
Born from two powerful politicians, Abigail and Alexander Clarke lived a life of absolute perfection and constant rules. Abby was shoved into uncomfortable, but beautiful, outfits and taught to act ‘correctly’ to ensure her parent’s popularity. She hated it. The twins quickly grew close, depending on each other for comfort and fun. There was no one Abby cared more for than her brother. While the two were like yin and yang, they got along well and looked after each other. She gave him her trust, something Abby has never given to anyone else. With her brother at her side, being pawns in her parent’s game had become bearable.
As the two grew older, Abby no longer tried her best to be ‘perfect’ and ‘pretty’, only thinking of her brother and herself. She acted out at school, talked back to teachers, stopped studying for classes, she only committed to things she wished. Something about gardens and herbs had sparked her interest, so much of her time was spent learning about the craft. This didn’t bode well with her parents, who were constantly covering up her tracks to the press. Once the twins graduated high school, they were shipped off to an expensive college known as Evergreen Academy. Their parents hoped this opportunity would force them to begin acting like adults.
While visiting her parents (unwillingly) from college, Abby uncovered a horrifying scandal. She often snuck into her parent’s room or eavesdropped on their conversations, but most of what she heard had little to no importance. Her parents had grown careless while the twins had been away, however. They had recently announced a series of fundraisers they would conduct for a well known charity; Abby knew it was only for show, but she hadn’t realized what they were truly planning. Instead of giving the money they raised to those in need, her parents had been tucking it away for their own profit. Abby refused to let such a terrible fact stay hidden and after much debate with her brother, they finally agreed to release the information to the public. An uproar followed in suit. The Clarkes, livid from their children’s betrayal, kicked them out of their life completely. They were forced to drop out of the expensive Evergreen Academy and face the real world with only their wits. After finding a cheap apartment and jobs of their own, they transferred to Skyline University. Because of their parent’s occupation and the recent scandal, Alex and Abby were very well known around both the academy and town.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father:George Clarke Mother:Martha Clarke Siblings:Alexander Clarke Pet/s: N/A Other: N/A
There’s no one Abby cares more for than her brother. The two have gone through everything together, and she would do absolutely anything for him. However, his good-natured self drives her insane. Who can possibly be that nice all the time?? It seemed exhausting. He would do anything for anyone, and one of these days, someone’s going to end up being betraying him. Of course, when that did happen, Abby’s fist will be there to clean up the mess. He may be older, but Abby would be the one to protect him.
Like many of the other residents, Abby knows very little of Cassandra. The girl is a complete ditz and.. What were we talking about? Aha, she could never hold a conversation either. Not only does she have too much energy for her own good, she forgets everything you say the moment you say it. Despite that though, Cassandra is fairly honest, and Abby admires that about her.
Who? Oh, is he that awkward, scrawny kid with a bird’s nest sitting on his head? Seriously though, has the guy ever heard of a comb? Abby doesn’t know much about him, other than that his hair is absolutely atrocious and he can fix things. He always annoys Abby too much to hold a conversation. Like her brother, he’s too nice. Abby's more of a man than he is. Perhaps if he toughened up a bit and didn’t bow to everyone else’s will, she might think better of him.
This kid is still alive? If she has to listen to one more equation leave his mouth, she might actually explode. Why her brother thinks she needs a tutor, she’ll never know. It’s not like she’s stupid, she just doesn’t show up for class. But, Alex asked her to do it, so how could she not? Damn him. Kimberly is too quiet for his own good, what even went on in his head? Did he only think about numbers and books all day? Man, what a bore.
”I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling hella cute today.”
- Cassandra Moon
Name
Cassandra "Cass" Lily Moon
Age
23
Gender
Female
Sexuality
Bisexual
Job
Bartender at Vibe
Runs a semi-popular personal blog; looking into moving towards full-time blogging and vlogging
"I like to think I’m pretty fucking cool. What do you think?"
In-Depth Appearance
If the stereotypical modern gay female hipster could be embodied, Cassandra’s just about got it covered. She’s embraced the stereotype wholly, aware of the stigma placed on women that look and dress as she does (read: pixie haircut and eclectic fashion sense), but pleased with how goddamn good she looks in the style. At 5’4, Cassandra is just about of average height for women. Her fitness is important to her; at some point in high school, she became a huge health nerd and began to carefully watch her diet and her workout routine. Since then, she’s largely slacked off from her once intense diets and routines, though she still manages to stay fit.
Habits and Quirks
Completely zoning out and daydreaming
Singing way too often
Inserting hella into every possible sentence. It was ironic at first, she swears.
Likes
Writing
Anything music
Alcohol
Cigarettes
Fitness (Often conflicting with alcohol and cigarettes. She knows.)
Animals. All the animals.
Dislikes
Sad books, movies, or general stories
Economics (which she usually attributes to sounding like a sad story)
Grapes
Guys that can’t keep to their goddamn selves.
Dads
Biggest Fear
The one thing Cassandra could not live without is her creative drive. She hasn’t experienced any kind of serious writer’s block, nor has she yet run out of ideas for ways she can express herself, so it’s so far so good. But Cassandra knows that it’s really only a matter of time until she hits her first major writer’s block, and she truly fears the day that happens to her.
Personality
Quite the social butterfly, Cassandra just can’t seem to keep to herself when she’s surrounded by people. She loves to talk to others, and is charismatic and knowledgeable enough to get their attention and hold a conversation with them, no matter the topic. However, a short attention span tends to get in her way, often causing Cassandra to come off as a ditz. Unless she’s writing, or talking about something related to writing in some way, it’s near impossible to keep Cassandra focused on socializing for too long.
"Uh… so you were talking about… what was it, again?"
Background
Cassandra’s father left her mother when Cassandra was only 4, and though he paid his child support and called on her birthdays, her father was largely a non-factor on her life up until college. He just so happened to be moving to the same town Cassandra was attending college in, and did his best to involve himself in Cassandra’s life. To her, it was too little, too late, and she did what she could to get that point across to him. The conflict culminated in a large fight between Cassandra and her father at her college graduation, after which Cassandra vowed never to speak to her father again.
She fled to Hartford, where her mother was already living. After living at her mother’s house for a few weeks, Cassandra got her own place at Eden Gardens, now a resident for just over a month. She does her best to make rent on her own, but her mother has accumulated enough wealth to cover the expenses Cassandra can’t. (Not to mention the other gifts and favors Cassandra’s mother pulls for her.)
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father: James Moon Mother: Emilia Reynolds Siblings: N/A Pet/s: One cat, Pietro Other: Cassandra calls her best friend from college, Jessica, weekly. They briefly dated when they first met, but Cass was also dating another guy at the same time, and now all parties have agreed to never speak of it again.
He’s a pretty boy, Cass will admit, but he’s definitely not her type. Okay, well, she’s pretty sure he isn’t, but the jury’s still out on that one. His hair is hella weird. Is he hitting on her? No. Yes? Cassandra doesn’t know. She’s pretty sure Alex talks to everyone like that. It was just a greeting, anyways. What’s he studying, again? Business? Okay, he’s definitely not her type. Is he? At least he isn’t an asshole.
There’s a good chance that Abby’s a bitch, but it’s not like Cassandra would know for sure. As far as Cass can tell, Abby keeps to herself most of the time. She hears a lot about that Clarke family scandal from gossip at Vibe. People put hella blame on Abby mostly, though that’s probably just because she’s more reclusive than Alex. It doesn’t really matter, either way. Abby steers clear of Cass, so it’s not really her place to judge what she doesn’t know.
Jack is cute, if you’re into the hella awkward boyish thing. Cassandra is not. When they first met, she had a bit of a panic attack when she thought he was hitting on her, but the two have since settled that issue, finding relatability in their shared spaciness. She can’t decide if he looks older or younger than he is; the facial hair is really going a long way for him, but sometimes he just looks like a hella developed twelve year old.
The dude is a walking mystery, and Cassandra spent all of ten minutes obsessing about figuring Kimberly out before she found something more interesting to do. She feels guilty about the time she carded him at Vibe, because she was hella sure she was gonna have to kick the poor kid out. She might start covering his tabs under the table, because she just cannot handle seeing him so fucking sad all the time.
Cassandra views Quinn as the world’s reminder that women are fucking awesome. She’ll never admit it, but she holds Quinn on a high pedestal. She has a great amount of respect for Quinn’s ability to carry herself so strongly and just dominate a room; when they’re working the bar together at Vibe, Cass finds herself stepping back and letting Quinn take charge whenever possible. Cassandra considers herself well out of Quinn’s league, for those very reasons, although that doesn’t stop her from crushing on Quinn hella hard.
Doris is gorgeous, but a goddamn trip. Cassandra listened to Doris’ radio show once, and she couldn’t decide if it was awesome or fucking ridiculous. Well, not that the two are mutually exclusive, or anything, but “DJ BoomKitty” definitely makes it feel like they are. Someone at Vibe once mentioned that they were pretty sure DJ BoomKitty was in law school, which Cassandra considers the ultimate paradox.
Max doesn’t seem like an asshole in the limited interactions the two have had together, so Cassandra doesn’t have any complaints about him. She doesn’t know enough about him to make any sort of judgment, except that she’s fairly confident she knows what his online handle is. Being a blogger keeps her on the internet just as much as any good gamer, after all.
They’ve had numerous brief moments of bonding over their shared love of animals, but Nathan eventually ends up talking about the science of animals after a while and Cassandra just cannot pay attention to him for very long. Nathan’s cool enough, though, and there are some days where Cassandra is pleasantly surprised to be able to have a chat with him.
??? What the hell is this guy??? Is he real??? Is he okay???? He seems so… sad??? Does he have a fucking kid???
Every time Cassandra sees him, she wonders why he looks and carries himself like he’s been thrown against a wall a couple hundred times. Lewis keeps away from her most of the time, though, so Cassandra does the same. She’s pretty sure the two of them could get along if they stopped skirting around each other whenever they came within a hundred feet of each other; until then, she’ll just have to keep wondering.
Physically, he’s like… a younger, less muscular clone of Clarence? Sometimes Cassandra will spot Rucks in the distance, and the only way she can tell it’s him and not Clarence is that camera that he has all the time. She respects his artistic drive and his feel for creative expression, though their shared tendency to lose interest in a conversation unless it’s strictly about their interests can stifle their interactions. Even still, Rucks is probably the only person in the building that Cassandra feels comfortable enough calling a friend, largely due to the fact that they can relate to each other on so many levels.
Cass weighs Vanessa against Quinn, in that they're complete opposites and yet somehow she still finds something appealing about the soft-spoken woman. Not so much in a romantic sense, but moreso that there's just something compelling about how Vanessa can lead such a bland lifestyle. As she does with everyone, Cassandra keeps it friendly with Vanessa, though she'll admit to quietly watching and studying the woman when she gets the chance.
Yeah, so, Cass has got nothing. Nada. Much like many of the other residents of the complex, Cassandra sees Fletcher around, but doesn't really know anything about him. He might work with kids? Whatever. He keeps to himself - or at least he keeps away from her - so Cassandra respects that, stays away from him as well, and holds any judgments or opinions she might form prematurely.
College Student: Physics, Engineering Home Depot: Part-time job as a stockboy /assistant
"I can fix it! Just give me a rope, a bucket, some WD40 and thirty minutes. Oh, and like, all the duct tape you have. "
Digging Deep
In-Depth Appearance
Jack is medium-height, skinny young man, with short-ish brown hair and a brown beard, both of which he tends to leave fairly messy. His face is highly bony, and he’s actually got a pretty nice chin hiding somewhere under all that fuzz. Physically, he’s not in the worst shape, thanks to all that walking he does as a college student as well as all the carrying of heavy things that his job entails, but without any real workouts he doesn’t have what you might call a ‘chiseled physique’. He doesn’t care about his clothes… like, at all, so he’s usually wearing jeans, sneakers, and a t-shirt with a one liner about some nerdy pursuit of his, sometimes putting on a sweatshirt or a jacket if the temperature calls for it. He has exactly two nice shirts in his closet, and he deeply distrusts any activity that calls for him to wear them.
Habits and Quirks
Absolutely fascinated by simple machines (like staplers) and will often disassemble them to see how they work.
He can, and will, fall asleep anywhere. Anywhere.
Drinks everything through the side of his mouth, rather than the center. He doesn’t know why.
Likes
Math Problems
Fixing Things
Stars
Ice Cream
Dislikes
Doing work
Mornings
Bullies
Biggest Fear
Jack’s biggest fear is loneliness; he’s well aware that his odd behavior makes it hard for a lot of people to be around him, and he’s pretty much terrified of offending all his friends and losing them as a result. He knows fully well what it’s like not to have any friends, and he’s in no hurry to go back.
Personality
Jack is spacy, awkward, and really, really nice. He’s not the best at picking up on social cues and his grasp of manners isn’t perfect, but he tries to compensate for that by being really kind and helpful to pretty much anyone. If someone needs his help and it’s in his power to do so, Jack can be pretty much relied on to do his best. He has an innocence and a faith in people that borders on gullibility (and at times runs screaming across that border), and some people have (not without founding) accused him of having a bit of a martyr/savior complex; someone might think that he’s less concerned with being a good person and more with being the best person in the room, a worry that he himself struggles with. His aggressive niceness aside, Jack could probably be described as a rather lazy person, as he pretty much hates doing work of any kind and sleeps as much as he can. His favorite hobby is fixing things – he loves putting his education to work solving practical problems in everything from machines to furniture, and the more hilariously convoluted the solution is, the better. He has a very strange, borderline absurdist sense of humor, and a lot of what he does is done for the express purpose of ‘making the world a stranger place’.
"I figure I’ll just be really fucking nice to everyone and the rest will maybe sort itself out."
Origins
Background
Question: What do you get when you’re a kid, short, nerdy, and mediocre with social situations? Answer: Picked on! Jack was born in a cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood to two middle class parents, and in spite of his fairly cozy home life the early years of his life were relentlessly miserable, due almost entirely to the relentless torments of the other children, a campaign of hate that carried on roughly until high school, that special time when many people become mature enough to realize they’ve been dicks. In spite of his hatred of school work, he proved to be an enormously talented student when it came to physics and mathematics, and many of his teachers thought that he was destined for very high education, indeed. Unfortunately, the financial difficulties inherent in sending three children to college meant that for his parents, affordability was paramount, an arrangement that worked quite well for Jack, who had no interest in working his ass of in some Ivy League. He’s been attending Skyline for three years as an adult, and has lived in the building for one of those already, in which time he’s become fairly well known as a friendly face / someone to call if you want your shit fixed for free.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father: Mark Cannoway Mother: Linda Cannoway Siblings: Greta Cannoway, 25 Timothy Cannoway, 19 Pet/s: N/A Other: N/A
If he could choose anyone in the building, Jack would want to be Alex. The young man has a natural charm and easygoing way with people that Jack has often wished he could emulate, and whenever the two are in the same room Jack often finds himself awkwardly trying to mimic Alex’s motions and mannerisms in an attempt at capturing the same charm. The two aren’t close, but they have a conversation every now and then, and the fact that Alex is always nice enough to put in the effort to talk to Jack is something that the boy greatly appreciates. Nevertheless he’s slightly intimidated by the other man; something of a holdover from his younger days, a natural instinct that Alex is too ‘cool’ for him and should thusly be avoided.
If her brother makes him nervous, then Abby scares the shit out of him. In the few times they’ve spoken, she has not hesitated to make it clear that everything about him annoys her, and said encounters generally end with Jack scrambling off under the pretense that he’s got to go do something else. He’s done his best to avoid her recently, even ducking and hiding as she passes, though he’d be lying if he said something about the girl didn’t intrigue him. Here he was, trying and failing to play the game of social interaction like everyone else, and then comes a girl who doesn’t seem to care for it at all. Bizarre, but interesting.
After some initial difficulty wherein Jack’s compulsive generosity gave off the wrong vibe to the girl, the two have actually come to get along fairly well. Though Cassie’s capabilities as a social butterfly leave Jack in the dust, he can at least connect to her on her ditziness. Sure, she can rarely keep her attention on a conversation with him for long before drifiting off to something else, but Jack’s flattered that she tries.
Let’s not.
Jack and Kim have barely interacted at all past their first meetings, and for no real reason. Kim tends to keep to himself, so Jack’s knowledge of him is limited to his occasional rounds as building errand boy / Mr. Fixit, not the best ways to get to know someone.
Jack met Quinn when he first started living in Eden Gardens, and it took until he overheard someone mentioning ‘her’ to realize that she was actually female. In spite of this initial obliviousness, he likes her well enough. Her coarseness is rarely cruel and her confidence is something Jack admires, and the rougher parts of her personality are generally reserved for ‘assholes’, a category that Jack is fairly sure he doesn’t fit in.
Even though she's not really that much older than him, Doris is like the cool, slightly crazy aunt Jack never had. She's always very nice about asking for his help, and seems to worry a fair bit about people taking advantage of him, and in spite of her wildness, she's one of the first people Jack goes to if he needs advice (particularly about other people). He even tried listening to her on the radio a few times, only to conclude that it's... not really his thing.
Sadly, Jack doesn't know Max very well. The brief glimpses into Max's life that Jack's rounds as maintenance boy afford him indicate that the other young man is a friendly, if somewhat lazy sort of guy. If Jack had a lot of friends, he'd probably want them to be like Max, if he could choose.
Jack understands Nathan, or at least he's pretty sure he does - which is a big deal, as he doesn't normally understand anyone. The man's goofiness and his refusal to take anything too seriously speak to Jack, as do his scientific inclinations, though he fixes animals instead of machines. Nathan is the sort of person Jack might like to be in a few years time, goofy, intelligent, and a little bit more aware of social norms.
Clarence sort of reminds Jack of his father, which isn't saying much as it seems like Clarence reminds everyone of their fathers. In any case, the older man has never been anything but polite and kind to Jack, always very grateful for his help and never impatient at Jack's intrusively helpful nature. He's everything a policeman should be, to the point where Jack often slips up and addresses him as 'Officer' or 'Sir', despite Clarence's reminders that it's not necessary. As for Arianna, Jack loves talking to her - she's a very inquisitive girl, always curious as to what he's doing and what he's working on, which he does his best to explain to her in language she'd understand.
Jack does not get Lewis. If other people confuse him, then Lewis's thoughts are incomprehensible. It seems like he's always speaking in metaphors or talking about colors when no colors exist in a way that Jack just can't follow. Nevertheless, Lewis seems rather interested in what's going on in Jack's head, and so the two do talk a fair amount when they encounter each other, even though these conversations are rather stilted even by Jack's standards.
Rucks is a nice guy, that much is certain. Jack always thought that artists were supposed to be more like Lewis, all broody and confusing, but Rucks is seemingly a pretty cheerful, sociable fellow, always doing the heavy lifting when talking to Jack and answering his questions about photography in a straightforward manner. Jack is very flattered that he's allowed to work on Ruck's camera, a delicate machine that's obviously very important to the guy; this in mind, he tends to resist the temptation to indulge in his usual hilarious nonsense and just fixes the thing in a practical, straightforward way.
"Just because all the world's a stage doesn't mean everyone gets the spotlight. We can't all be the protagonist in our lives."
- Quincy Dimandario
The Basics
Name
Quincy Anise Dimandario
Age
25
Gender
Female
Sexuality
Biromantic Homosexual
Job
Quinn attended university and even got a degree in journalism. After failed internships, her dream job of being a journalist has yet to come to pass. She instead found a job at Vibe, serving drinks and talking to the customers. On the side she blogs, often about the clients she serves but sometimes just to rant.
"Answers aren't at the bottom of that glass, man, but damn if the journey there isn't great for thinkin'."
Digging Deep
In-Depth Appearance
It's no big secret to anyone that Quinn leans in heavily to the whole androgynous angle in nearly every aspect from her hair to her attire and even to her voice which has that coarse edge to it, though that could easily be from the smoking habit. Baggy, boyish clothing make up the norm of her day-to-day outfits though she prefers to think of it as just simply clothing. There's no adherence to fashion trends or the like, she's no model and she doesn't care to follow the always changing trends, for Quinn putting on some graphic tee featuring some shitty band underneath a flannel jacket straight out of a grunge video is just as fashionable as whatever the people in Milan or wherever are cooking up. Quinn never lets her hair grow out, as that would serve only to ruin the image she has. When working she adopts a more formal manner of dress. Slacks and a button up shirt, sometimes with a necktie to go with it. People tend to like their bartenders not looking like they just rolled in from the skate park.
Quinn's skin is pale, spending a lot of time indoors tends to have that effect, and any makeup she uses is done not to enhance or draw attention to but to lighten and conceal. Her presence is noticed without having to resort to extravagant makeup displays or eye catching outfits. There's artwork on her body, centered on her arms, tattoos with little meaning beyond looking cool at the time or memories now better left forgotten, permanently attached to her skin as a reminder of mistakes and the idiocy of youth.
And yet, arguably the most noteworthy thing about Quinn's appearance is her height. She's not unusually short nor tall, though she stands at 6'2" and is considered tall compared to most of the other girls she associates with. Her build is rather slender but unmistakably feminine once you strip away the baggy clothing that serves to hide her curves and bust from prying eyes.
Habits and Quirks
Since she can't smoke while working and biting her fingers and nails would be unsanitary, Quinn chews a lot of gum when working. It keeps her mouth busy while her hands pour bottles and serve mugs.
Always buys the same groceries and orders the same meal at restaurants. The only variance is when she is just out for a snack, but that's what gas stations are for, not groceries. She is a bit of a routine person.
Starts and ends each shift by taking a shot of whatever the first and last customer orders. She sees it as connecting with people.
Refers to damn near everyone as just 'man'. She remembers names, but names are so...formal some times.
Likes
Sunshowers and rainshowers
Baseball games
The first cigarette of the morning
Dislikes
Dogs
Thunderstorms
People ducking out the morning after, before that awkward breakfast and even more awkward explanation
Biggest Fear
Like many in the world, Quinn fears rejection. Not just simply being rejected by a crush or something so teenager, but being rejected from people that matter, people that influence and open doors. Quinn being so afraid of people saying 'No, you're not good enough' prevents her from truly going after what she wants in life. She won't apply her knowledge and passion out of that crippling fear of rejection - and that, in turn, is why she turns to other vices to fill that void that is fear.
Personality
Quinn is someone overly confident in their own skin from the way she walks about with that swagger and that look that says more than words ever could. A shark in an ocean of guppies who won't hesitate to strike when opportunity arises and when her voice needs to be heard. Surely enviable to the right sort, desirable from a different, the dictionary definition of one who has no time for other's opinions and has long since run out of anything resembling a fuck to give.
Quinn is also an emotional wreck crippled by insecurities and a desire to produce something great while only being capable of putting out absolute tripe. Stuck in a spiral that only ever sinks further and further downwards. Unable to hold onto connections, lovers, friends, and a settling realization that her voice will never be heard in the world. Misery loves company and surrounding herself with people just as miserable as her is how she can boost herself up, make herself look better than she feels she truly is. And the only one who knows this is herself, because her slavish devotion to her own image has taken up so much of her identity that any admission that she's headed for a self destructive path would be akin to social suicide.
"If it were my choice, I'd serve some sixteen year old a beer. They're in high school, that's the time to fuck around."
Origins
Background
Quinn, birth name of Quincy because her father was so adamant that his child be named after his grandfather, was born in a rather bustling city, by way of the suburbs. People in the suburbs of a city always claim to be from the city to make them sound more refined or cultured than they truly are. Quinn was what people would call a 'tomboy' but Quinn simply saw as 'playing with friends'; her parents and immediate family were stuck in the mindset of their childhoods still. Quinn had a knack for worming her way out of trouble, be it by blaming accidents on one of her boy friends or faking tears to gain the sympathy card, it was at such a young age that Quinn realized people will believe what they want to believe. That people rarely see beyond the surface. It didn't matter if there was a broken vase and she was holding the bat, if she cried and said David Weber from next door made her do it, then David Weber from next door was getting a spanking while Quinn was getting an extra scoop of ice cream for dessert.
High school was an interesting time for Quinn. She had the great pleasure of attending a school known more for its appearances in local papers than its curriculum. Students had a tendency to square up and throw down over the slighest offense that it became a bit of a game between students. Sort of a 'guess the reasoning', and kids would've bet on it if gambling weren't so heavily frowned upon. But it wasn't the fights that made high school difficult for Quinn but rather the fact that even at that young age she was standing out for all the wrong reasons. Kids at that age didn't care to know Quinn, only knowing her as the weird girl with the camera or the weird girl with the grunge look. She thought herself an artist among a country of boors.
Moving to Hartford was not a decision she made lightly. Hartford didn't exactly have the New York Times or anything, but after attending college in a large city full of jokers, thieves, liars, and fakers, she needed a break, a place to really find herself and focus on what was important. Maybe even see if the town paper - every town had a paper, right? - had room on its staff. Quinn has been a resident of both Eden Gardens and Hartford for nearly two years now, and still most people only know her as 'a bartender' or, in the case of the non-alcoholics of the town - 'the grungy looking thing'.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single, but has had her share of flings. Partner: N/A Father: Curt Dimandario Mother: Margaret Dimandario Siblings: N/A Pet/s: About five fish kept in her apartment Other: N/A
This is reserved for your character’s opinion on everyone else. Please don’t fill this out until all the characters have been revealed.
Theme Song
"I don't know what got into me. Hot and cold water meeting. I'm telling you, there's no place I've been; Where my mind stops wandering, wandering."
"Put on your bulletproof g-strings kids, cuz DJ BoomKitty's ready to shoot ya'll some midnight beats." - DJ BoomKitty
The Basics
Name
Dorothy Anne Stubbs Goldhirsch
Age
27
Gender
Female
Sexuality
Bi
Job
Law student, graduating. Evening Radio Dj.
"The guy I was hooking up last night? Never been glad to be sober in my entire life."
Digging Deep
In-Depth Appearance
Dorothy stands at 5'5 with a fairly average physique. Although she sometimes put some effort in staying fit whenever she has the time, from doing funky dance workout routines in the privacy of her own apartment or doing sit ups in the backseat of her car. Her brunette hair reaches to shoulder length, either she'd tie it up or use a headband. Though growing up, people came to admire her classic beauty, specially her big round hazel eyes that never fails to grab attention despite showing stress. Her fashion varies from casual to professional but most of the time she is more comfortable wearing smart casual with a bit of ragged touch.
Habits and Quirks
Nail biting
Raising her brow whenever she's confused
Helplessly snorts whenever she's laughing
Likes
Booze
Hooking up with hot people
90's slow jams
Joy rides
Broadway musicals
Dislikes
cats
doing the same boring routine everyday
politics
Biggest Fear
Dorothy's biggest fear is losing her worth to everyone she cares for. Over a cigarette and a glass of bourbon on a lonely evening, she would imagine herself slowly drifting into madness, being thrown and locked away forever, alone and useless. She also has a fear of the ocean.
Personality
Dorothy is best described as a "insane, offensive, freaking Rambo." It's because of her straightforward and blunt attitude that people love to hate her for, but equally, plenty appreciate her pragmatism and realness as a person. With her social personality she's good with people, although she'd tolerate some people that would off her. But she will not hesitate to switch on her batshit mode whenever it calls for. A "heavy-duty" woman, she has no problem drinking an Irish sailor under the table (a talent she got from her father), nor kicking life in the nuts despite all the shit it throws at her. Although she never shows her compassion outwardly, Dorothy has genuine care for people close to her. Cold on the exterior, she is instinctively empathetic of people, and be willing to lend a shoulder to cry on. And if things go bad for her friends, she'd be the protective alcoholic mom you never thought you need. Despite all, she is emotionally vulnerable, her pride trying to hide the tears even if people around her obviously see it.
"Let me scratch that for you, hun. "
Origins
Background
Dorothy Anne Goldhirsch is the eldest child of 4 children of a Math teacher and a househusband. Growing up in a working class suburban household, Doris pretty much had a normal childhood. An energetic and wild child, she got herself into more than a fistfight and a 2 day suspension with her rough attitude and smart-ass mouth. At a young age Doris had always dreamed of becoming a singer or actor ever since she got into a Shakespeare play in school. She'd go on auditions in school plays and enthusiastically participate in local theater programs. When she turned 12, her parents had entrusted her with household authority and responsibilities over her siblings, who were only 8, 6 and 3 at that time. Whenever they're away (or whenever her dad comes home too late and too drunk from the bar) she'd take care of them at times where they couldn't afford to hire a baby sitter. Her parents would frequently argue due to financial problems among other things, but she got used to the noise and even go between their arguments to drop a "give it a rest, you two.". However, it never went into anything serious or violent to the point that they'd despise each other or ruin their family. Despite the constant arguing and rowdiness in their small abode, they're a close knit dysfunctional family and would stick together no matter what.
When she was about to enroll in a theater school, her mother died of cancer. She had to drop her studies work part time in various odd jobs from being a dishwasher, a door to door salesman, even tried being a clown at a children's party. Her dad tried to help out but was too old and mourning for the loss of his wife. He got himself more drunk than ever, where he'd leave the house the moment he wakes up in the afternoon and Dorothy would drag him passed out on the side walk at night. She still loves her dad, however, and would willing to give up a lot just for her family. Years later, Dorothy got a job as a radio DJ when one of her friends recommended her to a radio guy, and chose the name DJ BoomKitty (she initially got from a drunken dare) w/c had become popular among radio listeners. At this point exactly a few years since her mother's death, her dad had promised to change and to moderate his drinking (only if her daughter would join him on game nights. W/c is, almost every day.) and happily help out by doing repair jobs for a living. After a talk with her dad about "making a nice life for herself in the big city", she agreed to leave and pursue her studies. Though in her heart she wanted to pursue theatre, she thought of what's practical and what she thought will provide her in the long run, she dropped her dream and stuck to taking up a pre law degree(what her mom always wanted for her) whilst part timing as DJ BoomKitty.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: -- Father: Herman Goldhirsch Mother: Catherine Goldhirsch Siblings: Alphonse, Elaine, Michael Goldhirsch Pet/s: -- Other: --
Doris thought that God was feeling generous when he made Alex. She could not honestly grasp just how nice this kid is, but he sure knows how to dress to kill. Add to his teen dream looks that equals his charming personality, he's a real sweetheart and Doris just cannot find a reason to hate him even if she tried.
For obvious reasons, Doris kind of connects with Abby, like kindred spirits if you will. She see's her own younger self in the girl, the somewhat similar outlook on people, the same shove it attitude, and even admires her driving spirit where at times Doris sees herself fail at. As much as Doris admire those qualities, she just couldnt handle that rebel phase, w/c is the irony of it.
Doris knew Cass as that one hipster bartender from the vibe. Either she's too tired or too drunk to even remember, they may have had a conversation or two about her radio show. She talks a lot, w/c isnt exactly what Doris came for at Vibe after a long stressful day at work. She knows Cass means well, and usually pipes down after like, 15 minutes.
Jack is the more useful and less expensive version of Lewis. He's awfully nice that when Doris asked him to fix something, he politely declined getting compensated. LIke really, she's thankful that this little grace from God was dropped on her doorstep in her time of need, but at the same time worries that his kindness will get him nowhere and one day just be taken for granted.
Kim is that mysterious soul who every once in awhile, just slides in and out of the vibe. Probably because of the whole ID thing with Cass, or her awfully cheery vibe, Doris remembers that issue got a little awkward. They talked briefly, though it was one of those times that she wasn't in her best image. She does get a little gnarly when the booze kicks in.
The other, more peaceful, eyecandy bartender. Doris, being a regular at the vibe, often sees Quinn there and have had a few stories and drinks to share, or occasionally, they'd go up for dares. In her drunken state, Doris may have said things to Quinn that she shouldn't have, which the following day in the apartments made her not look properly in the eyes.
Max awfully reminds Doris of her younger brother. Though, he cracks a lot of jokes even if she's not into his humor, least he's there to keep the room a little less broody specially when she's around. Whenever they pass each other at the apartment Max would cheerfully greet Doris with a high five, and instead give him a gentle poke on the forehead like she usually does to her baby bro.
Doris cant decide if she wants to smack the guy or make out with him or both. Nathan is a huge goofball and Doris just cannot take him seriously. At times she'd find herself smiling at his ridiculous joking and deep inside she hates to admit that. But she simply just cant help it. He isnt exactly Henry Cavill but his warm personality makes him oddly charming. She heard that his apartment is an animal boarding house, she's not really a fan but she thinks it's cute nonetheless.
Doris may have made a pass at Clarence the first time they met w/c the moment she realized, she nervously dropped it and they never spoke of it again. She cant really blame herself, the guy's a looker. Still, they're friendly with each other and would get into a few conversations here and there about work or life in general.
Lewis is like, Doris's personal bellboy, a pricey, sometime whiney one. Whenever Doris doesnt have the time to do basic errands due to long hours on her studies and work, he'd call up Lewis who is more than happy to comply her requests, for the right price that is. They have a passive agressive, brother-sister relationship going on to the point that Doris have come to care for him.
Doris, while in her usual non sober self, first met Rucks as the eager young art student who came asking for a critic in his work. Although Doris was no artist herself, she may have pushed the guy a little over the edge with her blunt criticism. After that issue, Rucks tried to avoid her at all cost, whenever she catches a glance of him he'd usually go the opposite direction. She swears, one day that kid has to grow a pair and take an honest judgement. If that day comes, Doris would be the first person to give him a good pat in the back.
"What’s the point of living if you’re not having fun?"
- Maxwell Prescott
Name
Maxwell (Max) James Prescott
Age
23
Gender
Male
Sexuality
Heterosexual
Job
College Student: Undecided. Part-time worker: Skyline Campus Janitor.
"I’ll study after the next round I lose. So probably not tonight!"
In-Depth Appearance
Tall and thin, Max sits around 6’ 1” while only weighing around 150. Though naturally brown Max dyes the ends of his hair blonde. His eyes are a soft blue that go with his rather pale skin. When it comes to clothing he likes to mix style with casual, often wearing more than one layer for shirts and settling for whatever jeans he has available.
Habits and Quirks
Rarely sits normal (I.e. sits with chair backwards, puts back against armrest.)
Max wants to be an example for his younger brother and fears him ever thinking him a failure. The idea of living in his parents strict environment again is also a thought that he dreads.
Personality
Max is easy going and fun loving. If there is a good time to be had you can count on him to be there. He’ll do anything to keep the room positive, cracking jokes and such whenever he feels the mood needs to be lightened even when it seems inappropriate. When it’s past saving, however, he usually shuts right up and will even try to leave as he hates confrontation of any sort. When stressed, angry, or when he’s looking to just unwind, Max will often be playing whatever video game he is into at the time.
"So are we going out tonight or staying in? Honestly I’m fine with either."
Background
Maxwell’s life before college was, uneventful. His parents were the overprotective type and rarely let him or his younger brother do anything far from the house; and to make matters worse, they were desperate for their children to be successful. Unless they kept above an A-, they were not allowed to do anything unrelated to school work. This did have a few benefits. Being the only real friend, he and his brother Sam became very close. They took the same classes whenever possible, and when both had grades that satisfied their parents, they would get online and game it up into the night.
After years of keeping his grades up (not always through honest means) Max graduated with honors and a full ride scholarship to Evergreen Academy which he promptly accepted ready to get away from his parents. Though he was sad to leave his brother behind, he knew they would always stay in touch online.
Finally free and living on his own, Max began enjoying life to its fullest. Going to parties, gaming for days on end, even entering a few local tournaments. He truly he was having the time of his life...Until his first report card came. Having gotten carried away, Max had forgotten not only to study, but attend class altogether. Though he tried to pick his grades up, it wasn’t enough. Max lost his scholarship and living in student housing, lost his home as well.
Living off his savings Max tried to stay afloat renting a cheap apartment in Eden Garden, but having difficulty finding a job he soon found himself running out of money. Desperate to stay on his own and not seem a failure to his brother, Max took out a student loan for Skyline University (after being denied one for Evergreen) and even found a job as one of the custodians.
Relationship Information
Relationship Status: Single… Ladies? ;)
Partner: Position is open.
Father: Patrick Prescott
Mother: Diane Prescott
Siblings: Samwell Prescott
Pet/s: N/A
Other:
This guy! Alex and Max have been best friends for sometime now. The two are so close they are often mistaken as a couple, something that has now become a running inside joke between them. Max can always count on Alex to be ready to hit the town on a moment's notice or simply come over for a quick hang out. Max has all but given up trying to use Alex as a wingman as more often than not he’ll end up charming every girl there, though he has yet to abandon him to go home with one so score one for the bro code! If Max had to pick one complaint about Alex, it wouldn’t be anything with him, but what he comes with…
Speak of the devil, here’s Abby now. Max has no idea how someone as fun and cool as Alex got a twin that’s just plain nasty. Normally he would avoid someone like her, but since she is his best friend’s sister they run into each other often. Max has tried offering an olive branch but that usually ends with an off comment about him wasting his life in fake virtual worlds and the real one. One thing is for certain, however, the greenery around Eden Gardens has never looked better since Abby started caring for it.
She’s alright. Max hasn’t really talked to Cassandra to get a good idea what she’s like and the few times they’ve spoken have been minimal as she’ll seem to lose attention and go do something else. Though he hasn’t mentioned it, Max does read her blog. He finds it entertaining to see what’s going on around Eden Gardens when he’s not around.
Since he’s not really sure who the building super is, Max will often call Jack when something needs to be fixed. Aside from that, the two don’t talk much. He can tell Jack is a nice enough guy and usually won’t accept any compensation Max offers for fixing things; but he doesn’t really know much about him. Max has considered inviting him over for a strictly social visit one of these days.
Kim? Kim. Kim. Kim. OH KIM! Max doesn’t know much about him. They’ve seen each other in the halls every now and then but the most they exchange is a “hey”. From what Max has heard, Kim is a smart fellow but usually sticks to himself and hardly goes out unless necessary. Max has thought about trying to get Kim to lighten up and get out more, but he gets the vibe that wouldn’t go over too well.
Talking with Quinn is like walking on pins and needles. Though she usually tolerates Max’s joking nature, he’s never sure if something will come off wrong and from what he’s heard, Quinn seems like the kinda girl you never want to mess with. Max tends to wonder if this girl really is queen of the world, or if it’s a face she puts on. Either way, Max would rather not risk poking the beast attempting to find out.
Doris is like the more approachable version of Quinn and Abby. Proud and straight forward but not in an intimidating way. Max feels much more comfortable being a jokester and letting loose around Doris even to the point he’ll attempt to high five her when he sees her. Since his job doesn’t require much mental focus, Max will turn into Doris’s show while he’s working at nights.
Max is a big fan of this guy. Funny, smart, and good looks to boot, This guy's got it all. Now if he could just figure out what to do with it all...
Max has always wanted to get to know Nathan better. They have the same light hearted and good nature kinda vibe going which seems to be rare these days. The only problem is Nathan is the more sit down and study kinda guy while Max has a hard time sitting down in the first place.
Clarence is a comfort for Max. With him being a cop Max feels more secure in his home knowing help would be down a few doors if needed. Many find inspiration from Clarence and Max is no exception viewing him as Eden Garden’s very own wise man. Someone who has been through so much and has a lot of wisdom to offer if you’re listening. Max can’t help but feel bad Arianna doesn’t really have anyone her age living in the complex and tries to be someone she can look to when needing a friend.
Max couldn’t have asked for a better roommate. Both of them love video games, albeit different genres, and as such have become the main gaming duo of Eden Gardens. Max can tell Lewis has trouble staying positive and is glad he can be there to keep his spirits up. Adversely Lewis is there to keep Max grounded and focused so he doesn’t revert back to all play and no work. In many ways, Lewis reminds Max of his younger brother.
Rucks is Max’s kind of guy. Fun to be around and tries to be pleasant at all times, Max feels he can crack jokes around Rucks without worry. He admires Rucks photographs and art and often wonders what the guy could create if he picked up MineCraft. When on the job, Max will usually wait until Rucks is the librarian on duty to clean the library as he’s a bit more lenient with the talking rule as opposed to the hag who usually runs the place.
There’s something about Vanessa that draws Max to her. Though she herself has rarely approached him, he can tell she enjoys people’s company and as such tries his best to make her feel included. Whether it’s in the halls at Eden Gardens or seeing her at the library, he often finds himself going out of his way to talk to her. Max figures if he can get her to open up a bit more to people, Vanessa will enjoy life a lot more.
Another shy guy, Fletcher is definitely more than meets the eye. That being said, Max has yet to scratch the surface of this fellow. From the few times they’ve run into each other Fletcher has come off as mellow and a bit more down to earth than Max. From this Max assumes the two don’t have all that much in common. Fletcher does like to make a joke every now and then, but his humor could use some work.
Theme Song
Extra
His username on most platforms is “MaximumPower89” Max’s spirit animal is the Dragonfly
"I may not look like it, but I’m actually a scientist."
A mad scientist. - Nathan Campbell
Name
Nathan Alan Campbell
Age
28
Gender
Male
Sexuality
Heterosexual
Job
College Student: PhD in Biology Part-time barista: works at Mundo
"If this isn’t the best thing ever, then I don’t know what is."
Probably a comment about food.
In-Depth Appearance
Nathan is of an average height of 5’10” but of a somewhat sturdier built which is mostly due to his love for food. A playful, sometimes even mischievous glimmering can almost always be found in his greenish eyes. His messy hair is of a warm brown shade, his short beard untamed and fluffy alike his hairdo. His carefree attitude continues to show itself in Nathan’s wardrobe, especially considering the pieces which he chooses to cover his upper body with. He can often be found wearing shirts with ridiculous prints ranging from dinosaurs to doughnuts, interspersed by quotes referring to his interests. On days which require a somewhat more formal attire he likes to wear dress shirts, preferably checkered and with his sleeves rolled up. As for the rest, he will almost always slip on a simple jeans and a pair of sneakers to complete his outfit.
Habits and Quirks
Pays quite some attention to his food (e.g. always wants something sweet and something savoury for breakfast). Food can also have a big influence on his mood (e.g. he can get really cranky if he has a bad cappuccino, but at the same time his day can be made when he has a nice meal).
Taking in (wounded) animals into his apartment which he then treats and/or studies
Making others laugh by making a fool out of himself (e.g. singing and dancing in a not so charming manner, striking feminine poses, pulling funny faces)
Has a weak spot for cute things; this includes toys, plushies, animals, and girls (no matter fictional or real)
Making references to different types of media (tv shows, movies, games, books)
Likes
Food / Cooking
Animals; birds in particular
The exact sciences; biology and physics have his interest in particular, though he finds astronomy and mathematics intriguing as well
Watching Discovery Channel and cooking shows such as Master Chef
Going outdoors
Technology
Dislikes
Not being taken seriously
Olives
Chewing gum
Strong perfume
Biggest Fear
Nathan fears that, when he will look back at the course of his life in the future, he will find himself having accomplished absolutely nothing. As the oldest of the two children he feels that he should be a role model to his younger brother, but his indecisive nature interferes with this ideal. Nathan is unsure about what path he wants to take in life, which is part of the reason why he is taking a short break from his research and has started to work as a barista.
Personality
The first impression that most people will get of Nathan is that of a carefree goofball or overgrown kid. Although his chaotic appearance may give rise to the idea that he may need a helping hand in his life, the opposite is true; Nathan can take care of himself very well and actually enjoys helping and tending to others. He takes pleasure in pleasing others by means of serving them a nice meal or by making them laugh. This nurturing side of him does not limit itself to humans, but makes him look out for animals as well, even going as far as to shelter them in his apartment, which, unlike his clothing and hair, is kept organized. Nathan has decided to put this characteristic combined with his love for food in practice by working as a barista in one of the cafes. Even though he may be charismatic enough to make small talk with the customers, he is not exactly a social butterfly. He still sometimes feels awkward and uncertain when going up to someone, especially if said person is a cute girl. He can completely loose his cool and get lost in his words while trying to strike up a conversation.
If people would give more meaning to his quirky apparel they would notice that the pictures on his shirts depict not merely a free spirited soul, but also one who takes interest in the exact sciences. While Nathan may seem like a ditz at first, he actually has excellent analytic abilities. When it really comes down to it, he can come up with very good ideas as well as clever solutions to problems. Were it not for his impatience and indecisiveness, he might actually become a very good scientist.
"If you were a dinosaur, you would be a finosaurus."
Nathan’s attempt at flirting.
Background
Nathan was born as the first child to a middle class family, his father a professor in Modern History and his mother originally a vet, but she quit her job to look after her new born son. Not long before Nathan’s second birthday, his mother gave birth to his brother Jeremy. The boys turned out to get along very well and could often be found playing together or horsing around. Although eventually they took interest in different subjects, Nathan preferring to spend his days in nature alike his mother and Jeremy being more socially oriented alike his father, the two grew very attached to each other and spend a great deal of their first years together.
While the first decade of their lives was rather peaceful for the two children, albeit it that their mother seemed to have periods in which she wasn’t her usual cheery self, things got more grim when she started having breakdown frequently. She decided to go see a psychiatrist who, after Evelyn had visited her a number of times, stated that she had some sort of depression and diagnosed her with postpartum depression. She began taking medication, which did help to lift her spirit, but did not save the bond between her and her husband. They started to have fights more and more, until finally Evelyn decided she needed to take a break from family life and moved into a small apartment on her own. The event left Nathan, who had grown rather close to his mother, devastated. It also affected the relationship between him and his father, a stern man but who meant all the best for his sons. A few years after his mother’s departure Nathan cut the contact between him and his father short by moving out at the age of 16; he simply was not able to take any more of the rather tense atmosphere which was left in his parental home. Nathan’s mother financially supported her son’s decision, and the two started to see each other every other week.
After his move, Nathan found himself getting mature rapidly, as he needed to learn to fend for himself quickly. Despite all the turmoil at home, his grades were still sound and when he graduated from secondary school they even were this good that it allowed him to attend university. Picking a subject was not hard for him: animals had always had his interest and so he chose to study Biology. With his head more at peace and his heart more at ease, Nathan gradually regained his old self who loves to be around people and likes to joke around. Now, two years after he has obtained his master’s degree, he has found a job as a PhD student as well a part-time barista. He has been living in one of the apartment of Eden Gardens ever since he moved here two years ago for his PhD, and has gotten to know its surroundings quite well.
Recently, Nathan has gotten in touch again with his younger brother Jeremy. Although the first few times the two met were somewhat awkward and stiff, now they have restored their friendship and continue to visit each other on a biweekly basis. Their meeting has left Nathan thinking back on his life: is the path he is walking right now the one he wants to take? Isn’t he letting life’s opportunities slip right through his hands?
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father: Christopher (Chris) Campbell Mother: Evelyn Hart Siblings: Jeremy Campbell, 26 Pet/s: Varies as he takes shelter of (wounded) animals. A male cat named Erwin and a couple of pigeons belong to his regular pets. Other: Gets along very well with his brother Jeremy, who he visits regularly and vice versa. Visits or calls his mother once a month. Has no contact with his father. Has not yet had a girlfriend and feels slightly self-conscious about this.
Nathan’s first impression of Alex was that of ‘the popular guy’, but this image has proven itself to be partially wrong. Although Alex is charismatic and has a good reputation among the ladies, he’s definitely not an asshole. For as far as Nathan can tell, he actually seems like a really nice guy. He has also heard some people in town talking about him and his sister, about how they released information about their influential parents which greatly damaged their reputation. While to some their act is seen as treasonous, to Nathan it is one of justice and he has enormous respect for the siblings’ decision.
Nathan doesn’t see her often, but if he does Abby is often accompanied by her brother Alex. While he enjoys seeing the siblings interact – a sight which reminds him of the bond he has with his brother –, he is not so fond of her personality. She is tough and will always stand up for herself, qualities which Nathan looks up to, but she does this to the point where is secluding herself from other people. He doesn’t really bother to make a change to that though.
Nathan thinks of Cassandra as a nice and sociable person. He often sees her chatting away with all sorts of people. The two occasionally talk about animals as they both have interest in the topic, but it hasn’t gone unnoticed to him that she seems to get bored of him as soon as he starts to talk about the more scientific aspects of them, such as the reasons for certain behaviour. Then again, she seems to doze off quite quickly while talking to people, not just him. Nathan won’t deny that he thinks she’s pretty cute, but unfortunately for him it appears Cassandra prefers women over men.
Jack is one of the nicest residents of the building in Nathan’s opinion. He’s always willing to help a hand, fixing people their shit, a trait of Jack which he greatly admires. Nathan has also notices they have quite some things in common, from their carefree appearance to their shared interest in the exact sciences, although Nathan focuses on Biology and Jack is more into Physics and Mathematics. He perceives him like a more extreme version of himself in terms of goofiness and childlike characteristics. If he can get past Jack’s social awkwardness, Nathan thinks they may actually become good friends.
He has seen Kim visiting the café Nathan works at every once in a while, though lately his visits have become less frequent. Nathan doesn’t know much about him. He has tried to strike up a conversation with him a few times before while serving him a coffee, but their interactions never last very long as Kim seems to be quite reversed. It has made Nathan wonder whether there’s something bothering the guy or whether he’s just naturally shy. Maybe he’s trying to hide a secret? Like, being a K-Pop star or something? He sure looks like one of those pretty Korean men his brother would listen to. Nathan recently saw him petting a cat while entering his apartment, which is always a nice sight. Maybe he should ask Kim about it next time he encounters him?
To Nathan, Quinn is the definition of badass. She just has this intense, cool look about her that he admires in a way. Their encounters are scarce, as, Nathan has learned, she has a job at Vibe, a place he near to never attends. Whenever he sees her though, lighting up a cigarette outside of her apartment or doing groceries, he can’t help but feel a little intimidated by the tough-looking woman.
Doris is definitely one of Nathan’s more eccentric neighbours. As she’s quite the partygoer, frequently visiting nightclubs like Vibe, places Nathan prefers to avoid, he doesn’t spot her that often. She sometimes has a drink at Mundo though, possibly to sober up, and Nathan has caught her smiling at his tomfoolery. On some days he finds her big, expressive eyes quite charming, while on other days they make him slightly nervous. He has heard many rumours about the wild side of the lady, although he hasn’t experienced much of it himself, aside from her midnight DJ show which he has listened to a few times before, mostly out of curiosity.
For as far as Nathan has been able to tell, Maxwell seems like your typical student; not really doing his best and preferring video games and parties over studying. Always having been a pretty good student himself, Nathan doesn’t exactly approve of his attitude. At least the guy’s got a good sense of humor though and tends to take things lightly, creating a positive atmosphere wherever he goes.
Clarence really is someone Nathan looks up to. This handsome guy is only a few years older than me, and he seems to have his shit so well together! He already has a kid and still looks great, no real signs of stress visible whatsoever. Little does he know the actual situation the dad is in. Whenever Clarence visits Mundo for a drink, Nathan puts a little bit extra effort into his coffee and tries to sound more mature than he really is. He has seen him around town with his daughter, who he thinks is absolutely adorable.
Nathan hasn’t seen the newest resident of Eden Gardens around that much, but then again Lewis has only lived here for, what, a little less than a year? On top of that Lewis seems to be of the reserved type, like Kim, but in a different way; whereas Kim is shy, Lewis appears to be rather solemn. Maybe Nathan has absolutely no reason to, but he kinda worries about him; he can’t help but be reminded of his mother when he sees the weary look on the young man’s face.
Rucks is one of the smoothest talkers Nathan has ever met. Seriously, how is this guy single. Rucks seems to be really into art, just like his brother Jeremy, so Nathan can often talk along whenever he starts a talk on the topic. He has also been informed the man owns a pet snake, so he’ll be sure to visit him sometime so he can meet Flumpykins. What a great name... Just like his owner, whose name rhymes with... *snorts*
"Perhaps when we find ourselves wanting everything, it is because we are dangerously near to wanting nothing."
- Sylvia Plath
❱ ❱ ❱ N A M E ❱ ❱ ❱
Clarence Crawford Daily
❱ ❱ ❱ A G E ❱ ❱ ❱
32
❱ ❱ ❱ G E N D E R ❱ ❱ ❱
Male
❱ ❱ ❱ S E X U A L I T Y ❱ ❱ ❱
Homosexual
❱ ❱ ❱ O C C U P A T I O N ❱ ❱ ❱
Police Detective
❱ ❱ ❱ A P P E A R A N C E ❱ ❱ ❱
All strapping lad and charming dad in one complete package. There's something compelling in the arched back, wide set shoulders, and small waist of Detective Daily. Covered in pinstripe suits (on sale, of course) and pomade, with a spritz of cologne that smells undoubtedly like a JC Penny's, Clarence Daily doesn't necessarily command that great of a presence. However, it can't be said that he doesn't demand some kind of attention. After all, despite the cheap businessman knock-off he has going for himself, some of his 'charm' owes a lot to his inherent confidence. Or rather, his astuteness in his own field - everything else is up for question.
Outside of his professional getup, Clarence commands a better eye for casual detail. Days spent with a friend making sure his closet didn't scream 'DAD' means Clarence treads the line of 'Too old for hipster crap' and 'Mid-life Crisis Frat Boy' very, very carefully. He cut the line at skinny jeans and it's helped tremendously. Shirts that are this size too small in the summer, with jeans that hug but don't constrict, a pair of cheap glasses that fake expensive Aviators with the best of 'em, make up most of Clarence's closet. He contains a whole other collection of winter wear, from regal pea coats to fluffy jumpers, and a number of sweaters that range from stylish to comfortably worn.
On a man his size, it doesn't do harm to lessen that intimidation factor by layering on a ton of winter clothes. Despite a chubby phase through the beginning of college, Clarence didn't do quite so bad when it came to his genes (determination being a prominent one). From a glance Clarence cuts a fine figure: torso heavy with sinewy arms, a skinnier waist than usual with legs that have seen their fair share of 5K's, an abundance of muscles that aid in giving Clarence a wide birth. Pale skin covers heavily in his features, with fine hairs coating his limbs and a spatter on his chest and stomach. Careful consideration in clothing choice and it's not hard to fill out most of his clothes in just the right way.
With a face of mostly hard, defined angles and low hanging, square jaw it's hard to see the smoothness in Clarence's complexion. The sharp nose, jutting over a wide, cupid's bow pair of lips throw heavy shadows on the curve of his cheeks. Shrewd eyes sink beneath crisp line of his eyebrows, plagued by the purple bruise of bags and the stretch of crows feet that hang a dullness over the vibrant blue. Though masculine in feature, Clarence can't deny the gentle contrast of long eyelashes and smooth skin only moderately addled by age lines that mottle his forehead. The glow of health only intensifies under the paleness of his features, even beneath the brush of facial hair that sometimes dusts his cleft chin and hardened jaw. Most of all that's apparent is the tired hang of laugh lines, the upturned curve of his lip, and the hunch in his shoulders that give a close inspection a clue as to how much stress comes with both the job of a detective and the title of a single father.
❱ ❱ ❱ H A B I T S ⥌ Q U I R K S ❱ ❱ ❱
❖ Smoking; it's an awful habit that's he's trying to get rid of. ❖ Has a tendency to take things literally - to an insufferable degree. ❖ Chews on whatever's in his hand at the time. Most everything, at least. ❖ When using a blanket, Clarence has a habit of wrapping his entire self in the covers.
❱ ❱ ❱ L I K E S ❱ ❱ ❱
❖ Flowers; things move too fast sometimes, so there's something to be said about caring for a plant. They demand without force and need without want beyond the necessities - plants expect simplicity and that's enough for a man bogged down in everyday complexities. ❖ Winter; cold weather calls for bundling up and there's nothing better than the comfort of layers to add a modest security. If the world stretches thin with paranoia, at least their's the certainty of warmth for the cold. ❖ Warm Drinks; nothing warms the soul like a good, hot cup of anything. He's currently weening himself off of smoking and Clarence finds warm drinks (like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate) have the most positive effect for him. ❖ 80s Pop; a weird one, but one he finds gets his blood pumping for a work out. Also helps lighten his mood and his limbs. Just don't catch him dancing; his face turns a magnificent color red.❖ Sweaters; any kind of sweater is a good sweater, but mostly those fleece or wool sweaters. Those are the goddamned warmest.
❱ ❱ ❱ D I S L I K E S ❱ ❱ ❱
❖ Smoking; it's a bad habit and he avoids smoking like the plague. ❖ Abandoned Coffee; nothing tastes worse than lukewarm coffee. That washed out taste not only ruins his mood, but ruins his breath (more than regular coffee would, in the first place). ❖ Clutter; due to his more than clumsy nature, Clarence has a tendency to stub his toe more on average than a regular human. So, to minimize the risk, he minimizes the amount of stray corners he can nearly break his pinky toe on. ❖ Off-white; it's a weird dislike, but it reminds him of clouding an apartment in smoke and seeing the once crisp, white, plaster walls turn a sickly off-white yellow. He's disliked the color ever since. ❖ Losing Things; Clarence has everything filed down to a T, so losing things infuriates him.
❱ ❱ ❱ B I G G E S T F E A R ❱ ❱ ❱
Complacency; not necessarily in his own achievements but in a mediocre living. He's afraid of becoming complacent in a life he didn't want to begin with, or in simply being content with a life where he has yet to achieve his goals - where he'd abandoned his goals for lesser ones. Ones he didn't come up with in the first place. Living with parents who always thought they knew best and who urged him to do things he never wanted in the first place cultivated this fear in his early teens. Only when realizing he'd succumbed to those fears had he realized his own mistakes. Occasionally, Clarence becomes desperate to keep himself from sinking to those lows ever again and often loses sight in himself and others around him.
❱ ❱ ❱ P E R S O N A L I T Y ❱ ❱ ❱
As a young boy, it's not hard to find a dream - or multiple ones. For Clarence that dream fluctuated often; a constant up-down dynamic with each phase lasting years at a time. Clearly, he'd found his passion quite early on and, even in finding a depression in it, he held the torch of his early dreams close to his chest. The skills he learned, the talents, often carried him through life easily, while, on occasion, also burdened him in other areas. Both the pursuit of knowledge and the drive of curiosity featured heavily in Clarence's personal building blocks - his foundation, as a person. That, in itself, lead to a numerous amount of accomplishments and further building of knowledge throughout his years in education.
However, that drive had a knack for lacking an off-switch. Thus, Clarence found burnouts often and with a frequency that shoved Clarence in a bed for days on end. Studying, homework, research not only got done in advance, but despite this vigilance, they continued to pile. Clarence thrived on work, yet he worked endlessly. Diligence drove Clarence into the ground more times than he had fingers and toes. This not only branched into his academics, but further spread into his social life. Relationships meant tireless work and that held his partners, his friends, to an extremely high expectation. He wasn't one for perfection, but Clarence couldn't simply sit around doing nothing. (When the show Parks and Rec hit daytime TV, many of his friends were quick to label him the male version of Leslie Knope; he wasn't one to refute the notion, though he knew he couldn't achieve that much whimsy.)
In older years, when the time came to settle down, Clarence had an undeniable fear towards his own acceptance. By his family. By his friends. By society, as a whole. Though his drive and determination were one for the record books, not much could be said for his own self-confidence. He succumbed to the pressures of his mind and of his family, settled down with a girl, got an office job, and ran himself into the ground. A degree for criminal justice hung unused in his office and his dreams had slowly been swallowed by his own fears. It took years into a marriage before he could start climbing back up, which started with quitting his job and stirring a boiling pot with his wife. It took another year before he became a detective for the local police force and by then he'd already dug his own life into an early grave. A daughter on the way caused him to hesitate until four years into her life, he decided to come to terms with himself.
Now free of burdens, Clarence gained a new found wisdom in life. Complacency isn't a thing to be proud of, but neither is tireless work with no pay off. It took a bit of conditioning before Clarence allowed himself little moments to relax. Whether by watching the sunset or watering his plants, Clarence always took time to wind down and allow himself to appreciate having something to live for. Having the confidence to be who he was always meant to be and chase a dream still alive in his mind and his heart. Sure, that burned a lot of bridges, but it eventually created new ones and he hadn't lost everything he'd built up. In fact, everything he did lose just made room for things he actually cared for. Like a home to himself, a job he's wanted since he was a kid, and the opportunity to watch his daughter grow up.
❱ ❱ ❱ B A C K G R O U N D ❱ ❱ ❱
Uneventful, mostly. Summed up, Clarence adolescence up to his high school years ended up mostly with his nose stuck in a book. Academics had always been an important part of Clarence's life and quite early on, he learned to have an appreciation for learning. In all honesty, Clarence was kind of a boring kid. He was the type to spend most of his days studying, reading, and generally being a good student.
The introvert in him shied away from most socialization, preferring solitude and close friends over crowded events. Thus, the relationships he did make, though few and far between, tended to last. Those with his family, however, seemed more than strained. An overall conservative family with a flair for tight-knit, neighborhood community blew all the energy out of their eldest child all for the sake of coaxing him out of his shell. And yet, in spite of their comforting words, they only thinly veiled the judgment inherent in their personalities - after all, living in a community driven suburbia fueled gossip like no other. As he grew older and the years drew shorter, Clarence drew further in when it came to his confidence and self-assurance - only ever pressured by his parents when it came to living up to their expectations.
The only saving grace came with having understanding siblings with similar minds. Though both had outgoing personalities - or appeared so, in Murphy's case - they hadn't appreciated the pressure wrought on by both parents. The need to represent an ideal family, one molded in the image both mother and father demanded, worked less to unify and more to estrange their children. It further drove them to seek other forms of acceptance, in each other first and then in the friends they made as they moved on from the household. With connections maintained (somewhat with their parents) and their own goals to pursue, it gradually got more difficult to reach the kind of understanding they had as kids. Still, when one needed the other, they'd reach out and they'd listen. What mattered was the attempt to understand and even in their own disagreements, they did find solace in each other.
As time continued stepping forward, Clarence eventually let himself dig too deep. In doing so, the rope that tied him to each of his loved ones grew taught and thin. Crowded in himself and the subconscious need for acceptance, Clarence succumbed to his parents' wishes; after the numerous calls and conversations over holiday dinners, the pressure burdened his shoulders far too much. Giving up his dreams was only the first step and eventually Clarence found himself settled down with someone whom he could likely never love. Someone he grew to resent despite her effort. The steady climb started out of a burning guilt toward himself; he'd lost so much to crippling fear - to pressure - that he couldn't live with himself if he simply grew complacent with a life he didn't want in the first place.
Eventual responsibility hindered his pace - even if the child that came along would never be a hindrance to his goals. That responsibility lay in providing a family and a good, ample space to grow up. That slowing in pace didn't do well for Clarence's mental health and despite his improving career and the steps he took to achieve a dream he'd had since his younger days. The opportunity to finally break off the cycle of pressure, fear, and stress didn't come until much later in his daughter's life.
He'd asked himself many, many times how he could smile so brightly when filing for divorce. Any other person who'd caught their spouse cheating would have taken the ordeal a hell of a lot worse. And yet, Clarence felt like he was signing some kind of emancipation. The real ordeal had been in fighting for custody and actually splitting the money evenly. While he achieved a majority of Aria's time, he still had to wallow in the weekends he could no longer see her. Despite the stress of trying to achieve full custody, Clarence spent the days he could mellowing out. That meant buying a new apartment, coming out to both friends and family, and finding a job with coworkers he actually liked. That last part's still in the works, however.
Settling down in Eden Gardens had been an obvious choice. Despite its close proximity to the university, it also boasted a rather safe neighborhood. Even if the rides to Aria's elementary school took longer than necessary, the opportunity to raise his daughter in a healthy environment was too good to pass up. Even with the college residents, he found enough peace and quiet in his daily routine to alleviate the built up stress and allow himself a decently healthy lifestyle. Or, at least, enough to keep from drowning himself in work until he nearly died of exhaustion - he had a kid to take care of, after all.
❖ Clarence has slight heterochromia. Both eyes are a crisp shade of blue, but the left one contains a large chunk that's dark brown. ❖ Clarence is allergic to alcohol - or rather, he has an alcoholic intolerance. The enzymes in his liver can't convert alcohol into acetic acid, making it rather toxic to his body - at least, in moderate to high doses. ❖ Clarence's Spirit Animal: Eagle. ❖ Arianna takes quite a bit from her father, yet what he lacks in creativity she more than makes up for. She's quite the imaginative girl, a little too curious for her own good, and, while intelligent for her age, isn't way above par compared to other kids in her class. Most of all, she's somewhat aware of her father's situation and does her best to help out when she can - even if it's just by drawing a picture or helping out with breakfast. Aria's a tad stubborn, though, and even when told something doesn't work, she likes to figure it out for herself; she's got a little independent streak going for her that can end up rather aggravating.
"Sweet kid. Couldn't see him hurting a fly, unless that fly personally assaulted his sister. Real good with kids, or at least with Arianna."
Nothing much to say here, other than Clarence appreciates every bit of work Alex does for him, even if it mostly consists of watching Aria when Clarence has her for the weekdays. It's not usually an issue for him, seeing as she goes to school and he comes home just an hour after classes end for the day. She stays at the after school care for most of the time. However, there tends to be days where Clarence can't see himself coming home anywhere near on time, usually he knows when those days happen in advance and is able to call either Alex or his sister to see if they can pick Aria up at 4:30. It's only happened occasionally, once every few months, but the times work springs up on him with little warning are the days he cherishes the twins, especially Alex. He's been nothing but kind and courteous and an absolute godsend on days he can't make it home until late at night and is unable to give good forewarning.
He makes sure to tape a bar of chocolate on their door and a thank you note (after paying them both, of course) as often as he can spare. Weather and AC permitting, of course.
"A misanthrope. She's got some fire, at least. The good thing, though, is that she stays out of actual, real trouble"
A girl with distaste for authority. Or, at least rules and guidelines. Honestly, though, for all that fire and distaste, Clarence hasn't actually witnessed Abby do anything... truly illegal, in the sense that she's a dangerous individual. She's just blunt, a rebel, and extremely stubborn. She watched her closely the first time he met her, earned her ire for it, and backed off when he figured she wasn't looking to actually go around acting like a hoodlum. He does his best to give her a wide berth and just generally give her space she both needs and wants. Not necessarily ignoring her, but then again, Clarence is 100% positive she'd prefer that to anything else. Despite accusations of bribing her with delicious snacks and Clarence's denial and constant excuse of, "They just gave me more than I ordered," he still always makes room in his carry out for Abby and Alex.
"If I can count on anyone to both simultaneously look at me as if I've grown a second head while also undressing me with their eyes, I mean... Cassandra's got that covered."
Being a year long resident, Clarence has known Cassandra for the entire month she moved in. Doesn't know much about her, but he knows her. He does his best to make nice with everyone and is kinda the type to spend money getting people food. Being the wall of muscle he is, Clarence volunteered to help move most of Cassandra's heavy furniture into her house and offered to do so again any time she required the assistance. Afterwards, he bought her a whole pizza and sat in silence while they both ate. She has a tendency to look at him funny, and it's hard to tell whether she's spaced or is actively staring at him. Clarence, however, is definitely used to it by now.
"You get used to the 'Dad' thing. Luckily, Jack only ever calls me 'Officer', though the 'Sir' is kind of pushing it."
There are a lot of people in the complex that call him Dad - and few he's urged, very sternly, not to call him Daddy - so it's no surprise that a few look to him as a father figure. A lot of them tend to vary around college age and most actually do attend college. While it's obvious he isn't quite old enough to be their actual fathers, Clarence has no qualms with potentially being considered such. One person he definitely has no issues with: Jack. Not only is Jack undoubtedly kind, he's smart and really good with his daughter. Arianna's creative, but she's always taken to building things and her curiosity is insurmountable. Jack does a great deal sating that curiosity and she always comes back asking her questions he has absolutely no answers to. It's nice when your own kid stumps you with trivia on a weekly basis, means she's gonna go far and has more than smarts to take her there.
He's mistimed it a few times, but Clarence is usually punctual whenever he leaves a carton of ice cream hanging on Jack's door handle after one of his classes.
"Kid's a ghost. Literally. Any time he sees me he looks about ready to drop dead."
The most likely scenario for Kimberly's attitude around him: he's got weed somewhere in his apartment. When he doesn't actually see Clarence, Kim's usually calm and abnormally quiet. He's still quiet once Clarence passes, but he's more than likely to retreat into meerkat mode and slink back into his apartment. Literally, all the cops he knows has at least done something terribly stupid within the day, so Clarence understands what mistakes are. Hell, most of them smoked marijuana through out their high school career. So, to try and stave off any worries about getting caught doing something likely benign, Clarence tries his best to be a calming force whenever he roams the halls and catches sight of Kimberly. Of course, he doesn't really know why Kim acts the way he does and isn't one to pry, so he leaves the kid to his own devices.
However, any time he makes a pass by the local coffee shop or Starbucks, he makes sure to order an extra if he knows Kim's due home from work the same time he is. Those days, Aria usually blackmails her dad into getting her an extra chunky chocolate chip muffin.
"I don't mind her. Doesn't mean I talk to her."
To an investigative mind like Clarence, Quinn isn't exactly the enigma she claims to be. Or rather, she doesn't claim to be anything but herself. Still, a lot of people don't know her or her motivations - Clarence only mildly included. He doesn't like to pry when he's not welcome and with Quinn, he's usually not welcome to do anything but spare a passing 'Hello'. It's a weird kind of agreement. They don't hate each other, but they don't like each other either. She's nice to his daughter, at least, whenever she has the time to say hello, at least it's in a sweet voice.
On occasion, he's dug enough into a background check ('cause he's not dumb and he screens a lot of the residents himself, despite it... kind of being illegal. He doesn't go too far, just enough to determine whether they're not going to be of any harm to his daughter) to eek out a journalism degree, but that's really it. Again, Clarence still values privacy, but he can't help digging just a bit - so far it's usually only past criminal records, jobs, and education. Regardless, he's at least attempted to slip in some connection to places she might not have checked in order to help her push herself to achieve her own dreams.
"Hey, so, don't let the daughter fool you, but I'm gay."
His likely first words ever, to her. On occasion, he'll remember and laugh about it in private, but Clarence assumes it's still a rather big embarrassment for Doris. Still, he likes talking with her and her blunt nature can provide some pretty decent laughs. It's nice seeing assholes fall flat on... well, their asses when they're persistent and Doris is obviously not interested. They get along rather well, despite their first fiasco, and Clarence appreciates her company probably more than most in the complex.
Often times, he'll tune in when he knows she's working and occasionally that means during his usual Friday Nights spent making homemade pizza with Aria. He'll dance with his daughter, jive, and sing his absolute ass off. And when she happens to be home, unlike most residents, she'll join in from across the hall 'cause he happens to listen music she actually likes. On occasion he'll ask her what musical she suggests 'cause he so happens to maybe wanna see something sometime whenever and totally not because he enjoys her enthusiasm for theatre and music, in general.
Because he's apparently the resident dad, Clarence obviously doesn't help himself at all when he sits down for an entire day off without Arianna and listens to entire tracks to Broadway musicals. Then he proceeds to walk precisely when he knows Doris is up and awake down the hall to start out a morning jog and belts out whatever musical he's feeling that day, throughout the hall (this is usually when everyone is awake, luckily) and happily continues when he hears her join in.
Yeah and he wonders exactly why everyone calls him Dad all the goddamn time.
"It just takes a little push."
All these college kids and every one of them thinking he's some special guy with all the answers. Well, truth be told, Clarence doesn't know shit, but at least he's kind enough to actually tell them he doesn't know rather than feed someone bullshit. Of course, what he does know, he'll gladly give advice for and what he does know is diligence and the importance of hard work. For Clarence it's extremely easy to take a stern role in Max's life, while also not coming off as overbearing. Being an investigator makes it easy to read people, sometimes, or at least, easy to read body language and cues. Most of the time, he knows when to back off.
Knowing Max has a bit of a party issue, Clarence took a few... liberties stealing his school schedule from under his nose the moment he got it, printing off a copy, and making sure the guy's up and off his ass an hour before class starts. As long as Clarence can find time to do it, he has no qualms with busting in and dragging the kid into a pair of clean clothes and risk being late to make sure he actually gets to class on time.
But, he's also one to make sure Max understand the meaning of food and indulges him in family size packs of chips or an entire bag filled to the brim with chocolate. Hey, a guy who's rather in shape can risk a few empty calories here and there.
"It's that judge a book by its cover and then totally regret ever judging another human being again kind of situations."
One thing Clarence prides himself on: being able to read people and do it well. It's why he's an investigator. Clarence has an eye for picking out things people miss and not giving up when things look simple, plain, and 100% discovered. Unfortunately, he does have his slip ups and Nathan is a prime example of that. He considered the guy a dolt when he first met him, and wondered exactly how he could ever walk two feet out of his front door without creating an entire disaster.
And boy was he wrong.
After spending a year in Nathan's company, Clarence has gotten a quick dose of reality. The guy's a genius, self-sufficient, working on his PhD, and can support himself alone working as a barista. And here Clarence is with a daughter he shouldn't have (but would die for), years of his life wasted in an unhappy marriage, only just now able to chase his dreams, and trying to support his daughter while also taking on the burden everyone else carries?
Seriously, no one appreciate's Nathan's company like Clarence does. A good laugh does him good and Nathan's helpful nature has gotten Clarence out of a tight spot more times than he can count. To be honest, yeah Clarence is kinda looked on as the father figure by other people, but the real Samaritan comes in the form of a goofball barista willing to drop everything to help out a stranger. And a lot of the times, he goes unnoticed for that. Clarence makes sure Nathan knows he's got a friend in him, one who appreciates the things he does.
On the weekends, whenever Clarence is feeling down without his daughter should she be at her mothers, he often finds himself at Nathan's door with a bag of groceries for whatever dish he's feeling. Nathan doesn't seem the type to turn him away and he usually doesn't, so they end up cranking the volume on the radio or iPod, cooking a meal for two, and hanging out watching whatever dumb show's on Netflix. Clarence has no funny ideas about Nathan's sexuality, but if he did swing that way, Clarence would have probably asked the guy on a date the second time Nathan tried to impress him at Mundo. He's certainly a catch, in spite of first impressions.
"People don't realize it, but it's pretty easy to tell when someone's checking you out. I'm pretty sure if I came out naked, he wouldn't be able to tell the difference."
Just looking at the kid makes Clarence frown. But not out of contempt, or anything petty like that, but mostly of concern. He's fairly new and he's refrained on any background checks; to be honest, the kid looks more of a danger to himself than anyone else. Of course, Clarence doesn't mention that. It's rude and kind of disrespectful to expect someone to air their grievances just because someone notices. He doesn't mind the stares, though, he understands and has been on that side of the fence plenty of time. Hell, just the other day he's pretty sure he... uh...
Anyway, Clarence does his best to do little things for the guy. Whether that's making sure he's had his dinner, letting the kid mooch off his Netflix account and wireless internet, or just smiling at him. Letting him know there's someone just a few doors down that's willing to at least bask in good ol' comfortable silence. Of course, most of that silence is probably going to be filled with Lewis attempting to be subtle while trying to fantasize what it's like to have someone as tall and imposing as Clarence hovering over him in a totally sexual way. As long as the kid doesn't call him 'Daddy.' His daughter calls him that... please... for the sake of his sanity...
"I... I don't like owing people things. I just hope the day I decide to take him up on his offer, that those pictures aren't exactly on the house. Just in my house."
Well, Clarence doesn't exactly know much about Rucks other than that he's a pretty friendly guy. Good to talk to and takes amazing photos. Really, between what he does for everyone, his daughter, the whole fiasco with his ex-wife, and his job, it's hard to make time for... well, everyone else. Of course, Clarence does make sure he takes the time to speak and do something for everyone that's on his floor, at least. Rucks happens to be one of those people and, well, he really doesn't know Rucks enough to aid him with much other than that he likes taking pictures. If he finds Rucks inspired by moment Clarence happens to be right in the middle of, he does his best not to notice 'cause candid pictures are usually the best. At least, that's what he heard. He's not the time to preen, either, and kind of shies away from cameras. Of course, any time Rucks offers, Clarence usually declines unless Rucks actively states a dollar amount. In which case, Clarence has no issues shelling out money for a few photos of him and his daughter. Of course, he's pretty sure Rucks knows he won't say no as long as he gives Clarence some kind of price. It's left Clarence with way too many pictures to hang around the house and leaves him suspicious that Rucks is purposefully selling him these pictures at a highly discounted rate.
"I'm mildly glad people go to her for desserts. I'm a terrible baker, but hey, at least I can make a mean risotto."
Meeting Vanessa was a bit...
Well, it was kind of...
To be frank, Clarence really...
What's a good way to explain. Really, incredibly awkward? Kinda like talking to someone who thinks every word they say is some kind of flirtation that's unwanted. However, that was only the first meeting and Clarence quickly bulldozed over any kind of awkward advances by straight coming out to her. It's made interactions between them a lot easier and smoother, for the most part. She's still quiet, kind of tends to look at things deeply and for long periods of time. After a few times hanging out with her, eating her food and letting Arianna help bake, he's noticed Vanessa isn't exactly what everyone presumes her to be. Now, Clarence doesn't exactly know what that entails, but he thinks she appreciates that he doesn't see her as a stereotypical introvert. Just because it's hard talking to people doesn't mean you don't want to, is usually the point.
Because Vanessa is the type to share food willingly and overcook for that exact reason and Clarence hates owing people things for longer than a week, he's usually at her door the next day with a plate of dinner hot and ready just for her (and by extension Nathan because he often falls right in line with Vanessa in those regards). He likes it when he's got Arianna and she's getting ready to make some kind of dessert 'cause it means he gets to see her in an environment she most likely prefers, is comfortable in, and is willing to let herself indulge in what she wants out of a relationship. That's likely mostly Clarence's doing, as he tends to push her into asking what she wants, rather than telling her what he wants because most of the time Clarence just wants to see his daughter enjoy herself and Vanessa provides that plenty.
He loves coming by whenever he's got a great baking recipe he found in order to convince her to make it. For... for Arianna, of course. Definitely not for his own consumption.
Alright, so their first incident didn't go off so well. Living next to a guy that literally uproots his entire house just to find a pair of keys doesn't bode well for anyone involved. Especially when you're the sole reason why a six year old little girl is smacking her father on the cheeks and telling him he needs to go stop that rude man from playing whack a mole with his floorboards. "Moles are people too," were her exact words. Not only did he make sure his knocks were heard, but the moment Fletcher opened the door to his absolute hell house, Clarence knew this man needed something. Whether that was a firm punch to the face or some HGTV renovation crew, Clarence didn't know. It took him about two seconds to find the guy's keys, all of which Fletcher spent his time staring at the redness of Clarence's chest and face.
Their second meeting, however, went off a bit better, with a formal apology and bribery of cookies for him and his daughter dangling in his face. Okay, so the guy isn't half-bad, but Clarence has his reservations.
"The world conspires against me and yet here I am, here we are."
- Lewis Houtman
The Basics
Lewis Houtman
Lewis Wyatt Houtman
Age
22
Gender
Male
Sexuality
Homosexual
Job
College Student: Major: Advertising, Minor: Literature
Part time: Delivery boy for LoVee in the evening and the city's post office in the morning, secretly works as a cam boy to get extra moolah
"I pride myself in speaking impeccable bullshit and I smell the same brand of vile in your very words. So, piss off now."
Digging Deep
In-Depth Appearance
Lewis has dirty blonde hair that almost seems brown and he either keeps it in a side part, hides it under a beanie or doesn't bother at all. His beautiful blues rest above bags, obscured by his worn face and damaged by fading scars and bruises, same can be said about his fair complexion. Lewis is thin, lanky and almost frail but he makes do with it and can exert enough physical effort when he has to, all those fist fights and beat ups back in high school improved his threshold for pain after all. Standing at 5'7 ft, he has developed an insecure complex about his height but has found that he is more than willing to hide it with a firm and proud posture. He wears down most of the time and goes for comfort: flannels, shirts, raglans, hoodies, the farthest he has gone for dressing up are collared shirts and that's about it.
Habits and Quirks
Squints eyes when thinking
Is an eye-roller
Assigns sounds and smell to colors(Synesthesia)
Snacks on red fruits(tomatoes, apples, strawberries), keeps a lunch box full of them in his knapsack.
Likes
Video Games: RPGs and Fighters, never shooters, ever.
Dark Literature
Movies
Dislikes
Bright tints of Orange
Feeling small, literally and figuratively
Noise/Loud people/crowded places
Fire
The smell of smoke
Biggest Fear
Lewis grew up in a very caring domestic environment back in Amsterdam, his mother and father were very much in love and they had more than enough wealth to get by. Everything changed for him one night when their house got caught in a wildfire, leaving his childhood into rubble and having his dad's life taken away. He could never forget the shades of orange that engulfed everything that he knew. Now, traumatized by this; Lewis can not stand seeing bright shades of orange, the smoke that hung in the air, and the feeling of helplessness that remind him of that night.
Personality
Due to happenings that followed after moving into America, Lewis had a hard time in his pubescent years. He's grown jaded despite his young age and has lost trust in most people, the few friends he keep can hardly even get through the tough walls he put up. He is the kind of person you would go to if you want to get things done but you can never count on him to comfort you in dark times, because he's stuck in his own head. That being said, he isn't unaware of the people around him, he just doesn't bother. He says what's on his mind and doesn't care about the repercussions. That's Lewis, literally just does not give a fuck. He's been worn and to him, the world is a sinking ship that no one can jump out of. But he wants to find purpose, he believes there's a reason people exist and why the world is as it is, he strongly values the very few things he has come to love. Lewis will go with whatever benefits him the most and believes that the end justifies the means. He has a warped sense of adventure that sometimes seem a little destructive.
"Everyone's dying, just at different speeds so get up your ass and keep on keeping on, there's no use moping around."
Origins
Background
Lewis grew up in a comfortable house at the outskirts of Amsterdam, the lovechild of elopers: a dutch architect and an american playwright. He was a very sweet and energetic child, he loved his parents, he felt that he had all the love he could get in the world and everything was going smoothly until he lost his dad from a wildfire one night, he was closer to him than he was to his mom His father's death was a tragic accident, one that his mom took so hard she went into the darkest places in her head; she went into a very deep depression, enough that they had to go back to America for her to be taken care of by her parents. The transition from this migration gave Lewis a hard time, being a teenager and having to deal with a sick mother along with the pressure of gaining the affection of his disapproving grandparents took more from him than he could have anticipated. Before he knew it though, his emotions got the better of him and he started "rebelling"( as his grandparents put it): taking up fists against bullies that provoked him, skipping classes just to get away from everything, and putting up walls just to not have to deal with another problem. Against all this, he had no one, not even his own mother and he felt like he wasn't even given a choice. He died inside, he had to for he needed to set aside his emotions just to get by. This continued for years, till he finally graduated high school and everything felt better. Through the course, his grandparents died and to him it was pressure off his shoulder as morbid and bitter as it sounded. His mom became more stable, able to stand on her own, taking a career change as a social worker. But the two of them have grown apart and somehow, he knew there was no going back to how they were and he despised that. It was the biggest wall, he has erected and he doesn't have the heart to knock it down and she had issues of her own.
Their wealth slowly got spent through the years, with her mom's job not exactly paying much, Lewis had to fend for himself, taking odd jobs to earn his own to spend. Two years into university and Lewis finally decided to move out, his mom has met a new man and got married, the very thought takes him back to his dark places and he couldn't exactly do anything about it. Despite working his ass off, he still needed more money, it was not enough to get by and so he discovered cam shows. And now here he is, a new resident of Eden Gardens with all the baggage he carries and the weights that bring him down.
Relationship Information Relationship Status:Single Partner: Father: Alfred Houtman / Very close, died when he was 12, still grieving his death Mother: Elizabeth Wickman / Estranged, he feels like she had abandoned him Siblings: none, is an only child Pet/s: Has a stray cat that follows him around, nicknamed him "Shadow" Other: Step-Father: Robert Wickman / Avoids, Is actually a good man but Lewis just can not take him in.
Lewis is baffled at this guy's kindness, like honestly he's too much and god damn the man is tall as fuck, also gorgeous. It's like he was made by tweens inside a boy candy factory or something. Lewis doesn't mind him most of the time until he comes closer and closer and their height difference gets more apparent by then he'd be moving a few feet off just to not have to look up. Lewis still doesn't know much about him personally and is a bit freaked at his whole twin thing with Abby even thinks that the two need more space away from each other. He respects what the twins did with the Clarke scandal though, it was pretty tight. "His voice is pastel yellow, bright but still soft."
On most days, Lewis can not stand her presence. She's like if Monday was a person or something like OH MY GOD, she says too much, you know the things that come out of this girl's mouth?! I can't even. He respects how hard-working she is though and even admires her garden work, at least she has that going, 'nuff said. "She sounds like Soil brown, earthy, she does have her thing with plants afterall."
She's pretty alright but talks a lot, A LOT and Lewis can't handle her energy. It's like listening to her can just get so draining, you know?! He thinks she's too cheery and positive that his dark dreary vibe gets all rattled up so he tries his best to stay away. "Her pitch is a bright yellow, sometimes it goes up to an orange tint... it's a little bit too much."
This guy will break soon because of how kind he is. Lewis is concerned, almost afraid of how Jack acts in general and somehow often finds himself having to reject his help. He is also curious as to what goes on in Jack's head, like seriously he apparently likes breaking things down just to fix them back up... it's bothering. " Found Copper and rusty shades in his voice."
The kind of mystery that Lewis would go around chasing. What is he even? Does he even talk? Here is one fuck to give. Lewis hasn't had the chance to hear his voice, "maybe he's a thing of black? dark red? pure fucking white???!!? WHO KNOWS??!!" Lewis is itching to understand Kimberly and is also intimidated by him.
Pretty darn cool, like ice cold cool even. Lewis thinks Quinn can be scary and often finds himself at awe over her presence, she has a solid attitude and it's pretty darn stern at least on the surface and he thinks that's quite something to be. "Her voice is definitely steel, can probably cut."
This lady is fucking wild and Lewis likes her a lot. Have you seen those eyes? Just perf. If there's anyone Lewis would want to befriend, it would be Doris, something about her just screams out an adventure that he would be glad to thread on... if he could just let loose a little bit more, which he just can't find himself doing at the moment but maybe someday. "Heard her as Purple, my favorite color."
The roomie, Lewis thinks Max is the perfect temp of fun and actually enjoys his presence. He's a big dork and is pretty great, Lewis could not have asked for a better roommate. He hates to admit it but he's developed a small crush on the guy but he's too straight for anything. Besides that, no issues at all... well, Lewis' occasional height complex aside. "I like hearing that Sky Blue, like a perfect day to take a stroll."
He's like a pug, or idk some dog or something... Lewis isn't exactly fond of dogs however. But he hasn't exactly had enough time with the man so he hasn't exactly given him much thought. He seems nice though. " Maybe a bright shade of pink? or something sparkly..."
Oh man, this old dude is a whole 'nother species of his own. It's like he's a greek statue that came to life and hot damn he is quite a fine piece of art. Lewis is just completely stunned by Clarence that whenever he sees him he finds himself helplessly staring. He seems pretty cool too, generally and genuinely, like the chill kind of cool. What a dad. " A refreshing hue of Mint."
Lewis thinks Rucks is just alright. He seems to get along with everybody else although he can get pretty weird with his whole artsy thing. But yeah, he's just aight, just fine. Lewis hasn't exactly formed much of an opinion of the guy due to a lack of interaction. And he's an artsy type, you can never read the artsy type. " Hell, rainbows maybe."
With Lewis' frequent visits to the library to get books mostly for leisure and a bit for schoolwork, he's grown quite used to Vanessa's brooding granny-like presence although he's found her mostly awkward. Their first meeting was awkward to say the least because it was another one of Lewis' off days when he just could not stop his potty-mouth and apparently Vanessa is a saint,(and Lewis borrowed some Oscar Wildes and Edgar Allan Poes) what's the word for when someone gives you that look... stank-eye? was it? Anyway, Lewis thinks she's nice and Lewis feels weird about kindness so there's that. "She sounds like mustard, like the yellow tint in mustard... kinda murky but also bright."
Fletcher is one of the many people Lewis hasn't had most of an interaction since he's new to the complex and he thinks that the tall, weird and handsome dude is like super intimidating but is probably nice enough. He seems interesting though AND pretty, and Lewis' shallow, think-don't-tell interest for towering, well-aged men is just at peak for Fletcher. "Midnight Blue, like there's that hint of dark in there, get me?"
"See the way the light scatters? That's what makes it such a good shot."
- Rucks Kennithson
Name
Rucks Kennithson
Age
21
Gender
Male
Sexuality
Heterosexual
Job
Photographer/Artist Part time Librarian Studying photography at the university
"Careful where you step, the paints probably still wet."
In-Depth Appearance
Rucks stands fairly tall, at around 6'1"; build wise he isn't the most muscular person around, but he's healthy - which probably stems from him walking around for his photography. His hair isn't exactly short, but it's not overly long either, and it takes up a dark brownish colour to match his eyes. He also tends to grow some form of stubble which never fully forms into a beard before he shaves and starts again.
Clothing wise Rucks probably isn't the kind of person to really consider what he wears all that carefully, he owns a suit or two but that's all he can confidently match together since, well they come in a predefined set. He's a big fan of wearing your typical casual clothes around the house though.
Habits and Quirks
Getting distracted. Usually when he sees something pretty.
Being completely covered in some form of paint - to the extent that he keeps a cupboard full of white spirit.
Scratching his beard when he stops to think.
Likes
Going for walks.
Taking photographs
Ice cream
Weekends
Dislikes
Mondays
Long car rides
Planes
Pessimists
Biggest Fear
For reasons completely unbeknownst to Rucks he suffers from Acrophobia to a large extent. Getting him up a ladder can prove to be incredibly difficult and planes tend to be an outright no go. It proves to be problematic at times, but he has his ways of trying to deal with it - mostly not going up somewhere high. It also helps if he doesn't look down at the ground when he looks out of the window.
Personality
To describe Rucks as a people person could be considered some form of understatement, he’d absolutely oozing with charisma and an enviable ability to adapt his mannerisms in order to suit the people around him. This ability to get along with people however is rather overshadowed by his interest slowly drifting if there’s something he’s more interested in nearby – mainly his work. This self-interest when it comes to his photographs and paintings has also often meant that he struggles with taking advice and criticisms from those he doesn’t completely trust which, for those who don’t know him all that well can often make him seem somewhat egotistical.
When it comes to actual interactions with other people Rucks’ responses can often vary greatly. He’s good at dealing with pressure for instance as he has a strong confidence in his own ability and as previously mentioned he’s also very confident when he meets and talks to new people. There are areas of socialisation however where Rucks doesn’t feel too confident, for example romance. It isn’t so much that Rucks doesn’t understand how to react to romantic situations – which is actually true for the most part – so much as he’s not used to it. He’s much more comfortable in situations where the attention isn’t directly on him. As is the case when you go out with friends, you don’t focus too much on each.
When it comes to his opinions of people, Rucks can get along with them all. Apart from those who are overly pessimistic. Those who believe that everything is wrong with the world and that they need to fight every god damn system there is. They just… irk him and he often feels they find something to be negative about just for the sake of it. On a similar note he finds it incredibly difficult to deal with people in their weakest moments, himself included. He just can’t seem to find the words to comfort them it’s what he considers to be one of his greatest personality flaws.
"Photography is about nature, don't pose and it'll turn out fine"
Background
To call Rucks' life interesting would probably be an understatement. To call it inspirational however, would not. He was born and spent his first twelve years in the idyllic lakeside city of Seneca, South Carolina. It might not be the largest town but being settled right by Lake Keowee left him with things to do. It was this location that lead Rucks to become interested in photography and art, after all why not take advantage of the beautiful countryside around you? To not do so felt like a waste to him.
At the age of twelve Rucks' father got himself a promotion from his local office job. The family were given an opportunity to move to the city of New York and, without a seconds doubt his parents decided it was the best thing for him. There are things Rucks always missed about that place, life was so much more laid back than in the big city. It was always far more his speed. Kind of slow, and plans weren't a necessity you could just go out and do whatever you wanted. Some days, Rucks needed a change and it was in those days he could go kayaking on the lake or just hit the high street to indulge his young self. Even now he could still tell you the best places to try. Leo's served the best pizza, and if you wanted a day of water sports the big flashy places were never the best. Hiring a kayak off of the shabby little shacks often proved to be a better day, equipment wasn't as good but they tended to be run by locals who knew the area well.
Now, when moving from the countryside to the city Rucks though his passions of painting and photography would be lost due to a lack of stimulus. And as far as his painting goes it did begin to dwindle, he was a landscape artist and found that there were too few places worth painting in the city. Central Park was perhaps the best place to go, not just for art but also to experience somewhere outside. Be it the warm summer day, or the cold winter nights when you could stop at a cafe and pick up a warm hot chocolate. Another favourite was the waterfront overlooking manhattan, but he didn't really spend a lot of time there. The big apple did have its perks though, it was a city brimming with life and, as well as being able to pursue his passion he was also able to meet a wide variety of people. It's actually where Rucks reckons he got his charisma from, it took a lot of it to talk to strangers in somewhere that foreboding. Most people didn't hop onto the metro to chat, and if you didn't come across with strong character they would just ignore you.
It was during the six years before he moved out that his true interest in photography took off, before he preferred painting - and in a way he still kind of does prefer it's slow rhythmic pace. Photography however allowed him to capture the beauty of the city in ways that painting never would. It was nothing like the fake posed pictures people took on holiday. Everything he did was natural, a picture of someone genuinely having fun rather than pretending too always brought out the best in them. It sort of warms Ruck's heart to capture people in that state too, a state of pure unbridled happiness. It's as if he's captured them in their purest state, free from any worries of the world. It's also why he's never taken a picture of someone who's upset, to capture the opposite emotion, to him seems to defeat the point. Why would anyone ever want to be reminded of a moment like that?
When it was time for him to move to university then, he needed to decide on a course and what course was better than photography? After all it was the one thing that he had stuck with his entire life. And so, with that decision in mind he decided to attend university. There were a lot of places he considered, he obviously thought about going back to Seneca. His parents wouldn't have it though. They strongly pushed the idea of going to Evergreen academy on him, so he went and looked around. And location wise it really struck him, he was ready to go along with his parents plan - if they had the money to send him there why not? But then they found out about what he wanted to study. They didn't mind sending him to university for photography, but what they didn't want to do was pay all that money for one of the most prestigious institutions there was if it wasn't a scientific course. A traditional view for them to hold, but their view nonetheless. Rucks had - and he hated to admit it - somewhat fallen in love with Hartford, so he settled for a compromise, Skyline university. It may not be the best place, but it was a damn site cheaper and was in the same city as Evergreen. His decision had been final.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: Father: Jonathan Kennithson Mother: Sarah Kennithson Siblings: None Pet/s:Flumpykins the snake Other: None
If anyone was the cool-kid on the block at Eden Gardens it would be Alexander Clarke. The guy just seemed to hit all the right nerves with all the right people. He was a good guy, and Rucks likes him - and hell he'd love to take a few pictures of the guy, his eyes are stunning. Although, his outright dedication to his sister is a little unnerving, the two are so close that if makes you wonder what'll happen when they eventually separate. Also that whole thing with his parents? Pretty cool manoeuvre, takes balls to do that.
You know how sometimes a baby eats it's twin in the womb? Rucks has an ongoing theory that Abby ate her brothers darker, angrier side and absorbed it's power. The girl is a powerhouse of bad moods and she outright scares Rucks. Which is a shame - she's gorgeous, and like her brother Rucks would jump at the chance to use her as a focus if he didn't think she would rip his throat out. In fact, how does someone like Abby Clarke take gardening as a passion? It's so peaceful and she's so... well, you get the picture. Rucks tries to get along with her as best he can - which roughly translates to, when dealing with her he does what he's told out of fear.
Cassandra Moon is... well. If you took every possible stereotype that has ever been stuck to lesbians and hipsters, then every single one of them has somehow been represented by Cass, she's like a katamari of the things. Her and Rucks are pretty good friends, the two seem to just mesh together, but both also have the tendency to sort of drift resulting in conversations just coming to a standstill from both parties.
Jacks an angel in disguise and Rucks will swear to it, the guy's saved his ass more than a few times when it comes to fixing his camera. Socially the guy seems a bit... inept for lack of a better word, his only strategy seems to be "Be nice to everyone" which surprisingly enough works. He does seem to be a bit naive because of this though and Rucks kind of worries that people may take advantage of him.
All Rucks really knows about Kimberly is the fact that she lives in the same apartment complex as him and that they both work in the library. Around the apartments the two have never really spoken to each other, and they hold a strictly professional relationship at the library. Which roughly relates to the normal small talk you would expect from co-workers, an occasional query on a book and Rucks asking Kim to go up ladders for him.
If you ever go down to Vibe then Quinn is the barkeep you want serving your drinks. She's got such an overwhelming sense of self-esteem about her that it's almost as if she's the personification of the bars atmosphere. Rucks has only ever really spoken to her at the bar though, since he's never had much reason to speak to her in anything other than passing. He's also not one hundred percent convinced that she actually knows his name, mostly due to her only ever calling him "man" but that may just be her thing.
How the hell Doris Goldhirsch stays on the air is well past Rucks, but he likes the fact that she somehow manages it. He's put it down to the fact that so many people like her show at this point that if the station were to kick her off it would face a massive loss. She's not the easiest person to get to know - which is something Rucks has first hand experience with. Their first meeting was her providing some curt criticisms of his work, a blow to his pride that he still hasnt and likely never will get over. Because of that he doesn't actively show her anything he's produced. Nor does he talk about his work around her. Nor does he stick around with his camera if he sees her for that matter. The most he hopes he'll ever get out of his relationship with Doris is that she'll give him some kind of thumbs up to his work one day.
Maxwell Prescott, the sort of joker of the Eden Apartments. The guys never been in a fight as far as Rucks knows, nor any sort of confrontation and that's something respectable, whether it be because he's just that good at keeping a lighthearted mood or because he knows when to back down. And by god is he funny, Rucks has heard the guy cracking jokes when he walks past, and of course he's been told a few and he really has a knack for it. But maybe that's just Rucks being easily amused.
Nathan, if the rumours are to be believed has a shit tonne of animals that live in his apartment. And because of this Rucks wants to be this mans friend. Animals make great photography subjects, so Rucks has spent his time exposed to Nathan trying to win his favour, whether or not that's working Rucks can't tell. He's still the daft bloke that Rucks has always seen him as.
In Rucks' mind Clarence is that typical Noir detective. Cool, suave and always knows what to say at exactly the right moment and in his interactions with the man Rucks hasn't been convinced otherwise. Sure the guy hasn't been a detective for long but Rucks is convinced he's the right guy for the job. Also his daughter is cute as anything - since they've known each other Rucks has offered to take pictures of the two together for Clarence to hang up in his apartment on several occasions.
Rucks hasn't spoken to Lewis all that much, and the guy doesn't seem to make much of an effort to start a conversation, also he seems like a bit of a downer. Kind of the whole "whats the point in anything" type which Rucks kind of hates about the guy. Otherwise he's too new to the apartments for Rucks to really know a whole bunch about him.
Rucks mostly sees Vanessa when they two are on the same shift in the campus library and the two get along with each other quite well from the times they've spoken. Although it seems to Rucks that he's the one who'll strike up conversations with Vanessa more so than the other way around and it's clear to him that she isn't really a conversationalist. In fact, she often seems a lot more focused on actually doing her job than making small talk with people - a lesson that Rucks could stand to learn.
Fletcher is someone that Rucks has often seen walking around the apartment, but he's never really gone about making any kind of conversation with the guy other than the typical small talk that one might expect you to make when standing next to them as they open the complex door. The guy, from what Rucks can tell though is really goddamned fidgety, constantly doing something that makes some kind of noise, which while usually not a problem can be irritating. Especially when he hums the same song. Over and over.
"It may be small and stupid, but I love the feeling when I help someone find a book they’re looking for."
- Vanessa Quinn
Name
Vanessa Gwendolyn Quinn
Age
XXII
Gender
Female
Sexuality
Bisexual
Job
Librarian Assistant at Skyline University Library
"I tend to look at the good in people and the more positive side of things. Someone has to in today's world."
In-Depth Appearance
Vanessa compliments and contrasts the image of a librarian just enough for people to believe her if she claimed she either was or wasn’t one. Sharing the glasses association, her vision isn’t damaged to the point of needing incredibly thick glasses that would obscure her caramel colored eyes. While most librarians fall on the taller side of the spectrum (potentially for reaching the books on the top shelf), Vanessa stands at a short 5’2 and possess a slim figure. However, with all these features at her disposal, she isn’t mistaken for someone younger–or even out of her age range–that often. The general demeanor she gives off is one of a youthful adult that has a certain sense of maturity to her.
Vanessa doesn’t do too much with her physical appearance, not being one for keeping up with the latest fashion trends. She values simplicity and comfort over glamour. Plus with the anxiety she feels from receiving attention, she’d rather stick to her modest clothing than the vibrancy and boldness of the stylish ones. She does acknowledge that some of the outfits are cute and hopes to be able to wear them one day. Maybe when she’s a little braver.
Usually she can be found in long sleeved, collared blouses of various colors paired with a knee-length pencil skirt and flats. The designs are either solid colors or simple ones like plaid. Vanessa generally has her hair either down or in a slightly messy bun. She doesn't have too much of a problem leaving it down since it isn't long or wavy enough to become a nuisance or hassle. In dimly lit areas, her hair looks like a boring, dark hue of brown, but under florescent light or the sun, there is a natural, bronze tint to it.
Naturally, it can be assumed that Vanessa doesn’t have any markings on her body such as tattoos or piercings aside from the earlobes. Even then, she tends not to lean too heavily on accessories, foregoing any jewelry or–in her opinion–unnecessary additions to her appearance. On a normal day, her makeup will consist of a light concealer and mascara. What can she say? She likes her eyelashes.
Habits and Quirks
Packs lunch
Drives 40-45mph on small roads and 60-65mph on freeways/highways
Suppresses affection
Likes
Cooking/Baking
Animals
Reading
Dislikes
Eye contact
Cussing
Pretentiousness
Biggest Fear
While most might assume Vanessa fears living a mundane, unadventurous life, the librarian assistant is actually quite happy with the way things for her are. It isn't the characterless impression of her life that she's scared of but more of herself. She's afraid that she's so undistinctive that she'll become unmemorable. She doesn't care to be someone's number one priority (although she thinks that would be nice) like falling in love might do, but simply just be important to people and impact their lives somehow. Whenever Vanessa encounters someone she remembers or knows and they don't remember her, that fear creeps up again and causes her to worry about it until something can pull her out of the doubts plaguing her thoughts.
Also, clowns are pretty creepy.
Personality
Vanessa is acutely similar to what one thinks of a stereotypical grandmother, down to making extra food to share and the coupon cutting. She's a gentle soul who’s always ready to lend a helping hand and wants to make everyone happy. Her first reaction is to always give the other person the benefit of the doubt and see the good in everyone, believing that they must have a purpose behind their actions.
From first glance, it's very obvious Vanessa is meek, soft-spoken, and struggles to maintain eye contact. She doesn't usually go and do exciting activities or make conversation well, being too awkward and careful for it not to be painful on both parties. However, that doesn't mean that she's reclusive or voluntarily shies away from people. Secretly, Vanessa yearns for supportive friends whose company she can enjoy and is actually quite physically affectionate. She merely suppresses her wants in concern she might offend those she attempts to reach out to.
Hardworking and honest, Vanessa was a model student and an ideal employee. While most might see a simple, timid young woman who naively listens to her superiors, the assistant is surprisingly observant and logical. Perhaps that's what causes her struggle with excelling in literature. Although Vanessa has a love for reading, she falls short in analyzing the metaphorical aspects of fiction stories. This also contributes to her ever growing insecurities of being inadequate.
"Sometimes I wish I was brave enough to just go and do things."
Background
There is no doubt that Vanessa came from a happy household. Gordon Quinn was a banker making a decent salary when he met Stacey Lane, a starting paralegal. They were instantly compatible due to both being kindhearted, traditional people. They progressed their relationship following the right steps and after seven months into their marriage, the two were delighted with news of being pregnant with their first child. From the steady income of their two careers and the preparation for this lifetime changing event, the new parents didn't have to fret over much aside from having a healthy child and correctly raising them.
There wasn't a lot of concerns of the social environment negatively affecting Vanessa while she was growing up. The small family of three lived in a moderately sized city where old values were still heavily influential on the residents. Having a very lighthearted childhood, Vanessa got along with enough children and invited to enough birthday parties. Still, she was always seen past, never really having a title or making a mark all through her schooling years. By the time she hit high school, it was established she was the nice, quiet girl who did well in classes and wasn't picked on because she was so nonexistent.
Always having been a little more mature than her fellow peers from her obedience to her upbringing, Vanessa was ready to play a supporting role in taking care of her baby sister at eleven. She made sure to watch out for her and help her parents with the additional responsibilities such as driving Kaley to school and picking her up. Vanessa always had an affinity and talent for working with children and took up babysitting kids of family friends toward the later end of her high school years. Usually she would make them dinner, play a few board games with them, get them cleaned up, and read them a story before they went to bed. She was especially happy when the kids would be excited to hear the next chapter when she came back again.
After graduating, Vanessa wanted to stay close to her family and began to attend Skyline University which was in Hartford, a city only two and a half hours away from home. The first semester, she was an English major, believing she could have a future in literature one way or another simply because she loved it so much. However, she quickly had to switch to Psychology after struggling with the subject despite all the efforts and hard work she put in. Although it shouldn't be seen as a bad thing, Vanessa wishes that her natural talent in the Psychology field could be transferred to English.
Staying at the dorms for the first three years, she finally moved out her senior year to Eden Gardens to get some momentum to living on her own. Despite not having a down payment, Vanessa used the leftover money she got from scholarships as a form of insurance that would give her at least two months of occupancy if she ever misses a payment. She goes to visit her family at least two or three times a month, usually on the weekends and will sometimes have Kaley stay over at her apartment for a few days.
Even though her mother has connections that can get her a job instantly, the fresh new graduate is slightly lingering on going straight into a career to experience true freedom just a bit longer. She applied for a job at the library and since the staff had seen her there so often while she was attending the school, she got the position relatively quick.
Relationship Information Relationship Status: Single Partner: N/A Father: Gordon Quinn Mother: Stacey Quinn Siblings: Kaley Quinn (younger sister, age 11) Pet(s): N/A Other: N/A
Alex makes Vanessa uncomfortable. Not because he isn’t nice or anything like that. He’s just so animated that whenever the shy girl interacts with him, she feels a pressure to be more energetic which really takes her out of her comfort zone. Despite the one-sided inconvenience, Vanessa likes Alex’s kind and carefree personality. She always greets him when their paths cross, whether at the apartments or library, and attempts to hold a conversation with him no matter how nerve racking or awkward it might be for her.
However, she does genuinely feel uncertain on how to handle the situation during the rare occasions he flirts with her, even if he is just teasing. Vanessa’s never sure when he’s being cheeky or not. Vanessa doesn’t know where she exactly stands with the other Clarke sibling. They don’t interact much do to the intimidation the older girl receives from Abby and the relations connecting the two only leaves things that much more ambiguous. Despite the fact he tutors her, Kim and Abby don’t seem to get along and Vanessa worries that the feeling will translate onto her since she’s close to the other assistant.
The brunette has seen the taller girl tending to the gardens at the apartment complex and admires how Abby can be both headstrong and gentle. At the same time, she’s also amazed at how similar yet contrasting the twins can be. Speaking of them together, Vanessa knows the bit of information from what the media has put out and the rumors that circle Hartford about their situation. Although she’s never voiced her opinion on the matter, she worries about how the two are affected. She knows they have each other and are inseparable but going through all of that can’t be easy. The two women haven’t had much interaction most likely due to their differences in interests. Vanessa isn’t one to drink and therefore has no purpose to be at Vibe where the bartender can be found. Likewise, it doesn’t seem Cassandra has an interest in books and would rarely be found in the library. Really the only times they’ve met is when Vanessa comes to the bar to pick up Kim, and even then it was mostly attempted introductions over the loud atmosphere. There are two boys at the complex that Vanessa greatly worries about health-wise. Jack would be one of them. He's a college student who has two jobs and she almost always sees him either really sleepy or asleep. Also, she's pretty sure he doesn't eat the most balanced meals either and misses some too. The librarian wishes she could help in some way but they aren't familiar enough to where she can intrude on his life rudely, even if it's coming from a good place.
As far as interaction goes, the two have been limited by their meek, overly considerate natures. However, Vanessa will generally ask Jack how he's doing when they get the chance to talk. Vanessa has two mindsets to people: intimidating and approachable. The one exception comes in the form of Kimberly Seo. Their relationship and the feeling the girl receives from the other can be put into one word: comfortable. The Odd Couple is quite tight knit and the closest to a best friend either of them have. Vanessa can’t remember when they became so familiar but somewhere along the awkward small talks and just as equally awkward silences, they understood each other and enjoyed one another’s company.
Vanessa first met Kim through her job. Having just gotten the same position two weeks after the older male, she was assigned to be trained by him. The two are actually a funny looking pair with all the right likeness and variations to make them compatible. Even though the two are both quiet bookworms, one emits a friendly vibe while the other is very aloof and assured.
It seems like whenever Kim is around, Vanessa is always smiling. The fellow assistant is the only person she can be honest with and not be as afraid to be who she really is and say what she thinks. Although it's still suppressed, Vanessa still manages to get her fill of affection with their hugs and wearing Kim's jacket (which he offers when he sees she's cold) after many hours of sitting in the heavily air conditioned library, despite all the effort he makes in grumbling in a false show of distaste. (Somehow she manages to be just as efficient even if the sleeves engulf her hands and the jacket falls well below her waist.) However, Kim knows never to push his friend off when she clutches his arm. He's picked up that it's her subconscious response to when she's feeling particularly nervous or worried. They're each other's security blanket. Kim makes Vanessa feel more confident and serves as an anchor for when she's in a new place or surrounded by new people. On the other hand, Vanessa makes Kim's life a little brighter and helps him become more social, even if he mainly just sticks to her for now.
Despite how involved they are in each other’s lives with the frequent visits and hangouts and natural interaction, Vanessa believes she still hasn’t gotten to know Kim in all his entirety. Although he's met her family, Kim’s still secretive and defensive whenever his past is brushed upon and it worries the smaller girl. Of course she always worries about him. In contrast, Quinn makes Vanessa feel extremely uneasy and intimidated. With the bartender being a whole foot taller than the librarian and possessing a very immediate presence, the younger will avoid the other by any means. She's quite sure that her heart will mimic the mouse's whose nature she also stole from. And that she'll unintentionally offend the stranger which could lead to something ugly and scary (at least for her).
She has always wanted to make the joke that if the two were sisters the older woman's name would be Quinn Quinn, completely unaware of her social awkwardness and the consequence of an uncomfortable conversation arising from the harmlessly intended comment. Fortunately, her crippling fear of the smoker has prevented the situation so far. Vanessa doesn't know much about Doris aside from what she's observed. Although the DJ is in school, she doesn't attend the library often, limiting interaction between the two women. The few things the younger does know of her fellow resident is that she's passionate about her job, very loud, and many men leave her apartment in the morning. Vanessa doesn't hold any of this against the law student but keeps her distance out of uncertainty of how to approach Doris or even why she would need to. There are so many relations that connect Vanessa to Max. He's the other resident whose health she worries about. The gamer probably lives in the same conditions as Jack: staying up way too late, eating unhealthy, probably not living in the most organized and hygienic condition. However, she also admires him for having made mistakes the first time he attended college and giving it another try despite the additional obstacles confronting him the second time around and with a more determined resolve. They met and began associating mainly from having jobs at the university and whenever they both have a shift, Max will come visit Vanessa at the library.
They also both know what it's like to be an older sibling, even if Max is more like a friend to his brother and Vanessa is a caretaker to hers. The boy is friendly with just about everyone, similar to his best friend, however the difference being that he actually has a decent batting average when it comes to holding a conversation with the socially reclusive girl.
Secretly, Vanessa thinks he's attractive.
As guilty as she feels about it, Vanessa mainly knows Lewis as Max's roommate. They have an interesting dynamic but she supposes it's similar to the bond she shares with Kim. The boys probably have something common that links them and the rest are differences that make each other their friend's perfect foil. She's never been able to tell him but she's thankful for Lewis. Although the living conditions might not be ideal -she can't expect perfection when it's two college student boys- she believes it could be a lot worse if it were Max living by himself. The shorter of the pair seems responsible and she can tell he really cares for their mutual friend, which she knows means he'll always look out for the other and she appreciates Lewis for that.
The two actually see each other quite often. However, Vanessa is never quite sure how to approach her fellow resident. He makes her anxious and she gets the vibe that he isn't too fond of her. When she first encountered him, he seemed quite cross and was squinting and rolling his eyes at her. From then on, Vanessa has made all attempts of avoiding confronting the grocer, out of fear. Despite working at the same place and running into each other more often than others might assume, Rucks and Vanessa don't necessarily get along. Not that they have any problems or tension between them but the girl thinks the photographer has an issue with her. He always talks about authenticity and she suspects that he possibly thinks her meek nature to be a front and it rubs him the wrong way. The assistant also gets a little irked when Rucks will direct his attention to something else when they're talking. Not only is it rude but it brings back her concerns of being invisible and unworthy of regard.
He did make her laugh one time by telling her his snake's name was Flumpykins. She thought it was cute.
"The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery." - Mark Van Doren ❈ ❈ ❈
❃ Name ❃
Fletcher "Fletch" Mark Stacey.
❃ Age ❃
27.
❃ Gender ❃
Male.
❃ Sexuality ❃
Homosexual.
❃ Job ❃
Kindergarten teacher.
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❈ ❈ ❈
❃ In-Depth Appearance ❃
Fletcher is the type of teacher the moms whisper about and sigh softly over. One mom has even whispered that she'd "climb him like a tree." Unfortunately, Fletcher had overheard that bit - he later realized he was supposed too - and had flushed a bright red from his forehead all the down his neck. It wasn't surprising a comment was made in reference to his height, since he does stand at what most would consider a towering 6'4. His height is noticeable, too. He usually isn't seen slouching his shoulders, or hunching his back, because he walks with a confidence that some people might envy. Shoulders back, chin up, Fletcher walks into a room and for some, it's hard to not do a double take. He walks like he has a purpose, like he has tackled life and tamed it, and that, in itself, can be attractive to witness. The only time he will hunch is when he's addressing his students, considering they are much shorter; but usually, if given the chance, he'll just immediately drop to his knees to put himself at their level. He doesn't like to "hover over" kids, he prefers being at their level. Another thing that helps his confidence is that he does keep himself in shape; with a membership to Shape Up, which he finds the fee totally worth it, he keeps himself a healthy weight, with abs and defined muscles hidden beneath his clothes. His skin complexion isn't quite pale, but it isn't tan either; rather, he can be called fair-skinned. That's not to say in the summer, he doesn't get a light tan. Depending on how often he does go out, he can gain a nice tan.
Fletcher has really nice hair, in all honesty. He doesn't do much to it. He just washes it, runs his fingers through it, and goes. But it always turns out nice and soft, with a healthy shine, and always stays where he wants it, it seems. Having a shorter cut with fullness at the top, his bangs are almost always pushed back off his forehead, unless he has just gotten up or it's a windy day. The color is a more blonde-brown, with it favoring more towards brown unless in bright lighting. As for facial hair, Fletcher tries to stay clean-shaven. He may let himself have a five o'clock shadow, but he never goes anything beyond that. Underneath darker eyebrows that thin out towards the ends, are some blue eyes that can be piercing with the right outfit and lighting. Set under a slightly thin, pointed nose are pink, equally full lips.
Fletcher's style falls more so on the high-casual end of things. Being a teacher, he has to dress nice, but he'd choose to dress really nice anyway. He may wear dark slacks and a sweater vest one day, and then the next, clean, fitted jeans and a v-neck shirt. He doesn't keep up with the latest trends, instead he just buys what he likes and what looks good to him. His closet is a variety of button-ups, nice jeans, sweater vests, light jackets, big sunglasses, pea-coats, sweaters, slacks, fashionable hats, dark dress shoes, and high-end pairs of boots. He enjoys every season, the different things he is able to wear in each, and doesn't have a favorite. His colors usually edge on the darker, neutral side of things, but he has a few bright pieces he loves just as much. Naturally, his workout outfits are not nearly as nice. Usually, they're shorts or sweats, with a loose t-shirt or tank top, and tennis shoes. Overall, Fletcher does have confidence in his whole appearance, and wouldn't change anything.
❃ Habits and Quirks ❃
► Fletcher is sort of messy. He needs help organizing and keeping things straight, he'll admit it. He's always losing important papers, or his car keys, or even his favorite coffee mug. He always jokes and says he'd lose his head if it wasn't attached to his shoulders. This isn't to say his apartment is trashy, but it can become cluttered if he isn't in the mood to pick up. ► Fletcher totally has a big bag of plastic bags, full of smaller ones, under his kitchen sink. He insists on keeping them because maybe, just maybe, one day they'll be useful. ► The same goes for glass jars too. ► Fletcher has a tendency to create noise, since he dislikes silence; be it by humming, drumming his fingers on a surface, or even popping his lips, he will do it. Never put a pen in his hand, or else he will start clicking the top of it without even noticing. ► Some people can return home and sit around in their outfit before getting into pajamas; not Fletcher. Right when he crosses into his apartment, he at least has to kick his shoes off and change his pants (or just lose them altogether), or else he won't be able to get comfortable. ► Beware - when Fletcher finds a new song he likes, he becomes a bit obsessive, and listens to it until he's sick of it. Give it a few days, though; he'll go right back to it. ► Fletcher keeps a bag of dog and cat food in his car, which is strange considering he doesn't have any pets himself. But he does this because he likes to stop whenever he sees a stray animal, and attempt to feed them. Also, he always keeps some cash on him, to give to any homeless he comes across.
❃ Likes ❃
▲ Kids - he wouldn't make it very far in his career if he didn't actually like children. ▲ Hot drinks - especially coffee, since it keeps him alive more often than not. ▲ Music - give him just about anything; he really has no preference, he just loves music. pop is his most often go to, though. ▲ Wine - he's the type to curl up on the couch after the day's work is done, with a glass of wine, and watch netflix; he has tried his fair share of wine, loves finding out what type of food it pairs best with, and can't say he has a favorite. though, there is more red wine frequenting his wine cabinet than anything else. ▲ Plants - since he won't let himself have a pet because of the care and expenses, plants seem like something more manageable; he has a few scattered around his apartment, sitting in window sills or in big pots beside a window. ▲ Emotional entertainment - some people avoid sad books, or horror movies, but that isn't the case here; he likes a good, emotional ride of any sort when it's caused by a movie, song or book. he's especially a sucker for anything romantic.
❃ Dislikes ❃
▼ Silence - he hates how still and silent things can become. he likes background noise, even if it's just the gentle pitter patter of rain against a window; just give him background noise. he has to sleep with his white noise machine on, or any sort of noise really, or he won't be sleeping that night. ▼ Negativity - he tries his best to be positive; sure, he gets bogged down sometimes, but he really hates it when someone, himself included, is being hard on themselves, or not feeling their best. ▼ Someone who thinks they're right no matter what - just don't even get him started. he can't stand people who will not listen to fact, or other opinions, and keep basically saying they are right. ▼ Impatience - he is far from impatient, and doesn't like when he sees others are being impatient, especially if they are being impatient towards him. ▼ Seeing anyone hurt, but especially children - being quite the compassionate person, he hates seeing someone hurt, or down in the dumps, and always wants to help if he can. ▼ Being alone for a long period of time - he isn't a huge social butterfly by any means, but he also doesn't like to stay shut in for a whole weekend with no human contact. even just going down to the grocery store and seeing a couple people makes him feel a little more at ease.
❃ Biggest Fear ❃
Fletcher didn't realize what his biggest fear was until a few months ago: of never having a family to call his own. A few things made him realize it: firstly, his job; the envy he felt at seeing a parent picking up their excited child had been going on for some time. Secondly, his age; he's a few years from thirty, and he isn't getting any younger, as he sees it. Thirdly, social media; seeing all his old friends, even talking to a few through messaging systems, has made him realize so many already have families, and all he has is his career. The realization had hurt, but it made sense for how he had been feeling lately. He would never quit his job, he loves his students something fierce, but going home to an empty apartment, without someone to greet him, is getting a little bit harder each time.
❃ Personality ❃
Fletcher has always been mature for his age. When he lost his mother at age seven, he had bounced back quicker than most boys his age would have. It wasn't because he had reverted into himself, or pushed all his emotions into a bottle and sealed it tight. It was because he had understood how it was affecting his father, and knew that to help him be less stressed out, he had to be strong. When his father started dating when he was eleven, he kept a level head, told himself that it was a good thing, that his father deserved happiness. If he happened to meet one of his father's dates, he was always respectful and kind. When his father remarried when he was fifteen, he had to step back and let himself get used to the idea at first. But, he realized it was a great thing his father was moving on, that he had found love and happiness in another, and accepted his step-mother into his life just as warmly. When he found out he had a new little brother, step-brother but brother still, he had been thrilled rather than put off. Having always been an odd one with enjoying younger children's company - since kids usually disliked younger ones - he had been excited to have a sibling. He quickly filled the role of protective older brother, and still hasn't grown out of that role. When he had his heart broken in college, rather than mope and think it was the end of the world, he picked up the pieces and walked on. He was hurt, of course he was, but he had refused to let himself linger on someone who would hurt him that badly to begin with. He has always been a person who lets logic dictate his actions, rather than emotion.
For this reason, Fletcher is a very calm, and level-headed person. He never jumps to conclusions, and rather, he looks at situations from all sides, and even then, he almost never takes a side. There's two sides to every story, after all, and he isn't going to point fingers and put sole blame on just one person. This makes him a very understanding individual. He is never one that's quick to judge, but instead, he's one to listen and try to understand the other's perspective. Perhaps this is where he can be called almost naive; he truly believes everyone has good in them, and that they just need someone to understand. That mindset has gotten him hurt before yet he hasn't let it go. He doesn't want to let the harshness of the world make him harden, or closed off to others. He wants to be open, wants to help others no matter what, and that's where he can be referred to as very compassionate. Certainly one to wear his heart on his sleeve, he doesn't mind putting it under the gazes of others, just if he can help at least one. Because of thinking like this, he is a very positive person; he's a very approachable guy, since he's usually appearing open and happy. Combine that with his driven attitude, and it doesn't take much for him to get something done once he sets his mind to it. Even if it takes a little longer than he had previously expected, he keeps positive about it, and pushes through the problem.
Now, just because he lets his emotions be known to the world, doesn't mean he lets them guide him in his decisions. Again, he's a logical guy, but he's also emotional; it's controlling those emotions and how he reacts to them is what he has mastered. While he is very open in this regard, he can honestly come off as shy. If someone engages him in conversation, he's sure to talk back, but during an exchange, he may give a nervous little laugh or a close-lipped smile while not quite making eye contact. This doesn't mean he will avoid conversation, he actually loves people, and he'll let himself be open, but he does get a bit nervous around people. Nothing extreme, or crippling, but at times, he can appear noticeably shy. He usually isn't one to start a conversation, unless he really wants to or needs to start one. When he does talk, though, he's respectful but isn't against cracking a joke or two that could be a possible miss rather than a hit. He can be a bit lame, since he likes pun, and the cheesy "knock knock" jokes. Maybe he's been around kids too long. Still, though, he's more of the type to sit back and observe, unless it's a school function, then he's up and mingling, but that's because around kids, he can come off a bit different.
Fletcher isn't a loud person by any means, he doesn't act out, he doesn't act immature. Unless there are kids around. Then he transforms into a loud, playful and even silly guy just to get a laugh out of the kids. It's obvious he chose the right career path, because his love for kids is plain. He doesn't mind making a fool of himself if it gets even just one kid to laugh. He might do this with an adult too. Not become a total playful fool, but do something so ridiculous, the other person has to laugh. Which is his goal, for if someone is feeling down in the dumps. If they won't talk about it, he backs off from asking about it, but he doesn't stop trying to make the other feel better. He can be sensitive, if someone just bluntly tells him to "fuck off" but he doesn't let that cloud his judgement, nor does he let himself get extremely upset over it. He always forgives the person, too, even if they don't say sorry; he never holds a grudge or brings up the negative past. As previously mentioned, he's good at controlling his reactions to his emotions, and he can understand when someone is having a bad day and is just done with all of life. This is where that bit of naiveness comes into play again. It's hard for Fletcher to wrap his head around that some people are honestly just mean with no reason, even if he has met a few like that, he will tell himself they're just having a bad day, and will regret being a dick later. Because of this thought process, he rarely gets mad or even mildly annoyed himself. He's the type who can take a deep breath, count to ten, and be clear-headed afterward if something is getting to him that bad.
Fletcher is secretly a romantic. While he put dating on the back burner of his life in favor of his career, he's a total sucker for rom-coms, those cheesy dollar romance novels, and laying in bed on his phone at night to read sappy stories of how real life lovers met. He loves everything cliche romantic. The cheesier, the better. He's the type of person who cries, every time, when watching The Notebook, or Titanic. Every. Time. Those are two of his favorite movies, too, just because of the romance. When not busy, he often catches himself daydreaming of being kissed in the rain like Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany's or dancing and being dipped like Baby from Dirty Dancing. But he would never say that out loud. Even he has secrets. One thing he doesn't keep secret, though, is his sexuality. He has always been proud of who he is, he's very confident in himself, and he isn't afraid to say that. He honestly does love himself and it shows in the way he holds and presents himself. However, he is more careful at school functions. He understands that some parents would not be comfortable with a gay man teaching their child - okay, he doesn't understand it, but he isn't going to throw a fit over it - and he is a reflection of the school. So, the only place he's a bit tight-lipped on his open opinions, that he never delivers bluntly but logically, is at school.
❈ ❈ ❈
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❃ Background ❃
Fletcher lost his mother when he was age seven. She had worked a double shift at the hospital and drove home sleepy. That resulted in tragedy. Fletcher and his father got through it, though. It was strange, suddenly only having one parent, but Fletcher's dad did his best. Having only one parent didn't last too long, anyway. When Fletcher was eleven, his father was easing himself back into the dating scene. When Fletcher was fourteen, his father met a woman named Karen. Fletcher didn't see a lot of her, his father didn't make it a habit to bring his dates back home. So, it had been a slight shock when suddenly, his father was engaged a little after a year of dating this woman. At first, Fletcher had been upset, but Karen had been such a sweetheart about his cold shoulder, so understanding about it. Combine that with him meeting David, Karen's six year son, and Fletcher couldn't resist any longer. Karen never asked for the pictures of Fletcher's mom around the house to be taken down; they just simply added to the family photos. Fletcher would say he had a good childhood. Even if he lost his mother, his father had still taken care of him, and both Karen and David had quickly become family to him. He knew not many kids that lost a parent got even half of what he did.
Ever since a young age, Fletcher had a love for younger children. It was probably why he clung to David so quickly, and why they had bonded so strongly. Fletcher was a typical protective older brother, always watching out for David, and having his back when he needed it. He had never lost that love for kids. Even in high school, he had gotten a few jobs babysitting for extra money. While his dad made a pretty penny and Fletcher grew up in a high middle-class environment, he wasn't going to always live off of his father's money. Fletcher had always been one to do things on his own if he could. He went to Skyline University, where during his sophomore year, he had thought he met "the one." He hadn't dated very much in high school. While he immediately came out after discovering his sexuality, because he didn't want to hide, and getting accepted, that didn't mean he went around the high school shouting it out. He had a couple guys he saw, but nothing serious, and it never got very far. He expected the same in college, honestly. He wanted to focus on his studies but Donny had caught his eye and kept it. They lasted for almost a year and a half. Fletcher had thought the world of Donny; when that boy loves, he loves with everything he has got. Donny, on the other hand, must have not felt quite the same, because he cheated on Fletcher. With what Fletcher thought was a good friend of his.
Fletcher had been hurt, of course. He cut contact with both Donny and his friend, but he hadn't lingered too long on the matter. If Donny didn't care about him, why should he care about Donny? He hadn't wanted to waste his energy on someone like that. He had forgiven Donny, even if he hadn't asked for it. His friend had contacted him, though, and apologized profusely. He had easily forgiven him, because Fletcher didn't want to go through life with grudges or hating anyone. He even still talks to that friend, sometimes. He moved on, had his weekend of binging on ice cream and watching his fair share of sad movies, before continuing with getting his degree. After that, Fletcher didn't date again, and he hasn't since. Shortly after graduating, he had snagged a job at the local elementary school. He had been lucky in that way, since a position had just opened up, and they didn't go against taking someone with only college-level experience. With the help of other kind teachers - not all were helpful, of course, but he hadn't let that bother him, naturally - he had settled in quickly, and came to love his job, school and students even quicker.
He had been living in an apartment very close to the elementary school, but at 27 now, he had found out David had gotten accepted into Skyline University. Wanting to be as close as possible to his little brother in case he needed anything, Fletcher decided to find a place to settle down in closer to the Uni. Eden Gardens had been a logical choice. Not only was it close to the Uni, but the neighborhood was safe, and from what he could tell of just being there for a couple weeks now, everyone seems pretty friendly. Even the college kids. But, David had insisted on trying to live on his own, and had told Fletcher to stop being so over protective. Fletcher gave him that. He was being overbearing but he wouldn't stop. Now Fletcher had a longer drive to work, but to be close to David, in case he did need anything or just wanted to talk, was worth it to Fletcher.
❃ Relationship Information ❃ Relationship Status: Fletcher is single, and has been for a long time. The last time he dated was in college, his sophomore year at that; he had stopped trying after his last relationship fell through, his longest running one, and just threw himself into his work. Partner: N/A. Father: Fletcher's father, Jacob Holden Stacey, works as a medical sales representative. Fletcher's father had always tried to do his best for his son and that's all Fletcher could have asked for; he talks to his dad at least four times a week over the phone, if not a couple times in person. Mother: Fletcher only has vague memories of his mother since she passed away when he was seven years old; her name was Linda Nicole Stacey. She had been a nurse for the local hospital, and an active member of the community. Fletcher keeps pictures of her around, and enjoys watching the few videos he has of her. Siblings: Fletcher has a step-brother who is nine years younger than him; David Nathan Lester is fresh out of high school, and is going to be a student at Skyline University, major undecided. He and Fletcher have a very strong relationship. Pet/s: Fletcher wants to get a dog or cat or something terribly bad, just for some company; during the summer, he could be home to give them all the attention they want, but not during the school year, so he opted to not get one and just fawn over others' pets. Even, they can get pricey too, and it's not like teachers get paid an extreme amount. He'll stick to his plants. Other: Fletcher's father remarried when he was fifteen; he had given his step-mother, Karen Maria Lester, a hard time at first, but her kind nature won him over after a short period of time. Karen works as an advertising manager for a variety of businesses. Fletcher and Karen are, of course, nothing like mother and son, but they do come damn close.
"Alexander is obviously a really nice kid. He's someone I actually hope to bump into when wandering around since it's always a pleasant chat with him."
Fletcher doesn't know Alexander very deeply, though that's expected, considering he hasn't even been there for a whole month. Though, the few times he has ran into Alexander, their chats have always been friendly. Considering they're both two friendly dudes, it isn't surprising they got along when it came to small talk. Fletcher's pretty sure if they ever talk beyond small talk, they'd keep up the streak of getting along.
"I haven't seen much of Abby, in all honesty. The one time I saw her, I said hello and she gave me a really... well, if looks could kill. I'm not passing judgement on that one time, I just hope that I get the chance to officially talk to her and actually manage to introduce myself. Everyone has bad days, right?"
Fletcher hasn't really met Abby. The one time he did see her, he decided against approaching her since it seemed like she had been in a bad mood. Little known to him, she just doesn't want any human contact ever, but he hadn't known that, and told himself he'd catch her next time he saw her to properly introduce himself. Fletcher thinks she's going to be just like her brother, sociable and friendly; poor thing doesn't know what he'll be getting himself in too.
"Uh, I haven't really had the chance to introduce myself to Cassandra. I've seen her around but haven't managed to actually cross paths with her. I'll make more of an effort too. I haven't even been here for a month but I should already know all my fellow residents."
Fletcher hasn't officially met Cassandra yet. With moving in, tying all the loose ins, changing addresses for all his personal things, and helping out David, he hasn't had time to go around shaking hands with everyone. Cassandra is someone he hasn't gotten around to introducing himself too but he's going to right that wrong quite soon, since he feels like it is over due.
"I met Jack in a really interesting way... I mean, finding a guy sleeping in the hallway is a really interesting way in my opinion. I had been concerned but he had said he was just napping. Kind of weird but weird isn't bad. He seems like a good kid, to be honest, and he's super nice. I can do super nice."
Fletcher hasn't had much interaction with Jack beyond that one meeting where they sparked a conversation that was more introductions and small talk than anything. Of course, Fletcher got along with Jack, since Fletcher can get along with a brick wall since he can sometimes try too hard to be nice, and he'll always say hi and stop if Jack does to engage in any sort of conversation without a problem.
"Kim has a cat that crawled through my open car window and got into the bag of cat food in there which is just... great. Immediately liked him from meeting the cat alone; it helps he seems like a really nice kid, too, since we always have nice passing conversations... which seems like all I've had with majority of everyone so far but again, I just moved in. I'll get there with everyone soon."
Fletcher does enjoy the passing conversations he has with Kim and he especially enjoys his cat. That he met the one time he discovered Cashew in his car, ripping into the bag of cat food and honestly, making a mess. Not that Fletcher minded; he coddled the cat while he and Kim introduced themselves, and from there, they now have passing words and Fletcher almost always asks about Cashew. Maybe he has slipped Kim a special cat treat a couple times they've bumped into each other too. Wait until Fletcher finds out about the other pets - he'll totally start spoiling everyone else's pets with no shame whatsoever.
"I managed to catch Quinn when she was heading to work at the Vibe - I need to check that place out soon - and I can safely say she seems like a really confident person. Which is a really good thing; it made me like her immediately. I don't know her too well but by first impression, she seems like she has herself together."
Fletcher obviously doesn't know much about Quinn. It isn't like they had a deep conversation when he bumped into her and found out she was heading to her shift at the Vibe. She seemed pretty nice, to Fletcher, and he managed to introduce himself and get her name. She seemed comfortable in herself, and so Fletcher expects she's pretty well put together. Though, he also knows first impressions doesn't show everything, but he isn't one to pry into someone to be nosey alone.
"I bumped into Doris... literally. I was carrying a box and sort of not watching where I was going and well, smack. I felt really bad, apologized a lot even though it was my stuff and my butt that met the ground - she's really sturdy, to be honest - and she, well... she told me to, uh, quote, "quit fucking apologizing" unquote, 'cause she got it. I didn't really let it bother me and after getting over my embarrassment and trying to resist rubbing the throb in my butt cheek in front of her, I introduced myself and she seems really nice. She's blunt, but a lot of the times, we can use blunt. It's funny, at least."
Fletcher felt bad with his first encounter with Doris, strictly because he ran into her while carrying a box and not exactly paying attention. Even though he took the butt of the crash, he still apologized profusely, which got him a blunt response of basically shut up, she got it, it was okay, stop being so damn nice and worrisome. Which did make Fletcher reel back a little, and it opened up a small conversation, and now Fletcher made an effort to say hello each time he saw her; he has never minded a straightforward attitude, actually they could be entertaining and even helpful, so he can enjoy being around them.
"I've met Maxwell a few times - he seems pretty... positive, which I like a lot. Positivity is something I can get behind. Besides that, I haven't learned much else about him. We're friendly towards the other but, uh, I'm not sure if we have anything else in common. I mean, we haven't really tried to find out, but you know, I'm not going to seek him out and bother him or anything."
Fletcher thinks Maxwell seems like a positive and kind guy that he can get behind if Maxwell ever wants to be official friends. Either way, though, it won't bother Fletcher, because he knows it's really Maxwell's choice. He isn't going to actively seek him out but if he bumps into him, he'll engage in small talk, maybe attempt a little more, but without Maxwell's push, nothing beyond that. Like everyone else, he wouldn't mind getting to know Maxwell a little better. He seems like a good kid and Fletcher does like learning about new people, even if he may come off a bit shy at first, and possibly later.
"Honestly, the first time I met Nathan... I was reminded of one of my kids. Not in a bad way! He just seems really carefree and fun, which I can get on board with. I know there's more to him. Since I'm sort of a coffee addict, I started to go to the café he works at a lot. I see a lot of him, and he seems more mature and serious at work, though I still notice a sort of... childlike attitude about him. Again, not in a bad way! Even I can act like a kid. I feel like Nathan is someone I'd try to drag to my class to read them a book - I bet he'd do some great voices. And, yeah, glad to meet someone way closer to my age. Not that I have a problem with the younger kids, it's just nice to know I won't be labeled "old man who tries too hard." Maybe someone else will get that label, ha."
Fletcher immediately liked Nathan upon first meeting him. The man just had an air about him that appealed to Fletcher, perhaps because he felt like he was similar in a way to his kids, not in a bad way at all, and it made Fletcher be a bit more bubbly around him as a result. Nathan being attractive in Fletcher's eyes helped, too, but he wasn't going to make a move. Maybe when he knew him better, since he could determine his sexuality by then. Seeing him often at the café now, Fletcher's extra nice, because he's sort of serious about attempting to drag Nathan to the school to read to the kids one day. He knows that might seem a bit weird but he really feels like Nathan could be good with kids, and a little extra help would be something amazing. A lack of teacher assistants sucked though he knows bringing in outside help isn't always practical. Doesn't mean he won't try, though.
"Oh, uh, Clarence... my first meeting with him was worse than me ending up on my butt in front of Doris. I'm not really used to having neighbors yet and, uh, I made plenty of damn noise when looking for my keys. I was freaking out, like I always do, and when I heard the knocks on my door... ha, I knew I made someone mad. And yeah, it had to be the hot dad- uh, God, the just dad next door. Ahem. He wasn't happy and he was... shirtless... and uh, I don't remember much of what he said? Anyway! Um, I managed to apologize with cookies and who knew he was hiding a precious angel? I think I fell in-love with Arianna. I need to spend time with her, okay? Clarence would be a... umm, bonus... but if Arianna is not in my class this upcoming year, I will protest. I really will. I will steal her from whatever teacher gets her. No shame, whatsoever."
Fletcher already has strong feelings about Clarence and Arianna, for multiple reasons. His embarrassment of their first meeting didn't help, especially with Clarence's reaction to his clutter and lost keys (which he found way too easily, how did he? Sorcery, that was how). The second meeting, he had met Arianna, and maybe embarrassed himself by immediately dropping to his knees, introducing himself, and presenting her the cookies like a knight would present a sword to their King. Afterward, he paid more attention to Arianna, though maybe that was from being a little nervous towards Clarence. He was a lot older, and attractive, and single. That was enough to make Fletcher's face get hot. So, when he does bump into Clarence, if Arianna is there, his attention is mostly focused on her. Not that he outright ignores Clarence; he manages some small talk with him, with a lack of eye contact and hotness in his cheeks. When he bumped into Clarence a couple times without Arianna, one time in the café Nathan worked at, he had been nervous and while he managed small talk, he came off really... embarrassing, in his opinion. He sort wants to die now, but he doesn't because he can't leave Arianna now. He already openly adores the little girl because how could anyone not?
"Aye, I was sort of excited because I'm not the only new resident! But I haven't really had a chance to meet the other new guy. Or kid... anyone younger than me and they're a kid. I blame that urge to always be an older brother to anyone younger than me. Doesn't mean I can't appreciate a cute face though. Ahem, getting too real and off topic here. So, I haven't properly met, uh, Lewis, yeah. Which I'll fix soon; I know what it's like being the new guy, after all. Can feel a bit awkward and even lonely, if no one is introducing themselves. Which didn't happen to me but I wanna make sure it doesn't happen to Lewis."
Fletcher has seen Lewis from afar, heard his name from somewhere he can't remember now, and plans to introduce himself quite soon. He likes new faces, and he and Lewis can totally adjust to the new place together. In Fletcher's mind, at least, he wants to do that. He thinks befriending another new resident could help both of them; at least they can fall on the other if they can't wiggle their way into the current dynamics here, though most of everyone seems really nice, and Fletcher is sure neither of them would have problems making friends. Fletcher feels like he hasn't bumped into that problem yet, and he wants to make Lewis feel welcomed, so he'll get on that as soon as possible.
"Rucks - that name is totally cool - is someone I haven't talked to that much. He seems pretty nice when I do bump into him, but I haven't managed to get beyond small talk with him. Not that I'm complaining too much, but I wouldn't complain if he went beyond small talk, either. I'm pretty sure he paints, since I caught him with clothes covered in it one day, which is really cool. That or he's a really bad carpenter that gets the paint more on himself than the walls."
Fletcher doesn't know Rucks that well. The one thing he can positively say about him is that he paints and passionately, from that time he saw what his clothes - and hands... and arms... and face even - had to endure. Not that Fletcher sees it as a problem. Actually, he likes to see someone so passionate about something, and next time he sees Rucks, he plans on bringing it up, something a little beyond small talk that he'll start. He has to take small steps with some people, right? Besides that, he feels like Rucks is nice enough, and wouldn't mind talking to him more.
"Vanessa actually seems pretty... shy, I guess. One time, I held open the complex door for her, and she could barely look me in the eye. Like, I can get that, but I did make it a point to stop her and introduce myself. She did seem shy, but she seemed really... sweet, too. She had a certain... vibe about her that made me feel comfortable. I wouldn't mind getting to know her more, since I let her go after getting her name."
Vanessa is another person Fletcher is still wanting to get to know better. However, he believes he can safely say she seems like a gentle soul, and he likes that about her. While she seems shy, that, of course, doesn't bother him. Like the others he doesn't talk to as much, he wants to attempt more conversation with Vanessa, though he isn't going to force her into it, of course. He'll let her move at her own pace.