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Sometimes lives intertwine in mysterious ways |
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Congruent Lines Prologue Talia Palden Creative Writing 103 Assignment #4 Memories One of my earliest memories is from when I was two or three. I wanted to swim in the pool with my older cousins who were splashing around and squealing with delight. They were too involved with their own shenanigans to notice me walking across the in-ground pool deck and jumping in while my “floaties” remained pool-side. I remember the electrifying chill of the water on my skin. As my feet touched the bottom of the pool, my mind took a snapshot of the scene around me. I could see my cousins’ swim trunks and the bottom side of my mother’s colorful raft. Bubbles rose from jets on either side of the pool, which reminded me of the giant fish tank at my pediatrician’s office. It was an amazing view that I had never seen before. I almost didn’t realize was running out of air. I recall the panic when my lungs began to ache as I realized I had no way to reach the surface to take a breath. I knew not to swallow the water, but I needed air. My body was screaming with fear and no one even knew I was down there… Suddenly, with a giant splash and a muscular sweep of his arm, my father lifted me out of the water. I took a giant gasp of air which he squeezed right back out of me as he hugged me close. He checked me over and kissed me a thousand times before yelling at my cousins and making them get out of the pool. He never raised his voice to me, not about this or anything for that matter. He only told me how scared he was as he watched me from the kitchen window as I jumped into the pool.. It had taken him only a few seconds to race out the door and across the cement before jumping in – but I know for the both of us in that moment, time stood still. My father held me close as we sat on the grass wrapped in a towel together. He calmly asked me why I had done it and did I understand why I couldn’t ever do something like that again. I remember the tears in his eyes while he told me how important I was to him and my mom and how scared he was that I might drown. My eyes welled when I looked into his and said “I’m really sorry, Daddy. I thought I could do it, but I can’t.” It’s one of my favorite and last memories of my father. My last memory of my father takes place in a hospital. I remember the room being very cold and very bright. It smelled like new plastic and the walls were very close together. A single chair stood at the foot of the bed. I don’t remember being sad, just confused at the sight of my dad. His head was covered by a large bandage and his nose was hidden behind some kind of mask. I know now that it was a respirator, but as a kid it just looked scary and intimidating. I don’t remember my mother telling me he had been in an accident and in all honesty, she may not have. I just remember sitting there with a new coloring book and a fresh pack of crayons to keep me occupied while my mother talked with the doctors. I colored and colored until there were no more interesting pages left, accepting the scenario around me with a child’s naivety. After that, things started to change. We moved into a tiny apartment closer to my mom’s new job and a few miles from my mother’s parents. The bus would drop me off at their house after school and mom would pick me up after I’d eaten dinner. Every memory around that time feels dark. Each one seems cold and incomplete. The memories before that time are so vivid and alive. I never asked what happened, but there were no pictures of my father hanging in the new apartment or any of the numerous apartments we had after that. My father was just gone, and no one talked about it. I noticed the way my mother’s smile had disappeared. Her hair changed from a deep mahogany to a mass of salt and peppered highlights in less than a year. I remember a box of wine on the top shelf of the fridge. For years I thought it was the same one, but as I grew older I became aware of how frequently that box was replaced with a new one. Random insignificant men made their way in and out of my mother’s life, and never once did I grow any inkling of attachment towards any of them. I can’t say I compared them to the memory of my father consciously, but more than likely my adolescent brain knew better than to invest anything emotionally. My relationship with my mother was always strained. In front of her friends and my grandparents, she always acted like the doting mommy; kissing boo-boos and bragging about something stupid I’d been recognized for. At home, she’d just retreat to her tiny bedroom, shut the door and turn on the TV. She’d emerge to visit the refrigerated box of wine, but that was it. We didn’t talk and we didn’t understand each other. By the time I turned 18, I was more than ready to be out on my own. I’d grown tired of supplementing the rent with my grocery store paycheck. I was tired of having nothing in the fridge but condiments and that damn box of wine on the top shelf. Living with her was complicated and uncomfortable and I was pretty sure if I moved out that neither of us would miss each other. She might not even notice. I took a few boxes of odds and ends with me when I moved out one day, along with 3 pictures of my father that I had hidden away. One of them was from the day he saved me from drowning. I remember taking it. Up-close and completely off center, my father’s face beamed with delight. My tiny finger had covered nearly the entire left side of the photo, but my father’s blue eyes were still in focus and completely striking. I spoke to those eyes, as I crossed the threshold with my meager belongings, leaving my mother and my childhood behind. “I’m really sorry Daddy. I thought I could do it, but I can’t.” CHAPTER 1 Student housing on campus at Kent State has always been a problem. Dorms are mainly reserved for first and second year students but even those rooms are scarce. If you’re lucky, you might find decent housing somewhere in town but your chances of finding part time work to pay for it are slim to none. It’s a lot for an incoming student to digest, especially for one coming from out of state. Cassie’s living situation was a bit easier than most. Her parents owned the renovated Victorian that her apartment was in. They bought it when she was a senior in high school, almost as soon as she received her acceptance letter. For her parents, it was a sound investment. Hers was one of the four student apartments. The rent from the other three apartments more than covered the mortgage payment. In fact, the excess money funded an account that Cassie used for her day-to-day expenses. For Cassie, living there was a welcomed vacation from her overbearing micromanaging mother and father. For all intents and purposes, it worked for everyone. Of course, Cassie’s apartment was the pick of the litter, with the most square footage and a little added bonus. A set of French doors in her bedroom opened up to an enclosed patio right off the back of the house. Shrouded in wildflowers and creeping ivy, she called it her “Sanctuary of Solace.” Her favorite feature was the wicker porch-swing that was almost (but not quite) big enough for two people. It was suspended from the overhang, with a lavender micro-fiber cushion completing the ensemble. It was perfect for reading and long distance calls to her parents in Rhode Island. Most importantly, it was the spot she had late night conversations with her good friend, Josh, from apartment #2. Josh had been the first tenant Cassie’s parents signed a lease with. They were impressed that he was twenty-one and working his way through college, a few classes at a time. Her dad even cut him a deal on the rent in exchange for some maintenance responsibilities. To Cassie’s dad it meant mowing and shoveling would be taken care of. To Josh it meant working five less hours a week at the pizza shop. He was grateful. Josh was the kind of guy that everyone considered a true friend. He was dynamic and reliable, a stark opposite to Cassie’s naive and almost self-centered personality. Josh had a softer big-brother quality about him while Cassie resembled the whiny little sister. When he wasn’t in class, he worked…a lot. When she wasn’t in class, she read…a lot. Somehow, a friendship was forged and the two of them spent most of their free time together. She’d cook him dinner in exchange for him doing the things she hated, like taking out the trash and killing spiders. Tonight Josh’s phone rang once again as the clock on his nightstand read midnight. His head had barely settled into his pillow, but he sat straight up and answered the call. Hearing just a single sniffle through the phone, he uttered a quick, “I'll be right over” and hung up. He threw on a hat and some shoes before heading down the stairs to Cassie’s apartment. He didn’t knock. He just used his key to get in. He instinctively made his way out to the patio through her bedroom and took his spot on the swing next to her. Cassie crawled into his arms bawling. Her face was pressed to his chest, soaking his sweatshirt with tears. It was a routine that was all too familiar. “Alright. Shhh. Who is it this time?” She wept in response. “I’m sorry. Come on Cass. I’m listening.” “I swear,” she managed. “There has to be something wrong with me. “Well yeah! You’re crazy!” Cassie lifted her head and playfully punched his shoulder. “Oh thanks jerk.” “Alright, I was mostly kidding. Go on, what’s the douche bag’s name?” “Chris. Well, actually it’s Christian.” She sat up a bit more and looked Josh in the eyes. “I think you know him. He’s the guy who works at the bookstore on campus.” Josh scrunched up his face in disgust. “Ughh. Gross. Not that dumbass with the barcode on the back of his neck.” “Yeah. That’s him.” “I don’t get it, Cass. Anyone with a set of eyes, other than you apparently, knows what an a-hole that guy is. He rides a busted up BMX bike to class. Does he even own a car?” “No.” “Exactly.” “Are you gonna let me tell the story or not?” “Sorry…please go on.” Cassie nestled back up to him, her face resting on his chest as she spoke. “Day before yesterday I was coming out of my Psychology class and he was waiting for me. Ya know, right by the double doors in the front of Cartwright Hall.” Josh nodded. “The professor had posted our mid-term grades,” she continued,” and Christian congratulated me on getting the highest grade in the class.” “Who does that?” Josh scoffed. “Josh!” “Ok, Ok.” Josh mimicked the age-old motion of zipping and then locking his lips. “Well anyway, he told me how much trouble he was having passing any of the tests and quizzes. He said he only needed this class to satisfy his last elective as a senior, so he could graduate.” Her silenced companion once again nodded. “Well he asked me if I would maybe study with him a few times before the next exam and if I might let him copy my notes after each class.” “Did you say, ‘No, Dick. Learn how to take your own notes?” “No, I agreed to help him,” she corrected. “That was your first mistake,” Josh joked. Cassie sprung out of the swing, visibly frustrated. “Are you going to let me finish or are you just going to keep interrupting me?” “I’m sorry Cass. I hate the guy. He’s a low life and I already know where this is going.” “Can’t you just let me get to the worst part before you…pull the big brother routine?” “Alright, jeeze. Continue.” “So for the past few days I’ve been copying my notes and meeting with him on the quad to go over them. The first day he brought me a Diet coke and some Oreos.” “Yuck.” “I thought it was sweet. And then yesterday he brought me a box of chocolates.” Josh rolled his eyes. “So, this afternoon he called me. Said there was going to be some kegger or something off campus tonight and asked me if I would pick him up so we could go…together.” Josh’s brow furled. “Because he rides a bike. And I’m sorry…since when do you go to keggers? I’ve seen you drink what…two wine coolers in almost three years?” “Well I thought maybe it would be fun, I guess. I’ve only got a year and a half left before I graduate. Shouldn’t I be doing stuff like that?” “You? No. Me? Hell yes,” Josh teased. “Well anyway, I left here around ten tonight to go and get him. I could tell from his breath that he had been pre-gaming on his own. And he stumbled getting into the car.” “And yet you still went…”Josh sarcastically pointed out. “Don’t worry, it gets worse, she assured him. “When we pulled up to the party there was music blaring and people everywhere, literally. I’m pretty sure I’ve never seen that many drunk people in one place before. We wandered around for a little while…” She began to sob. ”Then he said something about getting us drinks and left me standing there; for like ten minutes. All of these gross guys kept staring and smiling at me. It got REALLY uncomfortable and so I finally started walking around trying to find him. When I did, he was halfway up some Phi Beta hooker’s shirt who’s boobs apparently don’t know they belong INSIDE her bra.” Josh chuckled. “I didn’t even say anything to him. What’s the point? I just walked out crying and drove home.” The tears began to well in dramatic fashion. “Is it so bad to want someone who actually gives a shit about me?” Josh naturally felt slighted. “So I don’t count huh?” Cassie didn’t acknowledge him. “I don’t get it. Why does this kinda crap keep happening to me?” Josh clenched his teeth. He’d had enough. “You’re kidding me right now, right? “ “Kidding you? No. I seriously want to know why every guy I meet ends up treating me like straight garbage.” Josh sat up, cocked his head to the side and spoke candidly. “Cassie how many times do we have to have this conversation? You want romance and “happily ever after.” But then you pick guys that are more likely to end up smoking weed in their momma’s basement for the rest of their life.” “That’s not fair.” “It’s not?” Josh raised his voice. “Do you know what the definition of insanity is, Miss Psychology major? It’s doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different result.” “You don’t have to be mean.” Cassie turned away from him in dramatic fashion, something Josh absolutely hated. His tone had grown slightly nastier. “I think I do. It seems like every week you call me and want me to make everything better when some guy treated you like dirt again. I sit here and listen to you repeat the same story over and over. Different guy. Same scenario.” “That’s not true.” “It isn’t? Let’s review shall we? How bout that bartender dude, that football player who dumped you when you wouldn’t sleep with him, or that drummer from that lame ass punk-rock band …what was his name? Sledge? Come on Cassie! It’s like you never learn your lesson.” “What lesson am I supposed to learn? That I’m un-datable?” Josh held up his hands in protest. “I’m not doing this tonight Cass. I’m done. I’m going home.” “What the hell Josh? Stop being such a jerk! Since when can’t I talk to you about this stuff? You’re supposed to be my friend.” “Your friend? Right. I’m supposed to sit here and sugar coat everything to make you feel better about the pieces of shit you decide to go out with?” “What the hell is your problem tonight? “ “I can’t do this anymore. It’s just stupid!” “So now I’m stupid?” “I didn’t say you were stupid. But now that you mention it…” His tone was drenched in frustration. “Yeah. You MUST be.” Cassie yelled through a cascade of tears. “Wow! Nice. If you don’t give a shit, which you obviously DON’T, then why the hell are you even here?” Josh had made his way to the doorway, ready to leave. Overcome with frustration, he turned his head and locked his gaze with hers. “Cause I’m in fucking love with you. How’s that for a reason?” “Wait, what?” “Yeah! Josh affirmed, grudgingly. “SURPRISE!” “Why didn’t you…” Josh upped his intensity, “Because! Unlike all the morons you go after, I know I don’t deserve you. Because based on your recent choices in men, I’m clearly not your type. Or maybe it’s because I never really had any intention of telling you, ever. I don’t know, pick one.” Once again tears streamed down her face. Josh’s demeanor instantly softened. “Cassie, please don’t do that.” “All those nights that you sat here, talking me through one thing after another. And you didn’t say ANYTHING? That doesn’t make any sense.” “I thought, you know, that I could handle just being friends with you; that watching movies and hanging out would be enough. But it’s not. Every day, just being close to you…” He pulled at the spot of his sweatshirt where her head had been resting moments before. “Even the smell of your shampoo…It’s literally tearing me apart.” “Josh, I don’t know what to…” He shook his head, “Don’t. I..I don’t even know why I told… Ya know what? Forget this happened. It doesn’t matter.” “Forget it? No. We need to talk about this.” His feet crossed over the threshold of her room and made their way towards the front door. “No. We don’t. I’m pretty sure we’ve done enough talking for today. I’m gonna go.” “Josh, Please.” He couldn’t bring himself to look at her as he opened the door. “No. I think I ruined everything enough for tonight. I’ll call ya tomorrow, Cassie.” He pulled the door closed behind him. Cassie’s head was spinning. What was she supposed to do now? Did she see him that way? Could she see him that way? Her mind was firing on all cylinders and confusing the situation even more. She grabbed a notebook and started to write everything down. If she made a list, she thought, just maybe she could figure things out. What I should be looking for in a guy: 1.) Has to be funny, makes me laugh Well yeah, she thought. Of course. Josh was one of the funniest people I know. He’s the master of sarcastic comedy. 2.) Is he self motivated Uhh yeah. He’s putting himself through school, lives in an apartment he pays for, and works every weekend and any weeknight he can snag an extra shift. 3.) Must be a gentleman. Without a doubt. Josh almost always opened doors for me, bring over dessert when I made him dinner and he always cleans up without being asked. 4.) Do I feel safe around him? Of course! He has the key to my apartment to chase away the creepy crawlwys and he’s the only one I call every time something goes bump in the night. 5.) Can I be myself around him? Josh knows me better than I know herself. He always brings me my favorite pizza; pepperoni, mushroom and green peppers. He even knows my favorite childhood memory is the crackle of the dust jackets on a library books…God I’m a nerd. 6.) Handsome? Is he handsome? Well yeah, he is pretty good looking and well groomed, she thought. Especially when he rocked the 5 o'clock shadow. The evidence was overwhelming, she thought to herself. But how could she just flip the switch? How could she go from seeing Josh as the best guy friend a girl could have to the best boyfriend a girl could ever want? Her eyes grew heavy as she cuddled up on the over-sized couch in the living room. Her muddled thoughts drifted and before long she was asleep. Mid-morning the next day, her phone startled her awake. She answered in an overly groggy voice. “Hello?”” “Wakey wakey eggs and bakey!” “Mhhmm. Hi Josh. That's really weird. I was just dreaming about...You were just in my dream. “ “Alright!” he cheered “Was I naked?” In typical Josh fashion, he made light of the night before and proclaimed that what they both needed to ease the tension was a fun night out. He’d been invited to a bonfire at his buddy's cabin on Berlin Lake. It was a forty-minute drive but there was plenty of room for everyone to spend the night and head home in the morning. She couldn't refuse or claim she was busy, he told her, because he knew for a fact she had nothing planned for the weekend. His jeep was packed. All she needed, he told her, was a change of clothes and a toothbrush. He'd pick her up when he got out of work at 6:30. Cassie agreed. She spent the day preparing for that evening. Legs were shaved. Toenails painted. Hair perfectly tousled. She filled a handled tote bag with just the necessities, and amazingly was able to pull herself together in just under 7 hours. When he honked the horn she darted out the door anxiously. They snacked and joked the whole way. Both were relieved that nothing awkward remained from the night before. They pulled up to the house and parked the Jeep next to a few other cars in the grass. The fire was enormous and strangely mesmerizing. Cassie could feel its warmth on her face as they walked towards the group of people hanging out on the beach. Coolers and kegs lined the edge where grass met the sand, a safe distance from the fire. Instead of a radio, someone had turned up the sound system in the trunk of their tricked out car. People danced and played in the sand surrounding the blaze. The mood was light and the chill in the air made Cassie glad she wore a sweatshirt. Cassie was surprised to recognize quite a few faces in the crowd. More than one former classmate greeted her and one even convinced her to play in a friendly volleyball game only moments after they arrived. Josh watched from the sidelines sitting on the cooler he had brought with them. After an almost embarrassing loss, Cassie joined him in the sand. Josh stood up and opened the lid to his “seat” before digging through it’s contents. His frozen hand emerged with two frosty bottles; a wine cooler for Cassie and a Miller Light for himself. “The idea tonight is to have fun. Ok?” He uncapped her drink and placed it in her hand. “I am having fun,” she smiled. “Let the festivities begin then.” He clinked his bottle with hers in celebration. The night was full of laughter and Frisbee by the light of the fire. There were random conversations and fits of giggles, all without any strife. Cassie had never been to something like this. There were no drooling dirt-bags trying to cop a feel. No territorial sorority chicks scoffing on the sidelines. It was just a bunch of people enjoying each other's company. Someone had even brought sparklers. CHAPTER 2 For Talia and her three suitemates it was a normal Sunday in November, but it was obvious they were going stir-crazy in their dorm. Nothing whatsoever was happening on or around campus. And to make it worse, a brisk fall rain made outdoor activities out of the question. The only thing left to do, according to Talia’s roommate, Charlotte, was to eat the Jello shots they’d made the night before. “No” Talia insisted. “I need to do something, ANYTHING, that involves me getting out of this hell hole for a few hours, no matter what it takes.” “I’ve got like twenty bucks to my name until I go home for Christmas break,” Nikki announced. “I might, and I stress the word ‘might’ have a roll of quarters hanging around somewhere,” said Charlotte. “Should be enough for a few drinks downtown or some Moonlight Bowling.” Talia clenched her fists in frustration, “I’m not wasting the small amount of money I have left over from financial aid on over-crowded bars or bowling with skeevy college guys in the dark! Come on, we can do better that this! THINK!!” “Hey I know I don’t exactly have the best track record with you outta-staters, but I have an idea,” Katie offered, “but you’re all just gonna have to trust me.” Charlotte rolled her eyes. “Oh, here we go.” Katie continued, “I’m pretty sure that all of you enjoy men in uniform…am I wrong? “Men in cowboy hats don’t count as uniforms,” Nikki jumped in. “Mmmm, cowboy hats…” Katie daydreamed. Talia interrupted, “Kate, focus!” “Look, if I try to explain it to you before we get there, none of you will go. But I assure you, there WILL be a lot of nice looking guys there. And it would be an absolute shame to let an opportunity like this slip through our fingers.” Charlotte winced. “I’m scared. You’ve already dragged us to a frigging pig-on-a-stick roast and a demolition derby. God only knows what you have up your sleeve this time.” “Everybody grab what cash you have on hand. And just for the record, y’all are gonna thank me in the morning. “ She looked down at her phone to check the time. “But we need to leave, like right now.” The foursome quickly made their way to the student lot and piled into Nikki’s Honda. Kate navigated the ten-minute drive across town and had Nikki pull into the parking lot of what looked to be a VFW or banquet hall. There were no signs announcing any events but the lot was packed with cars. Whatever was going on inside had drawn a pretty big crowd. Talia looked around questioningly “What in the…” “ I told you!” Katie stopped her. “You’re just gonna have to trust me on this one.” She led the way through the main entrance, with her twenty in her hand. Walking through the door, they were met with a room entirely full of boisterous females sitting at cafeteria-style tables in long rows. Music blared from a quality sound system and a giant flat screen TV was mounted to the front wall next to a mic and podium. As the girls looked around the room, they noticed the telling stacks of paper at each woman’s’ spot along with colorful capped marking devices. It didn’t take long before Charlotte addressed the white elephant in the room. “Did you seriously take us to lesbian BINGO?!” Katie got defensive. “They aren’t lesbians, I don’t think…” “Okie dokie. Ladies,” Talia chimed in, “For the record, no matter what happens from this moment forward ...we never ever let Kate choose a group activity again!.” Everyone laughed. “You guys are jerks.” Katie brooded. “Just wait. It will be worth it.” “Why do I have a feeling it won’t?” Charlotte quipped. Katie growled under her breath in response. Each of the girls handed over their ten-dollar admission fee (with a little help from Talia, of course). In return they received a large packet of bingo cards with a free drink ticket attached. None of them noticed that their change was handed back to them in one-dollar bills. “Excuse me,” Talia asked the woman collecting the money, “where can we get those BINGO markers everyone has?” She looked to Katie sarcastically, “We seem to have forgotten ours.” “Oh that’s not a problem. The guys will be out in a few.” Talia raised a brow questioningly. “The guys?” “First-timer huh?” The woman pointed to the right corner of the room. A cluster of four seats remained in the last row at the furthest table from the door. “Just have a seat,” the woman insisted. “As soon as the announcements are made you’ll have an opportunity to buy some .” She then quickly motioned to the women who had just piled in behind them, “Next!” All four girls made their way to their chairs and sat down. The room was completely energized, a far cry from the church Bingo settings that all of them had grown up with. Right next to the cluster of empty seats sat two thirty-something woman, each with a wedding ring and “Ladies’ Night” attire. Everyone but Katie was trying to make sense of them and the room, unsuccessfully. Talia noted that Katie’s grin had doubled in size but she still remained tight-lipped. “What the hell is going on here, Kate?” “This is like the best kept secret anywhere. Nobody comes here for BINGO. They come here for the eye candy” Talia scoured the room to confirm there were no men to be seen. She opened her eyes wide and looked back at her friend with pure skepticism. “It’s a fundraiser, for firemen.” “A fundraiser for what? Firemen?” She searched her friend’s face for any form of clarification. Before Katie had a chance to respond, dance music began blaring from the speakers around the room. Two hundred women were on their feet cheering and a female announcer, hidden somewhere in the masses, spoke to them. “Helllloooooo ladies!!! Welcome to this year’s “Fire Fight Bingo!” Looks like we’ve got a full house tonight!” The room erupted in a roar of hollers and whistles. “First, before we get started, I need to remind everyone that there are five emergency exits located throughout this room. Please take a moment to locate your nearest exit and be sure to keep the aisles clear at all times. Second, for those of you who are new to Fire Fight let me explain the basics. Tonight we have 4 local area fire stations competing for your generous donations.” A group of women stood up waving singles emphatically above their head while the room exploded with laughter. “Hang on hang on,” the announcer pleaded impishly. “I’m almost done. Every station, or team, is represented by four of best and hottest firemen. The guys from each team will be wearing matching colored shirts that clearly state who they represent.” A voice in the crowd shrieked, “I’ll take em all!” “Ok, Ok. Just let me remind you that every dollar that you spend tonight goes to fund special community events that cannot happen without your support. There is a list of those events located by the raffle prize tables in the adjoining room. Your admission as well as any drinks, BINGO daubers and munchies you purchase goes towards each team’s total. The guys will also be selling special Jackpot game boards not included in your admission package. The more we sell, the bigger the cash payout. “If you are interested in keeping track of which station is making the most money tonight, please take a look at the smaller monitors located by the snack station. The winning team gets the bragging rights and some schnazzy Fire Fight T-Shirts, so be sure to spend your money with the station you’re routing for. Alright, let's get on with the introductions, shall we?” The house lights were lowered as a spotlight revealed a doorway on the far side of the room. The howling ensued. “In light blue and representing the notorious men of Fire Station thirteen, let's hear some noise for Chris, Dave, Nathan and Mike.” The four men burst through the doorway and immediately began teasing the crowd with their gyrating hips. They were met with excited almost hedonistic women cheering and pining over them. The firefighters devoured the attention, each of playing to the audience in a way that stirred the enthusiasm and assured them a generous payout at the end of the night. “Thank you gentlemen! It just got a little hotter in here for sure! Whew!! Alright…are you ready to meet our next team?” The crowd roared with applause and cat calls “Alright, in dark blue, representing Station twenty-four outta Stow, please show some love for Eric, Tony, John and Nash.” Within moments a musical snippet of “What’s Your Fantasy” began to play and the women began to lose their minds. The four young firemen jumped over the threshold with fervor. Each of them flaunted a few freestyle dance moves while mouthing some of the explicit lyrics. Their onlookers squealed in delight. “Whooo, I don’t know about you ladies but I’d love one of those guys to put me out if I was on fire. Alright, I know you’ll love these next guys. In white,” the announcer continued, “let's hear it for the city of Tallmadge’s best, Station four: Jay, Dennis, Kip and Pete.” The next four firemen emerged, dressed in perfectly pressed white uniform shirts. “Promiscuous Girl” played as each man chose a different section of the room to dance suggestively close to for a few moments. When the music ended the women once again screamed to show their overwhelming approval. Talia looked to her three friends who were completely immersed in the experience. Their faces were beaming and they each fought to get a better view of the entertainment. “And now last but absolutely not least,…” The announcer’s introduction was cut short and the room went completely dark. The baseline to ‘Anywhere’ by 112 began to play and the shrieks in response were absolutely ear-piercing. The spotlight shined on four twenty-something firemen who had already assembled in the middle of the floor. Each was frozen in a slightly different pose holding a single red rose in their right hand. The volume of the crowd had grown increasingly louder with each group of uniformed men, but it was obvious that this team was the overwhelming favorite. In nearly perfect unison, the men surprised the throng of females with a few well-choreographed dance moves of their own. When their brief routine was over, the music continued and they walked out into the crowd. One at a time the men teasingly scoured the room for someone to give their gentlemanly token to. Talia and her friends watched as the first three flowers made their way to awestruck recipients. The fireman with the last rose however, continued to tantalize the room with suggestive dance moves, teasing his audience with a purposefully delayed decision. But as the last few bars of the song began to play he took a clear and precise path to the back corner of the room. Without warning, a blinding light was shining in Talia’s eyes and the single rose was slipped into her hand. Before her eyes could adjust, the fireman turned and disappeared into the crowd. All three of her friends screeched like schoolgirls, as she stood there dumbfounded. The announcements resumed. “Alriiiiight ladies, put your hands together for the current Fire Fight champions from Fire Station One located right here in Kent, the boys in black: Quinn, Brandon, Joey and Duff.” Everyone was on their feet carrying on. The room was alive with excitement and sexual tension. Surprisingly, though, it was held together by restraint and sensibility. No one wanted kicked out of the metaphorical arena and before long, the lights were up and firemen were scattered throughout the room. Some were walking around selling raffle tickets and peddling “flavored” bingo markers. Others were manning the snack booth and taking drink orders. The young firefighters knew how to use humor and good looks to persuade the crowd to buy anything and everything they were selling. For the first two hours a pair of entertaining firemen called the numbers for each BINGO round. They had great comedic timing, playing well off one another. When a member of the audience won a round they would jokingly harass her from the podium. The rest of the women laughed and swooned simultaneously while each fire station’s totals climbed higher and higher. The two married women sharing the table with the roommates teased Talia that they were jealous she had gotten a rose. It wasn’t the flower but the mere fact that the young fireman, Duff, chose her over everyone else in the room. In their opinion, he was the hottest guy there. “He is quite the favorite around here,” stated the woman in the angora sweater. “As soon as he handed you that rose, about two hundred hearts in this room broke in half.” “I tell you what,” her friend in red admitted. “He’s about a decade and a half too young for me. But child, that boy is damn fine. He could go ahead and sell me ice cubes in a snowstorm. “ “I don’t even know what he looks like,” Talia admitted. “That stupid light blinded me. I couldn’t pick him out of a line up if my life depended on it.” The woman in red attempted to point him out from across the room. “You see that gorgeous raven-haired specimen with the fair complexion. Oh yeah. That’s him. And wait till you see his eyes. Good Lord.” “Amen, girl,” her friend agreed. Talia and her friends giggled as they struggled to pay attention to the game going on around them but the thump of the microphone signaled another notification. The room grew silent. “Last chance to buy raffle tickets is coming up shortly, ladies. There are over twenty amazing prizes to win so head on over to adjacent room to check them all out. Grand Prize is an all-expense paid date with one of our handsome firemen from tonight…” Talia watched as her table cleared out before the announcement was even finished. Everyone, including her friends lunged to the other room with profound hopes of winning something or someone amazing. As she sat alone for the first time all day , she was suddenly startled by a voice behind her. “Any chance I can I interest you in some raffle tickets?” the blue-eyed firemen asked. “I only have two left.” Talia turned towards him and let her eyes quickly dart to the embroidered name above his shirt pocket: “Duff.” “Oh. Jeeze, I’m sorry. I can’t,” she said embarrassed. The clean-cut gentleman softened his voice and moved in closer, “Alright, I’ll make you a deal,” he bargained. “If you buy one, I’ll buy you the other one. And if either of them win, you keep the prize. That’s like a BOGO chance of a lifetime.” Talia laughed, finding his pitch adorable. “Sorry, I really can’t. I am literally broke. I only had enough money to get in.” The fireman threw up his hands in playful defeat. “Alright, you win. I’ll buy both of them for ya but you’re gonna have to fill em out and drop em in the box over there. I, unfortunately, am not eligible to win a date with myself.” Talia laughed. “Ahh, so you’re the Grand Prize, huh? What an honor.” She bowed her head mockingly. “I’m not at liberty to say. But If I said yes, would that persuade you to fill these out?” the fireman asked. “Probably not.’ “Ouch. Crash and burn.” “Come on. I’m sure there are plenty of other girls here that will jump at the chance,” Talia proposed, trying to cushion the blow to his ego. “Maybe,” he paused and looked directly into her eyes, “but the offer is only good if you accept.” Talia shot him a look of pure skepticism and he backed away facetiously. “Alright, I know when to take no for an answer… but I have something to admit. I was lying to you a second ago.” “You don’t know when to take no for an answer?” He laughed. “No, What I meant was, I already sold all of my raffle tickets. I just bought these two from my buddy Matt over there so I had a reason to come talk to you.” Talia furled her brow in confusion. “See In order to win, you have to fill out your name and number on this ticket stub…and I was trying to be smooth…” the young man explained. “From what all the women around me were saying…you’re a pretty hot commodity. I’m sure you’ll do fine.” “So…you guys were talking about me huh?” “Well, they had some pretty interesting things to say about you.” “Those allegations are highly exaggerated I’m sure. Unless of course they said what an exemplary gentleman I am. If that’s the case, then they are completely accurate.” “Sure they are.” “No really, honest. Let me start over.” He extended his right hand. “Ryan Duffy, but around here, people call me ‘Duff’ or just Ryan…I answer to both. “Nice to meet you, Ryan” Talia smiled. “And you are…?” the fireman probed. “Here with friends.” Talia responded, playing hard-to-get. “Man, you are really making me work for this aren’t you?” Talia laughed and shrugged her shoulders. “Usually the uniform makes this easy. But that’s not doing it for ya huh?” She shook her head. “No. Not really.” “What about my charming personality?” He flashed his perfect teeth in an over exaggerated smile.” Talia did what she could to hold back a grin of her own. “I prefer sincerity.” Ryan crouched down at the end of the table and folded his arms in front of him. His tone was nothing but earnest as he looked directly into her eyes. “All jokes aside, when all of this is over tonight, I would really like the opportunity to take you out for some friendly conversation and a drink. A good friend of mine is in a band that’s playing downtown tonight and I’d love to take you. No B.S., just a few laughs and some live music. If for any reason you decide you want to leave, I’ll pay for the cab to take you home. What would you say to that?” Talia couldn’t hide the fact that he had her attention. “I’d say you succeeded in piquing my interest. But sadly, I’m here with friends and ditching them would be really…” Ryan interrupted, “And if they had dates for tonight, would you then reconsider?” “Uhh, yeah. I suppose. But they don’t …” “Alright then.” He handed her a small piece of paper. “Here’s my number… ya know, just in case all of your friends happen to find dates in the next hour or so. But you should really let me know your name so I know it’s you when you call. “It’s Talia” she answered reticently. “Well Talia, it was a pleasure,” he bowed his head gallantly. As he walked away, all three of her friends were on their way back from their raffle investigation. They hurried to the table, each of them trying to curb their excitement. Talia couldn’t make out what any of them were saying as they talked over one another in a whispered firestorm. “Hold on hold on… one at a time. What’s going on?” “Oh my God, we were just over there checking out all of the prizes, ya know for the raffle…” “Yes, I know that part…” “Well while we were over there these three totally hot firemen just came out of nowhere - right over to us and asked us if we wanted to go out with them to see a band downtown tonight.” Talia smirked and looked across the room. Ryan was standing against the wall smiling. He motioned as if he were counting; one, two, three. Then he pointed to her and shrugged impishly. Nikki was so wound up that words spilled out of her mouth at a thousand miles an hour. “There were only three of them, but before we leave here we are absolutely going to find someone else to take along for you…” “Oh, I think I actually already have a date,” Talia revealed after recognizing the elaborate hustle that had just ensued. CHAPTER – 3 History After being invited out for drinks none of the girls could concentrate on anything, especially Bingo. Instead they spent the next hour snickering, finalizing plans and flirting through texts with their handsome uniformed companions. When the last name had been drawn for the final prize - A date with the Kent Fire Chief – one woman let out a euphoric scream while the rest crumpled up their tickets in disappointment. The room began to clear out quickly. Talia and her friends made their own hasty retreat ahead of the crowd in order to get ready for their night out. It had been unanimously decided that the group would meet at the Waterstreet Tavern in downtown Kent around nine. That gave everyone enough time to mingle before the band started playing at ten. The guys easily had enough time to change and play video games for nearly forty minutes before leaving for the bar. The girls, in contrast, scrambled to get ready, fighting over the bathroom and barely made it out on time. Expecting the normal crowd of delinquent college kids, the girls went over their safety rules, the same thing they did every time they went out: • Never leave a drink unattended • Use a buddy system, especially for the restroom. • Do not leave the bar with anyone other than the people you came with – no one gets left behind for any reason. • The designated driver has the final say when it’s time to leave. When they walked through the bar’s front doors, the scene before them was surprising. Nearly every bar stool stood empty; a far cry from the rowdy Saturday night crowds they were accustomed to. A single bartender was stocking while he watched football highlights on the TV mounted above the bar. The only occupied seats were those of their now casually, but well-dressed dates. Music played quietly in the background. Within a moment the firemen had made their way over to the girls, greeting them like proper ladies and making each of them blush ever so slightly. After some re-introductions, the young men informed their lady companions that they could order whatever they wanted. “Just tell the bartender what you want. We’re covering the tab to celebrate our overwhelming win.” Ryan told them. The girls thanked the young men politely and placed their orders one at a time. When the bartender returned with their beverages every girl held onto their cup firmly. Having something in their hand magically helped ease the hint of nervousness in the air. The house music also helped set the tone for friendly conversation and before long each match broke off into their own private discussions. Talia absentmindedly fiddled with her straw as she and Ryan got to know each other. She did her best not to be too conspicuous as she examined him from every angle. There was no doubt about it; he was gorgeous. And from what she could tell so far he was chivalrous as well. The banter between them was light and fun, something Talia really enjoyed. But, she had questions that needed answered before she could truly let her guard down. “Ya know, I liked that little ruse you pulled at “Firefight”. You get bonus points for creativity but… I’m curious. How many times have you guys used that one successfully?” Ryan cracked a smile and lowered his head in playful defeat. “I know how it must look, but it’s not like that, I swear,” he tried to assure her. “Are you trying to tell me that you didn’t conspire with your friends to get us all out to the bar tonight?“ Ryan nodded , “Ok so that part IS exactly how it looks, but I didn’t give them much of a choice.” Talia raised a questioning eyebrow. “I’ve got seniority over them,” Ryan clarified. “They pretty much have to do whatever I tell them to.” “I see,” Talia smirked. “And what about the rose? “What do you want to know?” “There’s no way in hell you saw me in that pitch-black room. Not in the absolute back corner…” “I did see you. You just didn’t see me looking,” Ryan teased. “You’re gonna have to do better than that.” “Alright, I’ll tell you, but I promise, it’s really not as creepy as it’s gonna sound.” “I’m listening. “ “Ya know those doors that we came out of during the introductions?” Talia nodded. “Well that room is usually where security sits. My buddy, Jimmy is one of weekend guards; He’s there to monitor the cameras throughout the building. Fortunately that also includes the entrances and the main banquet room. “So…?” she prodded. Ryan chuckled nervously. “So… while we were all packed in that room like sardines waiting for the announcer, Jimmy let us scope out the room a little bit.” “You’re wrong. That IS creepy.” Ryan took a sip of his lime-garnished drink. “Is it creepier than being closed in a tiny room with fifteen other guys for an hour? Cause in my defense watching you for those few moments really got me through a rough time.” “I’m not a lawyer or anything, but I’m pretty sure it’s actually considered stalking…” “More like ogling for a moment or two.” “Oooh. Good word,” Talia praised as Ryan acknowledged the compliment with a feigned bow and a mischievous smile. “Well it worked, I suppose,” Talia admitted. “Ya did get me here.” “See, there is a method to my madness.” The evening flowed along effortlessly for all of them. One drink became two and for some a third. The engaging conversation also kept each of them from noticing the band readying their equipment in time for their set. When live music began to play the small audience was startled to say the least. Both the acoustics and the band’s poor onstage presence drove each couple closer and closer to one another in order to keep the mood buzzing. When the band took their first break Talia’s ears were grateful for the relief. “I don’t mean to be rude, but this band…” “Uhm, Sucks?” Ryan added emphatically. Talia laughed. “Oh good. You noticed.” “Yeah, kinda hard to miss. I’m really sorry. I had no idea they were this bad, honest.” “I thought you guys said you were friends” Talia joked. “Ehh, after having to sit through this, I may have to re-think my social circle. These guys have been cruising around the station for weeks, spouting about how awesome they sound.” “They lied.” “Agreed. But don’t worry. The rest of the guys and I will come up with something equally excruciating to enact our revenge.” “Sounds pretty fair. Make sure you let me know what you come up with.” “Sure, I’ll tell you all about it…the next time you let me take you out.” “Hmmpft. A second date? I don’t know.” “Aww come on, I’ve been the perfect gentleman.” Talia smiled as she sipped through her straw. “That’s what scares me.” She noticed that Ryan had moved in closer to her but stayed at a comfortable distance. She liked talking to him. His quick wit was an even match for hers and his magnetism was undeniable. She found herself letting her guard down just enough to really enjoy his company. When the band started making their way back to the stage, an air of disappointment brushed over her face. Her change in expression did not go unnoticed. Almost as if Ryan were reading her mind, he offered up a suggestion. “Ya know, there’s a sweet little patio right on the top of this building. It’s well lit and gives you a cool little view of drunk college kids trying to find their way home.” “I’m game for a change of scenery,” Talia admitted, “but I’m not sure my sweater is exactly warm enough?” “I’m pretty sure there are heaters up there…and I’ll give you this if you get cold,” he said tugging on his coat. The band began playing, and Ryan had to yell to finish his sentence. “If it’s uncomfortable, we’ll just come back down and warm up to more of these bad Metallica covers.” Talia quickly pointed towards the roof and mouthed, “Let’s go.” After letting their friends know where they’d be, the pair climbed the stairs leading out to the patio and pushed the wooden door at the top open. Strings of lights were strewn along the perimeter with chairs and stools scattered about. Standing propane heaters did their best to keep the temperature comfortable while the concrete roof muffled the noise emanating from below. Both Talia and Ryan admired the view but it was obvious; without the music to buffer their nerves, someone had to break the ice. Talia took the lead. “Alright, so now’s the point of the night when you tell me all of your deepest and darkest secrets? Ryan jokingly choked on his drink. “Ok. What do you want to know?” “Well, so far I know you’re a fireman.,”. Ryan nodded. “And I also know you can dance.” Feigning some embarrassment Ryan nodded again. “What else should I know?” “Alright, let’s see. Ummm. I grew up in Kent. Lived here my whole life. My favorite ice cream flavor is mint chocolate chip. I’m a closet ‘Journey’ lover and I have three younger sisters.” “Your secret’s safe with me,” Talia winked. “I have a thing for Journey too, don’t tell anybody. So…you have three sisters? That sounds like it was probably painful Ryan gave a candid smile. “Heh. No. It hasn’t been too terrible, so far. They’re only ten so I haven’t really experienced the teenage girl drama that I’m sure is just ever so slightly around the corner.” “They are all ten? Are they’re triplets?” Talia asked puzzled. Ryan nodded. “Yup. Three little golden rays of adolescent sunshine.” “That’s awesome? What are they like?” “Uhm, well I guess they are just like any other little sisters. They’re all completely different but just happen to look exactly the same. Well to everyone but me and my dad,” he clarified. Talia noticed how his demeanor had changed as he talked about his siblings; He resembled a proud parent as he described each one. “Angel is a tomboy; she’s into comic books and building stuff. Emma can pretty much be summed up in three words: pink, purple and glitter. And then… there’s Libby. She’s the bookworm of the pack; super smart and remarkably good at blackjack.” “I don’t think I’ve ever heard a guy brag about his baby sisters like that before.” “Yeah, well they’ve ruined me. I accepted that a long time ago.” “Does your mom always try to make them dress alike for holiday pictures and stuff?” “No, it’s just my dad and he lets them just be themselves. With three of them, he kinda has to pick his battles.” “Your dad is raising three girls? That’s very progressive. “He didn’t really have much of a choice. Our mom died when the girls were pretty little.” “Oh my gosh, Ryan. I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to…” “Nothing to be sorry about. “ Ryan interrupted. “My dad is awesome… and I do what I can to try and help out. I take them to my house every other weekend just to give him a break. It works out pretty well most of the time.” A bitter cold breeze made its way through the wall of warmth from the heaters. Talia shuddered. “You sound like a really good big brother.” Ryan could hear Talia trying to hide the quiver in her voice. He immediately pulled off his coat and placed it over her shoulders. “Well, they might not agree,” he continued without missing a beat. “I make em do chores and stuff when they are with me, but they really like coming to the station and helping out. “ “Pre-teen girls, hot guys in uniform…I bet it’s the highlight of their tweenage lives.” “Thank you for bringing that to my attention. They are now never allowed in that firehouse EVER again. “ Talia giggled as she sat down in one of the chairs closest to her while Ryan opted for the one beside her. “From what you’ve told me so far, they sound like some pretty cool chicks,” she continued. “Ehh, They have their moments. Alright,” he pressed, “now you know some backstory on me. I think it’s your turn. Are you from Kent?” “No. I guess you can kinda say I’m more of a transplant. I’m from the East coast, but I moved here to go to Kent State. The girls I’m with are my roommates.” “What made you choose Kent State? Sounds like you are kinda far from home.” “My parents.” “Ahh, pressure from Mom and Dad to carry on the family tradition?” “No, nothing like that,” she said. “I don’t have much of a relationship with my mom. She could care less if I was in school, never mind where I went.” “What about your dad?” “He died when I was little.” “Oh, Talia I’m sorry.” “No it’s fine. Looks like we have something in common.” Ryan smiled knowingly and took another sip of his drink. “Not to press, but have things always been bad between you and your mom?” “Before my dad died she was great. I remember cuddling with her and baking cookies – stupid stuff like that. But then afterwards…she was different. Lost, ya know? Depressed. Never really progressed passed functioning alcoholic.” “Damn. That must have been hard.” “Ehh, my grandparents stepped in where they could. But they weren’t exactly lovey dovey or anything. They’re kinda old school and wanted her to just snap out of it, which she couldn’t. So, to them I was more of an obligation than a grandkid, but they did what they could. I worked my butt off and took as many AP and college credit classes as I could in high school, got my acceptance letter then packed my stuff. Ryan raised his head, “Wait, you’re not like 16 are you?” Talia broke out in laughter. “No, you’re safe. I’m nineteen but I am a Junior.” Ryan reached for her drink lifting it out of her hand. “Well then, I’m just gonna take this drink now so I don’t get charged with corrupting a minor.” Talia flashed an innocent smile. “Once again, you’re safe. It’s a Shirley Temple – cherry juice and sprite.” Ryan handed the drink back and raised his plastic cup in front of him as if to toast. “Here’s to fake drinking.” Talia looked to him questioningly. “Yours is…?” “Coke with lime. And I’ll let you in on another little secret. The guys downstairs are drinking water since they’re technically on duty for their entire first six months.” The pair burst into laughter as Talia raised her plastic cup to his. “Cheers!” Before the smiles had a chance to fade from their faces the door to the patio flew open. Joey, one of the probationary firemen spoke with a clear sense of urgency. “Ryan man, we gotta go. Check your phone.” Instinctively Ryan felt the pockets of his jeans. It took him a moment to realize that what he was looking for was in his coat. Without needing to be asked, Talia reached into the pocket and then handed him his phone. “I’m sorry, I didn’t hear it.” “It’s not your fault. I must have turned off the ringer somehow.” He looked down and unlocked the screen. BUS FIRE: GENERAL ALARM “Damit, figures!” Ryan grumbled. “Talia, I’m really sorry. I gotta get these guys back to the station. Can I call you later, once things calm down?” “You better.” As she stood up to take off his coat he grabbed her hand to stop her, kissing it gently. “You owe me another date. Keep it till then. “ And with that he was out the door and down the stairs to meet up with the rest of the guys waiting below. Talia sat back down in her chair, the warmth from the heaters cradling her from the chill in the air. The silence around her left nothing but quiet reflection in its wake. Her mind drifted to the crisp blue of his eyes while the smell of his cologne from the collar of his coat filled her nose. No matter how hard she wanted to fight it, she got butterflies at the thought of seeing him again. “Oh boy!” she muttered to herself. “What am I getting myself into?” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- When they’d returned to the dorm, Talia and her friends decided to wind down in the rec room watching TV and shooting pool. Talia listened to the other girls go on about their good-looking dates and how sexy it was that they were out there rescuing people. To Talia they all sounded like middle-school morons, but she too found something exhilarating about it. When her eyes grew heavy, she said her “goodnights” and headed to bed. Sleep did not come easy though. Her mind kept replaying highlights from the evening, leaving her tossing and turning in the dark. She checked and rechecked her phone on the nightstand beside her, ya know…just in case. When the phone did ring, she was still awake. Talia did her best not to answer it too eagerly, inserting just a bit of grogginess into her voice to sound convincing. “You do know that it’s two o’clock in the morning right?” “Oh man! I didn’t, I’m so sorry. I told you I would call you when things calmed down, I just didn’t look at the time before I dialed. Go back to sleep, I can call you tomorrow.” “No, it’s ok. I was up. And technically, it IS tomorrow.” Ryan laughed. “Yeah, I guess it is.” Talia could hear a loud rumble and voices. She could tell that Ryan was trying his best to shield his phone and her ears from the noises in the background. “Are you calling me from the fire truck?” she asked curiously. “What? Oh, no,” he laughed. “There’s no way I’d be able to hear you driving in that thing, even if the sirens were off. I’m back at the station. For some reason I got sucked into going on that call with them. But it’s all-good. Fire’s out.” “Then what’s all the noise?” “Heh. You can probably hear these idiots behind me burning off what’s left of their adrenalin rush. I have em washing down the trucks.” “You’re not helping?” “Sure I am. I’m supervising.” “Ahh, I see.” Talia laughed. “I had a really nice time tonight. I’m sorry I had to cut it short,” Ryan said with sincerity. “Comes with the territory right?” “Yeah I guess. But either way, I’d still like to see you again.” “To get your coat back?” Talia teased. “Well, that and to spend more time you.” “Me too.” “How about tonight?” “Uhm,okay. Call me later and we’ll make plans. “Alright. It’s a date. I’ll give you a call around five?” “Sounds good.” “Goodnight Talia.” “Goodnight.” When she finally surrendered and closed her eyes to sleep, there was no way to shake the smile plastered to her face. {/pre} |
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