It was just something that Vic loved to do. Once he locked up his shop for the night, he would take a long walk on the beach. As he walked, he would gather driftwood and other discarded items that he could use in a bonfire. He didn’t do this every night as there wouldn’t be enough driftwood or things to burn. Once both his arms were full, he would wander back over to a spot outside the back of his shop and drop the wood and such in a pile. He headed back into his shop and retrieved a shovel. He dug a hole about two feet deep and four feet wide. He grabbed some of the smaller bits of wood that he found and some dried seaweed, which smelled like dead fish but burned great. The smell will burn off fairly quickly once the fire got going. Using a lighter he got the fire going and then started the task of pulling over some large driftwood tree trucks for people to sit on if they decided to hang out by the fire.
Like normal, Vic was in a pair of board shorts that stopped just above the knee. He had shed his shirt once the shop closed and his long, light brown hair was loose and blowing in the wind like normal. He wasn’t opposed to hair ties, he just kept losing them as soon as he got one. Blame the fairies. With the logs in place, he went back inside the shop and came out with a large ice chest. He had a few items in there, but mostly it was other people who might have things they wished to keep cold. He had been doing this for years, so people knew to look for it.
He had invited a few people to the bonfire. He told them it would start as the sun set. He wondered if anyone would actually come. For now, he grabbed a beer from the cooler and sat down on one of the logs. He watched the fire start to catch the dried driftwood. He wasn’t sure what he loved more the sound of the ocean waves or the sound of the crackling fire.
Like normal, Vic was in a pair of board shorts that stopped just above the knee. He had shed his shirt once the shop closed and his long, light brown hair was loose and blowing in the wind like normal. He wasn’t opposed to hair ties, he just kept losing them as soon as he got one. Blame the fairies. With the logs in place, he went back inside the shop and came out with a large ice chest. He had a few items in there, but mostly it was other people who might have things they wished to keep cold. He had been doing this for years, so people knew to look for it.
He had invited a few people to the bonfire. He told them it would start as the sun set. He wondered if anyone would actually come. For now, he grabbed a beer from the cooler and sat down on one of the logs. He watched the fire start to catch the dried driftwood. He wasn’t sure what he loved more the sound of the ocean waves or the sound of the crackling fire.
The gentle rhythm of the waves lapping against the shore was the only sound Claudia had been focusing on for the past hour. She'd only moved into the condos overlooking the beach yesterday. Now, perched on a driftwood log, she watched as a man methodically arranged wood into a perfectly structured bonfire just a little ways down the beach. The smell of salt air mingled with the faint, earthy scent of the gathered wood. He moved with a quiet, purposeful energy, and Claudia found herself wondering what his intentions were. Was he planning a spontaneous barbeque? Or was he simply creating a warm inviting space for anyone who happened to be around? The flickering flames were a beacon, a welcome change from the sterile, controlled environment of her office. The truth was, she was here to unwind, to shed the weight of being the general manager of the bustling Lumire hotel, a position that demanded precision and constant vigilance.
As she watched him, a thought occurred to her. Perhaps he needed something. Maybe he was struggling to gather the right sized pieces of wood. Slightly shifting on her log, Claudia called out, her voice carried by the soft sea breeze, “Do you need a hair tie? Or help with preparing the wood?” She wasn't sure why she was volunteering, perhaps just plain curiosity, compelled her. Brushing a loose strand of hair away from her face.
She rose from her perch, the sand warm beneath her bare feet and brushed off the light layer of sand on her linen shorts and top. She moved closer to the fire, a few more steps and she’d be within speaking range. “I’m Claudia by the way. I just moved into the apartment on the third floor,” she said, offering a small smile. Although her expression might read as stoic, she hid a genuinely warm and friendly nature beneath the surface. She hoped her presence wouldn't be interpreted as an intrusion or an imposition. Perhaps he preferred solitude, and she was ruining his moment of peace. All she wanted was to let go of her city stresses and breathe a little, and a warm fire felt like a good place to start. The flames danced in the ocean breeze, promising warmth and relaxation, and she hoped for a shared moment of peace.
As she watched him, a thought occurred to her. Perhaps he needed something. Maybe he was struggling to gather the right sized pieces of wood. Slightly shifting on her log, Claudia called out, her voice carried by the soft sea breeze, “Do you need a hair tie? Or help with preparing the wood?” She wasn't sure why she was volunteering, perhaps just plain curiosity, compelled her. Brushing a loose strand of hair away from her face.
She rose from her perch, the sand warm beneath her bare feet and brushed off the light layer of sand on her linen shorts and top. She moved closer to the fire, a few more steps and she’d be within speaking range. “I’m Claudia by the way. I just moved into the apartment on the third floor,” she said, offering a small smile. Although her expression might read as stoic, she hid a genuinely warm and friendly nature beneath the surface. She hoped her presence wouldn't be interpreted as an intrusion or an imposition. Perhaps he preferred solitude, and she was ruining his moment of peace. All she wanted was to let go of her city stresses and breathe a little, and a warm fire felt like a good place to start. The flames danced in the ocean breeze, promising warmth and relaxation, and she hoped for a shared moment of peace.
He had been so focused on getting things ready for the bonfire he had completely missed the lady sitting a short distance away looking out over the water. Over the crashing of the waves and the constant gusting wind he heard a female’s voice. He looked up from his work, still bent over the fire, and turned his head in the direction the voice came from. When he spotted her, a friendly smile touched his lips. “Nah. I’ll move away before the flame get to lickin’ ma locks. And I think the woods about right.” He completed the setting up and lighting of the fire as she drew in closer.
When she was close enough for the fire to light up her features he gestured to one of the logs. “Heya there, Claudia. Name’s Vic.” When she said she just moved into the apartments he blinked at her. “Ya don’t mean the condos over there, do ya?” He chuckled softly, “Me mate just moved in over there. I’ve crashed with him a few times but I mainly sleep in my shop.” He motioned to the surf shop behind them right off the sand. He stepped over to the ice chest and opened it, “Ya want a cold one?” He asked with his hand hovering over a bottle of beer buried in the ice.
When she was close enough for the fire to light up her features he gestured to one of the logs. “Heya there, Claudia. Name’s Vic.” When she said she just moved into the apartments he blinked at her. “Ya don’t mean the condos over there, do ya?” He chuckled softly, “Me mate just moved in over there. I’ve crashed with him a few times but I mainly sleep in my shop.” He motioned to the surf shop behind them right off the sand. He stepped over to the ice chest and opened it, “Ya want a cold one?” He asked with his hand hovering over a bottle of beer buried in the ice.
Aubree’s boots hit the cool sand as she forced herself through the run. The sun had set already, but Aubree had no trouble seeing in the darkness. She hadn’t been able to sleep for her dreams were haunted. She had been running for…she wasn’t even sure how long, so she slowed when she realized it did burn a little. She had run on sand before, so she knew its workout, but she hadn’t been paying attention to how long she had been at it. She slowed to a walk as she took a few deep breaths, and counted the beats of her quick heart.
Letting her eyes close, she tried to shed the cloud that seemed to follow her, and turned to head back to her condo when she smelt the sudden smoke of fire. Alarm hit her at first, but instead of panicking, or trying not too at the least, she went opened her eyes again for her blue eyes to search around the beach. The smoke turned out to be coming from a bonfire, where she saw two people standing around. Curious, and thirsty, she let herself move towards it.
As she got a little closer, she saw a guy and a girl. She drew a breath to calm herself, watching the flames dance a moment before stepping closer, and hoping she wasn’t interrupting, waited until either of them noticed her before she said; “Hey. I’m Aubree. I was running by and saw the fire.” Her smile was there, but not as bright as it could be. Her eyes looked to where the guy was standing over the cooler, and smiling politely asked; “Do you…happen to have a water in there, by any chance?”
Letting her eyes close, she tried to shed the cloud that seemed to follow her, and turned to head back to her condo when she smelt the sudden smoke of fire. Alarm hit her at first, but instead of panicking, or trying not too at the least, she went opened her eyes again for her blue eyes to search around the beach. The smoke turned out to be coming from a bonfire, where she saw two people standing around. Curious, and thirsty, she let herself move towards it.
As she got a little closer, she saw a guy and a girl. She drew a breath to calm herself, watching the flames dance a moment before stepping closer, and hoping she wasn’t interrupting, waited until either of them noticed her before she said; “Hey. I’m Aubree. I was running by and saw the fire.” Her smile was there, but not as bright as it could be. Her eyes looked to where the guy was standing over the cooler, and smiling politely asked; “Do you…happen to have a water in there, by any chance?”
That’s exactly why Vic loved to light bonfires on the beach; it seems to bring everyone in. No one was a stranger around a good fire. It was a great way for the community to come together. He was already hovering over the ice chest when a new lady joined the fire. “Hi there, Aubree,” his thick Australian accent unmistakable. “Name’s Vic. And good on ya for runnin’.” He reached into the ice chest and pulled out a bottle of cold water. “Heads up,” he said as he tossed the bottle her way. He didn’t move away from the ice chest yet as Claudia might still make a request.
He grinned at Aubree, “Ya might be a night runner, but a few of us surfers meet in the mornings. We hit the waves and then go for a jog. Someone’s usually out here makin’ breakfast tacos or somethin’. You should check it out.” As much as he would love to sell a few surf boards he knew not everyone was in the market for one, so he didn’t offer unless someone asked specifically.
Addressing Aubree and Claudia he said curiously, “You’re some new faces round here. Where were ya livin’ before?” He wasn’t trying t pry or open old wounds. He was just trying to start a conversation.
He grinned at Aubree, “Ya might be a night runner, but a few of us surfers meet in the mornings. We hit the waves and then go for a jog. Someone’s usually out here makin’ breakfast tacos or somethin’. You should check it out.” As much as he would love to sell a few surf boards he knew not everyone was in the market for one, so he didn’t offer unless someone asked specifically.
Addressing Aubree and Claudia he said curiously, “You’re some new faces round here. Where were ya livin’ before?” He wasn’t trying t pry or open old wounds. He was just trying to start a conversation.
Claudia found Victor's way of speaking captivating. His dialect was unlike anything she had encountered before. Having spent most of her life surrounded by formalities, she often dealt with people who viewed her through the lens of status. Their interactions were typically dictated by hierarchy, making her feel somewhat isolated. She had never really participated in social gatherings, preferring to focus on her ambitions. Her goal was always to rise to a significant position within the hotel industry. She dedicated herself fully to this aspiration, working tirelessly to achieve success.
“Yeah. It's the condos over there, Victor. Your dialect is quite intriguing. Where do you hail from?” Claudia maintained an air of poise and elegance, embodying the image of a high-class woman. When Victor offered her a cold bottle of beer, she raised an eyebrow, momentarily puzzled. Beer was not her usual choice; she preferred wine or champagne. But for today, she decided that trying a beer wouldn’t be too much of a deviation for the evening. Accepting the bottle, she thanked him, “Thank you.”
She glanced in the direction Victor pointed and noticed the surf shop. “I take it you are the surfer?” she asked, curious about his lifestyle.
As their discussion continued, another woman approached. The warmth from the bonfire seemed to have drawn her in, but Claudia noticed the newcomer appeared breathless, not sure on what had been chasing her. “I’m Claudia,” she introduced herself, extending her hand to Aubree. When Aubree inquired about water, Claudia tilted her head toward the ice chest. “I think Victor has those,” she informed her, pointing in the direction of the cooler.
When Victor inquired about her origins, she adjusted herself on the wooden log, taking a moment to find a comfortable position. As she struggled with the bottle cap of her beer, she finally managed to twist it off. "I just moved out from Manhattan," she explained. "The last apartment I lived in was cluttered with junk." Her expression indicated a mix of relief and frustration as she recalled her previous living conditions.
“Yeah. It's the condos over there, Victor. Your dialect is quite intriguing. Where do you hail from?” Claudia maintained an air of poise and elegance, embodying the image of a high-class woman. When Victor offered her a cold bottle of beer, she raised an eyebrow, momentarily puzzled. Beer was not her usual choice; she preferred wine or champagne. But for today, she decided that trying a beer wouldn’t be too much of a deviation for the evening. Accepting the bottle, she thanked him, “Thank you.”
She glanced in the direction Victor pointed and noticed the surf shop. “I take it you are the surfer?” she asked, curious about his lifestyle.
As their discussion continued, another woman approached. The warmth from the bonfire seemed to have drawn her in, but Claudia noticed the newcomer appeared breathless, not sure on what had been chasing her. “I’m Claudia,” she introduced herself, extending her hand to Aubree. When Aubree inquired about water, Claudia tilted her head toward the ice chest. “I think Victor has those,” she informed her, pointing in the direction of the cooler.
When Victor inquired about her origins, she adjusted herself on the wooden log, taking a moment to find a comfortable position. As she struggled with the bottle cap of her beer, she finally managed to twist it off. "I just moved out from Manhattan," she explained. "The last apartment I lived in was cluttered with junk." Her expression indicated a mix of relief and frustration as she recalled her previous living conditions.
OOC Tags
Edited more of my post since I posted in the same time with Victor.
Aubree wasn’t sure if she would be welcomed or not, but as Vic introduced himself, followed by Claudia introducing herself, that small smile slightly grew. Her entire body was still full of distrust, but so far, she didn’t see a reason to run. She looked between the two, the sound of questions and voices focused her thoughts once again. She caught the bottle as it was tossed to her, and smiled at Vic. “Thank you, and it’s nice to meet you both.”
Popping the bottle open, she found herself smelling it unconsciously, but then wanted to kick herself for it. That was the kind of thinking that led to panic attacks, and running away from perfectly friendly strangers. She drank deeply, because the cold hit her like a tidal wave and she couldn’t get enough of it. However, she was listening as Vic told her that the surfers ran in the morning.
Lowering the bottle, and taking a breath to settle herself like one does, she turned her attention towards him. “The night run wound up being unintentional, but I’ve never been one to pass up a breakfast taco and a run. I’ll have to check it out sometime.” But Aubree didn’t know how soon she might be ready for something like that.
At Vic’s next question, Aubree listened as Claudia answered first. She gave the woman a small smile. “I’ve never been there, but I’ve heard it’s a busy place.” She hadn’t ventured quite that way in her wild run, but she listened to a thousand conversations along the way. When she realized it was her turn, a pang radiated through her heart, and she said; “No place in particular. But I like it here, so far.” This was honest, or at least as honest as it could be. “Where are you hailing from? Or are you a local?”
Popping the bottle open, she found herself smelling it unconsciously, but then wanted to kick herself for it. That was the kind of thinking that led to panic attacks, and running away from perfectly friendly strangers. She drank deeply, because the cold hit her like a tidal wave and she couldn’t get enough of it. However, she was listening as Vic told her that the surfers ran in the morning.
Lowering the bottle, and taking a breath to settle herself like one does, she turned her attention towards him. “The night run wound up being unintentional, but I’ve never been one to pass up a breakfast taco and a run. I’ll have to check it out sometime.” But Aubree didn’t know how soon she might be ready for something like that.
At Vic’s next question, Aubree listened as Claudia answered first. She gave the woman a small smile. “I’ve never been there, but I’ve heard it’s a busy place.” She hadn’t ventured quite that way in her wild run, but she listened to a thousand conversations along the way. When she realized it was her turn, a pang radiated through her heart, and she said; “No place in particular. But I like it here, so far.” This was honest, or at least as honest as it could be. “Where are you hailing from? Or are you a local?”
Mercy gladly took Jax’s hand, and the two slowly meandered their way to the bonfire. His hands were rough. She liked that. Richard’s hands had been softer than her own. Everything about Jax was different from Richard, and perhaps that was part of the appeal. She definitely wanted to learn more about Jax, “I’m assuming you’re unattached?” The last thing she needed was some woman’s jealous anger turned on her.
At the fire, she saw a man who seemed to be the one tending it. His hair wasn’t much shorter than her own. He was just as attractive as Jax. There were two women with him, and they too were beautiful. She wondered if everyone here looked as though they belonged in a magazine.
Her confidence took a small dive as she stood there awkwardly. Richard had demanded she mostly smile and listen when they had attended the posh parties and fundraisers in LA. Her social skills were dormant. She didn’t know what to say or do.
Finally, Mercy smiled warmly at everyone, and clung tightly to Jax’s hand. Although she’d just met him, Jax was suddenly like a security blanket to her. She needed to hold on to him to keep from heading straight back to her apartment.
At the fire, she saw a man who seemed to be the one tending it. His hair wasn’t much shorter than her own. He was just as attractive as Jax. There were two women with him, and they too were beautiful. She wondered if everyone here looked as though they belonged in a magazine.
Her confidence took a small dive as she stood there awkwardly. Richard had demanded she mostly smile and listen when they had attended the posh parties and fundraisers in LA. Her social skills were dormant. She didn’t know what to say or do.
Finally, Mercy smiled warmly at everyone, and clung tightly to Jax’s hand. Although she’d just met him, Jax was suddenly like a security blanket to her. She needed to hold on to him to keep from heading straight back to her apartment.
After a longer day than was probably needed, since right at the end, Lia crashed and burned by dropping two plates, both of which shattered and spread all over the floor, one of them unfortunately also had soup with it, Lia needed a break. She’d been getting used to being allowed to do things, as well as being responsible for things. After showering, and cleaning up the bathroom to the very best of her abilities, although she was sure she had done something not quite right, she asked both her friends, Rowdy and Sadie, if they would join her on the beach for the bonfire.
Both agreed, and all three went to get what they needed. For Lia, she switched her clothes for a blue bikini, a pair of shorts and a thin sweater, mostly for carrying her phone and keys. She then grabbed a towel, and when they were ready, they headed down to the beach.
When they got there, Lia saw a few people already there, a blonde girl she didn’t know, a girl with dark hair, and Vic himself. She waved to him as she walked towards the fire, staying close to her friends until she was a little more comfortable, but she did turn to smile at Vic. “I’m here! And I brought my friends.” She then turned to the other two, and smiled. “Hi, I’m Lia.” She figured her friends would introduce themselves.
Soon two more people started walking up, another guy and a girl, both of whom she shone that smile at, but didn’t talk too yet, in case they perhaps knew other people at the party.
(Written with permission)
Both agreed, and all three went to get what they needed. For Lia, she switched her clothes for a blue bikini, a pair of shorts and a thin sweater, mostly for carrying her phone and keys. She then grabbed a towel, and when they were ready, they headed down to the beach.
When they got there, Lia saw a few people already there, a blonde girl she didn’t know, a girl with dark hair, and Vic himself. She waved to him as she walked towards the fire, staying close to her friends until she was a little more comfortable, but she did turn to smile at Vic. “I’m here! And I brought my friends.” She then turned to the other two, and smiled. “Hi, I’m Lia.” She figured her friends would introduce themselves.
Soon two more people started walking up, another guy and a girl, both of whom she shone that smile at, but didn’t talk too yet, in case they perhaps knew other people at the party.
(Written with permission)
Sadie had been invited to a bonfire when she was at the diner earlier that day. She also had heard her friend Lia talking about it, and it looked like Lia was going to drag her there. So, Sadie went back home after eating and grabbed things she needed, plus a decent bottle of rum for everyone that would be there. She may have grabbed a bottle of vodka as well, along with a bottle of cream. To make a whipped vodka. She put on a purple bikini with a pair of blue jean shorts over the bottoms and a pair of sandals. She didn't bother with cover-up because she didn't get cold easily, so this left her huge mark on her back exposed. Luckily, it was tattoo-like, so no one would notice the difference. She soon grabbed a bag large enough to carry her beach towel, keys, phone, and bottle of liquors as she headed out to meet her friends.
They had all gotten to the bonfire, and she noticed a few others were there. She smiled at them and introduced herself to the women she hadn't seen before. "Hi, I am Sadie." She turned towards Vic and smiled. "Thanks for the invite. I texted a few others to come if they were available, so I do believe you may have a few more arrivals." As she said this she went to stand next to Lia and sat her bag against a tree trunk that was around the fire. She saw some more arrivals and smiled but didn't say anything. She turned her gaze towards the ocean until someone spoke to her directly.
They had all gotten to the bonfire, and she noticed a few others were there. She smiled at them and introduced herself to the women she hadn't seen before. "Hi, I am Sadie." She turned towards Vic and smiled. "Thanks for the invite. I texted a few others to come if they were available, so I do believe you may have a few more arrivals." As she said this she went to stand next to Lia and sat her bag against a tree trunk that was around the fire. She saw some more arrivals and smiled but didn't say anything. She turned her gaze towards the ocean until someone spoke to her directly.
Jax was glad to hold Mercy’s hand, and be the one to lead her down to the beach. She was, obviously, smaller than him, but her hands were soft compared to his, and he enjoyed the contrast. As they walked to the beach, she asked the obvious question, and it made his mouth smirk. “I am, yes. I’m hoping the acceptance of my invite means you are too?” It wasn’t that Jax hadn’t fought a jealous boyfriend or husband before, but he didn’t want that to be his reputation in the time he was here.
As they hit the beach, Jax’s sharp eyes started making out features of the people standing there. Before he was able to speak, he felt her body change subtly, and hearing the increase of her heartbeat, which signalled nerves to him, had him returning the squeeze of his hand, and lightly pulling her closer to him. This was not a move of dominance, however. It was merely to let her know that he saw her, and he was here for her. As another way to potentially ease her discomfort, his head turned back to the crowd, grinning as he recognized some faces.
“You are about to meet some amazing people, beautiful.” He assured her quietly, holding tightly to her hand in support as he ran a quick list of the ones he did know. “So the guy there at the fire with the longer hair. That’s my brother, Vic. He is a literal gentle giant, and an amazing cook. Just the best guy a person could know, truly.” As they got a little bit closer, his mouth spilt into a grin as he recognized some unmistakable tattoos, not to mention that undeniable bond of family. “Holy shit, I think someone else I know is here.”
Jax walked close enough that Rowdy and Vic would both be able to hear him, first looking at Mercy and then the other man he called family. “And this is Rowdy. Intelligent, a little ornery sometimes, but he will recite the greatest poem you have ever heard.” He finished his run down of his family for her, before he looked at Rowdy and grinned. “Fuckin’ hell, I can’t believe you’re here! It’s great to see you. When did you get here?” Without letting go of Mercy’s hand, his free hand pulled Rowdy into a quick hug before stepping back, right back to Mercy’s side, smiling at her as he introduced her to them. “Guys, this beauty is Mercy.”
As they hit the beach, Jax’s sharp eyes started making out features of the people standing there. Before he was able to speak, he felt her body change subtly, and hearing the increase of her heartbeat, which signalled nerves to him, had him returning the squeeze of his hand, and lightly pulling her closer to him. This was not a move of dominance, however. It was merely to let her know that he saw her, and he was here for her. As another way to potentially ease her discomfort, his head turned back to the crowd, grinning as he recognized some faces.
“You are about to meet some amazing people, beautiful.” He assured her quietly, holding tightly to her hand in support as he ran a quick list of the ones he did know. “So the guy there at the fire with the longer hair. That’s my brother, Vic. He is a literal gentle giant, and an amazing cook. Just the best guy a person could know, truly.” As they got a little bit closer, his mouth spilt into a grin as he recognized some unmistakable tattoos, not to mention that undeniable bond of family. “Holy shit, I think someone else I know is here.”
Jax walked close enough that Rowdy and Vic would both be able to hear him, first looking at Mercy and then the other man he called family. “And this is Rowdy. Intelligent, a little ornery sometimes, but he will recite the greatest poem you have ever heard.” He finished his run down of his family for her, before he looked at Rowdy and grinned. “Fuckin’ hell, I can’t believe you’re here! It’s great to see you. When did you get here?” Without letting go of Mercy’s hand, his free hand pulled Rowdy into a quick hug before stepping back, right back to Mercy’s side, smiling at her as he introduced her to them. “Guys, this beauty is Mercy.”
Victor grabbed a cold bottle of beer and closed the ice chest. He carried it over to Claudia and offered it to her. He should have been a gentleman and opened it for her, but some people were weird about strangers touching the top of the bottle, especially since that’s where you would drink from. But he would be happy to assist if any bottles needed opening in the future. “I was born in Cairns, Australia,” Vic responded to Claudia and Aubree’s question as he offered Claudia the beer with a smile. “It’s right off the reef, near the equator. Practically summer year round.” Vic looked between Claudia and Aubree, “But I think I’ve been round here long enough now to be called a local.”
He watched as Claudia turned to look at his shop, “Sure am. Started surfin’ when I was a little tike.” He grinned sheepishly at Claudia, “Interested in feelin’ the waves under ya feet?” He hadn’t taught a surfing class in over a year and he was missing it. He always thought himself a good teacher and it was often commented on how patient he was when teaching. Vic just had one of those personalities that relaxed people around him. His attention was pulled back to Aubree when she mentioned breakfast and a run. “Oh yeah, it’s awesome out here in the morning. The waves are bombie.” He was going to move the conversation along with Claudia and Aubree when he noticed a trio headed their way. It wouldn’t have distracted him so much but one of the guys he hadn’t seen in years.
When the trio got into the light of the fire, Victor cleared the short distance between him and the trio and threw his arms around Rowdy in a massive bear hug. “Holy Shit! What wave swallowed you?” He released Rowdy and stepped away from a man he considered practically family. He then looked to Lia and Sadie and greeted them, maybe not quite as personally. “Heya ladies. So, ya know Rowdy, huh?” Vic gave Rowdy a questioning look, “Finally settle down, mate?” Vic’s way of asking if Rowdy had himself a girlfriend.
Vic turned back to Claudia and Aubree, ready to introduce the lot to each other but, as he turned his head, he caught the sight of Jax in the distance walking up with someone. He nudged Rowdy, “Look who went fishin’” He knew Rowdy would recognize Jax, they had all grown up together, more cousins than brothers, but still close. Addressing Jax as he walked up with a hot brunette, Vic laughed gently, “How is it you left the beach not even an hour ago and you already found yourself a girl?” He shook his head at his brother. “I wish I had that kind of magnetism.” He said it in jest, but there was truth behind it. Jax and his real brother, Bandit, attracted ladies like they were made of chocolate; Vic has never gotten that kind of attention. He had always been the “safe” guy when all eyes were on the bad boys.
His insecurities not stopping him, he greeted the newest comer. “Heya there, Mercy. Name’s Vic.” He then turned to the group at large and just went around the circle since he knew everyone. “So, these lovely ladies are Claudia and Aubree. He patted Rowdy’s shoulder, “This is one of me brothas, Rowdy.” He stepped away from Rowdy and towards Lia and Sadie. “This is Lia, no one drink her coffee,” he chuckled at the memory. “And this is Sadie. She’s a little spit fire, but awesome.” He then moved over to Jax and Mercy. “This is me otha brotha, Jax, and his friend Mercy.” He then headed towards the ice chest. “Anyone want a cold one? I might need to make a liquor run, though.”
He watched as Claudia turned to look at his shop, “Sure am. Started surfin’ when I was a little tike.” He grinned sheepishly at Claudia, “Interested in feelin’ the waves under ya feet?” He hadn’t taught a surfing class in over a year and he was missing it. He always thought himself a good teacher and it was often commented on how patient he was when teaching. Vic just had one of those personalities that relaxed people around him. His attention was pulled back to Aubree when she mentioned breakfast and a run. “Oh yeah, it’s awesome out here in the morning. The waves are bombie.” He was going to move the conversation along with Claudia and Aubree when he noticed a trio headed their way. It wouldn’t have distracted him so much but one of the guys he hadn’t seen in years.
When the trio got into the light of the fire, Victor cleared the short distance between him and the trio and threw his arms around Rowdy in a massive bear hug. “Holy Shit! What wave swallowed you?” He released Rowdy and stepped away from a man he considered practically family. He then looked to Lia and Sadie and greeted them, maybe not quite as personally. “Heya ladies. So, ya know Rowdy, huh?” Vic gave Rowdy a questioning look, “Finally settle down, mate?” Vic’s way of asking if Rowdy had himself a girlfriend.
Vic turned back to Claudia and Aubree, ready to introduce the lot to each other but, as he turned his head, he caught the sight of Jax in the distance walking up with someone. He nudged Rowdy, “Look who went fishin’” He knew Rowdy would recognize Jax, they had all grown up together, more cousins than brothers, but still close. Addressing Jax as he walked up with a hot brunette, Vic laughed gently, “How is it you left the beach not even an hour ago and you already found yourself a girl?” He shook his head at his brother. “I wish I had that kind of magnetism.” He said it in jest, but there was truth behind it. Jax and his real brother, Bandit, attracted ladies like they were made of chocolate; Vic has never gotten that kind of attention. He had always been the “safe” guy when all eyes were on the bad boys.
His insecurities not stopping him, he greeted the newest comer. “Heya there, Mercy. Name’s Vic.” He then turned to the group at large and just went around the circle since he knew everyone. “So, these lovely ladies are Claudia and Aubree. He patted Rowdy’s shoulder, “This is one of me brothas, Rowdy.” He stepped away from Rowdy and towards Lia and Sadie. “This is Lia, no one drink her coffee,” he chuckled at the memory. “And this is Sadie. She’s a little spit fire, but awesome.” He then moved over to Jax and Mercy. “This is me otha brotha, Jax, and his friend Mercy.” He then headed towards the ice chest. “Anyone want a cold one? I might need to make a liquor run, though.”
Lia came skipping into the condo from her shift at the diner. Rowdy had been stretched out on the couch reading an anthology of urban legends he was hoping to tie into his thesis, somehow; he was searching for a link. But her excitement caused him to lower his book as she explained about a bonfire on the beach that night. Between classes and the club, he didn’t get out much. His social interactions have never been that important to him. He could have friends, or he could not, his life would continue either way. But having a roommate like Lia and a new friend like Sadie did make his solitary time practically non-existent. Speaking of which, Sadie was balls deep in a book in the recliner next to him. So, when Lia said ‘Bonfire’ they both put their books down and went to put on beachwear.
Rowdy found a pair of blue boardshorts and a white ‘wife-beater’ style tank top. He found a towel and slung it over his shoulder as he slipped on a ratty pair of running shoes. Back out in the living room he looked at Lia, “Lead the way.” They went to the third floor and claimed Sadie before they headed down to the lobby and out of the building and onto the beach. The bonfire was impossible to miss, even from a distance. It was a bright flicker in the darkening sky. They headed towards it and he was shocked at who he saw there. “The fuck…?’ he said before the air was knocked out of him by Vic. Rowdy hugged Vic back hard, squeezing the bastard about as hard as he was being squeezed. To answer Vic’s question about where he had been, he said a bit proudly, “Gave up the chase and went to school. I’m getting my PhD this year.” He assumed this would shock the hell out of Vic who knew Rowdy to be a fighter, not a student. Seeing Vic without a shirt on, Rowdy was quick to follow suit. He pulled the white tank off and laid his towel and the shirt on one of the logs.
He saw Vic eyes Lia and Sadie and then asked him about a relationship with one of them. “Just friends, Vic. Just friends.” Speaking of friends, Vic nudged Rowdy and he looked off down the beach from where he had just come from. “I’ll be damned. IS the whole crew here?” Rowdy had spent plenty of time with Vic when Vic would go on his ‘walk abouts’ but he had never seen Jax away from the rest of the crew. Rowdy gave Jax a hug, careful not to accident touch his friend, who might not take too kindly to a stranger accidently brushing again them. “Not too long ago. When did you get here? Is Captain here? Please tell me Undertow is around.”
But the conversation has to pause for a moment when Vic started the group introductions, When Vic introduced him, he waved and offered an awkward smile. When Vic got to the ice chest, Rowdy followed him. “I don’t mind running over to the store.” He then turned to the group at large, “Taking orders!” There would be time to catch up with Jax once their booze was secured.
Rowdy found a pair of blue boardshorts and a white ‘wife-beater’ style tank top. He found a towel and slung it over his shoulder as he slipped on a ratty pair of running shoes. Back out in the living room he looked at Lia, “Lead the way.” They went to the third floor and claimed Sadie before they headed down to the lobby and out of the building and onto the beach. The bonfire was impossible to miss, even from a distance. It was a bright flicker in the darkening sky. They headed towards it and he was shocked at who he saw there. “The fuck…?’ he said before the air was knocked out of him by Vic. Rowdy hugged Vic back hard, squeezing the bastard about as hard as he was being squeezed. To answer Vic’s question about where he had been, he said a bit proudly, “Gave up the chase and went to school. I’m getting my PhD this year.” He assumed this would shock the hell out of Vic who knew Rowdy to be a fighter, not a student. Seeing Vic without a shirt on, Rowdy was quick to follow suit. He pulled the white tank off and laid his towel and the shirt on one of the logs.
He saw Vic eyes Lia and Sadie and then asked him about a relationship with one of them. “Just friends, Vic. Just friends.” Speaking of friends, Vic nudged Rowdy and he looked off down the beach from where he had just come from. “I’ll be damned. IS the whole crew here?” Rowdy had spent plenty of time with Vic when Vic would go on his ‘walk abouts’ but he had never seen Jax away from the rest of the crew. Rowdy gave Jax a hug, careful not to accident touch his friend, who might not take too kindly to a stranger accidently brushing again them. “Not too long ago. When did you get here? Is Captain here? Please tell me Undertow is around.”
But the conversation has to pause for a moment when Vic started the group introductions, When Vic introduced him, he waved and offered an awkward smile. When Vic got to the ice chest, Rowdy followed him. “I don’t mind running over to the store.” He then turned to the group at large, “Taking orders!” There would be time to catch up with Jax once their booze was secured.
Mercy smiled and nodded, ”Single, indeed!”. She didn’t know what the night had in store for her. She didn’t know what Jax had in store for her. All she knew for certain was that she was single, and this was her life now. Some of these people might become her friends. She hoped none would become her enemy, but it was possible.
Mercy instantly liked Vic. He seemed like the type who never met a stranger. His welcome was warm, and he was obviously comfortable in his own skin. She would have never guessed he had insecurities. She noticed how he greeted everyone, and tried to include everyone in the conversation. Teddy bear came to mind. Her eyes met his, ”Nice to meet you, Vic. Helluva fire you have going there. I’m impressed.”
The one guy, Rowdy, had his small harem, and the three guys were obviously close, but it seemed there were other newcomers besides herself. With this surprise reunion, she realized she needed to let go of Jax. The last thing she wanted was to hold him back from a fun night. She released his hand, ”You want to make the run with Rowdy? Catch up on things? If you want to go, I’ll be around when you get back.
Mercy instantly liked Vic. He seemed like the type who never met a stranger. His welcome was warm, and he was obviously comfortable in his own skin. She would have never guessed he had insecurities. She noticed how he greeted everyone, and tried to include everyone in the conversation. Teddy bear came to mind. Her eyes met his, ”Nice to meet you, Vic. Helluva fire you have going there. I’m impressed.”
The one guy, Rowdy, had his small harem, and the three guys were obviously close, but it seemed there were other newcomers besides herself. With this surprise reunion, she realized she needed to let go of Jax. The last thing she wanted was to hold him back from a fun night. She released his hand, ”You want to make the run with Rowdy? Catch up on things? If you want to go, I’ll be around when you get back.
The glow of the bonfire painted long, dancing shadows across Aubree's face as she spoke animatedly to Vic. Claudia sat a little apart, nursing her beer, trying to appear nonchalant. She deliberately avoided looking directly at them, a silent agreement she made with herself not to intrude. Still, her gaze kept drifting back, a subtle curiosity tugging at her.
Aubree’s movements were energetic, almost frantic – was she just like that naturally? Did she always run at dusk? A shiver ran down Claudia’s spine.
The thought even for a second that someone might be chasing Aubree…it brought back a rush of terrifying memories, a sudden stab of panic that threatened to overwhelm her. Trauma she tried hard to suppress clawed its way back, and she quickly shook her head to dispel it, desperately hoping it was just a simple jogging habit, nothing more.
Vic’s voice, revealing that he was Australian born, Claudia offered a small nod, her eyes momentarily lingering on the way the firelight caught the golden streaks in his hair. "That's...fascinating," she murmured, then, emboldened by the beer, added, "I think I’d be really interested to see you surf." She twirled the condensation on her beer. "I've never been able to swim, I always sunk like a stone in the lessons when I was a kid, so I wouldn’t even know where to begin with surfing. I would probably drown." A soft, self-deprecating chuckle escaped her lips. she took a sip of her beer, the cool liquid a welcome contrast to the heat of the fire. The beer wasn't helping either; she could feel her cheeks turning red.
The atmosphere shifted suddenly. The gentle murmur of conversation was replaced by a rising tide of voices as more people began to emerge from the darkness, drawn to the flickering beacon of the bonfire. A knot of anxiety tightened in Claudia’s stomach. She preferred the quiet solitude of her own company, the peaceful bubble she usually created around herself. This unexpected influx of unfamiliar faces made her want to retreat. She hadn't even intended to stay long at the bonfire, the promise of a change of scenery and a peaceful evening had been tempting, but now she was feeling overwhelmed. The crackling fire, once a comfort, now felt like a magnet, drawing too many in. The sheer number of bodies made her want to put her own body into a shell. But, for once, she needed to socialize.
Taking a deep breath, she tried to regain her composure. She spotted a woman approaching her. "Nice to meet you, Lia,” Claudia offered, extending a hand, hoping her voice sounded steadier than she felt. As she said it, her peripheral vision register two more figures joining them, and then another couple, arm in arm, emerging from the shadows. Jax introduced himself as Vic's brother, and he was with Mercy. The other ones were Rowdy and Sadie. Claudia made a mental note, already feeling a pang of anxiety at the sheer number of names she had to remember.
Would she ever be able to keep them all straight? “Hi, I’m Claudia.” she said to the overall group, offering a small, slightly nervous smile, hoping she didn’t seem as awkward as she felt.
When Vic mentioned about Liquor, Claudia felt a flicker of intrigue. She enjoyed a good liquor occasionally. "May I have some?" she asked, raising her hand slightly, her voice calm and controlled, though her heart was pounding a little faster at the prospect of another new experience this evening. She was still reeling from the amount of people at the bonfire. She was a bit relieved she hadn't blurted out like YES, PLEASE it would have made her look slightly too eager.
Aubree’s movements were energetic, almost frantic – was she just like that naturally? Did she always run at dusk? A shiver ran down Claudia’s spine.
The thought even for a second that someone might be chasing Aubree…it brought back a rush of terrifying memories, a sudden stab of panic that threatened to overwhelm her. Trauma she tried hard to suppress clawed its way back, and she quickly shook her head to dispel it, desperately hoping it was just a simple jogging habit, nothing more.
Vic’s voice, revealing that he was Australian born, Claudia offered a small nod, her eyes momentarily lingering on the way the firelight caught the golden streaks in his hair. "That's...fascinating," she murmured, then, emboldened by the beer, added, "I think I’d be really interested to see you surf." She twirled the condensation on her beer. "I've never been able to swim, I always sunk like a stone in the lessons when I was a kid, so I wouldn’t even know where to begin with surfing. I would probably drown." A soft, self-deprecating chuckle escaped her lips. she took a sip of her beer, the cool liquid a welcome contrast to the heat of the fire. The beer wasn't helping either; she could feel her cheeks turning red.
The atmosphere shifted suddenly. The gentle murmur of conversation was replaced by a rising tide of voices as more people began to emerge from the darkness, drawn to the flickering beacon of the bonfire. A knot of anxiety tightened in Claudia’s stomach. She preferred the quiet solitude of her own company, the peaceful bubble she usually created around herself. This unexpected influx of unfamiliar faces made her want to retreat. She hadn't even intended to stay long at the bonfire, the promise of a change of scenery and a peaceful evening had been tempting, but now she was feeling overwhelmed. The crackling fire, once a comfort, now felt like a magnet, drawing too many in. The sheer number of bodies made her want to put her own body into a shell. But, for once, she needed to socialize.
Taking a deep breath, she tried to regain her composure. She spotted a woman approaching her. "Nice to meet you, Lia,” Claudia offered, extending a hand, hoping her voice sounded steadier than she felt. As she said it, her peripheral vision register two more figures joining them, and then another couple, arm in arm, emerging from the shadows. Jax introduced himself as Vic's brother, and he was with Mercy. The other ones were Rowdy and Sadie. Claudia made a mental note, already feeling a pang of anxiety at the sheer number of names she had to remember.
Would she ever be able to keep them all straight? “Hi, I’m Claudia.” she said to the overall group, offering a small, slightly nervous smile, hoping she didn’t seem as awkward as she felt.
When Vic mentioned about Liquor, Claudia felt a flicker of intrigue. She enjoyed a good liquor occasionally. "May I have some?" she asked, raising her hand slightly, her voice calm and controlled, though her heart was pounding a little faster at the prospect of another new experience this evening. She was still reeling from the amount of people at the bonfire. She was a bit relieved she hadn't blurted out like YES, PLEASE it would have made her look slightly too eager.
Theodore felt his shoulders tight with the lingering tension of the day, had finally finished at his dental practice. The fluorescent lights of the office were a distant memory as he stepped into his condo. His hand went immediately to the top two buttons of his checked shirt, a blue and white gingham, and he loosened them, the fabric feeling a little less restrictive around his neck. He sighed, a long, drawn-out breath that seemed to carry away some of the day's stress. He walked towards the panoramic window that dominated one wall of his room, his steps echoing softly on the polished wood floor. With a smooth click, he unlatched the window and pushed it open, letting the humid evening air rush in. He pulled a cigarette from the pack in his pocket, the crinkle of the cellophane a small, satisfying sound, and lit it with a flick of his lighter. The small flame flared briefly, a warm point of light against the dimming room, before settling into the steady orange glow at the end of his cigarette.
As he exhaled a plume of smoke, his gaze drifted below, following the curve of the beach towards the distant glimmer of a bonfire. The fire was a beacon against the gathering twilight, a small, flickering heart of light surrounded by a blurry mass of people. Even from this distance, he could make out the crowd; the scattered figures animated by the firelight. His hearing, unusually acute, could already discern snippets of conversations, the rise and fall of voices carried on the evening breeze. He could hear their talks, fragments of stories, and the occasional burst of excited chatter, but he consciously pushed it to the background. For now, he didn't want to engage. He simply wanted to enjoy the quiet rhythm of his breathing, the salty taste of the cigarette smoke, and the tranquil view from his window, a brief respite before the night truly began.
As he exhaled a plume of smoke, his gaze drifted below, following the curve of the beach towards the distant glimmer of a bonfire. The fire was a beacon against the gathering twilight, a small, flickering heart of light surrounded by a blurry mass of people. Even from this distance, he could make out the crowd; the scattered figures animated by the firelight. His hearing, unusually acute, could already discern snippets of conversations, the rise and fall of voices carried on the evening breeze. He could hear their talks, fragments of stories, and the occasional burst of excited chatter, but he consciously pushed it to the background. For now, he didn't want to engage. He simply wanted to enjoy the quiet rhythm of his breathing, the salty taste of the cigarette smoke, and the tranquil view from his window, a brief respite before the night truly began.
As she waited for Vic to answer, blue eyes looked over at Claudia momentarily before turning back to actually listen to the answer. She drank more of the bottle she had been given as she imagined what it would be like to live somewhere that was hot all the time. All she could picture was bikini tops all year round. She smiled to herself in thought of it, but then realized that Vic was speaking to her again. “Well, should I ever find myself in need a local or wave knowledge, I’ll know just the guy to come too.” She said this genuinely, and subconsciously filed away the places he could be found.
Soon, more people started arriving, and Aubree took a step back from the wave of people. Vic was distracted by them for a moment, and Aubree stood, debating what to do. She watched the people as they came, first a guy and a girl, Jax and Mercy, who she gave a smile too, followed by a trio, Rowdy, Sadie and Lia. When Sadie introduced herself to her, Aubree extended her hand. “Aubree.” She said back to both Lia and Sadie. “Nice to meet you.”
The guys all got distracted with one another, and even from where she stood, Aubree recognized the bonds of family, and for a second, that crushing loneliness smacked her. It hurt, in ways she wasn’t expecting, and her gaze turned to the fire, watching it dance in its pit, but her attention was caught once more when someone mentioned liquor. “Rum, if you’d got it, please.” She wasn’t sure how the funds worked at a party like this, but she had some money stashed in her pocket if needed. Turning to the other women there, since the guys had been distracted, and Mercy was still standing with them, she looked at each of them, curious of them, but started with Lia and Sadie as she asked them a question. “Have you ladies been here long?”
Soon, more people started arriving, and Aubree took a step back from the wave of people. Vic was distracted by them for a moment, and Aubree stood, debating what to do. She watched the people as they came, first a guy and a girl, Jax and Mercy, who she gave a smile too, followed by a trio, Rowdy, Sadie and Lia. When Sadie introduced herself to her, Aubree extended her hand. “Aubree.” She said back to both Lia and Sadie. “Nice to meet you.”
The guys all got distracted with one another, and even from where she stood, Aubree recognized the bonds of family, and for a second, that crushing loneliness smacked her. It hurt, in ways she wasn’t expecting, and her gaze turned to the fire, watching it dance in its pit, but her attention was caught once more when someone mentioned liquor. “Rum, if you’d got it, please.” She wasn’t sure how the funds worked at a party like this, but she had some money stashed in her pocket if needed. Turning to the other women there, since the guys had been distracted, and Mercy was still standing with them, she looked at each of them, curious of them, but started with Lia and Sadie as she asked them a question. “Have you ladies been here long?”
Vic looked at Claudia and cocked his head when she said she didn't know how to swim. That boggled him. He had never met someone who couldn't swim. "You don't know how to swim?" He just couldn't wrap his mind around that notion. "That's a crime. Water is life." He approached Claudia and stood next to her. "Let me teach ya, at least. Yeah?" As he stepped closer to Claudia it was clear she was uncomfortable as more and more people joined the fire. He wasn't sure if she would want comfort or not, or exactly how to offer her comfort. Moments later, Aubree started exhibiting similar behaviors that showed she was uncomfortable, too.
As the scanned the group, Vic's eyes met Mercy's and he smiled back to her. She commented on his fire, and he looked away from her and to the fire for a second. He glanced back and said, "Nothing brings people together like a fire. People are just drawn to 'em." He took a step towards her and whispered secretly in her ear, "Jax is a good guy. He pretends not to be. We tease him a lot, but he's a good friend." Vic couldn't help noticing that Mercy smelled nice.
Vic decided he would see if he could break the group up a little. Maybe split it in halve, or maybe three? "Hey guys, we might need some more firewood if we're gonna have a bender tonight. Anyone want to come with me on a walk about to find some?"
EDITED!!!! I WAS TERRIBLE AND LEFT OUT MERCY
As the scanned the group, Vic's eyes met Mercy's and he smiled back to her. She commented on his fire, and he looked away from her and to the fire for a second. He glanced back and said, "Nothing brings people together like a fire. People are just drawn to 'em." He took a step towards her and whispered secretly in her ear, "Jax is a good guy. He pretends not to be. We tease him a lot, but he's a good friend." Vic couldn't help noticing that Mercy smelled nice.
Vic decided he would see if he could break the group up a little. Maybe split it in halve, or maybe three? "Hey guys, we might need some more firewood if we're gonna have a bender tonight. Anyone want to come with me on a walk about to find some?"
EDITED!!!! I WAS TERRIBLE AND LEFT OUT MERCY
When Sadie heard Aubree introduce her, she gave her a comforting smile and shook her hand. "Nice to meet you, Aubree. She was just about to start a conversation with Aubree until a very boisterous reunion between Rowdy, Vic and a pretty boy, she had never seen before, distracted her. She smiled amusedly as they started talking and bantering, then noticed another girl was with them. She soon heard Vic introduce everyone who was there and then say he may need to go for a liquor run. Rowdy had spoken up to take orders and volunteered, but Sadie knew who she could call for the situation. "Hey, Rowdy. I can get the liquor covered once everyone has placed their orders. She looked at him with a wink, knowing he would understand.
She reached for her bag to give the owner of The Grog Shop a call. He was currently one of her boyfriends, but was also a business partner with her bar that was about to be re-opening. "Hey, Handsome. I have acquired some business for you, and if you can just charge it all to my account, that would be amazing. It's going to be at the bonfire I texted you about earlier." She proceeded to rattle off all that was ordered, making sure no one was left out. "If that can be delivered, Love. That would be great. Okay. Thanks. You are the best." She soon hung up the call and looked towards everyone. "Well, that's covered."
She soon saw that some were getting uncomfortable and then heard Vic about getting some firewood. She knew instantly he was trying to spread out the people. She looked towards Aubree as she spoke to her and Lia. "I have been here a few weeks, not very long. I am about to open a bar here soon. Almost done, actually. What about you, lovely?" She genuinely asked as she smiled at her, trying to comfort her but not be pushy. She saw that she was one of the ones feeling uncomfortable but had been the only one to actually approach or even say anything to Sadie.
She turned towards the men and spoke. "I think I will wait here for the liquor and watch the fire if you guys want to go do that. I don't mind. She smiled at them and waited to see if that was okay. She soon turned to Aubree and Lia. "What will you ladi....LIA, that was for the whipped vodka!" She spoke and started laughing her ass off. "Oh, boy, this definitely will be helluva night now." She was soon giving chase after her friend all the while laughing even harder.
She reached for her bag to give the owner of The Grog Shop a call. He was currently one of her boyfriends, but was also a business partner with her bar that was about to be re-opening. "Hey, Handsome. I have acquired some business for you, and if you can just charge it all to my account, that would be amazing. It's going to be at the bonfire I texted you about earlier." She proceeded to rattle off all that was ordered, making sure no one was left out. "If that can be delivered, Love. That would be great. Okay. Thanks. You are the best." She soon hung up the call and looked towards everyone. "Well, that's covered."
She soon saw that some were getting uncomfortable and then heard Vic about getting some firewood. She knew instantly he was trying to spread out the people. She looked towards Aubree as she spoke to her and Lia. "I have been here a few weeks, not very long. I am about to open a bar here soon. Almost done, actually. What about you, lovely?" She genuinely asked as she smiled at her, trying to comfort her but not be pushy. She saw that she was one of the ones feeling uncomfortable but had been the only one to actually approach or even say anything to Sadie.
She turned towards the men and spoke. "I think I will wait here for the liquor and watch the fire if you guys want to go do that. I don't mind. She smiled at them and waited to see if that was okay. She soon turned to Aubree and Lia. "What will you ladi....LIA, that was for the whipped vodka!" She spoke and started laughing her ass off. "Oh, boy, this definitely will be helluva night now." She was soon giving chase after her friend all the while laughing even harder.
"I guess that growing up in the city means I really have no experience with water at all." Claudia’s tension began to fade as Vic stayed close by, offering her companionship. His presence helped her feel less isolated in this unfamiliar place.
"Ever since I moved here, the beach has looked so inviting. I’ve been thinking that maybe it’s time for me to finally get in the water." As Claudia became more comfortable with Vic, her words flowed more freely. "And you know what? I’d love to learn how to swim if you’re willing to teach me." A relaxed smile appeared on her face, directed at Victor. "I also want to see how you surf. Just let me know when, I’ll be ready for that." She laughed softly, took a sip of her beer, and noticed that Aubree was chatting with Sadie and Lia. Her attention turned back to Mercy when Vic posed a question to the group.
"What about you? Is there something going on between you and Jax?" Claudia asked, curiosity bubbling up. She hoped she wasn’t crossing any boundaries with her question.
"Ever since I moved here, the beach has looked so inviting. I’ve been thinking that maybe it’s time for me to finally get in the water." As Claudia became more comfortable with Vic, her words flowed more freely. "And you know what? I’d love to learn how to swim if you’re willing to teach me." A relaxed smile appeared on her face, directed at Victor. "I also want to see how you surf. Just let me know when, I’ll be ready for that." She laughed softly, took a sip of her beer, and noticed that Aubree was chatting with Sadie and Lia. Her attention turned back to Mercy when Vic posed a question to the group.
"What about you? Is there something going on between you and Jax?" Claudia asked, curiosity bubbling up. She hoped she wasn’t crossing any boundaries with her question.
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