)
That's sort of how things went for the next few weeks.
After work, Abel and I would go to Ted's and get a couple of beers and head over to the park where we'd just sit and stare.
Mostly Abel would just talk about meaningless work-related subjects. I knew he was being careful not to venture in to anything deep that may make me uncomfortable. Though he hid it well. Always keeping things light, even trivial. Oddly, it wasn't annoying. I hated small talk for the most part. But this didn't feel like that. It didn't feel strained, like he was hiding from the truth or beating around the bush. It was always open. He was always willing for me to open up. Always willing for me to offer something. Always willing but never pushy. And I thanked him for it.
I was glad for his friendship, however tentitive it was.
Sometimes I would think as he talked. I would think deep and hard. Sometimes I'd just nod to whatever he was saying, grateful for the distraction.
I don't think he really cared either way.
I wondered why he did this. Why he would spend his evenings with someone who seemingly didn't give a rat's ass. What did he get out of it? Who knew. I wasn't going to question it. I was too selfish. I'd rather just have his unquestioning, never prodding company. Nothing I had to invest in. Man, I was really selfish.
I didn't know if he expected me to actually ever open up. I know I didn't. That's why I was surprised at myself when I eventually started to.
He was talking about Jonah and how he'd heard that he was being considered for some big promotion and might get moved off site.
"Jonah's a good guy. He deserves it." I commented.
His eyes flashed to my face before steadying back out onto the horizon. He nodded, trying to hide a small smile. It was two whole sentences he had coughed out of me and he had a triumphant smile hiding at the corners of his mouth. I rolled my eyes but smirked a little myself.
I soon became an active part of our evening discussions. The topics stayed light as ever but I was laughing and commenting and sometimes even initiating conversation of my own. And it was good. It was good to interact. It felt normal.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Ch. 4: Part 1
Ted was the guy who owned the convenience store, I found out. Of course he knew Abel. Everybody knew Abel. Abel went in and got the beers as I sat in the car slapping myself over what a pushover I was. I briefly contemplated ditching him while he was inside. But how could I do that to Abel? Geez, I was pathetic.
"Hey. Here ya go." Abel handed me the alcohol. "Park okay? It's such a nice day." He asked but he didn't seem to wait for an answer. Abel babbled on about work and some rumor we were getting raises on the ride there. "Of course, Hank is skeptical. You know he's not such a bad guy. He's just a little rough around the edges. You know he was in the war?"
I just sat there tense and nodded every so often.
When we arrived at the park which was really just a shelter scattered cigarette buds and a rusty swing set with one seat missing. I followed him to the shelter. We both settled on the top of the picnic table, feet perched on the seat, side by side. I stared out at the two hanging chains void of the seat. I handed him his beer without breaking my gaze.
"Thanks."
I nodded.
It really was a nice day. There was a light breeze that cleared the head and a subtle fog that misted in and gave a sort of magical shimmer to the deserted park. The mist carried the minty pine scent of the forest. I suddenly noticed that Abel hadn't been talking this whole time. Which was weird for him. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye. He was starring out at the fog just like me. I went back to looking out at the rusty swing and I heard him take a swig of his bottle.
"So, what's with you Leo?" he asked.
My head whipped sideways. He was still looking straight ahead. I just kind of stared at him. His eyes glanced at me and he turned his head to me slightly when he saw me staring. He raised one eyebrow expectantly. I diverted my attention back out at the swing.
"Nothing." I shrugged, trying to act all nonchalant. Like I didn't know what he was talking about.
"Uh huh." He mused, drawing it out like I had given him a vital piece of information. He bobbed his head slowly.
I let out a long sigh. I fidgeted with the leg of my jeans and stared out, still trying to look chill.
He pursed his lips. "So, what's really going on with you?" This time he turned his head to stare at me pointedly, fully expecting some kind of answer to whatever the hell he was asking. What the hell was he asking? What did he expect me to say? Like I was going to spill my guts to him over one beer. What did he want from me? I just started to just get really freaking pissed.
My face went from uncomfortable to confused. And then I let my face show just how pissed I was. "What the hell does that mean?" I don't really know why I was so mad. It's just, I never did anything to anybody. I just kept to myself and minded my own business. I didn't talk to anybody. And still. Still people couldn't just leave me the fuck alone. I lived in the woods for Pete's sake!
I expected Abel to look all taken aback or hurt or something. And I just really couldn't bring myself to give a shit.
But he didn't look hurt. He didn't even look the least bit phased.
And he just freaking shrugged.
"It means, what's going on with you"
Oh, okay. That clears everything up.
He sighed a little.
"Look, I know something's going on. I just thought you might need to talk about it to someone."
He raise his hands, palms out in front of him.
"No strings attached."
And I was still sort of mad, but when he put it that way...
I briefly thought about how much it would be completely helpful to talk to someone about just everything. I could think it through and it would be so nice to have someone else know. It sucked to keep everything bottled up.
But I wasn't about to tell anyone anything. Cause as much as it sucked to keep everything bottled up, it was safe. And safe was all I had now.
"Sorry." I relaxed my features. "Thanks." I let out a long sigh and leaned forward, leaning my elbows on my knees and intertwined my fingers together. "But, I really am fine."
And he just dropped it. He pursed his lips and bobbed his head for a little bit, then he raised his bottle to his lips and took a long sip. "Okay."
And that was the end of it. We both resumed our gaze out at the fog and he started babbling about something trivial.
I realized I liked Abel more in that moment then I ever had. If I was actually ever gonna have friends again, Abel would be it and I was actually glad I had come.
I let a small smile spread my lips and took another sip of my beer.
"Hey. Here ya go." Abel handed me the alcohol. "Park okay? It's such a nice day." He asked but he didn't seem to wait for an answer. Abel babbled on about work and some rumor we were getting raises on the ride there. "Of course, Hank is skeptical. You know he's not such a bad guy. He's just a little rough around the edges. You know he was in the war?"
I just sat there tense and nodded every so often.
When we arrived at the park which was really just a shelter scattered cigarette buds and a rusty swing set with one seat missing. I followed him to the shelter. We both settled on the top of the picnic table, feet perched on the seat, side by side. I stared out at the two hanging chains void of the seat. I handed him his beer without breaking my gaze.
"Thanks."
I nodded.
It really was a nice day. There was a light breeze that cleared the head and a subtle fog that misted in and gave a sort of magical shimmer to the deserted park. The mist carried the minty pine scent of the forest. I suddenly noticed that Abel hadn't been talking this whole time. Which was weird for him. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye. He was starring out at the fog just like me. I went back to looking out at the rusty swing and I heard him take a swig of his bottle.
"So, what's with you Leo?" he asked.
My head whipped sideways. He was still looking straight ahead. I just kind of stared at him. His eyes glanced at me and he turned his head to me slightly when he saw me staring. He raised one eyebrow expectantly. I diverted my attention back out at the swing.
"Nothing." I shrugged, trying to act all nonchalant. Like I didn't know what he was talking about.
"Uh huh." He mused, drawing it out like I had given him a vital piece of information. He bobbed his head slowly.
I let out a long sigh. I fidgeted with the leg of my jeans and stared out, still trying to look chill.
He pursed his lips. "So, what's really going on with you?" This time he turned his head to stare at me pointedly, fully expecting some kind of answer to whatever the hell he was asking. What the hell was he asking? What did he expect me to say? Like I was going to spill my guts to him over one beer. What did he want from me? I just started to just get really freaking pissed.
My face went from uncomfortable to confused. And then I let my face show just how pissed I was. "What the hell does that mean?" I don't really know why I was so mad. It's just, I never did anything to anybody. I just kept to myself and minded my own business. I didn't talk to anybody. And still. Still people couldn't just leave me the fuck alone. I lived in the woods for Pete's sake!
I expected Abel to look all taken aback or hurt or something. And I just really couldn't bring myself to give a shit.
But he didn't look hurt. He didn't even look the least bit phased.
And he just freaking shrugged.
"It means, what's going on with you"
Oh, okay. That clears everything up.
He sighed a little.
"Look, I know something's going on. I just thought you might need to talk about it to someone."
He raise his hands, palms out in front of him.
"No strings attached."
And I was still sort of mad, but when he put it that way...
I briefly thought about how much it would be completely helpful to talk to someone about just everything. I could think it through and it would be so nice to have someone else know. It sucked to keep everything bottled up.
But I wasn't about to tell anyone anything. Cause as much as it sucked to keep everything bottled up, it was safe. And safe was all I had now.
"Sorry." I relaxed my features. "Thanks." I let out a long sigh and leaned forward, leaning my elbows on my knees and intertwined my fingers together. "But, I really am fine."
And he just dropped it. He pursed his lips and bobbed his head for a little bit, then he raised his bottle to his lips and took a long sip. "Okay."
And that was the end of it. We both resumed our gaze out at the fog and he started babbling about something trivial.
I realized I liked Abel more in that moment then I ever had. If I was actually ever gonna have friends again, Abel would be it and I was actually glad I had come.
I let a small smile spread my lips and took another sip of my beer.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Ch. 3: Part 5
I trudged through the mud out to the road, hands shoved in my pockets and head down. I tried to be as inconspicuous as possible. Tried.
"Hey, Leo, ya sure about Larry's?" Abel called over to me from over at the time clock. I tried to act like I hadn't heard him. I squeezed my eyes shut and sighed as I heard his cheerful jog behind me.
"Hey, Leo. Ya sure you won't take me up on my offer? I'll buy." He wore a smile but I could tell he already knew what I was going to say.
"No. Thanks, anyway. You have fun with the other guys."
His eyebrows came together and his face transformed into the most pathetic expression.
"That's just the trouble. None of the other guys are going. I don't wanna go by myself."
I was a little surprised at that. I wasn't expecting him to want to hang out with just me. Even if I was his backup. But that didn't change anything and neither did his pleading expression. There was no way I was stepping one foot into Larry's. Way too many people jammed together and none of them on their best behavior. I tried not to think of the other reason.
"Uh. Larry's just isn't my thing." I said with an uncomfortable expression. I shrugged and began to start my walk home again.
"We don't have to go to Larry's if you don't want to. We could just grab a couple of beers from Ted's."
I turned around to face him again. He had his eyebrows raised with a half grin.
Two guys and a couple of beers didn't really sound that bad. And I didn't really have any more reasons for refusing and from the grin, I think Abel knew it. I had no idea how anyone could say no to Abel. I briefly took pity on any unsuspecting victim of the female gender. If it worked this well on me, think what that welcoming smile and those innocent eyes could do to any girl of his choosing.
A slight snicker escaped my lips. His eyes turned quizzical at my sudden amusement.
"Well, I guess you won't let me say no." I smirked.
His eyebrows lifted and his face turned into an expression of excitement.
"The hell I am." He said with a grin.
"Hey, Leo, ya sure about Larry's?" Abel called over to me from over at the time clock. I tried to act like I hadn't heard him. I squeezed my eyes shut and sighed as I heard his cheerful jog behind me.
"Hey, Leo. Ya sure you won't take me up on my offer? I'll buy." He wore a smile but I could tell he already knew what I was going to say.
"No. Thanks, anyway. You have fun with the other guys."
His eyebrows came together and his face transformed into the most pathetic expression.
"That's just the trouble. None of the other guys are going. I don't wanna go by myself."
I was a little surprised at that. I wasn't expecting him to want to hang out with just me. Even if I was his backup. But that didn't change anything and neither did his pleading expression. There was no way I was stepping one foot into Larry's. Way too many people jammed together and none of them on their best behavior. I tried not to think of the other reason.
"Uh. Larry's just isn't my thing." I said with an uncomfortable expression. I shrugged and began to start my walk home again.
"We don't have to go to Larry's if you don't want to. We could just grab a couple of beers from Ted's."
I turned around to face him again. He had his eyebrows raised with a half grin.
Two guys and a couple of beers didn't really sound that bad. And I didn't really have any more reasons for refusing and from the grin, I think Abel knew it. I had no idea how anyone could say no to Abel. I briefly took pity on any unsuspecting victim of the female gender. If it worked this well on me, think what that welcoming smile and those innocent eyes could do to any girl of his choosing.
A slight snicker escaped my lips. His eyes turned quizzical at my sudden amusement.
"Well, I guess you won't let me say no." I smirked.
His eyebrows lifted and his face turned into an expression of excitement.
"The hell I am." He said with a grin.
Ch. 3: Part 4
"Hey, Leo!"
It was Abel. Again. I mean, I couldn't quite bring myself to hate him. I didn't think anybody could hate Abel. He was so nice.
"Hey." I gave a little half smile in spite of myself. I couldn't help it.
"You wanna get a drink after work?" He asked with enthusiasm. It had caught my attention that Jonah had must of not mentioned my age to anyone, because this was about the third time in a week Abel had asked me to hang out at Larry's after work. And I wasn't about to leak the information if he hadn't.
"Uh, no thanks."
Abel cocked his head and raised an eyebrow. "You know what, Leo? You work to much."
I just shrugged. He let out a good chuckle. "In a small town like this, I try to get in all the fun I can."
I just shrugged again and he shook his head at me, but went back to his saw with a whistle.
After a couple days of Hank's instruction, I had started my labor, cutting the log to specifications. I got paid by the cut, which was fine by me because I never stopped working.
Maybe Abel was right. Maybe I worked to much. But, what else was I supposed to do? Not only had this job served it's purpose by providing me with income, it also kept me busy. That had been an added bonus I hadn't asked for. Logging gave me something to do and I was grateful to it.
I just tried to keep my mind off the fact that I was working to live and living to work. Without doing much of the living. I kept telling myself that I just needed to get my feet underneath me and then I could work on sorting everything out.
Breathing first, then the living part.
But, if I stopped kidding myself for a couple seconds, I would realize that I was scared shitless of figuring anything out. I wasn't ready to face what my life would actually become once I stopped to look at it. A cruel, strange something had thrown me off my course and I had lost my direction. And I was terrified of finding a new one.
It was Abel. Again. I mean, I couldn't quite bring myself to hate him. I didn't think anybody could hate Abel. He was so nice.
"Hey." I gave a little half smile in spite of myself. I couldn't help it.
"You wanna get a drink after work?" He asked with enthusiasm. It had caught my attention that Jonah had must of not mentioned my age to anyone, because this was about the third time in a week Abel had asked me to hang out at Larry's after work. And I wasn't about to leak the information if he hadn't.
"Uh, no thanks."
Abel cocked his head and raised an eyebrow. "You know what, Leo? You work to much."
I just shrugged. He let out a good chuckle. "In a small town like this, I try to get in all the fun I can."
I just shrugged again and he shook his head at me, but went back to his saw with a whistle.
After a couple days of Hank's instruction, I had started my labor, cutting the log to specifications. I got paid by the cut, which was fine by me because I never stopped working.
Maybe Abel was right. Maybe I worked to much. But, what else was I supposed to do? Not only had this job served it's purpose by providing me with income, it also kept me busy. That had been an added bonus I hadn't asked for. Logging gave me something to do and I was grateful to it.
I just tried to keep my mind off the fact that I was working to live and living to work. Without doing much of the living. I kept telling myself that I just needed to get my feet underneath me and then I could work on sorting everything out.
Breathing first, then the living part.
But, if I stopped kidding myself for a couple seconds, I would realize that I was scared shitless of figuring anything out. I wasn't ready to face what my life would actually become once I stopped to look at it. A cruel, strange something had thrown me off my course and I had lost my direction. And I was terrified of finding a new one.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Facebook Group!! ^_^
Hiya!
Leo now has a Facebook group! You can check out all the pix or discuss crap with other fans. I will also alert all the Leo Facebook fans of any new posts. You can upload pictures that remind you of Leo or share playlist ideas. It's WAYYY fun!
Here's the official group created and run by yours truly:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=70171925995#/group.php?gid=70171925995
Here's the group created by Conner (thnx Conner! ^_^):
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=70171925995#/group.php?gid=65298881084
Leo now has a Facebook group! You can check out all the pix or discuss crap with other fans. I will also alert all the Leo Facebook fans of any new posts. You can upload pictures that remind you of Leo or share playlist ideas. It's WAYYY fun!
Here's the official group created and run by yours truly:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=70171925995#/group.php?gid=70171925995
Here's the group created by Conner (thnx Conner! ^_^):
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=70171925995#/group.php?gid=65298881084
Monday, February 23, 2009
Leo POV- Ch. 3: Part 3
Hey! This is the first post to be in Leo POV. I'm not posting anything big. just enough to try to keep you from hating me and to try out the new point of view.
************************************************************************************
My first day had been... good? Well, it had been work. Hank never frendlied up and I was grateful for the no-nonsense direction. It was just a job. I needed the money. I just wished that I could bypass the human interaction to get it.
Sadly, the job required some training before I even handled a saw. So, that meant my little lessons with Hank would continue for a while. I just wanted to do my job and get out of there. I just wanted to be back at my lonely little camp. I didn't necessarily like it here but I felt secluded which was as much as I was asking for.
I shoved down another charred hot dog without tasting it. Hot dogs and more hot dogs. I felt like it was all I'd eaten. Ever. But, I only knew how to cook so much over a fire.
After work, Abel had strode over and invited me out to Larry's in what I figured was a "new guy" gesture. Yeah Right. Like I'd be going anywhere near that place. Though I had needed a drink pretty bad.
I popped the tab of my Bud light and gave a dry chuckle at my fake ID tucked away in my wallet. I leaned back against the tree and rubbed my back over the rough bark. My eyes fluttered closed. Tomorrow was Saturday. I raised the can to toast. Happy weekend.
I took a long gulp and rubbed my eye with the heal of my palm. I opened my eyes and looked down my nose at the wing spread out on the needle covered ground beside me. I lazily fingered the feathery tips.
************************************************************************************
My first day had been... good? Well, it had been work. Hank never frendlied up and I was grateful for the no-nonsense direction. It was just a job. I needed the money. I just wished that I could bypass the human interaction to get it.
Sadly, the job required some training before I even handled a saw. So, that meant my little lessons with Hank would continue for a while. I just wanted to do my job and get out of there. I just wanted to be back at my lonely little camp. I didn't necessarily like it here but I felt secluded which was as much as I was asking for.
I shoved down another charred hot dog without tasting it. Hot dogs and more hot dogs. I felt like it was all I'd eaten. Ever. But, I only knew how to cook so much over a fire.
After work, Abel had strode over and invited me out to Larry's in what I figured was a "new guy" gesture. Yeah Right. Like I'd be going anywhere near that place. Though I had needed a drink pretty bad.
I popped the tab of my Bud light and gave a dry chuckle at my fake ID tucked away in my wallet. I leaned back against the tree and rubbed my back over the rough bark. My eyes fluttered closed. Tomorrow was Saturday. I raised the can to toast. Happy weekend.
I took a long gulp and rubbed my eye with the heal of my palm. I opened my eyes and looked down my nose at the wing spread out on the needle covered ground beside me. I lazily fingered the feathery tips.
Abel
Hey!
Found this pic of Abel!
I nearly had to put napkins down to protect my keyboard from the drool. Enjoy... ^_^
Sorry!
I know I haven't posted in a while. This next part is a little fuzzy for me and I'm formulating the story in my mind. But I promise not to let you down and when I do post it will be a lot! OK, so, don't hate me.
Also, Leo will be going through some changes. I'm changing the POV to first person.
I want to incorporate a lot more of Leo's thoughts and I think first person point of view will serve me better. I really don't even know why I had the POV like it was. It's really hard to write thoughts like that. So, yeah. I'm just letting you know so you don't get confused and freak out on me. I hope that the story will be a lot more interesting like this.
I'll post as soon as I can. ^_^ thnx
Also, Leo will be going through some changes. I'm changing the POV to first person.
I want to incorporate a lot more of Leo's thoughts and I think first person point of view will serve me better. I really don't even know why I had the POV like it was. It's really hard to write thoughts like that. So, yeah. I'm just letting you know so you don't get confused and freak out on me. I hope that the story will be a lot more interesting like this.
I'll post as soon as I can. ^_^ thnx
Friday, February 20, 2009
Lana
OK, I haven't done any drawings of Lana yet though I am planning on it. BUT! I did find these pics of basically exactly what Lana looks like. I also have a pic of those eyes that seem to have so captivated our dear Leo. I don't blame him. These are some freakin awesome eyes!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Leo Playlist!!! XD
Hey!
Superawesome news! I've added a Leo playlist featuring songs that relate to the story. I've been wanting to do this for sometime and have been compiling a list of songs that remind me of the story (I came across some that reminded me of unwritten parts but you'll just have to wait for those).
Each chapter-part has it's own song (I also added a couple for option 1&2) to go along with it! I know right! That's what I thought! WAY exciting! So, The songs are in order in which the chapters appear. But I'll give you the Ch./song list anyway.
Ch. 1: Part 1 - Dare You to Move
Ch. 1: Part 2 - Learning to Breathe
Ch. 1: Part 3 - Learn to Fly
Ch. 1: Part 4 - Breathe
Ch. 2: Part 1 - Get Your Back Off the Wall
Ch. 2: Part 2 - Every Minute
Option 1 - I Ran (So Far Away)
Option 2 - High of 75
Ch. 2: Part 3 - I So Hate Consequences
Ch. 3: Part 1 - More Than Fine
Ch. 3: Part 2 - I'm Still Here
So, Yeah. I'll be adding more songs as I finish more chapters. As you might of noticed, this playlist has a crapload of Switchfoot on it. Didn't plan it that way. They just have a lot of songs with good narrative quality to them. This playlist also has one of my all time favorite songs, I'm Still Here, on it. Excited bout that! Also, it has Family Force 5 on here which is one of my superfave bands!
Oh, I also thought I'd mention that if you have any songs that remind you of Leo then send them to me or leave it in a comment after the chapter.
So, I hope you enjoy!!! ^_^
Superawesome news! I've added a Leo playlist featuring songs that relate to the story. I've been wanting to do this for sometime and have been compiling a list of songs that remind me of the story (I came across some that reminded me of unwritten parts but you'll just have to wait for those).
Each chapter-part has it's own song (I also added a couple for option 1&2) to go along with it! I know right! That's what I thought! WAY exciting! So, The songs are in order in which the chapters appear. But I'll give you the Ch./song list anyway.
Ch. 1: Part 1 - Dare You to Move
Ch. 1: Part 2 - Learning to Breathe
Ch. 1: Part 3 - Learn to Fly
Ch. 1: Part 4 - Breathe
Ch. 2: Part 1 - Get Your Back Off the Wall
Ch. 2: Part 2 - Every Minute
Option 1 - I Ran (So Far Away)
Option 2 - High of 75
Ch. 2: Part 3 - I So Hate Consequences
Ch. 3: Part 1 - More Than Fine
Ch. 3: Part 2 - I'm Still Here
So, Yeah. I'll be adding more songs as I finish more chapters. As you might of noticed, this playlist has a crapload of Switchfoot on it. Didn't plan it that way. They just have a lot of songs with good narrative quality to them. This playlist also has one of my all time favorite songs, I'm Still Here, on it. Excited bout that! Also, it has Family Force 5 on here which is one of my superfave bands!
Oh, I also thought I'd mention that if you have any songs that remind you of Leo then send them to me or leave it in a comment after the chapter.
So, I hope you enjoy!!! ^_^
Monday, February 16, 2009
Logging Photos
Forwarder
Bucker
Hey!
Sorry it took me so long to post. I totally Wikied all that logging crap so you better be thankful. ^_^
Here's some pics of the logging stuff that I found. Maybe it'll give you a better idea of what the heck they're talking about cause I had no freaking idea.
Ch. 3: Part 2
He kept his hands in his pockets and his arms close to his sides. His wings were tucked in tight, crushed against his back. He made sure to keep out of everybody’s way this time; he couldn’t afford to piss anyone off today.
He climbed the two steps and raised his fist to knock on the aluminum door. Leo stumbled back off the steps as the door swung open.
“Oop, sorry.” Jonah apologized as he closed the door behind him and hopped down the steps, clipboard in hand. “Uhh…” Jonah furrowed his brow and snapped his fingers twice. “Leo! Right?”
“Yeah.”
“Cool. Hey, come with me. I was just about to check on a few things anyway.” Jonah started off in the direction of a couple of machine-truck looking things. Leo followed.
“These are called forwarders. They carry the logs to the landing.”
“Landing?”
Jonah threw his head in the direction of an area close to the road. “It’s where all the logs that are ready get loaded on trucks. The trucks take ‘em to the mill.” Leo nodded. Jonah spoke with one of the men in the forwarders, then scratched a few things on his clipboard.
Leo focused on everything Jonah told him and noted what the men were doing as they traveled around the site. Jonah would stop at a certain job, give a quick explanation of what was going on and talk to who ever he needed. Leo soaked everything up. He hadn’t been lying. He was a fast learner. Harvesters felled the tree, delimbed and bucked it. The logs got placed in bunks and then were brought to the landing.
Some of the loggers eyed him warily, but others were friendly or indifferent. He prayed for indifferent.
“Hey, Hank.” An old leathery face looked up from a saw and nodded at Jonah's greeting. Jonah turned to Leo “This is where you’ll be helping out.” He waved a hand over a couple saws slicing there way down a long thick trunk. Leo fished through his new information and identified it as “bucking”.
“Hank, this is Leo Kosky. He’ll be around here for a while.” Hank's head shot up, Jonah raised an eyebrow and gave him a look. Leo didn’t catch what it said. Hank looked over at Leo with narrowed eyes. Then dropped his head back to his work and bobbed it in what seemed like some form of consent. Jonah’s eyebrow settled and he dropped back into his usual bright self.
Another man came over then. He was much younger then Hank, probably around 23, and big. His sleeves were rolled up and strained around his large tan biceps. He had short dark brown hair and wore a huge grin on his face. Leo’s eyebrows went up and he stiffened as the grinning man approached him in long sure strides. He stopped just far enough away to stick out his long muscular arm to offer a handshake. Leo pulled his hand from his pocket and it was caught up in a big warm grasp. “Hi! I hear your gonna be joining the team.” He boomed. He released Leo and reached down to plant a pat on Hank’s shoulder. “He’s not as bad as he seems.” He confided load enough for Hank to hear. Hank just grunted and the grinning man gave a load chuckle at that. Jonah smiled.
“This is Abel.” Abel’s grin widened and he nodded. Leo gave a half smirk.
“Hey.” Leo said as he slipped his hand back into his pocket. A voice called Abel to the end of the log.
“Guess I better get back to work.” Jonah smiled at Leo reassuringly.
“Abel will make you feel right at home.” He said. Leo had no doubt he wouldn’t.
“Hank here has been in the logging industry for years. If you got any questions, he’ll be able to answer them.” Jonah leaned down to Hank. “Hank, you don’t mind taking your break and showing Leo here how to get started.” Hank bobbed his head. Jonah straightened back up and nodded once at Leo, then turned on his heel and left with a wave over his head. Hank cut his saw and stood up. His unfriendly face eyed Leo with suspicion and disgust.
“You better come with me then.” He finally grumbled and stalked off. Leo stumbled to follow him.
He climbed the two steps and raised his fist to knock on the aluminum door. Leo stumbled back off the steps as the door swung open.
“Oop, sorry.” Jonah apologized as he closed the door behind him and hopped down the steps, clipboard in hand. “Uhh…” Jonah furrowed his brow and snapped his fingers twice. “Leo! Right?”
“Yeah.”
“Cool. Hey, come with me. I was just about to check on a few things anyway.” Jonah started off in the direction of a couple of machine-truck looking things. Leo followed.
“These are called forwarders. They carry the logs to the landing.”
“Landing?”
Jonah threw his head in the direction of an area close to the road. “It’s where all the logs that are ready get loaded on trucks. The trucks take ‘em to the mill.” Leo nodded. Jonah spoke with one of the men in the forwarders, then scratched a few things on his clipboard.
Leo focused on everything Jonah told him and noted what the men were doing as they traveled around the site. Jonah would stop at a certain job, give a quick explanation of what was going on and talk to who ever he needed. Leo soaked everything up. He hadn’t been lying. He was a fast learner. Harvesters felled the tree, delimbed and bucked it. The logs got placed in bunks and then were brought to the landing.
Some of the loggers eyed him warily, but others were friendly or indifferent. He prayed for indifferent.
“Hey, Hank.” An old leathery face looked up from a saw and nodded at Jonah's greeting. Jonah turned to Leo “This is where you’ll be helping out.” He waved a hand over a couple saws slicing there way down a long thick trunk. Leo fished through his new information and identified it as “bucking”.
“Hank, this is Leo Kosky. He’ll be around here for a while.” Hank's head shot up, Jonah raised an eyebrow and gave him a look. Leo didn’t catch what it said. Hank looked over at Leo with narrowed eyes. Then dropped his head back to his work and bobbed it in what seemed like some form of consent. Jonah’s eyebrow settled and he dropped back into his usual bright self.
Another man came over then. He was much younger then Hank, probably around 23, and big. His sleeves were rolled up and strained around his large tan biceps. He had short dark brown hair and wore a huge grin on his face. Leo’s eyebrows went up and he stiffened as the grinning man approached him in long sure strides. He stopped just far enough away to stick out his long muscular arm to offer a handshake. Leo pulled his hand from his pocket and it was caught up in a big warm grasp. “Hi! I hear your gonna be joining the team.” He boomed. He released Leo and reached down to plant a pat on Hank’s shoulder. “He’s not as bad as he seems.” He confided load enough for Hank to hear. Hank just grunted and the grinning man gave a load chuckle at that. Jonah smiled.
“This is Abel.” Abel’s grin widened and he nodded. Leo gave a half smirk.
“Hey.” Leo said as he slipped his hand back into his pocket. A voice called Abel to the end of the log.
“Guess I better get back to work.” Jonah smiled at Leo reassuringly.
“Abel will make you feel right at home.” He said. Leo had no doubt he wouldn’t.
“Hank here has been in the logging industry for years. If you got any questions, he’ll be able to answer them.” Jonah leaned down to Hank. “Hank, you don’t mind taking your break and showing Leo here how to get started.” Hank bobbed his head. Jonah straightened back up and nodded once at Leo, then turned on his heel and left with a wave over his head. Hank cut his saw and stood up. His unfriendly face eyed Leo with suspicion and disgust.
“You better come with me then.” He finally grumbled and stalked off. Leo stumbled to follow him.
Ch. 3: Part 1
Ouch. That last slap stung. Good. Leo delivered smack after smack to his warm cheeks. “Wake up, Leo. C’mon.”
6 AM was early. Leo pulled on the red hoodie over his worn T-shirt as pink crept up over the edge of horizon. Leo’s yawn was muffled by the bright red fabric as it went down over his face.
He hoped the manager’s attitude toward him hadn’t taken a turn for the worst. He was afraid he might change his mind. Leo slid his arms into his coat. He squeezed his eyes and silently prayed that no one would notice his wings.
He mentally prepared himself as he made his way down the side of the highway toward the site. He could hear the loggers shouting over the trucks and machines and going about their work. “Guess it’s not early for them.” Leo muttered.
He winced remembering what happened on this same highway last night. He shook his head to clear it. He couldn’t stay focused on stuff like that. This was how his life was going to be and he just needed to accept that. He let out a sigh and slumped his shoulders. His palm came up and smacked him hard in the forehead. “Accept it, damn it!” He furrowed his eyebrows and huffed at himself. He shoved his fists into his pockets and stalked the rest of the way to the site.
6 AM was early. Leo pulled on the red hoodie over his worn T-shirt as pink crept up over the edge of horizon. Leo’s yawn was muffled by the bright red fabric as it went down over his face.
He hoped the manager’s attitude toward him hadn’t taken a turn for the worst. He was afraid he might change his mind. Leo slid his arms into his coat. He squeezed his eyes and silently prayed that no one would notice his wings.
He mentally prepared himself as he made his way down the side of the highway toward the site. He could hear the loggers shouting over the trucks and machines and going about their work. “Guess it’s not early for them.” Leo muttered.
He winced remembering what happened on this same highway last night. He shook his head to clear it. He couldn’t stay focused on stuff like that. This was how his life was going to be and he just needed to accept that. He let out a sigh and slumped his shoulders. His palm came up and smacked him hard in the forehead. “Accept it, damn it!” He furrowed his eyebrows and huffed at himself. He shoved his fists into his pockets and stalked the rest of the way to the site.
Sidebar
Hey!
As you can see, I have added a "Fave quote" space. I will be posting my current favorite quotes from the story up there. If you want me to post any of your fave quotes, let me know in a comment and I'll be sure to do that.
Also, if you find some awesome artwork (related to the story) and you want me to feature it, then send it to me via email (visit my profile for contact info). Thnx ^_^
As you can see, I have added a "Fave quote" space. I will be posting my current favorite quotes from the story up there. If you want me to post any of your fave quotes, let me know in a comment and I'll be sure to do that.
Also, if you find some awesome artwork (related to the story) and you want me to feature it, then send it to me via email (visit my profile for contact info). Thnx ^_^
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Lana's Car
83 Honda Civic
Just thought I'd post a pic of Lana's car. Just picture it rusty. i may do some drawings of Lana, but don't get your hopes up. Thanks for reading. Your comments make me squeal and bounce in my seat. ^_^
Friday, February 13, 2009
Ch. 2: Part 3
“What are we doing?” He asked, later, on their way to her house.
“Sit back and relax. It’s a surprise.”
“It’s your birthday. Why do I have a surprise?” He said with a smirk.
“Exactly. It is my birthday. So, I should be able to do whatever I want.”
He sat back, defeated and amused. A little while later, they pulled up to her trailer. “You can come in if you want.” She said as she unbuckled her seatbelt. Leo got out of the car and followed her up to the door. She unlocked it and bumped it with her hip as she turned the knob.
“It sticks.” She explained.
Her house wasn’t what he had been expecting. He didn’t really know what he’d been expecting. There was a low brown corduroy couch and big black TV on the floor across from it.
“Here’s the living room.” She said throwing up her hands. She kicked a basket of laundry out of the way and stepped onto the linoleum that adjoined the right side of the living room. “And here’s the kitchen.”
There was a dark, wood paneled bar with an off-white counter top that divided the kitchen from the living room. The corduroy couch was shoved up against it so that the counter was level with the head of anyone who sat on it’s stained cushions. An end table was placed on the other end of the couch. It held a lamp and a stack of magazines. The other table in sight was a teal card table set up in the kitchen. He assumed it was used for dining.
He looked over to where she was raiding her fridge. She put a six pack on the counter and popped a grape in her mouth as she shut the door. Leo stood by the front door as she dashed through the doorway on the left side of the living room which opened into what seemed to be a hallway.
His eyes wandered around. There was only one picture in the room. The frame was on the far end of the couch, lying on the cushion. It looked to be a younger version of Lana with a man of about forty. They looked close. Her dad? For some reason, that didn’t seem likely.
She popped back through the doorway with a big plaid wool blanket over her arm and a large grey hoodie over her thin frame. Her head jerked around as she assessed everything she had gathered, then her eyes found Leo.
“Do you need anything? You know, like, do you need to use the bathroom or something?”
“Uh, no. I’m fine. Ready?” She nodded.
Leo crossed the room and leaned over the bar to reach the beer.
“You want me to get these?”
“Yeah, thanks.” She locked the door behind them and they climbed in the car. She took the six-pack from Leo and threw it and the blanket in the trunk behind the seat.
“Do I get to know now?” Leo asked when they were on the road again.
“No.” He gave an animated sigh. She was easy to tease with. He’d still be staring at the floorboard with anyone else.
They sped down the pine surrounded highway until they came to a dirt turnoff. His eyes perked with interest. At the end of the winding path was the top of a large hill. They came up on the more even side of it and on the other was a steep drop.
“This is it.” She said with a satisfied smile. She grabbed the blanket from behind the seat and pulled herself out of the car. Leo stayed in his seat and with curious eyes watched as she spread the blanket on the hood of the car. She motion for him to come with a wave of her hand. He got out of the car and came around to the front. She lifted herself onto the hood and plopped down on the wool blanket. She patted the spot next to her. He plopped down too, mimicking her movement. She gave a smile and leaned back against the windshield. He laid back too as she exhaled.
The car’s inside lights went out and he was suddenly aware of how close she was. He intertwined his fingers over his stomach and looked over at her. Her eyes were lifted up towards the sky. He looked too. Billions of tiny diamonds winked back at him. His jaw fell slack. He jumped when he heard her giggle.
“They’re somethin’. Aren’t they?”
“Yeah.” He breathed. She smiled with her eyes again and his heart skipped a beat.
She held his gaze for a moment and then he diverted his eyes. He looked back at the stars. He felt a strange static between them. He swallowed and kept his eyes on the sky.
“You want a drink?” She asked a little too loud for the quiet night.
“No, thanks.” He didn’t tell her he was under age. Not that that had ever stopped him before but he wanted to be sober in case she wasn’t, when they left.
She hopped off the front of the car and came back with the cans. She popped the lid, took a sip and put the drinks on the ground beside the car and hopped up, resuming her former position.
“Thanks for celebrating with me.” She whispered. Leo turned to look at her. She had a deep look of gratitude on her face. He looked away, embarrassed.
“No problem.” But he couldn’t keep his eyes away very long and they found their way back to her face again. She was staring at the stars with a serious expression, but she turned when she felt his eyes on her and her face transformed into a grin.
He didn’t take his eyes off her this time. Her face turned impish. He froze as she leaned into him, her breath warm on his face.
Her lips were thin but soft and hooked around his with ease. His heart thumped jaggedly. He closed his eyes as she parted his lips and the kiss grew deeper. His breathing sped and he reached a hand up to cradle her head. Her hands moved to his hips, pulling herself closer. He nearly couldn’t stop himself but he quickly pulled away. His breathing was ragged.
“Wo.” He gasped. She grinned and leaned in again but he held her shoulders. She raised an eyebrow.
“Just, hang on a minute. Uh…” He was having trouble forming coherent thoughts. “I don’t, I don’t think this is such a great idea.”
“Why?” She didn’t understand. She didn’t see any reason why she couldn’t carry on like there was no tomorrow. Like he was normal. She had no idea that either of them could make a wrong move and she would stumble upon a pair of ivory wings. She’d already been way too close.
“It just isn’t a good idea.” He couldn’t think of a good reason to give her. Not a good reason he could give her. She scowled.
“What’s you’re problem?” She was offended. He could tell she was covering her embarrassment with anger. He sighed.
“I’m sorry.” It was her birthday. He felt like a jerk. He couldn’t believe he’d allowed this to happen. “I just, I don’t know what I’m doing. I don’t think I can do this right now. I’m sorry.” She started to get red. He didn’t know if it was with anger or embarrassment. But then something changed in her face and she let out a long sigh.
“Ok.” She whispered. Relief flooded through his body. He could have kissed her but that probably wouldn’t have helped things. He smiled tentatively. She rolled onto her back and sighed again.
“I guess I should take you home.”
“If you want.” He was sorry he had ruined things for her. He really did like her. Damn wings.
They both hopped off the car and she pulled the blanket off the hood. She stashed the cans and the blanket back in the trunk.
“I still don’t know where to take you.” She said apologetically and he knew she wasn’t apologizing for her lack of directions.
“Sorry. Just take me back to town if you could. It’s not far from there.”
“Ok.” It was a quiet ride back. She had lost most of her charisma. He grimaced out the window. This had gone horribly wrong. She probably hated him. She wouldn’t want to see him again. She exhaled when they pulled into town.
“Well, I guess I’ll seeya.”
“Yeah. Seeya.” He echoed. He gave a smirk and patted the top of the car lamely before it sped off.
He wouldn’t be looking forward to much sleep tonight even though that’s exactly what he needed right now. He started his way back to the dark lonely camp.
“Sit back and relax. It’s a surprise.”
“It’s your birthday. Why do I have a surprise?” He said with a smirk.
“Exactly. It is my birthday. So, I should be able to do whatever I want.”
He sat back, defeated and amused. A little while later, they pulled up to her trailer. “You can come in if you want.” She said as she unbuckled her seatbelt. Leo got out of the car and followed her up to the door. She unlocked it and bumped it with her hip as she turned the knob.
“It sticks.” She explained.
Her house wasn’t what he had been expecting. He didn’t really know what he’d been expecting. There was a low brown corduroy couch and big black TV on the floor across from it.
“Here’s the living room.” She said throwing up her hands. She kicked a basket of laundry out of the way and stepped onto the linoleum that adjoined the right side of the living room. “And here’s the kitchen.”
There was a dark, wood paneled bar with an off-white counter top that divided the kitchen from the living room. The corduroy couch was shoved up against it so that the counter was level with the head of anyone who sat on it’s stained cushions. An end table was placed on the other end of the couch. It held a lamp and a stack of magazines. The other table in sight was a teal card table set up in the kitchen. He assumed it was used for dining.
He looked over to where she was raiding her fridge. She put a six pack on the counter and popped a grape in her mouth as she shut the door. Leo stood by the front door as she dashed through the doorway on the left side of the living room which opened into what seemed to be a hallway.
His eyes wandered around. There was only one picture in the room. The frame was on the far end of the couch, lying on the cushion. It looked to be a younger version of Lana with a man of about forty. They looked close. Her dad? For some reason, that didn’t seem likely.
She popped back through the doorway with a big plaid wool blanket over her arm and a large grey hoodie over her thin frame. Her head jerked around as she assessed everything she had gathered, then her eyes found Leo.
“Do you need anything? You know, like, do you need to use the bathroom or something?”
“Uh, no. I’m fine. Ready?” She nodded.
Leo crossed the room and leaned over the bar to reach the beer.
“You want me to get these?”
“Yeah, thanks.” She locked the door behind them and they climbed in the car. She took the six-pack from Leo and threw it and the blanket in the trunk behind the seat.
“Do I get to know now?” Leo asked when they were on the road again.
“No.” He gave an animated sigh. She was easy to tease with. He’d still be staring at the floorboard with anyone else.
They sped down the pine surrounded highway until they came to a dirt turnoff. His eyes perked with interest. At the end of the winding path was the top of a large hill. They came up on the more even side of it and on the other was a steep drop.
“This is it.” She said with a satisfied smile. She grabbed the blanket from behind the seat and pulled herself out of the car. Leo stayed in his seat and with curious eyes watched as she spread the blanket on the hood of the car. She motion for him to come with a wave of her hand. He got out of the car and came around to the front. She lifted herself onto the hood and plopped down on the wool blanket. She patted the spot next to her. He plopped down too, mimicking her movement. She gave a smile and leaned back against the windshield. He laid back too as she exhaled.
The car’s inside lights went out and he was suddenly aware of how close she was. He intertwined his fingers over his stomach and looked over at her. Her eyes were lifted up towards the sky. He looked too. Billions of tiny diamonds winked back at him. His jaw fell slack. He jumped when he heard her giggle.
“They’re somethin’. Aren’t they?”
“Yeah.” He breathed. She smiled with her eyes again and his heart skipped a beat.
She held his gaze for a moment and then he diverted his eyes. He looked back at the stars. He felt a strange static between them. He swallowed and kept his eyes on the sky.
“You want a drink?” She asked a little too loud for the quiet night.
“No, thanks.” He didn’t tell her he was under age. Not that that had ever stopped him before but he wanted to be sober in case she wasn’t, when they left.
She hopped off the front of the car and came back with the cans. She popped the lid, took a sip and put the drinks on the ground beside the car and hopped up, resuming her former position.
“Thanks for celebrating with me.” She whispered. Leo turned to look at her. She had a deep look of gratitude on her face. He looked away, embarrassed.
“No problem.” But he couldn’t keep his eyes away very long and they found their way back to her face again. She was staring at the stars with a serious expression, but she turned when she felt his eyes on her and her face transformed into a grin.
He didn’t take his eyes off her this time. Her face turned impish. He froze as she leaned into him, her breath warm on his face.
Her lips were thin but soft and hooked around his with ease. His heart thumped jaggedly. He closed his eyes as she parted his lips and the kiss grew deeper. His breathing sped and he reached a hand up to cradle her head. Her hands moved to his hips, pulling herself closer. He nearly couldn’t stop himself but he quickly pulled away. His breathing was ragged.
“Wo.” He gasped. She grinned and leaned in again but he held her shoulders. She raised an eyebrow.
“Just, hang on a minute. Uh…” He was having trouble forming coherent thoughts. “I don’t, I don’t think this is such a great idea.”
“Why?” She didn’t understand. She didn’t see any reason why she couldn’t carry on like there was no tomorrow. Like he was normal. She had no idea that either of them could make a wrong move and she would stumble upon a pair of ivory wings. She’d already been way too close.
“It just isn’t a good idea.” He couldn’t think of a good reason to give her. Not a good reason he could give her. She scowled.
“What’s you’re problem?” She was offended. He could tell she was covering her embarrassment with anger. He sighed.
“I’m sorry.” It was her birthday. He felt like a jerk. He couldn’t believe he’d allowed this to happen. “I just, I don’t know what I’m doing. I don’t think I can do this right now. I’m sorry.” She started to get red. He didn’t know if it was with anger or embarrassment. But then something changed in her face and she let out a long sigh.
“Ok.” She whispered. Relief flooded through his body. He could have kissed her but that probably wouldn’t have helped things. He smiled tentatively. She rolled onto her back and sighed again.
“I guess I should take you home.”
“If you want.” He was sorry he had ruined things for her. He really did like her. Damn wings.
They both hopped off the car and she pulled the blanket off the hood. She stashed the cans and the blanket back in the trunk.
“I still don’t know where to take you.” She said apologetically and he knew she wasn’t apologizing for her lack of directions.
“Sorry. Just take me back to town if you could. It’s not far from there.”
“Ok.” It was a quiet ride back. She had lost most of her charisma. He grimaced out the window. This had gone horribly wrong. She probably hated him. She wouldn’t want to see him again. She exhaled when they pulled into town.
“Well, I guess I’ll seeya.”
“Yeah. Seeya.” He echoed. He gave a smirk and patted the top of the car lamely before it sped off.
He wouldn’t be looking forward to much sleep tonight even though that’s exactly what he needed right now. He started his way back to the dark lonely camp.
The votes are in!
Hey everybody!
Option 2 it is. I'm about to post some more, but I'm gonna be hiding out for a few days. This next part is somewhat of a turning point. I'm gonna need to get down to business so don't be mad at me if there's not a new post for a while.
Please, give me some feedback for Valentine's Day! It would be a wonderful gift! Reviews are always appreciated. Thanks for reading!
Option 2 it is. I'm about to post some more, but I'm gonna be hiding out for a few days. This next part is somewhat of a turning point. I'm gonna need to get down to business so don't be mad at me if there's not a new post for a while.
Please, give me some feedback for Valentine's Day! It would be a wonderful gift! Reviews are always appreciated. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Option 2
“Yeah. I do.” Her eyes smiled at him again and he was glad he’d said yes.
“Get in. I gotta pick up a few things.”
“Where are we going?” Leo asked as he rounded the car to the passenger side.
“My place.”
“Are you having friends over?” He asked the question that had formed earlier.
“No.” She said looking puzzled as he ducked into the car. “What makes you think that?” She was difficult to figure out.
“I don’t know. I figured since it’s your birthday you’d have plans with someone.”
“I do. With you.” She said with a playful smile around the corners of her mouth. He grinned
“Ok.” He said agreeably. Butterflies started flitting around in his stomach.
“Get in. I gotta pick up a few things.”
“Where are we going?” Leo asked as he rounded the car to the passenger side.
“My place.”
“Are you having friends over?” He asked the question that had formed earlier.
“No.” She said looking puzzled as he ducked into the car. “What makes you think that?” She was difficult to figure out.
“I don’t know. I figured since it’s your birthday you’d have plans with someone.”
“I do. With you.” She said with a playful smile around the corners of her mouth. He grinned
“Ok.” He said agreeably. Butterflies started flitting around in his stomach.
Option 1
“Um, I better not. Sorry. I have to get up early in the morning.” It was true but it was still a lame excuse. He smiled weakly.
“Right. Ok. I guess I’ll seeya then.” He immediately felt bad.
“Yeah, seeya.”
He just stood there as she drove off. He let out a long sigh and smacked himself. Hard. He started toward camp again.
Maybe, after a few things were cleared up, he could have friends, be in relationships. Maybe she’d still be here when he wasn’t a freak anymore. Maybe Tootsie rolls would start falling from the sky. He closed his eyes and let the sharp wind bristle through his hair. He probably wouldn’t get much sleep tonight, no matter how early he needed to get up.
“Right. Ok. I guess I’ll seeya then.” He immediately felt bad.
“Yeah, seeya.”
He just stood there as she drove off. He let out a long sigh and smacked himself. Hard. He started toward camp again.
Maybe, after a few things were cleared up, he could have friends, be in relationships. Maybe she’d still be here when he wasn’t a freak anymore. Maybe Tootsie rolls would start falling from the sky. He closed his eyes and let the sharp wind bristle through his hair. He probably wouldn’t get much sleep tonight, no matter how early he needed to get up.
A Fork in the Road...
OK. Here's the deal. I have two scenarios that could play out from here and i can't decide which one I should go with. That's where you come in! I'll put up a poll and you guys can tell me which way you want the story to go. this is a pretty awesome opportunity! I mean, how many times do you get the chance to decide what happens in a story you're reading? Right?
OK, I'll post the two paths and you can vote.
OK, I'll post the two paths and you can vote.
Ch. 2: Part 2
It had gotten dark fast. The moon wasn’t visible through the cloudy night; their only light streaming from the yellowish headlights.
“So, what’s your name?”
“Leo.”
“You got a last name?”
“Kosky.”
“Kosky, huh?” She wrinkled her nose. “Don’t know any uh those.”
“What’s your name?” Leo asked. He was a little surprised at himself. Should he care what her name was? Should he allow himself to?
“Lana Ricky.” She thrust her hand at him, her eyes still on the road. He took it and she gave it a good shake. Her hand returned to the wheel.
“Have you lived here a long time?” He asked, curiosity taking over.
“Just since I was sixteen.”
“You live by yourself?” Was it his business?
“Yes.” She glanced at him and he saw her face had taken on a guarded expression. Definitely not his business.
“Sorry. Just trying to guess how old you are.”
She still looked a little suspicious, but she answered anyway. “I just turned twenty-one.”
“Sorry.” He said again. He hadn’t meant to make her uncomfortable. She probably thought he was a creep. She sighed.
“No, it’s fine.” She smiled a little at him. She turned back to the road, then more quietly, almost to herself, she added, “You get a little paranoid when you been through things that I have.” Leo had a feeling sweep over him he hadn’t expected. He was suddenly angry at what ever had hurt her. Whatever had made such caution a necessity in her life. He crumpled his brow and bent his head to stare at the floorboard again. She looked sideways at him and snickered. He looked up startled.
“You ok?” she said, apparently amused at his seriousness. He shrugged, trying to look nonchalant. She raised her eyebrows at him but let it go.
“Uh, where do you want me to drop you off at?” He looked up. They were back in the little town. Strangely, he was saddened. He liked Lana. She wasn’t fake. Her loud laugh and lack of tact were oddly comforting. He didn’t want to go back to his dark lonely camp and face his problems.
“Are you working tonight? At, uh, Larry’s?” Maybe he would take her up on her offer.
“No, I’m taking off for my birthday.”
“Your birthday’s today?” He asked with high eyebrows. Her face lit up in a sly smile. “I told you I just turned twenty-one, didn’t I?” He smiled back. His eyebrows furrowed. “Aren’t you going to Larry’s for your birthday? To celebrate?”
“Ugh. Hell, no. Why would I pay to spend a night in that dump? I try not to go there unless I’m getting paid.” This surprised Leo. There wasn’t that much entertainment around here besides the tavern. Maybe she would have friends over.
They were sitting in front of the conveniance store now. The clouds had cleared away enough for the moon to peek through. It was almost full with just a small fraction shaved off. She raised her eyebrows at him. It was time for him to go home.
“Don’t worry about it. I’ll just walk from here.”
“It’s kinda late. Are you sure?”
“Yeah. It’s not that far.” He grabbed the door handle. “Thanks.” He pulled on it and got out of the car. He bent his waist to look at her through the window, hands balled up in his pockets. “Happy birthday.” He smiled and shut the door.
He turned and started back towards camp.
“Seeya.” She called. His shoulders hunched involuntarily. This was stupid. Why was he being like this? It was pathetic. He hardly even knew the girl.
He’d only gone about thirty feet when her car pulled up along side him again. This time the driver’s side window facing him.
“Do you want to celebrate it with me?” She bit her lip. It was the first time he had seen her unsure of herself. He looked towards at the trees, towards camp. Wasn’t this what he’d wanted? But he suddenly wasn’t sure if it was such a good idea. Should he be making friends? Having relationships? Probably not.
“So, what’s your name?”
“Leo.”
“You got a last name?”
“Kosky.”
“Kosky, huh?” She wrinkled her nose. “Don’t know any uh those.”
“What’s your name?” Leo asked. He was a little surprised at himself. Should he care what her name was? Should he allow himself to?
“Lana Ricky.” She thrust her hand at him, her eyes still on the road. He took it and she gave it a good shake. Her hand returned to the wheel.
“Have you lived here a long time?” He asked, curiosity taking over.
“Just since I was sixteen.”
“You live by yourself?” Was it his business?
“Yes.” She glanced at him and he saw her face had taken on a guarded expression. Definitely not his business.
“Sorry. Just trying to guess how old you are.”
She still looked a little suspicious, but she answered anyway. “I just turned twenty-one.”
“Sorry.” He said again. He hadn’t meant to make her uncomfortable. She probably thought he was a creep. She sighed.
“No, it’s fine.” She smiled a little at him. She turned back to the road, then more quietly, almost to herself, she added, “You get a little paranoid when you been through things that I have.” Leo had a feeling sweep over him he hadn’t expected. He was suddenly angry at what ever had hurt her. Whatever had made such caution a necessity in her life. He crumpled his brow and bent his head to stare at the floorboard again. She looked sideways at him and snickered. He looked up startled.
“You ok?” she said, apparently amused at his seriousness. He shrugged, trying to look nonchalant. She raised her eyebrows at him but let it go.
“Uh, where do you want me to drop you off at?” He looked up. They were back in the little town. Strangely, he was saddened. He liked Lana. She wasn’t fake. Her loud laugh and lack of tact were oddly comforting. He didn’t want to go back to his dark lonely camp and face his problems.
“Are you working tonight? At, uh, Larry’s?” Maybe he would take her up on her offer.
“No, I’m taking off for my birthday.”
“Your birthday’s today?” He asked with high eyebrows. Her face lit up in a sly smile. “I told you I just turned twenty-one, didn’t I?” He smiled back. His eyebrows furrowed. “Aren’t you going to Larry’s for your birthday? To celebrate?”
“Ugh. Hell, no. Why would I pay to spend a night in that dump? I try not to go there unless I’m getting paid.” This surprised Leo. There wasn’t that much entertainment around here besides the tavern. Maybe she would have friends over.
They were sitting in front of the conveniance store now. The clouds had cleared away enough for the moon to peek through. It was almost full with just a small fraction shaved off. She raised her eyebrows at him. It was time for him to go home.
“Don’t worry about it. I’ll just walk from here.”
“It’s kinda late. Are you sure?”
“Yeah. It’s not that far.” He grabbed the door handle. “Thanks.” He pulled on it and got out of the car. He bent his waist to look at her through the window, hands balled up in his pockets. “Happy birthday.” He smiled and shut the door.
He turned and started back towards camp.
“Seeya.” She called. His shoulders hunched involuntarily. This was stupid. Why was he being like this? It was pathetic. He hardly even knew the girl.
He’d only gone about thirty feet when her car pulled up along side him again. This time the driver’s side window facing him.
“Do you want to celebrate it with me?” She bit her lip. It was the first time he had seen her unsure of herself. He looked towards at the trees, towards camp. Wasn’t this what he’d wanted? But he suddenly wasn’t sure if it was such a good idea. Should he be making friends? Having relationships? Probably not.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Art Work!
finally, I got those drawings up here! I did them like forever ago.
These are cell phone pics so please excuse the crappy quality. Best I could do. No, I don't have a digital camera. Thanks for bringing it up. *sniff*
Anyway, I want feedback on these of course. Same as everything on this blog. Love the feedback. The completely non-existent feedback. *sigh*
But not to worry! I have posted links to this site on many a Twilight fangirl discussion board (OK. well, actually only two).
and if you want to do some art related to the story (or not related) that would be super awesome! I'll try to post it if it's related.
So, yeah. Thanks
Ch. 2: Part 1
“You lookin for someone?” came a gruff voice from behind him. Leo spun.
“Um, yes. Who’s in charge? I mean, like, who’s your boss?” He was so out of his element.
“What do you want, kid?”
“I’m looking for work. You guys need any help around here?”
“Get lost, kid.” He obviously wasn’t getting anywhere.
It was an unusually bright sunny day. Leo had walked on the site of the nearest logging project, wandering like an idiot, having really no idea who to talk to. He stumbled out of the way of a truck hauling away a pile of timber from being loaded and into the path of a rather large man bent over a clipboard. He accidentally knocked the clipboard from the man’s hands.
“Watch it!” the man spat. Leo stepped back as the worker crouched to pick it up. When he straitened, the man’s eyes found the face of his disturbance.
“Who are you? What are you doing here?” It seemed their little scuff hadn’t put Mr. Clipboard in a great mood.
Ok, it was time to buck up. He wasn’t going to get anywhere if he didn’t make himself known. He would act professional. Like he knew what he was talking about.
“Hello, sir. I was thinking that I might be able to find some work with you. I work hard and I don’t need much. This seems like a good working experience.” Like he knew what he was talking about; not like he was a pushover.
“I don’t think we need anyone right now.”
“Uh, okay. Thanks.” What was he doing? He was getting frustrated. He couldn’t even take himself seriously.
His brow pulled down over his eyes and he let out an exasperated sigh. This was stupid. He took his hands out of his pockets and left them tensed at his sides. He walked directly up to a logger discussing something with a co-worker.
“Who’s in charge?” it came out harsher than he meant it.
“The site manager’s in there.” But it did the trick. The worker pointed to a white trailer. Leo nodded once and headed in the direction of the trailer. He gave two sharp raps on the aluminum door.
“Come in.” came a call from inside. The manager looked up and raised an eyebrow as Leo opened the door. Leo nodded a greeting.
“I’m looking for work and I’d like a job.” His eyebrow hitched further.
“Do you have any experience with logging?”
“No. but I learn fast.”
“What hours would you be able to work?”
“Any time you want me.”
“It’s hard labor.”
“I’m a hard worker.” The manager let go of the papers he’d been fingering when Leo walked in and turned his body to face him.
“How old are you?” He asked as he crossed his arms. Leo hesitated.
“Seventeen.”
“You’re not from around here.” He hadn’t said it like a question.
“No.” The manager dropped his arms.
“Fair enough.” He finally let his eyebrow down. “Show up here tomorrow morning at 6:30. I might have something for you.” He reached out his hand. “Jonah Gooding.”
“Leo Kosky.” Leo took it and gave it a firm shake. Jonah smiled. Leo nodded once more on his way out.
As he left the site a small smile of accomplishment turned up the corners of his mouth. He put his hands back in his pockets. Clouds started to block out the sun.
He couldn’t afford to be discovered. He’d seen some workers wearing coats, though not all of them. He could get by. He’d work on keeping his wings in tight and hoped no one noticed two feathery appendages coming out of his back.
He followed the dirt road back to the blacktop. He didn’t mind walking. He had so much more energy since he’d received his sick joke from Mother Nature. This made him wonder. A lot of things made him wonder. His reflexes were sharper, his hearing more sensitive. His body was all together more resilient. His stomach rumbled. That was another thing. Why was he always starving? He had gotten used to his complaining stomach. It wasn’t that hard to ignore anymore. He couldn’t exactly splurge on a couple pounds of beef whenever cravings kicked in.
The wind gently ruffled the trees on either side of the road. It was very quiet here. Even on the highway there was hardly ever so much as a lone semi. He felt very alone here. But it was welcomed. He didn’t really feel like sharing his thoughts right now. At least his expenses were taken care of for the moment. It seemed such an insignificant area to have covered. He had so many things to nail down. But that’s how he had to do this. Just think about one thing at a time.
He heard the car coming up behind long before it reached him. At least he had felt alone.
“Hey, there.” A shabby, muted red two-door coasted slowly beside him. The girl from the pawn shop was leaning across the passenger side looking up at him, glancing out at the road in front of her periodically. As if there was ever any kind of traffic she needed to worry about. He gave her a quick glance as he kept walking.
“Hi.”
“Whatcha doin’ out here?” She asked and then without waiting for an answer “You want a ride?”
“I like walking.”
“Ya sure?” He looked down at her again and saw her squinting up at him through the light of the setting sun. She gave a friendly half-smile. He returned his eyes to the road. Maybe he was being rude.
“Uh, sure.” He stopped his stroll. She straightened back up to make way for him. He hesitated. Would she be able to see anything? Were they, his wings, very noticeable? He suddenly felt uncomfortable about being in such a tight space with someone else. The car idled beside him. She leaned over again.
“Are you coming?”
“Uh, yeah. Sorry.” He said as he shook his head to clear it. He opened the door and ducked his head as he lowered himself in. She raised an eyebrow and smirked at him. He gave a weak smile. He stared at the floor board and tightened his wings against him, crushing them into the back of the seat.
The car lurched forward as she pressed the pedal down then screeched to a stop. She sighed. She pumped the acceleration and they jerked forward a couple times, the engine revving loudly in protest.
“Damn this car.” She cursed under her breath. Leo’s awkwardness intensified. His hands clenched in his coat pockets. She gave the pedal a few more pumps and they finally started consistently down the highway. Her face was hard and she was hunched a bit over the steering wheel in irritation. He shifted in his seat. She turned her head to see his uncomfortable expression and gave a loud laugh.
“Sorry.” Her shoulders relaxed and she slammed back into her seat, chuckling, her arms out straight in front of her grasping the steering wheel. “I guess I need a new car. Huh?” Leo’s mouth turned into a shy grin. Her eyes smiled at him. He was caught off guard. He’d never noticed how pretty her eyes were before. They were a greenish-tan around the center that faded into a light blue toward the edge. His smile widened into a more earnest one. He leaned his head back against the head rest.
“Um, yes. Who’s in charge? I mean, like, who’s your boss?” He was so out of his element.
“What do you want, kid?”
“I’m looking for work. You guys need any help around here?”
“Get lost, kid.” He obviously wasn’t getting anywhere.
It was an unusually bright sunny day. Leo had walked on the site of the nearest logging project, wandering like an idiot, having really no idea who to talk to. He stumbled out of the way of a truck hauling away a pile of timber from being loaded and into the path of a rather large man bent over a clipboard. He accidentally knocked the clipboard from the man’s hands.
“Watch it!” the man spat. Leo stepped back as the worker crouched to pick it up. When he straitened, the man’s eyes found the face of his disturbance.
“Who are you? What are you doing here?” It seemed their little scuff hadn’t put Mr. Clipboard in a great mood.
Ok, it was time to buck up. He wasn’t going to get anywhere if he didn’t make himself known. He would act professional. Like he knew what he was talking about.
“Hello, sir. I was thinking that I might be able to find some work with you. I work hard and I don’t need much. This seems like a good working experience.” Like he knew what he was talking about; not like he was a pushover.
“I don’t think we need anyone right now.”
“Uh, okay. Thanks.” What was he doing? He was getting frustrated. He couldn’t even take himself seriously.
His brow pulled down over his eyes and he let out an exasperated sigh. This was stupid. He took his hands out of his pockets and left them tensed at his sides. He walked directly up to a logger discussing something with a co-worker.
“Who’s in charge?” it came out harsher than he meant it.
“The site manager’s in there.” But it did the trick. The worker pointed to a white trailer. Leo nodded once and headed in the direction of the trailer. He gave two sharp raps on the aluminum door.
“Come in.” came a call from inside. The manager looked up and raised an eyebrow as Leo opened the door. Leo nodded a greeting.
“I’m looking for work and I’d like a job.” His eyebrow hitched further.
“Do you have any experience with logging?”
“No. but I learn fast.”
“What hours would you be able to work?”
“Any time you want me.”
“It’s hard labor.”
“I’m a hard worker.” The manager let go of the papers he’d been fingering when Leo walked in and turned his body to face him.
“How old are you?” He asked as he crossed his arms. Leo hesitated.
“Seventeen.”
“You’re not from around here.” He hadn’t said it like a question.
“No.” The manager dropped his arms.
“Fair enough.” He finally let his eyebrow down. “Show up here tomorrow morning at 6:30. I might have something for you.” He reached out his hand. “Jonah Gooding.”
“Leo Kosky.” Leo took it and gave it a firm shake. Jonah smiled. Leo nodded once more on his way out.
As he left the site a small smile of accomplishment turned up the corners of his mouth. He put his hands back in his pockets. Clouds started to block out the sun.
He couldn’t afford to be discovered. He’d seen some workers wearing coats, though not all of them. He could get by. He’d work on keeping his wings in tight and hoped no one noticed two feathery appendages coming out of his back.
He followed the dirt road back to the blacktop. He didn’t mind walking. He had so much more energy since he’d received his sick joke from Mother Nature. This made him wonder. A lot of things made him wonder. His reflexes were sharper, his hearing more sensitive. His body was all together more resilient. His stomach rumbled. That was another thing. Why was he always starving? He had gotten used to his complaining stomach. It wasn’t that hard to ignore anymore. He couldn’t exactly splurge on a couple pounds of beef whenever cravings kicked in.
The wind gently ruffled the trees on either side of the road. It was very quiet here. Even on the highway there was hardly ever so much as a lone semi. He felt very alone here. But it was welcomed. He didn’t really feel like sharing his thoughts right now. At least his expenses were taken care of for the moment. It seemed such an insignificant area to have covered. He had so many things to nail down. But that’s how he had to do this. Just think about one thing at a time.
He heard the car coming up behind long before it reached him. At least he had felt alone.
“Hey, there.” A shabby, muted red two-door coasted slowly beside him. The girl from the pawn shop was leaning across the passenger side looking up at him, glancing out at the road in front of her periodically. As if there was ever any kind of traffic she needed to worry about. He gave her a quick glance as he kept walking.
“Hi.”
“Whatcha doin’ out here?” She asked and then without waiting for an answer “You want a ride?”
“I like walking.”
“Ya sure?” He looked down at her again and saw her squinting up at him through the light of the setting sun. She gave a friendly half-smile. He returned his eyes to the road. Maybe he was being rude.
“Uh, sure.” He stopped his stroll. She straightened back up to make way for him. He hesitated. Would she be able to see anything? Were they, his wings, very noticeable? He suddenly felt uncomfortable about being in such a tight space with someone else. The car idled beside him. She leaned over again.
“Are you coming?”
“Uh, yeah. Sorry.” He said as he shook his head to clear it. He opened the door and ducked his head as he lowered himself in. She raised an eyebrow and smirked at him. He gave a weak smile. He stared at the floor board and tightened his wings against him, crushing them into the back of the seat.
The car lurched forward as she pressed the pedal down then screeched to a stop. She sighed. She pumped the acceleration and they jerked forward a couple times, the engine revving loudly in protest.
“Damn this car.” She cursed under her breath. Leo’s awkwardness intensified. His hands clenched in his coat pockets. She gave the pedal a few more pumps and they finally started consistently down the highway. Her face was hard and she was hunched a bit over the steering wheel in irritation. He shifted in his seat. She turned her head to see his uncomfortable expression and gave a loud laugh.
“Sorry.” Her shoulders relaxed and she slammed back into her seat, chuckling, her arms out straight in front of her grasping the steering wheel. “I guess I need a new car. Huh?” Leo’s mouth turned into a shy grin. Her eyes smiled at him. He was caught off guard. He’d never noticed how pretty her eyes were before. They were a greenish-tan around the center that faded into a light blue toward the edge. His smile widened into a more earnest one. He leaned his head back against the head rest.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Ch. 1: Part 4
His lack of camping experience showed through as he fumbled with the tent. The convenience store had supplied him with meals for the next day or two.
He’d have to do something about his dwindling budget. Could he find some work? He wanted to mix with others as little as possible, but he didn’t really have a choice. He didn’t want to steal from these people. Besides the fact that theft in the small town would lay suspicion on any strangers, it just seemed wrong to hinder anyone else’s life for his own sake. Even to eat. Who was he? He was a freak. No, he wouldn’t do that to this town. They didn’t deserve it. He’d have to get work. But he didn’t want to add unwanted attention – which was any – to himself. The pawn shop knew about the camping gear and if he went around looking for a job in town, they would know about it. He doubted they would react positively to a stranger living in the woods somewhere. It had to be someone’s land. Probably logging property. Maybe that was an option. He didn’t exactly know the qualifications for lumberjacks or whatever they were called, but maybe he could do something.
He’d made a fire rather easily. He and his friends back home used to set fire to stuff all the time. He shook his head. Maybe home wasn’t something he should be thinking about right now. It wasn’t home anymore.
He made himself comfortable on the ground beside the fire. Night had crept in slowly, dimming the sky til only the moon and the light of the fire told him his way around camp. He leaned back to look at the stars.
He hadn’t been flying since that first time. That had been stupid. Anyone could have seen him. He was a bit bigger than a bird. His wings ached to take flight. He left his shirt off while around camp and his wings were splayed over the ground on either side of him. But they yearned to be in motion. He brought them up and flapped once. The fire flickered spastically as the air blew across it. He sighed as he rotated his hotdog in the fire. Maybe if he went out far enough or went high enough, no one would spot him. He’d try another trip later.
After he’d shoved down six hotdogs, he put out the fire and crawled into his tent. He laid out on his stomach and snuggled into the sleeping bag. The one person tent was a little too small for his wings, so he couldn’t stretch them the way he wanted. They sloped lazily down his sides. He closed his eyes and listened to the wind rustle through the trees. He pulled in a deep breath and was asleep before his body let it out.
He’d have to do something about his dwindling budget. Could he find some work? He wanted to mix with others as little as possible, but he didn’t really have a choice. He didn’t want to steal from these people. Besides the fact that theft in the small town would lay suspicion on any strangers, it just seemed wrong to hinder anyone else’s life for his own sake. Even to eat. Who was he? He was a freak. No, he wouldn’t do that to this town. They didn’t deserve it. He’d have to get work. But he didn’t want to add unwanted attention – which was any – to himself. The pawn shop knew about the camping gear and if he went around looking for a job in town, they would know about it. He doubted they would react positively to a stranger living in the woods somewhere. It had to be someone’s land. Probably logging property. Maybe that was an option. He didn’t exactly know the qualifications for lumberjacks or whatever they were called, but maybe he could do something.
He’d made a fire rather easily. He and his friends back home used to set fire to stuff all the time. He shook his head. Maybe home wasn’t something he should be thinking about right now. It wasn’t home anymore.
He made himself comfortable on the ground beside the fire. Night had crept in slowly, dimming the sky til only the moon and the light of the fire told him his way around camp. He leaned back to look at the stars.
He hadn’t been flying since that first time. That had been stupid. Anyone could have seen him. He was a bit bigger than a bird. His wings ached to take flight. He left his shirt off while around camp and his wings were splayed over the ground on either side of him. But they yearned to be in motion. He brought them up and flapped once. The fire flickered spastically as the air blew across it. He sighed as he rotated his hotdog in the fire. Maybe if he went out far enough or went high enough, no one would spot him. He’d try another trip later.
After he’d shoved down six hotdogs, he put out the fire and crawled into his tent. He laid out on his stomach and snuggled into the sleeping bag. The one person tent was a little too small for his wings, so he couldn’t stretch them the way he wanted. They sloped lazily down his sides. He closed his eyes and listened to the wind rustle through the trees. He pulled in a deep breath and was asleep before his body let it out.
Artwork
Sup.
I have drawn some stuff for Leo. Just to clarify, I'm not an amazing artist or anything, but I do like these drawings. Hopefully I can post them soon.
I did find this pic online. I have no idea who did it or anything. I just thought it looked cool and it reminded me of Leo. Even the same hair color and everything. So, yeah. I thought it was cool.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Ch. 1: Part 3
He took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. Was he really doing this? He balanced on the branch of the tall pine trying to recover his nerve. He stood from his crouch and quickly grasped the branch above him for support. He took another breath. He shut his eyes. This had seemed like a good idea. When he’d been safe. On the ground. He locked his jaw and opened his eyes again, they narrowed with determination. He needed to do this. He was going to do this.
He let go of his safety branch and leapt off the tree. Wind rushed passed him as he fell through the air. His eyes were as wide as golf balls. What had he been thinking? He started to panic and shut his eyes in an attempt to get a hold of himself. Then, in a rush, he quickly unfurled his wings just in time for the air to catch them before he hit the ground. He began flapping instinctively and rose above the green growth into the blue sky. He was in shock. His mouth hung open and his eyes were wide with the enormity of what he’d just done. “Wow” he gasped.
He tried going in a circle. He tilted and the air caught his wings .He spiraled downwards. He straightened back out and couldn’t help but smile in accomplishment. This was so cool! He dove down toward the earth and rose back up again. He could stay up here forever. He soared straight ahead, slicing through the sky as fast as he could go. He slowed and turned around, flying slowly back to the clearing. He dipped under and came up only to dip low again. It was so freeing. Everyone imagines how it might be to take flight. He never could have imagined this.
He floated back to the clearing, riding the wind, when a problem arose in his mind. How to land? His brow furrowed and he bit his lip as he landed, not so gracefully, on a pine branch. He folded his wings and climbed down to flat ground, covered in needles. Somehow it was so dissatisfying now, to be stuck on two legs, a slave to gravity.
He left his shirt off as he planned for the night. It wouldn’t do to sleep on the pine needles of the forest floor. He’d learned that from the previous night. He checked his bag to survey his remaining funds. He still had about 130 dollars. His main expense had been food. Though he had tried to conserve his resources, he’d been eating like a hog.
It’d be nice if he could stay out here in the woods. Leo pulled on his shirt and coat and slung his backpack over his shoulder. He trekked back through the woods and stepped out onto the road. It was a cold cloudy day and it started to sprinkle on his way to town. Maybe there was an outdoors store where he could pick up a tent or something.
The town commerce consisted of a local convenience store, a barber shop, a gas station, a tavern and a pawn shop. He’d try the pawn shop. A little bell greeted him as he stepped through the door. The air was thick with tobacco smoke and incense. Pine wood paneled the walls and a doorway off to the side was hung with beads.
“Hey there, stranger.” said a girl who came out of the back behind the counter. She looked to be about nineteen and had long blonde hair and a cigarette in her hand. She gave him a smile that didn’t comfort him. He shoved his hands into his pockets and licked his lips.
“Um,” he cleared his throat, “you guys have any camping gear?”
“Hey, Dick, we got any camping stuff?” she shouted over her shoulder into the back room. A man of about fifty, who Leo guessed to be Dick, stepped out of the back.
“Yeah I got some gear. You goin’ campin’, son?” He addressed Leo.
“Maybe.” Leo said guardedly. Dick eyed him for a moment.
“Mikey, where we got the campin’ gear?” he yelled toward the beaded doorway. Then he turned back to Leo. “What sort of campin’ gear are ya lookin’ for?”
“A tent, a sleeping bag maybe.”
Dick nodded. He stepped out from behind the counter.
“Mikey! Are you deaf?” He said as he parted the beads and went through. Leo kept his eyes on the floor.
“He’s getting’ it.” The blonde informed him. She leaned forward with her elbows on the counter. The girl shifted her weight to the other hip and put out her cigarette. “So, where you from?” she said as her eyes followed his tall lean figure up to his angular face. He swallowed.
“Midwest.”
“You stayin’ here for long?” She tilted her head to the side and her long hair spilled onto the counter.
“I don’t know.”
“You know, I work nights over at Larry’s. If you wanna stop by, maybe I could get you a couple a drinks.” She said with a grin. He was trying to think of someway to respond to this when Dick came back through the doorway.
“I got a one man tent and a sleepin’ bag I can give you for 80.” When he saw Leo’s hesitation he added, “That’s cheap, son.”
“Yeah, I’ll take it. Thanks.” He just wanted to be out of there.
Leo walked out with the tent over his shoulder and the sleeping bag under his arm. He looked across the street at the bar and read “Larry’s” above the door. He would not be accepting her offer. That was for sure. But at least, she was trying to be friendly.
He let go of his safety branch and leapt off the tree. Wind rushed passed him as he fell through the air. His eyes were as wide as golf balls. What had he been thinking? He started to panic and shut his eyes in an attempt to get a hold of himself. Then, in a rush, he quickly unfurled his wings just in time for the air to catch them before he hit the ground. He began flapping instinctively and rose above the green growth into the blue sky. He was in shock. His mouth hung open and his eyes were wide with the enormity of what he’d just done. “Wow” he gasped.
He tried going in a circle. He tilted and the air caught his wings .He spiraled downwards. He straightened back out and couldn’t help but smile in accomplishment. This was so cool! He dove down toward the earth and rose back up again. He could stay up here forever. He soared straight ahead, slicing through the sky as fast as he could go. He slowed and turned around, flying slowly back to the clearing. He dipped under and came up only to dip low again. It was so freeing. Everyone imagines how it might be to take flight. He never could have imagined this.
He floated back to the clearing, riding the wind, when a problem arose in his mind. How to land? His brow furrowed and he bit his lip as he landed, not so gracefully, on a pine branch. He folded his wings and climbed down to flat ground, covered in needles. Somehow it was so dissatisfying now, to be stuck on two legs, a slave to gravity.
He left his shirt off as he planned for the night. It wouldn’t do to sleep on the pine needles of the forest floor. He’d learned that from the previous night. He checked his bag to survey his remaining funds. He still had about 130 dollars. His main expense had been food. Though he had tried to conserve his resources, he’d been eating like a hog.
It’d be nice if he could stay out here in the woods. Leo pulled on his shirt and coat and slung his backpack over his shoulder. He trekked back through the woods and stepped out onto the road. It was a cold cloudy day and it started to sprinkle on his way to town. Maybe there was an outdoors store where he could pick up a tent or something.
The town commerce consisted of a local convenience store, a barber shop, a gas station, a tavern and a pawn shop. He’d try the pawn shop. A little bell greeted him as he stepped through the door. The air was thick with tobacco smoke and incense. Pine wood paneled the walls and a doorway off to the side was hung with beads.
“Hey there, stranger.” said a girl who came out of the back behind the counter. She looked to be about nineteen and had long blonde hair and a cigarette in her hand. She gave him a smile that didn’t comfort him. He shoved his hands into his pockets and licked his lips.
“Um,” he cleared his throat, “you guys have any camping gear?”
“Hey, Dick, we got any camping stuff?” she shouted over her shoulder into the back room. A man of about fifty, who Leo guessed to be Dick, stepped out of the back.
“Yeah I got some gear. You goin’ campin’, son?” He addressed Leo.
“Maybe.” Leo said guardedly. Dick eyed him for a moment.
“Mikey, where we got the campin’ gear?” he yelled toward the beaded doorway. Then he turned back to Leo. “What sort of campin’ gear are ya lookin’ for?”
“A tent, a sleeping bag maybe.”
Dick nodded. He stepped out from behind the counter.
“Mikey! Are you deaf?” He said as he parted the beads and went through. Leo kept his eyes on the floor.
“He’s getting’ it.” The blonde informed him. She leaned forward with her elbows on the counter. The girl shifted her weight to the other hip and put out her cigarette. “So, where you from?” she said as her eyes followed his tall lean figure up to his angular face. He swallowed.
“Midwest.”
“You stayin’ here for long?” She tilted her head to the side and her long hair spilled onto the counter.
“I don’t know.”
“You know, I work nights over at Larry’s. If you wanna stop by, maybe I could get you a couple a drinks.” She said with a grin. He was trying to think of someway to respond to this when Dick came back through the doorway.
“I got a one man tent and a sleepin’ bag I can give you for 80.” When he saw Leo’s hesitation he added, “That’s cheap, son.”
“Yeah, I’ll take it. Thanks.” He just wanted to be out of there.
Leo walked out with the tent over his shoulder and the sleeping bag under his arm. He looked across the street at the bar and read “Larry’s” above the door. He would not be accepting her offer. That was for sure. But at least, she was trying to be friendly.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Ch. 1: Part 2
New England was a good idea, he told himself. Cold, fewer people, trees. He leaned forward in his seat. His wings – his wings, it was still a strange concept – felt cramped if he sat back on them too long. He wished he could stretch them out. It would feel so nice to unfurl them without the restriction of clothing. Maybe he could, after he got someplace safe, take off his coat and his shirt. Just stretch them as far as they could go.
A thought came back to him that had knocked before, but he’d put it aside. Flight. Could he do it? Would it really work? Could these things hold him, carry him through the sky? It seemed impossible, but why else would he have these? There was another thought. Why did he have these? People didn’t just grow wings out of the blue. What had happened to him? He had been thinking of this since he’d recovered the capacity to think, and no answers were making themselves known to him. It was frustrating and kind of scary not being able to go to an authority on the subject. He couldn’t go to the doctor. He couldn’t ask someone – “Hey, do you know anybody who’s, I don’t know, grown wings perhaps?” – or work from personal experience. They don’t teach you these kinds of things in schools. He didn’t know what to do, but to get away from people and try to figure out as much as he could on his own. These kinds of thoughts occupied his brain on the train ride to nowhere.
Leo had done some research on the web and had found the small New England logging town. It was a good place to start he’d thought. A good place to get his bearings, if not make some sort of life. But what kind of life could he salvage? How could he ever tell someone? How could he ever share this with anyone? It was hard to imagine anybody ever accepting anything so weird. Leo sighed and frowned. He felt his humanity slipping away. He was some sort of mutant who could never mix with society.
A dark chuckle escaped his lips. He’d never had much luck with girls. “They’ll be tripping over themselves trying to get a piece of this.” He mumbled sarcastically. He sighed again, feeling sorry for himself, then set his jaw. No, he’d make whatever life he could and try to be happy. He made a promise in his heart that he wouldn’t feel sorry for himself again.
The wheels screeched to a stop on the track, and the train let out a long sigh, as if happy to be done with the chore of chugging over the country side. A cold wind snapped at him as he stepped from the train. Yes, the weather would be much better here, though he still felt he could go without the coat. He took in a deep breath. It was good to be somewhere new. His head felt clearer.
Suddenly, he new exactly where he would start. He waded through the crowd and stepped out onto the road. His legs thanked him for the action. He followed the road for a while. It wasn’t long before it skimmed along the edge of the forest. He headed into the trees without hesitation. As soon as he hit the forest floor, he was sprinting. It was faster than he’d ever run before. He was running to freedom.
He ran for several minutes before coming upon a clearing. He smiled upward as he stepped into the clearing and shrugged off his jacket. He took one quick look around before pulling off his shirt. He exhaled with relief as his wings unfurled. He stretched them as far as they would go. His arms reached up and he stood on the balls of his feet to stretch out his calves. He took a long breath in through his nose and closed his eyes as the scents of mint and pine swirled in his head. A slow grin spread across his face revealing a row of straight white teeth. This was good. It felt good out here. This was a very good idea.
A thought came back to him that had knocked before, but he’d put it aside. Flight. Could he do it? Would it really work? Could these things hold him, carry him through the sky? It seemed impossible, but why else would he have these? There was another thought. Why did he have these? People didn’t just grow wings out of the blue. What had happened to him? He had been thinking of this since he’d recovered the capacity to think, and no answers were making themselves known to him. It was frustrating and kind of scary not being able to go to an authority on the subject. He couldn’t go to the doctor. He couldn’t ask someone – “Hey, do you know anybody who’s, I don’t know, grown wings perhaps?” – or work from personal experience. They don’t teach you these kinds of things in schools. He didn’t know what to do, but to get away from people and try to figure out as much as he could on his own. These kinds of thoughts occupied his brain on the train ride to nowhere.
Leo had done some research on the web and had found the small New England logging town. It was a good place to start he’d thought. A good place to get his bearings, if not make some sort of life. But what kind of life could he salvage? How could he ever tell someone? How could he ever share this with anyone? It was hard to imagine anybody ever accepting anything so weird. Leo sighed and frowned. He felt his humanity slipping away. He was some sort of mutant who could never mix with society.
A dark chuckle escaped his lips. He’d never had much luck with girls. “They’ll be tripping over themselves trying to get a piece of this.” He mumbled sarcastically. He sighed again, feeling sorry for himself, then set his jaw. No, he’d make whatever life he could and try to be happy. He made a promise in his heart that he wouldn’t feel sorry for himself again.
The wheels screeched to a stop on the track, and the train let out a long sigh, as if happy to be done with the chore of chugging over the country side. A cold wind snapped at him as he stepped from the train. Yes, the weather would be much better here, though he still felt he could go without the coat. He took in a deep breath. It was good to be somewhere new. His head felt clearer.
Suddenly, he new exactly where he would start. He waded through the crowd and stepped out onto the road. His legs thanked him for the action. He followed the road for a while. It wasn’t long before it skimmed along the edge of the forest. He headed into the trees without hesitation. As soon as he hit the forest floor, he was sprinting. It was faster than he’d ever run before. He was running to freedom.
He ran for several minutes before coming upon a clearing. He smiled upward as he stepped into the clearing and shrugged off his jacket. He took one quick look around before pulling off his shirt. He exhaled with relief as his wings unfurled. He stretched them as far as they would go. His arms reached up and he stood on the balls of his feet to stretch out his calves. He took a long breath in through his nose and closed his eyes as the scents of mint and pine swirled in his head. A slow grin spread across his face revealing a row of straight white teeth. This was good. It felt good out here. This was a very good idea.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Ch. 1: Part 1
His eyes caught a glimpse of white above his head.
Wings!
“What. The. Fu – ow!” The corner of the counter clipped his wing. He grasped the end of the wing with both hands and with wide eyes stroked the feathers. He pulled the wing further to have a look at more of it.
“Ouch!” His wing wouldn’t have it. Like bending your elbow the wrong way.
He turned his back to the mirror and craned his neck around. There between his shoulder blades, two wings had sprouted their way out of him. He struggled to catch a breath.
He paced the small bathroom, running his fingers through his white blonde hair. His eyes watched his feet, the wall, the shower curtain, searching for answers, refusing to glance at the mirror.
“What do I do? What the hell am I going to do?” he gasped at himself. He dragged his hands down his face, back up and through his hair again. He took a deep breath and burst through the door.
He scrambled through his closet, shoving things into his worn out backpack. He needed to be out of here, he needed to be gone. Who would help him? Not his mother. He didn’t even know where his brother was. He stopped cold in the middle of his room. He had no one. He took a breath and scooped his arm across the top of his dresser, dumping necessities into his bag.
He didn’t need anybody. He’d always gotten along fine on his own. He’d never really had a mother or a family. Not a real family. He knew how to take care of himself. He jumped the three concrete steps to his front door and ran across the yard. No one would miss him. Kids skipped out on their moms all the time. She wouldn’t even call the cops.
He’d worn the biggest coat he could find. A puffy quilted jacket that did it’s job at disguising his… he couldn’t think about it. Not yet. He had to get someplace, someplace where no one would bother him. Then, maybe, he could take this back out and figure out what to do with it.
He pulled up the hood of the hoodie he wore under his puffy coat. It really wasn’t cold enough to be wearing so much, but maybe no one would notice. He was burning up, sweating. His temperature still hadn’t decreased. He began to wonder if it ever would.
The city bus slowed to a stop and the doors squeaked open in front of him. He kept his eyes low as he made his way to the back of the bus. Thankfully, there weren’t that many passengers; a prostitute trying to persuade a customer, a bum clutching a fistful of news paper and staring at the ceiling, and a couple of boys, his age, eyeing the hooker. He didn’t really know where he was getting off, but it was a good place to think. A place where he could plan and still be moving.
He closed his eyes and tried to concentrate, but he couldn’t. Why was everybody being so loud? He could hear the hooker negotiating with her catch,
“Alright, honey, 250 and I’ll throw somethin’ extra dirty in.” She said with a smile as she chomped her gum and blew a bubble that popped in his face. Leo heard the boys snicker and nudge each other at this. He heard, with perfect clarity, the nonsense the homeless man was muttering to himself, but no one else seemed to notice. He heard the talk show the bus driver was listening to on his radio headphones and he picked up lines and commercials from every TV they passed. He opened his eyes and turned his head. Could he really hear her conversation? A woman two cars ahead of them was arguing on her cell phone with her boyfriend about commitment. Leo listened further and herd the click of him hang up on her. Leo bent his head and put his hands over his ears. He just needed to think and no one was letting him. He had to get away from here.
He got off at the next stop and checked his watch. 4:45 and still dark. He was so tired. He couldn’t find any permanent place to stay any time soon. That was obvious. But he did need a place to sleep for a while. He walked to the park a couple blocks down. He mopped the sweat from his forehead. He wished he could take off the coat but he couldn’t risk it. Sleep came quickly as he curled himself up in the graffiti spattered playground tube.
Maybe he could think better once he got some sleep. Maybe a new light would come with the dawn. Maybe it would all be a bad dream.
Wings!
“What. The. Fu – ow!” The corner of the counter clipped his wing. He grasped the end of the wing with both hands and with wide eyes stroked the feathers. He pulled the wing further to have a look at more of it.
“Ouch!” His wing wouldn’t have it. Like bending your elbow the wrong way.
He turned his back to the mirror and craned his neck around. There between his shoulder blades, two wings had sprouted their way out of him. He struggled to catch a breath.
He paced the small bathroom, running his fingers through his white blonde hair. His eyes watched his feet, the wall, the shower curtain, searching for answers, refusing to glance at the mirror.
“What do I do? What the hell am I going to do?” he gasped at himself. He dragged his hands down his face, back up and through his hair again. He took a deep breath and burst through the door.
He scrambled through his closet, shoving things into his worn out backpack. He needed to be out of here, he needed to be gone. Who would help him? Not his mother. He didn’t even know where his brother was. He stopped cold in the middle of his room. He had no one. He took a breath and scooped his arm across the top of his dresser, dumping necessities into his bag.
He didn’t need anybody. He’d always gotten along fine on his own. He’d never really had a mother or a family. Not a real family. He knew how to take care of himself. He jumped the three concrete steps to his front door and ran across the yard. No one would miss him. Kids skipped out on their moms all the time. She wouldn’t even call the cops.
He’d worn the biggest coat he could find. A puffy quilted jacket that did it’s job at disguising his… he couldn’t think about it. Not yet. He had to get someplace, someplace where no one would bother him. Then, maybe, he could take this back out and figure out what to do with it.
He pulled up the hood of the hoodie he wore under his puffy coat. It really wasn’t cold enough to be wearing so much, but maybe no one would notice. He was burning up, sweating. His temperature still hadn’t decreased. He began to wonder if it ever would.
The city bus slowed to a stop and the doors squeaked open in front of him. He kept his eyes low as he made his way to the back of the bus. Thankfully, there weren’t that many passengers; a prostitute trying to persuade a customer, a bum clutching a fistful of news paper and staring at the ceiling, and a couple of boys, his age, eyeing the hooker. He didn’t really know where he was getting off, but it was a good place to think. A place where he could plan and still be moving.
He closed his eyes and tried to concentrate, but he couldn’t. Why was everybody being so loud? He could hear the hooker negotiating with her catch,
“Alright, honey, 250 and I’ll throw somethin’ extra dirty in.” She said with a smile as she chomped her gum and blew a bubble that popped in his face. Leo heard the boys snicker and nudge each other at this. He heard, with perfect clarity, the nonsense the homeless man was muttering to himself, but no one else seemed to notice. He heard the talk show the bus driver was listening to on his radio headphones and he picked up lines and commercials from every TV they passed. He opened his eyes and turned his head. Could he really hear her conversation? A woman two cars ahead of them was arguing on her cell phone with her boyfriend about commitment. Leo listened further and herd the click of him hang up on her. Leo bent his head and put his hands over his ears. He just needed to think and no one was letting him. He had to get away from here.
He got off at the next stop and checked his watch. 4:45 and still dark. He was so tired. He couldn’t find any permanent place to stay any time soon. That was obvious. But he did need a place to sleep for a while. He walked to the park a couple blocks down. He mopped the sweat from his forehead. He wished he could take off the coat but he couldn’t risk it. Sleep came quickly as he curled himself up in the graffiti spattered playground tube.
Maybe he could think better once he got some sleep. Maybe a new light would come with the dawn. Maybe it would all be a bad dream.
Note: Feedback
Hey!
A lot of this blog has to do with the fact that I wanted feedback from a large and diverse group of people. so, if you could give me feedback by using the comment area that would be awesome.
Thanks.
A lot of this blog has to do with the fact that I wanted feedback from a large and diverse group of people. so, if you could give me feedback by using the comment area that would be awesome.
Thanks.
Prologue
Late at night, on the property of a white-trash home within the outer circles of Indianapolis, three days after his seventeenth birthday, Leo collapsed in his front yard while home alone. He lay there in the grass shaking, sweating, and wishing whatever it was to be over until he slipped from consciousness. His skin flared to a temperature of over 120.
He awoke around 3:30 a.m. and attempted to drag himself into the house. He made it inside the door and crumpled himself onto the floor, slumping against the couch. He shut his eyes and willed himself to pass out again, but his mind could not escape the horrible stabbing pain between his shoulder blades. The pain finally started to subside in slow waves; the opposite of how it had come.
He kept his eyes closed and sat frozen where he sat. He didn’t want to risk the pain coming back. When he lifted his eye lids, he read the microwave clock at 4:06. His skin was still scorching, but the pain had faded to only a lingering soreness. His body was exhausted but he decided to head to the bathroom and take inventory of himself.
When he stirred and stood up, he realized a piercing hunger in the pit of his stomach. He went straight to the kitchen instead and flung the refrigerator door open. He shoved the first thing he saw – a package of hotdogs – into his mouth and scarfed it down, barely missing the wrapper. What was wrong with him? He was still starving but he went to have a look at himself in the bathroom mirror. He looked terrible. The dark circles under his eyes contrasted with the scarlet flush on his cheeks. Wait, what was that? What were those?
He awoke around 3:30 a.m. and attempted to drag himself into the house. He made it inside the door and crumpled himself onto the floor, slumping against the couch. He shut his eyes and willed himself to pass out again, but his mind could not escape the horrible stabbing pain between his shoulder blades. The pain finally started to subside in slow waves; the opposite of how it had come.
He kept his eyes closed and sat frozen where he sat. He didn’t want to risk the pain coming back. When he lifted his eye lids, he read the microwave clock at 4:06. His skin was still scorching, but the pain had faded to only a lingering soreness. His body was exhausted but he decided to head to the bathroom and take inventory of himself.
When he stirred and stood up, he realized a piercing hunger in the pit of his stomach. He went straight to the kitchen instead and flung the refrigerator door open. He shoved the first thing he saw – a package of hotdogs – into his mouth and scarfed it down, barely missing the wrapper. What was wrong with him? He was still starving but he went to have a look at himself in the bathroom mirror. He looked terrible. The dark circles under his eyes contrasted with the scarlet flush on his cheeks. Wait, what was that? What were those?
Intro
One night I had a dream. In the dream, there were two people talking on a bed. The girl was acting awkward and the boy was being private and secretive. I wondered why, so I listened closer. I found that he was older, a lot older, but he didn't age. I also found that they had been together for a long time and that they were talking about something important. She started to cry and he leaned forward to hug her. Then, I woke up.
So, I thought it was really weird. I couldn't figure where this dream had come from. Usually I can link my dreams back to something in my conscious life. So, I was lying there awake in my bed and I couldn't go back to sleep. When I can't sleep, I think up stories in my head and entertain myself with them until I get sleepy enough to fall asleep. Like watching movies in my head. I think it's really fun. Ok, I know I'm weird.
Anyway, I used my dream as a basis for my head-story.
And that's how Leo was born. This is just the story from my sleep deprived nights. It's nothing fancy, I'm not planning on getting it published or anything like that. I just thought that maybe somebody else would get a kick out of my little fantasies.
So, I thought it was really weird. I couldn't figure where this dream had come from. Usually I can link my dreams back to something in my conscious life. So, I was lying there awake in my bed and I couldn't go back to sleep. When I can't sleep, I think up stories in my head and entertain myself with them until I get sleepy enough to fall asleep. Like watching movies in my head. I think it's really fun. Ok, I know I'm weird.
Anyway, I used my dream as a basis for my head-story.
And that's how Leo was born. This is just the story from my sleep deprived nights. It's nothing fancy, I'm not planning on getting it published or anything like that. I just thought that maybe somebody else would get a kick out of my little fantasies.
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