Something else [Rae & Disney]

Mel;


"Mmmm..." I moaned, "I'm tiiired."


I didn't sleep that much the night before. To be honest, it was because of Zach. I kept dreaming about him, and in my dreams he was as happy and cheerful as ever.


Until he wasn't.


That look on his face haunted me. The way his jaws clenched, and his hands made themselves into fists---it was scary.


Who had hurt him? And how? And why?


I found myself needing to know.


But Max snapped me out of it.


"MICKEY MOUSE IT IS, HONEY!" he cried. "Wake up, Mel, it's a beautiful day!"


This reminded me of my childhood, when mom used to wake me up for school, and I begged her to let me sleep for just five more minutes.


She always said no, and took my Teddy Bear away to let me know she was serious.


"You got cinnamon flavored syrup, babe? SCORE!" Max said, hugging Rae.


But Max wasn't my mom, thank goodness. It was then I heard Zach talking to me.


Zach.


"Ah!" I yelped, embarrassed. I hadn't even showered, and I was wearing bunny slippers, and my hair...


Oh my gosh. My hair!


"Uhhh, morning..." I said, grabbing a baseball cap from the coffee table, to cover my bird's nest.


"Mel, why are you wearing my cap?" Max asked, pouring pancake batter in a pan.


"Oh," I said, playing stupid. "This is yours? My bad."


I immediately ran to the bathroom, hopped in the shower, did my hair, picked out an outfit, and packed books, clothes, and my Mac.


And I did this all in less than 45 minutes, thanks to Max rushing me like a little kid wanting to go play a game of catch.


Max;


Breakfast was all ready to be served. But Mel was nowhere in sight.


"Mel!" I cried out. "Breakfast is ready. Is she picking out what books she wants to take?"


I knew, from Rae's stories, that Mel always took books with her on trips and would plan ahead of time which books she would take.


Those books of hers were like her children.


But just as I said that, Mel came out with her yellow suitcase and she looked almost unrecognizable. Her hair was curled, and she wore light pink lipstick. I didn't know much about makeup, but I could tell she had put on cat eyeliner, because Rae did her eyes like that a lot. She wore a white sundress, white flats, and a tan floppy sun hat.


"Okay," she said, pulling a baby pink blanket over herself. "I'm ready."


This was...new. Usually, Mel didn't dress up all that much. At least, not since I have known her. I always Rae to be more of the glamorous one.


Mel was usually happy in sweats, with her hair in a bun.


I could tell I wasn't the only one who noticed; we were all pretty shocked. Zach, especially, looked shocked. In fact, more than shocked...


I knew that look. The sort of hypnotized look you get when a hot girl walks into the room, and you just know you gotta talk to her and get her number, if you're lucky. It's the look I get whenever Rae dresses up.


Oh, shit. Was Zach checking Mel out?

Rae;


"Melly! You look like you're going to a country club affair," I told my best friend, a ghost of a smile on my face as I watched her stream in like it was nothing.


The question 'what brought this on?' sat on the tip of my tongue, but I didn't want to make a scene of it- Melanie was always beautiful, but her choices this morning enhanced what she had naturally.


--


Zachary;


I'd spent the better half of that near hour trying to figure out when Melanie would be back, still a little shocked to have watched her sporadically take off like that. Then the rest of the time I listed to Max's exclamations of... everything, and Rae's rendition of the Eagles classics. Last minute, I started to sculpt the words to pitch the ideas to Melanie about us hanging out later on, casually bringing up things to do and places to go, intentionally using we instead of all of us.


Like a bullet train on rails, my thoughts came screeching to a halt.


That sweet aroma came wafting through the hallway as a far off bedroom door opened,the one I knew to be Melanie's. My eyes shot up just in time to what a very... dolled up, Mel, a suit case in one hand and soft pink lips shadowed by a hat that, on anyone else, I'd have thought looked ridiculous. But it was... complimenting her. As was.... just about her entire existence. And I let my eyes graze over that entire existence, suddenly remembering the better part of my dream this morning. My skin grew warm at the remembrance of it.


Swiftly, I maneuvered beside her, taking her suitcase like it didn't way a good fourth pounds and lifting it up, "I'll grab that for you. I.. like your hat."


I like your hat? The hell was that?"





"That's real chivalrous blondie, but did you pack yet?"


"I'm not five."


"I wouldn't credit you with that age."


I narrowed my eyes, considering all the comebacks in the world when I remember what really got under her skin.


"...I wouldn't credit you with that age."


"What?" She eyed me like I was an idiot.


"What?"


"Whatre you..."


"Whatre you..."


"Oh, no, Zach, don't-"


"Oh, no, Zach, don't-"


"Max, make'm stawwwwhp!" She whined, standing on her tippy toes and huffing like a child.


I laughed loudly in response to an obvious victory, carrying Melanie's suitcase to the door, and then heading off back into my room. Twenty minutes later, I was clean shaven, doused in cologne and aftershave, dressed in shorts and a polo, and packed with all a single guy could need for a weekend. Which meant... sketch pads and spare outfits.


Man, I need help.





"Maaaaaax," I winced as I heard Rae's whining as I left my room, a sound that meant a 5'10 brunette was getting increasingly impatient. My green eyes flickered up to watch her childishly cling to his arm, her big, brown eyes dramatic and beckoning. "I wanna goooooo noooooow plea-ea-ea-eaaaaase..."


I snorted in response, dragging out my duffel bag and tossing it beside Melanie's, before taking my stance beside her. "Alright, princess, let's get going."

Mel;


If I thought I was going to get any extra sleep on this road trip, I was wrong.


So I just took out my old battered copy of Pride and Prejudice and got lost in the world of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy.


My reading didn't last for long, since Max and Rae were busy belting to "Hotel California" as if they were two drunk sorority girls on spring break.


Personally, I wasn't a classic rock fan. At least, not the kind with guitar solos and men singing in high pitched voices. I prefered lighter stuff, like some of the Carpenters or indie pop. Classical music was my favorite, though that didn't really make for good road trip music.


I would have just put my headphones on, but since Zach was here, I decided to talk to him. Thank goodness he was here, otherwise I would have probably jumped out of Max's minivan by now.


"What do you want to do when we get to Coney Island? Any ideas? I've...never been there before. Maybe you can show me around?"


I bit my lip, and held my breath. Oh, gosh. Did that sound like I was asking him out?


Max;


This was the life. Singing out loud to my favorite song, with my favorite people. Or at least, person. Zach and Mel weren't too enthusiastic. Maybe because it was six in the morning. But no matter what time of day, I always knew Zach to sing a long to classic rock hits with me, but now, he seemed more interested in Melanie.


I thought about the way he looked at her earlier. Mel was attractive. Nowhere near attractive as my Rae, I mean, Rae is the most beautiful woman on the planet. But, Mel was pretty, too. They just don't seem like eachother's type, but, then again, neither did Rae and I.


Ehhh. Zach and I used to check out hot babes all the time before I met Rae. And while Mel isn't exactly a babe---more everyday wholesome---Zach and I had different tastes, so maybe he liked Mel's type.


Of course, it would never turn into anything serious. I mean, c'mon. They're Zach and Mel.


I let the thought leave my brain and continued to sing along with Rae, enjoying watching the sun come up.

Zachary;


"Sounds like a date," I responded almost instantly, grinning at the fact she'd asked me, which took the pressure off of me asking her. I had little doubt she'd reject me if I did, but... My people skills were... rusty. I'd tried to make it sound casual, but it wasn't until I'd seen the glimmer in her eyes and the way she nibbled on her bottom lip that my grin broke through, quite a change from the contemplative face I'd worn so far on this drive.


"Coney Island... We took a trip that turned out like a Griswalds movie back when I was liiittle," the memories were good, which made remembering it all the harder. "Mmm... Kyle, my younger brother, and I, wen he as to head on the bumper cars. Got escorted out cause I nailed him in the face, he'll tell you a different story, though." I smirked, running my fingers through my hair. "There's an arcade, though I don't think you'd be up for that. Lot of little book shops a couple streets away. Funnel cakes, coasters that flip your brain upside down, a dock that-"


"-Stretches out over a rolling, chilly ocean, gulls flying over head, dolphins lunging over a Setting sun..."


Rae sighed dreamily, cuddled beside Max and continuing her story to him.


"...Yeah, and there's a ferry that rides by, tons of surfers. Oh, and an aquarium. Mmm... We'll explore, alright?" I told Melanie, gently reaching over and giving her hand a gentle squeeze. It was a subtle action in its own, but the shades of pink on her cheeks and the way her hair framed her face as she smiled back made my skin sizzle.


---


"So, we have to hit up the Thunderbolt in Luna Park. You're locked in a circular row of seats, but they're upside down, and spin lightning fast!" I described to them, remembering what I'd looked up online.


"I wanna try out as many loopy, upside down coasters as my delicate frame will allow, and then, maybe the arcade... You haaaaave to win me a stuffed animal. I don't know what I want this time, though," I told Max, as if it were a crucial decision. It was!


"Melly! We'll go get a mani pedi, my treat," although it wasn't my favorite thing to do, I figured it'd give us time to talk; that, and I had an adoration for French tips. "Maybe tan some..." I grinned at her through the mirror, admiring my gal pal as always. "You're always soooo beautiful, but I really encourage you to dress it up more often, to do your looks justice!"


"Oh, Max, there's rooftop dining on the docks, and they're having a fireworks show, we can watch them explode over the ocean..." Adventuring out was what brought me to want to model in the first place! I was stoked. With my heart And my heart wrapped around adventure, I hardly noticed the agreement to explore the city as a pair, between Melanie and Zach.

Mel;


My little heart leaped when Zach squeezed my hand. Looking around me, I realized how blessed I was. All the stress I had felt earlier, about relationships, work, and just my own natural tendency to worry and drown myself in my own anxiety, was silenced. Even if only for a little while.


"I can't wait, Rae!" I said, as she suggested getting mani pedis. "And thanks for the compliment. I do have a supermodel best friend serve as inspiration."


Yup, I was a lucky girl.


"Mel," Max said, "your turn to pick a song."


That's what we were doing. Mostly listening to classic rock, but we all took turns choosing a jam, and now it was my turn.


Max handed me his iPhone, and I thought for a moment, before typing in my selection into the Spotify search engine.


"Here you go," I said, handing it to Rae, so she could plug the phone back into the stereo.


"Boom! Boom! Boom! Clap!" The stereo sang.


It was the perfect song to describe how I felt: free.


"Boom clap, you make me feel good...come on to me...come on to me now..."


Max seemed to like it, judging by the way he was head bopping to it. I giggled, listening to him try to sing a song he had obviously never heard.


He wasn't too hard to please. Rae had chosen well.


"The beat goes on and on and on on on..." He sang, stumbling over his words.


I burst out laughing. This was going to be a fun trip.





Max;


"Okay, road trip games!" I suggested, after an hour of driving. Mel raised an eyebrow and said, "Oh, boy."


"So," I said, "What game should we play? I spy with my little eye? Punch buggy?"


"Truth or dare?" Mel tried.


"Truth or dare?" I asked, confused. "Isn't that like, a girl's game?"


"A girl's game?"


"Yeah, don't girls usually play that game at sleepovers?"


"Boys can play it, too."


"How are we going to do the dares in a car?"


Wait, maybe that was the fun part.


"We can dare you to stand on the roof of the car while I drive," Mel said. "...I'm joking, Max."


"Oh, yeah, duh." I said. "I knew that..."


I didn't know that. But I was glad she was a jokester.


"Rae? Zach? Truth or dare it is?" I asked.

Zachary;


"Long as we stray from deep, emotional trigger questions, I'm down," I told Max, shifting a little in the cushioning of my seat as I thought of all the odd things that could be asked right now. However, if I knew my friends, and I was pretty sure I did, none of us has any urge to ask something awkward.


I drummed my finger on my thigh to the beat of the song Melanie had picked, it fit, and was a surprisingly nice break from all the Clearwater revisions.


"Crazy selfies, karaoke, pop rocks and a soda, drive backwards a mile," I laughed at the last one, not entirely serious- but... man, that'd be awesome. "We'll think of something!"


--


Rae;


"Hmm, I've actually... never really played that before. Why not?" I played with Max's fingers whilst we all agreed on the game. We all knew better than to inquire anything that'd be bothersome, and I knew there was a silent confirmation to Zach's preference to keep everything light hearted, best we could.


"Who goes first?" I asked, but the way I poised the question made it blatantly obvious I'd prefer it wasn't me.

Mel;


Max grinned and looked at me.


"Uh oh," I said, wincing. I knew what was coming next.


"Hey, it was your idea." He said, chuckling.


"Alright," I said, shifting in my seat. "Bring it."


"Truth or---"


"Truth!"


Max rubbed his chin, squinting at me like I was a puzzle he was trying to figure out, but quite couldn't.


Or maybe he was thinking of a question. Who knew what went on in that mind of his. Maybe Rae knew.


Maybe.


There were a few moments of silence, and I thought he totally forgot about the game, until he finally asked me, in a deep and mock-serious voice, "Is it true...you like boy bands and perhaps a certain boy band singer named Josh Maddox?"


Okay, seriously? What was this joker up to? And was Rae involved?





Max;


As a surprise for Mel, I had called a friend of a friend who knew Josh Maddox, the lead singer from Mel's favorite boy band growing up, The Maddox Boyz. According to Rae, Mel was pretty crazy for them, Josh in particular, and when I found that out, and knew I had some connections, I got in contact with him right away and convinced him to sing at her surprise birthday party.


"That's two questions," Mel said, crossing her arms.


"Don't avoid the question, Melly!" I said, pointing my finger in the air.


"I..." she said, hesitating. "I mean, when I was twelve. Yeah...he's...I mean, yeah."


So that was a yes. I smirked at Rae.


"Okay, my turn!" Mel quickly changed the subject. "Max..."


"Bring it," I said, laughing. "I ain't scared."


"Okay, then," she said, "Truth or dare?"


"Psh, dare. Gimme your best shot."


"Drive backwards a mile," she dared.


Now Mel was the one smirking.

Zachary;


"Maddox?" I murmured inquisitive like, noting the confusion on her face, and the devious, plotting expression upon Max's. The mentioned boy band didn't ring a bell to me, yet, as she answered, I found myself intrigued, wondering why I couldn't imagine Melanie as a die hard fan of pop at twelve.


Those thoughts became irrelevant, however, as it shifted to her turn, and she dared Max to do what I'd mentioned earlier, resulting in a permanent grin plastered on my face, but a very notable romance on Rae's from within the side view mirror.


"Hah, we're screwed. Nice one, Mel," my tone remained amused as I contemplated on whether or not Max would actually do it. Far as I knew, he'd never backed down from a challenge, but like all great dare devils, that prideful, risky side of him had dire consequences. Pulling a Mater wasn't any different.


--


"I..."


Voice of reason, or encouraging girlfriend? I've always been the one to be Max's cheerleader, be it a COD marathon to beat a five year old on a melee spree, or pulling an all nighter to get a comedic sketch finished last minute. But there were other things I didn't encourage, in fact, I didn't allow then; chugging alcohol till he got sick, being any kind of workaholic, and... Driving a mini-van, backwards, on an open highway. Sure, it was practically clear, now, but they could get a ticket, or... crash.


...


"Mmm..." I decided to bite my tongue, for the most part. "One mile," I said finally, as if officiating the dare.

Mel;


"It's on," he said, actually doing it. It felt odd, driving backwards. Wrong, because it was.


He didn't drive backwards for more than ten seconds, until I said, "You know what, never mind. New dare."


"No way," he said, amused by my fear. "I am doing this!"


"Max, it was a bad idea." I said. "Stop."


"Nothing will happen."


"Max!"


I got nervous, so nervous I began to shake like a Chihuahua. I was so stupid. I should have never challenged a man who can't say no to a dare devil's risk.


I struggled to breathe, almost crying. This was all my fault. I wanted to get back at him for teasing me, and now we could die because of it.


"Maaax!" I whined, sounding like Rae. I didn't notice it at the time, but I was squeezing Zach's hand for dear life.


Max;


At first, when I heard Mel try to convince me to stop driving, I thought she was just being chicken. But she was terrified, I saw now. She was shaking.


"Whoa," I said. "Mel, are you---"


Before I could finish, I heard a big "woop!"


A cop.


"Stop the vehicle!" he said.


"Shit," Mel muttered. "Stupid, stupid...I am so--"


"Just be calm," I said. "Be smooth."


"What the hell are you doing, kid?" The cop asked, his head popping into my open window. Face to face with me.


I screamed like a little girl. Yeah, I was smooth.

Just as Melanie started to scream, I swiftly lunged over and covered her mouth, pulling her into my side and giving her a somewhat reassuring squeeze. I, myself, was pretty calm; yeah, we were stupid for doing this, but it was fun, and a ticket, although bad for your record, was just a ticket. It's not like he'd arrest us.


The officer paid little mind, though, because just after he'd poised his question, the atmosphere changed, Rae went from a semi conservative angel, to the little devil I assumed only Max and her agency got to see.


"I... don't think you have anything to be worried about, Mel."


---


Thank God I wore my push up.


Nonchalantly, I unbuttoned my light wash, denim top, revealing cleavage emphasized by a silky, cherry red push up bra. Though I was secretly insecure about my model like physique being too curveless, VS always knew how to amplify what you had naturally. I teased my hair a little, put on that 'Omigawd' personality I roleplayed to BS people, and decided if I could use this model life to get us out of a sticky situation, it may just save Max a blemish on his driving record, and Melanie a heart attack. I grabbed the registration and Max's license, just in case.


"Is there a problem, officer?" I asked with a velvety voice, innocently staring up at him as I leaned over Max, biting on my bottom lip, white teeth over cotton candy lip stick, just like Candice Swanepoel would in a shoot.


"I'm so sorry if we caused any trouble... We were just having a little fun... After all, a single girl only lives once," I leaned forward, arms pressed at my side's for a little enhancement, winking and letting those thick eyelashes of mine do the work. I'd watched my mom flirt her way out of just about every situation possible, even getting free food and a few charges removed, and then after, she'd tell me, ' Sometimes, Rachel, you have use what God gave you!'


I heard Zachary whistle low in the background, no doubt in amazement I switched roles like that. I saw him stroke Melanie's hair in the back seat through the rear view mirror, but didn't let the curiosity take my attention from the beefed up man in front of me.

Mel;


The beefed up, bald and hairy cop could only gawk at Rae's flirtation. His eyes glazed, as he slowly dropped his jaw in amazement, just like every other guy did in high school when Rae would walk through Westchester High's hallways.


"Uhh..." the cop said, completely lost in her beauty.


"Miller!" Another cop said, walking up to us. "What in Pete's sake is takin' ya so long---I gotta pee!"


But as soon as this cop---tall, lanky, and with a face decorated with pimples---saw Rae, he was a goner, too.


"Oh, my..." he said, "well, hello there..."


"I see," Miller said, chuckling. "Just havin' a little fun with your friends."


He probably expected more hot girls, because he looked around the back seat and seemed a little disappointed when he found another young man and a mousy girl there.


"Well, little lady," he continued. "Why didn't you say so? It's no problem! You have fun now. Come on, Walker."


"What?" The lanky one, Walker, said. "Oh, no, no, no! We can't do that! The law clearly states---"


"Come. On. Walker." Miller replied, gritting his yellow teeth.


Miller chuckled, and took one last look at Rae. "You kids have fun now."


Max;


I gritted my own teeth. Yeah, keep your eyes to yourself, buddy.


I didn't know whether to be angry about the way those men feasted upon my girl with their eyes, or turned on by her charm. When she did her whole bit, I found myself hypnotized.


"Yeah, that's right." I said, as the cops drove away. "She's mine."


I grabbed Rae and kissed her passionately, pulling her into the backseat with me and handing Zach my keys.


"Zach, your turn to drive!" I said, accidentally suffocating Mel for a second as Rae and I climbed. "I'm a little busy..."


We were only an hour away from the hotel. He could handle it.


"Alright, but I'm going in the passenger seat!" Mel said, grossed out.

I didn't mind taking over the wheel, with the radio at my control, speed in my favor, Melanie on my right, and the lovers in the back, out of sight. We didn't speak anymore on the subject of the cops, instead, I tuned into a station more to mine and Melanie's preference, rolling down the window and letting the mixed scents of New York waft in as we entered Brooklyn.


Traffic was light much to our liking, so it took even less time to arrive at the hotel. When the GPS said we'd arrived at our destination, however, mine and Melanie's jaws were hanging open, our eyes appreciative as we scanned the lavish exterior view, the valet parking filled with Lexus, Limousines and corvettes. Streets were crowded, but with a higher class of residents than usual. The revolving doors spun around and around, with a golden glow that held a world of luxury behind them, just waiting for the two of us newbies to the high life to trek every polished tile.


"How the Hell did you reserve this?" I inquired out loud, shooting a crooked grin to Mel as she, too, took in the change of pace. I took to following a man in a suit, his frantic gestures meant to have me drive into a line up of cars, so he could park the van quickly. I cruised up slowly, though, still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that we weren't staying in a motel six. I should've known better than to think those two wouldn't use those connections of theirs to get something so flashy; after all, Rae was a champagne girl on a gradually increasing beer budget, and it was rubbing off on Max.


"Damn," I mumbled, rolling down my window and nodding as the suited gentlemen requested the keys. We unloaded our small amount of luggage, and left the van behind, a pep in Rae's step as she tugged her over protective fiancee towards the doors, the two of them blending in with the crowd like they belonged there.


I fell back a foot or two, holding out my hand again for Melanie, not a care in the world if our friends questioned it; it just felt natural, and after the long car ride, it'd be kind of nice to have a little bubble with just the two of us in it.


Besides, people were everywhere, I didn't want her to get lost.


"Upscale is an understatement," I mumbled, eyes trailing upwards as the buildings layers rose up and up, shunning the height of the trees that dotted the side walks. The sunshine was still pouring down mid sky, adding an alluring glow to the woman beside me to which I gazed at, finding that little hint of a blush warm my cheeks, that bashful look on my face as blatant as it was when I was five. "Come on, Mel."


---


Was it bad to admit I enjoyed every second Max was territorial? I soaked up his attention like an addiction, of course that didn't sound very healthy, so I didn't exactly say it out loud. But it gave me chills, and I liked them...


The car ride seemed over all too soon to us, but considering what the weekend had in store, I didn't mourn it, and instead eagerly headed towards the hotel, knowing the adventure had only just started. There was a luxurious spa here I hoped Melanie would check out with me, and a French cuisine wing that I knew we'd all feast at later this evening.


We headed to the counter to check in and grab our room keys, excitement bubbling inside media as I swung mine and Max's hand back and forth, my mind wandering to all the benefits of a five star hotel. "Fuzzy couple robes, room services, a view of the skyline and a balcony with a table for two and a bottle of wine..." I sighed dreamily, and then grinned to Melanie, stoked to know she'd get the treatment she deserves!


"You're gunna love the view, Melly. Should be great inspiration for those stories of yours! And maybe you'll have a little creative work for a painting, Z!" I told them, but secretly hoped they'd stray from hobbies and work, and just have fun.

Mel;


It. Was. Beautiful.


Feeling like Cinderella going to the ball, I took hold of Zach's hand, not caring if our friends saw us. I didn't feel like I belonged here when I saw all the glamorous women and men walking around. Preppy kids in polo shirts, business men in suits, Hollywood A Lister types, and a couple of foreigners, surrounded me. I was scared to touch or even sit on anything. Heck, I was scared to breathe the oxygen.


But with Zach by my side, I was a princess in my palace. And my mood began to shift, lighten.


And Rae was right, this would be a great place to write. "Well, it is awesome atmosphere!" I admitted, excited to finally get my creative juice flowing again.


"Here's your key, kids!" Max said, throwing Zach a key.


"Where's mine?" I asked, realizing there were only two.


"What do you mean?" Max asked.


"My keys. For my room?"


A look of innocence shed across his boyish face. Clueless.


"I have a room, right?"


"Oh, yeah" he said, cheerfully. "I reserved one room. For both you and Zach to share!"


My heart dropped to my stomach.


Max;


"WHAT?!!!" Mel cried, acting like I told her she wasn't getting a room and had to sleep on the floor outside our rooms.


"I didn't think it would be an issue." I said. "I mean, at least you will get to know each other better, right?"


"Zach! It is an issue!"


"Rae and I are sharing a room."


"You and Rae are a couple!"


"Well....okay, you have a point."


"Please tell me there are two beds, at least."


I bit my lip, nervous.


"I think it might be one...?" I said.


She narrowed her eyes at me and looked about ready to murder me.


"Fix it. Now." She said.


But I couldn't. All the rooms were booked. Maybe Dad was right; maybe I was an idiot.


"Are you at least gonna be okay?" I asked Zach, feeling horrible.

Zachary;


"Mel!" I heard Rae gasp.


My gaze on Max remained both heavy and incredulous, only once flickering over to Melanie who seemed incredibly opposed. So, I denied the part of me that'd usually go with the flow, and quirked a brow at the man before us.


"One bed? Dude, what the hell were you thinking?-"


"Don't talk to him like that!" Rae barked abruptly, and I flinched, just a little. "If it's such an issue, there's a loveseat in the room."


"You want me to sleep on the couch?" I asked, challenging like, and a little defensive. "Here? Really?"


"Well, it's a top quality futon." She corrected, as if it were obvious, "Pillow barriers, blanket fortress, sleep sideways--"


"Cause that sounds fun." I snorted, ignoring the man at the desk who watched us with an apprehensive expression.


"Then you can sleep in the parking lot!"


"Maybe I'll see your boyfriends out there!"


"I'm doing the best I can, you're the one with the problem, buddy."


"Oh, I'm sorry princess, we can't all pop out our breasts and smooth everything over!"


She gritted her teeth, "Max took it upon himself to pay for a five star hotel room for all of us. And you're going to fuss over a damn bed?" Her face mirrored disappointment, "We're all friends. There's nothing weird about you two sharing living arrangements for two days--"


"Friends don't sleep together!"


"Mel and I did all the time!"


"When you were nine! And you're both women!"


"Brilliant observation, Einstein!"


"Bite me, Jezebel!"


"I can't even believe we're arguing about something so stupid! Again!-"


"Alright, alright, God," I groaned loudly, getting a blatant reminder of why I usually stayed in my room, or wasn't home at all. "It.... It's fine, we'll figure it out. Just... shut up."


Two men came and offered to take our luggage, awkward and lanky in the midst of unnecessary, heated banter. I refused their surface with a forced polite shake of the head, lifting both mine and Melanie's bags effortlessly as the adrenaline coarsed through me, snatched the key and headed off to find our room, fuming like a child who'd just argued over which one of us had rights to the sandbox.


"Pain in the ass," I grumbled, jabbing the elevator button.


--


Rae;


"The audacity, really!" I commented as he walked away, emanating the same blush and fume of yet another pointless argument with my fiancees best friend, imaging what it'd be like if a giant anvil just dropped on his stupid blonde head.


"Here you are, sweet as ever, paying for our vacation, and those two are worried about a bed!" I stated dramatically, not seeing their point, just protective of my baby. Max didn't take others dislike towards his decision well. I didn't take to others disliking anything Max did in general.


"Come on, Max, we've got two fuzzy robes, a mini bar full of champagne, and a bubbling Jacuzzi with our names on it," I reconciled, returning the kiss he'd given me in the minivan. "You have wonderful ideas," I told him lovingly, and then followed him to our suite, which was right across from theirs.


Jezebel? Oh, he hadn't even seen my bad side yet. Da Vinci is treading on thin ice!

Mel;


This was turning out to be a disaster. Zach and Rae reminded me of my parents when they used to fight, and I didn't know whether or not I would enjoy this vacation. But I stopped thinking about them once we got to our room.


It was pretty fancy. Luxurious. There was a table for two with a wine bottle and glasses, next to a huge window overlooking the city. There was the love couch, too, velvety and soft and way too small for Zach. But what I noticed the most was the king sized bed with roses sprinkled all over it.


This looked like a honeymoon suite.


I blushed. Either he slept on the floor, or this was going to be awkward. It would never work.


"So...how are we going to do this?" I asked, laughing nervously.


Max;


Rae usually knew how to make me feel better, but Mel and Zach were right.


"Rae, this is my fault," I told her. "My dad is right. I am such a dumbass."


I made stupid mistakes growing up, especially as a teen. From pranking teachers to feeding my baby sisters pizza whenever I took care of them, I was the village fool. And now, Mel and Zach hated me. I couldn't blame them.


And yet I had Rae, who loved me regardlessly. Her love was so unconditional. I was afraid, sometimes, that she would get sick of me and leave one day. Sometimes.


"And you...you are so amazing." I told her.

"Premadonna had one good idea, pillow barriers." I suggested, obviously disregarding the couch option, seeing as someone of my height would take up at least two of those. I tossed the bags to the side, and as my rage cooled down, I gave in to curiosity.


The view of the walls made like windows was vast and seemingly straight out of a national geographic magazine, and when night time came and the stars spotted over head, I knew it'd be hard not to whip out a paintbrush and let creativity seep out of me.


Rae was right, I sighed as I recalled my prior complaints, my same thoughts repeating as I switched in the slick, glossy flat screen that hung across from a freshly made, king sized bed. Inquisitive, I headed over to the bathroom, poking my head in through the door and letting my jaw drop comically as the tub alone was a man's answered prayer; shimmering, huge, and... were those jets and a neon light built inside?!


"Damn," I shook my head with disbelief, looking back to Mel, but she seemed more nervous than mesmerized. "Hey, hey, don't worry... I mean, it's a bit of a jump in the friendship, but I don't snore, if that helps?"


Though I'd kept it a little light hearted, I knew she wasn't going to be comfortable, not now, maybe not until she was back in her room, where she was safe from Max's slip ups and mine and Rae's childish banter.


"Besides, it's New York! We shouldn't even be sleeping! You wanted me to show you around, didn't you?" I asked, slipping my jacket off and tossing it over onto the bed. "We'll go see what's changed since the last time I visited Coney Island."


I offered her my most optimistic smile, ashamed to realize I wasn't in the least bit worried about the bed. About her reaction, sure, but... was it wrong to acknowledge the part of me that wanted to sleep beside her? And... I'd we get a little off course like a few nights before, I can't say I'd be any less than thrilled.


---


"Oh, stop it, he was not!" I snapped, but the look on his face plastered a grave frown on mine, and I recoiled, taking his strong hands in mine.


"You and I were just excited about coming here and spending time alone. We invited our friends, and were so focused on us, we didn't think about their room." I stepped into the elevator, jabbing our floors button. "If... if you're a dumbass, then I'm one, too. And... I... over reacted, but you know how I get," I told him with remorse, knowing I'd probably be the one to go apologize to Zachary first, as usual. Melanie deserved an apology, too... she's my best friend, and it's her birthday, after all!


"Max... When I look at you, I see everything I wished I'd seen in a man during my childhood, in my brothers, my uncle's, my dad. Respectable, dignified, successful, strong and capable, non alcoholic, you've never hurt me, you even love classic rock and Spongebob!" I sighed, not wanting to make this too mushy of a moment, but I was. "I think you're as amazing as you think I am. And I don't just love you, I respect you, and therefore, if you make a mistake, like driving backwards, like booking the wrong room, well... I make it with you. Lessen the load, you know? And I need you here, too. Cause I over react, and whine, and... occasionally go Hulk on someone. I can also be... us oriented."


As we came down the corridor and to our door, I winced, looking at the one across from us and distantly hearing Zachs voice. I juggled the key into the knob, pushing the door open and feeling my entire mood shift from remorseful to 'I'm home!'


"Ohhhhh..." I stepped inside, brown eyes bug and inquisitive. "LOOK AT THE BED!" I exclaimed, launching myself onto it childishly, "AND THAT VIEW! And there's a flat screen, and... the robes, I need to know our robes are in here!"


...I liked the high life.

Mel;


Why can't you be mine? I thought, but when he mentioned going out together, I was, well, ecstatic.


"Are you saying you want to pull an all nighter?" I asked, grinning. The idea of spending the night exploring the city with this boy got me all giggly. The heck with sleep! I'll get sleep when I get back home.


But right now, I just wanted the stars in the night sky and Zach by my side. I wanted cotton candy and Ferris wheels. I wanted the ocean, the sand, and...and...


I wanted him.


There was a part of me that hoped Zach could be different, that we could be happy together.


But could we last?


Honestly, could any couple ever last? Or should we just enjoy the time we had together while it lasted?


I chose not to think about that right now. I'd save it for my article.


"Okay, then," I said, "where do we go first?"


Max;


Laughing, I picked her up and twirled her around. "Welcome to your castle, princess!"


And just like that, Rae got me back to my usual self.


"Your prince charming only chose the finest for his fair lady," I told her. "Checketh out the bathroom. Golden sink, golden tub, and, oh my! Golden toilet! And what is this I say? Robes, too? How classy!"


I jumped on top of our bed, still carrying her and said, "Oh, dear! Look out of the window and see our kingdom, New York! Yes, such a fine place, don't you think? You and I shall rule it, my bride, my beloved. But first, I think we shall have a battle using our lips?" I asked, before kissing her and whispering, "You are my best friend in the whole entire world, and I am going to give you the life you deserve and treat you the way you should have been treated your whole life, Rachel. You and me, taking on the world."

Zachary;


Upon her poised question, I took to whipping out my laptop and googling our surroundings. Though there was more than enough to do on this street alone: boutiques, pubs, comedy shows and an uptown art gallery (which I would have to hit up, at some point), I figured we should keep it geared towards our destination: Coney Island.


The main site had a page entirely dedicated to the parks attractions.


"Lets see... Skate park, bumper cars, museum, polar bear club-- What the heck?" I wanted to read further, but the tab didn't open, so moved on, a little disappointed. "And there's a huuuge aquarium..." I listed, eye brows arched when I came across a few other events. "Shooting festival by... PAX arts. There's a flick on the beach tonight, doesn't say what the movie is, though. We could... do that, it's at eight?"


Movie on the sand sounded romantic enough, didn't it? I agreed mentally, proud of myself for such a great find when my mind suddenly back tracked, far, incredulously emphasizing the word 'romantic'. That's not what I was supposed to be working towards. Yet, inevitably... It's what I wanted.


Damn me and my mother's hopelessness. I was going to get myself wrapped up in a problem and be the only one to walk out of it broken, again. Or that's what my guard assured. But my gaze on Melanie made my heart thunk otherwise, and the complications that'd gradually increased for the week became a little...


Irritating.


Wonderful.


Scary.


And it didn't help that I was reaaaally attracted to her, from the nibbling on her lip, to the melodic tune of her laugh, to the way she contemplated, like every decision was a life changer, she was thorough, and quirky, and... I liked that. Cause so was I.


---


Rae;


"Ditto," I whispered, elated to find his attention was back on me; that's all I wanted, it fed me like a love starved toddler. And considering just all that'd been said, sometimes... I wondered just how accurate that description was.


After I was crowned the winner of our battle, and we spent a while creatively plotting our take over of New York, I opened the bookmarked tab on my phone, pulling up the attractions list I'd stared at since he'd mentioned vacation. Rolling onto my stomach, I started to swipe through the options.


"Ooohhh the aquarium is big and beautiful... Glovers Reef, Conservation Hall, the outdoor spaces of Sea Cliffs, and a new sea lion demonstration an... Aquatheater! I don't even know what that is, but there's sea lions! Luna park has a toooon of coasters, and they go upside down and backwards... And then there's the beach... And roof top dining..."


I turned over, resting on his chest, sighing dramatically. "Then again we're lazy, we can always stay in here and prank call room service... I wonder if there's a haunted hotel room in the building!"

Mel;


Oh, no. Was this a date? Was this actually a date? I couldn't tell. Oh, gosh, I was a relationships advice blogger and columnist, and I couldn't even figure out if a guy was asking me out on a date! Think, think, think.


"Okay, a movie sounds...nice." I said, screaming inside. I wasn't sure whether to be panicked or excited.


"I'll get dressed!" I announced, panicking.


I went into the bathroom with my suitcase and looked through my wardrobe, before deciding on a midnight blue maxi dress, white sweater, and sandals.


"Alright, how do I look?" I asked, before worrying again. Was that a question you asked someone you were going on a date with?


Max;


"We can do whatever you want," I said, grinning. That was when I thought about what Ma said yesterday.


"Rachel," I said, taking her hands in mine. "I know having a child isn't exactly your top priority, but, well, all my life I have dreamed about having a family of my own, being a dad. We don't have to have ten kids, but...we are gonna have kids, right? You do want a little Rae, or even a little Max? Not now, not yet. But...someday, right?" I asked, hopefully, as I loving pulled her into my arms.


I knew Rae was young, and so was I. We had our careers and all, and we had plenty of time. If it were up to me, I'd have a baby right away, but I respected Rae's decision. We needed time to grow our relationship and follow our dreams first.


But...eventually...we would have a family.


Right?

"How do I look?" Marie asked, her shoulder length, red curls bouncing as she twirled, the flutter of her skirt shaming Marilyn.


My breath caught in my throat, and I responds without hesitation, "Like an angel."


"Always stunning," I answered automatically though my voice broke a little, and then ducked my head to hide behind the square upper half of my laptop, which of course only illuminated my face, heat rising up along my skin, both from being bashful by nature, and anxiety stricken upon recalling yet another ghost of my past.


"Movie it is, then. But for now, we'll walk around a little. We've got a couple hours," I stated the obvious, closing my laptop shut and slipped off the bed, slipping my jacket back on and reaching into my bag. I pulled out a few essentials, aside from my wallet which was tucked in my pocket, I grabbed sun screen, which I tossed to her, a little wound up blanket for the sand, and Monster for an energy boost.


"Ready?" I asked, carefully tip towing around whether or not this was a date. Cause I didn't know. But I kind of liked the suspense, it kept obligation at bay and rejection foreign.


I held out an arm to her with my usual chivalrous demeanour, pleased to know the old me was still in there, and apparently clawing his way out, over all the defenses I'd spent the last few years building tirelessly. However, when my arm locked with hers... my gut twisted.


"You're too sweet, Zach," She told me, and I knew it, I knew it so damn well. It'd broken me last time. But... that was then, and this was now. She wasn't like Alice. I held up my arm to her as we stood in the doorway, and with my spare arm, I slipped the corsage over her delicate, porcelain wrist. Her eyes twinkled as they met mine, youthful, blissful, eager...


Nothing like the girl I found afterwards.





"...Let's go," I told her, still baring my smile, but a flash of pain was so evident in my eyes you'd thought someone had died. And at one point... I had. Then Max came.


---


"A little Max and Rae? Do you have any idea how full our hands'll be?" Out of nervous habit, I joked. But he wasn't joking. He seemed so unusually serious, so hopeful, like a potential father should... I loved it.


And God it scared me to death.


"...I don't see why not, Maxy..." I told him, slipping off the bed and heading off to preoccupy myself with something- anything- that wasn't this conversation. But I was so obviously not giving him a straight answer. He knew it. I knew it. And I knew better than to think Max would let this go tonight.


He deserved an answer. Someone who didn't come with all the emotional baggage and trauma that kept me up at night, led me to wake up in a sweat, or cry when I watched movies with father daughter moments, or get jealous of little kids at Disneyland when their dad's picked them up and swung them around, kissing their wife, driving them back to their home, loving them, staying...


How could I tell the man of my dreams I didn't know if he'd stay? How could he swear he would? ...The fear of ending up divorced four times, broken and raising four children on my own, like my mother...


God, I was petrified! I wanted what he did... but I... just... God...

Mel;


There was that look of his again. A mixture of fear, hatred and longing. It was chilling and powerful. But most of all, heartbreaking.


I tried to pay no mind to it, though.


"Taxi! Taxi!" I cried out, a few minutes later, when we were on the streets. But, no use. They all just drove by me. I could never get a taxi in this crazy city, which is why I usually took my beloved subway. Sure, it smelled and had a few oddballs hanging around in it, but at least I could catch it.


I looked to Zach. "Am I invisible?" I half joked. But then I realized I didn't even know where Coney Island was.


"Can we just walk it?"


Max;


Something was up.


She was...she was avoiding the question. I could hear it in her voice.


"Rachel.." I said, following her. "This is really important to me."


I could hear the guys at the comedy club laughing at me. I could hear them, in my mind, as they said, "You? And Rae? What could she possibly want in a goof like you?"


"She loves me." I told them, like it was obvious. "And I love her."


"She's a supermodel!" My friend, Billy, said. "Your type don't mix with hers, pal. She runs with a certain crowd. She'll end up marrying a movie producer or CEO of some company. Not a stand up comedian."


And I thought I had proved them wrong when Rae agreed to marry me.


But what if they were right? And if they were, why did Rae say yes?


"I know ten kids is a lot, but one or two can't be too hard. Eventually, we will get older and want to slow down. I mean, you're not gonna be a super model forever..."


Shit. I said the wrong thing.

"Hah, no. But in NYC you've got to be aggressive," I told her, and with a swift notion whistled loud enough to break glass,.nabbing a passing taxi who slammed on his breaks.in confusion. I held the door open for her and slipped in the back beside her.


"Surf Avenue," I told him.


"Coney Island?"


"That's the place."


"Alright, kid."


The car sped onwards, leaving behind our flashy, temporary residence, and intertwining with the crowded, upcoming intersection.


"So, we have a couple hours. What do you want to do? We cam grab some ice cream again, if you'd like," I told her, my eyes lingering out the window and I absent mindedly traced my thumb on her hand, feeling her soft skin and delicate fingers, enjoying and fearing the company all at once.


Ugh, I sounded like some bad chick flick.


---


I shyly turned around to face him, cornered at the dresser, stroking my engagement ring, my symbol of happiness. I was flushed up to my ears as he spoke, nervous, embarrassed, anxious, fearful.


And then, I was angry.


"It's not about my damn career!" I snapped, "Do you really think I'm that shallow? Like my whole freaking life revolves around the industry? You think I'd put off something like this for a paycheck?"


I angrily stepped away, only to whip around, my delicate fists clenched as I tried to process the right words, looking about as intimidating as a tiger cub. That's not even what I wanted to say. But it was part of it. What was I trying to tell him? Why didn't he just freaking know what I meant?!


"It's not about how many kids we have! Or when we have them! You don't know what I mean!"

Mel;


"Ice cream? Sure." I said, absent-minded. All I could concentrate on were his strong hands on my own, how good it felt; and then I noticed how our hands were so similar. His were covered in paint with a bit of green here, some blue there, and a little red on his thumb; my hands in were covered in pen ink, some blue, some black, some purple. We were the artist and the writer. The painter and the story teller.


"Well, would you look at that," I giggled, squeezing his hand. "Look at us."


Us. Could there be an us? Why didn't I just take the chance already? It didn't have to last forever. Who said love---or at least fondness---had to last forever?


It probably never lasted forever, except for a lucky few people. People like Rae and Max, perhaps.


Rae and Max, the perfect couple. How did they do it? How did Rae have the courage to give herself like that to the point of agreeing to spend the rest of her life with someone?


Sure, she was always bolder and braver than me. But a life long commitment to love and stay with someone and hope they do the same?


That was fearless.


I wanted to be fearless, especially with Zach.


Max;


"Then what is it about? Tell me what you mean." I said, frustrated, but gentle with her, regardless.


Was she hiding something?


I thought about my aunt Claudia and how she was never able to have children. She kept it a secret from her husband, afraid he would divorce her if he found out. She made it seem like she didn't want kids, but Uncle Ernie, her husband, made her go see a doctor and the truth was out.


Uncle Ernie wanted a divorce right away when he found out.


Was this a medical problem? Could this be totally out of her control? And was she afraid I would pull an Uncle Ernie on her?


"Babe, did you see a doctor? Did he tell you anything about not being able to..."


But she wasn't listening.


"Rae, don't ignore me!" I said, growing more frustrated. "If that's the problem, I will still love you! And I will still be with you, no matter what. We can always adopt." I said, trying not to cry.

"Hmm?" My eyes followed hers to our intertwined hands, and while at first I didn't get it, still focused on the fact that they were interlocked at all, eventually, I finally took notice to the lines of ink smothered a long her hand, like the paint splattered all over mine.


I laughed, "It's... oil paint, so it doesn't come off easy." I told, eyeing her hand very carefully and pointing out the blotches. "Blue ball point pen, jet black sharpie and... I think I see white out, right there."


I squeezed it gently, chuckling a little bit afterwards. The car drive continued on, weaving in out of traffic, and us making small tall to which the driver, luckily, mind no mind to.


"Are we almost there?" I asked, but the sudden increase of traffic and the distant, over sized Ferris wheel I'd only just noticed were very blatant.


"Surf Avenue, yeah?"


"That's the place."


"Then yeah, we are. Coney Island entrance is just up the street. That'll be twenty bucks, kid."


I let the irritation of being revered to as a youngster slide yet again, shoving a twenty his way and refusing the receipt.


"Thanks."


Upon exiting the car, I tugged Melanie.in the direction the cab guy had told us to go, moving slowly, as to not lose her, in a crowd this size. There were people everywhere, families, specifically, intermingled with couples, advertising, and apparently, theme park mascots. I didn't remember it as being this crowded as a kid, then again, dad let me ride on his shoulders... that one time we went.


"Come on," I grinned, though a bit of sweat was forming as the blaring sunlight, mixed with the adrenaline rush of pushing and shoving, became more prominent.


"Mmm, there it is, a child haven in all its greasy, metal glory," I gestured to the end of the street, where a towering sign with the big, blaring neon letters "WELCOME TO CONEY ISLAND!" were flickering on the top. As it was still daytime, it wasn't necessarily lit up yet. But night fell fast over NYC, we'd get a light show soon enough.


"Do I smell... Cotton candy?" I asked enthusiastically, tugging her that way, slipping my arm around her waist instead to hold her closer.


It didn't have to get serious. Just a day of fun with a beautiful woman. I could keep it light hearted. Right?


...Yeah, right.





---


"That's not it, I'm not barren!" I couldn't yell anymore, so it just came out a sob like whisper.


Why can't it just come out? It's been sitting on the tip of my tongue since I was seventeen! And I'm supposed to tell Max everything! ...Except what might make me lose him... I'm just, so...





"Max... I'm scared." I tried to inhale, but I was hyperventilating again, breathing heavy and quick, eyelashes dotted with tears. This brought me back to the night at his family's house, when they told me what I'd do, and I refused, and the division it caused... I didn't want that division between us. Young or not, I've known since I was eighteen that I wanted him, that I just... had to be with him, to have his attention on me, to be his, forever... Melanie knew it, too, the minute I came home after my shift at the restaurant, and I was so giggly, blushing, and head over heels about the funny, sweethearted, handsome man who just gave me his number...


Commitment sent guys away, what off upset him to learn just how committed I was? Could I say it so straight forward now?


I had to. Cause I think he's about to cry.


"I would give up everything for you if I had to without a complaint... just like my mom! Don't you get it? You're all I want, and that's terrifying! She had three failed marriages, and didn't even get that far before I came along and my dad suggested abortion! I was the mistake baby! No one even planned me!"


"She had the same dream of starting up a family and it failed three times just after she had a baby, she was eighteen the first time! They left her, moved on, cheated, got abusive..."


"Max.. I'm not accusing you of doing any of those things, but not knowing if you're going to change your mind someday? Sure, you want children now... And your parents actually stuck it out unlike mine... but at any given time, you might change your mind and leave me. For someone with no kids, someone younger, someone... blonde." I winced. "I don't want to give up my entire life and dedicate it to just surviving like she did. And... I don't want kids as much as I want you to stay with me. And... I don't want you to love them more than me, ever, and just leave me and take them..."


Did I sound pathetic and clingy or what? I plopped down on the edge of the bed, head in my hands and sniffling. "My mom says she's happier alone. But I grew up with the Disney happily ever after in mind, and you're... my Prince. I just wanna rule New York togetherrrrr." I whined, deciding I was so done with making sense.

Mel;


There was something spectacular and magical about hearing people scream on rollercoasters and having kids run around you, giggling and squealing.


And then I smelled the cotton candy.


And Zach confirmed it.


"Cotton candy!" I cried, jumping up and down like a child, before bumping into a girl in line for it.


"Oooh, sorry!" I said, before noticing it was one of the writers from the magazine, Paige. She wrote for the pop culture section.


"Oh," My co worker replied. "Melanie. What...what are you doing here?"


"Vacation," I answered, before I saw Lindsay, the beauty columnist, with her.


In fact, all the girls from the magazine were here.


"What are you guys doing here?" I asked, feeling uneasy.


Lindsay stepped in. "Oh, same. You know, weekend getaway for the columnists."


"How come nobody told me?" I asked. "I'm a columnist."


I knew from their silence that I was not invited.


Max;


"Rachel," I said, sitting on the bed and pulling her on to my lap. "Is that what you think? You think I would actually do that to you?"


I bit my lip then, and slowly said, "So. This is about me."


She didn't trust me, and I couldn't blame her, because of all she had been through. It was heartbreaking, but...I was still hurt. How could you build a relationship---a marriage---with no trust?


"I will never leave you, Rachel. Never. No one can compare to you. Don't be scared. I will always put you first, and I promise I will be a great husband and father and provider...but you gotta trust me. I'm not going anywhere. We will take on this world together, you and me, Rachel. Do you trust me?"


But I knew she couldn't, and that was what was so frustrating.