~The Life of Jessica: Episode 001: The Quest Begins~
Sept 2, 2021 12:25:56 GMT
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Post by Jessica Wyld on Sept 2, 2021 12:25:56 GMT
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A medium sized home, that is like every other home on this street in the equally quaint and easily missed town of Vivian, Louisiana is where our story begins. Inside of the living room, to be more exact. The walls of which have, much like the rest of this home, been painted in a soft lavender and the carpeting is a wine red. There are the standard features you would expect to see in a living room, too. A thirty inch Sony Television, currently switched off, sits atop an oak cabinet about five feet in front and diagonally to the right of the front window of the house with a single seat jet black armchair couch positioned six feet away, directly in front of the screen. Atop it, sits a woman who appears to be no younger than eighteen but no older than twenty, with striking blonde hair tied into a neat ponytail and rose colored make up around her lips and ocean blue eyes. She appears to be calm, tranquil as she gazes out the window. Deep in thought about … something.[ Her eyes appearing to be glazed over as if she is in a starry daydream, she slumps against the back of the couch./COLOR]
~~~I need to make sure that this isn't just the right choice for me, but that it's the place where I can truly make the world a better place. Shine my light.~~~
Continuing to ponder whatever it is, a gentle sigh leaves her lips. As if she knows what it is that she must consider, but doesn't know just how to approach considering it. Tilting her head back, she stares up at the ceiling. Trying to find something. Anything, that will lead her on the right path toward whatever it is that she is aspiring to be.
~~~I don't want to mess this up. I don't want to end up somewhere that isn't right and feel like I led myself down the wrong road and not be able to turn back.~~~
The sunlight continuing to peer through the window and connecting with the fabric of her black tank top and leggings, the still unidentified woman deeply thinks about whether this is what she truly wishes for. Her hair draped across the top of the couches hack and her neck pressing against the soft polyester cushion as her makeup appears as if it is beginning to smear and run down her face followed by small streams of tears. Whatever it is she is pondering, appears to have brought crying along with it. Tilting her head forward, she lifts her right hand slowly, using the back to wipe her eyes calmly as she continues staring, this time once more toward the window. As much as she wishes to, she cannot dismiss these thoughts. This stream of consciousness that is permeating throughout her mind and body in equal volume. Such is the cost of attempting to consider it all whilst keeping her emotions in check. For she doesn't want people to see her in this vulnerable state. Especially when she doesn't know who might be able to see her. Or who might be secretly using this as a means to judge her.
~~~I can't afford to misstep.~~~
Remaining seated, she raises her right hand once more. This time gently swiping it across her forehead as if she were sweeping back her bangs. Yet she remains internally lost, something that is visible by the vacant, candid expression upon her face. The sanguine look within her eyes as the sun reflects off them. Adjusting her body gently, she lets out a short, calm breath. This has to be the most important decision of her life, with as much energy and emotion she has devoted to it.
~"I finally understand what they meant when they told me that choosing the right path is the hardest decision one can make"~
Vocalizing this softly and reflectively, she feels herself beginning to slump once more and straightens herself up as she places her hands up to her face. Running her hands through her hair, she feels tears welling up in her eyes, her eyeliner now smeared down her cheeks.
~~~I know I can do this. I know that I have to.~~~
Rising to her feet, she takes another breath. This one deep and more of a means of attempting to calm herself down as she walks leisurely across the carpet. As if she were a robot, solely focused on going outside and hoping the fresh air can help clear her mind. Cleanse her. Each step softly hitting the nylon, she makes her way into the main hallway, which is painted in the same lavender color as the living room and lined with the same carpet, she continues her walk. Her body is as emotionless as her face as her ponytail droops halfway down her neck. Reaching the door, she places her hand on the cold, brass handle and turns it clockwise before swinging the door open as she steps out. The air immediately brushing against her skin and clothing, causing a gentle shiver to run down her back and legs.
~"This is what I want. This is what I chose for myself and it is I who must ensure that it is done right."~
Remarking this solemnly, she gently closes the door behind her. Being sure that nobody has noticed that she has left. Staring out at the road ahead of her, it serves as a metaphor for her own plight. A means for her to visualize herself walking along it, not fully knowing where her destination is, but understanding that eventually, it will come to light. That someday, maybe even soon, she will know where it is she must go. Just what her next course of action shall be. It is the probing question she wishes to answer. The query that has led her on this walk.
~"This journey is my chance. My opportunity to ensure that I make a name for myself. That I am able to look back and say that I did everything I could to make it all a reality. To take the next step in my life and open a new chapter. Tell the story I wish to tell in the way I wish for it to be told. That this is nobody's recital but my own."~
Her words floating through the vacant street, she continues down the sidewalk. Passing houses that she has many times before, whether it has been on her way to school or the local park where she would hang out with friends. None of that is relevant to her now, though, as these houses feel like a blur to her. It's like they're not even there and instead, replaced with vacant, spacious countryside, with only trees and grass as well as the birds chirping their song overhead to keep her company. She likes it that way though, as it allows her to truly envision what it is she is after. Something that she doesn't even fully know at this moment in time, such is the war that is raging inside of her own mind. A war that she cannot fully escape, no matter how valiantly she tries.
~~~Why can't I get out of my own head? Why can't I just make this all go away? I just want to fall asleep and not have to worry...~~~
Feeling a knot begin to form in her stomach as the color from her face slowly drains into a pale, ghost white color, her thoughts consume her. Even though she had hoped that this walk would clear her mind, it seems as if it has only caused them to resonate even stronger.
~~~Please. Just let me be.~~~
Pleading internally, she lets out a sigh of resignation as her feet continue to pound against the concrete. Maybe she should have just stayed home and turned on the TV, even if she has always been more at one with nature and her surroundings if this was going to be her walk. That would have been easier than feeling entrapped within herself. Her chin begins to tremble, as she attempts to fight the urge. The screaming from deep within her to cry. To project her sense of weakness upon the world. To truly reveal herself as nothing more than a human who cannot grasp the cataclysm raging within herself. Just as she feels the tears beginning to flow down her face once more, a wave rushes through her. One that is almost … relaxing in a strange sense. As if by allowing the tears to flow, she has liberated herself, as a warm embrace begins to surround her. Yet there is nobody within ten feet of her in either direction. It's all internal.
~~~Thank you.~~~
The droplets of tears hit her tank top as she slowly raises her right hand. Not to wipe them away as she had done before, but to push back her bangs that had fallen down from her scalp and are resting atop her forehead. Placing her hand back by her side after completing the task, the woman whispers.
~"Relax, Jessica. Just relax and it'll be over soon."~
Reaching the intersection at the end of her street, Jessica continues staring forward. Still within her trance but with a feeling of relief. Her eyes return to the sanguine expression she had prior to leaving her home as her face begins to relax, a tentative smile managing to work its way across her lips. She turns right as the lines of houses begin to return in a visual sense to her, the previous blur replaced by a sense of revelation.
~"I think I know my choice now. I think I know the path I need to take."~
Wryly smiling, the Louisiana native and country girl at heart professes this as she reaches another intersection. This one leading toward the park she had been heading to when she set out in the first place. Glancing around, she notices the street is empty, aside from a few people who are bringing their trash cans back into their yards and those who are in the park itself, but it is a smaller volume of people than usual. Five to ten rather than the typical fifty to seventy people. Despite that, two of the people who are at the park appear to be familiar to her, though she can only make them out in the distance. One woman and one man, both of whom she has known since elementary school. Making them out by their hair color, which is the main feature she can obtain a glimpse of at this distance. The woman has chocolate brown hair, the male auburn red. Making her way closer, Jessica feels a slight sense of joy begin to rise, as these are indeed her friends. The woman is wearing a black t-shirt, black leggings and black tennis shoes, whilst the male is wearing a white Nike pullover hoodie, navy blue shorts and black/red athletics shoes. Both of them seem to be having their own conversation as Jessica begins to jog her way in their direction.
~"Hey Jess."~
The male, having looked up from his phone when he heard footsteps, is the first to acknowledge Jess, who responds with a sweet wave and smile.
~"Hey Mike. How are you?"~
~I'm good, thanks. You?"~
Jessica closes her eyes and leans her head back, so that she would be looking up at the sky. Unsure of how best to answer that query, even if she had asked him first.
~~~Do I tell him the truth? Do I tell him about the propositions?~~~
Deep down, she is hoping that the woman will interject and save her from having to unveil the truth. The fact that she has been emotionally battling with her choice when it comes to her future all day, because she doesn't want to burden him with it. She didn't come here to burden anyone but herself with what has been flowing through her.
~"Jessica?"~
His voice is calm yet somewhat worried, it is enough to cause Jessica to glance at him after tilting her head back down. Her jaw slightly clenching as she holds a vacant look within her eyes. As if she is spaced out. Michael simply places his hand in front of her face, hoping that it will be able to attain her attention and get her to answer him.
~Everything okay?"~
The woman queries, an expression of concern beginning to rise upon her own face, as she makes direct contact with her friend. They were used to her spacing out on occasion, but something felt … different about this time, yet they couldn't put their finger on it.
~~~I wish I could tell them. They've always been here for me, but I just can't bring myself to. I don't wish for this to be their weight. I am the only one who can truly answer this.~~~
Feeling her teeth begin to grind against one another as she purses her lips, Jessica finally looks at Michael, softly inhaling. Attempting to coax words out of herself.
~"Sorry. I … was just doing some thinking."~
~"About?"~
His question asked in a direct manner, it causes Jessica to slightly rock back onto her heels. Still unsure of how she wishes to approach answering this, but knowing that he would worry if she ignored the question a second time.[ Even if she feels it is the best thing for her to do./COLOR]
~"N … Nothing. Don't worry about it."~
Managing to stammer this out, she notices by the widening of Michael's eyes that he isn't entirely convinced by that response. Especially not the "Don't worry about it," portion yet she simply responds with a cute smile.
~~~I know she's lying to me. I know there's … something she is trying to hide, but it's best not to probe. Especially after last time.~~~
Michael continues to gaze into her eyes, trying to coax whatever she is obviously trying to hide from her. After all, they have been friends ever since third grade and it's not like her to keep secrets from either him or the woman. Just like it isn't like either of them to keep secrets from her.
~"Monica?"~
Jessica comments this, her attempt at breaking up the tense silence that had begun to rise within the air. A silence that Monica had added to by simply staring down at her phone. Though Jessica's words cause her to tilt her head up and look in her direction.
~"Yeah?"~
Jessica slyly smirks, as Michael glances in her direction. Having accepted that he is probably not going to be able to break through Jessica's veil, though her manner of responding then attempting to divert the discussion still bothers him. At least internally.
~"What is it?"~
Her question asked in a deadpan tone, it causes Jessica to softly tease her by placing her right hand under her jaw, as if she were thinking.
~"Nothing. Was just making sure you were still here."~
~"Uh huh, sure."~
Her tone sarcastic, it causes Jessica to defensively step back, positioning her hands in a manner that screams "don't hurt me".
~"I was!"~
Monica nods, not trying to engage in an argument. Even if it is one in good faith and with friendly undertones. Glancing downward, she notices a new message appear on her phone, causing her to furrow her eyebrows.
~~~I know you're still there. Lingering. Reminding me of why I took this walk in the first place. I know it's right though. I know this is where it has to be … that they are the best place for me.~~~
Her choice still on her mind, Jessica glances across at Michael, who has wandered off in the direction of the playground, where two kids, no older than seven are sitting on the swings. She calmly evaluates the rest of the park, making sure that nothing untoward is about to occur before a gentle hum to herself, an expression of calm across her face.
~~~The IIW. They are the ones that feel right. They are where I shall make my home.~~~
She grins, having finally come to a conclusion to the issue that had been plaguing her. Whatever that issue was, but her grin indicates that she is at peace with it. She then looks back at Monica, who has placed her phone back in the pocket of her jeans and is simply sitting atop the bench. Waiting for Jessica to resume their little conversation.
~~~Do I tell her?~~~
~"How's Trixie?"~
Slightly jumping, Jessica snaps back into reality upon that query about her 2 year old Golden Retriever. The apple of her eye. Regaining her composure, she giggles.
~"She's great. Got her a new dog house on Monday, and she's been sleeping in there non-stop."~
~"Ha ha, that's awesome."~
Jessica's laughter is light and from a relatively shallow position in her throat as her face exudes joy. Her eyes widening as her face glows and she feels her toes curling upward, just as Monica pins her own shoulder back, a tranquil expression across her face.
~"Yeah. Dad built it for her."~
Monica nods.
~"Yeah ha ha. Don't want to be getting splinters now."~
~"Uh huh."~
Monica then hesitates, considering something. Maybe how Jessica had been when she first arrived at the park. She knew that sometimes she could be vacant, but not to that extent and as much as she had been able to cast it off to the side, it still bothered her.
~So, what is it?"~
Jessica just glances at her. Unsure about what she is referring to.
~"Huh?"~
~~~Has she figured it out? Does she know?~~~
~"Earlier. You looked ... off. As if there's something that's bothering you. What was it?"~
A pit begins to manifest within Jessica, as she slightly leans back on her heels again. Just as she had done earlier when Mike had put her on the spot. Though, unlike with Mike, she knows Monica will continue to press and extract a direct answer from her.
~"I was just thinking about a decision I needed to make, pertaining to my next step."~
~"This is about wrestling, isn't it?"~
Jessica slightly leans inward. She knew Monica was likely to figure it out, seeing as they had talked about her potential career in the sport, despite the latter not being a fan.
~"Yeah. I was trying to think about just where would be the best place to start off my career. Get my name out there, you know?"~
~"Yeah. I know what you mean. Sent my résumé out to a few magazines and agencies last night, hoping to get a response in the next few days. You find somewhere?"~
~"Yep."~
She exhales gently through her pursed lips.
~"A place called the IIW. Met with them yesterday and it feels right. It was like we clicked from the moment I locked eyes with them."~
Monica stands up, extending her arms out for a hug. A gesture that Jessica reciprocates as the two wrap their arms around one another.
~"I'm proud of you, Jess. I know you'll kick ass there and do us proud."~
A small tingle runs up Jessica's spine at those words. She wasn't sure about it initially, but hearing that causes a feeling of delight and confidence to race throughout her.
~~~I know I can … I know that they will be there every step of the way, but I don't want to let them down. I don't want to fail them.~~~
Her eyebrows raising, she softly leans further into the hug, her mouth hovering about three inches from Monica's earlobe as she calmly whispers.
~"I will. I promise."~
~"I'm sure of it."~
Monica claps her back thrice as the two then break the hug, just as Michael leisurely walks back toward them. Having spotted them engaging in discourse and the more jovial demeanor of Jessica from his vantage point near the swings.
~"How were the swings?"
She quips right as Michael reaches her right hand side.
~"Ha ha, they were the swings. Same as always."~
He teases, as Jessica clears her throat. Preparing to tell him what she had disclosed to Monica prior. Finally answering his question truthfully and not dancing around it, as she had done previously.
~"So, uh, there's something I need to tell you."~
His ears perking up, Michael stares at her. Awaiting her to continue with what it is she wishes to inform him of.
~"I … I kind of have a new job."~
She reveals, as Michael maintains eye contact with her, his chin trembling in happiness for his friend.
~Awesome. What job?"~
~"A wrestler. The IIW offered me a contract and I accepted."~
Leaping for joy, Michael's chuckle rises from deep inside of his throat. He, much like Monica, knows how much this means to Jessica and what it provides her with, in terms of her dreams.
~"That's fantastic! I'm proud of you and I know you'll succeed."~
Jessica simply responds with a dimpled smile as she feels her face beginning to flush with excitement. A stark contrast to her glum, almost dejected emotional state from when she initially engaged with him.
~"Thanks. I just want to make sure I make the world brighter and show them what I'm capable of in the ring. Make them see that even though I'm still getting my feet wet, that doesn't mean they can overlook me."~
She giggles.
~"You will. I've seen you working out in gym class. You'll do great."~
Jessica's expression turns to one of curiosity.
~"What, you saw me doing that? You saw me embarrass myself?"~
~"I wouldn't say it was embarrassing, but yeah. I saw you when I was walking past the gym, heading to my science classes."~
Blushing, Jessica simply shoots him a nervous smile, thinking back to those classes.
~"You used to kick ass in the gym, Jess. I wouldn't be so modest about it."~
Monica interjects, receiving a raised index finger and shushing motion in response, before Michael glances over at Monica. Raising his left thumb up in silent approval.
~"Aww, you're both so sweet."~
~"Isn't that what friends are for? Plus, you're the sweetest one out of us."~
~"Second what Monica said."~
Blushing, Jessica's chin trembles ever so slightly as she beams.
~"Thank you, for real."~
She then reaches into her pocket, pulling out her Samsung Galaxy S20 and staring down at the time.
~~~Wow. It's already 5? I thought it was like 2. Shit, I should probably get back before dinner. Or before mom and dad notice I went out.~~~
Turning around as if to walk back home, she turns her head over her right shoulder. A pained expression managing to rise within her eyes as her pupils dilate.
~"Sadly, I have to go back home. Want to be back before dinner."~
Her two friends wave at her, smiling in acceptance.
~"Okay. I'll text you later."~
~"Of course. See you later. Love you."~
With that, Jessica walks off with an extra spring in her step, as Monica and Michael turn to one another. Continuing their conversation from before she had arrived at the park. Soon, Jessica will be IIW bound and ready to prove she is ready for whatever they will throw at her.
The Life of Jessica: Episode 001.
~The Quest Begins~
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A medium sized home, that is like every other home on this street in the equally quaint and easily missed town of Vivian, Louisiana is where our story begins. Inside of the living room, to be more exact. The walls of which have, much like the rest of this home, been painted in a soft lavender and the carpeting is a wine red. There are the standard features you would expect to see in a living room, too. A thirty inch Sony Television, currently switched off, sits atop an oak cabinet about five feet in front and diagonally to the right of the front window of the house with a single seat jet black armchair couch positioned six feet away, directly in front of the screen. Atop it, sits a woman who appears to be no younger than eighteen but no older than twenty, with striking blonde hair tied into a neat ponytail and rose colored make up around her lips and ocean blue eyes. She appears to be calm, tranquil as she gazes out the window. Deep in thought about … something.[ Her eyes appearing to be glazed over as if she is in a starry daydream, she slumps against the back of the couch./COLOR]
~~~I need to make sure that this isn't just the right choice for me, but that it's the place where I can truly make the world a better place. Shine my light.~~~
Continuing to ponder whatever it is, a gentle sigh leaves her lips. As if she knows what it is that she must consider, but doesn't know just how to approach considering it. Tilting her head back, she stares up at the ceiling. Trying to find something. Anything, that will lead her on the right path toward whatever it is that she is aspiring to be.
~~~I don't want to mess this up. I don't want to end up somewhere that isn't right and feel like I led myself down the wrong road and not be able to turn back.~~~
The sunlight continuing to peer through the window and connecting with the fabric of her black tank top and leggings, the still unidentified woman deeply thinks about whether this is what she truly wishes for. Her hair draped across the top of the couches hack and her neck pressing against the soft polyester cushion as her makeup appears as if it is beginning to smear and run down her face followed by small streams of tears. Whatever it is she is pondering, appears to have brought crying along with it. Tilting her head forward, she lifts her right hand slowly, using the back to wipe her eyes calmly as she continues staring, this time once more toward the window. As much as she wishes to, she cannot dismiss these thoughts. This stream of consciousness that is permeating throughout her mind and body in equal volume. Such is the cost of attempting to consider it all whilst keeping her emotions in check. For she doesn't want people to see her in this vulnerable state. Especially when she doesn't know who might be able to see her. Or who might be secretly using this as a means to judge her.
~~~I can't afford to misstep.~~~
Remaining seated, she raises her right hand once more. This time gently swiping it across her forehead as if she were sweeping back her bangs. Yet she remains internally lost, something that is visible by the vacant, candid expression upon her face. The sanguine look within her eyes as the sun reflects off them. Adjusting her body gently, she lets out a short, calm breath. This has to be the most important decision of her life, with as much energy and emotion she has devoted to it.
~"I finally understand what they meant when they told me that choosing the right path is the hardest decision one can make"~
Vocalizing this softly and reflectively, she feels herself beginning to slump once more and straightens herself up as she places her hands up to her face. Running her hands through her hair, she feels tears welling up in her eyes, her eyeliner now smeared down her cheeks.
~~~I know I can do this. I know that I have to.~~~
Rising to her feet, she takes another breath. This one deep and more of a means of attempting to calm herself down as she walks leisurely across the carpet. As if she were a robot, solely focused on going outside and hoping the fresh air can help clear her mind. Cleanse her. Each step softly hitting the nylon, she makes her way into the main hallway, which is painted in the same lavender color as the living room and lined with the same carpet, she continues her walk. Her body is as emotionless as her face as her ponytail droops halfway down her neck. Reaching the door, she places her hand on the cold, brass handle and turns it clockwise before swinging the door open as she steps out. The air immediately brushing against her skin and clothing, causing a gentle shiver to run down her back and legs.
~"This is what I want. This is what I chose for myself and it is I who must ensure that it is done right."~
Remarking this solemnly, she gently closes the door behind her. Being sure that nobody has noticed that she has left. Staring out at the road ahead of her, it serves as a metaphor for her own plight. A means for her to visualize herself walking along it, not fully knowing where her destination is, but understanding that eventually, it will come to light. That someday, maybe even soon, she will know where it is she must go. Just what her next course of action shall be. It is the probing question she wishes to answer. The query that has led her on this walk.
~"This journey is my chance. My opportunity to ensure that I make a name for myself. That I am able to look back and say that I did everything I could to make it all a reality. To take the next step in my life and open a new chapter. Tell the story I wish to tell in the way I wish for it to be told. That this is nobody's recital but my own."~
Her words floating through the vacant street, she continues down the sidewalk. Passing houses that she has many times before, whether it has been on her way to school or the local park where she would hang out with friends. None of that is relevant to her now, though, as these houses feel like a blur to her. It's like they're not even there and instead, replaced with vacant, spacious countryside, with only trees and grass as well as the birds chirping their song overhead to keep her company. She likes it that way though, as it allows her to truly envision what it is she is after. Something that she doesn't even fully know at this moment in time, such is the war that is raging inside of her own mind. A war that she cannot fully escape, no matter how valiantly she tries.
~~~Why can't I get out of my own head? Why can't I just make this all go away? I just want to fall asleep and not have to worry...~~~
Feeling a knot begin to form in her stomach as the color from her face slowly drains into a pale, ghost white color, her thoughts consume her. Even though she had hoped that this walk would clear her mind, it seems as if it has only caused them to resonate even stronger.
~~~Please. Just let me be.~~~
Pleading internally, she lets out a sigh of resignation as her feet continue to pound against the concrete. Maybe she should have just stayed home and turned on the TV, even if she has always been more at one with nature and her surroundings if this was going to be her walk. That would have been easier than feeling entrapped within herself. Her chin begins to tremble, as she attempts to fight the urge. The screaming from deep within her to cry. To project her sense of weakness upon the world. To truly reveal herself as nothing more than a human who cannot grasp the cataclysm raging within herself. Just as she feels the tears beginning to flow down her face once more, a wave rushes through her. One that is almost … relaxing in a strange sense. As if by allowing the tears to flow, she has liberated herself, as a warm embrace begins to surround her. Yet there is nobody within ten feet of her in either direction. It's all internal.
~~~Thank you.~~~
The droplets of tears hit her tank top as she slowly raises her right hand. Not to wipe them away as she had done before, but to push back her bangs that had fallen down from her scalp and are resting atop her forehead. Placing her hand back by her side after completing the task, the woman whispers.
~"Relax, Jessica. Just relax and it'll be over soon."~
Reaching the intersection at the end of her street, Jessica continues staring forward. Still within her trance but with a feeling of relief. Her eyes return to the sanguine expression she had prior to leaving her home as her face begins to relax, a tentative smile managing to work its way across her lips. She turns right as the lines of houses begin to return in a visual sense to her, the previous blur replaced by a sense of revelation.
~"I think I know my choice now. I think I know the path I need to take."~
Wryly smiling, the Louisiana native and country girl at heart professes this as she reaches another intersection. This one leading toward the park she had been heading to when she set out in the first place. Glancing around, she notices the street is empty, aside from a few people who are bringing their trash cans back into their yards and those who are in the park itself, but it is a smaller volume of people than usual. Five to ten rather than the typical fifty to seventy people. Despite that, two of the people who are at the park appear to be familiar to her, though she can only make them out in the distance. One woman and one man, both of whom she has known since elementary school. Making them out by their hair color, which is the main feature she can obtain a glimpse of at this distance. The woman has chocolate brown hair, the male auburn red. Making her way closer, Jessica feels a slight sense of joy begin to rise, as these are indeed her friends. The woman is wearing a black t-shirt, black leggings and black tennis shoes, whilst the male is wearing a white Nike pullover hoodie, navy blue shorts and black/red athletics shoes. Both of them seem to be having their own conversation as Jessica begins to jog her way in their direction.
~"Hey Jess."~
The male, having looked up from his phone when he heard footsteps, is the first to acknowledge Jess, who responds with a sweet wave and smile.
~"Hey Mike. How are you?"~
~I'm good, thanks. You?"~
Jessica closes her eyes and leans her head back, so that she would be looking up at the sky. Unsure of how best to answer that query, even if she had asked him first.
~~~Do I tell him the truth? Do I tell him about the propositions?~~~
Deep down, she is hoping that the woman will interject and save her from having to unveil the truth. The fact that she has been emotionally battling with her choice when it comes to her future all day, because she doesn't want to burden him with it. She didn't come here to burden anyone but herself with what has been flowing through her.
~"Jessica?"~
His voice is calm yet somewhat worried, it is enough to cause Jessica to glance at him after tilting her head back down. Her jaw slightly clenching as she holds a vacant look within her eyes. As if she is spaced out. Michael simply places his hand in front of her face, hoping that it will be able to attain her attention and get her to answer him.
~Everything okay?"~
The woman queries, an expression of concern beginning to rise upon her own face, as she makes direct contact with her friend. They were used to her spacing out on occasion, but something felt … different about this time, yet they couldn't put their finger on it.
~~~I wish I could tell them. They've always been here for me, but I just can't bring myself to. I don't wish for this to be their weight. I am the only one who can truly answer this.~~~
Feeling her teeth begin to grind against one another as she purses her lips, Jessica finally looks at Michael, softly inhaling. Attempting to coax words out of herself.
~"Sorry. I … was just doing some thinking."~
~"About?"~
His question asked in a direct manner, it causes Jessica to slightly rock back onto her heels. Still unsure of how she wishes to approach answering this, but knowing that he would worry if she ignored the question a second time.[ Even if she feels it is the best thing for her to do./COLOR]
~"N … Nothing. Don't worry about it."~
Managing to stammer this out, she notices by the widening of Michael's eyes that he isn't entirely convinced by that response. Especially not the "Don't worry about it," portion yet she simply responds with a cute smile.
~~~I know she's lying to me. I know there's … something she is trying to hide, but it's best not to probe. Especially after last time.~~~
Michael continues to gaze into her eyes, trying to coax whatever she is obviously trying to hide from her. After all, they have been friends ever since third grade and it's not like her to keep secrets from either him or the woman. Just like it isn't like either of them to keep secrets from her.
~"Monica?"~
Jessica comments this, her attempt at breaking up the tense silence that had begun to rise within the air. A silence that Monica had added to by simply staring down at her phone. Though Jessica's words cause her to tilt her head up and look in her direction.
~"Yeah?"~
Jessica slyly smirks, as Michael glances in her direction. Having accepted that he is probably not going to be able to break through Jessica's veil, though her manner of responding then attempting to divert the discussion still bothers him. At least internally.
~"What is it?"~
Her question asked in a deadpan tone, it causes Jessica to softly tease her by placing her right hand under her jaw, as if she were thinking.
~"Nothing. Was just making sure you were still here."~
~"Uh huh, sure."~
Her tone sarcastic, it causes Jessica to defensively step back, positioning her hands in a manner that screams "don't hurt me".
~"I was!"~
Monica nods, not trying to engage in an argument. Even if it is one in good faith and with friendly undertones. Glancing downward, she notices a new message appear on her phone, causing her to furrow her eyebrows.
~~~I know you're still there. Lingering. Reminding me of why I took this walk in the first place. I know it's right though. I know this is where it has to be … that they are the best place for me.~~~
Her choice still on her mind, Jessica glances across at Michael, who has wandered off in the direction of the playground, where two kids, no older than seven are sitting on the swings. She calmly evaluates the rest of the park, making sure that nothing untoward is about to occur before a gentle hum to herself, an expression of calm across her face.
~~~The IIW. They are the ones that feel right. They are where I shall make my home.~~~
She grins, having finally come to a conclusion to the issue that had been plaguing her. Whatever that issue was, but her grin indicates that she is at peace with it. She then looks back at Monica, who has placed her phone back in the pocket of her jeans and is simply sitting atop the bench. Waiting for Jessica to resume their little conversation.
~~~Do I tell her?~~~
~"How's Trixie?"~
Slightly jumping, Jessica snaps back into reality upon that query about her 2 year old Golden Retriever. The apple of her eye. Regaining her composure, she giggles.
~"She's great. Got her a new dog house on Monday, and she's been sleeping in there non-stop."~
~"Ha ha, that's awesome."~
Jessica's laughter is light and from a relatively shallow position in her throat as her face exudes joy. Her eyes widening as her face glows and she feels her toes curling upward, just as Monica pins her own shoulder back, a tranquil expression across her face.
~"Yeah. Dad built it for her."~
Monica nods.
~"Yeah ha ha. Don't want to be getting splinters now."~
~"Uh huh."~
Monica then hesitates, considering something. Maybe how Jessica had been when she first arrived at the park. She knew that sometimes she could be vacant, but not to that extent and as much as she had been able to cast it off to the side, it still bothered her.
~So, what is it?"~
Jessica just glances at her. Unsure about what she is referring to.
~"Huh?"~
~~~Has she figured it out? Does she know?~~~
~"Earlier. You looked ... off. As if there's something that's bothering you. What was it?"~
A pit begins to manifest within Jessica, as she slightly leans back on her heels again. Just as she had done earlier when Mike had put her on the spot. Though, unlike with Mike, she knows Monica will continue to press and extract a direct answer from her.
~"I was just thinking about a decision I needed to make, pertaining to my next step."~
~"This is about wrestling, isn't it?"~
Jessica slightly leans inward. She knew Monica was likely to figure it out, seeing as they had talked about her potential career in the sport, despite the latter not being a fan.
~"Yeah. I was trying to think about just where would be the best place to start off my career. Get my name out there, you know?"~
~"Yeah. I know what you mean. Sent my résumé out to a few magazines and agencies last night, hoping to get a response in the next few days. You find somewhere?"~
~"Yep."~
She exhales gently through her pursed lips.
~"A place called the IIW. Met with them yesterday and it feels right. It was like we clicked from the moment I locked eyes with them."~
Monica stands up, extending her arms out for a hug. A gesture that Jessica reciprocates as the two wrap their arms around one another.
~"I'm proud of you, Jess. I know you'll kick ass there and do us proud."~
A small tingle runs up Jessica's spine at those words. She wasn't sure about it initially, but hearing that causes a feeling of delight and confidence to race throughout her.
~~~I know I can … I know that they will be there every step of the way, but I don't want to let them down. I don't want to fail them.~~~
Her eyebrows raising, she softly leans further into the hug, her mouth hovering about three inches from Monica's earlobe as she calmly whispers.
~"I will. I promise."~
~"I'm sure of it."~
Monica claps her back thrice as the two then break the hug, just as Michael leisurely walks back toward them. Having spotted them engaging in discourse and the more jovial demeanor of Jessica from his vantage point near the swings.
~"How were the swings?"
She quips right as Michael reaches her right hand side.
~"Ha ha, they were the swings. Same as always."~
He teases, as Jessica clears her throat. Preparing to tell him what she had disclosed to Monica prior. Finally answering his question truthfully and not dancing around it, as she had done previously.
~"So, uh, there's something I need to tell you."~
His ears perking up, Michael stares at her. Awaiting her to continue with what it is she wishes to inform him of.
~"I … I kind of have a new job."~
She reveals, as Michael maintains eye contact with her, his chin trembling in happiness for his friend.
~Awesome. What job?"~
~"A wrestler. The IIW offered me a contract and I accepted."~
Leaping for joy, Michael's chuckle rises from deep inside of his throat. He, much like Monica, knows how much this means to Jessica and what it provides her with, in terms of her dreams.
~"That's fantastic! I'm proud of you and I know you'll succeed."~
Jessica simply responds with a dimpled smile as she feels her face beginning to flush with excitement. A stark contrast to her glum, almost dejected emotional state from when she initially engaged with him.
~"Thanks. I just want to make sure I make the world brighter and show them what I'm capable of in the ring. Make them see that even though I'm still getting my feet wet, that doesn't mean they can overlook me."~
She giggles.
~"You will. I've seen you working out in gym class. You'll do great."~
Jessica's expression turns to one of curiosity.
~"What, you saw me doing that? You saw me embarrass myself?"~
~"I wouldn't say it was embarrassing, but yeah. I saw you when I was walking past the gym, heading to my science classes."~
Blushing, Jessica simply shoots him a nervous smile, thinking back to those classes.
~"You used to kick ass in the gym, Jess. I wouldn't be so modest about it."~
Monica interjects, receiving a raised index finger and shushing motion in response, before Michael glances over at Monica. Raising his left thumb up in silent approval.
~"Aww, you're both so sweet."~
~"Isn't that what friends are for? Plus, you're the sweetest one out of us."~
~"Second what Monica said."~
Blushing, Jessica's chin trembles ever so slightly as she beams.
~"Thank you, for real."~
She then reaches into her pocket, pulling out her Samsung Galaxy S20 and staring down at the time.
~~~Wow. It's already 5? I thought it was like 2. Shit, I should probably get back before dinner. Or before mom and dad notice I went out.~~~
Turning around as if to walk back home, she turns her head over her right shoulder. A pained expression managing to rise within her eyes as her pupils dilate.
~"Sadly, I have to go back home. Want to be back before dinner."~
Her two friends wave at her, smiling in acceptance.
~"Okay. I'll text you later."~
~"Of course. See you later. Love you."~
With that, Jessica walks off with an extra spring in her step, as Monica and Michael turn to one another. Continuing their conversation from before she had arrived at the park. Soon, Jessica will be IIW bound and ready to prove she is ready for whatever they will throw at her.