Realistic or Modern Spellbound

[Soliloquy]

Things felt like they were progressing quickly, but she also couldn't think of a reason to say no. She might have gone over to see them since Sunday had fallen through, but that was about it. "We can if you'd like to," she said, look at the cute little envelope. "But don't get your hopes up, because she might not be working or worse, she might not be happy to see you. Fights are hard like that."

 

[xrakkax]

Granya nodded. She looked to Willow to follow her back to the blankets. Theo and the others were in discussion about Halloween. Molly was going to go as the Ballerina from Black Swan. People tended to think they looked a lot alike. Jovan also thought he’d dress up. As Lyov. The Grandpa took that as a compliment and offered one of his eye patches. They enjoyed the hilarity but soon quieted as Granya came back with eyes touched by sadness.

“Shchenok, you okay?” Theo asked, knowing she wasn’t, and hoping to get some information.

Granya didn’t feel comfortable saying anything here. Everyone was staring at her. Reflexively she stepped behind Willow. Molly and the rest gave the girl room, motioning that they’d let her to her business with Theo and Willow and keep their noses out of it. Not unkindly, but in fact with all consideration.

Theo got up then and held Willows hand while he leaned to exchange words with Granya. In the end he nodded and turned to the others, “Uncle Jovan, would you take Lyov home if we’re not back by the end?”

“Da.” Jovan nodded.

Molly desperately wanted to know what was up, but she just wasn’t as close with Granya. So she only smiled and wished them well. So Theo walked with Willow and Granya to the car. He decided he’d be an extra support. They drove to the Mall where Willow ended up taking the lead, since she and Molly had been to this pizza shop the day they had their salon trip. Granya walked right snug behind Willow and Theo, because she wanted front cover. When the three arrived at Papa Pizza, Granya became unnerved before they even got into the shop. Her hand went to squeeze Theo’s in anxiety.

The door opened, they went in, and Theo decided to take the lead here, asking Willow to comfort Granya. The girl leaned against Willow who felt Granya’s trembling through the thick wool coat. Finn sat on Granya’s other shoulder to spare Willow a face of feathers. Granya’s fingers felt cold holding the envelope. She hoped she didn’t need it, but it was with her just in case.

“Oh, sir, we don’t allow animals.” Said an older staff.

“We leave soon, very soon. Just want to talk with Ruby.”

“Ruby?” The Papa Pizza worker cocked a brow. “I don’t know you’re-- Oh wait. Well man, I haven’t heard from her in a while.”

“Da?” Theo frowned. “How long?”

“Eh, I’d say a month. Ruby just up and disappeared on us without a word. She’s been considered fired, or quit, I don’t know how that works.” The worker rubbed the back of their neck. “Sorry mister.”

Granta felt her heart drop and she tucked her face against her collar, feeling a little weak in the knees. Theo turned to Granya with a sad, apologetic shrug. He went and wrapped an arm that enfolded Willow Granya’s shoulders. “C’mon Shchenok. Let’s get you home.” He peered at Willow with a defeated, uncertain expression.

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow took the responsibility of standing beside Granya very seriously. She kept her close, hand hold hers for support and encouragement as they entered the pizza place. The familiar scent of marinara and dough hit her, vaguely remembering their visit after the shopping spree to prelude the first park day. With that in the back of her mind, they walked toward the counter, Theo taking lead and speaking for them all.

Her own brows furrowed together at the news. That was bizarre if you asked her, seeing as work wasn't the easiest to come by in this town, as Willow was well aware. They were just about to turn and head out when something struck her. The scent of the pizzeria wasn't the only thing she recalled from that day. No, there was also a smiling face behind the counter that had greeted them in the most chipper of manners.

Pulling out her phone as she led the way out of Papa Pizza, she called up Molly. "The pizza girl!" Polite introductions of the phone were past, something was itching at her bad. "After we had our nails done and were shopping. What was the pizza girl's name? Ruby Mc-something. Do you remember Molls?" Their visit might have been a few weeks ago, but she had been a rare face of happiness in the tormented sea of customer service.

 

[xrakkax]

Theo and Granya overheard Willow speak with Molly, being right beside her. The timing added up with when the girls had gone out to the Mall. Some part of Granya hoped in their conversation would be some kind of clue to what had happened. But by what Molly said to Willow the girl hadn’t had a worry in the world. Granya remembered her as a cheery person. The sunny star to Granya’s pessimistic rain cloud.

“Yeah, MrCorrow… McCarmron.” Molly chewed on her lip in thought. “Stars, for the life of me I can’t get the last name from memory. It’s on the tip of my tongue.” She murmured. “Why, what’s up?” A brief explanation had Molly tsc a long aw of sympathy. “Well that’s terrible.” She started, adding in agreement without realizing Willow had thought the same, “And kinda suspicious if you as m-- OH, McCormik!

 

[Soliloquy]

"Perfect! Okay, gonna go," she gave the briefest of goodbyes to Molly before turning back around to face Granya and Theo. The sudden motion meant her and Theo just about collided in the process, quickly regaining her posture. "Ruby McCormick. She was here when Molly and I were having a girls day. Maybe we can track her down now that we have a full name?"

How many McCormick's could there be in the phone book? People still had phone books didn't they? Or maybe better yet, social media - you could learn someone's entire life if you could decipher the hashtags.

 

[xrakkax]

Catching on, Theo dropped his hands from Willow's shoulders, for when he steadied her, took out his phone and began searching, “Let’s see, how to spell.”

Granya peered hopefully over his arm. They scrolled through sites that may have had her information. Unfortunately, Granya told them Ruby was discouraged from using social media. So Instagram, Facebook, Twitter-- those were a dead end. The only option for Ruby had been gaming.

“Ah, look.” Theo brought up school records for the approximate age of Ruby. “Is her?”

The picture was a few years old. The little girl with puffy red pigtails was missing a tooth in the photo. “Da!” Granya chewed on her sleeve.

Theo noticed the vice principal had the same name, and if it weren’t for the red hair, he might have second-guessed the coincidence, “G.W. Robinson. Elementary school.”

Suddenly their afternoon turned into a mystery-solving mission. Granya walked with Willow behind Theo who started off in a jog to the car. They hopped in and took off. Granya felt hot flashes of tentative hope. Finn pressed his beak to her cheek.

The school wasn’t far. They arrived in fifteen or so minutes. Theo got out and took Willows hand, confident that-- yep-- Granya would be hot on their heels in no time. He could feel her trench coat bump the back of his legs. The school was open, obviously, and the three didn’t look too strange heading to the office. They passed children rushing here and there for whatever classes. Pictures were pinned on cork boards, there was a mural of a field with kids of all colors running with kites. Finally, they reached the head office.

Theo went to the desk where a woman shuffled papers, “Hello, I come to speak with Mrs. McCormik?”

The surprised attendant asked, “Do you have an appointment?” In this situation, Theo couldn’t fudge. He had to admit he did not. “Well I’m, sorry I can’t just have you walk in here during school hours.”

Granya, distressed, and in a bold move, let go of Willow's arm and stepped forward, “Please, I am friends with her daughter, Ruby. I haven’t heard from her for weeks. I just want to know if she’s alright. I have an envelope for her mother to give to her.”

The attendants face paled. She set down the papers and murmured, “Wait here a moment.”

Holding her breath, Granya fidgeted with the envelope as they waited. Behind her, Theo draped his arm around Willow. Granya was too sensitive to touch at the moment. He could see the electric hope through her.

Moments that felt like hours passed. Then out came the woman from the yearbook. Freckles and all. She looked just as pale as the attendant, and her nose blushed as if it had been rubbed too many times with tissue, “Are you the people come here about my daughter?”

Granya nodded and held up the envelope, telling Mrs. McCormik what she told the attendant. “If you could give this to her, I will be so grateful.”

A sniff followed by a shaky inhale came before the response, “I’m so sorry. Ruby has passed on.” Granya’s mouth fell open in silent shock.

“How? When?” The words were asked in reflex before Granya could take them back.

The woman, clearly going through her own ups and downs emotionally, stood with all the strength she could to continue talking about such a heartbreaking moment. “Ruby had a car accident. It happened about a month ago.” Mrs. McCormik smoothed out her hair to distract herself. Her lip quivered against her efforts to keep calm. “I didn’t know any of her passwords. I couldn’t get on to tell any of her friends. . .”

Granya felt cold sadness wrap around her. Just as she needed it she felt her uncle’s hand on her shoulder. Finn couldn’t manage to snuggle harder than he already had against her head. “Oh. . .” Granya all at once felt like she just came and ripped someone's wound open. “I-- I’m so sorry.” The weight of the letter pulled her fingers to her pockets.

Mrs. McCormik put on a brave smile and nodded, “Thank you for caring about Ruby.” She studied Granya’s face. “Are you Howler?” That was one of her usernames. Granya spoffed, wiping her face. She nodded. “Ruby just loved you. Said you were quite the feisty girl. Said you defended her on more than one occasion when she got bullied online.”

The memories were clear on those times. Granya nodded again, “Yeah. But I. . .” She didn’t know how terrible she’d be if she told her what she’d done just before Ruby died. “. . I think she was the better friend.”

“Oh I know Ruby was a sweetheart.” Mrs. McCormik leaned over the desk, put her hand on Granya’s, and smiled sadly, “But from what I hear you were just what she needed.”

“No, no.” Granya shook her head. “I sold her item out of anger. The last thing she remembers of me is that!”

Mrs. McCormik burst a soft laugh, “She told me about that. Oh boy she was mad, but, Granya, but that ain’t ever what a real friend remembers. They think of the good times. I have had my own share of arguments with her. Trust me. Whatever happened, in her last thoughts, that dumb old item wasn’t what came to mind.” At this point Mrs. McCormik straightened up, fighting her own tears. “Honey, I am glad you came. If you wouldn’t mind, I’d like you to let the rest of her friends know.” She looked at the other two. “You her parents?” They looked a little too young, but it was possible.

“No, I am uncle Theo. This is Willow, my girlfriend.” Theo introduced them.

“Thank you for bringing her. It probably took a bit of work. We don’t do social media.” Mrs. McCormik had to pause then, inhaling another breath to control herself. “A month is still fresh.” She murmured. Then she looked back up at them. “But I got to get on.” She looked at Granya. “Now you got to be strong. For Ruby. This will be tough. But you got to look forward.”

Granya bit her lip, struggling to keep her breathing steady. She nodded. It was all she could do. Theo pulled Granya in with him and Willow. He said, “Thank you.”

Mrs. McCormik nodded as well, “If you need anything, let me know.” Shortly after that she made her way back to her office. There was no guess. A month was indeed fresh. A crying session was probably well underway.

 

[Soliloquy]

Their combined sleuth work was impressive, no doubt, especially considering what little they had to work with. By the time they were in the car, Willow felt nearly as anxious as Granya looked. Arriving at the school, she kept ahold of one of her hands, taking quick strides to keep up with Theo. They waited with baited breath until Ruby's mother appeared and immediately Willow's heart sank.

She had seen grief at a young age and those reddened eyes never left her memory. The words of Ruby's death made her heart sink, even without having ever met her, feeling the pain rolling off the woman before them. One hand found Theo's free one, giving it a small squeeze of reassurance she wished could be passed on to Granya. That sweet girl was being so strong and also getting closure that Willow felt was necessary.

"Our condolences for your loss," she said softly as she was introduced, nodding to Mrs. McCormick. As they bid farewell, Willow was quick to drape her arm around Granya as they went to leave, waiting until they were out of the office and the building to really begin comforting her. "I am so sorry honey," she murmured, pulling her in for a deep embrace.

 

[xrakkax]

They stood enfolded in each other's arms in the office. People around them gave them their space. Granya wanted to acknowledge Willow, but her grief was such that she could not speak. After a time Theo gently guided their band of sorrowing companions to the car outside. The sun had begun to sink and children were heading off to their homes. Granya sat with Willow in the backseat for comfort. It took some time to leave the parking lot. Eventually Theo had them driving towards home. Finna slipped off Granya’s shoulder and stuffed himself into her trench coat, so he might give her a raven-like hug. If you could call pressing a feather body against someone a hug.

When they arrived at the house Granya had puffy eyes and needed some tissue. Finn got onto her shoulder again as they stepped out of the car. Theo went around to the girls and walked with the both of them towards the house. When they got inside Granya went to her room. She needed time to herself.

Theo pulled Willow into his arms and kissed her forehead, “Thank you for being here for her.” He murmured. So much loss one after the other. Theo wondered just what this meant for them. A bad omen indeed.

 

[Soliloquy]

On the drive home, Willow gave her small one armed hugs periodically, now free to rub her shoulders without worry of upsetting Finn. She offered quiet words of encouragement, mostly along the lines of telling her it was okay to cry and be sad. She thought of suggesting they hold a ceremony for Ruby in game, or even pointing out that Mrs. McCormick did settle Granya's fears of Ruby staying mad over their quarrel. But not now, no now would be time for a young girl to grieve her lost friend.

She let out a long sigh, leaning into his embrace and shaking her head. "I feel like I should have been able to do more," she admitted, words muffled as she pressed her face into this chest. Pulling back, she glanced up at him, her own eyes a faint pink from tears shed in the car. "Do you think it would have been better if she didn't know? If I hadn't started digging..."

 

[xrakkax]

Theo ran his hand through her thick hair, telling her she did just fine, then said,“No, Красивый, is good she know.” He believed the sting of knowledge was better than the pain of the unknown. A thing he knew hung over the two of them. Some days it was harder for him to risk ruining all that they had to be consistent with what he just stated. Some days he saw her and found in him the hope grow stronger that the day would come and she would choose to stay.

Today was one of those days.

“Come here.” Theo pulled her with him to the kitchen to make tea.

There was evidence that Jovan had come and taken care of Lyov already. That was good. Theo poured hot water in cups with tea bags and handed one to Willow. Then he sat with her on the couch. One arm around her and the other steadied his tea on his knee. They sat in comfortable silence with one another until both cups were empty.

Their talk turned from somber words about the situation to looking forward to better days. Halloween in particular. Theo explained they did a half-day and then went trick-or-treating with Granya when she was younger. Now she plays with her friends after having meals with them. They play games like bean-bag toss, darts, and sometimes they bring out the old target and bow for shooting. Theo thought Willow’d like that part. These things they did because they learned about it from arriving in America. But that was all Theo said about it.

“I have costume arrived.” Theo grinned. He got up and went to his room. He came back with two outfits of beige fur that had tails attached, plus a Simba and Nala face paint kit.

Obviously the two of them would look far more handsome then the models and Theo expected the suits to be snug enough that the ensemble wouldn't appear goofy, but rather a little PG-13.

 

[Soliloquy]

He seemed to know exactly what to do to ease her into a comfortable state again. The tea helped settle her, but it was his presence and arm that was the anchor she sought. What were the chances that something like this would happen? A young girl so full of life, gone. Just like that little angel, Melody. She truly hoped this wouldn't be another instance where things seemed to happen in threes.

The costume and talk of Halloween was a much needed distraction. She grinned at the idea of all of them playing games and what have you. She very much liked the idea of archery, already tempted to see if she could trick Micha into a bet of who was the better shot. The costumes were perfect and admittedly she hadn't put nearly enough attention into searching so she was grateful. Her own plans had just been to focus on make up and hope someone guessed it right. "I love it. Will you wear it tomorrow to work or just get dressed after?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Da, at work.” Theo nodded, chuckling. “Is funny to see us walk around.”

They chatted a little longer about Halloween and the games to be played. Theo was reluctant to take Willow home when he noticed the time. The apple of his eye had to be sent to bed in her own place, however, so Theo took Willow on his bike to her apartment. As a compromise, he lingered to kiss goodbye and said he was so grateful for her. Especially this day. He certainly would keep this in mind since he preferred a mate who could navigate these kinds of potential situations if they were to have a teenager of their own.

Tuesday Oct 31st​

Theo got to his own house in due time. The next morning he sprang up bright and early to get the makeup right. However, he was not doing it so well. Granya tried to help, but apparently crafting didn’t translate to art with the pen and paper. Time was getting late too. So, Theo fudged a little and commanded the pigments to arrange themselves appropriately. They did so. Theo’s hair got the same treatment. By the end of it he looked like a tall, handsome, lion man. Bandit dressed up too. She wore a red bandana and had a burlap sack strapped to her back with fake money in it.

Lyov wasn’t feeling well and Granya still needed time alone. So they opted to stay behind. Theo did what he could to comfort Granya and he set Lyov up with another puzzle before heading off to work. He couldn’t wait to see Willow! There was equal fun in both of them looking prime, and also if she looked funny! Willow could be as good of a painter as she was a cellist, or, she might get Molly to help her.

Theo pulled in around the back like a biker lion. He hopped off and strode to the door at the back of the kitchen and announced his arrival with a deep roar. Not enough for anyone outside the pub to hear, of course. Being what he is, it sounded as if there really was a lion in the room.

Amalia laughed her butt off at his whole get up. Theo, all in good fun, poked at her own outfit. She wore a Slytherin uniform. Amalia figured it made sense. She was an Almaeri user, she had a snake, and she was ambitious. They poked at one another when Micha walked in just then. He dressed up as Loki from the Marvel movies. Now both Theo and Amalia started laughing.

But all of them silenced when they saw a young Lyov, with two fierce eyes, a broken glaive in one hand, and the hide of a boar across his shoulders. The head of the unblinking beast rested on his left side. The rest draped down his back in a flowing fur cloak. Sun spilled through the door, edging him in an unearthly glow.

“Whoa, how you get boar head?” Micha asked, but then spoffed at himself for a silly question. Not all of them could say their outfits were magicless. In fact, none of them probably were untouched by some degree of Almaeri tweaking. “You look great Uncle Jovan!”

“I know.” Jovan said in a tone that would not have expected less. “Lyov is hero to me. I think it appropriate.” He began his walk to the bar out in the main hall of the restaurant.

Theo stayed to help cook with his cousins. By the time they got the food on the table, he had built up antsy energy. He couldn’t wait to see Willow walk in!

Speak of the Angel and she appeared. Willow looked every bit the Lion Queen. Theo couldn’t help but give her a lion hug and gentle kiss-- they didn’t want to mess up their artwork. Theo brought Willow to the table to eat like always. Micha fell speechless when he saw Molly in her Black Swan outfit. He felt sorry he couldn’t match her. But being Loki would have to do.

Breakfast was filled with talk about the games to come, and about Jovan’s discount for anyone customer who came in a costume. Twenty percent for full-blown costume. Theo tried to make guesses about who would dress up as who. At the end of breakfast, they could see people lining up wearing costumes!

That half of the day was filled with the usual. Theo made sure Willow and him crossed paths so he could quote movie lines with her. And at one point Willow may have seen his tail twitch. Perhaps a mechanical addition? Molly argued with Chekov. This time about his costume. He said he was ‘Frankenstein’, but clearly, as Molly pointed out, that was false. The ‘Monster’ is ‘The Monster’. He was made by Dr. Frankestien. So Chekov was, in fact, ‘Frankenstein's Monster’. He and Molly yelled at each other, both devolving into using another language to argue. But it ended fine. Like they always did. People were asking all kinds of questions about Jovan’s costume. He was happy to vaguely answer them. Amalia got on well with many young people with her costume, but a few of the older ones who had accompanying animals whenever they came didn’t think her outfit boded well. And not because they were old geezers who didn’t understand the next generation. Amalia only laughed it off. Micha did well with all the lady’s except the one he wanted! Try as he might. But maybe he would impress Molly with his skills!

Once the pub closed for the rest of the day, and the food was set up, and the games were brought out, Natalia had come. She was dressed as Mr. Darcy. They had some fun seeing her fitted like a regency gentleman.

Micha decided today they would play archery among the other like beer pong. Jovan was partial to axe throwing, but he was ok with the bow. Molly had no luck with the bow. She was a gun girl all the way. However well the family did, they were all impressed with Willow! They hadn’t seen many people do archery. Jovan commented he expected more of that from the ‘New World’. Though, as Theo put it, no one had to deal with the creatures from the cold lands back home, where archery was the staple.

They cheered for Willow’s bullseye! Micha, seeing all the praise, and seeing how his shot had landed on the outer edge, said he wanted another try. Lo and behold, Micha’s next shot blew right down the center of Willows arrow. Micha immediately turned his head toward Molly, who he delightedly noticed was blinking in unexpected surprise. Amalia, though, scoffed and laughed. Micha, to silence her, went to shoot again. But, following a snort from his sister, and a strange warping of air, his arrow totally missed the target and clanked to the floor behind it. There was nothing Micha could do except get pats on the back for effort. Well, he did glare at his sister who impishly grinned.

Theo had enough of games and wanted to do singing with Willow instead. They did a number of his favorite Lion King sons, ending in a sweet duet of ‘Can you feel the love tonight’. They weren’t the only ones to sing, but Molly didn’t get the same eager audience. Micha did get Molly to dance with him though!

The night had gone well. By the time clean up was done and the various staff dispersed to home, Theo had already gotten on his bike and taken Willow to her house. Here he walked her to the door of the building, took his time to say a kissy goodbye, and then went off to his home.

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow's Halloween morning was quite similar to Theo's in the fact that she was not winning the battle against her make-up kit. She had managed to get the face, neck and nose covered, but every time she went in to duplicate the eyes she wound up smearing the lines and getting a good amount in her eyes. Thankfully, she had the non-magical assistance of Molly once she arrived to save the day and make her at least presentable.

The outfit wasn't baggy at all, although she felt like a sack of potatoes compared to seeing Theo strutting about. Turned out he was just as good looking as a Russian as the future King of Pride Rock. The two had their fun flirting about as they could, although it seemed like even more patrons were trying to squeeze in their time at the pub before going about their own holiday festivities.

Willow was quite proud with a chance to show yet another aged skill, although it baffled her that Micha could match her aim one moment and botch it the next. Must have been all the pressure of having Molly watching, no doubt! He still had nearly a week of waiting during the secret brow test, but if she was being honest, she was rooting for him.

It felt like everything ended too soon, although they did their best to extend the night a little bit longer in each others arms. The week wasn't even half over and had already been incredibly eventful. Seeing Theo ride off was a sight she was growing less and less fond of, especially since their time together was feeling less and always shared with others. S

Wednesday, November 1st, 2017
​

In the days between Halloween and the next Moon Fishing on the calendar, they'd find the answer to their loss of Theo at the pub. Sadie Stephenson had turned up to be interviewed one day, and while she wasn't a Russian Rogue, she seemed to fit the bill for what Jovan and the others were looking for and both girls said they were fine. Besides, things were getting unmanageable for the two alone; a set of hands is a set of hands after all! Their newest addition to the staff was still in the learning stages and knowing that Molly wasn't always the most patient, Willow had taken on the position of training her. That would have been much easier if she seemed to have any interest in what they were doing.

It was just a temporary job for the nineteen year old fresh out of a solid half semester of college. She'd responded to their flyers with the blunt fact that she was looking for money and didn't are what hours she had to work. Try as she might to get Sadie to focus and actually digest the information she was giving her, it felt like communicating with a brick wall. She'd give her the benefit of a doubt; yes Russian words were hard and had a lot of letters, so maybe she'd just pick it up over time, just like Molly and herself had. At least she was pretty and could balance a tray, which meant she'd do for now.

 

[xrakkax]

The extra help had been welcome. Although some of the Russian patrons struggled with someone new to their lingo, by all accounts things were working well. And that was really all Jovan expected. Work to get done. Molly and Willow had the advantage of knowing each other already when the started work. And then of course, Theo and Willow had hit it off. A fully new person would always need a learning curve. It was a good thing Willow had the patience Molly didn’t. Theo, when he dropped in, took over for Sadie. Those days it felt more like old times.

Friday November 17th, 2017​

Theo’s cousins were hard at work in his kitchen to make the meal for Granya’s birthday dinner. While they did that Jovan and Lyov sat on the recliners like the old geezers they were. Granya had yet to come out of her room. Something about getting all the energy charged up before heading into a long evening. Theo finished the decorations, fed the animals, and got dressed to impress. After all, his Красивый was coming!

Ring! The doorbell called Theo from his room. The Russian Rogue had his hair messily up in the accessories Willow and Granya had made. Although he had an okay sense of fashion, he hoped today he had done his best to match the shells. A pair of black jeans with a red shirt that had brown and white trimmings. In moments he would know if this had been a good decision.

“Eeeh! Красивый!” Theo, of course, saw Willow first in practically any environment. He couldn’t help but take her in a hug and exchange a greeting kiss. “Come in, come in.” He motioned to them.

“Well hello Theo. I’m very well, thank you.” Molly playfully teased his lack of greeting her, as his other guest to arrive. Micha had insisted.

Offering a sheepish smile, Theo said, “Oh Da, hello Molly.”

Molly laughed and waved him off, “Oh go get smoochin’ with yer girl.” She went to bother Micha and Amalia instead. That was where the food was anyway.

Theo didn’t say no. He wrapped an arm around Willow and walked with her to the living room where Lyov and Jovan waved in salutations. It was mentioned Granya was coming soon, but she just was still getting ready.

 

[Soliloquy]

The ride to Theo's house was one filled with excitement. Earlier that week Willow had managed to sneak a trip shopping, now coming armed with what she hoped would be a special gift. A slim, rectangular silver box was held in one hand and a plate balanced on the other meant their hug was a difficult one. Since their first date had ended up being a surprise and gave her no time to be ready, Willow wore the navy lace halter dress she had bought back in September on her shopping spree. It was nice to have a chance to doll up now and then, even if it was going to be kept in just a living room with the people she saw nearly every day.

Hearing Granya was still in her room, she took a quick change to pass her present off to Theo while unwrapping the plate of cupcakes. She knew that Lyov couldn't always stomach sweets, but she hoped she'd brought a treat worth trying. "White Russian cupcakes with vodka buttercream frosting," she explained, offering them to the three generations of men around her. "Not a treat for Granya, but I'm sure there's already plenty she can enjoy. A bit for the adults after a long week of work."

It was the best she could come with as a way to merge Russia and America and bake in her modest kitchen. She was still not a master of the culinary arts, but they did look and taste delicious if she said so herself.

 

[xrakkax]

The dress had certainly caught Theo’s eye. While he had been courteous enough to engage thus far, he had to consciously remind himself not to stare so much. Even the brief moment of putting the present with the others was only a light distraction. Thanks be to the heavens when the cupcakes were unveiled! Something he could stare at without feeling like he was being publicly inappropriate!

“Oh, Willow, is so good.” Theo took a bite, and then another. By the time he was done he found another in his other hand. Now how did that get there? No. No questioning it. Theo ate that one too.

As good as they were, Theo wouldn’t get away with eating them all. Lyov had a few bites. Indeed, he was as impressed and equally delighted. But of course he couldn’t indulge much. However, Natalia who arrived just then could! She suggested they trade recipes; her roller ingredients for the link to these cupcakes, so she could make Amalia and Micha bake them occasionally. Jovan took one, and in addition to the obvious reaction, said, “Oh Granya can have bite.”

“Maybe it will get her out of the room faster.” Micha joked, having one himself. Amalia did too, but she was too busy cooking to eat, cook, and talk.

Molly took hers and sat down on the couch to enjoy it, “Should someone get her?”

“No.” Theo, Jovan, Lyov, and Micha all said at the same time.

“Eh, she’s sensitive about people in her room.” Theo chuckled.

The reaction had Molly amused, “Well I’ll be damned, that was a clear answer as any.”

Just then the door down the hall opened and shut. Down padded Granya in her signature coat, but they could tell she wore something nice underneath it. Her hair was casual though, and she wore no makeup. Finn sat on her shoulder. He wore a small necklace of silver and what looked like aquamarine gems that matched his pale blue albino eyes, for the occasion. Jovan handed Granya the last bite of his cupcake when she arrived. She was quite happy to eat it!

“Willow, hello!” Granya smiled. She felt better today. Not bright and cheery-- although, to be fair, she was only ever so bright and cheery around crafting. But this time her subtleness was due to events only Willow and Theo would fully understand. “Hello Molly” She said, when she saw her. “Thank you guys for coming.”

“Oh stars, it’s our pleasure. Happy birthday honey.” Molly smiled. She was okay not being on the same level of closeness. Time will tell if that would come around.

 

[Soliloquy]

She was pleased that the cupcakes were an immediate hit, grinning and encouraging everyone to take seconds - even thirds! Lord knew if any any of them were left and she took them home it'd be all she had for the night. They were deliciously full of calories and she could have quite the sweet tooth if left unchecked.

"Sounds like she has all the men trained," Willow agreed jokingly, passing the plate to whoever might want it next. And a trade was definitely in order! She wasn't sure if she'd be able to make that miracle oil like Natalia did and keep her monthly worries at bay, but she'd try. Talk turned as the birthday girl came out, beaming at her. "Why hello! Happy birthday, shchenok. We're so happy to be celebrating with you."

 

[xrakkax]

More and more it felt like Willow was taking a role as an aunt. Granya felt happy to hear Willow cared to come. And not just because of her uncle. The memory of Karen and Olivia were much different. They had a focus mainly on her ‘hunky’ uncle. It felt like she was brushed to the side by them. They sure were enchanted by his physique. Granya thought Theo looked just okay. Not the kind of handsome she’d fall head over heels for. But maybe that was expected. She was his niece after all. In fact, yeah, Granya peered at all her male relatives and felt like they were akin to how she felt about plain eggs. Nice, but not her thing.

“So what do we got planned?” Molly asked.

Natalia answered, “We usually eat, sing the birthday song, have cake, open presents, and then Granya likes to run to her room while we sing and dance out here.”

“Oh, that’s fun.” Molly figured, at least. Not like her parties when she had them. Molly didn’t have parties as a child. Those came when she got a car and could drive somewhere with friends. Mostly with Willow at her side.

Theo sat down with Willow, his arm found its rightful place around her shoulders, “Maybe today we get Granya to make a craft before run away.”

“I don’t run away, Дядя.” Granya rolled her eyes.

“Heh, teens.” Molly chuckled, snacking on a bliny.

“Willow, you will make wallet with me.” Granya perked. “I have leather. It will be great!”

Micha and Amalia finally announced dinner was ready. "Wallet can wait, eat your food, Shchenok!" Micha chuckled. Of course Theo would sit snug by his beautiful woman. Micha would wiggle his way next to Molly. Jovan and Lyov sat next to each other, then Natalia and Amalia capped the ends.

The table was spread with various delectable Russian foods, plus ants-on-a-log. From where Willow sat she saw there was evidence in the kitchen that they made strawberry shortcakes too.

Granya was given a special meal. A blue-seared steak with only some salt and a little pepper. On the side were celery sticks and peanut butter. Not a fan of grapes, it seemed.

 

[Soliloquy]

The idea of what they'd do for the celebration sounded about right for a birthday, generic but a good base nonetheless. "Plenty of fun," Willow agreed, deciding to share a little of her own birthday experiences with the group. "When I was young and we still did family birthdays, every year I wrote my birthday wish on a slip of paper. The wish went into a bottle and I'd get to throw it as hard as I could into the ocean. the further it went the more of a chance it'd come true."

In retrospect she was sure that most of those bottles only came right back to the shore given the flow of tide, but it was a nice thought when she was younger. As she grew up and celebrations had less and less attention, later focusing that attention toward friends rather than family.

At the table, she didn't miss the few familiar dishes they't introduced the family to. It was nice to see they had made an impression, even if it was only ants on a log...hold the ants. "Of course we'll make a wallet after," Willow assured the young girl. "But Micha is right - food first! Food, cake, and then gifts before we take over the table for craft time, yeah?"

 

[xrakkax]

No resistance was made here. Well, maybe a little. After all, Granya may well have skipped dinner to craft instead. As it was they all sat down for dinner and to chat. The story of Willow’s birthday tradition earned a murmur of interest. Jovan was probably the only one who didn’t appear pleased someone was throwing bottles with letters into the ocean.

Granya was already thinking of trying it herself sometime! With Theo’s help, because she was sure if Kellsy got the bottle she’d just hide it.

“I wonder if any came true.” Granya said wistfully.

Molly parted her lips to say she bet one did, but wasn’t sure if Willow would want her to spout her flirty dirty talk at the family dinner table. So she just took a sip of her kvas.

“Ah, fun!” Theo nodded in approval. “And clever! There is no ocean to toss bottle in Okunevo.” He said, happily delving back into his meal.

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow caught sight of the familiar glimmer in Molly's eye and was instantly grateful that she seemed not to tread down that road. There might have been many long conversations on the phone throughout their years as friends that involved talk of boys. Well, not just boys, later also men. The men with strong arms that they debated whether or not they'd let them save them should the need arise.

She took a note of just how little Theo was willing to share about his own memories. Or really just a lack thereof. Instead, it was just a passive comment. Her knowledge of Okunevo grew gradually. Brushing it aside, she went back to eating, focusing on the delicious spread before them.

 

[xrakkax]

Not only did Theo seem content to keep personal details of their family memories to himself, but the rest of them had nothing to add. Whether that meant they had no memories akin to hers to share, or they simply didn’t make it a habit, there was no way of telling.

By the time they were finished eating their dinner meal, Granya was eager to get on with crafting. As soon as the table cleared she brought out the supplies for making wallets. There were stacks of different colored leather, an aul, thick sewing needles, and other such items. Molly wasn’t into it, but it appeared everyone was asked to join. The only one allowed to excuse themselves was Lyov. He became too drowsy to stay. So he gave his great-granddaughter a kiss and headed to bed.

Right away Granya leafed through the various leathers for her wallet. She chose a deep navy blue color. Jovan chose a simple dark brown. Natalia and Micha picked the same rose blush. Amalia picked crimson. Next they picked a pattern. There were a few to choose from, and not all of them had to do with wallets. Natalia ended up choosing to make a holder for keys. Molly got into the mood when she saw the pattern that included a spot for her phone.

3 Patterns

 

[Soliloquy]

Lyov was given a hearty goodbye as he left the table, Willow tempted to get up from her seat to make sure he made it to his room just fine. Over the past several weeks a soft spot in her heart had opened up for the sweet old man. She took pride in making sure his less-than-steady hands found cups and forks just fine, feeling responsible even if he wasn't technically family.

When the different leathers were presented, Willow examined a few different choices before landing on a softer sandrift colored piece. It was a color that was bound to match plenty of outfits! After that she turned to the designs, selecting the slim card holder. It was perfect to keep in a back pocket when one didn't feel like lugging a purse around but also didn't want to be without essential things.

"This is definitely a first," she commented, carefully starting to mark on the leather where she'd be cutting. She didn't want to put a dent in Granya's crafting supplies, even though so far she'd only helped to contribute to them, having convinced her to keep hers rather than lug them back and forth each week. "I can't say I've ever worked with leather before. It has a nice smell, doesn't it?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Yeah, it kinda does.” Molly murmured, intent on getting this right. “Where do you get the leather? It looks like really good quality.”

“From hunts.” Micha said, cutting his pattern.

Molly perked up, “You guys make this?”

Jovan answered here, “No. Hunt deer give to butcher. Then he have skin tanned and colored by his friend.”

Molly sat straighter, looking at the stack. That didn’t look like the kind of loot you got from a once in a blue moon family vacation. “How often do you hunt?”

“Each year. Hunting coming up nineteenth.” Micha told her. “We come back twenty-second.”

“Stars, that brings back memories,” Molly said, delving into her work again. Hunting was as close as she got to bonding with her father. Thankfully her manly hands weren’t just thick. They had a steady aim.

Granya set aside her patterns and went to grab an aul, “Can I come this year?”

“No.” Jovan said in a tone of finality.

Frowning, Granya pouted her lip and went stabbing in holes with an edge to her attitude. Theo chuckled. Such a teenager, he thought to himself. “When older, Shchenok. Promise.” Theo said. It only somewhat eased her annoyance.

 

[Soliloquy]

The sound of hunting didn't sound appealing, even if it did result in the wonderful leather musk. She would leave that up to Jovan and Micha, able to think of many other things she'd do with her hands than killing deer. If they wanted to run around in the forest for a few days and get all dirty, then more power to them. In fact, that very thought was with her while Granya was throwing a small display of a fit as she punctured her leather.

"If you want, I can come over and we can craft to pass some time," she offered the angsty teenager with a hopeful smile. "As long as your uncle says it's okay, of course."