~Drumming Noise~ [Lorraine]

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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It was always so surprising how quickly the temperature could drop once the day steadily turned into night. Lenoura pulled her cardigan closer to herself as she sat on a bench in the middle of town square. She wasn't necessarily sure why she was here, but found a staggering comfort in not knowing. Her slender bare legs crossed themselves, lightly shifting her gray dress. The hazel eyed beauty rather enjoyed the garment she was wearing, it was one of her dresses that clung to her slender figure, keeping her warmer on chillier nights. Thankfully district 4 was always a rather warm place. Good thing too, she thought, I hate the cold.

Shifting her eyes continuously about her, the girl wasn't entirely sure if she was genuinely looking for something. On most nights she would religiously find herself in the same spot she occupied now. It wasn't so much because she couldn't sleep, but because something within her always pulled her to this exact location. Maybe it's because it's the last thing your mother touched here before she passed away, her mind prodded. Instinctively Len crossed her arms around her midsection and held herself for a brief moment. She found it rather cruel when her mind would throw around information about her mother before she was aptly ready for it. It's alright, she told herself. You're fine Len.

Pulling her arms away she crossed her hands in her lap and twiddled her slender fingers. She knew her head was right about this one, but she didn't really want to agree with it. Noura had spent a large amount of her time trying to push away memories of her mother. She died when I was eleven, just grow up. Of course she had forced herself to in order to care for her newborn brother and shattered father. But by some miracle the years had surprisingly gone by, and Lenoura was able to keep her family together. You did all you could, her heart assured her. Thanks.

Deciding it was probably time to retire to her home, the pale skinned teenager arose from the bench and stretched out her limbs. Pulling on her dress to straighten it out she took a step forward in her seashell sandals and made her way slowly out of the town square. It's always so quiet here, she silently pondered to herself. Or so the awkward beauty thought.

[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

The constant crashing of the waves and the high pitched calls of the seagulls was the most soothing lullaby that Lorraine could ask for. Her thin hands dug into the warm sand beneath her, finding comfort in this particular layer of earth. It was more windy today than most, which blew out most people from entering the beach. The redhead remained as one of the few people here sprawled along the sand, which she preferred. Crowds aren't exactly an ideal for her. The winter wind chilled the bones that were blanketed in Lorraine's flesh, but the Sun's heat embraced her in a warm hug. The pianist laid on her back with her wide emerald eyes staring up at the sky, watching it change from a deep blue in the day, a crimson red at sunset, to a pitch black in the night. As the hours grew longer and longer, and as the night began to slowly creep in, the sixteen year old found the beach to be deserted - with the exception of herself. Casting one more longing glance at the ever changing sea, she abandoned the area herself.

Lorraine walked the lonely pavements with her bare arms folded across her chest - an attempt to keep warm against the chill of the night. Her teeth chattered in her mouth like a prisoner clacking a cup against it's steel bars. Still, she walked slowly, unexcited to arrive home.

Home.

What did that even mean anymore?

Home should be a place of belonging and happiness, a fort against the evils that reality controls. Lorraine thought of a time when her home could truly be described as this, or, at the very least, something along those lines. Even without her mother in the picture, life was still blissful with Tim and Rachel. When did things begin to go wrong?

When Rachel died.

Lorraine shuddered at this involuntary thought, her conscious giving her more chills than the weather. Lorraine yearned for the memories of Rachel's death to swim away - just like how she did that day when the vigorous waves and dark storm tore her away from her own sister.

Her shoulders heaved a bit as she gave a deep sigh. And now, she thought sorrowfully, My dad is sick, and he won't even let me take him to a doctor.

This couldn't have been more true. When it came to illness, Tim was simply not a walk in the park. He would deny any forms of a disease, which only caused his daughter to worry for him all the more. Often, Lorraine would stare at her father's sickly frame and hollow cheek bones, which used to be filled with color and life.

Lorraine hugged herself tighter at the thought of having to face a life of solitude and misery without the presence of her father. How could I bear it? She asked herself, before stiffly turning her thoughts away from this melancholy subject. Now was not the time to get caught up in her own sorrow, not now while in public. Even though there was only one girl who sat on a bench near where Lorraine walked, she still couldn't allow herself to break. Especially if she would fall apart at something that has yet to happen.

Yet.

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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Had it not been for the strangers wild red hair, Lenoura was certain she would have missed her presence completely. Even in the fading light she could see how vibrant the girls hair was and in a way she was drawn to the flickering flame. Noura wasn't entirely sure she had ever seen something so stunning before. Indeed her own looks set her apart from most people here, but surely so did this girls hair.

As she stared she couldn't help but note discernible similarities between herself and the girl. Both were rather slim and unbelievably pale. I thought I was the only one, Noura thought in utter amazement. This is too unreal. Realizing that her gawking was most likely making her look like a complete idiot she let out an uncomfortable laugh and felt her cheeks flush. Hurrying to leave she wrapped her arms around her abdomen and moved her feet far too quickly. Oh..., but before she could finish her thought, her fragile body hit the ground with an incredible force.

Why does this always happen? Noura was a klutz with two left feet, no denying that. She would usually rely on her younger brother Dewey for balance, but unfortunately he was back home in bed. Lifting her head ever so slightly so as not to faint she lifted her body into a sitting position and began rubbing her elbows. "Ouch," she whispered softly to herself. Although she was very used to falling, Noura did in fact hate falling in front of people. She already had issues fitting in, so the clumsiness didn't help her case in any respect.

I really hope she didn't see that, the slender swimmer thought. It really was no way to draw the right kind of attention.

[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

Lorraine paid no attention to her surroundings, she was already submersed into her own thoughts. The few things she took to notice were the almost inaudible thuds her delicate feet made as they daintily walked down the path, and the calling of the gulls in the distance. Do they ever shut up? She thought to herself, a smile lightening her countenance and she let a faint giggle slip through her lips.

At the same moment, another laugh echoed through the empty streets, and Lorraine's body instinctively froze. She felt the hair on the back of her neck stand up as she scanned the area for any signs of an intruder. The laugh didn't exactly sound threatening - in fact, far from it. But one in Panem could not allow them self to be too trusting. She clenched her fists - although she may not be a Career, the redhead beauty knew how to defend herself.

Her head turned to the direction of where the sound originated, only to lock eyes with the girl who sat alone on the bench. Lorraine's shoulders relaxed a bit at the sight, comforted with knowing she wouldn't have to face danger tonight.

The stranger's hazel eyes widened. As she wrapped her arms around her stomach, she hastily stood to leave, her blonde hair flowing behind her. The pianist cocked her head in confusion, wondering why the girl would make such a sudden departure. I always seem to scare off others, she thought silently, wondering if she seemed like a threat to anyone.

As Lorraine continued to walk down the pavement, her ears detected the sound of a thump, followed by an, "Ow."

Lorraine's head whipped back to the same direction, only to find that the young lady had fallen to the ground. Not sure if her help was wanted because of the stranger's frightened countenance, Lorraine was hesitant to aid her. But, her mind overcame matter, and she closed the distance between them in a few quick strides. "Do you need some help, there?"

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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Noura listened to the stranger's words, but didn't process them with much efficiency. Her brain was wracked from the fall, but also from the sudden aid she was receiving. She wants to help me? It was a rather odd turn of events in her opinion. Normally when she fell people stared and silently giggled. Everyone was so used to her tripping over herself that they learned to just leave her alone. In retrospect Len didn't mind not being helped up. She was a quiet individual and kept to herself, so picking herself back up was usually how she wanted her daily collapses dealt with.

The decision was beginning to quicken the awkward beauty's pace, and she hoped the stranger didn't have a super sense of hearing. Calm down, he mind comforted, there's no way she can hear your heartbeat. Lenoura lifted her neck to stare into the redheaded girls eyes. They were hazel in color, just like Noura's, but something about them seemed vacant, almost lost. I know that look. Her familiarity with it came from knowing her own vacant expression she had worn ever since the death of her mother. This is starting to feel weird. It wasn't so obvious that it was the first thing she noticed when staring into her eyes, but the dirty blonde knew it was there.

Choosing the option which seemed less rude, Lenoura decided to take the help. "Yes, please." She didn't need to say anything else. Lifting her pale and slender hand she placed it into the strangers grasp and let her help her up. It didn't take much effort, Noura was on the thin side. Brushing off her dress Noura realized that she was slightly taller than the girl. Well no surprise there really. I'm taller than everyone. Once she was done she looked at the girl and gave her a faint nod, "Thank you."

It was never easy for the swimmer to have conversation, she wasn't much for random chatter. But she felt as if she owed it to the stranger. There was no need to be informal. "I'm Lenoura. That usually happens a lot." Letting her head fall slightly she grabbed her hands and began twirling her fingers. Reading her was as simple as reading a book. "The tripping."

She's going to know how pathetic I am.

OOC: Don't worry, Lorraine didn't scare her off ^.^

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[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

The young girl craned her head up to get a view of the redhead, her hazel eyes dazed as if in confusion. Lorraine had to bite back a smile as she lifted the light stranger off the ground - the blonde’s innocence reminded the pianist of Rachel.

Even with the lack of light, Lorraine observed the girl’s appearance clearly. They were probably of the same age, and maybe even attended the same school. The young lady had luminous blonde hair, whitened skin, symmetrical feautures, and a tall and lanky frame. The most distinctive aspect was the stranger’s eyes, beautiful with color ranges of hazel and flecks of green, but … empty. Almost like traveling on a wide path that never ends, never being able to reach the desired destination. The young muscian saw lost hope in these set of eyes, she detected sadness and despair. So, what’s your tale of woe? thought Lorraine bitterly to herself, thinking of her own story.

The blonde stranger patted the dust out of her dress before settling her eyes on Lorraine. Lorraine did her best to provide a friendly expression as the girl thanked her for the simple gesture.

“Its no problem,” Lorraine replied brightly, the somber tone in her voice diminshing into a warm hearted beat.

”I’m Lenoura,” the stranger introduced, before dropping her head and twiddling her slender fingers in her lap. As she did this, Lorraine was reminded of the iconic image of her younger sister nervously playing with her hands whenever she felt she was stuck in a sticky situation. Involuntarily and without meaning to, the redhead suddenly gained an over protective feeling for this girl she had barely met, an instinct that came almost as a second nature to Lorraine. Protecting and caring for others makes the pianist feel important, in contrast of being protected and cared for. This would probably explain Lorraine’s constant efforts of sacrificing her own time for her father. Not to mention, this tiny ambition of sheltering and defending others add a lively gleam to her usually vacant eyes - a spark of light in the midst of smoke and ashes.

Lenoura’s voice arubptly ended these thoughts.

“That usually happens a lot.” She said. ”The tripping.”

Lorraine couldn’t help but ring out a laugh at the simple but random statement. Lenoura’s reddened cheeks and nervous fiddling told the sixteen year old that she was embarrassed, and the laughing probably only encouraged this feeling. Lorraine let her soft laugh fade into silence before adding, “Falling is inevitable, it happens to everyone at least once.” Of course, this phrase had two meanings - the obvious one being physical, and the less obvious being emotional. As for the melancholy pianist, she had felt both.

The redhead offered a pearly smile to the blonde girl and herself in order to avoid lamenting her own personal falls. She extended her thin hand to Lenoura. “I’m Lorraine.”

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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To anyone else the stranger's words would seem straightforward and blunt. People did fall a lot, and it was a natural occurrence of life. But some hidden meaning seemed to be pouring from those ten simple words, and a connection was secretly forming itself between the two girls. Noura wasn't a philosopher, but she could understand what the hazel-eyed girl was trying to get across. We've both been defeated by something. It was obvious that both Len and the stranger had lost some part of their former selves. Lenoura carried it in her face, the stranger in her beautiful eyes.

But she had laughed. If her cheeks hadn't been red enough, the were sure to be candy apple red by now. The swimmer knew she shouldn't take it to heart, it had been a faint laugh, one used when something funny was actually spoken. It was still hard for her to assume that she hadn't been made fun of. That part of Len's persona never seemed to protect itself and always felt open to the judgement of others. Despite the laugh, the slender girl did stop when she spoke her words of hidden wisdom, and Len relaxed ever so slightly.

She introduced herself as Lorraine and inched forward her pale and thin hand. The name was beautiful, no doubt about that, but something within the blonde's head was still muddled. How could it be that two complete strangers were so very alike? Their appearance was enough to pass them off as sister's practically, minus the hair and height, and both of their names were somewhat similar in nature. Lenoura knew her thoughts we're naive and foolish, but she still enjoyed drawing the comparisons. She had never once in her life felt connected to a person, she was always an outcast, a loner. In this moment of time however, she was very much like the girl in front of her, normal and unique.

Accepting the gesture, Lenoura brought her own hand forward and grasped Lorraine's in a friendly handshake. "Nice to meet you." Her own smile flashed back at Lorraine and her full coral lips meet once again after she released her grip. Noura knew she wanted to say something, but what exactly began to trouble her. I'm not much of a talker. It was true of course, even in her own home the awkward beauty never spoke unless it was absolutely necessary. She did feel however that she owed it to Lorraine to begin some sort of conversation. She could have just laughed at you and walked away, her mind reminded her. You're right, she agreed, I need to say something.

She pulled on the sleeve of her dress and spoke with a very soft and calculated voice, "I'm sure it's really none of my business to ask you this, but why are you out at a time like this?" It really did confuse the slender girl. She knew the reason as to why she found herself here in the middle of the night, but for anyone else, it was a bit suspicious. To make certain she didn't offend her Noura added, "you don't have to answer if you don't want. We're all entitled to our privacy."

It was the most she had said to anyone she just met. Her words came out in a struggled fashion, and it would be no surprise if Lorraine understood how hard it was for her to make conversation. Please like me, her mind silently begged.

[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

"Nice to meet you." The words seemed strangled out of the blonde beauty's petite throat, as if she struggled on what to say. Lorraine detected the anxiety in her voice, and understood the nervousness she must've felt. She shared this characteristic, as well, but it only glared it's brightest during the worst of situations. Still, the smile that dawned upon Lenoura's face shone like the rising Sun over the Pacific Ocean, and it overshadowed this poor social skill. "I'm sure it's really none of my business to ask you this, She continued. "But why are you out at a time like this?"

The sixteen year old bit her lower lip after the question was asked, and she crossed her arms over her chest. Would it be too soon to give such a personal response? "My sister," wouldn't really explain much, and giving the whole back story would just cry out attention seeker! even if Lorraine hadn't meant it in that particular way. But, to create a blunt lie to a person who she'd hardly meant? That's just not acceptable. Even if it did no harm to anyone.

"You don't have to answer if you don't want. We're all entitled to our privacy." Lenoura quickly added, probably sensing the tension that had suddenly grew in Lorraine's expression.

Lorraine dropped her crossed arms and lightly smiled, just to reassure her newly found companion to not stress over the question. The pianist didn't want the girl to feel as if she struck a chord within Lorraine even if she had. Plus, it'd only add on to Lenoura's anxiety, and the last thing that the redhead would want is for her friend to feel uneasy. What she asked was a simple request, so how could Lorraine deny it?

"I usually stay out at the beach until this time." Came the simple answer. She shrugged and slightly giggled. "I know, it's a bit late. But, I can't help myself. It's like the ocean calls out to me."

This bit of the puzzle, at least, told the truth. But, it didn't state how the ocean was more of a negative connotation than a positive one (unlike most who strive in District Four). It didn't tell how the way the "ocean called out to her" was through Rachel's screams that never separated from her since that savage day. It didn't say how even with the years flying by after Rachel's death, Lorraine still feels as if she's still out there, floating about the sea, waiting to be saved.

No, She begged her mind instantly. Not now, please.

The redhead tucked a strand of her curly hair behind one ear and stared at the cemented pavement. She clutched her middle section of her torso, violently scratching at her skin to keep herself distracted with physical pain instead of emotional. Her eyes slowly ascended back to Lenoura's gaze, and the pianist felt the smile on her face was now more strained instead of genuine.

For some reason, Lorraine felt it was okay to be this way around the girl she'd just met. It's something they shared in common, and, although the blonde beauty hadn't revealed much in their short time together, the sixteen year had already made the conclusion that something bad happened to this girl when she first beheld the empty set of eyes. Something happened to Lenoura, something tragic and permanent. She felt it in her atmosphere, saw it in the way she sullenly carried herself. This "something" that happened was probably an element in why she sat at this lonely bench in the early hours of the dark night.

"But, what about you? What brings you here?"

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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It was difficult for Lorraine to give her a straight answer, that much was certain. Lenoura wasn't much of a people person herself, but she was an expert at detecting when individuals wanted to keep things to themselves. The red head's simple gesture of crossing her arms was enough for the blonde to know that maybe she shouldn't have asked such a personal question. I really am an idiot. Before she could bite her bottom lip in complete embarrassment, Lorraine had let her arms drop to her sides and once again put on a smile. Whew, that was close

"I usually stay out at the beach until this time. I know, it's a bit late. But, I can't help myself. It's like the ocean calls out to me." Lenoura could immediately understand her without question. District four had a way of captivating it's people with it's beautiful oceans and scenic beaches. Anyone living her enjoyed spending as much time as possible in the warm and white sand, and even more time in the clear blue water. Giggling slightly to herself Noura agreed with the girl, "I know what you mean. It's hard to stay away." Indeed it was. Noura tried to spend as much time as possible on her father's boat and would always jump in for a swim. It was clear Lorraine wasn't out here doing anything suspicious.

As quickly as the good feeling had seem to come, it didn't last as long as Lenoura would have liked. Lorraine began to hold her midsection, and appeared remarkably troubled. That wasn't the whole truth, Noura's mind somberly thought. There's something else. Len deduced that her hopeful soon-to-be friend would keep her real reason to herself. Even when the question had escaped her lips, she was sure Lorraine wouldn't delve too deep into her own privacy. Who was Noura really to know such personal things? She tried as hard as she could to keep her face relaxed while the slender girls smile strained itself, coming off completely forced. She's hurting, and I can't know why.

It wasn't until Lorraine had finished her own question that Lenoura took note of her voice once again. Wracking her brain she searched for some reason to explain her whereabouts at this time of night, but she couldn't really make up a good enough reason. Surely Lorraine's had a hint of truth in it, so sharing it was simple. Lenoura didn't normally have to lie, so she wasn't exceedingly good at it. You might as well tell the truth, her mind encouraged her. She'll know that you're lying, and it'll just make it worse. The blonde knew her mind was right and decided to trust it's judgement, hoping it wouldn't backfire on her.

"I'm actually out here...thinking." Turning her slender figure away from Lorraine so as to conceal the pain written across her face she continued. "This place calls to me every night. It follows me in my dreams." Her abdomen was beginning to hurt, and she felt as if she could just crumble to the ground right then and there. Holding herself as tightly as she could, she inhaled deeply in an attempt to calm herself down. It's been six years Len, you're fine. Deciding she should finish and answer Lorraine's question, Noura spoke in a nearly audible tone, "it was the last thing my mother touched here before she passed." Wiping at her eyes she forced out the end of her answer, "the bench I mean."

Turning back to face Lorraine she was certain the tears in her eyes intensified her hazel color, making them appear neon green. She blotted them away as quickly as possible and lifted her sagging head to look at her. "I'm sorry about that. I'm really fine, don't worry."

Standing there Len hoped she didn't scare away the first potential friend she had ever made.

[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

The question seemed to conjure a nightmare within her friend, and Lorraine felt her stomach take a drop as she watched the blonde's face twist into a pained expression. The question was simple enough, in fact, just the same thing that Lenoura had asked only mere seconds ago. It was only slightly reworded, but other than that, Lorraine would never think that her question contained sharp edges that scraped at the blonde.

Lenoura held her midsection as she spoke, as if to keep herself from falling apart. Obviously, it wasn't working. She turned her face away as if to shield the redhead from viewing her fallen countenance. She inhaled sharply before adding, "It was the last thing my mother touched here before she passed. The bench I mean."

So, her tale of woe was revealed, and suddenly Lorraine felt an unseen connection bind the two girls together. Tragedy tied them to one another, and the pianist felt the urge to collect the girl before her into her arms. I know how it feels like, She thought to herself as she helplessly watched the blonde break down before her. I know how it feels to sink in your own sorrows. You're not alone.

Lorraine desired to tell this to her friend, but as Lenoura hastily wiped her tears away and tried to convince Lorraine and herself that she was okay, the red head figured it'd only be braver to overlook the tears when Lenoura was trying so hard to do so herself.

The musician's eyes glistened sadly as she viewed the girl before her. She imagined the moments Lenoura must've experienced - moments where she couldn't help but torment herself at the thought of her mother's death. She visualized how many tears were shed from those sad set of hazel eyes. She thought of the troubles she must've gone through to bring herself to where she is today. After all, Lorraine goes went through all of them, too.

At least you have a solid memory to hold on to, she thought as she folded her arms over her chest, again. The sea wouldn't stop for me.

As Lorraine patiently waited for the blonde to recollect herself, she felt that she had to say some words of comfort. "I don't have a mother, either." She said, figuring that this characteristic they shared in common could help Lenoura not feel so alone. The redhead sighed and continued, "She ran away from us, God knows why." This last bit was bitter, the sixteen year old felt nothing but resentment towards the woman who abandoned her. Because of her, Lorraine had to learn how to fend for herself when she was only a child. Because of her, Rachel grew up without a mom. If she ever reappeared back into the picture again, Lorraine would never allow herself to forgive her. "But, your experience is obviously a different experience than mine." The sixteen year old hesitantly added. She knew that this simple tale was nothing compared to Lenoura's horror story, and bringing up Rachel probably would've been a better comparison. But, bringing up her sister was something she just couldn't do as of right now. She could only hope that the loss of their mother figures in their lives would help soothe Lenoura's sorrows.

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[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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"I don't have a mother, either." Her words seemed to swim around Noura's head and she felt a bitter cold overtake her slender body. I knew it.

Ever since she had laid her eyes upon Lorraine, Lenoura could sense some sort of bond that tied the two girls together. Granted, the blonde only assumed the similarities were coincidental, but there was in fact something deeper that she could sense. She looked into Lorraine's hazel eyes and searched for her current emotional state. It seemed as if she was attempting to comfort the awkward beauty. Lenoura greatly appreciated it, and wanted to thank her. It was never a simple task to tell someone that you no longer had a mother, and the fact that they shared this connection did seem to make Noura's tears feel less foolish.

But the words that followed were bitter and overrun by pain. She...left...her? The pale girl could hardly believe what the fire haired beauty had just shared. Loss was always terrible to deal with, but abandonment, that must have been unbearable. Suddenly she wanted to take Lorraine in her arms and hold her the way her mother should have her entire life. It wasn't fair that Noura's mom had been taken from her, but it was unbelievable that Lorraine's had just left her. What sort of a mother would do that? Naturally Noura didn't want to judge her mother, but she couldn't help it. Lorraine seemed like such a lovely human being, and for anyone to leave her was downright criminal, unforgivable, and absurd.

"Yes it might be different, but the pain is the same." Stepping closer to her new friend Lenoura took her slender hand in hers once again and squeezed with a small amount of pressure, "thank you." She didn't have to let Lorraine know what she was thanking her for, the girl would understand instantly.

Bringing her arms to her abdomen again, only this time to keep herself warm, Lenoura decided to keep the conversation going. "I was eleven when it happened. It was during childbirth." The memory threatened to invade her mind but she pushed it back, not wanting to relapse into another tear fest. "It was a boy, my little brother Dewey. He looks just like her if you could believe it." She smiled at that fact, and that fact alone. Although it normally hurt to look at Dewey, it was beautiful to see how alike he was to their mother. From time to time she would stare at him, just to get a glimpse of her.

"I still take care of him, and my father. It was hard, but I did my best, and still do." Turning back to face her direction home she pictured Dewey and her father asleep in their beds. It was very late and she felt as if she should head back home.

Facing Lorraine she asked, her voice shaking in some places, "Would you like to come with me home? It's late and I'm sure we'd be more comfortable inside." Brushing some blond strands of hair behind her right ear she added, "if you have other plans then it's completely fine. I can't assume that you weren't on your way somewhere before you watched me fall like the klutz that I am." Even if Lenoura could go where Lorraine was headed wouldn't be a problem, she just desperately wanted to be inside.

She waited for her companion to answer, hoping she would say yes. There was more Lenoura wanted to learn about her, much more.

[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

Reading the blonde's facial expression afterwards was a difficult task. Millions of emotions ran across her face, and they all seemed to fly by in an instant. Lorraine detected sorrow, anger, understanding, gratefulness. The red head waited for something, anything - a nod of the head, a play of the hands. Some sign of life. Never had Lorraine let in someone so foreign and unfamiliar (or anyone, in fact) to stand in the exposure of her personal life. Her life is like an open wound - raw and drawn to infection. People discovering of her history, or, even worst, becoming a part of it only added on to the deep gash. Was it right of Lorraine to reveal this side of her - to someone she hadn't even known for thirty minutes? She yearned for her friend to speak, her silence only churned the pianist's stomach.

"Yes it might be different," She finally said, setting the sixteen year old to ease. The revelation was not such a loss after all, she thought. "But the pain is the same. Thank you."

Lenoura took the pianist's dainty hands in her own, pressing it gently. The beauty knew what she meant by this instantly, the hazel eyed girl thanked her for making her feel as if she wasn't so alone in this world, after all.

The taller of the two retrieved her hand back to her side, holding herself together, again. This time, it seemed to be more on account of the weather instead of misery. Still, she continued the story of her mother.

Her mother died during the birth of her younger brother, Dewey. Despite the loss, she continued to care for her father and brother, probably taking on the role her mother would've if she was still here, today.

The struggle to not collapse again was evident in Lenoura's voice. Lorraine immediately gained respect for her new friend - keeping yourself from falling apart after a tragedy at so young an age is brave, but standing strong and keeping it together for the rest of your family is noble.

"Would you like to come with me home?" Lenoura asked, her voice gently trembling. The pianist couldn't exactly tell if it was because of recalling the dark events, or because she couldn't stand the cold. Lorraine assumed it to be both. "It's late and I'm sure we'd be more comfortable inside."

The red headed girl rubbed her arms to spark some warmth - the attempt was fruitless. She couldn't help but agree with Lenoura, being inside a warm house sounded like the most inviting thing she'd heard all night. But, her father would need her. She imagined the growling of his stomach, and him sitting opposite of the window, a book in hand. His bony pictures would lightly trace the keys of the piano, but when he catches sight of her arrival, he'd open the door and welcome her home wholeheartedly. Dinner would be made, the two would eat, and then a night's rest would ensue.

Sad how life has become a routine that I can predict every little bit. She thought to herself.

"If you have other plans then it's completely fine. I can't assume that you weren't on your way somewhere before you watched me fall like the klutz that I am." Lenoura continued.

The red head laughed at the last comment, her giggle lightening the mood. Her friend's face was full of anticipation for her reply, and Lorraine bit back her lip in thought. This girl was obviously in a time of hopeless despair, and at the mere thought of leaving her to fend for herself scared Lorraine. How much more of wreck would she turn into? Plus, maybe the story of Rachel would help comfort Lenoura a bit more.

The invitation is tempting, She carried on. But, Tim needs me.

It was true. If she didn't return home soon, he'd probably become too hungry and try cooking himself - only to burn the house down.

"I'm afraid my dad needs my presence as of right now," She apologized, regret in her eyes. "But you're more than welcome to join us. In fact, we'd actually prefer your company."

The presence of Lenoura would be a healthy change for both Lorraine and her father. Maybe, maybe, tonight would break the chain of their everyday routine.

OOC: I'm so lame. I replied within the same day...

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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The laughter that spilled from the redhead's mouth surely brought about a relaxed and comfortable mood. Lenoura thought it was very appropriate, seeing as she had most definitely stained the air black with her depressing story. It wasn't as if the pale girl necessarily wanted to dampen the conversation; she felt it was right to share with Lorraine. Something within her told her that she could trust the beautiful girl before her, and she was sticking with that inner feeling.

Man, it's really cold. Normally district four was the hottest of all the other districts, but tonight there was a horrid chill that seeped through her skin all the way to her bones. It's cause I'm wearing a dress and sandals. The attire was common for her, seeing as pants were a no-go, they fit awkwardly on her body. Her hazel eyes watched as even Lorraine began to rub her arms in an attempt to create heat. I hope she wants to come home with me, I need inside warmth.

"I'm afraid my dad needs my presence as of right now." Lenoura could literally feel her heart sink. Suddenly she began to regret ever letting herself get so close to the girl with flames for hair. In her entire life she kept to herself, and it never brought her pain. As she stood looking at Lorraine she could almost cry. Indeed it was a foolish notion, but she felt as if Lorraine had become her friend. Wasn't she? Surely they had been genuine with one another, and even shared a few laughs. Wouldn't that be considered a sort of friendship? Just stop it Len, her mind spoke in a somber voice, you're just making it worse for yourself.

And then the girl spoke again, "But you're more than welcome to join us. In fact, we'd actually prefer your company." Instinctively Len wanted to kick herself in the shins. She hadn't given her new friend the chance to finish her thoughts. A bright smile spread across her coral lips. Noura had never been invited anywhere, nonetheless a stranger's home. Things are looking up, her mind joyously rang.

"I would love to." The prospect of meeting Lorraine's father was very enticing. If he was half as kind and enchanting, then the slender girl was in for a lovely surprise. Plus seeing where Lorraine lived brought on a stranger curiosity within the swimmer's mind. They could be neighbors without even knowing it.

Walking to join Lorraine at her side, she extended her right hand forward and spoke with genuine enthusiasm, "lead the way." Surely Dewey and her father would sleep till it was morning, she had nothing to worry about.

OOC: That doesn't make you lame, it makes you the best RP partner ever! <3 You really are the best

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[chelsey]

lorrainemercier

district ( f o u r )

Lorraine's house sat on the side of a large hill, one of the few homes that dotted this side of Four. Although the house may not be as luxurious or stunning as others, the fact that it had been in the Mercier's family for generations kept the enchanting atmosphere close. The walk was a long and brutally cold one, but the view kept the pair's eyes transfixed. Two moons hung before them - one in the sky, and the other gleaming in the water. The sea was gentle tonight, and the sound of the water lapping against the side of the hill was a comforting one - a sound that never failed to remind Lorraine of home. The beach was easily in view here (although not quite visible with the current lack of light). But, when the Sun hovered in the sky, people flooded the sanded spot - the smell of sunscreen lotion and salt water thick in the air.

The Mercier's porch light dimly lit the house. The two story home was made of white wooden planks, with the exception of the dark green shutters that framed each window. A stair case on the left side led to the balcony on the second floor - often a place Lorraine would go to if she needed a spot to find solace in. The small but cozy porch welcomed guests, with a homey rocking chair sitting still on the edge. For a fisherman and the fisherman's daughter, the residence was admirable. The square windows were all covered with a thin, sheer curtain from the inside, except for the one window in the front. Inside this open window, Tim sat parallel to it with his eyes averted towards the book he held before him, the lamp next to him encasing a warm glow around his body.

The red head approached the white door, before gently tapping at the window to catch Tim's eye. He looked up, a smile finding it's way to his face when he discovered his daughter's presence, not noticing the stranger behind her.

He opened the door in a quick and swift move. "So, the princess returns home to cook the king his dinner?" Tim said in a jokingly manner as the door swung open.

Lorraine laughed gently, before retorting, "More like the slave returns." Then, taking Lenoura's hand in hers, she introduced, "Lenoura, this is my dad. Dad, this is Lenoura. Is it alright if she stays over for a bit?"

Noticing Lenoura for the first time, Tim glanced at her with a surprised expression, before it quickly melted away into a welcoming countenance. "It'll be a pleasure. Call me Tim, Lenoura." He extended his frail hand to the new guest. The older man stood with an air of wisdom around him, faltered by the impression of sickness. His wiry glasses were slightly pulled over to the tip of his nose, revealing the same green eyes he shared with his daughter. Tim had a dirty blonde hair with thin streaks of grey running through the sides, a sense of experience surrounding him.

The inside of the house had just as much charm and charisma as it's inmates. Bookshelves lined the walls, all of the books sharing a worn out spine. A large couch sat in front of the lit fire place, with a tattered white rug laid to the floor before it. The most eye catching item, however, would be the piano next to the window. It's wood was a dark ebony color, and it's keys as white as pearls. It didn't take up much space (it was only an upright piano), but the sound it could create is bewitching. On it's surface, a few frames of picture were propped up. Most of Lorraine and her father at a younger time - but a small addition was added to the family. Another girl, younger than Lorraine. She had the same bright red hair, but her rich brown eyes and splash of freckles created a distinction between the two.

The sixteen year old dropped her belongings on the couch, leading her friend to the kitchen. As her friend took a seat at the round, wooden dining table, Lorraine opened and close cupboards while collecting pans, plates, and cups. "What would you like to eat?"

[Lenoura]

Louder than Sirens...Louder than Bells

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To say Lorraine's house was beautiful was an understatement; it was enchanting and lovely, just like the girl who called it home. Lenoura was beginning to assume that the redhead was some sort of magical being that appeared to her tonight to help the awkward beauty escape the reality that was her mundane life. She loved it of course, taking care of Dewey and her father, but it was a lonely life and she would always pray to make a friend. Seems like your prayers are being answered tonight, her mind happily shot back.

The walk was a cold one, but the blonde enjoyed being in Lorraine's presence. She stayed close at her side, slightly towering over her, but it wasn't an issue for her; she was used to towering over most people. It wasn't until she saw the front porch and balcony that the swimmer wished she lived here. Her home was a shack in comparison to Lorraine's but she decided it would be silly to be jealous. A person's home didn't give a genuine representation of a person's personality. She herself knew people that lived in homes like hers that were bitter and mean. It's still very beautiful.

It was a moments time after her friend rapped on the window that a man opened the front door. Lorraine's father was a charming older man. His presence made Lenoura feel as if she were surrounded by an intellectual being, his wiry glasses only exaggerating her assumptions. His green eyes were similar to Lorraine's, but they differed in hair color, his being dirty blonde with gray streaks. It wasn't until Lorraine grabbed her hand that she realized the two had been sharing playful banter with one another.

She had asked permission for the blonde to spend some time and the surprised expression on her father's face quickly faded as he stared at her. Len was taken aback when he insisted she called him by his first name, but she did as she was told. "Nice to meet you Tim. And thank you, very much." She was glad he didn't disapprove of her presence, and walked inside with her new friend.

The inside of her home was just as beautiful as the outside. Books lined the walls in shelves and a beautiful ebony piano stood in the corner of the room next to a window. Lenoura had never seen one in person before, and it was gorgeous nonetheless. It was suddenly all too much for her to take in at once, and she suddenly felt light-headed. Trying her hardest not to trip over herself and land on the couch or into the fireplace, she followed Lorraine into the kitchen and sat at the round table.

""What would you like to eat?" The question took the slender girl by surprise and she began to worry as to how to answer. What would Lorraine have in the house to offer her? Suddenly her pace quickened and she decided to give her a vague and open-ended answer. "Anything is fine for me really. Whatever Time would like." She hoped the father would find her remark humorous and not rude.

Staring around she couldn't help but speak her mind, "You're home is really beautiful. Can I stay here forever?" A small laugh parted from her coral lips.