a day in their shoes
Looking Dapper for Family Parties
Family parties, I hate them. To prepare for these dreadful occurrences you have to clean everyroom in the house except one. But that one room does not go untouched. It becomes storage, the room where you put all your unimpressive or emabarrassing belongings. My room's usually on the cleaner side so the cleaning goes pretty quickly but since I'm a neat freak I'm expected to clean other parts of the house too. Cleaning excessively isn't the only part I hate about family parties, I hate having my cousins snoop around in my room. Yes they're family but can't we bond together outside in the fresh air? I don't care how cold it is, can't we be outside? But no, we're always inside. My older cousins judging what I like and my younger cousins not leaving one thing untouched by their little sticky hands. My little brother, Victor, despises them too. He hates the cleaning part, and dressing up nicer than usual, that's it. I don't necessarily like it either but it's not awful. Our cousins never go in his room because he's too lazy to clean it. I guess the only good thing about being up in my room during these parties is not being in proximity with my neighbor Finnian. God how he irks me. But sadly, as of now, the family party is outside. I'm in pink and silver dress the stops at the knee, my blonde hair is in loose curls, my face as a light coating of make-up, and I look pretty dapper if I say so myself. As well tirmmed as I look, I don't want anyone outside my family too see. I sat quietly at the table with my cousins, listening to them ramble on and on about who knows what. My little cousin, Abby, looks up at me with her big brown eyes.
"Can we go inside your room, Effie?" she asks.
Avoiding the question I scan the surrounding area and then gasp. "Look Abby! Vanilla cupcakes!" I say faking excitiment.
She then turns and runs towards the dessert table. I sigh before leaving the table where the rest of my cousins were. Without realizing it, I had wandered to the tree in the back of our yard. It was only about 65 out but the sun made it seem hotter. I checked for mud before propping myself up against the tree. To start off spring break my family always threw a party. For the past few weeks, I'd been staying up until two each day doing homework. I looked above at the scattered tree branches, their leaves only let a selected few rays of sun to pass through, now of which were on me thankfully. My tiredness got the best of me, my eyelids drifted shut. And I was out like a light.
Finnian and My Cousins
I opened my eyes slowly and feel something on my left shoulder. There sat Abby, fast asleep. I gently stroked her light burnette hair before looking up. There was Finnian, in all his annoying glory. Finnian's 15 and we're in the same grade. But I'm only 14.
"Hey, E. Have you seen your legs recently, 'Cause they sure look different today." he says nonchalantly.
"Sorry Finnian Mr. Hentai O'Mal, I didn't have time to shave this morning. Why were you staring at my legs in the first place?" I reply before looking down at my legs. I gasped at the sight. My lower legs were covered in mulitple doodles, drawn in a permanent black marker. My eyes fly to Abby's hands, and sure enough she's holding a marker. I look up at Finnian, furious. I can't lash out at my little cousin, and he's the only one near by.
"Why'd you let her?" I started.
"Damage was already done when I got here. I just came to ask why I wasn't invited to the party. That's when I saw you with the fucked up legs." he answers.
"Finni!" I yelled pointing to Abby. He mouthed sorry before standing up. Finni awkwardly pointed to the dessert table and then walked away. My poor lower legs, I'd be stuck in sweatpants all spring break now. We should have just gone up to my room where there were only pencils. I desperatly look up for anyone to talk to besides Finnian. I spot Victor and my cousins Bennet, Nate, and Lili. Anxious, I wave them over. I caught Bennet's attention first, he strolled over, took one look, and then doubled over from laughter. I sighed, he wasn't any help.
"Lili!" I called in a depressed tone. She turned her head before walking over. She was Bennet's younger sister, she was 16 and he was 18. I pointed down at my legs. Her eyes widened in disbelief before she gasped. Lili helped me up and then lead me to the house. Leaving Abby, Bennet, Nate, and Victor behind. Lili never said much, but she was still helpful.
"How?" she asked quietly once we were inside.
"Guess." I said.
"Guess you should put on tights or something." she said patting my shoulder. I sighed and then proceeded upstairs to my room.
A Good Kick Does Wonders
Just my luck, the only tights I have are bright purple and they're from when I was six! I sighed the only thing I could really try now was to shower. I strolled over to my closet and pulled out a t-shirt and some jeans.
"Lili, I'm gonna take a shower and see if it helps at all." I called.
"I'll go back outside then, Effie." she answered.
I laid my clothes out on my bed, grabbed a towel and headed for the bathroom. This was one of those times I was happy to have my own bathroom attached to my room. I could lay everything and anything out where I wanted and I didn't have to worry about Victor or anyone seeing. After turning on the water, I proceeded well you know the process.
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Time sure flies in the shower. I thought when wrapping a towel around myself and another around my hair. Most of the doodles had washed off but you could still see the dark outline of the figures. That's when I heard my squeaky door open. My eyes widened.
"Damn it! I forgot to lock my bedroom door." I cursed quietly, "My stuff's out on my bed, the only one I wouldn't mind seeing would be Lili, but she's outside. Didn't she tell everyone? What asshole would ignore-" I crossed my arms and growled, "...Finni."
"Effie?" Finnian called.
"Go away Finnian my clothes are out there and I needed to change?" I yelled.
"So you do..." he said, you could tell that his interest had peaked immensely.
I made the mistake of pointing out something he hadn't realized. Even though we're on different sides of a door I should have known not to have pointed that out. Without thinking I threw the door open. There was Finni standing in the corner of my room. After one awkward look at me and opened his mouth to say something. But I walked over to him and gave him one cold hard look.
"I didn't even look at your green and blue panties." he said coolly.
"How'd you know they were green and blue then?" I growled.
"E, haven't you heard of lucky guesses. After all those are your favorite colors."
"I never told you my favorite colors. And it's not color it's color. It's silver, no where near blue or green."
I looked up at him furious. He had about two inches on me but those two inches did not prevent me from seeing his eyes slwoly drift down. I bite my lip in anger. I can't believe you!
"Hentai! Finni you fucking pervert!" I screamed angrily. That's when my left leg flew up and nailed him right in his weak point. That's when his calm disposition melted away. He fell to his knees and I could tell that he was holding back a groan. Finni was doubled over and I couldn't see his face.
"The view was worth it." Finni grumbled.
"Want another kick, asshole?" I asked while tightening my towel.
Finnian shook his head, "The view was great but damn, that kick worked wonders down south."
"Good. Hope you learned your lesson. You better be done cringing and wicning when I get back." I ordered. Then I walked over to my bed and picked up my clothes. Hope I didn't hurt him too much. Wait, what am I thinking? He's a pervert! Gah! I should just get dressed and go back outside. But I should move Mr. Hentai out of my room first. I thought while removing the towel from my hair. Now I could faintly hear him groaning in pain, serves him right.
Be Careful, Victor
I opened the door to see Finnian sitting on my bed. His hands still placed between his legs. Finni looked up at me his eyes weren't the usual shade of a delicate brown they usually were. They were usually so full of life.
"Y'know that really hurt right?" Finni said.
"Why else would I do it if it didn't hurt?" I told him, "Now stop dwelling in the past."
"It was five minutes ago! And it still hurts like hell! You wouldn't know anything even close to how I feel."
"You think I don't know pain? Do you bleed for a week straight monthly for 30 years or so? No!"
"How bothersome could it be?"
"Ok, then how about I come over to your house and give you a good kick everyday of a week every month for 30 fucking years?"
Finni knew it was time to stop. He knew that I had won this one. I stood up and held out my hand. It was the least I could do. Finni ignored me and got up on his own and then walked out of my room. I quickly closed the door to my room and walked behind him. Victor sat at the bottom of the stairs, his head resting in his hands. I put my hand on Finni's shoulder. He looked down and saw Victor.
"I should go home and see the damgae done though." Finni whispered.
"There's a bathroom right over there if you wanna check first. And I'm not letting you leave without talking to him first." I hissed.
"Why me?"
"He likes you, and besides there are probably some things he doesn't want to tell his older sister.
Finni shrugged and then sat down next to Victor. I left before I could see anything else. Outside in the backyard things were in full swing. I stook out like a swore thumb. I was in jeans and a hoodie while everyone else was in holiday attire. Abby ran over to me and hugged me the second I closed the door.
"I'm sorry Effie! I really am! I didn't mean to make you made!" Abby cried into my side. I patted her head.
"It's alright most of it came off. I not mad at you, I'm mad at friend Finnian." I said taking her hand, "How 'bout we watch a movie soon." Her expression lightened as we then went back into the house. Victor was still on the steps but Finni was gone. I walked over to him.
"Where's Finni?" I asked.
"Bathroom. Damn, Effie you cruel." Victor said.
"Victor, Abby's here!" I said pointing to the little girl at my side, "What did you and Finni talk about?"
"Well you kicking him in the- Oh yeah." he said stopping himself.
"What was wrong before?"
"Nothing, my head just hurts."
"Victor are you gonna watch the movie with us too?" Abby interjcted.
"Naw, I'll stay with Finni." Victor responded
"Don't get any ideas. Just because you're my brother doesn't mean I won't flip out on you." I warned.
"E, I'm 13 now, I know when enough is enough."
I laughed a little, Victor doesn't know when enough is enough. Oh well, he'll just a nice kick. I thought. I then walked Abby to the family room. We chose the movie Beauty and the Beast, you just can't go wrong with the classics. I then made some popcorn and joined Abby on the floor right in front of the TV.
The Wild Chase
As soon as the movie was finished everyone left. The goodbyes were short and sweet and consisted of nothing more than a hug and a "See you in a few months." After we had all waved to everyone I turned and started to go upstairs to my room.
Finally! Alone at last! I thought. I opened the door and walked straight to my closet. I felt the need to put on my pajamas on mainly because they're were a lot warmer that what I had on. That's when I remember, The door! I turned around and you'll never guess who was there.
"What are you doing here?" I asked.
Finnian smiled and ruffled his burnette hair before answering, "Seeing if you were stupid enough to leave the door unlocked."
"Oh yeah, you never left. Why are you still here? What do you want?"
"Just wanted to see if you were stupid enough, E."
"You just love pissing me off, don't you Finni." I growled, "I'll if you two second head start."
"E, you think I'm gonna run? Nope I'm staying right here."
"One...two..."
Then I lunged forward. That set him running for the hills. Finni quickly rounded the corner and ran down the stairs.
Following close on his tail I screamed, "Get back here you imbecile! Your presence has irked me enough for a year!"
While running we passed Victor.
"Stop using big words, he probably can't understand you." He shouted as we scampered out out the door.
Victor, the one member of my family I can some-what stand. We were now running down our street. Finni said nothing and just kept running. The adrenaline was in full swing and I was running faster than I thought I ever could.
"I never knew your rage could fuel you this far!" Finni yelled. He then suddenly stopped short in the middle of the road.
"Watch it you asshole! Are you trying trying to make me run into you?" I panted
"Look." He said between pants pointing down.
I cautiously looked down fearing it was roadkill. It was person. Maybe about five inches tall. It had on a leaf dress. Even though it was tiny you could sense the tiny figure's fear.
The Tiny Figure with the Leaf Dress
My eyes widened at the sight of the figure. I glanced over at Finni who's face was stuck in gasping expression. I was tempted to pick the tiny person up but I knew it was best to leave it alone. Who knew how dangerous the tiny thing could be? Without thinking I scooted towards Finni.Surprising he didn't puch me aside or call me any names. Finni must have been just as intrigued and puzzled as I was. He scratched his head before he kneeled down, I did the same hoping it was the right decision.
"H-hello, what's your name. I'm Finnian and that's Effie. We don't want to hurt you." Finni exclaimed clamly with many hand motions. I nodded then held out my little finger. The person hesitated before reaching out and slighty shaking it. Finni followed and did the same. Except the figure was more reluctant with Finni.
"He's not so scary. He's just a perv." I whispered. The figure glanced down at the pavement.
"Maplelu. My name is Maplelu." The figure mumbled with gently placing her hands on her leaf dress, "I'm sorry I'm so hesitant, it's just elfin rarely run into Big Ones. And when they usually do the Big Ones run away. I've never been told how to deal with this situation."
"Can we see your home?" Finni asked.
Maplelu tangled and untangled her honey blonde hair before replying, "I'll have to ask. You could wait I suppose, but where would I be able to find you?"
I pointed to the tree in my yard that was clearly visible from any height, "There. Thanks for letting us, I was sure you'd say no." I then peeked over at Finni. His expression screamed that he was astounded. "Great. In twenty or so minutes then?"
Maplelu nodded before adding that she would be bringing her twin brother along. She also mentioned something about a surprise for us. We waved 'bye' but I don't think she saw. Finni and I then stood up and watched Maplelu disappear into the backyard of our neighbor's. That's when I remembered that I was standing in the middle of the road with my attractive but prevy friend (What other word is there? Acquaintance?) crouched over and then waving to something so miniscule that the people in passing cars (Who kindly didn't hit us.) not even see.
"You should be grateful we ran into Maplelu. Or else I would have caught you, thrown you on the ground, beaten you to a pulp, and then I would have kicked you twenty or so more time in the crotch." I said as we slowly walked back.
"Thanks for reminding me, the pain's come back. Guess I should be glad we didn't trample her." Finni answered while walking awkwardly.
"You didn't run awkwardly." I pointed out casually.
"I had motivation to suck up my pain and get away from you, E. You're one harsh girl! You've got bigger balls than most people for beating someone up so casually."
"Well, after that kick my balls are cerntainly bigger." I giggled before running ahead. I could hear Finni trying to catch up. Maybe he's not so bad after all. I thought as we approached home.
Waiting and Waiting for Nothing
When we got to my yard I perched myself on one of the lower sturdier branches on the old oak and Finni sat down at it's trunk.
"Exciting, isn't it?" I said quieting while gazing at the setting sun. No response from Finni. He was usually quick to answer so I glanced down at him. His head rested his hand and was staring at the ground. "Finn?"
"Oh yeah, sure." He responded in a bored tone. Finni looked up at me. His brown eyes sure were pretty. No! No, Effie! Finni may be your attractive neighbor, but he's a prevert. I scolded myself while shaking my head ever so slightly. "Effie, I know that you're kind of pissed at me still but there's something I have to tell you."
I cocked my head to the side, puzzled. Why was Finni suddenly sounding serious. Finni was never like this. I gulped, "Yes, Finnian."
"Never mind it can wait until the end of summer. If I'm around that long. I don't want to ruin anything that could have happen just by saying something...Where's Maplelu it's getting late. I can literally see the sun setting." Finni conitinued by keeping a calm dispostion.
I crawled down from the branch. "She'll be hear soon but please do explain. It sounds like it can't wait."
"It can. I've made my decision. It's better if we wait."
"Finni, I'm serious. Tell me. How bad could it freakin' be" I said. I even stopped myself from dropping an 'F' bomb. The mood was too serious for one.
"You wouldn't understand. I don't mean this one like the last time I said that phrase. You were already pissed and I kew you would be fuming if I said it."
"So you purposly pissed me off. You certainly are something Finnian O'Mal. But everyone has that one weird friend." I sighed. I glanced at Finni and his eyes had widened.
"That one weird friend...I suppose they do." Finni said with his voice trailing off in the end.
To get this out of the way, I'm not falling for him. In fact I despise him. No matter how attractive he is, he's my irksome pervert neighbor friend. We grew up together and I've learned to cope with him. But I've never seen him this way before. He needed someone to care about something, little does he know that I do. I just don't show it. I treat him like I treat Victor, like a brother. Finnian O'Mal was hiding something, and I'm not going to let it stay hidden.
"Hey! Effie, what are you and Finni doing? Getting it on by the tree? Dad's not gonna like that." Victor yelled from the back door of the house. It was much darker than it was a few minutes ago. Finni and I then started walking towards the house.
"E, I'm locked out. Can I stay here?" Finni asked.
"Probably, my parents like you. They don't care that I despise you. If you do, stop being a fucking pervert and staying out of my damn room." I said half seriously.
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Once inside, I went up to my room and put my pajamas on and walked down to living room where Finni would be staying. My parents said nothing as they walked to the rooms. All they did was give the 'Don't do anything stupid.' glare.
Finni had changed into something that was too big Victor and was sprawled out on the couch. Earlier when we just come in, Finni had requested popcorn. So I decided to do it before I got too tired. After waiting for the popcorn and poured half of it in the bowl and walked over and handed it to him.
"Here." I said shoving the bowl of popcorn at him.
Finni sat up and accepted the bowl, "Thanks."
That's when Victor came rushing down the stairs, "I smell popcorn!" he exclaimed loudly.
I then snapped at him before grabbing his hand and dragging him into the kitchen.
"No yelling! Mom and Dad are sleeping! Now here, have some of mine. I gave the half to Finni so leave some for me." I sighed. I hate babysitting Victor, now I have Finni to watch too. "When you're done go straight to bed! It's almost eleven!"
"But it's only eleven and my..." Victor started.
That's when I punched his arm. He was twelve, he could take at least at little bit of my beatings. It's not like I was throwing him on the ground and putting him in a headlock. Hopefully we won't get there though...
After watching Victor eating all the popcorn dispite me telling him to save some for me he sulked upstairs. That's when I strolled into living room and sat in a chair across from Finni.
"Maybe twenty minutes their time is different. We'll look again fro Maplelu tomorrow. Be up and ready early. We don't want Victor tagging along." I quietly instructed.
"Ok. By the way I'll be stuck here until are home in a week. Good thing your parents don't mind." Finni whispered.
"You're going to make this week living hell more me aren't you?" I sighed while walking towards the stairs.
"Effie, you're pretty damn good at guessing." Finni laughed quietly .
"No, you're just that predictable." I replied as I reached the top of the stairs.
An Early Morning Visit
Around four that night I was awakened by a faint tapping noise. My bed was across the from the window and I had forgotten to shut the curtains that night. I know, I know, I'm just so bright that it may actually kill me. Despite the fact that my instinct told me to sit up and bolt of the room, I couldn't. Reason one because the person would see me and reason two because Finni's here. I don't need to give him another reason to embarrass me. I hadn't realized that I had lifted the covers above my head until it became awfully stuffy under there. That's when I slowly lowered the blanket and expected to see a giant shadow creature looking at me through the lone open window in my room. But boy was I wrong, this was much worse. I saw a tiny silhouette outside my window. I could tell that it was Maplelu because her dress buldged out slightly on the sides. When I saw that it was her I yelped. The absoulte worse possible thing I could do. Then I jumped at the sound of someone pounding on my door.
"Effie, shut up! It's four o'clock in the freaking morning!" Victor yelled some-what quietly.
"Victor," I mocked, "shut up! It's for o'clock in the fucking morning!"
That's when I heard his door across the hall shut. At least it was only Victor, it could have been my parents. And they would have bust down the door probably thinking Finni and I were doing something...something improper. Do they think I'm really that horny? If they think Finni is, then I understand why.
Maplelu tapped on my window again. I'd forgotten she was there...oops... I then quietly hopped out of bed and opened the window. Maplelu motioned to my hand and I held it out. She jumped onto my hand and whispered, "The boy. The boy you said was a perv."
"Oh him. He's downstairs. We're not family or anything it's just that his parents are gone and he's locked out!...We're not like that! Don't think that way 'cause we're not!" I said quickly before ending with a cheesey smile.
Maplelu giggled before saying, "Onward then my friend."
Then crept downstairs to see Finni. Who was sitting on the couch, staring at us.
"How'd you find her?" He asked while getting off the couch.
"I didn't," I replied, "She found us. And why are you up?"
"Your yelp woke the whole house. Your parents came and checked on me. I told them that you were probably just dreaming about whatever you found completely terrifying."
"Now that you mention it, you have been in all of my recent nightmares."
"Aww Effie, I'm often in your dreams!"
"I didn't mean it like that you hentai. Remember Maplelu's here. She's here for a reason and I say we should both shut up and here what she was to say!"
Finni then shrugged and looked down at Maplelu.
Family parties, I hate them. To prepare for these dreadful occurrences you have to clean everyroom in the house except one. But that one room does not go untouched. It becomes storage, the room where you put all your unimpressive or emabarrassing belongings. My room's usually on the cleaner side so the cleaning goes pretty quickly but since I'm a neat freak I'm expected to clean other parts of the house too. Cleaning excessively isn't the only part I hate about family parties, I hate having my cousins snoop around in my room. Yes they're family but can't we bond together outside in the fresh air? I don't care how cold it is, can't we be outside? But no, we're always inside. My older cousins judging what I like and my younger cousins not leaving one thing untouched by their little sticky hands. My little brother, Victor, despises them too. He hates the cleaning part, and dressing up nicer than usual, that's it. I don't necessarily like it either but it's not awful. Our cousins never go in his room because he's too lazy to clean it. I guess the only good thing about being up in my room during these parties is not being in proximity with my neighbor Finnian. God how he irks me. But sadly, as of now, the family party is outside. I'm in pink and silver dress the stops at the knee, my blonde hair is in loose curls, my face as a light coating of make-up, and I look pretty dapper if I say so myself. As well tirmmed as I look, I don't want anyone outside my family too see. I sat quietly at the table with my cousins, listening to them ramble on and on about who knows what. My little cousin, Abby, looks up at me with her big brown eyes.
"Can we go inside your room, Effie?" she asks.
Avoiding the question I scan the surrounding area and then gasp. "Look Abby! Vanilla cupcakes!" I say faking excitiment.
She then turns and runs towards the dessert table. I sigh before leaving the table where the rest of my cousins were. Without realizing it, I had wandered to the tree in the back of our yard. It was only about 65 out but the sun made it seem hotter. I checked for mud before propping myself up against the tree. To start off spring break my family always threw a party. For the past few weeks, I'd been staying up until two each day doing homework. I looked above at the scattered tree branches, their leaves only let a selected few rays of sun to pass through, now of which were on me thankfully. My tiredness got the best of me, my eyelids drifted shut. And I was out like a light.
Finnian and My Cousins
I opened my eyes slowly and feel something on my left shoulder. There sat Abby, fast asleep. I gently stroked her light burnette hair before looking up. There was Finnian, in all his annoying glory. Finnian's 15 and we're in the same grade. But I'm only 14.
"Hey, E. Have you seen your legs recently, 'Cause they sure look different today." he says nonchalantly.
"Sorry Finnian Mr. Hentai O'Mal, I didn't have time to shave this morning. Why were you staring at my legs in the first place?" I reply before looking down at my legs. I gasped at the sight. My lower legs were covered in mulitple doodles, drawn in a permanent black marker. My eyes fly to Abby's hands, and sure enough she's holding a marker. I look up at Finnian, furious. I can't lash out at my little cousin, and he's the only one near by.
"Why'd you let her?" I started.
"Damage was already done when I got here. I just came to ask why I wasn't invited to the party. That's when I saw you with the fucked up legs." he answers.
"Finni!" I yelled pointing to Abby. He mouthed sorry before standing up. Finni awkwardly pointed to the dessert table and then walked away. My poor lower legs, I'd be stuck in sweatpants all spring break now. We should have just gone up to my room where there were only pencils. I desperatly look up for anyone to talk to besides Finnian. I spot Victor and my cousins Bennet, Nate, and Lili. Anxious, I wave them over. I caught Bennet's attention first, he strolled over, took one look, and then doubled over from laughter. I sighed, he wasn't any help.
"Lili!" I called in a depressed tone. She turned her head before walking over. She was Bennet's younger sister, she was 16 and he was 18. I pointed down at my legs. Her eyes widened in disbelief before she gasped. Lili helped me up and then lead me to the house. Leaving Abby, Bennet, Nate, and Victor behind. Lili never said much, but she was still helpful.
"How?" she asked quietly once we were inside.
"Guess." I said.
"Guess you should put on tights or something." she said patting my shoulder. I sighed and then proceeded upstairs to my room.
A Good Kick Does Wonders
Just my luck, the only tights I have are bright purple and they're from when I was six! I sighed the only thing I could really try now was to shower. I strolled over to my closet and pulled out a t-shirt and some jeans.
"Lili, I'm gonna take a shower and see if it helps at all." I called.
"I'll go back outside then, Effie." she answered.
I laid my clothes out on my bed, grabbed a towel and headed for the bathroom. This was one of those times I was happy to have my own bathroom attached to my room. I could lay everything and anything out where I wanted and I didn't have to worry about Victor or anyone seeing. After turning on the water, I proceeded well you know the process.
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Time sure flies in the shower. I thought when wrapping a towel around myself and another around my hair. Most of the doodles had washed off but you could still see the dark outline of the figures. That's when I heard my squeaky door open. My eyes widened.
"Damn it! I forgot to lock my bedroom door." I cursed quietly, "My stuff's out on my bed, the only one I wouldn't mind seeing would be Lili, but she's outside. Didn't she tell everyone? What asshole would ignore-" I crossed my arms and growled, "...Finni."
"Effie?" Finnian called.
"Go away Finnian my clothes are out there and I needed to change?" I yelled.
"So you do..." he said, you could tell that his interest had peaked immensely.
I made the mistake of pointing out something he hadn't realized. Even though we're on different sides of a door I should have known not to have pointed that out. Without thinking I threw the door open. There was Finni standing in the corner of my room. After one awkward look at me and opened his mouth to say something. But I walked over to him and gave him one cold hard look.
"I didn't even look at your green and blue panties." he said coolly.
"How'd you know they were green and blue then?" I growled.
"E, haven't you heard of lucky guesses. After all those are your favorite colors."
"I never told you my favorite colors. And it's not color it's color. It's silver, no where near blue or green."
I looked up at him furious. He had about two inches on me but those two inches did not prevent me from seeing his eyes slwoly drift down. I bite my lip in anger. I can't believe you!
"Hentai! Finni you fucking pervert!" I screamed angrily. That's when my left leg flew up and nailed him right in his weak point. That's when his calm disposition melted away. He fell to his knees and I could tell that he was holding back a groan. Finni was doubled over and I couldn't see his face.
"The view was worth it." Finni grumbled.
"Want another kick, asshole?" I asked while tightening my towel.
Finnian shook his head, "The view was great but damn, that kick worked wonders down south."
"Good. Hope you learned your lesson. You better be done cringing and wicning when I get back." I ordered. Then I walked over to my bed and picked up my clothes. Hope I didn't hurt him too much. Wait, what am I thinking? He's a pervert! Gah! I should just get dressed and go back outside. But I should move Mr. Hentai out of my room first. I thought while removing the towel from my hair. Now I could faintly hear him groaning in pain, serves him right.
Be Careful, Victor
I opened the door to see Finnian sitting on my bed. His hands still placed between his legs. Finni looked up at me his eyes weren't the usual shade of a delicate brown they usually were. They were usually so full of life.
"Y'know that really hurt right?" Finni said.
"Why else would I do it if it didn't hurt?" I told him, "Now stop dwelling in the past."
"It was five minutes ago! And it still hurts like hell! You wouldn't know anything even close to how I feel."
"You think I don't know pain? Do you bleed for a week straight monthly for 30 years or so? No!"
"How bothersome could it be?"
"Ok, then how about I come over to your house and give you a good kick everyday of a week every month for 30 fucking years?"
Finni knew it was time to stop. He knew that I had won this one. I stood up and held out my hand. It was the least I could do. Finni ignored me and got up on his own and then walked out of my room. I quickly closed the door to my room and walked behind him. Victor sat at the bottom of the stairs, his head resting in his hands. I put my hand on Finni's shoulder. He looked down and saw Victor.
"I should go home and see the damgae done though." Finni whispered.
"There's a bathroom right over there if you wanna check first. And I'm not letting you leave without talking to him first." I hissed.
"Why me?"
"He likes you, and besides there are probably some things he doesn't want to tell his older sister.
Finni shrugged and then sat down next to Victor. I left before I could see anything else. Outside in the backyard things were in full swing. I stook out like a swore thumb. I was in jeans and a hoodie while everyone else was in holiday attire. Abby ran over to me and hugged me the second I closed the door.
"I'm sorry Effie! I really am! I didn't mean to make you made!" Abby cried into my side. I patted her head.
"It's alright most of it came off. I not mad at you, I'm mad at friend Finnian." I said taking her hand, "How 'bout we watch a movie soon." Her expression lightened as we then went back into the house. Victor was still on the steps but Finni was gone. I walked over to him.
"Where's Finni?" I asked.
"Bathroom. Damn, Effie you cruel." Victor said.
"Victor, Abby's here!" I said pointing to the little girl at my side, "What did you and Finni talk about?"
"Well you kicking him in the- Oh yeah." he said stopping himself.
"What was wrong before?"
"Nothing, my head just hurts."
"Victor are you gonna watch the movie with us too?" Abby interjcted.
"Naw, I'll stay with Finni." Victor responded
"Don't get any ideas. Just because you're my brother doesn't mean I won't flip out on you." I warned.
"E, I'm 13 now, I know when enough is enough."
I laughed a little, Victor doesn't know when enough is enough. Oh well, he'll just a nice kick. I thought. I then walked Abby to the family room. We chose the movie Beauty and the Beast, you just can't go wrong with the classics. I then made some popcorn and joined Abby on the floor right in front of the TV.
The Wild Chase
As soon as the movie was finished everyone left. The goodbyes were short and sweet and consisted of nothing more than a hug and a "See you in a few months." After we had all waved to everyone I turned and started to go upstairs to my room.
Finally! Alone at last! I thought. I opened the door and walked straight to my closet. I felt the need to put on my pajamas on mainly because they're were a lot warmer that what I had on. That's when I remember, The door! I turned around and you'll never guess who was there.
"What are you doing here?" I asked.
Finnian smiled and ruffled his burnette hair before answering, "Seeing if you were stupid enough to leave the door unlocked."
"Oh yeah, you never left. Why are you still here? What do you want?"
"Just wanted to see if you were stupid enough, E."
"You just love pissing me off, don't you Finni." I growled, "I'll if you two second head start."
"E, you think I'm gonna run? Nope I'm staying right here."
"One...two..."
Then I lunged forward. That set him running for the hills. Finni quickly rounded the corner and ran down the stairs.
Following close on his tail I screamed, "Get back here you imbecile! Your presence has irked me enough for a year!"
While running we passed Victor.
"Stop using big words, he probably can't understand you." He shouted as we scampered out out the door.
Victor, the one member of my family I can some-what stand. We were now running down our street. Finni said nothing and just kept running. The adrenaline was in full swing and I was running faster than I thought I ever could.
"I never knew your rage could fuel you this far!" Finni yelled. He then suddenly stopped short in the middle of the road.
"Watch it you asshole! Are you trying trying to make me run into you?" I panted
"Look." He said between pants pointing down.
I cautiously looked down fearing it was roadkill. It was person. Maybe about five inches tall. It had on a leaf dress. Even though it was tiny you could sense the tiny figure's fear.
The Tiny Figure with the Leaf Dress
My eyes widened at the sight of the figure. I glanced over at Finni who's face was stuck in gasping expression. I was tempted to pick the tiny person up but I knew it was best to leave it alone. Who knew how dangerous the tiny thing could be? Without thinking I scooted towards Finni.Surprising he didn't puch me aside or call me any names. Finni must have been just as intrigued and puzzled as I was. He scratched his head before he kneeled down, I did the same hoping it was the right decision.
"H-hello, what's your name. I'm Finnian and that's Effie. We don't want to hurt you." Finni exclaimed clamly with many hand motions. I nodded then held out my little finger. The person hesitated before reaching out and slighty shaking it. Finni followed and did the same. Except the figure was more reluctant with Finni.
"He's not so scary. He's just a perv." I whispered. The figure glanced down at the pavement.
"Maplelu. My name is Maplelu." The figure mumbled with gently placing her hands on her leaf dress, "I'm sorry I'm so hesitant, it's just elfin rarely run into Big Ones. And when they usually do the Big Ones run away. I've never been told how to deal with this situation."
"Can we see your home?" Finni asked.
Maplelu tangled and untangled her honey blonde hair before replying, "I'll have to ask. You could wait I suppose, but where would I be able to find you?"
I pointed to the tree in my yard that was clearly visible from any height, "There. Thanks for letting us, I was sure you'd say no." I then peeked over at Finni. His expression screamed that he was astounded. "Great. In twenty or so minutes then?"
Maplelu nodded before adding that she would be bringing her twin brother along. She also mentioned something about a surprise for us. We waved 'bye' but I don't think she saw. Finni and I then stood up and watched Maplelu disappear into the backyard of our neighbor's. That's when I remembered that I was standing in the middle of the road with my attractive but prevy friend (What other word is there? Acquaintance?) crouched over and then waving to something so miniscule that the people in passing cars (Who kindly didn't hit us.) not even see.
"You should be grateful we ran into Maplelu. Or else I would have caught you, thrown you on the ground, beaten you to a pulp, and then I would have kicked you twenty or so more time in the crotch." I said as we slowly walked back.
"Thanks for reminding me, the pain's come back. Guess I should be glad we didn't trample her." Finni answered while walking awkwardly.
"You didn't run awkwardly." I pointed out casually.
"I had motivation to suck up my pain and get away from you, E. You're one harsh girl! You've got bigger balls than most people for beating someone up so casually."
"Well, after that kick my balls are cerntainly bigger." I giggled before running ahead. I could hear Finni trying to catch up. Maybe he's not so bad after all. I thought as we approached home.
Waiting and Waiting for Nothing
When we got to my yard I perched myself on one of the lower sturdier branches on the old oak and Finni sat down at it's trunk.
"Exciting, isn't it?" I said quieting while gazing at the setting sun. No response from Finni. He was usually quick to answer so I glanced down at him. His head rested his hand and was staring at the ground. "Finn?"
"Oh yeah, sure." He responded in a bored tone. Finni looked up at me. His brown eyes sure were pretty. No! No, Effie! Finni may be your attractive neighbor, but he's a prevert. I scolded myself while shaking my head ever so slightly. "Effie, I know that you're kind of pissed at me still but there's something I have to tell you."
I cocked my head to the side, puzzled. Why was Finni suddenly sounding serious. Finni was never like this. I gulped, "Yes, Finnian."
"Never mind it can wait until the end of summer. If I'm around that long. I don't want to ruin anything that could have happen just by saying something...Where's Maplelu it's getting late. I can literally see the sun setting." Finni conitinued by keeping a calm dispostion.
I crawled down from the branch. "She'll be hear soon but please do explain. It sounds like it can't wait."
"It can. I've made my decision. It's better if we wait."
"Finni, I'm serious. Tell me. How bad could it freakin' be" I said. I even stopped myself from dropping an 'F' bomb. The mood was too serious for one.
"You wouldn't understand. I don't mean this one like the last time I said that phrase. You were already pissed and I kew you would be fuming if I said it."
"So you purposly pissed me off. You certainly are something Finnian O'Mal. But everyone has that one weird friend." I sighed. I glanced at Finni and his eyes had widened.
"That one weird friend...I suppose they do." Finni said with his voice trailing off in the end.
To get this out of the way, I'm not falling for him. In fact I despise him. No matter how attractive he is, he's my irksome pervert neighbor friend. We grew up together and I've learned to cope with him. But I've never seen him this way before. He needed someone to care about something, little does he know that I do. I just don't show it. I treat him like I treat Victor, like a brother. Finnian O'Mal was hiding something, and I'm not going to let it stay hidden.
"Hey! Effie, what are you and Finni doing? Getting it on by the tree? Dad's not gonna like that." Victor yelled from the back door of the house. It was much darker than it was a few minutes ago. Finni and I then started walking towards the house.
"E, I'm locked out. Can I stay here?" Finni asked.
"Probably, my parents like you. They don't care that I despise you. If you do, stop being a fucking pervert and staying out of my damn room." I said half seriously.
----------
Once inside, I went up to my room and put my pajamas on and walked down to living room where Finni would be staying. My parents said nothing as they walked to the rooms. All they did was give the 'Don't do anything stupid.' glare.
Finni had changed into something that was too big Victor and was sprawled out on the couch. Earlier when we just come in, Finni had requested popcorn. So I decided to do it before I got too tired. After waiting for the popcorn and poured half of it in the bowl and walked over and handed it to him.
"Here." I said shoving the bowl of popcorn at him.
Finni sat up and accepted the bowl, "Thanks."
That's when Victor came rushing down the stairs, "I smell popcorn!" he exclaimed loudly.
I then snapped at him before grabbing his hand and dragging him into the kitchen.
"No yelling! Mom and Dad are sleeping! Now here, have some of mine. I gave the half to Finni so leave some for me." I sighed. I hate babysitting Victor, now I have Finni to watch too. "When you're done go straight to bed! It's almost eleven!"
"But it's only eleven and my..." Victor started.
That's when I punched his arm. He was twelve, he could take at least at little bit of my beatings. It's not like I was throwing him on the ground and putting him in a headlock. Hopefully we won't get there though...
After watching Victor eating all the popcorn dispite me telling him to save some for me he sulked upstairs. That's when I strolled into living room and sat in a chair across from Finni.
"Maybe twenty minutes their time is different. We'll look again fro Maplelu tomorrow. Be up and ready early. We don't want Victor tagging along." I quietly instructed.
"Ok. By the way I'll be stuck here until are home in a week. Good thing your parents don't mind." Finni whispered.
"You're going to make this week living hell more me aren't you?" I sighed while walking towards the stairs.
"Effie, you're pretty damn good at guessing." Finni laughed quietly .
"No, you're just that predictable." I replied as I reached the top of the stairs.
An Early Morning Visit
Around four that night I was awakened by a faint tapping noise. My bed was across the from the window and I had forgotten to shut the curtains that night. I know, I know, I'm just so bright that it may actually kill me. Despite the fact that my instinct told me to sit up and bolt of the room, I couldn't. Reason one because the person would see me and reason two because Finni's here. I don't need to give him another reason to embarrass me. I hadn't realized that I had lifted the covers above my head until it became awfully stuffy under there. That's when I slowly lowered the blanket and expected to see a giant shadow creature looking at me through the lone open window in my room. But boy was I wrong, this was much worse. I saw a tiny silhouette outside my window. I could tell that it was Maplelu because her dress buldged out slightly on the sides. When I saw that it was her I yelped. The absoulte worse possible thing I could do. Then I jumped at the sound of someone pounding on my door.
"Effie, shut up! It's four o'clock in the freaking morning!" Victor yelled some-what quietly.
"Victor," I mocked, "shut up! It's for o'clock in the fucking morning!"
That's when I heard his door across the hall shut. At least it was only Victor, it could have been my parents. And they would have bust down the door probably thinking Finni and I were doing something...something improper. Do they think I'm really that horny? If they think Finni is, then I understand why.
Maplelu tapped on my window again. I'd forgotten she was there...oops... I then quietly hopped out of bed and opened the window. Maplelu motioned to my hand and I held it out. She jumped onto my hand and whispered, "The boy. The boy you said was a perv."
"Oh him. He's downstairs. We're not family or anything it's just that his parents are gone and he's locked out!...We're not like that! Don't think that way 'cause we're not!" I said quickly before ending with a cheesey smile.
Maplelu giggled before saying, "Onward then my friend."
Then crept downstairs to see Finni. Who was sitting on the couch, staring at us.
"How'd you find her?" He asked while getting off the couch.
"I didn't," I replied, "She found us. And why are you up?"
"Your yelp woke the whole house. Your parents came and checked on me. I told them that you were probably just dreaming about whatever you found completely terrifying."
"Now that you mention it, you have been in all of my recent nightmares."
"Aww Effie, I'm often in your dreams!"
"I didn't mean it like that you hentai. Remember Maplelu's here. She's here for a reason and I say we should both shut up and here what she was to say!"
Finni then shrugged and looked down at Maplelu.