Another Update

Hooray for another update. First things first, someone was kind enough to create mock book covers for my novel. I like them a lot and hope that you'll enjoy seeing a picture or two of them :).

I thought the clock design on this one was interesting

I think this one might be my favorite.

I really like this one though

This was the first mock cover that was made for me. I like it a lot.

Things are finally starting to get interesting in my novel. The pieces are falling into place nicely and I can actually see the complete plot connecting to one another. It's wonderful. I feel like I've really reached a turning point in my writing so far. At least where the plot development is concerned. I know there's still a lot to do, but hey at least I'm making progress right?

As always I hope you enjoy my writing and will leave a lovely comment. Let me your opinion about the plot, writing style, anything really! Enjoy!

“Are you proposing m’dear?” Adam asked in a teasing tone.



“Hardly,” I replied drily. “Can I just go now?”


“Would you care to come to the car then?” Adam questioned, a smile on his face.


I shook my head, “No thanks. I’d rather walk today. It’s so nice. Feel free to take a day off.”


I doubted he’d take my advice.


Adam laughed lightly, “Right. That’s exactly what I’ll do. Leave you alone to fend for yourself.” There was a light tone in his voice but his eyes were hardened.


I was confused by his conflicting actions but determined that it was merely Adam being his normal strange self. Choosing to ignore his request I turn back towards the car I continued on towards campus, reveling in the fresh air and trying to comfort my wounded pride. I seemed to do that a lot lately. Adam was a persistent nag on my lifestyle. He knew how to shake things up and fluster me.


But, changing weather was so pleasant I wasn’t too put out by the prospect of a future battle on my freedom from Adam’s presence. I could try again later. I was nothing if not persistent.


“Jenna?” I pulled myself out of my thoughts and noticed a stranger standing a few meters in front of me. I’d never seen him before.


“Can I help you?” I questioned coming to a stop, Adam right behind me.


“You’re Jenna Matheson?” He questioned quietly, his eyes hooded under a baseball cap, tufts of brown hair poking out the sides.


“Yes? Do I know you?” I felt Adam’s presence behind me, his breathing close enough to distinguish from the other sounds around me. He was standing very close.


The man standing across from me chuckled, in a dark tone. “I don’t believe we’ve ever had the pleasure of being introduced Jenna. However, I did know your father. He was a friend of mine.”


Adam grabbed my arm, “We need to move Jenna,” He urged whispering in my ear.


“I’m not sure I understanding,” I confessed, ignoring Adam’s urging. He was tugging rather forcefully on my arm.


The man lifted his head, his chestnut eyes glistening in the sunlight, a sinister smile was on his face. Warning bells were signaling in my head. But curiosity was getting better of me. He knew my father, I had to at least hear him out.


“Yes indeed I knew your father. He was great man. However, he left many loose ends at our facility,” he emphasized the word, “before he died. I’m merely here to collect what is needed to complete the project.”


Now I was really confused. “What does that have to do with me? I didn’t know what my father did for a living.”


“Jenna we really need to move,” Adam whispered again, pulling harder, “He’s not a good guy.”


The man laughed, “Ah Adam, still playing the hero eh? Well, I always knew you were the fool.”


Adam stiffened shooting a glare at the man, “I won’t let you touch her Derrick,” He warned, his voice like steel, “And I’m not fool. I see the reality of the situation. You’re deluded by arrogance and selfishness. It will never work.”


Derrick narrowed his eyes, “Oh believe me I’ve seen power that can be generated. Now we just need the girl to bring things into fruition.”


“What does this have to do with me?” I questioned again interjecting my presence between the stiff glares that were shooting from both men.


The man laughed again, “Oh it has everything to do with you my dear little one. Just be patient pet, you won’t suffer for long.”


I took a step back. The word “suffer” sending me into panic mode. Adam’s grip tightened on me and we started to retreat.


“When I say run you run alright?” Adam whispered in my ear. I almost nodded but didn’t want to give anything away. Things were spiraling into the strange territory.


“You will not touch her. I swear it,” Adam ground out, pushing himself in front of me. “I won’t let you.”


“Oh do you really think I wasn’t prepared for you? Please Adam! Give me some credit. I’m rather smart in my old age you know.”


“Jenna run,” Adam muttered. “Now.”


I didn’t need to be told twice. I hastily spun on my heel and started to dart away, my heart pounding in my ears. But, I skidded to a halt as three men walked out into the street blocking my retreat.


We were surrounded.


Quickly I retreated back towards Adam, grabbing his sleeve. His hand sought mine, clasping it tightly. My heart was hammering.


“Things could get messy Adam. It’s best to hand her over. No muss no fuss.”


Adam barked a laugh, “Sorry, I made a promise that I intend to keep.”


“Well I’m sorry to hear that,” Derrick replied, the smile dying. His eyes hardened, “Take him out, but don’t hurt the girl.”


Adam pushed himself closer to me, “Just hold on alright? I’m going to do something strange. Don’t panic.”


I didn’t have time to nod me head before a strange buzzing noise engulfed me, making my ears ring. Colors started blending, the men’s faces melting into a swirl. I was getting dizzy.


“Stop him!” Derrick’s voice was coming as an echo, “Shoot!”


I heard a loud bang and Adam groaned, his grip becoming painfully tight on my arm.


“Just keep holding on Jenna,” He shouted over the roar. The men’s faces were coming into clearer focus. I pushed myself closer to Adam’s frame, unsure of what was going on but terrified of what the men would do to me.


With a yell of anger, the air around Adam intensified in electrical charges. The men’s faces melted away, air rushing at a higher speed, becoming almost painful. I squeezed my eyes shut, waiting for the men to grab me.


My consciousness began to fade, my grip still firm on Adam’s arm.


I smacked into a hard surface, bringing my sense back to the present. Letting out a moan, I opened my eyes slowly. I was staring at a blue sky. The world was still shaking, but I noticed lazy white clouds floating slowly across the panorama I was observing.


“Jenna?” Adam’s voice murmured, near me. I let out a sigh of relief.


I sat up hastily, the world tilted and I fell back again, my breath coming out in a puff.


“Adam?” I whispered, my voice as shaky as my vision, “what happened,”


“Just lie still for a moment,” he replied, “just wait for the spinning to subside.”


“What exactly happened?” I questioned again. He was avoiding answering. I turned my head towards his voice.


Adam was laying next to me his eyes closed, a grimace on his face, “It’s-it’s hard to explain Jenna.” He grabbed his shoulder and hoisted himself into a sitting position. I slowly did the same, my vision swimming only momentarily.


“Well perhaps you should explain then because this doesn’t look like New York to me,” I remarked gazing around. It was warmer and greener and brighter.


“It’s not,” Adam replied shortly, “We’re in France.”


“Excuse me?” I questioned, “What do you mean France?”


“I mean exactly what I said,” Adam looked over at me, clearly haggard, “We’re in France.”


Now I was confused. How was that possible?


“I don’t get it. Is this a joke?”


“Why would I joke about this?” Adam was getting exasperated, “I’m perfectly serious.”


“Because it’s not possible,” I remarked, my voice raising an octave, “You can simply transport to a different country! That…that doesn’t make sense. It’s illogical and improbable.”


Adam tried to stand, “Do you remember anything that your parents ever spoke of? About time travel?” With a groan he slumped back down his grip tightening on his shoulder.


“What happened to you?” I queried concerned, “Did you get hurt?”


“It’s alright Jenna. I’ll be fine,” he remarked removing his hand momentarily. A sticky red splotch dotted his shirt. My eyes widened.


“You were shot!” I scooted closer to him, grabbing his shoulder. Adam let out a hiss, “sorry,” I remarked chagrined, “let me look.”


Gently I looked at the wound. The bullet had torn a jagged hole through Adam shirt, bloody oozed lazily from the wound. It looked painful.


“What can I do?” I asked concerned, “We need to get you some help.”


Adam chuckled, “I’ll be alright trust me Jenna. Don’t worry.”


“What do you mean don’t worry? You were shot, we need to take you to the hospital!”


I hoisted myself to my feet, gazing around for signs of a road. Wherever we were, we could hail a cab or flag a driver. Or….something.


“Easy Jenna, just relax. I’m already feeling better,” Adam soothed, trying to pull me back down, “I’ll be fine in a few minutes. Just enjoy the scenery while we talk.”

Updating

Sorry that I've been late on the posting! I skipped a week! I apologize most sincerely. Things have been hectic but I am determined to continue to update for you. And, guess what? I have a short bit of writing for you to enjoy.

On a side note, the editor in my head seems to think that thigns are going a bit slow. I am detemrined to make things far more interesting when I actually edit things. However, things are going to get really interesting here soon! I have characters nagging in my head, begging to be written, so there is a good chance that I'll update again.

But for now I hope you enjoy this little bit!

‘The weather is warmer today,’ I thought cheerfully, not bothering to button my coat as I exited my apartment for the day. There was no breeze and the snow was finally starting to abate. I hated winter and longed for spring to arrive. My hopes were always buoyed when the warm breath of change shook the frigid limbs of trees to life.


“Ah the breath of life!” Adam remarked cheerfully noting the same change in weather that I did. I rolled my eyes as he came closer to me.

“Indeed it is,” I tried to sound annoyed but the weather kept me cheerful. Adam didn’t seem to care how I responded.

He never did. He was annoyingly unflappable. It was absurd really.

“So what’s the plan for today m’dear?” He queried heading towards his car. He’d been waiting to give me a ride to school. I let out a quiet sigh.

“I really wish you wouldn’t be so stalkerish,” I replied in a calm voice, “You’ve been following me around for, what, three weeks now?”

Adam only smiled at me, “Actually it’s been a month.”

I suppressed the urge to groan and shook my head, “I don’t care how long it’s been, you aren’t leaving me alone. That’s a problem.”

“I thought we’d already discussed this…several times. I told you I’m not going anywhere. You might as well get used to it.”

I sighed in defeat. We’d had this argument at least three times a week. And yet Adam still stayed. He was determined to follow me around and keep me company, especially when I didn’t want it. Which was most days. He was always waiting in the mornings, his car keys in hand, ready to give me a ride to school. And then he followed me to my classes, and was waiting after each one. He even escorted me to work! He was like a faithful dog, waiting to please. It was a bit too much to handle.

Initially I only responded to him with biting remarks, but over the last few weeks, my fight had dwindled slightly. I began to actually converse with Adam and noticed that he wasn’t as bad as I originally surmised him to be. He had never given the impression that his intentions were anything other than what he stated them to be, which had been my initial suspicion. So far he’d proved himself a gentleman (other than with our initial meeting) and he had never gone back on his word.

But I’d never admit that to him. Nope. Never.

I did however have an idea of how to get Adam to ease up a little on the faithful friend routine.

“Adam,” I began slowly, walking past his car. He only sighed at my actions. I did this everyday. “I wanted to ask you something.”

“Oh?” He seemed genuinely surprised by my quiet request, “Ask away m’dear.”

“I-“ I took a deep breath, “You’ve been following me around rather determinedly and I was wondering if maybe you could ease up a bit.” I sighed, grabbing my hair, fiddling with the curly tendrils, “I know that you are not going to completely leave me alone, but some space would be nice.”

Adam chuckled lightly, “You’re finally giving up aren’t you?”

I bristled initially at his comment but then sighed in resignation, “I suppose so. You haven’t listened any time that I’ve requested your complete absence from my life, but maybe you’ll consider a compromise.”

“Oh but Jenna why would I want to spend less time with you? You’re exciting to be around.”

I rolled my eyes in annoyance, “Hardly. I’m about as interesting as a baseball bat. And you? You’re completely uprooting my stable foundations. I’ve come closer to losing my job in the last few weeks than the two and half years I’ve been working there thanks to you. On top of that, you were a complete self absorbed jerk who caused me a concussion. The least you could do is give me some space. I need a little bit of sanity you know.”

Adam chuckled. “Yes yes. I believe I’ve wronged you terribly. However, you don’t give yourself enough credit. I find you extremely interesting.” He waggled his eyebrows at me. I scowled.

“That’s not the point!” I fumed, “You’ve thrown everything upside down! Can you back off please?! I’m trying to reach a compromise here since you’re completely crazy and stubborn.”

I huffed at Adam’s unruffled appearance and crossed my arms. He sent me a grin and grabbed my elbow, “I’ll tell ya what, I’ll back off a little bit and give you your space.” I breathed a sigh of relief, “But,” Adam trailed off. I shot him a glare.

“But?”

“You can’t question my decisions about things alright?” He gave me a intense stare.

I gaped at him. Was he kidding?

“Is this a joke?” I asked. “Do you honestly think that I’m going to give up my ability to make decisions? Are you seriously that delusional?”

“I’m perfectly serious,” he replied. His face gave nothing away. His lips were drawn in a small line, his blond brows knit together in a calculating fashion. He wasn’t kidding.

“Oh no you don’t!’ I threw my hands up in defense, “I’m not going along with some psychotic game of ‘follow the leader’. Nope. Get yourself a new girl.”

Adam laughed lightly tugging on my elbow towards the car, “Sorry. I’m afraid you’re the only girl for me. “ He winked and I glared. “And, if you don’t like my deal, then I’m afraid that I won’t be able to go along with your wishes.”

I shot him a dirty look. “That’s not fair.”

“And who said life was fair Jenna?”

I groaned and pulled away from Adam and stepped away from the car. I didn’t want to get in that thing. I had to make a point.

“No thanks I think I’ll walk.” I started to trudge through the slush of the parking lot.

“Jenna, wait. You can’t walk by yourself.” Adam seemed genuinely adamant as he shuffled towards me. I sighed and slowed my pace to allow him to catch up.

“I can take care of myself. We’ve discussed this before. I’m capable of making decisions and you aren’t in a position to tell me what I can and cannot do. It’s not like we’re married.”

“Are you proposing m’dear?” Adam asked in a teasing tone.

“Hardly,” I replied drily.

**********************************************************************************
On another note, I have a piece of music that's influenced my writing. I know, I always post music. But, I tend to find that music really inspires me. I hope you enjoy it. And as always comments, questions, and critiques are more than welcome!
 

When I Think of Writing...

When I think of writing, I think of the many different methods that pertain to the process of writing. There are so many steps that you must follow; there are so many rules to must adhere to. But, the wonderful thing about writing is that no matter how many rules you know or how many times you go through a draft, there's always room for improvement. And, there's always a way to break the rules to allow your voice to shine through. So many writers struggle because they strive to adhere to all the rules. They want to be the perfect example of what a writer should be. But, that's not what true writing is. A writer knows that the process of creation isn't so clean cut. There are many muddy ditches you must wade through and so many bogs you must cross to get to the final destination of your work. And even then you are never really finished. As writers, we tend to be a bit compulsive and fanatical about our writing. We are our harshest critics. So, naturally, our writing will always remain a draft in our eyes. There will always be room to grow and improve.

Anyway! Enough about that little spiel! I have an update for you! It's still rather short because life is hectic beyond belief. But, it's available to be read and reread as many times a you'd like! Let me know what you think. Reviews, questions, criticism...all are welcome!

 My head was throbbing and my stomach lurched painfully. Ugh. Stupid stomach flu. I needed to get home.

Dragging myself sloppily to my feet, I trudged off campus and headed back towards my apartment to sleep off this wretched sickness. I just hoped I made it there before I tossed my cookies.

Within minutes I was home. I dropped my bag at the door and stumbled towards my bedroom in search of my pajamas. Slipping off my shoes and socks I changed as quickly as possible, my fingers shaking from over use.

Once I was dressed (or redressed in my pajamas) I climbed on my bed slowly and drifted to sleep.

I heard a distant creak coming from the living room. The noise was loud enough to rouse me from slumber. I listened for a moment and when I heard no more I snuggled back among the pillows to continue sleeping.

Creak...

I bolted upright, disoriented by the sudden movement but very much alert and awake. Something or someone was in my house! A shudder ran down my spine as my imagination tipped overboard. My heart started hammering in my chest.

I slowly rose from my bed, tiptoing towards the halway. Another creak resounded from the living room.

I peeked my head around the corner and noticed a tall dark shadow standing in the center of the room, it's head down.

Anger boiled inside of me. I was getting sick and tired of all the bully dodging in my life lately. I needed a break! I wasn't feeling well!

As quietly as I could I snatched the broom from the entryway of the kitchen and moved slowly towards the shadow, avoiding any spot that would make noise under my weight. The man--I could tell by his height--had his back turned towards me. Perfect.

Raising the broom behind me I brought it down with all the force I could muster...

Novel Updates

Hello blog readers! I should have posted this earlier in the week but alas life is complicated and it was difficult to get anything done that I would have LIKED to do. Oh well. At least I'm posting...even if it is a little late.

Onward then!

For this week I wasn unable to actually sit down and write what I needed to. Like I said life was hectic. I did, however, have the opportunity to solidify the ending of my novel in my mind as well as another crucial moment involving the heroine's parents. It's a heart-wrenching moment filled with complicated emotions and a unique perspective (if I do say so myself!).

Needless to say it's been an emotional week for my poor characters. Jenna (the protagonist) gets to see her parents again. The moment is terrifying and emotional.

Alas though I do not have anything fleshed out as of yet. When I do, which will hopefully be this week, I'll be sure to post some portion of it for you!

But until then I hope you can content yourself with the piece of music that inspired these profound moments in the novel. I love Coldplay, and I've heard this song several times before, but for some reason this week it really prompted a piece of the novel to solidify in my mind. It was amazing. It's sort of like a revelation moment for me.

Hope you enjoy: "Fix You" by Coldplay:

Therapy...and Updates...

I find writing to be therapy for me. What about you? Is there anything in your life that makes you happy and reduces stress? For me it's writing. There's something about it that makes me smile. I feel so creative and smart whenever I write. It's a great way for me to vent my frustrations and practice my creative skills.

Anyway, onto more interesting things eh? Yes I have been writing. I haven't updated for awhile and that's a bad thing. Shame on me. I know I always say that I will be better and that I will update more often. I honestly shouldn't say that should I? I usually end up avoiding updating because I'm already getting so little sleep lately that staying up a little longer to update my blog would cause me to not get any sleep at all.

So here's what propose: I will update at least once a week. If I can manage more then I shall certainly do that. But as it stands right now we'll stick with once a week. Alright?

Okay, now that we have things sorted out, I have a short excerpt from the next chapter for you! I hope you enjoy:

My eyes widened as the man approached. I had no clue who this person was and he certainly didn't look like the friendly type. His stringy black hair was slicked back and hung limpy at his shoulder. He wore faded jeans and a tattered shirt and his hands and face were smudged with dirt.

"Jenna." He stated giving me a cold stare. My eyes widened in surprise. How did you know my name?

"Oh don't be alarmed Jenna. I knew your parents." A smirk crept on his face, "We were excellent acquaintances."

"Please save the story for someone who'd actually believe it." Adam's deep voice reverberated from behind me. I let out the breath I didn't realize I was holding. His voice was icy. I turned. His eyes were set in a hard glare, his lips in a tight scowl. He looked predatory. "I suggest you take off before things get ugly Gabrial."

The man, Gabrial, laughed. I backed up a step. "Do you really think I wasn't prepared for you?"

Men started to appear from all around. I had never noticed them before. There had to be at least five other men with Gabrial. I swallowed hard but remained silent, biting my tongue to prevent curses from flying. Today completely sucked.

Another finished!

Yes! You read that title correctly. I have finished another chapter! Yay go me! I was really excited to finish this chapter it was a long process and I sat down and wrote A LOT in order to finish the chapter.

Initially I was hesitant to finish the chapter because I was unsure as to whether or not my writing was actually decent. But, after reading what I already had written, I've come to realize that I'm not a completely terrible writer. There's hope for me yet! At least that's waht I'd like to think.

So, here's a snippet for you from the completed chapter. I hope you enjoy. And....if you'd like to leave a comment feel free!

“Yes well,” I fiddled with the pen in apron pocket, “I fail to see when it became your job to be concerned with me.”

Quickly, I turned on my heel and started to walk away. Even though things were starting to die down a little, I still had several table to attend to.


“You aren’t staying.” Adam remarked to my turned figure.


I stopped and clenched my fists and an attempt to prevent a groan of frustration from seeping out. Turning slowly, I narrowed my eyes and walked quickly back towards his table.


“Listen, I don’t know who you think you are, but you certainly aren’t a friend of mine. Moreover, you aren’t my father so back off.” I had had enough of these stupid games and with his annoying behavior throwing my life completely upside down. I was sick of it, “I’m finished being so accommodating to your completely idiotic and frustrating behavior. Leave me alone.”


Adam leaned forward, his eyes, blazing slightly, “No Jenna. I won’t leave you alone. I can’t.” He was speaking in a deathly calm whisper and for a moment I wondered what he was really thinking. His cerulean eyes swam with so many conflicting emotions. “Despite what you think, you need a friend. I’m here for you. I am going to be your friend.”


“I don’t want you to be my friend,” I tried to emphasize my emotions, “I want you to leave me alone.”


“Well,” the smirk was back on his face, “I don’t think you have a choice in that matter.”


I clamped my mouth shut, and turned on my heel once more, leaving Adam alone at the table. I made my way back to the kitchen, painfully aware of the looks of adoration and envy I was receiving from my fellow workers. It was ridiculous.


I hastily made my way back into the kitchen, my face flushed from anger and embarrassment. Rachael took one look at my expression and suppressed a giggle. The wheels were turning in her head and she could correctly infer (or at least that’s what I assumed) who had caused such a hue to appear on my cheeks.


“Not one word,” I muttered darkly, grabbing the waiting plates for a few of my other tables.


Rachael smiled, placating my wounded pride, “I wasn’t going to say a word,” she vowed, her eyes dancing, “You’ve had enough for one evening I think.”


I rolled my eyes in response and hurried out the door, the orders balances carefully on my tray.


Of course luck didn’t seem to be on my side. I nearly tripped coming out of the kitchen and I heard the distinct snigger from Adam’s direction, as he more than likely observed my imbalance. My dour mood soured even further and I’m certain that I sent several of my customers withering glares, though not intentionally. I tried to be pleasant enough, but the façade was thin.


By the time I had made my second round to the kitchen and back out to serve more customers, my scowl had softened somewhat. Unfortunately, it hadn’t softened enough to keep Michael’s scrutinizing gaze out of my direction. I could feel his slimy eyes following my movements as I went between two tables, placing plates of steaming food before my customers and picking up empty cups to refill. I could feel my heart hammering slightly in my chest as I tried to compose my features. I didn’t want to give anyone a reason to fire me. I could afford it. Literally.


Unsurprisingly, as well, Adam sat at his small table, observing me work, a small smile on his face. Though, he seemed to be rather deep in thought. I watched his gaze travel a few times between me, the kitchen, and Michael’s skulking form, thoughts slowly processing beneath his cerulean orbs. He was planning something. My eyes narrowed at him. I wouldn’t allow his behavior to influence me any longer.


I went back into the kitchen a third time, dropping off plates. Rachael eyed me, a funny expression on her face. Without a word, she handed me Adam’s dessert, the last order for my tables, and then quickly turned from me.


Surprisingly, he didn’t say a word to me as I handed him his dish. He smiled gently, tipped his fork in my direction and then dug in. I gave him an inquisitive look but didn’t venture to converse with him. It was better to not push my luck. Giving a slight nod of my head, I turned to leave his table again and head back into the kitchen.


“I’ll take you home in a few minutes Jenna,” Adam murmured quietly from behind me.


I stopped short, and spun quickly on my heel and faced Adam, who was smirking, eyes twinkling. I sent him a deathly glare, but didn’t dare go closer. I didn’t want to cause more of a commotion. I could feel Michael’s gaze washing over me, making my skin crawl. He was looking for any excuse to reprimand me. Adam studied my face for a moment and then shifted his gaze to the corner where I knew Michael had to be sitting. His eyes darkened and his smile shifted into a hard line. He quickly averted his gaze and continued eating his dessert.


I all but ran to the kitchen.


By the time I got there, my shift was nearly over. I had managed to finish up all my other tables, except for Adam’s. But I didn’t venture out for a few minutes. I wanted minimal contact with him. Gratefully, when I did return, Adam was gone, but thirty dollars sat perched delicately in the center of the table with a small note:


See you Soon.


I rolled my eyes and crumpled the paper in my hand, but blushed slightly at the large tip that Adam had left me. I could only imagine the smug look on his face as he placed the bills on the table and snuck away. Tending Adam’s bill, I pocketed the change, making a mental not to return the excess money to him if I saw him again (though I had the distinct impression that I’d be seeing him soon). Thankfully, after that I made swift work of the table and then finished attending my other customers. All in all I made short work of the rest of my shift, thankfully.


Michael’s piercing, slimy gaze followed me continually, though he made no comments on my previously erratic behavior. I didn’t dare focus on his face. Best not to give him a reason to acknowledge me further, or get the wrong impression. I didn’t need that type of trouble right now.


Thankfully, the restaurant closed down for the night. And as I watched my fellow workers chatter away as they prepared for the rest of their night, I let out a tired sigh. I still had at least two more hours of work to accomplish before I could trudge home.


Quietly, I walked to the employee bathroom and closed the door with a soft click behind me. No one would be coming in here now. I had a small break. With a heavy sigh I sank slowly to my knees in from of the door, my palms resting on the cold floor. I closed my eyes and tried to measure my breathing, and calm my nervous heart. My emotions had been strained to extreme measures over the last few days and I needed to compose myself.


I rose slowly and moved towards the sink, turning the water on. I splashed cold water on my face to wake me up and invigorate my senses long enough to get me through the next few hours. I just needed to make it a little longer.


I glanced at my reflection in the mirror and cringed slightly. I had dark circles beneath my hazel orbs and my hair was coming out of the bun I had used to control it. Hastily I fixed the straying tendrils of auburn locks and moved again towards the door. Best not to look in the mirror again.


When I exited the bathroom, most of the workers were gone. The rest, were conversing near the door. Some noticed me exit the restroom and gave me curious glances. Andrea noticed me as well, but didn’t venture to greet me. Instead she sent me a bright smile and a wink. She must have realized I’d had more excitement than I was used. She did hold her hand to her ear and mouthed the words “call me.” I nodded in agreement but shrugged my shoulders to indicate that I didn’t know what I would. She nodded in understanding and then quickly turned back to her group as they exited the restaurant.


Sighing, I walked into the kitchen where bus boys and the kitchen staff were hastily scraping excess food off of plates, dumping trays, and cleaning pans. Rachael saw me and gave mea confused look.


“What are you still doing here honey? Shouldn’t you be heading home?” He gave me a concerned look.


“Michael,” was all I replied as I walked closer.


Rachael’s face darkened and she glared at the counter for a minute, “That coward,” she muttered darkly. She suddenly slammed her knife down and marched towards me. “Come with me Jenna.”


My eyes widened in shock. She had caught me completely off guard. So much so that I didn’t really know how to respond. I stood there dumbly for a moment, merely gazing at her in confusion.


With a sigh, she gently grasped my wrist and tugged me along with her out of the kitchen. She walked with determination through the dining room and headed towards Michael’s office, where he sat, his face buried in books, unaware of our advancement.


Realization dawned on me and I tried to pull my wrist from her grasp, “No Rachael, please. You don’t need to do this. It’s fine. I promise.”


Rachael stopped, mid-stride and turned to face me, “You’re kidding right? Jenna look at yourself! You’re running yourself ragged as it is. You shouldn’t have even come into work today. You look dead on your feet! You’re pale and I know you haven’t slept. I should have made that boy take you home the minute you walked in here this afternoon. And Michael,” She hissed as she said his name, “Is absurd to think that he can force you to take on more work as a ‘punishment’ for getting hurt. It’s ridiculous and I have half a mind to report him.”


“I’m fine Rachael really,” I pled hastily, “I don’t want to cause trouble.”


With a sigh Rachael released my hand, “Fine, you won’t cause trouble I promise.” A small smile appeared on her face, “But I will.” Hastily, she moved from me and marched in Michael’s office.


I stood there, horrified, humbled, and a bit confused.


“Michael!” Rachael’s voice could be heard through the glass door. My eyes widened slightly and I stood rooted to the spot, “This is ridiculous.”


Michael rose slowly from his desk to face her, his frame a mere two inches taller than here. Clearly height wouldn’t intimidate her, “What are you talking about?” he drawled slightly raising his eyebrow, his gaze flicked to me for a moment and quickly returned to Rachael’s furious one.


“You know damned well why I’m here,” she responded, growling slightly, “Why is she still here!”


Michael huffed, clearly annoyed, “I don’t see why it’s any of your concern Rachael,” he shot me a glare, “And, if you value your job I suggest you keep your nose out of other people’s business.”


Rachael only laughed at his threat, “Really? You’re going to threaten me with losing my job? I’m not afraid of you Michael, like you’ve got so many other of the workers here to be. You know as well as I do that if you fire me, you’ll lose your customers. You’d be nothing without me. And her,” she pointed to me, “She’s the best waitress you have. You’d be a fool to even threaten to fire her. She’s also one of the most valuable assets that you have at this establishment. You’d lose more than you realize.”


I watched with surprise as Michael’s face turned two shades redder than his original color. His brown eyes darkened and he sent me the most withering glare that he could.


“She missed yesterday, she needs to make it up. End of discussion.”


Rachael slammed her fist on the desk, “No. She needs to go home. She shouldn’t have been here today. You’re a fool Michael. I’m sending her home. I don’t need her in the kitchen anyway.”


“You can’t do that!” Michael was livid now, “You aren’t the manager at this establishment. I am.”


“Yes, but I’m the head of the kitchen staff and I am entitled to send those home who I don’t need and tonight I don’t need her. She’s going home.”


Michael didn’t say a word but narrowed his eyes in my direction as Rachael turned on her heel and walked back towards me, a look of victory on her face.


“You heard it sweetie,” Rachael remarked as she came to me, “Off to home you go.”


She grabbed my arm and walked me towards the restroom where my school bag was and gently nudged me, “Get home safely dear. I’ll be seeing you tomorrow.”


“I-I thank you,” I replied, quietly, touched by her determination to make sure I was taken care of.


Rachael stopped and looked at my face, a gentle motherly smile gracing her features. I felt a momentary stab of pain wash over me, but forced the feelings down. “You listen to me sweetie. You need to stop running so fast. Don’t keep pushing yourself so hard. Let others lighten the load. And for heaven’s sake gets some rest. You’re as white as a ghost. It’s not healthy to keep doing this.”


She searched my face, her brows furrowed in concern. “Promise me you’ll get some rest. Please.”


“I promise.” I whispered in reply, touched by her concern.


“Good. Now off you go. I’ve got work to attend to.” Giving my arm a gently squeeze, she released her grasp and turned towards the kitchen, her steps determined and precise.


I walked numbly into the bathroom and retrieved my belongings, donning my wool jacket and gloves. Silently, I exited and avoided gazing towards Michael’s office afraid of what I might see if I did. I was certain that he was fuming about the recent emasculating scene. I knew that he’d pay me back in kind for this though. I’d have to be on my guard.


I walked towards the front entrance and pushed the door open, the frigid wind biting at my warm cheeks. My body started to shake at the sudden drop in temperature and tightened the grip on my backpack straps, walking into the cold night.


I wasn’t half a block away from the restaurant when I heard someone shouting my name.


“Jenna! Jenna!” I stopped short, straining to distinguish who’s voice it was. “Jenna!”


I turned and my eyes widened in surprise as I saw Adam sprinting towards me.


“What on earth-“ I began. Adam quickly cut me off.


“Come on, let’s get you home. Rachael doesn’t want you walking in this weather,” Adam remarked, grabbing my arm, “My car is nice and warm.”


“How did you know when I would be getting off work?” I questioned, quite curious.


“Well, I couldn’t let you stay there any longer now could I? I said that I’d be taking you home, and I’m not one to break my promises,” Adam stated, rather proudly as he grabbed hold of my backpack, trying to remove it from my shoulders.


I tightened the grip on the straps, “Now hold on. You aren’t making any sense,” I stated, “and besides I didn’t want a ride from you. I thought I told you that earlier.”


Adam waved his hand in dismissal, “Oh yes you did. But, I really didn’t pay too much attention that. You don’t seem to value your wellbeing too much. Sometimes others need to make the decisions for you.”


I felt annoyance being to rear it’s head and I sent him an irritated glare, “And what gives you the right to dictate what is best for me?” I questioned bitingly, “You’ve known me for about twenty four hours. You don’t have a right to make any decisions for me.”


“Ah but you see, Rachael felt the same way. I’m merely under orders from her. And,” Adam smirked again, “since you’ve known her for quite some time, we shall have to listen to her wise council.”


Realization dawned on me, “You talked to her! You were the one who convinced her that I needed rest. She didn’t know I was supposed to work in the kitchen. How-“


“I didn’t need to tell her what Michael had planned for you. I merely suggested that I was concerned for your health. You hit your head pretty hard. You shouldn’t have been there today,” Adam remarked calmly. I felt my blood boil.


“She could have lost her job! I could lose my own. This isn’t some twisted game! It’s my life your screwing around with. I can’t afford to take that risk Adam. And I couldn’t live with myself if Rachael lost her job.”


Adam snorted, “Michael’s a coward. I’ve seen his kind before,” he chuckled at his own comment, “He doesn’t have the guts to fire her. He’d be a fool to try. And you,” He sent me a pointed look, “You work far too hard. He’s taking advantage of you. Someone needed to stand up to him. I’m glad that she did it.”


And then with a firm yank, he loosed my hold on my backpack straps and managed to remove the bag from my shoulders. I stumbled a little at the sudden movement, slipping on the ice. My cheeks ignited in humiliation and annoyance and I sent him another glare.


“You’re impossible.”


“Oh believe me I know that. But I’ll tell you sometime too m’dear,” Adam’s face was inches from my own. My heart started hammering in my chest at the proximity, “You’re just as hard headed and stubborn as I am.”


“I am not. I just don’t take kindly to strangers barging into my life, unwarranted and then throwing the structure out the window. You don’t have a right. I don’t want you here anyway.”


“M’dear,” he was using that annoying drawl again, “You don’t really have a choice. I’m not going anywhere.”

A Thought For Today...

Goodness knows I should be working on the various projects that I have in the works right now. I have so many different projects going on, pulling me in different directions that sometimes I forget which end is up! It's hard not to get discouraged and think that I haven't accomplished much, especially when my new apartment is cluttered with boxes and I've gotten maybe 10 hours of sleep in the last three days due to illness (trust me it's not pleasant). I feel crummy, and I'm sure I look worse. But...oh that glorious word! BUT, I couldn't help but think about how strange and interesting life is. I am an aspiring novelist. Yes I realize this notion maybe far more romanticised than it really is. Yes I understand that this a risky venture sure to bring me to tears due to rejection letters, and hopeless moments of writer's block and general feelings of inferiority. And yes I understand that people will look at you funny when you state that you are writing a book (because honestly, who sits down and willingly writes novels? Strange people that's who).

BUT...

despite all my fears and insecurities, I know that my writing is important (to me at least) and that each time I sit down and pour words onto an eager canvas, I'm creating an alternate reality where thoughts, emotions, and ideas are entirely controlled by the writer. I'm able to create something beautiful with the flourish of my pen and the careful construction of sentences, descriptions and imagery. I'm able to be the master of a world. I'm able to define myself in my novels, and writings. I'm able to state to the world just what I think and feel and how I view my surroundings. I'm able to show the world the truest person that I am. What a wondrous process! I can be whatever I wish to be. I can write whatever I wish to write! I can do whatever I wish to do!

Writing doesn't define me. I define me. I set he standards; I make the path and I learn and progress and move forward. My writing styles change and develop and one day they will be good enough to garner the attention of someone...maybe. or maybe not. Either way, I'll continue to write and be the best person that I can be. I'll be the writer I've always set out to be. I won't ever give up on myself. I can be what I choose.

And that's the thought for today!

I have something for you!

Life's been hectic...I know I say that often, but it is the truth. Life is a strange thing don't you agree. However I do have a small little bit for you to enjoy...at least I hope you'll enjoy it. And, I do have another song that's really inspiring my writing right now. I'll be posting that as well. Enjoy!

Chapter 7:

To say that work was easy would be a lie. Never in all my time working at the restaurant had I ever experienced such a hard and weary schedule. Not only were my assigned tables packed to capacity throughout most of the night, but I constantly had Michael breathing down my neck, scrutinizing every movement that I made, and not failing to reprimand me for the smallest mistakes. And, of course, he refused to allow me to forget about my extra shift after the restaurant closed for the evening. It was enough to make me scream. But I held my tongue and did as I was told. The sooner the night was over, the sooner I could escape from this prison.


Many of my co-workers gave me pitying looks as they noticed the particular attention Michael was paying me, though most didn’t dare say anything, not that I blamed them. Why risk losing your job defending someone else? Rachael, however, would shoot Michael glares whenever she noticed his leering stare, but that was all she was able to do. Her hands were full with keeping the kitchen running smoothly, probably through Michael’s sneaking planning. He knew how close I was to Rachael, so any attempt to keep us apart was beneficial to him. Essentially I was on my own. That is until 8:00 when Adam returned to the restaurant and was seated in my serving area. Annoyance and embarrassment washed through me as I realized that I would be forced to take care of his order. The words we had exchanged hours earlier still swam through my head, making me cringe in anticipation for our next meeting. I owed him an apology and I hated to admit that fact.


Rubbing my tired eyes I hesitantly made my way towards the table where Adam sat alone, a small smile on his lips. He quirked an eyebrow at me when he noticed I was making my way towards him. When I reached the table I stared at his face for a few moments, unsure of how to start the conversation.


“Well, aren’t you going to ask for my order?” Adam quipped, smirking at me, his eyes dancing with amusement.


My eyes narrowed in response and I scowled. I wasn’t going to apologize now! “Yes. What can I get you?” I snapped at him.


Adam began to tap his fingers on one another, leaning back slightly in his chair, “Well, what would my lovely hostess recommend? You seem to know what is delicious here. I’d love to hear any suggestion you have.”


I opened my mouth to respond but ended up looking like floundering fish for a moment. In annoyance I snapped my mouth shut again and took a deep breath. Adam laughed.


“I seem to have that affect on people,” he remarked cheerfully. “If it helps I already know what I want to order.”


I sent him a glare and placed the tip of my pen to the pad of paper, nodding my head curtly, waiting for him to continue. I refused to attempt to say anything. He seemed to take delight in provoking me.


“The only thing I’d like is two slices of cheesecake with strawberries, and two forks. And of course I’d love to have a ‘date’ to share it with.” Adam smirked at me.


A wicked smirk appeared on my face, “Let’s see,” I began, “You want two slices of cheesecake with strawberries and two forks?”


Adam nodded his head, his eyes twinkling. He was baiting me.


“And as for the “date”,” I emphasized the term, “I’m afraid that we don’t provide such services at this establishment.”


Adam stared blankly at me for a moment and then burst into laughter. Other customers and servers turned to look at us, “Ah indeed you do not! Brava Jenna.” Adam leaned forward on his elbows, “What about you though? Would you care to be my “date”,” her remarked using his fingers to make the quote signs in the air.


“Unfortunately, I’m not for hire as a date,” I deadpanned.


For the second time, Adam was stumped into silence. His eyes, however, danced with amusement. After a moment he cleared his throat and reclined back into his chair.


“Finally!” he crowed, “You’ve stepped up to the challenge! I was beginning to feel like you’d never catch on.”


Now I was confused, “Excuse me? What exactly am I catching onto?”


“The competition. I knew you weren’t a doormat. You’ve got some spunk in you!”


I was flabbergasted, “This is a game to you?!” I screeched lowly, “You’re purposely being a jerk just to get a rise out of me? What’s wrong with you!”


Adam laughed lightly, “Nothing’s wrong with me. I just need to get a rise out of you. Get the blood pumping. You need to expand your thoughts and try to socialize.”


“So you call socializing patronizing another person you literally run into the day before?” I shot him a glare.


Adam stopped for a moment and regarded my expression and then without a word he nodded his head and smirked.


‘What a jerk!’ I fumed silently as I turned on my heel and swiftly walked back to the kitchen. I refused to speak another word to the man unless I had to.


Unfortunately I had to. No one would switch tables with me. In fact, the majority of the staff thought it was rather amusing that I was being stalked by a complete stranger. The girls, especially thought it was romantic and considered me extremely fortunate to be able to live a fairytale sort of situation.


I had scoffed at the absurdity of the idea immediately.


However, my scoffing didn’t prevent me from having to go back and be subjected to Adam’s grating presence. The man sure knew how to push my buttons. And as I walked slowly towards him, dessert in hand, I saw the nefarious smirk return and his eyes light up. He’d been expecting me.


“Welcome back darlin’” Adam crooned, smiling widely, “I was hopin’ you’d still be my waitress.”


I groaned in frustration, “Yes, well I didn’t really have a choice.” I set the dessert down, “Here’s your order. If there’s anything you need don’t hesitate to ask.” I had to force myself to say the second portion of the generic phrase that all the employees were required to utilize.


“I’m still hoping you’d take me up on my offer and join me for a small break?” He batted his eyes at me in what I assumed he thought to be a charming manner. I rolled my own.


“I can’t,” I replied flatly, “I have to finish my shift and then start the second round.”


I clamped my mouth shut. Why had I even mentioned that to him? I watched Adam’s eyes narrow slightly and the smiled disappeared.


“What do you mean your second round?”


I rolled my eyes, trying to downplay the situation. “It’s not like you don’t already know anyway,” I breathed heatedly, “You were eavesdropping earlier anyway.”


Adam reclined in his chair, all frivolity gone from his face, “Yes well, be that as it may, I seem to have missed that little bit of information.”


“Yes well,” I fiddled with the pen in apron pocket, “I fail to see when it became your job to be concerned with me.”


Quickly, I turned on my heel and started to walk away. Even though things were starting to die down a little, I still had several table to attend to.


“You aren’t staying.” Adam remarked to my turned figure.


I stopped and clenched my fists and an attempt to prevent a groan of frustration from seeping out. Turning slowly, I narrowed my eyes and walked quickly back towards his table.


“Listen, I don’t know who you think you are, but you certainly aren’t a friend of mine. Moreover, you aren’t my father so back off.” I had had enough of these stupid games and with his annoying behavior throwing my life completely upside down. I was sick of it, “I’m finished being so accommodating to your completely idiotic and frustrating behavior. Leave me alone.”


Adam leaned forward, his eyes, blazing slightly, “No Jenna. I won’t leave you alone. I can’t.” He was speaking in a deathly calm whisper and for a moment I wondered what he was really thinking. His cerulean eyes swam with so many conflicting emotions. “Despite what you think, you need a friend. I’m here for you. I am going to be your friend.”


“I don’t want you to be my friend,” I tried to emphasize my emotions, “I want you to leave me alone.”


“Well,” the smirk was back on his face, “I don’t think you have a choice in that matter.”


I clamped my mouth shut, and turned on my heel once more, leaving Adam alone at the table. I made my way back to the kitchen, painfully aware of the looks of adoration and envy I was receiving from my fellow workers. It was ridiculous.

An idea.

I have an idea for my novel. Not sure if it will make it into the final cut but I thought you'd like something to read...another post about my writing if you will. Does that make sense?

Anyway, enjoy!

Rubbing my tired eyes I hesitantly made my way towards the table where Adam sat alone, a small smile on his lips. He quirked an eyebrow at me when he noticed I was making my way towards him. When I reached the table I stared at his face for a few moments, unsure of how to start the conversation.


“Well, aren’t you going to ask for my order?” Adam quipped, smirking at me, his eyes dancing with amusement.

My eyes narrowed in response and I scowled. I wasn’t going to apologize now! “Yes. What can I get you?” I snapped at him.

Adam began to tap his fingers on one another, leaning back slightly in his chair, “Well, what would my lovely hostess recommend? You seem to know what is delicious here. I’d love to hear any suggestion you have.”

I opened my mouth to respond but ended up looking like floundering fish for a moment. In annoyance I snapped my mouth shut again and took a deep breath. Adam laughed.

“I seem to have that affect on people,” he remarked cheerfully. “If it helps I already know what I want to order.”

I sent him a glare and placed the tip of my pen to the pad of paper, nodding my head curtly, waiting for him to continue. I refused to attempt to say anything. He seemed to take delight in provoking me.

“The only thing I’d like is two slices of cheesecake with strawberries, and two forks. And of course I’d love to have a ‘date’ to share it with.” Adam smirked at me.

A wicked smirk appeared on my face, “Let’s see,” I began, “You want two slices of cheesecake with strawberries and two forks?”

Adam nodded his head, his eyes twinkling. He was baiting me.

“And as for the “date”,” I emphasized the term, “I’m afraid that we don’t provide such services at this establishment.”

Adam stared blankly at me for a moment and then burst into laughter. Other customers and servers turned to look at us, “Ah indeed you do not! Brava Jenna.” Adam leaned forward on his elbows, “What about you though? Would you care to be my “date”,” her remarked using his fingers to make the quote signs in the air.

“Unfortunately, I’m not for hire as a date,” I deadpanned.

For the second time, Adam was stumped into silence. His eyes, however, danced with amusement. After a moment he cleared his throat and reclined back into his chair.

“Finally!” he crowed, “You’ve stepped up to the challenge! I was beginning to feel like you’d never catch on.”

Now I was confused, “Excuse me? What exactly am I catching onto?”

“The competition. I knew you weren’t a doormat. You’ve got some spunk in you!”

I was flabbergasted, “This is a game to you?!” I screeched lowly, “You’re purposely being a jerk just to get a rise out of me? What’s wrong with you!”

Adam laughed lightly, “Nothing’s wrong with me. I just need to get a rise out of you. Get the blood pumping. You need to expand your thoughts and try to socialize.”

“So you call socializing patronizing another person you literally run into the day before?” I shot him a glare.

Adam stopped for a moment and regarded my expression and then without a word he nodded his head and smirked.

‘What a jerk!’ I fumed silently as I turned on my heel and swiftly walked back to the kitchen. I refused to speak another word to the man unless I had to

Snippet...

My friend mentioned today that one of her friends from College was actually getting her novel published! Needless to say I was a tad jealous...and I was actually inspired to get things really going with my updates! Here's hoping I get more written for your enjoyment! Congratulations to the lovely lady for her advances in publishing! I'm really happy for her...and here's a pat on the back for me to keep motivated and continue writing.

Anyway, that was not the purpose for this post. The purpose of this post is to give you another taste of what I was working on. I hope you enjoy it. And as always (I say this ALL the time I know) feel free to respond. Let me know what you think! Let me know if my writing is good or bad or wonderful and inspiring or terrible! Just get out there and let me know what you, my dear readers, are thinking!

And now...onto the snippet!

“You are absurd Jenna!” Adam fumed throwing his hands in the air, “I can’t believe you!”



“That’s not fair!” I retaliate, my blood starting to boil, “You don’t understand what I’ve been through. You don’t know anything!”


“It’s not healthy to keep everything bottled up! You can’t just ignore these problems, hoping that they will go away and refusing to seek out help if you need it! It’s ridiculous.” Adam grabbed my elbow gently, “You can’t do this on your own.” He was speaking softly now.


I jerked my arm away forcefully, and shot him a glare, “You don’t know anything,” I ranted, “You don’t know what I’ve been through and you don’t know how I’m dealing with things!”


“Oh but I do Jen,” he replied stoically his eyes narrowing slightly, “I know all too well how you’ve “dealt” with this. You’ve avoided. You’ve pushed people away and refused to acknowledge the pain the comes with life. You can’t look beyond the death of your parents and actually move forward. You’re stuck in the same rut and you don’t want to be free of it. You don’t want to let them go.” His words were coming out as a whisper now and he moved closer to me, “Jenna, you have to let them go. You can’t keep fearing the memory of their death anymore. You have to move on.”


Tears had welled up in my eyes, “You don’t know what I’ve been through.” I murmured half heartedly. I knew that my statement was a lie. Who, above all others, would know the pain of losing those closest to you better than Adam? The man who couldn’t age or die? The man trapped into existence, never truly living; never having the opportunity to experience the richness that life had to offer; always on the sidelines.


“Your father was my best friend,” He whispered quietly. My head shot up in surprise.


“What?” I was baffled.


“Your father was my best friend Jenna, and your mother became like a sister to me. I loved your parents so much more than you know.”


“You, you knew my parents?” I was confused now.

As promised: An inspiring song!

I'm still working on my scene to post for you guys. I'm kinda patricular about it right now...trying to get it completely fleshed out for you before I post it. But, for your enjoyment I have two songs for you to listen to that have inspired me and my writing. And I have a very very very small little preview of what I'll be posting soon. So here you go!

The first video is by "Death Cab for Cutie" and it's called "I will follow you into the Dark." This song has really inspired the ending of my novel.

This next song is "The Best of Me" by Michael Bublé. This song makes me sigh...would you agree? This song has inspired my novel in many key points. I see them crystal clear in my head. Hopefully I can get them written out completely for you.

And as promised, here's a little preview of the scene I'm working on right now:

"Jenna," he whispered my name like a prayer. I slowly raised my head to gaze into his face.

"Adam,"

UpDaTe...finally right?

I am not so good at updating lately. In my opinion I suck rather terribly. And it's not that I haven't been writing either. I've gotten scads of things done for you to enjoy (okay maybe not "scads" but a bit!) and I want to post them here. Life has just been hectic to say the least. I've been so much busier than I have ever really thought about until I've sat here and contemplated just what's been causing me to not write on my blogs. It's seriously insane how much I'm trying to accomplish in one day...and probably not really realistic either...but I'm sorta stubborn and want to get as much done as possible. It's just that I tend to ignore my blog...not the nicest things to do, but at least I'm being honest here.

I promise that I will update again very shortly for you. I'm also going to redo the entire blog; organize it better and make it more of my own space...I like how it looks now, but I think I need an update don't you?

Oh one more note, I've decided to add a different language to my writing. I'm very excited about this, mainly because I love learning new languages and this one is one of my favorites. It will be utilized in many romantic and humorous ways trust me and I promise that your hearts will melt...or at leat they will if you are as hopeless romantic as I am.

Ah but I digress...I'm going to either go take a nap or update my blogs or do the dishes...one of the three...

And one more note, I heard a new song by Michale Bublé yesterday and I have fallen in love with it! I will have it on my writing playlist for you shortly. So be on the lookout! This song conjured up so many different images of my novel...it was fantastic!

Alright, I'm going now...no more blathering for you!

An Updated Scene!

Hooray I'm updating! Awesome awesome! Right? Hehe...anyway I actually have a scene for you to read and enjoy! Let me know what you think! Yay!!! :)

“Matheson!” I cringed as Michael, my manager, shouted from across the restaurant. “Get in here now!”


The crowd that had gathered around Adam and Andrea quickly dispersed looks of dread on their faces. It was apparent that the manager was not in the best of moods and everyone was suffering for it. I swallowed the lump that had formed in my throat and rose from my seat. I was surprised when Adam rose as well, a scowl on his face. I gave him a questioning look.

“You can’t come with me you know, my manager won’t allow it.” I stated, confused by his unpleasant demeanor.

His eyes softened slightly as he registered I was talking to him, “Just try and stop me. I’m not going to let someone harass you because of my mistake yesterday.”

“I’d prefer it if you didn’t,” I remarked panicking slightly. I didn’t need Adam making my life more complicated with Michael, “I really need to handle this on my own.”

“Jenna, Jenna, Jenna,” he tutted at me, “Do you honestly think in the time that you’ve known me that I’m just going to sit by and let you take care of things?”

“Matheson now!” Michael’s voice rang out again. I turned and noticed his furious features and dark scowl and he waiting for me to hustle.

“Coming!” I remarked and then turned back towards Adam, “please, if you care at all, just let me handle this.” I was pleading with him now.

“I think you should let Jenna do things her way Adam,” Andrea remarked quietly. Honestly I had forgotten she was still beside us, “Just wait here until she comes back. She can take care of herself I promise.”

With a sigh, Adam retook his seat next to Andrea, clearly not used to being told not to do something. I sent Andrea a deeply appreciative smile, quietly amending the negative thoughts I had about her only a few minutes prior. She truly was a good friend to me.

I hastened towards the manager’s office and Michael who was leaning against the doorframe. Without a word, he straightened and entered his office, signaling that I follow. With an inward sigh I walked in and shut the door quietly behind me.

“Well Jenna,” Michael turned to me, a glare on his face, “It seems as though you don’t seem to appreciate this job very much. Do you know how hard it was for me to find a replacement on such short notice yesterday?”

“I’m really sorry Michael,” I murmured, a blush on my cheeks, “It was an accident and my doctor wouldn’t allow me to come to work. I didn’t want to miss.”

Michael snorted at my response, “I’m sure Jenna. And yes I did receive a phone call from your attending. However, it appears to me that you were shirking your duties yesterday. Perhaps I should find someone else to replace you permanently?”

I straightening in my chair, “Now that’s not fair.” I remarked, “I am not lying and if I have to I will go and retrieve my hospital records as proof. You can’t fire me for following the doctor’s orders.”

Michael raised his eyebrow at me, “Oh testy are we? While I realize that I cannot fire you for an accident that was unable to be prevented, I can have you suspending for disrespecting your manager.”

“But-“ I stopped myself from ranting at Michael. I could see the malicious look in his eye and I knew that if I argued further I’d be getting myself into even deeper trouble. “Is there anything I can do to make up for my absence yesterday?”

“Well Jenna,” Michael began, a smirk on his face, “I believe that we’ll have to put you on a probationary period with your work schedule. You’ll need to prove that you are invested in your job. You’ll be working every evening for the next two weeks. You have forfeited your days off.” I started to protest and Michael smirked again, daring me to continue. I clamped my mouth shut, but didn’t hide my glare.

“Is there anything else?” I ground out, furious with myself for not protesting this unfair treatment. But if I wanted to keep my job I had to maintain my composure.

“As a matter of fact there is,” Michael gave me a slimy smile. I wanted to gag, “You are to help with the kitchen crew after your shift as well. You are not to clock out any sooner than 11:00. And if I find out that you are avoiding your duties, you will lose your job. Is that clear?”

“crystal,” I muttered scowling. “Can I go now?”

“You are dismissed,” he replied cheekily, “oh and Jenna make sure that your “guest” is escorted from the restaurant if he isn’t going purchase a meal.”

I nodded my head and hurried from the office, humiliation sweeping through me. I had let Michael completely run over me. I hadn’t stood up for myself at all. It was rather pathetic really. As I slammed the manager’s door behind me I looked up and across the room at Adam. He had a dark look on his face. Trying to calm my infuriated pulse, I quickly headed back towards Andrea and Adam. Andrea looked worried, Adam merely looked infuriated.

“I need to talk to you,” I muttered walking towards the pair, my eyes directed at Adam, “Now please.”

Without a word, he rose from his chair and followed me towards the entrance of the restaurant. I hastily walked outside, ignoring the biting cold. Once I was certain we were alone I turned back and gazed at Adam.

“I’m supposed to ask you to leave,” I remarked stoically, “The manager doesn’t want you in here if you aren’t an employee or a paying customer.”

“How could you let him talk to you like that?” Adam retorted, anger laced throughout his words. My eyes flashed dangerously at his comment.

“What did you hear? And more importantly how did you hear it? I told you to stay and let me handle things.” I ground out. Adam’s demeanor didn’t change.

“It doesn’t matter how I heard what I heard,” he retorted scowling at me, “How could you let him treat you that way! It was ridiculous. You should have stood up for yourself. You’re capable of that.”

“And risk losing my job?” I remarked incredulously, “I can’t afford to do that. If I don’t have my job I don’t have a way to pay for my apartment.”

“Jenna I could help you,” he had softened his voice, “You shouldn’t have to work as much as you do. And you shouldn’t be subjected to that kind of ridicule.”

“And what would you know?” I remarked heatedly, my anger flaring, “You seem to have the world handed to you and you think you can stand here and tell what I do and do not deserve. I’m not going to accept your charity either. I don’t need it or want it. I can take care of myself. You’re just some stranger I had the misfortune of meeting and now you think you can give me advice about my life? You are utterly absurd.”

“I’m quite aware of the fact that you can take care of yourself,” he remarked quietly, giving me a pitying glare, “But it’s a pretty lonely world when all you have to rely on is yourself. Your abrasiveness and callous remarks can only get you so far in life. I’ll see you after work Jenna. I’ll give you a lift home.”

He quickly turned on his heel and walked away from the restaurant before I could utter a word in protest. I gaped after him as the wind whipped at my face angrily. My own emotions were now in turmoil. I was furious because of my manager and because Adam was trying to tell me how to live my life, but at the same time I was hurt. A deep throbbing was building in my chest. Adam’s words rang in my head ‘it’s a lonely world’. Was I really lonely?

A nasty gust of wind made my shiver and hasten my way back inside. I had a shift to attend to. Readjusting my hair I walked towards the kitchen to get started with the prep work for tonight’s dinner rush. The dining room was nearly empty, except for a few of the bus boys who were setting up the silverware and glasses.

Pushing my way into the kitchen I caught the gaze of Andrea. She gave me a half hearted smile, but didn’t try to approach me. Obviously Adam wasn’t the only person privy to the conversation between Michael and myself. However, I simply couldn’t bring myself to be angry with Andrea. Adam’s voice still rang in my head and I had a hard time concentrating on one specific emotion.

“Hey Jenna can you help me with the vegetables?” Rachael’s voice snapped me back to attention. I silently nodded my head and headed towards the work station she was at.

Picking up a knife and a bell pepper I began to work on the vegetable, not speaking or making eye contact with Rachael. And for the moment she worked silently beside me. But I could feel her gaze on me every few seconds trying to gauge my expressions. After a moment she sighed and set her knife down.

“Tell me what’s bothering you Jenna,” Rachael pleaded quietly with me, “You are far more sullen than usual.”

“I’m fine,” I remarked quietly, refusing to look at her.

“Hardly,” She remarked, picking up her knife again, “You can’t let what Michael says get to you. You just need to ignore him. He’s a jerk anyway.”

I slammed my knife down, “Is everyone privy to my private conversations? I know that he’s a jerk. He’s always been a jerk, but there isn’t anything I can do about it. It’s either suck it up and take it or lose my job. I can’t afford that. So I have to bend over backwards to be please the imbecile.”

Rachael laughed lightly at my remark, “Believe me dear I understand how you feel about Michael, but just know that I’d never let him get away with firing you. He’d be a fool indeed to try and pull that card against you.”

A smile tugged at my lips, “Thanks,” I murmured. I went back to slicing bell peppers.

“Besides,” Rachael continued nonchalantly, “I’m sure that fellow you brought in wouldn’t allow for you to be disrespected either.”

I stopped in mid- chop a blush covering my cheeks. I turned to Rachael, “Adam and I aren’t really all that well acquainted. We aren’t technically even friends. Besides, he said that I was abrasive and callous! That hardly qualifies as a friendly comment don’t you think?”

Rachael laughed again, “Oh I heard the story of how you two met. But let me just say something to you Jenna. Even though you haven’t known each other long this Adam seems like he genuinely cares about your well being,” I started to protest, but she raised her hand to silence me, “Whether it be merely as a friend or whether he has deeper motives, it’s clear to me that he’s not one to take your happiness lightly.” She laughed again, “And besides, if anyone can take you on when you throw your “abrasive” comments at them, they deserve to be taken seriously.”

With a smile in my direction she quickly resumed her chopping duties, effectively ending the conversation.

Can I do it?

I know I haven't written in a long time...sad to say I'm a failure at this! Talk about a horrible person right? Well that is to say I would be a horrible person if anyone actually cares about this blog. If you are out there reading this and have been faithfully reading my posts, I thank you, and apologize for not updating sooner. I've been lax in my writing...sorry.

I will confess that my lack of updates have not been because of lack of want. Merely, the lack of updates have been because I'm reveling in my mini-vacation before I return for spring and summer semesters at school. I just finished winter semester and now am heading full force into the spring and summer terms. Talk about crazy right? And I've simply just been enjoying the fact that I just REST! No need ot worry about homework or tests. It's all rather comforting really.

But I promise that I will have a lengthy piece of writing updated for you tomorrow...er...today...later today.

Until then can you answer this one little thought?
Do you think I can make it as a writer? Do I have what it takes, the talent, to be an effective and enjoyable writer? Anyone?

Getting on Track

I know I said that I'd have something to post for you. But alas I lied...I'm still so anxious about getting done with finals that my mind is completely consumed with finishing things...now don't fret. I have been literally fighting the urge to sit down and write and write and write...however I have had to stay my creative process for just a little while longer...and I do apologize for that!

I hope to have something up soon for you!

-The Novice Novelist

Finals are Over! Writing Can Commence!

Hooray! I've finally made it through the semester! It's been a wild and exciting (and often stressful) ride. But I have prevailed! Thanks to the support of my husband, my children, and my Heavenly Father. I know that I cannot do anything significant without his help. And he's truly helped me this semester! I am so thankful for that!
So, hopefully I will be updating more now that I have a little less on my plate! At least for a little while that is...anyway, I'm looking forward to going to bed without the thoughts of papers and tests looming over my head...well at least until finals week officially starts! AND!!!! I will be able to post more of my novel as I have more time to work on it! So that's a double HOORAY! Thank goodness I get the opportunity to write because I've been going crazy without the time! Hopefully I can get some things done!
Wish me luck!

-The Novice Novelist

A Very Quick Thing

I'm still feeling under the weather but I though I'd post a quick little one for you:

"I never thought I'd get to see them again," I whispered closing my eyes and leaning my head back on the headboard.

"I know," he murmured, "I know."

Short, Sweet, and to the Point...

I'm sorry I didn't write yesterday. I've caught some sort of nasty little head cold and am feeling rather sickly at the moment. I am posting now, but it's really not much of a great post at all. It's more a note to let you readers know that I am striving to get my little section done along with another whole chapter to post for your enjoyment. I hope to get those up sometime within the next week or so. School is hectic right now and I can't promise something that may not come to pass. I would feel horrible if I was unreliable as a writer. Wouldn't you?

Anyway, I'll post tomorrow for you for sure. Thanks for being my ever faithful readers!

-The Novice Novelist

Explaining

I'm sitting here with a thought stuck in my head. It's a continuation of the scene that posted yesterday for your enjoyment. I'm not sure, however, with how I should present it to you. Whether I should include what I've already posted or to just continue onward. Rest assured, however, that I will be posting something for you soon.

But for now, I will post a little bit of an explaination for why this little scene is so important to me:

The scene that I've posted for you fits in a very crucial portion of my novel. It is a part where the relationship between Jenna and Adam is starting solidify. These two are still at odds with one another...actually Jenna still thinks he's a complete idiot at times and he still doesn't trust Jenna enough to be completely honest with her about why he's in her life...but they are learning to trust. That's the key thing in this whole little portion and I hope that I can portray that effectively. And being exposed to these stressful situations allows for a real relationship to begin to form. Not to mention, it really makes things interesting for them right?

Does that get you excited to read the entire novel? How about just reading the finished scene? Anyway, let me know what you think!

-The Novice Novelist