Dissonance - Part 8
May. 31st, 2009 03:42 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
surevestaTitle: Dissonance - Part 8
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
surevesta
Rating: PG-16
Fandom: CW RPS
Word Count: 6,536 (this part)
Pairing: J2
Main Characters: Jensen, Jared, Danneel, Sandy, Kripke, Chad, Mike, Chris, Sophia, Hayden, Adair, Rainbow, Allie
Other Characters: Samantha Ferris, Samantha Smith, Tom and Jaime, Aaron, Shawn, Kristin K., Kristin B., Alexis, JDM, and an assortment of other RPS regulars and CW actors/actresses.
Betas:anyothergirl415
Disclaimer: The story and plot is mine, the characters are based off of real people and belong to themselves. The places are also based off of real places. I know almost nothing of the foster care system.
Summary: The world of High School through the eyes of violist Jensen Ackles. Life is just notes on a page, waiting to be read and interpreted.
Note: There will probably end up being ten parts.
Master Post
*****
Jensen was up early Saturday morning, not quite as early as he woke up on a weekday though. The plan was for Jared to pick him up at nine and then they would drive an hour and a half to the music store Jensen remembered. It was still there and well stocked with quality instruments, Jensen had found the phone number via Google and called to make sure.
They hadn't spent much time together the last few days. Between Jensen's work and the football game Friday, which was out of town, both teens had been pretty busy. Jared had taken to joining Jensen for lunch most days and had even dragged him inside to sit with Sandy and a few of his other friends on Thursday. Chad hadn't been there, apparently he decided to go to Subway for lunch with Shawn Ashmore and James Lafferty. That's what Sandy said anyway. The experience hadn't been too terrible, although a couple of the girls seemed a bit confused by his presence.
He woke up around seven and just laid in bed for an hour, eyes tracing over faded flowers and across stitches and the metal bars of the top bunk. At eight the alarm clock clicked and the radio started playing. Jensen was a light sleeper and music always woke him up, unlike Rain. Luckily, the alarm clock had options for two separate alarms.
“...and now I wonder... if I could fall into the sky, do you think time would pass...”
Only about a verse of Vanessa Carlton's voice and piano accompaniment filtered into the silence of the room before he stumbled to the desk and turned it off. He stretched, toes grasping at the wood floor beneath his feet and back arching backwards. Snagging his glasses from atop the dresser, Jensen grabbed yesterdays jeans and made his way to the bathroom.
The house was quiet, everyone tended to sleep in on Saturday's if they could and Denis wouldn't be home for an hour or so. He showered slowly, relaxing under the warm spray. There wouldn't be anyone complaining about a lack of hot water this morning; and, even if they did, he wouldn't be home to hear it. The beat of water hitting tile and his skin was soothing and helped ease the bit of tension that gripped his body. Jensen even took a while to enjoy himself, sliding his hand and gripping firmly as his mind replayed memories of Jared and kissing Jared and cuddling with Jared. The thought made him blush a little but just being with his boyfriend, resting against the other teens side, arms wrapped around each other, made him feel so... so content and as far from awkward as he could get. He loved it... even if it sounded a little girly in his mind.
It was almost fifteen till nine by the time Jensen padded into his room, rubbing a towel against his hair. Dressing quickly, he attempting to make some sort of appealing ensemble. He ended up grabbing a shirt he didn't wear often, a ¾ sleeve white baseball tee with with navy blue sleeves. There hadn't been time for Jensen to do laundry in the last five days between work, school, and attending one of Rain's soccer games, so the jeans were one of his older pairs, a half inch too short, worn around the cuffs, and a frayed rip just below his left knee. Glancing over at the laundry basket, he briefly considered grabbing yesterdays pants but decided these would be just fine. It wasn't like Jared hadn't seen him in these pants at school before.
Running fingers through slightly damp hair, Jensen glanced out the window before making his way downstairs. Jared wasn't there yet, but it was still about five minutes till nine. Briefly, he pondered snagging something from the kitchen but figured Jared might be interested in picking up something to eat on the way out of town anyway.
Jensen was right. They ended up spending nearly fifteen minutes in the McDonald's drive through waiting for an Egg McMuffin, Sausage McGriddle, and two coffees. While he drank his black, Jared ordered some concoction- a mocha, maybe- that was overly sweetened and topped with whip cream and chocolate drizzle. When Jensen refused to try it the other teen had just leaned over and kissed him fully, tongues sliding against each other, teeth nipping lightly at lips, and fingers carding through hair. It lasted till the car behind them blared its horn and Jared had to turn his attention back pulling out of the parking lot. Jensen had to admit it didn't taste that bad.
The trip was nice, kind of quiet but for the radio. They did talk, aimless comfortable chatter about a variety of topics. It had been a while since Jensen went on a road trip that didn't involve a school bus with crappy heating (or AC), so he was enjoying the light blast of warm air the vents supplied. Along the way they discussed the colleges they were applying to. Jensen wasn't quite sure how they got on the topic, maybe something having to do with football or orchestra or family expectations, but he was pleasantly surprised to find out Jared was planning to apply to many of the same state universities that he was.
About an hour into the trip they were forced to listen to a country station- it was the only one that had good reception. It wasn't that Jensen hated country, he just preferred other genres. Not that he spent a lot of time worrying over popular music- he just didn't have the time or feel the need to keep up with the latest trends. When one of the classics that everyone practically everyone knows,- country fan or not- Two Piña Coladas, came on the air Jared started belting out the lyrics. He wasn't a horrible singer, but then he wasn't exactly good either.
Reaching over, Jared slapped his hand lightly on Jensen's shoulder, “One for each hand- C'mon!”
Jensen shook his head, laughing as Jared continued singing. The other teen slapped the steering and grinned over at him for a moment. Rolling his eyes, Jensen gave in, “...Troubles I forgot 'em. Buried 'em in the sand.”
“So bring me two Piña Coladas. She said Good bye to her good timin' man...”
When the song ended Jared reached over and settled his right hand onto Jensen's thigh, just above the knee. Jensen stared at it for a moment before settling his own hand over Jared's, threading fingers together, curling them to touch Jared's palm.
“You're a good singer,” Jared said as a car dealership commercial crackled through the radio. “Why aren't you in choir?”
“'Cause I love to play the viola and don't have time?”
“I guess that makes sense,” Jared frowned momentarily, eyeing a large green sign that marked the miles to such-and-such cities. “Ten miles, do you remember which turn to take?”
Jensen bit his lip and frowned. His tongue smoothed over chapped lips before he responded, “Yeah, should be the first one. It turns and runs parallel to the river. I think. Park, uh there should be a park right before the turn? On the right. Should know by the scent though.” Crinkling his nose, he turned to eye Jared's profile, “There's a paper making plant on the left, right after the turn and a cow farm or whatever it's called on the right.”
“Ranch?”
“No,” Jensen's brow furrowed and the fingers of his right hand tapped against the leather covered plastic arm rest. “Well, maybe. I don't think it's called a ranch. It's one of those feeding areas. I think it connects to some of the larger fields nearby, on the other side of the park maybe.”
“Huh,” Jared shrugged. “Dunno much about cows... Dad runs a vineyard and all.”
“Yeah,” Tightening his grip around the quarterback's hand, Jensen smiled. “What do you want to do first? When we get there? Shopping wise?”
“Well, I thought we'd go to the mall first, get that out of the way, and then after we could grab something at the food court or a restaurant for lunch. After that we could go spend a couple hours finding the perfect... viola for you and drive back to my house for dinner,” Jared turned his hand over and squeezed back. “Sound good?”
He nodded, “Yeah, sounds great.”
*****
It's bright and cheery at the mall. White, light brown, and some sort of blue-greenish color, make up the main color scheme of the building. It's well lit and bustling with activity. Hardly anyone glances their way as they walk through the crowds, shoulders bumping, arms touching, and palms pressed together with fingers interlocked. Jared had snagged a hold of Jensen's hand on the way to the mall entrance and hadn't let go.
There were a variety of shops on this level, books, clothes, make your own teddy bears, hair stylists- pretty much everything Jensen could think of. He wasn't an enthusiastic shopper by any means and Jared was practically dragging him along with his quick steps. The taller teen was talking animatedly about everything- he even stopped to watch one of those salesmen that set up shop in the middle of the hall. Jared quirked an eyebrow at Jensen as they watched the smooth talking twenty-something guy show a teenage girl all about some nail polishing item.
“Somehow, if your sister is anything like Hayden, I doubt that would be enough for her,” Jensen tugged Jared after him. “Let's go look in Claires or a clothes shop or something like that. Bath and Body Works?”
“She does like all that scented crap,” Jared agreed, fingers breaking out of Jensen's grasp. Looking back at his boyfriend, Jensen frowned for a moment before Jared was at his side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
Leaning down, Jared pressed a quick, chaste kiss against his lips. Jensen smiled slightly, ducking his head when he pulled back. He did reach his own arm around Jared in turn, enjoying the feel of their sides pressed together.
“C'mon.”
Half an hour later Jared had managed to find something for his mother and sister and Jensen bought something for Margaret and his foster sisters. The gifts his boyfriend purchased were a tad bit pricier, but not too much so. They were exiting Hot Topic, which Jared had insisted they go into after seeing t-shirts with various '80s cartoons on the front, when Jensen noticed one of those one hour glasses stores.
It wasn't that he needed new glasses- he was pretty sure his prescription was up to date still- Jensen just felt like it was something he wanted to do. It had been over three years since he got new frames. They weren't stylish by any means, actually pretty bulky considering, and had been pushed on him by his previous foster mother. Jensen hadn't felt like fighting her on the issue.
Biting his lip he stopped in the middle of the hall, tightening an arm around Jared as he attempted to continue on to the next store.
“You alright, Jensen?” Jared frowned, turning towards him.
“Yeah... uh,” He wasn't quite sure what to say or ask the other teen. There wasn't really a need to say anything, however, as Jared followed his line of sight to the glasses store, Lenscrafters
“Do you want to go look around?”
He glanced back up at Jared, bottom lip paling slightly where it pressed between his teeth, “Maybe?”
“You don't have to, you know,” Jared's arm moved from his shoulders to run a finger across the black frame where it slid behind Jensen's ear. “They're fine.”
“I don't like them,” For once Jensen was able to get his thoughts out in one succinct sentence. A very abrupt sentence.
His boyfriend laughed, leaning down to press their foreheads together, “Why don't we go look then? See if they have time for an appointment or something?”
“I think I have my prescription still, I got an eye exam a year ago. It hadn't changed much so I doubt it has now,” Jensen blinked, eyes adjusting to the close proximity of Jared's hazel orbs. “I keep stuff like that. In my wallet. Just in case. Margaret, my foster mom, made cards for us. Little things with any prescription and allergies and blood types and such on it.”
“We should probably go talk to the Lenscrafters salesman then,” Drawing back Jared smiled at him. “If you need to get your eyes looked at we should probably find out sooner rather than later. We should have enough time to get everything done and still get back home... assuming they can make them. I can always go find something for my Dad and brother while you get examined.”
Jensen nodded, grabbing Jared's hand as they headed towards Lenscrafters and its walls that were utterly covered with hundreds of different types of glasses. He really hoped it wouldn't be too difficult to choose one.
Turns out he was wrong. Well, mostly wrong anyway. Jensen supposed it had to be his really lucky day since not only was he able to get checked out, but one of the optometrists were free at that moment. Things never turned out like that for him and when he mentioned that to Jared, while the salesman was making a copy of the insurance card Margaret made him carry, his boyfriend just leaned in and kissed him. That of course meant a blush was tingeing his cheeks through most of the eye exam.
Jensen knew that places like this cost a little more than some, but it was worth it in his opinion. It wasn't like his eyesight was horrible, just a bit blurry and mostly farsighted, but if he concentrated really hard he could read. It just wasn't worth the effort or headache that he got. While he was in the exam, Jared headed off, like he said, to locate his last two purchases. It took about half an hour for the exam and another half an hour to pick out the frames he wanted. Jared was back by then, a bag from Radio Shack added to the ones from Bed Bath and Beyond and Claires. There was also a suspicious looking bag that had a color scheme reminiscent of the candy store they passed when they first entered the mall.
“These are cute,” Jared grinned, left dimple appearing along with a mischievous glint in his eyes. He took a garishly pink and purple colored slant-framed glasses from the wall nearby and quirked an eyebrow at Jensen.
“And here I thought my fashion sense was bad,” Jensen rolled his eyes and lifted two, nearly identical, pairs off the wall. “What do you think?”
Rubbing at his chin, a look of intense concentration passed over his boyfriends face, “Try 'em on. Can't judge unless I can see them.”
“Fine,” He slipped off his black frames and hooked them onto his shirt before sliding first one, than the other over his nose.
Jared 'hmm'ed and made a twirling motion with his finger, “Alright now turn around... hey!” He jumped back as Jensen swatted at his shoulder, a grin spreading across his face.
“You deserved it,” Jensen replied as he placed his glasses back on his nose. “Really, which one?”
“These,” He tapped the one with the lighter colored frames. “They look awesome.”
Nodding, Jensen turned around to locate the salesman. He had left Jensen alone earlier to find something he liked. It didn't take long for him to order the glasses and get things set up. They would be ready in only an hour or so and could be picked up anytime before the store closed that night. There was an odd warm feeling tingling inside after he made the purchase. It wasn't the feeling that he got with Jared, but it was similar. Somehow he knew that no matter the cost it had been the right thing to do. Just like he knew purchasing a new viola was something he needed to do. For himself.
As they left the store, Jared tugged him to his side, arm slipping around Jensen's waist. “You really didn't have to change your look Jensen, I don't care.”
“I know,” Tilting his head, Jensen reached one hand up to pat his boyfriends shoulder before leaving it to rest, stretched across his back. “I wanted a new pair. Have for a while.” He grinned, smile just quirking the right side of his face, “Not always about you, ya know. Want to get something to eat? Real food? Something that isn't sweet and sugary like the stuff you keep slipping out of the bag?”
“What?” Jared pretended to be surprised and hurt. “Me sneak candy? How could you insinuate such a-” He rolled his eyes and sighed at Jensen's look, “Okay yeah, I got rainbow strips and Jelly Bellies. Dude, they called to me!”
“Gonna share?”
*****
They had lunch in the food court, mix and matching several different meals, side dishes, and drinks. They both got smoothies from Orange Julius, Strawberry flavor for Jensen and a Mango Passion one for Jared. The latter Jensen actually teased his boyfriend for, but Jared just leaned in, kissed the shell of his ear, and whispered that he was quite passionate. About Jensen.
They got an order of french fries from a Burger place and Jared got a couple slices of pizza from some local store named after it's owner while Jensen got a couple dishes from a Chinese place. They shared, each teen sampling the different entrées. Lunch lasted a good half hour to forty five minutes for them and conversation was flowing easier than it ever had before. The level of comfort Jensen felt was astonishing, he'd never felt this way with anyone since his parents died and Josh was separated from him. It was amazing how you could miss something so much without ever realizing it was missing in the first place.
After lunch they decided to drive over to the Music store; there was still a while before Jensen's glasses would be ready anyway. The drive took about half an hour because Jared got lost and neither teen wanted to stop and actually ask for directions. Eventually they found it, a large store that housed all sorts of music and instruments, as well as hordes of CD's, players, and other music related items.
The layout of the store hadn't really changed at all, though the displays were different than he remembered. Last time several bass guitars had been the focal point of the entry- this time it was a very nice set of drums. It didn't take long for Jensen to find the violas. There were less on display then the violins they were next to. But, Jensen had done his research, spent most of last weeks computer classes (he always finished his assignments quickly) searching the net for reviews, and was pretty confident about finding one he'd like.
There were several different types, most had a list of available sizes next to them. Jared hung back a few steps, just watching as Jensen examined each instrument, looking over both the instruments themselves and the information provided about them. Ten minutes in one of the salesmen came over to talk to them. He had been in a discussion over a french horn with a middle aged woman and her teenage son before. Jensen, after letting the man double check his measurements so that he'd purchase the correct size, was able to try the three he was most interested in.
His fingers played over the strings, which he tightened and tuned under the watchful eye of the clerk. At first he just plucked at the strings, testing and listening. None of the instruments had a horrible tone, but that didn't mean they were worth buying in his mind either. After a bit he tested them with a bow, eyes dropping shut and fingers moving in familiar paths. Pachelbel's Canon in D. It was an old favorite of his, one he had memorized during his freshman year of high school and something they played practically every year. He tested everything he could think of, breaking off into several bars of other tunes- different styles and finger placements, keys and sound levels. He was focused, paying complete attention to the way the sound moved through the instrument, vibrating through the wood.
Jensen took his time and Jared didn't make a single comment. He just watched and listened. Almost two hours passed before Jensen made his decision and paid for his new instrument. It wasn't the prettiest, wasn't the most expensive or the cheapest; but, it was beautiful and he loved the sounds it produced.
It took them another half hour to find the mall again and retrieve Jensen's new glasses, making a detour to Cinnabon on the way back. Just before they reached the car, Jensen's new wire framed glasses perched on his nose and an empty bag filled with sticky napkins in his hand, Jared pulled him into an embrace and kissed him. It was one of the best and most exhilarating kisses they had engaged in so far. It made Jensen burn for more.
“Love the glasses,” Jared murmured, dropping one more kiss onto his lips before pulling away to go unlock the door.
Running a tongue over slightly bruised lips, Jensen nodded, “Me too.”
*****
The drive home took just under an hour and a half, meaning they arrived just after five after spending the majority of the day out of town. Jared's family was home, his parents and little sister, when they got there. It was a little awkward at first, Jensen wasn't quite sure what exactly to say. The reason behind this dinner was for the assignment, so that Jensen could meet the people that Jared lived with, but there was so much more layered beneath the scenes. Even if they didn't mention it this was a sort of 'meet the parents' moment. He really didn't want to mess this up.
Jared led him up to his room to put their packages away, hiding his sisters gift first in the Radio Shack bag and then in the drawer that held his underwear and socks. Jensen couldn't help taking a peek inside while Jared buried it in the back beneath his boxers. Before going back downstairs, Jared pulled him into another kiss, holding his head between two large hands.
“Don't worry about it, Jensen,” He murmured, bangs tickling Jensen's forehead. “No reason to be nervous.”
“Right,” Jensen sighed, eyes dropping shut for a moment. “Not helping. Still freaking a bit.”
“It'll be fine,” Jared brushed a thumb over Jensen's cheek before stepping back, snagging one of Jensen's hands and pulling him towards the door.
Dinner was simply amazing. It was a bit fancier than what Jensen was used to. He was hungry, though, and it was full of flavor and oh so juicy. Jared's Mom had cooked small steaks, wrapped in bacon, in the oven. They were perfectly seasoned. In addition to the steak there was homemade garlic mashed potatoes, the small red ones so that there was still peels in the mix, fresh cooked green beans, corn on the cob, garlic bread, and a hand tossed green salad mix that didn't come from a bag.
There wasn't a lot of chatter during the meal at first. Jared's dad asked about their assignment and how school was going for Jared, Megan, and even Jensen. They were nice people, Gerry and Sharon Padalecki. That was the main impression Jensen got of them. Megan spent most of the meal shooting glances his way, head ducked down and a bit of a blush on her cheeks. He supposed it was pretty easy for a teenage girl to develop a crush on her brother's friend. Hayden certainly thought Jared was a hottie and hadn't exactly kept her opinion to herself. Even after she knew they were dating.
About halfway through the meal, Sharon spoke up, directing a question to Jared and Jensen, “So you two went out of town today? Did you boys get a lot done?”
Pausing mid bite, fork still in his mouth and along with several green beans, Jensen glanced over at Jared. His boyfriend looked back, lips pursed and a question in his eyes. He glanced down at his plate, slid the fork out of his mouth and straightened his back.
“Yeah, kind of,” Jared licked a bit of gravy from his lips. The quarterback had covered his mashed potatoes in the stuff. Jensen preferred to go without or with just a tablespoon or two. “We went to the mall and got some Christmas shopping done, Jensen got a new pair of glasses, and then we stopped by a Music Store. Jensen got an awesome viola.”
“You're in the Orchestra?” Sharon directed the question entirely at Jensen this time.
He nodded, swallowing a mouthful of beans, “Yeah, I'm a violist, play the viola. First Chair.” Biting his lip for a second, Jensen fought the urge to look away from her questioning hazel eyes. “I've been playing for years.”
“He's awesome,” Jared grinned, steak knife cutting through his second piece of meat. “Jensen was trying out the instruments while we were there and it was great. He was great! I mean, I don't know much about music but I thought he was good and the salesman seemed to think so, too.”
“Are you planning to pursue a career in music?” Jensen turned his gaze from Jared to Gerry and nodded.
“Yeah, I, uh, want to perform for a while then teach. Maybe both at the same time... depends. I like it.”
Sharon grinned at him as she swiped a piece of lettuce through a stray drop of dressing, “That's good! It's always good to do something you like. That's why I teach English. Although, I don't get to do much with the classics in Middle School. I do love the children and instilling at least some amount of appreciation in them for a good book and correct grammar usage is very rewarding.”
“Sounds like you have a pretty good plan for your future then,” Gerry nodded then jerked a thumb towards Jared, smile quirking his lips. “I keep trying to tell him to figure out some sort of degree he'd like to get outside of football but he never seems to listen.”
“Dad,” Jared let out an exasperated whine. “I still have a couple years till I have to make a decision.”
“He's right Gerry,” Sharon tsked at her husband. “Jared has plenty of time to figure out what he wants to after he's done with football. Lot's of students enter college without a good idea of what they want to major in. I thought I was going to be a lawyer till my Junior year of college. Then I decided law wasn't my thing and books were.”
Conversation continued in that vain for a while. Jensen mostly kept to the periphery, listening into the discussion. That lasted until Sharon asked Jensen if he was seeing anyone, which got a practically squealed Mom! out of Jared.
“Sherry, the boy doesn't have to answer that,” Gerry let out a long sigh and nodded at Jensen. “You don't have to answer that. It's none of our business...” He tilted a look to Jared, “Jared on the other hand...”
Jared was glaring at his plate, biting his cheek. He glanced up at Jensen after a moment, a sigh escaping his lips and an eyebrow quirking up. Shrugging in reply, Jensen set his utensils down on his plate. He was almost done eating anyway. It was really up to Jared on whether or not he told his parents. Jensen had no knowledge of how they'd react, whether or not they really knew just how much Sandy and Jared would not ever be getting together, and whether or not they held any dislike for homosexuals. Ultimately, it was Jared's choice. They were his parents after all.
“I... Jensen?” Jared looked up at his parents. “I'm kind of seeing Jensen? We're dating, boyfriends... yeah.” He met Jensen's eyes for a moment before looking back at his parents, eyes sliding from one to the other and back again.
A small giggle came from the other end of the table. Megan was rolling her eyes when Jensen glanced at her, “Duh. You're so transparent.”
That seemed to relieve whatever tension was still in the room. While the rest of dinner wasn't the most comfortable activity in the world, it wasn't horrible either. They didn't question Jared, didn't say anything mean or derogatory, just seemed to accept the situation while not throwing their arms up and cheering or grinning widely. They just accepted and moved on with the conversation, though Sharon did ask how long they'd been going out. Jensen supposed it was a good reaction. It didn't feel like they hated him or were going to turn around ten minutes after he left and decide their relationship was unnatural. So it had to be good.
After dinner, Jensen volunteered to help pack up the left overs and clear the table. Sharon blinked at him then smiled and told him he could set the dishes that still had food in them on the counter next to the refrigerator. While he carried them to the kitchen, Sharon went in search of Tupperware and Jared snagged the dirty dishes and settled them into the dishwasher with Megan's help. Gerry bid them all, even Jensen, a good night and headed up to his office to take care of a few things before bed. It didn't take them long to clean up and Sharon seemed suitably impressed that Jensen had actually asked if he could help.
“Thank you boys,” Sharon smiled at them when they were done. Megan had already run off to do whatever teenage girls do.
“We're gonna go upstairs and work on the assignment,” Jared said as he hugged his Mom. She patted his back and then his cheek, looking up at him.
“Alright, leave the door open though, okay?”
Rolling his eyes, Jared nodded, “Yes Mom.” He snagged Jensen's hand and pulled him out of the room, heading towards the stairs.
Jared's room was nice, big and roomy- if a bit messy. It was probably twice as big as Jensen's and it had a small walk in closet. That didn't mean all of Jared's clothes were put away, however. There was quite a few t-shirts and three or four pairs of pants scattered around the floor.
Kicking a pair of dark blue jeans into a corner, Jared sent an apologetic look to Jensen, “Sorry, man... I'm not the best at keeping my room clean, I guess.”
Jensen grinned and moved over to the bed, “It's fine. Really not a big deal. Can I, uh, sit down?” The bed was big, a queen size, and very comfortable. When Jared nodded his assent, he sat down, pressing a hand into the soft bedding. It was probably one of the best beds Jensen had every seen comfort wise. He thought that it probably had that memory foam padding below the sheets or something. “Nice bed.”
“Dad insisted on it,” Jared shrugged, joining Jensen on the bed. He lay back, feet flat on the floor, knees bent, resting comfortably. “Said it'd help me avoid a lot of aches and pains in the future. Good for my back and some other stuff.”
“S'good,” Jensen replied, a small yawn escaping his lips as he lay back next to Jared. Unlike his boyfriend, Jensen was on his side, only his feet dangling of the edge but his knees were bent, brushing Jared's thigh.
Reaching out, Jared laid a hand over his, thumb moving in a sweeping motion, caressing the back of Jensen's just above his knuckles. “They liked you.”
“Well, I didn't think they hated me. Liking is good,” He watched the path of Jared's thumb. It skirted over a few faded freckles; the nail was short but not evenly cut. “Right?”
“Right,” Jared turned his head toward him, hair falling over his cheeks and into his eyes. “I didn't originally plan to tell them like that, you know?”
“Yeah,” He nodded, a small smile on his lips. His tongue darted out to wet them, tasting the minuscule flavor of dinner still clinging to them. “Kinda figured.”
“It just seemed like a good time, I guess,” His grip tightened around Jensen's hand slightly. Warm and firm, the tan skin smooth but slightly rough at the same time. Calloused in some places but not uncomfortably so.
“Did they know you are...”
“Not exactly,” Jared's free hand was picking at the comforter. It was in good condition but Jensen could see a few small pills of fluff in places. “I was warming up to it, have been for a couple of years.” He shrugged glancing to the other side, down at his hand. “Wasn't entirely sure how they'd react.”
“Hey,” Jensen reached up, rested a hand on Jared's cheek and tilted the other teens head back towards him. Green eyes met hazel, trying to convey warmth and every other feeling that was tossing around inside his head and heart. “It's fine. They seem fine. You're fine. Don't worry.”
A light chuckle escaped Jared's lips and he turned his head just enough to press his cheek against Jensen's hand, “Aren't I the one usually telling you that?”
“Yeah,” Jensen smiled, cheeks warming pleasantly. “I guess you usually are.” His hand dropped down to rest on Jared's chest, right above his heart.
They lay like that for a while, the door to the room still open. At some point Jensen heard quiet footsteps pass by, causing the wood floor to creak a bit. The sound paused outside the door for almost a minute, whoever it was just observing quietly, before continuing on down the hall. His eyes drifted shut at some point, a little after Jared's had, and his mind, warm and comfortable, slid into a light nap. Not actual sleep just a doze.
Eventually, the quiet was interrupted by a familiar ring tone. Jared's cell phone. It was some rock song, Jensen couldn't remember the name but he knew it was popular at the moment. Groaning, Jared hefted himself from the bed, fingers squeezing Jensen's before letting go so he could retrieve the cell from his letterman jacket. Jensen sat up, stretching a bit, as Jared answered it.
“Hello?” The quarterback hadn't even bothered to check the caller id. “Uh, hey Chad.” His voice held a bit of surprise and a sighing quality.
“No, I'm at home. Why?”
Jensen blinked at him, adjusting his glasses and rubbing at the bridge of his nose. He'd probably have to adjust the fit a bit. Getting a headache from pinching glasses wasn't something he needed.
“I'm kind of busy,” Jared turned towards Jensen and rolled his eyes. “Yeah I am.” A frown crossed his face. “Because I want to, what's the big deal?”
It was a bit awkward to only be hearing one side of the conversation. Jensen bit his lip and watched his boyfriend as he leaned against the wall near the door. Chad didn't seem to like him much, what with the glaring and all. He wasn't exactly sure why that was and wasn't sure if he wanted to know either. Jensen did hope that Chad wasn't giving Jared a hard time just for hanging out with him.
“No. I'm not ignoring you guys. I see you everyday... lately maybe but not usually,” Running a hand over his face, Jared sighed. “Tonight? I can't... no Chad. I don't feel like it. I was gone all day. Yes with Jensen.”
Jensen started slightly at his name. While he had been pretty sure a major part of the discussion was about him it was a bit shocking to hear his name actually stated in the conversation.
I'm busy Chad. Maybe if Jensen wants... What's the big deal?” Jared's eyes drifted shut. “Maybe I don't get it... You're being stupid. Good night Chad.” He snapped his phone book and sighed, making his way back to the bed, “Sorry about that.”
“It's fine,” Jensen shrugged, watching the other teens face as he sat down. “What was that about... if you don't care. If you don't mind telling me?”
“Chad's being a dumb ass,” His lips quirked slightly, a half smile causing his right dimple to appear. Reaching over Jared caught Jensen's hand. “He's complaining about how I 'never' hang out anymore.” Jared rolled his eyes.
“Maybe you should,” Jensen's gaze dropped to their joined hands. “Go hang out. With them I mean. If you aren't too tired, or something. I know you like the parties.”
“Sure I like them. I don't need to go to them though,” His free hand slipped around to the back of Jensen's neck. “I want to hang out with you. Kiss you. Spend time with you. Get to know you better.”
“Still,” Jensen shrugged, still watching their hands. “You could always-”
“Nah,” Jared leaned in and kissed him, sweet and light, sucking on Jensen's upper lip before delving into his mouth. Pulling back, he continued, breath skirting over Jensen's lips, “Only went because there was nothing else to do and everyone I knew was there. Hoped one day you would be there too... but it wasn't your thing.”
“Still isn't,” Jensen murmured, eyes only half open.
“I know,” Jared acknowledged in a soft voice. “S'why I don't need to bother going. Chad'll get over it. I'll talk to him next week about everything. Try to figure out a good way to broach how much of a douche he is without him getting all offended.”
“There's a time when he's not? Offended?”
Jared laughed, breath ghosting over Jensen's lips and cheeks, “Occasionally.” Smiling he pressed another kiss to Jensen's mouth, tasting and exploring. Jensen groaned a bit at the sensation.
“Time?”
“Only a little before eight.”
“Do we have time to watch another movie?” Jensen asked, pulling back a bit. “'Cause I doubt we can stay in here much longer without someone coming to check up on us.”
“Plenty of time... another Die Hard?”
“Sure.”
*****
Next
A.Note: Ok Should be two more parts after this... if I hit eleven I'll be surprised but it is possible. I hope everyone enjoyed this part :). Anyway, posting this now because I'm not sure how much time I'll have later. I'll try to xpost it at least two places before I have to get offline.
Author:
surevestaRating: PG-16
Fandom: CW RPS
Word Count: 6,536 (this part)
Pairing: J2
Main Characters: Jensen, Jared, Danneel, Sandy, Kripke, Chad, Mike, Chris, Sophia, Hayden, Adair, Rainbow, Allie
Other Characters: Samantha Ferris, Samantha Smith, Tom and Jaime, Aaron, Shawn, Kristin K., Kristin B., Alexis, JDM, and an assortment of other RPS regulars and CW actors/actresses.
Betas:
anyothergirl415Disclaimer: The story and plot is mine, the characters are based off of real people and belong to themselves. The places are also based off of real places. I know almost nothing of the foster care system.
Summary: The world of High School through the eyes of violist Jensen Ackles. Life is just notes on a page, waiting to be read and interpreted.
Note: There will probably end up being ten parts.
Master Post
*****
Jensen was up early Saturday morning, not quite as early as he woke up on a weekday though. The plan was for Jared to pick him up at nine and then they would drive an hour and a half to the music store Jensen remembered. It was still there and well stocked with quality instruments, Jensen had found the phone number via Google and called to make sure.
They hadn't spent much time together the last few days. Between Jensen's work and the football game Friday, which was out of town, both teens had been pretty busy. Jared had taken to joining Jensen for lunch most days and had even dragged him inside to sit with Sandy and a few of his other friends on Thursday. Chad hadn't been there, apparently he decided to go to Subway for lunch with Shawn Ashmore and James Lafferty. That's what Sandy said anyway. The experience hadn't been too terrible, although a couple of the girls seemed a bit confused by his presence.
He woke up around seven and just laid in bed for an hour, eyes tracing over faded flowers and across stitches and the metal bars of the top bunk. At eight the alarm clock clicked and the radio started playing. Jensen was a light sleeper and music always woke him up, unlike Rain. Luckily, the alarm clock had options for two separate alarms.
“...and now I wonder... if I could fall into the sky, do you think time would pass...”
Only about a verse of Vanessa Carlton's voice and piano accompaniment filtered into the silence of the room before he stumbled to the desk and turned it off. He stretched, toes grasping at the wood floor beneath his feet and back arching backwards. Snagging his glasses from atop the dresser, Jensen grabbed yesterdays jeans and made his way to the bathroom.
The house was quiet, everyone tended to sleep in on Saturday's if they could and Denis wouldn't be home for an hour or so. He showered slowly, relaxing under the warm spray. There wouldn't be anyone complaining about a lack of hot water this morning; and, even if they did, he wouldn't be home to hear it. The beat of water hitting tile and his skin was soothing and helped ease the bit of tension that gripped his body. Jensen even took a while to enjoy himself, sliding his hand and gripping firmly as his mind replayed memories of Jared and kissing Jared and cuddling with Jared. The thought made him blush a little but just being with his boyfriend, resting against the other teens side, arms wrapped around each other, made him feel so... so content and as far from awkward as he could get. He loved it... even if it sounded a little girly in his mind.
It was almost fifteen till nine by the time Jensen padded into his room, rubbing a towel against his hair. Dressing quickly, he attempting to make some sort of appealing ensemble. He ended up grabbing a shirt he didn't wear often, a ¾ sleeve white baseball tee with with navy blue sleeves. There hadn't been time for Jensen to do laundry in the last five days between work, school, and attending one of Rain's soccer games, so the jeans were one of his older pairs, a half inch too short, worn around the cuffs, and a frayed rip just below his left knee. Glancing over at the laundry basket, he briefly considered grabbing yesterdays pants but decided these would be just fine. It wasn't like Jared hadn't seen him in these pants at school before.
Running fingers through slightly damp hair, Jensen glanced out the window before making his way downstairs. Jared wasn't there yet, but it was still about five minutes till nine. Briefly, he pondered snagging something from the kitchen but figured Jared might be interested in picking up something to eat on the way out of town anyway.
Jensen was right. They ended up spending nearly fifteen minutes in the McDonald's drive through waiting for an Egg McMuffin, Sausage McGriddle, and two coffees. While he drank his black, Jared ordered some concoction- a mocha, maybe- that was overly sweetened and topped with whip cream and chocolate drizzle. When Jensen refused to try it the other teen had just leaned over and kissed him fully, tongues sliding against each other, teeth nipping lightly at lips, and fingers carding through hair. It lasted till the car behind them blared its horn and Jared had to turn his attention back pulling out of the parking lot. Jensen had to admit it didn't taste that bad.
The trip was nice, kind of quiet but for the radio. They did talk, aimless comfortable chatter about a variety of topics. It had been a while since Jensen went on a road trip that didn't involve a school bus with crappy heating (or AC), so he was enjoying the light blast of warm air the vents supplied. Along the way they discussed the colleges they were applying to. Jensen wasn't quite sure how they got on the topic, maybe something having to do with football or orchestra or family expectations, but he was pleasantly surprised to find out Jared was planning to apply to many of the same state universities that he was.
About an hour into the trip they were forced to listen to a country station- it was the only one that had good reception. It wasn't that Jensen hated country, he just preferred other genres. Not that he spent a lot of time worrying over popular music- he just didn't have the time or feel the need to keep up with the latest trends. When one of the classics that everyone practically everyone knows,- country fan or not- Two Piña Coladas, came on the air Jared started belting out the lyrics. He wasn't a horrible singer, but then he wasn't exactly good either.
Reaching over, Jared slapped his hand lightly on Jensen's shoulder, “One for each hand- C'mon!”
Jensen shook his head, laughing as Jared continued singing. The other teen slapped the steering and grinned over at him for a moment. Rolling his eyes, Jensen gave in, “...Troubles I forgot 'em. Buried 'em in the sand.”
“So bring me two Piña Coladas. She said Good bye to her good timin' man...”
When the song ended Jared reached over and settled his right hand onto Jensen's thigh, just above the knee. Jensen stared at it for a moment before settling his own hand over Jared's, threading fingers together, curling them to touch Jared's palm.
“You're a good singer,” Jared said as a car dealership commercial crackled through the radio. “Why aren't you in choir?”
“'Cause I love to play the viola and don't have time?”
“I guess that makes sense,” Jared frowned momentarily, eyeing a large green sign that marked the miles to such-and-such cities. “Ten miles, do you remember which turn to take?”
Jensen bit his lip and frowned. His tongue smoothed over chapped lips before he responded, “Yeah, should be the first one. It turns and runs parallel to the river. I think. Park, uh there should be a park right before the turn? On the right. Should know by the scent though.” Crinkling his nose, he turned to eye Jared's profile, “There's a paper making plant on the left, right after the turn and a cow farm or whatever it's called on the right.”
“Ranch?”
“No,” Jensen's brow furrowed and the fingers of his right hand tapped against the leather covered plastic arm rest. “Well, maybe. I don't think it's called a ranch. It's one of those feeding areas. I think it connects to some of the larger fields nearby, on the other side of the park maybe.”
“Huh,” Jared shrugged. “Dunno much about cows... Dad runs a vineyard and all.”
“Yeah,” Tightening his grip around the quarterback's hand, Jensen smiled. “What do you want to do first? When we get there? Shopping wise?”
“Well, I thought we'd go to the mall first, get that out of the way, and then after we could grab something at the food court or a restaurant for lunch. After that we could go spend a couple hours finding the perfect... viola for you and drive back to my house for dinner,” Jared turned his hand over and squeezed back. “Sound good?”
He nodded, “Yeah, sounds great.”
It's bright and cheery at the mall. White, light brown, and some sort of blue-greenish color, make up the main color scheme of the building. It's well lit and bustling with activity. Hardly anyone glances their way as they walk through the crowds, shoulders bumping, arms touching, and palms pressed together with fingers interlocked. Jared had snagged a hold of Jensen's hand on the way to the mall entrance and hadn't let go.
There were a variety of shops on this level, books, clothes, make your own teddy bears, hair stylists- pretty much everything Jensen could think of. He wasn't an enthusiastic shopper by any means and Jared was practically dragging him along with his quick steps. The taller teen was talking animatedly about everything- he even stopped to watch one of those salesmen that set up shop in the middle of the hall. Jared quirked an eyebrow at Jensen as they watched the smooth talking twenty-something guy show a teenage girl all about some nail polishing item.
“Somehow, if your sister is anything like Hayden, I doubt that would be enough for her,” Jensen tugged Jared after him. “Let's go look in Claires or a clothes shop or something like that. Bath and Body Works?”
“She does like all that scented crap,” Jared agreed, fingers breaking out of Jensen's grasp. Looking back at his boyfriend, Jensen frowned for a moment before Jared was at his side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
Leaning down, Jared pressed a quick, chaste kiss against his lips. Jensen smiled slightly, ducking his head when he pulled back. He did reach his own arm around Jared in turn, enjoying the feel of their sides pressed together.
“C'mon.”
Half an hour later Jared had managed to find something for his mother and sister and Jensen bought something for Margaret and his foster sisters. The gifts his boyfriend purchased were a tad bit pricier, but not too much so. They were exiting Hot Topic, which Jared had insisted they go into after seeing t-shirts with various '80s cartoons on the front, when Jensen noticed one of those one hour glasses stores.
It wasn't that he needed new glasses- he was pretty sure his prescription was up to date still- Jensen just felt like it was something he wanted to do. It had been over three years since he got new frames. They weren't stylish by any means, actually pretty bulky considering, and had been pushed on him by his previous foster mother. Jensen hadn't felt like fighting her on the issue.
Biting his lip he stopped in the middle of the hall, tightening an arm around Jared as he attempted to continue on to the next store.
“You alright, Jensen?” Jared frowned, turning towards him.
“Yeah... uh,” He wasn't quite sure what to say or ask the other teen. There wasn't really a need to say anything, however, as Jared followed his line of sight to the glasses store, Lenscrafters
“Do you want to go look around?”
He glanced back up at Jared, bottom lip paling slightly where it pressed between his teeth, “Maybe?”
“You don't have to, you know,” Jared's arm moved from his shoulders to run a finger across the black frame where it slid behind Jensen's ear. “They're fine.”
“I don't like them,” For once Jensen was able to get his thoughts out in one succinct sentence. A very abrupt sentence.
His boyfriend laughed, leaning down to press their foreheads together, “Why don't we go look then? See if they have time for an appointment or something?”
“I think I have my prescription still, I got an eye exam a year ago. It hadn't changed much so I doubt it has now,” Jensen blinked, eyes adjusting to the close proximity of Jared's hazel orbs. “I keep stuff like that. In my wallet. Just in case. Margaret, my foster mom, made cards for us. Little things with any prescription and allergies and blood types and such on it.”
“We should probably go talk to the Lenscrafters salesman then,” Drawing back Jared smiled at him. “If you need to get your eyes looked at we should probably find out sooner rather than later. We should have enough time to get everything done and still get back home... assuming they can make them. I can always go find something for my Dad and brother while you get examined.”
Jensen nodded, grabbing Jared's hand as they headed towards Lenscrafters and its walls that were utterly covered with hundreds of different types of glasses. He really hoped it wouldn't be too difficult to choose one.
Turns out he was wrong. Well, mostly wrong anyway. Jensen supposed it had to be his really lucky day since not only was he able to get checked out, but one of the optometrists were free at that moment. Things never turned out like that for him and when he mentioned that to Jared, while the salesman was making a copy of the insurance card Margaret made him carry, his boyfriend just leaned in and kissed him. That of course meant a blush was tingeing his cheeks through most of the eye exam.
Jensen knew that places like this cost a little more than some, but it was worth it in his opinion. It wasn't like his eyesight was horrible, just a bit blurry and mostly farsighted, but if he concentrated really hard he could read. It just wasn't worth the effort or headache that he got. While he was in the exam, Jared headed off, like he said, to locate his last two purchases. It took about half an hour for the exam and another half an hour to pick out the frames he wanted. Jared was back by then, a bag from Radio Shack added to the ones from Bed Bath and Beyond and Claires. There was also a suspicious looking bag that had a color scheme reminiscent of the candy store they passed when they first entered the mall.
“These are cute,” Jared grinned, left dimple appearing along with a mischievous glint in his eyes. He took a garishly pink and purple colored slant-framed glasses from the wall nearby and quirked an eyebrow at Jensen.
“And here I thought my fashion sense was bad,” Jensen rolled his eyes and lifted two, nearly identical, pairs off the wall. “What do you think?”
Rubbing at his chin, a look of intense concentration passed over his boyfriends face, “Try 'em on. Can't judge unless I can see them.”
“Fine,” He slipped off his black frames and hooked them onto his shirt before sliding first one, than the other over his nose.
Jared 'hmm'ed and made a twirling motion with his finger, “Alright now turn around... hey!” He jumped back as Jensen swatted at his shoulder, a grin spreading across his face.
“You deserved it,” Jensen replied as he placed his glasses back on his nose. “Really, which one?”
“These,” He tapped the one with the lighter colored frames. “They look awesome.”
Nodding, Jensen turned around to locate the salesman. He had left Jensen alone earlier to find something he liked. It didn't take long for him to order the glasses and get things set up. They would be ready in only an hour or so and could be picked up anytime before the store closed that night. There was an odd warm feeling tingling inside after he made the purchase. It wasn't the feeling that he got with Jared, but it was similar. Somehow he knew that no matter the cost it had been the right thing to do. Just like he knew purchasing a new viola was something he needed to do. For himself.
As they left the store, Jared tugged him to his side, arm slipping around Jensen's waist. “You really didn't have to change your look Jensen, I don't care.”
“I know,” Tilting his head, Jensen reached one hand up to pat his boyfriends shoulder before leaving it to rest, stretched across his back. “I wanted a new pair. Have for a while.” He grinned, smile just quirking the right side of his face, “Not always about you, ya know. Want to get something to eat? Real food? Something that isn't sweet and sugary like the stuff you keep slipping out of the bag?”
“What?” Jared pretended to be surprised and hurt. “Me sneak candy? How could you insinuate such a-” He rolled his eyes and sighed at Jensen's look, “Okay yeah, I got rainbow strips and Jelly Bellies. Dude, they called to me!”
“Gonna share?”
They had lunch in the food court, mix and matching several different meals, side dishes, and drinks. They both got smoothies from Orange Julius, Strawberry flavor for Jensen and a Mango Passion one for Jared. The latter Jensen actually teased his boyfriend for, but Jared just leaned in, kissed the shell of his ear, and whispered that he was quite passionate. About Jensen.
They got an order of french fries from a Burger place and Jared got a couple slices of pizza from some local store named after it's owner while Jensen got a couple dishes from a Chinese place. They shared, each teen sampling the different entrées. Lunch lasted a good half hour to forty five minutes for them and conversation was flowing easier than it ever had before. The level of comfort Jensen felt was astonishing, he'd never felt this way with anyone since his parents died and Josh was separated from him. It was amazing how you could miss something so much without ever realizing it was missing in the first place.
After lunch they decided to drive over to the Music store; there was still a while before Jensen's glasses would be ready anyway. The drive took about half an hour because Jared got lost and neither teen wanted to stop and actually ask for directions. Eventually they found it, a large store that housed all sorts of music and instruments, as well as hordes of CD's, players, and other music related items.
The layout of the store hadn't really changed at all, though the displays were different than he remembered. Last time several bass guitars had been the focal point of the entry- this time it was a very nice set of drums. It didn't take long for Jensen to find the violas. There were less on display then the violins they were next to. But, Jensen had done his research, spent most of last weeks computer classes (he always finished his assignments quickly) searching the net for reviews, and was pretty confident about finding one he'd like.
There were several different types, most had a list of available sizes next to them. Jared hung back a few steps, just watching as Jensen examined each instrument, looking over both the instruments themselves and the information provided about them. Ten minutes in one of the salesmen came over to talk to them. He had been in a discussion over a french horn with a middle aged woman and her teenage son before. Jensen, after letting the man double check his measurements so that he'd purchase the correct size, was able to try the three he was most interested in.
His fingers played over the strings, which he tightened and tuned under the watchful eye of the clerk. At first he just plucked at the strings, testing and listening. None of the instruments had a horrible tone, but that didn't mean they were worth buying in his mind either. After a bit he tested them with a bow, eyes dropping shut and fingers moving in familiar paths. Pachelbel's Canon in D. It was an old favorite of his, one he had memorized during his freshman year of high school and something they played practically every year. He tested everything he could think of, breaking off into several bars of other tunes- different styles and finger placements, keys and sound levels. He was focused, paying complete attention to the way the sound moved through the instrument, vibrating through the wood.
Jensen took his time and Jared didn't make a single comment. He just watched and listened. Almost two hours passed before Jensen made his decision and paid for his new instrument. It wasn't the prettiest, wasn't the most expensive or the cheapest; but, it was beautiful and he loved the sounds it produced.
It took them another half hour to find the mall again and retrieve Jensen's new glasses, making a detour to Cinnabon on the way back. Just before they reached the car, Jensen's new wire framed glasses perched on his nose and an empty bag filled with sticky napkins in his hand, Jared pulled him into an embrace and kissed him. It was one of the best and most exhilarating kisses they had engaged in so far. It made Jensen burn for more.
“Love the glasses,” Jared murmured, dropping one more kiss onto his lips before pulling away to go unlock the door.
Running a tongue over slightly bruised lips, Jensen nodded, “Me too.”
The drive home took just under an hour and a half, meaning they arrived just after five after spending the majority of the day out of town. Jared's family was home, his parents and little sister, when they got there. It was a little awkward at first, Jensen wasn't quite sure what exactly to say. The reason behind this dinner was for the assignment, so that Jensen could meet the people that Jared lived with, but there was so much more layered beneath the scenes. Even if they didn't mention it this was a sort of 'meet the parents' moment. He really didn't want to mess this up.
Jared led him up to his room to put their packages away, hiding his sisters gift first in the Radio Shack bag and then in the drawer that held his underwear and socks. Jensen couldn't help taking a peek inside while Jared buried it in the back beneath his boxers. Before going back downstairs, Jared pulled him into another kiss, holding his head between two large hands.
“Don't worry about it, Jensen,” He murmured, bangs tickling Jensen's forehead. “No reason to be nervous.”
“Right,” Jensen sighed, eyes dropping shut for a moment. “Not helping. Still freaking a bit.”
“It'll be fine,” Jared brushed a thumb over Jensen's cheek before stepping back, snagging one of Jensen's hands and pulling him towards the door.
Dinner was simply amazing. It was a bit fancier than what Jensen was used to. He was hungry, though, and it was full of flavor and oh so juicy. Jared's Mom had cooked small steaks, wrapped in bacon, in the oven. They were perfectly seasoned. In addition to the steak there was homemade garlic mashed potatoes, the small red ones so that there was still peels in the mix, fresh cooked green beans, corn on the cob, garlic bread, and a hand tossed green salad mix that didn't come from a bag.
There wasn't a lot of chatter during the meal at first. Jared's dad asked about their assignment and how school was going for Jared, Megan, and even Jensen. They were nice people, Gerry and Sharon Padalecki. That was the main impression Jensen got of them. Megan spent most of the meal shooting glances his way, head ducked down and a bit of a blush on her cheeks. He supposed it was pretty easy for a teenage girl to develop a crush on her brother's friend. Hayden certainly thought Jared was a hottie and hadn't exactly kept her opinion to herself. Even after she knew they were dating.
About halfway through the meal, Sharon spoke up, directing a question to Jared and Jensen, “So you two went out of town today? Did you boys get a lot done?”
Pausing mid bite, fork still in his mouth and along with several green beans, Jensen glanced over at Jared. His boyfriend looked back, lips pursed and a question in his eyes. He glanced down at his plate, slid the fork out of his mouth and straightened his back.
“Yeah, kind of,” Jared licked a bit of gravy from his lips. The quarterback had covered his mashed potatoes in the stuff. Jensen preferred to go without or with just a tablespoon or two. “We went to the mall and got some Christmas shopping done, Jensen got a new pair of glasses, and then we stopped by a Music Store. Jensen got an awesome viola.”
“You're in the Orchestra?” Sharon directed the question entirely at Jensen this time.
He nodded, swallowing a mouthful of beans, “Yeah, I'm a violist, play the viola. First Chair.” Biting his lip for a second, Jensen fought the urge to look away from her questioning hazel eyes. “I've been playing for years.”
“He's awesome,” Jared grinned, steak knife cutting through his second piece of meat. “Jensen was trying out the instruments while we were there and it was great. He was great! I mean, I don't know much about music but I thought he was good and the salesman seemed to think so, too.”
“Are you planning to pursue a career in music?” Jensen turned his gaze from Jared to Gerry and nodded.
“Yeah, I, uh, want to perform for a while then teach. Maybe both at the same time... depends. I like it.”
Sharon grinned at him as she swiped a piece of lettuce through a stray drop of dressing, “That's good! It's always good to do something you like. That's why I teach English. Although, I don't get to do much with the classics in Middle School. I do love the children and instilling at least some amount of appreciation in them for a good book and correct grammar usage is very rewarding.”
“Sounds like you have a pretty good plan for your future then,” Gerry nodded then jerked a thumb towards Jared, smile quirking his lips. “I keep trying to tell him to figure out some sort of degree he'd like to get outside of football but he never seems to listen.”
“Dad,” Jared let out an exasperated whine. “I still have a couple years till I have to make a decision.”
“He's right Gerry,” Sharon tsked at her husband. “Jared has plenty of time to figure out what he wants to after he's done with football. Lot's of students enter college without a good idea of what they want to major in. I thought I was going to be a lawyer till my Junior year of college. Then I decided law wasn't my thing and books were.”
Conversation continued in that vain for a while. Jensen mostly kept to the periphery, listening into the discussion. That lasted until Sharon asked Jensen if he was seeing anyone, which got a practically squealed Mom! out of Jared.
“Sherry, the boy doesn't have to answer that,” Gerry let out a long sigh and nodded at Jensen. “You don't have to answer that. It's none of our business...” He tilted a look to Jared, “Jared on the other hand...”
Jared was glaring at his plate, biting his cheek. He glanced up at Jensen after a moment, a sigh escaping his lips and an eyebrow quirking up. Shrugging in reply, Jensen set his utensils down on his plate. He was almost done eating anyway. It was really up to Jared on whether or not he told his parents. Jensen had no knowledge of how they'd react, whether or not they really knew just how much Sandy and Jared would not ever be getting together, and whether or not they held any dislike for homosexuals. Ultimately, it was Jared's choice. They were his parents after all.
“I... Jensen?” Jared looked up at his parents. “I'm kind of seeing Jensen? We're dating, boyfriends... yeah.” He met Jensen's eyes for a moment before looking back at his parents, eyes sliding from one to the other and back again.
A small giggle came from the other end of the table. Megan was rolling her eyes when Jensen glanced at her, “Duh. You're so transparent.”
That seemed to relieve whatever tension was still in the room. While the rest of dinner wasn't the most comfortable activity in the world, it wasn't horrible either. They didn't question Jared, didn't say anything mean or derogatory, just seemed to accept the situation while not throwing their arms up and cheering or grinning widely. They just accepted and moved on with the conversation, though Sharon did ask how long they'd been going out. Jensen supposed it was a good reaction. It didn't feel like they hated him or were going to turn around ten minutes after he left and decide their relationship was unnatural. So it had to be good.
After dinner, Jensen volunteered to help pack up the left overs and clear the table. Sharon blinked at him then smiled and told him he could set the dishes that still had food in them on the counter next to the refrigerator. While he carried them to the kitchen, Sharon went in search of Tupperware and Jared snagged the dirty dishes and settled them into the dishwasher with Megan's help. Gerry bid them all, even Jensen, a good night and headed up to his office to take care of a few things before bed. It didn't take them long to clean up and Sharon seemed suitably impressed that Jensen had actually asked if he could help.
“Thank you boys,” Sharon smiled at them when they were done. Megan had already run off to do whatever teenage girls do.
“We're gonna go upstairs and work on the assignment,” Jared said as he hugged his Mom. She patted his back and then his cheek, looking up at him.
“Alright, leave the door open though, okay?”
Rolling his eyes, Jared nodded, “Yes Mom.” He snagged Jensen's hand and pulled him out of the room, heading towards the stairs.
Jared's room was nice, big and roomy- if a bit messy. It was probably twice as big as Jensen's and it had a small walk in closet. That didn't mean all of Jared's clothes were put away, however. There was quite a few t-shirts and three or four pairs of pants scattered around the floor.
Kicking a pair of dark blue jeans into a corner, Jared sent an apologetic look to Jensen, “Sorry, man... I'm not the best at keeping my room clean, I guess.”
Jensen grinned and moved over to the bed, “It's fine. Really not a big deal. Can I, uh, sit down?” The bed was big, a queen size, and very comfortable. When Jared nodded his assent, he sat down, pressing a hand into the soft bedding. It was probably one of the best beds Jensen had every seen comfort wise. He thought that it probably had that memory foam padding below the sheets or something. “Nice bed.”
“Dad insisted on it,” Jared shrugged, joining Jensen on the bed. He lay back, feet flat on the floor, knees bent, resting comfortably. “Said it'd help me avoid a lot of aches and pains in the future. Good for my back and some other stuff.”
“S'good,” Jensen replied, a small yawn escaping his lips as he lay back next to Jared. Unlike his boyfriend, Jensen was on his side, only his feet dangling of the edge but his knees were bent, brushing Jared's thigh.
Reaching out, Jared laid a hand over his, thumb moving in a sweeping motion, caressing the back of Jensen's just above his knuckles. “They liked you.”
“Well, I didn't think they hated me. Liking is good,” He watched the path of Jared's thumb. It skirted over a few faded freckles; the nail was short but not evenly cut. “Right?”
“Right,” Jared turned his head toward him, hair falling over his cheeks and into his eyes. “I didn't originally plan to tell them like that, you know?”
“Yeah,” He nodded, a small smile on his lips. His tongue darted out to wet them, tasting the minuscule flavor of dinner still clinging to them. “Kinda figured.”
“It just seemed like a good time, I guess,” His grip tightened around Jensen's hand slightly. Warm and firm, the tan skin smooth but slightly rough at the same time. Calloused in some places but not uncomfortably so.
“Did they know you are...”
“Not exactly,” Jared's free hand was picking at the comforter. It was in good condition but Jensen could see a few small pills of fluff in places. “I was warming up to it, have been for a couple of years.” He shrugged glancing to the other side, down at his hand. “Wasn't entirely sure how they'd react.”
“Hey,” Jensen reached up, rested a hand on Jared's cheek and tilted the other teens head back towards him. Green eyes met hazel, trying to convey warmth and every other feeling that was tossing around inside his head and heart. “It's fine. They seem fine. You're fine. Don't worry.”
A light chuckle escaped Jared's lips and he turned his head just enough to press his cheek against Jensen's hand, “Aren't I the one usually telling you that?”
“Yeah,” Jensen smiled, cheeks warming pleasantly. “I guess you usually are.” His hand dropped down to rest on Jared's chest, right above his heart.
They lay like that for a while, the door to the room still open. At some point Jensen heard quiet footsteps pass by, causing the wood floor to creak a bit. The sound paused outside the door for almost a minute, whoever it was just observing quietly, before continuing on down the hall. His eyes drifted shut at some point, a little after Jared's had, and his mind, warm and comfortable, slid into a light nap. Not actual sleep just a doze.
Eventually, the quiet was interrupted by a familiar ring tone. Jared's cell phone. It was some rock song, Jensen couldn't remember the name but he knew it was popular at the moment. Groaning, Jared hefted himself from the bed, fingers squeezing Jensen's before letting go so he could retrieve the cell from his letterman jacket. Jensen sat up, stretching a bit, as Jared answered it.
“Hello?” The quarterback hadn't even bothered to check the caller id. “Uh, hey Chad.” His voice held a bit of surprise and a sighing quality.
“No, I'm at home. Why?”
Jensen blinked at him, adjusting his glasses and rubbing at the bridge of his nose. He'd probably have to adjust the fit a bit. Getting a headache from pinching glasses wasn't something he needed.
“I'm kind of busy,” Jared turned towards Jensen and rolled his eyes. “Yeah I am.” A frown crossed his face. “Because I want to, what's the big deal?”
It was a bit awkward to only be hearing one side of the conversation. Jensen bit his lip and watched his boyfriend as he leaned against the wall near the door. Chad didn't seem to like him much, what with the glaring and all. He wasn't exactly sure why that was and wasn't sure if he wanted to know either. Jensen did hope that Chad wasn't giving Jared a hard time just for hanging out with him.
“No. I'm not ignoring you guys. I see you everyday... lately maybe but not usually,” Running a hand over his face, Jared sighed. “Tonight? I can't... no Chad. I don't feel like it. I was gone all day. Yes with Jensen.”
Jensen started slightly at his name. While he had been pretty sure a major part of the discussion was about him it was a bit shocking to hear his name actually stated in the conversation.
I'm busy Chad. Maybe if Jensen wants... What's the big deal?” Jared's eyes drifted shut. “Maybe I don't get it... You're being stupid. Good night Chad.” He snapped his phone book and sighed, making his way back to the bed, “Sorry about that.”
“It's fine,” Jensen shrugged, watching the other teens face as he sat down. “What was that about... if you don't care. If you don't mind telling me?”
“Chad's being a dumb ass,” His lips quirked slightly, a half smile causing his right dimple to appear. Reaching over Jared caught Jensen's hand. “He's complaining about how I 'never' hang out anymore.” Jared rolled his eyes.
“Maybe you should,” Jensen's gaze dropped to their joined hands. “Go hang out. With them I mean. If you aren't too tired, or something. I know you like the parties.”
“Sure I like them. I don't need to go to them though,” His free hand slipped around to the back of Jensen's neck. “I want to hang out with you. Kiss you. Spend time with you. Get to know you better.”
“Still,” Jensen shrugged, still watching their hands. “You could always-”
“Nah,” Jared leaned in and kissed him, sweet and light, sucking on Jensen's upper lip before delving into his mouth. Pulling back, he continued, breath skirting over Jensen's lips, “Only went because there was nothing else to do and everyone I knew was there. Hoped one day you would be there too... but it wasn't your thing.”
“Still isn't,” Jensen murmured, eyes only half open.
“I know,” Jared acknowledged in a soft voice. “S'why I don't need to bother going. Chad'll get over it. I'll talk to him next week about everything. Try to figure out a good way to broach how much of a douche he is without him getting all offended.”
“There's a time when he's not? Offended?”
Jared laughed, breath ghosting over Jensen's lips and cheeks, “Occasionally.” Smiling he pressed another kiss to Jensen's mouth, tasting and exploring. Jensen groaned a bit at the sensation.
“Time?”
“Only a little before eight.”
“Do we have time to watch another movie?” Jensen asked, pulling back a bit. “'Cause I doubt we can stay in here much longer without someone coming to check up on us.”
“Plenty of time... another Die Hard?”
“Sure.”
*****
Next
A.Note: Ok Should be two more parts after this... if I hit eleven I'll be surprised but it is possible. I hope everyone enjoyed this part :). Anyway, posting this now because I'm not sure how much time I'll have later. I'll try to xpost it at least two places before I have to get offline.
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Date: 2009-06-01 12:55 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 02:38 am (UTC)I'm glad you like my Jensen :) One of the reasons why I wrote this is because A. Teens aren't always agnst-orama (although they do exaggerate situations due to hormones... and make things out to be worse- in their mind- than what it usually is) and B. Not all teenagers just jump into bed when they get into a relationship. Not all adults do either (I don't see enough fics where there is actual courtship and a steady increase towards a sexual replace over a long period of time). Not that I don't like porn fics... I just don't relate that will to jumping straight into bed on the first/second date.
Thanks for reading! <3 *hugs*
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Date: 2009-06-01 01:18 am (UTC)I really like it! It's very well written and an interresting story. Can't wait for the rest of it to be posted.
(I hate reading WIPs because I like to read the entire thing in one go, but I have been so curious on this whenever you post, so I had to go back on my flist until I found one of your updates and start reading now.... Now I just have to learn how to wait for next update)
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Date: 2009-06-01 02:43 am (UTC)I'm hesitant to read some WIPs too... always worried that for some reason the author won't finish! Thanks for giving this a read sooner rather than later! <3
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Date: 2009-06-01 01:47 am (UTC)I loved this chapter.
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Date: 2009-06-01 02:40 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 03:08 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 03:54 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 04:33 am (UTC)I loved their little trip, and how Jensen got things for himself, because he wanted to.
Jared's family was great, and I really liked Megan.
Can't wait to see what's Chad problem...
I agree with you about the fics with sex on the first date, not that I don't like them either but once in a while is nice to read something PG-16.
great chapter!
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Date: 2009-06-01 04:59 am (UTC)I'm glad you liked how I dealt with Jensen deciding to buy new glasses and a viola. Yeah I like it too... but there's just a ton of fics like that in comparison to the slow grow relationship ones! *hugs* Thank you so much for reading and commenting!
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Date: 2009-06-01 04:37 am (UTC)Not to sound pushy or anything, but I really like your writing style, and I think that if you chose to continue, I really wouldn't mind (hint hint).
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Date: 2009-06-01 05:04 am (UTC)This fic only goes through the first semester+finals as it's centered around the idea of the assignment. But, as I've previously stated, I have a bunch of planned one shots in this verse that take place after Dissonance. Most of what is planned goes through the summer before college. I also am considering, after I finish my crossover fic, writing a Jared POV of the events of Dissonance. So I really don't have plans to leave this verse once Dissonance itself ends :). *hug*
Thank you so much for reading and commenting!!
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Date: 2009-06-01 09:21 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 03:44 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 11:46 am (UTC)I wonder who watched them, my guess is Jay's mom who then went to her husband with a "I still need to get used to it, but these two look so happy together." I hope at least ;)
*hugs* Birdie
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Date: 2009-06-01 03:47 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 04:05 pm (UTC)*hugs* Birdie
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Date: 2009-06-01 04:47 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 05:24 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 02:15 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 03:48 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-01 04:20 pm (UTC):D Can't wait to find out what that answer is.
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Date: 2009-06-02 10:03 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-02 08:49 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-02 02:55 pm (UTC)Yay for Jared telling his parents. These two are adorable. :)
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Date: 2009-06-02 08:50 pm (UTC)I was a bit nervous about the meeting... and yes they are just utterly adorable! *hugs* Thank you for reading! <3
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Date: 2009-06-03 08:38 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-03 09:23 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-06-04 02:25 am (UTC)Still loving this to death! So adorkable! I laughed out loud when Jared announced that he is dating Jensen and it kinda caused some confusion in my home as an awkward commercial was on the tv at the time. I had to assure DH that I was not paying ANY attention to the tv- LMAO!
sidenote- I love the Die Hard series :D
*rocks back & forth* what am I gonna do now?!
no subject
Date: 2009-06-10 01:45 am (UTC)