[Chan/Sin/Bridget/Isy] The Masks We Wear p. 2

[Deleted]

(I apologize for this post. I, uh, found the roleplay crack. Really, only Deci has to read all of this. xD)

Outvit.

It was strange to think of, the little things that could act as memory triggers when one had been afflicted with amnesia or in one girl's case, having her memories erased by the Battle Front Leader. Zero had stolen all of Isabelle's sophomore year and, as a side effect, messed with most of her other memories as well. Of course, there was no way the Battle Front could have known that in addition to being an illusionist, Isabelle commanded the power of retrocognition and that such an ability would cause her memories to slowly return.

That night, Isabelle had not planned on attending the masquerade ball. With cheesy music, sleazy dancing, and masks that really didn't hide anyone's identity at all, the night didn't seem to hold much promise. That was until a certain word uttered by some insignificant passerby in some irrelevant conversation caught Isabelle's ear and sent her running back to her dorm to put together a last-minute ball outfit. Mystery.

What the excited teenager came up with was a rainbow-striped sequined black dress from her closet, paired with starry black flats (she never understood why other females bothered with painful pointy heels). Her makeshift mask turned out surprisingly well, considering that she had cut it out of glossy poster paper and glued colorful beads to the front.

Outfit ready, Isabelle rushed to the auditorium and shamelessly scurried in little bee-lines about the room, searching for a familiar head of black hair with a streak of green, or a striking set of green eyes, while listening for a supernaturally alluring voice. But damn it, those masks were more effective than she would have thought. Disappointed, the little sprite of a wild child made her way onto the dance floor and bounced with everyone else while keeping an eye out for her "guardian angel."

Dancing was fun and all, but at high school events, it was highly unlikely that any real dancing would occur. Instead, people bounced and swayed to a steady rhythm. While Isabelle would have normally appreciated the opportunity to flail around like a moron, regaining a large chunk of her memory tended to have a sobering effect on her, so she bounced along with the crowd's predictable movements, letting her mind wander to what she had remembered.

How on Earth could she have forgotten Sinclair? God, it seemed like just yesterday, her days revolved around him. Had it been yesterday? There was no way to know exactly how much of her memory had been taken, or how much of it she had regained. All she knew was that she had to find her best friend. Her Mystery. She needed to find him and hold his hand and maybe apologize for repeatedly calling him Weirdly Protective Guy. Actually, maybe not. Even with Isabelle's memories of the dark-haired youth in tact, Sinclair was still a bit on the overly protective side, but in an endearing way. Isabelle half-smiled, half-smirked at the thought.

With the bobbing up and down getting boring, Isabelle scanned the room, hoping that any familiar face would show up. Ooh, maybe she would spot Meredith and could watch the soap opera unfold. An amused look appeared on Isabelle's face as she silently recalled her own dramatic scenes featuring Sinclair and the beautiful Kaycee Hunter. Oh, those days. They had brought out a cattier Isabelle that no one knew existed.

"I have advice for you, Kaycee. Go take some Midol, cool down, and resolve your daddy issues. And leave Sinclair alone."

Though it was definitely laughable to look back upon, drama was much less funny when she was a main player. Being a bystander with no parts, however, sounded like a good time indeed. Unfortunately, the shy brunette was no where to be found, so Isabelle would have to find other entertainment. Lucky for her, a voice across the room boldly shouted, "Let's get the party started!" Looking in the male's direction, Isabelle realized that it was none other than Chandler Fernandez. If nothing else, Chandler knew how to make a night interesting. Isabelle started to weave her way through the crowd toward her friend. Acquaintance? Isabelle wasn't really sure, since he and Bridget seemed a little miffed when Isabelle decided to "ship" them. Then again, that was a different Isabelle: an Isabelle who didn't remember much of her past and was determined to regain those memories, which to her, meant romping all over the campus and causing various shenanigans, hoping that something would trigger her memory. They had to understand!

Speak of the Devil. While she was nearing Chandler, Isabelle spotted Bridget. Even weirder, an unmistakable male had his pale hands resting delicately, perhaps affectionately, on Bridget's shoulders. Was Bridget grinning? This was no bueno. Not willing to let the situation play any further, Isabelle made her way over to the pair to let her best friend know that she hadn't completely lost her marbles, and she remembered him. Once she was standing behind the tall German teen, she cleared her throat before speaking.

"Oh Mystery! Did you forget all about us already? Oh wait... that was me."

Isabelle felt a strange wave of emotion come over her as soon as she made her presence known and waited for her best friend to acknowledge her. It was a mix of joy, anxiety, fear... the most important person in her life, someone who nearly got her killed some days and saved her life on others, was right in front of her... but would he see her as a stranger? How long had she forgotten him? Had it been months? Dare she wonder if it had reached a whole year? However long it had been, even though they had been on the same campus for all that time, this was to be an epic reunion of an entirely unique sort. For the first time in, fill in the blank, she could look at her best friend in the eyes and know who he was. If he would just turn around. Hoping to make her nervousness subside, Isabelle looked across Sinclair at Bridget and gave her a friendly wave, even though the tiniest notion that the pretty girl in the blue dress might be a threat was beginning to plant itself in the back of Isabelle's mind.

[sin]

"Haha, a beautifully dressed princess complimenting a frog- beautiful inside and out, isn't that the expression? Thanks.

[/color]" The male more or less purred his approval. Better to talk quietly and near, than to talk loudly to be heard over Chandler's new music choice.

"No, and that's for the same reason I don't need a mask,[/color]" Sinclair chuckled good-naturedly in reply to her pointing out he didn't have a date, "No one knows me, so no point in hiding. I don't mean to intrude on your date, though... but if he hasn't shown yet, I'd love to dance with you tonight- I've improved, honest.[/color]" A familiar voice stopped that sentence from going farther. For a moment, he did wish the black 'Zorro style' mask wasn't balled up into the bottom of his pocket. Even so, there was something comical about the words, something that gave meaning to the idea of 'bittersweet'.

Something so... Isabelle. The girl who knew him best, the person that called him best friend. He would have given anything to be near her instead of the unfamiliar teenagers when he first arrived. And then Isabelle went from being nightmare inducing, to just an outright living nightmare for him. Her wild antics made him constantly worry, but the way she didn't remember him broke his heart and inspired a targetless anger.

Sinclair'd never needed a friend so badly. With his expression slightly sad, his green eyes fell to capture the profile of Bridget as she half turned in his hold. And then, the sincere display was gone, replaced by a cool smirk as he lifted his hands from Bridget and dropped them to his side. Pivoting his foot slightly, he reached both hands out to rest on Isabelle's waist next.

Lifting the girl up slightly off the ground, he spun her a very short distance and set her back down so that the three would make something of a triangle, with Isabelle and Bridget's shoulders more or less at a perpendicular angle, while Sinclair himself was still slightly angled so he could face both of them. Before his hands went back to his side, he raised it from her waist to run it along her arm, from her shoulder to her fingers. He was tempted to grasp her hand in his, but he resisted.

"Isabelle, this is Bridget. Bridget, Isabelle.[/color]" Sinclair wanted to say more. His tone was already bristling with annoyance though. Still, he desperately wanted to dive straight into quizzing Isabelle, to figuring out how she knew she forgot, and how she knew he was Mystery. But he didn't dare. Knowing the answer might ruin the mood he was in. Besides, he needed Bridget. Or, at least he was convinced he did. While he hadn't had much time with Bridget, she was the closest to a friend he had so far, and she was a very good one at that.[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size]

[Deleted]

So lets recount Chandler's day. It was Wake up, grab beer, grab rear, put on some scene gear. Then it was get ready and come to the Dance, and well you know the rest. Slipping the music player into his pocket he jumps down form the table with a loud thud. Once down he warps his arms back around his multiple dates, who were still giggling over his antics. Blushing at their praises the sunny teen scratches the back of his head before each of them grabbed him and dragged him onto the dance floor.

"Woah!"

They were quick, dropping all formalities they bounced into club mode and started using their bodies in such ways against his it was getting hard to keep a clear head. Even harder with the naughty thing they were whispering into his ear. In the heat of the moment he couldn't tell which was which but they were going on about how good they were, what they could and what they wanted to do to him. As if that wasn't enough to make their point clear they started touching and grabbing certain areas.

After a good thirty minutes of being man handled he was able to calm the girls down and explain to them while he might've planned on taking one or two home with him, He wasn't about to have an orgy on the Auditorium floors and be apart of their public porno. Yea, no thank you.

Leaving to take a break, he trotted over to Bridget's group rubbing his head, trying to ease oh I know don't. The biggest headache he's ever had! Once he made it over to his friend, acquaintance and some German stranger he looked up at her. "Thanks for the help. " His voice mixed with the rich with that sarcastic tone they shared, fake gratitude for the great help she was.

"Hey Isabelle, you look very B-e-a-u-tiful " Lingering on each of the first letters a tad bit longer. Put his flashing smile on his face and you have a flirting Chandler on your hands. He was about to turn toward Bridget again to ask for a dance when the most odd and sudden sensation that he was forgetting something hit him. What was it? Putting his hand to his chin in thought he pondered on it for a few moments.

Oh yea! With a snap of his fingers he spins around toward Sinclair but his name escaped him. After all he wasn't a pretty girl so why should he remember? Oh well might as well try right? "........It's Bob right?" Hey it was the first name that popped into his mind. Might as well roll with it.

[Deleted]

For a moment she was distracted by Chandler and his show of changing the tune, yet seeing him with not one, not two, but four dates she lost interest quickly. He could be sweet at times and they did escape together but that was just a bit too much for her liking. Turning her electric eyes back to Sinclair she couldn't help but smile at his compliment. Was the small amount of heat rising to her cheeks due to him calling her a princess silly? Perhaps but none the less it made her feel better and more confident than when she first entered. "If your a frog now looking as good as you do I'd love see you as a prince." She flirted harmlessly.

Biting her lip she shook her head, "No intrusion, I'm dateless myself." She couldn't help a lightly laugh. There had been some offers yet she turned them down. No one really peaked her interest. "Of course you can have a dance," She smiled, "It'd be nice to dance with someone familiar." It was actually rather fun dancing with him before yet that had been just fooling around in the gym now it would add another level and be a bit more interesting. Turning a bit more she nodded at the new girl who approached the two blissfully unaware of their complicated relationship.

Ignoring his tone for the moment Bridget said,"Hi Isabelle, love the dress." It was indeed very bold and beautiful something she was sure only the girl before her could pull off. Taking a notice to a fourth coming up she waved a bit and raised an eye brow. "[clor=00A0FF]You are so welcome, i thought you were doing wonderfully.

[/color]" She couldn't help her own smirk tugging at her lips. She was about to say something about when Chan spun around attempting at Sin's name. She couldn't help the laugh that sprang from her lips, "Can't get anymore original than that?"Bridget asked grinning still as she quoted herself from their first meeting. She got out after a moment shaking her head, "My turn for introductions! Sinclair this is Chandler, Chan this is Sinclair. No matter what did or didn't you think before." While saying this one hand gestured towards Chan and the other rested lightly on Sin's should for the mere fact she was closer to him.

Taking the hand off his shoulder she ran it through her hair pulling it off to the side. Taking a moment she tried to think why Sinclair had that tone of annoyance when he introduced the two. Was it because she was there and he wanted to talk to Isabelle or because Isebelle suddenly appeared? Somehow she doubted it was the second one and this caused a flash of insecurity to flash through her. Tonight she would be needing her friends even if drama fallowed and perhaps a dance to let her thoughts drift away. "I'm up for that dance any time," she said quietly to Sinclair just finishing their conversation from earlier before things got to crazy. Turning towards Isabelle she was curious to know how she knew Sin and Bridget was fairly sure he wouldn't be open about the subject so she asked the only other source. "How do you all know each other?" She glanced at Chandler to wondering when they had met as well and what their relationship was. [/size][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Deleted]

(There's a lot to respond to here, so I'm putting past dialogue in italics to maintain a timeline.)

Standing behind Sinclair Gabriel, Isabelle had to catch her breath before speaking. This wouldn't be the first time that he had taken her breath away, either, but the reasons were usually more simple. It made sense for her breath to be taken away by him singing her to sleep, or even by the silly/stupid little things they did together. Those days were happy and simple. This time, she had to stop and take a few breaths just to remind herself that things might never again be the way they were before. The tidbits of conversation she overheard, while she paused to gather up the courage to bear that amount of potentially permanent change, definitely did not make matters any easier.

Haha, a beautifully dressed princess complimenting a frog- beautiful inside and out, isn't that the expression? Thanks.

If you're a frog now looking as good as you do I'd love see you as a prince.

Ha, at least the girl was clever. Isabelle remembered the first time Sinclair had called her beautiful. She had been crawling around in the grass, trying to make conversation with a stray cat. When the cat didn't respond to her, she wondered if animals had different languages within their woofs or meows, so being the dork she was, Isabelle attempted to combine the only other real language she spoke with her cat-speak. Le meowww. That was when Sinclair, sneaking from behind her, threw colored chalk into her then-blonde hair and declared, "Le beautiful." Of course, she thought he was talking about the colorfulness at the time. That day ended with the two best friends throwing colored chalk around the courtyard to welcome the spring. "Together, we'll color the world. One bag of chalk at a time," she had declared with a grin. Isabelle smiled at the memory. She was glad to remember all of this, finally, but the flashback was bittersweet, considering what had triggered it: Sinclair giving a different girl the same compliment, more elaborately. If Isabelle were honest with herself, she would have to admit that it hurt a little, but she tried to wave it off. She had always known Sinclair was flirtatious, so why should it suddenly bother her, she thought.

No, and that's for the same reason I don't need a mask. No one knows me, so no point in hiding. I don't mean to intrude on your date, though... but if he hasn't shown yet, I'd love to dance with you tonight- I've improved, honest.

Of course you can have a dance. It'd be nice to dance with someone familiar.

So they had danced before. Interesting. At this point, overhearing was turning into eavesdropping, so Isabelle figured it was time to make herself known.

Oh Mystery! Did you forget all about us already? Oh wait... that was me.

Oh God. He was turning around. In the split second that Sinclair placed his hands on her waist and lifted her into the air, Isabelle was ecastic, thinking that he was as thrilled that she remembered him as she was, and he was lifting her up for an emotional hug. She nearly opened her arms to throw them around her best friend, which would have been embarrassing, but luckily or unluckily, Sinclair was putting her back down a second later and introducing her to Bridget.

Hi Isabelle, love the dress.

Though Isabelle was a bit startled by the fact that she was being introduced to another girl rather than cuddled, her quick response didn't really show it."Hello Bridget. Digging the hair," Isabelle returned, smiling, as she playfully gestured back and forth a few times between Bridget's pink hair and Isabelle's own black, purple, and blue combination. Not many people were daring (or crazy) enough to go for abnormal colors, so she had always felt that there was some sort of wild child sisterhood among the girls that did.

Thanks for the help. Hey Isabelle, you look very B-e-a-utiful.

Isabelle smiled gratefully at the flirting Chandler. Since Sinclair and Bridget seemed to be hitting it off, it would be convenient to have a fourth person in the group to prevent the dreaded third-wheel status. "Oh hey Chandler, you look very h-a-n... d'some!" she play-flirted back. Isabelle smirked, knowing her imitation of Chandler didn't work quite as well, but she nodded affirmatively in a sort of yeah-just-go-with-it fashion.

It's Bob, right?

Can't get any more original than that? My turn for introductions! Sinclair, this is Chandler, Chan, this is Sinclair. No matter what did or didn't you think before.

Isabelle smiled. If Sinclair had already replaced her, at least he went for someone with a sense of humor. Much unlike that Kaycee who never found Isabelle amusing at all. Pffft.

I'm up for that dance anytime.

Isabelle's smiled became just a little less bright. The quiet way that Bridget whispered that to Sinclair was almost intimate, like it was between the two of them and Isabelle and Chandler weren't supposed to hear it. That was weird. And just not right. Isabelle and Sinclair had always been the exclusive duo. The best friends. As she started to feel slightly uncomfortable, Isabelle responded to that discomfort the only way she knew how, which was by making a dumb joke.

"If those two are dancing, I guess that leaves me with you," she said to Chandler. "But you'll have to assure me that your fan-girls over there won't slit my throat mid-dance. They look a little... rabid." Isabelle raised her eyebrows at the four glaring dates and gave them a little wave.

How do you all know each other?

"Sinclair has been my best friend since I got here," Isabelle answered cheerfully, being careful not to say that she was his best friend, since she knew she couldn't just assume that everything would go back to normal, back to the way they were before her memory was erased. For all she knew, he might have considered Bridget his new best friend. "He likes to pretend that he 'saves' me from things... mostly myself, since I'm clumsier than a one-legged frog," Isabelle explained, then added with a laugh, "And Chandler, is well, everybody knows Chandler." She gestured up and down at the playboy with his four dates and his music overriding the speakers.

[sin]

So the kid didn't know his name. Big deal. Sinclair was actually a bit amused, to be honest, made better by Bridget saying 'no matter what did or didn't you think before'. His teeth were already clenched tight at that point, though. No small amusement changed the fact that Isabelle called him handsome. There was no way Chandler was more handsome! Sinclair managed to bite his tongue and suppress the urge to scowl.

He could only hope Isabelle would appreciate that he could hold his temper. Sinlciar was the type of person to react, then ask questions later. Had he been able to have his way, he would have taken Isabelle's hand and marched her out to the dance floor so she could dance with him instead of.. of Chandler. She didn't deserve having to put up with someone who couldn't select a single date to a school dance, did she? No. Isabelle deserved... Well, the best, and the moment Sinclair found a prince Charming, he'd step aside and leave them to it. So far everyone seemed so flawed, so he was clearly her best choice. His eyes didn't leave her as Chandler spoke, as if he couldn't be bothered to look over at the other male.

[[ It feels really awkward to have him hug Isabelle/get overly jealous of Chandler now, soo I can't think of anything else for him to say/do in this post. Sorry it's short =x ]]

[Deleted]

With Chandler now changing the triangle into an awkward oval shape thinger, he could could actually feel the uncomfortableness floating around in the air. Holding up up his hands, he opens and closes them trying to feel how much of it was lingering around them. Wow....You could cut it with a knife.. He was so lost in his amusement that he didn't noticethe death glare Sinclair was giving him. It wasn't until Bridget spoke that he snapped free from his own illusion.

"Is that Sarcasm Miss Shine?" He threw back with a questioning tone, his eyebrow arched. How could she think that he was doing wonderfully. For Pete's sake he was almost raped! Sheesh. That was when it dawned on him. Making a small O' with his mouth, as he realized she was. God he needed to work on that. How else did he expect to...

Wait what!? His cheeks turning a light pink, and warming up the pretty boy drops his glaze from the multi-colored hair Isabelle. A shy little boy smile on his flawless face, his hand scratching the back of his head. "He, thanks!" He said between laughes at Isabelle trying to mimic his style and he nodding. She was just so adorable! Chandler just wanted to squeeze her.

But unlike his buddy Chandler didn't hear Bridget ask Sinclair for a dance. He was to busy not trying to make eye contact with the fan club licking their lips at him, along with other naughty gestures. Shivering as a chill ran down his spine he slowly turn back to the trio. Now it was his turn to smile gratefully at the sweet Isabelle. "I would love a dance! Oh! Don't worrying. I'll protect you!" a brilliant smile grew on his face. Showing off his pearly whites.

Uh, his name was Sinclair. Chandler could've sworn it was Bobby. Oh well, shrugging he shook his head in a What-are-you-going-to-do fashion. After all mistakes happened. Well, might as well be a gentlemen. Extending his hand for a handshake Chandler was about to say nice to meet you, but he came up short. It was like there was a wall between the two boys.

How do you all know each other?

"Well, you know ho we met." He half heartily answered, his attention still on the other male. "As for Isa...belle" Tearing his attention from the raven hair teen he looks back to the two girls. Not wanting them to think she was ignoring them. "I don't really remember. I just know I was attracted to her for some odd reason." His tone gentle and kind, and then another blush formed on his face at the comment about everyone knowing who he was. "PFFFFT, well thanks now I sound like some attention whore."

Throwing his hand behind his head, he snickers. Although his joy didn't last for long. His thought kept going back around to the other boy. His whole attitude was just, GAH! Stepping up to Sinclair so there was a couple feet between between them, Chandler's inner rage boiled to the surface. "Whats your problem!" He was not going to sit idly by and let his guy be pissed at him for no reason! What reason did he have, oh besides being a jealous cry baby?! "Look if you have a problem with me say it now, because trust me I would never hurt Jacqueline!" In his anger he threw his hand to the side, briefly loosing control causing one of the small metal tables to fly into the wall.

The loud crash was like a slap to the face. His anger left his body at once. Leaving behind embarrassment and confusion. didn't he say Isabelle? and why did it feel like their was someone inside his head? Shaking his head he shoves the though of his head. No point in lingering on it. Turning to the pink haired girl he looks her dead in the eyes. His blues into her blues. "Are you okay?" Even though he was looking at her, he meant it to be for everyone.

[Deleted]

There was still a calm yet excited feeling when Bridget met Isabelle and was rather glad that they appeared to be getting on at first. The playful gesture of Isabelle at least gave reason to this thought. The feeling stayed with her as Chandler appeared comforted by her new friend. He was looking fun and energetic even if his dates were a little crazy. As to his reply she simple shrugged trying to pull of a slightly innocent expression with a sarcastic tone, "Me? Sarcasm? Never Mr. Fernandez." 

At the flirting remarks made between two Bridget's calm and excited feeling deflated a bit. So she wasn't appealing enough for a compliment, only a sarcastic thanks? That just made her feel wonderful. But she couldn't blame Isabelle for answering him, he was looking fantastic tonight. 'Whatever, I don't need his approval.' She thought shying away from her previous thoughts and embracing  some confident she had left. 

After the name game Isabelle said something about a dance, the pink haired girl hadn't meant it to come across like that. She defiantly wasn't going to tie Sinclair to her side all night. She couldn't help but chuckle a bit her electric eyes jumping over at his dates. They indeed look rabid as well as hilarious trying to get the flirt's attention. "I can't believe some girls would really act like that." She said to no one in particular, partly agreeing to the other's statement. 

Her eyes swung back to Isabelle and listened to what she had to say about the boys. Best friends? A savior? That was cute in her eyes, to have someone who wanted to do that. Bridget had forgotten what it could be like with a best friend around since her's were taken away what felt like ages ago. For a moment the eyes behind a mask glanced over to Sin who seemed to be quite unhappy with the appearance of another boy.  Then they flitted over to Chandler to hear his side of the story, "Am I mistaken? I was under the impression you were an attention hound." She added slightly sarcastically but mostly just to poke fun at him. And she used that cover to hide her discomfort for the fact Chandler felt 'attracted' to Isabelle though she had no idea why she felt like this. She had no claims to him and honestly not sure if she wanted to since he was such a flirt. Maybe it was just the fact he had just spoken to her in a kidding manner since he got here and not kind or seriously like he had to Isabelle. Green was not a good color on her. 

"Isabelle would you-" before she got a chance to finish her sentence Chan decided it would be a good idea to cause a scene. Jumping a bit in surprise she automatically grabbed for his sleeve tugging it back. "Chandler!" she said trying to get his attention and if she could grab it calm him the hell down. Okay so it was obvious that Sin didn't like him but was there need to yell? Bridget looked over to Isabelle for help before he started speaking again. 'Jacqueline? she questioned silently. Who was that? She had been under the impression that it was the other girl they were in a huff about. That or she was just crazy. 

This was all before he threw his hand to the side tossing metal tables into the wall as well as the chain around her neck to be yanked over half choking her. Luckily he stopped or gained control over himself again before anyone was hurt and Bridget's necklace fell to her chest. Releasing his sleeve she took a step closer to Sinclair rubbing her neck, "I um... Yea I'm fine," she mumbled breaking their locked gaze after moment looking to the floor refusing to recognize the sprinkle of fear that ran through her system before it vanished. . "Is everyone else?" she questioned looking to Isabelle- not Jacqueline mind you- before looking to the male by her side. Then her blue eyes circled the room, thankfully no one was hurt. It came a little surprising that people on the opposite side of the room were already back to dancing. She supposed you just couldn't ruin some people's nights. 

The staff seemed to have it under control, almost prepared for it but that only made sense with the wide range of gifted students all piled into the hall. For the time she had forgotten about the collapse he had caused and for a moment she was worried that he would do it here. She just hoped Isabelle or Sinclair isn't say anything to flare up his anger again. Bridget seriously didn't want any fighting tonight but it looked like that was unenviable now.

[Deleted]

Isabelle couldn't help but laugh good-naturedly at Chandler's offer of protection. The rebellious loose cannon of a girl would never be caught admitting out loud that she needed or wanted someone's protection. Sinclair had extra special priveleges, and even with him, she mostly just tolerated his need to feel like her guardian.

"Okay, sounds good, but I think I might have to protect you. The one in the short -er, shortest- dress looks like she's going to eat you." As far as Isabelle was concerned at the moment, licking one's lips was a gesture associated with food. Not sex, just delicious food, so obviously the inappropriately-dressed femme was a cannibal.

Chandler's not-so-subtle comment about being attracted to Isabelle "for some odd reason" prompted her to tilt her head back and have another good laugh. Isabelle never thought of herself as attractive, nor did she try to be, so her natural instinct was to assume that Chandler was joking, the possibility that he wasn't not even crossing her mind. Still, she was a good sport and played along.

"Oh, I know the odd reason. It's the hair, isn't it. Looks like Chandler has a type." Isabelle winked at Bridget as she spoke. She would have went for a high-five, but the pink-haired girl was a little too far. Plus, as Chandler observed, the tension in the group was only getting thicker. Even the aloof, care-free Isabelle noticed her best friend, with whom she was always more in tune than she was with others, giving Chandler quite the evil stare. Her attention shifting to Sinclair while Chandler and Bridget argued about Chandler's alleged attention whore status, Isabelle's eyes softened with concern. She started to reach out to grab Sinclair's hand and hold it comfortingly in her own, but instead her attention and eyes were jerked away as Chandler stepped up to Sinclair and began shouting. Before she even fully comprehended what was really happening, a table was flying across the room and into the wall, Bridget's necklace seemed to be choking her, and Chandler was promising that he would never hurt "Jacqueline," whoever the hell that was.

Before anyone had time to really react, Chandler seemed to have snapped out of his mania. Isabelle noticed his eyes lock with Bridget's, asking if she was okay, and a slight smile appeared on her face. With those two suddenly bonding, Isabelle took the moment's opportunity to step toward Sinclair.

"Truth or Dare in the ocean, angry tigers, magically appearing guillotines. You love jello, but not the yellow kind. I remember," Isabelle said softly, grabbing onto his wrist. Though she wanted say more and ask questions, like what happened to their cat when she (or at least her mind) was M.I.A., the two were brought back into the group's conversation when Bridget extended the are-you-okay to everyone.

"I'm dandy. Seems like the poor table's the only one really hurt here. RIP table and fruitcake," Isabelle said with a frown as she looked over at the few plates of pastries that had been on the table.

[sin]

Not much could be said by Sinclair to the banter between Chandler and Bridget. It didn't inspire the same rage, though he was finding that he was making quick assumptions about the kind of person Chandler was. None of it was good, and all of it had to do with treating the girls of the school poorly. None of it had any basis, though, beyond his own dislike for the male.

There wasn't anger initially. Not when Chandler stood annoyingly close. In fact, Sinclair Gabriel's eyes flickered with sincere concern, first to Bridget nearest him, then to Isabelle. Both seemed okay, so Sinclair, with an icy expression, raised his hands to shove away Chandler even as the blond's expression changed to confusion.

The only thing that stopped him was Bridget's quick actions. If she was touching Chandler... He didn't want her to lose her balance. Sinclair's fingers curled into fists in midair for a moment, positioned just below his own shoulders before they dropped to his side. His icy gaze didn't waiver. Disregarding the question of whether he was okay, he addressed Chandler directly with his 'turn' to speak.

"Keep it together.

[/color]" Sinclair growled. Though his expression was still cold and unfeeling, there was no question that his words were a threat. "They don't need to see this.[/color]" With that stated, as if to encourage more positivity, he turned his attention to Bridget. His hands finally unclenched and he placed a reassuring hand against her back figuring she was standing next to him for a reason. But the gaze was broken when Isabelle grasped his wrist. Was she...

A small smile tugged at the edge of his lips and for a moment the German teen lost himself in taking in every inch of Isabelle's oh-so-beautifully familiar face. Her amusing answer didn't make his expression shift at all. That was when Sinclair Gabriel acted. He leaned forward, placing a gentle kiss against Isabelle's lips, his eyes closing to avoid seeing shock or repulsion at his advance.[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size]

[acemamoru]

Ignore this.

[Deleted]

Chandler felt like complete rubbish. He suddenly felt 50 times heavier and overridden with guilt at the sight of Bridget backing away from him. He was tempted to reach for her but fear held him back. Fear of being rejected by her and losing her friendship. Biting his lower lip Chandler showed a small sign of being hurt, even though he made sure to do it in a way it would drive the girls crazy. His eyes slightly looking to the floor as he hid the wave of emotions behind a mask.

Infact he was so lost he failed to reply to Isabelle. Funny and adorable as she was Chandler head was buzzing around with confusion and he didn't have time to entertain her. Taking a deep breath he was about to apologize when he heard Sinclair threaten him. Tensing up Chandler took a deep breath to try and ease his anger but when he saw the emo kid touch her a flare sparked within him. Clenching his hands into tight fists he took his frustration a large sum of the table and chairs in the building, making sure not to touch anyone personal items. A loud groan filled the room, drowning out the music. The metal forced to twist and bend in ways it wasn't suppose to gave a painful wail begging for their master to stop.

In his anger a small part of Chandler took over. His Sapphire eyes flashed to treasure gold. Not in the right state of mind Chandler screams "Fuck off!" before spinning around and storming out of the room. Not even bothering to to push open the doors himself he create a small magnetic push to have them swing open before slamming shut. Leaving an awkward silence in the room after.

[Deleted]

Eat him was the thought that passed through Bridget's mind causing her to snicker. Isabelle was defiantly wasn't on the right track. Yet it was funny to think that someone in high school would make that assumption. At least from Bridget's point of view not being the most innocent little girl around. But the snickering stopped as she listened to her reason behind Chandler's attraction. Right he was so interested in Bridget, with the not flirting and obvious though of protection. Right once again Isabelle was a little off. She looked to the multi-haired girl and nodded smirking slightly.

When Chandler went off the deepened really Bridget was more concerned for Chandler spazzing then the tables. And as the necklace dropped she had a guess that mark would stay with her a bit. She wasn't sure what she could say as she stepped back more afraid that more injury would come to her. She hated to admit it but the kidnappings did more damage than she would ever admit and seeing someone freak like that didn't help anything. The reassuring hand of Sinclair however did bring her out of some dark memories as she looked to him. At least he would be there for her if she needed him. Even his protective words though they were shared with Isabelle, probably more aimed for Isabelle made her feel better.

The groan that escaped his lips made her eyes wide as the anger seemed to shed off of him in waves. This was freaking her out so close to getting things back to normal. Yet no one would be able to tell as her face remained calm except the slight widening of her eyes, even her body seemed to be relax. She watched silently as he continued to lose even as his eyes changed color. That wasn't normal and didn't seem to go with the powers she was aware he had. What was wrong here? As he stormed off she backed away from the pair with a small smile before watching the door he went out of. Should she check on him? Or should she listen to that voice inside her telling her to bolt?

Either way she wasn't staying here was Sinclair kissed Isabelle. They were having a moment they were probably entitled to. So giving a wave that probably wasn't seen to the pair she slipped out of the room. Tired of the atmosphere. once outside Bridget slipped off her heels trying to see if she could find Chandler. It didn't matter as she set off walking the cold air on her bare shoulders felt nice and had a calming affect. As the night wrapped around her she felt at home for once missing the dark shadows she used to hide in when on a job. Closing her eyes she let out a breath, this night was so weird.

[/size]

[Deleted]

With her hand clasped around Sinclair's wrist, Isabelle waited for his attention, the rest of the world seeming to go blurry and muted in a startling way as their contact was established. Voices floated trivially in the air, but all of it was hazy until Sinclair turned his head, their eyes met, and the two seemed to see each other, truly, without distraction for the first time since before their unfortunate run-in with the Battle Front.

Realizing that they were having a "moment" as the world called it, Isabelle felt inexplicably out of her comfort zone, as she did anytime she was put in a situation where she was supposed to feel anything but aloof. She urgently searched her brain for a quirky one-liner to break the romantic tension and bring them back to simple playful cuteness, but none came to mind. For once in her life, the wild child was speechless as she gave up on maintaining her aloof air and simply smiled back at her best friend. Trailing her fingers down from his wrist, she laced his fingers with her own and gave his hand a light squeeze.

Just as Isabelle was regaining her footing, Sinclair did something that forced her out of her usual boundaries even further. To say that Isabelle was caught off-guard by the kiss would be a comical understatement. Considering the spark that was lit within her just from the meeting of their hands and eyes, one would think that the meeting of their lips would be just as electric, yet it seemed that Isabelle was too taken by surprise to react with the appropriate level of passion. She blinked twice, not upset or disturbed at all, and in fact experienced some delayed but pleasant butterflies, but her face was relatively blank until Chandler threw some more tables around the room and exited with a few words of French, followed by Bridget, all of which seemed to happen in just a few seconds. Isabelle shook her head, broken from her speechless state.

"Well! That didn't go nearly as planned," she commented dryly, a small smirk on her lips. Nothing seemed to go as planned in her world. She looked back at Sinclair and smiled, forgetting the weird drama and focusing on his familiarity. "Since our friends seem to have ditched us, dance with me?" Her request seemed to be more of a demand as her hand, still holding his, tightened its grasp.