Episode 15: Face the Music

From every direction thrilled crowds made their way into the grand scale construction of the O2 Arena. Even when tickets sold out just weeks prior to the concert, the anticipation was too much to handle for the people waiting outside or in the collosal venue, many of them wearing sailor hats or striped shirts, emulating the band's stage attire. Melissa was not among them. She had more important issues on hand to be worrying over mundane necessities like her wardrobe for the night. Wandering through the crammed aisle as she gazed at the ecstatic environment, her mind was a whirlwind of despairing uncertainty. Would he agree to receive her? Would he listen to her explanation? And even so, would he forgive her? She was meant to not go at first. The embarassment over her deceit had been greatly disastrous. Up until the accidental revelation she had made sure to avoid anything related to him, not wanting to cause more conflict. Nonetheless, his resentment upon discovering her betrayal provoked such distress, she knew it was up to her to make amends. That was when she decided to discard her former refusal over going, and the reason she found herself in the immensity of the packed arena.

A heavy wall of sound emerged from the stage as the band entered playing their way throughout the setlist. The energy emanating from the audience appeared to stimulate them, every song acquiring new life with any sign of admiration and delight. People sang and cheered wildly, applauding after vast demonstrations of masterfulness. Even in her fretful state, Melissa joined in the jubilant vibe surrounding her, the respect towards the musicians unwavering. She observed her suitors on stage and couldn't help be drawn by them both. Was it ever possible to have similar feelings for two persons simultaneously? Opprobious as it was to the rules of society, she knew it in her heart to be true. Seeing them admiringly demonstrate their talents to the world proved so. Just how to explain them such a preposterous fact? She had no right to wound them further. As Damon threw water to the first rows from a small plastic bottle, the possibilities struck her at once. In all fairness they deserved to know the truth, which would undoubtedly worsen their pain. However, keeping silent was no better since they would blindly continue their courting ways and if she did not stop them, something dreadful might occur. Resignated, she instantly realized what to do. She would not destroy an enduring friendship encouraging some idle pursuit. It was best to renounce to any puerile aspiration that could cause irreversible damage.

A flash of black leather distracted her from her conclusions. Shaking her head to abandon her interior and snap back to reality, she noticed the dark, sudden movement came from up the stage. As if timed by fate, she saw Paul quite dangerously sliding accross the floor and landing loudly under his back. Tremendous fear took over Melissa as she contemplated him with increasing concern facing upwards from the ground, struggling to stand up. "Oh my God, is he okay?" she whispered in frenzy. But Paul was a strong, vigorous man despite his years. Maintaining his weight under his knees, he pulled himself up while still playing the bass without difficulty. Subsequently, he casually turned his head sideways and immediately caught sight of it: the menacing gaze on Damon's eyes spitefully looking at the whole scene. "No, no way, it couldn't have been on purpose, couldn't it?" Melissa denied over and over as she witnessed the grave stares among the oponents. This was worse than what she believed since now a threat had been made from one to the other. "What I feel doesn't matter, this has to stop."

There was much pain alright. Nothing he could not deal with though. A few days of no forceful activity and he would be better. Was it any grievous though, to be forewarned by someone so close to him? He was his friend after all. But he had to face the fact it was he who deceived him, and took away that whom he sought after so keenly. So he pondered while making his way backstage after the gig. Did he deserve his anger? Most definitely. Was he having regrets over what he did? Probably on the way he handled it, for he would never repent having encountered such a jolly, sweet little girl, so different from him yet felt really attached to in spite of their contrasts.

Was there any chance of them being connected in any sense? Were they that intimate it was possible for them to read each other's minds? Such were the doubts running through Paul's head as he avoided stumbling with the people blocking his step whilst approaching Melissa. She was actually there, impatiently rising on tiptoe as expecting someone to come her way. He greeted her fondly, as usual. "Hey, it's so good to see you." "Um..." "Wait, we shouldn't speak here, it's too crowded. Let's find somewhere private." Grabbing her hand, he guided Melissa through the narrow hallway, avoiding suspicious glances from the roadies and passersby leaning against the neatly painted walls. "Who said I wanna talk to you?" Her cold tone hurt him but he did not cease his stride, his grip on her hand steady as he turned a knob and pushed open, the incipient lights revealing an empty dressing room. Melissa could not contain herself any longer and protested even before Paul closed the door.

"Why did you bring me here? What makes you think I wanna talk to you?" "Well, you came to the gig..." "The world doesn't revolve around you Paul, in case you're not aware of it." "But..." "And before you start fooling yourself over the idea of my being here because of you, let me burst your bubble and inform you I'm here to speak to Damon, no one else. Not to you or anyone from the band or the crew, just to Damon. Got it?" It was there again, the frown he seemed to expose everytime Damon's name was mentioned. Did he resent him that much solely for being his rival for her affections? After being the best of friends for years? These were the questions Melissa asked herself and as always, they came with no answer whatsoever. To lighten up the dense vibe in the room she doubtfully asked: "So...are you okay? From your fall I mean." Paul stared at her in disbelief, suspicious of her quick change of mood. "Um...well, yes, I'm alright. It's just my elbow that hurts." A sigh escaped Melissa's lips as she held him from his arms and made him sit over the nearby couch. "Okay, let's see." She examined the damaged elbow, touching the bone with her delicate fingertips to discard any crack or injury. Then she proceeded to massage the throbbing area using both fingers and palms. The continuous rubbing allowed some of the pain to vanish. This meant nothing to Paul though, observing in silent wonder her careful attentions to alleviate the pain on his extremity. Melissa, too focused on her role as momentary nurse, ignored the earnest expression on the mature, masculine face which revealed once more all the yearning he had for the young woman sitting in front of him.

"It was on purpose, right?" Her request for an affirmation impeded his intentions to go further. "What...?" "Damon. He did it on purpose, I know he did." "Why do you believe so?" "Because he's pissed off at you and wants you to pay for what you did." "Does it worry you what might happen to me?" Her struggle for a proper answer made his stomach quiver with exultation. A ray of hope: maybe she still felt something for him. He warmly grinned and placed a flat palm on her full cheek, caressing its baby softness. As much as she avoided the gesture, Melissa could not constrain her pulsating excitement over his slow, tender touch. "Listen, I don't care what Damon does to me but you don't need to worry, I'll be fine. And nothing wrong will happen to you dearest, because I will protect you from him and anyone else who might hurt you..." "Paul, I don't want you to hurt Damon, he doesn't deserve it..." "But neither do you Melissa. What matters is that you're safe because you're innocent in all of this. Everything will be fine, okay?" The girl was silent, stunned at Paul's promise of absolute safety from his part were she in need of it. She saw him lean forward to kiss her when the door opened abruptly.

"You fucking backstabbers." Melissa backed away from Paul swiftly, her face the mask of terror at the sight of Damon's own full of increasing fury. She had never seen him this way before, not even after knowing of her cheating. She could only imagine the punishment awaiting her in just seconds. "Damon, please let me explain. I'm here to see you..." "Bullshit! You're speaking bullshit once again! As you did from the first time!" He slammed the door shut. No one else could listen this repugnant confrontation. "I'm serious! I came over to talk to you and ask for forgiveness." Damon's eyes stared incredulously at Melissa. Remorse, anger, much of it fueled his words."Forgiveness? Come on, even you don't believe it. But I did for a second. When I was told you were somewhere around I hoped you came to talk about us. I really thought you were here to tell me you were sorry and that you love me but what do I see? Both of you fucking arseholes mocking me behind my back. Now, who's the liar?" "Look, I understand that you're pissed off at me, fair enough. But I'm telling you the truth, I swear to God, I came to see you." "Then why are you with Paul, you lying bitch!" "Hey, I won't let you insult Melissa in any way!" "Oh what, you're now her defender?" "If it's necessary, yes." "So now you're gonna say you didn't lie to me? Come on Paul, you both fucked while all the time I thought she was with me!" "Please don't blame her of this, it was I who made her fall in love with me..." "She decided on her own! You mistake her for a saint, she's a lying whore like all the others!" "I told you not to insult her, I won't allow it!" "Hey guys, please don't fight, okay? I want no one to get hurt." Melissa's frightened, little voice made no effect whatsoever at the threats thrown back and forth. She could not conceive this was happening. Becoming the object of desire of two men was something she would have never guessed could occur to her. Despite numerous accounts from acquaintances claiming it to be the greatest sensation of power over others, she found herself wishing she was not entangled in this predicament. Especially on the awareness of a bond in risk of breaking apart. "Listen, both of you! I'm the one to blame in all of this..." "No honey, you're not guilty, please don't cry", Paul soothed Melissa with comforting words yet she continued speaking up. "Yes I am! Because of me, you guys aren't even friendly anymore. I mean, just look at yourselves. Fighting, yelling for stupid, useless me. You used to be really tight. I appeared on the picture and look at the result. Now Damon hates me and with good reason. I totally rejected his good intentions over some foolish, vain illusion. Damon, listen to me 'cause I won't repeat it: I'm sorry, okay? I'm very sorry for everything, for not appreciating your regard towards me, for abandoning you in order to follow an impulse. You never deserved any of this shit. I hope you can forgive me someday." Grabbing her blazer from the sofa, she went to the door as Paul inquired: "You're leaving? There's no need for you to go. I'll say it again: you're not guilty." "I'm leaving 'cause I am what caused this whole thing. Besides you have a lot to talk about." With that final statement, she opened the door and closed it behind her.

A coarse silence flooded the dressing room, its occupiers contributing with their lack of things to say. Melissa's boldness and abrupt departure had left both men at a loss. "She didn't mean it." Paul found himself faintly murmur out loud despite Damon's presence. "She didn't mean what?" he asked cooly. "It wasn't vain or foolish. What we had was real." "Oh, so you finally confess!" "I never denied it and neither I will." Damon once again felt ill-tempered at Paul's unapologetic demeanor but he then realized there was a lack of regret, no shame over his immoral conduct. He had seen that unpreoccupied attitude before but paid no attention to it. This time however, being its victim he would not let it pass unnoticed. "How could you do this to me? You just don't do that to a mate! And now that I think about it, you're in a relationship already, you shouldn't be cheating on your girlfriend with someone else! Why do you want all the women for yourself? Or is it because this is a girl I'm interested in?" "I didn't mean to tear her away from you..." "I can't believe your cynicism, of course you meant to!" "It wasn't that way! Damon, I couldn't help it, you know. From the first moment I saw her I couldn't stop thinking about her and you bringing her constantly made it worse." "I felt attracted to her almost from that first time as well and made attempts to get close to her and even when you witnessed all of this you didn't give a fuck and just pulled her away from me! What kind of a mate does that?" "I'm sorry! It was never an intention to hurt you!" "Oh God, I wonder if you said that the last time." "Excuse me?" "Come on, I've seen it before. Meeting the woman, her being with another man, you seducing her, taking her away and leaving man brokenhearted to his own luck. It's not like it's the first time you do it. Or isn't that how you started dating Sabrina back then?" No one had dared remind Paul of his perverse past, that one he fought so determinedly against to never bring up in public. Damon confronting him for it offended him to the point of clenching his fist in preparation for a violent ambush. "No", he decided, "that would be too easy." Instead, he looked at Damon straight into his eyes and with quiet fierceness declared: "Listen very carefully for I won't repeat it. Asking you to stay away from Melissa obviously is of no use so all I'll say is: be careful. I don't care what you do to me but I'll protect her from you or anyone else that might harm her. That being said, if I find out you did something to her, you'll face the consequences with me and it will not be pretty. Is it understood?" Damon did not flinch at any of Paul's threatening sentences and neither he did when responding. "Do you even think I'd lay a hand on her? Because in spite of everything she did I still love her, more than ever. So it is what it is, we both love the same woman. If I must step over you to have her then so be it." "So that's it." "Yeah, that's it." Paul nodded slowly and similarly walked away from Damon, who stood still facing the wall. "By the way", Paul added, "it's gonna take a lot more than slides and 'accidents' to beat me. I'm still very much a man for Melissa, even being this old." With that he exited the room, leaving Damon more resolute than ever to win the girl's heart no matter what. Even if it meant losing one of his best friends.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_J7glQIqJvw&feature=channel&list=UL

Episode 14: Helplessness

Gradually lighting up a cigarrette, Paul's despair diminished to some extent. Having just vented every bit of frustration contained within for the last days was of little help. Distress remained all the same. He was an insensitive scum, that is what he was. "No you're not", Mick broke into his hushed stance. "I mean you are, you were on this ocassion, but you're not a scum in essence." "That doesn't justify what what I did. I hurt someone's feelings and so I understand her anger towards me, I earned it. It pains me, but it's fully deserved for my cowardice." Was he ever guilty of his actions. Knowing he caused much anguish bothered him greatly despite his habitually careless nature. Mick must have noticed this for he inquired: "Do you regret everything that happened? Meeting her, courting her...?" "Not at all", was Paul's earnest answer. "I'll never regret or deny everything we lived together. I just wish she would've never learned the truth." "You were actually thinking of carrying on with it? What about..." "No, don't even mention her. It's enough having to endure her constant questioning almost every day." "...She knows? Please don't tell me you confessed." "There was no need to confess, she figured it out on her own. Apparently she'd been observing me lately and speculated I looked different, not like my normal self. Then one day she looked at me and said 'Something happened in America, am I right? Something you dare not say.' The more I denied it, the more chaffed she got until she finally guessed and explained 'You slept with someone, that was it.' No matter how many times I said it wasn't true, she kept reassuring it and calling me an arsehole for cheating on her. And she's right, I hurt two persons most deeply..." "Two persons? Don't you mean three?" Paul was dumbfounded. "Three persons?" "You forgot Damon. You took Melissa away from him after all." "Now hold on..." "Come on, technically it's what you did. She was with him if not in a relationship, at least in some sort of romance, and you simply barged in with not a care of the consequences." "You picture me like a self-centered prick." "I'm just saying you only focused on her and you, nothing more. You're not the first one doing it and certainly not the last." "Do you think he already knows?" "No idea but for your sake and Melissa's, pray he doesn't. I can't imagine what could come about if he finds out, knowing him." Panic replaced his former thoughts. He ignored if Melissa had spoken to Damon since their return from America but if so, has she told him the truth? Have guilt and anger made her divulge their sin? "Don't tell him dearest, please don't. I hope you haven't. I don't care about me, I care about you, 'cause you may not be able to handle it..."

"I can't believe it, I honestly can't." Damon paced the room incessantly, resolute steps evidently manifesting his fury. Bemused, Jamie observed him from the sofa, unable to pacify his friend by any means. "Come sit down, you need to relax..." "I can't relax! Don't you see how I am right now?!" "I see it, that's why I'm telling you to sit and calm down. Nothing can be solved by screaming or insulting." Obediently Damon took a seat next to Jamie but his wrath persisted. "You're not understanding me..." "Yes I am, and I'm trying to help." "You don't know what it's like to fall in love with someone so much, willing to do anything for that person, then knowing some senseless wanker flirted with her skillfully and snatched her away in front of you. It's dreadful, let me tell you." Jamie responded defeatedly: "No, I can't imagine it", simply because he could do nothing more than being honest. "And of all people it had to be Paul! He's supposedly my mate, how dare he? And why did she have to respond to his intentions?! Couldn't she have refused knowing I made attempts to reach her?" "Can you blame her? I mean, it's Paul; no one can resist him, everyone likes him." "Jamie...please, I could use a little support here." "Seriously though, did she tell you straight away she slept with him during that whole time?" "She didn't have to. I was kissing her and at one point she mentioned him all of a sudden. When I asked her why she named him she went silent but started crying. She pretty much revealed it all that way." "Right." Damon lowered his face over his flat palms, recalling that dreadful moment over and over. He could not conceive it. That incomparable, enchanting girl seduced by some insensitive bastard who was no other than his own friend. How cold hearted must he have been to trample over his amorous hopes and attract her mercilessly. Didn't he know of his intentions? And what about Melissa? Did she not care of his sentiments? Was she so imperceptive she believed them trivial, when in truth they were more profound and genuine than she knew? "And I suspected it, you know, of them maybe having something. I remember I was talking to her once in New York and he approached us and out of nowhere walked her to the tour bus. It was rather rude of him to just get in our conversation and grab her away from me. Ever since if I saw them together I couldn't help feel jealous but I thought it was just paranoia. I still can't believe it did happen..." His voice trailed off at the mention of this last statement when at that instant his cell phone rang. Extracting it from his pocket and examining it, his lips formed a thin line. "Is it her?" Jamie asked. Damon continued contemplating the screen quietly. Sighing he pressed CANCEL. "Damon?" Jamie called him over. Seeing him looking at the close distance unblinking, Jamie wondered what on Earth was Damon thinking at such a moment.

"Come on Damon, please answer." Melissa dialed the number once more. She had been trying to reach him constantly with no success and was exasperating over his refusal to take the call. He demanded an explanation and she was ready to give it but as long as he rejected her, that issue would be unresolved. Recalling his face when he found out her secret filled her again with remorse, convinced of the fact he was the only victim in this mess. There had to be a way to ask for forgiveness. She could not be able to live in peace knowing she hurt someone she was really fond of. In all this she reflected when in the periphery of her mind she believed to hear someone call her name. "Melissa..." Letting thoughts aside, she turned around and noticed Paul looking at her bewildered.

Of all the persons she could have encountered in the store, she had to bump into the one she least wanted to see. " Oh man, not you." "Seems fate brings us together dearest", he verbalized with heartfelt expression. "Stop calling me like that. What are you doing here?" "The same as you: wandering around. But that's not important. Thank goodness I found you 'cause I have to ask you something..." "I don't wanna talk to you..." "Melissa, it's a matter of life or death..." "Too bad." "Have you spoken to Damon?" Melissa raised a perfectly arched eyebrow. "Why do you wanna know if I talked to him?" "You know what I mean." "Actually no, I don't know." "Melissa please, I don't have much time", Paul exclaimed turning his head sideways. "You're afraid right? You're afraid he'll beat the shit out of you, which is what you deserve." "Don't say that, it's painful especially coming from you. But it's you who worries me, I want no harm to come to you." "I can take care of myself, thank you very much. And to answer your question, 'cause I'm leaving and I don't wanna see you: yes, I talked to Damon and no, I didn't tell him about our thing." "Ah thank God..." "There was no need to tell him, he figured it out on his own." "What...?" "Hey, there you are." A female voice startled both of them. Melissa noticed a woman approaching Paul from behind him. She instantly recognized her: it was the same from that day, the one who kissed him on her front door.

"Sorry, I got distracted in the jewellery section." "Oh...well it's alright, you didn't take that long", responded Paul making sure to show a pleasant face. As much as he wished to never have to go through the acquaintance process between those two, it had to be done, much to his dismay. "Listen, uh, this is my girlfriend Sabrina and this girl over here is Melissa...a friend of mine." How it hurt and petrify presenting the latter, aware of the effect it would inflict upon the former were she to discover this young one had been the lover he had during the past weeks. "Hello, nice meeting you." "Yeah, likewise", Melissa lied. That was when she analyzed her closely. Black hair, dark eyes, most probably in her forties. She wasn't particularly beautiful, at least not for someone as dashing like Paul, but her clothing denoted a woman of class, owner of her own self. She suspected her to be this way, living in such an elegant area. Seeing her with her boyfriend, a pair the image of poise, made her feel insignificant. What was she beside her? Did she really believe it possible for someone like her to be with a man like Paul? Was she indeed that naïve? She had to get out of there, the embarassment was too massive for her to bear. "Anyway, I should go now, I still have things to do. It was nice meeting you." "Yes, same to you", Sabrina responded kindly. "Bye guys, excuse me..." She walked hastily, with not a look back at the couple who saw her exit the boutique in a rush.

She slowly opened the door to her apartment letting herself in lazily, almost trance-like. Immerse in a sour turmoil, she had no one to confide to. Sure, Joannie offered support from a distance but it was not enough. A shoulder to cry would be of much help and no one was around to offer it. She was completely alone in this. Which is why in the solitude of the space, she allowed her emotions to engulf her, and the restrained tears finally flowed abundantly.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAd3ypxGQFA

Episode 12: Double Cross

The tour across North America became a journey of extraordinary experiences for the entourage, having numerous audiences on their concerts as well as fan encounters taken place before or after shows. The travel itself proved exciting and productive as a result of constant songwriting for a possible future album. Everyone relished the succession of events, and no others enjoyed the most than Paul and Melissa. Having discovered their shared affections, now they couldn't bear to be separated for extended periods. Still they needed to handle themselves with care from external watchers so during soundchecks and performances they endured their mutual longing for the time being. That agony was valuable though, for whenever they were finally together nothing else mattered. Sporadically they sneaked out of whichever hotel they were staying at and took casual walks seeking solace in the loneliness of a deserted park where they spoke nonstop of diverse subjects, unafraid of displaying their sentiments. Anywhere one of them went, the other made sure to join if possible but always keeping their distance to avoid any suspicions from the crew. Only at certain moments were they able to love each other freely, being possible merely in the seclusion of the bedroom.

Paul overflowed in buoyancy at his present situation. It had been long time since he felt so overjoyed, so effervescent. Melissa's unexpected appearance in his life altered it in ways he could've never imagined. Her naïve nature melted his heart, filling it with immense tenderness. That was something he remembered not feeling before. Being used to confidence and ambition in women, this little one represented the opposite. Shy, introvert, outspoken when in need, a child-like spirit he fully embraced and cared for with all his soul. Despite the sweet charisma, he clearly desired the girl in the flesh as well. Getting lost in the exuberance of her body, the swirls of passion rose in nearly every destination made, never having enough of that sensuality, too developed for her youth. Common was for them to sleep in the same room in peace, only to awaken and make love often in the undisturbed silence of the four walls. Such nightly sport left both gloriously spent, especially him in his attempt to satisfy her, knowing he might fail at such accomplishment due to his maturity. His years of experience nevertheless were of help, the vibrant, young woman constantly ravenous for his eager possession.

Meanwhile, Melissa's emotions were certainly as piercing as Paul's. Solitary as she was, her current context suggested itself unusual. All of a sudden she became someone's woman. True, she wasn't technically his girlfriend but the term meant nothing. In a matter of days she turned into the center of his joys and fears, blown away and slightly amused by his keen attentions and care towards her. Inevitable it was to feel special with such high regard. Similarly, she had become the more restless on intimacy affairs. Without proposing it she stirred the man to such point she found herself prey under his burning urgency. In his arms she felt safe, assured in the knowledge of his love. Yet he kept reminding her of his words on the tour bus: "We have the rest of this month to be together. I can give you no more." There was a note of remorse in his voice everytime he stated that comment and Melissa worried much for him, enough reason to not pressure him on the subject. But those words continued its neverending chime in her head throughout the rest of the trip. Why much mystery? If it was because of Damon she understood, there was no way to confess without causing some kind of backlash. But there was something else, she could sense it, something he dared not to say for some odd reason.

"It's been awhle eh?" Damon greeted her with his usual familiarity yet his eyes indicated concern, suspicion even. If she kept her distance from him in New York, ever since she had virtually vanished from his sight. He feared her feelings have indeed changed but he still had hopes to be wrong. "Damon. Hi", Melissa responded hesitantly. Too engrossed had she been in her love-lost world, the thought of facing him with the truth had not disturbed her in the least in those weeks. Now that she had the chance to do so, she didn't feel so certain about it. But it had to be done, it wasn't fair for him to be living in deceit. Which is why after letting him speak about how much he had missed her and offering her an invitation to lunch, she cut him short saying emphatically: "Damon, we need to talk." He eyed her concerned once again. "What's wrong?" "We need to talk..." "You just said so. What happened?" This was not going to be easy. Melissa then figured she'd have to go slowly on this, even lie once more. Anything to hurt Damon as little as possible. "I've been thinking these last weeks about us, you know, our situation. I mean, we've had a great time together, right?" "Well yes, we did. I've loved our time together. But I've noticed you've disappeared lately." "That. Well, uh, I...as I was saying, I've been thinking about us. And I came to the conclusion that I need to think, again. I really need to stop and consider what is it with you and me." "But...don't you love me anymore?" he questioned with a twinge on his chest. "Damon, you never told me you loved me before, I swear to God. I'm not saying you're a liar, not at all. But you never said it." She clearly observed his intentions of demanding an explanation but trying to remain steady, which she thanked him for silently. "So is it because of that, for something I did?" Then a horrible possibility crossed his mind. "Is there someone else?" "No", she answered almost too quickly. He couldn't know about Paul and her, did he? "No, this is my thing. I'm the one who has to give it a break. I'm really sorry Damon, but I have to." Deciding her explanation was more than enough, she stood up and started her leave. "Come on Melissa, please don't do this to me..." Damon exclaimed astonished. "Believe me", she said turning around to face him. "It's better this way."

Soon enough the North American tour came to an end, the group returning to London as scheduled. Paul, discretely as always, took Melissa to her apartment and helped with her luggage. He didn't stay for long though. "I have to go see my boys, I promised them I'd do it after I arrived." Melissa smiled sweetly. She knew of them by their father's conversations and seemed like perfectly nice guys by his account. "They must be so proud of you." Paul couldn't help laugh despite his melancholy. "Well, I try." "Come on, don't be so modest." He limited to grin and grab her hands, looking at her straight in the eyes. "Listen, forgive me for my silences or for not being so clear with you. I understand your doubts and hopefully someday I'll be able to respond them. All I can say is: no matter what happens from now on, thank you my dear, thank you so much for this month. I'll never forget it." The gravity of his words made their meaning definitive, and any opinion in her quieted over his determination. Slowly, she stepped closer and kissed him in response. She would treasure those days forever, just like him.

He got off the subway in a crowded station, avoiding the surprised glances on the street without ceasing his walk . He wasn't in the mood to acknowledge any fan, it was not the moment. This visit was top priority, it had to be done. How odd; before he made it gladly, taking his time to admire the urban scenery upon his arrival. Now it was the contrary. His stride was steady and resolute, knowing this day would come eventually. Better to make it brief and do what he had to do. He got there shortly, as expected. "You can do this, you HAVE to do it." Taking a deep breath he rang the bell. Soon enough the door was open. "You're finally here!" As Paul stepped in and received an affectionate kiss from the woman, he took no notice of the frozen look on the girl standing over the edge of the sidewalk.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6XRi1_pTTI

Episode 11: Together In This

Sunbeams trespassed the window through its curtain illuminating Paul's golden lashes, inevitably depriving him of any sleep left. Rubbing his eyes he turned and contemplated the young woman beside him immerse in peaceful dormancy. "You are so beautiful", he whispered in sheer delight, leaning closer to held her in his arms. She was so soft and warm and naked, her skin a smooth surface inviting of caresses, cupping her face and covering it with kisses of joy. All those months of tormenting had been worthy after all. Last night was the most ravishing in a long time, much glorious than he had fancied. After dreaming of it for many days it had finally become a reality. But then he suddenly realized, if he was not careful this would abruptly come to an end, something he'd regret always. "Please let this last", he prayed inwardly. "Let our bond be as long as possible." The clock signalled 8:00am sharp. Sighing, Paul rose from the bed, grabbed from the floor his scattered clothes and proceeded to dress up. They would all leave New York in a matter of few hours and everything had to be ready. Kissing her one last time, he abandoned the room in mute haste.

The door closing made Melissa wake up. She arose in a libidinous state, still feeling Paul inside her and touching every angle of her body. She had not much experience with men in truth, but it was enough for her to figure out he was, without a shadow of doubt, the best lover she'd ever been with. His patience towards her virtuous shyness, how he eased her nerves, his loving stroke, the way he took his time until they reached the climax. Maybe age was in fact an advantage in these matters. As she reached for him she felt nothing by her side. Opening her eyes she realized he wasn't there anymore. "No, it can't be. There's no way he simply took off after what happened last night." Distress replaced her former whimsical mood as she rose from the bed hurriedly and searched for the first clothing on the drawers. Once dressed she ran to the door, opened it and went to the elevator, arrived on the first floor and darted down the stairs to the lobby. He had to be there, did he?

The first person she saw when appearing there was no other than Damon. She felt guilty all of a sudden, and especially terrified. "Oh my God, if he finds out what happened yesterday he'll kill me. Rather us", she envisioned, tiptoeing in an attempt to leave quickly. Too late. "Good morning you!" "Oh hey, morning. Eh, how are you? Had a good sleep?" She was aware of her voice, squeakier than usual, possibly revealing her nervousness. Somehow she had to pretend everything was fine. "I'm alright. Slept tight but I missed you last night." Her stomach made a painful knot. "I didn't feel okay yesterday, had a mild stomachache but nothing serious, I'm better now." "Really? Then why that worried look, and your rushed arrival?" She hesitated for a second and responded: "I thought it was late and I came to tell whoever was already here to please wait for me. But I see you're the only one ready." "Yes well, I'm a morning person. But anyway, everyone else is probably waking up by now so you have lots of time left, don't worry. In fact, how about we have breakfast together? My treat." "Thanks man but I'm not hungry. I think I'll go get my stuff ready at once. Don't wanna make anyone wait." "Alright then. I'll be at the restaurant if you need anything." "Will do. Thanks!"

Over an hour later she carried her luggage into the lobby while greeting the musicians. "He's not around. Where the hell is he?" she wondered anxiously. She exited through the door and walked to the tour buses where the rest of the crew was. No sight of him. "Is he avoiding me?" She headed to one of the bus compartments to get her luggage in and there was Damon finishing stashing his own in it. "Hello again." "Hey", was her monosyllabic answer as she placed her things on the floor to give her arms a break. "So, off we go now." "Yes, can't wait for the next gig even if New York was great. I mean, I'm always looking forward to the next one ahead." "That's cool, always gotta view towards the future." "That's right. So, I'm done with my luggage. I can help with yours if you don't mind." "Uh, sure." Just as Damon reached for the first suitcase, another hand grabbed it firmly by its straps. "It's okay, I'll do it." Melissa held her breath, her dark eyes unblinking in stupor. He finally showed up. "About time you appear mate. Where were you? You just vanished since last night." Paul took the suitcase and placed it in the compartment just as he replied: "I took a stroll around last night, barely had any sleep. That's why I woke up too late." Quite a good liar he was, acting like nothing had occured between them. "Morning Melissa. Did you sleep well?" His voice sounded even, no flicker of secrecy present. But there was a twinkle in his eyes, the way he observed her was significant. So Melissa wanted to think. "Uh yeah, I slept fine", she lied back. Involuntarily her voice betrayed her, becoming squeaky once more. The men were eventually done and Damon proceeded to ask Melissa: "Okay, all settled. Ready to go?" "Yeah, ready as I can." Paul placed his hand on her back as he affirmed: "Here, I'll walk you over." Damon was confused at such polite behavior towards Melissa. "Quite a gentleman eh", he asserted. With a wink Paul joked: "You know me lad." He discretely moved his hand down her waist to help her go up and whispered to her ear: "Wait for me at the back please." With no time to reply she entered the bus and made her way to the farthest compartment room, closed the door and sat over the matress to wait for him nervously.

She needed not to anticipate any longer, for just as the bus set in motion Paul entered the room nearly ten minutes after he requested her to do so. This time his face expressed what she loosely hoped for: rejoice. "Damon told me you weren't hungry awhile ago so I brought something for you to eat." "Thanks", she said with a placid smile. He sat down beside her, looking her way adoringly. "I'm sorry for being so cold outside my dear. Discretion is vital, you know." Having him being so affectionate relaxed her. "Yeah I know, I totally understand. It's just that I was afraid last night was just a dream 'cause you weren't there when I woke up." "Again I'm sorry. I left because I had to get my things packed to not be late, that's all. And no, yesterday was not a dream. It was amazing and real." Melissa's smile grew wider. "Paul, I have no words to describe last night. It was incredibly beautiful. I never felt so loved and sensitive..." "Sensitive? Oh God, did I hurt you? Was I too rough?" "No, of course not. I feel great, wonderful actually. You would never hurt me, I just know it." He smiled back in comfort but a shadow crept on his face, ignited by her last words. "Are you okay?" "I am dearest. Why do you ask?" "It's just that you have this weird look, like you had doubts or something", she speculated in concerned tone, adding: "I'm too childish, right?" "You're not childish in the least, you're magnificent, flawless I'd say...I just wish I could give you more life somehow. You deserve a young man who worships you and should take care of you, not an old geezer like me." "You're perfect just the way you are, age included 'cause I can learn from you." "You're too kind, but I still think you deserve someone better. Damon would be thrilled to be in my place now, if he knew." Melissa's forehead revealed uncomfortable wrinkles at the allusion of his name. "I still like him Paul, I gotta be honest with you." He frowned at her declaration but she continued: "I still have feelings for him, still get jitters when I see him. With you, though, it's different. It's so much more than that. It grew slowly everyday and it is what it is now. Our chats, the way you observe me, how you're always looking after me even if we're not together most of the time, all of those made me realize what I feel for you. I may be a kid but I know myself very well to get it, you know. It's all here", she indicated herself while stating this. "I wanna be with you Paul, I have no doubt of that." He was so moved by her words, his own emotions poignant at her candidness. He cuddled the full cheeks softly and after kissing her, nestled her in his arms sweetly. "Jesus, I don't deserve you. I can't offer you much..." "That you're with me is enough, I need nothing more." "But you deserve the best. I can't offer you much, but we have the rest of this month to be together. I can give you no more." "What do you mean?" "Please don't ask, just believe me dear." "...Okay. But I have to talk with Damon someway, I don't wanna hurt him." "Me neither but please, don't mention him now, you're ruining the moment." "Sorry." A period of silence passed by. Nothing was said between them, their faces expressed it all. "Paul?" "Yes honey?" "Please tell me how was it when you met me." "Sure my dear. Where do I start?" "From the beginning, when you first saw me." "I'll be glad to." He held her closer as he began reminiscing that day: "It was a normal day really, nothing much happened. When we got to the set I thought of enjoying it all, being with my mates and playing with them. Everything went on as expected, we played the first songs correctly. When the interview took place I was watching the crowd lazily. And then I stopped. I saw this gorgeous young woman at the front gazing our way excitedly. She tried to act nonchalant but she couldn't hide her fascination of being there. Her smile illuminated her, making everyone around invisible. I had never seen such a lovely creature before, so happy to be present. I couldn't help stare in trance, she was too adorable..."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URxc-9eV6ms

Episode 9: It Says It All

Various types of flowers blossomed in their display, providing living color to the lackluster walls. Purple, red, pink, yellow, every different tone available to satisfy customers' needs. One of them, for instance, ordered a small bouquet of white lilies. The posy was clearly to be delivered to a sweetheart.

First thing her eyes saw when opening the door was a little arrangement of white buds being held by a golden-toothed cheery man, which made her feel guilty but still endeavoured to keep a mellow face. "Oh my God, how beautiful!" The deliverer simply smiled adoringly at the young woman's reaction. "Wanna come in?" "Need to ask?" She was glad for his visit, having not seen him in weeks since they were both engaged in their respective business. She especially had the urge to know of him, of changing gears after the tumultuous events taken place days ago. "Damon, you're an angel, you didn't have to buy me flowers." "I'd give you every single one in the face of the Earth if I could, you deserve them. Don't tell me they make you feel uncomfortable." "No, it's not that. It's just...I've never received flowers before." "Not once?" "Nope." "Lads in your town must be twats then." Melissa couldn't help giggle at Damon's accurate remark. He always had a way to make her feel better with herself, which she was grateful for. "So, how can I help you?" "In not much way, considering I came to see you after many days of absence. You have no idea how much I missed you." "Aww, I missed you too. Damn work." "Exactly. No complaints though, we're about to leave to America so that has me excited. By the way, everyone says hello and they miss you as well." "Hee hee, cuties, ditto to them." She set her gaze downwards, fighting her curiosity. Did he say something else apart from his greetings? Has he even spoken to his friend on the subject? "Are you okay?" She raised up her look to Damon's questioning expression. "Yeah, I'm fine. Why d'you ask?" "Just wondering why you kept silent for about half a minute." "Oh man, that long?" "Yes. Is something troubling you dearest?" "Oh no", she thought, "not that word, he used it with me." "Not really, it's just that work has been boring lately; lots of paperwork, you know", she answered. "Poor little darling, you must be tired of it all." He placed his palm over her worn face, caressing it tenderly to ease the fatigued features. "I can't complain either, thanks to it I get to go wherever I want to." Damon's eyes instantly lit up. "I have the perfect solution for you tiredness." "Which is?" "Come to America with me." "What?" "Yeah! Come to America in October. You'll have an entire month to rest." "Are you serious? I can't just stop going to work for a month." "Not if you tell them you have a sick relative with no one to help him, or her." "Well, the idea does sound tempting..." "But I don't wanna get near Paul!" she exclaimed inwardly. "Please come, Melissa, come with me. Please!" This last plead was made in the whiniest voice he could come up with that bass-like voice of his. She was touched by his boyish playfulness, reason why she said: "Alright, I'll go." He exhaled a loud yelp and rapidly bent forward to hug her. "I knew you'd say yes." "My guess is you actually came to invite me all along." "What the hell. Yes I did, but I needed you to give out a sign for me as an excuse." You naughty boy." His mischievious grin disappeared when he locked his lips to hers for a full kiss. Melissa had memories coming and going once more, recollections of that one his friend gave her unexpectedly, as well as that one she gave him impulsively. "You really are tired." "Huh?" Damon smiled at her understandingly and again caressed her face. "It's okay, I'm here to help you forget and relax." He kissed her for a second time, on this occasion dropping his hands to her waist, holding her top to lift it over her arms. That's exactly what she needed: to forget and relax. She took his shirt off, letting him do with her as he pleased as they proceeded to make love over the same couch on which Paul revealed his feelings just days past.

He saw them arrive at Heathrow holding hands, him beaming at her side and her doing the same but shyly. The slightest of pain entered his chest at the sight of them, rising as he observed him lean down to kiss his young companion. Has she already decided over him? He couldn't bare see her so happy with another man, and even worse: with one of his best mates. Enough reason to turn sideways and walk on, not wanting to see them in such intimate fashion. What he ignored was her sudden unwillingness to affectionate demonstration with Damon after months of it. "Dude wait, not here." "But why? Can't I kiss my beloved?" "I don't feel comfortable doing it in public." "You didn't give a fuck before." "Well I do now. I don't want the crew to start speculating." "So? Who cares what they think?" "I do, I don't wanna be called a slut behind my back for coming along with no special task whatsoever." "Yes, you do have one: to make my days merrier." A silent laugh came from her when meeting those turquoise eyes full of devotion. "This man loves me as well, it's so obvious", she inferred. "For that he deserves nothing but my loyalty." "Let's go Damon, we're being waited for." "Aye aye, captain." He put his arm over her shoulders as he kissed her forehead warmly while resuming their strolling.

Canada was the first stop of their journey, one country Melissa had never been to so she took full use of their brief stay to sightsee as much as possible. She was mostly on her own or with some of the musicians, the famous ones prefering to stay in whichever hotel they were at. Not being constantly at Damon's side was beneficial since she was able to come and go as she wished. Of course, time with him was valuable because of his amiable, outgoing personality. Days improved when they were together. However, she had been avoiding getting too intimate with him as of lately, although not entirely. There were still doubts, especially concerning the occured with Paul weeks ago. What had happened? Did she do it out of sympathy for his touching words? Or was there something else behind her sudden conduct?

Her concerns remained all the way to New York, where they arrived more than a week later. She looked forward to this visit not only for the prospect of seeing Gorillaz at Madison Square Garden, but also due to her encounter with her friend Joannie, who would come from New Jersey for the show and meet her beforehand. If there was someone who could be trusted it was her. She knew what occured in Melissa's personal life through their internet chats, and her wisdom would be of much help in this matter. At that moment she needed an external voice more than ever.

Thursday night would be a busy one since the band had a special one-hour television performance ahead which of course she would attend. So she took the afternoon to hit the streets by herself. There was a particular sight she needed to visit, one she had heard and seen pictures of. It wasn't a museum, neither a monument, but it well could be. There it was, that huge brickwall covered in several bright colors, all of them forming the most heartfelt tribute she had ever seen. A man with sunglasses and a black leather jacket looked out from the wall, the words THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN placed at the left. Melissa couldn't imagine the amount of people who have stopped by to pay their respects to this man who died too soon. He still had much to do, much to say to the world. It's a pity to have a fascinating life cut so short. All of these were her thoughts while staring at the mural. Too absorbed she was, surprise took over as she heard the voice she had been dreading for weeks. "Melissa?" She turned around and saw him there, standing about three feet away from her and looking as puzzled as she did. "Oh God, not you." He walked towards her but she stopped him curtly. "No, don't get close to me." "What? But we're alone dearest..." "Stop calling me like that, I'm not your dearest. Just 'cause we're alone doesn't mean you can take advantage of me." "Take advantage of you? I would never do that. I just wanna talk..." "Well now it's not the time. I gotta go now." His eyes were full of anxiousness, uncertain at what to do or say. "Can I walk you?" "No! I mean no thanks, I know the way back." And off she went the opposite way. In his lament he looked up to the mural and with melancholic tone expressed out loud: "She came to see you and I did the same. Was it you calling us purposely?"

The next day signalled Gorillaz's Madison Square Garden gig and Joannie's arrival to the city. Melissa received her excitedly after months of online talking. She was eager to do so in person to discuss their respective lives, as well as seek advice for the emotional struggle she faced. They spent the whole morning and part of the afternoon together having breakfast and visiting sights. For the main conversation, however, Melissa chose the privacy of her hotel bedroom. "Are you sure we can be here? Someone could hear us", warned Joannie. "Not a chance, no one's around, they're at soundcheck", was Melissa's reply. "So, remember what I told you about meeting Damon and his supossed flirty attempts on me?" "Yes, you mentioned them." "Okay, so back in June when we went to Glastonbury we got pretty close...as in REALLY close." "Oh that..." "And he's been really infatuated ever since: being super nice, spending extra time with me, he even threw me a birthday party, for God's sake." "He organized a party for you? That's lovely of him. But..." "But, here's the thing: even with all these actions and details, he hasn't said he loves me." "Maybe he's the kind of guy of few words but his actions speak millions." "Not really, he's usually very opinionated and outspoken. But again, his face literally lits up when he sees me and he may not say the words, but he has made merits to win me over." "Have you thought he adores you so much maybe you make him nervous with your presence?" "Maybe. I dunno." "What do you feel for him?" "I like him a lot, always did actually, when I was a mere fan. And he makes me feel I'm worth it, that I'm not a loser." "You're not a loser. Kudos to him for making you feel good about yourself. You haven't mentioned something though: that you love him. In fact, you look rather confused." "I haven't told you everything." "There's more?" "Lots more. See, I told you I met pretty much every musician involved in Gorillaz. Well, Damon's best friend in the band is interested in me as well. "Wait, you mean..." "Yes, Paul's into me." "What?! Paul Simonon? Come on Melissa, you gotta be kidding." "I'm serious Joannie. He said so about a month ago." "Ok hold on, you met him around the time you met Damon?" "I met them the same night. Apparently he's been in love with me ever since." "He told you?" "A month ago he went to my apartment and just poured his heart out. You should've seen him, just the way he was looking at me said it all. He's just...he's so sweet, such a dear friend of mine, an amazing guy all around..." "I was supposing as much. But I mean, in love with you?" "I know it sounds hard to believe but that's what he said, that he fell in love by knowing me from our conversations together. And he claims he likes my personality. My personality? Yeah, if you're into flustered girls." "Don't be too harsh on yourself, you're a very nice girl. If he's truly in love, as he claims, he may have seen it." That was the real issue: was it love? Maybe he's confused like herself, so was Melissa's thought. She was interrupted by Joannie, who stated an important truth: "I dunno. I mean for starters, he's old enough to be your dad, which already is quite disturbing." Tell me about it." "And secondly, maybe he feels attracted to you 'cause you're young and beautiful, and you know girls like you are every mature man's fantasy." "That's what I thought, that it was only an attraction. Until he started saying pretty much every single thing he likes about me and and how he ended loving me...and then I kissed him." "You what?" "I kissed him, totally out of the blue. His words touched me like no others I've heard and something in me made me do it." "Dear God. You know? I'm actually thinking you may be feeling the same for him." "What? No, I'm with Damon, I'd never be unfaithful to him after all he's done for me." "I understand but listen: your words deny it, but by the way you described Paul and by that look in your eyes, you say the contrary." Uncomfortable silence. Was that the reason for her impulsiveness? It made sense but... "Your silence gives away your feelings." "I..." "Admit it, you're in love with him." "I do admit I like him. I mean, when we were in Cannes there was a moment in which I wanted to sleep with him 'cause he looked especially gorgeous and he was being really kind to me..." "What woman doesn't wish that? Besides I didn't say like, I said love, and your body language is practically screaming this last one." "I dunno Joannie, I honestly don't think so." "Then why are your eyes saying the opposite?" "Come on, he would never see me that way." "Didn't you just tell me he declared his love openly awhile back?" "I still think he's confused." Such conversation stretched on for a considerable amount of time and little did Melissa know, she was actually being listened from outside by a flabbergasted eavesdropper.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-7KryHmDts