12th August 2023

home - Edith Whiskers

It's much colder here in London than it was in  Los Angeles. Funny Sailor missed it when she moved but now she's back, she finds herself longing for the burning sun on her skin. Late July yet she is still greeted by a chilly breeze as she stands on her balcony. Early morning, the sun is just creepy above the horizon.

Running away from the night like Sailor tries to run from her pain. Running away from her past seemed easy until the realisation came she'd forever be looking over her shoulder. The nights become longer until she just doesn't sleep at all although that's better than the alternative, the endless nightmares once you do sleep.

Sailor lived in this house up to the age of fifteen until her whole world changed. She lost her: best friend, her mother, her person. Her father was destroyed. The love of his life was gone. He could no longer live where they grew up, where all the memories they had created. But here she is nine years later.

"Lewis!" She hears a shriek from downstairs.

That is Miss Angelica Fawn. Now Known as Primrose, her "butter couldn't melt" stepmother. Angelica has sleek, straight brunette hair that falls just below her shoulders. She is quite skinny, thanks to her daily gym routine. Blessed with sharp cheekbones and full lips, giving her a model-like appearance. Her skin is flawless and always has a natural glow to it.

Her most striking feature though is her piercing icy blue eyes, which seem to always hold a cold, calculating glint. She always dresses in designer clothing and wears expensive jewellery, showcasing her love for luxury and Sailor's dad's money.

Daddy dearest decided to remarry when Sailor was nineteen. Everyone knows she's just with him for his money. She's sure even poor Lewis is aware but he was with her mum from the age of sixteen. She's not sure he can cope with being alone. Even if that means being with a snotty thirty-five-year-old, who's just here for the money.

At the sight of her kitchen, the memory of her mother's perfume floods her memory. Her half-drunk coffee is on the counter with a mark from her signature, scarlet lipstick as her music plays. She can never cook without it. Her hips swing, her curls bouncing and a smile always spread across her face.

"Mummy, mummy." Younger Sailor calls running towards her mother, tears soaking her eyes.

Dropping everything she's doing, she turns to Sailor with concern. "What's wrong my little Sailor Moo?"

Younger Sailor clings to her mother's leg.  "They made fun of me again at school, calling me Lispy Sail."

Her mother kneels to her level. " I won't lie to you, kids can be cruel. They may not understand your uniqueness but my Sailor Moo, you are special. You're beautiful, smart and kind. Say it."

"I am beautiful, smart and kind." Younger Sailor responds, twiddling her thumbs.

"Say it again." Her mother encourages her.

Younger Sailor takes a deep breath, making eye contact with her mother. "I am beautiful, smart and kind."

"I couldn't quite hear that." Her mother pushes.

The younger Sailor sucks in all the air her little lungs can take, bursting out a scream. "I AM BEAUTIFUL, SMART AND KIND."

Her mother lets out a giggle as she takes the younger Sailor into her arms. Embracing the warmth of her body, the younger Sailor floats into her safe space. If comfort is a person her mother is it.

"I love you." Younger Sailor whispers to her mother.

"I love you too." Her mother replies whilst stroking the younger Sailor's hair.

Squeezing her mother tighter never wanting to let go, the younger Sailor questions. "Cross your heart and hope to die?"

Her mother's response is barely audible as she fades away. "Cross my heart and hope to die."

The memory ends snapping Sailor back to her painful reality. A reality where she'll never smell her mother's perfume, see her bright smile or feel her warmth again. Her whole world is gone leaving an unsavoury woman in her place. Once where her mother stood, now Angelica does.

Oblivious to her presence her father Lewis, greets his wife. "Hey, beautiful."

"Hello, handsome."  Angelica leans in to suck Lewis's soul straight from his mouth, leaving Sailor sick to her stomach.

She coughs alerting them to her company. Leaving her dad mortified and Angelica completely unbothered. Angelica proceeds to ignore Sailor pouting towards Lewis instead. As if a well-trained dog, Lewis brings his attention back to his precious Angelica. "What's wrong, beautiful?"

"I haven't got a new outfit, for my birthday." Angelica sulks.

Blinded by his loneliness, Lewis hands over his credit card. "Take my card and buy yourself something nice."

"Thank you, handsome."  Angelica goes back to slamming her face into Lewis's leaving Sailor repulsed once again. To remove herself from this situation she calls out to her younger sister. "Issy, let's go grab some coffee."

"Your treat?." Isabella shouts back.

Sailor chuckles. "My treat, Issy."

shinunoga e-wa - fujii kaze

Sailor and Isabella stand inside their favourite cosy book cafe, holding onto each other's arms as they take in the familiar surroundings. It has been years since they visited this place, but it still holds such a special place in their hearts. Some of their favourite memories growing up were their visits here. It seems like just yesterday when Sailor, Isabella and their friends would come to this cafe after school.

They would order hot chocolate and spend hours flipping through the pages of their favourite mangas. As young teens, they used to come here every weekend. They would spend hours laughing and planning their future, dreaming of all the adventures they would go on together. Sailor looks around, she can almost see them as kids, sitting in their beloved corner.

"Two iced Americanos for Isabella."

"Ah, Isabella. Rolls off the tongue like poetry." A black-haired man joins Sailor and Isabella.
"Ó Isabella, posso perceber parcialmente
Para que eu possa falar a minha dor ao teu ouvido; Se você alguma vez acreditou em alguma coisa, Acredite como eu te amo, acredite quão perto Minha alma está condenada: eu não sofreria Tua mão, pressionando indesejavelmente, não temeria
Teus olhos contemplando; mas não posso viver
Mais uma noite, e não a minha paixão."

(O Isabella, I can half perceive
That I may speak my grief into thine ear;
If thou didst ever any thing believe,
Believe how I love thee, believe how near
My soul is to its doom: I would not grieve
Thy hand by unwelcome pressing, would not fear
Thine eyes by gazing; but I cannot live
Another night, and not my passion shrive.)

Shrugging him off, Isabella rolls her eyes. "You butchered the pronunciation."

Isabella has always been confident and outgoing. She is popular among her peers, but she doesn't let it affect her personality. She is kind, down-to-earth, and has a strong sense of self. Many traits she inherits from her sister, who has always been her role model and best friend. Whereas Isabella has no problem speaking to new people, Sailor prefers to be more reserved. She values her privacy and personal space.

Towering over Sailor stands another man. "Ignore him I usually do."

Snatching a pasty from the second man's hand, the first man teases. "He's just upset, I'm the better-looking one."

Isabella helps herself to Sailor's drink, deeming it could be different from her own, before answering the first man. "I don't know Sky, Rain has got that mysterious bad boy look going for him."

Rain flops his arm on Sailor's shoulder. "I was beginning to think you forgot about us."

Ever since they were born, Sailor, Isabella, Rain, and Sky had been inseparable. Their parents were close friends, so it was only natural that the four of them would become best friends as well. They spent every moment together, from playdates at each other's houses to family vacations. They would have picnics in the park, build forts in the backyard, and have sleepovers where they would stay up late telling ghost stories. They were a wild and adventurous bunch, always seeking new and exciting things to do. As they grew older, their friendship only grew stronger.

They went through all the ups and downs of childhood together, always there to support and encourage each other. They were each other's rock and they knew that no matter what, they would always have each other's backs. However, as they entered their final year of school, things started to change. Sailor and Isabella's mother died just like that, they were moving to America. But, they promised to stay in touch and visit each other as often as they could. A promise that was never kept.

They no longer stand in front of them as their sixteen-year-old best friends now they are grown men. Sky once the shortest male in their class is tall with a lean and athletic build. His still-pale skin is almost like a canvas waiting to be filled with ink. Speaking of ink, he is heavily tattooed, with intricate designs covering him. His messy black half-ponytail falls just above his shoulders, and he has striking blue eyes that seem to pierce through anyone who looks at him. 

A few more piercings have joined his nose ring that he begged Isabella to pierce on his fourteenth birthday. An eyebrow piercing, a septum piercing along with a couple of scars. His mischievous smile is still the same. Always been his most distinguishing feature, often leaving people wondering what trouble he's up to.

Rain has always been tall but he is more muscular now. His sun-kissed skin is now adorned with elaborate tattoos that wind their way around his body. His black hair is styled in a messy yet stylish wolf cut, adding to his bad-boy charm. He has intense brown eyes that seem to hold a hidden depth, staring into which one can get lost.

He now wears a nose piercing and a lip piercing, complementary to his edgy and rebellious appearance. His mysterious aura screams danger but when he smiles. His dimples show the boy they know underneath.

"Well, fuck me. Rain Ramoray and Sky White," Sailor exclaims, a smile playing on her lips.

"Where the hell have you been, loca?" Sky retorts, a mischievous glint in his eye.

"You quoting Twilight now, Sk?" Isabella quips, raising an eyebrow.

"For you, kitten, I'll quote anything you like," Sky smirks with a wink, causing Isabella to chuckle.

Isabella announces, "On that note, we'll be dipping. See you around, boys," with a playful grin.

soft - babygirl

"Say." Calls Isabella from her bedroom.

As summoned by Isabella, Sailor strolls into her room to see what she needs. To find her sitting in front of a full-length mirror starting her makeup. Even bared face Isabella looks as if she is blessed by Aphrodite. She has auburn hair styled in a shaggy bob, with natural waves that fall just above her shoulders. Freckles gently scatter across her sun-kissed face, giving her a playful and youthful look.

Her piercing green eyes are framed by long, dark lashes and her full lips are often complimented with a peach gloss. Her petite frame is adorned with small tattoos, including a small butterfly on her wrist and fairy wings on her back. Isabella's most noticeable feature is her nose piercing, a small gold hoop that she got on a whim during her rock phase.

Whereas Sailor is almost the spitting image of their mother, Isabella resembles their father. Lewis's auburn hair is always perfectly styled even if it is beginning to show signs of grey at the temples. His green eyes sparkle with kindness, framed by a pair of well-groomed eyebrows. Slight wrinkles have begun to appear around his eyes and forehead.

He tells his daughters that just means he's lived a life of laughter. Lewis takes great pride in his appearance, and it is evident in the way he carries himself. He is always impeccably dressed in tailored suits often accessorized with a designer watch. Constantly wears a friendly smile that is often accompanied by a dimple on his left cheek.

"Get ready we're going out," Isabella demands.

"Issy, we have plans we still need to go over," Sailor responds, earning a huff from Isabella.

"We've been so busy since arriving we've barely had a chance to have fun. Come on, I'll even let you use my dressing table." Isabella pleads.

As stubborn as she is Sailor has a soft spot for her sister, alas giving in to her. "Fine but I'm choosing the music."

Sailor switches on their favourite getting-ready playlist through speakers that seem to be ready to burst with the loud music. Isabella spins and twirls around her room. Her sweet laughter echoes as Sailor watches in awe. Their bond is unlike any other. They share everything, from clothes to secrets. They would spend hours playing make-believe games and giggling in their bedrooms.

They are each other's confidants, always there to listen and offer advice. Their closeness is evident to everyone around them. They are each other's best friend, and nothing can ever come between them. Although only an eleven-month age gap, Isabella looks up to Sailor. Idolising her strength.

The two sisters are both vastly similar yet complete opposites. Sailor's style is more edgy, while Isabella's, is more chic. Sailor loves experimenting with her style. Being drawn to urban style, often wearing oversized t-shirts, baggy cargo pants and chunky trainers. On the other hand, Isabella has a natural elegance about her and her wardrobe consists of feminine and vintage pieces.

Sailor stands to inspect herself. Her curvy figure is accentuated by her long brunette curls that fall in soft waves around her face. Her big, brown eyes sparkle with specks of gold that seem to twinkle like stars. Her light golden skin radiates a soft glow that gives her an otherworldly appearance. A constellation of freckles dance across her cheeks and nose.

A piercing sits upon her soft eyebrows, joined by a septum ring that she got during her rebellious teenage years, and it adds an edgy touch to her otherwise sweet appearance. But what really catches people's attention are her tattoos. Sailor also has several tattoos scattered across her body, each with a special meaning to her.

In place of her usual baggy clothes, she wears a little black dress and platform heels. It has a plunging neckline, showing off just enough cleavage to be alluring without being too revealing. Her outfit is a perfect mix of sophistication and sex appeal.

Her lips are painted in her favourite glitter gloss, and her eyes are rimmed with smoky black eyeliner, topped off with a layer of shimmery glitter. Her skin is dewy, glimmering under the vanity lights. She takes one last look in the mirror, admiring the way the dress makes her feel confident and powerful.

still don't know my name - labrinth / formula - labrinth

The sleek black building stands tall and imposing, exuding an air of exclusivity and mystery. Sailor the sign reads. Instead of the usual neon lights and flashy designs, this sign is dark and mysterious. The letters are made of black metal, giving off a gothic vibe. The edges are sharp, almost as if they can cut through the air.

A line of well-dressed individuals snakes around the corner, eagerly waiting their turn to enter the club.  All dressed in their most daring and provocative outfits. The sound of pulsing music and chatter can be heard, luring them in with its intoxicating promise of a wild and glamorous night. The sound seems to vibrate through the ground, drawing even more people towards the club.

Some are drawn to the music, while others are curious about the mysterious aura surrounding the place. The bouncer at the door eyes them all suspiciously, his arms crossed over his muscular chest. He has a stern expression on his face, warning anyone who dares to cause trouble inside.

Cigarette smoke engulfs Salior and Isabella as Sky clasps Isabella in his arms. "Kitten, if we keep meeting like this, I'll have to believe we are destined."

Sailor takes the cigarette from Sky, taking a drag she teases. "Still infatuated by my sister, then Sk."

Sky playfully shoves Sailor. "Still stealing my cigarettes after all these years rather than buying them yourself, Little Flame."

"Keep supplying the goods and I'll let you marry Issy." Sailor puts her hand out to Sky.

Sky shakes it, sealing Isabella's destiny. "Deal."

"Do I have no say in this?" Isabella side-eyes both of them.

"A deal's a deal, kitten." Sky links both their arms and pulls them towards the entrance.

The music pulsates through the walls, sending vibrations through the sleek black leather couches and velvet curtains. The air is thick with the scent of expensive perfumes and the sound of clinking glasses. This is no ordinary club - this is the edgiest, most exclusive lux club in the city.

The neon lights flash against the dark walls, casting a vibrant glow over the edgy club interior. The walls are decorated with intricate gold designs, and the ceiling is covered in shimmering crystal chandeliers. The floor is made of polished marble, reflecting the colourful lights that dance around the room. The whole place has an air of sophistication and rebellion.

The atmosphere is electric, a mix of excitement and euphoria that seems to hang in the air. At the centre of the club is a large dance floor, filled with people swaying and moving to the music. The DJ stands behind a towering set of speakers, his hands expertly controlling the beats that keep the crowd moving.

Sailor feels two arms snake around her waist. Now trapped between two tattooed arms and a muscle torso, she watches as Isabella and Sky giggle disappearing through the crowd.

"You came." A familiar voice comes from Sailor's captor.

A smile spreads across Sailor's face. "You named your club after me."

"I crossed my heart and hoped to die, remember."  He whispers into her ear.

Sailor releases herself from his grip, turning to face him. "You did indeed, Rain Ramoray."

Behind Rain, Sailor can see Rain's older cousin Rebel making her way towards them with a tray of shots. Rebel much like Sky has pale skin embellished with multiple tattoos. Her tattoos are a mix of traditional and modern styles, representing her love for both the past and present.

She has a traditional wolf tattoo on her right forearm, a symbol of her loyalty to her pack. Her hair is a mix of grey and platinum, styled in a messy, edgy wolf cut. Her green eyes are piercing, sending off warning signals. Her bridge and spider-bite piercings sparkle under the fluorescent light. Her appearance isn't just for show, it is a reflection of her strong personality.

Along with Rebel are two people, Sailor has never met.  One is a tall and muscular man. His broad shoulders and defined muscles make him an intimidating presence. His face is chiselled and masculine, with a defined jawline, high cheekbones, and full lips.

But it's his black braided hair that catches people's attention the most. He takes great pride in keeping it in a neat and intricate style. His intense brown eyes seem to hold a spark of electricity, giving him a mysterious aura.

The other is a stunning woman with striking features. Her skin is warm and golden, a result of her mixed heritage. Her long lilac tight curls fall just above her waist, adding a whimsical touch to her appearance. Her big brown eyes are full of life and always seem to sparkle, drawing people in.

They are framed by thick lashes, making them even more mesmerizing. She has delicate tattoos scattered across her body, each one representing a significant event or person in her life. Her small nose ring on her left nostril, adds a touch of edge to her otherwise soft appearance.

Rebel hands Sailor the tray. "My little brother texted saying you were here so I brought your favourite."

The man teases Rebel. "Rebel being friendly towards someone, we must have entered an alternate universe."

Rebel rolls her eyes at him while taking a shot from the tray. "Contrary to popular belief, I actually like some people."

"You love me." The woman chimes in.

"I tolerate you." Rebel deadpans.

Sailor wraps an arm around Rebel while trying to balance the tray. "Still as warm as ever, Rebel."

Rebel returns the hug. "You know me not exactly a people person but you're my people. Talking of my people meet Storm and Aquarius." 

friends - chase atlantic

The room is brimming with excitement and energy as everyone lets loose and embraces the night. Together with Sky, Sailor screams her lungs out to the music playing. Jumping up and down, moving together. Surrounded, by an aura of bliss. Not being able to hold their giggles in. Closing her eyes, she gets lost in the music letting her body take control. With every step, happiness fills her body. She earns a little smirk from Rain every time he catches her quickly glancing at him.

Sky's attention now falls on Isabella. Rain pulls Sailor to him. "Dance with me."

Holding her hips Rain leads her. They move to the music. Him having complete dominance of her body. Each step, each turn, each bend in his full control. She releases her body to his authority, his eyes never leaving her. With each movement, she falls deeper into his spell.

"Let's get out of here." Rain's hand in hers, she nods as he pulls her through the crowd.

Now on the street, Sailor watches as Rain balances walking along the curb with his arms out to his side. A grin spreads across her face at his childlike innocence.

Rain gestures in front of him. "Come on join me?"

Obeying him, Sailor stands in front of him. He places his hands on her hips while she copies his movements. With each step welcoming the silence, nothing but the sound of the breeze, their breath and the odd distance car. Peaceful, a peaceful bliss in the darkness of the night. Two am abyss. Streetlights guiding their way.

Rain breaks the silence. "This is my favourite time of night."

"Mine as well. A time when nothing is expected of you. The world is still." Sailor professes.

"I couldn't agree more." He responds while his hands are still guiding her body.

Enjoying the feel of his touch on her, she reveals. "My favourite place to be at this time is the beach. I often go there just to admire the stillness of the late night."

With this comment, Rain takes out his phone and starts to type something. "Our car will be here in five minutes."

Unbeknownst to Sailor and Rain they are being watched. Moonlight creeps into a dimly, lit office. The dark wood interior is barely visible as an unknown man sits at his desk. A computer monitor glares through cigar fog. Sailor and Rain appear on the screen, traffic lights illuminating their figures.

Blowing more smoke the unknown man inspects. "I see they're back together."

Picking up his phone, the line rings for a second before another man answers. The unknown man, explains. "Tell the twins to pack, we're travelling to London."

They arrive at South Bank. Thanking their driver Sailor hops out of the car, taking in the beauty around her. The way the moon reflects in the dark river, the bright stars dancing in the sky but she thinks nothing here is more beautiful than Mr Rain Ramoray. She blushes at her thoughts hoping he doesn't notice.

Little does she know, Rain doesn't think anything is more beautiful than her. He watches her as she beams at the water. Eyes sparkling as bright as the moon, a look of pure joy and beauty that is unmatched. Aware he made her nervous, he sure hopes she doesn't realise the impact she has on him.

Rain pulls Sailor towards him as they sit below a bridge overlooking the Thames. "Sorry, I know it's not quite the beach."

Nuzzling between his legs Sailor hums. "It's perfect."

Sailor watches the city lights twinkle in the distance but all Rain can watch is her. Her presence puts his whole body on edge while comforting his entire being at the same time.  He wouldn't want to share this moment with anyone else, be here with anyone else.

His presence, the warmth of his body against hers, the way his arms hold her and his intoxicating scent.  All making Sailor feel alive.

Rain has always been intoxicated by her beauty, ever since they were kids. Her beauty knows no bounds however she is so much more than her looks. Her personality is more fiery than the sunset. The spark in her eyes is hypnotising. An ethereal being trapped by the bounds of the earth.

He traces lines on her thigh as goosebumps rise on her. "This was our parents favourite place, maybe it could be ours too."