One of Those Nights - OPEN

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>Steven finished the last of the joint as he pushed away from the tree he stood behind. He pushed his hands deep into the pockets of his worn and torn jeans, his shoulders hunching up a bit. It wasnt actually cole tonight, Steven just tended to do that from time to time and he usually was always weaing a hoodie no matter what the temperature. Of course if he did get overly hot he would take it off, but it was just an after thought.

Steve watched the sidewalk as he walked along it. The sun was getting lower in the sky and he knew it wouldnt be long before it had set. Steve didnt mind though, he liked the dark and besides there was just something about the night that made him feel good. He wondered if this was why he rarely slept at night except for a small amounts at a time. Steve was generally an energetic guy, well when he was doing certain things. You really wouldnt guess it just by watching him, he had this lazy kind of relaxed look about himself if you were to stand within five feet of him you would feel just as relaxed as well.

Steven cut through the park. People were already heading back to their homes or other places they needed to be. It was getting dark and you never knew what the expect when you were in a park at night in chicago. Steve didnt mind it really he actually didnt think much of it as he sat down on the small swing set. The sun cast a reddish orange glow on everything and steve had to squint his eyes against it as it cut through the trees and burned his vision. Steven jerked his head away from the blinding color as he reached into his pocket to produce a pack of marlboros. He pulled one from the pack and placed it between his lips before finding his matches and struck it to light it.

Steven usually preferred matches over lighters. Granted lighters were easier, but Steven had an addiction to the smell of a match after it had just been put out. He rememberd stealing his dads matches one time and just sat in his room lighting and putting out match after match and breathing in deeply of the scent it left behind.

Steven puffed at the cigarette watching the burning tip as the fire at it ate away at the paper and all the crap that cigarettes were made up of. Frank ran his feet over the sand that was beneath the swing. finally he pushed away with his foot and started to swing, not too much but a little. Steven took a large drag before pulling it out and letting the soke out through his nose. Steven, even for as much as he smoked, mostly drugs but sometimes both that and cigarettes, Steven rarely tasted like one. That was one of his pet peeves, youd think he was a hypocrit when he was reluctant to kiss anyone that did either of those things, but he knew it could be done. He knew you didnt have to taste like that stuff and if you did then you clearly didnt take as good of care of your mouth as you might say. People who kept their mouths clean thoroughly probably tired their best to stay clean.

Steven just swung slightly. his mind glazing over and he zoned out. He didnt know how long hed been doing that but when he snapped to it was nearly all dark save for the lights that ran along the lines of the path in the park. His cigarette had burned half way down and now there was a large ash in the shape of the end of his cigarette daring to drop off of it. Steven shook it a bit and jerked his leg as it fell towards it threatening to mess up some part of his clothes. He took another drag and started to swing again, the lighter hanging loosely between his lips as he gripped the metal chains that hold the swings.

One... Two... he started to get higher, his goal to jump off and see how far he could go. Three! he let go jumping off of his swing and flew a bit in the air before coming back down landing on his legs and rolling a bit as he hit the ground. He chuckled a bit, not even knowing where hed lost his cigarette. He didnt care how childish that may have looked, it was like mini danger for those destined to be those little daredevils athat liked to walk that fine line of life and death and ge a thrill of it. His laughter didnt last long and soon he was just laying on the sand his hand over his chest as he looked up at the ever darkening sky.


NOTE: Sorry its crap Hope someone is able to make a post from that.</sup>

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

The sun was beginning to set, but Ian didn't mind that one bit. He pushed a hand through his silky black hair as he walked along one of the many paths in the park. Roscoe, Ian's pet ferret, looked out from his hoodie pocket eagerly. Pouring a couple of skittles into his hand Ian held his hand low so that Roscoe could scope it out. The little animal sniffed the skittles before eating them out of Ian's hands. He knew it probably wasn't good for ferrets to eat skittles, but that was one of Roscoe's favorite snack foods. Ian drew in a big breath of the chilled air. For some reason Ian found the winter pretty enjoyable. He couldn't figure out if it was just because it was relaxing or if he just like the cool air. Either way Ian was satisfied.

Ian looked down, feeling Roscoe move around a lot. He poked the pocket from the outside, "Hey, stop that." He said, causing Roscoe to peek his little head out once more, glance up to Ian, then go back to digging around in the front pocket. Ian rolled his eyes as he contined to walk. He popped a few skittles into his mouth, wishing that he hadn't gone for the tropical kind. The company made a big mistake trying to get creative with skittles, but it was the only kind the convenience store had and Ian had been in a mood to eat some skittles. Roscoe made some mewing noises before finally settling down. Ian didn't know what was up with the little rodent. He reached in the pocket and stroked Roscoe, glad that the little thing had finally settled down and curled into a small ball in the pocket.

That was usually what would happen when Roscoe would get bored. The little guy would curl up and go to sleep, leaving Ian to figure things out on his own. Ian didn't mind much. He loved Roscoe, but the rodent was an attention whore. As he moved further along the path, admiring the onsetting darkness, he noticed a guy swinging who looked a little too old to be enjoying a swingset the way he was. Actually, Ian couldn't blame the guy. He liked revisiting certain childhood memories. Swinging would be pretty high up there. Ian's bright blue eyes widened as the boy jumped out of the swing. He should have been expecting it, but he wasn't. Watching the guy land Ian was frozen there for a moment. He didn't think the guy was hurt, but still...

Ian slowly walked toward the guy, taking into consideration that this person may not want to be bothered. As he reached the boy Ian knelt down to both knees and looked the guy over, raising an eyebrow. "Now THAT was a jump." He mused with a laugh. Roscoe, taking interest in what could be causing Ian to shake with laughter, peeked his head out once more. Ian smiled, "I don't think I've seen anyone do that since I was like seven." Roscoe began to crawl out of Ian's pocket and down his lap. The ferret slinked its way over to the boy on the ground, sniffing at the boy's hand before nudging with it's warm nose. Ian knit his brows together, "Roscoe, no." Hah- Ian spoke as if he were the boss of Roscoe. Technically he was, but the little rodent would do whatever it wanted anyway.

Roscoe was an iffy little ferret. Ian always worried about people touching the little guy because Roscoe tended to settle for extreme like or extreme dislike. There was never any telling which Roscoe would choose for a person. One time a girl had wanted to pet Roscoe and made the mistake of grabbing at him. The poor girl went home crying. Ian had felt really bad about it. He didn't want to risk Roscoe having an extreme dislike toward the boy on the ground.

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>Steven wasnt laying there very long before a guy came over to him and knelt down beside him. Steven smirked and nodded a little laugh still evident in his voice. Ive doen better. he joked lightly. Oh yeah.. me too. Seriously though.. more people should do that... you know.. when they get older. Its a trip. he said and hoisted himself up enough to lean on his elbows now and not just laying in the sand. He didnt notice the little guy that crawled out of the guys pocket, There wasnt much light for him to see right now and the park lights casted more shadows then light where they were. It wasnt until he felt something at his hand that he looked down and quirked a brow taking in the small figure at his hand. Hey there little guy. he said adjusting himself so he was leaning on the other elbow more so he could lift his hand for the ferret. He didnt touch him merely held his hand there so the ferret could get his scent and decide whether or not he wanted Steven to touch him or not.

Rosco huh? Sweet. he said. Ferrets are freakin' awsome.' Steven loved animals and hed always wanted a ferret. It was one of those animals that you put on the list of what you wish you could own, but probably wouldnt. Steve moved to sit up, keepign his hand at level of the ferret so he startle it or anything. He had a friend who had owned a couple ferrets. One was seriously cool, didnt care what you did to it, which was good because the guys little sister used to liek to smother the poor animal. The other one was kind of a bitch. He had to seriously have been bi-polar or something. One second it wanted to be touched and when you finally touched it, the thing would turn around and bite at you. At least thats how it acted around Steven and if he made sudden movements it would pounce on him. Since you're not snatching him back, Im going to assume Im not at risk of being attacked...? he looked up at him, his almond shaped, hazel green eyes questioning.

Im Steve by the way. he told him. Steven Parker. he grinned at him. Steve had one of those grins that was friendly yet playful like he had something up his sleeve and was completely infectious.</sup>

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

Ian watched the boy sit up with a smile. He had to admire people that had a lot of spirit. Though Ian was a geniuinely positive person... there were times when he would feel his own spirits crumble. Those people that kept their spirits soaring, well, Ian had to give them props. This guy seemed like he was one of those people that just didn't give a fuck what anyone else thought and just did whatever made him happy. That was the impression that Ian got just from hearing the boy's reply to his statements. The thought made Ian smile, though. He couldn't help it. If there was one thing Ian liked to do, well, besides painting it had to be smiling. Ian was just plain good at it. Ian kept a cuatious eye on Roscoe. He didn't think the ferret would attack or anyhting. Roscoe, though a little tempermental at times, didn't attack unless severly provoked.

"PSH! You better bet ferrets are freakin' awesome. Especially Roscoe. I've had the weird little guy since I was about seven." Ian said proudly. Roscoe had been a gift to him from his parents that he had cherrished for as long as he could. Ian wouldn't ever leave Roscoe behind. After Ian's parents had died he had promised himself that he would keep Roscoe with him as a reminder of his parents. Roscoe became more than a reminder, the furry little guy became one of Ian's best friends since people weren't that accepting at the orphanage in New York. When Ian needed something to make him smile, he knew he had Roscoe to brighten up his day. It was really touching at the time. Of course, with St. John's in the picture Ian felt even more accepted. Roscoe didn't have to work as hard.

Ian shook his head, "Nah, if he didn't like you he would have let you know by now. Besides, he doesn't really go for flesh." Ian said with a laugh, "Roscoe goes for the clothes for reason I don't understand." Roscoe seemed to glance back at him as if understanding what Ian was saying. The animal then crawled on top of the boy's hand, then up his arm. Ian watched Roscoe be every bit of daring. The ferret seemed to rest on the boy's shoulder, sniffing at the guy's hair. Ian couldn't help but chuckle, "Sorry bout that. He's just getting to know you." When the guy said his name Ian tilted his head, smoothing his thumb over a small patch of sand.

"I'm Ian Ackart." Ian siad happily. The way Steve grinned at him just made him want to grin too. It was weirdly contagious. Ian raised an eyebrow, "I assume you go up to St. John's too?" He asked just for more conversation. Ian had run into people before that didn't go to St. John's in the park. But he hoped secretly that Steve did go to St. John's just becuase Ian could use all the friends he could get. Ian stood from the ground, wiping the sand from his jenas. He then held his hand down to offer to help Steven up off the ground.

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>Steves brows rose. Seven? Holy shit! he said. How old are you? he asked. He had a young face but yet he didnt look too young. Of course looks can be deceiving. Hey you.. he looked down at the ferret. Yer kind of an old guy huh? Well dont worry I couldnt even tell. You hide it well.' he smirked. Some people though it was weird for someone to talk to animals like that, but he seriously doubted this guy was one of them. It just... would be ... wierd if he was.

Steve was relieved to hear that the ferret wasnt going to bite him. He could care less if he attacked his clothes, it wasnt as if Steve had fancy stuff, most o fhis clothes bore a hole or two... or three in them somewhere. The jeans he was wearing right now had a hold in each knee and another up on his thigh. He didnt mind though, they were his favorite pants and the most comfortable pair of jeans hed ever owned. Nice and well worn, he would wear them until they fell apart at the seams. Steven brushed off his appology when Roscoe moved up his arm to sniff at his hair. ITs okay. I dont mind a bit. he said. Its usually dogs doing it to me, so Im used to it. granted that hadnt happened in ages, he missed having a dog around, but he couldnt afford one now.

Steven raised his hand up to pet Rosco, his movements still slow just in case. He laughed lightly as his nose tickled an area on his neck at his hair line. Stevens attention was again drawn back to the boy when he introduced himself. Sweet. Nice to meetcha Ian he told him. Upon seeing Ians grin it only made Steves grow further. AS a matter of fact ... I do he told him when he asked if he was from St. Johns. Fancy that... hey hey hey.. he took his hand and stood up, brushing the sand from his butt once he was up. Thanks he said. So what brings you out here at night all by your lonesome? he asked. Well of course save for the awsome company known as Roscoe. he laughed a bit as he looked back at the ferret that was still on his shoulder trying to keep his balance from the movement. Like his smile his laughter was something else as well. It was what one would consider adorable and made his eyes 'sparkle'. It sounded like a little kids laugh almost but on an older person it was what people would call a Pot laugh since most people who laughed like that were either pot heads or had been. It didnt bother steve at all, he hadnt ever thought about it before. Hed had several people comment how cute his laugh was, of course they were girls and most of them hed slept with so really hed just pushed it off as flirting. The only other time that it had been commented on was from a jealous guy friend of one of the girls thinkign telling them that his laugh was actually from all the pot he probably smoked as if it would disgust them. They didnt care. That guy was an idiot.</sup>

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

"I'm eighteen," Ian answered with a laugh, "So Roscoe has been with me for eleven years now. Going on twelve March the fifteenth." That was Ian's birthday, the day that his parents had brought Roscoe to him from the pet store. Ian smiled at the memory. "See, Roscoe? You get all the compliments you furry stud." Ian was glad to see that the boy seemed to be pretty good with animals, or at least Roscoe. Not many people talked to Roscoe like he was a person other than Ian. Over the years Ian had built up such a connection with the ferret that he somtimes wondered if Roscoe knew what he was thinking. It seemed like it could be possible. There had never been anything to prove that it couldn't happen. Besides, Ian liked the fact that he could feel that close to something.

Relief flooded through Ian when the guy said he was okay with Roscoe being so nosey. Some people were and some people weren't. It was often hard to tell who liked it and who didn't. That was why Ian made a habit of jsut apologising to everyong that Roscoe did that to. That way no one could complain about it. Ian watched Roscoe, his blue eyes focusing on the rodent as he thought about what it must have been liked to actually have a dog. Ian had never had a dog and really had never entertained the thought of getting one. His father had been allergic to dogs and cats. Just about the only thing Ian could have was a ferret and he gladly accepted it with opened arms. Besides, Ian would never think of owning another animal at the same time as Roscoe. The poor fellow would die of attention starvation!

"It's nice to meet you too, Steven." Ian said with a bright smile. His eyes finally divereted from Roscoe and landed on Steven, whose eyes seemed to sparkle just being accentuated by his bright, intoxicating smile. For a moment Ian felt like he had the wind knocked out of him just looking at the guy's smile. He gathered himself together quickly so that he could reply without looking like he was gawking or anything. "I just wanted to get some fresh air. Promise not to laugh, but a certain part of me likes to believe that the air is cleaner at night." He laughed, shoving his hands into his hoodie pocket. "Moment of honesty..." Ian mused, tilting his head to get a better look at Steven's dark eyes.

"I don't think I've ever met anyone whose eyes sparkle more than yours." Ian raised an eyebrow, "I wish mine were that sparkley." He added with a soothing laugh, "Mine are just boring old blue." Ian didn't really spend a large amount of time looking at his own eyes. The most he knew was that they were blue. Other than that Ian just figured they were boring eyes. But Steven's eyes... boy... Ian almost couldn't bring himself to look away from them. He would certainly be envious of whatever lucky person got to look into them every day.

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>Ah... hey.. thats like.. nearly a lifetime.. well I mean you know.. he shrugged. You've only been without him for seven of your years and these are some of the best times they say. Good thing you get to spend them with your furry little friend. he told him. Not to mention.. when you're younger you're more apt to forget stuff like that unless someone who was a little older indulges in telling you a memory about it. he tilted his head as a thought occured to him.

Did you ever see that movie, baby geniuses? he asked. You know that movie with all the babies.... that were geniuses. he laughed lightly and shook his head, pushing some of his hair back as it fell into his face more. yeah.. well you know. But anyway... my point.. you know the part where they say all babies understand what we say but cant really talk it and once they hit a certain age and they start speaking they forget how to understand baby talk... liike you know a forign language.? he licked his lips. I wish I could remember those days so I can see if it actually is true. Ah.. no actually I wish I could just understand animals. Need to rock it like a Elf. They have that animal abilty to understand them... right?

Steven had kind of a random mind, his thoughts went from one thing to another and sometimes they didnt even connect, while other times if you were lucky enough to follow, they did.

Steven laughed as he pet roscoe softly. aww Im sorry. You feeling left out? he asked. I can totally compliment you as well. he said Like you have some awsome ass hair. he reached out and ran a hand over it. Soft too... See I could pet you as well. I have another shoulder if youd like to perch on it as well. he teased lightly and snickered.

Steve gave a nod and a grin as he returned the greeting. He doesnt smell as bad as some ferrets ive smelt. Did you get his glands taken out?" he asked curious. Or was he lucky with the light version of his natural odors. When ian explained why he was out there, steve just nodded again. Hey no worries, that actually doesnt sound that far off. Im ean.. think maybe its because you cant actually see all the filfth around you?' he offered in explanation, but that probably wasnt it. Hey it was worth a shot.

To be honest Steve was surprised by the compliment. He wasnt expecting it at all. One minute they were talking about ferrets and being outside and then BAM! Steve tilted his head ever so slightly, looking at him and then grinned. thanks he said. I ... never really noticed my own eyes much. Then again I dont really look into mirrors much. he shrugged. Steve stopped doing that when he was really young and only saw a mess staring back at him. Bloodshot eyes, dark circles under them and marks over his arms and chest and abdomen. He hated seeing it so he stopped looking.

Steven grunted and shook his head. Dont say stuff like that. he said then reached out and grabbed his arm, taking him over to one of the lamps for a better look he used the hand hed grabbed his arm with to hook a finger under his chin and lift it up towards the lights. Dude.. blue eyes are never boring. They always have this... way about them. They are the most sought after color. Not everyone, unless they were born with them which isnt many either, can even wear blue contacts cause usually their eyes are too dark for it to look right. he turned his head a bit to the side then the other side and then grinned.

You're eyes are amazing. he said. And of course you cant see the sparkle in you're own eyes. Even if you talked to yourself inthe mirror it wouldnt be there. You're body knows when you're doing something and its only when you're unaware that you do it. When you talk about Roscoe... I see it he said. And Im not just B.S.'ing you because you complimented me. I say it like it is... thats just how i am. he assured him. Seriously.. you've got really pretty.. like fucking intensely blue eyes. The color... you know. he shrugged dropping his hand form him.</sup>

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

Ian shook his head when he wsa asked whether or not he had seen the movie Baby Geniuses. He hadn't seen that movie. As a kid Ian didn't watch too much tv or movies. He hadn't had the luxery even after his parents passed away. But Ian had never been too worried about it. He liked to paint and that was what filled in that time instead. But Ian listened as the general idea was explained to him By the time the end of the thought line was reached Ian was smiling. That was one way to think about it. Ian wasn't sure he followed completely. He had gotten thrown off at the mention of elves. Ian was curious as to whether or not elves really did have that ability. It would make sense, right? For most of them to have the ability to speak with animals? Ian thought it sounded perfectly fine to him.

With a fake pout Ian nodded, "I totally feel left out." He was joking, but whatever. Ian laughed as Steven ran his hand over his hair, "Aw, thanks for the offer, but Roscoe might get a little territorial if I try and perch on the other shoulder. He's totally an attention whore." Ian shook his head, "Nope, he wasn't so lucky as to have those removed. I just give him VERY frequent baths." Bath time with Roscoe was always fun considering the ferret was slightly terrified of water. Ian would have figured that Roscoe would have gotten used to the idea of water after so many years of getting bathed, but no. It was like Roscoe was a spoiled little kid that Ian had to constantly coax into the bath.

When Steven offered his explanation for Ian's explanation he nodded, "That makes sense, I think I'll go with that." Ian said with a nod. Ian understood what Steven said about not really noticing his eyes. Before he knew it he was being toward a lamp and having his chin lifted. Ian winced slightly at first, allowing his eyes to adjust to the light. He was really surprised at how forward Steven was being with him. Ian didn't think he could top all the compliments that he was being given in that one moment. He really didn't know what to think. No one had ever said such nice things about him without it being a load of bull shit. It felt nice to finally get real compliments. For a moment Ian remained silent, trying to think of something to say....anything.

As Steven removed his hand Ian leveled his head. "I--" Ian started, "Um, thanks." He was still struggling to find the right words. "I have to say... I'm glad you are the way you are, then. No one has ever said anyhting like that to me before." His parents had told him a couple of times that he 'was as God had made him and that would always be perfect'. But Ian had never been so sure of that as a kid. Having some reassurance was always nice. Steven made it sound like his eyes were the greatest thing in the world. For a moment the blue in his eyes darkened at the memories playing through his head. Ian would really have to learn how to tune some of that stuff out. Ian finally smiled, "You have a nice way with words."

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>When Ian shook his head Steven shook his own as well. For shame! its a cute movie.. I mean.. you know he gave him a look and coughed before making a manly guesture of beating his fist on his chest. He then broke out into a grin followed by a light laugh that was probably more of a giggle. ah.. yeah.. hey.. I cuddle kittens and most all baby animals, I watch cartoons and stupid little shows like baby geniuses or Wall-E, but no one can call me a chick because I still have a dick between my legs and by god do I know how to fucking use it. Steve said HuzzaH! he smirked and laughed a bit.

Ah well.. we cant have that. he said as he explained that roscoe was territorial. I think he likes it up there. he smirked stroking his fur softly again. Steve got a mental image of Ian giving roscoe a bath and he could see the poor drenched thing and it was such an adorable image he let out an aww without realizing it.

Well I never actually thought about it, but you know when you had said that... I couldnt help agree, but I mean its the same air during the night as it is during the day. Its just.. its darker which makes me feel like its lighter. I feel like the sun.. no only shows us the pollution but its warm and makes it feel heavy where dark cool things just seem... lighter. he shrugged. Dunno. It was a shot.

Steve gave him a surprised look. Seriously?? No one? he shook his head. Im honestly surprised. You have such he stopped and rubbed his chin. Like um.. d ont take this wierd but Your kind of pretty.. he said. I think its the hair and the way it contrasts so deeply with your complextion. That mixed with your eyes and the way your lips are shaped.. he shrugged again. Well hell... I know you're a dude, but you can be a pretty dude. Fuck Ive had girls tell me my eyebrows are pretty... and thats wierd so .. yeah maybe thatll make you feel better about it if you're weirded out by it.

Steven had to laugh when he told him he had a way with words. hah.. thats the first. I dont know. You know how people have class and are graceful with words. yeah.. Im not so much. Kind of brash at times, but hey ill take it... why not? he shrugged and grinned. Thanks</sup>

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

Ian couldn't help but laugh. He liked how the guy was completely honest about everything. Not many guys would admit that they watched those kinds of things. Actually, Ian could relate. "Hey, I don't blame you. I'm a hardcore Disney fan." He said with a grin. Disney was another thing Ian wouldn't let go of. He always felt like a little kid again when he watched a Disney movie. "I'd have to admit, The Lion King is my favorite movie." Whatever happened to people being able to like what they wanted to like and whatever? Ian didn't like the people controlling what he felt secure about watching. That didn't seem right to him. He didn't want to be controlled by anyone's thoughts other than his own. Ian knew that he was safe that way at least. He never had to worry about someone influencing his beliefs because he was already so firmly set in them.

Roscoe really did seem to enjoy the random petting, which made Ian happy. "I think he does." Ian answered with a warm smile. "He'd probably pull your hair if he didn't." Little Roscoe had a way with telling people he was unhappy with the situation. It was the same reason Ian tended up with holes chewed through everything that was left lying on Roscoe's little bed. Ian had lost some good paintings that way. Sometime he would run out of room to let things dry and would have to cover up Roscoe's bed. But lately Ian had taken to secretly paining his dorm wall. That way he didn't have to worry about getting Roscoe upset about anything or having some good canvas wasted. Sometimes living with Roscoe could get complicated, but Ian wouldn't trade it for the world.

"It was a good shot." Ian said with a nod. "Don't know that I could have come up with a better reason that quickly." He wrinkled his nose. Ian could probably paint his reason any day, but saying it? That would take some practice? He wasn't very good at communicating with words, which had never really troubled him all that much. Ian was better at painting his feelings on a cnavas rather than outright saying them.

Ian nodded, "Seriously," He answered softly before Steven proceeded to tell him tht he was pretty. It didn't seem weird to him at all. Ian was just glad that Steven thought he was pretty. In a way pretty seemed better than sexy or good looking... it seemed more respectful to Ian. He enjoyed that aspect. All of the things that Steven mentioned had never occurred to Ian. Of course, he wasn't the kind of person that would stare in a mirror until he complimented his own appearance 24/7. That wasn't how Ian rolled. When Steven mentioned the girls saying his eyebrows were pretty Ian had to laugh. "Aww, and that's so what I was about to tell you." he added with a laugh.

"Psh, brash is way more than I usually do. I'm, well, er." He paused, trying to think of a good way to put it. "Words aren't my style. Usually. Sometimes I like words." He glanced away in thought, "Most the time I LIKE words... I just don't really say anything too... gah, I don't know." Ian shrugged, shaking his head. "I'm a painter by nature. Ask me to paint my feelings any day and I'll do it. Ask me to say them and I choke."

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>Hey.. really anybody that denies any kind of secret love for disney is obviously lying. It goes right along with the guys that claim they get porn for the articles" he smirked with a roll of his eyes.Ah.. nice choice. Though i have to be honest, going all classic and all, that my fav would have to be The Little mermaid. Because seriously... Sebastion is a trip. he nodded. Plus I mean its also the home of one of the most awsome songs... Under the sea... he gave a thumbs up and another nod. Am I not right? he laughed lightly.

Steven grinned. Well I guess it wouldnt be the first time he said with a little snicker and winked at Ian before turning back to Roscoe. Like seriously... this little guy is one of the coolest Ive ever seen. And he likes me.... well so far. he shrugs. Gotta be careful... I might ferretnap him. ... Well just for a little bit. Ill have him stow away in my pocket, then youd have to come look for him. He could be your prize once you figure out where Im at. he ran his hand down its long slender back and then its tail. . For beady eyes they are one of the few animals that can pull them off as freakin' adorable"

Steve snorted. Aww... gee. he said with a little bit of sarcasm. Girls aint got nothing on these things. he rolled his eyes a bit as he referred to his eyebrows. It was weird how 'nice' of eyebrows he had, kind of annoying, it seemed one of the main things girls at school would comment on. They even asked him if he waxed. Like hell he would do that... insane! Hed just tell them it was all natural that he was born with them. Though his eyebrows werent always the main focuse, usually it was his eyes or his lips which usually ran into his smile. Well whatever floats their boats, steves not going to complain.

Steven nodded as he listened to him try to explain how he was. He gave him a small shrug. [b}Well think of it this way. Would you rather listen to someone go on and on, in only something you can listen to that may or may not even portray how they truly feel about something... not even in tone, or would you rather look at something. Get the feelings that were in it to jump at you... make you feel what they were feeling. Interpret it all.</sup>

[/b] steven shrugged. I dunno I like looking at pretty things. he said a wicked glint in his eyes as well as the turn of his lips as he said that. So.. Really I think looking at a painting or yeah.. well.. works just as well if not better. Cause... its more intersting and its pleaseing to look at. he gave another nod as he darted his tongue out over his lip piercing and brought it in before pushing it back out again. He always played with his peircings. Sometimes if hes just sitting there he'll randomly tug on his nose ring or his lip ring, depending on whichever one he grabs first.

Are you the kind of person that... doesnt like to actually say something because you dont know how its going to go over amongst the person you're talking to? he asked. Like.. you know what I mean? he quirked one of his brows he was genuinely curious and also trying to possibly figure something out.[/sup][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

Ian nodded with a smile, "Little Mermaid is definitely my second favorite." He agreed. There were a number of movies that Ian loved too much. His top three, though, were Lion King, Little Mermaid, then Aladdin. For some reason Disney appealed to Ian a lot more than most movies did. He could relate to most of the characters, and he was pretty sure that he loved disney for that reason. Relating to thing was important to Ian. He thrived of relating to things. Being an artist he had to relate to his world in different ways all the time. It was all part of the game of life for Ian. Everything must relate in some way or another. That was just how his game of life was played. If there were ever one thing that just didn't connect right, then he couldn't picture it.

Steven's talk of ferretnaping caused Ian to lift an eyebrow. "I don't know." He said with a laugh, "Roscoe and I are pretty well connected." Ian pointed to his head, "We've got this freaky pet/owner thing going on." His blue eyes fell on Roscoe, who seemed preoccupied with playing with Steven's hair. Ian always liked to see Roscoe take to someone quickly. Roscoe, even upon meeting Ian's best friend, had acted a little cold and stand off-ish. But Ian was sure that ferrets could mature like human beings. He figured that Roscoe had grown out of that stage where he would act all distant. Roscoe seemed to enjoy the long stroke down his back. Seeing Roscoe happy made Ian happy. He was that connected to his little ferret friend.

The guy did have nice eyebrows, but that wasn't something Ian usually pointed out on people, though. He tended to over look physical aspects. Ian saw people on different planes. He searched for personality rather than looks. Again, that probably stemmed a lot from being an artist. "I see what you mean. It's easier for me to look at something. My dad always used to tell me that art was pesonal. It's an opinion that can't be disputed." Ian shrugged, "I believe him." Ian knew his dad had been an awesome painter when he was still alive. It was where Ian learned most of his stuff from. Sometimes Ian wanted to learn more and more, but most of the time Ian was satisfied just knowing what his father taught him and expirementing with the rest.

Ian shrugged, "I like to talk to people... it just doesn't come out right a lot of times." He said with a smile. "But a lot of times I do find myself wondering if the people i'm talking to REALLY know what I mean." Ian could show it on a cnavas any day of the week, but just talking? He had some trouble with. Sometime he could awkwardly pause or anything and it would be taken the wrong way. Ian didn't like it when people misunderstood him. He focused his blue eyes on Steven, "Do you think that's a bad thing?" He asked. Ian wouldn't be offended if Steven did. He would just take it into consideration.

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>He nodded. Right.. I mean like.. you know Under the sea could totally be remade as a real song.. not just a disney song. Like.. seriously its so... like reggae.' he started to hum it. I could totally picture it now.. he closed his eyes and started to kind of make the sounds. Yeah.. definitly. he turned to him. Hey... we should so do that sometime.. he smirked. It be like... awsome.

Steven smirked. ' You would ... wouldnt you he teased as he said they had a connection. Should work on the whole telepathy thing. Hey that would be wicked. he said. take the act on the road you know. he grinned with anod I could go on as your manager or something, make tv appearences and stuff for you and manage all that stuff. Youd be a hit! Imean how could you not, people buy that bullshit you know. Like the dog whisperer and... who ever the hell that guy was that could talk to the dead. Whatever.. i mean you could like talk to your ferret and your ferret could talk to oter animals and you could help people. Seriously that shit gets eaten right up. steven grinned feeling that the ferret was now playing with his hair and he didnt mind it at all.

Steven considered what he said then nodded [b}Dad sounds like a smart man</sup>

[/b] he said. So... you're dad, was he an artist too or just really in tune to you? he asked. Not a lot of parents understand their kids... so he shrugged. It sounds like he knew how to put things for you to understand.

Seriously.. i know how you feel. I dont always get things out like they should. Ive offended people so many times because they dont get that I dont get how to talk to them. he shrugged or more like say stuff anyway. But really cant be too touchy cause it seems theres more and more people out there that just fail at talking... you know. he played with Roscoes tail a little bit. I dont know if people ever know what people truly mean. Its just some actually ask people to clarify while others take what they can and follow in the blanks.. or just miscontsrue everything and dont ask to see if they are right or not. It doesnt matter I mean you know... thats just how it works. steven flicked his bangs from his face, though they fell back into his forhead a little bit, but thankfully not in his eyes like they had been.

No.. not really. You are what you are no matter what. Though I mean I just think if you dont say something because you're afraid and are just always out to please people and cater to them then how is anyone going to know who you really are. People base opinions on you whether you show them your true colors or not and sometimes you can be a nice person and still get shit... know what I mean.? he asked. He probably sounded like he was just gibbering but.. he hoped that ian got what he was saying[/sup][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[IAN ACKART]

TAKE THAT LOOK FROM OFF YOUR FACE
you ain't ever gonna burn my heart out

[/color][/center]

Ian laughed, "Music isn't my specialty." He admitted with a smile, "But I know a guy at St. John's that would probably be glad to help you with that. Everytime I see the guy he's carrying around his guitar. I think his name is Peter Walker." Ian shrugged. He hadn't really been all that involved with Peter walker after the whole chat session thing when Jasper nearly virtually ripped the poor guy's head off. The good news was that Peter seemed to be able to handle Jasper and his moodines. "Seriously, though, if you really want to do that he'd be the one to go to." Ian didn't want to sound like he was completely pawing the guy off though, so he added, "I could design the album cover when you guys make it big."

The connection he had with Roscoe had never occurred to him to be something he could make money off of. It was an interesting thought, but Ian would never explot Roscoe like that. Ian could only imagine how demeaning it would be for the animal to have to go through with all of that just for publicity and money. "Hah, sadly, I don't think our ratings could keep up with Meercat Manor." Ian said, turning his eyes to his furry friend. "Besides, I don't picture Roscoe finding that life appealing...or maybe I just wouldn't find that appealing." Ian really didn't think he could handle being in the spotlight. He wasn't used to getting too much attention that wasn't from Kennedy or Jasper. And that was only because they were his friends.

Ian nodded in response to Steven's question. "Yeah," he answered, "My dad was an amazing artist...taught me a lot of the basics." He said, smiling at some of the fond memories. Ian missed his family a lot. It sucked not having them around for so long. "He was full of those kinds of nuggets of wisdom. My mom would always smile and say he hung out with too many idealists." Ian never doubted that was true. "I think I'm one of the few kids at St. John's that actually loved my parents. Then again, most of the people at St. John's are there because of their parents. Mine were great, though." He needed to shut his mouth or he would seriously start crying. Ian didn't want to get so emotional in front of a guy he had just met. That wouldn't be very smart.

Ian nodded in agreement, "Yeah, I know that's how it works, just... sometimes I wish it wasn't, you know?" He drew in a deep breath, "I just, I uh... well, I know that words are powerful, but there's so much more than words. Like, um, I could say the word love... but it's all in how it's said, right?" Ian ran a hand through his hair, "What's it called? Connotation? Like if I were to say love softly, with a smile," he smiled for effect, "then people are more likely to think of 'true' love. But if I were to say love in a less personal tone, but still smiling...someone would probably just take it in a way that I love a movie or love a book." Ian shrugged, "Words are, um, well... confusing. There's so many ways one word can be said."

Taking what Steven said he looked to the ground. "I get what you're saying, totally. I'm probably not the best at showing people my true colors." He said softly, "To be honest... I've thought a lot about that... about being myself in front of people. I want to. The msot prevailing thought in the back of my mind is that I want the people closest to me to remember me exactly for who I REALLY am when I die."

[STEVEN PARKER]

<sup>"Oh.. sorry bud. I tend to forget that you know... not everyones life mingles with music. he shrugged and then titlted his head trying to place the name hed given him but was pretty sure hed never run into the guy before. heh.. alright.. ill have to like.. find out who he is and pounce his ass. he smirked. Then again that route usually makes people less inclined to do what you suggest, so.. maybe Ill just you know like ... approach him in a humanly fashion. he grinned. Seriously... I so want to do it, and hey if you think hed totally do it then.. thats awsome. Stevens grin widened. sweet, so .. not only do i have a musical partner prospect, but... a Cover artist.. this night is definitly looking up. he nodded again.

Meercat Manor... yeah.. he shrugged. Tough crowd, that is a pretty well liked show. Seriously.. Meercats are awsome... Like prarie dogs... somewhat.. but not really well okay yeah maybe a little. he flicked his tongue at his lip ring again a couple times, playing with it. Well hey.. he said. thats understandable. Shows your respect for the little guy he said and then rubbed under roscos chin. You got a good guy takin' care o' you he said with a grin.

Thats cool. So like.. was artistry your passion or was it something you were good at that you took on because you know... to be close to your dad and all that jazz. he shrugged. sorry that question isnt meant to be offending, I was just curious. You know Some people they do things for weird reasons, not that it would be weird you would do that for your dad, just.. you know.. well whatever you know he waved his hand to dismiss his lack of explanation. But really what made you become an artist? he said actually wanting to know.

Steven nodded a bit as he explained, sort of, that his parents werent the reason for him being there. THere was a sadness he detected in his voice, but he didnt ask him what happened. There were several things he could come up with and he wasnt about to ask to confirm any of them. Peoples pasts were touchy and if he wanted to talk about it, he would, but he wasnt going to bring him into any kind of past flashback any more then he was by having asked that last question.

Steven nodded almost enthusiastically as Ian explained about the different ways to say something that would make people take it in to different meanings.. That is seriously... true he nodded. Not a lot of people actually think like that. he settled a hand on his shoulder patting it a bit before giving it a small squeeze. You are wize young grasshopper. he said in one of those voices you would hear from the master from Kung Fu or something. Its how people really can blind side others. They know exactly how to say shit and make them believe. Con artists man.. actually that would be an awsome job. Not to be cocky or anything, but I could definitly be a con artist. Dickish Carrer but really. If you take all of the con movies, the ones .. the best ones that come to mind.. Catch me if you can and all the Oceans movies then how can you not find that life... exciting to the point of wanting to try it out even with all the danger and heart ache and lonlieness at times, and... and.. well trouble. Nothing worth it comes easy... even for illegal activities... like robbing a bank or something of the sort.

You know... if you think about it. what would it be like to be everything you are and also everything you arent. The worlds a stage and even the most real person isnt entirely. ITs just what you choose to do how you choose to be if its what you really want to be. Thats it. Go out with a bang but make sure you are satisfied and happy doing it. Itd be pretty shitty if you acted like something you werent even happy about being and ended up dying that way. Your true colors as long as you let those out, then you know... if someone doesnt like it, then really liek they say... fuck them right? he grinned and shrugged. Well you know something like that.</sup>