Fic: Like A Satellite Trapped In Orbit (Around You) (12/18)
Media: Fic
Title: Like A Satellite Trapped In Orbit (Around You) (12/18)
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: Overall angst
Word Count: ~1,500
Summary: Continuation to Gravity Thou Art A Heartless Bitch. Since Darren ended their relationship, Chris has been trying desperately to move on. But it’s not that easy. For either of them.
26th June 2013
Darren Criss
Guess where I’m going to be in two days time?!
Chris Colfer
Hmm... let me think. Could it be LA per chance?
Darren Criss
Gold Star for you! And guess what else?
Chris Colfer
I can’t possibly imagine
Darren Criss
I’m doing a show aaaand I have a spare ticket.
Chris Colfer
That’s nice.
Darren Criss
Chriiiis :(
Chris laughs because he can hear the exact whining tone that Darren uses when Chris is being deliberately difficult.
Darren Criss
It’s VIP *waves it temptingly*
Chris Colfer
Well I AM a very important person. I guess I could come yeah. Time, place?
Darren Criss
xD Riot Rooms. 7pm.
Chris Colfer
Cool. I guess I’ll see you there?
Darren Criss
Of course. Although now I have to admit something. I lied about the ticket Chris. There is no actual ticket. Just come to the door, and tell the bouncers your name. They’ll let you in.
Chris Colfer
I don’t know that I can be seen to be consorting with a liar. But I suppose I’ll make an exception. For you.
*
28th June 2013
Chris is pacing, he’ll admit it. He has hours until he even has to think about getting ready but all he finds himself doing is walking from one end of his apartment to the other, occasionally casting anxious glances at the clock. He feels nervous, really nervous and also a bit stupid. It’s still Darren, the person he could spend a whole night talking too without getting bored, the person who understood him better than anyone and the person who he had been emailing and texting for weeks without any problems.
He was going along to support his friend, nothing more than that and anything beyond that was a bonus. But he couldn’t allow himself to think that way or he’ll never get out the door.
He’s surprised but pleased when Darren texts him in the early afternoon and they exchange a few teasing texts and negotiate a slightly awkward ‘what time should I arrive?’ conversation which settles on Chris arriving before six so they can grab a drink together before Darren does his set.
Darren Criss
I am really looking forward to this gig
Chris smiles and it’s with his hope in his chest that he replies:
Chris Colfer
Why this one?
Darren Criss
Because you’re coming.
It takes quite a bit of self restraint for Chris to not actually squeal. He’s definitely spent too much time talking to Hannah whose conversation is often half actual words and half fan girl noises. He almost sends back something incredible gushing like I’m looking forward to it. Really looking forward to seeing you but he decides to play it cool instead especially when he realises that he now only has two hours until he has to be there and he hasn’t even showered yet. He can’t help the very slight skip in his step as he goes to shower and the fact that he sings mushy love songs at the top of his voice while he’s in there is just pure coincidence.
After his shower Chris stands in the middle of his room which looks like a clothes hurricane had hit it. What does one wear to a gig of a not quite ex boyfriend that you still want to impress but not really look like you are?
Not a whole fucking lot at the moment and time is ticking on and he still hasn’t decided. He’s still stupidly anxious about seeing Darren despite the texts. They’re always pretty amiable over text and email but somehow actually seeing him face to face seems a lot more daunting prospect, and a lot more exciting one. At that moment his phone lights up with a call.
Finkmeister calling.
This is perfect. Chris answers it eagerly, figuring she will be able to give him the fashion advice he so desperately needs right now.
‘Hey!’ He’s about to launch in when she interrupts.
‘Chris? Are you busy?’
He’s about to say yes when he actually notices the tone of her voice. She sounds like she’s been crying. Ashley has been there for him all year with his whining and moping and he won’t deny her an evening of his company if that’s what she needs. Even if the alternative is Darren. Ashley has been a constant in his life the way that Darren hasn’t and he would feel horribly guilty if he picked him over her now.
‘I’m not busy’ he says. ‘Want me to come over?’
‘Yes please.’
‘Give me ten minutes alright?’
He hangs up and sighs, tapping out a quick message to Darren.
Chris Colfer
I’m really sorry Dare. Something came up. Rain check?
*
It wasn’t until he was at Ashley’s trying to keep up with what Ashley is saying about the boy she is currently seeing, who seems like a major asshole to Chris but then who is he to judge when Alex thought the exact same about Darren, when he realised that his text to Darren could probably be misinterpreted. He hadn’t offered any real explanation, he has been a rush to throw on the closest available clothes and grab some booze and chocolate before dashing over to Ashley’s and he wouldn’t blame Darren for being upset by the last minute ditching.
He waits until there’s a gap in the (rather convoluted) story and then gently interrupts.
‘Let me get you a drink or something Ash. You’ll probably feel better with a bit of wine down you.’
‘That would be nice. Thanks.’
‘No problem’ Chris says, only feeling a little guilty that he is using it as an excuse to slip into the kitchen and text Darren.
Chris Colfer
Quick text while I have a moment. Ashley's going through some stuff at the moment, needed to be the good friend. So, so sorry I couldn't be there tonight - really wanted to come. When are you leaving LA? Can we catch up tomorrow? I have a breakfast meeting but we could do lunch? Again, I am so sorry. C xx
He goes back into the lounge with a bottle of wine and a tub of ice cream, the staples of any cheer up session.
Somehow the conversation goes from specifics to generally whining about men and it’s sort of nice and Chris has missed just chatting to Ashley about life, the universe and everything and he realises that he’s probably been a bit blinkered and selfish this year and Ashley has been nothing short of perfect about the whole thing. He almost wants to apologise for it but he doesn’t want to make this about him so he just smiles and nods and makes all the right noises and tries not to be aware of the fact that Darren still hasn’t texted back.
‘Ugh I think I need to go and have a shower. I’ve been moping too long. Do you mind?’ Ashley asks, already on her feet.
‘Of course not. Go!’ Chris waves her away and she grins and gives him a quick peck on the cheek before leaving the room.
Chris idly channel hops and glances at his watch. Nearly eleven. Surely Darren must be done by now if his stage time was at seven. Five minutes later his eternal plea is answered.
Darren Criss
Hope Ashley's OK, give her a hug from me? And our timing sucks - I'm flying out tomorrow morning. How is it possible we're in the same city at the same time and yet we can't meet up?
Chris bites his lip, feeling the same frustration that he can feel coming from Darren’s text.
Chris Colfer
Maybe the universe is trying to tell us something.
It’s meant as a joke to try and loosen the growing knot of disappointment in his stomach but it’s not until he’s sent it that he realises how bleak that sounds. He scrambles to type something else.
Chris Colfer
By that I mean we need to plan things better.
Darren Criss
Phew. Was a bit worried there.
Chris Colfer
Well apparently I can’t get rid of you
Darren Criss
Is that a good thing or not?
Chris Colfer
Jury’s out.
And ain’t that the truth?
He spends a few more minutes texting Darren who asks if he’s going to be in Chicago at any point soon. Chris can’t really see himself fitting it in around all the meetings he’s having about his new movie but he is sure that Darren will be in LA for the Emmy’s so he says that he’ll see him then.
What makes you so sure?
Darren asks in response to Chris’ positivity that Darren will win the Lead Actor Emmy this year.
Chris Colfer
Because I know you and I know talent. I need to go, Ash is coming back. Have a safe flight. C xx
Chris quickly puts his phone back on his pocket as Ashley comes in, damp from the shower but looking a lot happier.
‘Who were you texting?’ she asks curiously.
‘Just a friend. We’ve managed to find ourselves both in LA without any time to meet up’ he says with a wry smile.
‘Oh how frustrating, being in the same city and not able to see each other!’
‘Yeah’ Chris says quietly, ‘tell me about it.’
*
Darren's POV
Title: Like A Satellite Trapped In Orbit (Around You) (12/18)
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: Overall angst
Word Count: ~1,500
Summary: Continuation to Gravity Thou Art A Heartless Bitch. Since Darren ended their relationship, Chris has been trying desperately to move on. But it’s not that easy. For either of them.
26th June 2013
Darren Criss
Guess where I’m going to be in two days time?!
Chris Colfer
Hmm... let me think. Could it be LA per chance?
Darren Criss
Gold Star for you! And guess what else?
Chris Colfer
I can’t possibly imagine
Darren Criss
I’m doing a show aaaand I have a spare ticket.
Chris Colfer
That’s nice.
Darren Criss
Chriiiis :(
Chris laughs because he can hear the exact whining tone that Darren uses when Chris is being deliberately difficult.
Darren Criss
It’s VIP *waves it temptingly*
Chris Colfer
Well I AM a very important person. I guess I could come yeah. Time, place?
Darren Criss
xD Riot Rooms. 7pm.
Chris Colfer
Cool. I guess I’ll see you there?
Darren Criss
Of course. Although now I have to admit something. I lied about the ticket Chris. There is no actual ticket. Just come to the door, and tell the bouncers your name. They’ll let you in.
Chris Colfer
I don’t know that I can be seen to be consorting with a liar. But I suppose I’ll make an exception. For you.
*
28th June 2013
Chris is pacing, he’ll admit it. He has hours until he even has to think about getting ready but all he finds himself doing is walking from one end of his apartment to the other, occasionally casting anxious glances at the clock. He feels nervous, really nervous and also a bit stupid. It’s still Darren, the person he could spend a whole night talking too without getting bored, the person who understood him better than anyone and the person who he had been emailing and texting for weeks without any problems.
He was going along to support his friend, nothing more than that and anything beyond that was a bonus. But he couldn’t allow himself to think that way or he’ll never get out the door.
He’s surprised but pleased when Darren texts him in the early afternoon and they exchange a few teasing texts and negotiate a slightly awkward ‘what time should I arrive?’ conversation which settles on Chris arriving before six so they can grab a drink together before Darren does his set.
Darren Criss
I am really looking forward to this gig
Chris smiles and it’s with his hope in his chest that he replies:
Chris Colfer
Why this one?
Darren Criss
Because you’re coming.
It takes quite a bit of self restraint for Chris to not actually squeal. He’s definitely spent too much time talking to Hannah whose conversation is often half actual words and half fan girl noises. He almost sends back something incredible gushing like I’m looking forward to it. Really looking forward to seeing you but he decides to play it cool instead especially when he realises that he now only has two hours until he has to be there and he hasn’t even showered yet. He can’t help the very slight skip in his step as he goes to shower and the fact that he sings mushy love songs at the top of his voice while he’s in there is just pure coincidence.
After his shower Chris stands in the middle of his room which looks like a clothes hurricane had hit it. What does one wear to a gig of a not quite ex boyfriend that you still want to impress but not really look like you are?
Not a whole fucking lot at the moment and time is ticking on and he still hasn’t decided. He’s still stupidly anxious about seeing Darren despite the texts. They’re always pretty amiable over text and email but somehow actually seeing him face to face seems a lot more daunting prospect, and a lot more exciting one. At that moment his phone lights up with a call.
Finkmeister calling.
This is perfect. Chris answers it eagerly, figuring she will be able to give him the fashion advice he so desperately needs right now.
‘Hey!’ He’s about to launch in when she interrupts.
‘Chris? Are you busy?’
He’s about to say yes when he actually notices the tone of her voice. She sounds like she’s been crying. Ashley has been there for him all year with his whining and moping and he won’t deny her an evening of his company if that’s what she needs. Even if the alternative is Darren. Ashley has been a constant in his life the way that Darren hasn’t and he would feel horribly guilty if he picked him over her now.
‘I’m not busy’ he says. ‘Want me to come over?’
‘Yes please.’
‘Give me ten minutes alright?’
He hangs up and sighs, tapping out a quick message to Darren.
Chris Colfer
I’m really sorry Dare. Something came up. Rain check?
*
It wasn’t until he was at Ashley’s trying to keep up with what Ashley is saying about the boy she is currently seeing, who seems like a major asshole to Chris but then who is he to judge when Alex thought the exact same about Darren, when he realised that his text to Darren could probably be misinterpreted. He hadn’t offered any real explanation, he has been a rush to throw on the closest available clothes and grab some booze and chocolate before dashing over to Ashley’s and he wouldn’t blame Darren for being upset by the last minute ditching.
He waits until there’s a gap in the (rather convoluted) story and then gently interrupts.
‘Let me get you a drink or something Ash. You’ll probably feel better with a bit of wine down you.’
‘That would be nice. Thanks.’
‘No problem’ Chris says, only feeling a little guilty that he is using it as an excuse to slip into the kitchen and text Darren.
Chris Colfer
Quick text while I have a moment. Ashley's going through some stuff at the moment, needed to be the good friend. So, so sorry I couldn't be there tonight - really wanted to come. When are you leaving LA? Can we catch up tomorrow? I have a breakfast meeting but we could do lunch? Again, I am so sorry. C xx
He goes back into the lounge with a bottle of wine and a tub of ice cream, the staples of any cheer up session.
Somehow the conversation goes from specifics to generally whining about men and it’s sort of nice and Chris has missed just chatting to Ashley about life, the universe and everything and he realises that he’s probably been a bit blinkered and selfish this year and Ashley has been nothing short of perfect about the whole thing. He almost wants to apologise for it but he doesn’t want to make this about him so he just smiles and nods and makes all the right noises and tries not to be aware of the fact that Darren still hasn’t texted back.
‘Ugh I think I need to go and have a shower. I’ve been moping too long. Do you mind?’ Ashley asks, already on her feet.
‘Of course not. Go!’ Chris waves her away and she grins and gives him a quick peck on the cheek before leaving the room.
Chris idly channel hops and glances at his watch. Nearly eleven. Surely Darren must be done by now if his stage time was at seven. Five minutes later his eternal plea is answered.
Darren Criss
Hope Ashley's OK, give her a hug from me? And our timing sucks - I'm flying out tomorrow morning. How is it possible we're in the same city at the same time and yet we can't meet up?
Chris bites his lip, feeling the same frustration that he can feel coming from Darren’s text.
Chris Colfer
Maybe the universe is trying to tell us something.
It’s meant as a joke to try and loosen the growing knot of disappointment in his stomach but it’s not until he’s sent it that he realises how bleak that sounds. He scrambles to type something else.
Chris Colfer
By that I mean we need to plan things better.
Darren Criss
Phew. Was a bit worried there.
Chris Colfer
Well apparently I can’t get rid of you
Darren Criss
Is that a good thing or not?
Chris Colfer
Jury’s out.
And ain’t that the truth?
He spends a few more minutes texting Darren who asks if he’s going to be in Chicago at any point soon. Chris can’t really see himself fitting it in around all the meetings he’s having about his new movie but he is sure that Darren will be in LA for the Emmy’s so he says that he’ll see him then.
What makes you so sure?
Darren asks in response to Chris’ positivity that Darren will win the Lead Actor Emmy this year.
Chris Colfer
Because I know you and I know talent. I need to go, Ash is coming back. Have a safe flight. C xx
Chris quickly puts his phone back on his pocket as Ashley comes in, damp from the shower but looking a lot happier.
‘Who were you texting?’ she asks curiously.
‘Just a friend. We’ve managed to find ourselves both in LA without any time to meet up’ he says with a wry smile.
‘Oh how frustrating, being in the same city and not able to see each other!’
‘Yeah’ Chris says quietly, ‘tell me about it.’
*
Darren's POV