RP LOG with supermarketsam | Returning favours
[Contains spoilers for Friday Night Lights Season 4, especially in relation to Matt's exit]
Leaving Dillon.
It should have been an easy decision to make, but Matt learned long ago no decision he was faced with was ever easy. His life was meant to be hard. Maybe this was the first time since he could remember that it really just wasn't difficult? Leaving high school, finishing his semi-successful run with the Panthers which at least saw him win a State Championship, once it was all over and he gave up his chance of doing art at college to take care of his grandma so she didn't have to go into a home, there seemed to be little to nothing. He ended up delivering pizzas, and he had Julie. Julie was a shining light in his otherwise dreary post-high school life. He had convinced himself he could be satisfied in Dillon because he had to be. There wasn't any other option, if he didn't stay, Grandma went to a home and Matt just couldn't live with that.
And then the news came. His father was dead. Killed in Iraq. Matt's greatest fear, even if he harboured deep-seated confusion and hatred over the situation. But it was over with now, and Matt needed a clean slate. An insurance payout meant his Grandma and his Mom would be fine without him. If he stayed in Dillon any longer, it would kill him. He loved Julie, and a part of him probably always would, but it was over now. She was part of that portion of his life that came with nothing but pain and loss. Strangely enough, it had been Tim Riggins who had come through when he most needed it. Matt found a support in his ex-teammate that he would never have anticipated could have been there. At the end of the day, Matt didn't really know exactly what it was that helped him make the decision to walk away from Dillon. He just knew he had to.
One last favour, though. Tim pulled up in his drive a couple of days earlier with a small wrapped package. Somehow, this Riggins, usually known to be quite thick, had deduced Matt's days in Dillon were drawing to an end. He asked if his one-time Quarterback would mind doing a favour for the only other Quarterback Tim would ever have endless respect for.
Jason Street.
Matt, faintly amused, wondered if the wrapped package was drugs and joked about the fact with Riggins. Some typical mate-type banter passed between them until Tim finally revealed it was the engagement ring Jason had given Taylor MacKenzie before the tragic accident a few months go that saw the young policewoman quit Dillon herself. Matt didn't ask why Tim had it, but it was clearly important that he did. Jason needed the ring back, he needed Mac back, and if Matt didn't mind taking a bit of a detour through Austin to drop it off. Matt hadn't seen Jason in awhile, and it might be a little odd, but Jason was the reason Matt succeeded as his successor. He would always owe him something. Which is what had Matt driving through the streets of Austin, Texas, for the second time in a week. The concert with Julie was only laying somewhere in the back of his mind. Maybe they should have dropped in on the Dillon crowd who had recently uprooted to Austin, but Matt's head hadn't been in the right place. This was his chance to rectify it, even if just to say goodbye. It was beside the point that he didn't actually know what his destination was yet. It didn't seem to matter so much, just so long as he wasn't in Dillon.
He checked the messily scrawled address he had written on the inside of his forearm and nodded as he pulled his Taurus up in front of the modest looking house. It had been snowing, but most of it had melted now. The package was tucked securely in his jacket pocket and he double-checked it was there before ringing the doorbell. He hoped someone was home. He couldn't see Six's truck parked anywhere, so maybe he wasn't. If not, he would just leave the item in the letterbox and continue on his way. He stamped some of the snow off his boots and gave himself a little shake to keep the circulation in the chill. This was a little bit of an odd situation, if nothing else.
Sam had yet to tell anyone in the house what had been going on with her. Between Mac coming to stay, and Tyra and Silas making the house Christmassy, she'd just kept her mouth shut. She left the house in the early hours of the morning, and usually didn't return until dinner time. She'd found a job in a supermarket, apparently never destined to break free from that industry. Only this time she wasn't working the service area, she was in a deli section and she was in charge. She was going crazy trying to find her feet, and keep it running, and since she now had her very own department she was putting in most of her long hours for free because she wasn't having her name attached to anything that sucked.
She stifled a yawn as she shuffled out of her bedroom, today her first day off after working six days straight. She was dressed in boxers, a tank top and an old jumper she wore to bed when it was cold. She rubbed her face as she stifled a yawn, and tried to comb her blonde hair into something presentable as she pulled the door open. It took Sam a moment to recognise Matt Saracen, and she gave him a sleepy smile. "Ya know, not so long ago I was thinkin' 'bout openin' the door to ya, but I was naked, and ya were deliverin' pizza."
At any other time besides a few days after burying his father, Matt probably would have found the joke amusing. The pizza delivery was a sensitive spot, though, and he just couldn't find the humour in it. "Yeah, um," he began and cleared his throat, pointing behind him with his thumb. Her appearance wasn't lost on him, and it looked like he was maybe interrupting something. "I was just passin' through an' I gotta drop somethin' off t'Street. Glad I got the right place an' all. Sorry t'bother ya' if ya' were busy, it's just..." He paused, clearing his throat. "Is Street home?"
Sam hadn't heard about Matt's dad, but she could see her joke had fallen flat, and switched gears. Matt had always been a nice guy, so the last thing she wanted was to make him uncomfortable. Sam opened up the screen door and gave Matt another soft smile. "C'mon in, Saracen. Better than freezin' both our asses off. And I ain't busy. Just sleepin' in late. Kinda ain't in the mood to do much of anythin' now that I got a day off. I ain't seen Jason all day, but then I ain't seen anythin' that ain't the inside of my eyelids, so..." She shrugged with one shoulder, and when Matt didn't seem to move off the porch, she reached out to tug him inside, starting to feel the cold air against her legs. "Ya can wait around. Let me make some coffee."
Matt did eventually follow her further into the house and scratched his head. "I could always just leave it with ya'," he suggested, not sure what he was actually supposed to do. Plus, it was getting late and he had already driven five or so hours from Dillon. He should maybe think about getting a hotel in Austin for the night before moving on to his next destination. "Then I wouldn't have t'hang 'round and disturb ya' day off or nothin'. Only had t'drop it off."
"Has anyone ever told ya ya can be too polite for ya own good?" Sam asked as she tilted her head. "It's fine, Matt. I'd like to hang out with ya for a bit. Ya can even stay here if ya want. We can find a spot for ya here somewhere. There's like five of us now. Ya can even crash in my room. Or on the couch. Don't ya just wanna take a load off for a bit? What are ya even doin' here? Austin's a long way to be droppin' somethin' off. Although it seems to be a trend between Tim droppin' Mac off, and ya bein' here t'give somethin' else to J."
Matt looked like he was in two minds for a few moments, but he did eventually take one of the seats at the kitchen table. He didn't realise how tired he was, actually. Maybe everything was just starting to catch up with him. "Oh, nah. It's okay. I'm just gonna get a room somewhere. Ain't needin' nothin' fancy. Just figured I'd come here first 'cause it was kinda important. Still ain't sure why Six ain't got it himself, but I ain't askin' questions. Riggins just..." He looked at her with a small frown and took the package from his pocket holding it up before setting it on the table. "Mac's ring."
Sam's eyes widened as her mouth fell open slightly. "Shit... I didn't even realise he didn't have it. That's... And T had somethin' t'do with ya gettin' it back to J?" Sam frowned as she rubbed her hand against her face again. She still felt groggy, and when she realised she was still standing there like an idiot, she moved to the counter to start getting the coffee ready. It felt like something she was always doing, but these days she needed to be busy with her hands. "Ya hungry? We got some leftovers from last night's dinner. I can heat it up for ya. And ya really don't have t'get a room if ya don't want. I'm sure everyone would love t'see ya. Can't believe it's her ring... I still ain't sure what's goin' on with 'em. The reunion's been, um, interestin'."
The package wasn't wrapped up tight or even neatly. Matt could easily unfold the brown paper and reveal the beautiful diamond ring inside. He held it up for Sam to see. "I only just took Riggs' word. I dunno if it was accurate. Mac's ya' mate, this look like what Six gave her? Riggs only said somethin' 'bout Street chuckin' it away, but figurin' he'd need it back now. I ain't... I, uh, kinda been outta the loop lately. Just tryin' t'do a favour for 'em. They both helped me a lot. Riggs kinda more recently than Street, but I wouldn't have ever stayed on the team if he didn't coach me back then. Just felt like I should help if I could. I didn't even know Mac was here ti' ya' just said. Last I heard she was in New York." He only realised then she had offered him food. "Nah, it's okay. I'm fine. Sounds like ya' got a full house already."
Sam came back over and took the ring off Matt. "Yeah, it's hers. J threw it away once before. Last time I was the one t'pick it up and save it." She sunk down into the chair near Matt's and just kept looking at the ring for a long moment. Tim had done everything in his power to get Mac back to Jason, and to give Jason everything he needed to be happy. She wanted to call him up and talk to him so badly, tell him he did good. She just knew she didn't have the courage. "I've been here, and sometimes I still feel outta the loop. Had my head stuck up my ass for months. And ya know, ya never really gave y'self a chance, Matt. Ya woulda done just fine as QB. I know J did help ya, but ya were a great QB." She reached out to gave his hand a squeeze. "So what's kept ya outta the loop?"
"Maybe third time lucky?" Matt suggested quietly with a small shrug, his light eyes still on the ring in her fingers. "My Dad was killed in Iraq." There wasn't a whole heap he could say to follow up that statement. It wasn't like he was contemplating lying, he just didn't particularly feel like elaborating on it all again. He had exploded in the wake of the news and that was it. Nothing else was going to bring his Dad back, and he didn't want the sympathetic looks anymore. The pity. The poor stupid bastard whose mother walked out when he was a kid and whose father was never there while he was shouldered with caring for his crazy grandma. Matt Saracen in a nutshell. He needed out.
Sam set the ring down, and took Matt's hand in both of hers. She didn't give him a sympathetic look, but she did hold his gaze for a moment. She'd never had a parent die, so she couldn't imagine what it was like. She just knew that it had to get tiring for people to keep hearing others were sorry. "Maybe," she murmured. "Stay here tonight, Matt. Please. We can order Chinese. Ya don't even have to spend time with anyone else if ya don't want. I'll keep ya locked up in my room. It's been ages since I've hidden a boy in my room. Ya just... I don't know. Just seem like ya could use some space, and do ya really think ya gonna get it in a motel where the sheets crunch?"
Matt looked up at her uncertainly, his forehead creasing. "I dunno, Sam. I ain't thought about much of anythin'. Just had t'get out, ya' know? Had the means now, just wanted a clean slate. I know I left Julie, but after next year, she's gonna probably end up at some awesome college well away from Texas and I'll still be stuck there. I mean, I ain't mopin' or nothin'. I dealt with it, best I could. We just... ain't exactly been close mates. Ya' don't have t'feel like ya' need t'offer me a place t'stay. I know it's gotta be hard for people t'really know what t'say when I tell 'em that, but ain't quite come up with an adequate cover story yet."
"Sometimes it ain't about bein' close friends. Sometimes it's just about bein' the person ya need at the time. Every friendship starts somewhere, M. Think of me as ya downtime coach. J got ya in QB shape, I'll just show ya hot to blob." She wet her lips before giving him a small smile. "As for cover story, just tell people ya wanna find the inner you. I'm sure ya know how to spin that as a fledglin' artist. Weren't ya always into that kinda thing? Everyone seems to be growin' apart these days. It's either college, or somethin' else. Guess it's all part of growin' up. Sucks, but it's gotta happen. Havin' said that I've just gone from one supermarket to another. Ain't nothin' changed but goin' from a town to a city."
"M'told change is what ya' make it," Matt pointed out and then pressed his lips together briefly. "That's what I'm tryin' t'do. T'make it. Probably gonna fall flat on m'face. First time I've ever been on m'own completely. Always had m'grandma, she needed t'be looked after 'cause there was no one else. Can kinda see now why y'all left, just didn't wanna think too much 'bout it 'cause I couldn't do the same. I tried, but I didn't want Grandma t'go into a home. Not after everythin' she did for me. She practically raised me my whole life, I owed her. Ain't sure I got an inner me. M'just me."
"Nothin' wrong with that. I kinda like just you," Sam revealed, her smile growing a little. She glanced over at the coffee maker, and got up when she realised there was enough to make two cups. "How do ya take it?" Sam pulled the hems of her boxers down so they didn't ride up completely. She could only imagine what she looked like, but she really couldn't be bothered with getting dressed. She also didn't think she stank. "I can only imagine what it's been like for ya with ya grandma, and I think you're amazin' for copin' with it as long as ya did. You're strong, Matt. Ya can't take this kind thing and not survive like ya have without bein' strong. There also ain't anythin' wrong with wantin' some you time."
Matt scratched at the side of his neck. "Just white. Ain't anythin' much t'stop the guilty feelin', though. Like Riggs said, he ain't ever gonna stop feelin' guilty 'bout Street. Somethin' ya' just gotta live with, an' still live. Grandma will be taken care of just fine. My Mom is there and there's cash now. Insurance payouts, compensation, whatever. Just ain't sure where to even start no more. Thought I wanted t'be an artist once, but it ain't gonna earn me much of a livin'. If I wanna chance in life, I wanna do it right." He tucked the ring back into the paper, slowly and neatly wrapping it back up. he couldn't help but wonder if he would ever find someone he loved so much he wanted to propose to them and start a family with them. The prospect sounded kinda nice, and to be a parent his parents never were for him.
Sam got the milk out, and mixed it into Matt's coffee, but left hers black. She brought the mugs over and took her seat again. "Sometimes a livin' ain't everythin'. When ya become more focused on money and not the things that make ya happy, that's when it goes wrong. Seems a shame to waste all that artistic talent. Ya ain't gonna go t'college, or anythin'? What was it like havin' ya momma back? Do she and ya grandma even know ya gone?"
Matt nodded and just stared down into the coffee mug. "Yeah, I told 'em. Wouldna just up an' left without tellin' 'em an' sayin' goodbye. It was weird havin' her back. Grandma hated it at first, but they seemed to sort out their differences. I wasn't gonna analyse it. I was sick of the tension. An' it ain't got nothin' t'do with not makin' a livin' so much as I ain't got much inspiration these days. No urge for art at all. Just wanna try somethin' different that ain't in Dillon. Just dunno what. Or where. Dunno even where t'start but I'll figure it out."
"Wanna come work for me?" Sam asked as she bumped him lightly. "Ya got time t'work it all out, Matt. Ya only young. Ain't no rush. I still don't know what I'm doin', just kinda move along. I guess it's why I get so shaken when somethin' does change. I get used t'goin' along the same course, but then my landmarks change and I'm lost." She was quiet for a moment. "Is he okay?"
Matt didn't know who she meant at first, until he did managed to put two and two together. "Riggs? Oh. Yeah. He's alright, I guess. Busy. Helped me out when m'Dad died, just support, ya' know? He's just Riggs, ain't a lot changes with him. Workin' at the garage an' helpin' out Coach with the new team, seems t'suit him. Kinda dude who can be satisfied with that. Probably be stuck in Dillon for the rest of his life and be okay with that."
Sam smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah, ya probably right... He's always been happy with the simple life. I'm glad he's okay. Things ain't really been easy for anyone."
"Yeah," Matt replied and curled and uncurled his fingers around the coffee mug. Now he just felt awkward and weird. He didn't know much of the story with that side of things, but hadn't she been the one to accuse Tim of cheating on her? He didn't exactly understand why she was being kinda flat with the whole thing right now, but he wasn't going to question it. Tim had never done anything but be a good mate for him and he didn't want to really get into the personal side of what went down with any of his exes. He also had no clue what else to say to her. Wasn't like he could exactly strike up a conversation about Panthers, probably one thing they had in common. Panthers were shit nowadays. So he just lifted his mug and took a small sip, glancing around nervously.
"I'm sorry," Sam suddenly said. "I didn't meant to... I mentioned my head bein' up my ass, right? Well, sometimes my foot joins it. I ain't been too social lately. Got these crazy work hours so I kinda forget how to talk to people. Kinda funny given how I'm there to service people all day, every day. Feel free to just gimme a slap, or somethin'. Or just gimme a moment for my coffee t'kick in."
Matt shrugged and set the coffee back down on the table. "S'alright. Just sounds like ya' still really hung up on him," he noted. "My fault. I just assumed ya' were movin' on. Ain't ya' fault."
Sam laughed a little. "I'm shit at movin' on. Ain't slept with anyone since him. I really need t'get him outta my system, but I can't even... Goin' out to pick up just seems weird, and I don't even know why. I feel like an old lady, and I ain't even nineteen yet. I really just need a good tumble to get myself into gear. I do miss sex."
Matt raised his eyebrows briefly. "Sure it wouldn't just be a band-aid fix? Sounds like ya' makin' excuses, no offense. Don't think sex is somethin' that just makes ya' suddenly not be hung up on someone no more. Just sayin'," he felt the need to point out.
"Maybe not, but it can be fun. And it can kinda help ya start thinkin' there's somethin' beyond the person ya hung up on. People gotta move on somehow. Ain't like they just stop thinkin' about 'em," she replied with a slight shrug.
Matt shrugged again. "To each his own," he replied. "Think I'd prefer t'actually find someone else to move on with. Dunno, really. Might be fun, but is it fair on the person ya' sleepin' with if ya' still wantin' some other dude? I think I'd rather do the movin' on with dinner an' a movie first. T'find out the girl ain't still wantin' someone else. Julie wanted someone else when I was datin' her. Felt kinda shitty t'be on the receivin' end of that."
Sam held her hands up. "I didn't say I was hung up. I said I ain't had an opportunity t'move on yet. I can't move on if no one gives me a chance. I was just askin' how he was is all." Sam sighed as she ran her fingers through her hair. "I don't still want him. I know it's over. Just gotta get started. Just the idea of bein' with someone I already know is easier than the idea of hittin' on some random stranger. Only it ain't like J's an option, and I'd be riskin' my life tryin' somethin' on Tyra's guy. I ain't that kinda girl anyway."
Matt slowly scratched at the back of his neck and then tried to stifle a smile that threatened on his lips, but he couldn't. He just laughed softly and then held up his hand. "Sorry. I ain't laughin' at ya'. More just amused at the situation, which probably sounds real crap of me. Been awhile. Ya' wouldna been askin' how he was without usin' his name if that was all it was. Don't take this the wrong way or nothin', but it ain't soundin' like ya' need random sex. Sounds like ya' need a date, get t'meet people that ain't Riggs 'cause ya' been hung up on him for a long time. If things are still feelin' weird, don't ya' think casual sex will just make ya' feel more weird? Sounds like ya' making excuses with the not someone ya' know thing. Does kinda make it sound like ya' waitin for Riggs t'change his mind. An' I dunno that side of him too well, but he's... okay. There, in Dillon. He's doin' pretty okay there now. Ain't hooked up with no one, but seems t'suit him. He's there, ya' here. Maybe it just ain't the time for ya' to reunite and ya' gonna go mental waitin' for him. Don't tell me ya' ain't, either. I can tell ya' have been." His forehead creased then. "Tyra's guy? Oh hell. She ain't told Landry that. Think he's been doin' with her what ya've been doin' with Riggs. Waitin' for the wink and the nod f'things t'start up again."
Sam bumped her leg against his under the table as she shot him a look before reluctantly smiling. She could actually see the funny side. Her hang up with Tim Riggins had lasted years. Ever since she first met him. She knew somewhere in the back of her mind that she was still harbouring an adolescent crush. Unlike Mac and Jason, her and Tim had never quite evolved into a fully fledged adult relationship. He was Tim. And she was Sam. Still too scared of him turning around and telling her he didn't want a relationship with her to ever feel comfortable. The kiss with Lyla had just exploded the insecurties in her face, and ripped her and Tim apart. She realised she'd been staring at Matt for a long moment, and her blue eyes narrowed. It was clear she was getting an idea as she looked at him. "Wanna go on a date, Saracen?" As the Landry comment filtered through, she mirroed his slight frown. "Shit, that ain't good. I know how he feels, and it ain't nice for anyone. Does she even know he's waitin'?"
Matt pointed to himself. "With me? Why would ya' wanna go on a date with me after datin' Riggins?" he asked in surprised, blinking as he tried to make sure that is what she had said. He laughed slightly. "Are ya' serious?" He went back to scratching his head again and licked his lips to wet them. "Well, last I spoke t'him he said he was gonna meet her at some meet up point. I dunno. Maybe they changed their minds. I personally think he's been too hung up on her for too long, but he's Landry, ya' know? If she gives him even a glimpse of hope, he'll keep holdin' right onto it."
Sam nodded as she held his gaze. "Yeah, I'm talkin' about ya, Matt. See any other Saracen sittin' here? And why not? Ya cute, ya nice, ya ain't hard t'talk to, and I bet ya can be a lotta fun when ya let y'self go. And I'm deadly serious." She kept watching him, trying to read what the head scratching and lip licking meant. "Me and Landry really do have more in common than I ever thought. I might have t'mention somethin' to her unless ya wanna do it y'self. I don't think Tyra's really given him much thought lately... She's been real tied up with Silas. He drove all the way across the country to be with her. He was in Ren Mar, or somethin'. They're hardly ever apart 'less she's at college, or he's workin'."
"Well, I think Landry was waitin' for her. He was blowin' off some other chick because of Tyra. Kinda makes me wanna chew her out a bit. Ain't sure it's my place t'say, but then if she's just pretendin' like Landry ain't existin', it's hardly fair, is it?" As he spoke, Matt was still looking at her a little uncertainly. Maybe it was just because he was here and he brought up the dating that she thought he was a viable prospect? "Sure that's such a good idea? If ya' still ain't sure 'bout Riggs an' I just split with Julie. But then, she didn't want me t'stay in Dillon because of her. She said she did, but she was applyin' to colleges out west and stuff. She'd end up goin' an' I'd just be stuck in Dillon anyway."
Sam pressed her lips together as she gave a slight shrug. "I don't know what she's doin', I was only guessin'. Just kinda figured she woulda said somethin' to him, but maybe she really doesn't realise he's holdin' out? Maybe she thought they'd had that conversation. I ain't gonna pretend I know the ins and outs. Maybe ya should talk to her. Might take chewin' her out t'make her realise. Just like ya talkin' to me made me realise I'm bein' stupid, too." She shifted in her chair, and leaned forward to bring their faces closer together. "I ain't askin' to dive straight into anythin'. Ain't lookin' to make a committment, but maybe it might just help us both out to spend some time with someone. We don't even have t'have sex, but I wouldn't mind some kissin'," she added with a crooked smile.
"I've chewed her out 'bout Landry loads of times." Matt's eyes looked over her face and then dropped to her lips now she was this close in vicinity to her. The way his last few weeks went down, there was a little voice inside his head telling him 'to fuck with it'. He had spent his whole life being careful, it just so happened when he tried to not be so careful, everything seemed to blow up in his face. But he was growing up now and he really wasn't sure now that, after everything, any blow ups would seem so horrible. His Dad was dead, and he had split up with Julie. What was there to lose in just trying to move on and enjoy himself for once. He leaned in and closed the gap between them, kissing her like she had just indicated she wanted so it wasn't like he was abruptly cracking onto her and about to earn a smack in the face. Not that any chick had smacked him in the face before. He didn't have the most extensive track record in the romance stakes. When the kiss ended, he let out a slow breath and cleared his throat. "I ain't sure I really had plans to stop in Austin, though."
Sam smiled again as Matt pulled away, licking her lips as she felt a tingle down in the pit of her stomach. She couldn't actually remember the last time she'd kissed someone. Her last kiss with Tim something that wasn't filed away like maybe it should have been. Sam reached up to cup Matt's cheek in her has, her eyes dark as they flicked over his features. "Ya have a nice mouth," she said quietly before she could stop herself. Her smile became a grin, and Sam ducked her head as she laughed nervously. "Also already offered ya some space here. It's nearly Christmas, Matt. Ya really wanna be tryin' to spend it in a cold motel? And if ya ain't plannin' to stop, that's okay. I'll just take the kiss with a thank you, and also take ya advice. But ya are welcome here. I promise I won't even jump ya bones if ya do just wanna share my bed. Comfier than the sofa anyways."
Matt ran his tongue along the inside of his cheek and then laughed softly as he lowered his eyes down to the tabletop. There was a niggle of guilt in his gut. He had barely split with Julie, but it was over. Well over, and they both knew it. This was about fresh starts and finding himself, and this really wasn't that bad a way to try and do it. He didn't really have plans where to go. He thought maybe New York to check out a few art galleries, and maybe look into college opportunities there. But she was right, it was nearly Christmas. There wasn't a lot he would be able to achieve until the New Year and maybe New York at this time of year would be too much of a shock to the system for a guy that had spent his whole like in Dillon, Texas. Austin was a good start to acclimatise to the city life, right? Street and Sam both seemed to think so, and Tyra too, even if she was here for college. "Are ya' sure? Sounds like ya' maybe already got a full house. An' I ain't sure how Tyra would feel havin' me hangin' round. She knows I'll always try to defend Landry..."
"Tyra's drownin' in Christmas and Hanukkah spirit. Her lover's Jewish, but experiencin' Christmas for the first time. She ain't gonna mind. I'll talk to her in the mornin', or somethin'. Preferably when Silas has worked his sex magic on her. That's the other thing... They ain't always quiet. Jason and Mac ain't havin' sex together near as I can tell. They do sleep together, though. Literally sleep." Sam shrugged. "It ain't a hippie commune, but ya might start feelin' like it could be at this rate." Her fingers moved to the nape of his neck, and she couldn't resist leaning in to kiss him softly. "Stay."
It was tempting. It would at least be a place for him to stay, and he could call his Grandma and his Mom to let them know he had somewhere so they wouldn't worry. It would be nice to catch up with some friends, though, and still be far enough away from Dillon to try and break free. He scrunched his nose up just a little, wondering if could put up with hearing Tyra having sex with another guy knowing she was still leading Landry on, even if she was oblivious to it. He didn't exactly know the whole story. He just knew Landry had told him he was meeting Tyra and it sounded like he was expecting more than a cup of tea out of it. And he did have to do something with this ring, like he promised Tim he would. It was the least he could do after Tim helped him so much after his Dad died. "Well, I... guess I could stay for a lil while," he agreed and gave her a hint of a smile. "Kinda worried what will come if Street does start havin' sex with Mac, though. Might have t'rip my ears off."
"Welcome t'the Monkey House." Sam wasn't sure why Matt agreeing to stay made her happy, but it did. It wasn't like he had actually agreed to a date. He'd somehow managed to avoid actually answering her proposition, but she could understand why. He was just newly split from Julie, and she couldn't blame him for being hesitant. Especially when he was already apparently thinking she was a nutcase stuck on Tim Riggins. Sam didn't mean for her smile to be so devious, but it appeared before she could stop it. "Ya might just have t'start makin' ya own loud noises instead, Seven. I'll help."
Leaving Dillon.
It should have been an easy decision to make, but Matt learned long ago no decision he was faced with was ever easy. His life was meant to be hard. Maybe this was the first time since he could remember that it really just wasn't difficult? Leaving high school, finishing his semi-successful run with the Panthers which at least saw him win a State Championship, once it was all over and he gave up his chance of doing art at college to take care of his grandma so she didn't have to go into a home, there seemed to be little to nothing. He ended up delivering pizzas, and he had Julie. Julie was a shining light in his otherwise dreary post-high school life. He had convinced himself he could be satisfied in Dillon because he had to be. There wasn't any other option, if he didn't stay, Grandma went to a home and Matt just couldn't live with that.
And then the news came. His father was dead. Killed in Iraq. Matt's greatest fear, even if he harboured deep-seated confusion and hatred over the situation. But it was over with now, and Matt needed a clean slate. An insurance payout meant his Grandma and his Mom would be fine without him. If he stayed in Dillon any longer, it would kill him. He loved Julie, and a part of him probably always would, but it was over now. She was part of that portion of his life that came with nothing but pain and loss. Strangely enough, it had been Tim Riggins who had come through when he most needed it. Matt found a support in his ex-teammate that he would never have anticipated could have been there. At the end of the day, Matt didn't really know exactly what it was that helped him make the decision to walk away from Dillon. He just knew he had to.
One last favour, though. Tim pulled up in his drive a couple of days earlier with a small wrapped package. Somehow, this Riggins, usually known to be quite thick, had deduced Matt's days in Dillon were drawing to an end. He asked if his one-time Quarterback would mind doing a favour for the only other Quarterback Tim would ever have endless respect for.
Jason Street.
Matt, faintly amused, wondered if the wrapped package was drugs and joked about the fact with Riggins. Some typical mate-type banter passed between them until Tim finally revealed it was the engagement ring Jason had given Taylor MacKenzie before the tragic accident a few months go that saw the young policewoman quit Dillon herself. Matt didn't ask why Tim had it, but it was clearly important that he did. Jason needed the ring back, he needed Mac back, and if Matt didn't mind taking a bit of a detour through Austin to drop it off. Matt hadn't seen Jason in awhile, and it might be a little odd, but Jason was the reason Matt succeeded as his successor. He would always owe him something. Which is what had Matt driving through the streets of Austin, Texas, for the second time in a week. The concert with Julie was only laying somewhere in the back of his mind. Maybe they should have dropped in on the Dillon crowd who had recently uprooted to Austin, but Matt's head hadn't been in the right place. This was his chance to rectify it, even if just to say goodbye. It was beside the point that he didn't actually know what his destination was yet. It didn't seem to matter so much, just so long as he wasn't in Dillon.
He checked the messily scrawled address he had written on the inside of his forearm and nodded as he pulled his Taurus up in front of the modest looking house. It had been snowing, but most of it had melted now. The package was tucked securely in his jacket pocket and he double-checked it was there before ringing the doorbell. He hoped someone was home. He couldn't see Six's truck parked anywhere, so maybe he wasn't. If not, he would just leave the item in the letterbox and continue on his way. He stamped some of the snow off his boots and gave himself a little shake to keep the circulation in the chill. This was a little bit of an odd situation, if nothing else.
Sam had yet to tell anyone in the house what had been going on with her. Between Mac coming to stay, and Tyra and Silas making the house Christmassy, she'd just kept her mouth shut. She left the house in the early hours of the morning, and usually didn't return until dinner time. She'd found a job in a supermarket, apparently never destined to break free from that industry. Only this time she wasn't working the service area, she was in a deli section and she was in charge. She was going crazy trying to find her feet, and keep it running, and since she now had her very own department she was putting in most of her long hours for free because she wasn't having her name attached to anything that sucked.
She stifled a yawn as she shuffled out of her bedroom, today her first day off after working six days straight. She was dressed in boxers, a tank top and an old jumper she wore to bed when it was cold. She rubbed her face as she stifled a yawn, and tried to comb her blonde hair into something presentable as she pulled the door open. It took Sam a moment to recognise Matt Saracen, and she gave him a sleepy smile. "Ya know, not so long ago I was thinkin' 'bout openin' the door to ya, but I was naked, and ya were deliverin' pizza."
At any other time besides a few days after burying his father, Matt probably would have found the joke amusing. The pizza delivery was a sensitive spot, though, and he just couldn't find the humour in it. "Yeah, um," he began and cleared his throat, pointing behind him with his thumb. Her appearance wasn't lost on him, and it looked like he was maybe interrupting something. "I was just passin' through an' I gotta drop somethin' off t'Street. Glad I got the right place an' all. Sorry t'bother ya' if ya' were busy, it's just..." He paused, clearing his throat. "Is Street home?"
Sam hadn't heard about Matt's dad, but she could see her joke had fallen flat, and switched gears. Matt had always been a nice guy, so the last thing she wanted was to make him uncomfortable. Sam opened up the screen door and gave Matt another soft smile. "C'mon in, Saracen. Better than freezin' both our asses off. And I ain't busy. Just sleepin' in late. Kinda ain't in the mood to do much of anythin' now that I got a day off. I ain't seen Jason all day, but then I ain't seen anythin' that ain't the inside of my eyelids, so..." She shrugged with one shoulder, and when Matt didn't seem to move off the porch, she reached out to tug him inside, starting to feel the cold air against her legs. "Ya can wait around. Let me make some coffee."
Matt did eventually follow her further into the house and scratched his head. "I could always just leave it with ya'," he suggested, not sure what he was actually supposed to do. Plus, it was getting late and he had already driven five or so hours from Dillon. He should maybe think about getting a hotel in Austin for the night before moving on to his next destination. "Then I wouldn't have t'hang 'round and disturb ya' day off or nothin'. Only had t'drop it off."
"Has anyone ever told ya ya can be too polite for ya own good?" Sam asked as she tilted her head. "It's fine, Matt. I'd like to hang out with ya for a bit. Ya can even stay here if ya want. We can find a spot for ya here somewhere. There's like five of us now. Ya can even crash in my room. Or on the couch. Don't ya just wanna take a load off for a bit? What are ya even doin' here? Austin's a long way to be droppin' somethin' off. Although it seems to be a trend between Tim droppin' Mac off, and ya bein' here t'give somethin' else to J."
Matt looked like he was in two minds for a few moments, but he did eventually take one of the seats at the kitchen table. He didn't realise how tired he was, actually. Maybe everything was just starting to catch up with him. "Oh, nah. It's okay. I'm just gonna get a room somewhere. Ain't needin' nothin' fancy. Just figured I'd come here first 'cause it was kinda important. Still ain't sure why Six ain't got it himself, but I ain't askin' questions. Riggins just..." He looked at her with a small frown and took the package from his pocket holding it up before setting it on the table. "Mac's ring."
Sam's eyes widened as her mouth fell open slightly. "Shit... I didn't even realise he didn't have it. That's... And T had somethin' t'do with ya gettin' it back to J?" Sam frowned as she rubbed her hand against her face again. She still felt groggy, and when she realised she was still standing there like an idiot, she moved to the counter to start getting the coffee ready. It felt like something she was always doing, but these days she needed to be busy with her hands. "Ya hungry? We got some leftovers from last night's dinner. I can heat it up for ya. And ya really don't have t'get a room if ya don't want. I'm sure everyone would love t'see ya. Can't believe it's her ring... I still ain't sure what's goin' on with 'em. The reunion's been, um, interestin'."
The package wasn't wrapped up tight or even neatly. Matt could easily unfold the brown paper and reveal the beautiful diamond ring inside. He held it up for Sam to see. "I only just took Riggs' word. I dunno if it was accurate. Mac's ya' mate, this look like what Six gave her? Riggs only said somethin' 'bout Street chuckin' it away, but figurin' he'd need it back now. I ain't... I, uh, kinda been outta the loop lately. Just tryin' t'do a favour for 'em. They both helped me a lot. Riggs kinda more recently than Street, but I wouldn't have ever stayed on the team if he didn't coach me back then. Just felt like I should help if I could. I didn't even know Mac was here ti' ya' just said. Last I heard she was in New York." He only realised then she had offered him food. "Nah, it's okay. I'm fine. Sounds like ya' got a full house already."
Sam came back over and took the ring off Matt. "Yeah, it's hers. J threw it away once before. Last time I was the one t'pick it up and save it." She sunk down into the chair near Matt's and just kept looking at the ring for a long moment. Tim had done everything in his power to get Mac back to Jason, and to give Jason everything he needed to be happy. She wanted to call him up and talk to him so badly, tell him he did good. She just knew she didn't have the courage. "I've been here, and sometimes I still feel outta the loop. Had my head stuck up my ass for months. And ya know, ya never really gave y'self a chance, Matt. Ya woulda done just fine as QB. I know J did help ya, but ya were a great QB." She reached out to gave his hand a squeeze. "So what's kept ya outta the loop?"
"Maybe third time lucky?" Matt suggested quietly with a small shrug, his light eyes still on the ring in her fingers. "My Dad was killed in Iraq." There wasn't a whole heap he could say to follow up that statement. It wasn't like he was contemplating lying, he just didn't particularly feel like elaborating on it all again. He had exploded in the wake of the news and that was it. Nothing else was going to bring his Dad back, and he didn't want the sympathetic looks anymore. The pity. The poor stupid bastard whose mother walked out when he was a kid and whose father was never there while he was shouldered with caring for his crazy grandma. Matt Saracen in a nutshell. He needed out.
Sam set the ring down, and took Matt's hand in both of hers. She didn't give him a sympathetic look, but she did hold his gaze for a moment. She'd never had a parent die, so she couldn't imagine what it was like. She just knew that it had to get tiring for people to keep hearing others were sorry. "Maybe," she murmured. "Stay here tonight, Matt. Please. We can order Chinese. Ya don't even have to spend time with anyone else if ya don't want. I'll keep ya locked up in my room. It's been ages since I've hidden a boy in my room. Ya just... I don't know. Just seem like ya could use some space, and do ya really think ya gonna get it in a motel where the sheets crunch?"
Matt looked up at her uncertainly, his forehead creasing. "I dunno, Sam. I ain't thought about much of anythin'. Just had t'get out, ya' know? Had the means now, just wanted a clean slate. I know I left Julie, but after next year, she's gonna probably end up at some awesome college well away from Texas and I'll still be stuck there. I mean, I ain't mopin' or nothin'. I dealt with it, best I could. We just... ain't exactly been close mates. Ya' don't have t'feel like ya' need t'offer me a place t'stay. I know it's gotta be hard for people t'really know what t'say when I tell 'em that, but ain't quite come up with an adequate cover story yet."
"Sometimes it ain't about bein' close friends. Sometimes it's just about bein' the person ya need at the time. Every friendship starts somewhere, M. Think of me as ya downtime coach. J got ya in QB shape, I'll just show ya hot to blob." She wet her lips before giving him a small smile. "As for cover story, just tell people ya wanna find the inner you. I'm sure ya know how to spin that as a fledglin' artist. Weren't ya always into that kinda thing? Everyone seems to be growin' apart these days. It's either college, or somethin' else. Guess it's all part of growin' up. Sucks, but it's gotta happen. Havin' said that I've just gone from one supermarket to another. Ain't nothin' changed but goin' from a town to a city."
"M'told change is what ya' make it," Matt pointed out and then pressed his lips together briefly. "That's what I'm tryin' t'do. T'make it. Probably gonna fall flat on m'face. First time I've ever been on m'own completely. Always had m'grandma, she needed t'be looked after 'cause there was no one else. Can kinda see now why y'all left, just didn't wanna think too much 'bout it 'cause I couldn't do the same. I tried, but I didn't want Grandma t'go into a home. Not after everythin' she did for me. She practically raised me my whole life, I owed her. Ain't sure I got an inner me. M'just me."
"Nothin' wrong with that. I kinda like just you," Sam revealed, her smile growing a little. She glanced over at the coffee maker, and got up when she realised there was enough to make two cups. "How do ya take it?" Sam pulled the hems of her boxers down so they didn't ride up completely. She could only imagine what she looked like, but she really couldn't be bothered with getting dressed. She also didn't think she stank. "I can only imagine what it's been like for ya with ya grandma, and I think you're amazin' for copin' with it as long as ya did. You're strong, Matt. Ya can't take this kind thing and not survive like ya have without bein' strong. There also ain't anythin' wrong with wantin' some you time."
Matt scratched at the side of his neck. "Just white. Ain't anythin' much t'stop the guilty feelin', though. Like Riggs said, he ain't ever gonna stop feelin' guilty 'bout Street. Somethin' ya' just gotta live with, an' still live. Grandma will be taken care of just fine. My Mom is there and there's cash now. Insurance payouts, compensation, whatever. Just ain't sure where to even start no more. Thought I wanted t'be an artist once, but it ain't gonna earn me much of a livin'. If I wanna chance in life, I wanna do it right." He tucked the ring back into the paper, slowly and neatly wrapping it back up. he couldn't help but wonder if he would ever find someone he loved so much he wanted to propose to them and start a family with them. The prospect sounded kinda nice, and to be a parent his parents never were for him.
Sam got the milk out, and mixed it into Matt's coffee, but left hers black. She brought the mugs over and took her seat again. "Sometimes a livin' ain't everythin'. When ya become more focused on money and not the things that make ya happy, that's when it goes wrong. Seems a shame to waste all that artistic talent. Ya ain't gonna go t'college, or anythin'? What was it like havin' ya momma back? Do she and ya grandma even know ya gone?"
Matt nodded and just stared down into the coffee mug. "Yeah, I told 'em. Wouldna just up an' left without tellin' 'em an' sayin' goodbye. It was weird havin' her back. Grandma hated it at first, but they seemed to sort out their differences. I wasn't gonna analyse it. I was sick of the tension. An' it ain't got nothin' t'do with not makin' a livin' so much as I ain't got much inspiration these days. No urge for art at all. Just wanna try somethin' different that ain't in Dillon. Just dunno what. Or where. Dunno even where t'start but I'll figure it out."
"Wanna come work for me?" Sam asked as she bumped him lightly. "Ya got time t'work it all out, Matt. Ya only young. Ain't no rush. I still don't know what I'm doin', just kinda move along. I guess it's why I get so shaken when somethin' does change. I get used t'goin' along the same course, but then my landmarks change and I'm lost." She was quiet for a moment. "Is he okay?"
Matt didn't know who she meant at first, until he did managed to put two and two together. "Riggs? Oh. Yeah. He's alright, I guess. Busy. Helped me out when m'Dad died, just support, ya' know? He's just Riggs, ain't a lot changes with him. Workin' at the garage an' helpin' out Coach with the new team, seems t'suit him. Kinda dude who can be satisfied with that. Probably be stuck in Dillon for the rest of his life and be okay with that."
Sam smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah, ya probably right... He's always been happy with the simple life. I'm glad he's okay. Things ain't really been easy for anyone."
"Yeah," Matt replied and curled and uncurled his fingers around the coffee mug. Now he just felt awkward and weird. He didn't know much of the story with that side of things, but hadn't she been the one to accuse Tim of cheating on her? He didn't exactly understand why she was being kinda flat with the whole thing right now, but he wasn't going to question it. Tim had never done anything but be a good mate for him and he didn't want to really get into the personal side of what went down with any of his exes. He also had no clue what else to say to her. Wasn't like he could exactly strike up a conversation about Panthers, probably one thing they had in common. Panthers were shit nowadays. So he just lifted his mug and took a small sip, glancing around nervously.
"I'm sorry," Sam suddenly said. "I didn't meant to... I mentioned my head bein' up my ass, right? Well, sometimes my foot joins it. I ain't been too social lately. Got these crazy work hours so I kinda forget how to talk to people. Kinda funny given how I'm there to service people all day, every day. Feel free to just gimme a slap, or somethin'. Or just gimme a moment for my coffee t'kick in."
Matt shrugged and set the coffee back down on the table. "S'alright. Just sounds like ya' still really hung up on him," he noted. "My fault. I just assumed ya' were movin' on. Ain't ya' fault."
Sam laughed a little. "I'm shit at movin' on. Ain't slept with anyone since him. I really need t'get him outta my system, but I can't even... Goin' out to pick up just seems weird, and I don't even know why. I feel like an old lady, and I ain't even nineteen yet. I really just need a good tumble to get myself into gear. I do miss sex."
Matt raised his eyebrows briefly. "Sure it wouldn't just be a band-aid fix? Sounds like ya' makin' excuses, no offense. Don't think sex is somethin' that just makes ya' suddenly not be hung up on someone no more. Just sayin'," he felt the need to point out.
"Maybe not, but it can be fun. And it can kinda help ya start thinkin' there's somethin' beyond the person ya hung up on. People gotta move on somehow. Ain't like they just stop thinkin' about 'em," she replied with a slight shrug.
Matt shrugged again. "To each his own," he replied. "Think I'd prefer t'actually find someone else to move on with. Dunno, really. Might be fun, but is it fair on the person ya' sleepin' with if ya' still wantin' some other dude? I think I'd rather do the movin' on with dinner an' a movie first. T'find out the girl ain't still wantin' someone else. Julie wanted someone else when I was datin' her. Felt kinda shitty t'be on the receivin' end of that."
Sam held her hands up. "I didn't say I was hung up. I said I ain't had an opportunity t'move on yet. I can't move on if no one gives me a chance. I was just askin' how he was is all." Sam sighed as she ran her fingers through her hair. "I don't still want him. I know it's over. Just gotta get started. Just the idea of bein' with someone I already know is easier than the idea of hittin' on some random stranger. Only it ain't like J's an option, and I'd be riskin' my life tryin' somethin' on Tyra's guy. I ain't that kinda girl anyway."
Matt slowly scratched at the back of his neck and then tried to stifle a smile that threatened on his lips, but he couldn't. He just laughed softly and then held up his hand. "Sorry. I ain't laughin' at ya'. More just amused at the situation, which probably sounds real crap of me. Been awhile. Ya' wouldna been askin' how he was without usin' his name if that was all it was. Don't take this the wrong way or nothin', but it ain't soundin' like ya' need random sex. Sounds like ya' need a date, get t'meet people that ain't Riggs 'cause ya' been hung up on him for a long time. If things are still feelin' weird, don't ya' think casual sex will just make ya' feel more weird? Sounds like ya' making excuses with the not someone ya' know thing. Does kinda make it sound like ya' waitin for Riggs t'change his mind. An' I dunno that side of him too well, but he's... okay. There, in Dillon. He's doin' pretty okay there now. Ain't hooked up with no one, but seems t'suit him. He's there, ya' here. Maybe it just ain't the time for ya' to reunite and ya' gonna go mental waitin' for him. Don't tell me ya' ain't, either. I can tell ya' have been." His forehead creased then. "Tyra's guy? Oh hell. She ain't told Landry that. Think he's been doin' with her what ya've been doin' with Riggs. Waitin' for the wink and the nod f'things t'start up again."
Sam bumped her leg against his under the table as she shot him a look before reluctantly smiling. She could actually see the funny side. Her hang up with Tim Riggins had lasted years. Ever since she first met him. She knew somewhere in the back of her mind that she was still harbouring an adolescent crush. Unlike Mac and Jason, her and Tim had never quite evolved into a fully fledged adult relationship. He was Tim. And she was Sam. Still too scared of him turning around and telling her he didn't want a relationship with her to ever feel comfortable. The kiss with Lyla had just exploded the insecurties in her face, and ripped her and Tim apart. She realised she'd been staring at Matt for a long moment, and her blue eyes narrowed. It was clear she was getting an idea as she looked at him. "Wanna go on a date, Saracen?" As the Landry comment filtered through, she mirroed his slight frown. "Shit, that ain't good. I know how he feels, and it ain't nice for anyone. Does she even know he's waitin'?"
Matt pointed to himself. "With me? Why would ya' wanna go on a date with me after datin' Riggins?" he asked in surprised, blinking as he tried to make sure that is what she had said. He laughed slightly. "Are ya' serious?" He went back to scratching his head again and licked his lips to wet them. "Well, last I spoke t'him he said he was gonna meet her at some meet up point. I dunno. Maybe they changed their minds. I personally think he's been too hung up on her for too long, but he's Landry, ya' know? If she gives him even a glimpse of hope, he'll keep holdin' right onto it."
Sam nodded as she held his gaze. "Yeah, I'm talkin' about ya, Matt. See any other Saracen sittin' here? And why not? Ya cute, ya nice, ya ain't hard t'talk to, and I bet ya can be a lotta fun when ya let y'self go. And I'm deadly serious." She kept watching him, trying to read what the head scratching and lip licking meant. "Me and Landry really do have more in common than I ever thought. I might have t'mention somethin' to her unless ya wanna do it y'self. I don't think Tyra's really given him much thought lately... She's been real tied up with Silas. He drove all the way across the country to be with her. He was in Ren Mar, or somethin'. They're hardly ever apart 'less she's at college, or he's workin'."
"Well, I think Landry was waitin' for her. He was blowin' off some other chick because of Tyra. Kinda makes me wanna chew her out a bit. Ain't sure it's my place t'say, but then if she's just pretendin' like Landry ain't existin', it's hardly fair, is it?" As he spoke, Matt was still looking at her a little uncertainly. Maybe it was just because he was here and he brought up the dating that she thought he was a viable prospect? "Sure that's such a good idea? If ya' still ain't sure 'bout Riggs an' I just split with Julie. But then, she didn't want me t'stay in Dillon because of her. She said she did, but she was applyin' to colleges out west and stuff. She'd end up goin' an' I'd just be stuck in Dillon anyway."
Sam pressed her lips together as she gave a slight shrug. "I don't know what she's doin', I was only guessin'. Just kinda figured she woulda said somethin' to him, but maybe she really doesn't realise he's holdin' out? Maybe she thought they'd had that conversation. I ain't gonna pretend I know the ins and outs. Maybe ya should talk to her. Might take chewin' her out t'make her realise. Just like ya talkin' to me made me realise I'm bein' stupid, too." She shifted in her chair, and leaned forward to bring their faces closer together. "I ain't askin' to dive straight into anythin'. Ain't lookin' to make a committment, but maybe it might just help us both out to spend some time with someone. We don't even have t'have sex, but I wouldn't mind some kissin'," she added with a crooked smile.
"I've chewed her out 'bout Landry loads of times." Matt's eyes looked over her face and then dropped to her lips now she was this close in vicinity to her. The way his last few weeks went down, there was a little voice inside his head telling him 'to fuck with it'. He had spent his whole life being careful, it just so happened when he tried to not be so careful, everything seemed to blow up in his face. But he was growing up now and he really wasn't sure now that, after everything, any blow ups would seem so horrible. His Dad was dead, and he had split up with Julie. What was there to lose in just trying to move on and enjoy himself for once. He leaned in and closed the gap between them, kissing her like she had just indicated she wanted so it wasn't like he was abruptly cracking onto her and about to earn a smack in the face. Not that any chick had smacked him in the face before. He didn't have the most extensive track record in the romance stakes. When the kiss ended, he let out a slow breath and cleared his throat. "I ain't sure I really had plans to stop in Austin, though."
Sam smiled again as Matt pulled away, licking her lips as she felt a tingle down in the pit of her stomach. She couldn't actually remember the last time she'd kissed someone. Her last kiss with Tim something that wasn't filed away like maybe it should have been. Sam reached up to cup Matt's cheek in her has, her eyes dark as they flicked over his features. "Ya have a nice mouth," she said quietly before she could stop herself. Her smile became a grin, and Sam ducked her head as she laughed nervously. "Also already offered ya some space here. It's nearly Christmas, Matt. Ya really wanna be tryin' to spend it in a cold motel? And if ya ain't plannin' to stop, that's okay. I'll just take the kiss with a thank you, and also take ya advice. But ya are welcome here. I promise I won't even jump ya bones if ya do just wanna share my bed. Comfier than the sofa anyways."
Matt ran his tongue along the inside of his cheek and then laughed softly as he lowered his eyes down to the tabletop. There was a niggle of guilt in his gut. He had barely split with Julie, but it was over. Well over, and they both knew it. This was about fresh starts and finding himself, and this really wasn't that bad a way to try and do it. He didn't really have plans where to go. He thought maybe New York to check out a few art galleries, and maybe look into college opportunities there. But she was right, it was nearly Christmas. There wasn't a lot he would be able to achieve until the New Year and maybe New York at this time of year would be too much of a shock to the system for a guy that had spent his whole like in Dillon, Texas. Austin was a good start to acclimatise to the city life, right? Street and Sam both seemed to think so, and Tyra too, even if she was here for college. "Are ya' sure? Sounds like ya' maybe already got a full house. An' I ain't sure how Tyra would feel havin' me hangin' round. She knows I'll always try to defend Landry..."
"Tyra's drownin' in Christmas and Hanukkah spirit. Her lover's Jewish, but experiencin' Christmas for the first time. She ain't gonna mind. I'll talk to her in the mornin', or somethin'. Preferably when Silas has worked his sex magic on her. That's the other thing... They ain't always quiet. Jason and Mac ain't havin' sex together near as I can tell. They do sleep together, though. Literally sleep." Sam shrugged. "It ain't a hippie commune, but ya might start feelin' like it could be at this rate." Her fingers moved to the nape of his neck, and she couldn't resist leaning in to kiss him softly. "Stay."
It was tempting. It would at least be a place for him to stay, and he could call his Grandma and his Mom to let them know he had somewhere so they wouldn't worry. It would be nice to catch up with some friends, though, and still be far enough away from Dillon to try and break free. He scrunched his nose up just a little, wondering if could put up with hearing Tyra having sex with another guy knowing she was still leading Landry on, even if she was oblivious to it. He didn't exactly know the whole story. He just knew Landry had told him he was meeting Tyra and it sounded like he was expecting more than a cup of tea out of it. And he did have to do something with this ring, like he promised Tim he would. It was the least he could do after Tim helped him so much after his Dad died. "Well, I... guess I could stay for a lil while," he agreed and gave her a hint of a smile. "Kinda worried what will come if Street does start havin' sex with Mac, though. Might have t'rip my ears off."
"Welcome t'the Monkey House." Sam wasn't sure why Matt agreeing to stay made her happy, but it did. It wasn't like he had actually agreed to a date. He'd somehow managed to avoid actually answering her proposition, but she could understand why. He was just newly split from Julie, and she couldn't blame him for being hesitant. Especially when he was already apparently thinking she was a nutcase stuck on Tim Riggins. Sam didn't mean for her smile to be so devious, but it appeared before she could stop it. "Ya might just have t'start makin' ya own loud noises instead, Seven. I'll help."