(no subject)
OH MY GOOOOOOOOOD!!!!
I love him. I love him so much. SO SO SO SO SO much!
This was the best birthday ever!!!!!
Oh my god, I have to call my mom!
Atmosphere is something every Bohemian strives to perfect, or so says the Bohemian Manifesto. Mark is no different, and the entire place is bright and cheerful, with streamers hanging in loops from the ceiling, and random decorations of tin-plate coke ads from the 50's, mixed in with large banners purloined from the streets around Broadway, the largest featuring the current cast of RENT. Which, obviously, plays in the background. Mark steps out of the bedroom, sporting a blue and red sweater, a blue and white striped scarf, and freshly dyed blonde hair. He looks rather pleased with himself, staring into the reflection of the window, with Mark Cohen staring right back. The boy lets out an amused yelp of happiness, watching as Roger, who currently wears a large bow, and Mimi with a ribbon around one ear try frantically to remove their decorations. "Ah! You try as you might, my little chat and chien! I have told zose little things to not leave your scrawny hides!" And indeed, the bows are fighting back and staying on. Mark moves to the table with several brightly wrapped packages, each with luxurious bows on top. No dinner is in the making, proof that maybe Mark has different plans.
A quick journal entry this morning before Nevaeh took off to her classes. She was very careful not to wake up poor Mark who was sleeping so sweetly. It may be her birthday, but beyond the calls from her family to wish her a good one it's been fairly uneventful. Class is over and she's done with school for the day, so she grabbed herself a big cookie from Starbucks and started to make her way back home. She floats up the stairs, dressed down for the day. A pair of low slung jeans are snug against her hips, pink baby doll T that says 'Live Life' on the front barely makes it to her belly button, and she's wearing flip flops. The only thing that stands out is the fake tiara that's propped on her head amongst the curls she put in her hair earlier that morning. The large cookie is dangling from her mouth as she begins the search for her keys.
Mark waits patiently until the joyous sound of twinkling keys reach his ears. The boy rounds on the pets, forcing them to sit side by side right behind them. Of course, as pets go, they fidgets and make little whining sounds, but Mark ignores it for the moment. He quickly adjusts his scarf, leans over to grab an old 16mm camera from the couch, which was purposely bought for this very occasion. The boy quietly moves towards the door, opens it in a blink of an eye and sinks to one knee. He starts up the camera, aiming it right at Nev. "September 4th, five pm, eastern standard time! Wishing my dear old Nev a Happy Birthday!" Mark calls out, beaming just behind the eyepiece.
Nevaeh has finally found the keys, cookie still between her lips she goes to stick them in the door only to find it pulled open. She blinks in surprise and instantly reaches up to grab the cookie, eyes wide as she stares into the camera. "From here on in we shoot without a script?" She asks, trying to bite back a giggle as he beams. “Oh sweetie you remembered!" She squeals and floats into the room, her feet touching down as she closes the door behind. "Oh.. my." A hand reaches up to press against her heart as she glances around at the decorations. "Oh Mark. It's wonderful." Barely more than a whisper as soon her eyes and streaks of hair turn the same shade of pink as her shirt.
Mark lets the camera whirl for a bit longer, the crank on the side swinging in full motion. He stands up after a moment, letting it swing down by his side. "Of course I remember, my cheri! How could I not?" Mark says as if hurt. "Come in and relax. Ze pets are glad to see you." He points out, motioning to the bowed animals, still putting up a battle with their festive wears. "And I got you gifts!" Mark exclaims, attempting to hook an arm around her and tug her to the dining table. "Happy birthday, love!" He says seriously, nodding and stepping back in case she needs to take it all in.
Nevaeh blows a kiss to the camera before he gets the chance to turn it off, her eyes still very wide as she looks towards the pets. "Oh no!" She laughs, watching as they fight with the bows. "That's just too cute." She's hooked and tugged with ease as she looks up to his hair, surprised once more as she seems to finally notice that it's blonde. "You're hair!" She exclaims, reaching up to run her fingers through it, despite the gel to keep it spiked. "Gifts? I don't need gifts. You're the best gift I could ever ask for!" As he pulls away she steps towards the table. She may not need them, but she still wants them. "Can I open one now?"
Mark seems pleased with himself, his fingers idly playing with the end of his scarf tails. He peers at her through his thick-framed glasses. "Are not they?" He replies with a huge smile, turning a quick look over to the pets, both whom don't seem half as happy as he. Mark's eyes roll up, and he ducks down for her to get a good run through. "Yes, bleaching it seems so... /human/ now... but if I had gotten you to do it, it would not have been a surprise!" He explains with a shrug. "Well, I got you some gifts any way. Yes yes, of course! Open all of zem if you wish!"
Nevaeh inspects the scarf for a moment, wondering if it's the one that she made for him. "They are." She agrees and kisses his cheek. "Well, from now on, just tell me and I'll do it for you love! I'd hate to see you ruining your hair just because you're trying to surprise me." And too much bleaching can do that. She reaches out for one of the gifts and lifts it to her ear, rattling it softly, wanting to know what's inside. "You didn't have to do all this you know. But it's the most wonderful surprise ever. So thank you." She gestures for him to come join her before starting to pull at the wrapping paper of one of the gifts.
Mark tilts his head up as she looks at the scarf because it is, indeed, the one she made for him. "Well, I know. Next time it can be ze color of your choice. I am not picky." He admits with a small shrug. Mark follows her over to the table, setting his camera on the edge before settling into one of the chairs. "You are most welcome. How could I not make zis day special for you?" He demands, slanting his eyebrows. Mark quietly watches her unwrap the RENT book. It looks like someone has a theme going.
Nevaeh beams happily when she realizes it is the one she made. Has she ever adored him more than she does right now? Probably not. "I'm convinced that I have the most wonderful boyfriend in existence." She states and wriggles her hips closer to him as he settles in a chair. She quickly follows, settling into his lap. "Oh! I don't have one of these yet!" It's the perfect centerpiece for their living room table! She flips through the book, oohing and ahhing happily over the pictures. She stops points down to the picture of the actor currently playing Mark. "That'll be you some day."
Mark rolls his eyes playfully and opens his arms as she settles into his lap. "Nonsense." He mumbles bashfully, letting his arms snake around her waist. Mark peers over her shoulder, stretching to rest his chin up on it. "You know, RENTheads call zat ze RENT bible." He comments on the side, grinning as she points to Mark. "Oh... no, really. Theater is somezing of my past... you know zis, yes? I have no time for it." The boy seems momentarily saddened by this, but passes through it quickly. "Go on! Open anozer!"
"It isn't nonsense." She huffs, chin lifting as she offers a defiant smile. "It's true. The boy boyfriend of all time." Nevaeh cranes her neck to kiss his forehead before looking down to the picture. "No time right now. But maybe someday." She says quietly and closes the book in order to take another present from the table.
Mark hums thoughtfully, but offers no protest this time. Hey, if that's what she wants to think, fine by him! Of course, most of this shopping was done earlier this afternoon, since after last nights incident, Mark felt horribly guilty. He is making sure her birthday is that much more special. "Maybe..." He says with a shrug. He falls silent and waits for her to open the small box containing designer sunglasses with a pinkish tint. "You are very hard to shop for!" He inserts quickly, in case she's not pleased.
It is what she wants to think, and it's something she seem quite convinced of as well. The wrapping paper is torn free, allowed to crinkle on the floor so that the kitten can bat at it happily. "Oh I am not. Anything shiny will do, you know that." The girl giggles before looking down to the present. Gasp. Nevaeh beams in delight as she pulls the glasses free and slides them over her eyes. "They match my outfit!" And the streaks in her. Which are still pinkish. "They're wonderful!"
Mark chuckles and leans up against her back, watching from behind as she puts them on. "Ah yes, shiny. You are much like a... oh, those little rodents with ze masks and striped tails." He says, not finding the word he's looking for. "I am glad you like zem. I wanted purple. It is my favorite color of yours... but ze did not have it." Mark nuzzles gently into her shoulder blade with his nose. "Go on. Open ze envelope. Over zere." He takes his hand off her waist to indicated a gold leaf envelope next to the center vase on the table.
Nevaeh laughs. "Are you comparing me to a raccoon?" She asks, brows arching over the rim of the glasses. Despite the question she doesn't look offended. Just amused. "Yes I guess I am sort of like them hmm?" She shivers as he nuzzles his nose against her shoulder, cheeks flushing at the mention of purple. "Yes well.. that's a color saved specifically for you.." She shrugs, all to happy to stop talking to pick up the envelope and quickly open it.
Mark runs his teeth over his bottom lip. "Of course not. More like a magpie." He says and then sucks in a quick breath. "I am joking! Of course. You would make a cute raccoon." Mark says with a sage nod. He runs his eyes down on Mimi, who is currently flipping and twirling amidst the sea of shiny paper. "For just me? I am a lucky, lucky boy." He says happily, his cheeks bunching up the make room for his smile. As she opens the envelope, make is only too happy to announce. "Third row tickets to see RENT tonight! Right in the middle, orchestra floor. Good, yes?" He would have gotten first row, but those, of course, are reserved for the lottery along with the second.
"A magpie?! Oh honestly Mark, raccoons are cuter." Nevaeh says as she continues to slide open the envelope. "Not as lucky as I am." She giggles, feeling herself melt at the sight of his smile. "Third row?" She squeaks and looks down to the tickets, bug eyed. "Oh my god, oh my god!!!!!" The streaks from before are quickly joined by more. "OH. MY. GOD!!!!!" The last word brings an explosion color to Nevaeh's hair, the pink joined by swirls of purple, blue, green and gold. Every strand is a different color and her eyes, even through the glasses can be seen as the same explosion of color. "EEE!" She turns and wraps her arms around his neck, pulling him into a firm, happy kiss.
Mark tucks his head down into his shoulders, his neck all but disappearing as he looks very sheepish. "I know! Raccoon! Very cute. Not as cute as you, even!" The boy says quickly, trying to redeem himself. He gulps slightly, and leans back up as she opens the envelope. By this time a huge smirk has made its way onto his lips, which means its obviously the boy is proud of himself. "So you li-" He starts to ask, but is seat-tackled into a kiss. His fingers spread as he finds himself in surprise, but soon he slinks back into the embrace, returning the kiss. His ears burn with color as he leans back, eyeing her. "So... um, it is a gift, no?"
The kiss lingers for as long as Mark will allow, her fingers gracing the sides of his face before he pulls back, leaving multicolored eyes to sparkle in delight. "Good? It's wonderful. The best gift ever." A sage nods before she leans in to give him another, less than gentle kiss. "Oh.. I have to figure out what to wear!"
Mark adds a little umph to the kiss as her fingers warm his cheeks. He leans in, then pulls back almost teasingly. "Oh... really, though. It is not imaginative." Mark mumbles, massaging her lower back with his fingers. "I just thought... maybe... we needed a night off, yes?" The boy suggests, grinning at her. "Wear? Well, zis boy would usually say nozing... but you could always dress up as Mimi. It's almost as good!" Mark says, wraggling his eyebrows at her.
"It doesn't have to be imaginative to be perfect." She smiles and kisses him one last time before leaping off his lap with a quick giggle. "A night off is a great idea." Nevaeh remarks distractedly as she seems to be trying to figure something out. "You. Wait right here." She orders and darts off into the bedroom, closing the door behind her. It's a good ten minutes before she walks back out and poses dramatically in the doorway. Fishnets, tiny shorts, and black heels. Her hair was already in curls in celebration for her birthday, so it goes well with the costume. "Did I mention that last Halloween I went as Mimi to a party?" She asks in a low, purring tone.
Mark tilts his head to the side, his eyes squinting up happily. "Well, if you say so. I am very glad you are liking it!" He says with a chuckle, nodding as she leaps up. Mark watches her, looking a little perplexed about what is going on. "Yes, Madame." He mumbles, bowing his head respectively. He idly watches her disappear into the room, his fingers tapping on his knees. "Nev!" He exclaims, leaning back and letting his eyes search her. "Well... I... Mimi!" The boy laughs and hops up, flicking the tail end of his scarf around his neck. "You're perfect. A little whiter than our Hispanic chica, but perfect none ze less!"
"I do say so!" Nevaeh calls from the other room a few seconds before she reappears. More than content to linger, posing in the doorway, Nev let's Mark get a long, hard look at the outfit. "Ah, but I can fix even that." She's been practicing see? Her skin slowly begins to darken to a more tanned color. Offering an almost Hispanic look to the girl, except for the facial features which obviously stay the same. "But I'm fairly sure I'd get arrested going out in an outfit like this on a day other than Halloween."
Mark coughs into a curled hand and slowly meanders over to her, walking a wide circle and nodding as he goes. "I am impressed!" He says, pausing in front of her face as it darkens. His eyebrows shoot up, and he smiles. "Mucho sexy, Nev honey." Mark timidly holds out a hand, running it along her bare stomach. "Arrested? No, you would get picked up /long/ before getting found out by ze police. Why, I would put all my money o you being ze cutest crack-hooker in New York!"
Nevaeh smiles. "You really think so? Not too dark or too light?" Something she'd been worried about every time she's tried it so far. She chokes back a laugh at his comments and instead tries not to shiver as the toned muscles of her abdomen flex faintly at his touch. "You say the sweetest things." She winks. "But I don't know. Bet I'd have some pretty stiff competition out there."
Mark bobs his head firmly. "No, it is perfect. Hey! Zis Halloween you can turn yourself green and be Elphaba!" He suggests, grinning fully. “Idina Menzel doesn't have a zing on you, hun." Mark curls the same hand around her side, his eyes falling to her lower areas. "Oh, I know. I am French, what do you expect?" He catches the wink and smirks right back. "I know so. Because I would be willing to pay for it. In fact..." Mark digs a hand into his pocket and fishes out a crisp twenty. "Will zis do?
Nevaeh ponders that idea for a moment, seeming to like it as she too bobbles her head. "I could be! And I wouldn't have to worry about my makeup at all, because it'd never run!" She'd probably have to make that costume though. Doubtful that Wicked costumes have hit the shelves just yet. Her cheeks flush as he looks lower. She's not quite as 'endowed' as Mimi, but she manages to fill out the top well enough. "Twenty bucks? Oooh, big spender." She wrinkles her nose with a grin. "But you.. I'd give it to for free."
Mark crinkles the twenty dollar bill back and forth between his fingers, his eyes catching on her for a moment before he can turn away. "Exactly! What a lucky girl you are. And I shall go as Fiyero." He concludes pocketing the money with a laugh. "I know I can get it for free. But what it has been in short supply lately. My fault, of course." He grumbles about it to himself and shakes his head. "Well, ze play starts at seven. Shall we go get dinner first?"
"We'll have to make our costumes. But yours should be fairly easy." Nevaeh concludes with a firm nod. She watches him pocket the money and is about to smile before she hears the grumble and is quick to look away. She decided days ago not to push him on the subject, and she won't. "It doesn't have to be in short supply." she whispers, and that's all she'll say on the matter before nodding softly. "Sure. Dinner sounds nice."
Mark glances around, and carefully grabs a small wrapped box, slipping it into his pocket in hopes that she doesn't notice. He wanders over to the window, carefully adjusting his head and glasses. "I was thinking it would be appropriate to eat at ze life cafe before ze show. It is on ze way, after all." He suggests, looking over his shoulder at her. He catches the whisper and cringes, feeling a stab of guilt. "I know, love." The boy smiles and walks back over to her. "So are you going to wear zat?"
Nevaeh is too busy looking at the floor to notice anything. That is until he steps to the window and her head jerks back up, every muscle on high alert. She only starts to ease when he begins to walk away from it, the tenseness in her shoulders falling as she leans against the bedroom door. "I would love that. The Life Cafe is my favorite after all." She watches him cringe and looks away again. "Of course I will, if you want me to."
Mark finds her face as he heads back, a frown twitching on his lips as he registers the look of fear on her. "Nev? Are you all right?" He asks, the window not bringing anything to mind for him. After all, it was only a bit of fun to the boy. He wanders up close, leaning forward to get a good look at her face. "Yes, I.. I figured you would like ze Life Cafe." He says distractedly, clicking his teeth together. "I like it on you. We shall be ze talk of ze show!" Mark announces, motioning her to follow him to the door.
Nevaeh takes a long, deep breath and forces all of her nerves to relax by the time he reaches her. She looks up and forces a smile to her lips. "Yeah. I'm fine." She says and gently pats his hand. "Well, if you like it, then yes, I'll where it tonight." A more genuine smile takes the place of the forced one as she begins to pad after him. "Of course we will be!"
Mark still looks a little worried as he's pet on the head. "Oh, so if you are ze raccoon, I guess I am ze puppy." He comments with a shrug and a smile. The boy heads to the door, his mind whirling for a moment. "I am glad. You are dead sexy. But ze ozer boys. Zey will be looking." He adds as he nears the exit. His hand rests on the brass doorknob for a moment. Mark turns around, his back up against the door as he studies her for a moment. "Wait... I almost forgot somezing." He says, darting his arms out in hopes of ensnaring her with a kiss.
"The cutest puppy in the whole wide world." She glances down to Roger than back up. "Roger is a close second though. I'm sure you understand." Nev's more genuine smile stretches wider, before she ends up stopping short as Mark doesn't open the door. "They'll be looking, sure. But it doesn't matter to me. You're the only boy I want." He can rest assured of that. "What did you..?" She smiles as he wraps his arms around her. "Oh." A grin before she tilts her chin up, eagerly accepting the kiss.
Mark holds her for a moment, a hot breath of air getting caught up in his lungs. He pulls away from the kiss after a while, and seems content on pressing his cheek up against hers as he holds her. Mark, after realizing himself, pulls around and blushes. "Sorry, Nev. I could not help myself." He explains, grabbing the keys off the hook by the door and opening it up for her. "After you, my cheri."
Nevaeh returns the kiss with vigor, but seems just as content as he to simply stand there for the moment, cheeks pressed against each other. She sighs softly as he pulls away, a soft lavender color lighting her eyes. "Don't apologize sweetie. I love those moments." Adoration lifts her tone as she loves around him and out the door, wiggling her hips as she heads for the stairs.
-------------------------------------------------------
The fans were slowly filtering out of the theater, the actors already in the back getting ready to go home. Up above the last word 'love' seems to still be bouncing around. The empty seats sit peacefully, lucky witnesses to the magic that happens in this place on a daily basis. For some reason Mark has kept Nev from leaving, and even the ushers had not asked them to leave, as they had to others. In fact, it seems as if Mark has specially arranged this. He stands in silence, hands in pocket, and his eyes roaming around the theater. Without a word the boy wanders up to the stage, slowly climbing the steps up on it. The giant metal 'tree' of the set looms over, and even the makeshift wood stove has remained. Mark motions Nevaeh up after him, looking very thoughtful at the moment.
There were big, chunky tears streaming down Nevaeh's face more than once. And the end of the show was no different. She was the first on her feet, beaming and crying and clapping before the final note could even end. Needless to say, confusion runs rampant as she watches the other patrons exit, and yet, they get to remain. Her eyes widen for a moment as Mark heads towards the stairs leading up to the stage. "Mark!" She gasps, but realizing the theater is empty, she hurries up after him. "I'm on a Broadway stage!" She squeals and spins about, hurrying over to run her fingers the 'tree', poking her head through the gap near the center that serves as a 'door'. "I'm on the RENT stage." She corrects and squeals, once more spinning.
Mark stays near the edge of the stage, looking out into the theater rather than back on the stage. His eyes scan the rows of red velvet seats, peering up at the balcony, then underneath at the lobby area. Mark simply smiles to himself as she rushes around behind him, exclaiming the joy he had planned on her having. "RENT is funny that way, is it not?" He begins, sounding almost exactly like Mark Cohen. "The moment you see it you want to create love and art. You want to cast off the shackles of life off and live as our favorite bohemians." The boy pauses thoughtfully. "But there is something I have found that pulls an even greater feeling out of me. And that is exactly what I believe Jonathan Larson would have wanted." Mark falls silent, his eyes and head looking down as he pulls the tiny box out of his pocket, his fingers rolling it around in his fingers.
Nevaeh is spinning and bouncing and looking at everything. Wide eyed and child like in wonder. She's been on many stages before. But none of them Broadway. And none of them could ever compare to this one. This stage has been her dream since the first time she heard the first note of this very play. Bright, twinkling lavender eyes float towards Mark as he makes his speech, a smile of awe drifting over her features. "Are you all right?" She whispers as he falls silent, worry etching itself between her brows as she steps closer.
Mark turns slowly, his back now to where the audience would sit. Both hands are curled around the soft wrapping of the tiny box. The stage is forgotten a moment, and it seems all of Mark's focus is given to Nev. "Yes, dear. Never better." He says as he steps closer to her. "I think I finally know what it means to measure a life in love, and... and I want to give it a try." The boy says in a shaky voice, though he sounds more sincere about this than anything before. His eyes shut for a moment and he kneels right in front of her, holding the box up and cracking it open. In it sits a slim silver band, with a ruby encrusted in the shape of ivy leaves wrapping around it. "Nevaeh... will you marry me?" He asks in a whisper, his eyes sparkling bright blue.
Nevaeh's look of concern fades with his assurance that he's all right. Maybe it's just the magic of the stage that has him waxing so poetically. "Good." she smiles and is about to step closer when he moves instead. So she remains where she is, blushing softly at his words. "Oh sweetie.." She begins before surprise overwhelms her as he drops to one knee in front of her. A sharp intake of breath before she stops breathing all together, a hand pressing to her heart as silver eyes fall to the box, and the ring inside. The words echo inside of her head as the tears from earlier once more spring into her eyes, falling in streaks of pink. She can't speak, or breath, or do anything but bob her head, biting down on her bottom lip. For a good ten seconds before breath is released in a gasp of Mark's name. "Yes.. yes of course I'll marry you." She manages in a tiny, but strong voice as she drops to the floor in front of him, grasping his face in her hands to pull him into the sweetest of kisses.
Mark trembles slightly as if he's under an examination by the highest of juries. He can feel the tingle of sweat pricking at the hair line on his forehead, his heart pounding at an alarming rat in his chest. Mark fingers grip into the box and he watches her until she speaks. For a split second of terror he thinks she's about to say no, but one word sticks in his mind. /Yes... she said yes!/ Mark breaks out into a huge smile, his own eyes walling up with tears. He drops his arms heavily, his left hand curled around the box. He embraces her, still trembling like a leaf. The boy doesn't get a chance to say anything before he's pulled into a kiss. Mark makes fully sure to keep it sweet and innocent, letting their lips press against each other for a while. The soft pattering of applause causes Mark to break away, and he glances to stage left in time to see the cast of RENT peering around the curtain at them with huge smiles. The boy bites his bottom lip, looking almost as if he shares the same power with Nev as red as he's getting. "I love you." Mark whispers gently.
Two bodies, trembling against each other, clinging to one another as their lips brush, soft, sweet and filled with love. She gasps in surprise as he pulls back and there's applause. Did they let the audience back in? No. It's the cast of the show. She makes a noise that's something halfway between a gasp and a laugh as pink and purple eyes slip from the crowd behind the curtain and back to Mark. "I love you so much." No moment in her mind, has ever been so perfect as this one, right now.
Mark smiles over to her, his free hand running back through her curly hair. "I know zis." He says, falling back into his accent. He grasps her hands and stands up, his eyes not leaving hers for a moment. "You'd really marry me?" He says in wonder, a grin placed on his lips. "I am ze luckiest boy in ze world." He decides then and there. "Let's go home, Nev." The boy says, sending a wink to the cast who scatter with whispering laughter an 'awws'.
Nevaeh nuzzles her head back against his hand, eyes locked in his as they rise together. "In a heartbeat." She whispers. "And I'm the lucky one." Her eyes drift to the cast as the scatter before she beams back to Mark. "Yes. Let's." Blink. "Oh!" Her eyes fall to the ring, hopeful. "May I wear it?" Her fingers tighten gently in his.
Mark glances down at the ring box in his head. "Ah! I forget. Too wrapped up in love!" He carefully pulls the ring out and takes her hand, slipping it on slowly. The red leaf pattern sparkles gently in the stage lights. "It fits, yes? I can always... exchange it. Even if it just you not liking ze ring. Zere are others..." He says, moving towards the edge of the stage and hopping down.
Nevaeh feels her heart pounding against her chest as he slips the ring onto her finger. "It fits." She assures and pulls her hand defensively to her chest. "Nono! This is the ring you picked! And it's perfect. I love it." And he'd better not argue! She follows after him as he hops down, only for her it's more of a quick float. Once she's down she reclaims his hand, looking down to her own, still crying.
Mark nods silently, his smile tight and emotional on his face. He watches her as he walks her up the theater row, his own eyes containing the tears within. "I am glad zat you like it." His eyes flick down at it. "I love you." He mumbles again, taking one last look at the theater before exiting with her.
I love him. I love him so much. SO SO SO SO SO much!
This was the best birthday ever!!!!!
Oh my god, I have to call my mom!
Atmosphere is something every Bohemian strives to perfect, or so says the Bohemian Manifesto. Mark is no different, and the entire place is bright and cheerful, with streamers hanging in loops from the ceiling, and random decorations of tin-plate coke ads from the 50's, mixed in with large banners purloined from the streets around Broadway, the largest featuring the current cast of RENT. Which, obviously, plays in the background. Mark steps out of the bedroom, sporting a blue and red sweater, a blue and white striped scarf, and freshly dyed blonde hair. He looks rather pleased with himself, staring into the reflection of the window, with Mark Cohen staring right back. The boy lets out an amused yelp of happiness, watching as Roger, who currently wears a large bow, and Mimi with a ribbon around one ear try frantically to remove their decorations. "Ah! You try as you might, my little chat and chien! I have told zose little things to not leave your scrawny hides!" And indeed, the bows are fighting back and staying on. Mark moves to the table with several brightly wrapped packages, each with luxurious bows on top. No dinner is in the making, proof that maybe Mark has different plans.
A quick journal entry this morning before Nevaeh took off to her classes. She was very careful not to wake up poor Mark who was sleeping so sweetly. It may be her birthday, but beyond the calls from her family to wish her a good one it's been fairly uneventful. Class is over and she's done with school for the day, so she grabbed herself a big cookie from Starbucks and started to make her way back home. She floats up the stairs, dressed down for the day. A pair of low slung jeans are snug against her hips, pink baby doll T that says 'Live Life' on the front barely makes it to her belly button, and she's wearing flip flops. The only thing that stands out is the fake tiara that's propped on her head amongst the curls she put in her hair earlier that morning. The large cookie is dangling from her mouth as she begins the search for her keys.
Mark waits patiently until the joyous sound of twinkling keys reach his ears. The boy rounds on the pets, forcing them to sit side by side right behind them. Of course, as pets go, they fidgets and make little whining sounds, but Mark ignores it for the moment. He quickly adjusts his scarf, leans over to grab an old 16mm camera from the couch, which was purposely bought for this very occasion. The boy quietly moves towards the door, opens it in a blink of an eye and sinks to one knee. He starts up the camera, aiming it right at Nev. "September 4th, five pm, eastern standard time! Wishing my dear old Nev a Happy Birthday!" Mark calls out, beaming just behind the eyepiece.
Nevaeh has finally found the keys, cookie still between her lips she goes to stick them in the door only to find it pulled open. She blinks in surprise and instantly reaches up to grab the cookie, eyes wide as she stares into the camera. "From here on in we shoot without a script?" She asks, trying to bite back a giggle as he beams. “Oh sweetie you remembered!" She squeals and floats into the room, her feet touching down as she closes the door behind. "Oh.. my." A hand reaches up to press against her heart as she glances around at the decorations. "Oh Mark. It's wonderful." Barely more than a whisper as soon her eyes and streaks of hair turn the same shade of pink as her shirt.
Mark lets the camera whirl for a bit longer, the crank on the side swinging in full motion. He stands up after a moment, letting it swing down by his side. "Of course I remember, my cheri! How could I not?" Mark says as if hurt. "Come in and relax. Ze pets are glad to see you." He points out, motioning to the bowed animals, still putting up a battle with their festive wears. "And I got you gifts!" Mark exclaims, attempting to hook an arm around her and tug her to the dining table. "Happy birthday, love!" He says seriously, nodding and stepping back in case she needs to take it all in.
Nevaeh blows a kiss to the camera before he gets the chance to turn it off, her eyes still very wide as she looks towards the pets. "Oh no!" She laughs, watching as they fight with the bows. "That's just too cute." She's hooked and tugged with ease as she looks up to his hair, surprised once more as she seems to finally notice that it's blonde. "You're hair!" She exclaims, reaching up to run her fingers through it, despite the gel to keep it spiked. "Gifts? I don't need gifts. You're the best gift I could ever ask for!" As he pulls away she steps towards the table. She may not need them, but she still wants them. "Can I open one now?"
Mark seems pleased with himself, his fingers idly playing with the end of his scarf tails. He peers at her through his thick-framed glasses. "Are not they?" He replies with a huge smile, turning a quick look over to the pets, both whom don't seem half as happy as he. Mark's eyes roll up, and he ducks down for her to get a good run through. "Yes, bleaching it seems so... /human/ now... but if I had gotten you to do it, it would not have been a surprise!" He explains with a shrug. "Well, I got you some gifts any way. Yes yes, of course! Open all of zem if you wish!"
Nevaeh inspects the scarf for a moment, wondering if it's the one that she made for him. "They are." She agrees and kisses his cheek. "Well, from now on, just tell me and I'll do it for you love! I'd hate to see you ruining your hair just because you're trying to surprise me." And too much bleaching can do that. She reaches out for one of the gifts and lifts it to her ear, rattling it softly, wanting to know what's inside. "You didn't have to do all this you know. But it's the most wonderful surprise ever. So thank you." She gestures for him to come join her before starting to pull at the wrapping paper of one of the gifts.
Mark tilts his head up as she looks at the scarf because it is, indeed, the one she made for him. "Well, I know. Next time it can be ze color of your choice. I am not picky." He admits with a small shrug. Mark follows her over to the table, setting his camera on the edge before settling into one of the chairs. "You are most welcome. How could I not make zis day special for you?" He demands, slanting his eyebrows. Mark quietly watches her unwrap the RENT book. It looks like someone has a theme going.
Nevaeh beams happily when she realizes it is the one she made. Has she ever adored him more than she does right now? Probably not. "I'm convinced that I have the most wonderful boyfriend in existence." She states and wriggles her hips closer to him as he settles in a chair. She quickly follows, settling into his lap. "Oh! I don't have one of these yet!" It's the perfect centerpiece for their living room table! She flips through the book, oohing and ahhing happily over the pictures. She stops points down to the picture of the actor currently playing Mark. "That'll be you some day."
Mark rolls his eyes playfully and opens his arms as she settles into his lap. "Nonsense." He mumbles bashfully, letting his arms snake around her waist. Mark peers over her shoulder, stretching to rest his chin up on it. "You know, RENTheads call zat ze RENT bible." He comments on the side, grinning as she points to Mark. "Oh... no, really. Theater is somezing of my past... you know zis, yes? I have no time for it." The boy seems momentarily saddened by this, but passes through it quickly. "Go on! Open anozer!"
"It isn't nonsense." She huffs, chin lifting as she offers a defiant smile. "It's true. The boy boyfriend of all time." Nevaeh cranes her neck to kiss his forehead before looking down to the picture. "No time right now. But maybe someday." She says quietly and closes the book in order to take another present from the table.
Mark hums thoughtfully, but offers no protest this time. Hey, if that's what she wants to think, fine by him! Of course, most of this shopping was done earlier this afternoon, since after last nights incident, Mark felt horribly guilty. He is making sure her birthday is that much more special. "Maybe..." He says with a shrug. He falls silent and waits for her to open the small box containing designer sunglasses with a pinkish tint. "You are very hard to shop for!" He inserts quickly, in case she's not pleased.
It is what she wants to think, and it's something she seem quite convinced of as well. The wrapping paper is torn free, allowed to crinkle on the floor so that the kitten can bat at it happily. "Oh I am not. Anything shiny will do, you know that." The girl giggles before looking down to the present. Gasp. Nevaeh beams in delight as she pulls the glasses free and slides them over her eyes. "They match my outfit!" And the streaks in her. Which are still pinkish. "They're wonderful!"
Mark chuckles and leans up against her back, watching from behind as she puts them on. "Ah yes, shiny. You are much like a... oh, those little rodents with ze masks and striped tails." He says, not finding the word he's looking for. "I am glad you like zem. I wanted purple. It is my favorite color of yours... but ze did not have it." Mark nuzzles gently into her shoulder blade with his nose. "Go on. Open ze envelope. Over zere." He takes his hand off her waist to indicated a gold leaf envelope next to the center vase on the table.
Nevaeh laughs. "Are you comparing me to a raccoon?" She asks, brows arching over the rim of the glasses. Despite the question she doesn't look offended. Just amused. "Yes I guess I am sort of like them hmm?" She shivers as he nuzzles his nose against her shoulder, cheeks flushing at the mention of purple. "Yes well.. that's a color saved specifically for you.." She shrugs, all to happy to stop talking to pick up the envelope and quickly open it.
Mark runs his teeth over his bottom lip. "Of course not. More like a magpie." He says and then sucks in a quick breath. "I am joking! Of course. You would make a cute raccoon." Mark says with a sage nod. He runs his eyes down on Mimi, who is currently flipping and twirling amidst the sea of shiny paper. "For just me? I am a lucky, lucky boy." He says happily, his cheeks bunching up the make room for his smile. As she opens the envelope, make is only too happy to announce. "Third row tickets to see RENT tonight! Right in the middle, orchestra floor. Good, yes?" He would have gotten first row, but those, of course, are reserved for the lottery along with the second.
"A magpie?! Oh honestly Mark, raccoons are cuter." Nevaeh says as she continues to slide open the envelope. "Not as lucky as I am." She giggles, feeling herself melt at the sight of his smile. "Third row?" She squeaks and looks down to the tickets, bug eyed. "Oh my god, oh my god!!!!!" The streaks from before are quickly joined by more. "OH. MY. GOD!!!!!" The last word brings an explosion color to Nevaeh's hair, the pink joined by swirls of purple, blue, green and gold. Every strand is a different color and her eyes, even through the glasses can be seen as the same explosion of color. "EEE!" She turns and wraps her arms around his neck, pulling him into a firm, happy kiss.
Mark tucks his head down into his shoulders, his neck all but disappearing as he looks very sheepish. "I know! Raccoon! Very cute. Not as cute as you, even!" The boy says quickly, trying to redeem himself. He gulps slightly, and leans back up as she opens the envelope. By this time a huge smirk has made its way onto his lips, which means its obviously the boy is proud of himself. "So you li-" He starts to ask, but is seat-tackled into a kiss. His fingers spread as he finds himself in surprise, but soon he slinks back into the embrace, returning the kiss. His ears burn with color as he leans back, eyeing her. "So... um, it is a gift, no?"
The kiss lingers for as long as Mark will allow, her fingers gracing the sides of his face before he pulls back, leaving multicolored eyes to sparkle in delight. "Good? It's wonderful. The best gift ever." A sage nods before she leans in to give him another, less than gentle kiss. "Oh.. I have to figure out what to wear!"
Mark adds a little umph to the kiss as her fingers warm his cheeks. He leans in, then pulls back almost teasingly. "Oh... really, though. It is not imaginative." Mark mumbles, massaging her lower back with his fingers. "I just thought... maybe... we needed a night off, yes?" The boy suggests, grinning at her. "Wear? Well, zis boy would usually say nozing... but you could always dress up as Mimi. It's almost as good!" Mark says, wraggling his eyebrows at her.
"It doesn't have to be imaginative to be perfect." She smiles and kisses him one last time before leaping off his lap with a quick giggle. "A night off is a great idea." Nevaeh remarks distractedly as she seems to be trying to figure something out. "You. Wait right here." She orders and darts off into the bedroom, closing the door behind her. It's a good ten minutes before she walks back out and poses dramatically in the doorway. Fishnets, tiny shorts, and black heels. Her hair was already in curls in celebration for her birthday, so it goes well with the costume. "Did I mention that last Halloween I went as Mimi to a party?" She asks in a low, purring tone.
Mark tilts his head to the side, his eyes squinting up happily. "Well, if you say so. I am very glad you are liking it!" He says with a chuckle, nodding as she leaps up. Mark watches her, looking a little perplexed about what is going on. "Yes, Madame." He mumbles, bowing his head respectively. He idly watches her disappear into the room, his fingers tapping on his knees. "Nev!" He exclaims, leaning back and letting his eyes search her. "Well... I... Mimi!" The boy laughs and hops up, flicking the tail end of his scarf around his neck. "You're perfect. A little whiter than our Hispanic chica, but perfect none ze less!"
"I do say so!" Nevaeh calls from the other room a few seconds before she reappears. More than content to linger, posing in the doorway, Nev let's Mark get a long, hard look at the outfit. "Ah, but I can fix even that." She's been practicing see? Her skin slowly begins to darken to a more tanned color. Offering an almost Hispanic look to the girl, except for the facial features which obviously stay the same. "But I'm fairly sure I'd get arrested going out in an outfit like this on a day other than Halloween."
Mark coughs into a curled hand and slowly meanders over to her, walking a wide circle and nodding as he goes. "I am impressed!" He says, pausing in front of her face as it darkens. His eyebrows shoot up, and he smiles. "Mucho sexy, Nev honey." Mark timidly holds out a hand, running it along her bare stomach. "Arrested? No, you would get picked up /long/ before getting found out by ze police. Why, I would put all my money o you being ze cutest crack-hooker in New York!"
Nevaeh smiles. "You really think so? Not too dark or too light?" Something she'd been worried about every time she's tried it so far. She chokes back a laugh at his comments and instead tries not to shiver as the toned muscles of her abdomen flex faintly at his touch. "You say the sweetest things." She winks. "But I don't know. Bet I'd have some pretty stiff competition out there."
Mark bobs his head firmly. "No, it is perfect. Hey! Zis Halloween you can turn yourself green and be Elphaba!" He suggests, grinning fully. “Idina Menzel doesn't have a zing on you, hun." Mark curls the same hand around her side, his eyes falling to her lower areas. "Oh, I know. I am French, what do you expect?" He catches the wink and smirks right back. "I know so. Because I would be willing to pay for it. In fact..." Mark digs a hand into his pocket and fishes out a crisp twenty. "Will zis do?
Nevaeh ponders that idea for a moment, seeming to like it as she too bobbles her head. "I could be! And I wouldn't have to worry about my makeup at all, because it'd never run!" She'd probably have to make that costume though. Doubtful that Wicked costumes have hit the shelves just yet. Her cheeks flush as he looks lower. She's not quite as 'endowed' as Mimi, but she manages to fill out the top well enough. "Twenty bucks? Oooh, big spender." She wrinkles her nose with a grin. "But you.. I'd give it to for free."
Mark crinkles the twenty dollar bill back and forth between his fingers, his eyes catching on her for a moment before he can turn away. "Exactly! What a lucky girl you are. And I shall go as Fiyero." He concludes pocketing the money with a laugh. "I know I can get it for free. But what it has been in short supply lately. My fault, of course." He grumbles about it to himself and shakes his head. "Well, ze play starts at seven. Shall we go get dinner first?"
"We'll have to make our costumes. But yours should be fairly easy." Nevaeh concludes with a firm nod. She watches him pocket the money and is about to smile before she hears the grumble and is quick to look away. She decided days ago not to push him on the subject, and she won't. "It doesn't have to be in short supply." she whispers, and that's all she'll say on the matter before nodding softly. "Sure. Dinner sounds nice."
Mark glances around, and carefully grabs a small wrapped box, slipping it into his pocket in hopes that she doesn't notice. He wanders over to the window, carefully adjusting his head and glasses. "I was thinking it would be appropriate to eat at ze life cafe before ze show. It is on ze way, after all." He suggests, looking over his shoulder at her. He catches the whisper and cringes, feeling a stab of guilt. "I know, love." The boy smiles and walks back over to her. "So are you going to wear zat?"
Nevaeh is too busy looking at the floor to notice anything. That is until he steps to the window and her head jerks back up, every muscle on high alert. She only starts to ease when he begins to walk away from it, the tenseness in her shoulders falling as she leans against the bedroom door. "I would love that. The Life Cafe is my favorite after all." She watches him cringe and looks away again. "Of course I will, if you want me to."
Mark finds her face as he heads back, a frown twitching on his lips as he registers the look of fear on her. "Nev? Are you all right?" He asks, the window not bringing anything to mind for him. After all, it was only a bit of fun to the boy. He wanders up close, leaning forward to get a good look at her face. "Yes, I.. I figured you would like ze Life Cafe." He says distractedly, clicking his teeth together. "I like it on you. We shall be ze talk of ze show!" Mark announces, motioning her to follow him to the door.
Nevaeh takes a long, deep breath and forces all of her nerves to relax by the time he reaches her. She looks up and forces a smile to her lips. "Yeah. I'm fine." She says and gently pats his hand. "Well, if you like it, then yes, I'll where it tonight." A more genuine smile takes the place of the forced one as she begins to pad after him. "Of course we will be!"
Mark still looks a little worried as he's pet on the head. "Oh, so if you are ze raccoon, I guess I am ze puppy." He comments with a shrug and a smile. The boy heads to the door, his mind whirling for a moment. "I am glad. You are dead sexy. But ze ozer boys. Zey will be looking." He adds as he nears the exit. His hand rests on the brass doorknob for a moment. Mark turns around, his back up against the door as he studies her for a moment. "Wait... I almost forgot somezing." He says, darting his arms out in hopes of ensnaring her with a kiss.
"The cutest puppy in the whole wide world." She glances down to Roger than back up. "Roger is a close second though. I'm sure you understand." Nev's more genuine smile stretches wider, before she ends up stopping short as Mark doesn't open the door. "They'll be looking, sure. But it doesn't matter to me. You're the only boy I want." He can rest assured of that. "What did you..?" She smiles as he wraps his arms around her. "Oh." A grin before she tilts her chin up, eagerly accepting the kiss.
Mark holds her for a moment, a hot breath of air getting caught up in his lungs. He pulls away from the kiss after a while, and seems content on pressing his cheek up against hers as he holds her. Mark, after realizing himself, pulls around and blushes. "Sorry, Nev. I could not help myself." He explains, grabbing the keys off the hook by the door and opening it up for her. "After you, my cheri."
Nevaeh returns the kiss with vigor, but seems just as content as he to simply stand there for the moment, cheeks pressed against each other. She sighs softly as he pulls away, a soft lavender color lighting her eyes. "Don't apologize sweetie. I love those moments." Adoration lifts her tone as she loves around him and out the door, wiggling her hips as she heads for the stairs.
-------------------------------------------------------
The fans were slowly filtering out of the theater, the actors already in the back getting ready to go home. Up above the last word 'love' seems to still be bouncing around. The empty seats sit peacefully, lucky witnesses to the magic that happens in this place on a daily basis. For some reason Mark has kept Nev from leaving, and even the ushers had not asked them to leave, as they had to others. In fact, it seems as if Mark has specially arranged this. He stands in silence, hands in pocket, and his eyes roaming around the theater. Without a word the boy wanders up to the stage, slowly climbing the steps up on it. The giant metal 'tree' of the set looms over, and even the makeshift wood stove has remained. Mark motions Nevaeh up after him, looking very thoughtful at the moment.
There were big, chunky tears streaming down Nevaeh's face more than once. And the end of the show was no different. She was the first on her feet, beaming and crying and clapping before the final note could even end. Needless to say, confusion runs rampant as she watches the other patrons exit, and yet, they get to remain. Her eyes widen for a moment as Mark heads towards the stairs leading up to the stage. "Mark!" She gasps, but realizing the theater is empty, she hurries up after him. "I'm on a Broadway stage!" She squeals and spins about, hurrying over to run her fingers the 'tree', poking her head through the gap near the center that serves as a 'door'. "I'm on the RENT stage." She corrects and squeals, once more spinning.
Mark stays near the edge of the stage, looking out into the theater rather than back on the stage. His eyes scan the rows of red velvet seats, peering up at the balcony, then underneath at the lobby area. Mark simply smiles to himself as she rushes around behind him, exclaiming the joy he had planned on her having. "RENT is funny that way, is it not?" He begins, sounding almost exactly like Mark Cohen. "The moment you see it you want to create love and art. You want to cast off the shackles of life off and live as our favorite bohemians." The boy pauses thoughtfully. "But there is something I have found that pulls an even greater feeling out of me. And that is exactly what I believe Jonathan Larson would have wanted." Mark falls silent, his eyes and head looking down as he pulls the tiny box out of his pocket, his fingers rolling it around in his fingers.
Nevaeh is spinning and bouncing and looking at everything. Wide eyed and child like in wonder. She's been on many stages before. But none of them Broadway. And none of them could ever compare to this one. This stage has been her dream since the first time she heard the first note of this very play. Bright, twinkling lavender eyes float towards Mark as he makes his speech, a smile of awe drifting over her features. "Are you all right?" She whispers as he falls silent, worry etching itself between her brows as she steps closer.
Mark turns slowly, his back now to where the audience would sit. Both hands are curled around the soft wrapping of the tiny box. The stage is forgotten a moment, and it seems all of Mark's focus is given to Nev. "Yes, dear. Never better." He says as he steps closer to her. "I think I finally know what it means to measure a life in love, and... and I want to give it a try." The boy says in a shaky voice, though he sounds more sincere about this than anything before. His eyes shut for a moment and he kneels right in front of her, holding the box up and cracking it open. In it sits a slim silver band, with a ruby encrusted in the shape of ivy leaves wrapping around it. "Nevaeh... will you marry me?" He asks in a whisper, his eyes sparkling bright blue.
Nevaeh's look of concern fades with his assurance that he's all right. Maybe it's just the magic of the stage that has him waxing so poetically. "Good." she smiles and is about to step closer when he moves instead. So she remains where she is, blushing softly at his words. "Oh sweetie.." She begins before surprise overwhelms her as he drops to one knee in front of her. A sharp intake of breath before she stops breathing all together, a hand pressing to her heart as silver eyes fall to the box, and the ring inside. The words echo inside of her head as the tears from earlier once more spring into her eyes, falling in streaks of pink. She can't speak, or breath, or do anything but bob her head, biting down on her bottom lip. For a good ten seconds before breath is released in a gasp of Mark's name. "Yes.. yes of course I'll marry you." She manages in a tiny, but strong voice as she drops to the floor in front of him, grasping his face in her hands to pull him into the sweetest of kisses.
Mark trembles slightly as if he's under an examination by the highest of juries. He can feel the tingle of sweat pricking at the hair line on his forehead, his heart pounding at an alarming rat in his chest. Mark fingers grip into the box and he watches her until she speaks. For a split second of terror he thinks she's about to say no, but one word sticks in his mind. /Yes... she said yes!/ Mark breaks out into a huge smile, his own eyes walling up with tears. He drops his arms heavily, his left hand curled around the box. He embraces her, still trembling like a leaf. The boy doesn't get a chance to say anything before he's pulled into a kiss. Mark makes fully sure to keep it sweet and innocent, letting their lips press against each other for a while. The soft pattering of applause causes Mark to break away, and he glances to stage left in time to see the cast of RENT peering around the curtain at them with huge smiles. The boy bites his bottom lip, looking almost as if he shares the same power with Nev as red as he's getting. "I love you." Mark whispers gently.
Two bodies, trembling against each other, clinging to one another as their lips brush, soft, sweet and filled with love. She gasps in surprise as he pulls back and there's applause. Did they let the audience back in? No. It's the cast of the show. She makes a noise that's something halfway between a gasp and a laugh as pink and purple eyes slip from the crowd behind the curtain and back to Mark. "I love you so much." No moment in her mind, has ever been so perfect as this one, right now.
Mark smiles over to her, his free hand running back through her curly hair. "I know zis." He says, falling back into his accent. He grasps her hands and stands up, his eyes not leaving hers for a moment. "You'd really marry me?" He says in wonder, a grin placed on his lips. "I am ze luckiest boy in ze world." He decides then and there. "Let's go home, Nev." The boy says, sending a wink to the cast who scatter with whispering laughter an 'awws'.
Nevaeh nuzzles her head back against his hand, eyes locked in his as they rise together. "In a heartbeat." She whispers. "And I'm the lucky one." Her eyes drift to the cast as the scatter before she beams back to Mark. "Yes. Let's." Blink. "Oh!" Her eyes fall to the ring, hopeful. "May I wear it?" Her fingers tighten gently in his.
Mark glances down at the ring box in his head. "Ah! I forget. Too wrapped up in love!" He carefully pulls the ring out and takes her hand, slipping it on slowly. The red leaf pattern sparkles gently in the stage lights. "It fits, yes? I can always... exchange it. Even if it just you not liking ze ring. Zere are others..." He says, moving towards the edge of the stage and hopping down.
Nevaeh feels her heart pounding against her chest as he slips the ring onto her finger. "It fits." She assures and pulls her hand defensively to her chest. "Nono! This is the ring you picked! And it's perfect. I love it." And he'd better not argue! She follows after him as he hops down, only for her it's more of a quick float. Once she's down she reclaims his hand, looking down to her own, still crying.
Mark nods silently, his smile tight and emotional on his face. He watches her as he walks her up the theater row, his own eyes containing the tears within. "I am glad zat you like it." His eyes flick down at it. "I love you." He mumbles again, taking one last look at the theater before exiting with her.