Get-The-Girl Off 4/4 [Demi Lovato/Alex Russo] PG-13
Title: Get-The-Girl Off (4 of 4)
Author: put_an_ark_init
Pairing: Alex Russo/Demi Lovato
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: ~8696 words
Summary: The big fashion show is here, and Demi and Selena are determined to get the girl by the end of the night.
Note: Final chapter. It's kinda bittersweet to see this all grown up and thrust out into the world, but Justin and I are very proud of our lovechild. We hope you enjoy this.
Promotional Video by angelica_yo
-_-_-_-
6:30 pm arrives and Alex Russo greets it with anxious pacing.
Justin and Harper are sitting at one of the tables, mouths hanging open, eyes following Alex as she blazes a trail back and forth along the main portion of the Sub Station. The girl is dressed to kill, a black thigh-length dress with sheer sleeves to the elbow and minimal makeup standing strikingly against her skin, which looks pale compared to the darkness of her dress and hair. Despite her outfit, she looks nervous, and as she makes what must be her twentieth pass, a hand makes its way up to her mouth.
“Alex!” Harper exclaims, bolting up form her seat and pulling her friend's hand away from her mouth, “I've already told you, no nail biting tonight! You'll ruin your manicure!”
“Yes, and that would be a tragedy,” Justin says from his seat, crossing his arms over the back of the reversed seat and rolling his eyes, “And besides, what are you nervous about? I thought you and Demi were super close already or something like that.”
“I, uh...” Alex trails off, suddenly unsure of why she's so nervous. Obviously, the fact that she's about to go to a high-brow fashion function is enough to throw her into high gear nerves-wise, but not enough to induce pacing. Or nail biting, for that matter.
And yeah, so maybe she's got a tiny little crush on Demi Lovato, but come on, who doesn't? It's not like it's some big deal that she wants nothing more than to prove to Demi just how true the phrase “girls do it better” is.
No, of course not.
“Nothing, I'm not nervous, why would you think I'm nervous, GOD, Justin, you're such a freak.”
It comes out in a ramble, her voice attempting to sound casual, but slowly rising in pitch until she's finally lost it, her finger pointed at Justin accusingly with the last bit.
He blinks a couple of times before standing up, straightening the collar on his tux and heading for the door.
“Whatever,” he says, opening the door with a small jingle from the bell above it, “I'm gonna go wait outside for them.”
The door closes and Alex turns to Harper with a desperate look on her face.
“Harper, what am I going to do? I'm freaking out here.”
“Just breathe, Alex, just breathe. Do it with me. In...” Harper takes a really deep breath in, her eyes fluttered shut like some kind of zen practitioner. Alex just quirks an eyebrow.
“And out....There, doesn't that feel-” Harper's question cuts off as she opens her eyes and sees Alex's raised eyebrow and amused smirk. “Hey, you didn't even do it, did you?”
“Sorry Harper, just not into that kind of stuff. But you did kind of calm me down, so, thanks, I guess.”
Harper smiles and pulls Alex into a hug.
“No problem, Lex, and don't worry, I'm sure you'll get the girl.”
Alex closes her eyes and hugs her friend back tightly.
They stand like that for a few seconds, ignoring the bell above the door ringing out somebody's entrance.
“Alex, Harper!” They hear Justin exclaim, though they ignore him.
“Alex! Harper!”
Alex's eyes flash open and she pulls away from her best friend for a second to glare at her brother.
“Oh come on, Justin, can't you see we're trying to have a freaking moment here?!”
Justin rolls his eyes and scoffs before starting to close the door, saying, “Fine, I'll just tell Demi and Miley that you can't come tonight, seeing as they just pulled up.”
With that, he closes the door and Alex feels her heart drop to her feet. The nerves are suddenly back, and...yep, her palms are sweaty again.
“Come on, Alex, this is no big deal. Just a night out on the town, right?” Harper reassures her as she takes Alex's hand and tugs her toward the door.
Alex fervently hopes so.
-_-_-_-
Harper and Alex step out of the sub shop and walk to the street, where Justin is making a fool of himself by bowing exaggeratedly and kissing Miley’s and Emily’s hands. The two girls are beautiful in similarly styled silver dresses, but Alex’s eyes are immediately drawn to their right.
Demi is standing next to them, relaxed, her arms crossed and her red satin shawl wrapped around her forearms. Alex’s mouth goes dry as she takes in the short but respectable black number, red fringe adorning her tiny waist and accentuating her hips, her red heels and red lips shining in the light of the street lamps. Demi’s shoulders are exposed and her dark hair is pulled up in an elegant bun, with a long lock of dark curl falling from the back to brush her collar when she turns her head.
Alex swears she sees Demi’s eyes light up when they fall on her. Alex’s hot cheeks match the color of Demi’s lips without her consent.
“Alex! Gurl, you look fa-bu-lous!! ” Demi’s street is showing, and Alex can’t help but giggle girlishly, before catching herself and adopting her trademark smirk and quirked eyebrows.
“It’s nice to see you when you aren’t frazzled by stalkers and paparazzi. And those shoes are killer.”
“Why, thank you. I accept your compliment with grace and humility.” She smiles wide and semi-courtesies. “Come, meet Miley and Emily.”
Demi comes up and links her arm with Alex’s, guiding her to Miley’s side. Alex reaches out to shake Miley’s hand and catches Emily’s eyes. While exchanging her greeting, she steps back and scrutinizes the two girls… Emily wraps Miley up in side hug and brings her head closer to Miley’s face… and it clicks.
These two… were spying on her. Wrapped in hoodies and outrageously fake hair… They weren’t very good at the spying part, but still. Alex is not at all sure what she should think about this realization. And actually, it’s ridiculous that no one recognized them. She mentally slaps herself for not seeing it either. But then again, it’s Fashion Week in New York, and really, you wouldn’t expect Hannah Montana in a dinky sub shop on a side street.
A second click happens in Alex’s brain as Miley turns her head to plant a sweet kiss on Emily’s lips. These two… are dating. Alex’s eyes widen in surprise, and she suddenly feels self-conscious. She looks to Demi, who is gazing at them with a content smile, and Alex relaxes a little.
Alex’s arm feels like its about to be yanked off by Harper’s sudden tight grip on her.
“GAH, hello there Ms. Miley Cyrus and Ms. Emily Osment!! It’s very extraordinary to meet you on this wonderful night, and you look beautiful in those silver sequins, Ms. Emily Osment!! And your hair, Ms. Miley Cyrus, shines brilliantly in this light and it frames your face perfectly, and what shade of lipstick is that!?! “
“Harper!”
“Because it is beautiful and you are gorgeous and did I mention I have every one of your albums?! And Ms. Emily Osment, I am a huge fan and have watched all your movies and say, how’s your older brother?! He is very cute and smart and I loved him in that one movie with the dead people, and -“
“Harper!”
“- and yes, Alex, I haven’t forgotten. Hello Ms. Demi Lovato, you look beautiful this evening as well, your hair is shiny and your face is gorgeous and -“
“HARPER!” Justin and Alex both shake her and she clamps her mouth shut, her eyes wide as realization washes over her that she has, once again, been carried away.
The famous stars just shift their eyes and chuckle lightly at the flustered girl as the driver opens the door to the stretch Hummer limo - it takes another few minutes to get Harper to calm down from the awe of the large machine to actually get her inside, but eventually they all hop in and are headed off to the party.
While Harper talks Demi’s ear off regarding all the famous dress designers she’s met and Justin strikes up a conversation with Emily about guitars, Alex is left to observe her friends. Miley is overtly cutesy with her girlfriend, running her fingers up and down her arm and snuggling into her neck whenever she isn’t butting into the conversation. Alex notices with a slight swelling of pride and unexpected affection that Justin is not in the least bit distracted by the blatant PDA. She didn’t really expect him to freak or anything, maybe be a little miffed that the girls were taken, but she feels content just the same, knowing that Justin has no reservations about two girls in love.
Just as Emily and Justin get into a heated debate about the benefit of humbuckers versus single coils, Miley disentangles herself from Emily and slides closer to Alex. They make awkward small talk for a while until Miley mentions Demi. Alex immediately gushes.
“I never thought famous people could be so normal, ya know? She likes movies and frozen yogurt and is a text addict.”
“Yup, we honestly are no different than you. We’re still crazy teenagers, we still like to hang with friends… we still fall in love…” Miley leans even closer to Alex while ducking her head, looking at her from under her silver mascara-tinted eyelashes.
“Yeah, I guess. But it must be hard for you guys, right? Being in love with so much going on… You probably can’t focus on the ones that mean a lot to you...” Alex fails at her subtle glance at Demi, who is still trying to navigate a conversation with Harper.
“Well, from my experience, we learn to make time for the ones we love… it’s not too hard...”
“Yeah, but like, what if you’re away from each other for long periods of time? Doesn’t your heart just break?” Alex looks back into Miley’s eyes. She sees a sparkle of something that doesn’t have to do with the light sheen of glitter makeup surrounding her eyes.
“Of course it hurts - but love is powerful, and distance can be overcome with phones and web cams and all sorts of fancy technology. If you want it bad enough, you can make it work just fine. Fantastic even.” Miley grabs Alex’s hand just as Alex looks out the window - after her eyes glance over Demi.
“Relationships, especially in this business, take a lot of effort. You seem like a hard worker, Alex, I’m sure you’d be able to pull it off.” Miley nudges Alex’s shoulder, but the hint is lost on Alex as she laughs. Hard. For a good 30 seconds.
“A hard worker?! Me?!? Please Miley, stop, my sides hurt! If only you knew the tricks I have up my sleeve - or tucked into my purse.”
Miley sighs dejectedly. She tried her best to hint at Demi’s feelings, but Alex is surprisingly daft in this regard. She resigns herself back to Emily’s side. Looks like it’s all up to Demi now.
Demi glanced over at Alex when she burst into sporadic laughter, and now leans in conspiratorially.
“So, Alex. You excited for tonight?”
“Oh definitely. I am expecting some major bragging rights when I get back to school Monday.” Alex’s knee brushes against Demi’s in the sway of the vehicle as it turns a corner.
“Are you hoping to meet anyone famous? I hear Fashion Week always brings in the biggest celebs. Like a Hollywood award show, but less boring and no speeches that get cut off by a rising crescendo of violins and trumpets.”
Alex chuckles lightly and stares at her hand that is clasped between Demi’s. “Honestly, I don’t care who I see. You’re pretty much the most amazing person to me right now, so everything else is kinda second wand.”
“Aw, Alex! Thank you!” Demi takes the compliment in stride and manages not to blush a deep crimson. But her wide smile just grows wider. “…And, ‘second wand’? Don’t you mean fiddle?”
“Yes, well, I’ve never seen a fiddle, so, ya know…”
“Oh, so, you’ve seen a wand, then?” Demi’s eyebrow arches deliciously and she purses her lips in a poor attempt to hide her amusement.
Alex laughs loudly again. “Uh, yes. Uhm… Harry Potter?”
“Oh right. Never was much of a fan.”
“Yeah, me neither. Those robes, and the glasses… not as comfortable as you might think. And definitely not in style,” Alex shudders slightly.
Demi slings an arm around Alex’s shoulders and hugs her quickly, “Ack! We should be there soon! I’m so stoked!”
Alex laughs at the excited rockstar, “Yes! I have a feeling tonight will be… magical.” Alex grins stupidly and looks at Demi, which causes the other girl to smile similarly. That’s when they hear the driver let loose a colorful string of profanities.
The driver pulls over to the side, achingly slow as he navigates between New York traffic.
“Lis’en kids… dea’s no easy way ta say dis, but… ya gunna hafta git out an’ waak da rest’a da ways. Ain’t no way dis Humma gunna fit in dat traffic. ‘Specially when I’m runnin’ low on gas.”
Miley balks. “What?! I thought you said you had a full tank and were ‘rarin ta git gone’!?!”
“Yea, I did, but traffic tends tah soak up gas, don’t it?! Have ya seen da size of dis beast?! Ain’t no way it woulda last the next few blocks. Look hea, I’m sawry, but dere jus ain’t no way. Now, git out!”
Alex resorts to her usual tactic of biting Justin’s head off when things don’t go her way.
“Justin! I told you we should have called the cab company! Demi wasted money on this stupid chauffeur service when she coulda got the family discount!!”
Demi places her hand on Alex’s shoulder, “No it’s all right. Bryant Park isn’t too far, right? We can walk. No problem. It’s a nice night anyways.”
“Ugh, fine. Let’s get going. But this is still ridiculous. Three famous Hollywood stars and we have to walk our butts there. This should not be happening.” Alex huffs and stomps out of the Hummer. She hates walking. Like, with a passion.
She feels instantly better and only residually irritated when Demi links their arms together and they bump hips every now and then on the way to the brilliantly lit park, where the white event tents look like snowcapped mountains amongst the trees.
-_-_-_-
The group enters the main tent and Alex and Harper immediately catch sight of an outrageous French beret with a glittery peacock feather sticking from the top of it, resting jauntily atop a young woman’s brown hair. Alex disentangles herself form Demi’s arm to take her position next to Harper. She doesn’t even need to look at her best friend before they simultaneously burst into song.
“What’s that? A hat? Crazy, funky, junky hat!”
Demi, Miley and Emily are all cracking up behind their dainty hands while Justin shakes his head in amusement. He glances up to see if the woman has heard their jeers, and his jaw falls to the floor. He tries to discretely get the girls’ attention by flailing his arms at them and coughing loudly, but they are too caught up in their dance to notice.
“Overslept? Hair Unsightly? Trying to look like -“
It’s at that moment the woman turns around and the girls’ song dies in the suddenly very tense air.
“-Keira Knightley….”
Alex’s mouth drops open in an “o” shape and Harper nearly faints next to her, but Emily reacts and braces her elbows from behind.
“Wow, you look… so very lovely tonight, Miss Knightley… Loved you in that pirate movie…” Alex coughs at the end of her sentence and her hand reaches back to her head, nervously flipping her hair. Her hand falls back to her side and is immediately captured between Demi’s hands.
Demi steps up beside Alex and calmly says, “Nice to see you again, Keira. How was your project in Bali?”
Keira’s perfectly sculpted eyebrows jaunt upwards, but her face resets into a polite smile at Demi’s question. Demi reaches out to shake Keira’s hand and pulls her into a cheek kiss.
“Oh it was fabulous. Very beautiful. We are hoping to vacation there again in the summer. By the way, I was meaning to contact your people - looks like Natalie is as impressed with you as I am, dearie. She wants to meet while you’re in town.”
Demi’s thousand watt smile shines brighter than the floodlights. “Natalie Portman?! Really!? I was kinda joking when I mentioned that, but oh my god, that’s fantastic news!”
Alex loses track of what they say to each other as she beings to fantasize about all the amazingly beautiful people Demi must have met and is apparently very well acquainted with. She looks up just as Keira leaves, seemingly forgiving of the whole “hat dance” thing. Alex releases a breath she was unaware was clinging to her lungs.
“Wow, thanks for that. I never thought that would ever happen. Right Harper?... Harper?”
Harper is still out of it, and her gaze is transfixed in following Keira’s retreat. But suddenly, she gasps, and grips Alex’s arm very tightly.
“Gah! Look, look, look! It’s fashion mogul and style aficionado Marc Jacobs! He is coming over here, oh my gosh! What if he likes my dress?! Do you think he’ll talk to me?! Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!” She jumps excitedly up and down in her precarious heels, so Alex begins to dig through Harper’s decorative sling bag.
“Harper! Harper, calm down! Here!” And Alex shoves the emergency paper bag over Harper’s mouth so that the girl avoids hyperventilating. Alex was hoping she wouldn’t have to use it tonight. She gives Demi an apologetic glance.
Suave and slick, Marc Jacobs saunters up to the group, swinging a bejeweled cane in front of him with each step, which catches Justin’s eye immediately. “Ooooh,” he says under his breath as he straightens his tie and smoothes back his spiky hair. Harper quickly shoves the paper bag down from her face and stands up straight as Marc stops in front of them.
He holds out his hand to Miley and Demi. After a moment’s hesitation, Miley takes his hand and kisses the back of it. Demi does the same, with an awkward smile.
“Ahh, hello there, girls. So very good to see you again. I’ve been told you are needed for the next act. I decided to act the gentleman and escort you to your duties.”
“Oh Marc, always thinking about you’re models first, how very dashing of you,” Miley chides as she separates from the group to join him at his side.
“May I introduce to you our good friends, Alex Russo and her brother Justin and Harper…Finkle, was it?”
Harper makes a noise that sounds an awful lot like “meeep.” Miley nods in confirmation and turns to address Demi, “Come on, superstar, let’s go meet the models and their outfits.” Her eyebrows jaunt upwards with each exaggerated word.
Emily pokes Miley in her side as she slides into her arm, and they giggle quietly between themselves. Demi steps out in front of Alex and grips tighter the hand she had yet to let go of.
“We’ll be about 20 minutes - meeting the models and designers and event planners - then I’ll be back. After that we can enjoy the show until it’s time for me to perform.” Demi smiles and Alex returns it without even thinking.
”Yeah, sure, have fun. We’ll keep busy.” Alex winks at Demi and is a little startled when she leans in for a sweet kiss on the cheek, before letting go and joining Marc at his side.
Suddenly, Harper bursts out excitedly, “Mr. Marc Jacobs sir, we are all HUGE fans, I love your innovative approach to fashion! I am an aspiring designer myself, and I just have so much respect and admiration and love and infatuation and -“
Alex hugs Harper close to her and shakes her noticeably, “Ah! Harper, I’m sure Mr. Jacobs is a very busy man. Let him go to work. C’mon, let’s go find some unhappy models and taunt them with cookies.” Alex’s eyebrows shoot up in hope but Harper’s jaw is still to the floor.
Marc turns to look over his shoulder and smiles genuinely. “Well, Ms. Harper, I’ve heard all that before, but I just f-love your purse, it looks just like a paper bag! Very chic. If that’s your own design, maybe you’ve actually got some talent.”
Alex refrains from coughing and speaks up for her speechless best friend. “Yes, it is! Harper’s got tons of ideas like that, she’s amazing,”
“Well, then. Stick around. Maybe we’ll talk, yes? Ciao for now, girls. And guy.” He winks at Justin as he turns and Harper hugs her bag close to her chest. Marc throws his arms around Miley’s and Demi’s waists and walks slowly while speaking animatedly.
-_-_-_-
Alex, Harper and Justin are then left to wander in between industry big-names and outrageously dressed tall models.
Alex sighs heavily and pats a drooling Justin hard on the back, “So many pretty girls that Justin can’t touch. Shame, really.” Justin snaps out of his trance and slouches for a second, before squaring his shoulders and twirling around to face Alex.
“Hey, I’m an upright and friendly gentleman, there is no reason why I wouldn’t be able to strike up a conversation… with a pretty… pretty… pretty… pretty… pretty- (Alex smacks his face) -young model.”
“Yeah sure, let me describe that conversation for you: ‘Ah-duh, ah-hi dere, Pretty. D’ya like board games? How ‘bout weather themed pajamas and Star Wars bedsheets? A-dur, a-dur, a-dur!” Alex crosses her eyes and smacks her chest with the back of her hand to emphasize her words.
Justin balks and steps back, offended. His mouth drops open and flaps a little trying to form a retort, while Alex leans back on her heels and checks her nails, awaiting his response. After a full 15 seconds, Justin scoffs and turns on his heel, stalking off toward the other side if the tent.
Harper stops in front of Alex, “Well, now you’ve done it. He’s all upset and is just gonna make a fool of himself. I better go and keep those models away from him, to protect his fragile ego.” Harper’s eyes shine with a determined spark. She stomps her feet after Justin’s exit, calling his name loudly.
Alex suddenly feels very out-of-place. She wanders over to the side of the tent where tables are lined with memorabilia and programs and other items, trying to catch a glimpse of where Demi went.
She releases a sigh she was unaware she was holding. Being with Demi, she feels so happy. It’s the best feeling in the world, being near her, holding her hand, hearing her laugh, watching her smile. Alex has fallen so hard for this girl. If she has any chance of being with her, it has to happen soon. But how? How can she get Demi to realize her feelings for her?
To her left, a tall, lithe young woman saunters into view. Alex’s eyes are drawn to her effortlessly. Her blonde highlights fall in a cascade over one eye, giving her an air of mysteriously magnetic beauty. Her eye has a visible spark of interest and Alex automatically turns her body to face her. At this, the pretty woman smirks a small smile before leaning against the table. She lightly crosses her arms and everything about her seems ethereal and floaty.
“Hi there. I saw you come in with the very famous Demi Lovato - congrats.”
It takes Alex a couple seconds to realize the words that flowed like honey from the beauty’s pink lips were directed at her.
“Oh yea, we, uh, we met just a couple days ago, and, yea, hit it off pretty well.” Alex stumbles over her words and wonders what this gorgeous woman could possibly want with her.
“Wow, that is impressive. Fast work for someone so young, you must be a real charmer with the ladies. I’m Katherine, and you are…?”
Alex takes her extended hand and shakes lightly, “Alex Russo, and I wouldn’t call myself a “charmer” since charms are actually my worst subject. I excel at manipulation, however. And art,” she smiles proudly.
“Oh, so then, you manipulated your way into Ms. Lovato’s heart, hmm? Can’t say I find that impressive in the least, but when you’re in this town and this business, I guess its just second nature.”
Alex’s eyes narrow and she drops her head slightly to scrutinize Katherine.
“Now hold on, just because I live in New York doesn’t mean I’m a cold heartless sneak who worms their way into… WAIT, HOLD UP!!” Alex bounces out of her relaxed stance and moves her arms animatedly about her. “You think I’m with Demi? I- uh, well I- that’s just- really, that’s quite the- uhm…” Her hand moves to the back of her head again and ruffles her hair nervously as she coughs.
Katherine’s powerfully arching eyebrow relaxes slightly as her lips turn into a comfortable smile.
“Calm down, firecracker. I didn’t mean to assume anything, but it’s obvious what you’re thinking right now. She’s got your heart in a bind, hasn’t she?”
Alex gulps and wonders how many other people seemed to pick up on the news that tonight Demi Lovato is in a relationship that even she doesn’t know about.
With a sigh, Alex drops her gaze to the floor, “Yes. I am desperately, insanely, and outrageously in love with her. And I am also dying to tell her, but I’ve never been good with telling people secrets. It’s kinda a family rule. People usually only find out when I screw stuff up… and I really don’t wanna screw up in front of Demi…”
Katherine moves closer to Alex and uncrosses her arms to lightly run her hand down Alex’s shoulder.
“I know we just met like, 3 minutes ago, but why don’t we pretend we trust each other and figure this out. You two look good together, and it’s pretty clear that she cares a great deal for you. She just met you a few days ago and is already hanging all over you like that? She’s probably got it just as bad as you do.”
“Yeah, yeah, I know all that. But the thing is… it seems like my brother has a better shot with her… which I honestly am shocked to say…”
Katherine expresses her intent to listen patiently, so Alex uncharacteristically opens up about the past few days. The minutes tick by and every so often Alex glances out into the crowd, but Demi is nowhere to be seen.
“…and then it just turned into this weird, heated ‘get-the-girl’ off competition thing and I was so jealous and I wanted to scratch his face off sometimes, and just - ughhhh,” Alex finishes with a defeated flail of her arms and a head shake. Katherine chuckles lightly at the display before speaking.
“Well, that does sound like quite the headache. I don’t envy you. But I can offer my advice, if you’d like to take it. Are you ready?”
Alex keeps her mouth shut and nods her head vigorously.
“All right, here it is, get ready for a bombshell of wisdom...”
“Uh huh, yea, what is it?”
“I’m about to blow your mind, kid, just wait. This is like, the stuff of legends - “
“Holy crap, just tell me already, woman!!” Alex grips Katherine’s arms tightly and tries to shake her. Katherine laughs heartily.
“Ok, ok. Listen up. My big tip for you is simple: be yourself.”
Alex allows her face to remain stoic for a few beats. Katherine is smiling like she just let loose the secret of eternal youth.
“What the hell kinda advice is that? That is sooo cliché and dollar movie-ish. What’s the matter with you?” Alex throws her hands up and turns around so that she starts to walk away, but turns on her heel again as Katherine raises her voice to explain herself.
“Do you know why, my pretty young friend, things become cliché in the first place? It’s because they are the things that work time after time. They are the classics. All this talk of wanting to be unique and creative and inspiring is total BS; it’s just like the fashion business,” she waves a hand absently at their surroundings. “The themes and motifs that constantly work every season are timeless artifacts of past genius. It’s why retro always comes back. We will never lose our love for faded acid wash jeans with holes in the knees. Just like being yourself will never go out of style.”
Alex scoffs at this history lecture. “Oh, pfft, ok yea, so I just act like my normal trouble-making, egocentric and secretive self and tell her I think she’s the hottest thing since melted butter, and then BAM! We fall in love and live happily forever after in her tour bus and private G5 jet? Pssht. That’s dumb.”
Katherine laughs, “I’m telling you, Alex. It’s the way to go. If you fake yourself, you’ll never know her true feelings. And in the end you’ll have been lying from the start, which is never a way to begin a relationship but it’s a great way to finish one.”
“Ok ok, fine. I’ll be myself… but, how do I make the jump from just friends to… ya know? Eternal lovers of the same heart and soul? Etcetera, etcetera.”
“Simple. Get her alone and just tell her. ‘Listen here, Demi. I like you. As more than a friend. Whaddya say to that?’ See? Easy.”
“Uhm, I like to think I’m a bit more eloquent than that…” Alex’s lips purse to keep her laugh from escaping.
“Trust me. Keep it simple. Tell her how she makes you feel.”
Alex is silent as she remembers the way her heart felt weightless every time Demi gave her a flirting smile or touched her hand. The way a warmth would settle in her stomach and last for hours afterwards. The way she would sigh into her pillows before slipping off to sleep, for seemingly no reason than just thinking about the talented musician.
Katherine comes closer and runs her hand down Alex’s arm in a comforting manner again.
“Demi would appreciate the simple truth from you, Alex. This business is full of liars, the only way my relationship works is because I leave all those lies behind. Even white lies. Or truths you think might scare them off. You’d be surprised with the obstacles that love can overcome.”
Alex drops her gaze to where her hands are resting on her small purse, where her wand is magically tucked inside.
-_-_-_-
Justin sighs tiredly as he is brushed off by the third pretty girl with whom he tried to strike up conversation. It’s like he’s invisible to them in the wake of all these bright lights and even brighter stars.
Harper stops glaring at the girl and turns back to Justin. She fiddles with the strings of her purse before reaching a hand up to pat him on the back, but makes a nervous face and drops her hand quickly, looking around and then at the ground. She steels her resolve and puts her hand back up, but just as she is within centimeters of touching him, freaks out again and drops it.
Justin turns suddenly to Harper.
“Ya know, I’m starting think mom was right - the only girl for me might be waiting in Mexico for her 16th birthday so she can get that arranged marriage… I can’t believe I actually thought I would stand a chance tonight. Must have been that false confidence from making friends with all those pretty famous girls…”
Harper’s heart hurts for Justin, and her hand automatically reaches out to his arm.
“Hey now, Justin. That’s not true at all. I can see it, and even Demi saw it, you are a really great guy, caring and sweet and always thinking of others. I mean, if you really wanted a model or a famous actress, I’m sure she would fall for you. You’re just a really great guy, and you’re funny, and you’re very, very cute and very, very smart and you’re a really great guy.” Harper fiddles with Justin’s cufflinks and looks down at her “eccentric” shoes.
Justin laughs lightly and looks down too. “You’ve said ‘great guy’ so many times it’s kinda lost it’s meaning… But thanks Harper. I appreciate that. And I guess I’m just a little put off by the fact that Alex has captured Demi’s attention more than me… we’re very competitive when it comes to girls, I’ve noticed recently…”
“Well I’m just trying to tell you the truth. Just because I noticed all that about you in second grade doesn’t mean the crazy girl is making it all up…”
She trails off with a slight laugh as Justin entwines his fingers in hers and gives her a small smile.
Just then, Demi appears behind them, but before she walks up to ask about Alex, she notices their position: close, holding hands, staring at each other. Her heart warms at the adorable sight and she smiles, sneaking quietly nearer, trying to catch what they say next.
Harper breaks her gaze from Justin’s eyes and starts to swing their entwined hands about wildly.
“Yeah, well, I mean, pssha, Demi’s just some famous person passing by in New York, right?! Alex will get bored pining over her, like she always does, and once Fashion Week is over, it’ll be like it never even happened and everything will be back to normal!! AHAhAHAHAAHAAHAahahhAHA!!”
Justin backs up a bit as his arm is unwillingly flailed about, but he catches Demi’s shocked face out of the corner of his eye. His throat closes up and he makes a very weird marsupial-like sound as he forcefully turns Harper around by her shoulders.
Demi looks really hurt, her eyes are shining and her jaw is tight as she walks up next to them.
“What was that part about Alex only liking me because I’m ‘famous’?” She puts sarcastic air quotes around ‘famous.’ “Am I to believe that you all only came tonight because you thought you could meet more ‘famous people’ (air quotes again) and make more ‘friends’(and again)?!”
Justin and Harper are speechless and embarrassment is written all over their faces. This only upsets Demi more.
She scoffs, “You know, ever since Camp Rock this has been happening A LOT!!” Demi turns on her heels with a squeak and storms off. She bumps roughly into Alex but says nothing as she pushes past her towards the exit. Alex’s dumbfounded and hurt expression lands in Harper and Justin’s guilty faces.
Justin and Harper exchange a worried glance, which intensifies on Harper as she catches Alex tearing through the crowd at a dangerous speed, her eyes black and teeth bared in anger. Justin can only squeak again before he is caught in her wrath.
“JUSTIN! WHAT DID YOU DO TO DEMI!! TELL ME!” She grabs his tie and shirt in a fist forcefully and pulls him down to her. Harper steps quickly between them and forces them apart.
“Alex! Hold on! It wasn’t Justin!”
Alex blanks. “What? Then, who did it?” Her hair starts to stray apart from its loose curls as she twists her head back to exit she saw Demi heading for. Her hands still have Justin in an uncomfortable position.
“We didn’t do it on purpose! But… I think she may be under the impression now… that you… maybe, kind of… well, it’s like this… she MIGHT think that… you only like her… (“HARPER GET TO THE POINT! I HAVE A ROCKSTAR TO CHASE AFTER!”) All right! Sorry, I’m sorry!! Shethinksyouonlylikeherbecausesheisfamous. There! I said it! I’m sorry, ok! I didn’t mean -“
Alex hears nothing else as her blood begins to rush in her ears and she pushes Justin away and sprints out of the tent. Her heels impede her run so she stops next to tree and pulls out her wand, and whispers quickly, “These heels have far too much dip, give me something that won’t make me trip!”
Alex hides her wand again and shoots off in a random direction on her newly magicked sneakers. New York at night can be a dangerous place for an upset young singer/songwriter.
-_-_-_-
Demi storms out of Bryant park, wanting to go in any direction that leads her away from Alex. That seems to be west. Or east. It’s hard to tell without the sun. Which reminds Demi of the way the light hits Alex’s hair and makes it look like she has highlights in her soft dark curls. Demi groans.
She isn’t sure how long she has been stepping angrily in her Jimmy Choos from management, but she does know that her feet are killing her and she is in an area with tall buildings and empty streets. Which makes her wary. After another 10 minutes of aimless and angry wandering, she looks up into the clouded night sky and lets out a frustrated, primal yell, stomping the ground and effectively snapping her expensive shoe. She groans and leans heavily against a nearby street lamp. On top of it all, she has no idea where she is.
She’s about to cave and call her manager to come get her, and suffer the inquisition about her diva-esque exit and her broken shoe and the lecture about shirking her duties to the event, when she hears sneakers scuff the pavement behind her.
There, in the flickering low light of the street lamp, stands a heavy-breathing Alex, clutching the stitch in her side, the wide strap of her dress falling off her shoulder.
“How did you find me?” Demi asks without preamble, looking away across the street.
“I used magic.” Alex replies through her gasping breaths.
Demi scoffs, but goes back to frowning, “Go away, I have banished you from being my friend, since you like to manipulate and use people.”
Alex takes a few moments to compose herself before answering. She reaches deep down to find the truth.
“That may be true, I do manipulate and use and confuse and bamboozle people, but not you. Never you. You’re special Demi. I just want to be with you. That’s all it ever was, that’s what it all comes down to, I swear.”
“How can I believe that? I’ve just met you Alex, and like I fool I let my guard down and let you in. I’ve been so stupid.”
Demi stands up from the pole and walks to the wall of the nearby building. She kicks it with her covered toe and looks up into the sky.
“I just can’t escape.”
A beat passes. The weight of the words feels like a cold snowdrift on top of them. Alex walks up to Demi and reaches out, but doesn’t touch her.
“I don’t want you to escape. I want to run with you.”
Alex curls the fingers of her outstretched hand before reaching further and brushing her fingertips against Demi’s cold arm.
“If you’d let me.”
Demi doesn’t know what she’s agreeing to when she nods her head, but it doesn’t seem to matter when Alex wraps her in a tight hug.
“I meant, I can’t escape from so many things in my life right now - I’ve wanted all this, I’ve dreamt about all this, but I never realized the consequences. And now, when there is one thing I want, but I can’t seem to have easily, it feels like I’m trapped… Selfish, I know, but it’s just how I feel…” Demi elaborates into Alex’s shoulder. Alex holds her tighter for a few moments before speaking.
“We can escape for the night… I have powers…” This has the desired effect and Alex feels giddy when a small smile breaches Demi’s stoic face.
“Ha, you certainly do, Alex Russo. And where would you take me on our little escapade?” Demi leans away but keeps her hands locked at the back of Alex’s neck, swaying slightly on her feet.
“Hmmm. Some place you’ve never been. But have always wanted to see. Russia? Mozambique? Chile? Japan?”
“Oooh, that last one. You know Tokyo Tower? It’s in all those Japanese anime shows, all mysterious and shrouded in moonlight and cherry blossoms are floating around it. That’d be something amazing. One day I’d like to go there. But I guess I’m not quite ‘famous’ enough to get a Japanese press tour…”
“Oh, I think you’re plenty famous.” Alex is getting an idea, and her grin widens with each passing second.
“What are you thinking, troublemaker?” Demi chides her and pushes her shoulder lightly.
“Hold onto me. Tight. I wanna try something.”
Demi’s eyebrows betray her suspicion but she complies. Alex pulls her head down quickly and hugs her close. Demi’s cold nose and still lips on her neck are distracting, but Alex’s mind races through the spell and she concentrates, hard, harder than ever before, on what she really wants. Then she snaps her fingers, and suddenly the street erupts in a bright white light from between them. The girls are blinded for a moment.
A new wind picks up blowing their elegant hair wildly about, their dresses ruffling quickly around their legs as streams of blue and white light swirl around them. A loud whistling is heard and Demi clings tighter to Alex, not wanting to open her eyes. Soon after it quiets and the light disappears.
When the open their eyes again, the scene is quite different.
Most striking is the midday sun shining in the cloudless blue Tokyo sky.
Demi squeaks much like her character on her television show and grips tighter to Alex as she whips her head around, taking in her surroundings.
“Al-Alex!! What - Where are- I don’t- Oh em gee, what the eff happened?!?”
Instead of answering, Alex scoffs, “I can’t believe you just said ‘OMG’ out loud. You are a text addict. That’s really funny.”
“ALEX!! Why are you not totally freaking out right now?! I think we just time traveled! We need to be careful, we could upset the entire course of the future if we even -“
“Demi, chill. We didn’t time travel. You need a machine for that. We just moved places. It’s fine. I’m actually super surprised it worked.” Alex steps out of Demi’s tight grasp and put her hands on her hips, looking around with a proud smirk on her face. The top observatory of Tokyo Tower is empty, luckily, and the cityscape is something to behold.
Demi resists the urge to slap the girl in front of her and instead grabs her hand tightly.
“Alex, I need an explanation right now. What the hell just happened?!”
Alex deflates instantly and becomes very shy, looking at the ground like she’s expecting a lecture.
“Ok, well, I kinda just did that on impulse, but now that I think about it, I’’m glad I did it.” Alex lifts her head to look Demi in her scared eyes. “I wanna share everything with you, Demi. And this is a big part of who I am.”
Alex pulls her wand out of her purse and offers it to Demi to inspect.
“I’m a wizard. A real, honest-to-not-really-goodness wizard. So are my two brothers. We’re in training under our father, who gave up being a wizard to marry our mother. It’s a really cute story actually.”
Alex shuts up as she takes in Demi’s reaction. Which so far looks like she’s just discovered a mysterious left over in the fridge and she’s deciding if it’s safe to eat it or not. Alex continues after a few moments.
“I’m told honesty is the best policy, and while I really dislike that little saying in my normal everyday life, I feel that tonight - or today - is special. I’ve never felt this way about anyone else, and I want to share everything I have with you. I’m breaking so many rules by doing all this, but I guess since I’m a ruler breaker by nature, well, the wizarding world should have seen this coming, really.”
Demi takes a deep breath. “I- Well, despite the fact that we are suddenly on top of Tokyo Tower in the daytime when a few minutes ago we were in NYC at night, I’m still finding this all very hard to believe. Really? You’re a real wizard? As in like, Harry freaking Potter? Is he real too?”
Alex laughs loudly and twirls her wand in her hand. She dismisses Mr. Potter as just a fairy tale, and her eyes land on Demi’s broken shoe.
“Here, let me get that for you.” She flicks her wand quickly and suddenly Demi’s debilitated Jimmy Choo is once again a coveted item.
“See? Wizard. But you’d be surprised how hard it is to live like this. Dad wants us to avoid using magic, get used to living a life without it, since there’s this competition for who gets to keep their powers -“ Demi looks very worried here, but Alex dismisses it, “yea, whatever. There’s a lot to explain, but we have something more important to talk about still.”
Demi looks confused, she can’t really think of anything more important than the discovery that Wizards and wands and probably dragons aren’t made up myths.
Alex tries to say what she needs to before she loses steam.
“Well. I need to talk about my feelings. Or, tell you my feelings. About you. My feelings about you, I need to tell them to you…ugh, this is hard.” Alex’s palm flies to her face and pushes back her hair.
Demi blinks and starts to blush, but she nods her head and urges Alex to continue.
“Ok so, ever since we met on Friday I can’t get you out of my head. And the way you make me feel, it’s so - powerful - and I really have never felt anything like this. When you smile or laugh or just breathe I feel so good inside, but there’s also this really icky nervous feeling in my stomach and it gets stronger when I’m away from you and actually right now its pretty powerful and I might get sick all over your pretty dress so I’m just gonna apologize right now for that, sorry.”
Alex takes a deep breath and squints at Demi, as if getting ready to flinch in case of rejection. “Does any of that make sense to you? At all?”
Demi chuckles lightly and rubs her arm, before squaring her shoulders and grabbing Alex’s hands with her own.
“Well, I recognize all those - feelings - you just spilled. I’ve been feeling them too, Alex. When your stomach feels like its dropping on a roller coaster while your heart is trying to fly out of your throat, when you feel dizzy but so very clear and when you’re constantly smiling without having to think… I get them too. Ever since Friday.”
Alex feels her chest bubble up in warmth. Her heart constricts, her cheeks rise in a wide smile that she has no control over. She pulls Demi closer to her and locks her eyes in a loving gaze. They are silent for a several moments, neither knowing exactly what comes next, but enjoying the moment nonetheless.
“So yea, this is beautiful and all, but what happened to the city lit by moonlight, huh?” Demi asks after shifting on her feet restlessly.
“Hey now, that’s just asking the impossible. I am only a wizard in training, here. Sheesh.”
A sudden wind picks up, blowing around them wildly. A second later, Demi sees a light pink object float over Alex’s shoulder. Followed by several more. Soon, the girls are surrounded by floating pink flowers, giving the scene an almost sparkling atmosphere in the shining sun.
“Oh well… now, this will do just fine I think,” Demi comments while watching a cherry blossom descend to the floor.
“Just fine for what?” Alex is also mesmerized by the storm of flowers.
“For what I’m about to do.” Demi says before she steps in closer to Alex and puts her hands on her shoulders. Alex’s eyes flick back and forth between Demi’s and then dart down to her lips before shooting back up. Demi smiles softly and leans in. The kiss is slow and hesitant. But the response from Alex is immediate.
Cherry blossoms swirl around them as a new wind erupts and streams of light burst in brilliance, cocooning them. Their heels lift off the ground as they hug each other closer, lost in the kiss and each other. Alex’s hand caresses Demi’s cheek as she deepens the kiss. Neither realize that they are levitating almost a foot in the air.
Demi pulls away first and leans her forehead against Alex. She blinks and her gaze drops - so does her stomach.
“AHHH! Alex! Holy crap!” Demi clings even tighter to Alex, who just mumbles nonsense while smiling at Demi. Demi has to grab her chin and direct it down before Alex realizes what their situation is.
“… Ah. Yes. Sorry. Hold on, here…” Alex’s hands press harder on the small of Demi’s back and she shuts her eyes. It takes a few moments before the couple are slowly lowered back to the ground.
“There we go. Sorry, that like, never happens. Really.” Alex’s hand shoots behind her head yet again, but Demi grabs it and brings it in front of her, kissing her fingers.
“I kinda liked it. Now that it’s over, I can see how romantic it was… but please, let’s not do it while atop a 300-something meter tall structure in a foreign city. Just to be safe.”
“Ok, but just so you know, I’ll always catch you. Princess.” Alex moves in for a cheek kiss. Demi giggles and looks out over the cityscape.
“Alex, this is beautiful. And as much as I’d love to explore Tokyo with you, now is not the time - if my watch survived the jump through time and space and is still correct, then I can still show up in time for my set at the fashion show.”
“Aw, crackers.”
“Crackers?”
“Harper says I should watch my language if I wanna catch a classy lady like yourself.” Alex shrugs and pulls Demi closer. Demi gives her a quick kiss while brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“I like you just the way you are. And that was cute, but don’t do it again.”
Alex just grins as she pulls Demi in a deep kiss and transports them back to the park.
The girls run hand -in-hand to the back of the stage, where Demi is quickly scolded then ushered off to get dressed in her signature piece for the night. Alex goes to find the others. When she meets them, her huge smile betrays her story, and Harper and Justin both congratulate her.
The night was an amazing success. Katherine came up to chat with Justin and Alex about something that Alex can’t quite remember because she was multitasking between staring at her lips and hiding her laughter at Justin melting into a puddle in front of her. Marc Jacobs showed up again, and after picking Harper up from the floor, the designer and the fan actually managed to get deep into the aesthetics of pastels and fruits in fashion. The set was fantastic and the new themes for the spring were mesmerizing. Demi looked gorgeous in a Marc Jacobs original, which she later preformed in for the whole crowd. The best part being that Demi couldn’t take her eyes off Alex for the whole night, and vice versa.
On the way home the new couples’ laughter seemingly reverberates throughout New York and they feel as high as the clouds and as light as the breeze. It’s a beautiful beginning to a love story.
~~~Fin~~~
A/N So, yes, that’s it. initiatesix and I want to thank everyone who read and enjoyed our story, and we deeply appreciate you all patiently waiting for us while we fiddled away with life stuff (pssha) and other fics (wateva).
We had a total blast writing this and became supertightclosefriendsslashtwins and we realized quickly that we are such an awesome writing pair, that we want to do more collaborations. This journal will be put to use in the future, do not fret.
THANK YOU ALL!!!! &hearts&hearts&hearts
Author: put_an_ark_init
Pairing: Alex Russo/Demi Lovato
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: ~8696 words
Summary: The big fashion show is here, and Demi and Selena are determined to get the girl by the end of the night.
Note: Final chapter. It's kinda bittersweet to see this all grown up and thrust out into the world, but Justin and I are very proud of our lovechild. We hope you enjoy this.
Promotional Video by angelica_yo
Click to view-_-_-_-
6:30 pm arrives and Alex Russo greets it with anxious pacing.
Justin and Harper are sitting at one of the tables, mouths hanging open, eyes following Alex as she blazes a trail back and forth along the main portion of the Sub Station. The girl is dressed to kill, a black thigh-length dress with sheer sleeves to the elbow and minimal makeup standing strikingly against her skin, which looks pale compared to the darkness of her dress and hair. Despite her outfit, she looks nervous, and as she makes what must be her twentieth pass, a hand makes its way up to her mouth.
“Alex!” Harper exclaims, bolting up form her seat and pulling her friend's hand away from her mouth, “I've already told you, no nail biting tonight! You'll ruin your manicure!”
“Yes, and that would be a tragedy,” Justin says from his seat, crossing his arms over the back of the reversed seat and rolling his eyes, “And besides, what are you nervous about? I thought you and Demi were super close already or something like that.”
“I, uh...” Alex trails off, suddenly unsure of why she's so nervous. Obviously, the fact that she's about to go to a high-brow fashion function is enough to throw her into high gear nerves-wise, but not enough to induce pacing. Or nail biting, for that matter.
And yeah, so maybe she's got a tiny little crush on Demi Lovato, but come on, who doesn't? It's not like it's some big deal that she wants nothing more than to prove to Demi just how true the phrase “girls do it better” is.
No, of course not.
“Nothing, I'm not nervous, why would you think I'm nervous, GOD, Justin, you're such a freak.”
It comes out in a ramble, her voice attempting to sound casual, but slowly rising in pitch until she's finally lost it, her finger pointed at Justin accusingly with the last bit.
He blinks a couple of times before standing up, straightening the collar on his tux and heading for the door.
“Whatever,” he says, opening the door with a small jingle from the bell above it, “I'm gonna go wait outside for them.”
The door closes and Alex turns to Harper with a desperate look on her face.
“Harper, what am I going to do? I'm freaking out here.”
“Just breathe, Alex, just breathe. Do it with me. In...” Harper takes a really deep breath in, her eyes fluttered shut like some kind of zen practitioner. Alex just quirks an eyebrow.
“And out....There, doesn't that feel-” Harper's question cuts off as she opens her eyes and sees Alex's raised eyebrow and amused smirk. “Hey, you didn't even do it, did you?”
“Sorry Harper, just not into that kind of stuff. But you did kind of calm me down, so, thanks, I guess.”
Harper smiles and pulls Alex into a hug.
“No problem, Lex, and don't worry, I'm sure you'll get the girl.”
Alex closes her eyes and hugs her friend back tightly.
They stand like that for a few seconds, ignoring the bell above the door ringing out somebody's entrance.
“Alex, Harper!” They hear Justin exclaim, though they ignore him.
“Alex! Harper!”
Alex's eyes flash open and she pulls away from her best friend for a second to glare at her brother.
“Oh come on, Justin, can't you see we're trying to have a freaking moment here?!”
Justin rolls his eyes and scoffs before starting to close the door, saying, “Fine, I'll just tell Demi and Miley that you can't come tonight, seeing as they just pulled up.”
With that, he closes the door and Alex feels her heart drop to her feet. The nerves are suddenly back, and...yep, her palms are sweaty again.
“Come on, Alex, this is no big deal. Just a night out on the town, right?” Harper reassures her as she takes Alex's hand and tugs her toward the door.
Alex fervently hopes so.
-_-_-_-
Harper and Alex step out of the sub shop and walk to the street, where Justin is making a fool of himself by bowing exaggeratedly and kissing Miley’s and Emily’s hands. The two girls are beautiful in similarly styled silver dresses, but Alex’s eyes are immediately drawn to their right.
Demi is standing next to them, relaxed, her arms crossed and her red satin shawl wrapped around her forearms. Alex’s mouth goes dry as she takes in the short but respectable black number, red fringe adorning her tiny waist and accentuating her hips, her red heels and red lips shining in the light of the street lamps. Demi’s shoulders are exposed and her dark hair is pulled up in an elegant bun, with a long lock of dark curl falling from the back to brush her collar when she turns her head.
Alex swears she sees Demi’s eyes light up when they fall on her. Alex’s hot cheeks match the color of Demi’s lips without her consent.
“Alex! Gurl, you look fa-bu-lous!! ” Demi’s street is showing, and Alex can’t help but giggle girlishly, before catching herself and adopting her trademark smirk and quirked eyebrows.
“It’s nice to see you when you aren’t frazzled by stalkers and paparazzi. And those shoes are killer.”
“Why, thank you. I accept your compliment with grace and humility.” She smiles wide and semi-courtesies. “Come, meet Miley and Emily.”
Demi comes up and links her arm with Alex’s, guiding her to Miley’s side. Alex reaches out to shake Miley’s hand and catches Emily’s eyes. While exchanging her greeting, she steps back and scrutinizes the two girls… Emily wraps Miley up in side hug and brings her head closer to Miley’s face… and it clicks.
These two… were spying on her. Wrapped in hoodies and outrageously fake hair… They weren’t very good at the spying part, but still. Alex is not at all sure what she should think about this realization. And actually, it’s ridiculous that no one recognized them. She mentally slaps herself for not seeing it either. But then again, it’s Fashion Week in New York, and really, you wouldn’t expect Hannah Montana in a dinky sub shop on a side street.
A second click happens in Alex’s brain as Miley turns her head to plant a sweet kiss on Emily’s lips. These two… are dating. Alex’s eyes widen in surprise, and she suddenly feels self-conscious. She looks to Demi, who is gazing at them with a content smile, and Alex relaxes a little.
Alex’s arm feels like its about to be yanked off by Harper’s sudden tight grip on her.
“GAH, hello there Ms. Miley Cyrus and Ms. Emily Osment!! It’s very extraordinary to meet you on this wonderful night, and you look beautiful in those silver sequins, Ms. Emily Osment!! And your hair, Ms. Miley Cyrus, shines brilliantly in this light and it frames your face perfectly, and what shade of lipstick is that!?! “
“Harper!”
“Because it is beautiful and you are gorgeous and did I mention I have every one of your albums?! And Ms. Emily Osment, I am a huge fan and have watched all your movies and say, how’s your older brother?! He is very cute and smart and I loved him in that one movie with the dead people, and -“
“Harper!”
“- and yes, Alex, I haven’t forgotten. Hello Ms. Demi Lovato, you look beautiful this evening as well, your hair is shiny and your face is gorgeous and -“
“HARPER!” Justin and Alex both shake her and she clamps her mouth shut, her eyes wide as realization washes over her that she has, once again, been carried away.
The famous stars just shift their eyes and chuckle lightly at the flustered girl as the driver opens the door to the stretch Hummer limo - it takes another few minutes to get Harper to calm down from the awe of the large machine to actually get her inside, but eventually they all hop in and are headed off to the party.
While Harper talks Demi’s ear off regarding all the famous dress designers she’s met and Justin strikes up a conversation with Emily about guitars, Alex is left to observe her friends. Miley is overtly cutesy with her girlfriend, running her fingers up and down her arm and snuggling into her neck whenever she isn’t butting into the conversation. Alex notices with a slight swelling of pride and unexpected affection that Justin is not in the least bit distracted by the blatant PDA. She didn’t really expect him to freak or anything, maybe be a little miffed that the girls were taken, but she feels content just the same, knowing that Justin has no reservations about two girls in love.
Just as Emily and Justin get into a heated debate about the benefit of humbuckers versus single coils, Miley disentangles herself from Emily and slides closer to Alex. They make awkward small talk for a while until Miley mentions Demi. Alex immediately gushes.
“I never thought famous people could be so normal, ya know? She likes movies and frozen yogurt and is a text addict.”
“Yup, we honestly are no different than you. We’re still crazy teenagers, we still like to hang with friends… we still fall in love…” Miley leans even closer to Alex while ducking her head, looking at her from under her silver mascara-tinted eyelashes.
“Yeah, I guess. But it must be hard for you guys, right? Being in love with so much going on… You probably can’t focus on the ones that mean a lot to you...” Alex fails at her subtle glance at Demi, who is still trying to navigate a conversation with Harper.
“Well, from my experience, we learn to make time for the ones we love… it’s not too hard...”
“Yeah, but like, what if you’re away from each other for long periods of time? Doesn’t your heart just break?” Alex looks back into Miley’s eyes. She sees a sparkle of something that doesn’t have to do with the light sheen of glitter makeup surrounding her eyes.
“Of course it hurts - but love is powerful, and distance can be overcome with phones and web cams and all sorts of fancy technology. If you want it bad enough, you can make it work just fine. Fantastic even.” Miley grabs Alex’s hand just as Alex looks out the window - after her eyes glance over Demi.
“Relationships, especially in this business, take a lot of effort. You seem like a hard worker, Alex, I’m sure you’d be able to pull it off.” Miley nudges Alex’s shoulder, but the hint is lost on Alex as she laughs. Hard. For a good 30 seconds.
“A hard worker?! Me?!? Please Miley, stop, my sides hurt! If only you knew the tricks I have up my sleeve - or tucked into my purse.”
Miley sighs dejectedly. She tried her best to hint at Demi’s feelings, but Alex is surprisingly daft in this regard. She resigns herself back to Emily’s side. Looks like it’s all up to Demi now.
Demi glanced over at Alex when she burst into sporadic laughter, and now leans in conspiratorially.
“So, Alex. You excited for tonight?”
“Oh definitely. I am expecting some major bragging rights when I get back to school Monday.” Alex’s knee brushes against Demi’s in the sway of the vehicle as it turns a corner.
“Are you hoping to meet anyone famous? I hear Fashion Week always brings in the biggest celebs. Like a Hollywood award show, but less boring and no speeches that get cut off by a rising crescendo of violins and trumpets.”
Alex chuckles lightly and stares at her hand that is clasped between Demi’s. “Honestly, I don’t care who I see. You’re pretty much the most amazing person to me right now, so everything else is kinda second wand.”
“Aw, Alex! Thank you!” Demi takes the compliment in stride and manages not to blush a deep crimson. But her wide smile just grows wider. “…And, ‘second wand’? Don’t you mean fiddle?”
“Yes, well, I’ve never seen a fiddle, so, ya know…”
“Oh, so, you’ve seen a wand, then?” Demi’s eyebrow arches deliciously and she purses her lips in a poor attempt to hide her amusement.
Alex laughs loudly again. “Uh, yes. Uhm… Harry Potter?”
“Oh right. Never was much of a fan.”
“Yeah, me neither. Those robes, and the glasses… not as comfortable as you might think. And definitely not in style,” Alex shudders slightly.
Demi slings an arm around Alex’s shoulders and hugs her quickly, “Ack! We should be there soon! I’m so stoked!”
Alex laughs at the excited rockstar, “Yes! I have a feeling tonight will be… magical.” Alex grins stupidly and looks at Demi, which causes the other girl to smile similarly. That’s when they hear the driver let loose a colorful string of profanities.
The driver pulls over to the side, achingly slow as he navigates between New York traffic.
“Lis’en kids… dea’s no easy way ta say dis, but… ya gunna hafta git out an’ waak da rest’a da ways. Ain’t no way dis Humma gunna fit in dat traffic. ‘Specially when I’m runnin’ low on gas.”
Miley balks. “What?! I thought you said you had a full tank and were ‘rarin ta git gone’!?!”
“Yea, I did, but traffic tends tah soak up gas, don’t it?! Have ya seen da size of dis beast?! Ain’t no way it woulda last the next few blocks. Look hea, I’m sawry, but dere jus ain’t no way. Now, git out!”
Alex resorts to her usual tactic of biting Justin’s head off when things don’t go her way.
“Justin! I told you we should have called the cab company! Demi wasted money on this stupid chauffeur service when she coulda got the family discount!!”
Demi places her hand on Alex’s shoulder, “No it’s all right. Bryant Park isn’t too far, right? We can walk. No problem. It’s a nice night anyways.”
“Ugh, fine. Let’s get going. But this is still ridiculous. Three famous Hollywood stars and we have to walk our butts there. This should not be happening.” Alex huffs and stomps out of the Hummer. She hates walking. Like, with a passion.
She feels instantly better and only residually irritated when Demi links their arms together and they bump hips every now and then on the way to the brilliantly lit park, where the white event tents look like snowcapped mountains amongst the trees.
-_-_-_-
The group enters the main tent and Alex and Harper immediately catch sight of an outrageous French beret with a glittery peacock feather sticking from the top of it, resting jauntily atop a young woman’s brown hair. Alex disentangles herself form Demi’s arm to take her position next to Harper. She doesn’t even need to look at her best friend before they simultaneously burst into song.
“What’s that? A hat? Crazy, funky, junky hat!”
Demi, Miley and Emily are all cracking up behind their dainty hands while Justin shakes his head in amusement. He glances up to see if the woman has heard their jeers, and his jaw falls to the floor. He tries to discretely get the girls’ attention by flailing his arms at them and coughing loudly, but they are too caught up in their dance to notice.
“Overslept? Hair Unsightly? Trying to look like -“
It’s at that moment the woman turns around and the girls’ song dies in the suddenly very tense air.
“-Keira Knightley….”
Alex’s mouth drops open in an “o” shape and Harper nearly faints next to her, but Emily reacts and braces her elbows from behind.
“Wow, you look… so very lovely tonight, Miss Knightley… Loved you in that pirate movie…” Alex coughs at the end of her sentence and her hand reaches back to her head, nervously flipping her hair. Her hand falls back to her side and is immediately captured between Demi’s hands.
Demi steps up beside Alex and calmly says, “Nice to see you again, Keira. How was your project in Bali?”
Keira’s perfectly sculpted eyebrows jaunt upwards, but her face resets into a polite smile at Demi’s question. Demi reaches out to shake Keira’s hand and pulls her into a cheek kiss.
“Oh it was fabulous. Very beautiful. We are hoping to vacation there again in the summer. By the way, I was meaning to contact your people - looks like Natalie is as impressed with you as I am, dearie. She wants to meet while you’re in town.”
Demi’s thousand watt smile shines brighter than the floodlights. “Natalie Portman?! Really!? I was kinda joking when I mentioned that, but oh my god, that’s fantastic news!”
Alex loses track of what they say to each other as she beings to fantasize about all the amazingly beautiful people Demi must have met and is apparently very well acquainted with. She looks up just as Keira leaves, seemingly forgiving of the whole “hat dance” thing. Alex releases a breath she was unaware was clinging to her lungs.
“Wow, thanks for that. I never thought that would ever happen. Right Harper?... Harper?”
Harper is still out of it, and her gaze is transfixed in following Keira’s retreat. But suddenly, she gasps, and grips Alex’s arm very tightly.
“Gah! Look, look, look! It’s fashion mogul and style aficionado Marc Jacobs! He is coming over here, oh my gosh! What if he likes my dress?! Do you think he’ll talk to me?! Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!” She jumps excitedly up and down in her precarious heels, so Alex begins to dig through Harper’s decorative sling bag.
“Harper! Harper, calm down! Here!” And Alex shoves the emergency paper bag over Harper’s mouth so that the girl avoids hyperventilating. Alex was hoping she wouldn’t have to use it tonight. She gives Demi an apologetic glance.
Suave and slick, Marc Jacobs saunters up to the group, swinging a bejeweled cane in front of him with each step, which catches Justin’s eye immediately. “Ooooh,” he says under his breath as he straightens his tie and smoothes back his spiky hair. Harper quickly shoves the paper bag down from her face and stands up straight as Marc stops in front of them.
He holds out his hand to Miley and Demi. After a moment’s hesitation, Miley takes his hand and kisses the back of it. Demi does the same, with an awkward smile.
“Ahh, hello there, girls. So very good to see you again. I’ve been told you are needed for the next act. I decided to act the gentleman and escort you to your duties.”
“Oh Marc, always thinking about you’re models first, how very dashing of you,” Miley chides as she separates from the group to join him at his side.
“May I introduce to you our good friends, Alex Russo and her brother Justin and Harper…Finkle, was it?”
Harper makes a noise that sounds an awful lot like “meeep.” Miley nods in confirmation and turns to address Demi, “Come on, superstar, let’s go meet the models and their outfits.” Her eyebrows jaunt upwards with each exaggerated word.
Emily pokes Miley in her side as she slides into her arm, and they giggle quietly between themselves. Demi steps out in front of Alex and grips tighter the hand she had yet to let go of.
“We’ll be about 20 minutes - meeting the models and designers and event planners - then I’ll be back. After that we can enjoy the show until it’s time for me to perform.” Demi smiles and Alex returns it without even thinking.
”Yeah, sure, have fun. We’ll keep busy.” Alex winks at Demi and is a little startled when she leans in for a sweet kiss on the cheek, before letting go and joining Marc at his side.
Suddenly, Harper bursts out excitedly, “Mr. Marc Jacobs sir, we are all HUGE fans, I love your innovative approach to fashion! I am an aspiring designer myself, and I just have so much respect and admiration and love and infatuation and -“
Alex hugs Harper close to her and shakes her noticeably, “Ah! Harper, I’m sure Mr. Jacobs is a very busy man. Let him go to work. C’mon, let’s go find some unhappy models and taunt them with cookies.” Alex’s eyebrows shoot up in hope but Harper’s jaw is still to the floor.
Marc turns to look over his shoulder and smiles genuinely. “Well, Ms. Harper, I’ve heard all that before, but I just f-love your purse, it looks just like a paper bag! Very chic. If that’s your own design, maybe you’ve actually got some talent.”
Alex refrains from coughing and speaks up for her speechless best friend. “Yes, it is! Harper’s got tons of ideas like that, she’s amazing,”
“Well, then. Stick around. Maybe we’ll talk, yes? Ciao for now, girls. And guy.” He winks at Justin as he turns and Harper hugs her bag close to her chest. Marc throws his arms around Miley’s and Demi’s waists and walks slowly while speaking animatedly.
-_-_-_-
Alex, Harper and Justin are then left to wander in between industry big-names and outrageously dressed tall models.
Alex sighs heavily and pats a drooling Justin hard on the back, “So many pretty girls that Justin can’t touch. Shame, really.” Justin snaps out of his trance and slouches for a second, before squaring his shoulders and twirling around to face Alex.
“Hey, I’m an upright and friendly gentleman, there is no reason why I wouldn’t be able to strike up a conversation… with a pretty… pretty… pretty… pretty… pretty- (Alex smacks his face) -young model.”
“Yeah sure, let me describe that conversation for you: ‘Ah-duh, ah-hi dere, Pretty. D’ya like board games? How ‘bout weather themed pajamas and Star Wars bedsheets? A-dur, a-dur, a-dur!” Alex crosses her eyes and smacks her chest with the back of her hand to emphasize her words.
Justin balks and steps back, offended. His mouth drops open and flaps a little trying to form a retort, while Alex leans back on her heels and checks her nails, awaiting his response. After a full 15 seconds, Justin scoffs and turns on his heel, stalking off toward the other side if the tent.
Harper stops in front of Alex, “Well, now you’ve done it. He’s all upset and is just gonna make a fool of himself. I better go and keep those models away from him, to protect his fragile ego.” Harper’s eyes shine with a determined spark. She stomps her feet after Justin’s exit, calling his name loudly.
Alex suddenly feels very out-of-place. She wanders over to the side of the tent where tables are lined with memorabilia and programs and other items, trying to catch a glimpse of where Demi went.
She releases a sigh she was unaware she was holding. Being with Demi, she feels so happy. It’s the best feeling in the world, being near her, holding her hand, hearing her laugh, watching her smile. Alex has fallen so hard for this girl. If she has any chance of being with her, it has to happen soon. But how? How can she get Demi to realize her feelings for her?
To her left, a tall, lithe young woman saunters into view. Alex’s eyes are drawn to her effortlessly. Her blonde highlights fall in a cascade over one eye, giving her an air of mysteriously magnetic beauty. Her eye has a visible spark of interest and Alex automatically turns her body to face her. At this, the pretty woman smirks a small smile before leaning against the table. She lightly crosses her arms and everything about her seems ethereal and floaty.
“Hi there. I saw you come in with the very famous Demi Lovato - congrats.”
It takes Alex a couple seconds to realize the words that flowed like honey from the beauty’s pink lips were directed at her.
“Oh yea, we, uh, we met just a couple days ago, and, yea, hit it off pretty well.” Alex stumbles over her words and wonders what this gorgeous woman could possibly want with her.
“Wow, that is impressive. Fast work for someone so young, you must be a real charmer with the ladies. I’m Katherine, and you are…?”
Alex takes her extended hand and shakes lightly, “Alex Russo, and I wouldn’t call myself a “charmer” since charms are actually my worst subject. I excel at manipulation, however. And art,” she smiles proudly.
“Oh, so then, you manipulated your way into Ms. Lovato’s heart, hmm? Can’t say I find that impressive in the least, but when you’re in this town and this business, I guess its just second nature.”
Alex’s eyes narrow and she drops her head slightly to scrutinize Katherine.
“Now hold on, just because I live in New York doesn’t mean I’m a cold heartless sneak who worms their way into… WAIT, HOLD UP!!” Alex bounces out of her relaxed stance and moves her arms animatedly about her. “You think I’m with Demi? I- uh, well I- that’s just- really, that’s quite the- uhm…” Her hand moves to the back of her head again and ruffles her hair nervously as she coughs.
Katherine’s powerfully arching eyebrow relaxes slightly as her lips turn into a comfortable smile.
“Calm down, firecracker. I didn’t mean to assume anything, but it’s obvious what you’re thinking right now. She’s got your heart in a bind, hasn’t she?”
Alex gulps and wonders how many other people seemed to pick up on the news that tonight Demi Lovato is in a relationship that even she doesn’t know about.
With a sigh, Alex drops her gaze to the floor, “Yes. I am desperately, insanely, and outrageously in love with her. And I am also dying to tell her, but I’ve never been good with telling people secrets. It’s kinda a family rule. People usually only find out when I screw stuff up… and I really don’t wanna screw up in front of Demi…”
Katherine moves closer to Alex and uncrosses her arms to lightly run her hand down Alex’s shoulder.
“I know we just met like, 3 minutes ago, but why don’t we pretend we trust each other and figure this out. You two look good together, and it’s pretty clear that she cares a great deal for you. She just met you a few days ago and is already hanging all over you like that? She’s probably got it just as bad as you do.”
“Yeah, yeah, I know all that. But the thing is… it seems like my brother has a better shot with her… which I honestly am shocked to say…”
Katherine expresses her intent to listen patiently, so Alex uncharacteristically opens up about the past few days. The minutes tick by and every so often Alex glances out into the crowd, but Demi is nowhere to be seen.
“…and then it just turned into this weird, heated ‘get-the-girl’ off competition thing and I was so jealous and I wanted to scratch his face off sometimes, and just - ughhhh,” Alex finishes with a defeated flail of her arms and a head shake. Katherine chuckles lightly at the display before speaking.
“Well, that does sound like quite the headache. I don’t envy you. But I can offer my advice, if you’d like to take it. Are you ready?”
Alex keeps her mouth shut and nods her head vigorously.
“All right, here it is, get ready for a bombshell of wisdom...”
“Uh huh, yea, what is it?”
“I’m about to blow your mind, kid, just wait. This is like, the stuff of legends - “
“Holy crap, just tell me already, woman!!” Alex grips Katherine’s arms tightly and tries to shake her. Katherine laughs heartily.
“Ok, ok. Listen up. My big tip for you is simple: be yourself.”
Alex allows her face to remain stoic for a few beats. Katherine is smiling like she just let loose the secret of eternal youth.
“What the hell kinda advice is that? That is sooo cliché and dollar movie-ish. What’s the matter with you?” Alex throws her hands up and turns around so that she starts to walk away, but turns on her heel again as Katherine raises her voice to explain herself.
“Do you know why, my pretty young friend, things become cliché in the first place? It’s because they are the things that work time after time. They are the classics. All this talk of wanting to be unique and creative and inspiring is total BS; it’s just like the fashion business,” she waves a hand absently at their surroundings. “The themes and motifs that constantly work every season are timeless artifacts of past genius. It’s why retro always comes back. We will never lose our love for faded acid wash jeans with holes in the knees. Just like being yourself will never go out of style.”
Alex scoffs at this history lecture. “Oh, pfft, ok yea, so I just act like my normal trouble-making, egocentric and secretive self and tell her I think she’s the hottest thing since melted butter, and then BAM! We fall in love and live happily forever after in her tour bus and private G5 jet? Pssht. That’s dumb.”
Katherine laughs, “I’m telling you, Alex. It’s the way to go. If you fake yourself, you’ll never know her true feelings. And in the end you’ll have been lying from the start, which is never a way to begin a relationship but it’s a great way to finish one.”
“Ok ok, fine. I’ll be myself… but, how do I make the jump from just friends to… ya know? Eternal lovers of the same heart and soul? Etcetera, etcetera.”
“Simple. Get her alone and just tell her. ‘Listen here, Demi. I like you. As more than a friend. Whaddya say to that?’ See? Easy.”
“Uhm, I like to think I’m a bit more eloquent than that…” Alex’s lips purse to keep her laugh from escaping.
“Trust me. Keep it simple. Tell her how she makes you feel.”
Alex is silent as she remembers the way her heart felt weightless every time Demi gave her a flirting smile or touched her hand. The way a warmth would settle in her stomach and last for hours afterwards. The way she would sigh into her pillows before slipping off to sleep, for seemingly no reason than just thinking about the talented musician.
Katherine comes closer and runs her hand down Alex’s arm in a comforting manner again.
“Demi would appreciate the simple truth from you, Alex. This business is full of liars, the only way my relationship works is because I leave all those lies behind. Even white lies. Or truths you think might scare them off. You’d be surprised with the obstacles that love can overcome.”
Alex drops her gaze to where her hands are resting on her small purse, where her wand is magically tucked inside.
-_-_-_-
Justin sighs tiredly as he is brushed off by the third pretty girl with whom he tried to strike up conversation. It’s like he’s invisible to them in the wake of all these bright lights and even brighter stars.
Harper stops glaring at the girl and turns back to Justin. She fiddles with the strings of her purse before reaching a hand up to pat him on the back, but makes a nervous face and drops her hand quickly, looking around and then at the ground. She steels her resolve and puts her hand back up, but just as she is within centimeters of touching him, freaks out again and drops it.
Justin turns suddenly to Harper.
“Ya know, I’m starting think mom was right - the only girl for me might be waiting in Mexico for her 16th birthday so she can get that arranged marriage… I can’t believe I actually thought I would stand a chance tonight. Must have been that false confidence from making friends with all those pretty famous girls…”
Harper’s heart hurts for Justin, and her hand automatically reaches out to his arm.
“Hey now, Justin. That’s not true at all. I can see it, and even Demi saw it, you are a really great guy, caring and sweet and always thinking of others. I mean, if you really wanted a model or a famous actress, I’m sure she would fall for you. You’re just a really great guy, and you’re funny, and you’re very, very cute and very, very smart and you’re a really great guy.” Harper fiddles with Justin’s cufflinks and looks down at her “eccentric” shoes.
Justin laughs lightly and looks down too. “You’ve said ‘great guy’ so many times it’s kinda lost it’s meaning… But thanks Harper. I appreciate that. And I guess I’m just a little put off by the fact that Alex has captured Demi’s attention more than me… we’re very competitive when it comes to girls, I’ve noticed recently…”
“Well I’m just trying to tell you the truth. Just because I noticed all that about you in second grade doesn’t mean the crazy girl is making it all up…”
She trails off with a slight laugh as Justin entwines his fingers in hers and gives her a small smile.
Just then, Demi appears behind them, but before she walks up to ask about Alex, she notices their position: close, holding hands, staring at each other. Her heart warms at the adorable sight and she smiles, sneaking quietly nearer, trying to catch what they say next.
Harper breaks her gaze from Justin’s eyes and starts to swing their entwined hands about wildly.
“Yeah, well, I mean, pssha, Demi’s just some famous person passing by in New York, right?! Alex will get bored pining over her, like she always does, and once Fashion Week is over, it’ll be like it never even happened and everything will be back to normal!! AHAhAHAHAAHAAHAahahhAHA!!”
Justin backs up a bit as his arm is unwillingly flailed about, but he catches Demi’s shocked face out of the corner of his eye. His throat closes up and he makes a very weird marsupial-like sound as he forcefully turns Harper around by her shoulders.
Demi looks really hurt, her eyes are shining and her jaw is tight as she walks up next to them.
“What was that part about Alex only liking me because I’m ‘famous’?” She puts sarcastic air quotes around ‘famous.’ “Am I to believe that you all only came tonight because you thought you could meet more ‘famous people’ (air quotes again) and make more ‘friends’(and again)?!”
Justin and Harper are speechless and embarrassment is written all over their faces. This only upsets Demi more.
She scoffs, “You know, ever since Camp Rock this has been happening A LOT!!” Demi turns on her heels with a squeak and storms off. She bumps roughly into Alex but says nothing as she pushes past her towards the exit. Alex’s dumbfounded and hurt expression lands in Harper and Justin’s guilty faces.
Justin and Harper exchange a worried glance, which intensifies on Harper as she catches Alex tearing through the crowd at a dangerous speed, her eyes black and teeth bared in anger. Justin can only squeak again before he is caught in her wrath.
“JUSTIN! WHAT DID YOU DO TO DEMI!! TELL ME!” She grabs his tie and shirt in a fist forcefully and pulls him down to her. Harper steps quickly between them and forces them apart.
“Alex! Hold on! It wasn’t Justin!”
Alex blanks. “What? Then, who did it?” Her hair starts to stray apart from its loose curls as she twists her head back to exit she saw Demi heading for. Her hands still have Justin in an uncomfortable position.
“We didn’t do it on purpose! But… I think she may be under the impression now… that you… maybe, kind of… well, it’s like this… she MIGHT think that… you only like her… (“HARPER GET TO THE POINT! I HAVE A ROCKSTAR TO CHASE AFTER!”) All right! Sorry, I’m sorry!! Shethinksyouonlylikeherbecausesheisfamous. There! I said it! I’m sorry, ok! I didn’t mean -“
Alex hears nothing else as her blood begins to rush in her ears and she pushes Justin away and sprints out of the tent. Her heels impede her run so she stops next to tree and pulls out her wand, and whispers quickly, “These heels have far too much dip, give me something that won’t make me trip!”
Alex hides her wand again and shoots off in a random direction on her newly magicked sneakers. New York at night can be a dangerous place for an upset young singer/songwriter.
-_-_-_-
Demi storms out of Bryant park, wanting to go in any direction that leads her away from Alex. That seems to be west. Or east. It’s hard to tell without the sun. Which reminds Demi of the way the light hits Alex’s hair and makes it look like she has highlights in her soft dark curls. Demi groans.
She isn’t sure how long she has been stepping angrily in her Jimmy Choos from management, but she does know that her feet are killing her and she is in an area with tall buildings and empty streets. Which makes her wary. After another 10 minutes of aimless and angry wandering, she looks up into the clouded night sky and lets out a frustrated, primal yell, stomping the ground and effectively snapping her expensive shoe. She groans and leans heavily against a nearby street lamp. On top of it all, she has no idea where she is.
She’s about to cave and call her manager to come get her, and suffer the inquisition about her diva-esque exit and her broken shoe and the lecture about shirking her duties to the event, when she hears sneakers scuff the pavement behind her.
There, in the flickering low light of the street lamp, stands a heavy-breathing Alex, clutching the stitch in her side, the wide strap of her dress falling off her shoulder.
“How did you find me?” Demi asks without preamble, looking away across the street.
“I used magic.” Alex replies through her gasping breaths.
Demi scoffs, but goes back to frowning, “Go away, I have banished you from being my friend, since you like to manipulate and use people.”
Alex takes a few moments to compose herself before answering. She reaches deep down to find the truth.
“That may be true, I do manipulate and use and confuse and bamboozle people, but not you. Never you. You’re special Demi. I just want to be with you. That’s all it ever was, that’s what it all comes down to, I swear.”
“How can I believe that? I’ve just met you Alex, and like I fool I let my guard down and let you in. I’ve been so stupid.”
Demi stands up from the pole and walks to the wall of the nearby building. She kicks it with her covered toe and looks up into the sky.
“I just can’t escape.”
A beat passes. The weight of the words feels like a cold snowdrift on top of them. Alex walks up to Demi and reaches out, but doesn’t touch her.
“I don’t want you to escape. I want to run with you.”
Alex curls the fingers of her outstretched hand before reaching further and brushing her fingertips against Demi’s cold arm.
“If you’d let me.”
Demi doesn’t know what she’s agreeing to when she nods her head, but it doesn’t seem to matter when Alex wraps her in a tight hug.
“I meant, I can’t escape from so many things in my life right now - I’ve wanted all this, I’ve dreamt about all this, but I never realized the consequences. And now, when there is one thing I want, but I can’t seem to have easily, it feels like I’m trapped… Selfish, I know, but it’s just how I feel…” Demi elaborates into Alex’s shoulder. Alex holds her tighter for a few moments before speaking.
“We can escape for the night… I have powers…” This has the desired effect and Alex feels giddy when a small smile breaches Demi’s stoic face.
“Ha, you certainly do, Alex Russo. And where would you take me on our little escapade?” Demi leans away but keeps her hands locked at the back of Alex’s neck, swaying slightly on her feet.
“Hmmm. Some place you’ve never been. But have always wanted to see. Russia? Mozambique? Chile? Japan?”
“Oooh, that last one. You know Tokyo Tower? It’s in all those Japanese anime shows, all mysterious and shrouded in moonlight and cherry blossoms are floating around it. That’d be something amazing. One day I’d like to go there. But I guess I’m not quite ‘famous’ enough to get a Japanese press tour…”
“Oh, I think you’re plenty famous.” Alex is getting an idea, and her grin widens with each passing second.
“What are you thinking, troublemaker?” Demi chides her and pushes her shoulder lightly.
“Hold onto me. Tight. I wanna try something.”
Demi’s eyebrows betray her suspicion but she complies. Alex pulls her head down quickly and hugs her close. Demi’s cold nose and still lips on her neck are distracting, but Alex’s mind races through the spell and she concentrates, hard, harder than ever before, on what she really wants. Then she snaps her fingers, and suddenly the street erupts in a bright white light from between them. The girls are blinded for a moment.
A new wind picks up blowing their elegant hair wildly about, their dresses ruffling quickly around their legs as streams of blue and white light swirl around them. A loud whistling is heard and Demi clings tighter to Alex, not wanting to open her eyes. Soon after it quiets and the light disappears.
When the open their eyes again, the scene is quite different.
Most striking is the midday sun shining in the cloudless blue Tokyo sky.
Demi squeaks much like her character on her television show and grips tighter to Alex as she whips her head around, taking in her surroundings.
“Al-Alex!! What - Where are- I don’t- Oh em gee, what the eff happened?!?”
Instead of answering, Alex scoffs, “I can’t believe you just said ‘OMG’ out loud. You are a text addict. That’s really funny.”
“ALEX!! Why are you not totally freaking out right now?! I think we just time traveled! We need to be careful, we could upset the entire course of the future if we even -“
“Demi, chill. We didn’t time travel. You need a machine for that. We just moved places. It’s fine. I’m actually super surprised it worked.” Alex steps out of Demi’s tight grasp and put her hands on her hips, looking around with a proud smirk on her face. The top observatory of Tokyo Tower is empty, luckily, and the cityscape is something to behold.
Demi resists the urge to slap the girl in front of her and instead grabs her hand tightly.
“Alex, I need an explanation right now. What the hell just happened?!”
Alex deflates instantly and becomes very shy, looking at the ground like she’s expecting a lecture.
“Ok, well, I kinda just did that on impulse, but now that I think about it, I’’m glad I did it.” Alex lifts her head to look Demi in her scared eyes. “I wanna share everything with you, Demi. And this is a big part of who I am.”
Alex pulls her wand out of her purse and offers it to Demi to inspect.
“I’m a wizard. A real, honest-to-not-really-goodness wizard. So are my two brothers. We’re in training under our father, who gave up being a wizard to marry our mother. It’s a really cute story actually.”
Alex shuts up as she takes in Demi’s reaction. Which so far looks like she’s just discovered a mysterious left over in the fridge and she’s deciding if it’s safe to eat it or not. Alex continues after a few moments.
“I’m told honesty is the best policy, and while I really dislike that little saying in my normal everyday life, I feel that tonight - or today - is special. I’ve never felt this way about anyone else, and I want to share everything I have with you. I’m breaking so many rules by doing all this, but I guess since I’m a ruler breaker by nature, well, the wizarding world should have seen this coming, really.”
Demi takes a deep breath. “I- Well, despite the fact that we are suddenly on top of Tokyo Tower in the daytime when a few minutes ago we were in NYC at night, I’m still finding this all very hard to believe. Really? You’re a real wizard? As in like, Harry freaking Potter? Is he real too?”
Alex laughs loudly and twirls her wand in her hand. She dismisses Mr. Potter as just a fairy tale, and her eyes land on Demi’s broken shoe.
“Here, let me get that for you.” She flicks her wand quickly and suddenly Demi’s debilitated Jimmy Choo is once again a coveted item.
“See? Wizard. But you’d be surprised how hard it is to live like this. Dad wants us to avoid using magic, get used to living a life without it, since there’s this competition for who gets to keep their powers -“ Demi looks very worried here, but Alex dismisses it, “yea, whatever. There’s a lot to explain, but we have something more important to talk about still.”
Demi looks confused, she can’t really think of anything more important than the discovery that Wizards and wands and probably dragons aren’t made up myths.
Alex tries to say what she needs to before she loses steam.
“Well. I need to talk about my feelings. Or, tell you my feelings. About you. My feelings about you, I need to tell them to you…ugh, this is hard.” Alex’s palm flies to her face and pushes back her hair.
Demi blinks and starts to blush, but she nods her head and urges Alex to continue.
“Ok so, ever since we met on Friday I can’t get you out of my head. And the way you make me feel, it’s so - powerful - and I really have never felt anything like this. When you smile or laugh or just breathe I feel so good inside, but there’s also this really icky nervous feeling in my stomach and it gets stronger when I’m away from you and actually right now its pretty powerful and I might get sick all over your pretty dress so I’m just gonna apologize right now for that, sorry.”
Alex takes a deep breath and squints at Demi, as if getting ready to flinch in case of rejection. “Does any of that make sense to you? At all?”
Demi chuckles lightly and rubs her arm, before squaring her shoulders and grabbing Alex’s hands with her own.
“Well, I recognize all those - feelings - you just spilled. I’ve been feeling them too, Alex. When your stomach feels like its dropping on a roller coaster while your heart is trying to fly out of your throat, when you feel dizzy but so very clear and when you’re constantly smiling without having to think… I get them too. Ever since Friday.”
Alex feels her chest bubble up in warmth. Her heart constricts, her cheeks rise in a wide smile that she has no control over. She pulls Demi closer to her and locks her eyes in a loving gaze. They are silent for a several moments, neither knowing exactly what comes next, but enjoying the moment nonetheless.
“So yea, this is beautiful and all, but what happened to the city lit by moonlight, huh?” Demi asks after shifting on her feet restlessly.
“Hey now, that’s just asking the impossible. I am only a wizard in training, here. Sheesh.”
A sudden wind picks up, blowing around them wildly. A second later, Demi sees a light pink object float over Alex’s shoulder. Followed by several more. Soon, the girls are surrounded by floating pink flowers, giving the scene an almost sparkling atmosphere in the shining sun.
“Oh well… now, this will do just fine I think,” Demi comments while watching a cherry blossom descend to the floor.
“Just fine for what?” Alex is also mesmerized by the storm of flowers.
“For what I’m about to do.” Demi says before she steps in closer to Alex and puts her hands on her shoulders. Alex’s eyes flick back and forth between Demi’s and then dart down to her lips before shooting back up. Demi smiles softly and leans in. The kiss is slow and hesitant. But the response from Alex is immediate.
Cherry blossoms swirl around them as a new wind erupts and streams of light burst in brilliance, cocooning them. Their heels lift off the ground as they hug each other closer, lost in the kiss and each other. Alex’s hand caresses Demi’s cheek as she deepens the kiss. Neither realize that they are levitating almost a foot in the air.
Demi pulls away first and leans her forehead against Alex. She blinks and her gaze drops - so does her stomach.
“AHHH! Alex! Holy crap!” Demi clings even tighter to Alex, who just mumbles nonsense while smiling at Demi. Demi has to grab her chin and direct it down before Alex realizes what their situation is.
“… Ah. Yes. Sorry. Hold on, here…” Alex’s hands press harder on the small of Demi’s back and she shuts her eyes. It takes a few moments before the couple are slowly lowered back to the ground.
“There we go. Sorry, that like, never happens. Really.” Alex’s hand shoots behind her head yet again, but Demi grabs it and brings it in front of her, kissing her fingers.
“I kinda liked it. Now that it’s over, I can see how romantic it was… but please, let’s not do it while atop a 300-something meter tall structure in a foreign city. Just to be safe.”
“Ok, but just so you know, I’ll always catch you. Princess.” Alex moves in for a cheek kiss. Demi giggles and looks out over the cityscape.
“Alex, this is beautiful. And as much as I’d love to explore Tokyo with you, now is not the time - if my watch survived the jump through time and space and is still correct, then I can still show up in time for my set at the fashion show.”
“Aw, crackers.”
“Crackers?”
“Harper says I should watch my language if I wanna catch a classy lady like yourself.” Alex shrugs and pulls Demi closer. Demi gives her a quick kiss while brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“I like you just the way you are. And that was cute, but don’t do it again.”
Alex just grins as she pulls Demi in a deep kiss and transports them back to the park.
The girls run hand -in-hand to the back of the stage, where Demi is quickly scolded then ushered off to get dressed in her signature piece for the night. Alex goes to find the others. When she meets them, her huge smile betrays her story, and Harper and Justin both congratulate her.
The night was an amazing success. Katherine came up to chat with Justin and Alex about something that Alex can’t quite remember because she was multitasking between staring at her lips and hiding her laughter at Justin melting into a puddle in front of her. Marc Jacobs showed up again, and after picking Harper up from the floor, the designer and the fan actually managed to get deep into the aesthetics of pastels and fruits in fashion. The set was fantastic and the new themes for the spring were mesmerizing. Demi looked gorgeous in a Marc Jacobs original, which she later preformed in for the whole crowd. The best part being that Demi couldn’t take her eyes off Alex for the whole night, and vice versa.
On the way home the new couples’ laughter seemingly reverberates throughout New York and they feel as high as the clouds and as light as the breeze. It’s a beautiful beginning to a love story.
~~~Fin~~~
A/N So, yes, that’s it. initiatesix and I want to thank everyone who read and enjoyed our story, and we deeply appreciate you all patiently waiting for us while we fiddled away with life stuff (pssha) and other fics (wateva).
We had a total blast writing this and became supertightclosefriendsslashtwins and we realized quickly that we are such an awesome writing pair, that we want to do more collaborations. This journal will be put to use in the future, do not fret.
THANK YOU ALL!!!! &hearts&hearts&hearts