[SCENE] Jake, Lana and Maggey in "Innervenshun"
((OOC: Takes place soon after Jake's drunk post in Lana's journal.))
Lana: *Lana walks through the doors of the Rusty Gust, her car parked a block down the street - when she said she was going over "now", she had meant it. There are still customers at various tables, and she stops for a moment, both wondering how he could be drunk during business hours and trying to catch sight of him* Jake?
Jake: *A tape deck wrapped up in duct tape is blasting some music from a country music radio station from the top of the jukebox. Jake is leaning over the bar counter with his flask in hand, clearly inebriated, merrily chatting it up with Maggey. His speech is slurred and, mixed with his southern accent, incomprehensible at times.* ...and that was the best chair I ever had! *laughs*
Maggey: *Grinning, Maggey laughs along with Jake while she gives the counter between them a quick swipe with her cleaning rag.* That certainly sounds like an amazing chair, sir! Do you still have it around? *Out of the corner of her eye, she notices Lana's entrance and quickly straightens. She gives the older woman a salute, rag still in hand, smacking her lightly in the face. Removing her hand (and the rag), she grins wider.* Welcome to the Rusty Gust Saloon, ma'am!
Lana: *Lana flinches at the sight of Jake, but nods curtly to Maggey, who she does not recognize in the least* Thank you, Miss. *she turns her attention back to Jake, wincing* Would you mind if I interrupted the two of you?
Jake: *takes a few gulps from his flask and wipes his mouth on his sleeve, turning his attention towards Maggey and Lana. His vision blurred, he peers at Lana curiously for a good few seconds. When he finally realizes whos he is, he grins widely and hollers happily at her.* Heeeey! Bambina!
Lana: *she steps up to him, putting a hand on his shoulder, trying to gauge how much he's had - the smell is so strong on his breath it's literally eye-watering* Hi, Jake. Long time no see. *she looks over her shoulder to Maggey* Miss, is there somewhere I could speak to Mr. Marshall in private?
Jake: *steps closer towards Lana to amicably put an arm around her but stumbles, regaining his balance by putting his other hand against the counter.*
Maggey: Oh? In private? Of course, ma'am! *Dropping the rag on the counter, she takes a few steps away from the counter before gesturing to the back room.* The only thing back there are a bunch of bottles!
Lana: *she looks to the back and pulls Jake's arm around her shoulder, hefting as much of his weight as she can* Thank you. Bring us a pitcher of ice water and two glasses, please. *she turns her attention back to Jake, and her voice is soothing* Come on, let's go have a talk.
Jake: *slumped against Lana, when he realizes how close his face is to the top of her head, he can't help but lean in closer.* Yer hair's real soft... how'd you get it so soft? Smells real nice, too.
Maggey: *Nodding at Lana, she quickly returns to the counter and grabs a spare pitcher. Throwing in some ice and filling it up with water, she takes two cups and walks over to the back room. Balancing the pitcher and glasses as best as she can, she opens the door and holds it open for the other two.*
Jake: *The back is about the size of a living room, but most of the space is occupied by boxes upon boxes of liquor bottles, both filled and empty. There's a makeshift table in the middle made up of wooden crates stacked on top of one another with a table cloth over it. The only seats available are also upside-down wooden crates. The place is lit up by some humming fluorescent lights in the ceiling. On the "table" are various empty liquor bottles, a mini cactus, and some playing cards.*
Jake: *Jake's laptop is open and sitting on the "table," Lana's LJ entry in view. It seems he hasn't refreshed since he made his post.*
Lana: *Lana looks around, particularly at all the liquor, and sighs between her teeth as she guides Jake over to one of the seat-crates and sets him down on it before turning back to Maggey* Thank you. *she takes the tray* Do you think you can handle the bar for a little while?
Maggey: Of course, ma'am! Just holler if you need anything! *Stealing one last look at Jake, she walks out of the room, shutting the door behind her before heading to the bar.*
Jake: *Jake is seated onto the crate, but stands up immediately -- or at least, he tries to, but it takes more effort than it should. He puts his arms around Lana in an overly friendly attempt to get a hug.* So glad ya wanted'ta... err.. decidin' t'stop by. Real pleased... Didn'tn'a think you'd do it but ya did! How you holdin' up, bambina?
Lana: *she works her arms inside of his, prying them off gently and keeping her hands on his shoulders, guiding him back to the crate. She manages a smile for him* I've been doing all right. How about you? It doesn't seem like you're feeling well.
Jake: Heh! Now what makes y'say that? *looks at her with confusion, but he's not all there* 'S been how long since you and I've shot the breeze? *opens his arms out to her* C'mon. Don't be so cold. I jus' wanted to be congratulatin' ya.
Lana: *she looks up at him, flinching at the word "cold", and the honesty in his eyes is enough to temporarily blunt her intentions* All right. *she leans into it, wrapping her arms around his midsection and laying her cheek on his shoulder* Hi, Jake.
Jake: *leans against her and returns the hug sloppily, patting her on the back* See? Tha's more like it! *genuine* Saw your post and... and it made me feel damned proud t'know ya. You're somethin' else. Boy, yer hair's real purdy tonight. Did I say already?
Lana: You did, and thank you. *she lets the hug go on for as long as it can and then breaks it off - pulling the other crate around and sitting on it, pouring herself and Jake some water* Sit with me a while?
Jake: *stares at the water and points at it, speaking as though she's just committed a crime* Oh... naw, naw. That ain't gonna do for a celebration. How 'bout a couple glasses o' Mr. Walker?
Lana: *the smile fades, and the look she gives him is completely serious* We need to have a talk...and I think it would be better to do it over water. Is that all right?
Jake: *disappointed* Yeesh. You bluffin'? *pauses to wipe his mouth and takes out his flask* Whoops. Don't answer that... Those eyes. You're fer real play.
Lana: *her eyes are locked on the flask, but she doesn't say anything about it directly just yet - she doesn't want to antagonize him this early* You've been drinking a lot - I haven't even been around and it's not hard to tell.
Jake: *chuckles with amusement as he unscrews the cap* What else's new? So I like some liquid joy once in a while... *holds up the flask* Never did try t'keep it a secret.
Lana: *she looks back up to his face, wondering how much of this she could have prevented herself, and a pained look creeps over her features* Jake, please...
Jake: *brings the flask to his lips, but stops when Lana speaks* Pardon? *doesn't notice how Lana looks*
Lana: Sit with me, just for a little while, and talk? I want to talk to you, not to Mr. Walker.
Jake: *smirks* Wha's there t'talk 'bout? *takes a swig* Where you been all this time, huh? Y'all know where I'm at, but ain't none of you been comin' fer even a hello! Not even Angel.
Lana: We've...we've all had our own business to tend to. *she watches him take the swig and the look on her face sharpens even further, until she's nearly grimacing* But you're right, we haven't been coming to see you and that's not right. Please, Jake, put it away and sit down.
Jake: Fine, fine. *caps the flask and leaves it on the table, grumbling as he looks at the corner of the room for no reason* Y'always did like tellin' people what to do...
Lana: *she pushes his glass towards him as she speaks, and her voice is soft* That's not exactly fair, is it?
Jake: *returns his gaze to Lana, looking a bit irate now* What?
Lana: I'm just here to talk, Jake - and to help you, if you need it. *she takes a long swallow of her water, setting the glass back down and rubbing the condensation between her fingers. She's trying not to betray anything*
Jake: *Lana's action reminds him that there is water there. He picks up a glass and takes a disinterested sip from it.* Help me with whut? Talk 'bout whut? Listen, I can't have Magpie watch the fort f'rever. Real sweet gal, she is, but she's still yellow-beaked, y'know?
Lana: It's Sunday - there aren't many people out to drink on Sundays. She'll be fine. *she keeps rubbing her fingers together, stopping only to take a sip, and when she puts the glass down it's with a quiet sigh* Is that all of it, Jake? Are you just feeling lonely?
Jake: Heh! *holds out three fingers with his other hand and tucks them down as he counts* I got... Mr. Walker warmin' my heart, an Angel warmin' my body and-- *stares at the last finger* and...uh. *puts his hand away nonchalantly* No problem there.
Lana: *she reaches out and takes hold of that hand, wrapping both of hers around it* You just told me Angel hasn't been visiting...and Mr. Walker's never been much of a conversationalist.
Jake: *stares at Lana's hands wrapped around his for a few beats; he can't remember the last time he's been held like this. He thinks as he speaks.* Well, uh... Magpie's always there t'listen to my stories and... that ol' cowdog Wright's my new pianist...
Lana: *she rubs, gently - at this point she's mostly trying to calm him down, but that look on his face brings back memories* Right... What's wrong, then?
Jake: *small chuckle* Like I said! There ain't nuthin' to talk about! So... so... *The rubbing has a calming effect on him; he looks at her with a suddenly serious expression* So quit yer worryin'. I don't... I don't like t'see any wrinkles on that pretty lil' face o' yers.
Lana: I know you don't. *the seriousness of his expression is a relief - he doesn't sound more sober, but he at least seems lucid* But you're hurting yourself like this, and I can't help but worry. You need to know that if you need any help with anything, or someone to talk to, I'm right here. Okay?
Jake: *furrows his brows and raises his voice* I'm fine. *He wants to pull his hand away, but he can't bring himself to.* I got a job, I got friends.... A cowdog's life's a lazy one, Bambina. I'm holdin' up. If you don't got anythin' else o' importance t'say, I'm gon' have t'ask you to wind up 'n' go home.
Lana: *Lana lets go with one hand and reaches up, running her hand along the side of his face - she can tell he hasn't been shaving much* There have been a lot of lies between us for a long, long time, Jake. I don't think we need any more.
Jake: *nearly flinches when Lana touches him, but lets her; he reacts by gently leaning into her hand, too intoxicated to be able hold back what he's feeling* What... what is it that you want outta me, Lana? Pony up 'n' tell me already...
Lana: *she keeps her hand in place and gently rubs her thumb along the bone of his cheek, just under his eye* You're drinking yourself to death, Jake - hiding behind a haze of alcohol, where people can't see you. *she leans in close to him, rising just off of the crate, but it's a motion of concern rather than intimacy* What is it that's making you hide?
Jake: *tilts his head down a bit, closing his eyes; he sounds dejected, not angry or defensive* No, I'm not. Quit worryin'.
Lana: *leans in closer and releases his hand, bringing hers down from his face and putting her arms around him - the angle's awkward, but she lays her head on his shoulder, an old and familiar touch* Please...
Jake: *keeps his eyes closed, feeling her warmth; this is familiar indeed, and he can't bear to tear away from her now, as much as he'd like to physically push her away and tell her to leave him be. The alcohol helps keep him sedated, too, but it also loosens his tongue, and he blurts out the next thing that comes to mind:* What if tha's what I want?
Lana: *she grimaces, her grip on him tightening - and then relaxes, her tone softening as she does* Sometimes what you want isn't what you need.
Jake: *opens his eyes, but doesn't focus his gaze on anything in particular. His tone is rather accusatory.* See there? There... You always think y'know what's best for others! That's gotten you a heap o'-- I mean. *grits his teeth* Jus' leggo of me, Lana.
Lana: *at that she does let go of him, sitting back onto her crate and taking a sip from her glass, not looking directly at him*
Jake: *also takes a sip from his glass half-heartedly. He does a mock bow.* *sarcastic* Thank you. Tha's the first time you've listened t'me since ya came here.
Lana: *she takes another sip, and then she looks at him - her eyes are hard* I'm not leaving.
Jake: *slumps forwards, supporting himself with his elbows on his knees and just... stares* Why th' hell not?
Lana: *her voice shifts until it's as sharp as her eyes; she's not angry, not really, but she's frightened and hurt and this is as close to showing it as she can come* I've given up a lot of things, told a lot of lies - I abandoned people. I abandoned you. I'm not doing that again; I'm staying.
Jake: *stares back at her just as sharply -- or as best he can, anyway. This is some heavy stuff, and it's starting to sober him up, so he grabs his flask to refuel.* This what you came here to talk about? ...What you did? Never did have a good talk over 'bout that, huh?
Lana: *she grabs his water and holds it out to him, never breaking eye contact* I came here to talk to you about what you're doing right now, but if you want to hash that out, fine. But I'm going to be talking to Jake Marshall, not to his alcohol.
Jake: *looks down at the water, then at Lana, glaring at her* You had no part in my life for some time, Bambina. You think you can-- We can be-- *pauses for a beat so he can stop stumbling on his words* Damnit... Why you comin' in here all of a sudden actin' like you care again??
Lana: *her tone is flat, and she doesn't move the glass* I never stopped caring. None of that was easier on me than it was on you. None of it. Nothing that actually happened hurt me more than pushing away one of my only real friends for no reason, and I will not experience that separation again if I can help it.
Jake: *takes his hat off and plops it on the makeshift table; it falls off, but he doesn't care. He runs his hand through his hair in frustration* And you think... You think you can just come in here one night, drag me away from my post... *doesn't finish this thought* ...Like you would've even come if I hadn't asked ya. Had to wait 'til I was downright soaked.
Lana: *that hits close to home - she puts the glass back on the makeshift table and looks away from him* ...I don't have any excuses, but I'm here now.
Jake: Tha's right. *he slurs this as he bitterly looks down at his flask, unscrewing the cap* You've got some balls, Bambina... Thinkin' you can waltz in here after six years... *is able to spout out a time range without thinking on it; doesn't finish this sentence, either* Hah! *shakes his head* 'S if all the time we spent together didn't mean a lick to ya. *punctuates this with a few gulps of liquor*
Lana: *she has no answers for him there, either, grimacing and resisting the urge to bite her thumb or get up and walk out, refusing to escape him - he's not a person she has to escape, he's hurting worse than she is, she can feel it, and she has to be there for him* Jake...
Jake: *removes the flask from his mouth and glares sharply at Lana; whatever he's angry about, he's directing his rage towards her now.* What?!
Lana: *she shakes her head - that action's all she's got, as this point* I'm sorry. I don't know what else to say.
Jake: Then get out. Go on home. I'm sure Ema's waitin'...
Lana: Ema knows I'm here. She doesn't expect me back for a while. And I'm not leaving.
Jake: *sits forwards as he looks down at the flask in his hands, his hair hiding his face* I don't give a damn. She must be waitin'. Tell her I said hi. Get out.
Lana: No. I can't tell her that I left you like this.
Jake: *his tone escalates* I'm givin' you five seconds t'leave my sight. One... two...
Lana: *she looks at him, through the tangle of his hair, and her face is set - she doesn't move* I'm not leaving you.
Jake: *grits his teeth and looks up at her; his voice isn't a shout just yet, but it's getting there* Three... four...!
Lana: *doesn't break eye contact, but she has to fight the urge to grimace - it's been so long, she really doesn't know what he'll do at five, but she does not move*
Jake: ...Five. *he looks up at Lana with a dead serious expression, and if he's got something to say, he's not saying it, nor moving an inch*
Lana: *she doesn't move either, trying to read his face, read anything - in some remote part of her mind she's relieved he seems to have been sobered up by the adrenaline, but she can't tell anything and that makes her nervous*
Jake: *continues to stare at her blankly for a few beats... and then he stands up, reeling just slightly, disturbing the crate he was sitting on; it squeaks as it scrapes against the floor. He points towards at the door, and his next exclamation is a command, not a request.* GET OUT!
Lana: *she doesn't allow herself to recoil, tells herself she has nothing to fear from him, shouldn't be entertaining the notion, but something in him is different* No.
Jake: *With that, he heads for the door himself immediately without another word.*
Lana: Jake? *she watches for a moment, dumbstruck, before rising to follow him* Jake!
Jake: *He angrily swings the door open. Empty beer bottles rattle when it hits some boxes. When Lana calls out his name from behind him, he looks over his shoulder at her.*
Maggey: *Having nearly forgotten that Jake went into the back room with that woman she didn't know, Maggey nearly jumps when he appears. Glancing up from the customer she was taking an empty glass from, her eyes widen.* Mister Marshall, sir?
Jake: *glowering, his voice still raised as he speaks to Lana* I ain't gonna listen to you... *When he speaks, his words and tone of voice combined are venomous and he knows it.* ...when you won't listen to anyone... anyone! You won't listen to anyone unless they've got Ema held hostage!
Lana: *she stops dead in her tracks, staring dumbfounded, jaw slack, words only coming in clips marred by shock* That... Jake, that's not fair. You don't mean that.
Maggey: *Pauses, clutching onto the glass in her hands tightly as she watches the exchange, not sure what to think of it yet. Her eyes dart to the young man sitting at the table next to her who also seems to be watching Lana and Jake.*
Jake: *takes a few step forwards, but stops and looks back at Lana again when she replies to him, paying no mind to anyone else in the bar* Not fair? Not fair? *a forced, bitter laugh as he uncaps his flask and gestures towards her as though giving a cheer* Tell that to Neil. Or, hell, I could go up there and say it m'self -- and tell 'im you sent me!
Lana: *she takes a couple of steps to follow him, and when he turns and speaks again she recoils - the implication of his last words isn't lost on her, and it's all she can do to fall back to a stonefaced expression, not looking at Jake - not looking at anyone* I'm sorry. I think I made a mistake coming here.
Maggey: *Doesn't understand what is being said, but knows she probably should step in. Taking a few steps closer to Jake, cup still clutched in her hand, she gives a small smile in his direction.* Mister Marshall! Is everything alright, sir?
Jake: *ignoring Lana, he takes one last swig from his flask, finishing off its contents, and lazily passes it -- or rather, pushes it into -- Maggey. He sounds tired when he talks to her.* Be a dear 'n' fill 'er up with malt for me, will ya, Magpie? Thanks.
Lana: *she looks at his back as he gives the flask to Maggey, but only for a moment - that's all she can take. She walks to the door, trying to keep her stride steady and even, but as she walks her mouth tightens and her eyes narrow and her vision starts to blur behind a film of barely constrained tears - and then she's gone, the doors swinging closed behind her*
Maggey: *Takes the flask, slightly amazed she didn't drop the glass in the process, and salutes Jake.* Yes, sir! Just one second! *Quickly moves behind the counter to fill up the flask as ordered.*
Jake: *He stares up at the decor on the walls to keep Lana out of his sights until the swinging doors creak, light traffic is heard when the main doors open, and the click of her heels are completely gone. Even then, he doesn't look at the doors. Returning to the back room to retrieve his hat, upon seeing the crates he and Lana were sitting on a mere minute ago, he remembers how he felt when she touched him for the first time in years. He's too exhausted to give any more thought to what just occured, though, and he heads back to Maggey for his flask. He won't be able to go to sleep easily tonight; maybe another refill will make the morning come quicker.*
Lana: *Lana walks through the doors of the Rusty Gust, her car parked a block down the street - when she said she was going over "now", she had meant it. There are still customers at various tables, and she stops for a moment, both wondering how he could be drunk during business hours and trying to catch sight of him* Jake?
Jake: *A tape deck wrapped up in duct tape is blasting some music from a country music radio station from the top of the jukebox. Jake is leaning over the bar counter with his flask in hand, clearly inebriated, merrily chatting it up with Maggey. His speech is slurred and, mixed with his southern accent, incomprehensible at times.* ...and that was the best chair I ever had! *laughs*
Maggey: *Grinning, Maggey laughs along with Jake while she gives the counter between them a quick swipe with her cleaning rag.* That certainly sounds like an amazing chair, sir! Do you still have it around? *Out of the corner of her eye, she notices Lana's entrance and quickly straightens. She gives the older woman a salute, rag still in hand, smacking her lightly in the face. Removing her hand (and the rag), she grins wider.* Welcome to the Rusty Gust Saloon, ma'am!
Lana: *Lana flinches at the sight of Jake, but nods curtly to Maggey, who she does not recognize in the least* Thank you, Miss. *she turns her attention back to Jake, wincing* Would you mind if I interrupted the two of you?
Jake: *takes a few gulps from his flask and wipes his mouth on his sleeve, turning his attention towards Maggey and Lana. His vision blurred, he peers at Lana curiously for a good few seconds. When he finally realizes whos he is, he grins widely and hollers happily at her.* Heeeey! Bambina!
Lana: *she steps up to him, putting a hand on his shoulder, trying to gauge how much he's had - the smell is so strong on his breath it's literally eye-watering* Hi, Jake. Long time no see. *she looks over her shoulder to Maggey* Miss, is there somewhere I could speak to Mr. Marshall in private?
Jake: *steps closer towards Lana to amicably put an arm around her but stumbles, regaining his balance by putting his other hand against the counter.*
Maggey: Oh? In private? Of course, ma'am! *Dropping the rag on the counter, she takes a few steps away from the counter before gesturing to the back room.* The only thing back there are a bunch of bottles!
Lana: *she looks to the back and pulls Jake's arm around her shoulder, hefting as much of his weight as she can* Thank you. Bring us a pitcher of ice water and two glasses, please. *she turns her attention back to Jake, and her voice is soothing* Come on, let's go have a talk.
Jake: *slumped against Lana, when he realizes how close his face is to the top of her head, he can't help but lean in closer.* Yer hair's real soft... how'd you get it so soft? Smells real nice, too.
Maggey: *Nodding at Lana, she quickly returns to the counter and grabs a spare pitcher. Throwing in some ice and filling it up with water, she takes two cups and walks over to the back room. Balancing the pitcher and glasses as best as she can, she opens the door and holds it open for the other two.*
Jake: *The back is about the size of a living room, but most of the space is occupied by boxes upon boxes of liquor bottles, both filled and empty. There's a makeshift table in the middle made up of wooden crates stacked on top of one another with a table cloth over it. The only seats available are also upside-down wooden crates. The place is lit up by some humming fluorescent lights in the ceiling. On the "table" are various empty liquor bottles, a mini cactus, and some playing cards.*
Jake: *Jake's laptop is open and sitting on the "table," Lana's LJ entry in view. It seems he hasn't refreshed since he made his post.*
Lana: *Lana looks around, particularly at all the liquor, and sighs between her teeth as she guides Jake over to one of the seat-crates and sets him down on it before turning back to Maggey* Thank you. *she takes the tray* Do you think you can handle the bar for a little while?
Maggey: Of course, ma'am! Just holler if you need anything! *Stealing one last look at Jake, she walks out of the room, shutting the door behind her before heading to the bar.*
Jake: *Jake is seated onto the crate, but stands up immediately -- or at least, he tries to, but it takes more effort than it should. He puts his arms around Lana in an overly friendly attempt to get a hug.* So glad ya wanted'ta... err.. decidin' t'stop by. Real pleased... Didn'tn'a think you'd do it but ya did! How you holdin' up, bambina?
Lana: *she works her arms inside of his, prying them off gently and keeping her hands on his shoulders, guiding him back to the crate. She manages a smile for him* I've been doing all right. How about you? It doesn't seem like you're feeling well.
Jake: Heh! Now what makes y'say that? *looks at her with confusion, but he's not all there* 'S been how long since you and I've shot the breeze? *opens his arms out to her* C'mon. Don't be so cold. I jus' wanted to be congratulatin' ya.
Lana: *she looks up at him, flinching at the word "cold", and the honesty in his eyes is enough to temporarily blunt her intentions* All right. *she leans into it, wrapping her arms around his midsection and laying her cheek on his shoulder* Hi, Jake.
Jake: *leans against her and returns the hug sloppily, patting her on the back* See? Tha's more like it! *genuine* Saw your post and... and it made me feel damned proud t'know ya. You're somethin' else. Boy, yer hair's real purdy tonight. Did I say already?
Lana: You did, and thank you. *she lets the hug go on for as long as it can and then breaks it off - pulling the other crate around and sitting on it, pouring herself and Jake some water* Sit with me a while?
Jake: *stares at the water and points at it, speaking as though she's just committed a crime* Oh... naw, naw. That ain't gonna do for a celebration. How 'bout a couple glasses o' Mr. Walker?
Lana: *the smile fades, and the look she gives him is completely serious* We need to have a talk...and I think it would be better to do it over water. Is that all right?
Jake: *disappointed* Yeesh. You bluffin'? *pauses to wipe his mouth and takes out his flask* Whoops. Don't answer that... Those eyes. You're fer real play.
Lana: *her eyes are locked on the flask, but she doesn't say anything about it directly just yet - she doesn't want to antagonize him this early* You've been drinking a lot - I haven't even been around and it's not hard to tell.
Jake: *chuckles with amusement as he unscrews the cap* What else's new? So I like some liquid joy once in a while... *holds up the flask* Never did try t'keep it a secret.
Lana: *she looks back up to his face, wondering how much of this she could have prevented herself, and a pained look creeps over her features* Jake, please...
Jake: *brings the flask to his lips, but stops when Lana speaks* Pardon? *doesn't notice how Lana looks*
Lana: Sit with me, just for a little while, and talk? I want to talk to you, not to Mr. Walker.
Jake: *smirks* Wha's there t'talk 'bout? *takes a swig* Where you been all this time, huh? Y'all know where I'm at, but ain't none of you been comin' fer even a hello! Not even Angel.
Lana: We've...we've all had our own business to tend to. *she watches him take the swig and the look on her face sharpens even further, until she's nearly grimacing* But you're right, we haven't been coming to see you and that's not right. Please, Jake, put it away and sit down.
Jake: Fine, fine. *caps the flask and leaves it on the table, grumbling as he looks at the corner of the room for no reason* Y'always did like tellin' people what to do...
Lana: *she pushes his glass towards him as she speaks, and her voice is soft* That's not exactly fair, is it?
Jake: *returns his gaze to Lana, looking a bit irate now* What?
Lana: I'm just here to talk, Jake - and to help you, if you need it. *she takes a long swallow of her water, setting the glass back down and rubbing the condensation between her fingers. She's trying not to betray anything*
Jake: *Lana's action reminds him that there is water there. He picks up a glass and takes a disinterested sip from it.* Help me with whut? Talk 'bout whut? Listen, I can't have Magpie watch the fort f'rever. Real sweet gal, she is, but she's still yellow-beaked, y'know?
Lana: It's Sunday - there aren't many people out to drink on Sundays. She'll be fine. *she keeps rubbing her fingers together, stopping only to take a sip, and when she puts the glass down it's with a quiet sigh* Is that all of it, Jake? Are you just feeling lonely?
Jake: Heh! *holds out three fingers with his other hand and tucks them down as he counts* I got... Mr. Walker warmin' my heart, an Angel warmin' my body and-- *stares at the last finger* and...uh. *puts his hand away nonchalantly* No problem there.
Lana: *she reaches out and takes hold of that hand, wrapping both of hers around it* You just told me Angel hasn't been visiting...and Mr. Walker's never been much of a conversationalist.
Jake: *stares at Lana's hands wrapped around his for a few beats; he can't remember the last time he's been held like this. He thinks as he speaks.* Well, uh... Magpie's always there t'listen to my stories and... that ol' cowdog Wright's my new pianist...
Lana: *she rubs, gently - at this point she's mostly trying to calm him down, but that look on his face brings back memories* Right... What's wrong, then?
Jake: *small chuckle* Like I said! There ain't nuthin' to talk about! So... so... *The rubbing has a calming effect on him; he looks at her with a suddenly serious expression* So quit yer worryin'. I don't... I don't like t'see any wrinkles on that pretty lil' face o' yers.
Lana: I know you don't. *the seriousness of his expression is a relief - he doesn't sound more sober, but he at least seems lucid* But you're hurting yourself like this, and I can't help but worry. You need to know that if you need any help with anything, or someone to talk to, I'm right here. Okay?
Jake: *furrows his brows and raises his voice* I'm fine. *He wants to pull his hand away, but he can't bring himself to.* I got a job, I got friends.... A cowdog's life's a lazy one, Bambina. I'm holdin' up. If you don't got anythin' else o' importance t'say, I'm gon' have t'ask you to wind up 'n' go home.
Lana: *Lana lets go with one hand and reaches up, running her hand along the side of his face - she can tell he hasn't been shaving much* There have been a lot of lies between us for a long, long time, Jake. I don't think we need any more.
Jake: *nearly flinches when Lana touches him, but lets her; he reacts by gently leaning into her hand, too intoxicated to be able hold back what he's feeling* What... what is it that you want outta me, Lana? Pony up 'n' tell me already...
Lana: *she keeps her hand in place and gently rubs her thumb along the bone of his cheek, just under his eye* You're drinking yourself to death, Jake - hiding behind a haze of alcohol, where people can't see you. *she leans in close to him, rising just off of the crate, but it's a motion of concern rather than intimacy* What is it that's making you hide?
Jake: *tilts his head down a bit, closing his eyes; he sounds dejected, not angry or defensive* No, I'm not. Quit worryin'.
Lana: *leans in closer and releases his hand, bringing hers down from his face and putting her arms around him - the angle's awkward, but she lays her head on his shoulder, an old and familiar touch* Please...
Jake: *keeps his eyes closed, feeling her warmth; this is familiar indeed, and he can't bear to tear away from her now, as much as he'd like to physically push her away and tell her to leave him be. The alcohol helps keep him sedated, too, but it also loosens his tongue, and he blurts out the next thing that comes to mind:* What if tha's what I want?
Lana: *she grimaces, her grip on him tightening - and then relaxes, her tone softening as she does* Sometimes what you want isn't what you need.
Jake: *opens his eyes, but doesn't focus his gaze on anything in particular. His tone is rather accusatory.* See there? There... You always think y'know what's best for others! That's gotten you a heap o'-- I mean. *grits his teeth* Jus' leggo of me, Lana.
Lana: *at that she does let go of him, sitting back onto her crate and taking a sip from her glass, not looking directly at him*
Jake: *also takes a sip from his glass half-heartedly. He does a mock bow.* *sarcastic* Thank you. Tha's the first time you've listened t'me since ya came here.
Lana: *she takes another sip, and then she looks at him - her eyes are hard* I'm not leaving.
Jake: *slumps forwards, supporting himself with his elbows on his knees and just... stares* Why th' hell not?
Lana: *her voice shifts until it's as sharp as her eyes; she's not angry, not really, but she's frightened and hurt and this is as close to showing it as she can come* I've given up a lot of things, told a lot of lies - I abandoned people. I abandoned you. I'm not doing that again; I'm staying.
Jake: *stares back at her just as sharply -- or as best he can, anyway. This is some heavy stuff, and it's starting to sober him up, so he grabs his flask to refuel.* This what you came here to talk about? ...What you did? Never did have a good talk over 'bout that, huh?
Lana: *she grabs his water and holds it out to him, never breaking eye contact* I came here to talk to you about what you're doing right now, but if you want to hash that out, fine. But I'm going to be talking to Jake Marshall, not to his alcohol.
Jake: *looks down at the water, then at Lana, glaring at her* You had no part in my life for some time, Bambina. You think you can-- We can be-- *pauses for a beat so he can stop stumbling on his words* Damnit... Why you comin' in here all of a sudden actin' like you care again??
Lana: *her tone is flat, and she doesn't move the glass* I never stopped caring. None of that was easier on me than it was on you. None of it. Nothing that actually happened hurt me more than pushing away one of my only real friends for no reason, and I will not experience that separation again if I can help it.
Jake: *takes his hat off and plops it on the makeshift table; it falls off, but he doesn't care. He runs his hand through his hair in frustration* And you think... You think you can just come in here one night, drag me away from my post... *doesn't finish this thought* ...Like you would've even come if I hadn't asked ya. Had to wait 'til I was downright soaked.
Lana: *that hits close to home - she puts the glass back on the makeshift table and looks away from him* ...I don't have any excuses, but I'm here now.
Jake: Tha's right. *he slurs this as he bitterly looks down at his flask, unscrewing the cap* You've got some balls, Bambina... Thinkin' you can waltz in here after six years... *is able to spout out a time range without thinking on it; doesn't finish this sentence, either* Hah! *shakes his head* 'S if all the time we spent together didn't mean a lick to ya. *punctuates this with a few gulps of liquor*
Lana: *she has no answers for him there, either, grimacing and resisting the urge to bite her thumb or get up and walk out, refusing to escape him - he's not a person she has to escape, he's hurting worse than she is, she can feel it, and she has to be there for him* Jake...
Jake: *removes the flask from his mouth and glares sharply at Lana; whatever he's angry about, he's directing his rage towards her now.* What?!
Lana: *she shakes her head - that action's all she's got, as this point* I'm sorry. I don't know what else to say.
Jake: Then get out. Go on home. I'm sure Ema's waitin'...
Lana: Ema knows I'm here. She doesn't expect me back for a while. And I'm not leaving.
Jake: *sits forwards as he looks down at the flask in his hands, his hair hiding his face* I don't give a damn. She must be waitin'. Tell her I said hi. Get out.
Lana: No. I can't tell her that I left you like this.
Jake: *his tone escalates* I'm givin' you five seconds t'leave my sight. One... two...
Lana: *she looks at him, through the tangle of his hair, and her face is set - she doesn't move* I'm not leaving you.
Jake: *grits his teeth and looks up at her; his voice isn't a shout just yet, but it's getting there* Three... four...!
Lana: *doesn't break eye contact, but she has to fight the urge to grimace - it's been so long, she really doesn't know what he'll do at five, but she does not move*
Jake: ...Five. *he looks up at Lana with a dead serious expression, and if he's got something to say, he's not saying it, nor moving an inch*
Lana: *she doesn't move either, trying to read his face, read anything - in some remote part of her mind she's relieved he seems to have been sobered up by the adrenaline, but she can't tell anything and that makes her nervous*
Jake: *continues to stare at her blankly for a few beats... and then he stands up, reeling just slightly, disturbing the crate he was sitting on; it squeaks as it scrapes against the floor. He points towards at the door, and his next exclamation is a command, not a request.* GET OUT!
Lana: *she doesn't allow herself to recoil, tells herself she has nothing to fear from him, shouldn't be entertaining the notion, but something in him is different* No.
Jake: *With that, he heads for the door himself immediately without another word.*
Lana: Jake? *she watches for a moment, dumbstruck, before rising to follow him* Jake!
Jake: *He angrily swings the door open. Empty beer bottles rattle when it hits some boxes. When Lana calls out his name from behind him, he looks over his shoulder at her.*
Maggey: *Having nearly forgotten that Jake went into the back room with that woman she didn't know, Maggey nearly jumps when he appears. Glancing up from the customer she was taking an empty glass from, her eyes widen.* Mister Marshall, sir?
Jake: *glowering, his voice still raised as he speaks to Lana* I ain't gonna listen to you... *When he speaks, his words and tone of voice combined are venomous and he knows it.* ...when you won't listen to anyone... anyone! You won't listen to anyone unless they've got Ema held hostage!
Lana: *she stops dead in her tracks, staring dumbfounded, jaw slack, words only coming in clips marred by shock* That... Jake, that's not fair. You don't mean that.
Maggey: *Pauses, clutching onto the glass in her hands tightly as she watches the exchange, not sure what to think of it yet. Her eyes dart to the young man sitting at the table next to her who also seems to be watching Lana and Jake.*
Jake: *takes a few step forwards, but stops and looks back at Lana again when she replies to him, paying no mind to anyone else in the bar* Not fair? Not fair? *a forced, bitter laugh as he uncaps his flask and gestures towards her as though giving a cheer* Tell that to Neil. Or, hell, I could go up there and say it m'self -- and tell 'im you sent me!
Lana: *she takes a couple of steps to follow him, and when he turns and speaks again she recoils - the implication of his last words isn't lost on her, and it's all she can do to fall back to a stonefaced expression, not looking at Jake - not looking at anyone* I'm sorry. I think I made a mistake coming here.
Maggey: *Doesn't understand what is being said, but knows she probably should step in. Taking a few steps closer to Jake, cup still clutched in her hand, she gives a small smile in his direction.* Mister Marshall! Is everything alright, sir?
Jake: *ignoring Lana, he takes one last swig from his flask, finishing off its contents, and lazily passes it -- or rather, pushes it into -- Maggey. He sounds tired when he talks to her.* Be a dear 'n' fill 'er up with malt for me, will ya, Magpie? Thanks.
Lana: *she looks at his back as he gives the flask to Maggey, but only for a moment - that's all she can take. She walks to the door, trying to keep her stride steady and even, but as she walks her mouth tightens and her eyes narrow and her vision starts to blur behind a film of barely constrained tears - and then she's gone, the doors swinging closed behind her*
Maggey: *Takes the flask, slightly amazed she didn't drop the glass in the process, and salutes Jake.* Yes, sir! Just one second! *Quickly moves behind the counter to fill up the flask as ordered.*
Jake: *He stares up at the decor on the walls to keep Lana out of his sights until the swinging doors creak, light traffic is heard when the main doors open, and the click of her heels are completely gone. Even then, he doesn't look at the doors. Returning to the back room to retrieve his hat, upon seeing the crates he and Lana were sitting on a mere minute ago, he remembers how he felt when she touched him for the first time in years. He's too exhausted to give any more thought to what just occured, though, and he heads back to Maggey for his flask. He won't be able to go to sleep easily tonight; maybe another refill will make the morning come quicker.*