you and I were fireworks {Elaine}

"And that's all the time we have today. Before I go, here's one last song by the Acid Pops, then get ready for the Witching Hour here on the WWN. I've been Laura Palmer, and this has been another day." Laura clicked over to the music track, which had already started as she was talking, and she sighed. The mic was off, so thankfully she didn't have to worry about being picked up. A smile spread across her face as she listened to the first part of the song, but soon it was time for her to pack up so that the studio could be used by other people. A few kind words left her lips as she passed by her coworkers, but most of them fell on deaf ears. Everyone was busy with their own part of the station, after all. It was fine though; she was used to not being noticed.

The streets were fairly empty, which was a good thing. It meant no one would be around to bug her as she made her way to her normal bar; she could use a good drink, and James would probably deliver. He had before, and it was nice being able to talk frankly around the man. Discovering someone who wasn't affected by her "charms" was always a treat, especially when it was a guy she could just be herself around. It was practically the only reason she frequented this particular bar. As she slid into her normal seat, Lucina felt her normal air of confidence start to return. Familiarity was good, was something she could get used to. After a life of unknown variables and information tucked away where no one could reach it, having something that was firm and reliable seemed almost too good to be true. Here, she could be Laura, but she could also be herself and not have to worry too much about others. If she just focused on her drink and her friend, things would be alright.

The first sign things would not be alright this particular night came in the form of a stolen glance. There were plenty of people around, and Lucina expected that much. After all, the place wasn't exactly unpopular; even though she wasn't a fan of too much company, she wasn't stupid enough to think she'd have the place to herself. But as she glanced around the bar, her eyes caught another woman's and there was an all too familiar glint in them. Oh no... Oh, I really hope she's not a fan and she didn't recognize me... While she wasn't as big as some of the other people who worked at the WWN, Lucina had managed to make a bit of a name for herself, and that name was "Laura Palmer". If she was lucky, she'd get left alone. It didn't even dawn on her that her bloodline could have been the cause of this particular look at first.

Two (very fruity) drinks later, Laura bit her lip and risked another look at the mysterious lady. Part of her wanted to confront her, but that probably would have been a bad idea. Not that it stopped her from wandering over anyway after she gave James a smile and asked him to keep her tab open. It was a minor miracle that she didn't sway as she walked over, and when she leaned against the bar, it wasn't just to look cool. Instead of confronting the woman right away, however, Laura stood there and nursed her drink, taking a steadying breath before each sip. She needed the confidence really; confrontation and her never exactly got along after all. Had she been a little more observant and a little less drunk, Laura would have noticed the effect she was having, the way her magic made her motions appear more fluid, her appearance more appealing, her entire being more enticing.

She needed a drink.

Usually the small brunette loved her job; teaching young witches and wizards the basics about English and Maths and whatever else the parents wanted her to teach them was something she enjoyed a lot, especially when she was rewarded by progress. Usually she didn't have to work with an utterly spoiled brat, though. And even worse, an equally spoiled and priggish father. It was no surprise the woman of the house had left them. Seriously, it was probably the best the woman could have done. The only advantage the job had was that Mr. Cromwell paid well. Elaine had never gotten that much money for her teaching job but slowly she began to wonder if it was worth the hassle.

Yes, Mr. Cromwell. Of course, Mr. Cromwell. F*** you, Mr. Cromwell.

Yep. That was probably how their next meeting should go. Unfortunately she knew exactly that it wouldn't go like that. Right now it was her biggest income and if she wanted to maintain her lifestyle and travel every now and then she couldn't afford to quit. Damn.

The former Ravenclaw apparated to a bar she had visited a while ago with a group of friends, remembering that the drinks hadn't been that expensive, and entered it. It was still quite early and so the pub wasn't overly crowded. Elaine moved directly to the bar and ordered a glass of firewhiskey which earned her a weird look from the bartender. Yes, it was early. Yes, she still wanted that drink. The first sip was followed by the familiar warmth the amber coloured liquid usually left behind and she felt herself relax. Slowly more and more people were entering and soon it was filled with a constant sound of chattering.

After a while, the brunette let her gaze wander through the room until someone suddenly caught her attention. The girl wasn't exceptionally beautiful, at least not in a classic kind of way but there was something about her she just couldn't name. Somehow she radiated an aura of innocence and that compared with her big eyes and pretty face made her interesting. A soft smile appeared on her face when the girl caught her looking at her and she had to chuckle when she noticed the slightly panicked look in the brunette's eyes. Not knowing if it was because the girl wasn't used to getting that kind of attention from a woman or because of something else, Elaine stayed where she was and ordered another drink instead.

Every now and then she glanced at the witch over the rim of her glass and when she stood up, the Ravenclaw couldn't hide a knowing smile. However, once the brunette began to walk towards her, something changed. While she had always thought that the girl was cute, the way she walked and moved her head slightly to the side made her instantly way more attractive. Blinking twice, Elaine looked back at her glass before she focused on the girl again. Fascinating.

Not able to look away, she smiled and tucked a strand of dark brown hair out of her face. "So. Are you just standing there or would you like to join me? I could use some company." Direct as always Elaine pointed at the stool beside her. "I'll pay for the next round." Somehow she had to get to know the other woman.

 She should have seen the signs. Honestly, the fact that she didn’t was a testament to either how sloppy she was getting or just how drunk she really was. Laura bit back a small smile as the woman talked to her; she really was quite pretty, and maybe this whole “attracting people” thing wasn’t too horrible, right? Except she didn’t want attention, she didn’t want false affection, and she certainly didn’t want to lead someone on! The last thought was the biggest thing for her because although she’d had to use her abilities to survive before, she didn’t have to now and she never wanted to again. Despite this, though, she felt the smile peek through. Most of what actually went through her head was lost to a pleasant booze-induced haze.

Preparing for and eventually working on the radio made Laura oddly aware of how people sounded, and when her companion spoke up, she could already hear way the alcohol caused her words to stutter slightly, consonants blurring together. It wasn’t obvious yet, but it was there enough for her to tell. Then again, she had grown accustomed to it, especially when the big musicians came through. “I… wouldn’t be opposed to the idea if you don’t mind the company.” She gave a polite smile before sitting down. She seemed nice enough, and Laura wondered just what she’d been so worried about. From just down the bar, she could see James doing his job. The sight of him there helped boost her confidence, and she sat a little straighter as she turned to face her new drinking buddy.

When Laura heard the offer, a soft chuckle escaped her. At least, she thought it was soft; it was hard to tell, seeing as her volume control had gone a tad out the window during the second drink. “There’s no need. I’m still nursing this one, after all.” She held up her half-finished Twisted Screwball to emphasize her point. “Although if you get something else, try a mixed drink. Trust me, they’re amazing.” She held the last word longer than necessary partly to make it clear just how good the drinks are… but mostly because she was starting to feel the effects of having been in the bar for at least three drinks. After a moment’s pause, Laura realized she hadn’t actually learned anything about the woman sitting next to her. “I never got your name! I’m so sorry! I’m Lu - ... Laura Palmer!”

Beautiful eyes. Check. Nice body. Check. Wonderful smile. Double Check.

To be fair, Elaine hadn't doubted that the girl would stay the moment she had come over but it was still nice to see that she'd been right. The more she looked at her, the more interesting the other witch became and while something deep inside her noticed that something was odd about the effect the brunette had on her, Elaine dismissed the thought. She could still think about it once the day was over. Right now she definitely had other priorities.

"I wouldn't ask if I did, would I?" The former Ravenclaw winked at the beautiful stranger, her brown doe eyes fixed on her face. The witch was definitely not completely sober, judging by the way she spoke but neither was she. "I see but should you want another one after that, the offer still stands." Forcing herself to look away for a second, Elaine waved at the bartender and pointed at the girl's drink. "Can I have the same she has? Thank you!" With a smile she turned her head again to face the brunette. "I'll blame you if it's not amazing." It was funny. The last thing she cared about right now was whether that drink tasted good or not.

"Please, don't apologise. I was the one asking for company, so I should have introduced myself earlier." It struck her as odd that the girl, Laura, struggled with her name but instead of asking what it had been about, Elaine stayed silent. It was none of her business and if she wanted to get to know her better, she should better not drive her away before their conversation had even really begun. "Nice to meet you. I'm Elaine." A soft smile played around her lips while she thought about why Laura's name sounded so familiar. Right!

"You have that show on the radio, don't you? It's always fascinating to see the face behind the voice. And what a pretty face it is." The muggleborn finished her current drink, wondering how her new acquaintance would react.

Part of her felt flattered; the girl was cute, extremely so, and apparently she wanted Laura’s company. Granted, at least part of that was because of her allure and nothing more, but it didn’t even dawn on her that was happening. Instead she looked down, smiling slightly as she bit her lip. This never happened… Cute people didn’t like her, and they certainly never offered to buy her drinks. “I mean, fair enough… I guess I’m staying.” She slid into a seat, glad to get off of her feet. Resting was nice, really, and it made drinking easier when she didn’t have to focus on not swaying. “I couldn’t… I mean, you certainly don’t have to!” She paused, her teeth once again worrying her lip. A laugh managed to escape her though, and Laura nodded when she saw James raise an eyebrow in her direction. Yes, I’m fine. Yes I’m having fun. No, I don’t need you to step in. It was the sort of code that came with being at the same bar with the same bartender for far too long. He smiled and gave her a thumb’s up before going to make the drink order. “I mean, I like it. It’s just a twist on a Screwdriver… Instead of regular vodka, it’s cherry vodka and a touch of grenadine, so it’s orange and cherry. If you don’t like those, you’re not gonna like it.” She was rambling. Was she rambling? When did it get hot in here, and why was she so nervous? Laura took a breath before smiling again. “But feel free to blame me all you want.”

“Oh no, it’s alright! I mean, I walked over here in the first place, and… I mean, introductions are happening so it’s alright.” She nodded slightly before smiling at Elaine. “That’s quite a lovely name.” She hadn’t meant to say that out loud. Oh Merlin, she really didn’t mean to say that to her face! Laura could feel herself turn red as she looked down at her drink. Oh dear…

A sigh escaped her and she sheepishly glanced at Elaine. “Indeed I do…” It was hot again, and at least part of it was probably because of embarrassment. She was more than sure her face was a lovely shade of red, but that was the downside of being in a high profile job. “ ‘I’ve been Laura Palmer, and this has been another day.’ The one and only.” It was her traditional sign off, the one she’d adopted when Garland had left to do his own night show. Originally he’d had his own thing that she’d jumped on to, but it became clear very early that she needed something of her own. Referring to herself in the past tense seemed appropriate all things considered, and it was a nice nod to her own pseudonym as well as a good way to end a show. “You flatter me… It’s appreciated but please, I’m just another face I’m sure.” The compliment wasn’t totally out of place, but Laura couldn’t help but feel a tad self-conscious all the same. This never happened… Or maybe it did and she’d just never noticed before.

Judging by the look the bartender was giving them, Laura was a frequent visitor and the fact that he seemed protective of her was kind of adorable. The girl looked like she could need some protection but if Elaine knew one thing it was that one shouldn't underestimate people just because they looked small and helpless. People had underestimated her in the past and it had never turned out to well. For them, of course.

Laura started rambling and Elaine watched her, an amused glint in her eyes. "Sounds good, actually." Usually the former Ravenclaw didn't order the sweet stuff but there was no reason why she shouldn't try it today, was it? The doe-eyed girl was still rambling and Elaine's smile grew wider. It was adorable, really. Laura was obviously nervous which was funny since she was kind of a public figure. Sure, no one saw her during her radio shows but thousands of witches and wizards were listening. Shouldn't she be used to attention? Well, apparently she wasn't. Or she just wasn't used to someone like her. Whatever it was, it was endearing.

"Thank you," the brunette replied to Laura's compliment, smiling warmly at the other woman. She turned red and Elaine fought the urge to chuckle. The situation seemed to be embarrassing enough and she didn't want to make it worse. Laura used her usual line and Elaine nodded, clearly recognising her voice now. Just another face? No, definitely not. "I'm just telling the truth here," she shrugged slightly, before she thanked the bartender for her new drink. The muggleborn took a sip and had to admit that it was indeed quite good. "I think I know why you like these drinks. They're good. I guess there's no need to blame you then."

Playing with the straw, Elaine watched her companion for a while before she raised her voice again. "So, what brings you here today? All alone? Busy day at work?" If her day had been anything like hers, she could understand why Laura needed a drink. Or two.

This was going to be a long night, but Laura was finding that she didn’t mind. Elaine was good company at least, and good company was always needed. Her smile had dimmed a bit, but it was slowly returning as she spoke. “I think it is, but it’s really not for everyone. It’s sweet, sure, but the vodka cuts it well.” Was it too much? Did she seem like an alcoholic now? Laura certain hoped not; being friends with a bartender didn’t exactly help her case at all though. It also meant she knew far too much about drinks and drinking. Far too much…

Well at least she’d responded warmly. Laura had been so certain that she’d crossed a line but apparently she was still alright. She shrugged, biting her lip. Being recognized in public wasn’t exactly something she loved, although thankfully this wasn’t something huge. One of these days she might even eventually get over it. For now, though, she merely brushed it off. “Why not both? Flattery and the truth?” There was a moment of pause as Laura waited for Elaine to try the drink, and an audible sigh of relief escaped her as she seemed to enjoy it. A grin spread across her face. “Yeah, it’s a good drink. I love it when I want to drink but I don’t feel like anything too bitter.”

Ah yes, the question of why. Or, technically, the question of what. “Alone is normally how I roll.” Wow, did she sound stupid or was it just her? Or both? Just her sounding stupid? That seemed right. “I just felt like stopping by for a drink. It was actually a slow day… no interviews, no big contests, nothing huge.” She didn’t feel the need to tell her new friend that she’d become close to the bartender, and that visits were a common occurrence. “How about yourself? Someone as lovely as you alone at a bar? Long day?”

Merlin, coming here instead of apparating home had definitely been a great idea. Elaine couldn't remember the last time she'd been so amused. Laura seemed like a deer in headlights even though she had to admit that the girl had loosened up a little. Whether if it was due to the amount of alcohol she'd already consumed or due to feeling comfortable was something she still had to find out. "Both?" Eyebrows raised, the brunette took another sip of her cocktail. "Yeah, I think I can live with both." The comment was followed by a relieved sigh coming from Laura and Elaine chuckled a little in amusement. The girl was too cute to be true.

Alone is normally how I roll.

Was she imagining things now or was there some kind of bitterness coating her words? Whatever it was, it was gone again almost immediately. Dismissing the thought, Elaine continued to listen. Slow day? Well, at least Laura's day hadn't been as annoying as hers. Or rather as her day had been. Another sincere smile appeared on her face at the other woman's comment and she mentally congratulated herself for not being totally wrong about her. Sure, there was still the possibility that she was just being polite but somehow the former Ravenclaw doubted it.

"It wasn't really a long day, just an annoying one. My employer isn't someone you would call nice. Or even polite." She sighed before bringing her glass to her lips again. "At least he pays well." Shrugging the witch finished her drink and gestured at the bartender to bring her another one. "However, the day has gotten better because of you so thank you for it." Was that a cheesy comment? Probably. Did she care? Nope.

Perhaps it was the drink, or maybe the fact that this hadn’t totally blown up in her face was making her bold. She moved closer to Elaine, nodding slightly. Now that she’d actually managed to not be a ball of nerves, she was getting a better look at the petite brunette. Elaine was… really pretty. Like, really pretty, and Laura couldn’t help but feel her face grow red as she seemed to notice it for the first time that night. “Well that’s… good.” It was like she was back in school, which didn’t help matters at all. Her friends would have a field day with this if they ever found out (which was likely considering who the bartender was).

Then Elaine smiled. Dear Merlin, that wasn’t something she had been expecting. Perhaps she should have, though; after all, Elaine was already cute before she smiled. The smile only served to light up everything around her. “I.. See. I can empathize.” Although working at the radio station was a dream, the jobs that had lead up to it had been a pain. Laura really could understand what it was like to work for a bad boss. “Is the pay really worth it? I mean, I know that jobs aren’t easy to find but…” She shrugged, taking another sip of her drink. Job hunting was a pain, and she was just glad that she no longer had to deal with it.

Had she really… she had. She had said it. At first, Laura wasn’t sure if she should smile or groan in amusement. She settled on grinning, although she was quite certain she looked like a fool while doing so. “Really now? Glad I could help with that.” She bit her lip, trying to contain her grin. It was failing, of course, but she tried anyway. “At least you can end your day on a good note, then. Always better than going home exhausted with nothing but frustration, yeah?”