Only One For Me By Yosh Episode 33A Chapter by Yosh Ambrož and Oumou spend Thanksgiving with each other. TW: This story includes sensitive, distressing, and traumatizing themes related to violence, rough upbringings, and uncomfortable subjects. It is recommended that viewers exercise caution and refrain from proceeding if they are unable to engage with such content. Viewer discretion is advised. Only One For Me by Yosh ____________________________________________________________ Reading key: Anything to the side in bold is narration. Anything to the side with a "character's name:” are inner thoughts. Anything in bold italics and regular italics are stage directions. Lines are numbered for the reader to keep track. Anything () is extra information. ____________________________________________________________ Episode 33: Many weeks pass with Thanksgiving rolling around. The day is November 25th, 2004. It's a Thursday evening. Ambrož’s narration: Line 1) Almost a month has passed ever since I moved next door to Oumou. Line 2) We’d go about our hang-out sessions like usual, meeting up after she was done with work. Line 3) Sometimes, I’d drive to her job to hear her sing again, and she’d spot me out in the crowd, making eye contact while performing*. *Refer back to episode 21, lines 80�"82, etc. Line 4) That feeling never got old. It’s a sensation that always takes my breath away and leaves my heart thumping while a fluttering emotion engulfs my chest*. *Refer back to episode 15, lines 95�"100. Line 5) Other times, we’d have conversations with each other in either one of our houses. Line 6) Or, sometimes, we’d go on a stroll together, chatting around during the evening. Line 7) Our gatherings seemed always to be associated with the night sky, which led me to yearn for the day to pass by so that I would be able to hang out with her. Line 8) On the weekends, we’d go out together, sometimes to dinner or other sites such as zoos, museums, malls, parks… Line 9) Oumou to me was like a stress reliever. Hanging out with her always put my mind at ease, which is something I was and am in desperate need of… Line 10) We also continued reading our book together*, which fueled affectionate bonding. *Refer back to episode 31, lines 28�"31, etc. Line 11) My feelings for Oumou just continued growing with each passing day, my crush for her becoming bigger and bigger. Line 12) Although I don't know how she explicitly feels, I feel it in my gut that the feeling between us is mutual, even though she hasn’t confessed to anything besides simply liking me*. *Refer back to episode 22, line 79. Line 13) It’s an unspoken word between us. Which just feels all the more considerate, since it showcases our patience with each other. Line 14) Since our relationship with each other started off very romantic and close from the beginning, it seems like the both of us want to take things slow to compensate for the swift initiation… Line 15) Which is also why we haven’t put a label as to what we are to each other. Line 16) We’re just “dating” at the moment, but we haven’t officially proclaimed our placement in each other’s lives besides just calling each other friends. Line 17) I honestly like how we're marinating our connection with each other. Every single moment we spend together is so exhilarating. Line 18) The unfortunate thing about life so far would have to be my distance from Přemysl. Line 19) I don’t like how he hasn’t been around. I’m scared that he’s in a really dark place after our separation. Line 20) I wish he wasn’t so stubborn about our situation. I’d lend him a hand in a heartbeat, despite our disagreement, but he won't even accept that. Line 21) I’ve thought about our circumstances over and over and just don’t understand how the repercussions have come to this. Line 22) I’ve called him up several times, yet he hasn’t responded to any of my calls*. *Refer back to episode 31, line 20. Line 23) I wanted to visit the house or maybe even give him a ride to or from school since I know his schedule well, but Oumou talked me out of doing that. Line 24) She’s right when she says that I shouldn’t bud my way into his boundaries*. If he says he never wants to see me again, so be it. *Refer back to episode 28, lines 62�"65, etc. Line 25) I’m just afraid he truly meant it. Line 26) Besides that, weirdly enough, I landed a job from the interview that I thought I did poorly on*. *Refer back to episode 24, line 36. Line 27) So, during the weekdays, I’m at my job, doing my work responsibilities, as well as hanging out with Oumou after the both of us are done for the day. Line 28) Furthermore, my search for vampirism has been on the back burner for now. Line 29) As much as I’ve tried to disregard the saloon lady’s remarks on my situation, I just can’t seem to get her inputs out of my head. Line 30) If she sees potential in Oumou for answers upon the cure to vampirism, how in the world could I ignore such a suggestion? Line 31) However, I’m not purely taking a break just to shake answers out of Oumou… Line 32) I just feel as if I need to take a break from vampire stuff in general. I already have enough on my plate, feasting on blood and trying not to overexert my strength to match regular human endurance*. *Remember that vampire’s have superhuman strength (refer back to episode 6, line 72). Line 33) My New Year’s resolution that I mentioned to Oumou was to do the things I’ve held back on before*. *Refer back to episode 30, lines 48�"53. Line 34) I just want to live as close to normal as I can, and that means excluding my supernatural endeavors to the best of my abilities. Line 35) Perhaps, I’ll come back to vampire stuff when I feel more motivated, but as of now, it’s the last thing on my mind. Line 36) For today, Oumou and I planned a Friendsgiving with each other. Line 37) The both of us have Thursday and Friday off, kick-starting a 4-day weekend. Line 38) So, we finally have a bit of a breather based on the season’s bustle. Line 39) A couple of days ago, it was my birthday*, calculating that I’m officially 163 years old. *Refer back to the top of episode 1 (Ambrož’s birthday was on Tuesday, November 23rd, 1841). Line 40) I didn’t want to bother Oumou about this date; thus, I never opened up about it. Line 41) Usually, I feel very sad during my birthday since I get hit with the realization that I’m only getting older… Line 42) But this year, my birthday blues hit tenfold more than before. Line 43) Přemysl’s extremely mad at me; I have to keep my true identity hidden from Oumou; I still haven’t gotten to the bottom of the cure; my job's not all that great; it’s been years since my parents passed away, and I miss them oh so very dearly, blah blah blah… Line 44) There are just various things that I’m unhappy about, and for some reason, I always feel like a birthday miracle will miraculously dissipate all my problems. Line 45) Then I get hit with the harsh reality of that facade being nothing but a fantastical delusion. Oumou knocks on Ambrož’s door while he prepares all the ingredients for their Friendsgiving dinner in his kitchen. He approaches the door, opening it welcomingly for her. She happily greets him, holding bags of groceries for them to cook with. Oumou Line 46) Good evening, you~ Happy Thanksgiving! Ambrož grabs ahold of Oumou’s bag, noticing her unbalanced posture, indicating that the groceries are heavy. He speaks affectionately. Ambrož Line 47) Happy Thanksgiving to you too~ Ambrož speaks in a nervous manner from Oumou’s groceries. Ambrož Line 48) You didn’t need to buy so much. I’ve already bought a bunch of groceries for the day. Oumou speaks in a joyful tone, reassuring Ambrož. Oumou Line 49) You can never have too much groceries. The more the merrier, right? Ambrož happily smirks at Oumou. Ambrož Line 50) Well, anyway, I forgot to ask you what kind of Thanksgiving food you wanted to have for dinner. Ambrož Line 51) If I’m being honest, the traditional ensemble is not to my liking, so I kind of just bought fine-dining stuff. Is that okay with you? Oumou’s eyes spark in delight. Oumou Line 52) That’s so shocking because traditional Thanksgiving food isn’t really to my liking either. Oumou Line 53) I’d much rather have a steak, to be honest. Which says a lot since I’m not the biggest fan of steak*, remember? *Refer back to episode 18, line 69 (this is when Oumou lists her food preferences). Ambrož speaks in a tone, seeking clarification. Ambrož Line 54) If I’m recalling correctly, the only reason you don’t prefer steak is because of those chewy pieces you stumble into that come from the fat*, right? *Refer back to episode 18, lines 66-68. Oumou responds in a manner of impressment, nudging Ambrož's chest playfully. Oumou Line 55) Someone was listening~ That’s spot on! Ambrož speaks in a manner of excitement. Ambrož Line 56) Well, you’re in luck because I bought you a plant-based steak! Oumou’s eyes soften from Ambrož’s consideration. She speaks in a touching tone. Oumou Line 57) That’s so thoughtful of you~ Ambrož speaks in an interested manner. Ambrož Line 58) I didn’t even know they sold these kinds of things. It was between this or a lean cut of steak, but I ended up picking this out since I thought that you’d prefer it better. Oumou speaks inquisitively. Oumou Line 59) I’m curious as to how it looks. Ambrož makes his way over to the kitchen, pulling the steak out from the fridge and handing it over to Oumou. She glances at it in shock, not anticipating it to look very similar to regular meat. She speaks in a tone of surprise. Oumou Line 60) Are you sure this is plant-based? Ambrož nods his head. Ambrož Line 61) I was shocked, too, but I guess the ingredients in the back prove right. Oumou turns the steak over, skimming over the ingredients quickly and reading that the steak is, indeed, made from plants. A thought comes across her mind, and she mentions it playfully to Ambrož. Oumou Line 62) Imagine if this is actually a real steak and they just plastered plant-based ingredients in the back to trick you into thinking you’re eating something made from it. Ambrož releases a chuckle. Ambrož Line 63) That’d be quite the sneaky business tactic to get people to eat more meat. How cruel. Oumou speaks in an appreciative manner. Oumou Line 64) Anyway, thank you so much for getting this. It means a lot. Ambrož speaks in a welcoming tone. Ambrož Line 65) It’s no problem. I just hope it tastes good. Ambrož Line 66) If not, my promise to be your food vacuum still holds true*. *Refer back to episode 18, line 101. Oumou happily smiles at Ambrož, speaking in a manner of excitement. Oumou Line 67) Let’s get started cooking, shall we? Ambrož replies in a mutual tone. Ambrož Line 68) Take it away, chef! The both of them start on their cooking duties, with Oumou peeling potatoes and slicing them while Ambrož washes some asparagus, seasons it, and places it on a baking tray to go into the oven. Ambrož speaks in a sentimental tone, smiling at Oumou happily. Ambrož Line 69) I’m really happy you’re here today, Oumou. It’s an honor to spend this special holiday with you~ Oumou blushes, shyly smirking at Ambrož flusteredly. Oumou Line 70) I’m happy to be here as well. If anyone is honored to spend this holiday with you, it’s me~ Ambrož glances at Oumou tenderly, speaking in a warm manner. Ambrož Line 71) This time of season holds a special place in my heart. Ambrož Line 72) During Thanksgiving, Christmas, and all those kinds of cozy holidays, I’d usually spend it with family. Ambrož speaks in a nostalgic tone. Ambrož Line 73) When my parents were still alive, they’d cook up such extravagant feasts for all of us*. This time of year just brings up those fond memories. *Refer back to episode 6, line 86, etc. Ambrož Line 74) Since I mentioned to you that they passed away a while ago*, that left me and my brother together for the holidays. *Refer back to episode 27, line 29. Ambrož Line 75) We couldn’t fill the emptiness our parents left, but we still had each other, and that meant a great deal to me. Ambrož speaks in a manner of anguish, his eyebrows furrowing in sadness. Ambrož Line 76) Halloween first*, and now Thanksgiving without my younger brother doesn’t feel right at all. *Refer back to episode 31, lines 24 and 25. Line 77) Ambrož’s inner thoughts: Not to mention that he also missed my birthday. He would always hype me up on such occasions. I miss his company so badly. Ambrož Line 78) I still can’t quite comprehend the fact we aren’t spending these cozy holidays together. Ambrož Line 79) What next? Christmas? The New Year’s? Ambrož droops his head, pouting his lips upsettingly. Ambrož Line 80) I’m still so heartbroken from our separation. Ambrož Line 81) It feels like we’ll never make amends. Oumou quickly washes her hands, affectionately placing them onto Ambrož’s shoulders. She glances at him consolingly. Oumou Line 82) I’m so sorry you feel that way, Ambrož. Ambrož snaps back into reality, realizing how much baggage he weighed onto Oumou just now. He tries to reassure himself, speaking frantically. Ambrož Line 83) I-I’m the one who’s sorry. I apologize if it’s annoying how I somehow seem to worm the topic of my brother into every conversation we have together. Oumou speaks in a reassuring manner to comfort Ambrož. Oumou Line 84) There’s no need to apologize for something like that. On the contrary, I want you to open up about these kinds of things. Oumou speaks in a tone of concern. Oumou Line 85) Don’t keep these feelings bubbled up inside. That won’t do you any good. Oumou grabs ahold of Ambrož’s hands gently, caressing them affectionately. Oumou Line 86) Being in this relationship together means that we’ll see all sides of each other, not just the happy. Oumou Line 87) That also means accepting all sides of each other, not just the happy ones. Oumou speaks in an understanding manner. Oumou Line 88) The way you’re feeling right now is totally valid. She switches into an apprehensive voice. Oumou Line 89) This may sound morbid. I know you’re opening up about this because you’re upset, and as much as I’m trying my best to offer you my solace, I can’t help but feel relieved that you’re telling me these kinds of things. Oumou speaks in a tone of satisfaction. Oumou Line 90) To me, that translates to you being comfortable enough to let me know, which makes me feel happy. Oumou Line 91) It’s fulfilling to hear that you can lean on me in times like these. Ambrož touchingly smiles at Oumou, speaking in a playful manner. Ambrož Line 92) What can I say? You’ve just been that good of a friend to me~ Oumou smiles at Ambrož compassionately. Oumou Line 93) On a somewhat similar note, I sort of feel the same way as you. Oumou Line 94) This is the first holiday I’m spending away from my parents. Oumou speaks in a tone of disconcertion. Oumou Line 95) Sure, we’re not avid Thanksgiving celebrators, and looking at this holiday through a historical lens, it’s very cruel, which prompts the question as to why we even celebrate it in the first place… Oumou speaks disappointedly. Oumou Line 96) Anyway, I was slightly yearning for them to maybe suggest flying in to celebrate, but all I got was a call from them wishing me a happy holiday. Oumou Line 97) I know I should be grateful for those happy wishes, but at this rate, I’m assuming that my parents will want nothing to do with me in the future. Oumou speaks in a manner of sorrow. Oumou Line 98) Are they acting like this towards me because I went against their wishes to pursue becoming a singer*? *Refer back to episode 12, lines 90�"100. Oumou Line 99) Even then, shouldn’t I deserve better? I’m still their daughter, at the end of the day. Oumou’s voice cracks in anguish, trying her best to hold back tears. Oumou Line 100) Don’t they still see me as their little girl? Ambrož quickly cleans his hands as well, placing his arm around Oumou’s shoulder for solace. Oumou blushes, not expecting the affectionate gesture. Ambrož speaks in an apologetic tone. Ambrož Line 101) Apologies for not knowing exactly the right words to say to you right now, but I just want you to know that you DO deserve better. Ambrož speaks in a sincere manner. Ambrož Line 102) You’re worthy of the best, and I’m sorry that your parents got your hopes up. Ambrož Line 103) A truly good person like you will receive that good, one way or another. Ambrož Line 104) Try your best to continue keeping your head up. You’re doing amazing. Oumou happily glances at Ambrož, shifting his arm around her into a hug. Ambrož’s eyes widen in pleasant surprise, and he happily hugs Oumou back affectionately. Oumou speaks joyfully, her spirits lifted from Ambrož’s comfort. Oumou Line 105) Has anyone ever told you that you’re a great hugger? Ambrož releases a chuckle of happiness. Ambrož Line 106) That’s definitely new. I’m flattered. Ambrož’s narration: Line 107) The both of us stayed like that for a while. Line 108) The intimate position brought the both of us so much comfort that we yearned for. Line 109) Sure, things were missing at the moment that we yearned for, but we had each other, and that was more than enough. Line 110) The gestures we made fell into a special place in our hearts, leading us to yearn for one another even IF we were with the people we wanted to be with for the holiday. Line 111) The conversation between us continued to flow ever so graciously. Line 112) It was so much fun cooking together. I even picked up very useful tips from Oumou’s expertise. Line 113) After we fully prepped everything and decked the table out, the look of fulfillment on Oumou’s face was an unbeatable sight. Line 114) My heart couldn’t help but melt. How could someone look so wholesome? Line 115) After that, we dug in, filling our stomachs up to the brim with delicious food… Line 116) Which may or may not have caused a food coma on Oumou’s part. *Shot cuts to Oumou passed out on Ambrož’s couch and him placing a blanket on her joyfully. He hits the lights, letting Oumou crash at his place for the night. End of episode. Copyright ©2024 under United States Copyright office, Library of Congress. All rights reserved. This literary work is protected by the U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction and distribution of the work without permission is prohibited. The offender will be traced and will face the full extent of the legal ramifications as stipulated by the law. © 2024 YoshAuthor's Note
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Added on December 29, 2024 Last Updated on December 29, 2024 Tags: #romance, #mentalhealth, #adventure, #charming, #comforting, #cozy, #deep, #detroit, #enthusiasm, #dedication, #passion, #devotion, #fluff, #wholesome, #friendstolovers, #cleanromance, #originalstory Author
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