Out in the Open. ((Casey, Carson))

[Esmeralda Mendez]

((Aaand...this one is taking place just before the winter holidays, during the December Hogsmeade visit.))

It was that time, once again. Another visit to Hogsmeade that would be marked with yet another important event. Today though, this wasn’t going to be about Ezzie, though the plan was to make it seem like that was the case. Today, Casey had some business to attend to with her label to discuss her decision to sort of “come out” and tell the whole world about her double identity. It was a big decision for Casey, one that she had been contemplating for a very long time. Ezzie would be happy with Casey no matter what her decision was, but she was worried. Because Ezzie was well known, she had a world of new problems she had to deal with. Ezzie wasn’t positive, but she was pretty sure that most of her current problems wouldn’t be a problem had it not been for the media and its pressures. The bulimia, the depression, the anger - none of it would have ever troubled Ezzie so terribly. Ezzie was incredibly worried for her friend, but this was her choice. If she didn’t want to live with the burden of having such a secret anymore, she didn’t have to. Even if she’d probably be burdened and harassed to no end, it was what she wanted. Ezzie had cautioned her. Even though Casey had been dealing with her fame for longer than Ezzie had, at least she was able to get away for a bit. She was able to take the wig off and attend school like a normal person. Once she gave away that little convenience, Ezzie couldn’t help but think it would all go downhill from there.

Ezzie sighed as she boarded the carriage with TJ. They had devised a special plan to get Casey, who was already dressed as Eden to save time (as they were already a bit late) out of the Hogsmeade carriage and into the building safely without the media noticing their arrival. Ezzie was willing to spark a bit of attention between her and TJ as Casey and Carson’s carriage arrived. Carson had insisted on escorting Casey to where she needed to be, as he refused to let her face possible exposure by herself. Ezzie knew firsthand that the media was willing to do almost anything to get that picture for the paper. There could be a point when they became so desperate to get the information that they might actually hurt Casey. Ezzie smiled up at TJ, glad to have him around so much. TJ was now back at Hogwarts, and the two were wrecking havoc upon the halls of the school day after day. TJ had shown her many things and places in the school that Ezzie had never even known about. They had been stirring up quite a bit of controversy lately amongst the professors, who all seemed to take Sinclair’s side. They all thought Ezzie was some kind of juvenile delinquent now, even though Ezzie was far from it. She sighed. She wasn’t sure she was quite ready for this. She supposed by now she was willing to sort of attract attention to herself, because she could sort of handle it now. Casey on the other hand, was going to have to get used to the all celebrity all the time sort of life, and it would be a big transition. Ezzie was incredibly worried about her best friend. She didn’t want her going down the same path that she did after Ethan died. As they approached the village, Ezzie prepared herself for what was to come. Ezzie took a deep breath and TJ moved closer to her, patting her hand as if trying to comfort her. “Ezzie, it’s okay. I think that by now we both know how to handle ourselves in front of the media.” He said with a comforting smile. Ezzie glanced behind her, taking note of the fact that Casey and Carson should have been sitting two carriages behind them. Ezzie couldn’t tell if they were in there or not, but she couldn’t think of why in the world they wouldn’t be.

The carriage stopped suddenly, and Ezzie shuddered at the sight of the many thestrals that were now driving the carriages. She had only recently started seeing them, after she saw Ethan get shot last Christmas. Because of her Care of Magical Creatures class, Ezzie knew all about the thestrals. Ezzie remembered practically breaking down the first time she’d seen one at school. Ezzie tried to ignore them and she looked away seriously, suddenly not looking forward to going back into Hogsmeade. TJ held her face kindly and looked her in the eyes. “Hey. Ignore them. Come on, let’s go put on a show.” He said kindly with a smirk, walking out of the carriage before her. Ezzie nodded, trying to cheer up and put on her charming and political smile. TJ helped her out, but instead of merely taking her hand, he took her by the waist and picked her up in his arms, carrying her effortlessly like some kind of hero. Ezzie giggled as the cameras and the reporters began to crowd around them. Questions were instantly fired and the cameras began flashing and Ezzie had to close her eyes for a moment to protect her eyes. She didn’t dare glance back at the other carriages, in case one of the reporters followed her gaze. “Morning everyone. God how I’ve missed Hogsmeade.” Ezzie said cheerfully. “Didn’t you, TJ?” She giggled and he kissed her deeply as he held Ezzie in his arms. She smiled and he put her down. Reporters crowded around and were pushing each other to get in front. Ezzie laughed loudly, the signal that it was clear for Casey and Carson to attempt to sneak out.

“Ezzie, how do you feel about the allegations about your relationship with TJ? Are they all true?” Ouch. Ezzie was hoping they wouldn’t go there, but of course, they did. “Well personally, I see nothing wrong with me dating TJ. I like to think I’m just like any normal teenager, and normal teenagers have boyfriends. I don’t mind the age difference, and I don’t think my fans should see my relationship as something that’s a bad thing. As for the other allegations about the drugs and such, I completely deny them. I will admit that I did spend the night in that hotel room, but I did nothing I’m ashamed of. Around that time in Paris, there was a lot of drama going on in the bus that night and I needed a place to crash. It’s as simple as that. Any more questions?” Ezzie patted TJ’s back gratefully, glad he was here to help her with this. “TJ, how does Ezzie compare to your past ‘loves?’ Is she the reason you decided to come back to school?” A reporter asked TJ, making him smile charmingly. “Well, she was certainly part of it.” He said simply with a bit of a laugh. Ezzie glanced quickly at the carriages, seeing Casey and Carson rush out of their carriage, a bit later than they should have been. Ezzie quickly turned back, hoping none of the reporters had seen.

((So I guess the order will be Casey, Carson, Ezzie, then back to Casey again. Not sure if you wanna take it further than that.))

[Casey Allen G5]

Casey gripped Carson’s hand tightly as the rode silently in the carriage. Today was very important to Casey. She had to find a way to convince her label, Scene that telling the world the truth was the best thing. It was the only thing to do in Casey’s mind. She didn’t want to keep this secret anymore. Plus, Casey wanted the freedom to be herself and not be some fake pop star. Eden Sweden’s music no longer reflected Casey Allen’s point of view. She couldn’t stand pretending she believed in those songs anymore when she didn’t. Plus, Eden Sweden had broken Casey and Carson up. Well, Casey keeping it a secret had broken them up. But still, Casey wouldn’t take the chance of that happening again. Both Casey and Carson agreed that they couldn’t stand being apart, but she wasn’t going to risk anything. She would not be the cause of another break up. She wouldn’t let herself be. Casey was glad Carson was by her side. He insisted on it actually but she liked that he was so protective. Casey could always count on Carson and now that the secret was out of the way she knew she could tell him anything. He wanted to be by her side helping her enter this new phase of her life. And Casey wanted him by her side more than anyone else.

Casey twirled a piece of Eden’s blonde hair as she stared out the window. She was so used to the wig by now that it felt like her own hair when she wore it. Casey was already dressed in full Eden gear. She couldn’t go into the label dressed as Casey. As far as Casey knew, only the three main executives knew about her secret. Hundreds of people worked for the label so there was no way she could go inside dressed as herself. Thankfully, Ezzie and TJ were the designated distractions. They would distract the cameras so that Casey and Carson could slip out and dash into the label quickly. Casey’s heart raced as they got closer to Hogsmeade. Casey sighed and leaned into Carson shoulder. “You know nervous would probably be an understatement for me right now.” She said trying to distract herself slightly. “I know you won’t let anything happen to me on the way to the label but you can’t do anything about the monsters running it.” She said smiling slightly. Casey peered out the window and spotted the back of Ezzie and TJ’s carriage. It was weird for Casey that Ezzie was with TJ. It wasn’t that Casey didn’t like him. He was okay and so far he hadn’t done anything Casey openly objected to but it was weird seeing Ezzie dating someone that wasn’t Ethan. But this was something that Casey would have to get used to.

Casey pulled her beige trench coat tightly over her Eden ensemble. The jacket wasn’t very flattering but something had to conceal Eden’s trademark sequins. Casey took a sharp breath in as the carriage finally halted. They still had to wait a minute though for Ezzie and TJ to cause a distraction. Casey turned slightly to face Carson. “Okay so the plan is to get there as fast as humanly possible, correct?” She asked already knowing the answer. “Is there some magical charm we could use or something? Oh drat I forgot that this isn’t school.” She laughed. “I spend so much time here it might as well be.” She shook her head lightly. “Ready?” She asked him. Casey’s face was only a couple of inches away from his. She couldn’t resist. She tilted her head towards his before he could reply and pushed herself closer to him as she kissed him. Ever since they had gotten back together, things had been better than ever. Casey couldn’t stand to be away from him and she loved kissing him. It was as simple as that.

Casey’s mind was so set on the kiss that she wasn’t paying attention. Their cue to leave was Ezzie’s laughter. But Casey didn’t hear it. She could hear some talking going on outside. It seemed a crowd of reporters were gathered about but for the moment Casey didn’t care. She couldn’t think about it. She simply placed her hands on Carson’s face and continued to kiss him. It wasn’t until she heard Ezzie’s conversation continue with the reporters that she pulled away. Casey couldn’t believe that Ezzie was actually talking this openly with them. Casey eyes lit up as she realized something. “We missed the cue.” She hissed as she turned back to Carson. Casey grabbed his hand as he pulled them to one side of the carriage. The reporters seemed to be distracted for the moment. Then Carson opened the door and pulled them from the carriage. They both eyed Ezzie and TJ for a moment. They seemed to have all the attention. Casey and Carson were about to quickly dart away when they heard a voice. “Hey. Is that? Eden Sweden!”

It was only one photographer at first. “Eden Sweden. It’s Eden Sweden! And she’s with her guitarist!” The photographers turned to run toward the two. Casey shot a frantic glance at Carson. “Wha..?” She started to ask. “Run.” Carson commanded. So they did. Casey had a very important meeting to attend and there was no way she could explain any of this to the paparazzi. Casey clutched Carson’s hand as they ran but they weren’t fast enough. The group raced after them flashing cameras and screaming as they went. They raced from the wooded area toward the village. Hopefully they could lose the followers in an alley or something. Finally they reached the village and Carson pulled the down an alley. But the paparazzi was still hot on their trail and another group appeared in front of them. They were boxed in. “Eden! Eden!” They called as she snapped photos. Casey pushed herself against the brick wall as to get as far away from the cameras as possible. Carson stood protectively in front of her. He would start hitting if they didn’t get away from her quickly and Casey knew that. “Eden is this your boyfriend? You’re dating a guitarist, really? Out of all the wealthy singers and actors in Europe you chose him?” Oh no. Casey could see the look forming on Carson’s face.

She grabbed his shoulder. “No. Don’t.” She told him looking him square in the eye. Casey shook her head still only looking at Carson. “I have to do this now. This has to end.” She shook her head. Casey looked dead at the group of reporters as cameras continued to click around her. This wasn’t exactly the best time but it had to be done now. It had to be. “I’m not who I say I am.” Eden announced to the cameras. Puzzled looks appeared on everyone’s faces. “My name isn’t Eden Sweden.” She said reaching for her blonde wig. She hadn’t had the time to put charms over it to keep it that morning. She was instantly glad of that. She heard the gasps as her deep brown waves fell past her shoulders. “It’s Casey Delilah Allen. I’m fifteen years old and I’ve been pretending to be Eden Sweden for years so I could be a famous pop star and live a normal life at the same time." She sighed as the cameras clicked vigorously. “I’m Eden Sweden.” She said finally. Casey eyed the strained looks on the crowd’s face as she turned to Carson. Had she just made a huge mistake? What now?

[Carson McGreggor H6]

Carson was nervous. Completely and incredibly nervous. He would never let Casey go into Hogsmeade alone doing such a bold thing with all those reporters now lurking about because Eden Sweden was supposed to be in town, not to mention the fact that it was a Hogsmeade visit and TJ and Ezzie were bound to start some drama like they always did. Carson wasn’t stupid. Long before he started touring with Eden and even before Ezzie achieved her fame, Carson had seen firsthand what the media could do to a person. Ethan had to deal with them all the time. They did have a lot of fun playing tricks on those slimy guys with the cameras when they were younger, but there were times that Ethan and Carson were backed into a corner with questions when they were about ten and Ethan’s sister Jessica went missing. Of course, they wanted to know where the young heiress had snuck off to, so they figured who better to ask than her ten year old brother who was playing in the park with his best friend? The boys were almost literally tackled that day and for a very long time after that, Ethan had to walk around with bodyguards like every other famous person. Carson still had the scar on his right knee from when he tripped and fell trying to run away from those guys.

Carson had been watching Casey intently, silently as she twirled the hair on that blonde wig he knew she so desperately wanted to rip off for good. His jaw was clenched. He did support Casey’s decision, he really did. But he worried for her. She was going to be getting a lot of heat for this and no offense to Ezzie or anything, but he really didn’t want to see his girlfriend following any of her examples. At least Casey had Carson to guide her and keep her safe. Of course, Carson would defend Ezzie any day, but Carson was more like a brother to Ezzie. Their relationship was different. He couldn’t watch out for her in the way Carson could for Casey. Ezzie was really turning her life around, and for that he was proud of her. But really, TJ Turner? With that guy around, Ezzie would be back in therapy in no time, Carson was sure of that. And of course, Casey would come soon after if she didn’t know how to handle herself in this new world of fame. Carson tried not to seem so stiff and “typical worried Carson” as Ezzie and Ethan used to tease him for when Casey’s head rested on his shoulder. He managed a weak, comforting smile as he looked down and kissed her forehead softly. “Try not to think about it. Just listen for the signal, then we make a run for it. I’ll be here the entire time. As for the guys at the label, screw them. It‘s your life and your identity. What are they going to do if you spill? Kick you off the label? I doubt it. You‘re probably making more money for them than all their other artists combined. They‘d be crazy to drop you. ” Carson spoke softly in her ear. He held her close. Did they really have to leave this carriage and face all that was sure to come? Of course they did. This was what Casey wanted and what would make her happy, so it needed to be done.

Carson was ready to just pick her up and dash to the label with her in his arms, but of course, that would probably slow them down quite a bit, not to mention it would attract quite a bit of attention. He sighed, squeezing her hand quickly to comfort her as she took in a sharp breath. Her face was inches from his and at that moment, Carson knew what was coming next. Even though he wanted to get out of there and into safety as fast as possible, he couldn’t bring himself to end the moment. She kissed him and of course, he kissed back, letting himself be completely oblivious to his surroundings. He supposed that some part of his subconscious mind had heard the signal, but for some reason it just didn’t register for him. He continued to kiss her until suddenly, she pulled away, leaving Carson completely dumbfounded and of course, wanting more. What? He was a man, let’s not forget that. He may be respectful and chivalrous, but he still had the same wants and desires as any other boy his age. He was just able to control them. And of course, he’d have to control himself now, because they had to make a run for it. They were about to make a run for it when suddenly, someone recognized them. Carson and Casey ran like mice running from a cat the moment the reporters were headed their way.

Carson cursed himself for choosing the alleyway of all places to hide out. He should have remembered. After the whole Ezzie/TJ relationship began, Carson wouldn’t be surprised if the reporters started checking all the alleys simply on instinct in hope they’d find some other new celebrity couple trying to hide from the media. He stood his ground, covering Casey from view. They wouldn’t touch her as long as Carson was here. Ezzie and TJ soon met up with them as well. TJ held Ezzie tight to his chest as he pushed his way violently through the crowd of reporters. It was taking them quite a while to get to where Casey and Carson were though. The reporters were eager to get their answers. As the questions fired, Carson tried to ignore them. Many of them were insulting Carson, who was often known as the celebrity’s “charity case”. When he started getting close to Ethan (and attending celebrity functions with him) that was what people came to know him as. It killed him knowing that the demeaning title could soon resurface again. “Watch it…” Carson growled, his fists clenched so tight they were turning pale. Casey could see his anger as well, for she held him back. Then, she did what Carson knew was going to have to happen eventually. But couldn’t she do this during a press conference or something where she wasn’t so vulnerable? After hearing such news, the press would most likely trample poor little Casey for more. She stepped forward and Carson stood beside her, ready to pounce if they tried anything. After making her confession, the exact thing Carson feared happened. They started to advance on them, pushing them to the back of the tight cramped alleyway. There was no way out. Ezzie and TJ finally appeared by their side and Carson, Ezzie, and TJ stood in front of Casey to protect her. Carson looked around frantically, hoping for an opening.

[Esmeralda Mendez]

Ezzie knew there was a problem. Why hadn’t they left the carriage yet? Shouldn’t they be making a run for it while the next few carriages arrived in Hogsmeade? Something must have gone wrong. Maybe they had decided not to go through with it and taken a carriage back? They couldn’t though. The next round of carriages wouldn’t be going to the school for another few hours. Ezzie was worried, and she gave TJ a quick look of confusion. She didn’t dare say what she was thinking out loud and she didn’t even try to make him read her lips. “Where are they?” Ezzie’s confused expression said all the words she needed to say. TJ shrugged and took her hand. His hand felt so warm against her hand, which was chilled by the nervous goose bumps that had appeared when he kissed her. She tried her best to keep the attention on them, which was hard since she really hated being in the spotlight like this. She didn’t want the reporters to know any more than they needed to. Ezzie was going for the ‘normal teenager’ image, but the more she shared, the more negative her choices and her actions seemed to appear. She liked to just keep her mouth shut completely rather than dance around the truth like she was doing right now. This whole thing made her incredibly uncomfortable to say the least, but she had to tough it out. For Casey. She supposed they’d find a more efficient method of getting in and out of Hogsmeade unnoticed eventually, but for now, this was all they had and Ezzie had to deal. Casey and Carson obviously hadn’t made it safely to the label yet, because Ezzie hadn’t received their second signal. Casey was supposed to send an owl without a letter flying right above where they had arrived to let them know they had made it without a problem. Ezzie continued to talk.

“So Ezzie, what are you two doing here today? Planning any romantic dates of any sort?” Ezzie smiled as TJ pulled her closer to him. Ezzie giggled, still scared as to whether or not Casey and Carson would be able to pull this off. TJ smirked. “Well, me and Ezzie here are planning on recording our first song together, but what comes after that is my own little secret. Wish I could tell you guys, but I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise for Ezzie here.” Ezzie smiled and looked up at him with a raised eyebrow. “Oh, a surprise eh? And what exactly were you planning, hmm? Now you’ve even got me curious.” Ezzie smiled and smirked in the direction of one of the closer reporters, who seemed to be frantically trying to get everything recorded. This must have been odd for them, almost too easy. If it were Ezzie trying to get a story, she would be suspicious. Suddenly, Ezzie cursed herself for thinking such a thought. Just as soon as the thought had left her mind, Holly Sinclair stepped to the front of the crowd. “So, why the sudden openness? According to previous reports, you and your little boyfriend there have been trying very hard to avoid us. Why all of a sudden are you giving us the tell-all interview?” Sinclair said suspiciously. Ezzie was dumbfounded. Luckily, she had the perfect answer ready to go just in case the question was asked. “Well, I just really wanted to get the truth out there. We’ve been seeing a bunch of crazy rumors and reports, so for the sake of our wonderful fans, we just wanted to set the record straight and-” Ezzie was immediately cut off by the sound of a nearby reporter yelling out those deadly words Ezzie had been hoping she wouldn’t hear. Ezzie’s eyes widened. The show was over. Eden had been spotted, and with Carson no less. Ezzie looked frantically at TJ for support and it seemed the next few events happened in mere moments.

First, the reporter called out the ‘Eden sighting’. Then, Carson and Casey realized they’d been spotted and began to make a run for it. They weren’t nearly fast enough, for the crowd of reporters and photographers began to gain on them. Ezzie and TJ dashed just behind the reporters, hoping they’d be able to help, in any way at all. Even though Ezzie was small and rather frail looking (Ethan always used to call her doll because she looked just as fragile as a porcelain doll) Ezzie knew that for Casey, she would take on every single one of these stupid media people. Suddenly, as the crowd of people were mere feet away from him, Carson probably figured he needed a place to hide to try and lose the crowd. There was absolutely no way they were going to be able to reach the label before that crowd caught up to them. Then, Carson decided to do probably the stupidest thing imaginable. But then again, he didn’t have much of a choice. Either way, they were cornered. “No Carson! Not the alley!” Ezzie hissed, as if he could actually hear her words. The crowd of reporters and photographers closed in on the two and Ezzie looked to TJ desperately, suddenly getting short of breath. This always happened when she got nervous. She had frequent panic attacks, and now wasn’t a good time for her. She frantically searched through her bag for her inhaler and upon finding it, she inhaled the magically enhanced medicine deeply, finally regaining her breath back. TJ looked worried. “Are you-” Ezzie stopped him. “I’m fine now. Lucky I had my inhaler. But what do we do?!” TJ smirked. “Maybe I could break out the weed and hope they turn around?” TJ asked. Ezzie stifled a laugh (it was funny, after all) and punched his arm impatiently. “TJ! This isn’t exactly a joking matter. Ay dios mio, we need to get in there, and fast.” Ezzie cried out, pulling TJ by the arm. TJ pulled her close to his chest just as she was about to push past the first wave of people. “Not alone, you don’t. What do you think I’m crazy. Those guys will likely tackle you. Come on.” And with that, TJ pushed past the crowd himself, actually knocking a few people to the floor in the process. They cursed loudly at him, but he ignored them and kept going.

Ezzie’s heart nearly stopped when she heard the words echoing throughout the alley. That’s it. Casey had obviously had enough. The secret was out but what she didn’t realize was that she was only fanning the flame. Now it would be even harder to get them to leave her alone. Ezzie and TJ finally reached Carson and Casey’s side after all was said and done and the media were closing in on the four teenagers, backing them into the wall. Ezzie gulped but she stood her ground. All three of them were now blocking Casey. Carson looked around frantically, searching for an opening. Suddenly, Ezzie got an idea. There was a small, weak reporter toward the front, blocking a door that was sure to lead to the back room of the Three Broomsticks if this was the same alley Ezzie and TJ met in. She looked around. Either way, it was a way out. Ezzie nudged Carson and TJ. TJ got it much quicker than Carson did, simply because he hung out there all the time. Finally though, Carson seemed to comprehend. TJ glanced at Carson. “Follow my lead, mate.” He said quickly, taking Ezzie and picking her up in that same manner that he did before. Carson did the same with Casey, sheltering her. They each pushed past the reporters and broke the door down. There was no one in the room, but there was a lot of clutter. As soon as all four of them were inside, Ezzie slammed the door shut and locked it with a few quick spells. She then turned to Carson, who was holding Casey close to him in a tight hold. She sighed. “I think we’re safe in here. The chances of us getting out safely are very slim though. I have an idea though. TJ, would you mind apparating us to the label? I know you can only do one at a time, so you’ll definitely have to take Casey first. Then Carson, then me. Sound fair?” Ezzie said, still slightly out of breath from all the excitement. “Casey, are you alright?”

((ay dios mio (Spanish) : Oh my God!))

[Casey Allen G5]

Casey pushed herself closer to the wall. This was crazy. No this was madness. Maybe she had just made a huge mistake. No. Don’t think that. She urged herself. She needed to do that. But the timing was all wrong. But what could she do now? Nothing. They had to get out of here and get to the label pronto before anything else could happen. Casey shot a frantic glance to Carson. He would protect her the best he could but they were outnumbered here and they both knew that. Casey winced at all the flashes. This was just the beginning. Now everywhere Casey Allen went she would be followed. At least she didn’t have a dark cloud of lies over her head anymore. But now she had a dark cloud of reporters. Casey was used to them when she was dressed as Eden and when she was around Ezzie, but now this crowd would be around her. This was craziness but there was no turning back now. This was Casey’s life now. She chose it and it was hers to keep. It would take time to get used to, but for now, Casey had to focus on the present.

Casey sighed when Ezzie and TJ made their way through the crowd. “Ezz thank god.” But now the four of them were surrounded. Four teenagers. Actually four famous teenagers, each famous in their own way and each trapped. What the hell were they going to do? It would only be a matter of time before Bradley stumbled upon this and shooed the reporters away but there wasn’t time to wait for that. TJ, Carson, and Ezzie all stood protectively in front of Casey. She was the weakest and right now, the most vounderable of the bunch. Casey was about to reach for Ezzie and push her best-friend to her side. She didn’t want anything to happen to Ezzie, but suddenly Ezzie nudged TJ. She had an idea. TJ and Carson quickly caught on. TJ picked up Ezzie and Carson did the same with Casey. She did say a word or move an inch. Carson knew what he was doing. The boys pushed their way into a back room of one of the shops. Casey dimly remembered that it was the very back of the Three Broomsticks. Ezzie quickly closed the door and magically locked it.

Carson still held Casey tightly as she placed her feet firmly on the ground. She wouldn’t move an inch from him partially because she didn’t want to and partially because she would probably fall over with stress and exhaustion if she did. Carson probably still had his guard on and Casey knew that wasn’t going to change anytime soon. Casey let out a sigh. Ezzie started thinking of plans to get them all to the label safely. She nodded when Ezzie suggested TJ apparate Casey first. Carson wasn’t going to like that but she had to get there before anything else could happen. She was sure her label already knew everything that had happened and already had a safety plan in place for Casey which spanned several months. And so it began. Casey wasn’t ready for all of this to begin but she made her decision and now she had to live with it. Ready or not, this was her life now.

Casey nodded weakly as she held tightly onto Carson. “Yea. Well I will be. I just need time I guess.” She said as she slowly pulled away from Carson. “See you in a minute.” She promised. She quickly kissed his cheek and walked over to TJ. She reached for his arm and then ‘pop’. From time to time Casey appararated with Bradley and Joel but she wasn’t used to it yet. Good thing she had over a year before she would received her license herself. Everything began to swirl but it was only a moment before the label began to form around them. She turned to TJ. “Thanks.” She mumbled before he popped away again. Casey turned slightly to see all the eager eyes on her. She could hear whispers as people began to realize she was there. A lot of the staff that didn’t know were assembled about with awed faces. More security walked passed Casey to the entrance. She could already hear camera clicks around the building. Casey began t o walk toward the conference room where she knew she was expected when she was suddenly consumed by a bear hug. “Dad!” Casey called excitedly. She needed him right now. “Are you okay?” He pulled back. “Did any of those monsters hurt you?” Casey shook her head. “No Carson, TJ, and Ezzie made sure I was safe.” Bradley nodded. He sighed. “Now, Casey Delilah Allen are you out of your mind?” You could have been hurt, Ezzie could have been hurt, Carson could have lost his temper. Leave it to you to be impatient.” She grumbled. “Sorry.” Casey sighed. Bradley nodded. He didn’t seem to angry.

“I convinced them to give you a few minutes before the now even bigger meeting. So take your time and calm down. Your band is already in there so bring Carson along when he gets here. This changes everything you know. There’s a lot to discuss now.” Casey nodded. “I know.” She said sadly. Bradley nodded. “Cheer up kiddo. It’ll all turn out okay in the end.” Casey nodded unsure as he turned away. Casey turned as she heard another pop. She instantly stepped forward. “Carson.” She said happily as she threw her arms around him. “I don’t think I have ever been this scared in my life. Everyone’s right. Nothing is ever going to be the same again. I knew that, but I didn’t know it was going to happen like that. It was so stupid of me, you could have been hurt, and Ezzie..” She mumbled quickly. “Did I make a big mistake?” She asked finally as she looked anxiously into his eyes. She had to know the truth and Carson would be the one to give it to her. She trusted his opinion most all and she always would.

[Carson McGreggor H6]

As Carson carried Casey in his arms, the crowd of excited reporters advanced on them. They would be easy prey. Four teenagers, no bodyguards. Carson would have lost his temper completely in a few moments and Casey’s band would not only have to deal with the aftershock of revealing her secret, but a lawsuit against Carson as well. He wouldn’t do that. TJ pushed the door open with a surprising amount of strength and got them safely inside the cramped back room. Carson had never liked TJ Turner very much. He didn’t look at women the same way Carson did. To Carson, they were (rather confusing) beings that needed to be respected, loved, and cherished. TJ looked at every girl like she was some piece of meat and Ezzie was too dazzled by his charms to notice what was going on. He saw the way she looked at him as well. Full of love and pure adoration. He was much different. He may have been able to feign love to her, but Carson wouldn’t have been surprised if he was seeing a few other starlets on the side. However, Carson couldn’t deny the fact that TJ had helped get Casey to safety, and he couldn’t doubt that. While Carson still didn’t fully trust TJ, he had to be grateful to him for keeping the most important thing in the world to Carson safe and out of harm. The room they had entered was cramped. Four grown teenagers were not meant to share such a tight space. Upon entering, TJ placed Ezzie carefully down near the corner where he hovered near her, holding her a bit too close. “You know, we should keep this place in mind. It could be useful.” He said smoothly to Ezzie, who blushed and didn’t respond. They were surrounded by crates of beer and other large boxes and supplies. Carson pushed over a mop to make room, crinkling his nose. TJ always smelt like cigarette smoke. This was no doubt thanks to the fact that he was always smoking. Carson didn’t mind much, even when the smell started to rub off on Ezzie a bit. But now that they were standing so close, Carson had to fight to hold his breath. Though, trying to be polite, he didn’t make his usual “smoking is stupid” comments.

Carson grudgingly let Casey down from his arms as well, but he didn’t let go. He held her tight as well, though not in the same fashion as TJ was. TJ listened to Ezzie speak and, intruiged by their surroundings, he flicked his wand once and removed a can of beer from the now open box next to him. Carson’s eyes narrowed. He had no problem with drinking. He was a prefect and liked to set a good example, but that didn’t mean he was an angel. The fact was that they were in a serious situation and TJ, the underage rockstar was stealing from a local pub was what really got under his skin. Ezzie noticed Carson’s anger and gently took the can from her boyfriend’s hands and placed it on a crate behind her. “Don’t you think this is a bit of a bad time to be drinking stolen beer?” Ezzie asked him sweetly, though her eyebrows were raised. TJ sighed after murmering a quick “I guess not” and listened to her instructions while eyeing the abandoned drink longingly over Ezzie’s shoulder. And of course, leave it to Ezzie to think he was staring at her with such a look of longing. She glanced back up at him and blushed, but continued like nothing had happened.

The moment Ezzie suggested that Casey be taken over to the building alone with TJ, Carson was finally able to express his previously retrained emotions. Casey was not going with him. There were so many possibilities that little plan could go wrong. What if he apparated her to the wrong place? What if, with his horrible habit for seeking scandal, he purposely took her outside the building to face the press again? Of course, both girls would wave it off as an accident, but Carson knew. The next thing he knew, Casey would come back to him drugged, drunk, and smelling of smoke. He wouldn’t have it. “Are you crazy Ezzie? No, I’ll go with her. I’ll…I dunno. But I’m not letting her go alone with him.” Carson said bitterly. His fists clenched and he glared in TJ’s direction, unable to help himself. It wasn’t the first time this year he had blown up in TJ’s face. Ezzie and Casey were probably used to dealing with this sort of thing by now. Casey merely sighed and assured Carson she’d be alright. Ezzie spoke her words of encouragement too, but she had that same hurt expression when she spoke them. She didn’t like that Carson didn’t approve of her new boyfriend. Carson was like an older brother to her, and she hated that he was so disapproving. He couldn’t help it though. Why would she pick a guy like that when she deserved so much better? But of course, Carson was the one who looked like the bad guy since TJ was nothing but nice to Carson. It would make him feel guilty, but he was too spiteful that he was taking advantage of his “little sister” of sorts to care.

“Carson, it’s fine. I’ll take her right outside the office she’s supposed to be in. You have my word nothing will happen to her. Besides, I know you can’t apparate yet and I’m willing to bet there’s press all around us. Would you rather walk her there yourself?” TJ said calmly, indifferent as always to Carson’s comments. Carson clenched his jaw. As much as he hated to say it, TJ did have a point. They were trapped. There was likely going to be press in the alleyway as well as inside the Three Broomsticks, waiting for them to resurface. “Fine. But you better not take forever. And if there’s one hair on her head…” Carson’s sentence trailed off with a warning glare from Ezzie. He sighed and let them disappear with a pop. “Carson, can you please ease up on TJ? He’s never done anything to you. You have no reason to act this way. This is no time to be bashing my boyfriend and you know it. There are more important things to keep in mind here. Remember Casey? Cute, brown eyes? Well she needs our help. So cool it.” Ezzie said tensely, the moment they were gone. “Fine. But come on! You can’t tell me—” Carson’s retort was cut short with TJ’s return. He grudgingly took TJ’s hand as they both apparated to where Casey was standing, just outside the main office. Now that they were out of danger completely, Carson had time to be angry. How could she be so reckless and impatient?! Typical Gryffindor. Now it was going to be worse for her. Didn’t she know better than to react in such a way?

Carson had an entire speech planned out for her to hear. All the “you could have been..” statements and the “how could you?” accusations were ready to be fired her way. But after she hugged him tightly and looked at him with those adorable eyes, he couldn’t stay angry. He sighed, holding her close and smoothing her hair with his hands. “Telling the world was the right thing to do. I just wish you would have waited. A nice safe press conference would have been just fine.” He said soothingly. “I can’t afford to have anything happen to you, Case.” He said sweetly, staring into the melted chocolate that was her eyes. Those eyes—his one true weakness. “Now, are you ready to go in? I’ll be there the whole time but I’ve got to warn you, they won’t be happy.” Carson said, glancing at the intimidating double doors.

((So you can have Casey post next, and I'll post Ezzie after. It just works better that way.))

[Casey Allen G5]

Casey gripped her hand to her forehead. Five minutes. She just needed five minutes to think, to be with Carson. She wasn’t ready to talk to the big wigs yet. She could barely catch her breath, but Casey wasn’t a little kid. Scene had never treated her like a little kid, but she had acted like one by spilling her secret that way. Now she had to fix it. They could fire her in a heart-beat and Casey had to stop that from happening. She couldn’t be a little kid anymore. Those days were over. Casey shook her head and looked into Carson’s eyes. She knew he would not leave her now but she wouldn’t judge him if he had. He had been through so much and now this. A normal guy would just leave her, but Carson had never been normal. He was more than Casey’s boyfriend. He was the guy she was never willing to lose. Sometimes, Casey wondered if Carson would have been better off if the two didn’t listen to Ezzie and Ethan. Maybe, but Casey couldn’t imagine life without him. Nothing was the same without him.

“You know nothing about my life can be easy.” She chuckled holding him closer. She let one salty tear fall to her head as she shook her head slowly. Casey nodded when Carson said he couldn’t have anything happen to her. “I feel the same way.” She nodded wanting to say more but this wasn’t the time or the place for that. Carson muttered that the bosses would not be happy. “I know, but I’ve dealt with their decisions in the past. They can deal with mine.” She said slowly pulling away from Carson. She took hold of his hand. “Let’s go.” She said stepping toward the doors. Carson pushed them open and the two walked inside. Casey took a deep breath letting her eyes linger on all the blank faces. They were all there. All of her band-mates aside from Carson looked pleased. Bradley smiled slightly. The board simply glared Casey down. However, Casey was surprised that the president and vice president looked almost happy. Ryan James was the president and Peter Wavers was the vice president. Casey had rarely seen them together throughout her three years with Scene nor had she spoken to them much at all, but that was all about to change.

“Sit down Casey, Carson.” Peter said motioning toward two chairs in between Kaden and Ty. They both sat down and Casey unwillingly lifted her eyes to Ryan and Peter. “You’ve had a long day. Are you okay?” Ryan asked. Casey nodded. “Not a scratch on me.” She nodded. Peter sighed. “Casey as you can imagine the board has some concerns. The meeting today was to consider letting you reveal your secret, but obviously that isn’t the case anymore. The two were silent. One of the board members sighed. “Why did you do it Casey?” He barked. Casey flinched and shot a nervous glance to Carson. Then she sighed. “I have done everything you have ever asked and beyond.” Casey started. “Eden was my idea to give me a normal life but all she has done is kept me in a box. I had to keep my secret from everyone and I’m done doing that. And Eden limited me in every way. Everyone expected certain music, dancing, and hairstyles from her and that isn’t me. It’s Eden. I’m not twelve anymore and I’m not willing to pretend to be someone I’m not.” The board was silent. Their faces looked perplexed. Did they actually agree?

“I think you made the right choice Casey.” Ryan said finally. Casey smiled. “You made some bad decisions in the way you shared it, but you did the right thing for you. And we commend you on that.” Peter nodded. “Now we have to talk about where to go from here.”Casey smiled. “Really? I’m not being dropped. Ryan and Peter laughed. “Lord no. Casey, Eden or no Eden, you made this label.” Casey smiled and squeezed Carson’s hand. The board still didn’t look happy, but Casey decided to ignore them. “Well, I’d love to start recording my third album.” She began. “I have some great ideas and I’d love to be more acoustic. I’ll still dance but I’d love the chance to play guitar as well. My father will still write some songs, but I’d love to have some of my own on the album.” The two nodded. “Sounds great.” Ryan said. “We can get started on that next month. There is still safety precautions to discuss, but you’ve had a long day. We will speak to your father and you, Carson, and the band can go.” “Thanks.” Casey smiled. They all got up and walked out of the room. “Yay!” Casey squealed throwing her arms around Carson. Then the band took turns hugging Casey and congratulating her. Casey then saw Ezzie and ran over, hugging her tightly. “Thanks so much for everything!” Casey shrieked. “Guess what? I still have a job.” She said excitedly. “Oh and I was wondering. Want to write some songs with me and record some vocals for the new album?” She asked smiling wildly. This would be a good thing. Casey could feel it.

[Esmeralda Mendez]

Ezzie found herself nibbling at her lower lip nervously once more as they pushed their way into the cramped storage room. She didn’t like this, not one bit. She didn’t blame Casey for doing what she did. She had had enough, and this was just the last straw. Ezzie was sure that had it been her, she would have done something similar. It wasn’t exactly sensible for Casey to have done it when there was no one but her friends around to protect her, but since when where pressured decisions sensible? It was easy to be angry with her for putting her safety and her friends’ safety at risk (and she wouldn’t be at all surprised if Carson’s thoughts were whirling with anger at Casey for putting herself in danger) but Ezzie sort of knew what Casey was going through. She didn’t blame Casey for anything, because it was all in the past. Now they had to focus on getting themselves safely to Scene. However, the other two parts of Ezzie’s little escape team were currently a bit distracted. Men. Ezzie thought to herself with an exasperated sigh. Carson was holding onto Casey like his fingers were glued to her, meanwhile glaring unnecessarily at TJ. He was fuming, of course. Not that any of this was TJ’s fault. It never really was. That didn’t stop Carson from blaming him though. TJ had another distraction entirely. He had just made a cute comment her way, but Ezzie ignored it. This was no time to be blushing for TJ. He had just gotten himself a beer from Madame Rosmerta’s storage, and Carson’s eyes narrowed into slits at the sight of it. Yikes. Underage drinking with stolen beer while Carson’s girlfriend was in trouble. Ezzie was surprised Carson didn’t start throwing punches.

To make sure nothing happened in this closet of a room, Ezzie gently took the drink from him, but not before sneaking a sip out of Carson’s line of vision. With all this stress, she needed a little drink. She sighed. It seemed the only way out was to apparate. TJ could only take one at a time, so he’d have to take Casey first. Carson wouldn’t like that of course, but he’d have to deal. Ezzie tried her hardest to placate Carson, and eventually the boy saw reason. Ezzie didn’t like Carson’s attitude toward TJ. In fact, that was an understatement. She hated that Carson didn't think highly of TJ. Ezzie had been friends with Carson since a bit after she’d met Ethan. While both types of love were a bit different, Ezzie and Carson both had and still did share a love for Ethan Jacobs. She supposed the primary reason for Carson’s dislike was because TJ was the replacement; in his eyes at least. He wasn’t Ethan, so he wasn’t good enough. Ezzie glared at her “big brother” to get him to cool it, and the second TJ and Casey were gone, Ezzie was able to express her anger at Carson freely. How could he be this way? TJ did nothing. Sure he wasn’t the best example, and Ezzie understood Carson’s concern to a certain extent, but this was getting out of control. “Carson, can you please ease up on TJ? He’s never done anything to you. You have no reason to act this way. This is no time to be bashing my boyfriend and you know it. There are more important things to keep in mind here. Remember Casey? Cute, brown eyes? Well she needs our help. So cool it.” Ezzie’s eyes narrowed as she advanced on him. However, he wasn’t able to get in much of a retort, because true to his word, TJ had returned quickly to take Carson away as well. He left, leaving Ezzie alone for a few moments. She stole another sip of TJ's stolen drink and placed it back down just as he returned for her.

Ezzie smiled at TJ weakly. She was tired with stress and exhaustion. Not to mention this room was pretty cramped. Ezzie tried to inhale, but it was hard to get in a good breath. Ezzie reached for her inhaler and the second TJ noticed her distress, he came to her side immediately. How could Carson not see just how sweet and wonderful TJ was? She kissed him softly. “It’s okay. I’m fine now. It’s just…this whole day didn’t exactly turn out as planned, know what I mean?” She said, playing around with the buttons on his shirt. He smiled down at her. “Yeah.” He played with a loose strand of her hair. Ezzie sighed, burying her face in his chest. She’d learned to get used to the faint smell of smoke and now only smelt his sweet cologne. He got closer to her when Ezzie remembered they had a job to do. Whatever adventure TJ had planned for them today would have to wait. She pushed him back gently. “We need to get to that meeting.” Ezzie said quietly, and moments later, they were standing outside the same double doors that Casey and Carson were behind right now. They were guarded by two large and angry looking men. That was new. Ezzie stepped forward to enter, but they stepped in her way. TJ came to her side in seconds. “Excuse me, but I need to get inside.” She said politely. Both men looked bored. “Got ID?” The larger man asked. Ezzie looked at them like they were lunatics. She didn’t want to be vain, but in a place like this, shouldn’t most normal people know who she was? She sighed and rolled her eyes. “No I do not. I’m fifteen, you think I carry an ID card everywhere I go?!” Ezzie said impatiently, trying to sidestep the guards with no such luck. “But that’s my two best friends in there and they need me. So if you’ll excuse me..” Ezzie tried to step forward, but was blocked as the other man stepped in her way. “We can’t let you inside without ID, miss.” The second man said in a rather bored tone. Ezzie sighed. “Fine. We’ll just sit here then.” Ezzie said, leading TJ toward some chairs. “Can’t let you do that miss. You need an appointment.” Ezzie groaned. Ezzie never needed ID or an appointment to go see her best friends. This was only the beginning of it. Now that Casey’s secret was out, security would have to be tightened. Ezzie sighed and TJ nudged her shoulder. “Come on Ez. We’ll wait it out in my apartment. You look like you could use a few drinks anyway.” Ezzie nodded and the next moment, they were gone.

Four drinks and three hours later, Ezzie and TJ were back, waiting for the meeting to end. Ezzie had finally convinced the burly security guards to tell her when the meeting would be over, so now Ezzie and TJ were waiting outside those same double doors with only a few minutes until the end of the meeting. Ezzie wasn’t exactly drunk or even tipsy, but knowing Carson and Casey, they would be able to tell Ezzie had been drinking again. Unless Carson was in a better mood, she’d never hear the end of it. “Oh damnit TJ, Carson is going to flip out. You know he doesn’t like that I drink.” Ezzie said in a hushed tone. TJ merely smirked in her direction. “Oh calm down Ezzie. Carson is going to hate me no matter what I do. Plus it’s not like you’re drunk or anything. He’ll be fine.” TJ said calmly, though she could tell he really didn’t believe what he was saying himself. “TJ! How could you say that?! Carson doesn’t hate you, he just—” Ezzie didn’t have time to finish her sentence, for the double doors were open once more and Carson and Casey were headed their way. “Oh my gosh Casey I’m so glad! I knew they wouldn’t fire you, I just knew it!” Ezzie said excitedly, hugging Casey tightly. “I would have been right there with you but security was murder! They wouldn’t even let us in!” Ezzie squealed, sending a glare in the guilty security guard’s direction. She finally let go and noticed that Carson wasn’t there. “Where’s Carson?” Ezzie asked, looking around for him.

((Posting Carson next…))

[Casey Allen G5]

It was over. All over. Everything was out in the open now and that was where it would stay. Casey never felt so free, so liberated. True, there were still tons of things she could fret over but she didn’t want to. Casey just wanted to live her life the way she wanted to now. What she wanted was to be plain old Casey Allen. She wanted to sing her own songs and live her own life with her best-friend and her boy-friend. This was what Casey wanted and now she had it. Now that her third album was a go, Casey wasn’t holding anything back. She would work her hardest. She would do whatever it took to make a great album. Casey couldn’t help but giggle just thinking about it. It was silly that she was acting this way after the dangerous day she had just had. But she was sick of feeling scared and backed in a corner. That part of the day was over and she just wanted to be happy about the choices she made. True, there were major consequences that would come her way, but Casey was ready for them. She would take them and deal with them her way. And this was something to be happy about.

Casey smiled brightly to Ezzie. She could count on her best-friend that was for sure. Ezzie had been Casey’s shoulder to lean on several times in her life and this was just another to add to the list. True, both girls had their dramas and their fights. But they were best-friends no matter what and Casey wasn’t going to let that change. Casey laughed. “It’s okay. It went fine. No bloodshed actually. They pretty much agreed with my decision just not the way I went about it which I can’t blame them for.” She sighed. “I’m sorry about everything I’ve put you through today.” Casey peered past Ezzie’s shoulder. “You too TJ, thanks.” She said truly not bothering to look at Carson behind her. Carson didn’t like TJ and Casey wasn’t too fond of him, but he was what Ezzie wanted for now. Plus, he did help Casey out today. The least she could do was give him a break and try to convince Carson to do the same even if he wouldn’t listen. Oh well. She would at least try.

Casey laughed. “I really thought they would fire me, but they looked at me like I was crazy when they mentioned it.” She smiled. “And they have agreed to let me do this my way. The album the next tour, everything gets to be the way I want it.” She smiled brightly. For once, Casey could control her own life and it was literally the best feeling in the world. Casey smiled to Ezzie and then glanced at her face. Her eyes were reddish and her breath..Casey’s eyes narrowed. “Ezzie..” She whispered not wanting Carson to hear. “I’ll keep this little secret. I don’t wanna give Carson a heart attack.” She said just loud enough for Ezzie to hear. She didn’t approve of her friend drinking, but she couldn’t blame her. It had been one long day. If Casey didn’t have Carson playing the good angel on her shoulder all the time, she probably would be drinking too. Casey chuckled lightly at the thought. Casey pointed lightly to Carson when Ezzie asked and Casey quickly pulled her close to him and wrapped her arms around him. “Let’s go home.” Casey smiled. This horrible yet wonderful day finally seemed over and Casey couldn’t be happier with the results. Her moment of stupidity had actually paid off. Only one question remained. Would it pay off in the end?

((Finished. Yay. I’ll have the next post started soon.))