Part Two

Dexter sat on the bench in Keystone Park next to Audrey who held his guitar in her hand and was trying to sing the song, It's Been a Long, Long Time that she was practicing for her parent's upcoming anniversary. It was just as she stumbled with a chord that she paused, looking in the distance as she seemed to think about what to do next.

"You're being quiet again," Dexter commented.

"I'm trying," Audrey murmured.

"I know you are and you're doing better than you think," Dexter assured her. "But you're letting your nerves get the better of you."

"I just want to get it right," Audrey admitted. "It's their anniversary, and I know this song means a lot to them."

"I know you do, and that's why we're here. But you can't **** it. Music's like a dance, it needs to flow naturally." Dexter told her. "Take a deep breath, and let's start again. This time, I want you to feel the words, not just sing them. You have to sing from the heart. The words flow naturally when you do."

"Is that what you do?" Audrey wondered. "Sing from the heart?"

"Every time," Dexter nodded. "Music's the only thing that's ever truly understood me." Dexter paused for a moment. "It's where I go when I need to escape, to feel something real but you don't need to hear all that."

"Tell me," Audrey curiously asked.

"My parents split when I was young," Dexter revealed. "I grew up bouncing between my dad's record store and my mom's club." Dexter sighed as he continued. "Dad was all about the classics. His store is this tiny little place. He'd play Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, teaching me to appreciate the soul behind every note."

"And your mom?" Audrey wondered.

"Mom," Dexter said with a smile. "Mom was all about rock 'n' roll. Her club was like a second home to me. She'd play the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin. Everything there is loud and raw. My parents were like night and day. They didn't just argue about music, though. That was usually about everything else."

"It must have been hard, growing up in the middle of that," Audrey said softly.

"It is what it is," Dexter replied. "But I think it's why I'm so drawn to music. It was the one thing that never changed, the one thing that was always there." Dexter paused before smiling at Audrey. "You know, I might be a little jealous of you. You've had parents who were together for twenty-five years."

"They're not perfect," Audrey admitted, "But they have their moments."

"Everyone does," Dexter said before asking. "So, how did they meet?"

"They met at a wedding in New York," Audrey explained. "Dad was the best man and Mom was a guest. Apparently they hated each other at first."

"Hated each other?" Dexter said in surprise.

"Dad said Mom was too loud and Mom said Dad was too uptight. They spent the whole reception bickering." Audrey smiled.

"So what changed?" Dexter wondered.

"Dad was stuck outside without a jacket, and it started to rain," Audrey told him. "Mom saw him shivering and I guess she felt sorry for him cos she gave him her coat. They started talking properly for the first time and they ended up talking all night. My Dad says it was like they were the only two people in the city. They found out they had more in common than they thought, even danced to this song at the wedding and the rest is history."

"That's what's so amazing about music," Dexter said. "It doesn't care who you are or where you come from, it just brings people together. Just like it's doing with us," Dexter added. "You need to find that connection with the song, Audrey. Let it tell your story. The story of how they met, fell in love and had you. You think you can do that?"

"I'll try," Audrey murmured, more determined than before.

"Good," Dexter said with a nod. "Because we have got a lot of work to do before your parents anniversary”

---

Chantelle stepped off the tube, her eyes as she made her way out of the graffiti-laden walls of the station and made her way towards the cafe where she found the cafe she was looking for. Making her way into the building, Chantelle found the man she was looking for sitting in one of the booths, fiddling with the camera in his hand and she made her way over to him.

"Chantelle! I wasn't sure you'd come." Jake Winbury said upon seeing Chantelle, offering the seat opposite him.

"Of course I came," Chantelle said warmly with a smile. "You sounded like you needed some help."

"Thanks. I got this gig photographing a wedding, but I'm pretty new to this. The wedding took a chance on me, and I don't want to mess it up so I could do with some advice." Jake explained.

"Don't worry, I've been there,” Chantelle told him. “It's all about capturing moments, not just snapping photos. Tell me what you know about the bid day."

"It's a high-profile wedding at the Botanical Gardens. The bride is the daughter of some big shot in finance, so it's going to be fancy." Jake explained.

"That's a great location. The lighting is going to be fantastic, especially during the golden hour. But you'll have to be quick to get those shots before it dips." Chantelle excitedly told him.

"That's what I'm worried about," Jake confessed. "I've never shot anything like this before. What if I miss something important?"

"Well, let's start with the basics," Chantelle said. "What camera are you using?"

"It's a Canon. I've been practicing, but I still feel like there's so much I don't know." Jake said as he showed her his camera.

"Don't worry," Chantelle reassured him. "Every photographer starts somewhere. Now, tell me about your gear. What lenses do you have?"

"A 50mm prime, a 24-70mm zoom and a 70-200mm. I've been using the zoom mostly, but I've heard that primes are better for portraits." Jake answered.

"You've got a good setup for a beginner. The 50mm is excellent for capturing those intimate moments, and the telephoto will be great for candid shots from a distance without intruding." Chantelle paused. "But remember, versatility is key. Don't just stick to one lens."

For the next hour, Chantelle shared her knowledge with Jake, explaining the ways she had used her camera, shutter speed, and the settings on Jake's camera and how they could be manipulated to create the perfect exposure. She showed him how to read light and shadow, and the importance of composition. Jake's questions were also endless but she answered each one using her own experiences to provide practical advice especially as Jake clearly seemed to have a passion for photography as well.

"You've got a good eye," Chantelle said, glancing at the few test shots he had taken. "But remember, it's not just about the technical stuff. It's about telling a story."

"I know, but I'm still worried about the pressure of the wedding. What if I mess up?" Jake admitted.

"You won't," Chantelle said firmly. "But even if you do, it's just one event. Photography is about growth, not perfection from the start.

"You're right. I just want to make sure I do the best job possible." Jake nodded.

"And you will," Chantelle said before suggesting. "But, why don't you let me come with you? I've photographed a few weddings before and I can help guide you through the process. I can be your second shooter."

"Really? Are you sure?" Jake said happily.

"Absolutely," Chantelle smiled. "It'll be a great experience for both of us and I can help you out of any tight spots."

"That would be amazing! Are you sure you don't mind?" Jake asked once more.

"Not at all," Chantelle said with a grin. "It'll be fun. And who knows, we might just make a great team."

"That's a brilliant idea. I can't thank you enough.” Jake smiled.

---

As she spent the morning growing accustomed to her new job as Charles Levesque's Personal Assistant, Kat sat at her desk as she worked through the emails she was assigned to do and the few phone calls when she heard footsteps and saw Charles approach her desk.

"Kat," Charles said with a warm smile. "How about we grab lunch today at that place around the corner from your house? I would like to get to know you better. It'll be my treat."

"Sounds good, Mr. Levesque." Kat nodded in agreement.

Leaving the office together, the pair walked across to the tube station, making small talk as they did with the occasional awkward silence. Arriving at a restaurant where they found a table in the bustling dining area, taking a seat and looking at the menu.

"So, how do you like living at 7 Victoria Street?" Charles asked as his eyes scanned the menu.

"It's fine, thank you," Kat replied. "It's a bit of a change from my old place, but I'm adjusting."

"Why did you leave if you don't mind me asking?" Charles wondered as he looked up from the menu.

"It's a bit complicated," Kat paused. "Long story short. I'm bisexual and my parents didn't take it well when they found out."

"I'm sorry to hear that, Kat. It's not easy when family disagreements lead to such significant changes in our lives." Charles told her. “And I'm more profoundly sorry that they did not support you either.”

"Thanks," Kat murmured. "My brother Malik was the only one who supported me, so I was glad when he said I could have his room."

"Your brother?" Charles said in surprise. "Malik? As in, my tenant? Freya's housemate? How many people are living in my house right now?"

"I'm so sorry, Mr Levesque," Kat stuttered. "It's just that Malik and I are really close. And when I had nowhere to go, he didn't hesitate to help."

"My house? You've been living in my house without my knowledge?" Charles said, his voice was low but the anger was palpable.

"I know it's not ideal, but Freya said..." Kat tried to explain.

"Freya said?" Charles's voice grew louder, cutting her off. "Freya has no authority to make decisions about my property!"

"I know, I know. I just didn't have anywhere to turn to..." Kat interrupted.

"This is unacceptable!" Charles slammed his hand on the table. "We need to sort this out immediately,” Charles said as he rose from the table. “Let's go."

Leaving the restaurant without ordering, the tension thick between them grew as they approached 7 Victoria Street as her thoughts raced. What if Charles kicked Malik out? What if he fired her?

Arriving at the house, Charles used his own keys to enter the house where they heard voices from the living room of Malik and Freya. As the approached the room, they heard snippets of the conversation including Malik mentioning that he had a date tonight and Freya responding by reminding him that it was a first date and didn't mean anything.

Unsure of what they were about to find and more concerned about what her brother's situation might be, especially considering what they were hearing and letting Kat have his room situation that they were currently in. As they entered the room, they found Freya and Malik sitting on the couch close to each other, however upon hearing their footsteps, they shifted so there was distance between them.

"Daddy!" Freya said in surprise. "What are you doing here?"

"What's going on here?" Charles said as he looked at the pair.

“Nothing.” Freya quickly said. “Why are you here, Daddy?”

"I accidentally told him about me living here." Kat added.

"Is this true, Malik? Have you given your sister your room?" Charles demanded.

"Kat needed a place to stay, and I didn't think it would be a problem for her to have my room." Malik explained.

"You didn't think it would be a problem?" Charles raised his voice. "This is my property, and I expect to be informed of any changes in tenancy!"

"I know and I'm sorry, but Kat had nowhere else to go." Malik told him.

"Daddy, please, it's not Malik's fault. I told him it was okay." Freya added.

"Freya, you know better than to make promises about something that's not yours to give. This is a four bedroom house. I understand you got one couple in here already. We can't have another person living here." Charles reminded the group.

"But Daddy," Freya began.

"No buts, Freya," Charles interrupted firmly. "This is a clear violation of the lease agreement. I'm sorry, but your friend's sister can't just move in without my consent. I mean if you've given her your room, where is he staying?"

"On the couch," Malik mumbled.

"What?" Charles responded.

"It's only temporary, I swear," Malik said. "Look, I know it's not ideal, but I didn't know what else to do. Kat didn't have anywhere to go."

"Fine," Charles sighed. "But we need to come up with a solution. This can't continue. You're a good tenant, Malik but either you or your sister have to find somewhere else to live. I can only have one person in that room especially since you're not a couple."

"I understand," Malik said, solemnly. "But can you at least give us a little time to figure it out?"

"Mr Levesque, I'm happy to leave if it's causing you any inconvenience. I'll find somewhere else to stay." Kat told him.

"Daddy, please. Kat's been through enough. Can't we find a way for both of them to stay?” Freya said much to Kat’s surprise. She figured the blonde might come to defend her brother but was even more surprised for Freya to defend her. “Maybe Malik could take the attic?" Freya said, knowing full well it was furnished but full of old furniture and boxes of their family's belongings.

"Freya," Charles sighed, "You know that attic isn't suitable for living. It's full of junk."

"But Daddy, it could be perfect for Malik,” Freya told him. “It is up to code and was supposed to be an extra room. We can clean it out, get rid of the junk. It's not like we need it for storage anymore."

"Please, Mr Levesque," Kat added, "I'll help clean it out. I don't want to be the reason my brother has to leave."

"Fine," Charles finally said. "You can both stay, but only if we clear out that attic as soon as possible. I don't want anyone living in a room that was once a storage space. It's a health hazard and against regulations."

"Thank you," Malik said. "We'll get it sorted out."

"Thank you, Daddy," Freya happily responded as she hugged her father.

The tension in the room began to dissipate as Charles nodded.

"But," Charles added sternly, "This doesn't change the fact that we need to talk about the lease and the rules moving forward. And the fact you both will need to pay rent. Which means, I'll have to get you a rental agreement too if you want the room, Kat.”

“I do.” Kat agreed.

“Then I guess, I should welcome you to Seven Victoria Street.” Charles told her.

---

As the living situation seemed to have resolved itself, Charles had left Kat to enjoy the remainder of her lunch break while he returned to the office. Bidding Malik goodbye as he wanted to make a start on emptying the attic, Kat found herself joining Freya as she decided to quickly drop in on Ashlyn at Club Ruby before getting a sandwich at the cafe Malik often liked to frequent.

"Hey, you two," Ashlyn greeted the pair as they entered the empty nightclub. "What's going on? You both look like you could use a drink."

"You're not wrong," Freya replied as she stood at the bar with Kat. "It's just been a... Well, you know. Someone let slip to my Dad that she moved into Malik's room."

"Oh no," Ashlyn exclaimed. "How did he take it?"

"As expected,” Freya sighed. “He wasn't happy but I managed to convince him to let Malik and Kat stay. He's going to have to stay in the attic once we empty it out."

"Well, at least that's sorted. At least you get to stay with us, Kat." Ashlyn said, her smile returning. "How is the new job though, Kat. Working with Mr Levesque?"

"It's... Interesting," Kat answered. "I didn't realise how much property your family actually owns around the city. And your Dad, Freya, he's definitely not your typical boss. But I'm learning a lot."

"Just stay out of his way until he warms up to you," Freya advised. "He's all bark and no bite. As you saw earlier."

"If you say so," Kat said with a smile.

"So, how about we go out tonight? Get a few drinks to celebrate your new job and living with us, Kat?" Ashlyn suggested.

"That sounds like a brilliant plan," Kat told her. “I could get to know the city better too.”

"Yeah, let's do it. I could definitely use a drink. You'll never guess who my Dad hired at Trident." Freya nodded in agreement.

"Do tell." Ashlyn responded curiously.

"My ex-boyfriend, Travis." Freya revealed.

"No way," Ashlyn gasped. "Travis? As in, the Travis?"

"The very same," Freya nodded.

"Oh, that's... Awkward," Ashlyn said, her voice trailing off as she tried to find the right words. "How was it seeing him again?"

"It was a surprise, to say the least. He's changed, or at least he seems to have. More polished, more... Corporate. But underneath it all, I could see the same guy who broke my heart." Freya admitted.

"I can't believe he has the nerve to show up at your Dad's company," Ashlyn commented.

"It's a small world, I guess. Plus, Dad always liked him so..." Freya shrugged.

"Yeah, because from what you told me could charm his way out of anything," Ashlyn recalled. "But seriously, are you okay?"

"I'll be fine. It's just... Weird, you know?" Freya admitted. “I thought that period of my life was over.”

"I know. But if anyone can handle it, it's you." Ashlyn nodded just as the door to the Manager's Office opened and their manager, David, stepped out and immediately noticed the trio.

"Ashlyn," David snapped. "You're supposed to be working, not gossiping with your friends."

"Sorry, David," Ashlyn apologised. "We're just catching up."

"We don't pay you to socialise," David told her. "And I've got enough on my plate without having to remind you of that." David said as his phone rang which he immediately declined the call for.

"Is everything okay?" Ashlyn asked, noticing the tension in David's shoulders.

"It's the boss again," David grumbled. "But that's none of your business. Just get back to work."