Lisa was half listening to her manager as they road side by side in the back of the slate black suv. Her eyes on her phone as she smiled. Marking the beginning of her vacation for tomorrow, and the end of it two weeks from then.
Her heart thumping contently at the knowledge she'd be home soon, and within her lovers arms. Able to apologize for being away for so long, and for not being there for her when her girlfriend needed her most.
"Lisa."
She whipped her head up at the sound of her name. Focusing her attention on her manager, as she placed her phone faced down in her lap and hummed.
"I said, you'll keep your phone on you at all times right?" He questioned. "Or, were you not listening to a word I said?"
"I, uh.... I was." She grinned. "It's just, remind me again why I have to when I'm on a set vacation?"
He eyed her with a sigh. "So you weren't paying any attention..." Her manager rolled his eyes, before smiling. A shake of his head and hair as he repeated. "The label needs you to be available for anything that may come up."
"But I'm on vacation?"
"Yes Lisa. I know, they know." He reassured her. "It's just so they can inform you of any schedule change after your return. Or re directions for it." He stated. "So just keep it on and near okay?"
"You got it." She smiled. Bowing her head to him, for her eyes to then focus on their surroundings. Her heart flipping in her chest as they rounded the last corner, and approached the house where several days ago, her baby had been left crying in.
Chaeyoung missing her and missing meals. Something Lisa couldn't stand, and would be sure to make up for while enjoying her time at home. And Roseanne wouldn't impose on the it, as she was currently laid up against Ami's side, awaiting Lisa's return seated on the living room couch.
Marco and Momma Ami talking about some tv show they've been into recently, while she was too busy playing with the ends of her top. The Mother and Father in-laws to be trying their best to include the blonde, whose roots darkened and grew in length each passing day. But no matter what they tried, she always seemed half listening.
Not half caring, even if it seemed that way. And unable to be blamed given the current situation. But Chae was definitely putting forth less energy. Sinking further down into the couch cushions like Chaeyoung's sinking heart. Ami noticing it as the young woman dipped away from her side.
Glancing from Marco to her in time to catch Rosie with an arm, and pull the blonde back to her. Booping her nose with the pad of her finger, making the Australian smile. "Don't go trying to slip away from me now." The Thai woman whispered. "Lisa will be home soon."
"I wasn't meaning to." Chaeyoung replied quietly.
"I know sweetie." Ami leaned against the larger girl. About to offer some new form of encouragement, when the three of them heard car doors shutting outside. The echoing of the slams making their eyes widen as they stared towards the door. Wondering if it could possibly be the missing piece of their family, and not just the neighbors.
Lisa smiled to her manager as she accepted her bags from him and the driver. The two men asking if she was sure she'd be fine taking them to the door herself, where she of course answered with a yes. Ready to get them out of her face, as rude as it sounded. But she couldn't help it, she was finally home.
She waved them off one last time before turning her back to the vehicle and approaching the front door. Wheeling her larger luggage behind her, with her carryon draped over her shoulder. Taking in a deep and relieving breath, she reached into her pocket and took out her house key. Smiling down to it, before fitting it into the lock and turning.
Being greeted by the warm kitchen lights, and three turned heads on the couch. All in apparent shock, jaws slacked, as Lisa raised her brows. Dropping her carryon and releasing her luggage handle as she smiled to the three. "What? No welcome home hugs and kisses? Did I get the date wrong?" She looked down to her watch, only to hear immediate footsteps thumping towards her.
Looking up in time to catch Chaeyoung as she practically leapt into her arms. Lisa releasing a happy chuckle as she tightened her hold and crushed her girlfriend in an embrace that lasted several long and comforting seconds. The two of them nuzzling their heads into one another's necks, until she could sense her parents beside them.
Lisa pulled away from Chaeyoung, whispering to her to give her a moment, before hugging her Mother and Marco longingly. "Welcome home Lis." Her stepdad hummed happily. "We've missed you."
"Very much." Her Mother added as they all leaned back. "No more being a star mentor for you young lady."
The four of them chuckled at the joke. Lisa smiling to the each of them as she felt Rosie clinging to the back of her shirt. "I've missed you guys a lot too, so I'll be sure to reject any new mentoring gigs. At least for the next year." Lisa grinned, but felt the hold on her shirt tighten after her joke. Her Mother glancing past her eyes and to Chaeyoung behind her.
"We're just... really glad to have you back." Marco spoke once more. His eyes and words lacing more meaning than just the happiness of having his stepdaughter back home. And Lisa caught onto that meaning quickly, as she turned around and wrapped Rosie in her arms again right after his statement.
"I know." She spoke, while her hands caressed the back of the Australian. "And I'm glad to finally be." Lisa looked from her Parents, down to Chaeyoung, whose head was already tucked under her chin. Tiny hands clenching the Thai's front for comfort. "For two whole weeks." Lisa whispered into her ear.
Rosie nodded her head against her as Lisa worked her hands up and down her girlfriend's back. Getting a little lower each rub, until she had her hands on both sides of Chaeyoung's waist. Her eyes widening a little as she let her fingers dip into her skin. Glancing to her Mom, who nodded silently.
Lisa looked back down to Chae, bringing her body impossibly closer as she kissed her temple softly. Wrapping her arms fully around her lover and not intending on letting her go anytime soon. Scared if she did, the slimming girlfriend of hers would break apart, and fade away.
And she was terrified of that, while Chaeyoung was silent in her arms. Left quietly sensing her returning baby's worry. Knowing perfectly well why Lisa's body had stiffened when exploring her skin. In a way where Roseanne suddenly felt remorseful for all the times she wasn't hungry, or told herself she wasn't.
Releasing Lisa's top, she looped her arms around the Thai's neck. Kissing the beauty mark at the base of it, that she could still pinpoint without even needing to open her eyes. Ghosting her lips across her skin as she brought hers to Lisa's, and whispered into them.
"I've missed you so much." She sniffed. "God, I've missed you."
Lisa kissed her softly. Letting it last, and applying only the sweetest bit of pressure, before leaning back. "I know you have baby, because I've missed you too. More than I think you know." She pecked her lips again. "But I'm here now, and I'm gonna make everything up to you."
"You being away wasn't your fault." Chaeyoung sniffed again, as she leaned her head back down. Resting it on Lisas shoulder while facing her woman.
"No, but it was because of my profession." Lisa replied quietly. "I know where I went wrong. I should have chose something else, not this. Not being away from you. But I'll make it up, I promise." She caressed the back of Rosie's head. Running her lengthy fingers through her hair as she closed her eyes.
"You hungry Lis?" Marco's voice questioned. Lisa keeping her eyes closed as she replied yes, and continuously combed through Chaeyoung's hair. Practically putting the girl to sleep during the relaxing motions, as they stood pressed together.
~
Chaeyoung reached further into the duffel bag and continued pulling out the remainder of it's contents. Mainly the clothes Lisa had been wearing during the course of her trip to China, along with any additional things brought with her from the Label.
She took out some of the more folded clothes and brought them to her nose. Taking in a whiff. Frowning when she could smell the faint usage and decided on simply throwing everything into their dirty hamper. Successfully finishing Lisa's unpacking for her, while the Thai was downstairs sharing a few moments alone with her parents.
Roseanne was about to put the bag away, beside Lisa's luggage, when she realized it felt a bit lopsided in her hand. Lifting it up higher and noticing one of the side compartments appearing to be not entirely empty. She unzipped the smaller section and reached a hand in. Feeling an oddly soft pouch inside.
While lifting the item out, she sat the duffle bag down and studied the light pink material. The words "the things I can't live without" etched in black on face of the apparent makeup bag. She chuckled softly and headed into their bathroom. Unzipping the pouch to place Lisa's makeup on the counter for her.
But when she opened the little pink bag, it wasn't makeup she was left staring at. Instead, it was photos of herself. Either within the picture alone, smiling to Lisa, the obvious cameraman. Or being beside the amazing woman, smiling together. Sometimes... even sharing a kiss.
Roseanne sighed, sliding the photos back inside the makeup bag. Successfully freeing up a hand so she could wipe a stray tear. Feeling pretty vulnerable to her emotions, ever since the Thai finally returned home.
And as if on cue, Lisa peeked her head inside the bathroom. Smiling to Chaeng as she leaned in. "There you are." Her smile widened, before Lisa noticed the pink pouch Chaeyoung was holding. "Oh hey, you found the things I can't live without."
Chaeyoung nodded and looked from the bag to Lisa. Her girlfriend's smile turning into what could be defined as a happy frown, when noticing the blonde's glossy eyes.
"Awe baby." Lisa cooed, opening her arms as she approached Rosie. "Come here."
Roseanne was happy to accept the embrace and wrapped her arms around Lis. Her head falling onto the toned woman's shoulder as she spoke. "I wasn't expecting to see pictures of us..." She stated quietly.
"Yeah... I saw the bag at an airport and thought it would probably be a safer place to keep my love. Rather than makeup."
Chaeyoung practically chuckled out of sadness for finding Lisa so endearing. The warmth radiating off her as they continued to hold onto each other, even as Lisa began to sway them a bit.
She smiled and sat the pouch down on the tiled counter. Trailing both her hands up to lisa's neck, where she wrapped them around it and leaned back to look at the woman. Falling into the rhythm the Thai was creating.
"I've missed this." Lisa whispered, while looking over her Chaeng. "Man... I've really missed this."
Chaeyoung smiled softly, before leaning in. Stealing a chaste kiss off pink lips. Lisa trying her best to pursue those lips when her girlfriend pulled away. Not missing the slight roll of Rosie's eyes, after noticing the brunette's eagerness for more.
"I was thinking of getting in a shower before bed." Lisa spoke quietly. Running her hands along Roseanne's sides. "Might even make it a bath? If my girlfriend wouldn't mind joining me?"
Chaeyoung would have happily said yes, and was about to, when the feeling of Lisa's hands gliding across her skin made her think back to that evening.
Suddenly feeling very self conscious about the way she looked.
Beneath baggy clothes.
"Maybe not tonight..." She replied. Unable to keep eye contact, and instead, backing out of her hold. "I'm not really in the mood..." She stole a glance to Lisa, before turning away. "I'm sorry."
Chaeyoung exited the bathroom before Lisa even had the chance to question her. To ask her if she was okay, for Chae's discomfort was plainly obvious.
Lisa's heart ached, and mind had already begun theorizing on what could have went wrong. So she stood straight, and turned back to the door. "Chae." She called as she stepped out of the bathroom and caught the girl's hand. "Wait a second."
She lifted Rosie's hand and spun her into her arms. Like they were still dancing within the restroom, which made Chaeyoung smile. Even when she was still feeling down about everything.
"Are you sure you don't want to take a bath with me?" She tried once more. "I can rub your back? Wash your hair?"
Chaeyoung loved the idea, but her mind would only show her images of herself in recent mirrors. And the thought that Lisa would be there to see her, made her afraid. She didn't want to seem so weak... and unable to keep herself healthy without her drug that was Lisa to take.
"No... I don't..." She shimmied out of Lisa's hold, but instead of running away, sat down on the foot of the bed. Lowering her head down and biting her lip as Lisa sighed ahead of her.
"Listen, if you really don't want to, I get it." Lis began, quietly. Eyeing the woman that was seated and trying her best to remain as comforting as possible. "But I get this feeling that you do want to, especially with my amazing offers."
Rosie smiled a little and brought one of her hands to her other. Picking at her nails as she shrugged a bit. "It does sound nice..." She admitted. "But, I know what will happen."
"And what will happen baby?"
"You'll... you'll see me." Chaeyoung whispered. Looking up to Lisa and thinning her lips. "You'll see me without the baggy clothes and I- I don't want to be looked at like how I know you'll look at me."
"And how will I look at you Roseanne?" Lisa whispered back. Wetting her lips as she closed her eyes. Feeling Chaeyoung's worry in the air as she took in a breath, before taking in her sight again. "Baby, we talked about how you've been eating less the other day. Not a lot, but we did."
She reached a hand down, caressing one of Rosie's cheeks. "I've had this time to understand what's been going on. And yes, I may be upset seeing how thin you may have gotten, but that's not going to stop me from looking at you with anything other than love."
"But you already felt me for it..." Chaeyoung sniffed. Eyes beginning to water. "I know your hands were surveying my body downstairs and I could feel you stiffening at the touch."
"It was my first time truly holding you after months Chaeyoung."
"Still." She began to cry. "I'm a disappointment."
Lisa's eyes widened as she quickly kept Roseanne from dipping her head away, with a soft hand under the chin. "No, no no you're not a disappointment. Not once did that thought ever cross my mind. Baby, when I heard you've been eating less, my first immediate thought was on how I fucked up."
Chaeyoung sniffed, wiping her eyes as Lisa pulled her hand away. The Thai using that hand to run through her hair, as Chae furrowed her brows at the last few words. Not understanding how her poor coping skills weren't to blame for her own health and image.
"I should have been there for you." Lisa finally continued. Looking to Roseanne. "I should have been there more, handled things differently. Instead of only offering you the simple 'I miss yous' and 'I love yous', I should have been seeking out your true feelings." She looked down. Kicking the carpet beneath her feet. "I promise you, I'm not going to blame you for how you look. I'm not going to look at you like you're a disappointment."
"I just want to hold you and tell you how much I freaking love you. And heal you, Chae... god I want to heal you and make you feel happy again. Because I know you're not. And it's been affecting me so much knowing you've been sad and alone and I don't want you to be. Never again... not again." Lisa watched as her own tears fell down. Seeping into the carpet below. "Please, just let me show you how much I still love you. I just want to make it all up to you and b-"
Her heart stopped when two arms were suddenly wrapped tightly around her. Pulling her lean body in against the woman whose head was resting on her upper waist. Lisa looking down to Roseanne and closing her slacked jaw, as she caressed the woman's blonde hair and upper back.
Feeling the slight shakes as Chaeyoung held onto her. Like a koala clinging to a tree. But not just any tree... it's favorite tree. The tree that did everything for them. Gave them food, shelter, love.
Lisa loves her. Still. Even after all Chaeyoung has done, and who she's been. Lisa still offers and gives her everything she can. And feels upset with herself when she can't. Like any negativity was caused by the Thai, even though this one was all on her.
"You're okay." Lisa whispered down lovingly. "You're okay Chaeng."
She nodded her head against Lisa, before slowing bringing herself up. Still holding herself against Lis, as she rested her forehead on the woman's shoulder. Giving into her girlfriend's lips, that were slowing undressing her. Kissing down her neck and collarbone with featherlight touches, as large hands slipped beneath her clothes.
Dragging the material up, and over her head, before Lisa's lips came sweeping down, and molded into her own. Strong arms lifting her up beneath the thighs, and bringing her into the bathroom. Where it was Chaeyoung's turn to begin silently undressing her lover.
Untying Lisa's sweats with her fingers, as the brunette flipped on the water. Soon, steam filling the air from the tub, as their lips left soft, yet steamy trails down each other's now naked frames.
Lisa keeping true to her word and not eyeing her like the seemingly fragile version of her self that Roseanne felt to be. Instead, the Thai led her into the tub. Where she shut off the water and guided Chaeyoung to sit in front of her.
Keeping an arm around her waist, as Chae tilted her chin up. Allowing Lisa more space to kiss her skin. Peppering her shoulder in wet kisses, before her tongue soothed across her neck. Lisa nibbling, as her hand began to travel downwards. Towards her girlfriend's inner thigh and below.
~
Morning light, always being Chaeyoung's culprit, woke her up the following morning. Flooding in through the light, airy curtains and opened blinds of their ajar bedroom door. She hummed a bit and lifted the covers. Trying to hide her eyes from the light, only to realize how easy it was to move the bedsheets.
She opened her eyes and immediately noticed the lack of a presence beside her. Chaeyoung almost slipping into a panic, wondering if Lisa's return home yesterday was just a dream. But when she sat up, and the covers fell off of her, she noticed the lack of clothes on her skin, and a wave of relief washed over her.
Like a cool breeze on a hot and sunny day. It calmed her down, and allowed Chaeyoung the opportunity to stand, look into their bedroom mirror, and smile. Truly smile, at the abundance of love marks that surrounded her neck. Her collarbones and chest. Even her hips, that once had her frown at the slimming sight. Lisa had kissed them tenderly, and promised to help mend.
Promised to Chaeyoung that even though she was thinner, she was still the one that drove her crazy. That her body was still the one she loved most, and dreamed of. And when Rosie would get herself back to her best self, Lisa assured her she'd drop dead.
"Well not dead dead but like, you know I'll be crawling on the floor drooling." Lisa had laughed. With that signature smile Chaeyoung never wanted to forget. Or the way Lisa's muscular body had hovered over her own last night, while delivering those promises and marks of love.
She tingled pleasantly at the memories, before finding a pair of underwear and shorts. Tying them loosely around her waist, and slipping a top over her head. Making her way into the bathroom, where she relieved herself, then washed her hands, face, and teeth.
All the remembrance of her night with Lisa made her miss her girlfriend's touch. Longing to be wrapped up within her loving arms once more, and deciding she'd find out just where the Thai had gone this morning. Heading out the bathroom door, and continuing through the bedroom's, to the stairs below.
Half expecting Lisa to be in the makeshift studio, dancing away or working out to maintain her top physique. But when she took her first few steps down, her nose was hit with the warm smells of breakfast, and her eyes spotted a slender brunette quietly working in the kitchen.
Well, quiet until Lisa accidentally touched the pad of her thumb to the side of the sizzling pan. "Shit!" She exclaimed under breath. Shaking her thumb in the air before slipping it into her mouth. "Mmm."
Chaeyoung's eyes widened as she finished descending the stairs and rushed to her girlfriend's side. "Lisa..." She pouted. The Thai turning to her in surprise and withdrawing her thumb. "Are you okay?" She wrapped her hands around Lis's arm and hand, inspecting the finger on the end of it.
"Jeez baby, you scared me." The woman in a tight white tank top and shorts smiled playfully. "And yes, I'm okay. It just got a little warm. That's all."
Roseanne rolled her eyes, knowing well her girlfriend had burned herself. "A little warm she says..." She chuckled softly, before bringing the burnt thumb to her mouth. Where she kissed it tenderly.
Lisa brushed her tongue over her chapped bottom lip, before focusing her attention back on their breakfast. Separating more of the bacon slices, as they crackled and popped. Lisa unconsciously stepping between the pan and Rosie, shielding her from the unpredictable grease.
The Australian smiled. Wrapping her arms around Lisa's waist. Dropping her chin down to her shoulder, where she pecked it, and rested upon the brunette. "So this is why you weren't in bed this morning." She began, not hiding her smile from her words.
"Yeah." Lisa hummed. "I wanted to wake up early and make you breakfast."
"You didn't have to."
"I know. But I'm finally here to take care of you." She smiled. Peeking over her shoulder to Chaeyoung. "So that's what I'm going to do."
Chaeyoung's heart clenched at Lisa's words. Her hold on the Thai tightening, as she leaned in and kissed her lips softly.
"Mmm." Lisa raised her brows at the blonde after they separated. Looking the woman up and down with a gesture of her eyes. "I've missed seeing you in the morning."
"That so?" Chaeyoung bit her lip lightly. Releasing the woman and making her way around the counter to a stool, where she sat facing Lis.
"Yeah..." She admitted. Turning off the heat and moving the finished bacon to her already prepared plates. Dabbing off the grease and topping off Rosie's plate with a dash of whip cream and a strawberry. Placed perfectly situated on top of her fluffiest pancake.
"I've always thought that you look extremely gorgeous before, after, or during sleep." She finished. While bringing their plates over and sliding Chaeyoung's in front of her. "In the famous words of Katy Perry, Bon appétit baby." Lisa chuckled, happy to find Rosie laughing too, before she grew serious. "I do hope you enjoy it my love."
Chaeyoung reached out a hand and grasped hers. Guiding her around the counter and plates, to the empty stool beside her. "Of course I will Lis." The fading blonde spoke. "Thank you for making it."
Lisa grinned, before gesturing down to the radiating meal below. Chaeyoung nodding and lifting up her provided utensil. Taking her first small, and quiet bite of it. Following a smile that came to her lips at the sensation of buttermilk pancakes and cream to her taste buds.
"Mmm." She hummed. "It's good." Chaeyoung spoke between her chews, before bringing a second, maple drizzled collection to her mouth.
The sight made Lisa warm. Happy to see her girlfriend eating so willingly, and hoping she'd be able to finish the entire plate. Wanting to make sure her baby gets back to being the healthy, and happy woman that she was before.
"Hey Chaeng?"
Roseanne stopped her bites and looked to Lisa. Furrowed brows as she stared. "What?"
"You've got something on your face."
"I do?" She replied questioningly. Oblivious to Lisa's antics. "What is it?"
Lisa was quick to lean in and peck the brunette's cheek. Keeping close as she watched the surprised Rosie. "Just a kiss." She grinned, before winking and turning away from the blushing girl. Unable to hold herself back from the inviting plate of her own.
~
In the near week Lisa has been home, she's been finding herself enjoying more and more things she wasn't even aware of missing. This vacation being the exact thing she needed to not lose her mind, while subconsciously telling herself she loved her job. Every day, speaking to herself little white lies, so she wouldn't let any fans down.
The truth behind her smile in every camera was that she had been longing for a break. For the chance to lay down, and cuddle up to her girl. To breathe, and enjoy every moment she could before she'd have to get up and do it all over again. Work.
But luckily for herself, she wasn't. Lisa was finally home, and getting to enjoy the little things she had been unaware of missing. Like sitting behind Chaeyoung, on top of the bed where only her legs were showing in the camera feed ahead of them.
Her girlfriend seated on the floor, strumming her guitar to her now several thousand tuned in viewers. All happily commenting within the 'bored in the bedroom' live. Either mentioning Rosie's voice, song choice, guitar playing, or now fan favorite... guessing who the mysterious long legs belonged to.
Many having their own theory. Throwing names of random celebrities or underrated youtubers here or there. Hoping to spark some kind of reaction out of Roseanne, to see if they hit the million dollar question of who the singer/songwriter was dating.
But Chaeyoung was always too busy singing. Eyes closed and oblivious to the guesses that Lisa was currently seeing. And someone actually did mention her name in the feed, making her eyes widened in surprise. Fans of 'Rosé' now going back and forth on rather the legs belonged to 'The Lalisa Manoban', which most deemed no.
And Lisa wasn't sure if that should be relieving, since she felt a little sad reading people's comments stating she was 'just too popular to be with someone like her', even when a good part of her career was based off being openly gay.
"Alright guys," Rosie stated as she started to let her playing fade. "I think that'll be it for today." She paused her fingers and brought the neck of her guitar down. Looking over her shoulder to Lisa, who was still seated above her. "My girlfriend and I made plans for a movie night tonight."
Lisa shot her a smile and Chaeyoung returned it, before facing the camera once more. Leaning forward and reading through some of the comments as they scrolled past. Many mentioning for the two of them to have a goodnight, besides the several that typed 'girlfriend reveal!' in all caps.
Chae chuckled. "No girlfriend reveal tonight guys. One day though, I promise." She wrapped an arm around one of Lisa's legs and swayed a bit. Enjoying the comments and choosing another to reply to. "Yeah, I appear happier because I am." She announced. "My baby is finally able to spend time with me."
Lisa sat quiet behind Chaeng. Glad that most viewers were noticing the positive changes in Chaeyoung's demeanor, but she was still put down by the fact she was a bad girlfriend for even letting her demeanor fall at all.
And maybe Rosie sensed she felt this way? Because when she said her goodbyes and ended the live, she immediately turned around and crawled up the bed towards her. Climbing into Lisa's lap with a small bite of her lip, and rotating her hips that she now held.
"Hello to you too." Lisa whispered as she looked down over Chaeyoung's body with a light smirk.
"Thought I'd come up here to tell you how much I love you. Instead of saying it while being down on the floor."
"Well you being up here definitely is appreciated." Lisa's hands moved down to Roseanne's ass, squeezing lightly. "Very appreciated."
Chaeyoung chuckled. Glad to see Lisa was enjoying her attention seeking antics just as much as she was, until the garage door opening downstairs drew their attention away from one another.
"Parents are home." She announced, followed by Lisa's groaned.
"And here I was thinking movie night would turn into smokin' sex." She joked, but honestly did mean it. "Unless..."
Rosie hit her arm with a smile. Yet she still ended up leaning forward, speaking into her ear. "Could still have some fun right? Beneath the blanket?" She whispered. Nibbling on Lisa's ear softly. "We'll just have to be quiet."
The idea of being sneaky on the downstairs couch made Lisa's eyes widen, and center warm. "Lips will be sealed." She stated. Watching as Roseanne smirked and climbed off of her. Retrieving her guitar off the ground, while Lisa was too busy thinking about what her lips would be sealed on.
While her parents would be upstairs, enjoying a night alone of their own.
"I'm going to go see how they enjoyed their dinner." Chaeyoung spoke to Lis, motioning downstairs. "You coming?"
"I'll head down in a sec." Lisa grinned. "Need to take care of something first."
"Okay babe." Rosie replied quietly, before heading out of the room and downstairs to greet Momma Ami and Marco.
Lisa on the other hand, rushed into the bathroom the second the blonde left. Checking herself out in the mirror and giving her shirt a sniff. She quickly pulled her nose away and reached into her drawer. Bringing out deodorant and perfume. Lifting her shirt to apply the liquid protection, before spritzing herself.
Wanting to make sure her girlfriend enjoyed every second of smokin' sex with Lalisa Manoban. Smells included.
She placed the items back inside the drawer and grinned to herself. Lifting up her shirt and revealing the light ab lines beneath. Studying the way the light played off her toned stomach. Thinking to herself about how they looked good, yet could still be better, when her phone went off in the other room.
Lisa furrowed her brows, letting her shirt fall down as she made her way to the bed. Grabbing the device and flipping it over to unveil the caller id, which she released a long sigh after viewing.
"Hey." She answered. Trying hard not to sound displeased and running a hand through her hair as she continued. "What's up?"
"Ah, you answered." Her manager chuckled. "Half expected you to decline the call."
"I was about to, but had a change of heart." She joked. Trying to disperse her gut feeling of impending bad news. "So..."
"So you're wondering why I called huh?" He questioned. "Sorry if it's a bad time."
"No, it's fine." She assured. "I was just about to start a movie night with my girl though. So I don't want to keep her waiting too long."
"I get it. And I'm glad you're enjoying your vacation so far." He spoke. Trying to keep his voice upbeat, though his face was holding a frown.
"Yeah I am." She smiled softly, looking to the opened bedroom door. Walking towards it and listening to the voices that carried up from below. Picking out Roseanne's heavenly laugh. "I really am." She whispered.
Usually able to lose herself in the thought of her girlfriend, yet somehow, the silence on the other end of the line was unsettling enough to make Lisa focus her attention back on him. "Why is it that you called?" She questioned carefully. "It wasn't just a check up, right?"
"Unfortunately not." He answered quietly. "I was told to contact you, in regards to an invitation received by the label. One, that was requesting your presence at an upcoming fashion event."
"Always fashion shows..." She sighed, shaking her head and closing the door beside her softly. "I'm really starting to feel like a model who hobbies dancing, rather than the other way around."
Her manager chuckled. Agreeing with the young woman's words, before he continued. "I can see how it may feel that way. At least right now."
"Yeah." Lisa fixed her bangs. "So... where am I being flown out to next week?" She questioned. "And will I have a few days here after my vacation? Before the flight? Or will I have to be packed and ready to go by the time the car comes?"
"Well... packed and ready to go." He replied cautiously. Sensing Lisa's strong gaze after those words, even through a phone call. "Look Lisa, this opportunity for you and the company itself is an... well, astounding one." He began. "You're being invited by the house ambassador of Celi-"
"I don't care whose inviting me to the f'ing show." Lisa interrupted. Changing the atmosphere of the call and her mood entirely. "I just want to know what you're not telling me."
The silence between them was long, before her manager decided the conversation before them was inevitable. As well as Lalisa's resentment. "The event takes place in a couple of days..." He finally admitted. "TheBlackLabel already confirmed your attendance."
Lisa pulled the phone away from her ear and stared at the floor. Her enclosed hand tightening around it, until she was scared of shattering the device. Bringing it back up to her face, only to play it off like she didn't hear the last sentence. "Well, it sucks that they can't postpone the event. Or at least, invite me to one I CAN attend. Seeing that I'm still on vacation." She replied, followed by a nervous chuckle.
"I'm sorry Lisa." He sighed. "But I had no say in it."
"You're my manager." She stated. Voice threatening to break. "You're supposed to make sure my best interests are in mind. Yet here you are, telling me I need to go downstairs and tell Chae that her girlfriend's vacation is no longer two weeks, but one. And ends fucking tomorrow? Are you being serious right now?"
"Lisa... let's stay calm."
"Stay calm?" She repeated. Standing up and pulling at the ends of her hair. "You're telling me to stay calm? When I've been working non stop for months on end. From one event to another. Dancing to mentoring. Modeling to having fan signings events just to make the company more money off me. When all I've ever wanted and asked for was a freaking break." She finished. Breathing heavily as warm tears met her skin. Making her wipe her cheeks as she sniffed.
"I truly did try..." He began quietly. "Even if you don't want to believe me, I told them how excited you were to see your girlfriend. And be able to spend time at home with her, since it's all you've ever talked about these past couple of months."
Lisa sniffed again, listening as he continued.
"But they didn't care." He sighed. "They had already made their decision, and only had me in the office to let me know, then told me to relay the news to you. News, that I didn't want to deliver Lisa. I promise."
She stood, frozen in place as her heartbeat only slowed. Her body soon growing tired. Tired of feeling like a failure, tired of hurting her girlfriend, tired of living this way. Constantly wondering when she'd be able to return home, and make love to her girl in the form of simply being able to share her company.
"Lisa?" Her manager questioned.
"I can't do this." She whispered. "I can't..."
"Do what Lisa?"
"This... exactly what you're telling me to do." She rubbed her face with a hand. Quiet tears still slipping down. "I can't tell her that tomorrow's our last day together. I can't hurt her anymore."
"I know, but maybe this is why the label usually restricts artists from dating? Since they know it's hard for them to maintain relationships."
"But I didn't sign up for being an artist."
"In their eyes you did."
"Then maybe I shouldn't have signed at all." She cried quietly. "Because I don't want to do this anymore."
"I'm sorry... but you did." He replied. "I'm hoping they'll ease up on you, but your sudden rise in popularity has really benefited the company."
"I know it has, but I'm telling you right now, I can't do this." She announced. "Not anymore... I want out. I- I need out."
Her manager took in a long breath, not expecting this day to come so soon. But considering how much love Lisa seems to share with her girlfriend, it only made sense. What sucked though, was having to tell her the truth. No matter how much it hurt her. "I understand." He spoke. "But you did sign that day Lisa. And it wasn't for a year and a half... but five."
She didn't want to listen anymore. Lisa didn't want to be reminded how much time she had left to endure, or to make her girlfriend endure because of her. But her manger was right, she had signed a contract. One, that she regretted terribly.
Especially while he was going over the final details of her vacation shattering event. Slipping in a few more 'sorrys', whenever she didn't reply, as if it's all he could say. Yet she really couldn't blame him for it, or any of this for that matter. As it was all TheBlackLabel's fault. And she knew that.
"I suppose you're done talking to me for the rest of the evening... aren't you?" Her manager questioned. And due to the lack of a reply, he got his answer. "Well... I, uh.... I hope she understands Lisa. And again, I'm sorry. For everything."
She merely hummed, before ending the call swiftly. Tossing her phone to the bed beside her, and clenching her fists and jaw tightly whilst she stood. Eyes shut as she internally cursed herself, wanting and wishing to wake up. But she ended up opening her eyes, and sucking in a deep breath instead.
Looking to the closed bedroom door and imagining the dreadful steps down to her girlfriend and family below. Honestly, feeling out of words. Out of it completely. Like she was covered in a gloomy haze as she made her way to the door. Opening it slowly, and making her way down those imposing steps.
Chaeyoung finally heard a creak from behind her, and turned around to face the stairs from within the dining room. "Goodness, there you are. I was beginning to think you were actually going to skip our mo..." Her words died out as her eyes trailed over Lisa's red ones. Even Momma Ami could be heard whispering about Lisa's appearance, as they all stared. "Babe?" She spoke. "What's wrong?"
"I just received a call..." Lisa announced quietly.
Chaeyoung's heart already thumping twice the speed it was before. Her body reacting to those five words in an instant, and her mind already anticipated the worst. "Who was it?" She asked nervously. Voice wavering.
"My manager..." Lisa met Chaeyoung's eyes and held them for as long as she could, before she couldn't anymore, and let her gaze fall. "The Label confirmed my attendance at an event, without my permission, and now I have to go."
"When?" Ami questioned quietly. Worried that an abrupt leaving of her daughter could reverse all the progress they've been making with Chae. "When do you have to go Pran?"
Lisa took in a breath, feeling her chest tighten at the upcoming words. "There will be a car for me the day after tomorrow. In the morning, and I-" She couldn't even finish explaining, before Chaeyoung was walking abruptly past. To the stairs beyond her. "Wait... Chaeng." She called after the sniffing blonde, who was already half way up the steps, and didn't intend on stopping.
Her eyes darkened as she looked back to her parents. Feeling as her face contorted and a stream of heavy tears returned. "I- I told him I couldn't leave her." She breathed in between her crying exhales. "That I can't keep hurting her like this and he said they didn't care. That the label didn't care... and that they made the decision to end my vacation early even without my manager present." She cried.
Ami leaving Marco's side and wrapping her arms around her breaking daughter. Wanting and needing to comfort her, just as much as Chaeyoung. Lisa oozing into her Mother's touch. Dropping her head down and crying into her main source of strength's neck.
"I don't want to do this anymore." Lisa choked back. "I don't want to... I just want Rosie. I want to be home." Her Mom rubbed her back, fighting tears of her own. "I can't keep hurting her Momma. I just can't. And it's all my fault... it's all my fault..."
Lisa's cries echoed up to the top of the stairs, where Chaeyoung was currently hidden in the shadows. Leaning against the wall beside their bedroom door. A hand covering her mouth to hide her sobs, as she quietly eavesdropped on the conversation below.
Realizing she's heard enough, before turning into their room and closing the door with the softest thud she could. Chaeyoung breaking down the second she did. Her choking cries emptying the air that had once been filled with anticipated pleasure, and replacing it with a depressing realization.
That no matter how much time she may have with her girlfriend, there will always be the day she'll have to leave. And it appears that day will come much sooner than previously anticipated, which was the most heart breaking thing about it all.
Because they've been so happy... and now they can't be. Now, they'll be separated again. By Seoul streets, country borders, or even an ocean. By miles and miles, having nothing but a FaceTime call to subdue their desires for being within one another's arms.
And now, for the first time in a very long time, she felt like she needed a cigarette. Her two fingers shaking, practically begging for something to be placed between them. Her lungs struggling to intake any air. Wanting only suffocating poison, masking as a way to numb the pain.
For having only tomorrow left with Lisa, whom she now knows doesn't want to live this way anymore, was making her feel like death. Like she was being tormented by the strongest headache, and the worst case of withdrawal. Like her sobs were seeping into her lungs, and drowning her every passing second.
Chaeyoung didn't even know she was struggling to breathe, until she had to lean against the bed, using her arms as support as she heaved. Her hair falling down across her face, sticking to her, as she practically suffocated.
That was until the door opened, and two arms found their way around her waist. Standing her up and leaning her back, as Chaeyoung fought against the hold. Trying to break from the embrace, but realizing her dainty hands were no use against the strong arms that held her.
So she gave up, and gave in. Turning around and collapsing into Lisa. Bunching up her girlfriend's shirt beneath her hands and crying into the woman's chest, as Lisa caressed her hair. "I'm so sorry baby." Lisa cried, stuffing her head down into Roseanne's neck. "This isn't what I wanted."
"I-I know." She replied quietly. Hands still shaking as she clung to her. Lisa tightening her hold and leading the two of them back to the bed, where they fell on top of the mattress together. Chaeyoung on her chest, nestled within Lisa's arms and legs.
The two of them falling silent, besides the sounds of their cries and sniffs.
~
Her tears stained Lisa's skin, while the Thai's arms were wrapped comfortingly around her frame. The crickets and steady breeze entering through the ajar bedroom window their nights only company. Besides themselves.
Chaeyoung finally, and slowly, lifting her head from Lisa's chest and trying to gauge the time by staring out their bedroom window. Noticing the bright full moon, that pooled it's light into the room. Light, that she followed to her right, and was met with it twinkling back within Lisa's eyes.
"It's nearly two." The Thai whispered, sensing her girlfriend's question of time, while reaching a hand out and brushing the stuck hairs away from Roseanne's face. "Are you okay?"
Chaeyoung replied with a nod of her head, before leaning against the hand that was now cupping her cheek. Her body still shaking, and she's pretty sure it wasn't due to the night's cool breeze.
Though Lisa's lips soon met her forehead, drawing a smile out of Chaeyoung. Her body immediately reacting to the gentle touch, and seeping back down into the graphic tee that loosely hugged Lisa's toned frame. Wanting nothing more than being continuously comforted by the woman, who'd be leaving a little later than this time tomorrow.
The thought made her sniff back her upcoming tears, and try her best to think of better things. Like how they still had all day together later... or how well Lisa smelt. Even through her stuffy nose.
"You smell nice." She commented. Lisa chuckling softly, while slipping a hand beneath her shirt. Rubbing her back tenderly.
"Thanks." Lis hummed. "I was trying to."
"Trying to?" Chaeyoung questioned. Lifting her head and looking to Lisa curiously.
"Yeah... before I got the call, I had undergone BO furloughing in the bathroom. Assuming we were going to be intimate with one another under that blanket downstairs."
Chaeyoung smiled softly. Crawling up Lisa's body a bit, where she could place a soft kiss upon her lips. Lisa offering her another, before resting the hand that had been moving across her back, on the lower half of it.
"I'm sorry... for ruining the night." Lisa spoke out. "And... the rest of our time together."
"You didn't ruin anything Lis." She assured her. Watching the Thai's face change within the dim moonlight. "Neither of us had any control over this."
"But I did." Lisa sniffed. "I signed the contract. I'm the reason we're like this... I'm always the reason we're like this."
"No you're not babe."
"Yes I am. I don't think things through and it causes repercussions. Like signing my life away, resulting in you struggling alone. Or, things like allowing that man the opportunity to hurt you because I'm-"
"Don't you dare say a bad person." She snapped. Interrupting Lisa's emotionally fueled self hatred. "We've been over this, and just because I'm relapsing doesn't mean you should be too."
Chaeyoung closed her eyes, finding her inner strength, before letting those eyes reopen, and take in Lisa's. "I hate your label." She began. "They're the reason we're like this. And if it were possible, I'd tell you to leave it and start your own. So you could be the boss and decide when enough is enough."
Lisa smiled a bit at the idea. Nodding her head, though she was still pretty taken back from the interruption beforehand. Yet Roseanne's words were still giving her ideas. One of which, she may even try to peruse. She'd just need the help of another.
"You know what I may hate even more than TheBlackLabel though?" Chaeyoung posed. Lisa quirking a brow in response. "Your way of apologizing to me by defaming yourself."
The brunette sighed, beginning a leisurely rub along Chaeyoung's back again. "Yeah... I know I do that quite often."
"Too often." Chaeng cupped her cheek. "I love you, you know? So so much. That's why I get so sad when you're gone, because I miss you as much as I do."
Lisa's heart warmed at the words. Her forehead's agonizing thumps settling, as she realized Roseanne didn't blame her. Not that she ever did, or could. But just hearing she was still loved was enough to let her rest. Using her hand to ease Chaeyoung back down, and cuddle up into her.
"I love you too Chaeng." She whispered. Kissing the side of the Australian's head as they laid pressed. Her girlfriend humming contently, before speaking once more.
"And Lis?"
"Yes baby?"
"I know you know you're a good person, and only ever try to deny it to find some form of answer to our problems." Chaeyoung expressed. "I just wish you didn't."
"I'll try my best not to." Lisa replied. "As long as you promise to love yourself too." She explained, feeling as Chaeyoung's breath hitched.
"I will..." Rosie sniffed. "I promise."