Rating: R
Disclaimer: I do not know, nor am I in any way affiliated with any of the celebrities mentioned in this fic. This is all a pure fabrication of my mind and I gain no profit through posting.



When In Rome



Chapter One ~Brenna

“Yellow just means go faster!” I yelp aloud at my sister, watching in glee when she stomps down hard on the accelerator of the car and runs through an intersection just as the traffic light gleams out a fierce red.

Giggling, I ignore the rowdy tones of my cell phone, as it seemingly screams aloud from inside my purse. Frick on a stick, I know who is calling, and I’m not about to answer and receive the lecture of doom about punctuality and how one should never, ever be late, especially to the airport! No doubt I’ll hear it an average of forty-eight billion times on the flight to Italy.

“It’s Mama!” I call out to Scarlet, and I watch the redhead make a grimace.
“No shit, sis,” she replies, “Who else would have ‘the bitch is back’ lyrics? I’m blaming you for us being late!”

My mouth drops as I glare over at the traitor but remain silent. I mean, maybe it is my fault…no, scratch that! I didn’t mean to lose my passport; it completely slipped my mind that I put it on top of the refrigerator when I was digging out a diet coke last night. And then, it was totally not my intention to forget whether or not I left the curling iron plugged in. Sometimes, the world is just against me!

My name is Brenna, just a twenty-five year old on the way to an airport from which I will depart for a month long stay in Italy…beginning with a detailed tour of the country, followed by a romantic Italian wedding for my youngest sister.

Now, I’m not talking about Scarlet, oh no. She is definitely in a solid commitment with her job at the moment, and wouldn’t even consider the idea of tying the knot. Nope, it is our baby sister who decided to take the plunge first, and no one was more surprised about it than me!

However, what started out as a small hometown wedding escalated into the monstrosity of grandeur that it is today. I’m not sure how it happened, but things simply snowballed at a frighteningly fast pace. Although, I have high suspicions that my mother held the puppet strings in this situation, her family is Italian, after all. Who else would suggest a wedding in Italy? I’ll keep this in mind for the future…

Note to self: Let parents have no part in planning your own wedding.

“I wish I had a tank,” Scarlet snaps, her cheeks flaming with irritation, “I’d just plow over all these moronic drivers!”

Okay, let’s tune that out. Road rage, much? Anyhow, so I would probably guess that most people really aren’t as into weddings as much as they claim to be…especially single folks! It’s just like a huge ceremony where the bride and groom basically scream, ‘in your face’ over and over. In your face, you don’t have someone who loves you as much as this, in your face, you don’t get a big party with an awesome dress, in your face, you have to give me presents today and don’t forget about all the showers you already dished out money on! *Maniacal laughter forever*

Alright, alright, I’m really not that bitter, just a little jealous. But, what I specifically described is only a small part of weddings; I believe I forgot to mention the worst and most uncomfortable part of all!

Relatives!

Oh, you know what I mean…those ones you haven’t seen in years who want to jabber on and on, never taking the hint that you’d rather pull off each of your fingernails than listen. If you’re lucky, you have the relatives who tell you how beautiful you’ve become and how proud they are of you.

If you’re like me, you have the ones who say ‘you’ve gotten so big!’ (And, they don’t mean tall!) Or, better yet, my most favorite question of all….when are you going to get married? You know, thirty is just looming around the corner.

Five more years, bitches! I won’t be thirty for five more years!

Focus, Brenna, focus! It’s uncharitable to think of your relatives in this manner; why, sometimes they can be perfectly charming, and of course, their protective nature when an outsider insults one of the family is quite endearing.

And yet, there is something people need to understand. Sometimes, in families there are that handful of connections that are just a bit off, they’re the ones you ‘forget’ to invite to the reunions. Well, think about them and then realize that is my ENTIRE family tree.

Nevertheless, people would assume that since my little sister’s wedding is all the way in Italy, not that many relatives would make it. Ha, right! Since my sister’s fiancé is so loaded and my father’s money just doesn’t care, they both decided to pay for everyone’s trip.

Like any member of my family in their right mind would pass up a free Italian getaway!

So, let’s make a checklist:

Crazy extended family-check!
Handful of close friends-check!
Normal stressors of being on vacation-check!
Managing to hide something very serious from my relatives-oh, double check that one!

This may or may not be the most exhilarating trip I’ll ever take, because I’ve sort of forgot to mention one very important detail. In the past two months, I have had a major change in my life, a pivotal relationship of mine ended in the nastiest way it possibly could. And, since I’m such a clever girl, the only person in the family who knows of this is my sister, Scarlet. We should all keep in mind that managing to possess a secret in the midst of the nosiest family on the planet is not going to be easy, but I’d rather not spill the guts and have everyone be disappointed with me for allowing yet another relationship to slip through the cracks!

Maybe I’m a glutton for punishment?


*****************************************************


“You have to grab the bear by the tail!”

“We know, Daddy,” both Scarlet and I answer in unison, as we hurry to get our baggage checked in while our father blathers on and on with his crazy phrases, all in his own attempt to make us understand the importance of punctuality.

“You have to take that initiative,” Daddy continues, his hand on his chin while he nods continuously, “You just can’t run a successful business and be late every day!”

Holy hell, eccentricity starting early. Now, no one is running a business, last time I checked. Scarlet is a court interpreter and I work as a nurse. My dad just has the tendency to ramble on with that same state of mind he had all those years ago when he was in charge of his own pharmacy. He also has the tendency to tell the greatest stories about ‘druggies,’ but those are for another time.

“Brenna,” Daddy places a firm hand on my shoulder, as I struggle with my hot pink suitcase, “You should be setting an example for you little sister. Now, what do you have to do?”
“Grab the bear by the tail!” I yelp aloud, getting four strange looks from the assorted airplane workers. Oh, was I not supposed to say something like that in an airport? Is it like a code phrase for ‘I’m a psycho and may blow up the plane, please, strip search me?’

Dear God, I hope not.

With a nervous nod to the employees, I swipe my passport through the machine and wait for my baggage stickers to print out. Daddy leaves Scarlet and I for a moment to catch up with the rest of our family, and the two of us share twin sighs of relief.

“As if that was the end of it,” Scarlet states, her voice dry as the desert.
“We’ll be hearing about this for years!” I screech in a high-pitched tone, not helping in my act of convincing the security guards that I am in full possession of my sanity, “They will bring it up over and over, saying we almost missed the plane because of us.”
“Even though we’re not leaving for another hour,” Scarlet nods in agreement, “What made us think this Italian wedding was a good idea?”

With a laugh, I shake my head, “I don’t remember ever thinking it was a good idea! I’ll be lucky if I don’t have a heart attack before it’s all over. I’m already at stage 3.”

Solemnly, Scarlet assesses me, mentally acknowledging that I completely skipped over stages 1 and 2. See, when we were teenagers, the two of us made up a whole intricate system of stress levels with detailed descriptions for each one. I can probably still recite them word for word, and I am definitely at Stage 3…

The point where your insides are twisting into a knot that is tighter than the position the Spice Girls were in when Ginger quit.

With a smile, I watch Scarlet dig a roll of Tums antacids out of her purse and throw it my way.

“Stage 3 preparation,” I chirp, “I’m impressed!”
“As long as we don’t reach the dreaded power danger levels,” Scarlet replies as we walk forward through the busy terminal, avoiding packs of people and flailing children, “Anything but that!”

The noise echoes about us while blinding sunlight pours through all the huge glass paneled windows. The two of us step onto the moving walkway, letting it carry us forward in a supreme display of laziness. Annoyed businessmen step around us, and I could care less. Why else would they make moving walkways if they didn’t want you to stand on them? I feel as though I’m George Jetson and I like that!

Continuing on, Scarlet and I are typically oblivious as we finally arrive at our correct gate. The huge plane is parked outside, and despite myself, I feel a tremor of excitement rush through me.

I hope that, when in Rome, I will have a bit more luck than the States have been offering me lately. I mean, it couldn’t possibly get worse, could it?

Oh hell, did I just skunk myself?

Squee!! I've been checking my computer every half hour to see if this was up yet! lol

I seriously can't wait to see where this is all heading, and who is the younger sister getting married in the massive Italian ceremony!! Methinks this is gonna be pure chaos!

And I love your writing style in this one...it's very Bridget Jones. Or maybe that's just 'cuz I've watched that movie about four times this weekend...could be. But I love it! :P Definitely looking forward to more! :)

Jaime

Oh man, what a lovely way to start my week!! I feare I had no time to post ebfore my test, instead, I made it!!

I already love Brenna. As Jaime said, she has a bit of Bridget Jones' attitude, but she's eve more sarcastic and I like it!!!

Also, you can easily expect to be giddy over a fic that is settled in my home country, and where I have such beautuful sisters and friends!!!

I so enjoyed the part about Scarlet driving and scolding her sis for being late. i'd do it, because I HATE driving, you know.

And, the cpmplicity between the two of them their secrets and their stages of pressure are amazing!!

But...

*screams* he's here!! HERE!
*hugs daddy Cletus to pieces*

boeahaha, loved this, sissy. Definitely what i needed now!

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
*bounces around*

It's up, it's up, it's up!!!
I have been sooo looking forward to this fic.
And the beginning was absolutly amazing!!

Ahahahahahaha
That promises a whole lot for the coming chappies
*grins*
Disaster magnet!!

*bounces*
Looove the description and how you pegged the whole family in these few sentences.
:yes:

:devil:
Oh dear this is going to be fun!
I can smell it in the water, I can smell it in the earth
Ooops....wrong movie :laugh:

Great beginning Amber!
:love:

Lovely!
Witty and ironic!
I think I already adore Brenna! She reminds me of myself in certain situations!
I won't promise I can be very punctual in reading, giving the busy I am at the moment, but I'll do my very best to keep myself updated!

*off to Rome!*

*ah! no! Wait! I LIVE IN ROME!!!!!*

:tsk:

Grrrrr indeed you do!!!!!

:anger: :anger: :anger:

Some people just have it all :meh:

Amber that was great!!
I'm so excited for this fic! I'm sad that UYS is over because that was just genious but, I'm happy for a new story!

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Wahoo!!
More soon?!

~Stacy~

*Hearts floating around my head* Oh Cletus, how I love and miss thee! :wub:
:love: Deathlear

Great job Amber! :bow: I definatly like it this from reading chapter 1! Scarlett sounds like me. *Weird?* :huh: But anyways, can't wait for more! UPDATE SOON! I need to go work on my stories speaking of which. :eeek:
:love:
~Kit-Kat~

*does the "its a new Amber story" dance*

Oh man, I have been so excited for this puppy, it is not even funny and here it finally is.

Of course, I am hooked right away.

Love the interactions between Scarlet and Brenna. They sure are some fiesty girls! ^_^

This line killed me...

:laugh:

You had me rolling with all the commentary about relatives, for it is so true. If they aren't commenting on how fat you have gotten (or in some cases how skin and bones you are) they are questioning about marriage or even worse...babies!!!
Relatives...crazy lot. And with weddings, I swear they just get even crazier.

A wedding in Italy with crazy relatives in tow should be quite interesting...or at least a recipe for disaster.

One last thing before I go...I love how papa is molded after Cletus. As soon as I read the "grab the bear by the tail" I screeched Cletus. Crazy.

I know I still haven't caught up with Under Your Spell but I swear by Hecate I will read it and leave a reaaaaly reaaaallly reaaallly long entry about how much it rocks (which it does) er...well, reading this, tis most exciting! Coming from a greek family I can relate to much of it, and funnily enough I'm only 16 and people are asking me when I'M getting married!

Can't wait for more! Got to go before my sister makes me into sushi!

:heartbeat: Pat

*grumbles*

*pokes*

I'm jealous. :cry:

Oh Amber, how I've gone through 'your writing' withdrawals since Friends! And I've actually caught this one at the beginning, yay! ^_^ This looks to be a definitely hilarious adventure of sorts, and you bet I want to be along for the ride.

I love the way you've written this, in the first person amusing thoughts perspective, and we get to see Brenna's opinion of everything, which is so funny. I laughed much.

Finally, someone reveals the true meaning of the yellow light. :lol:

I don't want to stuff up this post with quotes, but I died laughing while reading the paragraph about weddings being about the bride and groom going 'in your face'! haha. You're so right, it's basically them doing this :neene: to everyone who's single. And it's not obvious at ALL that Brenna's bitter, lol.

And props on the George Jetson reference! I would feel like him too on moving sidewalks. *grins*

Hmmm, summing up:
1. You're awesome!
2. This looks like it's going to be a fantastic story.
3. Relatives = crazy amusement and possible embarrassing situations
4. Your character development so far is superb.
5. Um...you're awesome? No wait, I said that already, lol.

But yeah, I look forward to reading more! :shine:

*blushes insanely*

You girls!!!!!!

tsk tsk tsk, Spoiling me again! :wub: Ya'll are so wondrous and sweet and supportive! I can't even begin to say how happy your comments made me. *beams* I must say, it is going to be HARD to follow Under Your Spell, but I must try, so your words mean so much to me.

Gotta quote, already!

Aw, Jess, that is a HUGE compliment to me since I love Bridget Jones so very much. And, it was so sweet of you to say that you kept checking to see if the story was up. *hugs*

Thanks so much! I reckon everyone's family can be about that crazy at times, and I do so much love writing crazy families. Maybe from personal experience? *scratches head* Glad you liked it!

haha! Oh, Ursi, I will have to keep on my toes with both you and Mena reading...hope I don't make any major mistakes when describing places or trying to tackle the language. I suppose I should also say that I feel a bit honored that you read this. *blush* Thank you!

Aww, thank you, Stacy! I'm really glad you quoted the Spice girls line...I had a lot of fun thinking that one up. *giggle*

As I told you yesterday, this killed me with hysterics. Oh, we are soooo affiliated with Cletus in any way possible. The cartoon hearts floating around my head will neva stop!

Thanks so much for reading, Kat! I'm glad you like the beginning and are reading. *hugs*

Oh, Cletus....oh, Cletus...everyone knows Cletus! He should have his own bracelets that say W.W.C.D. for what would Cletus do. I heart you, Bear! Thanks for the comment.

*giggles over Hecate line* Aw, Pat, thanks for reading! Crazy relatives asking about marriages...will they ever learn? *hugs*

Mena Lou! Squeals times infinite...I will make sure AmAm reads this. I love making Cletus famous..I think it should be my life goal, to spread the wisdom of Cletus across the globe. Soon, people will say, Harry Potter? Ha! We read Cletus books. hahaha! Thanks for replying, and of course the tons of support you always give me and all the help and ideas!

Celandine! Do you know that I was reminiscing about the old Friends days and I thought about you and all the fun the group of us had? I am so glad you are reading and super pumped! You're such a supportive dear, I really appreciate it! Hope this one will live up to Friends standards, eh! ;-) Thanks again, dear!



Okay, finally spent, I suppose. I guess I'm a bit nervous and the like since I must repeat, Under Your Spell is so hard to follow! This story definitely won't be as complex or tricksy with a plot line...mostly because pharm school is a bit too bitchy right now to allow me. But, I will try my darndest not to disappoint you all. And, if it helps, I wuv you! ^_^



Chapter Two ~Brenna

There’s nothing like boarding an airplane to make you lose your grip on sanity and plunge straight forward into mental cursing and blood boiling temper tantrums that you must, at all costs, keep silent.

“Oops, sorry,” the giggling teenager tells me, after she steps on the back of my shoe for what must be the millionth time in three minutes. I feel the profanities jangling about in my skull, very creative ones that would do my parents proud. And yet, confined by the rules of this blasted society, all I can do is nod at the girl, keeping my face molded into a tight smile.

I’m not sure what it is, but people get so nervous when boarding time comes around. It’s not like someone can steal your seat when it’s printed on your ticket in black, bold letters. This doesn’t stop the pushing and shoving, however, and it certainly does not ease the squished, claustrophobic vibe you get when you’re packed between two strangers like a sardine in a can.

When I finally get to my seat, I stand idly before it, watching all the people behind me board and stow away their baggage in the overhead bins. Is it bad that I recognize nearly half of these occupants as family and friends? It’s not too late to sneak off this bad boy Boeing and escape this Italian trip from hell.

“Brennalicious!”

Hmm, only one idiot calls me that…big brother alert! Turning quickly, I see Dominic twisting his way through the aisle to stand beside me. His familiar gray eyes roam about my face, while that blasted cheeky grin resides on his countenance.

“We can get out of here right now,” I proclaim in a conspiratorial tone, my eyes shifting back and forth in a sneaky fashion, “Escape to sweet freedom…prison break!”
“You’re so dramatic,” Dom giggles, shaking his head full of blonde hair.

Whatever, like he’s not used to it by now…he’s had twenty-five years of my drama queen fits. See, I think that a normal person should have a balance of calmness with tension, but the powers that be made a mistake with my brother and I. While Dominic got all the serenity and laid back nature, I got every high strung tendency possible. Thus, we sort of stabilize each other, so I always feel better when my brother is around.

“This trip is going to be brilliant, you’ll see,” Dom assures, while I shake my head nervously. What does he know…I’m already in trouble with Mom and Dad! Jesus, I’m grabbing the bear by the tail, and we haven’t even left yet.

But, then again, Dom doesn’t really know what it’s like to receive the scolding and disapproving looks from our parents. Trust, he made his share of mistakes growing up, and I shudder to even think of his wilder teenage years. And yet, Mom and Dad just sort of go with the flow when it comes to Dominic…maybe because he is the only boy in the family, I am not sure. Here’s a little secret: if I were inclined to pick who the favorite was, my finger would point in Dom’s direction.

I can’t belittle my teammate, though. Since Dom and I are the oldest of the four children, we always held a bond of bossiness and superiority towards our younger sisters. We were in charge, we ruled the roost, and I’m sorry to admit, but we did so enjoy teasing them! Now that we are adults, we have grown out of it, I dare say.

Hmm, I should rephrase that-I have grown out of teasing; Dom still goes forward full force, especially with poor Scarlet. But, to define Dom and Scarlet’s relationship would fill a whole book, so I’ll drop that subject here.

“Oh, looky,” Dom says excitedly, breaking up my mental musings while pointing to his hand. Feeling my super tension-coiled emotions slipping away, I realize that he has something scrawled over his skin. With an amused grin, I take a step closer to inspect the writing. The big blue letters read out: Don’t forget passport!

This whole writing on your hands jazz is just a certain something the two of us picked up when we were kids; perpetually forgetful people can’t just write themselves notes, for they will even lose those scraps of paper! It takes a lot more to misplace a hand, so our method is pretty much foolproof.

Thus, I don’t think I surprise my brother at all when I hold my hand up to reveal that I have written the exact same thing on my skin. The two of us laugh aloud and slap our hands together in a sort of reverse high five motion. Sometimes we think so alike that it is scary!

“Okay, where is Stacia?” I question, kneeling to rest on my seat. My fingers curl over the headrest, as I notice a slight darkness cloud over Dom’s eyes. I figured something was up; the last three times I’ve gotten together with my brother, his wife has been oddly absent. She is either avoiding the family for which, goodness, I can’t blame her; or else, the two of them are having some problems.

“She’s in the bathroom,” Dom replies with a shrug of dismissal, as he absently taps his wedding ring against the airplane seat, “Stace hasn’t been feeing one hundred percent lately.”

In other words, don’t ask cuz he won’t tell what the problem is. With Dom, secrets are best left to lie until he’s ready to spill. It’s okay, though, for we all have things we’d prefer to keep to ourselves. Actually, I have quite a big something right about now and…

“How is Dave?” Dom questions innocently, and triple hell with a cherry on top, I should have expected this question. I mean, if I ask about Stacia, of course Dom is going to inquire about Dave in return. Real smart move, Brenna, keep that deer in the headlights look going. Dom will catch on to you in half a second!

“Uh, um, well, you know things are busy at his job right about now and…” I trail off stupidly, but thank the crazy relative gods that I hear a shrill voice screaming out my name. Turning quickly and very thankful for the interruption, I am not prepared for the sight that greets me.

My mother, in all her fuming glory, is seemingly searching for me throughout the airplane cabin, bellowing my name with sharp force. Craptastic, this is not good…I’d almost prefer being given the third degree by Dom. Almost.

Thinking fast, I know right at this moment I cannot accept a useless scolding for being a few minutes late and nearly missing the flight. Heck, it’s over and done with, we’re all aboard, what does it matter now? But, the Italian Madre is headed my way, and there shall be no escape from wrath. And, people wonder where I get my high-strung attitude!

What happens next is as much a surprise to me as to anyone else, I’d wager. My legs give out and I drop to the ground, hidden from view by the seats. Dom laughs at me from above, but I ignore him, content to keep my super invisible action going. Glancing about, I nearly scream aloud and blow my cover. A pair of eyes is staring at me from underneath the seat and my heart jumps up into my throat.

A giggle sounds out, and a little boy crawls forward and sits cross-legged in front of me. I know this flailer! He is my cousin’s child, and no doubt, they haven’t a clue he is making his way through the plane by rolling about on the floor.

Tilting my head to the side, I assess the situation. There is a grin of 100% mischief on Stuart’s five-year-old face, and his blue eyes are sparkling with mirth. He really is a cute boy, if you ignore the fact that at times he acts like a spawn of Satan himself.

“What are you doing?” I ask him with a sharp adult scolding tone, trying in vain to make my face look cross and serious.
Stuart giggles, oblivious to my harshness, “I’m hiding from my mommy.”

I almost said: me too, but checked myself just in time. If ever there was an instant I understood exactly what gave children the impulse to flee from their mothers, now is that moment.

“Well,” I proclaim diplomatically, “I can’t blame you for that!”

Suddenly, the fact that I have had the same idea as a five year old seems quite amusing to me. With muffled giggles, I join in with Stuart’s victorious flailing.

Heck, I may be old, but I never said I was mature.

Hehe, check me out, again first to reply!!!

A few quotes to begin with:

lmao!!! That poor bear is gonna start to get mighty pissed off if you and Cletus keep grabbing it by the tail...

I can't even describe this style of writing that you have, it's like Stacia and Starla's Stalking Service...but I love it so!!! Methinks that when we finally meet in real life we're gonna have the funniest conversations, and no one else is gonna be able to understand what the hell we're talking about! lol

I'm honestly loving this more than words, your humour just draws me in. Love it sooooooooo!!!!!!

Weeeee
such a great update.
I always like a laugh and that I did when reading this.
The whole chappie made me grin like an idiot,
and I feel tempted to quote it all.
But I will be a nice girl and leave something for the rest :devil:

(Oh and by the way.....what or who is Cletus???? :meh: )

I have never flown before but somehow I have the feeling that this feeling goes for all ways of transportation in which you are packed with strangers in a to small a place for to long a time. :laugh:
Somehow these things are always jampacked with idiots *grins*

Lol
She makes it sound like there are iron prison bars in front of the plane windows and she will be stuck behind them forever. Wailing and clinging to them, trying to break free, ehe
:blush: yep I have way to much fantasy

:laugh:

:lmao:
You make italian mothers sound like bull dozers :laugh:
But I do love her reaction!!

Great chappie Amber!

Update! YAY!! :yahoo

Thanks for the hug and I am enjoying this story alot. It really does remind me of my family, that it is scary!

Oh my God! :blink: :woot: That is excatly like my realtionship with my older brother! Ok tottaly scary! I told you Scarlett was like me! Anyways, great update Amber and can't wait for more!
:hug: :love:
~Kit-Kat~

You updated so soon, yay! They need a jigging smiley on this site, haha.

I love this, you captured so much as they were just getting seated, I could imagine all the hustle and bustle going on around Brenna and her brother as they talked to each other. And when you mentioned her recognizing almost half the people on the plane, my first thought was "holy overpopulation, Batman! That's a HUGE family!" lol

:laugh: Haha, oh man, I hate it when people give you flat tires in line! The rudeness on a plane is like rudeness at the movies sometimes when little kids just keep talking over the movie. Plane boarding is bleh...once I had a flight to Chicago from Oakland, and I had to sit on the aisle seat next to a couple, the people I came with were several rows ahead, it was so awkward. So I just sat there and read Two Towers the whole time, hehe.

I have to say that I love the relationship that Brenna has with Dominic, it's so cute! *hugs them* They have this kind of semi-twin psychic thing going on, and seem to communicate in many more ways than just speaking. Great job with that! You also did a great job with establishing where everyone ranked in her family, at least concerning the siblings. It sounds like she has an interesting family, just by looking at her, Scarlett, and Dom. :lol:

:lmao: That was perfect at the end there, that she was hiding just like her cousin was. So cute! I can totally relate to this because I have a five year old cousin who's the sweetest thing at times, but then he gets wild and runs around the house like a "carnotaur", something he made up that's a cross between t-rex and carnivore, I think, haha.
'
I love the humor you keep in this as well, it gives it a light hearted quality that's fun and enjoyable. Great chapter! ^_^

Oh, I'm supposed to relay a message to you: ~Jewelz~ is taking leave of the site for a while, and she was so sad that she couldn't read your new story, so I told her I'd email your chapters to her (if that's ok), and she was happy about that, so she wants to assure you that she'll still be reading this and thinks you're awesome!

Wow those are some amazing chapters. I loved the beginning especially the driving it was very entertaining. I just enjoyed the whole thing, like the huge family aspect and Stuart. This is going to be a great fic, can't wait for more.

Ciao
~Claire

Reading..!!! I can imagine that plane..!! Let's talk about a crazy flight..!!

I'm sorry I'd abandoned you for a while sis' life has been kind of jerky lately.. But I'm back for good (K)

YAY! UPDATE! UPDATE!
Your analogies and descriptions you throw into every chapter never fails to put a smile on my face!

*cries*
:cry:
Awe... I'm sick.
*What's Dom to come save me*

HA! I feel like that all the time!

Awesome update!
Bring on Italy!

~Stacy~

AHAHAHAHAA funniest chapter ever. I don't think I'd be able to survive on a plane filled with all my relatives. Plus if it was filled with all of them, it'd be half the population of Greece and about 1/3 of Melbourne and Sydney born greeks lol. It'd be a huge ass plane! lol.

Wonderful chappie! I can't wait to see what happens next, the funniest stories come from family gettogethers.

:heartbeat: Pat

:lol:

You never ever fail to amuse me, Am.

That whole chapter was so funny; maybe the better word is quirky, though.

We've got such an insight into all these relationships. I luff it.

I really want to know: a) who the hell this Dave character is, B) what's up with Stace and Dom and c) WHO'S GETTING MARRIED?!?!

I may be the only one out of C but .. oh well. *shrug*

*jumps* Girls, I love you! Your comments made me all giggly and happy. So glad you're all liking it and I'm getting a few laughs. The feedback means so much to me! *hugs like crazy*

Glee! We'll have such fun! I suppose that style is the way I talk so you know we'll have excellent convos! Killer 5! *giggle*

Oh my, Dana, tomorrow when I write you I'll tell you all about Cletus. He was my Pharmacy Law teacher last semester and is the hero of my life. Many of the sayings he will say in this story are going to be real sayings he told us in class. Cletus=the daddy in this story.

Yeah, it's fine if you want to email her chapters. Tell her I shall miss her greatly and I hope she can come back soon!

I'm SO glad you're back! *clings*

*laughs manically* So glad to hear it, my dearest Sam! I am super pumped you are reading! I just sent you a PM, kay!


And, again, thanks to everyone who read! Here's some more!




Chapter Three~ Brenna

Reclining my seat back about as far as it will go, I make an annoyed sound when I feel it get kicked from behind. Stupid cramped airplane space! Looking to my right, I notice the teenage girl who stomped on my foot earlier…umm, well, actually, she isn’t the only person I see. There seems to be a gigantic teenage boy attached to her lips, maybe sucking the life from her, I am not quite sure. Public displays of affection on a plane don’t necessarily make my day; I might need the barf bag, and pronto.

“If the bitch behind me doesn’t quit kicking my seat,” Scarlet states from my left side, “I think I will have a brain hemorrhage.”
Assessing my sister’s expression I can tell she means business, as her eyes are icy cold and her skin holds an angry, red flush. I suppose anyone could grow impatient after several hours of an errant foot slamming against your back with no apologies at all. But, I can’t help if I find the whole situation a bit humorous; blame it on delirium and time changes.

So, it is with much giggling and fidgeting about in my chair that I manage to reply, “Oh, the joys of an overseas flight! Don’t you wish we could do this each and every day?”

My sister snorts aloud, before slamming her seat back in an overdramatic fashion of sheer defiance. The muffled oath from the poor soul behind her is enough to confirm that she definitely took out one kneecap, perhaps even two. Guess they deserved no less.

“I can’t wait till we land,” Scarlet whines, tucking a strand of red hair behind her ear. Her eyes seem nervous, and from the way she fidgets it is quite easy to see how uncomfortable she is with the confined situations and her lack of nicotine. Yes, she smokes like a train no matter how often I scold her with the health risks. Personally, I don’t want black lungs, but Scarlet has no problem with that.

All in all, though, I think this trip is going to be the best thing that ever happened to my sister. To be truthful, this is the closest thing to a vacation Scarlet has taken in the last four years since she got her job as a court interpreter. Oh yes, my sister is certainly good at what she does, but also pretty much lets her job control her life. She needs to take it easy for once and not worry about minute details and freak out about things that could never possibly occur!

“I really need to call the office,” Scarlet continues, rocking back and forth a bit like a junkie who is missing their fix. However, as I am hard-core big sis, I will not accept this type of neurotic behavior. Making a face, I throw up my hand to stop her, “You know they explicitly told you to enjoy yourself and not think about work! If you don’t adjust this race car pace you are going to burnout, and then what good will you be to them?”
“Yeah, yeah,” Scarlet grumbles, but at least she tries to humor me by falling back in her seat and giving the whole ‘relaxing’ suggestion a go.

For this trip, I reckon the smartest thing to do is stick by Scarlet’s side. First of all, I want to make sure she actually takes the time to enjoy herself and unwind from her usual out of control maniacal ‘I’m so obsessed with my job that if it was legal in any part of the country I would marry it’ state of mind. But, more importantly, Scarlet is the only one of us who speaks Italian fluently, besides our mother, of course. And, it would be a lot more fun to stick by my sister’s side, than to parade around receiving lectures from Mom.

Let’s not forget I just hid under an airplane seat to avoid one.

So, me and Scarlet are going to be like peas and carrots on this trip…she’s the carrots, but I won’t say it aloud! She can order me food, ask for directions, tell hot Italian guys that I love them and want to have their Italian babies. Ummm, hot Italian guys.

“Brenna!” Scarlet says loudly, snapping her fingers before my face in an exasperated manner, “You totally just zoned out. I asked you a question!”
“What?” I inquire blankly, blinking my brown eyes against the dreamy haze of foreign love.
“I was asking how you were feeling about,” her gray orbs bounce about quickly to make sure no one in our family is within ear shot, “the situation with Dave.”

Immediately sobering, I breathe in quickly as the wave of disappointment washes over my body. Dave is the kryptonite to my happy moods…each time I think things are going great, memories of him wash in to slam across my cheeks with the sorrow and rage of a stormy sea.

“I don’t want to talk about him,” I mutter crossly, fiddling with my glasses. I take them off and fuss over wiping them clean. In reality, this is just a well-worn habit to make myself feel better…if I take my glasses off, I can’t see the world around me clearly, and maybe, in reciprocation, it can’t see me.

“Bren,” Scarlet says gently, “Eventually, you’re going to have to tell me what really happened…why you called the engagement off.”
“Yeah, I know that,” I reply sarcastically, “I just need a break from talking about him, okay? And, remember; don’t breathe a word about this to anyone else. I’m not in the mood for questions, plus I can’t steal Rosalie’s thunder.”

Scarlet makes a reluctant noise in the back of her throat, but nods in agreement. She is the only soul who knows that my engagement is broken; I lied to the rest of my family and said Dave couldn’t make it to the wedding because of work. The thing is, I don’t want the attention shifted away from my youngest sister’s big day.

And, I’m not ready to tell anybody why yet another of my relationships ended.

Touching my hand briefly, Scarlet lets the matter drop completely as I return my glasses to my face. The instant my vision is corrected, I see the person this whole trip is focused on traipsing down the aisle towards us, wobbling a bit on her pink heels when the plane hits a pocket of turbulence.

“Hello, Princess Bride!” I call out to my baby sister, giggling at the way she cringes, and then slightly gags.
“Cool it,” Rosalie snaps, as she shoots a pained expression Scarlet’s way, “Do you really think they would care if I smoked in the bathroom?”

Shaking my head, I let my two siblings launch into a massive bitch fest about the unfairness of no smoking rules as I lean back and study them. They are very alike, Rosalie and Scarlet. Both have flaming red hair and gray-green eyes that seemingly change shades just about as frequently as their moods. And, I’ll tell you something…it’s not easy having redheads as sisters!

Even ignoring the whole fiery temper, which, believe me, is pretty hard to ignore-you still have to contend with the fact that they are both two of the most beautiful girls you could ever imagine! What’s the big deal, you say? Well, to put it bluntly, my appearance is as follows: dull brown hair, boring brown eyes trapped behind glasses, ordinary body, and average height.

It’s never any fun to be the plain sister.

But, truly, it doesn’t bother me that much…I’m just Brenna, and that is all I can be. I love my sisters dearly, and there’s not a resentful bone in my body when it comes to them. Only, it doesn’t hurt to curse my unluckiness when it comes to the beauty department every now and again, right?

“So, you didn’t forget your disgusting bridesmaid dresses, huh?” Rosalie prods, shooting a pointed look at Scarlet and I. We both shake our heads, as there were triple checks this morning to make sure the pink poofy numbers were smashed inside our bags.
“Disgusting, indeed,” Scarlet mocks, and I watch her fingers twitch together as though she were holding an imaginary cigarette, “If you hate them so much, why were they the only things you picked out after hours upon hours of us parading about in heels and frickin’ skirts?”
“Oh my God, don’t stress me out, okay!” Rosalie screeches in her patented ‘I’m about to throw a drama queen fit’ tone, and Scarlet backs down. It amuses me the way Rosalie has a knack at bullying us, though we are the older and should rightfully boss her around. There’s a lot of punch and pluck packed into her tiny five foot two inches frame.

However, in the present strain of conversation, Scarlet is right; it took Rosalie ages to choose a bridesmaid dress for us, and even longer for her to pick out a wedding one. I realize this is a big decision for any woman to make, but it almost appeared as though our sister was reluctant to do it. And, this emotion always keeps revealing itself when it comes to details about the wedding; I just hope Rosalie is ready for all this. She’s only twenty-one years old, for goodness sake.

Not five years from thirty like me!

“It’s still three weeks until the wedding,” Rosalie says with a shrug, as though she were quite relieved to nearly have a month before the big day, “I have lots of time.”
“Time for what?” Scarlet prompts, as Rosa seems to be talking more to herself than either of us.

Rosalie frowns and pauses for a moment, her fingers gripping tightly to the headrest of the airplane seat. Her expression turns to one of unease and disgust with an overlying dominance of fear. Hmm, let’s screech this airplane to a halt in mid-flight; what is going on with Rosalie and why does it seem like her wedding is the equivalent to medieval torture in her mind?

Yet, just as quickly as the terror glimmered in her eyes, Rosa pushes it away and pulls a smashing grin upon her face. Squishing her body between Scarlet and I, though protesting groans ring out in the air, Rosalie wraps an arm about each of our shoulders.

“Time for touring the country of our mother, our ancestors…for seeing Sicily, Milan, Venice, and Rome!” Rosalie bursts out cheerfully, and I have a sneaking suspicion she is using her actress voice.
“Time for drinking the best wine in the world,” Scarlet adds with a grin, her eyes glazing over with memories of her past times in Italy, “And, for smoking beautiful cigarettes any time we see fit!”

Right, sure, what are they thinking? Rosebuds and rainbows do not tend to surround our family often, so why are they painting a picture of perfection? God knows no vacation in the past ever turned out remotely similar. And, heck, it is my job as the cynical one to burst their bubble.

Tossing my brown hair at the two of them, I continue the rave with a more plausible scenario, “More than enough time for our relatives to drive us mad.”

“Brenna!” Scarlet and Rosalie complain in unison, their mouths turned down at the corners and their twin eyes snapping with annoyance. I feel like we are kids again and I spilled the fact that Santa Claus wasn’t real. Hope they don’t start crying and breaking my toys this time around.

But, hey, one of us has to be realistic! What do they expect, a super romantic trip through Italy where we all find true love and eternal happiness?

This isn’t a fairytale.

Hehe, I like this pattern of me being first to reply.

And OMG, you made ME the sister-who's-getting-married-in-a-massive-Italian-ceremony?? Man, if this character is anything like the real me no wonder she's fucking scared! Seriously don't blame her lol!

Haha! But THAT, my dear, is true to life. And don't tempt me, 'cuz I'd actually do it...

Hehe, damn right. I can still kick the s*** out of my RL brother, and he's a good foot taller than me...

This fic gives me a happy sooooooo much!!! SQUEEEEEE!!!! Oh, and KILLER 5!!!!!

*pants*
It's SO unfair!! I have been waiting so anxiously for this story, and now that it's up it seems like I never have time to reply!!
I cannot believe I missed TWO chapters... well, not technically missed bc I read them... okay, enough of it.

You know what's funny?? That both my character and Jess' are so alike us in a way, and so different in another... like, could I ever freak out because I miss my job? Heck no, trust me.

I simply adored the way you managed to describe the links among the siblings in the past two chapters, how Brenna and Dom think the same and act the same, writing on hands and such, and how Dom and Scarlet cannot stand each other *pokes Dom*, and how Scarlet and Brenna are so close that they share their secrets (in this case, Brenna's secret), how Brenna feels towards her sisters, and eventually, the common features carlet and Rosalie share.

t's so good and smooth that I find myself saying: hey, wait a sec, are we sure we're not related FOR REAL???

there are many things I enjoyed, of course, but I gotta hold myself back. Just a few ones:

This made me cringe and want to pat her. Awwww, Bren, you should not feel that. I'll tell you, redheads are much less tempered and cool than they're cracked up to be. ;)

*grins mischieviously*

First, I love the carrot reference... and also, ahemmmm,maybe I should not say that, but in Italian, there's an interesting naughty pun over the word 'peas'. I'd better explain it somewhere else. But to make it short, I'm fne with carrots, boeahahahah!!!!

Don't ask me why, but I find this image so cute and endearing... it doesn't take me much to make me whine that I miss my girls, when I'm in such a sappy mood.

Now let's wonder: what is Rosa afraid of???

Dum dum dum...

*pouts* I'm potty and whiny and pissy that I haven't had time to give proper replies to this gem of a story.

But I am here now, stealing a moment or two, to rave about the glorious story that is When in Rome.

First of all, I love how you are spelling out the relationships between the siblings. I had a good chuckle over Brenna and Dom and the writing on their hands. ^_^

I also like how as you explain the relationship of the siblings to Brenna that we get bits and pieces of the siblings personality. Such as Scarlet being a complete workaholic, and Rosalie being the bossy one despite being the youngest.

What really had me on the floor was when Brenna hid from her mother on the floor with Stuart. Sheer genius my dear.

I'm intrigued to find out what is going on with Stacy and Dom's relationship, along with Brenna and her big secret of no longer being engaged (what the heck happened?!) and what has got Rosalie so spooked.

Methinks ( -_- ) that there is a lot more than what meets the eye.

Aaaargh everyone all ready said and quoted what I wanted to quote
*pouts*
It is an amazing update hon...so no need to feel insecure, okies?!

I am also in absolute awe that the style of this fic is totally different from under your spell. Usually people write in one sort of style, get good in it and then stick by it. But you have changed yours and it is absolutly great!

It is very witty and funny...with loads of sarcasm and hidden angst.
I cannot wait to see what will happen,
but I am confident it will be good.

Just one small quote from me:

interesting choice of words :devil:

That was a great chapter and i'm so excited to see how everything turns out. I wish i could go back to Italy. Anyways... can't wait for more because it is so incredibly good. I just love it


so...

Ciao
~Claire

*beams* Thank you all so much! *hugs all around, yet again* We all know how lacking in self-confidence I am with this writing, especially when I start a new fic. Especially when that fic follows Under Your Spell. :eek: Ya'll are helping me feel like, okay, I can do this, I can keep writing. Thanks so much, it means the world to me. And, I'm super bouncy and happy that you are liking the siblings. It was fun thinking up and creating their relationships.

Oh, Dana, you have no idea what this meant to me! I suppose that's why I've been freaking out so much...the style is different from what I've been used to for so long. I am relieved beyond imagination that this new way is working. Thanks so much for saying so! :hug:

*screeches* So glad you liked that, Bear. It seemed like an Amber...uh, I mean Brenna thing to do. ;-) And, I miss you.

Oh yes, tis you. It makes it all the funnier to have someone having a romantic wedding who hates romance. *laughs slyly* I hope you enjoy what I have up my sleeve for Rosalie. Killer 5!

You and me both, Claire! :yes: I would love to go back to Italy...it was my trip that inspired this story in the first place. I'm really glad you are enjoying reading it. Thanks so much for replying!

ahahahaaha! You're carrots because you're red, but now I am afraid to find out what peas means. Guess I got more than I bargained for when I quoted Gump. boehaha! I had a feeling you would pick up that quote....call it destiny mind twins! Squee! Love you!



Now for more..........


Chapter Four ~Brenna

The way I feel right about now…cranky doesn’t even begin to cover it! Eight hours on a plane can really take their toll, when you consider the cramped conditions, crappy food, and mind-numbing choice of movies.

So, now that we have arrived at the Da Vinci airport in Rome, Italy, I feel as though I need to brush my teeth, take a nap, and explore my new surroundings, all in one go. Landing had been interesting, to say the least. I’m not ashamed to admit that I hung over the aisle trying to peek at the landscape through the window. I’ve never been here before, so I have an excuse! And, to be honest, I have never even been to Europe…this is definitely going to be an adventure in culture shock for me.

Our entire group is booked on a tour with Global Traveling Company, and supposedly they are to meet us here in an hour with a big, shiny bus to take us to the hotel. Scarlet has been bitching and moaning about all of this, to be sure. She spent a whole summer in Italy once, and she is quite convinced she could have handled the tour on her own; I already feel sorry for whoever our guide is. No doubt she will be critiquing him with her own personal flair.

“We must find our luggage,” Scarlet tells me, walking with self-assured steps as I trip along behind her. My eyes scan the airport, thinking it is sure to be super chic and cool with a European style. Yet, it is craptastically ordinary like any old airport I have ever seen; Da Vinci would not be proud.

Stepping up to the baggage claim area, we stand motionless, watching the bags go round and round on the conveyor belt. And, that tiny moment of fear occurs, as you pray they did not lose your bag. As we wait, Dominic and Rosalie join us, and in the usual silly fashion, we take our stance.

Side by side, Dom and I stand, a great divide between our two sisters and us. Scarlet crosses her arms over her chest, and Rosalie gets that posh, smug look upon her face. It is always funny to me that after so many years, we still group together like this. I don’t think our family dynamics will ever change.

“So, Scarface,” Dom bellows in an effort to embarrass her, “Back to your favorite country in the world, eh? Maybe this time you’ll stay here for good.”

Yes, my brother is twenty-eight years old, but he still likes to tease his younger sisters at any opportunity that arises. I think that if our hair were in pigtails, Dom would be the one continuously tugging them. This is why Scarlet and Rosalie hated him when we were kids; and perhaps, Scarlet still does. I sense that bringing back her old nickname has made her quite furious.

“Half-pint, maybe you’ll get your wish,” Scarlet snaps, her eyes narrowed, “because, indeed, it would be nice to have an ocean separating us.”

Pushing my way between them, I cough to drown out Rosalie’s giggles. Goodness, I would not be surprised if Dom and Scarlet started rolling about on the floor and punching each other in one of their typical fights to the death. Those two are not allowed to converse anymore on this trip! I’m not sure what it is, but their personalities do not mesh. They have made more than one family get together pure hell with their bickering.

“Let’s just find our bags, okay,” I suggest, and the four of us stand silently, watching black suitcase after black suitcase pass by. Have these people never heard of the seven-color spectrum? Ugh, boringly unoriginal people really piss me off…take a leap, you don’t always have to be so generic with your choices! My own bag is hot pink, so it shouldn’t be hard to spot.

“Why is she always so snotty?” Dom whispers at my left, and I realize my bag locating distraction did not really work that well, “She is not better than me! We grew up in the same family, for God’s sake!”

Best to just ignore him, don’t want to take sides and cause even more trouble, have to pretend that there is no crazy tension surrounding me. I’m flailing to Stress Stage 4, a witch is churning my stomach about as though it were a huge, black cauldron! Focus on luggage claim!

Black bag, black bag, black bag…

“He’s got to insult me every chance he can get!” Scarlet mumbles on my right, “He is never supportive, never proud of me for my accomplishments. Who ever heard of a brother who tears you down at each possible opportunity?”

Black bag, Black bag, Stuart, Black bag…

“Both of you just need to calm down,” I soothe, holding my hands up in a placating manner, “We’re on vacation, we are going to have a good time together.”

Scarlet and Dom both glare at each other, their similar eyes spitting cold gray flames. They then decide to shoot me a bit of fire just for good measure before coldly turning their backs with quiet huffs. Shrugging, I regain my focus on the conveyor belt as a very odd and slow realization dawns on me.

Did I just see my cousin’s child fly by on the baggage strip, laughing and twisting about madly?

“Stuart!” I shriek, just as his body ducks down behind a large suitcase, completely hiding him from sight. Jesus, where are his parents? Running through the crowd of people, I wrap my fingers about the handle of the offending suitcase and jerk it from the belt. Stuart is revealed in all his five-year old giggling glory, and I snatch his body up, flinging him over my shoulder. An old man starts yelling at me for touching his suitcase, but I ignore him and stomp back over to my sisters and brother with little Stuart twisting about my neck like a scarf.

“Goal for Italy trip,” I state sarcastically, “Don’t lose Stuart!”

Scarlet steps backwards from me, as most children tend to give her the creeps, Stuart especially, since the time he spilled grape juice on her white shirt. And, really, Rosalie isn’t much better…after all; Stuart was the kid who used permanent markers to decorate her brand new Prada shoes that time.

The only one to move in is Dom as he grabs Stuart’s small, squirming body from my arms. Assuring us that he would deliver the boy to his parents, he stalks off without a second glance. Frick sibling rivalry and the way it makes my blood pressure increase to skyrocket levels!

****************************************************

My first assessment of Rome was sort of confusing, as we did not even get so much as a glimpse of the beautiful, old-fashioned downtown areas. The trip from the airport to our hotel was mainly on the highways, and they are not much different from American roads. Well, with the exception of the cars…gosh, their tiny vehicles make ours look like tanks! For sure, there are no SUVs in sight, and it’s refreshing, though, I suppose mad Soccer moms would not be too thrilled with the entire prospect.

Hopefully, we will get a better sight of Rome this evening when we go out for dinner. At the restaurant, we are to meet our main tour guide and get more details on the itinerary of the trip. Tomorrow we shall fly out to Sicily, where we will stay for two days of touring and sight-seeing. Of course, the group will be coming back to Rome at the end of our trip to have a massive exploration of all the wondrous sites like the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and the Colosseum, followed naturally by celebrating Rosalie’s wedding.

Our bus driver almost made me throw up four times, and he also managed to get my heart to stop beating on two and a half occasions, as he whipped through traffic without even looking to see what was in his way. I don’t think the lanes are meaningful in Italy; they appear to be more of a guide, than a steadfast rule. So, flit about as you see fit, especially if you are on a motorbike! I have a sneaking suspicion that if the bus was high enough, some of those fools would have driven directly beneath it. Strange death wishes they have here.

I want to kiss the ground when I step off the bus, but I am too preoccupied with staring at our hotel. It is small and quaint, when compared to sky high Hiltons that are usually in America. When we walk inside, the only furniture in the lobby is a lime green couch that curves about to form a large circle. Interesting and very original in my eyes...naturally, I approve.

While standing about, I notice my mother steadfastly approaching, and I know there is no duck and hide escape for me now! Yet, I think the eight hour flight cleared her brain, for she has a content smile on her face and a happy look in her dark brown eyes. Her temperament is a lot like mine; we can fly into a rage quickly and then totally forget what we were even mad about just as fast. Hopefully, she has a case of post-flight amnesia.

“Tesoro, how do you like my country?” she asks quietly, giving me a slight hug. I realize now the reason behind her change in mood, and I can’t help but smile. Through all of our childhood, Mom told us stories of Italy and what it was like to grow up here. She and her family moved to the States when she was only fifteen, so it has been many, many years since she returned. I can only imagine that she is feeling positively amazing at this point.
“From the little we’ve seen, I think it to be a lovely place,” I answer truthfully, happy that our disagreement from the morning has been forgotten.

“Alright then, bella, don’t forget we meet for dinner at six sharp,” Mom advises with a clever glance, her dark chocolate colored eyes glowing with a shrewd light, “I wouldn’t want you to be late…again.”

And, she went in for the kill! Oh, my mother never forgets…I suppose I just went delusional for a second with hopes and wishful thinking.

As the room keys are handed out to my family, I have a sudden thought. This is odd; I had never even considered questioning my sisters about who I was rooming with. Twisting through the crowd, a key is shoved in my hands before I even find Scarlet. And, when I do, the news is not anything I expected or wanted to hear.

“What do you mean you’re sharing a room with Rosalie?” I question shortly, my face clearly showing my annoyance to which I add a little stomp of the foot for good measure, “I figured she would be with Johnny.”
“Nah, they wanted separate beds before their wedding,” Scarlet replies nonchalantly, waving her fingers in the air, “Plus, they didn’t feel like hearing Mom and Dad’s bullshit about it being improper and blah blah blah.”
“Well, who the heck am I rooming with?” I ask, eyes scanning the room with great fear and trepidation.

This could get ugly.

“Mpfsunnymmmummf,” Scarlet makes a strange noise, as she moves her hand over her mouth so I can’t make out what she says. Shooting her the evil eye, I push my glasses up further on my nose and grab her shoulder, “Who?”
“Sunny,” Scarlet says quietly, her gaze suddenly becoming riveted to the floor as though it were a work of Da Vinci himself and required the utmost scrutiny.

Oh…my…God.

Sunny! Sunny?? Did she actually just say I was rooming with Sunny? This is the end of the world as I know it, I might as well sleep on one of the lime green sofas smack dab in the middle of the lobby. I am skunked with the worst skunkage in the history of skunkdom!

“Sunny as in our cousin who takes Southern hospitality to a whole new level?” I whisper in a tight tone, jostling Scarlet’s body a bit as I continue to grip her shoulder.
“Hey, it’s not my fault,” Scarlet whines, her eyes flickering over my face and expressing her massive unease with the situation, “You two were the only ones left after I made the whole schedule out.”

I want to let out an expletive, but no good ones come to mind. If this were suddenly a movie, it would be called: Sunny does Italy. And, I mean that in the most literal way imaginable.

I’m not afraid to say it; my cousin is a tramp!

There is going to be a different Italian guy in our room each night! Might as well kiss any sleep I have coming my way goodbye. This is gonna be bad, I shudder to even think of it…Stress Stage climbing to level five!

Looking wildly behind me, I want to yell some more at Scarlet, but she has wisely disappeared-most likely gone to her own room where there will only be restful sleeping occurring, not mad sexcapades. Thus, I am forced to do the inevitable, i.e., face the slutty music.

I know, I know, it sounds as though I am being mean or judging my cousin, but I can’t change the true facts that she likes to go through men faster than ice cream melts on a hot, summer day. The thing is, Sunny is not apologetic about it, that is just who she is and you can either accept her or not. I don’t really mind her behavior, as long as I am not a first row spectator! Skunked, skunked, skunked!

Stomping up a flight of stairs, I manage to find my room much quicker than I had hoped. Making my way inside, I find Sunny perched on the edge of the bed, her bleached blonde hair glaring out and burning my irises.

“Oh, Brenna, sugar!” she yelps in an over exaggerated Southern accent, one of the tactics she uses to draw men into her web, “I am so happy we are rooming together! Think of the fun we’ll have!”
“All night long,” I mutter dryly, and my cousin just giggles and flounces about, pulling some sort of black scrap of material from her suitcase. It looks small enough to be a washcloth, but I have a strange suspicion it is her skirt.
“You know, doll, I have big plans for this trip,” Sunny confides, as she paints on some extra mascara, “I am going to rope me an Italian guy just about as fast as I can!”

Don’t fault me for not being shocked in the least.

Oh poor Brenna!! There could be some MAJOR drama with Sunny there!!!

And I love Dom and Scarlet's interactions...sibling rivalry makes for some GREAT plotlines, so I'm looking forward to seeing how that turns out!

And OMG...I'm first to reply again. Score for me!! lol :love:

I just began reading and I'm hooked. It's really fun to read!!
I loooove the characters and it's really well written :)
Good luck to Brenna with Sunny!! And what's wrong with Dom and Stace?
I can't wait to find out what this trip will lead them to...

You were right when you said I'd love this. Because, I LOVE THIS!!! I was waiting anxiously for Scarlet and Dom's bickering, and the interactions of the four siblings together!

Scarface and Half-pint... I was giggling so hard that half of the computer lab turned to look at me!

I particularly enjoy the way you described the arrival to Rome, because you see, I cannot see it with the eyes of a foreigner. I did it too, scan airports and highways for different details in other countries... yes, I'm the moron who got impressed because houses in England have 'pointed rooftops' :D

Brenna's little funny statements you put in are so cool.. like, "Da Vinci would not approve". I had the funniest image of him flailing about in his long white beard, checking the gradeur of the 21st century and getting super pumped about it.

O, this made em laugh:

It reminded me f a scene in my story. Anyway, I'm EAGER to 'meet' Stuart's paents... no doubt his mum will be helluva stressed, poor thing!

I grinned when her personal flait was mentioned... plus, we know she oughta do it, considering who the tour guide is. dum dum dum...

The whole 'Sunny does Italy' was a cool twist and made me scroll my head in worry... hopefully Brenna will be lucky... luckier than her cousin, maybe. ;)

Oh, and mom called her 'tesoro'... that word changed after the Lord of he Rings. None of the LOTR nerds can pronounce it correctly anymore: we always say 'tessssssoro' with a zillion 's', because it's how they trnslated 'precioussss'.

Okay, I'm cutting the rant of the interpreter inside me. hey, getting into character much?

:love:

Yeap, that's a fact. And i don't know about you but I can't close an eye on a plane... Any slightly bump make me wake up and stay like that all the time

Hamster's syntoms. Later you'll be up all night long as if you never have to sleep, ever.

Scarface...!!! :laugh:

I've always wanted my own hot pink or red, or bright blue suitcase, but since my parents buy them it's always boring black or nasty green

:laugh:

Since all I have is baby cousins, I can understand her frustration.

I think they're not ready for motherhood.. :laugh: The price of any child... Anyway.. I would hate him too

You'd be afraid to come to Mexico, we drive (yes, I said we) the same way hehehe

Mothers never forget. Never ever ever ever

Classic... Why they pretend they don't see? Let them be people! Let them be..!! it's johnny after all!!

:lmao: I can imagine her face. Right in front of me

I can relate with that feeling.. The worst thing is when they expect you to be the same as them eicky

'

God I love your humor :bow:

Andie

Yes! *pumps fist in the air manically* This was the best study break ever! Picture this, here I am dutifully studying chemistry and nutrition and hating every god awful minute of it. I decided to take a break and check out ewac and what to a find, wondeful updates. Oh the glee that filled my body. It made me want to dance... :getdown:

Anyway, my gosh, I was rolling with laugher through this update. Girl, I love this story. It is so freaking humorous. I now dub thee...Amber, Queen of Wit and Humor!

All bow down to the great one. :bow:

Couple of my favorite parts....

Oh no. I know this is just going to be trouble and freaking hilarious!

Bwahahahahahhaa! Oh my god, I love this. I can picture Dom with this absolute smug look on his face as he says this, knowing full well it is going to get a rise out of Scarlet.

I know this because my brothers do this to me all the time. Scarface isn't so bad...imagine being called Asshat screamed out in a crowded public place. -_-

I was nodding my head enthusiastically to this. It is so true of sibling relationships. My brothers and I are all in our twenties, the youngest being 22 and my brothers will tease me to no end. So of course, I must retaliate.

You have got the sibling relationships pegged. Always so good fun and a great source for humor. I can't wait to see the interactions of the 4 siblings throughout the story.

Right on sister! That would be why Kev and I have bright blue luggage. No one has a blue suitcase quite like ours. I heart it!

No lie, I laughed for a good 2 minutes straight over this line and I am still having residual giggles. I love how you threw this in there, kind of catches your readers off guard, just as it did to Brenna.

So far Stuart was running wild and hiding from his parents on the plane and now he is riding the baggage claim carosel. I can't help but wonder where his parents are and what they are doing? His parents are either stressed out as hell searching for Stuart who just might be the demon in child form or he has the world's worst parents.

Bwahahahahaha! I tell you, this family has them all!

I love it! Can't wait for more my dear.

AHHHHHH!! :eek: I've missed 2 Chapters! I am such a bad reviewer! :doh: Ok, must tell you they were unbelievably funny! Stuart ont he baggage belt! :laugh: :blink: I think stuarts character is going to be the trouble of all that happens on this trip. Like throwing the ham down so the dogs can eat it or screaming high pitched everywhere he goes or driving a car when he can't even reach the pedals. Oh wait, that was the kid Sampson in ELIZABETHTOWN, but Stuart sounds alot like Sampson. You need to rent that movie to see this kid, he is jsut like how you describe Staurt. And Sunny sounds like an intersting character. I can't wait for more Amber! It is getting good. :yahoo
:love:
~Kit-Kat~

:lmao: I swear, I thought Brenna had possibly named her bag Stuart, but then I realized she was having a "moment". Oh, I love those, don't you?

Again and again and again I found my face like :lol: =D Its a good feeling, ya know. And I love that I get it from your stories every time I read something. :hug:

Oh, poor Breanna for having to share a room with Sunny! I can only imagine the kind of nightmare she'll be enduring while with her.

LOL! That made me giggle. :lmao:

I love the light heartedness in this. Also, the sibling bashing with Dom puts such a smile on my face.

:hug:
~Stacy~

Great update....I enjoyed reading it very much.

Oooh how nice for their guide *grins*
I wonder who that will be......I hope somebody interesting. That will make it even more fun.

Hahahahaha
That would be a sight

:lmao:
It is put in very casual and that made it all the more hilarious.

Well I will know what to expect when I ever come to America..... :lalala:
Tell me is the difference between Europe and America really that big?

:laugh: that woman is like a bulldozer.

Sorry this part really made laugh. I am really feeling sorry for her but the way you wrote this had me rolling all over the floor.
I wonder why I am suddenly thinking about new year's eve....

Lol
I don;t know what you found out AMber...maybe all the gorgeous italian guys were hiding when I came to Italy (a very good possibility) but I never came across one :cry2:

Anyways great chappie...but I think this whole quoting parade proved as much!
:hug:

Oh my! I just laughed and flailed madly over your comments! They were so sweet and uplifting. I've said it before and I'll say it again...I love you girls. I've been studying nonstop all weekend and reading all this truly cheered me up. Thank you all so much for taking the time to read and reply. I appreciate it so!

Must quote a few of you! :yahoo

Thanks for the reply and kind words, bunny! And, welcome, I'm glad you're here. :hug:

Squee! I did not know that...and knowing it makes me about 1000% happier that I used that word. boehahaha!

Aw, thank you, Andie! That made me quite happy! :wub:

Bear, I had forgotten about Asshat....being reminded of Asshat caused the same reaction it caused the first time. I laughed for a good five minutes, couldn't breathe, imagined your brothers screaming it, then laughed and laughed again. Omg, Asshat is the best nickname ever! Sorry, bear! :lmao:

*gasps* Really??? They were all gorgeous and beautiful and perfect when I was there. Okay, well, maybe not all of them....but most of them! Italian loveeee!



Okay, okay, I shall stop now...I love you all to pieces, thank you so much for quoting and being so dear and kind. Now, let us have a new chapter.

Shall we hear from a different sister, then? pulpfiction


Chapter Five~ Scarlet’s Insight

Rome is one of my favorite places in Italy, to be sure. It has an appeal all its own, and just by walking the streets you can get totally wrapped up in the spirit and emotions of the city. The first time I explored its beauty on my own I was struck with the sheer magnitude of history this place possesses. If you have lived in the States your whole life, there is no way for you to even be remotely prepared for a city like Rome, with its ancient structures and streets. It creates an aura of beauty and all you can possibly feel is appreciative for being given the opportunity to be in its commanding, motherly presence.

I stayed a whole month here once, and when the time came for me to leave I honestly didn’t want to go. I remember sitting at little cafés and wondering about the people who occupied this city hundreds and hundreds of years before I was even born; the places they visited, the streets they trod upon-so many of them still here for me to see. And, I think this is why I’ll always love Rome; it gave me the opportunity to respect my heritage and really take into account how truly precious history is. There is something about me and Italy that just fit and connect, almost as though I were meant to live here, should have been born here.

But, as the things often go, you don’t always get what you want; thus, I find myself here under the horrific name of tourist, waiting in a quaint little restaurant for our guide to show up. My whole family is smashed about me at a huge table, and their excited voices and animated speeches are loud enough to drown out my own thoughts.

My father is talking to Rosalie’s fiancé, Johnny, and I lean in a bit to get the impact of the conversation. I have a feeling it’s a humdinger, by the surprised and somewhat confused look upon Johnny’s olive-skinned face.

“In the South,” Daddy says confidently, leaning back in his chair as though he owned the place, “If you haven’t had pinworms, you’re a nobody. You haven’t lived!”

Sweet Mary, mother of Joseph, what is he saying? The bewilderment that shoots across Johnny’s face is priceless to behold, and I begin to giggle quietly to myself. There’s just something so implicitly random about my father; he always has the best sayings and speeches, I’ll admit-most of them having to do with his forty plus years of being a pharmacist. And, while they’re funny to the inner family circle, they could appear a bit odd to outsiders. Johnny’s got to buck up, though; he’ll soon be one of us.

Poor lad!

Glancing about at all the occupants at the table, I ponder on the last time we were all together like this. As much as Brenna complains, it isn’t so terrible to have a family reunion. Yes, we all have our quirks, but at least we aren’t dull!

Speaking of Brenna, I am more than a little concerned about her. Studying her expression, I realize she is staring blankly at the table, not getting involved with any conversation. She has to be thinking about her breakup with Dave, from the sour look on her face. And yet, how can I help her get over him if I don’t even know why they broke up in the first place? Then, I can’t even ask someone else for advice, since I am sworn to secrecy about the botched engagement! It troubles me and it lingers in my mind in a maddening fashion.

The thing about Brenna is-she basically has no self-esteem. Not that she’s really pathetic, needy, or clingy when it comes to relationships, she’s rather quite the opposite. No, I mean she doesn’t believe in her own strengths and abilities. And, dear Lord, the girl can’t take a compliment to save her life! I wish things were different for her, but it’s hard to change someone who is that hardheaded.

At any rate, she and Rosalie are about two of the best sisters anyone could ask for. I am always appreciative of the fact that we were able to grow into friends and not keep any of the competitive edges of childhood. Well, maybe the edges stick around sometimes, but for the most part, I am proud to say that Rosalie and Brenna are my two best friends!

My brother, on the other hand, well, let’s just say he’ll never grow up. Assuredly, Dominic had to have hated me from the instant I was born and kept up that sentiment ever since. When we were children, I would try and be kind to him, be a charming little sister, but he would have none of it. So, it got to the point where the coldness crept in and I dished back to him everything he flung out at me. The two of us are never going to get along; it’s probably why he is seated all the way on the other side of the table from me.

It’s a good thing, because the bruschetta might have ended up on Dom’s head.

“I cannot eat this,” Brenna speaks aloud, at last, poking her bruschetta gently with a fork. It’s no wonder why; the dish consists of chopped up tomatoes over a piece of bread, and let’s just say, Brenna will not now, nor ever eat tomatoes. Yes, an Italian girl who doesn’t eat tomatoes! Go figure.

“I think the next dish is ravioli,” I comment, “I’m sure you can eat that.”
“We’ll see,” Brenna answers shortly, grabbing her wine glass and chugging it down. She’s probably still mad at me because of the whole Sunny issue. Luckily, Brenna’s anger usually disappears in a couple of hours, so tomorrow she should have forgotten the whole incident. It was quite out of my hands, after all.

As the second course of dinner is served, a tall, lanky fellow wanders through the open doorway with a silly grin upon his face. He has a head full of dark, untamed curls, and a set of sparkling brown eyes. When he catches me looking at him, the man nods quickly before awkwardly running into the edge of the table. Biting my lip to stop a giggle from escaping, I wonder who this poor awkward fellow is, the owner of the restaurant, perhaps. Nah, he looks too young and silly to have any accomplishment that grand under his belt-or anything else grand under his belt, either.

Grabbing a wine glass and clicking it with a fork, the lanky one manages to capture everyone’s attention just as he breaks the fragile glass with the force of his beating. A bright blush creeps up on his flesh, but he gingerly places the sharp shards on the table and acts as though nothing were amiss. As the guy clears his throat and places his hands on his hips, I sit back, preparing for some quirky, little speech thanking us for choosing his eatery.

“Hello, everyone!” the man says in a surprisingly British accent, “I am so pleased to see all of yo