A Solemn Reminder // Vanessa

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

"Sitting on the side waiting for a sign,
hoping that my luck will change."

The graveyard was probably not the most frequented place in the Safe Lands. It was a reminder of death, loneliness and even superstition. Yet it was probably the least terrifying places in London just now. More diabolical things were lurking around these days.

It had been a hot day. Though now it was the early evening, it had cooled down. Jamal had been working within the Safe Lands today, not having set foot outside the barriers for a day or so now. He had been organising supplies and sorting them within the school building. Just a tedious job that had to be done. Shortly finishing his work for the day, Jamal got a haircut, something he had on his 'things to do' list since the outbreak. Now, he had free time on his hands. The young man opted to have a short walk in the Safe Lands, his wits about him for any unholy activity.

He took the liberty of having a cheeky smoke. It soothed and relaxed him, especially when wandering up and down the bumpy, grassy aisles between the tombstones. The graves held a multitude of lost souls, from the recent to the old. Jamal took interest in one such grave, which belonged to a 'Patel' - an Indian surname. There were two, one next to the other. Jamal assumed that they were a married couple. Cigarette between his teeth, fingertips reached up to glide over his forehead, rubbing a discoloured patch of skin. Harsh memories of his ordeal with his fiancee, Kamala came to mind. Being in arranged marriage without someone you dislike just brought out the worst of them. Jamal had found that he turned into some demon when with his 'future wife.' That encounter the other day was harsher than typical. Kamala had left him a couple of mementos on his own body; a bruise on his forehead where she had hit him over the head, and a smaller one on his hand where she bit him. How ladylike. Though he was partly to blame for that. They had such a complicated, bitter relationship. Maybe the Patel couple were in an arranged marriage? Maybe, maybe not.

Jamal finished his smoke, and stubbed it out on the raggedy wall that cut through the graveyard. It was not the nearest place for him to put out a cigarette, but stubbing it out on a tombstone was hardly respectable. Feeling that it was a little too warm, Jamal pulled off his jacket, bundling it up and placing it on the wall before perching himself upon it. It felt good to get some alone time. A graveyard was probably not the best place to compose yourself, but it provided more peace than most other places. Yet the silence was disturbed when he caught a sound of movement nearby. The male shot a look over his shoulder.

Words: 477 | Tag: Vanessa
Notes: Hope this is okay!

[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

It felt like barely any time had passed at all since she'd been found, wandering through the wreckage of what was once called London. In no time at all she had found herself put to work in the Safe Lands as a Medic, and as much as she was thankful for civilization and for some semblance of normality - it felt forced and surreal in light of what had happened; what was still happening. After the first week Vanessa had given up asking if anyone new had come in; it served only to ignite tension and wind people up, and she had learned quickly that it was best to keep her hopes and fears to herself. Treat them as dead and begin the grieving process. That had been her advice to patients who had asked, and only now was she beginning to accept that she needed to do the same.

The day had passed by quickly as it always had for Vanessa, but she found herself more determined to have some lasting effect on each day; just drifting by might have worked for some of the inhabitants of the Safe Lands, but it was not her style and nor would it ever be. Vanessa had finished up with a few patients and after checking in with the rest of the Medic 'team' she'd wandered down to the Graveyard as she had on the night she'd been brought here. Part of Vanessa feared the place, the thought that any moment the dead long laid to rest could jump out of their graves was a constant burden on her mind but she assured herself often that only the infected could be turned.

She closed her eyes and slipped her cardigan off her shoulders and stood by the grave she had visited previously. It belonged to a child just a few months older than her baby, and it put her mind to rest to sit beside it and talk as she had to her Matthew's grave, far on the side of London. She stood up after a few minutes and wandered further into the Graveyard, attempting to lose herself in it, and emerge somewhere else. Free of the terrors that dominated this new world; she found instead the young man she had met on her second day here.

"Jamal." She smiled softly as he turned towards her, hoping to relax him. She hadn't meant to startle him. She hadn't thought many people came to the Graveyard - it was a constant reminder in her mind of where they could all end up... if they were lucky. She turned her attention back to man in front of her and allowed her eyes to drift down his form, frowning at the light but unmistakable scent of tobacco. She rolled her eyes, of all the things Scavengers could bring back, cigarettes? She chuckled to herself, figuring normality was the key to survival... at least that's what she believed many thought; though in her own it was compromise. She placed a hand on her hip and smiled again. "Smoking in a graveyard... how gothic." She laughed, walking slowly towards where Jamal stood. So what brings you here?" She asked conversationally, ignoring the bruise on his forehead and trying to focus instead face as a whole.

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

"Sitting on the side waiting for a sign,
hoping that my luck will change."

He thought he could sense a presence nearby. A human, not a spirit. Jamal was not entirely fussed about 'spirits' in graveyards. He did not believe in ghosts. Jamal believed that the spirit of a being was transported into a new body, i.e. reincarnation, not left to linger in some creepy building or around tombstones. Upon catching the sight of blonde hair he thought it was Melissa at first, though her appearance became clearer as she as she approached him. Vanessa. She was one of the first people Jamal had met here. Strangely enough, she was like an 'old-new' friend of his. "Hey Vanessa," he greeted her calmly. It was a relief to see a familiar face. Jamal was in need of someone to talk to, even just nonchalantly about regular things.

He thought that a comment would be made on his smoking. A comment was always made. Too bad that Vanessa had just seen him finish it off, for he could have discarded it quicker and it would be unknown to her. Though her remark was not degrading, it was quite amusing. Jamal pulled a natural smile. 'Ugh, yeah. It's something to do whilst looking at....tombstones..." he gestured toward the array of rickety tombstones with a quick movement of his hand. It disheartened Jamal each time he burned out a cigarette. They did not last long enough. They gave him something to fidget with, something to focus on, especially when his one of his dank moods. Smoking tended to be a solitary thing for him, for he didn't know many that were fond of the habit within the Safe Lands. It was always solitary anyway - hiding his addiction from his parents.

The bruise was possibly next on the list to be commented on. Vanessa hadn't mentioned it. That came as a surprise. Oh well, if she wasn't going to ask, she didn't need to know. He scratched an itch on the underside of his chin. "I was just passing by. I felt like a bit of a walk. Otherwise I'd be stuck inside on an evening like this," he answered her. He raised his head and studied the sky for a moment. It was so unbelievably calm, this weather. It was an odd picture compared to what was happening at the other side of the barricades. "Had a nosey at the tombstones. Some are really old," Jamal commented further. With himself seated on the wall he swung his legs back and forth gently. "What about you?" he returned the question.

Words: 422 | Tag: Vanessa
Notes: my post is a bit shorter than I had hoped o.O sorry!

[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

With company, the graveyard seemed infinitely less forboding, even with the slow darkening of the sky. It was fairly quiet but that was hardly something that was surprising; and the air seemed slightly to thick but all in all there was nothing out of the ordinary; other than Jamal. What had first been something easy to bypass was now something her brain was analysing a mile a minute. She couldn't help it, it was what she'd spent her life doing give or take the few months she was on her own; but she was doing it again, Dr. McAdams was back and it seemed almost impossible for her to ignore the mark upon his forehead. The way he stood, the way his hand curled as if craving another nicotine stick. Defeat.

Vanessa smirked, arching her eyebrow. Even if she wasn't a trained professional she wouldn't have bought that. "Is that what makes up for the lack of decent televisual content now?" She laughed again scraping her hair up into a ponytail, sighing as a cool breeze caught the back of her neck. "Some are fairly new too." She commented, her eyes flitting across to where the baby's grave sat. She shut her eyes and pushed the thoughts away, locking them up resolutely and brushed her fingertips against the tattoo through her top. She knew this conversation was merely pleasantries; there was something on his mind and she felt the need to at least bear some of what was burdening him. "I get cooped up in that Hospital all day, I thought I'd go take a look at the place I'll end up... if I'm lucky." Vanessa answered with blunt honesty, before turning her head to study Jamal again, and exhaled moving to stand closer beside him, lightly nudging his arm with her own.

"So, does your being out here have anything to do with that bruise on your head?" She questioned softly, tilting her head slightly to catch his gaze. She smiled warmly hoping to reassure him that he could speak to her and that it would stay solely between the two of them. Though she would not yet admit it, the conversations she had shared with Jamal reminded her of those with her brother and whilst she knew that Jamal was not a replacement for Gage, it certainly made the Safe Lands a happier environment having someone so similar around. "So? Doctor patient confidentiality... I know we don't have much of a moral society left, but I took my oath and it still stands." She chuckled, nudging him lightly again, hoping to coax the truth out of him.

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

"Sitting on the side waiting for a sign,
hoping that my luck will change."

Although his aim was to have alone time, he was glad Vanessa had made an appearance. It was company that was wanted and appreciated. Whilst contemplating the graveyard, her remark about television sparked off the realisation that he missed it. Video games, were his passion, however, and thankfully live television was not needed for that, just a television plugged into the wall. Head tilting upward, his eyes squinted with thought. "Yeah, I kind of miss turning on the TV and seeing Eastenders on." Jamal's head bowed once again, turning to initiate eye contact with the blonde woman beside him. "Eastenders was more grave than a graveyard though," he spoke wittingly. , trying to be light hearted. His expression was bright for a moment, but dimmed again. It was disheartening to learn that the grave belonged to an infant. It was saddening. Jamal did not say anything, only emitting a somber 'hmm' behind closed lips.

Naturally, it was not long until he opened his mouth again. "I bet working in the hospital is a non stop job, especially with the zombies and things." Jamal paused for a short breath. "Don't get me wrong, hospitals have always been busy, though with the amount of lives lost, you must be understaffed." Very understaffed. With the horror roaming the outside world the number of patients needing medical treatment must have been abundant. Not to mention, many would have been driven mad by the apocalypse, or grief stricken by the loss of loved ones. Tongue clicked against his teeth. "No need to be pessimistic." Jamal spoke with a curl of a reassuring smile. He was such an optimist at heart, and hearing negative comments irked him a bit. "But in times like these, I guess you're right," he finally agreed with her after thinking about it. Still, Jamal had beliefs that death was just another beginning.

Head snapped around to face her. Inevitably the bruise had to be mentioned, even just in passing. Jamal gave into the small nudge Vanessa gave him, and he donned a smile of discomfort. "Oh, that," Jamal spoke gravely, scratching the other side of his head with his thumb. How could he put this? The tale behind the bruise was not an easy one to retell. "To start, it wasn't a zombie. It was something worse actually." He put some strength into saying 'worse' for he actually meant it. "My fiancee. She thought I was a zombie. She brained me with some heavy object about that long," Fingers positioned like he was imitating two guns, Jamal drew his hands apart, measuring out the object's length, which was approximately over a foot long. Jamal chuckled, but it was not an amused one. It was one heavy with nerves and disbelief. The smile that once clung onto his expression dropped off. "She never regretting whacking me with it though. I'm sure she'd gladly hit me again." No, Jamal did not like her. At all.

Words: 464 | Tag: Vanessa
Notes:

[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

The laugh that escaped her was hearty and one of the first true laughs she had experienced in her time here. Eastenders? Of all the programmes she'd imagine Jamal watching she'd not have hedged her bet there. She laughed again, nodding in agreement. "More deaths on that programme than a zombie apocalypse." She smiled, raising her eyebrows good-humouredly. The quiet reaction Jamal gave her brought her back to reality. She had yet to share with him her own 'story', everyone had one; but Vanessa felt the instinctive need to protect him as she would her brother and that meant listening and offering advice and understanding, not burdening him with her own issues.

Vanessa nodded, it took it's toll but in actuality it was no different that working in a hospital before the outbreak. Just different problems. "Yeah but I enjoy it; being able to be of use to people, and keeping my thoughts from running. It's a bit tiring but I get to be flexible, I get to do the medical but first and foremost I'm a Psychiatrist, though I did do a years work in Zambia as a Midwife" She explained, not that she believed that year would ever be of use. Who would want to bring a child into what was left of this world?
Vanessa chuckled, nodding. She'd been on her own too long she forgot almost what optimism felt like, but she appreciated that Jamal was reminding her of something she had long since given up on. Hope.

The way Jamal snapped to attention and stood alert almost made Vanessa regret her intrusion. Almost. Vanessa raised her eyebrow and waited for his explanation of what could be worse than a zombie. She changed her stance slightly, and her eyes widened as he confessed it was his fiance, but managed to keep herself quiet whilst he continued with his story. "Your fiancee... Kamala correct?" She had not yet had the opportunity to get properly acquainted with the other medic but there were mixed feeling about the woman and from the mark she'd left upon Jamal's head and his words suggesting this arguably would not be the last of them; she certainly didn't think they'd be singing Kumbayah's anytime soon. "How did she think you were a zombie?" Vanessa questioned in disbelief?. Out on her own she'd learnt very quickly to distinguish between the undead and the alive. Even documenting zombie behaviour in the hopes that it could lead to understanding or a cure; though she doubted it. The behaviour was to disconnected. She sighed, her thoughts returning to Jamal's fiancee. She supposed that she was the type of woman who would hit a man in the belief that a man should never strike a woman. She snorted. Vanessa was a keen believer in equality. The right to vote, the right to equal job opportunities and so forth, the right to excercise independence - that also meant that she felt no sympathy for women who hit men and then got the same in return; so long as it was the same and nothing more. Sometimes her own sex disgusted her.

The sky was now a dull orange, and the air felt less heavy. Vanessa closed her eyes, her mind wandering to Gabriel. She had not spoken to him in over a year, it was still to hard for her to think about him, and she doubted he could ever forgive her for turning her back on him. Though it was not like she could forgive him. But she had loved him once; wanted to be his wife. She wondered if they met now what would happen. The irony of it was that if they met under these circumstances, that things might have been easier. "Perhaps things may change now... an apocaplyse can bring people together... do you care for her Jamal? Love her?" She asked curiously, placing her hand on his shoulder and taking the opportunity to examine the bruise more closely. Thankfully it didn't seem to nasty, but she made note to keep a careful eye on him over the next few days and to keep him well hydrated. Jamal was a good man, chivalrous and kindhearted and Vanessa was damned if she was going to allow him to be abused; though she knew she should wait till she'd actually met the woman before making her mind up about her.

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

"Sitting on the side waiting for a sign,
hoping that my luck will change."

The woman's laugh was comforting and reassuring. Jamal enjoyed entertaining people in that respect. It made him feel more whole. A childish giggle emitted from him for he agreed with what she was saying. Eastenders was grim. "More unrealistic deaths." He added in.

He was surprised at what she had said. Wow, people were full of all kinds of talents. "A midwife? That's cool," he nodded, a bit impressed. "Well if anyone wants to have babies I guess you're one of the first ports of call." He smiled broadly at her. Of course Jamal's own thoughts mirrored Vanessa's. It would be almost ludicrous to bring a child into this world. Yet, who was here to preserve the human race? Without children the remainder of the Safe Lands would die without the support of younger generations and the light of humanity would burn out. On the long run, it was a inevitably a losing battle of people refused to have children. Jamal bit his bottom lip softly. "Well, maybe we need a future generation. A 'zombie' generation....." His head bowed. It was a horrible thought, really.

The mention of the name Kamala brought things to life in his head. Vibrant images of her came to mind - those soft features, sultry skin and blackened brown tresses - all of which made up the picturesque vision of his fiancee. She was a beautiful woman at face value, and many would think Jamal lucky. Wrong. Kamala was poison with words and attitude. Jamal thought her to be very deceiving in appearance. He just could not stomach her. "Yeah that's her," he confirmed, brushing his thumb over his eyebrow to pacify a small itch. He then chuckled. Kamala mistaking Jamal for a zombie was an amusing story when looking back on it. "Well, I ran into the house she was squatting in, and there were zombies outside. She just had an impulsive reaction the moment I opened the door," he explained. The absurd memory amused him. It was evident on Jamal's features as he talked. However, the bruise was still a sore reminder. It hurt when she hit him. It hurt a lot. An honest mistake, but he figured she didn't regret that action for one moment.

Vanessa's words prompted a thought. Perhaps things can change. Jamal had seen change within the Safe Lands community. People making steadfast bonds when prior to the apocalypse they wouldn't say hello to one another. Vanessa had a point. Though wether it was going to be true for himself and Kamala, that was open for some serious questioning. "That can happen, but the chances of that happening between us is very slim," Jamal spoke grimly though softly. Vanessa's last two questions could have been answered off the bat, though he took a second or so to craft an answer without making it seem too complicated. He felt the comforting weight of her hand and replied. "I feel its my responsibility to even look after her, even just a bit. I tried to get her to come to the Safe Lands with me and she refused, like I was vermin or something," he paused for a short breath. "No I'm not in love with her. She's my fiancee because, we are in an arranged marriage." Dark, sullen eyes looked to the blonde woman next to him for a brief second, then Jamal glanced away. He emitted a soft laugh, but it was far from one of amusement. It was more or less from disbelief. He didn't know if Vanessa had guessed about his situation, but he confirmed it to her. "I felt it was my duty to look after her and everything. Well making sure she wasn't going to die at least. Which is why I refused to leave her in that house. I saw it as an act of mercy but I still get treated like shit." His last few words were fired like they were poison. Oh he was still upset. Though Jamal was still partly to blame for their clash. It took two to fight.

Words: 676 | Tag: Vanessa
Notes:

[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

"Only for a year." She confirmed with a smile, ignoring the impressed tone of his voice. She supposed in these circumstances it was a wonderous thing to have medical support, but she was more in awe of those who worked for the betterment of the land, who did the little things that so few appreciated. In truth her shortlived midwifery career had been an acceptable job, she had enjoyed her work in spite of the sometimes traumatic endings, but after it had happened to her. She hadn't signed up for another year in Zambia.
Vanessa smiled and nodded, there were so few Medics but she knew there were perhaps others with more intimate knowledge of the department. Things were tight, and it getting to the point of wanting to take on anyone with medical knowledge that was willing to be trained up. Her brow furrowed as she took in Jamal's words and couldn't keep the surprised edge out of her voice. "I, I suppose that's something that will become a very real possibility soon." She replied, keeping her face cool and collected despite the slight panic that rose up in her chest. It was so wrong that he oculd think of something so horrific and it was exactly that. She was horrified by it; she wanted to embrace his and shush away his thoughts, rubbish his theories and tell him things would be changing anyday now, but they were lies, lies told to children to send them to sleep at night, to chase away the nightmares. The only problem was that zombies could run too.

Vanessa nodded, mentally connecting her visual image of the beautiful, tanned woman to the name and settled back to listen to Jamal. She scoffed and snickered at the story. It was hard to believe that on some level she never realised that it was not a zombie, but she said nothing regarding that. "Did she apologise?" She asked, the words slipping free before she gave them permission to do so. It was ridiculous but she had to know. It was not merely that it was polite to do so; but rather that the idea of someone hurting someone as kindhearted as Jamal without apologising for their mistake did not sit right with Vanessa. She raised her eyebrows and waited for a reply, though her gut and clear logic told her that Kamala was not the type of girl to apologise for things. She ground her teeth in annoyance, her jaw set.

She found herself nodding in agreement, not everything and everyone was capable of changing, but it stood to reason that those who were crazy enough to think they could change the world, were usually the ones who ended up doing just that. "I think you're overthinking it. Maybe things have changed already. I think Kamala needs you, and you her more than you'd cared to admit." Vanessa looked off into the distance as he spoke, and slowly slackened her jaw, pursing her lips in thought before replying. She wanted to be tactful, but she also wanted Jamal to be truthful, to himself completely. "...Just because it was arranged does not mean you can feel no love for her." She replied, her eyes still trained on a pylon in the distance. "What I mean to say is, perhaps you are focusing too much on the arrangement than on yourself and her as people. Maybe if you were to tackle it from another angle, things may then seem different after all." She reasoned, a small smile tugging at her lips as she turned back to Jamal slowly shaking her head. "I can't say I believe that, though I belive - if you will that you belive that." She replied, returning his dry laugh. "Whilst a sad thing, for you death is not the end; I see no duty; you are truly a good man Jamal, too good for this world I think." She added, her grip on his arm tightening gently. "Will you stick by this union then or look for someone else, or will you chose to be alone?" She asked, this she could not guess but it was important to her. Jamal deserved some happiness and Vanessa was determined to find some way to make that happen. One smile at a time.

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

"Sitting on the side waiting for a sign,
hoping that my luck will change."

Had Kamala apologised? "I don't know, did she?" Jamal asked rhetorically, eyebrows furrowing. His memory had really failed him. An apology from Kamala would have made their situation more memorable, so he doubted she did apologise. She might have, in passing, but Jamal was half conscious just after she had bludgeoned him on the head. Head shook softly. "I can't remember. I was dazed. Kamala can really pack a punch." Well on Jamal at least. Maybe she found him a good stress reliever of some kind.

Vanessa was gifted in giving him advice, but most importantly she encouraged him to think. Could Kamala and Jamal bond? Only time would tell. Though right now the situation between them was not pretty. Actually, it was grotesque. His eyes were fixed on the gentle movement of a dandelion nearby, leaning away from the rough edge of a tombstone. "Sometimes I think we should both go our separate ways though. We have tried to get on, and it has never worked...." He paused for a brief moment, lips pressing together in a thin line, a bit pensive about what Vanessa was telling him. "But I think you're right. Maybe, though, the whole arrangement thing is responsible for the mutual dislike." Gaze averted toward Vanessa, eyes glinting with a little bit of hope. Vanessa had already made him feel better about the situation, and that was just the beginning of it. The grip on his arm and her endearing words of encouragement were warm to him, and Jamal accepted her compliments with an appreciative expression. He did not say anything, but the look spoke the message clear enough. It made him feel better.

Gaze tore away from her again, hand fiddling with his watch, revolving it's thick glinting gold band around his skinny wrist. "Out of respect for my late parents I would, but I don't think either of us will stick by it, even though we have stuck by it for years it seems. Our parents had organised it since we were kids, but now, because of all of this, it seems we have been let off the hook," Jamal explained. It felt wrong and awkward to think of the apocalypse as an advantage. It just sent normality into chaos, like everyone's past lives were forgotten about collecting dust somewhere. As for finding someone else, he gave a shrug of his shoulders. Jamal had a very little romantic past, almost insignificant, for he was forbidden to officially date a girl because of this arranged commitment. He had deviated from that rule before, however, though only briefly a short while ago before the outbreak. "I don't know. I wouldn't like to be alone. I don't think anyone would." His voice was quiet and airy, like his mind had been dragged elsewhere. A daunting feeling of being left along knotted his stomach. Jamal thrived on companionship of any kind. It was a horrific thought to be left alone.

The conversation was really a somber one,even though he was appreciative of Vanessa's kind words. After being quiet for a moment, Jamal felt a small spark of optimism, like he had shifted into another person.. Looking at the fair haired woman he smiled broadly at her. "But why would I want a partner when I have such good friends?" Jamal blurted out elatedly, locking his arm around Vanessa's neck and shoulders, pulling her in a bit and softly rubbing his knuckles on the crown of her head. Jamal giggled jovially, giving her the classic 'noogie', but he was soft enough not to hurt her. Jamal was playful at the oddest of times, especially to those he was most comfortable with. Vanessa was one of those people. He felt himself around her.

Words: 623 | Tag: Vanessa
Notes: xD

[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

Unknowingly Vanessa's thoughts mirrored Jamal's own. Surely if Kamala had deigned to step down from her high horse and apoligise, it would be firmly imprinted upon his mind. She ran her tongue against her teeth and pursed her lips before smacking them together audibly. "I suppose right now that's not important; just that you're ok?" She questioned softly, again taking another look at the bruice on his forehead. She rose her eyebrow an errant thought flitting through her mind. Was this a common thing? Was she accustomed to raising her hand to Jamal? She knew that he would not be one to engage in a physical fight with a woman - heck she couldn't imagine Jamal even wanting to hurt a man, he simply was not the type. "Does she... does she hit you often...before?" She asked, craning her neck. "Because I'm trained in self defence; I know you wouldn't want to hurt her, merely to protect yourself, to stop her from injuring you and herself maybe?" She added, hoping to appeal to his softer side. She would imagine he would turn down her offer, but perhaps the thought that he would not only be protecting himself but also Kamala would encourage him to do so. Vanessa didn't get her hopes up though. Maybe threatening Kamala herself in her sugar-coated catholic way would better solve this problem. She tutted softly mulling the idea over.

"I think that whatever decision you make should be right for you... if that means being selfish then I'm 100% behind that Jamal. Sometimes the thing that seems wrong is actually what needs to be done." She offered, a slight shiver coursing through her. If they were both so unhappy with each other; which on some level Vanessa did not belive was true - then they needed to be selfish and disobey the wishes of their parents; and boy did Vanessa know plenty about that. She laughed bitterly, ruffling her hair.
"You are wise beyond your years, has anyone ever told you that?" She chuckled, nudging his arm with her own. "I think; honestly I think that your heart will tell you what to do. Everyone is different. I chose to defy my parents, walk my own path - and to some extent that worked for me, but sometimes I find myself thankful almost for what's happened - sick as it is - it's liberated me in some way, perhaps you can find some shinning light, some beacon of hope in this montrosity." She finished, a ghost of a smile fluttering by as she looked off into the distance, tombstones obscuring her view. She scoffed, raising her eyebrow and turning to face Jamal her hand resting on her hip. "You'll never be alone; I'll make you that promise, that guarantee right here, right now." She settled, rolling her eyes at his comment. Vanessa was no fortune teller, no reader of cards, nor did she have divine powers but she knew one thing, Jamal would always have someone.

Vanessa froze in his embrace her eyes widening, her mouth falling open comically. He was giving her a noogie. Jamal was giving her a noogie. The roar of laughter pushed forward from the depths of her abdomen, loud and raucious, shaking her small frame. She lifted her hands to Jamals waist and tickled him ruthlessly, breaking free from his grasp. Her eyes were dancing excitedly, her breath laboured. "I can't belive you gave me a noogie. I'm bloody twenty -seven Jamal" She laughed, wrapping her arms around her dainty to waist to ease in some small way, the ache in the pit of her stomach that came as a result of her wild laughter. She bit her lip, snickering still and shook her head at her friend. "Bloody children. Is this what the youth of today has come to." She mocked, poking her tongue out at Jamal, and waggling her finger. "At this rate I'll have to enforce a naughty step. Thank you Supernanny." She smirked, scrunching her face up in a jovial manner. She sighed, the weight of the day washing of her and smiled and Jamal before launching herself forward and wrapping her arms firmly around his neck; hugging him to her body. She didn't know how such a simple act had warmed her heart so - in truth she hadn't known her heart was that cold, but now she realised how much she had craved this, lively, normal, loving banter. She was grateful to Jamal, and tightened her grip as if worried he would disappear into a mist and float away. "Thank you, brawd." She said simply, giving him one last affectionate squeeze before pulling back and smiling widely. Ordinarily she might have been embarrassed, but she couldn't feel that was around the man in front of her, unlike so many of the people here, he was privy to the real her and she hoped she was privy to the real Jamal also.

((Brawd means brother in Welsh))

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

IN RAIN OR SHINE
YOU'VE STOOD BY ME GIRL

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"I'm fine," he answered Vanessa with the same softness she had delivered to him in her question. No, Jamal doubted that Kamala would ever lash out on him in physical violence. Though he had gathered that if she was desperate, she would resort to that. "No, she's not like that." Jamal mentioned to Vanessa a little shakily. he was shaky with his words for he was not entirely sure, but he was confident enough Kamala would never be violent without good reason. Before the apocalypse Jamal could remove himself from the situation before it even got to that stage, because in the past he could. Now it was much more difficult. Jamal was somehow surprised by what she had suggested, his expression conveying that. Head shook softly, being polite about it. "No, it's alright. I just hope it won't get to that stage again" Jamal answered vocally, adamant that it wouldn't. He just had to avoid Kamala, but how could he avoid his fiancee so easily? He could not mentally and physically remove himself from her. He felt it his duty to at least have the slightest bit of care for the woman. The image of a childhood memory played over in his head. "She has beat me up with a stick before, but we were kids," he chuckled, finding that memory more amusing now he thought about it.

What Vanessa was telling him did not appeal to him at all. Jamal always did what was right, even if he was in peril or jeopardy. That was a weakness of his. He was a push over. He did not really give a response, but he was in silence, eyes staring blankly ahead, the only movement in his body being the rise and fall of his chest with each breath. He understood where she was coming from. Vanessa was an angel when it came to advice, but yet, he never had the gall to act on it sometimes. It all depended on what it was. He felt his body budge from the nudge of her arm, and he gratefully accepted her compliment with a sheepish smile. When she spoke again , he looked away, toying with the plain gold band on his right ring finger. That was his engagement ring. It was a tradition for Indian men to wear engagement rings, and Jamal had come from a very traditional family, so it was no surprise he wore one. The couple exchanged them during a ring ceremony some time ago. It was a shock that both of them went though with it, probably because it wasn't the real wedding ceremony. His once averted gaze returned to her at the mention of her defying her parents. He couldn't fathom how someone could do that. "I hope so. Maybe my head is just on everything, like everything, especially these zombies," he paused for a moment. As much as he tried to act brave in the face of recent events, he was still terrified. "Too much to think about. Sometimes I just go with the flow."

His sudden turn of mood was alarming and random, even to himself, but Jamal felt the inclination to have a little fun. He was merciful though, not being too rough and his grip on her a little slack. Her reaction roused boisterous laughter within himself. He was so cheeky at the strangest of times, though it was thankful that Vanessa accepted his random antic. "I'm not much younger than you!" Jamal reminded her, amusement still etched across his expression. Well, a couple of years, but not much younger. "....Who was saying I was wise beyond my years? Sometimes I feel like I've never grown up," he admitted. Though, Jamal was a sensible soul at heart, he did have that mischievous streak that showed itself when around those he felt a close bond with. Well, anyone but his own parents.

Jamal felt himself stagger as Vanessa launched herself toward him to give him a hug. She was so dainty and petite compared to his own height, yet still she almost knocked him off balance. In return he embraced her in a fond, friendly hug. Vanessa was one person Jamal would hug without feeling awkward about it. He was never at ease with intimate gestures for he was unfamiliar with them, though this heartwarming, almost platonic relationship he had with Vanessa was comforting. When they parted, his expression was incredibly bright, amused and content. Though his eyes were squinting very decliately as if confused. "Brawd?" Nope, he didn't know what that meant, though he did gather it was an endearing word.

Words: 770 | Tag: Vanessa Notes: SQUEEE! So cute!
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[Vanessa Prudence McAdams]

Vanessa nodded enjoying the companionable silence, there was a comfort in it despite the fact that she could sense her words had shocked him slightly; but Vanessa had often met with men in her line of work, who had become punchbags for their women. It wasn't nearly as rare as people believed; though when Jamal answered she knew instinctually he was not covering anything up. Well not much. "Ok, well good." She replied, her voice less tight now. His expression was not overlooked, it was almost humourous to Vanessa. That was a resounding no then. "Very diplomatic. But you know Jamal, if you ever need a... hand." She smiled, flexing her fists and poking out her tongue. She laughed breezily letting her arms fall to her sides. She wasn't really the type for causing physical harm, but she had a quick tongue and a whole variety of sharp words should this... Kamala cause any trouble. What happened to nice girls? "A stick?" Vanessa chuckled in disbelief, running a hand through her hair. "How does one get beaten up with a stick?!" She laughed incredulously, decending into a cascade of giggles. Jamal was something else entirely.

The sudden breeze surprised Vanessa, though it did not distract her from how quiet Jamal was being. She frowned and pursed her lips, unhappy that she wasn't actually providing much help. Jamal was one of the most decent blokes Vanessa had ever met, but he let people walk over him without so much as a question; and she found herself wondering if he had ever done anything solely for his own satisfaction. And yet even with that she supposed she didn't want to change him, he was a good person and though she hoped he's stand up for himself a bit more she was more than certain she could put the scare on anyone who messed with him. She should probably make sure he didn't find out about that though. She watched lesisurely as he played with the gold band on his finger and she wasn't sure if he was iritated by it or whether it meant something. She figured she'd address that at some other point though, Jamal was her friend not her patient. "Maybe you already have it, but haven't realised... I've talked to people around here and well; everyone has something that makes them get out of bed every morning." She explained, raising her arms above her head to crack and pop her shoulder and elbows. She hummed in relief and then placed a reassuring smile on her face. "Yeah I get that. You can come see me anytime though, you know which flat I'm in right?" She offered, subconciously reaching down to her pocket to check her keys were there.

Her stomach was killing her and her laughter was showing no signs of weakening, "But you're still younger! And don't you go forgetting it." She retorted, her nose scrunching up playfully. She tried to lift his arm up and tickle him their but he was stronger than he looked and it only made her laugh harder, it was like her body was trying to convince her breathing was overrated. "Pffft. don't recall such a thing." She chorused, poking her tongue out. "Well I'd say that's a damn good thing, who wants to be all grown up and boring all the time." She replied, using her hip to push him across before pulling a stupid face. "Pretty sure no grown ups will be found here." She laughed, placing her hands on her waist as if to demonstrate her point.

She smiled and laughed and decided to apologise, though she really wasn't sorry. "Sorry." She chuckled bashfully, linking her fingers together simply for something to do. His eyebrows were knitted together in confusion and it was the most adorable thing Vanessa had seen in a long time. "Oh." Had she said that? She hadn't even realised; usually she was able to stop her drifting back and forth between languages, in fact she hadn't done that in such a long time that it shocked her slightly. In a good way though. "Brawd? It means... Brother. In Welsh." She explained, her eyes fixed softly on his. "Don't worry, I wasn't calling you a loser... which you totally are!" She laughed, shoving the probably uncomfortable intimate moment away and injecting some humour. I mean they were in a graveyard after all. She rolled her eyes slightly amused and crossed her arms, placing her hand on the tops of her arm.

[JAMAL ANISH RAO]

IN RAIN OR SHINE
YOU'VE STOOD BY ME GIRL

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How does one get beaten up with a stick...indeed. Although Vanessa was reveling in the humor of it, Jamal was still somber about it. "With Kamala at the other end of it, one can get beaten up with a stick. Plus it was a big one." Alright perhaps he was being over the top about the stick incident. Maybe it was just habit for him to make Kamala appear much much worse than what she already was. It was some feat to do that though. Kamala was possibly the worst person one would encounter, especially when it came to aggression and just plain bitchiness. A short sigh of defeat came from him. "Right enough I was a skinny little runt," he remarked, brushing a hand over his hair. Looking down, he briefly checked over himself. Outwardly he made a swishing movement with his arms. "I still am." Jamal spoke. He was not exactly the best built. Thats what vegetarianism did to someone.

Unfortunately Jamal was such a push over it was blatant to almost everyone that knew him. His own parents reminded him every day, and he felt like Kamala leeched off of his weakness from time to time. Putting others before himself was brave, but sometimes stupid. Others might interpret that as a lack of self respect, whereas Jamal thought nothing in playing the Good Samaritan. His stare was blank for a short while, though Vanessa's kind hearted invitation snapped him back to reality. "Thanks Vanessa, I really appreciate that." His eyes creased at the corners as he offered a smile of comfort.

He was in a short giggle fit, for Vanessa's laughter was merely contagious. Indeed Jamal did feel like a child next to Vanessa. She was bursting with intelligence and expertise, whilst Jamal's forte was video games and navigating London. Still, he was not envious, he admired her life experience. Kamala also had a high dose of intelligence, but at least Vanessa was civil to him and not wanting to snap his head off. He clicked his tongue out of defeat. "Fine. But the age gap is not that big, don't you go forgetting that." He stated, not exactly sure of his own point. When comfortable around someone, Jamal had the habit of talking complete and utter nonsense. His own head was crammed with nonsense sometimes. Expression lit up when he realised that she did say that to him, as if he had won a point over her. "Ha! You did say that. Damn, wish I had a tape recorder or something...." He looked around him briefly.

Jamal was mostly familiar with English dialect more than Welsh. Vanessa was possibly the only Welsh person he met, never mind knew. The little compliment of 'brawd' was a delightful breath of fresh air to him, and even more heartwarming that she had used her own dialect. "Right. I'm thankful for that. Thought you were calling me something.....bad." Jamal had paused, unintentionally placing his words carelessly. He clicked his tongue off his teeth at her 'loser' remark. "Oh thanks for that!" He wailed sarcastically, though the humor was obvious in his tone. If he could, he would get back at her with his own snide, childish remark, but he couldn't think of any. His brain had jarred. Any name calling was reserved for Kamala, and Kamala only, served with extra bitterness as she mostly deserved it. With a curled up fist he jabbed her shoulder. "What does that make you then? A smarty pants?" Jamal hadn't been this jovial since the outbreak. The apocalypse had brought out the more somber part of him, but right now, he felt a return to normality.

Words: 612 | Tag: Vanessa Notes: SQUEEE! So cute!
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