``rockefeller tree lighting ceremony

[LEX]

NEW YORK, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2010





THOUSANDS OF LIGHTS SPARKLING IN GAWKING CHILDREN'S EYES ... IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!

The unlit Rockefeller Center Christmas tree usually arrives and is displayed sometime in November. Soon after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, when the department stores have just unveiled their famous window holiday displays ... the week after Thanksgiving represents the true start of Holiday Season in NYC for many New Yorkers.

It's gonna be lit in a wonderful ceremony just after dusk, about a few hours after the ice rink has opened it's gates for the public. So feel free to indulge in a little bit of skating before the big bang! Or stroll around through the little Christmas market being set up right in front of the rink all over the Rockefeller plaza. Gingerbread, hot punch and festive music will set your mood!

The tree will stay up until January 2, 2011. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a world-wide symbol of the holidays in New York City. The tree, traditionally a Norway Spruce, is illuminated by 30,000 environmentally friendly LED lights on five miles of wire, and crowned by a Swarovski crystal star. Tens of thousands crowd the sidewalks for the event and hundreds of millions watch the Tree Lighting Ceremony broadcast live across the globe.

NOTE: Thread will be closed Monday night and then I'll add all the extra lifetime points for everyone who participated

INDEEP 2010

[CLAIRE ELIZABETH WALDGRAVE]

She had no idea why her presence at this event was necessary. Her mother had scolded her, her reptilian eyes glimmering with disappointment as the differences between her and her daughter became more evident with age. Claire had always taken after her father socially. Instead of blossoming like a radiant butterfly that swooped and swerved above its admirers in the summer air, the only offspring had been drawn to darker things in life like a moth. With her gap toothed smile making her an awkward face to admire, the classic Hollywood beauty would often surrender to social pressures and commit herself to the night and it’s dark secrets. Instead of wanting to visit the elite places of Upper Manhattan, Claire would take refuge in such places where petty crimes would go unnoticed.

Stepping out the black limousine that had transported her here with her mother, the girl stepped out and smiled awkwardly to the cameras that were hesitantly awaiting the arrival of New York’s biggest names. Unfortunately, she was no extravagant performer with a hooked Italian nose and she certainly wasn’t a blue eyed heiress. The porcelain legs did not belong to her cousin, with her bushy brown hair and bug eyed blues. Feeling her heart dip with sadness as only a few snapped her frame in to a historical shot, Claire continued with her walk towards the event. Tonight she had decided to don a well known designer, the shimmering blue dress reaching the middle of her thighs, the back sweeping down to the small of her back to reveal her toned back. It was a flirtatious elegance that the girl rarely showed, preferring to go for the obvious sexy instead of the more demure feminine side that she could carry so easily if she wished. Her ruby red lips parted to reveal her infamous gap toothed stare whilst her blue-brown eyes stared aimlessly up to the top of the tree. As her mother mingled, the girl struggled to find herself on even turf with the rest of the world. Sadly, the girl took a step away from the crowd and headed towards the empty corner that hosted the electrics of the event. The unmanned area meant she could surrender to her passions infinitely and alone.

Kicking off the stilettos, the youngest Waldgrave removed a small bag of white powder that had been hidden inside. Pouring a small amount in to her palm, she carefully resealed the bag and hid it once more. Itching fingers, long and slender, massaged the toxic substance in to her gums whilst she kept her back hidden to the crowds. Her curved nose would not fall victim to her troublesome games tonight, after all she didn’t want to be snapped with the powder on her nose – she wasn’t dumb enough to get her picture taken with any evidence remaining on her harsh facial features. For a while, the girl waited. She paused, her back still turned to the crowd with her golden curls tumbling down her spine. Her heart began to race, she could feel her ears drumming in time with her heart, the adrenaline causing her wide set mouth to fall open in to an O as she let out a small gasp. Eyes watering ever so slightly with pleasure, she smiled vapidly at nothing in particular. A rush of innate feelings swept over her, happiness and other feelings she could never reach in their full. This was splendid. Truly splendid.

In the darkest hours of the night when she’d soberly lie awake staring at her white ceiling, she’d remember what it was like to be happy. Truly happy. She remembered how she had never needed this sense of dependency and reaching for things that weren’t there. It had been good. Grand. And whilst it would be cliché for her to blame her demons on her parents and the things they stood for, she evidently did. It would be a way for her to shift the blame and the flaws on to someone else for a change. It was her mother’s fault that she was so unhappy and had conformed to the teenage dream of those she hung around with and it would be her mothers fault that she’d ended up in this imperfect world where a magnifying glass was cast over her body 24/7. it wasn’t Claire’s fault that she’d started the drinking, partying and rolling around with strangers in the gutters. It wasn’t Claire’s fault that the drugs had swam through her veins so many times that without them she became a quivering wreck and a paranoid harlot. The glamorous life of those she’d sought after for years was upon her shoulders now and it wasn’t as glamorous as she’d once imagined. It was, in fact, a reality that she now loathed.

[/blockquote]

[CARTER EDWARD WALDGRAVE]

Not two hours had passed since he’d found himself at JFK, back in the bitter New York air. The boy had instantly received a call from his publicist, summoning him to the event that was sweeping New York with an upheaval of excitement. He’d received word that his business, or rather his family’s, was now in the hands of his Uncle and cousin. The pit of his stomach rumbled with venom at the mere thought of anyones hands but his own protecting the business that his father had spent his entire life building up. He would be damned if he saw it burn to the ground after his death. He would rather tear any single person limb from limb than see this beautiful empire sink beneath civilisation like an Atlantis, it’s mythical beauty radiant in the shores of waters afar and unattainable. His business, his baby and his only love to truly remain by his side would not fall victim to his fathers family. If anything, his appearance at the Rockefeller would prove his presence was, indeed, back in New York and it would remain there until he was back in the driving seat of Waldgrave Enterprises.

On his way, he’d picked up a suit to change in to. His initial arrival would, no doubt, be met by media hungry nobodies who remained at the bottom of the pyramid like starved vultures. Beady eyes would pick up on every single detail of Carter. His height, weight and general appearance being the only thing they could cling to. The stories would spin, the rumours begin and the catastrophes would kick start under this photo fuelled catalyst. The boy would have to charm them, his sickly sweet charisma oozing from every pore that breathed within the boys skin. The detrivores of his world would have to remain entertained and happy or else his whole world would collapse with one bad word spoken against him.

Smiling and greeting them, his memory kicking in as faces came back to the forefront, Carter addressed them as best he could before disappearing and changing in to the suit he’d picked up. The stitching was perfection, though the sleeves were a little too short for his toned arms and gave the appearance that the boy had chosen something from his cousin's rack rather than his own. Rolling the short sleeves to the top of his elbows, Carter adjusted the tie and ran a hand over his head before stepping out once more, the familiar smirk appearing on his lips once more.

The trademark blue eyes, framed with blonde lashes, searched the room for anyone he knew. They fell upon his so called step mother, her botox filled face failing to feign enthusiasm. The skin across her flawed face was too tight to show any true emotion that the woman felt. He could only imagine what her cosmetic heart would look like, the colours faded and pumping impure blood with the ice slowly freezing over once more as she shunned those who tried to call her out on her love for his father. Whilst doubts surrounded Carter's own beliefs, he would never address them publicly out of fear of what it would do to his own reputation.

Heart skipping a beat every time he saw a tall, leggy brunette, Carter shook his head a little. When would he really be over the girl?

Probably never. For the boy still believed that, without Charlize, he would never truly feel love again. The flame that ignited every time she was around suffocated under anyone else’s affections and died completely at the sure sign of anything other than a meaningless date. The so called groupies that still clung to any hope that Carter would return to his old ways would flaunt their scantily clad bodies his way, their eyes flirting continuously until Carter would politely put them down. He couldn’t do it. Couldn’t even begin to think that anyone else would ever match the girl he’d made Charlize out to be. He’d placed her upon a high pedestal that he wasn’t even sure the real girl could reach. Carter had hyped her up so much, his heart beating for a fantasy alone. The real thing, the true girl, was flawed whilst the fictional version walked on air.

Answering the text that had come through from Travis, an old friend, Carter placed the phone back in to his suit jacket before scanning the room once again. His eyes fell up on his sister by marriage, her blonde head dipped low and entranced by something. Whilst his thoughts could muster only bad memories of the girl, his eyes displayed concern for her obvious shunning of society. Though he knew his harsh words would never leave her and the influence he had on others opinions of the English girl, Carter still cast the blame on to her. There were some things that not even he could change about himself and his feelings towards his step sister was one of them.

Again, he found the people that he remembered from years passed: Valerie and Mathis whilst new faces also sprung in to his line of vision but absent from all of them was the one he longed for the most. The girl he’d been running from for the past four months, her brunette curls and sweet little nose plaguing his dreams in the night. The delicate fox like features were something that he pined for, just one glimpse. He was truly no better than a junkie, mouth salivating for just one more hit. Just one more inhalation of her scent, the prick of her nails against his skin like dirty needles filled with heroin or even her lips pressed against his own; just one more hit to exhaust his appetite for the night.

[/blockquote]

[DORIAN EARL GRAY]

Christmas was a funny thing in Dorian's mind. It had never been an overly celebrated holiday when he was young. No, in the South they rather celebrated the Confederate's day, which wasn't really a holiday, or the football games of the High School every Friday night ... those were the highlights of the year. Yes, there had been those classic American Christmas traditions: Dinner with the extended family, presents in the morning, church in the afternoon ... but he couldn't remember himself obsessing over the mere concept every advent season again. There were no Christmas markets in the town he'd grown up, people had barely decorated their houses when he was young and snow?! It was a rare occasion as well. Sure there was Santa taking a tour on a riverboat along the harbor while the people would stand at the promenade cheering but really, what kind of odd sight was that?! Then there were the plays all schools around town would put on every weekend leading up to Christmas eve but all in all it was just a weak attempt of those few Yankees that had moved in over time to feel at home.

It had only been as he came to New York that Dorian had been faced with how crazy about the festivities the North has been. The way people went out of their way getting into the so called Christmas spirit by getting drunk on eggnog throwing up the gingerbread man on the snow clocked sideways while some lowlife Santa Claus impostor rang a bell for charity on every fucking street corner! How the streets were decorated with colored fairy lights so decadently that las Vegas shivered in shame with Christmas windows in the big department stores displaying surreal scenes in finest fur and tempting elves in candy-cane printed lingerie. But through it all, the commercially flawed incentive of celebrating Christ's birth, the southern boy hadn't been able to deny that certain spirit that seemed to come around every year at this time. The way people - despite rushing up and down Manhattan in search for the perfect gift as validation of their affection - seemed to be genuinely happy and content whenever there was a Christmas jingle echoing from some storefront or a punch booth in passing. Somehow it was for real, a truly magical time.

This all - however - did not numb the spirited young man's head enough to forget about his trouble-starting ways. For some odd reason he couldn't live with content happiness and flawless comfort for long and this always was much more apparent when everyone for once also seemed to be having a good time. It was then that he needed to do something, anything, a stupid prank, an elaborate scheme, a mere wake up call for the deliriously exhilarated masses. He thought to himself it was his attempt at reminding everyone that being privileged and happy wasn't a matter of course, it was a matter to be grateful for. Of course aside of the philanthropic incentive there was also the blatant craving for naked spite - a good laugh at the misfortune induced on others, so never with the intention if causing any real harm. So even the handsome boy's next plan, as smart and wonderful as it was, would not hurt anyone literally, maybe even cause a few laughs. Sure as hell it would get the buff brunette model to slap his thighs a few times in utter glee.

Flicking his black bowler hat up in the front lightly at a passing beauty on his way to the backstage are at the side of the street Dorian smiled handsomely at her pretty features, turning in his walk strolling backwards a few feet while checking the goods that had been prancing by. He was already almost at the little door in the tarp covered fence that was keeping strangers out as well as their glances from what was going on behind the scenes of the event. But since it wasn't the President's inauguration there wasn't exactly Secret Service to stand guard. Waiting for an electrician guy to exit the lighting area for some tools in his truck parked by the roadside in between all the broadcasting vans Dori quickly slipped inside unnoticed like catwoman on testosterone. Finding a hiding spot in the dark, to rest for a moment and take a look around for orientation, the boy decided to follow the arm thick wires on the floor around some corners in the narrow space behind the stage, ice rink and market booths. Come more toward the front of the plaza where he assumed the generator unit would be Dorian passed a corner only to stop in motion for a revelation in sparkling sequins. A neatly shaped female figure, blond hairs like an angel cascading over her back while she stood their, gawking over her shoulder like a shy deer at the crowd close by she was obviously hiding from.

Beau couldn't help but stand in awe for a moment at the classic beauty reminding him of an early Jerry Hall a bit. The casual elegance flowing from her motion like the most natural thing. "They obviously improved on the electricians' uniforms quite a bit!" the boy chuckled lightly starting out to talk only quietly as not to scare Bambi like a blaring truck with headlights on. Stepping out of the shadow into the faint light - no more than 3 feet away from her now - Dorian smiled charmingly though it grew slightly empty and stony after he realized her dilated pupils as the almond shaped crystals glanced his way surprised. Her eyes almost glowed cat-like as the light from the side fell through the caping holes in her retina giving the habitual abuse away she obviously had come back here for. The model had been in the industry for long enough to know the symptoms like the back of his hand! Still he was in no position to judge or care ... she just cemented his views of the rich and famous as a flawed pack of junkies and social trash who just had the means to hide it all behind diamonds and couture dresses. "I didn't mean to interrupt the private party!" he apologized weakly, scratching the side of his forehead which was laid in handsome pleads.

[VALERIE ROSE MONTCLAIR]

Valerie had left school that day earlier because of a stomach flu she was coming down with. Curled in her bed, hugging her pillows trying to sleep, she couldn't just settle, so she was keeping herself occupied with talking on her cell phone, IMing and trying to get her mind off of things. Like the date her mother had set her up with the Franch Ambassador's son for example. How pathetic was that? Her mother judging her uncapable of finding a "suitable young man" for her as she put it, so she had to step in and take matters in her own hands. If only she knew, Valerie thought bitterly. After she had been sent to France, exactly because of her "love life" she knew that they would never trust her choices on the matter. But she really didn't know things would turn out the way they did. She was as disappointed as her parents when she found out... But she knew that it was her fault from the start for getting involved... So she had decided that never again she would trust someone or allow herself to even develop feelings, or how they called it, a crush on someone again. Little did she know though. Apparently it was something you couldn't control... It just turned everything upside down and left you not knowing where you were standing, how to act or what to say. She was a girl, dreaming of a fairytale since she was little. A girl can dream after all. Right?

Valerie sighed as she turned on her bed. Tonight was the tree lighting, something that completely skipped her mind. She never missed it, well only last year because she wasn't here. Valerie being such a sucker for Christmas, thought of the tree lighting as the start of the festivities if you like. It made the city look "Christmasy" and it made everyone get into the Christmas spirit. She groaned when she heard the ongoing fight between her mother and her brother downstairs... Thank God Phillipe was here to save her... She weakly removed the covers from her petite body and shakily stood up. She put her robe on and left the room descending the staircase slowly, until she reached the living room where Claire and Phillipe were standing facing each other. They both turned to look at her What are you doing up? Go back to bed

[/i] her brother ordered. Valerie just shook her head and she was just about to talk when her mother interrupted No Phillipe. She did good, she must start getting ready. Jacques will be here soon[/i] Valerie rolled her eyes Mother seriously. Do you want me to be coughing and being all sick all over the French Ambassador's offspring? And then get the whole Embassy sick?! Do you know how bad this will be for our name? she asked obviously exaggerating You do want me to get a second date with him don't you? she asked arching an eyebrow. Apparently she had hit center spot, since her mother looked at her weird, with a thoughtful expression True...[/i] Claire said hesitantly as Valerie made herself comfortable on the big couch OK I'll call and reschedule. But there is no getting out of the new date. You hear me Valerie Rose?[/i] Valerie winced. When she used both her first and middle name meant she was serious. Valerie just nodded yes with her head before she turned to her brother that had a concealed smirk playing across his lips and she smirked back at him. Phillipe offered t help her back to her room and Valerie nodded, as he helped her up and put his hand on the small of her back leading her out of the spacious living room

Cher frère je veux une faveur she said putting her sweetest smile on and batting her eyelashes slightly. Phillipe sighed and stopped midway And what favor would that be?[/i] he asked looking at her with an amused expression I want to go to the Christmas tree lighting she said sweetly. Phillipe rolled his eyes Seriously Valerie? You just got yourself out of a date because you feel oh so sick, and now you want to go out?[/i] he asked arching an eyebrow. Valerie pouted Pleeeaaase? You can tell mother that we are supposed to be representing the family at a major New York City event or something. And that maybe seeing some people will do me some good! she pleaded. Phillipe sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose Fine go get changed. It will start in a while[/i] he said. Valerie squealed before she took off and ran upstairs. For a sick girl she cleaned up pretty well.

Valerie entered her bedroom and after removing her robe and nightgown, she walked into her ensuite wardrobe room to find something to wear. She decided on a black long sleeved knit sweater dress with an exposed zipper and leather embellishment detail GUESS dress by Marciano Lyla. She then picked a pair of thigh high boots and moved back to her room to change. After changing quickly she sat on her vanity, brushing her hair and straightening the edges a bit that had curled during her sleep. The rest of the hair were OK since she had fixed them before school that morning. She kept her make up as light as possible, and she stood up taking her clutch bag and coat, heading downstairs where her brother was waiting for her

Half an hour later, the black stretch Montclair limousine was parking outside the Rockfeller center. Phillipe stepped out first and hold his hand for Valerie to take in order to help her out. Valerie got out and immediately felt the cold breeze on her face. With small smiles, and keeping close the Montclair children posed for the cameras of awaiting paparazzi, before they continued their way towards the room in which they would watch the tree lighting from. When they stepped in she looked around her. There were many people in there and most of them famous socialites. Valerie sighed as she followed her brother further in, before finding her way next to a window after a while, leaning on the wall, eyes closed[/size][/blockquote][/blockquote][/justify]




OUTFIT? CLICK
WORDS? 1049
NOTES? -
CREDIT? hey it's SHMEY ! @ caution 2.0
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[CHARLIZE CECILIA RUTHERFORD]

The last time CeeCee had been at the tree lighting over 2 years ago it had been with her parents and the Waldgrave family. Yet another postcard opportunity for the affluent dynasties of upper Manhattan to showcase their flawless lives. So they would at least keep up the facade the masks and the fake signs of affection for the few yards from the quiet limousine interior to the safety of some VIP lounge area or some back entrance to escape with a town car unnoticed. Those events always went the same way ... after the gauntlet running through the flashlights was dealt with the senior generation would keep to themselves among single mold Brandy and finest cigars, the chit chat about stock markets and fashion trends filling the elite boxes high up on the blenders erected across the 100 foot Christmas tree overlooking the ice-rink. All the while their privileged children, mingling amongst themselves on the red carpet a little longer, enjoying the limelight much more, would soon disperse into the hot-spots of the city wallowing in their own vices.

But tonight was different ... her father wasn't even in town anymore and her mother probably somewhere, shacked up with whatever boy-toy she was hung up on now till the next issue of Harper's Bazaar told her that this season's tween companions were brunette. Felix was ... well ... incapacitated and Carter probably hid away in some hotel for his own good. She could understand that he'd want to stay away from the public eye now ... even though a big part of her wanted him to come still. Just so she could read his face like a map ... see every little line giving away the despair he'd be in now, left without a company, love, friends ... or the money to make up for the loss of the prior values. She didn't expect him to tell her ... hell, all the time of them being together he didn't even tell her what he was feeling. She didn't expect that to change now that he probably hated her. Maybe he was right to do so, maybe in his one last straw had failed him. But maybe hating her would help the tall blond man to get over her easier. Because if CeeCee had been able to read one thing from his actions abroad then that he was still clinging to his old life, the one that had included her and a bright prospect on a future as a family.

Sitting in the limousine in thoughts, AJ at her side, the petite brunette watched the sidewalks and cars pass by in the dimly lit slur through the tinted windows. She felt the student's tender arm around her shoulders protectively, the silence engulfing them both. It was not that they didn't have much to talk about but recent events rendered the fox-like beauty thoughtful and quiet, bringing almost every conversation the gentleman to her right started to a crashing halt. Assuring him over and over that everything was okay since talking about how she worried on he ex fiancee who she would always be in love with was not a subject to be discussed with certain people ... ANYONE for that matter. Charlize was way to proud to ever admit such devotion and the incapacity of telling her mind what to do. Ironically she was able to inspire people's hearts in so many ways, manipulate them in her favor but her own wouldn't listen. It was adamant that it was right ... and her endeavors of moving on were wrong.

As the car stopped by the commotion outside CeeCee looked toward AJ's side through the windows seeing the bulk of journalists already. Her hand subconsciously came to rest on his thigh, gripping it lightly as if to hold on before she smiled at the boy somewhat sorry but at least with the certainty of not having to get out alone. The brunette knew that everyone out there had heard ... surely Marc Waldgrave hadn't left any newspaper in town unaware of her failure ... nor the explicit reasons WHY he thought she was being incapable of heading an international corporation. Truth was Charlize had never thought of herself to be fit to do so ... it had been a favor for a guy she couldn't say no to ... still she had failed and there was no sugarcoating that. The door pulled open by the driver and Anthony exited the car with the girl in the feathery fur vest following on his hand. Shaking her long side-bangs back that fell in slight curls CeeCee smiled at the flashlights professionally, eyes slightly squinted. They did their duty, strolling the carpet slowly, giving everyone what they wanted. Look here, give me a smile, pose ... like puppets on a stage with the media pulling their strings.

Despite the glad notion of being here with AJ who had been nothing but an understanding sweetheart who made her times less insufferable the slender brunette, giving the cameras the over the shoulder smoldering glance, couldn't help but remember how much easier it had been to strut the red carpet with Carter by her side. How they boosted each other's confidence and how all that everyone wanted was to get their happiness on film. Nowadays it was a pack of vultures snacking on their despair ripping away the dead meat to uncover further and more painful secrets below. They didn't care why AJ had taken her tonight ... they'd make up their own story for whatever sold best these days. They were deep in the mills of publicity and by now there was no way out ... all they could do was move on, past the probing questions and glances of media representatives toward the center stage below the tree from where they could get a better sight of the event. Or maybe somewhere into the more secluded aisles between the market stands that smelled so solemnly like vanilla and cinnamon.

[ANTHONY JOSHUA HEARST]

we'll walk this road together

through the storm

Anthony glanced over at CeeCee as the two made their way towards Rockefeller center to watch the tree lighting ceremony. He really wasn't entirely sure of why he had invited the woman next to him but since he really hadn't wanted to go with his family and he had been getting along well with Charlize lately, he had decided he'd ask her to accompany him to the festivities. He knew that his appearance with her would only add more fuel to the gossip that the two were dating but their wasn't anything he or anybody could do about it. He liked Charlize and wasn't going to give up his friendship with her just because people liked to talk. They were just friends and since she was one of the few people who didn't annoy him he wanted to spend as much time with her as he could. He didn't see anything wrong with that and although his father had warned him about spending too much time with Charlize in the public eye, Anthony was still going to do it.

As the two pulled up towards the Rockefeller Center, Anthony smiled at the feeling of CC's hand on his thigh giving him a light squeeze. Looking over into the brunette's eyes, AJ had to admit that he felt sorry for the young woman. He had heard all about what had happened to her with Waldgrave Enterprise and he knew that she must have felt as if she were about to enter a pool of sharks in a feeding frenzy. Anthony of course had not paid an ounce of attention to what the papers had printed about CC and while he was sure his father undoubtedly knew Marc Waldgrave, Anthony had no respect for a man who would use the press to try and make a young woman look bad. Anthony really hadn't understood why CC had taken the helm of the company to begin with since she had seemed to love the job she had but it wasn't in him to blame her for trying something. He didn't think Marc had given her a chance to see what she could do and had just done everything in his power to take control of a company that AJ was fairly certain the man had been drooling over since the death of Carter's father.

"It's going to be fine." AJ said to CC with a smile as he covered her hand with his then gave her hand a squeeze. They hadn't talked about her losing her position as the head of the Waldgrave company but he could tell by the way she held herself that she was thinking about it and was bracing herself for an attack from the reporters. Smiling at her, AJ leaned over and placed a light kiss on her cheek then gave her hand one final squeeze before his door was being opened by the driver and he stepped out into a frenzy of flashing lights. Ignoring the lights, AJ turned and held his hand out for Charlize as she stepped out of the limo then linked her arm through his. Smiling as he placed his hand over hers, AJ made his way through the walkway doing his best to ignore the comments that were being hurled at the two of them as they walked. He really didn't care what any of them thought although he did want to deck the reporter who had the gall to ask CC if she was now attempting to get into the Hearst family's media empire since she had failed as the head of the Waldgrave company.

Making their way through the press, AJ let out a small sigh of relief as he led Charlize to find a place closer to the tree. He wanted to make sure that they had a clear view of the tree lighting since he knew that no matter what, watching the tree lighting always managed to lift his spirits. He could only hope that the tree lighting had the same effect on the woman at his side since it would be nice to see a genuine smile on her lips.

As the two made their way down the path towards the tree, they had to come to a stop under one of the arches that were spread out among the walkway. The group of people in front of them had come to a stop to snap a couple pictures of their own of the tree and while it kind of annoyed AJ, he couldn't blame them. Even not lit the tree looked great and while the group ahead of them snapped pictures, AJ kept his hand on CC's as he looked around and let his gaze wander over the people as well as the decorations that had transformed Rockefeller Center into the winter wonderland it had become.

As his gaze traveled skyward, AJ felt a small smile form on his lips as he turned to face Charlize and dropped her hand to place his hands on her hips as he gently pulled her towards him. With a slight nod skyward, AJ pointed out the mistletoe that hung over their heads and with a smile said: "You know we can't break this particular tradition. It's bad luck to stop under mistletoe and not get a kiss. I'd hate to be responsible for you not getting anymore kisses for a long time because I let you break this tradition."

As he talked, one of AJ's hands made their way up over her her side before his fingers laced their way into her hair. Gently gripping the back of CC's head, AJ smiled at the brunette then leaned forward to place his lips lightly against hers.

open :: tagged
wearing:: outfit
not afraid by eminem :: lyrics

[CLAIRE ELIZABETH WALDGRAVE]

The girl was no stranger to the hard partying ways that came with being a member of the elites. She’d been popping bottles of champagne since she was fourteen, sipping the rich tasting liquid whilst her and her friends partied around their dorm rooms with their long St Tropez legs were tanned from some holiday that their family had whisked them away on. She’d started smoking a year earlier, feeling the strains that came with trying to make it to the top and conforming to what they accepted as socially normal. Her tar lined lungs hadn’t tasted fresh air for the past five years, slowly asphyxiating under the smoke and nicotine that she inhaled for kicks. Her nerves were antsy without the roll ups, the straights or the cigarettes laced with something stronger.

Her drug taking had started off recreational. Parties and events were the more conventional times in which she’d puff, snort or even inject as the years went on and the needs for a bigger rush overtook her. Then it slowly became less and less social. She’d sit in her room for days on end, just her and her mirror. She wanted to feel alive but numb to the consequences. She didn’t want to care or have to worry about anything. The large eyes would look back at her, the can of hairspray and comb in either hand as she made herself up. Made her self pretty. Her lips would be painted red, her hand slipping in grip and smudging at the corners whilst her mascara eyes would spill tears as she looked at the mess she’d made of her life. The back combed hair towered high upon her head crumbled as she slumped down on to her carpeted floors, the family cat mewing at her side and pushing for her attention. The rage would kick in, her mood swings altering as quickly as a bolt of lightening. She needed the touch of a man to make her feel sane again, their rough hands pressed against her stomach as he lifted her top off, discarding her garments to one side as his lips explored her naked skin. She needed the taste of alcohol from his lips on hers; she needed his heart racing against hers; the excitement causing his whole body to shake as she lied beneath him with her hands gripped in to his hair.

She needed to feel needed.

It was almost as if functioning wasn’t capable without a guiding hand. The addictions were there for her, they weren’t going to leave her in the middle of the night. They weren’t going to uproot her life or disappear when things got a bit too hard to deal with. They weren’t going to tell her she was fat, ugly or spoilt. No. Wherever she went, they went with her too. And though it was a cliché routine that she’d gotten herself in to it was one that worked for her.

It was then that she noticed the form before her; his thick chest rising and falling as he breathed in and out, his nostrils flaring every now and then. His eyes bored in to her, questioning her toxicity. He could tell from her eyes that she wasn’t there. Shaking her head, she shrugged once and then attempted to speak. I was nervous. She said quietly, her ruby red lips parted and showing those two cracked teeth that she loathed. Her large eyes searched his face for recognition but her mind played tricks with her. Biting on her lower lip, the girl felt the drugs swirl in her system and cascade through her blood. She managed a small smile as the white powder seduced her mind. Hm. She laughed slightly, taking a step forward and looking up at the tall form that stood before her. Do I know you?

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[CHARLIZE CECILIA RUTHERFORD]

Finally leaving the carnivore lined obstacle course that was the polyester based red carpet area CeeCee took a deep breath of the crisp winter air, the cold slightly tickling on her face making the cheeks grow rosy with blood streaming into the capillaries. She could smell the scent of mulled wine lulling her mind ever so lightly as her eyes caught sight at the base of the gigantic Rockefeller tree that - however unlit - radiated something majestic. The angel statues looking like cast from ice and hoar frost with their golden trumpets performing a silent melody accompanied by the solemn rushing of the wind above the plaza. Her hands warmed in both her furry little pocket and the crook of AJ's arm. It was a wonderful night ... if only by the beauty of the setting the city provided. A few stray snow flakes prancing through the dark sky like fireflies. No stars in the sky but even more so in everyone's eyes who had come here for the Christmas spirit.

It was for this exact same reason CeeCee loved the tree-lighting, for everyone to be whole and merry. Only people who wanted to be a part of the community came and thus there was no Grinch, no unhappy kid no scheming con artist to spoil the mood. Everyone wanted the same which was having a good time ... and that was what Charlize was going to have. With a kind young man at her side that didn't like her for looks or status. A guy who wanted her to be happy, which was the sole purpose he had brought her here, so she could get her head out off recent events and focus on her own bliss. Smiling comfortably the petite brunette pulled a bit closer to AJ's arm, leaning her head sideways against his shoulder as the slowly strolled down the aisle toward the tree. People stopping here and there in awe, happy faces all around, the Christmas spirit lingering here and there like the scent of fresh oranges and cinnamon. The loose trail of people came to a slow halt. Detaching her head the girl let her glances trail up the large fir. A few minutes from now they'd illuminated the thousands of fairy lights and maybe spark a little bit of light into everyone's hearts as well.

Feeling AJ slowly turn her his way so their bodies were facing each other Charlize's smile slowly turned into a serious face with slightly raised brows in anticipation. Following his explanations and the nod upstairs she chuckled solemnly. This was easily the cutest way ever she had gotten conned into a kiss. As a matter of fact all he had to do was kiss her, she wouldn't have pushed the boy away. For all he had done the past days ... weeks ... a kiss was the least the 20-year old could offer as compensation. It had been a hard time on her and it was going to be from now on still ... possibly get worse. Carter was back in town now and from the looks of it blaming CeeCee on the loss of his father's legacy. But this was not a burden the brunette wanted to weigh herself down with right now. Expecting AJ's lips that slowly approached she closed her eyes, nerve endings tickling with excitement and then, after a mere grace, the warm soft tissue pressed against her moist lips tenderly.

Lacing her arms around Anthony's neck, deepening the kiss, possibly upping it in rating a bit, Charlize tilted her head sideways lightly for better access as her mind spun around like a carousel. Still there was this little girl standing in the middle of this tornado whirling around her, head lowered in sadness ... because she didn't feel what she had felt when kissing a certain person in the past. Though being unrealistic this notion was disregarded violently ... there was no comparison to what Carter had been ... still was. It was not fair to measure anything or anyone against that! It was an idolized state of mind AJ couldn't ever live up to, despite being a wonderful, kind, understanding boy who'd surely grow up to a great man who'd make some girl exceptionally happy one day. Did CeeCee see herself being this woman ... not quite. Sticking around the Hearst heir was like using a band-aid ... the wounds would eventually heal. Was she using him? Maybe ... but it was not like she'd not give anything back. AJ could have her, almost all of her but that tiny little silver box somewhere in her heart that could only be opened by one. It was more of a deal than abuse ... one that didn't require spoken consent, just a kiss to seal the deal.

[VALERIE ROSE MONTCLAIR]

Valerie looked out of the window, her mind running in other things as she watched the people outside. The city had turned into a Winter Wonderland with the still unlighten tree as the center piece. She could see the ice skating rink and people, skating happily, chatting, laughing, some of them falling embarrassing themselves and a faint smile appeared on th brunette's lips. They would all probably go get hot chocolates with marshmellows in, or hot punch and stand somewhere to watch the tree lighting and the performances after that. Kylie Minogue, Charice, the Radio City Rockettes... Valerie looked at the Norway Spruce standing tall in front of her. It was so big, that it wasn't hard to believe that over five miles of lights were used to decorate the tree. She looked at her watch and sighed. She wanted to go out and not watch the ceremony from up here. What was the point after all? She was a sucker for Christmas and she wanted to live what started Christmas for her from up and close. She looked around her in the room, trying to spot any familiar people but she just shook her head. She pushed herself from the wall and made her way through the crowded room and to the door. She had forgotten to bring a jacket woth her but it was alright. What would happen anyway? Get even more sick?

She descended the steps and looked around her before heading towards the crowd. She could already feel the cold breeze hitting her, and especially the parts were her legs were uncovered and she shivered a bit as she found her way towards the path. There was a big stage set in front of the tree from what she could see, and it was already packed with people standing in front of it, but she simply shrugged it off. She was sure that she would find a good spot to watch the whole thing from. As she started walking the path she had to stop several times for people to take pictures of the decorations. It only made her smile. It didn't annoy her much. She would be acting like that too if she was feeling better. She has been away from all this for a year anyway and she was really excited for this event. As she continued her way she heard someone calling her and she turned around Excuse me miss?

[/i] Valerie turned to see a company of people together, one of the holding a camera Would you mind taking our picture?[/i] Valerie nodded smiling and took the camera. She took a few steps back and put the camera in front of her, focusing on the people smiling in front of her. She snapped several pictures of them in different poses, before she handed the camera back smiling. They thanked her and Valerie continued her way, walking slowly and admiring everything around her

France was beautiful, but there was nothing like New York around Christmas. It was as if the whole city was getting into the Christmas spirit and the usually insanley quick pace of the city slowed down and everybody started enjoying this time of year. Valerie hugged herself to warm up a bit as she continued her way. She could see the white lighten angels holding the trumpeters and her smile got wider. She couldn't contain her excitement as she kept approaching. She suddenly saw from afar to familiar figures and quickened her pace to reach her "friends". Ceecee and AJ. But suddenly something made her stop dead in her tracks and with nothing to do but stare. It was like her legs had frozen and she wasn't able to move any further as AJ leaned and pressed his lips on Ceecee smiling. She bit her lip as she felt herself turning around, as if she was hypnotized and sitting on the nearest bench, looking somewhere in a distance without really seeing anything. She suddenly felt cold. As if everything from inside her had drenched in a moment. She no longer wanted to watch the tree lighting or was excited for what was going to happen. All she wanted was go home and curl in bed for days.[/size][/blockquote][/blockquote][/justify]




OUTFIT? CLICK
WORDS? 707
NOTES? -
CREDIT? hey it's SHMEY ! @ caution 2.0
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[LEX]

``CLOSED

LET'S TAKE A LOOK AT THE NUMBERS!!!

LOCALS
(this time the thread DOES NOT count for the WORK EXPERIENCE MONITOR)

Posts as following:

• CHARLIZE CECILIA RUTHERFORD - 2 POSTS
  
• CARTER EDWARD WALDGRAVE - 1 POSTS
  

OVERALL: 3 POSTS

GIRLS
(this time the thread DOES NOT count for the GPA MONITOR)

Posts as following:

• CLAIRE ELIZABETH WALDGRAVE - 2 POSTS
  
• VALERIE ROSE MONTCLAIR - 2 POST
  

OVERALL: 4 POSTS

BOYS
(this time the thread DOES NOT count for the GPA MONITOR)

Posts as following:

• ANTHONY JOSHUA HEARST - 1 POSTS
  
• DORIAN EARL GRAY - 1 POSTS
  

OVERALL: 2 POSTS

EVERYONE WINS!!!!
(There was no competition this time!)

Thank you everyone for the pariticpation and stay tuned for the next site event coming Thursday, as usual, if you have any questions, don't hestitate to pm LEX, TINI or JOJO.

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