Family Don't Break

CHAPTER 2

ALEX'S POV:

I managed to get most of the paint off. My skin is still stained green in some places, but it'll come off eventually. The pants Medda gave me are a bit too big, so I have to roll up the cuffs. The white shirt sleeves hang over my hands so I roll the sleeves up too. My paint covered clothes are stuffed into a cloth bag to be washed at home.

I allow my hair to fall down my back, frizzy from being tucked under my hat all day. I smooth it with my fingers but that doesn't do much. I walk out of the dressing room and Medda comes over, a kind smile on her face. "That's better now, isn't it?" I nod, hoisting my bag over my shoulder.

"I need to finish sewing one of the bodices, but then I'll be out of your hair for the night." Medda tuts, telling me to stay as long as I want. I walk back out to the main stage, keeping an eye out for any more falling paint.

Jack is just finishing his mopping, wet streaks covering the black stage. "Hey." He looks up and his eyes widen. "Alex?" I nod my head, walking towards him. "I didn't realize- you're a girl?" he sounds shocked, and he looks me up and down. "No shit, sherlock." I chuckle. He takes off his hat, running his hand through his hair nervously. "Sorry about spilling paint on you. Not the first impression I was hoping to make."

"Don't worry about it. It happens." He smiles softly, his cheeks tinged a light pink. Without paint in my eyes, I see that he's actually pretty handsome. His brown hair is messy. His eyes are blue and kind, a spark of mischief hidden behind them. He has on a plain white shirt, covered in paint. His smile is bright and wide.

"So, your Medda's new seamstress?" I nod again. "Yeah, needed some extra money. Plus, I love the theatre, so I don't mind working here."

It's true, I do love theatres. They have a peaceful air to them, an energy that you can feel but not see. The art is everywhere, little stories hidden in each set piece and costume. Whole worlds are created here, worlds that you can escape to. It's a safe place for me to go when I need to get away.

"Well, I have to go finish my sewing. I'll see ya later, Jack." I walk away, back towards the costume room. I can feel Jack's eyes on me as I leave. I hope I see him again tomorrow.

JACK'S POV:

Alex is really pretty. She has long brown hair spilling over her shoulders, bright green eyes that seem to hold a million different colors. Her lips are light pink, curved up into a perfect smile. But more than that, it's the way she walks and talks. She holds confidence, practically exudes it.

She wears pants and shirts, dresses like a boy. I've never seen a girl do that before. She's not timid, she had no problem swearing. It's unusual for a girl. It's cool. It's something different, something new. It's exciting.