threadbare ♠ [sequel to FRENCH BENEFITS]

09/ Given Up

October 1, 2002 · Des Moines, Iowa

"Welcome back home, Ali!" Hanna screamed as we piled out of the car.

"I'm so happy to be here. I missed my bed – not to mention, you guys." I hugged her tightly.

The hardest part of recording was getting my memories back in waves throughout. I never knew when any of them would come back to me, or how strong the experience would be. It's not as easy as I thought it would be to remember all of the shit we went through on that tour. Hanna and the girls think going back through some of the interviews and videos that were taken will help with some of it, too.

"So we're having a party for you tonight. But don't worry – it's here so you don't have to worry about going out." Joey explained to me as he grabbed me and ruffled my hair.

"Shit, I'm down. I'm so excited that I finished recording my first solo album! It definitely wasn't the same as having my people, but it was still a fucking kickass experience!"

◊◊◊

"Ali! It's great to see you again." Chris came and hugged me tightly.

"Hey Chris. You too, man."

The party was getting into full swing as it got dark outside, and we all piled in the back yard. Joey and Corey were grilling a bunch of hot dogs and hamburgers for everyone.

"So you got the solo stuff all wrapped up? What did you decide for an album name?" Chris started casual conversation as he handed me a beer.

"Thanks. I got it all done. I'm really happy with how it turned out – but I'll warn you that it's very different from what I normally write. It's called Once Human." I smiled, and caught sight of Sid out of the corner of my eye.

My stomach tightened and I turned my attention his way. I instantly regretted it though, because he had a woman on his arm. She was pretty too. She was tall and thin, with red hair. She didn't fit Slipknot's usual style – but who am I to judge?

"Earth to Ali?" Chris snapped in front of my face.

"Shit, sorry. What?"

"That's a badass name. Are you okay?" He looked concerned, and followed my sight trail over to Sid.

"That's Sid's therapist." He explained.

"Cool. But yeah, I uh – I can't wait for them to give me a release date. I want to do some local shows soon." I chugged some of my beer and excused myself from Chris.

^[should be Sid & Clary]

"Hey, Ali. You look amazing, as always." Corey made his way over to me and kissed my cheek. No doubt, he saw that I noticed Sid and his date.

"Yeah. Thanks." I faked my best smile.

"Walk with me, talk with me. Tell me how it went in Seattle." He slipped his arm around my waist and guided me back towards the house.