𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐋², jack champion

019, 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠

019, 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠
irl + social media

THIRD PERSON +
september 29, 2024

The fifth day in Japan was perfect—exactly what Juniper needed. She and Vinnie had been exploring nearly every corner of Osaka, trying all kinds of new foods, visiting picturesque spots, and enjoying each other's company in a way that felt easy, natural.

It wasn't just the beauty of Japan that made the trip special; it was Vinnie's calming presence.

They had wandered into a beautiful garden that day, a serene place filled with mock temples that had been turned into quaint gift shops and food stalls. The mountains in the distance loomed gracefully over the scene, their misty peaks framing the ancient temples scattered throughout the area. It was a peaceful place, even with the crowds milling around, and Juniper felt herself relaxing in a way she hadn't in months.

As they strolled along the stone pathways, Juniper clung to Vinnie's arm, her fingers wrapped loosely around his tattooed wrist as they navigated the bustling crowds. She found comfort in his steady presence, his laid-back nature soothing her often chaotic thoughts. Their banter flowed easily between them, punctuated by dry humor and quiet laughter.

Vinnie wasn't at all what she had expected when they first met almost a year ago; she had heard rumors about him before, people claiming he was cocky, self-absorbed because of people hyping up his looks. But the more she got to know him, the more she realised how wrong those assumptions were.

Vinnie was kind, thoughtful in a quiet, unassuming way. He was the type of person who noticed when she was overwhelmed or anxious and would wordlessly step in to make her laugh or take her mind off whatever was bothering her. He wasn't the type to wear his heart on his sleeve, but his actions spoke volumes. Behind the tattoos and stoic expressions, Vinnie was a gentle soul, and Juniper found herself grateful for his friendship more than ever.

As they wandered past food stalls, Juniper tugged at his arm.

"Let's try those," she said, pointing to a vendor selling dango—colorful rice dumplings skewered on sticks. (i fucking love dango)

The scent of sweet soy sauce wafted through the air.

"Why do I feel like you're going to make fun of me if I don't like it?" Vinnie teased, eyeing the skewers suspiciously.

Juniper grinned, nudging him playfully. "I would never! Besides, if you don't like it, I'll eat yours."

They ordered a few sticks, and sure enough, Vinnie's first bite was met with a dramatic grimace.

Juniper burst into laughter, covering her mouth. "I knew it!"

"It's... chewy. I cannot cope with chewy textures," Vinnie mumbled, handing her his skewer as she snatched it gleefully. "How do you eat things with this kinda' texture?"

"I have a more sophisticated palate, obviously," she teased, taking a bite of his dumplings with exaggerated satisfaction.

They continued wandering, laughter trailing behind them as they made their way through the garden. When they reached a small stall selling hats with funny slogans and eccentric sunglasses, they couldn't resist trying them on.

Vinnie pulled a bright pink visor over his head, lowering a pair of oversized sunglasses onto his face.

"How do I look?" he asked, striking a ridiculous pose.

Juniper stifled her giggles, snapping a quick picture on her phone. "Like the coolest dad on vacation."

He shot her a fake glare. "Rude."