No Buses - Alex Turner Fanfic

I Suppose, A Use of Youth

Two days came and went, being filled with the usual. Bookshop, plant tending, Barry primping, reading; repeat. You know, I used to be that person to jokingly say, "I have no life!" but never did I guess that it would become my reality. A somewhat sad reality, which I am in denial about. Uneventful day after uneventful day. With the exception of Alex. He was eventful. The funny thing about Alex was I couldn't quite read him- pun intended. Well, he came across as very kind and friendly. He was a polite boy. Just barely did I have the inkling of his underlying cockiness. But, there was one thing that seemed off, that I couldn't quite place.

When Francis got back that afternoon, I told him how I had become acquainted with someone my age. He said it was all his doing and that it wouldn't have happened if he hadn't left. He also immediately asked if I fancied him, which I denied, no doubt. Alex was cute, but it wasn't like I knew anything about him. Other than that he liked outer space. Which was definitely a good quality.

Friday came quick enough, and it wasn't long before I was yet again trying to look like less of a 15 year old boy. I still went with casual, meaning I was still wearing trainers with my dress. And I always attempted the messy, attractive pony tail but never was entirely sure I was doing it right. Before leaving, I studied myself wondering what people thought of me from my appearance. Not that I horribly cared, but it was always something that crossed my mind.

I made my way over to the pub at nine o' clock that night. I had just a bit of nerves. When I went in that room last time with all those sweaty, crowded people yelling, it set off some anxiety. I imagine I would be standing in the back again.

I could hear the show getting started in the other room when I walked in. I, first, got a drink from the bar as usual, before making my way through the maroon curtains. The room was like a sardine can already. I tip-toed to the back and leant against the brick wall, taking a sip of my pint. The band was already on stage putting on and getting behind instruments. I noticed Alex adjusting his strap so that his electric guitar was up so high it almost sat on his chest. He wore a black and white striped shirt and his hair seemed to be much more tamed.

He tapped the mic. "Right. Hello. We are the Arctic Monkeys. Um, this is 'A Certain Romance'."

The fluffy-haired drummer began beating down on the drums, making the crowd cheer. The other guitarist and bassist joined in, and eventually Alex. I could hear some of he crowd singing along. Everyone was dancing and seemed to be having quite a lot of fun. I only wished I had the outgoing confidence to dance around like that. (Sure you've heard that enough, though.)

I could see Alex glancing around the audience with furrowed brows. I knew he was most likely looking to see if I had showed up tonight.

"..they'd probably like to throw a punch at me.."

Finally, his eyes made their way to the back, and I gave a short wave. His face lit up and he smiled with a nod. A few people looked around to see who he was recognizing and I blushed, sinking back against the wall. They played a few more songs including one called "Scummy" and another called,"Riot Van." Alex's hair stuck to his forehead, and sweat glistened on every band member's neck. When the previous song had finished Alex said a quick and shy thank you to the crowd. Scratching the back of his head, he looked at the mic.

"So..I think everyone should get up and dance for this next one, if you aren't already. Yeah, especially the girls out there."

There was a prominent outcry from the females in the audience. Alex glanced to the back, making subtle eye contact and I could see the unknown cocky gleam in his eye. I bit the inside of my cheek, holding back a creeping smile. I sighed, knowing I had no choice now. And this was probably because I told him I was trying to enjoy myself more. This was why I never told people my feelings.