Work Text:
Burning man.
Balling her fist a little tighter around the already wrinkled coffee stained dingy piece of paper, Nicole pictures the words on the paper over and over again.
Burning man.
She had been begging for months for a real report. Yet her editor in chief Randy Nedley smiled at her with powdered donut residue taking up rent on his mustache and with a wink handed over the crumpled stained paper.
What was the reason for winking? Camping out for a couple of days seemed fun obviously but normally it wouldn't be in a desert surrounded by at least 50 people all singing kumbaya and smoking pot. Now once again all these Nicole would be willing to do when she goes camping but again...not around 50 other people. Thankfully she only needed to report on the final day and night of Burning Man.
With a heavy sigh Nicole rears her right arm back and chucks the paper with as much might and strength she could muster at the moment only for it to, what seemingly seemed deliberate, move at its own leisurely pace. She couldn't even get the satisfaction of that. Having already set up her tent and walked around the flat desert, Nicole had decided on driving twenty minutes to the nearest coffee and pastry shop. Figured she would at least satisfy her sweet tooth before being utterly bored out of her mind for a day or two.
Grabbing her leather satchel bag with her files she had already written and recorded, Nicole flipped down her rearview mirror giving herself another once over before somewhat aggressively opening her truck door and maybe she slammed it as she walked towards the shop.
It was cute. Even in a cranky mood Nicole could admit that. It looked like the shop had been a small house when it was first constructed. Not run down per say but it could use a fresh coat of paint and maybe new windows. However Nicole always found while traveling that these types of shops usually end up being the best.
The shopkeeper's bell made her flinch as she opened the door but the shrill sound was quickly forgotten to the most mouthwatering smell. Muffins. Her absolute favorite pastry of all time.
“I'm Wynonna. Sit wherever. I’ll either be with you soon or it'll take hours. Depends on my mood”
The brass voice startled her but Nicole quickly located the body the voice belonged to as the woman stepped directly in Nicole’s way. “I can totally see how waiting hours would be a major bummer. Wouldn't break my heart if you decided to, oh i don't know, go somewhere else.”
With a tilt of her head Nicole looked at the woman in front of her. Attractive. Dark luscious brown hair. Piercing blue eyes. Dimples of her own. With a small shake of her head Nicole genuinely smiled at the brazen woman. “The longer it takes the better. I do not want to go to work.”
The woman in front of her snapped her fingers with a laugh “Well I can't blame you there. Just sit at the counter.”
Grateful Nicole all but collapsed on the stool at the counter, dramatically laying her head on the cool, sticky, counter. A menu slides into her forehead which stings a little. Scowling Nicole looks up at the woman pouring a cup of coffee. “Looks like you need it. Tough day?
“Ugh'' Nicole groaned as she glanced down at the menu. “You could say that. I'm a journaling reporter and I've been trying to catch my big break. Yet I'm stuck with covering Burning Man.”
Watching as Wynonna’s face changes to disgust, it's almost slow motion as the coffee pot slips from her fingers, it seems like the sound echoes before you could even hear the shattering of the glass. “BURNING MAN? You're complaining about having to go to work at Burning Man? Yeah I feel so bad for you. I'd trade days with you in a heartbeat.”
Now Nicole wasn't too keen on the idea of having to waitress but the thought did cross her mind. Unfortunately she was not that willing to lose her job just to avoid a large gathering of people. Responsibility man, it kills.
Until the shopkeep bell went off and a petite tornado of a woman stormed in. Saddled with totes, boxes, and a purse Nicole couldn't take her eyes off of her as she sidestepped every table and chair and disappeared into the back.
“W-who is, um, that?” Nicole stuttered before wincing at the embarrassment.
The snapping of fingers brought her attention away from the office door the woman had disappeared to. “I thought I could tell when you first walked in but we dont judge that around here. Waverly is always the best tell though. If you’re comfortable saying, are you gay, because the whole town is friendly about that if youre at all worried about it. I've got a pretty, well actually gorgeous, gun called PeaceMaker and no one would dare try and harass my baby sister who plays for both teams now would they?”
Taken aback a bit Nicole was sure she had wide doe eyes. “Is it that obvious so quickly? I mean I've never been ashamed, so yeah I’m gay. Feeling like your point about your gun could have also been a little nudge towards me.”
Everything was said without a single word or noise coming from Wynonna’s mouth. The piercing blue eyes stared back with a point. They squinted momentarily before relaxing. “So…I have a proposition. I’ll go to Burning Man and you can stay here and work and get to know Waverly.”
“Okay.” Nicole said quickly before her brain caught up with her. “Wait. How would that work?”
An apron was thrown at her face before Nicole had time to fully process everything happening so quickly. “You put this on. Tell Waverly that you're the girl she hired on the phone. She’s supposed to start sometime this week.”
Throwing her hands up dramatically Nicole whisper shouts. “Woah… woah. No. I do not lie. I especially wouldn't try to start a friendship or even more with a lie.”
“What's your full name?” Wynonna asks as she still moves towards the exit.
Nicole takes a few steps towards her. “Nicole Haught.”
“You're hired Nicole Haught.” Wynonna laughs out as she pushes through the door causing the bell to ring. “Have a great first day.”
Bewildered Nicole stands in front of the door as she watches Wynonna run across the parking lot before hopping onto her motorcycle. The roar it let out as she started it and drove away was more than a clear enough indicator that this was absolutely actually happening. Comically Nicole turned a full 180 degrees to face the back room Waverly had vanished too before turning back to the front door.
Raising her arms and then dropping them against her thighs Nicole sighs loudly before resigning to putting the apron around herself, tying it as she walks towards the back office door. A labored breath before bringing a slightly shaky fist to the door to knock.
“Come in please.” Waverly called sweetly through the door.
No turning back now, Nicole thought as she opened the door while grabbing her leather satchel in her hands and was greeted by a fairly small room largely taken over by a massive wooden desk, books, and files. All scattered about randomly it seemed.
Waverly was sat in a metal chair with papers spread everywhere in front of her, colorful highlights across some papers, a blue highlighter in hand Waverly turned to look at her. She smiled and Nicole felt her knees buckle a bit.
“Hi. Today is my first day.” Nicole said with an uneasy smile. Nicole laid her satchel on the desk in front of Waverly as like some sort of gift.
Nicole stands awkwardly beside her in the back room as Waverly squints her eyes at her. “Are you the woman I hired over the phone to start today?”
There's a playful tone to her voice that Nicole can easily recognize; however underneath the question lies a test that is even easier to see. Waverly knows the answer already. Its in the eyes. Lying would get her nowhere in this situation.
“No. I’m Nicole Haught. Wynonna just hired me. On the spot.’ Nicole quickly said. “It's only for a day or two, I'm actually a journalizing reporter.” Nicole points at her satchel. “This is weird, I know. I was told once though if you can't beat the fear then do it scared.”
The outburst was not expected but was probably warranted even if it did startle Nicole. “I cannot BELIEVE her.” Waverly barks out while throwing her highlighter across the desk hitting Nicole’s satchel. Nicole winces as she notices blue smear on the leather.
“Sorry, I’ll clean that.” Waverly says as she grabs the satchel and papers underneath it. “I’ve got a leather cleaner right here.”
Lightly scraping the bag with a wipe, Waverly begins to mumble as she fumbles with the satchel, papers and wipe. Stuffing unknown papers into the satchel as Nicole stands there unsure of what to do.“She leaves me stuck with someone who has probably never baked in her life, probably doesn't know how to run the machines or even take orders. Fantastic.” Waverly grumbled out before glancing at Nicole. “Not that it's any of your fault. I’m sure you're fabulous at other things and for all I know I'm being extremely rude. I'm sorry. I ramble when I'm mad and when I'm mad I get a little…bitchy.”
Handing the satchel back to Nicole with an apologetic smile Waverly sighs out. “Good as new I hope. Sorry about the papers, they're probably squished now.”
Smiling Nicole waved it off. “You’re absolutely right. I don't know how to do any of those things except I can take orders and cash and cards. This was very spontaneous on my part.”
Seemingly perplexed, Waverly threw her hands up almost in desperation. “Why’d you want to take this job for a day or two?”
Honesty has always been the best policy. She says that often and while she may believe it, the words that spilled from her mouth were honest yet by accident. “I thought you were the most gorgeous woman I had ever seen and wanted to spend more time with you.”
A beautiful pink blossoms across Waverly’s cheeks as she tried to hide her reaction. “What? Ok…you could have just eaten here and flirted with me. I don't understand working here.”
Waverly started walking in what Nicole would normally call erratically but then again she actually didn't know this woman. Maybe it's how she processes things. Who knows. It was endearing.
A tad bit stressed at her predicament Nicole runs a hand through her short hair. “Well, I was supposed to be covering burning man and your sister really wanted to go and said she'd take extensive notes. Like she promised PHD type notes.”
As the words spilled out of her mouth she could tell how crazy she in fact sounded. “This is probably the dumbest but most risky way I have tried to spend time with a woman.” Nicole confessed with a shy chuckle.
The boisterous laugh that somehow emitted its way out of Waverly’s lips kinda hurt but damn if it wasn't the prettiest sound she had heard in a while. “And now you're laughing at me.”
Quickly Waverly’s face dropped while shaking her hands. “No, no I'm not laughing at you. Well I guess I kind of am? I’m laughing at the fact that Wynonna promised to take notes. She is going to be higher than Mount Everest and more drunk than a pirate.”
This was a risk Nicole thought of and honestly was pretty okay with. Who would even remember this ‘ burning man ’ thing anyway. “I kinda figured maybe the notes would just be word of mouth by her personality.”
Softer hazel eyes met her own brown, Wavely hugged her own body tightly. “You risked all that to spend time with boring ordinary me?”
“The moment I saw you storm in I knew you were anything but boring and ordinary. If you are okay with it I’d love to spend the day with you.” Nicole rushed out. “We work together, you get to know me, I get to know you. At any point you can tell me to leave and ill walk right out or we can leave friends or maybe something sparks. Who knows.”
Feeling the heavy weight of those still softened hazel eyes, Nicole waits as Waverly looks her up and down. She’s not sure whether Waverly is judging her based on whether she can keep up in the shop or if she’s trying to decide whether Nicole is attractive or not. Either way it was nerve wracking.
After what felt like an exaggerated amount of time Waverly did a small hop. “Okay. You’re hired until I get Wynonna back. It's super fun here. However…never add anything while i'm baking my blueberry muffins.”
Letting out a sigh of relief Nicole smiles as she puts her satchel on the desk. “Scouts honor.”
With pursed lips Waverly shrugged. “I believe you. Alright…let me show you the ropes before the lunch rush.”
Two Hours Later….
Finally the shop had slowed down. To be quite honest with herself Nicole thought that she and Waverly worked amazingly together. Sure they hadn't had a lot of time to get to know each other but honestly it was kind of fun. She got to watch as Waverly interacted with regulars, new comers, people asking where other places are.
Every person Waverly interacted with was treated as if they were the most important person in the world. Nicole grabbed a half empty coke bottle from the counter left behind by a customer to throw it away as she watched Waverly sit across from her on one of the well worn red leather stools. “Can you grab me a bottled coke? I am quite parched.”
With a smirk and a nod Nicole turned around to the small cooler pulling out two chilled bottled cokes. “Care if I join you? It’s been a while since I've done manual labor like that.”
Waverly agreed with a shake of her head. “Please do. You're very intriguing and I'd like to get to know you better.”
Nicole wouldn't call herself intriguing. Honestly this felt like the most fun and spontaneous thing she had done in a while. She had hobbies of course but those didn't make her intriguing at least to herself. No, the woman she plopped herself down next to now she seemed intriguing.
Twisting the cap off the bottle, Nicole took a small sip as she glanced at Waverly. “I work at ‘Nedley’s Know It All’ as a journalist reporter. I have a cat named CJ. She’s a menace. I’m single...”
Nicole’s sentence was cut off by the shrill ‘r-innnng; of the landline. Waverly gave a sweet smile. “Sorry, let me get this.”
The harsh ‘R-iiiing’ ‘rii-nng’ sound continued until Waverly picked up the dingy looking yellow receiver. “This is ‘Earps Sweet and Treats’ How can I help you?”
Glancing around the shop Nicole notices the decor. A little strange seeing pictures of guns, and wanted men in a shop like this. Her glancing was interrupted by Waverly’s voice.
“Wynonna. No. No No. I know Doc didn't do it but they're looking for him. It's not a good idea.” Waverly said into the phone. “That's it. I'm closing for the day and Nicole and I will just head over.”
Whipping her head around Nicole looks towards Waverly as she puts the receiver down. “I’m sorry. I have to go there. Her boyfriend is a little wanted and I'm sure the police will be there so I have to babysit. You're more than welcome to leave as soon as we get there but if you don't mind helping me get in?”
She wanted to. She just wanted to spend time with Waverly. Wherever that is. “No problem. I still have an extra reporting badge. I can get you in.”
“Thank you.” Waverly lightly sighed. “I’ll clean up later. You can grab anything you need while I close up.”
Jumping from her seat Nicole walks into the back office to grab her leather satchel with her notes before returning to the dining area. “Got it. Are you ready?”
Within minutes they were headed down a small business lined street with people walking or sitting on benches, every single one of them waved at Waverly as the truck passed. With a friendly wave and a warm smile Waverly interacted back from the passenger seat and Nicole felt like she was in the presence of a literal Angel.
“Quite popular here aren't you?” Nicole asked with a smile as she briefly took her eyes off the road to catch Waverly’s. “Everyone seems to brighten up when they see you.”
Noticing a slight shift in Waverly’s posture Nicole felt as if she said the wrong thing.
“All in the smile and wave honestly.” Waverly said with a laugh. “And my amazing blueberry muffins.”
A hint of sadness was detected in Waverly’s voice and Nicole turned her head automatically to her. “They all seem to love you.”
“They don't know me.” Waverly said with a light huff. “It’s not their fault of course. It’s hard letting people in when they always leave.”
A little bit of a trauma dump but okay.
Letting the words sit carefully on her tongue before opening her mouth Nicole tapped her fingers against her steering wheel. “I don't want to say I can relate because I don’t know your story but I do understand people leaving.”
With a slow nod Waverly turned to face Nicole. “I just got Wynonna back and she’s already risking freedom for her boyfriend to go to burning man.”
The small business street turned into a lonely road going towards the desert as Waverly explained to Nicole her life story.
Waverly was adopted by her Aunt Gus and Uncle Curtis when her mother ran off with her biological father Julian leaving Wynonna, Willa, whom Nicole learned was their older sister, and Waverly alone with Ward Earp. Willa and Wynonna’s biological father Ward knew Waverly wasn't his but ‘raised’ her along with her sisters. Until he drank himself to death leaving 12 year old Waverly alone until Gus and Curtis came for her.
Wynonna had been in juvie the year Ward died and couldn't become Waverly’s legal guardian. Willa had already left with her boyfriend BoBo for greener pastures and never turned back. Besides, Waverly would have rather lived in a sewer than with her oldest sister who was her main tormentor as a child. 8 years her elder, Willa was the worst. They never connected through their age difference. Wynonna was the opposite though. Even though there was a 6 year age gap between the two of them.. Wynonna was her protector.
Ward once locked Wynonna in the shed for a week for stealing a pair of his overalls for Waverly to be a scarecrow for Halloween. It didn't matter Wynonna had told Waverly through the crack in the old wooden shed door. All that mattered was Waverly's smile when she got her candy from the neighbors. When Waverly had been adopted by Gus and Curtis Wynonna was allowed to come live with them which she did sporadically. Wynonna left and was gone far more often than she was home over the decade. Until just a few months ago when Curtis passed. Shortly after Waverly’s 22nd birthday. Wynonna came back home full time after that. However Waverly could tell she’s been itching to go…somewhere..anywhere.
Just as the gate came into view Waverly finished her story. “Woah. That was a lot to just dump on someone. I’m sorry.”
Nicole grabbed her satchel off the floor of her car, pushing the crumpled papers Waverly had stuffed in there earlier on accident further into her bag, before reaching to the very bottom for the reporter badge to get them in. “Don't apologize, please. I asked and I want to know you. I’m sorry about your Uncle. He seemed like an amazing man.”
Nicole felt no need to give Waverly pity for her life growing up. She could give her sympathies for the passing of a great man to her though. “Really, Waverly thank you for sharing that with me.”
Showing the gate manager her badge Nicole and Waverly make their way through and into the parking lot for Burning Man. Parking, Nicole takes her seat belt off and turns fully towards Waverly. “My mom and dad were big into concerts and things like this, burning man, so they left me with my grandparents a lot. My grandparents passed and then they just started leaving me at home until my neighbor took pity on me and took me in. Parents came home eventually but they didn't care, they took off again and my neighbor unofficially adopted me. He’s my editor, Randy Nedley.”
A small petite hand found hers for a moment. “You do know something about leaving. I’m sorry about your grandparents Nicole.” Waverly squeezed Nicole’s hand before releasing it. “So…what exactly is this thing and how do we find Wynonna?”
They had walked a few hundred feet before coming across the tent that Nicole had already set up. Taking her satchel and putting it inside her tent Nicole grabs the portable tape recorder to interview folks. “I’ve got plenty of water and camping snacks so if you get hungry or thirsty let me know and we can come back here for breaks. On the way to finding Wynonna I'll have to do interviews and stuff. If you want to help, that could be fun.”
Waverly’s eyes lit up. “Oh that sounds really fun. I’d love to. Do you mind if I change real quick?”
Nodding, Nicole turned away to give privacy as she heard a giggle behind her. “You didn't have to turn around. Just taking off this sweater. You're cute though.”
Nicole’s neck suddenly felt quite warm as she turned back around towards Waverly. “It’s called respect in case ya never heard of it.” Nicole joked back before realizing the shirt Waverly was wearing revealed a lot of unprotected skin.
“Your shirt. It’s pretty hot out here and the sun…do you burn?” Nicole asked hesitantly. “Just don't want you getting sun poison or burned…sorry. That sounds almost controlling.”
With a wave of her hand Waverly shushed Nicole’s ramble. “No, I get it. This crop top probably wouldn't be the best to wear with the direct sun. My sweater will give me a heat stroke though.”
Eyes widening Nicole jogged to her tent and her pre packed camping bag to pull out an extra shirt. “Got one here. Guns N’ Roses 1987 concert shirt…hope you like them.”
A squeal escaped Waverly’s mouth. “Oh that's bitchin. I’ve always wanted to go to a show but never could.”
Waverly eagerly accepted the shirt even though it was a size or two too big for her. However she tied it up a bit to fit better. Nicole watched as Waverly snuggled into the shirt. “Mmm smells nice. Vanilla. It’s my favorite.”
Subconsciously Nicole sniffed near her armpit which made Waverly smile. “I guess that's a point for me right? I emit your favorite smell.”
Waverly walked a bit closer to Nicole using her hand to brush down Nicole’s bare arm and whispered. “There’s been a lot of points towards you today…if we are counting.”
Nicole felt a shiver down her spine but remained grounded. “I’m keeping score. I think I’m winning.”
Skipping backwards Waverly gestured towards Nicole with a crooked finger to follow. “Come on scorekeeper, we’ve got work to do.”
Karma and Nedley had to be on her good side. While still thinking Burning Man wouldn't be anything worth reporting at least she had an intelligent and beautiful woman to accompany her now. The next few hours and possibly the night would be much more interesting than she initially thought.
A few hours later…
“What exactly brought you here today.?” Waverly asked in excitement.
This had to have been the 20th person they had interviewed together and after Nicole took on the first few, Waverly caught on and decided that finding Wynonna and Doc would be something that happened naturally or by the end of the night it would be a hunt. Waverly was a great interviewer. She was charismatic and smart. She asked interesting questions and delved a little deeper and because she was so charming people just talked freely. Or maybe it was because they were on drugs, who knows.
The man smiled but looked a little busy. “Well I'm Larry Harvey and I run this thing.”
Nicole straightened up and reached to take the recorder from Waverly before her hand was pushed away and Waverly hip checked her with a “Shoo… I have this.”
“Larry…what is Burning Man to you? Why? What's this mean for your soul?” Waverly asked.
Larry rubbed his chin for a moment as if pondering the question. “Well honestly the first time it was because I saw a bunch of wood on the beach. Called my friend and we just burned it. People showed up.”
Quite a bland answer and in no way anything really Nicole could work with. This was an important person to get an interview with. She’d love to get more from him. She didn't know Waverly that well and this would be a huge risk…but she fell back and watched as Waverly worked.
“Interesting…but what made you do it the year after..and the year after…etc…something had to make you want this..right?” Waverly questioned.
A group of men started waving towards Larry to get his attention while Larry looked a bit stressed before turning back towards Waverly. “ It seems to me that, given the problems we’re facing on every front—economical, environmental, political—what’s needed is a kind of ethical, cultural revolution. I think the things that people seek can’t be purchased. The things that matter most in life have an unconditional value. You can’t buy them. You can’t buy a friend.” Larry stopped talking to look between Nicole and Waverly before continuing “ You can’t buy a lover. You can buy the semblance of those things—and you’ll live to grieve over that.”
Nicole wasn't sure what to expect out of a man who assembles wood to burn for people but she felt his quote may be impactful on her life.
“Sorry ladies I would love to speak more but I’ve got a lot to do now. Enjoy the night!” Larry said as he rushed off towards the group of men who had clearly been waiting on him for something much more important than this silly interview.
Nicole lept in excitement with a yell. “Oh my god that's amazing. Perfect interview. You did so good, oh my god you did so great.. You did amazing. Thank you!”
Feeling like a small dog tackled into her Nicole was happy to realize it was Waverly in her arms hugging her. “That felt… incredible. I can see why people want to do this.”
Her hands hovered over Waverly’s back for a moment before finally grasping Waverly in a full hug. Squeezing slightly as she rocked back and forth a bit. “Right? Like one day I could be interviewing Lynda Carter or something. I’ll make it one day. I believe it.”
They lightly clung together in a hug in silence for a moment or two before Waverly broke away with a smile in her eyes and excitement on her face. “I believe it. You’ll interview someone like ‘The Wonder Woman’ or someone like her one day. For sure.”
She didn't know why, for only knowing the woman for a few hours, but she truly believed her. Maybe it was the adrenaline from what felt like such amazing quotes from the man who ran Burning Man himself but at the moment she truly believed in herself more than she ever had. Waverly was different. Nicole wasn't sure just how or why but she felt like her and Waverly would be very important to each other.
Love at first sight.
Was that stupid? Maybe. Was it actual love? No. However the emotion that Nicole felt when she first saw her nearly paralyzed her heart. Whatever that was, Nicole wanted to explore. In whatever sense that was.
“Thank you Waves, that truly means a lot.” Nicole finally said. “You've helped me a lot today, should we go find Wynonna?”
Swinging her arms around with a wide grin Waverly shakes her head. “No. I’m having fun. Whatever trouble she gets in she can wait until I'm ready now. I am getting hungry though.”
With a nod Nicole gestured with her arm towards the path for her tent. “I've got a little grill and some sausages for a late lunch if you want?”
“Sounds rad, let's go.”
——————————
The sausages sizzled violently in the pan as they popped and cracked. The cooking sounds were deafened by the festival goers loudness and overall being. It was silly but Nicole was overtly paying attention to the sausages as they cooked so they didn't burn. Personally she liked them on the charred side. It wasn't a 5 star meal but she still wanted to impress her. Silly. However that's just how she is, was, and always will be.
Waverly was a few feet in front of the tent playfully dancing to the guitar playing softly in the background. A chorus of singers softly singing ‘A Groovy Kind Of Love’ “Come dance with me.”
The pan of sausages was nearly flipped off the tiny grill by the lightning fast way Nicole got up and walked towards Waverly. Burnt meat was the last thing on her mind as she watched how gracefully Waverly moved to the soft strokes of the guitar string and the low singing.
Admittedly Nicole should have thought about the fact that she had no rhythm and would likely embarrass herself in front of the woman she had a growing crush on. That thought did little to hinder her steps forward toward Waverly.
Seconds after reaching her, Nicole stumbled over a small stone almost tripping before Waverly chuckled and took Nicole's hand, spinning her around expertly. "Uh oh watch out, Nicole. You’ll have me believing you're falling for me.”
Nicole rolled her eyes good-naturedly, but couldn't help laughing as she let Waverly lead her through the random dance. Despite her lack of coordination, she reveled in Waverly's unique and gorgeous laugh. Everytime Waverly’s fingers brushed her bare arms or took her hands for a spin, Nicole felt fire in her veins. As the strumming of the guitar came to a close, the two women collapsed into each other, nearly out of breath from laughing.
Waverly snuggled in a bit. “This has been so much fun so far. No work. No stress. Just having fun and being with peace.”
Nicole hugged Waverly a bit tighter. “I see the appeal of it now. I’m glad I stopped and got hired at a random pastry shop to meet you. This has probably been the funnest day of my life so far.”
Suddenly gasping Nicole continued. “Ugh, I never even got one of your famous blueberry muffins you talked about! What a scam.”
Waverly blushed and brushed a strand of hair out of her face. "Guess you’ll just have to come back and visit, Nicole. But seriously, I have never been happier that my sister quit her job for the day. This has been incredible."
Nicole nodded before sniffing the smell of burnt meat. “Shit. The sausages.” Nicole gently released Waverly before rushing to grab the pan off the grill, with a devilish smirk she said “Hope you don't mind them a little charred.”
“I actually do. It’s weird but the crunch makes it taste better.” Waverly admitted.
With a chuckle Nicole agreed. “Same. Got some mustard and ketchup fast food packets by the buns so it's time to dig in.”
While it was probably the simplest and cheapest meal she had shared with someone she had a crush on, it was definitely the best. The conversation flowed easily between the two of them. As Nicole recalled how she started as Nedley's personal coffee refiller at his newspaper firm when she first started living with him. Eventually as she aged she became interested in reporting. Still now at 24 she was getting terrible jobs while others there got better ones. It paid the bills though.
“I get that.” Waverly said as she set her finished paper plate down. “Baking is one of my biggest passions. We will probably have to close down soon though. We make enough for the ingredients, utilities, and half the rent. We don’t have a steady stream of customers. Locals come for lunch some days but it's not enough to keep it open for long I'm afraid.”
Nicole wasn’t sure what to say about that. It wasn't every day someone told you their dream was being snatched right from them. “Damn Waverly I am so sorry to hear that.”
“That's why I said you’ll have to come back real soon to try one of my blueberry muffins. We might have another month or two at this rate.” Waverly said with a sad smile. “I’ll start small. Sell in other shops until I can do it right.”
Now this wasn’t a romance novel written by some out of touch millionaire so Nicole knew she didn't have the funds to buy out her shop and gift it or anything. Wouldn’t that be such a problem solver? Alas. No dice.
“In the morning I’ve got to head out to give my article to Nedley so it can run the day after. I can bring you to your shop and I’d love to have a muffin to go.” Nicole said as she laid her hand on top of Waverly’s. “The sun is setting fast. They’ll start setting the statue on fire soon. Let me help make tonight the funnest night you’ve ever had.”
With an eager nod from Waverly, Nicole quickly grasped Waverly’s hand in hers and gently pulled her to her feet. “Well then I’m sure there's plenty of people with liquor who would be totally down to share.”
“Sounds hella gnarly.” Waverly admitted. “Let’s motor.”
They had beelined it towards the group of people who had been singing earlier and playing guitar. The group of very friendly people were more than happy to share a bottle of Jack Daniels with them as they stood around in a circle talking about nothing of importance yet laughing together like brothers and sisters. The couple of joints shared by the group probably didn't hinder the fun and laughter being had by everyone.
A loud cackle was overheard as a megaphone was brought to life. “Setting the fire begins in sixty seconds.”
The crowd of two hundred rushed the 100 feet to get a closer standing spot to the 40 foot tall statue. “Did you want to get closer?”
Waverly shook her head. “I'd rather not have to crank my neck up to see it. I think it’d be cool to see its full beauty all at once.”
She couldn't agree more to the fact she wasn't wanting to nearly break her neck to have to look up to see the thing. With a smile her eyes lingered over hazel ones for a moment before hearing…” 3…2… ”
Before one hit Nicole felt her arm being lifted and settled over Waverly’s shoulders. Looking down, Waverly lightly blushed but seemed happy with herself for doing what she wanted and Nicole grinned wide enough for both dimples to grace her cheeks. “ One…This Is Burning Man!”
“ Radical.” Waverly whispered. “It’s so quiet.”
The fire started slowly at the bottom of the base, but, as the fire licked dangerously at the wooden legs of the statue it engulfed within 45 seconds. She could see the glorious aspect of it. She loved bonfires and this was 40 times bigger than a bonfire. Some marshmallows would be stellar but it's a lot of gasoline so maybe it wouldn't be a good idea.
Absent-mindedly her fingers started playing with the bare skin of Waverly’s shoulders only noticing when Waverly looked up at her with the fire dancing in her eyes. The stare felt almost a little too intense to the point Nicole had to look away. Her cheeks felt as warm as if she were ten inches from the forty foot statue. Waverly giggled underneath her arm.
“Nicole I don't think I mentioned it earlier but you are gorgeous. Like super attractive.” Waverly said as she played with Nicole’s fingers. “I am very happy you stopped at my shop today.”
“This might be my favorite job I’ve had to report on and I honestly don't know how anything will top it.” Nicole said. “None of that would be true if I had not stopped into your shop today.”
It was silent for a moment before a loud voice boomed close to them. “WAVERLY!! You made it! I knew you’d find me. Doc can eat my shorts.”
Wynonna burst between them. “Come come come…back to my tent.”
She looked like she had been having an amazing time at Burning Man with the glazed over eyes and slight sway in her walk. “Come on baby girl. Let's party for the rest of the night!
Waverly looked slightly annoyed at her sister interrupting them. “Wynonna don’t be rude. Say hello to Nicole, remember.”
Wynonna turned her head quickly. “Big whoop…kidding. Take a chill pill before you turn into a total bimbo. Thanks for the great time Nicole but I want to take Waverly back with me now.”
Smiling Nicole shifted her gaze to Waverly who looked stuck between a rock and a hard place. “I get it. I really should get back to my tent and write my article. Grab me in the morning, Waverly?”
“Are you sure?” Waverly asked.
Nicole could tell Waverly wanted to go with Wynonna to look out for her but also to stay and hang out with her. “Yeah I’m sure. Nedley will kill me if I don't get something done.”
“Alright. I’ll come get you when I wake up so we can go.” Waverly said before reaching up and giving Nicole a quick kiss to the cheek. “Thank you so much for bringing me.”
Instinctively Nicole’s hand rose to touch the spot on her cheek that Waverly’s lips had just laid purchase. “Of course. Have fun. I’ll see you in the morning.”
Standing in place she watched as Waverly and Wynonna weaved through a crowd until they were no longer in her view. Slowly she started her journey back to her tent reliving every single second of this day.
As she unzipped her tent and crawled inside Nicole could feel the exhaustion from the day start to creep in on her. Once settled on her cot with a small light she unclipped her satchel and grabbed a second portable recorder to record her article. She’d drop it off with Nedley tomorrow who would get it printed for the next day's paper.
Wrapped around her second recorder was one of the pieces of paper Waverly had accidentally stuck in her bag. A page ripped out of a notebook filled line after line in black ink ways to try and drum up business that would keep them from closing. All with a red x beside them as they cost too much.
Sighing Nicole stuck the paper back in her bag. It felt too confidential. Too vulnerable for her eyes. There wasn’t anything possible for her to do. Resigning herself to that Nicole presses record and begins narrating her account of ‘Burning Man.’
- - - - - -
The creaky door slammed shut as Nicole rushed to open the passenger door for Waverly. “Are you as tired as I am?”
Waverly glared at her for a second with disheveled hair before cracking a smile. “Totally. You need a cup of coffee to go too?”
“Please.” Nicole fake begged as Waverly unlocked the door and led them inside. “I feel like death.”
Sitting at the counter Nicole watched as Waverly turned the ovens on and inserted a fresh batch of blueberry muffins. She fluttered about turning on the coffee machines all the while Nicole felt as if her head weighed twenty eight pounds.
“15 minutes.” Waverly called out from the kitchen.
The aroma coming from the coffee started to wake Nicole up further and the first sip from the large to-go cup Waverly placed in front of her completely woke her soul back up. The smell of the muffins coming from the back had her mouth watering instantly.
The oven timer rang out and within seconds two ginormous blueberry covered muffins were put in a bag and then in her hand. Another blueberry muffin placed on a napkin set out on the counter in front of her. “One quick bite and then I'll have to shoo you out so I can go home and shower.” Waverly joked.
“I wish I could stay. Boss man would have my head if I didn't give him the article.” Nicole sadly admitted before taking a generous bite of the blueberry muffin.
The taste of the sweet and buttery flavor of the muffin combined with the juicy, slightly tart flavor of the blueberries had Nicole nearly rolling her eyes in happiness. The contradiction of the texture between the blueberries and the soft muffin complemented each other beautifully.
“Oh my damn. These are delicious.” Nicole said mouth full with a singular blueberry escaping. “Better than my grandma’s.”
The truth shocked even her. It couldn't be denied from her though.
“Yay!!” Waverly hollered. “I’m so glad you like them. Here. I wrote the shop and my home number on the napkins inside. Call me. I want to see you again.”
Standing up slowly Nicole looked Waverly in her eyes. “I promise you’ll be seeing more of me. I’ll call you. It was great to meet you Waverly.”
Waverly flew around the counter and embraced Nicole in a tight hug. “It was amazing to meet you Nicole. Thanks for the best night.”
The hug lasted only seconds as they were forced to part.
“Promise. I’ll call.” Nicole said as she exited.
As she reached her truck and climbed inside Nicole reached over and placed the bag on her passenger seat. Taking another bite out of the muffin in her hand and now that she was safely alone Nicole groaned at the party happening in her mouth. Reaching into her satchel and grabbing her recorder, Nicole pressed play as she took off out of the parking lot towards ‘Nedley’s Know It All.’
The thirty minute drive to her work was well used as Nicole fumbled with the recorder as she made her way inside the dimly lit office. “Nedley? You here, you old man?”
A loud cough confirmed Nedley was in the back. “You know I am.”
The stench of a fresh lit cigarette was like a breadcrumb trail as Nicole weaved her way into the back. Nedley was hunched over his desk, lit cigarette between two fingers, mumbling to himself.
“Got the Burning Man article. Just need you to type it up.” Nicole said as she laid the cassette from her recorder on his desk. “I need the ending in there. Please.”
Nedley looked up both perplexed and excited. “Did you have fun?”
Grinning, Nicole nodded. “The most.”
“Alright kid. I’ll type it up and get it submitted for the morning. Go home and take a shower. You stink.” Nedley said with a laugh that formed into a smoker's cough. “See you for dinner.”
That much Nicole could agree on. She needed a shower and a good sleep. “See you.”
24 hours later…
The annoying sound of her phone ringing startled Nicole awake. Confused, she began to fumble out of bed before reaching her living room and picking up the receiver. “Mmm… H-hello?”
“Are you typically not a morning person Nicole Haught?” A sweet voice asked over the phone.
Eyes opening fully at the familiar voice Nicole cleared her throat. “Waverly? Hi.”
“So you think you can just put out a 2 page article of Burning Man and end it with a whole page reviewing and recommending my muffin shop and I wouldn't notice?” Waverly said with a choked laugh. “I just got to work and there's already a line out the door.”
“Let me just… hold on one second.” Nicole rushed out before laying the phone on the table and running to the door to collect her newspaper. Front and center was her Burning Man article.
She didn't care about that. Well she actually did but she wanted to see if Nedley had done what she asked him. On the third page was a 3 paragraph food review about ‘ Earps Sweet and Treats’ finishing off the page with a huge advertisement for the shop. Which was really just the shop name and address in a very large font.
“Thanks pops.” Nicole whispered to herself as she picked the phone back up. “I didn't lie at all though. I waited until I tasted your blueberry muffin that morning to record the last of my article.”
Waverly chuckled through the phone and into her ear. “I believe you. It was very sweet and I don't know if I deserve it.”
Nicole smiled into the phone. “I think you do.”
“So is this you calling to ask me on a date? Waverly asked.
Nicole almost let the phone slip through her fingers. “You called me.”
A beautiful laugh filled Nicole’s ears as she erupted into giggles as well.
“Waverly. I would love nothing more if you would go on a date with me.” Nicole asked on bated breath only for a very excited “I’d love to.” to come through the phone.
A long “ Waverllllllyyyyyyy…” could be heard in the background as Waverly huffed into the phone. “I’ve got to go Nicole but thank you again for the article. I appreciate it so much. Call me tonight and we can plan a date.”
Nicole was barely able to hang up before she was jumping up and down in her living room.
Burning Man…
Burning Man.
She loved Randy Nedley and Burning Man more than she loved anything at this point….
So far at least.