A Summer to Remember. (Skye Pilot & Ahiru)

[Skye Pilot]

Jameson had been a member of the camp staff for over five years now. It was a summer job of course, but one that kept him outside, able to enjoy the summer season. Even though he new it would not last forever, he planned to enjoy it while he still could. Today was the first day the fresh batch of campers would arrive to the co-ed camp. A week of training and set up of the camp to get it ready had flown by. Jameson had made a few new friends in the first year staff, and gave them tips for dealing with different problems and situations that might arise. His advice may go unheeded to some of them, but others would take it in stride.

Today, he wore what was considered a proper uniform. Khaki shorts, a red shirt with the camp logo over the left of his chest, with the â??Camp Staffâ? written beneath. Jameson always thought the red was annoying. All the staff shirts seemed to be red. It did help the new kids to more easily identify the staff, but a color change from summer to summer wouldnâ??t hurt that much. His short, neatly cut brown hair was passed over by the gentle wind of the early June afternoon. He stood in the parking lot, along with all the other counselors, already hearing the first of several busses churning down the road, the roar of the old engine filling the woodland landscape. Clipboard in hand, he looked over the list of names once again with a smirk.

Every cabin was assigned a counselor. Some counselors were in charge of only one cabin, but due to his experience, Jameson this year was in charge of cabins 12-15. Two of those were for boys, the remanding two for girls. One of the girls that was on his list he had developed a good friendship with. Though they did argue and disagree over certain events and things that had happened during previous summers, he would call her a friend. They even flirted with each other from time to time. Even if being on staff strictly forbid such an activity, it still happened rather frequently.

He had kept in touch with her online, through the fall, winter and spring, but they lived so very far apart, that meeting up really was impossible. Jameson had only found out that she was on his list just a few days ago. The first bus pulled into the large parking lot, and taking a look at itâ??s number, he knew none of the kids on it were destined for the cabins he would be in charge of. Some of the other counselors ran up to the bus as it opened itâ??s door, happily greeting the kids inside, giving them directions on where to go. Soon enough, a second and third bus pulled up alongside the first. With a smirk and a small burst of anticipation in his stomach, Jameson went up to the third bus, knowing his friend would be on it. Really, he had prepared himself to be waiting all afternoon for her bus to arrive. Having come in so early was a pleasant surprise. Stepping inside, he gave a quick welcome and introduction, his eyes skimming over everyone. As he saw her sitting in one of the seats, he smirked again. Giving instructions on where to go, along with the days agenda, the last thing he did was point to herâ??Oh, and watch out for herâ?¦ sheâ??s a troublemakerâ?¦â? He told everyone on the bus, starting out with his typical hi-jinks already.

 

[Ahiru]

If were still her first two years of camp, Kira would have surely hid in her seat in embarrassment. But instead, the seventeen year old girl stuck out her tongue, rolling her eyes a bit. Pulling out her phone, she quickly texted him: "You ass. Pay back will be mine." Shoving her phone back into her pocket, she stood up, brushing her jet black hair out of her face. She had cut it just before camp, leaving it at just above shoulder's length; adding hot pink streaks too, making her hair contrast her grayish-blue eyes eve more.

Kira definitely had her own style; today's outfit consisting of blue jeans with a black mini skirt layered over and a white long sleeved shirt with a light pink tank-top pulled over. Around her neck she wore her usual collar; a black fabric one with a silver star pattern. Jameson had teased her for it year after year and she was sure he would this year wouldn't be any different. Slipping her black converse shoes back on and grabbing her bag, Kira sauntered off the bus, punching Jameson in the arm slightly as she passed.

As she stepped down off the bus, she smiled to herself, happy to see that he was his counselor. He had never been before, but now it would be so much easier to prank him. His cabin would be closer by this year.
She wandered over to the welcoming table, signed in, then just headed straight for the main stage for the opening ceremony. She sat in the very back with a few of the campers she could consider friends, crossing her legs and smiled, talking with them about the past year and what had changed. Unlike her, most of them had chosen to be counselors in training; however, she just simply didn't want to. Being a camper was far too much fun.

 

[Skye Pilot]

Jameson had his back turned, having already started up a conversation with one of the new Counselors training, giving him direction on what to do next. The firm punch to his arm caught him completely off guard. Whipping around, he quickly realized that it had been Kira that had delivered the blow. Shooting her a glare in return, Jameson rubbed his arm some, knowing that a bruise would most likely develop from her unexpected punch. She had certainly become more bold over the past year. Finishing up his conversation, he turned and watched her vanish into the small crowd. Her look and clothing certainly made her stand out. The pink streaks to her hair were indeed a new addition, which only made her stand out a little more. The combination of white, pink and black clothing helped too.

Several more buses arrived, and Jameson went about his designated duties, greeting the busses, and giving out more welcomes and instructions. Soon enough though, he headed to the main stage too. The opening of the camp was always a blast. The staff would perform a few skits, and lead the campers in some songs too. Of course, some of the songs and skits fell more on the lame side of things, but that was always bound to happen. When it was his turn to sing or be silly in a skit, he tried to search for Kira, just to see where she might be. But, with her in the far back, Jameson really didn't have a good opportunity to spot her in rows of campers.

Dinner immediately followed the opening ceremonies. Most of the meals were served and eaten in the mess hall, but for the opening day, it was all done outside, like a big picnic. It was meant to get the campers talking with each other, along with the staff as well. Dinner was consisting of hamburgers and hotdogs, and all sorts of side dishes to accommodate different tastes. Everybody could find something they liked, or try something new. After all the campers had gone through the line, only then were the counselors able to go through. Picking up a burger, some coleslaw, and chips, Jameson grabbed a cup of red Kool-Ade, and started to look through the small sea of campers once again. Soon enough, he spotted Kira, talking with a group of her friends. Going up to her, he made idle conversation with the group. He had been kept busy enough through the afternoon that even though he had received several texts to his phone, he wasn't able to check them. Setting his plate down on a nearby picnic table, he flipped through the messages, chuckling at the one Kira had sent him. Maybe her punch was the payback, but knowing her, he doubted it would end there.

Typing a message back, he responded. "Campfire after party. You're invited. Usual spot." was all he wrote, knowing she would understand when and where to go later in the evening, once the day had been drawn to a close.

 

[Ahiru]

Kira grinned, laughing and enjoying the conversation with her friends. She loved the first day of camp, the dinner always seemed to be the best. Plus, it was amusing to watch the awkwardness of all the new campers as they looked around; knowing full well that it was exactly how she was a few years ago. It was then that she felt her phone vibrate and pulled it out of her pocket, sliding it open. "Of course, see you there." She replied before turning back to her friends. Of course she knew where it was, they happened quite frequently over the course of the summer.

It wasn't long until she finished her meal and said her goodbyes before heading off to her cabin. Her cabin mates were already there; all three of them were new this year. She introduced herself, before ambling over to her bed and flopping down. Laying back, she relaxed for a few moments. It sucked, knowing that this would be her last year here, being able to just relax and enjoy the camp air. She had no intention of coming back to be a counselor, but only because she was going to college. With a stretch and a yawn, she sat up, and rummaged through her bags. Pulling put a white sweatshirt, she folded it over her arm and went outside.

Walking down to the campfire pit, she took a seat in the front this time, placing her sweatshirt down next to her to save a seat for Jameson. It had become kind of a tradition after her second year for them to sit next to each other the first night. After that he'd be too swarmed by his admirers for her to get anywhere close at the fire. This made her laugh a bit to herself.

 

[Skye Pilot]

Jameson came to the campfire pit after most of the camp had already assembled there. He wasn't late by any means, but seating had already began to fill up quickly. The staff was always encouraged to mingle in with the campers, to be social and friendly at such events. Most of the time that wasn't a problem, but when it got to the point that the campers didn't have spots to sit, the staff would give up theirs. Usually there was a small gathering of staff standing towards the back, but Jameson always tried to find a seat somewhere, even though Kira sometimes saved him one. Comming into the area, he looked in the back for Kira, since she seemed to pick a spot there at the earlier welcoming, but he didn't see here there at all. A little confused, he looked over the excited crowd of this summers campers, trying to spot her. After a few moments, he spotted her pink highlights against that dark hair, sitting up near the front.

Walking up to the front, he smiled to her, picking up the sweater that she had placed down, saving his spot. "Is this seat taken?" Jameson chuckled a little, handing her the sweater. Sitting down next to Kira, He stretched his back a little. He had been on his feet most of the day, having been busy since the time he woke up, really. It felt so good to finally sit down. The campfire pit overlooked the calm, wooded lake. The sun was starting to set, but it was still above the tree line across the lake, casting bright orange and yellow colors over the water. The campfire itself was easily over 6 foot tall of stacked up wood, and once it was lit, the flames would easily double that plus some. After a few more minutes, the Camp Director came out, and everyone went silent. "Welcome to camp, everybody!" he happily announced. The crowed burst into cheers and applause, as was typical. "We have a great summer planned for everyone, and it starts right now!" With that, several other staff members came down to light the fire. Within a few moments, it was blazing, the burning wood crackling loudly.

The camp director went on to tell everyone about some of the different activities. Of course, there was the typical camp activities. Swimming, sailing, hikes, horseback riding, a variety of different sports to try and compete in, and many other things. There was more than enough to keep even the most active camper interested. After that, there were more skits and songs. Some of the skits were continuations of those that had been done at the earlier opening, like adding to a sitcom in a way. From time to time, Jameson would either poke or nudge Kira, of course pretending that he had done nothing at all. It was a little game they played, though he was careful to poke her when no one else was looking. After about an hour, the sun had dipped below the horizon, the casting everyone into the twilight of the evening. One final song was done, before everyone was dismissed.

Standing up, Jameson looked to Kira with a smile. "See you in a little bit, then?" He asked, knowing the answer. Disapearing into the crowd himself as everyone made their way from the campfire pit, he let Kira be. He had a few other things to take care of quick before the after party. Typically, the counselors would go back and socialize with the campers in their assigned cabins for a bit. But, Jameson had known most of his assigned campers, and none of them were new this year. He knew they would be fine if left alone.

After several quick errands, and stopping in the camp office for any relevant news or updates he needed to know about, Jameson made his way back to his cabin. Changing clothes, he put on a pair of regular blue jeans instead, along with a black long sleeved t-shirt, and an olive colored vest. Picking up his backpack, he made his way out. Even in the last 15 minutes, it had gone from twilight to night, the first stars starting to shine. He had a flashlight, but he knew the trails all around camp well enough where he did not need it. The after party was held far out at the edge of camp property, for several reasons. It was out of the way, and hard to find unless you knew how to get there. Plus, they could be a little rowdy, without being heard from the main area of camp.

Going through the woods, Jameson followed the well known trail. He could hear different voices in front of him and behind him too, of other staff and campers going to the after party. After a good 15 minute hike, he came into the clearing. Another large bonfire had been lit and was blazing along. A good handful of people were already here, with more trickling in now and again. Saying his courteous hellos and being somewhat sociable, all Jameson really cared about was looking for Kira to come in, wanting to catch up with her most of all.

 

[Ahiru]

Kira grinned, happily singing alongside Jameson and the other campers; but when all of the activities were explained, she let her mind wander. Staring into the fire, the flames danced in the reflection of her eyes. She didn't really think about anything in particular, bust she constantly had a content smile across her lips. When everything was said and done, Kira stood up, snagging her sweater back from Jameson. "Of course." She murmured in response, knowing full well he didn't hear her.

She headed back to her cabin to kill some time. Unpacking her bags, she pulled out a pair of brown cargo pants, a white tank top and a pink cami top; setting them aside on her bed. Putting the rest of her things away. She then got dressed into the clothes she set aside and pulled zipper hoodie on, leaving it unzipped. Grabbing her flashlight, she stuck it in her messenger bag, and slung it across her chest.

It wasn't too long before she left her cabin and headed towards the woods. She knew the path all too well by now, keeping her flashlight in her bag as she just followed the sounds of the echoing footsteps ahead of her. She hummed softly to herself, excited and antsy to get to the party. She couldn't wait to catch up with Jameson. They, of course, had kept in touch over the past year. But with finals and preparation for camp, their conversations had being few and far between.

Finally reaching the clearing she scanned the area, quickly finding Jameson. "Hey you." She sauntered up to him, poking his cheek with a grin. "Long time no see."

 

[Skye Pilot]

Jameson chuckled a little with her poke to his cheek, the darkness of the late evening hiding his slight blush. His eyes gave Kira a very quick head to toe glance, taking in her clothing, the curves of her body, and her cute face. Honestly, he had a slight crush upon her, but was never willing to admit it. All the teasing, and all the high jinks over the past few summers negated that fact. Smirking a little, and poking her cheek back, Jameson welcomed her to the gathering. "I could say the same thing about you, even if we saw each other earlier," he playfully teased, knowing full well what she meant.

In the off season, they had exchanged a few e-mails here and there, and even several instant message conversations online. Most of them consisted of what they had been up to, along with Jameson detailing some of the upcoming plans and changes to camp for the summer. At times, he had used Kira as a soundboard, getting opinions and thoughts about the new activities and changes from her perspective, and passing them along to the Camp Director.

The clearing was starting to fill in slightly, pockets of people gathering and chatting. Most of them were campers, with only a quarter of the staff there. Even though it was against policy to drink on camp property, a good portion of kids and staff had beers in hand, enjoying themselves, and having a good time. Jameson pulled off his backpack, slinging it to one shoulder, and unzipping it. Out he pulled a single beer. "Care for one?" he asked Kira, not trying at all to pressure her into accepting. It had been a long day for himself, and he felt a little relaxation was in store for himself, even if she neglected to join in.

Even as he offered, and as much as Jameson wanted to catch up with the new and old staff, along with the new campers, a part of him only wanted to talk and chat with Kira. It was as if the party didn't matter at all. That same part of him just wanted to take her hand, lead Kira into the moonlit woods, and talk with her for a while, without being bothered. Of course, other things were on his mind too if that happened... a deeper hug, maybe a few kisses... even if that as well was strictly against policy. Still, Jameson craved more of Kira, even with so few words exchanged through their day.

 

[Ahiru]

"Haha." Rolling her eyes jokingly, Kira caught a brief glimpse of Jameson glancing her up and down. A slight rosy tint overtook her cheeks, making her glad she wasn't too close to the bonfire. She bit her lip a bit before shaking it off and smiling at him. As much as she hated to admit it at first; like a lot of the girls, she had what you could call a school girl's crush on Jameson. She, of course, never admitted this to him in any of their conversations; but had come dangerously close a few times; usually while at parties where she had been drinking a bit with friends. Just the reminder caused her to bite her lip again with an inward laugh. She thought herself to be a fool for falling for him.

"Oh, uh, sure." Jameson's offer broke her train of thought and she reached out, taking the can from him. "Thanks." She wasn't one for beer, nor was she a huge drinker, but she liked to every once in a while; especially when it was with friends she was close to. Cracking open the tab, she took a sip, her nose instinctively wrinkling a bit at the bitterness. She smiled at Jameson again, trying to think of what to say. "So, uh, how has the past couple of months been for you?" She held the beer idly in her hands, occasionally taking a swig from it; thought it wasn't taking long for the alcohol to hit her.

 

[Skye Pilot]

Jameson smirked to Kira, popping open his own can of beer, taking a decent gulp of it. Hearing ask how the last few months again, he chuckled softly recalling how spring had gone. "The last few months have been interesting to say the least," Jameson began to tell her, motioning with his head to follow him. Finding a tree at the edge of the clearing, he dropped his backpack, and sat down. The light from the fire still kept them lit, even as the shadows of the other staff and campers danced over them from time to time. "Starting in March, we had a major flood in the city I live in. There was a huge community effort to sandbag, and build dikes. We managed to get away with very little flood damage overall, and now the politicians get to argue about how to spend more money to prevent it from happening again," Jameson said. "Other than that, I've been working as a cook at a local restaurant to pass the time, and pay the bills," He told her. "Nothing really too exciting,"

Looking over to Kira as he took another sip of his beer, her could just make out her cheeks starting to red from the quick effect the beer was having on her. He didn't plan on getting either of them so drunk they would make fools of themselves later on, but a little to relax was just fine. "So what about you then?" Jameson asked in return. "What has little Miss Kira been up to to pass the time recently?" He smirked, giving her a little nudge with his shoulder. The full moon was already high in the night sky, casting down it's light into the clearing too, adding to the evening.