Round Four

End of the Road

I had to laugh when the producer rang to give our last task.
"You make it sound like an order!" I chuckled back, "Oh, any limit on the amount of guests?"
"The more the merrier," came the simple reply.

Good timing with giving our cash back... oh, I get it! Very clever. Haha! Well you guys are in for a shock - you haven't met any of my family yet have you?

So our last task is a party. This will be the ultimate test of all I've learned so far... I'm sure it'll be alright though. I've met some of her friends before already... me? I don't really have any friends to speak of... boy, that sounds pathetic doesn't it? Especially considering the amount of time she spends on the phone to arrange her invites... I can't help but feel a pang of envy.

"How many can we bring?"
"As many as you like," I reply, but hasten to add "Don't go too mad though, I can see there being a lot of people here as it is."
"Oh, I'm sure there'll be room for a few extra siblings," comes the enigmatic remark.
"Erm, Dad..." I begin, "Just how many do I have?"
"More than I'll be able to bring," is his vague answer.
Yikes. Looking about me, I suddenly become thankful the loft is as spacious as it is.

For some reason she's been adamant on making it nighttime, which is just as well since it gives us the rest of the day to prepare for this. I can't help but smile at the odds and ends she brings along though; just a buffet table, extra loudspeakers...
"What, is that it?" I ask curiously. I was expecting her to go crazy with a DJ and who-knows-what-else.
I look back at him with a smile. "We're students," I tell him, "What, you thought I was rolling in it?"
I can't help but give a satisfied smile as she goes back into the lift. However my expression turns to one of dismay as the delivery men help her bring up a large quantity of alcohol.
"Oh trust me, we'll need it," I tell him in no uncertain terms. No I'm not intending for us all to get leathered, although no doubt some of them might. Put it this way, there's a reason I made this for the nighttime.

It arrives sooner than I realise, and my eyes widen at the amount of people pouring out of the lift. I swear there's more green flesh among them too, one of whom I recognise as her father, another as her niece Denise.
"Hey Mum!" I beam as we hug.
"Hey, good to see you again," he replies, "Feels strange seeing you without all that black stuff."
I chuckle dryly. "I'm gonna get this a lot aren't I?!" I muse, before spotting a bewildered looking Eddie out of the corner of my eye. Poor thing's probably out of his depth with so many people about. Clutching Mum's hand I pull him over and introduce them.


So this is Alex... I'm going to be honest here and say he scares me. Mainly because of the sheer size of him, but also there's something very strange about his eyes... Red? I'm sure I can see glimpses of fangs in his mouth too...
"Don't worry, he won't bite," I smile.
I'll take your word for it...
"Hey, relax," he says, "Not all vampires are evil."
I struggle to keep my jaw from dropping. "You mean it's true?!" I blurt out, before checking myself. "Sorry, I..."
"Oh it's alright," he smiles, before continuing. "We don't bite unless we're asked."
"Howdy."
My head turns in the direction of the gentle sounding voice, and am faced with the cutest alien guy I've ever seen. Shaggy black hair, a cheeky grin and... red, almost glowing orbs gazing at me from just above his nose.
"Hello," I reply with a strange look, "Who are you?"
"I'm Johan, but you can call me Joe," he replies, "One of your half-brothers I gather."
"Oh!" I exclaim, breaking into a big grin. "Pleased to meet you!"


This is so exciting! I wonder how many more of them there are... I hope they're all as nice as this guy!

Well, I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised. Alex seems to be a nice enough man, certainly not the type you'd expect to be with another man. As the party gets under way, I decide to retreat to the dartsboard for a while, before a little voice next to me pipes up.
"Little boring playing by yourself isn't it?"

I smile as I look towards him, before I frown. He's only a young thing...
"Before you ask, yes I'm a vampire."
The speech Emilia gave before flashes by in my mind, and I can't help but ask.
"Are you Evan?"
"Yes," comes the dry reply, "My head got pretty sore that day from the big hint dropping on it."

It's so good to see him getting on with people. It's not even as though they're what you'd call normal people either, there's vampires and all sorts here tonight! Oh, about the alcohol? That's all they can drink, that's why I got so much in.

It must be my night for bumping into half-siblings. This woman with black lipstick approaches me a little while later, looking a lot like Joe. Diana her name is, and Joe's twin. No wonder they look so alike!

I'm surprised to say the least at my chat with Evan. There was only so much small-talk and barely touching on background I could do before trying to coax him into giving adulthood a chance. He became a little withdrawn at that, although it looked like I might have been able to get through to him in the end. Oh I was tactful of course, but I can't just sit by and watch a young lad like him throw away his future.

As the evening draws on, I notice Joe and Dad talking some way from the rest of the crowd. I think nothing of it at first, but as I'm about to turn back to the music swift movement catches my eye. On creeping a little closer to investigate my eyes widen in disbelief...

"Joe!?" I call out in a hushed voice, "What are you doing?"
As his head pulls away, a tongue pokes out to mop up traces of green blood on his lips.
"Dad?"
"He'll be alright," Joe says, "I wasn't going to, or least I would have waited, but he was pretty insistent."
"But why?"
"Different people have different reasons," he says as I help him get Dad to the lift. "I'll have to take him home, sorry about this."
I can only shrug in reply as I watch the doors close.

~~~~~

Well, it's been one hell of a ride. I was even wondering if I'd make it to the show at all, let alone coming this far, but I'm so glad now I did. We've had our ups and downs, but overall I'd say we did well together. He's opened my eyes to the more simple pleasures in life...


... as well as showing me how much better it is to have a good head on your shoulders. It feels so good not having to struggle so much over my coursework.

I have to say, I'm amazed that we've got through to the very end, but it's been an incredible journey. That party last night was an eye-opener if ever there was one; such a wide variety of people in this world, and so much there to teach me more than any episode of Star Wars could, the biggest lesson being that indeed it's real people that can teach the most about life.

Not only has Emilia brought me out of my shell and able to get on better with people, her friends have become mine. Especially one in particular...


I picked up a lot of other phone numbers last night too. Just knowing that all these nice people want to stay in touch is wonderful, a real lift to my confidence. Emilia and I are already looking for another house to spend the rest of our years at University together. It's a shame her last boyfriend couldn't help in the way he'd liked, but then maybe some things are meant to happen.

If I had to do it again, I'd jump at the chance. Eddie's a lovely guy, and people were even saying that last night. I couldn't help but glow with pride watching him with them, and seeing him now he's so much happier. Me too for being able to do stuff - we're forever in each other's debt, and I hope we stay together for a long time to come.

Special Task 3

Money Money Money!

Wow, what a night... never in my wildest dreams did I expect things to get as far as they did. It doesn't help when the doorbell rings at an ungodly hour in the morning either...


What happened? Erm... I'm not sure to be honest, although I assure you no alcohol was involved, I don't drink. Let's just say one thing led to another, although I will say it was the first time for both of us. The first of many to come I hope!

"Happy birthday!" comes the greeting from one of the producers, and presents me with a handbag... my handbag!
"What's this?!" I check, not containing my surprise.
"We decided it's time you had your cash back," he says, "Don't go blowing it all in one go though, you may need it sooner than you think."
With that he heads off, leaving me with my bag. A quick rummage tells me everything's still there, from my phone to the money I left behind!

Hahaha!! This is more like it! I feel a party mood coming on...

Oh, we've got our money back! Wonderful... I know what I'll be getting first; I've heard too much about telescopes lately - I will find out what's so terrible about the blessed things...

Round Three

This is when I changed to the Pixie series, and it was also about this time I finished off Engaged and Underage. It took me a while to find anything better, but that's another story.

*****

Sweet Charity

The phone rings, and it's Eddie who goes to answer.
"Oh, okay I'll tell her," I finish as I hang up.
"Tell me what?" I ask as my head pops round the door, nearly giving him a heart attack.
"Damn you made me jump!" I exclaim, before explaining this latest task to her.
I get to arrange an education fair? Cool... hold on, education fair??
Just as I feared, she's already getting worried. I haven't even finished yet!
I have to give a speech too? Speech, no problem... about education again...?! Oh boy...
Oh, it gets better...
Now it's him who scowls as he says it's got to include an auction.. auction for what? Oh, him... What?? Auction him off? He's not a piece of meat you know!!
"Come on," I tell her as I lead her to the bookcase, "Let's get the least painful job out of the way, huh?"
Least painful?
I pass her a book before taking one myself. "I don't just learn from the films you know," I smile as I sit by her, "and I need more than them for classes."
"What do you mean?" I ask, looking at the book in my hands.
"You learn more from reading than you might think," I say as I open it, "and you learn more studying with other people."

I've never done this before. If it weren't for him explaining things to me I'd be getting a headache, but the test comes when he hands me my notebook.
"Right, let's get this over with shall we?" I offer.


Ah, now it's making sense. I remember the countless times I've felt the frustration of not being to understand all this stuff, but maybe now I'm heading in the right direction. In fact I'm getting ideas for my speech already...
We're given enough funds to arrange this fair, and I have to say, she's already a lot happier about it. After the kick earlier she still has a spring in her step, which is great to see.
Oh this is perfect... University students? Hehe... and it's to fund the scholarships we could apply for as teenagers. Okay, I only won the Footwork Award while everyone got loads, but still, it's a hefty amount of cash to start you off. I find some good posters to set the mood, and even as the day arrives I only felt the slightest quivering of nerves.

The day goes along without a hitch, even though Karl's there. There's a lot of my family and friends there too, in fact, which makes it easier. Checking my watch, I nearly forget myself and head over to the podium, telling myself it's only for charity and he'll be coming home later on.
"Okay, it's time for the auction to start!" I announce as I beckon him over, "Up for grabs is this very nice man called Eddie Grant, big into sci-fi and Star Wars but open to learn new things..."
I can't help but chuckle as she talks. I just hope I end up with someone reasonable...

As the bidding gets higher among the crowd, my eyes widen as at least two lads join in, and they look as eager as the girls.
"Hey Gino!" I chuckle, "Behave!" I can't help but frown at a green man who also raises the stakes though... he looks familiar, I don't know why...
"Sold!" I close off as the bidding ends, "To... " I smile knowingly as I continue, "to my dear cousin Gwen Staropoli."
Phew. At least now I know I'll be in safe hands for the rest of the day.


"Hello again," she smiles.
"Hi," I reply before Emilia gets back to the stand, and for now we retreat to the rest of the crowd. I can't help but eye the man she introduces as her brother with a wary eye.
"Tell you what," he says, "Can't fault her taste of clothes!"
"Look," I begin, "As much as I appreciate your attention, I'm straight."
He smiles wryly in reply. "Yeah, I figured that might be the case," he says before shrugging, "Doesn't hurt to look though... or at least it wouldn't if every other guy was decent enough to reply with his mouth instead of his fist."
Ouch... poor man. It seems I still have much to learn after all.

"I'd like to wrap things up with a few words," I begin, taking a little breather to gather my thoughts but allow myself a dry chuckle, "Never thought someone like me would be up here promoting education," I remark, happy enough when people giggle as I break the ice, "I've spent too many days struggling over my work, feeling annoyed at myself for not knowing when I should. I'm surprised I got here if I'm honest, but the whole thing has taught me to not take education for granted. It means with any luck I'll be able to start a business for myself instead of helping someone else run theirs on minimum pay being treated like dirt. Hopefully this will give others the chance they need to better themselves... and I hope Evan will wake up and get himself a cure one of these days so he doesn't miss out on this."


As I leave the podium to thunderous applause a wave of emotion hits me at the reminder. I'm only thankful I never went the way he did.
I wait for the applause to die down before I turn to Gwen.
"Who's Evan?" I ask, intrigued.
"A friend of ours," she replies, before indicating another girl she introduces as Amy. "He's her twin brother, but he got bitten by a vampire when they were fifteen."
"Not often you get twins spaced apart by several years," Amy acknowledges dryly, "It's a very long story," she finishes before I get the chance to probe further.
"Hold on," I start again, "Vampire??"
"Welcome to our humble town," Gino proclaims as he gestures broadly.

"Hi Karl," I smile with a hint of sadness and unease.
"You were great up there," he says, "You've come a long way in a short time."
"Thanks," I reply, "I feel a lot better."
"You look it," he says, "Feels weird seeing you without your "face" as you call it."
"Yeah, I'll bet."
"You're better off with him," he says, "I guess I just didn't have the patience in the end."
I chuckle a little. "Thought that's what it was," I observe.
Without saying any more he opens his arms invitingly. I catch a glimpse of Gino out of the corner of my eye as I accept.


"Emilia is it?"
I frown at the voice and turn to trace its source, to find the green guy I saw earlier looking straight at me.


"Yes...?" I reply with a questioning air.
"You have your mother's nose," he smiles.
This is all getting too much. "Who are you?" I ask him, but his reply knocks the wind out of my sails.
"I'm your father," he says simply.

After chatting some more with Gwen and her friends as the atmosphere winds down, I spot Emilia talking with another alien.
"Who's that?" I ask no one in particular.

After the initial shock the talk becomes easier. It's now I realise where I get my confident streak from, but to be honest I'd never thought much about my father before now - as far as Mum was concerned I'd never see him, yet he's here studying art of all things. I'm glad now more than ever I've been given the chance to learn properly, or the things Dad says would fly over my head... things about my very existence, no less.

Special Tasks 1 & 2

A New Beginning

Ah, week three. What a funny week it's been too, and not just in a good way. I don't know how long Karl's been having doubts, but towards the start of the week he calls... to end it between us.


He says he's been thinking about things, and that maybe we're just not suited. I don't know... Perhaps it's just as well given how I've been feeling about Eddie lately, but that doesn't change the blow I now have to my confidence levels. I need to get out of here for a while...

Oh dear... As she heads for the lift, I'm left alone to ponder my findings and mull over my own feelings about the situation.


She says it was him who put her forward for this show. She kept making quips about him doing it to get her out of the way, but I'm sure his intentions were good. What interests me is, why make jokes like that? Was she echoing her own thoughts? He may even have felt threatened, or that she's better off with someone else...

Yes, I'm well aware of where this is going. To be honest that's why I didn't show that interest in Gwen; looks aren't everything. She just isn't my type I suppose... Emilia wouldn't be either if I couldn't tell she was hiding something. Nothing bad, quite the opposite in fact; her bravado could put off a lot of people, which is a shame because underneath it all is a lovely person. She gave me confidence too, helped me in all sorts of ways, and now especially I feel I need to show my appreciation somehow. With what I don't know...

Yes I do. I would have been taking a chance with it before, but I can certainly do it now. Not all tokens of appreciation carry a price tag after all.

What usually eases a low moment is a trip round the shops, but as I browse nothing really catches my eye. My thoughts drift from Karl to Eddie, and my mindset changes as I continue to walk the aisles. He's been so nice, he's helped me find a direction in life... I need to get him a thank-you gift of some kind. Like what though? Nothing really stands out in here.

My absent-minded wanderings take me down the skincare aisle, and for some strange reason something finally catches my attention. Yes, that will be perfect. Smiling to myself I pluck the item from the shelf and head purposefully for the checkout.

Ah, she's back – I was expecting her to come home weighed down by shopping bags though, yet she takes something small from her handbag and makes a beeline for the bathroom. Something tells me she's going there for a reason, too...

I stare into the mirror, studying the painted features looking back at me. As I do, I start to realise just what a bitch I've been, and I even look the part. Why? I don't even know myself. I suppose it's a good way to ward off the wrong kind of attention, but I'm scaring away the nice people too... people like Karl.


Why do I do this to myself? Why did it take being holed up with a stranger for me to realise what I've been doing all this time? I guess seeing Eddie struggle opened my eyes; not everyone is born confident, I know that from Mum and his boyfriend. In fact I'm sure that's where I get it from - I remember him saying it took someone else to bring him out. Now history seems to be repeating itself. Looking down at the make-up removing pads in my hand, I know it's not just for Eddie I'm doing this. The hard-faced cow staring back at me has got to go, and I'm sure she won't be missed.


I guess he's right – I don't need make-up after all.

Finally, she's out... What's this?
“Hi,” I greet, smiling awkwardly at him. Who'd have thought make-up could change the way you act?
“I thought you couldn't live without it?” I check.
“Well, I thought about what you said,” I tell him, “About not needing make-up... I felt I owed it to you, you've been so nice...”
“Don't do it unless you want it yourself,” I tell her.
“That's another reason why I did it,” I reassure him, feeling my eyes sting.
This does surprise me a great deal. It seems removing all those cosmetics has also peeled away that hard outer layer of hers... at long last. Smiling softly in reply, I brush away a stray tear from her face, hoping for her sake this will be the start of a new life for her.


In fact this all reminds me of what I'd been thinking earlier.
“I wanted to say thanks too,” I tell her, “for bringing me out, making it easier for me to get along with people... it may be in bad taste after that phone call earlier, but...”
I smile knowingly at him. “Be honest, remember?” I say to him, although it seems he doesn't need reminding. What does surprise me is his idea of a thank-you gift...

Ever believe in fate? It's times like this I do.

Round Two

This is when I started messing about with the skins... I tried a different set of normal defaults before my Pixie phase.

*****

Eddie's Makeover

The week passed without too much trouble. Luckily I was able to stay in touch with my friends, only because they were given the number to the loft we're staying in though as the producers took my mobile! *sniff* Oh well. Eddie's been so sweet; he slipped out to Uni once and brought back this whole collection of leaflets. We spent the whole afternoon poring over them as he helped me choose a course! I couldn't believe it... and he's even been helping me with my assignments! He's so sweet... ahem. Must remember I have a boyfriend at home...

I'd almost forgotten our very early clash over the makeover until we get contacted by someone from the team early into the next week. One of them turns up on our doorstep with a bundle of notes, explaining I get to make him over! Hahaha... ooh, this'll be good! I know just the thing too... I'm gonna enjoy this!

Oh I see. I got to make her over last week, now it's her turn to repay the favour... Huh?? Oh heavens! Eyeing her nails warily I then look back at my own with a sense of foreboding...

“Just remember, nail varnish is for girls!” I remind her, but to my dismay she shakes her head and recites a list of male names.

I count on my fingers as I roll off a list of guys I either know or know of, that dress dark and wear black nail paint, and can't help but bask in the mounting horror I can pick up from him, especially when he next speaks.

I sigh in resignation at her reply, but memories of students in my old town strike terror into my heart as they drift through my mind. “Make-up's only for girls!” I tell her sternly.

All I do in reply is raise an eyebrow as I tell him “Maybe” with a sly smile. To be honest I couldn't agree more; I can't stand make-up on guys, but he doesn't need to know that just yet... Evil? Well - said I'd get him back didn't I?! I'm already enjoying this and we haven't even started yet!
“Come on, let's go,” I beckon, “I know just the place.”

A whimper escapes my throat as I trudge along behind. That's going to be my single biggest fear for the rest of the day; it's enough that I'll look ready to embrace the Dark Side by the time she's finished with me. I can see it now - just add some yellow contact lenses and a hooded black cloak, and I'll look like Annakin Skywalker in Revenge of the Sith after he slaughtered those younglings. I won't fall as easily as he did, mark my words!

“Oh come on, it's only on the outside!” I groan at him as we browse the store. In fact this brings back memories; Karl asked me to help him out for his Dad's stag night after hearing of the theme, but he refused to go for the clothes I suggested. A smile plays upon my face as I find myself here again, only this time I'm not with Karl. Eddie has to go with whatever I suggest, and that alone gives me an added kick.

I knew it. Everywhere I look there's black, leather, spikes... there's even cloaks! Good Lord... okay Eddie, just remember it's feelings that send you down the dark path; hate, anger... I'm not going there for real, it's just cosmetic... I only hope whoever it is leaves my face alone!

Ooh, perfect! Let's see if they do his size... hold on, what is his size? Oh never mind, I'll get it from him in a bit. This will go on him a treat!
“What on Earth is that?” I splutter as I stare at her choice of clothes.
“Oh come on... I've seen this on guys before, they look so hot in them!”
Suddenly my eyes catch sight of something red. Despite myself I can't help but investigate, and something pulls me to the outfit as the material glides through my fingers.
“Oh yeah!” I grin as he pulls out the shirt, “Now you're getting it!”

Mm-mm!! Wow, I wasn't kidding! Just a few extra touches needed, but he already looks good enough to eat!

You know... talking about dressing for comfort – this is pretty comfy! I'm not used to the feel of the material, but it's not bad either... I could get used to this! Somehow I don't think a black robe would be that fitting any more...

Right, next stop beauty parlour... with a difference.
Good grief!! I hope I won't be spending too long in here... I wish I could hear what she's saying to the waiting... tattooist? Oh please, I have to draw the line at tattoos!

“You with me?” I finish.
“I know just the thing,” the woman smiles in reply, before beckoning to Eddie who, for some reason now looks worried! “Come on, this won't hurt a bit.”
It had better not. If I so much as catch a glimpse of a tattoo needle I'll be out of here faster than you can say “May the Force be with you.”

Phew... is it getting hot in here, or is it just me?! That jewellery I got him earlier looks good on him too! Oh yeah, he's gotta do the catwalk thing now. Hehe... I'm so looking forward to this – just looking at him now's enough for me to glow with pride!

No make-up! No tattoos either... phew! My nails don't look so bad either... I suppose there's a reason men dressing like this add the nail varnish, it does seem to complete the look. My ears are sore as anything though; I have to clean them twice a day with a mild salt-water solution for the next month. Still, I can't help but smile as I study the finished work, so to speak – I had no idea something as little as changing the way you dress could change your outlook on life. Where all this new confidence has come from I don't know, but I'm not complaining!


Tell you what, if only one thing's made this outing worthwhile it's seeing him now. He's almost like a different person already! Hmm... thinking about it, maybe I should go into that kind of business once I'm out of Uni? If I can do this to one guy, imagine doing it for a living... don't get me wrong, the traditional beauty parlour stuff doesn't interest me in the slightest. I'm talking make-over my style – yeah! Clothes store, piercing/tattooists and hairdressing all under one roof! That'd be cool! Hope it's not too late to change my major...

Phew, what a day! It's not over yet either...
“Hey come on, stop playing with your ears!” I tell him as his fingers creep to his lobes again, “You're meant to leave them alone, remember?”
“I can't help it, they're sore!” I complain.
“You'll make them worse if you fiddle with them,” I tell him, before I get struck by an idea. “Well, feeling ready to conquer the world yet?” I tease with a smile.
I chuckle at her question, before giving a modest shrug. “What have you got in mind?” I ask. Whatever it is can't be anywhere near as bad as what I'd pictured happening earlier...
“Well, since you're now dressed to kill how about putting it to some good use?”
“What do you mean?” I ask, now confused.
“I mean going out on the pull!” I grin, “You know, chatting up girls?” I suddenly check myself. “Unless you're gay of course...”
“No no, I'm straight,” I tell her in no uncertain terms. Interesting that she even bothered to check though.
With a Mum who swings both ways and now lives with his gay boyfriend, I had to make sure. Anyway, now that's out of the way I'll get back to the point.
“Okay, so, now you look the part it's time to act it too, don't you think?”
Oh, I get it... yikes! Let the training begin...
“Okay, first things first; no pick up lines! We can see right through them, they're a waste of time.”
“Pick up lines?” I check, before it clicks. “Oh, right. To be honest I've never really tried...”
I cock my head at him in mild surprise. “What, a cutie like you? Dear dear... okay, starting from scratch huh?”
Cutie? She thinks I'm cute? Hehe... I don't know what to think of that one...
“Oh, that's another thing,” I mention, “Be honest in your approach. If you think a girl looks nice, tell her. No hiding behind Star Wars scripts – no one talks like that.”
“Okay...” I reply, suddenly feeling nervous. It's been at the back of my mind all week to tell her she doesn't need make-up, but I've been too wary of what she might say. Maybe I can try this for practise?
“What is it?” I ask, frowning as I sense he wants to say something.
“Well...” I begin, “I get too worried about what they'd think if I said the wrong thing...”
I smile knowingly as I tell him “Hey, if it's a compliment you've got nothing to worry about!”
“What constitutes a compliment?” I check.
“What what...?” I ask.
“Constitute – what makes a compliment? What would you say would be like that?”
“Oh!” I smile. There's my big word for today! Ahem... “Well, if it sounds like the kind of thing you'd want to hear, chances are she'll like it. You know, like “You have pretty eyes,” or “I love your smile”. Be honest though, focus on what you do like. If you don't like her eyes don't say you do.” I then gesture broadly with my hands. “Hey, you can try it on me before we get out for real.”
I swallow nervously at the offer. “Okay,” I begin, chewing anxiously at my lip.

“Well... you know when I had to make you over, and you had to take off your make-up?”
I raise an eyebrow as I nod, allowing him to finish.
“I thought you looked better without it,” I eventually tell her.
That does surprise me. “Better?” I echo, to which he nods. “Wow... I've never heard that one before.” It's the truth too; not even Karl's seen me without my slap. We haven't got that far yet, and as for when I was still with Mum, I was always fully dressed before I came down the stairs. Whether anyone else would say the same I don't know, but suddenly I feel unsure of myself. This may sound awful, but I'm starting to wonder what I see in Karl – don't get me wrong, he's a lovely guy, just... I don't know, too silly I suppose. Eddie's more down to Earth like me... Urgh. Come on Emmy, stop it! You're meant to be training him to meet other girls, remember?

Well, that went better than I'd hoped. In fact I'm starting to wonder how much of her tough outer shell is an act. What is she really hiding underneath? I'm getting the feeling she's not as confident as she makes out – does she rely on make-up to make her feel better? I know she feels inadequate academically... still, that's what she's here for.

It's now I realise why we're allowed to stay in touch with our friends. After getting a call from one of my female friends, an idea hits me.
“Hey, how do you fancy coming over tonight?” I offer, “I'm trying to get Eddie to meet some girls... he looks to die for too! You'd like him, he's really nice...”
On getting a yes back I grin excitedly as the talk ends and I hang up. Rubbing my hands with glee, I rush over to him and tell him the news.
Wow, so soon? Better get ready I suppose... oh yes. Stay away from the DVDs. Must remember that.

While we wait I decide to get us in the mood with some music. Eddie's been in the bathroom ages; I hope he doesn't stay there all night.
Be strong young Padawan... feel the Force.
“Eddie?” I check, knocking on the door.
“Huh? Oh...” I open the door to be greeted with her huge sparkling black eyes.
“Are you alright? You've been in there ages!”
“Yes,” I smile awkwardly, “I'm just nervous.”
“I know what you need,” I smile as I pull him out of the broom closet we have for a bathroom, “Time for some dancing lessons!”
“I don't...” I start, but she doesn't listen.
“It'll loosen you up!” I tell him, “Come on, relax!”

He learns fast! Just in time too, he seems to be relaxed enough by the time the bell rings.
Oh boy. I can't help but feel I'll make an idiot of myself... my heart's working ten to the dozen, and it's not because of the slight exertion through dancing.
My friends Gwen, Louise and erm... niece, I think it is, called Denise travel up in the lift with me, and I use the time to explain what they'll all face. I just hope he hasn't locked himself in the bathroom again. Oh, no, he's just sat on the couch. Right Mr. Grant, time to work your magic!
Emilia introduces me to her friends, among them another alien! Her niece, she said... I'll have to meet the man who started it all one of these days, this all has me so curious. This Gwen though... she's beautiful! ... ah, right, now what was it she said, be honest? Feel the Force... I know she doesn't like me going on the movies too much, but thankfully that one she agrees with. But where do I start? “Pleased to meet you all,” I smile, valiantly fighting the habit of going into myself. Instead, as the others disperse I seize perhaps the only chance I'll get. “You're beautiful,” I find myself saying.

I stare in amazement as he starts chatting to Gwen, looking like he's taken my advice. Gwen is a beauty herself, but unlike me she's also got the brains to back it up. I'm starting to feel inadequate again, and even a twinge of jealousy. Why I don't know since I'm meant to have a boyfriend...
“Wow!” Louise remarks as she and Denise follow my gaze, “Has she pulled?”
Casting my feelings aside, I cock my head a little as a smile plays upon my lips. “It would seem so,” I reply, my smile growing wider as again I glow with pride. “Well done you!” I tell him from afar.

Round One

Emilia Staropoli Meets Eddie Grant

Emilia: I couldn't believe it when my phone rang... right in the middle of class too! Whoops... I had to explain to the tutor I was expecting an important phone call, and sure enough the producer of this show phoned me, to say I'd got through! I squealed with delight, not caring how many people were looking at me, and couldn't wait to get back home and pack my things. I love getting out and meeting new people, so I was really looking forward to this. Only now as I ride off in the cab, I start to imagine this really nerdy guy with ugly glasses and a bad case of zits... *shudder*

Eddie: I'll be honest, I'm nervous as anything. It's not often I get to meet different people, and I don't know much about this Emilia at all... or this town, come to think. I notice a taxi pull up, and anxiously tug at my shirt as I give a little wave.

Peering out the window, I notice this blond guy outside the place we'll be staying, and can't help but stare in surprise. He's cute! His taste in clothes could be better, but they could also be a lot worse, and no glasses in sight! Did I get the longest straw or what?!
"Eddie?" I check curiously as the driver empties the boot of the cab.
"You're Emilia?" I reply hesitantly, staring in awe at her colouring, her eyes...
"I am," I grin, but frown at the way he's looking at me... is he checking me out?
"Wow, you're a real alien?" I remark, unable to contain myself, "That's incredible!"

"Half alien dear," I correct him, "Mum's very human."
"Interesting," I smile, beginning to calm down, "A little different from those girls on Star Wars..."
Oh boy. Star Wars fan? Damn, am I in trouble... Seems this guy needs some serious lessons...
"Look sweety, this isn't Star Wars, this is real life... believe it or not," I add with a frown, "Those girls in Star Wars have these weird... things coming out of their heads... ugh!"
Believe it or not? What an odd way to describe real life... I can't help but smile at the way she describes the aliens I'm talking about though. Yet as I feared, the flow of conversation slows and I dry up, racking my brains for something to say.
"So, what do you do?" I prompt him - he needs bringing out, I can tell that a mile off.
"Oh, I've started my third year at University," I smile in reply.
"Really? Doing what?"
"Philosophy," I reply, "It's very interesting!"
"Oh really?" I ask, scratching my head, "Okay..."
I smile knowingly to myself, before awkwardly scratching the back of my hand. "So... what about you?" I ask hesitantly, feeling my nerves take hold again.
"I'm a student too," I reply, "Just started out."
"Really? Doing what?" I ask, beginning to take a genuine interest.
My face falls like a stone. "Um..." I begin, feeling like such a dumba***.

"Oh, I see," I smile, "You're still undeclared?"
"Still what?" I ask puzzled.
"Undeclared," I repeat, "We all get put there at first, until we decide what we'll do."
"Oh," I reply. I don't know why, but I'm already starting to warm to this guy, even if he thinks alien girls have these green things coming out of their heads.

Before long we get interrupted by the arrival of a photographer.
"Hello you two!" he greets cheerfully, "Been getting to know each other before you settle in?"
"Yes thanks," I smile, polishing my nails on my top. I can't help but wonder what he has in mind with that camera...
"Right, let's get a picture of you both," he tells us as he readies his camera.
Ooh, piccies! Better make sure my hair looks alright first... that's better.
Oh brother... I hate having my picture taken!

"Right, first mini-task," the cameraman begins, before saying something about...
"Ooh, do I get a make-over?" I grin, my eyes sparking in eager anticipation.
"You certainly do," he finishes, and my mood drops once again as I notice the way Eddie's rubbing his hands together in glee...
Oh this will be fun! I know just the thing too...
"Hey, wait a minute..." I check with him, before Eddie pipes up.
"You say to dress her like me?" I ask, "I have a better idea..."
"Well, the idea is for you to dress her how you'd dress," he tells him, "The rest is up to you."
"Dress like him?!" I exclaim, "Are you kidding me?!"
"It's only for one photo," he says, "You'll be able to put your make-up on again afterwards."
"What?? No make-up?? You're having a laugh...!"
"Come on," I beckon, "It's only for one photo. All part of the challenge."
"Psssh..." I stomp off inside the building in a huff, where a little make-over studio has been set up. I can only slump into the chair as my necklace is taken off, my nail paint removed as well as my make-up, but then I feel a tug at my hair.
"Nooo, don't brush out my curls!" I plead, "That took me ages..."
"It's just for this picture," they keep telling me.
"My hair won't be the same though!" I whimper, before being shown the outfit Eddie's picked... oh, how did I guess?!
"I'm not wearing that!!" I splutter on seeing it.
"Oh yes you are," comes the response from a member of the team, "You can take it off afterwards."
"Oh believe me, I will!" I growl, and after donning it I eye myself in the mirror, feeling more depressed by the minute. I look a real state, my hair's a mess, and this outfit's uncomfortable! How can whoever it is wear this thing?
"Ready?"
"I'm not going out in this!"
"It's just the once, now come on..."
Grumbling to myself I storm outside, not bothering to pose or hide my fury as the camera clicks. I'll get him for this, mark my words.

Oh come on, what did you expect? She's an alien! I couldn't pass this up! She doesn't look very happy about the outfit I picked though... oh well.
No sooner have I been given the all clear than I go racing back inside, tearing the itching outfit off me.
"Can I have my face back now?" I hint as I plop back down into the chair.
I shake my head in mild amusement as I watch. I don't know why she lays it on so thick, she looks fine without it. I really should tell her that too... but what would she think? She's angry enough at me as it is, I don't want to push my luck any further than I have already.
"You want your curls back?" the make-up lady offers.
"Bit late for that," I scowl in my reply, but then as I study the vaguely straight, unruly mess I get hit by an idea. "Hey, got any straightening irons handy?"
"Sure," comes the reply.

The mini-studio packs up and leaves, and we get briefed on our first major task. We have $15,000 between us to furnish our living quarters. I frown as I look about me - all there is already is a small kitchen area and a tiny bathroom. Everywhere else is empty - with us both being students we'll need to make room for a computer, a desk... we've been told we have to stay away from class and study at home. This will be tough, but if it means I leave here being able to talk to people without feeling as bad as I did earlier I'm all for it.

Woo-hoo! Money! This is more like it! Can't wait to do some shopping!

Well, here we are. Right, where's the furniture section... oh hello, what's she found?
"Wow, get this table!" I grin, my hands rubbing together in glee.
"Whooaa, hold on a minute lady..."

I pull her aside as I try my best to explain we're on a tight budget.
"A what?" I ask.
"You're a student and you don't know how to budget?" I check in disbelief.
"Hey, we all got loaded up with scholarships before we came," I beam in reply, but trail off as he slowly shakes his head.
This girl needs some serious lessons. Taking it slowly, I try my best to explain the situation we're in and that we need to go easy with what we've been given.

"Like this, for example," I continue as my eyes spot a sofa behind her.
"It's ugly!" I complain.
"It's cheap," I remind her.

"I don't do cheap, I do style!" I retort, but his head turns slowly towards me in reply with a raised eyebrow. "I know I know, we're on this "budget" thing... Ooh, that's nice!" I finish as I spot something out of the corner of my eye.
Oh boy. Don't get me wrong, she's a nice enough girl, but it's as much as I can do right now to maintain patience. Still, it's early days...
"We had this kind of desk at the halls!" I grin broadly as I walk up to it.

"That I can believe," I agree, although at the back of my mind I wonder if we can afford it. Maths isn't my best subject, but at least I can be careful with my money, unlike some... That'll have to be the first thing I work on with her, she'll get nowhere in life carrying on like that.

I leave the store with mixed feelings. Some things we picked up I'm happy with, although the amount of cheapo ugly things he got make me cringe. I don't know how long I'll be able to face those objects in our place, but at least I was able to get some posters to liven up the place a little. They'll go just fine alongside his Star Wars posters too... maybe this won't be so bad after all.

Application Round

Name: Emilia Staropoli
Age: 18
Hometown: Modern-day Transylvanian Weirdsville, otherwise known as Alpinloch... mind you, who am I to talk?
Education: Got through high school and now starting at Uni! Don't know what I'll do with myself afterwards though.
Occupation: Student - don't ask me what I'm studying, I don't know myself! I got put into some random class while I make up my mind... I might let them choose for me, except I could wind up doing something like maths or physics... *shudder*
Interests: Getting rich! ... oh, you mean what I like doing? Hmm... shopping, dossing, hanging out with my buddies, cheating at chess... what, you didn't expect me to be able to play fair did you?!
Describe self: Mum Italian, Dad unknown. Actually Mum's a guy... work that one out. I'm a real neat-freak too, and even got a cute boyfriend! How cool is that? ... In fact it was him who signed me up for this thing, maybe I'm finally driving him round the bend! That guy has amazing stamina, anyone else would have run screaming ages ago!

So bring it on - feeling brave enough to tackle me?


Get the halls we're staying at - isn't it fancy! I'm gonna get me a place like this when I'm filthy rich.

On the whole Uni is a big doss! This part of it sucks though...