"That was pretty nice of you to do. Oh! You could run your very own Werewolf B&B. Bed and breakfast doesnt feel right, bed and full moon, maybe Moon and Board! That's catchy." she toyed with the different proper names for what a Were would use should they be staying in town for a short visit. "Either way, it's pretty cool of you."
She tried to picture in her head what kind of reason would warrant many of the outside pack members to come to Nachton for a stay. The asylum was so big that it would take alot of people to overflow it. Then with Bastian purchasing an adjacent land to make more room just incase the need arise...
She cocked her head and narrowed her eyes skeptically.
"Would the need for more of the pack to come here have anything to do with the discovery of the Kadzait around town?"
The thought was menacingly delicious, a full out war between the two packs, tons of Were's she had never seen before, all battling each other.
Why on earth did the thought of fighting excite her? It should instead terrify her and make her nervous and want to run away. It was absurd.
They were nearing another picturesque pasture as Bastian slowed his horse down. The horse itself knew without much direction from it's master just what was wanted. It was eeiry, almost uncanny like a horse whisper that she had always invisioned she wanted to be when she grew up.
People did really live those dreams, just not people who lived in the subburbs of a large motor vehicle city.
'Don't be dumb.' She chastised herself.
"You sure about 'once'?" She teased back with a half smirk. "You do run a animal clinic and have your very own petting zoo in your backyard."
His help getting off of the horse was well welcomed. Possibly for more reasons than just than the for mentioned. To feel his hands around her waist as he lifted her down she wanted to reach out and fling her arms around him pulling them closer together so that she could feel the pressure of his lips against hers...
'Hey!' a small voice in the back of her head shouted to her. It was enough to bring her back to reality and snap her out of the fog that was ready to engulf her. One of these days she was going to lose her ability to fight off these thoughts. Thankfully the timing was beginning to be right and she wasn't so worried about what would happen.
With both feet firmly on the ground, she let the hand she had placed on Bastian's shoulder slide off slowly.
"I know that I'm hungry and I bet once he sees the food come out he'll come running."
She noted as Joey stood with his head down next to the horse. It was apparent he did not believe Bastian's promise of more horse time. He kicked at the ground in a pout.
"If we ignore him and act normal he'll come around. Soon you'll be hearing 'I like fruit! I like sammiches!'."
Picnic
The week passed remarkably fast and before he knew it tomorrow was Sunday, and a picnic was expected on his back forty, so to speak.
Bastian was glad business had been so busy. The less free time he had, the less time he could worry about what he expected tomorrow.
Not that he avoiding thinking about Diane all week. To the contrary, it seemed he did little else. And when he wasn't thinking about work, or Diane, he was still thinking about Reign.
In fact, it was during that thinking that he remembered he had missed her birthday, and that floored him. In all the years since he met her, he never once forgot her birthday, even when they had been apart. Realizing his mistake this year just served as further proof that they didn't belong together as he had once thought. It was a small, silly thing, but when added to the list, made his decision more...right?
Back and forth he had gone debating with himself the pros and cons to the budding relationship with Diane. Yet during all that time he continued to plan the little outing for her and her son, and every day looked forward to it more and more. Every day he saw her, worked with her side by side, he held off discussing the date further. It was this apprehension that held him back some. It didn't sway his decision, or want to make him change his mind, but it stymied his thought process a little.
Things were so different between he and Diane, as compared to when he and Reign began dating. There was, of course, the fact that he was substantially older, and more versed in the way of the world as it pertained to women, and in general. But there was also the fact that his perception of how he thought his life was going to be played out had changed.
And now he was expecting, at any minute, to begin this new relationship that involved a new woman, AND a child. The idea thrilled him, and also left him scared shitless.
Diane
16 years ago
Bastian
16 years ago
All of a sudden Bastian was having second thoughts about just how much of his place he had committed to Thanos. For whatever reason, at the time he had made his offer, Bastian expected maybe a couple or two might need a place to stay overnight on occasion...like a couple times a year. Considering what else there was to chose from...Shady Pines...local luxury hotels and resorts...really, who would want to come out to his place. Chosen for its remoteness to the Nachton city life, would visitors find it as inviting as Bastian did, and what kinds of visitors would those be?
He guessed the easiest way around his misgivings would be to get the guest cottage built quickly, so he could fulfill his agreement, and yet maintain his own privacy, and the standard of living he now prized so much.
Where had Diane and her questions been back when he was making decisions?
"I think I may run future decisions of such magnitude by you first...you seem to have a much more objective point of view that I seem to be lacking on occasion."
He spoke in a teasing manner, but his words were backed with sincerity.
"Honestly, I've put that all behind me for now. Reign obviously doesn't find my feelings worthy of concern, and perhaps she's right. I can only hope so, for her own safety. But I had very little input into what she did with her life when I was a part of it...now that I'm no longer, I'd dare say my opinions, or concerns are worth even less. It can be difficult, letting go, but I don't have a choice."
Recognizing that was both liberating, and sad, but Bastian focused on the liberation, since that was a positive force, and sadness wasn't.
"But if something like that should occur, I guess I'll try and be ready for it."
Realizing he did have a sort of zoo about the property, Bastian laughed at Diane's reference, and was glad she seemed so understanding of it all. It helped that she was pretty much involved in the ranch already, what with working at the clinic, and being around so much, but Bastian again considered her werewolf connection, and was even more convinced that this bond between them created almost an instant chemistry. The differences between Diane and Reign were still surprising Bastian, but he was continually finding that because of them his life was going along so much more smoothly, and even probably more happily.
His eyes were again drawn to the small boy, and Bastian stifled yet another chuckle. The stubborness he saw in Joey was very similar to how he had felt at his youngest recollection. How could he take exception, or dislike to anything that reminded him so much of himself?
Knowing the breakfast he'd eaten this morning had left his system earlier, Bastian decided for them all, and pulled the packs off his horse. Spreading out a large blanket, he started rummaging around in the bags.
"Joey? Do you think you might give me a hand here, and after we've had lunch I'll give you a treat that you can feed to the horses..."
He hoped the temptation of the second activity would preclude the possible dislike of the first activity. Distraction was supposed to be a key with small children, and he guessed now was as good a time as any to check out that theory. The apples he had set aside for the horses were tucked down in the bottom of the bags, requiring everything else to be removed first.
Before the tiny man answered, Bastian took out a bottle of wine, and two glasses, wrapped in soft towels. The bottle had been uncorked prior to packing, and now just required a firm grasp to remove the cork a second time to pour. He handed all three items to Diane.
"Would you like to do the honors?"
He guessed the easiest way around his misgivings would be to get the guest cottage built quickly, so he could fulfill his agreement, and yet maintain his own privacy, and the standard of living he now prized so much.
Where had Diane and her questions been back when he was making decisions?
"I think I may run future decisions of such magnitude by you first...you seem to have a much more objective point of view that I seem to be lacking on occasion."
He spoke in a teasing manner, but his words were backed with sincerity.
"Honestly, I've put that all behind me for now. Reign obviously doesn't find my feelings worthy of concern, and perhaps she's right. I can only hope so, for her own safety. But I had very little input into what she did with her life when I was a part of it...now that I'm no longer, I'd dare say my opinions, or concerns are worth even less. It can be difficult, letting go, but I don't have a choice."
Recognizing that was both liberating, and sad, but Bastian focused on the liberation, since that was a positive force, and sadness wasn't.
"But if something like that should occur, I guess I'll try and be ready for it."
Realizing he did have a sort of zoo about the property, Bastian laughed at Diane's reference, and was glad she seemed so understanding of it all. It helped that she was pretty much involved in the ranch already, what with working at the clinic, and being around so much, but Bastian again considered her werewolf connection, and was even more convinced that this bond between them created almost an instant chemistry. The differences between Diane and Reign were still surprising Bastian, but he was continually finding that because of them his life was going along so much more smoothly, and even probably more happily.
His eyes were again drawn to the small boy, and Bastian stifled yet another chuckle. The stubborness he saw in Joey was very similar to how he had felt at his youngest recollection. How could he take exception, or dislike to anything that reminded him so much of himself?
Knowing the breakfast he'd eaten this morning had left his system earlier, Bastian decided for them all, and pulled the packs off his horse. Spreading out a large blanket, he started rummaging around in the bags.
"Joey? Do you think you might give me a hand here, and after we've had lunch I'll give you a treat that you can feed to the horses..."
He hoped the temptation of the second activity would preclude the possible dislike of the first activity. Distraction was supposed to be a key with small children, and he guessed now was as good a time as any to check out that theory. The apples he had set aside for the horses were tucked down in the bottom of the bags, requiring everything else to be removed first.
Before the tiny man answered, Bastian took out a bottle of wine, and two glasses, wrapped in soft towels. The bottle had been uncorked prior to packing, and now just required a firm grasp to remove the cork a second time to pour. He handed all three items to Diane.
"Would you like to do the honors?"
Diane
16 years ago
She laughed softly at his reference to her objectivity. Was it really that or was it that she seemed to be suspicious of people’s motives more often than not?
"Nah, I think you were just considering the bright side of life and people when you offered. Honestly to me, the Alpha and his Beta are kinda scary. I wouldn't be lying if I said I try to avoid them. Just in case, ya know? I'd rather be unknown than on anyone’s bad side."
While Bastian ties to the Kadzait were basically solely linked up with Reign, hers were not. Knowing there was another Pack here in the same town as them disturbed her for reason she didn't understand. She was more than curious to see these other Were's in both forms, as if they would be any different looking as people. Her whole world had changed when she discovered this...new plane of existence. To know that they weren't the only type...
On the other hand she felt intruded upon. She had found this happy little belonging and now there were new Were's encroaching upon their territory. She didn't like that one bit.
"Outside of Reign and all that, aren't you the least bit curious about this other pack? What are they doing here? Do they hate us? Are we supposed to hate them, what if we get along? What if, Joe grows up and falls in love with one of their Pack members. Then I've got a Romeo and Juliet story on my hands and I have to make sure my kids not out killing himself for true love."
"Ok, so that's prolly over reacting and waaay over thinking things but," she shrugged. "I always have too many questions for my own good."
When Bastian tried to brighten Joey's mood, Diane was surprised as his ability to, well convince small children. Joey's face immediately snapped up and his eyes were wide with excitement once more. He scampered over to Bastian's side and squatted down to readily stick his hand in the bags to help.
Diane couldn't help but stare at Bastian when his attention was elsewhere. He was naturally stunning. Tall dark and handsome were words that came to mind but she knew weren't good enough to describe his looks.
It was a surprise when he handed her the glasses and wine bottle. Inwardly she grimaced. She wasn't the strongest person even with her enhanced abilities. Reaching out with both hands she took only the wine bottle.
"You must think I'm stronger than I am sir." she kidded and met his eyes. "You hold the glasses; this will require more than just strength but also agility and possibly flexibility. Stand back."
Grasping the bottle under her left arm and wrapping the same hand around its neck she shifted her body away from the Blanket and helpless victims. Using her right hand she grasped the cork tightly and with a breath she pulled. The cork put up medium resistance but finally popped out. She was lucky this time, both the cork came out with no use of her legs and she hadn't spilled any.
She turned back towards him and the glasses and tilted the bottle.
"Tada! Don't tell me that wasn't graceful."
"Nah, I think you were just considering the bright side of life and people when you offered. Honestly to me, the Alpha and his Beta are kinda scary. I wouldn't be lying if I said I try to avoid them. Just in case, ya know? I'd rather be unknown than on anyone’s bad side."
While Bastian ties to the Kadzait were basically solely linked up with Reign, hers were not. Knowing there was another Pack here in the same town as them disturbed her for reason she didn't understand. She was more than curious to see these other Were's in both forms, as if they would be any different looking as people. Her whole world had changed when she discovered this...new plane of existence. To know that they weren't the only type...
On the other hand she felt intruded upon. She had found this happy little belonging and now there were new Were's encroaching upon their territory. She didn't like that one bit.
"Outside of Reign and all that, aren't you the least bit curious about this other pack? What are they doing here? Do they hate us? Are we supposed to hate them, what if we get along? What if, Joe grows up and falls in love with one of their Pack members. Then I've got a Romeo and Juliet story on my hands and I have to make sure my kids not out killing himself for true love."
"Ok, so that's prolly over reacting and waaay over thinking things but," she shrugged. "I always have too many questions for my own good."
When Bastian tried to brighten Joey's mood, Diane was surprised as his ability to, well convince small children. Joey's face immediately snapped up and his eyes were wide with excitement once more. He scampered over to Bastian's side and squatted down to readily stick his hand in the bags to help.
Diane couldn't help but stare at Bastian when his attention was elsewhere. He was naturally stunning. Tall dark and handsome were words that came to mind but she knew weren't good enough to describe his looks.
It was a surprise when he handed her the glasses and wine bottle. Inwardly she grimaced. She wasn't the strongest person even with her enhanced abilities. Reaching out with both hands she took only the wine bottle.
"You must think I'm stronger than I am sir." she kidded and met his eyes. "You hold the glasses; this will require more than just strength but also agility and possibly flexibility. Stand back."
Grasping the bottle under her left arm and wrapping the same hand around its neck she shifted her body away from the Blanket and helpless victims. Using her right hand she grasped the cork tightly and with a breath she pulled. The cork put up medium resistance but finally popped out. She was lucky this time, both the cork came out with no use of her legs and she hadn't spilled any.
She turned back towards him and the glasses and tilted the bottle.
"Tada! Don't tell me that wasn't graceful."
Bastian
16 years ago
Bastian tried to see Thanos in an intimidating light, and failed. Of course he had been up against some pretty formidable foes in his life, and probably had more experience in dealing with men in general, so he didn't think it was too odd that Diane might feel as she did.
"I'm not sure you need to be scared, but I also won't tell you you're wrong to feel cautious. If you find the need to ever seek counsel with either, I'll be happy to attend with you, if you'd like. Certainly I'm no where near 'friends' with Thanos, but I think after our meeting we are probably on better footing, and at least have a sense of each other."
And for that reason alone Bastian had felt good about meeting up with Thanos.
"As long as you don't go kidnapping any of us Vyusher, I think it should be easy for you to maintain a positive place under the elder's eyes."
Bastian winked at the pretty woman as he teased her. He didn't take lightly, her experience with the vampire, not at all. But he also had to find some humor in it, to deal with the idea himself. That she was a strong woman wasn't in doubt, but she had limits, and Bastian wasn't sure they would extend to anything the vampire dished out.
"I don't know that 'curiosity' is what I would call it specifically, though I would like to know more about how they compare to us. This Kadzait vet was a very large wolf, as well as he is a large man...I am curious to know if they all hold a size advantage over the Vyusher. Not that I think it should matter...that martial arts class I started is showing me you really can do a lot to disempower someone larger than you."
Bastian wasn't a small man, but he also wasn't that large either, in the scheme of things. But he had felt relatively secure with his size most of his life. It was coming up against an adversary who was SO much larger when he began to be concerned.
He was somewhat relieved to hear Diane voice some of the same concerns he'd had earlier on.
"Thanos implied we need to get along with the Kadzait, and I don't see him advocating anything like that if the Kadzait were a danger to us. I question the vet's motives toward Reign..." Bastian had lately begun to think there might be more than a 'friendly' interest there, even though the Kadzait had been with another woman at the bowling alley. A friendly acquaintence didn't normally take such interest in someone they only knew from their business practice, unless they had other designs in mind. But since none of that was Bastian's concerns any longer, he truly had tried hard to ignore those thoughts, or expanding on them. Reign would need to find out if the Kadzait had other motives, and deal with them on her own. Bastian could only hope she wouldn't suffer, whatever the outcome.
"As for my man Joey here...he looks to have a smart head on his shoulders...I don't think you need to worry about those kinds of things...not yet, right Joey?"
Bastian tousled the child's hair, and spoke to him as if he were a young man, rather than a tot. He was glad to see the boy seemed at ease with him, and that what he had learned in college about children was giving him an advantage today. That Bastian had always loved kids didn't hurt either. Even if part of him wanted to show himself he could do so much better than his parents had done with him, the bigger part was that he truly liked the small ones. Or most anyway.
"Questions aren't bad. You learn through having them answered. Dios knows I have now and always have had my fair share."
Looking at her now, as they spoke, Bastian wanted to ask her how she managed to have such beautiful skin. He ached to touch her cheek...smooth as satin, and softly creamy looking. Her eyes sparkled clearly, much like a gemstone, and her lips...berry stained, and plumb...inviting...he wanted to suck one between his teeth, and...
Bastian tore his eyes away, and coughed, looking back at the lad next to him. It was Diane's work with the wine bottle that brought him back to the reality of the moment. He was taking things slowly with her, but the more time they spent together, the more he wanted to toss those ideas out the window. Today he was thankful for Joey's presence...soon he would look for a reason to entertain Diane solo.
"Very...graceful, that is." He chuckled as he tried to get his mind back on the wine, and off of other lofty imaginations.
When the food was displayed, Bastian set plates and utensils in the center of the blanket, and offered both Joey and Diane to help themselves. He waited and sipped his wine, enjoying the simplicity of how Diane's hands moved, and how she looked at and interacted with her son. He really couldn't believe just how quickly he had grown accustomed to their presence, and how easy it was to see them both becoming permanent companions in his life. His eyes looked upon the twosome with tender affection, even if his desires for the beautiful woman were growing in leaps and bounds.
"I think you're much stronger than you give yourself credit for, but if you ever need another hand..."
Bastian leaned toward Diane, and stroked a knuckle softly beneath her chin, hoping she understood the sincerity in his heart, as well as the heat in his eyes.
"I'm not sure you need to be scared, but I also won't tell you you're wrong to feel cautious. If you find the need to ever seek counsel with either, I'll be happy to attend with you, if you'd like. Certainly I'm no where near 'friends' with Thanos, but I think after our meeting we are probably on better footing, and at least have a sense of each other."
And for that reason alone Bastian had felt good about meeting up with Thanos.
"As long as you don't go kidnapping any of us Vyusher, I think it should be easy for you to maintain a positive place under the elder's eyes."
Bastian winked at the pretty woman as he teased her. He didn't take lightly, her experience with the vampire, not at all. But he also had to find some humor in it, to deal with the idea himself. That she was a strong woman wasn't in doubt, but she had limits, and Bastian wasn't sure they would extend to anything the vampire dished out.
"I don't know that 'curiosity' is what I would call it specifically, though I would like to know more about how they compare to us. This Kadzait vet was a very large wolf, as well as he is a large man...I am curious to know if they all hold a size advantage over the Vyusher. Not that I think it should matter...that martial arts class I started is showing me you really can do a lot to disempower someone larger than you."
Bastian wasn't a small man, but he also wasn't that large either, in the scheme of things. But he had felt relatively secure with his size most of his life. It was coming up against an adversary who was SO much larger when he began to be concerned.
He was somewhat relieved to hear Diane voice some of the same concerns he'd had earlier on.
"Thanos implied we need to get along with the Kadzait, and I don't see him advocating anything like that if the Kadzait were a danger to us. I question the vet's motives toward Reign..." Bastian had lately begun to think there might be more than a 'friendly' interest there, even though the Kadzait had been with another woman at the bowling alley. A friendly acquaintence didn't normally take such interest in someone they only knew from their business practice, unless they had other designs in mind. But since none of that was Bastian's concerns any longer, he truly had tried hard to ignore those thoughts, or expanding on them. Reign would need to find out if the Kadzait had other motives, and deal with them on her own. Bastian could only hope she wouldn't suffer, whatever the outcome.
"As for my man Joey here...he looks to have a smart head on his shoulders...I don't think you need to worry about those kinds of things...not yet, right Joey?"
Bastian tousled the child's hair, and spoke to him as if he were a young man, rather than a tot. He was glad to see the boy seemed at ease with him, and that what he had learned in college about children was giving him an advantage today. That Bastian had always loved kids didn't hurt either. Even if part of him wanted to show himself he could do so much better than his parents had done with him, the bigger part was that he truly liked the small ones. Or most anyway.
"Questions aren't bad. You learn through having them answered. Dios knows I have now and always have had my fair share."
Looking at her now, as they spoke, Bastian wanted to ask her how she managed to have such beautiful skin. He ached to touch her cheek...smooth as satin, and softly creamy looking. Her eyes sparkled clearly, much like a gemstone, and her lips...berry stained, and plumb...inviting...he wanted to suck one between his teeth, and...
Bastian tore his eyes away, and coughed, looking back at the lad next to him. It was Diane's work with the wine bottle that brought him back to the reality of the moment. He was taking things slowly with her, but the more time they spent together, the more he wanted to toss those ideas out the window. Today he was thankful for Joey's presence...soon he would look for a reason to entertain Diane solo.
"Very...graceful, that is." He chuckled as he tried to get his mind back on the wine, and off of other lofty imaginations.
When the food was displayed, Bastian set plates and utensils in the center of the blanket, and offered both Joey and Diane to help themselves. He waited and sipped his wine, enjoying the simplicity of how Diane's hands moved, and how she looked at and interacted with her son. He really couldn't believe just how quickly he had grown accustomed to their presence, and how easy it was to see them both becoming permanent companions in his life. His eyes looked upon the twosome with tender affection, even if his desires for the beautiful woman were growing in leaps and bounds.
"I think you're much stronger than you give yourself credit for, but if you ever need another hand..."
Bastian leaned toward Diane, and stroked a knuckle softly beneath her chin, hoping she understood the sincerity in his heart, as well as the heat in his eyes.
Diane
16 years ago
Taking Bastian along for any conference with the Pack leaders was a sound idea. It was one she knew she would take him up on indefinitely as she hated speaking to authority. Hopefully though, an occassion like that wouldn't come up.
Sharp laughter cut out from inside of her.
"Well that ruins my plans of kidnapping you now doesn't it. I guess under those conditions you are safe."
Sharp laughter cut out from inside of her.
"Well that ruins my plans of kidnapping you now doesn't it. I guess under those conditions you are safe."
Diane
16 years ago
Settling down on the blanket Diane twisted her mouth to the side.
"Well, having to get along with them takes a little bit of air out of my balloon. Don't ask why, but mortal enemies sounded fun. As if I don't have enough supernatural enemies though right? At least that accounts to them having to be nice to us in return."
Having more than one enemy was definitely more than a full plate and even though things had been going some what unturbulent, she shouldn't expect it to stay that way. There was always a calm before any storm and she silently wondered how long it would be until her's lit the sky back up.
If Bastian could read thoughts he had to be doing it now. What he said made her catch her breath. With his hand held under her chin she couldn't help but stare into his eyes. The deep rich reddish brown hue of them were highlighted by liquid amber specks that were entrancing. Time seemed to slow down to a crawl and this time she let it. If he thought she was a lunatic for zoning out then so be it, it was just too damn hard to look away.
"Well, having to get along with them takes a little bit of air out of my balloon. Don't ask why, but mortal enemies sounded fun. As if I don't have enough supernatural enemies though right? At least that accounts to them having to be nice to us in return."
Having more than one enemy was definitely more than a full plate and even though things had been going some what unturbulent, she shouldn't expect it to stay that way. There was always a calm before any storm and she silently wondered how long it would be until her's lit the sky back up.
If Bastian could read thoughts he had to be doing it now. What he said made her catch her breath. With his hand held under her chin she couldn't help but stare into his eyes. The deep rich reddish brown hue of them were highlighted by liquid amber specks that were entrancing. Time seemed to slow down to a crawl and this time she let it. If he thought she was a lunatic for zoning out then so be it, it was just too damn hard to look away.
Bastian
16 years ago
How many times had he sworn he was going to take his feelings for Diane, and keep them under wraps for a while, allowing them to grow, and deepen without adding the physical distraction into the mix too soon? Many. He had told himself it was for both their benefits to do so. Many times.
And yet his lips were touching hers before he was aware of what he was doing. Thoughts of Joseph now holding a tiny speck of his consciousness, quickly being obliterated by the soft, sweet scent of Diane's breath, and the velvety smooth texture of her warm lips against his. Somehow he did manage to sit back, open his eyes, and return to sanity before he went past the point of no return.
His finger was still beneath her chin, but when he sat back he slid the tip down her neck, and across her chest, before falling limply into his lap. He cursed himself for the way he felt, and the inability to do anything about it, while subsequently being very pleased that Joey was there to consider.
He interpreted Diane's look to mean she felt pretty much the same way, so he mouthed the word 'later', before he busied himself with her son again. His hunger for her might need to wait, but he could at least satisfy his appetite for food now.
"When we're done here, we can ride on further to the lake, then head back. Do you like to fish Joey?"
Feeling as if he had been ignoring the boy, Bastian again tried to draw him into the moment, lest his imagination of what he hoped was to come got away from him.
"And then later, if you get tired, you can take a nap, and mama and I can talk."
Bastian gave silent thanks to the fact that Joey was still too young to read between the lines, or pick up on any innuendos he might accidentally hear. Bastian wasn't doing the best job of hiding his intentions, at least it didn't feel that way to him. Glancing at Diane he wondered again how she was feeling, and if perhaps he was moving way too fast.
And yet his lips were touching hers before he was aware of what he was doing. Thoughts of Joseph now holding a tiny speck of his consciousness, quickly being obliterated by the soft, sweet scent of Diane's breath, and the velvety smooth texture of her warm lips against his. Somehow he did manage to sit back, open his eyes, and return to sanity before he went past the point of no return.
His finger was still beneath her chin, but when he sat back he slid the tip down her neck, and across her chest, before falling limply into his lap. He cursed himself for the way he felt, and the inability to do anything about it, while subsequently being very pleased that Joey was there to consider.
He interpreted Diane's look to mean she felt pretty much the same way, so he mouthed the word 'later', before he busied himself with her son again. His hunger for her might need to wait, but he could at least satisfy his appetite for food now.
"When we're done here, we can ride on further to the lake, then head back. Do you like to fish Joey?"
Feeling as if he had been ignoring the boy, Bastian again tried to draw him into the moment, lest his imagination of what he hoped was to come got away from him.
"And then later, if you get tired, you can take a nap, and mama and I can talk."
Bastian gave silent thanks to the fact that Joey was still too young to read between the lines, or pick up on any innuendos he might accidentally hear. Bastian wasn't doing the best job of hiding his intentions, at least it didn't feel that way to him. Glancing at Diane he wondered again how she was feeling, and if perhaps he was moving way too fast.
Diane
16 years ago
The feeling of warmth against her lips made her eyes close softly. His kiss was like velvet and it took all her strength not to reach out and wrap her arms around him and create a vice from which he'd never escape. It ended as unknowingly as it began and she felt an immediate wave of desperation wash over her.
Diane saw him mouth the word later and her insides scrambled. There was a part of her that wanted to be irrational and irresponsible but it was silenced. She only nodded in return.
"I like to fish! It's my favrit!" she heard her son's tiny voice exclaim.
Joey was sitting with a piece of fruit in his lap. He had never been fishing before and currently everything he saw or heard that sounded remotely fun was his favorite. Well just about everthing, going under water was 'not my favrit!' as he had wailed previously in his last swim class.
As much as she loved her son, she was thankful that naptime would be comming soon. She had a hard time being patient at times, and this so happened to be one of those times. It wouldn't be long after he ate that he'd be rubbing his eyes and feeling sleepy even though being two years old he'd never admit it.
Now as his brows furrored together and he made an exaggerated angry face at Bastian, Diane stiffled a laugh.
"I'm not tired. I don't like naps."
Diane interupted Joey's mood to distract him and save Bastian from having to try and reason with the miniture human.
"You don't have to take a nap now just eat. It looks like you have something yummy in your hands."
Smirking she spoke to Bastian.
"You used the dread N word. He fights sleep like the I-C-E cream man is gonna come and he'll miss out. It's his worst enemy. Lucky for us he got up early this morning and the food will probably tucker him out faster than running a mile would."
"Did you make all this food?" she wondered outloud as she made a small plate for Joe and then one for herself.
Diane saw him mouth the word later and her insides scrambled. There was a part of her that wanted to be irrational and irresponsible but it was silenced. She only nodded in return.
"I like to fish! It's my favrit!" she heard her son's tiny voice exclaim.
Joey was sitting with a piece of fruit in his lap. He had never been fishing before and currently everything he saw or heard that sounded remotely fun was his favorite. Well just about everthing, going under water was 'not my favrit!' as he had wailed previously in his last swim class.
As much as she loved her son, she was thankful that naptime would be comming soon. She had a hard time being patient at times, and this so happened to be one of those times. It wouldn't be long after he ate that he'd be rubbing his eyes and feeling sleepy even though being two years old he'd never admit it.
Now as his brows furrored together and he made an exaggerated angry face at Bastian, Diane stiffled a laugh.
"I'm not tired. I don't like naps."
Diane interupted Joey's mood to distract him and save Bastian from having to try and reason with the miniture human.
"You don't have to take a nap now just eat. It looks like you have something yummy in your hands."
Smirking she spoke to Bastian.
"You used the dread N word. He fights sleep like the I-C-E cream man is gonna come and he'll miss out. It's his worst enemy. Lucky for us he got up early this morning and the food will probably tucker him out faster than running a mile would."
"Did you make all this food?" she wondered outloud as she made a small plate for Joe and then one for herself.
Bastian
16 years ago
Nothing Joey said surprised Bastian. Though he was still learning a lot about children, he quite understood the need to feel a part of what was going on around, and not wanting to miss anything. He also found the enthusiasm of children to be infectious. He wasn't certain but he wouldn't be surprised to hear Diane tell him that Joey had never been fishing a day in his life. Not that it would have been an impossible idea, but with Diane's schedule, and a lack of a male role model in the young tot's life, it seemed plausible that Joey had spent spare time doing other things. Truth be told, Bastian couldn't remember the last time he'd been fishing himself. But what he did recall was that it really wasn't a difficult task, so he felt no trepidation offering to teach the boy.
One thing did cause Bastian a bit more difficulty in considering a fishing expedition, and that was the lovely Diane, sitting so close.
It probably wasn't the brightest move he'd ever made, yet Bastian didn't regret the kiss at all. The only thing he might have regretted was the timing. Patience wasn't always his long suit, though he was becoming better with age. Instead of dwelling on the inability to act as he'd like now, he told himself the wait would only make things sweeter later. He wondered briefly if Diane had any similar thoughts.
He did chuckle as Diane explained the 'nap' situation, and learned even more about the young boy, and his habits.
"I do cook, and quite well, even if I say so myself, but I have specialties...I'm not that well versed in all things."
He couldn't help but become distracted again as he explained, finding the beauty in her eyes, and the promise in her lips so much more interesting than the idea of food. Steeling himself against his own baser desires, Bastian pulled his mind away from the soft, moist, lushness of her mouth, and the yearning he felt to drink there, putting his glass of wine to his mounth instead. The wine was good, but a poor substitute from what he really wanted.
"I will have you over for a true, traditional Italian dinner soon though...perhaps early this week, if you're not busy?"
A part of him was still a tiny bit afraid of scaring her off, so he continued to try and play it slow. It would be a hard battle he knew, and one that wouldn't go on too long, but one he still felt he needed to fight for propriety's sake, as well their own.
An explanation remained in order, he thought, to prevent any misunderstandings.
"I'm finding it increasingly tough to just sit by passively, with you so close, but I'm doing my all to succeed there. I don't want to rush you, nor do I want to scare your son. But please don't misunderstand my passivity as disinterest. That couldn't be farther from the truth. In fact, to be clear, I want you more than I think I've wanted anything in a very long time. It scares me a little, but it excites me more."
Bastian paused. Now still wasn't the time for such declarations. Joey was still too attentive, and open to misunderstanding what was going on between his mother and Bastian. There was time, and Bastian just had to take the opportunity to use that, rather than push it aside and hurt what might be developing.
"I trust you know best."
Was all he said in response to Diane's declaration of her son's impending tiredness.
One thing did cause Bastian a bit more difficulty in considering a fishing expedition, and that was the lovely Diane, sitting so close.
It probably wasn't the brightest move he'd ever made, yet Bastian didn't regret the kiss at all. The only thing he might have regretted was the timing. Patience wasn't always his long suit, though he was becoming better with age. Instead of dwelling on the inability to act as he'd like now, he told himself the wait would only make things sweeter later. He wondered briefly if Diane had any similar thoughts.
He did chuckle as Diane explained the 'nap' situation, and learned even more about the young boy, and his habits.
"I do cook, and quite well, even if I say so myself, but I have specialties...I'm not that well versed in all things."
He couldn't help but become distracted again as he explained, finding the beauty in her eyes, and the promise in her lips so much more interesting than the idea of food. Steeling himself against his own baser desires, Bastian pulled his mind away from the soft, moist, lushness of her mouth, and the yearning he felt to drink there, putting his glass of wine to his mounth instead. The wine was good, but a poor substitute from what he really wanted.
"I will have you over for a true, traditional Italian dinner soon though...perhaps early this week, if you're not busy?"
A part of him was still a tiny bit afraid of scaring her off, so he continued to try and play it slow. It would be a hard battle he knew, and one that wouldn't go on too long, but one he still felt he needed to fight for propriety's sake, as well their own.
An explanation remained in order, he thought, to prevent any misunderstandings.
"I'm finding it increasingly tough to just sit by passively, with you so close, but I'm doing my all to succeed there. I don't want to rush you, nor do I want to scare your son. But please don't misunderstand my passivity as disinterest. That couldn't be farther from the truth. In fact, to be clear, I want you more than I think I've wanted anything in a very long time. It scares me a little, but it excites me more."
Bastian paused. Now still wasn't the time for such declarations. Joey was still too attentive, and open to misunderstanding what was going on between his mother and Bastian. There was time, and Bastian just had to take the opportunity to use that, rather than push it aside and hurt what might be developing.
"I trust you know best."
Was all he said in response to Diane's declaration of her son's impending tiredness.
Diane
16 years ago
He was a man that could cook, and not just mac and cheese or grilled cheese sandwiches.
"I am only busy on Thursday in which I have to make an update check on the in town apartment. A couple of the families in the Pack are going to the cider mill and asked if Joey could come, it created a perfect opportunity for me to go out and do some 'field work'. So, any other day I am absolutely free and completely interested."
Her idea of Italian was a jar of Ragu and a box of Bertolli thin spaghetti noodles. Ten minute dinner special. She didn't even pan cook the sauce any more, the microwave did the trick.
"I'm pretty good at cooking, I don't have any said specialties but I make good comfort food. I have a big old southern cookbook that's like my bible. You can call me the casserole queen pretty much."
It was true, all the best dishes happened to be casseroles. In her opinion casseroles were pans of happiness just waiting to be eaten. They made for good left over as well and that was the biggest thing. She was not a fan of left over’s and rarely did she ever eat them. Mostly they hit the trash after hanging out in the fridge for a week. Thankfully, one of the perks of living at the asylum was the many other people who didn't mind eating left over’s. At least she didn't feel so wasteful anymore.
"So do you have any more secrets of awesomeness? You love animals, you cook, I'm not sure what else there could be."
Amazingly gorgeous and charming was what she was thinking but decided to leave that bit out for now. Just the fact that she'd get to spend an evening with just Bastian and soon made her stomach flutter with excitement. She made a mental note not to wear anything light colored for the event. Who knew what kind of mess she'd manage with Italian food.
Bastian must have been having as hard of a time with waiting to later to say anything as she was, because he began to explain himself suddenly. She hadn't felt put off by him at all and suddenly she feared if she had presented herself that way.
"I think you’re doing just fine, you haven't rushed me at all. You forget I've been doing this for a few months now. I've gotten good at being idle and passive and...Being near you without acting like a high school girl. I'd tell you it gets easier, but then again why would I want to give you that advice? I don't worry about me, like you said I'm pretty strong.
I just don't want to rush you, even if that means me spending more time pretending that I don't want to be near you every second."
"I am only busy on Thursday in which I have to make an update check on the in town apartment. A couple of the families in the Pack are going to the cider mill and asked if Joey could come, it created a perfect opportunity for me to go out and do some 'field work'. So, any other day I am absolutely free and completely interested."
Her idea of Italian was a jar of Ragu and a box of Bertolli thin spaghetti noodles. Ten minute dinner special. She didn't even pan cook the sauce any more, the microwave did the trick.
"I'm pretty good at cooking, I don't have any said specialties but I make good comfort food. I have a big old southern cookbook that's like my bible. You can call me the casserole queen pretty much."
It was true, all the best dishes happened to be casseroles. In her opinion casseroles were pans of happiness just waiting to be eaten. They made for good left over as well and that was the biggest thing. She was not a fan of left over’s and rarely did she ever eat them. Mostly they hit the trash after hanging out in the fridge for a week. Thankfully, one of the perks of living at the asylum was the many other people who didn't mind eating left over’s. At least she didn't feel so wasteful anymore.
"So do you have any more secrets of awesomeness? You love animals, you cook, I'm not sure what else there could be."
Amazingly gorgeous and charming was what she was thinking but decided to leave that bit out for now. Just the fact that she'd get to spend an evening with just Bastian and soon made her stomach flutter with excitement. She made a mental note not to wear anything light colored for the event. Who knew what kind of mess she'd manage with Italian food.
Bastian must have been having as hard of a time with waiting to later to say anything as she was, because he began to explain himself suddenly. She hadn't felt put off by him at all and suddenly she feared if she had presented herself that way.
"I think you’re doing just fine, you haven't rushed me at all. You forget I've been doing this for a few months now. I've gotten good at being idle and passive and...Being near you without acting like a high school girl. I'd tell you it gets easier, but then again why would I want to give you that advice? I don't worry about me, like you said I'm pretty strong.
I just don't want to rush you, even if that means me spending more time pretending that I don't want to be near you every second."
Bastian
16 years ago
How relaxing it was to be with a woman who saw Bastian for what he was, rather than for what he might have been. Being with Diane was proving to be exciting, comforting, challanging, and even somewhat inspiring. It was an experience Bastian was finding satisfying, yet not at all boring. At last he even thought he was seeing her for herself, and not in comparison to Reign. In fact, he hadn't been thinking of Reign for sometime now, and was only mildly irritated to think of her now. It stood to reason it would happen, but he was quite happy to see the occasions becoming fewer and fewer in between.
And yet when the subject of cooking was being discussed, Bastian again found himself looking at both women, side by side.
Reign wasn't domestic at all, and though it never bothered Bastian in the past, he found it pleasing to think of having someone cook for him again. It went beyond the chauvenistic, or sexist ideals though, and fell into the catagory of two people taking care of each other, equally. A partner who didn't mind sharing such things was one he knew he could live the rest of his days with. He was done battling for this kind of life style. He wanted someone who liked to do these things as much as he did.
"Finding comfort in food...reminds me of the few times my Nonna would cook for me. I don't remember seeing my mother in the kitchen...ever, but Nonna...I can still smell and taste her Chicken Cacciatore..." Bastian smiled at Diane, but his mind had wandered back about twenty years. Occasionally it still tugged at his heart to know his grandmother would never see the man he had become, or any family he might have some day. But having lived without her for so long, those thoughts were short lived.
Lunch progressed amiably with the conversation moving back and forth between Joey, work, and every day matters. It was nice, he pondered again, to be able to kick off his shoes, so to speak, and relax with someone. No...it was nice to sit and relax with Diane. Anyone else would have changed the mood...she was exactly who Bastian wanted to be with now, and he reveled in her presence.
When he finished his food, Bastian twisted around a bit, and leaned up against the trunk of the old, gnarled oak tree nearby. He crossed his hands over his flat, but full stomach, and closed his eyes dreamily. It would only be for seconds, he was sure, with Joey no doubt ready to be on the move again, but he took advantage of the opportunity for as long as he could stretch it. Had he and Diane been alone, he could see pulling her into his arms and making the most of the beautiful scene around them. As it was now, he remained quiet and still, within himself.
He was again glad to hear they seemed to be on the same page with each other, so far so good, and no one suffering from confusion. He was a lucky man, he considered, and would explain to her how as soon as he was able.
And yet when the subject of cooking was being discussed, Bastian again found himself looking at both women, side by side.
Reign wasn't domestic at all, and though it never bothered Bastian in the past, he found it pleasing to think of having someone cook for him again. It went beyond the chauvenistic, or sexist ideals though, and fell into the catagory of two people taking care of each other, equally. A partner who didn't mind sharing such things was one he knew he could live the rest of his days with. He was done battling for this kind of life style. He wanted someone who liked to do these things as much as he did.
"Finding comfort in food...reminds me of the few times my Nonna would cook for me. I don't remember seeing my mother in the kitchen...ever, but Nonna...I can still smell and taste her Chicken Cacciatore..." Bastian smiled at Diane, but his mind had wandered back about twenty years. Occasionally it still tugged at his heart to know his grandmother would never see the man he had become, or any family he might have some day. But having lived without her for so long, those thoughts were short lived.
Lunch progressed amiably with the conversation moving back and forth between Joey, work, and every day matters. It was nice, he pondered again, to be able to kick off his shoes, so to speak, and relax with someone. No...it was nice to sit and relax with Diane. Anyone else would have changed the mood...she was exactly who Bastian wanted to be with now, and he reveled in her presence.
When he finished his food, Bastian twisted around a bit, and leaned up against the trunk of the old, gnarled oak tree nearby. He crossed his hands over his flat, but full stomach, and closed his eyes dreamily. It would only be for seconds, he was sure, with Joey no doubt ready to be on the move again, but he took advantage of the opportunity for as long as he could stretch it. Had he and Diane been alone, he could see pulling her into his arms and making the most of the beautiful scene around them. As it was now, he remained quiet and still, within himself.
He was again glad to hear they seemed to be on the same page with each other, so far so good, and no one suffering from confusion. He was a lucky man, he considered, and would explain to her how as soon as he was able.
Diane
16 years ago
She had been able to speak without much floundering with words and she was proud of herself. At least it had been easy to admit things to Bastian. It hadn't been half as embarrassing as she thought it would be to say how she had been partially fake for the past few months. Although she knew she hadn't always been an expert at it and he may have well guessed something was amiss.
It had been a long time since she had even cared enough to seek out male companionship. Life had just been too busy to even think about herself in that way. It had been a struggle for survival for the longest time and it almost felt like that was all she had even known. It certainly wasn't the truth and nearly three years was nothing but a blip on the span of life but it definitely felt like forever to her. How amazing it was now to be in a bubble of hope and happiness.
Everything was effortless this afternoon with Bastian. In a way she was glad she had accepted the job that he had offered what felt like eons ago. Would this have played out the same had they not worked side by side and gotten to know each other and grew comfortable without the pressure of anything other than work? Diane doubted that she would be able to be anything but a ball of nerves had they only remained Pack mates and simply acquaintances.
'Thank God for hidden beginnings in life.'
Joe was running through the grass around the blanket chasing after a cricket and she watched Bastian relaxing against the tree. The combination of his peaceful demeanor and the sun with its fresh air reawakened her tiredness. Bastian looked so comfortable and content. Jealously swarmed over her. She wanted nothing more than to curl up on his lap and fall asleep. Maybe the nightmares would leave her alone with him near. Stifling a yawn she rubbed her eye.
"Ugh. You look far too comfortable, I'm envious. If I yawn in front of you it's only because you’re making sleep look so easy and peaceful not because you’re boring me at all today ok? I haven't been getting much sleep lately is all." she smiled weakly.
"Should we clean this up and give the horses some treats? I give the little one an hour tops and then he'll become a monster."
A nap for Joey also ment adult talking time. She liked the idea of later finally becoming soon.
It had been a long time since she had even cared enough to seek out male companionship. Life had just been too busy to even think about herself in that way. It had been a struggle for survival for the longest time and it almost felt like that was all she had even known. It certainly wasn't the truth and nearly three years was nothing but a blip on the span of life but it definitely felt like forever to her. How amazing it was now to be in a bubble of hope and happiness.
Everything was effortless this afternoon with Bastian. In a way she was glad she had accepted the job that he had offered what felt like eons ago. Would this have played out the same had they not worked side by side and gotten to know each other and grew comfortable without the pressure of anything other than work? Diane doubted that she would be able to be anything but a ball of nerves had they only remained Pack mates and simply acquaintances.
'Thank God for hidden beginnings in life.'
Joe was running through the grass around the blanket chasing after a cricket and she watched Bastian relaxing against the tree. The combination of his peaceful demeanor and the sun with its fresh air reawakened her tiredness. Bastian looked so comfortable and content. Jealously swarmed over her. She wanted nothing more than to curl up on his lap and fall asleep. Maybe the nightmares would leave her alone with him near. Stifling a yawn she rubbed her eye.
"Ugh. You look far too comfortable, I'm envious. If I yawn in front of you it's only because you’re making sleep look so easy and peaceful not because you’re boring me at all today ok? I haven't been getting much sleep lately is all." she smiled weakly.
"Should we clean this up and give the horses some treats? I give the little one an hour tops and then he'll become a monster."
A nap for Joey also ment adult talking time. She liked the idea of later finally becoming soon.
Bastian
16 years ago
He hadn't been resting his eyes long, but he kept them closed when Diane spoke. The sounds of a child running, and laughing, combined with those of the pretty lady nearby, filled Bastian with intense peace. It was a peace he loathed relinquishing, yet did so with a smile. What he had to take the place of his nap was truly better.
"If I were a stronger man, I'd pull you onto my lap, and we could nap together. But we do have the young man there to keep an eye on, and...well, right now I'm not feeling extremely strong."
Bastian gave Diane a slightly lecherous grin, but sat up and shook off the cobwebs that were beginning to form.
It concerned him to hear she wasn't sleeping well. A firm believer, as well as testament to the need for a good night's sleep, Bastian had noticed some faint gray circles below her eyes on occasion. Not having any claim to that concern, beyond that of a friend, he hadn't mentioned it earlier. But with their evidently changing relationship, he vowed to pay better attention, and do what he could to relieve her of her burdens.
"Tell you what...why don't you keep my place here warm, and I'll clean up. There really isn't much to do, and you need the rest more than I. I'll watch Joey too if you want to close your eyes for a while. I won't let you sleep long."
If Diane could grab twenty or thirty minutes of nap time, while Bastian looked after the small one, she would probably be in better humor later. Plus Bastian figured even if he let Joey run around until he became 'monterous', as soon as he got back on the horse that would redirect his energy at least for the ride home.
"It might be better to catch a little time now, rather than risk falling asleep later?"
The twinkle in Bastian's eye was obvious, though he still wasn't counting any chickens. He would let the day play out however it chose to, and just enjoy it. There was time ahead...for all three of them.
"If I were a stronger man, I'd pull you onto my lap, and we could nap together. But we do have the young man there to keep an eye on, and...well, right now I'm not feeling extremely strong."
Bastian gave Diane a slightly lecherous grin, but sat up and shook off the cobwebs that were beginning to form.
It concerned him to hear she wasn't sleeping well. A firm believer, as well as testament to the need for a good night's sleep, Bastian had noticed some faint gray circles below her eyes on occasion. Not having any claim to that concern, beyond that of a friend, he hadn't mentioned it earlier. But with their evidently changing relationship, he vowed to pay better attention, and do what he could to relieve her of her burdens.
"Tell you what...why don't you keep my place here warm, and I'll clean up. There really isn't much to do, and you need the rest more than I. I'll watch Joey too if you want to close your eyes for a while. I won't let you sleep long."
If Diane could grab twenty or thirty minutes of nap time, while Bastian looked after the small one, she would probably be in better humor later. Plus Bastian figured even if he let Joey run around until he became 'monterous', as soon as he got back on the horse that would redirect his energy at least for the ride home.
"It might be better to catch a little time now, rather than risk falling asleep later?"
The twinkle in Bastian's eye was obvious, though he still wasn't counting any chickens. He would let the day play out however it chose to, and just enjoy it. There was time ahead...for all three of them.
Diane
16 years ago
When Bastian voiced her thoughts out loud she could have shruddered. Her inner voice wanted to throw a tantrum compairable to those she had witnessed her son create, in regards to not being able to curl up and cuddle.
Although he did offer a second more sound offer for her to take, she couldn't possibly see that working out. She felt like a kid again around Bastian, and taking a nap felt more like missing out and a punishment than keeping herself alert and awake did.
"I am not taking a nap on our day out. I promise I won't fall asleep now or at any time through out the day." She made two swipes of her fingers across her chest where people pretended the heart was. "Even if that means toothpicks in my eyelids."
It was also possible that she'd have on of her reoccuring nightmares and embarassingly wake herself up in a fit of fear screaming. At least when she was awake things were good. Sleep was a dark scarey place currently. Not only would she be mortified but Joe might be shaken up a bit by her actions.
Plus who wanted to waste time sleeping?
"Sleep is overated. There are only so many hours in a day and I lose about four of them a night as it is. What can I do instead?"
Although he did offer a second more sound offer for her to take, she couldn't possibly see that working out. She felt like a kid again around Bastian, and taking a nap felt more like missing out and a punishment than keeping herself alert and awake did.
"I am not taking a nap on our day out. I promise I won't fall asleep now or at any time through out the day." She made two swipes of her fingers across her chest where people pretended the heart was. "Even if that means toothpicks in my eyelids."
It was also possible that she'd have on of her reoccuring nightmares and embarassingly wake herself up in a fit of fear screaming. At least when she was awake things were good. Sleep was a dark scarey place currently. Not only would she be mortified but Joe might be shaken up a bit by her actions.
Plus who wanted to waste time sleeping?
"Sleep is overated. There are only so many hours in a day and I lose about four of them a night as it is. What can I do instead?"
Bastian
16 years ago
Though he had only been suggesting she sit back and relax, Bastian didn't belabor the issue. He could see her viewpoint, and agreed it was nicer having her alongside him cleaning up.
"Four hours?"
He couldn't keep the surprise from his voice. How did a woman take care of a young son, work full time, look so radiantly gorgeous, and all on only four hours sleep? Bastian shook his head but said nothing. If things continued on the way he hoped, he knew he'd not continue to ignore this, but for now he really had little other choice.
Emptying his hands into the bags, Bastian reached around Diane's waist, and pulled her closer.
"What can you do...what can you do? Maybe that's somethin we'll need to explore further...later."
He chuckled as he spoke against her neck, placing a chaste kiss there when he was finished, and again recognizing decorum.
"Master Joseph? Are you ready to depart? The horses await us!"
Standing Bastian picked up the bags and placed them on Tempesta's hindquarters, strapping them down, then returning to fold the blanket.
He looked at Diane and smiled.
"There are some small falls up the way a little, I thought we could ride up there, then turn and head for home?"
"Four hours?"
He couldn't keep the surprise from his voice. How did a woman take care of a young son, work full time, look so radiantly gorgeous, and all on only four hours sleep? Bastian shook his head but said nothing. If things continued on the way he hoped, he knew he'd not continue to ignore this, but for now he really had little other choice.
Emptying his hands into the bags, Bastian reached around Diane's waist, and pulled her closer.
"What can you do...what can you do? Maybe that's somethin we'll need to explore further...later."
He chuckled as he spoke against her neck, placing a chaste kiss there when he was finished, and again recognizing decorum.
"Master Joseph? Are you ready to depart? The horses await us!"
Standing Bastian picked up the bags and placed them on Tempesta's hindquarters, strapping them down, then returning to fold the blanket.
He looked at Diane and smiled.
"There are some small falls up the way a little, I thought we could ride up there, then turn and head for home?"
Diane
16 years ago
Bastian sounded surprised at the amount of hours she had been sleeping. She guessed it was a low amount; usually she slept about six hours so the loss of two more didn't sound like a huge jump to her. Remembering that people were supposed to sleep a full eight hours to completely replenish their bodies it did make four did seem like hardly any.
"Ya, it's been a rough week. I have a feeling it will get better soon." Or so she hoped.
As Bastian's arm slid around her waist she steeled herself against the upcoming disappointment when he let go. It didn't help, especially since he added the softest of kisses to her neck as he slipped away. Bastian was killing her, or she was going to kill him, she couldn't really decide through all the fog of her currently mottled state of mind.
"That sounds like a plan to me."
As Joey came trotting back to the horses upon Bastian's directive, Diane tackled the process of getting back on her horse without help. It was obviously something that came with practice and she was determined to do it on her own. There wasn't as much effort involved this time and she was happy. She shifted in the saddle to make room for her little passenger. Once Bastian had helped get Joey placed in the seat riding was just as easy and gentle as earlier in the day. If all horses were like this she could get used to being on top of them. Her horse was happy to follow Bastian's once more.
"Ok, so we know Werewolves and Vampires exist, that means it might be possible for Unicorns to be real and if they are I'm betting they hide out in this waterfall you speak of in some secret cavern behind it. I get dibs to pet it first if that's the case."
She tried her hardest to keep a straight face.
"Ya, it's been a rough week. I have a feeling it will get better soon." Or so she hoped.
As Bastian's arm slid around her waist she steeled herself against the upcoming disappointment when he let go. It didn't help, especially since he added the softest of kisses to her neck as he slipped away. Bastian was killing her, or she was going to kill him, she couldn't really decide through all the fog of her currently mottled state of mind.
"That sounds like a plan to me."
As Joey came trotting back to the horses upon Bastian's directive, Diane tackled the process of getting back on her horse without help. It was obviously something that came with practice and she was determined to do it on her own. There wasn't as much effort involved this time and she was happy. She shifted in the saddle to make room for her little passenger. Once Bastian had helped get Joey placed in the seat riding was just as easy and gentle as earlier in the day. If all horses were like this she could get used to being on top of them. Her horse was happy to follow Bastian's once more.
"Ok, so we know Werewolves and Vampires exist, that means it might be possible for Unicorns to be real and if they are I'm betting they hide out in this waterfall you speak of in some secret cavern behind it. I get dibs to pet it first if that's the case."
She tried her hardest to keep a straight face.
Bastian
16 years ago
He nodded in agreement, hoping things turned around for Diane soon as well. No one as loving, and caring as she was should suffer so.
Back on the horses, Bastian again marveled at how nice it was to be out with Diane, and Joey. He breathed in the slightly cool, but crystal clear air, deeply, and contemplated his current wealth, which was measured in more things than money. As he considered more and more every day, he was a truly lucky man, who had come a long way from those sad and lonely days in Italy, back when he was a child. He had lived with monitary wealth even then, but that certainly hadn't made him happy.
'Unicorns?!' Bastian laughed deeply. First she spoke of fairies, and now unicorns. Diane was most assuredly more fanciful than Reign had ever been. Bastian didn't believe of course, but it was a little amusing to follow along. He wondered how much of all this Joey would believe, and for how long?
"Up there...to the left..."
The waterfall had just become visible, though you could only see the top section, as the bottom pool beneath it was hidden by a bluff. Within minutes they were over the bluff and the whole scene could be viewed. The waterfall was quite small by most standards though, and had not yet cut out any cave behind it. Maybe with time, if the water continued to flow, and perhaps increased, somethng might be worn into the stone wall behind it. That didn't hurt the beauty of the setting before them though.
"I'm afraid there isn't any cave, but perhaps if you're really still, and look hard enough you might see some movement in the reeds and trees over there in the corner."
There were trees all around the waterfall, and pool below, but to the side, near the edge of the falls was a larger outcropping. As if he had ordered it, a breeze kicked up and the leaves in those trees rustled then.
"There! Joey! Did you see?"
Bastian's voice was filled with awe, even if it was play acting. He said nothing more and left Joey to decide what he wanted to see.
Back on the horses, Bastian again marveled at how nice it was to be out with Diane, and Joey. He breathed in the slightly cool, but crystal clear air, deeply, and contemplated his current wealth, which was measured in more things than money. As he considered more and more every day, he was a truly lucky man, who had come a long way from those sad and lonely days in Italy, back when he was a child. He had lived with monitary wealth even then, but that certainly hadn't made him happy.
'Unicorns?!' Bastian laughed deeply. First she spoke of fairies, and now unicorns. Diane was most assuredly more fanciful than Reign had ever been. Bastian didn't believe of course, but it was a little amusing to follow along. He wondered how much of all this Joey would believe, and for how long?
"Up there...to the left..."
The waterfall had just become visible, though you could only see the top section, as the bottom pool beneath it was hidden by a bluff. Within minutes they were over the bluff and the whole scene could be viewed. The waterfall was quite small by most standards though, and had not yet cut out any cave behind it. Maybe with time, if the water continued to flow, and perhaps increased, somethng might be worn into the stone wall behind it. That didn't hurt the beauty of the setting before them though.
"I'm afraid there isn't any cave, but perhaps if you're really still, and look hard enough you might see some movement in the reeds and trees over there in the corner."
There were trees all around the waterfall, and pool below, but to the side, near the edge of the falls was a larger outcropping. As if he had ordered it, a breeze kicked up and the leaves in those trees rustled then.
"There! Joey! Did you see?"
Bastian's voice was filled with awe, even if it was play acting. He said nothing more and left Joey to decide what he wanted to see.
Diane
16 years ago
So it wasn't as grand a waterfall as she had remembered from books but still it was a ledge with cascading water falling from it. It still was a beautiful setting by any means.
"Aw it's adorable. I bet you could build a gingerbread house here and lure small children away to eat."
She had a ridiculous imagination but it wasn't a far stretch to assume that there might be some evil werewolves out there. Hell anything was possible these days.
Diane watched as if on cue leaves scooped up into the air and tussled themselves about, Joey picking up on the excitement in Bastian's voice sat straight up and held still.
"I seen it!" He whispered excitedly.
Joey had no idea what 'it' was but he was certain he had caught a glimpse. Diane could feel him straining around in the seat with hopes of seeing the magical being again.
"When you moved here, did you sit down and think 'I want to buy story book property'? Cuz' that's what this is. It's ridiculous, in a good way of course, but still out of the ordinary. It suits you perfectly."
She was fifty percent sure that she would wake up and this was all going to be a very good dream at this point. Bastian was almost surreal. Diane had half a mind to send Reign a thank you letter regardless of whose fault their relationships demise was.
"Off topic, Thursday, do you want to come and do some incognito stealth work with me? I’ll keep you safe –And- you don’t even have to wear all black.”
"Aw it's adorable. I bet you could build a gingerbread house here and lure small children away to eat."
She had a ridiculous imagination but it wasn't a far stretch to assume that there might be some evil werewolves out there. Hell anything was possible these days.
Diane watched as if on cue leaves scooped up into the air and tussled themselves about, Joey picking up on the excitement in Bastian's voice sat straight up and held still.
"I seen it!" He whispered excitedly.
Joey had no idea what 'it' was but he was certain he had caught a glimpse. Diane could feel him straining around in the seat with hopes of seeing the magical being again.
"When you moved here, did you sit down and think 'I want to buy story book property'? Cuz' that's what this is. It's ridiculous, in a good way of course, but still out of the ordinary. It suits you perfectly."
She was fifty percent sure that she would wake up and this was all going to be a very good dream at this point. Bastian was almost surreal. Diane had half a mind to send Reign a thank you letter regardless of whose fault their relationships demise was.
"Off topic, Thursday, do you want to come and do some incognito stealth work with me? I’ll keep you safe –And- you don’t even have to wear all black.”
Bastian
16 years ago
'Adorable'? Had Diane just called his waterfall 'adorable'? And what? A gingerbread house? Oh yes, there was an old fairytale about two children who were found eating a gingerbread house, by the house's owner...a wicked witch. Bastian wasn't too familiar with fairytales, but did recall the gist of that one. The witch kidnapped the children, but they managed to get away, and lived happily ever after. It was undoubtedly the last part that had told Bastian at an early age...fairytales don't come true.
But being older now, and more confident about himself, he could allow such whimsy room in his life. Diane was assuredly taken with these things, and in light of that he could join in the ideas to a degree. Plus, just because his childhood had been bleak, didn't mean he thought that was a good way to raise kids. It made him happy to know Joey had a fanciful mama. Mamas should be fanciful with tiny children. Children didn't need to know the real world. One day they would, and from that point on they would no longer be children.
Bastian shook his head and snickered. He had come such a long way since he had been a small boy. He thought his grandmother would approve though, and that mattered a great deal.
Joey seemed to take Bastian's power of suggestion, and he was pleased. Some day he hoped his own children would be enchanted by his stories.
"No, I'm afraid my motives were not at all so lofty. My needs were for a large space that could house me, as well as my livelihood, and give me room to expand if I chose to. I also wanted a place off the beaten path, secluded. Of course I wanted someplace that looked nice too, but the little extras that I managed to get in the package were discovered later, much to my pleasure."
They rode on, now headed back to the house.
"Hang on a second...did you just call me ridiculous?"
Bastian laughed boisterously. No one had ever called him ridiculous, but he wasn't at all upset. If anything he rather enjoyed being called something other than stoic, or business like, or emotionless. Those things he had been called, and more than once.
"I do have to admit...somewhere in the back of my mind I wouldn't be surprised to find part of the reason I chose this place was with the idea of raising a family here."
As they had done so many times already today, Bastian's eyes rested on Diane and Joey, and he could almost envision them being that family. Early Saturday morning rides would surely be a part of the family's routine.
A part of him remained reserved though. It was unlike him to behave this way toward women, and with his feelings becoming so serious so quickly, he also feared the bottom falling out of the scenario.
"Thursday will work." This was important to Diane, and Bastian knew he would feel infinitely better if he were along for her protection. Not that she had needed it thus far, but one never knew what might pop up to overwhelm her or the situation.
He chuckled as she explained how she would keep him safe. Not because he thought the idea was without merit, but because he knew she was probably more right then wrong.
"I do look good in black though, as I'm sure you do as well."
He winked, and grinned, and organized his calendar in his head.
When they arrived home, Bastian gave Diane an arm down, after removing Joey from the horse first. One of the two stable hands he hired on part time happened to be about at the same time, and took the two horses off to cool down, and settle into their stalls. Bastian grabbed the bags, and blankets, and led the way back up into the house.
"Please make yourself at home, anywhere. After I put this away I'll take you on a tour if you'd like."
The kitchen was his next stop as he removed the food and utensils from the bags and set about taking care of things.
But being older now, and more confident about himself, he could allow such whimsy room in his life. Diane was assuredly taken with these things, and in light of that he could join in the ideas to a degree. Plus, just because his childhood had been bleak, didn't mean he thought that was a good way to raise kids. It made him happy to know Joey had a fanciful mama. Mamas should be fanciful with tiny children. Children didn't need to know the real world. One day they would, and from that point on they would no longer be children.
Bastian shook his head and snickered. He had come such a long way since he had been a small boy. He thought his grandmother would approve though, and that mattered a great deal.
Joey seemed to take Bastian's power of suggestion, and he was pleased. Some day he hoped his own children would be enchanted by his stories.
"No, I'm afraid my motives were not at all so lofty. My needs were for a large space that could house me, as well as my livelihood, and give me room to expand if I chose to. I also wanted a place off the beaten path, secluded. Of course I wanted someplace that looked nice too, but the little extras that I managed to get in the package were discovered later, much to my pleasure."
They rode on, now headed back to the house.
"Hang on a second...did you just call me ridiculous?"
Bastian laughed boisterously. No one had ever called him ridiculous, but he wasn't at all upset. If anything he rather enjoyed being called something other than stoic, or business like, or emotionless. Those things he had been called, and more than once.
"I do have to admit...somewhere in the back of my mind I wouldn't be surprised to find part of the reason I chose this place was with the idea of raising a family here."
As they had done so many times already today, Bastian's eyes rested on Diane and Joey, and he could almost envision them being that family. Early Saturday morning rides would surely be a part of the family's routine.
A part of him remained reserved though. It was unlike him to behave this way toward women, and with his feelings becoming so serious so quickly, he also feared the bottom falling out of the scenario.
"Thursday will work." This was important to Diane, and Bastian knew he would feel infinitely better if he were along for her protection. Not that she had needed it thus far, but one never knew what might pop up to overwhelm her or the situation.
He chuckled as she explained how she would keep him safe. Not because he thought the idea was without merit, but because he knew she was probably more right then wrong.
"I do look good in black though, as I'm sure you do as well."
He winked, and grinned, and organized his calendar in his head.
When they arrived home, Bastian gave Diane an arm down, after removing Joey from the horse first. One of the two stable hands he hired on part time happened to be about at the same time, and took the two horses off to cool down, and settle into their stalls. Bastian grabbed the bags, and blankets, and led the way back up into the house.
"Please make yourself at home, anywhere. After I put this away I'll take you on a tour if you'd like."
The kitchen was his next stop as he removed the food and utensils from the bags and set about taking care of things.
Diane
16 years ago
"Ridiculous -and- out of the ordinary."
His laughter was comforting; it meant he hadn't taken her silly accusation negatively. She really did mean it in the best possible way. She just didn’t have a great way with words. It helped that Diane had never run into a man quite like Bastian before. Let alone be in a situation where it was even possible to connect with someone as…stand alone, as he was.
“You could raise a litter here, extended family and then some.” She laughed lightly. It was possible that there was enough space here to set up a battalion and she worried only slightly for Bastian on that front. Hopefully the Pack didn’t have any secret plans of occupation of Casa de Romallo.
The suburbs she grew up in didn’t have many areas with this much space. You had to drive at least forty five minutes north to get close to anything like this. It was impressive that while being out of the way it was still close enough to the city to function normally. It was with sadness that she watched the magical waterfalls fade away behind them as they traveled back to his house.
It was exciting and even comforting to have Bastian come with her on Thursday to the inner city apartment, or as she had lovingly called it for many months, the cage. She didn’t really anticipate anything happening and it was really just a routine update and check but still it was going to be good to not have to be there alone. The place gave her the creeps regardless if the vampire was asleep there. Diane didn’t anticipate any real need to protect Bastian from harm or she wouldn’t have dreamed of bringing him along. The last thing she wanted to do was get him hurt or worse.
Her lip twitched at the thought of him in solid black. Maybe she would retract that previous statement of wardrobe.
They came to the stables and once off the horses Diane hadn’t missed the sullen quietness of her son. During the ride back he had continuously rubbed at his eyes in efforts to grind away sleepiness. She reached down and picked him up, placing him on her hip.
“I think I’m going to lay him down somewhere. Will the couch be ok? He should be out almost instantly and then we can tour.”
His laughter was comforting; it meant he hadn't taken her silly accusation negatively. She really did mean it in the best possible way. She just didn’t have a great way with words. It helped that Diane had never run into a man quite like Bastian before. Let alone be in a situation where it was even possible to connect with someone as…stand alone, as he was.
“You could raise a litter here, extended family and then some.” She laughed lightly. It was possible that there was enough space here to set up a battalion and she worried only slightly for Bastian on that front. Hopefully the Pack didn’t have any secret plans of occupation of Casa de Romallo.
The suburbs she grew up in didn’t have many areas with this much space. You had to drive at least forty five minutes north to get close to anything like this. It was impressive that while being out of the way it was still close enough to the city to function normally. It was with sadness that she watched the magical waterfalls fade away behind them as they traveled back to his house.
It was exciting and even comforting to have Bastian come with her on Thursday to the inner city apartment, or as she had lovingly called it for many months, the cage. She didn’t really anticipate anything happening and it was really just a routine update and check but still it was going to be good to not have to be there alone. The place gave her the creeps regardless if the vampire was asleep there. Diane didn’t anticipate any real need to protect Bastian from harm or she wouldn’t have dreamed of bringing him along. The last thing she wanted to do was get him hurt or worse.
Her lip twitched at the thought of him in solid black. Maybe she would retract that previous statement of wardrobe.
They came to the stables and once off the horses Diane hadn’t missed the sullen quietness of her son. During the ride back he had continuously rubbed at his eyes in efforts to grind away sleepiness. She reached down and picked him up, placing him on her hip.
“I think I’m going to lay him down somewhere. Will the couch be ok? He should be out almost instantly and then we can tour.”